Jezebel

Grazing has become my newest favorite cookbook. So with the holidays here, food is in full swing too. Whether this is baking, giving, receiving, partying, etc. Recently I attended a Ladies Christmas Party (thanks little Merry!) and was required to bring an appetizer. Easy and tasty were priorities for me. So thanks to the ever industrious Julie, I assembled the creamy & zippy Jezebel. Try it! It'll be a hit with guests/ family/friends...even strangers will rave and request the recipe.
And, come on, isn't the name just fun? Jezebel. Nothing like a brazen, well-to-do hussy to brighten your holidays.

Jezebel
1 block of cream cheese
1 small jar of apricot jam
1T horseradish
2tsp dijon mustard
Mix Jam, h'radish & mustard together in jam jar. Heat in microwave approx 1 minute, pour over block of cream cheese. Serve with snack crackers. Yum!

Jezebel

Grazing has become my newest favorite cookbook. So with the holidays here, food is in full swing too. Whether this is baking, giving, receiving, partying, etc. Recently I attended a Ladies Christmas Party (thanks little Merry!) and was required to bring an appetizer. Easy and tasty were priorities for me. So thanks to the ever industrious Julie, I assembled the creamy & zippy Jezebel. Try it! It'll be a hit with guests/ family/friends...even strangers will rave and request the recipe.
And, come on, isn't the name just fun? Jezebel. Nothing like a brazen, well-to-do hussy to brighten your holidays.

Jezebel
1 block of cream cheese
1 small jar of apricot jam
1T horseradish
2tsp dijon mustard
Mix Jam, h'radish & mustard together in jam jar. Heat in microwave approx 1 minute, pour over block of cream cheese. Serve with snack crackers. Yum!

28 Months (a little late)

W is in the midst of being two. 28 months. He's independant and still sticks close to his parents when necessary, he's sweet, loving and huggy and two minutes later shyness, sullenness & a refusal to say hello may occur....you just never know. I've decided that this 2 business is just a dress rehearsal for the teen years. They're the same, just different sized bodies. As frustrating as it can be to live with a toddler, it's fun and heartwarming just too.

He makes us laugh. He's quite vocal and the things he finds interesting to talk about are surprising at times....like nose picking, nakedness and today at "diaper time" he was telling me about particular parts of the anatomy that he, his brother and father share. Apparently I do too! I thought these discussions would start a year from now? Wrong again.

W loves to sing, dance and act out scenarios from TV. He imitates Lord Farquad from Shrek, and the dance of the butterfly, ladybug, beetlebug and grasshopper from a Baby Einstein DVD. It's too cute and often causes a laugh from B & me even though we've seen this drama presentation a time or two.

Lately, his favorite songs at bedtime are "Silent-Good-Night", "Manger" and "Toys". Is there a better way to end the day than snuggled with your child in a comfortable chair, with a cozy blanket, singing Christmas carols? I think not. "Silent good-night, holy good-night...."

28 Months (a little late)

W is in the midst of being two. 28 months. He's independant and still sticks close to his parents when necessary, he's sweet, loving and huggy and two minutes later shyness, sullenness & a refusal to say hello may occur....you just never know. I've decided that this 2 business is just a dress rehearsal for the teen years. They're the same, just different sized bodies. As frustrating as it can be to live with a toddler, it's fun and heartwarming just too.

He makes us laugh. He's quite vocal and the things he finds interesting to talk about are surprising at times....like nose picking, nakedness and today at "diaper time" he was telling me about particular parts of the anatomy that he, his brother and father share. Apparently I do too! I thought these discussions would start a year from now? Wrong again.

W loves to sing, dance and act out scenarios from TV. He imitates Lord Farquad from Shrek, and the dance of the butterfly, ladybug, beetlebug and grasshopper from a Baby Einstein DVD. It's too cute and often causes a laugh from B & me even though we've seen this drama presentation a time or two.

Lately, his favorite songs at bedtime are "Silent-Good-Night", "Manger" and "Toys". Is there a better way to end the day than snuggled with your child in a comfortable chair, with a cozy blanket, singing Christmas carols? I think not. "Silent good-night, holy good-night...."

7 Months - Don't Blink

Looking at Baby R these days, I see so many changes in him. He is maturing by leaps and bounds before my eyes. Some of these changes are subtle; like his hair growing in and some are obvious; such as the ability to sit up, a new tooth, eating solids, laughing at his brother, becoming more vocal and getting up on all fours. Oh no! Please do not crawl soon. I am not ready for crawling. I love this snuggly baby stage and am not ready for the on the go stage. As much as I want R's babyhood to go slowly, it'll be interesting to see what his personality is like throughout toddlerhood and beyond.

He is a doll. Easy to please. Content. Mostly happy and just the most loveable little guy. We are so blessed.

7 Months - Don't Blink

Looking at Baby R these days, I see so many changes in him. He is maturing by leaps and bounds before my eyes. Some of these changes are subtle; like his hair growing in and some are obvious; such as the ability to sit up, a new tooth, eating solids, laughing at his brother, becoming more vocal and getting up on all fours. Oh no! Please do not crawl soon. I am not ready for crawling. I love this snuggly baby stage and am not ready for the on the go stage. As much as I want R's babyhood to go slowly, it'll be interesting to see what his personality is like throughout toddlerhood and beyond.

