My Weekend Made Me Tired

Seriously. I've been ready for bed since 5:10 this afternoon.

Ian had the day off on Friday but he was out for most of the day running errands. Jordan and I hung out and played with Willow while Sam and Jules were at school.



Friday nights are our Family Nights and we always pick up a pizza and watch a movie together. We've been doing this for years. Our feature for the night was Gremlins.

Aww Gizmo..



I had never seen the whole movie before. I only watched to the first time Stripe was mean to Gizmo then I felt so bad I cried and couldn't watch the rest. So imagine my JOY when that was our movie for the night. (For the record, I watched it this time without shedding a single tear.)

Saturday we went to Square One so we could be robbed blind by the Sony store on the price of a new lamp-bulb-thing for Ian's big screen tv that blew the night before. We had no one to leave Willow with so he came shopping with us. We put him in the basket of Jordan's stroller which he didn't think too much of.

Afterwards I browsed around the Coach store. I saw only one bag I really liked and it was $189.00. Ha. I can't believe people would pay that much for a purse. I didn't like any of the others at all. I do believe my crush on Coach is now officially over.

After the mall, we all headed to my favourite park so we could let Willow run free.



Jordan loves her brother but isn't so hot on Willow at all. Sam was constantly trying to keep him from jumping on her.



Here is Jordan wearing the hair clippie I won from Keely's blog.



So cute.

Between me feeling lousy and Ian being exhausted from getting up with Willow so much during the night, we missed church again today.

Later this morning, I took Willow for a walk and stopped to talk to my neighbours for about 40 minutes. I like that I'm meeting more of them.

Ian, Sam and Jordan headed off to the mall for a bit, leaving Julie and me at home. She ended up playing outside with Willow and her friends so I had the house to myself.

Oh my dear friends, it was heavenly.

Would you like to know what I did with my time?

I fired up my glue gun and tried my hand at bow-making.

Here is the front of my first bow ever...



And the back...



The back looks a bit rough but considering it was my first attempt at using a glue gun ever, I'm pretty impressed with myself. I even lined the alligator clip.

FYI, the glue in a hot glue gun is hot. We don't need to discuss the number of times I got it on myself. Oh no, we certainly don't.

I wondered if the first one might be too big so I tried a smaller one...



So now I have a bow for Jules and one for Jordan.



Julie and I took Willow for a walk along the ravine, then she helped me with the grocery shopping. I love it when she comes because she unloads the cart for me, puts the bags in the cart, then returns it when everything is in the car. Love her. Apparently I love child labour too because I don't try too hard to stop her from helping so much.

When we got to the car I was very annoyed to see that someone had parked their car about four inches from mine, and it was impossible for Julie to open her door to get in. So, I ripped off a piece of paper from something in the car, wrote a very un-Christian-like note and put it on their windshield. Very un-characteristic of me.

Oh PMS...how I love thee.

So that's it, folks. My uber exciting weekend.

The end.

5QF - Nov 6th

It's Friday!

Can I get a woot woot?

WOOT! WOOT!

Oh yeah...that's what I'm talkin' about :-)

And y'all know what happens around these parts on Friday don't you?



That's right! Mama M's Five Question Friday!

Here I go :-)

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

1. What is your dream job?

I've got it - I'm a Stay At Home Mom. It is definitely the best job I have ever had in my life and I enjoy every minute of it. I mean it. Every minute. My husband supports and encourages me daily, my children love having me here and I am happy.

2. What song could you play over and over?

Boom Boom Pow by The Black Eyed Peas. I canNOT get enough of that song and I sing along and make incredibly lame super cool hand gestures and my butt gets going and I sing into my hairbrush microphone. I imagine that I am a fantastic dancer and there is no room in my dancing fantasy for any reality whatsoever.

3. Do you prefer to talk on the phone or text (or email)?

I really, truly do not enjoy talking on the phone and I feel anxious when I hear it ring. I love email like you wouldn't believe. I love getting it and sending it. I love how fast it is. I lurve it. And I always answer my email.

I also love getting text messages. Usually they are from my extremely talented and beautiful friend Jen. I don't send very many even though I can send 125 each month with my cell phone plan. But as I learned very quickly, it is incredibly easy to reach that and then exceed it and freak out my darling husband when the bill comes in. Therefore I may send about five a week.

4. What is your must have beauty product?

I don't have one. I don't wear make-up and that isn't because I'm this uber mom who is so busy cooking and cleaning and caring for her children. Oh no, friends. It's because I am lazy and I'm not entirely sure I know what I'm doing. With my luck I'd leave my house looking like Katie Fay Baker. Every so often I'd like to wear lipstick but then it would get on my mug or or Jordan's face or wear off or even worse - someone might acknowledge it. "Oh! You're wearing lipstick!" Ugh. No thank you.

I have no skin care regimen or wrinkle combat plan. Just me, some water and a bar of Ivory soap.

5. What is your favorite Michael Jackson song?

Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' and Smooth Criminal. As sad as I am at his passing, it's been really fun hearing his old stuff playing on the radio again. When Smooth Criminal comes on the radio the party starts. If I'm in the van, I'll open the window and crank it. Oh yeah, cruisin' in the mini-van is underrated.

And that's a wrap! Happy Friday, friends!

Feelin' Blah

Just looking at that picture relaxes me. I wish I was sitting in one of those chairs.

I'm feeling pretty lousy this week, both physically and emotionally. I feel as though I'm coming down with something. My body aches and I feel so tired. I am feeling anxious and fearful. I just want to crawl into bed and wake up next week.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

One of Sam's guinea pigs died early this morning. I had just gotten back into bed after walking Willow at 5am (*choke*) when Sam came in to tell us he thought his guinea pig was dead. Ian went to go and check and the poor little thing was barely hanging on, then died in his hands.

Poor Ian. He always has to deal with pet deaths. I get to cuddle and soothe. He gets the gross part.

Sam is heartbroken and didn't want to go to school today because he was afraid he would cry and his friends would see and make fun of him. Being the softies that we are, we allowed him to stay home from school today. I baked some brownies and we cuddled together watching Spongebob Squarepants.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Willow came home on Sunday afternoon and he's been fitting in quite well. He piddles hourly! I had these great visions of long walks along the ravine with my new dog. Well forget that. The little dude has itty bitty legs and can't even walk around our block! He turned 7 weeks old yesterday and this week has learned to bark and to climb up the stairs. We've had only a few accidents inside and most of them were on the newspaper. He actually whimpers and/or barks when he wants to go outside. Sweet.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

That's all I feel like talking about at the moment. I'm not feeling particularly fun or witty today.

Ask Me Anything Answers - Part Three!

It's time for the third installment of my Ask Me Anything answers.

Are you ready?

Because I'm ready.

These questions come from Erica from JOYous Jabberings.

1. What is your all time favourite snack?

I love cookies. Soft chocolate chip cookies are my favourites. Hard ones are not as enjoyable in my opinion. I love peanut butter cookies too. Hard or soft, it doesn't matter because I love them with all of my heart. I used to hate them but not now, my friends.

2. What do you like to do to relax?

I enjoy blogging and reading other people's blogs. There are some truly great blogs out there! I like reading and watching tv in bed.

3. What household chore do you despise the most?

I hate, hate, HATE washing floors. In case you missed that, I HATE it.

4. What do you love most about being Canadian? (coming from a fellow Canadian)

Free health care! And the fact that we are loved no matter where we go.

5. What is your favourite movie?

I love Father of the Bride 1 & 2 and I couldn't possibly admit to the number of times I've watched them. I adore Pride and Prejudice and I love Mr. Darcy like you wouldn't believe. It doesn't matter how often I watch this movie, I still get sucked in and cry at the the same parts.

Thanks Erica!

Next up...Jackie from A Step At A Time!

How has the Lord amazed you recently?

Great question, Jackie. I've typed my answer a few times but it just isn't coming out the way I want to express it. I'd love to be eloquent and reverent and what-all, but I'm just still so blown away by Him, so I'll just spit it out.

I spent most of this year feeling resentful that Ian was laid off and I had to go back to work. I'd love to say that I was gracious and selfless but I wasn't. I was angry and I cried a lot. I felt a lot of fear and uncertainty about the future. I doubted that God really cared about me, because if He did, surely He wouldn't let so much stuff happen to us. I almost let go and walked away from Him. Almost. Even in the midst of my feelings, I clung to His promises in the Bible. That He intended good for me.

A few weeks ago He answered one of my prayers. I won't go into detail on it here and I hope you will forgive me for that. For me, this is huge. He has shown me that even though I doubted, even though I raged against Him and stopped praying and all but let go, He showed me that He cares about the deepest desires of my heart and that He wants His best for me. He showed me that there is nowhere I can go where He isn't.

I'm slowly making my way back and He and I are growing closer. I missed Him and I think He missed me too. I feel a lot of shame for doubting Him like I did.

Now we are faced with a new situation, an uncertain future. I am scared, but I am trusting in Him. Whatever happens, He has us.

Thanks Jackie!

Tamara from The(Un)Experienced Mom asked me what got me into blogging. I answered that question for The Pineapple Princess here.

Thanks Tamara!

Amanda from Belli's Place - Living Life With Larsen's asked:

I always hear a lot of animosity from people in other countries towards Americans. What do you think are American's biggest downfalls? What are some stereotypes that people from Canada think about America?

Tough one, Amanda. Can I plead the fifth here? Please??

I am not politically savvy, so I don't think I will answer this very well and will possibly alienate some of my American readers here so I apologize in advance.

I think the biggest downfalls are moral ones: Abortion, same-sex marriage, owning firearms, if it feels good do it, taking God out of the classrooms, the death penalty, euthanasia. Everything is permissible and it's frightening because Canada goes along with whatever the US does.

I don't know what all Canadians think about Americans, I can only say what I think. I think that Bush was a very ill-advised and dangerous man. I think that America bullies other countries. I think the purpose of your troops - and ours - going to Afghanistan and Iraq is long over and they need to pull out.

That (poorly) said, I love your Walmarts. And Target is pretty good too.

Thanks Amanda! (I think!)

And last but not least, Mindi asked:

1. What is your favorite book and why?

I love The First Time, by Joy Fielding. There aren't many books that truly move me, but this one sure did. The first time I read it I was on vacation and I couldn't put it down. I was in the bathroom, sitting on the side of the tub reading it at 3am until it was finished. And I cried like a baby. I even sent an email to the author telling her how much I loved her book and I never write fan letters. The characters were so real and I was pulled right into the storyline and I felt invested in what happened. It's a lovely book and I recommend it highly.

2. What is your favorite thing to cook?

Turkey. There's just something about the effort that goes into cleaning it out, stuffing it, basting it and carving it that I love. I love a nicely browned bird.

And let's face it...I love eating it too.

3. What was your biggest splurge! Ridiculous amount of money for SOMETHING. (Like a Ralph Lauren sweater or something silly like that :)

Back in the day when I was in highschool I desperately wanted something from a store called le Chateau, and I ended up buying a pair of low black heels with uber pointy toes for $80.00 They were really, really pointy and my toes hurt whenever I wore them. But man did I feel stylish.

Thanks Mindi!

Well, that's a wrap! Thank you so much to everyone who asked me questions! I love that you enjoy my blog enough to keep coming back to read!

This Weekend Pooped Me Out

Seriously.

Halloween was a great success. It was pretty cold but the children wore extra sweaters to keep warm. Ian dressed like Clark Kent from Smallville and I wore my inflatable pumpkin costume as I do each year and felt like an ass like I do each year. But it makes my children happy so I do it. Some dude kept taking my picture. Freak. Those darn paparazzi follow me everywhere.