He is a doll. Easy to please. Content. Mostly happy and just the most loveable little guy. We are so blessed.

More Mom...

She's on the mend. Yay! It's been a stressful 10 days but enlightening and positive as well. My little mom is still in hospital, but if all goes well she'll be out for Christmas. Here's hoping!
Of course, she has a long road of healing ahead of her and there's alot of planning and organization to take place in regards to her being home alone. What she is able to accomplish on her own, what she will need assistance with, the everyday things that we healthy and able people take for granted, but it'll all come together. Also, the next treatment she'll undergo tomorrow should make the world of difference in her energy level. If the transfusion has the desired effect she'll be a new woman within the next few days.
It was a relief to spend time with her this past weekend. Just to see her lightened my heart. Many thanks to my in-laws as they took care of the boys for me while I spent time in the hospital. That was so helpful to me as I couldn't be there otherwise. Plus the boys had a wonderful time at the farm. Especially W who probably wore out his Gram-Oh Doe. She'll need some RnR after three days with W.
Of course, Christmas will be different than we had originally planned. Which is okay. In the big scheme of things, a little change never hurts. Keeps one adaptable and flexible. Really, we have more to celebrate this year. Alot of gratitude to share. And that is an important lesson for me now and always.

More Mom...

She's on the mend. Yay! It's been a stressful 10 days but enlightening and positive as well. My little mom is still in hospital, but if all goes well she'll be out for Christmas. Here's hoping!
Of course, she has a long road of healing ahead of her and there's alot of planning and organization to take place in regards to her being home alone. What she is able to accomplish on her own, what she will need assistance with, the everyday things that we healthy and able people take for granted, but it'll all come together. Also, the next treatment she'll undergo tomorrow should make the world of difference in her energy level. If the transfusion has the desired effect she'll be a new woman within the next few days.
It was a relief to spend time with her this past weekend. Just to see her lightened my heart. Many thanks to my in-laws as they took care of the boys for me while I spent time in the hospital. That was so helpful to me as I couldn't be there otherwise. Plus the boys had a wonderful time at the farm. Especially W who probably wore out his Gram-Oh Doe. She'll need some RnR after three days with W.
Of course, Christmas will be different than we had originally planned. Which is okay. In the big scheme of things, a little change never hurts. Keeps one adaptable and flexible. Really, we have more to celebrate this year. Alot of gratitude to share. And that is an important lesson for me now and always.

Mom update

Hopefully if all goes as planned, my mom will be transferred to her local community hospital tomorrow. It's taken ALOT of convincing of the hospital staff to not send her home. Apparently, just because she cannot walk, dress herself, etc plus is on oxygen, etc there is no reason to tie up a hospital bed. Our system is less than stellar. However, thanks to my sister, brother and mom's family doctor the decision has been made to transfer to her home hospital. Thank goodness. Anyway, here's hoping that the weather in the area quiets down so that she can be transported. Right now the roads in the area are terrible; icy, drifting, and snowing and the ambulance couldn't travel today due to the conditions.
Here's hoping all goes well....

Mom update

Hopefully if all goes as planned, my mom will be transferred to her local community hospital tomorrow. It's taken ALOT of convincing of the hospital staff to not send her home. Apparently, just because she cannot walk, dress herself, etc plus is on oxygen, etc there is no reason to tie up a hospital bed. Our system is less than stellar. However, thanks to my sister, brother and mom's family doctor the decision has been made to transfer to her home hospital. Thank goodness. Anyway, here's hoping that the weather in the area quiets down so that she can be transported. Right now the roads in the area are terrible; icy, drifting, and snowing and the ambulance couldn't travel today due to the conditions.
Here's hoping all goes well....

Worry & Gratitude

This afternoon I received the call that everyone dreads. The call from a hospital staff member advising you that your family member has been admitted. My heart sunk and my voice froze as the nurse advised me that my mom had been flown to the hospital today due to a motor vehicle accident this morning at 9am. It was already 12:45pm and I was the first family member to be notified. At that time, Mr. Nurse wasn't able to tell me anything as she was still in ER undergoing tests. It's been a long, helpless day waiting by the phone, contacting siblings, her work & responsibilities, debating whether to up heave my immediate family in order to travel out of town and then finally speaking to my mom, if only for a moment. We still don't know alot, only that all in all she is okay. So, with the worry etched on my heart, there's gratitude there as well. Gratitude that someone was watching over her and kept her relatively safe. Gratitude to the guys who stood and talked to her until the paramedics and fire department were able to free her from the vehicle. Gratitude to my brother and sister who are there with her now. Gratitude to my husband who dropped everything to be with me and would do anything to allow me to be with my mom. And gratitude that tomorrow is a new day.