The girls and I lasted about 45 minutes before returning to my mom's house to wait for Sam and Ian, who rolled in about a half hour later. Those kids cleaned up.

Today we finished the last of our puppy-proofing and went to pick up Willow in the early afternoon. He was snuggled with his two sisters under a bush in the backyard. When we gently pulled him out, the other pups followed and the three of them nuzzled one another and licked each other's faces like they were saying goodbye.

Now you know I cried. You don't have to wonder because you just know I did.

He is a delightful little animal. He has pranced around checking things out and had several naps. He took to his bed immediately and even whimpers when he has to go outside to piddle. He had one little accident but that's because we missed his cues. We took a few pictures of him so I'll try to post them tomorrow.

Ian's best friend *G* came for dinner tonight so we could celebrate his birthday with him. I cooked a roast, mashed potatoes, carrots, corn and gravy, with a chocolate cake for dessert. Very good if I do say so myself.

That's all I have for you today. I am pooped.

5QF - Oct 30th

Yippee! It's Friday! We've got a lot planned for this weekend and I'm kickin' it off Mama M's Five Question Friday style ;-)

1. What were you doing the last time you really had a good laugh?

I can't remember what it was that got me laughing that hard, but I do know it was with Ian. No one on this planet makes me laugh as hard as he does. He can even make me laugh when I'm angry. At him!

2. Who was your first CELEBRITY crush?

*Sigh* Shaun Cassidy *Sigh*



I used to play his records while I roller skated around in the basement and fantasized about being Mrs. Shaun Cassidy. He used to sing Take Good Care Of My Baby and I would cry every time. In the basement.

Yep...that turned into a bit of an over-share.

Moving on...

3. What is one talent that you wish you had?

I wish I was craftsy. Is that a word? If it wasn't before it is now. I wish I could sew curtains and aprons and knit and make little hair bows and do stuff with a glue gun.

I did sew a few baby blankets while I was expecting Jordan but that wasn't hard. I also once made my aunt some place mats and a matching table runner that turned out really nice.

I want to be a Macgiver Crafter. No.. I want to be an Oooohhh Ahhhhh Macguiver Crafter.

4. How often do you and your spouse go out w/o the kids? Is it frequent enough?

I would say once or twice a year and that's definitely not enough. It's difficult to find someone to watch all three of the children that I trust. Well, we have one babysitter who is such a sweet girl and I trust her completely, yet we still don't go out much. My mother watches the children for us if we have appointments or conflicting commitments and we are so grateful for that. Ian's parents have Sam and Julie up north to their place one or two weekends a year, and so my mom will watch Jordan for us and we'll go out for dinner and a movie together. Ideally we'd like to go out alone once a month.

5. What colour(s) is your bedroom?

I must say, I appreciate that Mama M spelled colour Canadian style ;-)

Our bedroom walls are as white as the day we moved in 11 years ago. Whiter actually, since Pino the Painter came and painted the house for us last summer. Our bedding and curtains and en suite are burgundy.

Happy Friday everyone!!

What Was With Today Anyway??

I love Wednesdays. I really do.

Each Wednesday I drop my children off at school, take Ian to work, stop at Timmie's for my usual order of a large steeped tea with double milk (for me) and two old fashioned glazed timbits (for Jordan), and then head to the church for my Bible study.

This morning was really, really great. We all sat around the table and enjoyed really laid back conversation about everything under the sun. I really enjoy this group.

Afterwards, Jordan and I headed to the bank and then went to Michael's.

I love Michael's. I love it even more than Walmart.

GASP!

Did I just admit that?

So while we were walking, this really big, black SUV pulls up alongside us with two guys in it. One of them calls out to me, scaring the crap out of me. Our conversation went a little something like this:

Freaky Dude In The SUV: Oh I'm sorry to startle you, Ma'am.

Really? Ma'am?

Me: Oh, not a problem. Is there something I can help you with? (because I'm all nice like that)

Freaky Dude: Well, I was wondering if I could interest you in a home theatre system.

Me: A what?

Freaky Dude: A home theatre system. My buddy and I just finished installing system in a couple of houses just north of here and we still have three left over.

Me: Oh, no thank you. I'm good.

Freaky Dude: Yeah, well... if we take back three systems, my boss automatically gets a free one, and there is no way I want that guy having a free home theatre system.

Me: Right.

Freaky Dude: Yeah. (starts to open his door) Why don't you just come around to the back of the car and I'll show it to you.

I read the paper. I watch CNN. I am worldly. (ok, maybe not so much for that one)

Me: No thank you.

Freaky Dude: No? You don't want a free home theatre system? Come around, let me show you.

Me: No, I don't want to come around to the back of your car. I don't feel like getting killed today.

I started walking away and he pulls up alongside me.

Freaky Dude: No no, it's not like that. Seriously let me show you.

Me: Really, thanks very much, but I'll take a pass. Have a good day.

Do you believe it? As if I was born yesterday. He was probably going to put a rag with chloroform on my face and drive away with me and my baby!

NOT THIS CHICK, MISTER.

Yeah, so that happened.

After the children and I picked Ian up after work we went to Walmart to get Jordan's costume for Halloween. She's going to be a crocodile. Or a dinosaur. Depending on who you ask. If you ask me she's a crocodile.

Jordan managed to holler all throughout Walmart, therefore making me That Mother. You know who that is. That Mother who lets her child scream, thereby annoying the 3,444,000 customers in the store. It's funny how after awhile you don't really even hear it anymore, you know?

For about 4 agonizing minutes I couldn't find Julie. I couldn't breathe. Turns out she went with Ian and thought I knew.

Ugh. Poor thing. She got the whole ohmygoshIthoughtsomeonetookyoudon'tyoueverdothattomeagaindoyouhearme speech.

Oh so lovingly, of course.

But of course.