Worry & Gratitude

This afternoon I received the call that everyone dreads. The call from a hospital staff member advising you that your family member has been admitted. My heart sunk and my voice froze as the nurse advised me that my mom had been flown to the hospital today due to a motor vehicle accident this morning at 9am. It was already 12:45pm and I was the first family member to be notified. At that time, Mr. Nurse wasn't able to tell me anything as she was still in ER undergoing tests. It's been a long, helpless day waiting by the phone, contacting siblings, her work & responsibilities, debating whether to up heave my immediate family in order to travel out of town and then finally speaking to my mom, if only for a moment. We still don't know alot, only that all in all she is okay. So, with the worry etched on my heart, there's gratitude there as well. Gratitude that someone was watching over her and kept her relatively safe. Gratitude to the guys who stood and talked to her until the paramedics and fire department were able to free her from the vehicle. Gratitude to my brother and sister who are there with her now. Gratitude to my husband who dropped everything to be with me and would do anything to allow me to be with my mom. And gratitude that tomorrow is a new day.

Heavenly Peace

"Silent-Good-Night? Sing Mommy?"
This is W's request for Silent Night during his bedtime routine. However, it really is the first verse he enjoys the best as he sings a little off key in a toddler's falsetto, "...heavenly peace....peace..."
It's too sweet.

Heavenly Peace

"Silent-Good-Night? Sing Mommy?"
This is W's request for Silent Night during his bedtime routine. However, it really is the first verse he enjoys the best as he sings a little off key in a toddler's falsetto, "...heavenly peace....peace..."
It's too sweet.

Party Party

The cliche of home parties conjours up visions of middle aged women ooing and awing over fancy plastic containers and then there's the silly games that are played. Like a post marriage bridal shower. So not for me!

Yet, this stay at home mom business seems to be introducing me to more and more home party opportunities. I've yet to attend one. The invitations have been extended, but I did place my first fancy plastic container order, and I have to admit I was a little excited to receive the mini hand chopper. (Ugh! I can hardly believe this is me! It cracks me up.)

Anyway, I'm even toying with the idea of hosting a party. It's the first three that I'm considering looking into further. Check them out:

Piece of Mind Jewellery

Norwex

Luscious Bags

Salt City Candles - don't really want to have the party...does anyone know where I can get these? I love the Holiday Cafe candle that my mother in law gave me for Christmas last year. They're so fragrant and do not smell fake.

Beauti Control - This is a home spa party line. Recently I received a gift pack with body lotion, body masque, eye pads and a neck bag. The eye pads and neck bag are so wonderfully relaxing.

Party Party

The cliche of home parties conjours up visions of middle aged women ooing and awing over fancy plastic containers and then there's the silly games that are played. Like a post marriage bridal shower. So not for me!

Yet, this stay at home mom business seems to be introducing me to more and more home party opportunities. I've yet to attend one. The invitations have been extended, but I did place my first fancy plastic container order, and I have to admit I was a little excited to receive the mini hand chopper. (Ugh! I can hardly believe this is me! It cracks me up.)

Anyway, I'm even toying with the idea of hosting a party. It's the first three that I'm considering looking into further. Check them out:

Piece of Mind Jewellery

Norwex

Luscious Bags

Salt City Candles - don't really want to have the party...does anyone know where I can get these? I love the Holiday Cafe candle that my mother in law gave me for Christmas last year. They're so fragrant and do not smell fake.

Beauti Control - This is a home spa party line. Recently I received a gift pack with body lotion, body masque, eye pads and a neck bag. The eye pads and neck bag are so wonderfully relaxing.

Piece of Mind Jewellery

Check out Jane. Her craft and talent is funky and lovely. Great gift to yourself...or a friend.

Piece of Mind Jewellery

Check out Jane. Her craft and talent is funky and lovely. Great gift to yourself...or a friend.

Busy, busy , busy

Oh to sit and compose an interesting and enjoyable post! We've been so busy lately and I need to post but it just seems that the most opportune times evade me. I used to post during nap time, but that's a distant memory and an intense longing! Hit and miss at best. And now in the late evenings, all I want to do is sleep.
Did I say we've been busy? I've been out every evening since Friday. That's unheard of for me! So fun, yet so tiring and a little challenging for all involved. This busy social schedule isn't about to slow down quite yet, as choir performances are in full swing. Plus, there's shopping to be done and baking. Did I tell you that when I went out tonight (choir) I left my favorite husband home to tuck W in bed for the night, take his own supper out of the oven and then bake two batches of Ginger Molasses Crinkles which I had pre-mixed. What a great guy!
So, here's to finding a quiet moment that's not after 9pm as to when I can update my neglected blog.

Busy, busy , busy

Oh to sit and compose an interesting and enjoyable post! We've been so busy lately and I need to post but it just seems that the most opportune times evade me. I used to post during nap time, but that's a distant memory and an intense longing! Hit and miss at best. And now in the late evenings, all I want to do is sleep.
Did I say we've been busy? I've been out every evening since Friday. That's unheard of for me! So fun, yet so tiring and a little challenging for all involved. This busy social schedule isn't about to slow down quite yet, as choir performances are in full swing. Plus, there's shopping to be done and baking. Did I tell you that when I went out tonight (choir) I left my favorite husband home to tuck W in bed for the night, take his own supper out of the oven and then bake two batches of Ginger Molasses Crinkles which I had pre-mixed. What a great guy!
So, here's to finding a quiet moment that's not after 9pm as to when I can update my neglected blog.

Greased Lightning

Nap time follies.

Vaseline takes DAYS to wash out of hair! And the change table is now out of the bedroom.

Greased Lightning

Nap time follies.

Vaseline takes DAYS to wash out of hair! And the change table is now out of the bedroom.

Festive Blustery Fun

Today we started a new family tradition by taking in a Santa Claus Parade. This one was held in Fort McLeod and despite the wicked winds it was worth the effort. W loved it. He was mesmerized by the marching bands, floats and all. His first parade! Our little R was tucked out of the wind, safely lying down in the stroller, probably wondering what the heck was going through our minds to drag him out, almost roll the stroller onto it's side due to a wind gust, and sit on the street for 30 minutes. Crazy adults. But it was fun and I can't wait to do it again next year.

Parade attendance is exhausting! As noted in the boys below.

Festive Blustery Fun

Today we started a new family tradition by taking in a Santa Claus Parade. This one was held in Fort McLeod and despite the wicked winds it was worth the effort. W loved it. He was mesmerized by the marching bands, floats and all. His first parade! Our little R was tucked out of the wind, safely lying down in the stroller, probably wondering what the heck was going through our minds to drag him out, almost roll the stroller onto it's side due to a wind gust, and sit on the street for 30 minutes. Crazy adults. But it was fun and I can't wait to do it again next year.

Parade attendance is exhausting! As noted in the boys below.

The Boys

W hit the 27 month mark earlier this month and R is now 6 months. Amazing. It's all happening so quickly!

W continues to surprise us with the busyness of his character. He is always on the go! Recently he saw part of a football game on TV so now he plays football. Which includes running around the house and then dropping to the floor as he is "tackle!". He also plays hockey which is a "shoots scores! oh no tripping!" scenario. He drops to the ground in a hurry immediately after shooting the puck. Then there's his figure skating moves which are too cute. I think we may have the beginnings of an athlete on our hands. ~ Hopefully the illnesses of this fall are far behind us so that W will have good health. What a trooper! He never complained once...but then again he is only 2yrs. ~ The art of communication continues to explode. Yesterday he walked by the baby who was adorned in a winter hat, jester style, to which W stated, "Nice hat. Funny hat!" He also will tell me "One time" with his little index finger held up beside his face when he is trying to convince me that it's okay for him to do this, whatever this may be at that moment. "Whoopies" for Ooopsy. He calls me "Hunny Bunny...Good night Hunny Bunny" and talks out loud about his thoughts, which are too cute & funny, ie "Anum pick nose" about his little friend.~ The latest and greatest though is the refusal to remain in bed. This is the current bane of my existence. Gone are the toys & furniture from his room, the gro-bag is now extinct and so is my patience at times. I long for the days of easy-to-bed. I was so spoiled! So, this Sunday W graduates to a toddler bed. Another stage, more proof that my little man is growing up.

R continues to be the sweetest, most content little fella. He's just a happy, easy doll. Which scares me as I think he's pointedly conserving energy until he's a toddler! R's face lights up when he smiles and it's quite easy to obtain a smile. He loves being talked to, smiled at and held high above your head...that even brings a giggle. R is on the move as he rolls about and grabs anything of interest. Now that he's 6 mths we'll be attempting solid food which he seems quite interested in. He's a fairly good sleeper. There are nights that he sleeps through and then others when he's up once for a feed or decides that 4am is the start of the day. Ugh! ~ At the 6mth immunization appt he was such a trooper as he didn't cry for the first needle, and quickly stopped crying after #2 & #3 ...just as soon as I held him against my shoulder for a snuggle. My little toughie. The growth spurts continue....just 22.5 lbs & 29 inches tall. I look at the size 18 month clothes that he's wearing and think, "These CAN'T fit, they're so big". They do though as he's quickly growing and changing which makes me wish that I could place a pause in time so that my littlest man doesn't move onwards so quickly. *Sigh* The perils of motherhood. Don't blink.

The Boys

W hit the 27 month mark earlier this month and R is now 6 months. Amazing. It's all happening so quickly!

W continues to surprise us with the busyness of his character. He is always on the go! Recently he saw part of a football game on TV so now he plays football. Which includes running around the house and then dropping to the floor as he is "tackle!". He also plays hockey which is a "shoots scores! oh no tripping!" scenario. He drops to the ground in a hurry immediately after shooting the puck. Then there's his figure skating moves which are too cute. I think we may have the beginnings of an athlete on our hands. ~ Hopefully the illnesses of this fall are far behind us so that W will have good health. What a trooper! He never complained once...but then again he is only 2yrs. ~ The art of communication continues to explode. Yesterday he walked by the baby who was adorned in a winter hat, jester style, to which W stated, "Nice hat. Funny hat!" He also will tell me "One time" with his little index finger held up beside his face when he is trying to convince me that it's okay for him to do this, whatever this may be at that moment. "Whoopies" for Ooopsy. He calls me "Hunny Bunny...Good night Hunny Bunny" and talks out loud about his thoughts, which are too cute & funny, ie "Anum pick nose" about his little friend.~ The latest and greatest though is the refusal to remain in bed. This is the current bane of my existence. Gone are the toys & furniture from his room, the gro-bag is now extinct and so is my patience at times. I long for the days of easy-to-bed. I was so spoiled! So, this Sunday W graduates to a toddler bed. Another stage, more proof that my little man is growing up.