While we're standing in line, a mother and her two children were playing peek-a-boo with Jordan. So cute.

Well, cute until she did her new thing. She takes her hand and drags it across her throat. You know the "you're dead" motion, usually done with one finger along the throat? Yeah, like that. Except with her whole hand. She does that every so often and I don't know why but I sure wish she'd stop. The mother was all like "oh what's that about?" And before I could answer, Jordan says "Ass!"

Yep. So that happened too.

I'm so ready for bed and a less dramatic day tomorrow.

Here's hoping!

Ask Me Anything Answers - Part Two!

I'm back with some more answers to your terrific questions :-)

Tyler at Just Another Day In OUR Paradise asked:

1. What would you say is the biggest difference between Canada and U.S?

I'm not sure that this is the biggest difference, but this is the first one that came to my mind. Canada is very multi-cultural. If you were to ask someone here what they are, they will say they are Italian, Portuguese, Irish, Pakistani, and so on. But if you ask someone in the US what they are, they proudly say "I am American!" I really appreciate that. It gives off a sense of unity and pride in your country.

I think that it's great to embrace one's heritage, but oh... how I would love to hear someone say "I am Canadian!" then tell me what their background is. In case you are wondering, I AM CANADIAN! A fifth generation Canadian in fact, and my ancestors came from Ireland. Erin go bragh! Ian is a fourth or fifth generation Canadian and his ancestors are from England.

2. What will your little ones be fore Halloween? (If you guys are going trick or treating)

Sam is going as The Grim Reaper. Not my first choice but that's what Sam wanted. He even has red, glowing eyes to wear and they are a bit creepy. Maybe I won't look him right in the face while we out trick-or-treating. I'll talk to his feet instead.

Julie is going as a pirate. No idea what Jordan is going to be. That decision will be made tomorrow because HELLO KATE Hallowe'en is this weekend. I've seen a couple I like so that's a start.

3. Since you love to bake.. What is your favorite thing to make.. and the recipe please?

I love making Skor Squares and they are so ridiculously easy. Are you ready??

1 Box of Ritz Crackers
1 Package of Skor Chips
1 Can of Condensed Milk

In a bowl, crush the entire box of crackers, then add the Skor Chips and condensed milk. Mix well (might have to use your hands). Then press your mixture into a square pan and bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

Easy peasy! I often make a batch of these when I am going to a potluck or as a treat. Let me know if you try them and what you think of them!

4. What is the best part of being a SAHM? Worst part?

The best part is that I get to do what I love. I get to be with my 19 month old daughter all day. I get to take care of her. I get to see her firsts. I set her schedule. I love being here when the children get home from school each day, and to bake them cookies, make dinner, care for my home. I love all of it.

The worst part? That's easy. I sometimes struggle with wondering if I am doing enough. Ian goes out to work each day, in a very fast paced and stressful environment while I can enjoy a slower day, set to my own pace or commitments. I sometimes feel guilty that I am not in the workforce. Ian is very reassuring and we believe this is the best option for our family at this time.

Thanks for your questions, Tyler! Don't forget to update your blog so I have something to read! ;-)

Mindy at Because I SAID SO asked:

1. Is there a Rodgers Chocolates near you?

No! And I'd like to know why! I love chocolate!

2. Can you send me some?

I can send you chocolate, but it won't be Rodger's.

3. Where in Canada are you?

I live in Ontario.

4. Do you always say A after a sentence?

I say EH a lot. I mean... a lot. Usually it comes out as "...oh I know, EH?" like I am from Fargo or something.

Thank you for your questions, Mindy, and I'm sorry about the chocolate thing!

And the last ones for today are from Maggie!

1. Do you ever swear?

I would love to be able to answer this question with a resounding NO, but that wouldn't be honest of me. I do swear sometimes. The word I tend to use a lot is Jackass.

Yep. I said it right here for all of you to see.

I am not a fan of the F-word at all. And I hate hearing a woman use it.

2. Do you ever take the Lord's name in vain?

NO. No, no, NO! Never.

Thanks for your questions, Mindy! If you do decide to start a blog please let me know so I can check it out!

Until next time...

5 More Sleeps Until Puppy Day :-)

That's right, folks.

Our newest addition comes home on Sunday and we are beside ourselves with excitement.

(Mostly me!)

I received these photos today and thought I'd share them with y'all.

Willow...



You can see his new collar with his name tag on it. Not sure how long the current collar will fit! He's only 5 or 6 weeks and look at the size of him! Good thing we bought a collar in the next size for him.

That's right, I'm always thinking ahead.

Ahem.



Run Willow, ruuuuuun.....



And hangin' with his sis...



Have I mentioned how excited I am??

Grow Baby GROW!

Today I took Jordan to the doctor for her 18 19 month check up and vaccinations.

I was more than a little nervous when I saw the looks of the waiting room - half of the people waiting were wearing masks and coughing. We weren't even there five minutes before someone coughed on me.

Cooties!

I asked the woman who checked us in if they had seen many cases of H1N1 there and she nodded, then suggested that we sit in the inner room. So we did, like two snobs.

;-)

Jordan now weighs 26 lbs and is 31 inches tall and is in the 70th percentile. I never know what that means.

Well, actually I do. It means she's BRILLIANT.

After she got the two needles she started babbling and pointing at Dr L rather crossly. Man, that little lady sure can give someone the what-for.

He asked me if she was talking yet, and I told him she says "hi", "Mum Ma", "Mum", "Dada", "ass" and is trying to say "I love you".

Yes. My 19 month old can say "ass". Don't look at me. Surely *I* didn't teach her that word.

He said she is developing perfectly and I have nothing to worry about.

But if you know me - really know me - then you know I am always worrying about something. I don't think she weighs enough.

Well I don't.