R continues to be the sweetest, most content little fella. He's just a happy, easy doll. Which scares me as I think he's pointedly conserving energy until he's a toddler! R's face lights up when he smiles and it's quite easy to obtain a smile. He loves being talked to, smiled at and held high above your head...that even brings a giggle. R is on the move as he rolls about and grabs anything of interest. Now that he's 6 mths we'll be attempting solid food which he seems quite interested in. He's a fairly good sleeper. There are nights that he sleeps through and then others when he's up once for a feed or decides that 4am is the start of the day. Ugh! ~ At the 6mth immunization appt he was such a trooper as he didn't cry for the first needle, and quickly stopped crying after #2 & #3 ...just as soon as I held him against my shoulder for a snuggle. My little toughie. The growth spurts continue....just 22.5 lbs & 29 inches tall. I look at the size 18 month clothes that he's wearing and think, "These CAN'T fit, they're so big". They do though as he's quickly growing and changing which makes me wish that I could place a pause in time so that my littlest man doesn't move onwards so quickly. *Sigh* The perils of motherhood. Don't blink.

Rambling

Often throughout my day or when I'm lying in bed trying to return to sleep after a 4am feed, interesting blog entries come to mind. Then of course they disappear and I sit in this chair wishing I was wittier and more interesting than I am these days.
New Model. I need a new model of me. This one I have is kind of in disrepair and it's going to take ALOT of effort to get it back to good condition. Do I have the energy? The STAMINA. That's what I need...Stamina. And then there's the problem of ADD when it comes to taking care of myself. I lose my focus. Get distracted. Like, okay, let's eat healthy, cut out the bread products and oh I feel like baking. Mmmm...Pea Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. Mmmmm...they taste even better the following day. Oh I ate the whole container? Oops! Have you seen my behind? EeeGads! Again, with the need to focus. I'm like all dementia bound when it comes to staying on track.
Then there's my hair....I need hairapy. Something a little funky, a little edgey, yet I'm wanting to grow it out. How does THAT work? This is cute, a little Kirsten Criminal Minds "Do" in brunette? Plus, she's not hollywood thin and I like her & her hair even more for that reason. Okay, shall I now confess that I cut my own bangs last night? Is there a 12 step program for that? Now, I have an appt here for some much needed help.
What I would really like is an all expenses paid appointment here for a true makeover. Again, due to the lack of motivation and focus. Not REALLY, but wouldn't it be great to just pick your part and voila! all is well and perfect and smooth and not being tucked into your waistband?
This ramble must end. There are only a few fine minutes left for me to catch a quick nap before the boys are awake.
Happy Thursday my friends.

Rambling

Often throughout my day or when I'm lying in bed trying to return to sleep after a 4am feed, interesting blog entries come to mind. Then of course they disappear and I sit in this chair wishing I was wittier and more interesting than I am these days.
New Model. I need a new model of me. This one I have is kind of in disrepair and it's going to take ALOT of effort to get it back to good condition. Do I have the energy? The STAMINA. That's what I need...Stamina. And then there's the problem of ADD when it comes to taking care of myself. I lose my focus. Get distracted. Like, okay, let's eat healthy, cut out the bread products and oh I feel like baking. Mmmm...Pea Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. Mmmmm...they taste even better the following day. Oh I ate the whole container? Oops! Have you seen my behind? EeeGads! Again, with the need to focus. I'm like all dementia bound when it comes to staying on track.
Then there's my hair....I need hairapy. Something a little funky, a little edgey, yet I'm wanting to grow it out. How does THAT work? This is cute, a little Kirsten Criminal Minds "Do" in brunette? Plus, she's not hollywood thin and I like her & her hair even more for that reason. Okay, shall I now confess that I cut my own bangs last night? Is there a 12 step program for that? Now, I have an appt here for some much needed help.
What I would really like is an all expenses paid appointment here for a true makeover. Again, due to the lack of motivation and focus. Not REALLY, but wouldn't it be great to just pick your part and voila! all is well and perfect and smooth and not being tucked into your waistband?
This ramble must end. There are only a few fine minutes left for me to catch a quick nap before the boys are awake.
Happy Thursday my friends.

Fa La La La La, La La La La

T'is the busy season for choir again.
Our first public performance of the season is this Friday the 16th at the Red Deer Lake United Church for the Red Deer Lake Community Variety Concert. Chili supper ($5) at 6pm and Entertainment ($10) at 7pm. We're first on the roster...wuhoo! Our repetoire will include: Lullaby of Broadway, Twinkling of an Eye, Cole Porter Medley, Winter Sleighride and Winter Fantasy.
This season we're entertaining at a variety of senior's centres and then on January 6th is "the 12th Night" in which we, as well as several other choirs, perform a last chance of Christmas music event. This too is held at RDLUC.
If you're looking for a little chorale entertainment, come check us out. I don't promise professionals, just spirited.

Fa La La La La, La La La La

T'is the busy season for choir again.
Our first public performance of the season is this Friday the 16th at the Red Deer Lake United Church for the Red Deer Lake Community Variety Concert. Chili supper ($5) at 6pm and Entertainment ($10) at 7pm. We're first on the roster...wuhoo! Our repetoire will include: Lullaby of Broadway, Twinkling of an Eye, Cole Porter Medley, Winter Sleighride and Winter Fantasy.
This season we're entertaining at a variety of senior's centres and then on January 6th is "the 12th Night" in which we, as well as several other choirs, perform a last chance of Christmas music event. This too is held at RDLUC.
If you're looking for a little chorale entertainment, come check us out. I don't promise professionals, just spirited.

Silent Auction

The Ladies Time Out to which I belong to is fundraising with a Silent Auction. The ONLY item on auction is 4 tickets to the New Year's Eve Calgary Flames game against the Vancouver Canucks (at the Dome) and two Flames Sweatshirts, Hoodies and Touques. This package is valued at $700. Bidding starts at $200 if anyone is interested just let me know.
The monies raised will go towards our ladies group: space rental, childcare, etc.

Silent Auction

The Ladies Time Out to which I belong to is fundraising with a Silent Auction. The ONLY item on auction is 4 tickets to the New Year's Eve Calgary Flames game against the Vancouver Canucks (at the Dome) and two Flames Sweatshirts, Hoodies and Touques. This package is valued at $700. Bidding starts at $200 if anyone is interested just let me know.
The monies raised will go towards our ladies group: space rental, childcare, etc.

Remembering

I remember. I remember a friend from days gone by who served over seas as a MP with the UN on a "peacekeeping" mission. The term peacekeeping should be used ever so lightly as usually these missions are filled with fire and fear and death and destruction. Anyway, I remember his memories, his stories, reading his letters from that time and the things he went through but hadn't spoken about since returning home years previously. I remember the sadness this brought to my heart. And on days like this I remember this long lost friend and wish him well....hoping the demons from those days overseas are gone, buried, and resting.

I remember another friend who served our country for years, went to Vietnam twice and on countless other missions. I remember his stories and memories that he has freely shared with me. I am grateful to him for his lessons & ability to share.

I remember growing up near one of our large military bases and being extremely negative and rude in regards to the personnel that lived on that base. We called them hurtful nicknames behind their backs, "worms". I remember being slightly afraid of the soldiers and being utterly ignorant to what they were training for and why they were enlisted. I remember this with shame.

I remember attending Remembrance Day services at the Jubilee with a friend and having tears in my eyes throughout the whole service and in recent years having the same response to the service in my small home town, close to that base I belittled as a kid, the same small town that now has young men enlisted, the same small town that as a teen I played in the band during Remembrance Day services but at that time only thought about how great it was to have a day off school.

Today I remember all of this and hope to someday pass on the deserved respect for this day and all it's people to my sons.

What do you remember?

Remembering

I remember. I remember a friend from days gone by who served over seas as a MP with the UN on a "peacekeeping" mission. The term peacekeeping should be used ever so lightly as usually these missions are filled with fire and fear and death and destruction. Anyway, I remember his memories, his stories, reading his letters from that time and the things he went through but hadn't spoken about since returning home years previously. I remember the sadness this brought to my heart. And on days like this I remember this long lost friend and wish him well....hoping the demons from those days overseas are gone, buried, and resting.

I remember another friend who served our country for years, went to Vietnam twice and on countless other missions. I remember his stories and memories that he has freely shared with me. I am grateful to him for his lessons & ability to share.

I remember growing up near one of our large military bases and being extremely negative and rude in regards to the personnel that lived on that base. We called them hurtful nicknames behind their backs, "worms". I remember being slightly afraid of the soldiers and being utterly ignorant to what they were training for and why they were enlisted. I remember this with shame.

I remember attending Remembrance Day services at the Jubilee with a friend and having tears in my eyes throughout the whole service and in recent years having the same response to the service in my small home town, close to that base I belittled as a kid, the same small town that now has young men enlisted, the same small town that as a teen I played in the band during Remembrance Day services but at that time only thought about how great it was to have a day off school.

Today I remember all of this and hope to someday pass on the deserved respect for this day and all it's people to my sons.

What do you remember?

Let there be health! Oh & sleep too!!