Then we talked H1N1. I had made the decision that my children would not be receiving the H1N1 vaccine. Well, until I spoke to Dr L, that is. We spoke about it at great length, actually. Sometimes he rushes me out of there, but today he was in a very relaxed mood and answered all sorts of questions for me. He said he had diagnosed 5 cases of H1N1 this morning and almost 20 cases yesterday. I asked him if I should have my children get the vaccine and he told me about a 13 year old who died from it yesterday. I'll talk it over with Ian and see how he feels.

Have you gotten the H1N1 vaccination? Will you let me know why or why not?

Ask Me Anything Answers - Part One!

You know, when I posted my Ask Me Anything post, I honestly thought I'd be hearing a lot of crickets. So imagine my surprise when the questions came pouring in! Y'all commented and emailed and facebooked me and I am just so excited.

Thanks for being so interested in MOI!

Since there were quite a few questions, I'll have to stagger my answers a bit. Hope that's ok with you.

And so I'll begin with Keely from MannLand5.

1.Have you ever been to the U.S and if so where have you been?

Yes ma’am! I’ve been to quite a few states, actually. New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina (greenest grass I’ve ever seen!), South Carolina, Georgia, Florida (can you guess where we went? DISNEY BABY!). I’ve also been to Maryland, Washington DC (hello Mr. President!) Rhode Island, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee.

2.How did your man propose?

Ian and I knew about four months after we started dating that we would get married, so it wasn’t a matter of if, it was when. I was anxious to get engaged and get things rolling but Ian said we need to wait a year because we needed to really know each other at least that long before making that commitment. I told him that if he didn’t know by the end of the first year he’d never know and I’d move on. (wasn’t I charming?)

I dropped hints about what kind of engagement ring I’d like so he could just get right on to the proposal. He said I’d never see it coming, but when you know you’re going to get married, how can you NOT know it’s coming?

Our first anniversary came and went and I didn’t move on. Good thing I didn’t, because 8 days later he popped the question! Ian put a lot of thought, effort and love into his proposal and I couldn’t possibly do it justice here, so I will give you the shortened version with the hopes that Ian will “guest post” here one day and tell you the whole story.

After spending a beautiful day together, visiting various places, he sent me up to my bedroom with a note to read in private. On my nightstand was a beautiful vase of flowers and the end of the note said to pick the flower that stood out. When I pulled it out... there was my ring. Ian was in the doorway and came in, got on one knee and asked me to marry him.

Awwww!

I'm a lousy story-teller, so you'll have to wait for Ian's version ;-)

3.Where is the prettiest place in Canada to visit?

I’ve lived in Ontario my entire life, and while I’ve seen a number of US states, the only other province I’ve ever seen is British Columbia and “pretty” doesn’t even touch this place. Breathtaking is a better description. Ian and I went there about 12 years ago to attend a friend’s wedding in Vancouver and I fell in love with it. The mountain views are just...breath taking. I’d love to go back someday.

In Ontario, I would say Alqonquin, without a doubt. Kincardine is a close second. I’d like to travel to Quebec and Alberta someday.

4.What is it about Walmart that you like?

Just reading this question gives me a little thrill. But I must correct you here, Keely. I don’t like Walmart. I LOVE Walmart. Up until recently – and by recently I mean in the last year or two – Canadian Walmarts and American Walmarts were two entirely different animals.

I am not kidding when I tell you that visiting a Walmart ranks near the top of my To-Do List whenever I am in the States. Not only can you shop for books and clothes and household stuff, but now you can buy your groceries in there and eat McDonalds in there. And – this kills me – you can buy beer there. HA! I don’t know if this is standard American Walmart stuff, but I’ve been to many of them that sell beer. Come to think of it, you can buy beer in any grocery store in the US, right? We have to go to the beer store – shockingly enough, it’s called The Beer Store because we’re creative like that – to buy our beer. And we are carded, although it’s been many, many, many years since anyone has asked to see my ID.

Jerks.

But NOW our formerly-the-world's-crappiest Walmart looks just like yours. (Well, except for the beer part) When I go inside, I feel like I’m in the US and I am happy. I can browse and buy socks and pillows and antifreeze and DVDs and groceries all in one spot. Now we just have to get some of the cool foods and packaging that you guys have and it will be perfect.

Thanks for your questions, Keely!

Next up... Pineapple Princess from The Love Shack .

1. When did you first begin blogging and why?

I think I started this blog towards the end of 2006 at the urging of a friend. I liked that I had an outlet for what was going on in my life and it felt somewhat anonymous because no one really knew about it. Then I went through a frustrating work situation and was venting quite a bit and not always being very nice. I am grateful that Ian brought this to my attention and as a result I deleted almost all of it and started fresh. I really enjoy blogging and it's fun to read my older entries and remember fun stuff.

2. If you could travel anywhere in the world regardless of budget, where would you go? With kids or without?

I'd be lying if I didn't admit that I often dream of this happening to me!

I'd love to go to Jamaica for two weeks, with the children of course. Sorry Ian. I can't help it! I think I have the best children in the world and I genuinely enjoy their company. I'm not a person who wants or needs a break from them. I enjoy them. They are growing up so fast and God willing, there will be many years to come that Ian and I will vacation alone. I don't want to miss a minute with them.

Eventually I would like to take a carribean holiday - anywhere - with Ian alone. We enjoyed our honeymoon so much and we travel well together and enjoy the same things and the same pace.

Thanks, Pineapple Princess!

That's it for now, but I'll post some more answers soon. I need to clean my house so that Ian doesn't think I've been blogging all day. ;-)

Cake Ball Making Is Not For Wimps

Word on the 'net is that Cake Balls are the bomb. It seems like everyone is making them, so, after thinking about it for two weeks I decided to jump in and give it a go.

This is what I did...

Step One: Prepare cake mix and bake as per package instructions.
~ Easy peasy, lemon squeezy.

Step Two: Let cake cool for 30 minutes, then crumble it into a large bowl.
~ See above.

Step Three: Mix a container of icing in with the crumbled cake to form a gooey mixture.
~ I tried to be all lady-like and neat and tidy and use a spoon, but I wasn't really getting anywhere and had to get in there and use my hands. Yes, it sounds gross, but it was actually quite relaxing.

Step Four: Roll into little balls.
~ You can use a mini ice cream scooper to make the same size, but if you are not Martha Stewart and are more like me, you can roll them in your hands.

Here are my balls.



At this point, curiosity got me and I tried one. YUMMEH!

Step Five: Chill for several hours or freeze for one hour.
~ I refrigerated my balls overnight because by this point it was getting close to bedtime and I was bored with the process ready for bed.

Step Six: Melt the chocolate in a double boiler.
~ Yeah, I don't even know what a double boiler is, but I sure know what a microwave is so that's how I melted mine. I burned my finger taking out a super-hot bowl and it still hurts! But I soldiered on, because my family is worth it and that's just the kind of woman I am.

(Seriously though, it really hurt. I think I might have used a swear word.)

I purchased my chocolate melts at The Bulk Barn and they were pretty cheap.



Where was I?

*Yawn*

Oh right...

Step Seven: Roll each ball in the melted chocolate and place on a wax papered covered sheet and refrigerate.
~ I suggest only working with about a half a dozen balls at a time, leaving the rest in the fridge. Once they reach room temperature they soften and become a little hard to work with. Also, you have to work quickly because the chocolate will harden. This part was getting messy and my balls weren't exactly smoothly covered. I chalk this up to being a beginner.
~ Once the chocolate had set, I tried to be all fancy-like and drizzle some melted white chocolate on top. But it looked pretty messy. Again, I think this is because it's my first time doing this, and I'm sure I'll be better at it next time.



Step Eight: Enjoy with a cold glass of milk.
~ Warning!! You're going to want to eat a lot of these. RESIST!

For the next set of balls, I tried something a little different. I poured a bit of melted chocolate into a mold and gently pressed a cake ball into the mold until the chocolate came up the sides, then I put the tray into the refrigerator. Once the chocolate was set, I popped them out carefully, and dipped the tops in orange and then put them back in the refrigerator one last time.

Here they are...



Bakerella I am not, but considering it was my first attempt at making Cake Balls, I'm pretty pleased with myself. I know that with practice comes perfection!

I found that 1 cake mix + 1 container of icing = 55 cake balls. That's a lot of balls, my friends! I still have about 25 in my fridge to be coated with chocolate. Sweet mercy!

Guess what I'll be doing tomorrow?

Shut UP! Are you kidding me???

Look at the award Mama M over at My Little Life gave me!



Sweet mercy... I am ex-ci-ted!

The rules are...

To accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and his/her blog link. Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you have recently discovered and think are great! Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

15 blogs is a lot and I need to get ready for church, so I'm going to cheat and do it MY way.

Are you ready?

If your blog shows up in my blog roll (aka Blogs I Stalk) then YOU get to claim this award as your own because if I didn't think your blog rocked then you wouldn't be on my blog roll. Right?

Right!

Thanks again, Mama M!

~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Thank you so much to everyone who left a comment for me on my Ask Me Anything post yesterday. I was so excited to see all the questions and will work on them today and hopefully post some answers soon! If anyone else has any questions, fire away - it's not too late ;-)

Have a great day, friends!

Ask Me Anything

My sweet new bloggy friend Keely recently did an "Ask Keely" post that was really fun to read.

So...

I'm wondering if I should try it too.

Do you have a burning question you'd like me to answer? Anything you're just dying to know about me? Need my stellar opinion on something? (Ok, even I laughed at "my stellar opinion")

Bring 'em on, friends!

5QF - Oct 23rd

It's Friiiidddaaaaayyy!!

You know what that means, doncha?

Mama M's Five Question Friday!

And today's questions are:

1. What's your favorite horror movie?
Hmm...I would have to say When A Stranger Calls. It's an oldie but definitely a goodie. It's about a babysitter that keeps getting phone calls from a creepy dude asking "Have you checked the children? Why haven't you checked the children?" It turned out that Creepy Caller was inside the house the whole time. AHHHH!!! I hated babysitting after I saw that.

When I see horror movies nowadays, I scream like a little girl. Even in the movie theatre. (Ok, especially in the movie theatre) Truly. I have no shame apparently.

2. Bath tub or Hot tub?
I like the idea of a hot tub, but truth be told, they gross me out a little. I mean come on...you just know that peeps piddle in there. Not to mention body oil, sweat and strands of other people's hair floating all around.

UGH. Now I have a visual in my head.

Baths are nice, especially if Ian prepares one for me. He always makes it the right temperature with the perfect amount of bubbles in it, candles, soft music, a cold drink, something for me to read and a clean towel.

Back off ladies...that man is mine!

3. Do you prefer to view a movie at the theater or at home?
I love going to the theatre but I haven't been in a couple of months. But if I'm at home there's always the option to pause for piddle and/or snack breaks.

4. If you could chose a maid, cook or chauffeur, which one would you choose?
Oh I would choose a maid please and thank you! I hate housework with the fire of a thousand suns. I enjoy cooking and Ian does most of the driving, so a maid would be a dream come true.
And she'd dress like Alice from The Brady Bunch. Except she wouldn't be so chatty.

5. Electric Slide, Boot Scootin' Boogie, or the Macarena?
I was a Macarena gal. Oh yes...front row as often as I could.
Thinking back at that visual has me shaking my head. Really Kate??

Happy Friday, friends!!

I Won Another Blog Award!

This blog award was given to me by Amanda at Belli's Place :-)

Thanks Amanda!

Would it be wrong of me to admit that I had seen this award on other people's blogs and I wanted it too? Because if that would be wrong, then we can all just forget that I said anything.

Not only is it super cool that I received this award, but I get to pass it along to 7 blogs that I enjoy!