So after weeks of mucous and coughing and little sleep for all things seem to be settling down in the RWB household. Baby R is absolutely healthy except for the minor problem of blocked tear ducts. Today he had his 5 month appt (a little late) and our babe is slowing down on the growth charts; at 22.5 lbs & 28 in tall. It amazes me that at 5 months old he's the same size W was at a year old. And we're to start solids in a few weeks. Like really, does he need them? It just sounds like one more chore to me. Oh well. Now that he's approaching 6 months it's time to address sleep. R loves to be rocked to sleep, sleep in your arms awhile before hitting his own bed and he does not sleep through the night. Once in a while he treats me to an all-nighter but usually he's up once to feed. Given that he's the size of a 1yr old, I really think he can make it through without a top up...soooo...Sunday may be the day that I "train" him to sleep without rocking and to sleep through the night. Yes, this is all for my benefit and the thought of getting there gives me hives, but once we're there...WUHOO!
Our boy W is on the mend as well.No more green goopy nose, no more coughing, no more waking in the night for a "piece of toast", no more antibiotics....Yay!! He's funny these days...last night at dinner he called me a turkey. "Turkey Mommy!" ha ha ha.
And me...I am mending too. Thank goodness. It's amazing what this motherhood business will call you to ignore and just persevere through. After my second chest xray this week, it seems that I may have had pneumonia...which is what my right lung is telling the Doc. Pneumonia...must have been the Walking Pneumonia, the Caring for Children Cannot Rest Pneumonia. No wonder I felt like such crap, but did I take a day off? Did I lie down in my bed and die like I so wanted to on many occasions? Nope. Just mothered through it. Not sure how I feel about that. Kind of superheroish in a stupid and hopeful I'll listen to my body & that it'll never happen again kind of way.
It's onwards and upwards now. Onwards to good health and good sleep. My wishes for you all too....good health and good sleep.

Let there be health! Oh & sleep too!!

So after weeks of mucous and coughing and little sleep for all things seem to be settling down in the RWB household. Baby R is absolutely healthy except for the minor problem of blocked tear ducts. Today he had his 5 month appt (a little late) and our babe is slowing down on the growth charts; at 22.5 lbs & 28 in tall. It amazes me that at 5 months old he's the same size W was at a year old. And we're to start solids in a few weeks. Like really, does he need them? It just sounds like one more chore to me. Oh well. Now that he's approaching 6 months it's time to address sleep. R loves to be rocked to sleep, sleep in your arms awhile before hitting his own bed and he does not sleep through the night. Once in a while he treats me to an all-nighter but usually he's up once to feed. Given that he's the size of a 1yr old, I really think he can make it through without a top up...soooo...Sunday may be the day that I "train" him to sleep without rocking and to sleep through the night. Yes, this is all for my benefit and the thought of getting there gives me hives, but once we're there...WUHOO!
Our boy W is on the mend as well.No more green goopy nose, no more coughing, no more waking in the night for a "piece of toast", no more antibiotics....Yay!! He's funny these days...last night at dinner he called me a turkey. "Turkey Mommy!" ha ha ha.
And me...I am mending too. Thank goodness. It's amazing what this motherhood business will call you to ignore and just persevere through. After my second chest xray this week, it seems that I may have had pneumonia...which is what my right lung is telling the Doc. Pneumonia...must have been the Walking Pneumonia, the Caring for Children Cannot Rest Pneumonia. No wonder I felt like such crap, but did I take a day off? Did I lie down in my bed and die like I so wanted to on many occasions? Nope. Just mothered through it. Not sure how I feel about that. Kind of superheroish in a stupid and hopeful I'll listen to my body & that it'll never happen again kind of way.
It's onwards and upwards now. Onwards to good health and good sleep. My wishes for you all too....good health and good sleep.

Are you Blue?

Forget green, we're going blue!

Recycling is the bain of me & FH's existance. We do not have a good system in place and it seems to pile up (in the kitchen) before making it to the recycle box out doors, then it's up to FH to organize and deliver all the goods to the recycle bins at our local grocers. Of course, they don't accept nearly enough product, ie: plastics. I believe in recycling, but I hate doing it. Until now! We're joining Recycle Blue Inc. For as little as $11.48 per month they will come to our door weekly and pick up our recyclables, a much larger selection than we can deliver to the City's bins. I'm so excited! It'll be easier for FH as there is no delivery on his part and now it's a weekly pick up which means we shouldn't collect nearly as much. Wuhoo!

One little effort in reducing our footprint on the planet. Now if only there was a diaper duty besides cloth.....

Then there's the subject of composting. I know we should. But we don't. And I don't want to. It grosses me out, besides I don't have a garden where would I put it plus I have this idea that it will increase rodents in our yard. We already have a resident mouse on our deck who visits W and I during breakfast every morning. You know, I would much rather have a garburator than compost. There's my next project/wish list....install garburator.

Are you Blue?

Forget green, we're going blue!

Recycling is the bain of me & FH's existance. We do not have a good system in place and it seems to pile up (in the kitchen) before making it to the recycle box out doors, then it's up to FH to organize and deliver all the goods to the recycle bins at our local grocers. Of course, they don't accept nearly enough product, ie: plastics. I believe in recycling, but I hate doing it. Until now! We're joining Recycle Blue Inc. For as little as $11.48 per month they will come to our door weekly and pick up our recyclables, a much larger selection than we can deliver to the City's bins. I'm so excited! It'll be easier for FH as there is no delivery on his part and now it's a weekly pick up which means we shouldn't collect nearly as much. Wuhoo!

One little effort in reducing our footprint on the planet. Now if only there was a diaper duty besides cloth.....

Then there's the subject of composting. I know we should. But we don't. And I don't want to. It grosses me out, besides I don't have a garden where would I put it plus I have this idea that it will increase rodents in our yard. We already have a resident mouse on our deck who visits W and I during breakfast every morning. You know, I would much rather have a garburator than compost. There's my next project/wish list....install garburator.