Can I get a woot woot??

The rules - so to speak - that come with this award are as follows:

1. Thank the person who gave you the award and link to their blog.
2. Share 10 honest things about yourself.
3. Present this award to 7 other whose blogs you find brilliant in design or content.
4. Tell those 7 people they have been awarded.

Ok, so 10 honest things about myself. Hmm. What else can I tell you? I've already shared my freaky compulsion to count my produce and the number of vacuums I have broken in my 13 1/2 years of marriage. (We currently purchased #15) But I'll give it a try...

1) Back in grade school there was this kid that used to pick a day at random and start spreading the word that the world was going to end that day. I believed him. Every single time. I remember begging my mother to let me stay home with her so we could "die together". *What can I say? I was a bit of a lame kid.

2) On New Year's Eve in 1999, I prepared enough baby formula for several days, filled our bathtubs with water, and sat in the living room with Ian and Baby Sam, waiting for the clock to tick over to the year 2000 and certain disaster because I believed all the hype in the media.

3) I am not getting the H1N1 vaccine, and neither is my family. I think that it's yet another thing that has been hyped up in the media and the vaccine is way too new, and they are rushing to produce it "in time". Way too much room for error, IMO. I can only imagine the chaos that will ensue on Monday when the vaccine hits the clinics here.

4) I haven't ridden a horse since I was 11. I remember watching the horse my sister was riding take off on a dead run and she fell off it. I've been too scared to ever try it again.

5) My first boyfriend's name was Michael and we were in the 4th grade. He slipped me one of those "Will You Go With Me" notes with "check yes or no" boxes. I checked YES and drew a heart around it. We were going to get married. Sigh. We "went together" for a whole week and never said one word to each other the entire time. Then his mother caught wind of our intense love affair and made us break up. I could have been Mrs. Michael McFickenbecker, you know. Ok, so his name isn't McFickenbecker, but could you imagine it if it was?

6) I blush very easily and I always have. I hate it.

7) I don't like when I look at the clock and see that it's 9:11. It creeps me out. But I do love when I look at the clock and see that it's 3:16. (I love John 3:16)

8) My favourite bible verses are Psalm 121:1 and Jeremiah 29:11. Look them up ;-)

9) I have been punched in the nose exactly once in my life and I still remember it to this very minute. It's true, you really do see stars when someone punches you. I was standing on my lawn when I was 10, talking to this boy who had a crush on me. We saw a $10 bill on my lawn, so I picked it up. He grabbed it and punched me in the nose. I guess he didn't have that big a crush, huh?

10) I have always been a "waiting for the other shoe to drop" type of person, thus never really allowing myself to relax. I am learning to enjoy my life day by day, because I know how quickly things can change.

Hmm... so who should I pass this spectacular award to that is deserving?

Here they are...in no particular order:

1) Kaleena
2) Melis
3) Audra
4) Amanda
5) Jackie
6) Beth
7) Kristina

These are just a few of the blogs I've been following in the last couple of months. Grab a cup of coffee and check them out. They are all great writers that will inspire you and make you laugh.

Come grab your award, ladies!

Thanks again, Amanda!

Pooped With A Capital P

I was on the go all day today.

7:10 ~ Jordan woke up and Ian brought her into bed with us to cuddle (read: so we didn't have to get up quite yet) She and I continued to cuddle and I suffered through an episode of Caillou while Ian got ready for work.

7:45 ~ Prepared breakfast for the children and packed their lunches and Jordan's bag for the day

8:36 ~ Out the door - behind schedule as usual

8:45 ~ Dropped the children off at school right on time

9:10 ~ Dropped Ian off at work

9:39 ~ Arrived at my bible study, late as usual. Great conversation and fellowship with wonderful women.

11:40 ~ Jordan and I headed out to my old job placement to visit my friends there. Lots of hugs and laughs. I miss them. My whole life I've struggled with thinking the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence. Not now, my friends. Right now I've got the greenest grass around. I made the right decision to stay at home. I'm so content and happy...right down to my bones.

1:15 ~ Headed to Ian's office to bring him a snack and see my old boss/his new boss. Jordan and I hung out for a short bit before leaving to be at my mom's in time to receive the children from school

3:00 ~ Arrived at my mom's to learn that she FELL today. She has a scrape on her face and hand and her body is very sore. Tried not to worry about her.

3:20 ~ The children arrive from school

4:45 ~ Went down to Mom's basement to go through some boxes of mine to try to find my cake decorating stuff because I am inspired to decorate something great. Can't find it. Sit down and cry. Tried to pretend it was because I couldn't find it, but really it's because I worry so much about my mom.

5:15 ~ Pack up the children and head over to Ian's office.

6:00 ~ Head to the Real Canadian Superstore because Ian needs something there

6:30 ~ Went to Walmart, which I am now completely, totally, all encompassingly in love with because it's been Americanized and I lurve it. Do you know what they have? Wait for it... in the frozen section, all the frozen cases are dark. Until you walk past, then a light goes on. Motion sensor lighting at my Walmart. Awesome.

7:30 ~ Arrive home, change Jordan and put her in her pjs. Each time I slip her arm through a sleeve, I kiss the palm of her hand. I forgot tonight and she stood there with both of her palms pointed towards me, waiting for kisses. I adore her. Later in the evening I said to her "I love you!" and she replied "I vloo.." BRILLIANT. Seriously. She's brilliant. And I know that you know who she gets her brilliance from. That's right, her father.

It is now 10:25 and I am going to put on my own pjs and go to bed. I feel like I'm getting a cold and I'm just not interested in that at all.

So, in the words of my friend Keely...

Lata Skata's!

~*~ I Won!! ~*~

What did I win, you ask?

I won the Briar.Claire clippie giveaway at MannLand5!

Just take a peek at these little pieces of adorableness...

** I think this is the one I won **



And look at this one!



I can't wait for it to arrive. Thanks again, Keely!

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Do you want to know what I did today? I baked. A lot. Two dozen chocolate cupcakes, two dozen brownies, a dozen chocolate chip cookies and a dozen peanut butter cookies.

Sam said he felt as though he died and went to Heaven, and asked me why I baked so much. I said because I was feeling a little stressed out and it was a good way to channel it. Then he asked what he could do to stress me out on a regular basis.

Sigh. I love that kid.

Tomorrow I need to do something with all the apples we picked so that I don't lose them. I wonder if I can freeze apple pie filling. Anyone know if I can? Anyone? Anyone....?

You know what else I did today? I straightened my hair and I wish I didn't. I guess there was a reason why my flat iron was shoved all the way in the back of my bathroom cabinet. Because I was trying to tell myself not to do it again.

And you know what else I did today? I enjoyed my baby. Jordan and I played with her blocks and her stacking cups, cuddled and chased each other around the house. She babbled and sang all day and I enjoyed every minute of it. She sat on the counter beside me and taste tested everything I baked. She practiced her kisses on me. It was beautiful day with her.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

I want to sew something but I don't own a sewing machine and I can't sew.

Do you see my predicament? Well, I did sew baby blankets when I was expecting Jordan, but that was sew easy. (Get it? SEW easy?)

Tough crowd.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Well, I'd love to stay and talk your ears off, but I need (yes, need) to watch 90210 now.

Catcha later!

Universal Studios Free Photo Booth

I saw this video today and it gets funnier every time I see it.

It's hilarious!



Did I lie?

I love the please take off your shirt, please take off your shirt- Oh! put your shirt back on! put your shirt back on! part.

Oh my word.

I needed that.

Gotta Make This Quick

I don't have a lot of time to chit chat with you tonight. I've had copious amounts of fresh air this weekend and it's all hitting me now.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Mom, Jordan and I went out for lunch on Friday to celebrate Diwali. No, we are not Hindus or Sikhs, just a few gals looking for a reason to do lunch. When I was pregnant with Jordan I worked at a transportation company as a temp for a few weeks. Everyone there celebrated Diwali but yours truly.

They were so excited for this holiday and planned to have a big lunch at Bombay Palace and couldn't wait to introduce me to Indian food.

Oh friends, but I could wait. I don't like spicy food at all. I eventually begged off, blaming it on my morning sickness. They were so disappointed and that made me feel so guilty. Mom most of all! She was all like "Why won't you go? I need for you to go and try it and tell me if I'd like it".

So, she and I went to Wong's for Chinese instead.

And thus, Mom and Kate's Annual Diwali Luncheon was born.

The next year we went to KFC. I know. KFC. What can I say in my defense other than we had forgotten it was Diwali.

Well, on Friday we kicked it up a notch and went to Applebee's. YUMMEH! We even clinked glasses with a "Happy Diwali" to each other.

I love that woman.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

We went to visit Willow today. Isn't he adorable??



He's a month old and can walk now. So precious. We all took turns cuddling him and he licked my neck and hand. I love how cuddly he is. He's going to be a big suck, I can tell already.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

I don't want to brag or anything, but Reid Rosenthal from The Bachelorette is on my Facebook friends list.

Uh huh. You read that right.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

So when I logged into my blogger dashboard tonight I saw that I have 29 followers.

Are you kidding me??

I am beyond excited. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy that you like me enough to follow me. Thank you so much!

I hope I don't let you down and become lame or something.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Yesterday we visited with Ian's parents and took the children to the pumpkin patch. We had a lot of fun chasing each other through the hay maze and choosing the perfect pumpkins.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

Today it started getting dark at 6:30. Ick.

~*~ ~*~ ~*~

That's it. I'm going to bed.

Five Question Friday

I'm so happy that today is Friday! Fridays are our family nights here at the B House. Pizza, pjs and a movie. Sweet times.

You know what else happens on Fridays??

Mama M's Five Question Friday blog hop, that's what!

And away I go...

1. What phrase, or phrases, do you say a lot (holy cow, geez, seriously?)
For the love of Pete
Sweet mercy!
Glory!
Honestly!
What the heckneck are you doing?
Really...? Really?!
Ugh!
Oh my word!

2. Swimming: Are you a kamikaze off the boat, take the plunge from the deep end, or a gradual, slow submersion from the shore or shallow end kind of person?
I am a gradual entry type gal. I need to take my time getting acclimated to the water so I don't die of shock. It could happen, you know.

3. Have any tattoos? If not, what would you get?
No tattoos here. I don't like them and Ian doesn't either. If I were a tattoo type person then I would have a pair of lips tattooed on my bum.

Is it just me, or does the word "bum" make you giggle too?

4. What is your favorite tree?
I love a Maple tree, especially in the fall when the leaves change colour. Someday I would love to own a home with a big Maple tree in the front yard.

5. Two pronged question: What is your favorite non-physical thing about your spouse? What is your favorite physical thing about your spouse or significant other?
I don't think I could list just one favourite non-physical thing about my Ian. I love his heart. He's so gentle and kind and gracious to everyone. My favourite physical things (keeping things PG of course) are his eyes and lips.

Thanks Mama M!

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day - October 15th

On February 27th, 1998 we lost our first child. We were heartbroken.

It amazes me how much my heart still aches for this little one, even after all of these years.

We feel it in our hearts that this baby was a boy. I don't know how we know, we just do.

I wonder what he would have looked like. Smelled like. Laughed like.

I wanted to bake cookies for him. To comfort him when he fell. To tickle him until he collapsed in a heap of giggles. To fold his little shirts. To tie his shoes.

I wanted to hold him.

I wanted to feel his hand in mine.

I wanted to hear him call me Mommy.

I wanted to feel his lips kiss my cheeks.

I want to understand why we couldn't keep him.

If you have experienced the loss of a child, know that my heart hurts for yours and that you are in my prayers today.