Halloween

Earlier in the day W displayed a bit of a meltdown when it came time to wear his puppy costume and visit the neighbors. I wish the camera had been with me when he was lying near the curb, in the leaves, crying...as frustrating as it was for both of us it was kind of funny & cute to see this giant shaggy puppy having a tantrum on the side of the road. (Ah...Bad Mom Award will be delivered later this week.)

After answering the door for trick or treaters he decided it would be okay to dress up again. We only went to one house, the next door neighbors, as I think he's still to young to understand Halloween. But none the less we all had a fun Halloween. I wish it came more often!

Another funny point was when W's "chocolate chip" (mini coffee crisp bar) melted in his hand. He opened his little hand to see all the melted chocolate and immediately started requesting "Soap! Wash!" This little puppy does not like having his paws dirty. It's quite funny and must be genetic because there are rumours about a certain FH who had the same dislikes as a little boy.

Boo! to you all.

Halloween

Earlier in the day W displayed a bit of a meltdown when it came time to wear his puppy costume and visit the neighbors. I wish the camera had been with me when he was lying near the curb, in the leaves, crying...as frustrating as it was for both of us it was kind of funny & cute to see this giant shaggy puppy having a tantrum on the side of the road. (Ah...Bad Mom Award will be delivered later this week.)

After answering the door for trick or treaters he decided it would be okay to dress up again. We only went to one house, the next door neighbors, as I think he's still to young to understand Halloween. But none the less we all had a fun Halloween. I wish it came more often!

Another funny point was when W's "chocolate chip" (mini coffee crisp bar) melted in his hand. He opened his little hand to see all the melted chocolate and immediately started requesting "Soap! Wash!" This little puppy does not like having his paws dirty. It's quite funny and must be genetic because there are rumours about a certain FH who had the same dislikes as a little boy.

Boo! to you all.

Halloween King of the Household

Halloween King of the Household

Sick & Tired

We're still sick.
We're still tired.
Our household has ear infections, lung infections, eye infections, coughs, runny noses, sneezes, and mucous everywhere. Bleck! Yesterday my black t-shirt was slimed by a sad little boy which meant my shirt was testimony to the festival of mucous we are living with. Bleck!
However, we have been to the doctor, the chiropractor, the pharmacy and the health food store so here's hoping that it's safe to assume all of these will work and we will soon be the picture of health.

Sick & Tired

We're still sick.
We're still tired.
Our household has ear infections, lung infections, eye infections, coughs, runny noses, sneezes, and mucous everywhere. Bleck! Yesterday my black t-shirt was slimed by a sad little boy which meant my shirt was testimony to the festival of mucous we are living with. Bleck!
However, we have been to the doctor, the chiropractor, the pharmacy and the health food store so here's hoping that it's safe to assume all of these will work and we will soon be the picture of health.

The Owl's Nest

This household misses a sweet, long, uninterrupted sleep. We are all deprived to some degree and some more than others. Definately the mother's more than others. Between coughing, crying, demands to open the dairy bar, more coughing, bad dreams, and shoving Fisherman's Friends into my favorite husband's mouth while he is sleeping/coughing I am in need of a good night's sleep. It cures everything, and would most certainly help my attitude, patience level and interest in the world around me. My family would thank me. What I would give to check into a hotel alone for a weekend of sleep.
This lack of sweet sleep all started with the cold season here at the H house. However, W has learned some bad habits throughout this. He used to be the best sleeper ever! Bedtime never included a fuss but now he's used to getting up after being put to bed and will try anything to do so. His latest is a request for "Piece of toast?" Today at nap time I hadn't even layed him in his crib yet and those three words were across his lips. Nice try little one one! He's also started requesting the other parent. B tucks him in and he asks for Momma, I "tuck his toes" and he asks for Daddy as "Daddy's home!" Well, Daddy may be home, but the toaster is broken and we're fresh out of bread. Now, where are the Fisherman's friends?

The Owl's Nest

This household misses a sweet, long, uninterrupted sleep. We are all deprived to some degree and some more than others. Definately the mother's more than others. Between coughing, crying, demands to open the dairy bar, more coughing, bad dreams, and shoving Fisherman's Friends into my favorite husband's mouth while he is sleeping/coughing I am in need of a good night's sleep. It cures everything, and would most certainly help my attitude, patience level and interest in the world around me. My family would thank me. What I would give to check into a hotel alone for a weekend of sleep.
This lack of sweet sleep all started with the cold season here at the H house. However, W has learned some bad habits throughout this. He used to be the best sleeper ever! Bedtime never included a fuss but now he's used to getting up after being put to bed and will try anything to do so. His latest is a request for "Piece of toast?" Today at nap time I hadn't even layed him in his crib yet and those three words were across his lips. Nice try little one one! He's also started requesting the other parent. B tucks him in and he asks for Momma, I "tuck his toes" and he asks for Daddy as "Daddy's home!" Well, Daddy may be home, but the toaster is broken and we're fresh out of bread. Now, where are the Fisherman's friends?

Birthday Wishes

"Happy Cake Gam Oh Doe!"

Birthday Wishes

"Happy Cake Gam Oh Doe!"