This Extraordinary Life

New Blog

2011-02-18T10:22:00.000-07:00

This blog has moved. Please join me over at Home Grown.

2008-07-07T18:50:00.004-07:00

Am I Being Selfish?

If you are wondering about the Kansas thing, it is still a real possibility. Actually, more than just a possibility. They are just down to crunching numbers.
For my husband's sake I really really hope that it all works out. It would be great for his career, most likely fantastic for his psyche, not to mention his overall health. By health I mean because he won't have to eat 3 meals a day at restaurants, two weeks of the month.
Still, there is a part of me that just wants to stay. Stay where I am. Stay where it is familiar. Stay where everything stays the same. Am I just afraid? Am I just nervous? Or am I being selfish?
In my old Christian days, I would have just let him decide as he is the head of the house. Now that I am beyond that, or maybe just older and wiser, I want to have my say. I want to have it my way. Ugghhhh! Totally torn. In the morning I am all excited about the possibilities and in the evening... not so much. I know I will miss my daughters and my three sweet little granddaughters. I also know that my 4 year old will be just fine. So will I. So will we. So what is with me?????

2008-06-24T19:08:00.003-07:00

Holy Mackerel!

I can't believe it has almost been a month since I wrote on this little blog. I would say that I have been way to busy to have been on the computer, but such is not the case.

Summer has finally arrived here in Delisle. In fact, it arrived last friday. Summer Solstice. I kick myself because I didn't celebrate the day like I planned. In fact that day was miserably hot and I got grumpy. Grumpy because I HATE being hot. We spent the entire day outside and my head began to ache more and more as the day went on. Finally Paul told me to go put my legs in the pool to cool off. I did, and lo and behold, I felt much better. Sounds like I would be an excellent candidate to live in Kansas hey?

Athena spent a good portion of the day in the water. I re-applied her sunblock I don't know how many times. Can't be too careful. Jill came by around dinner time and we had a wonderful meal. Actually, we had wonderful meals all weekend.Let me expand.

Friday night we had Tandoori Chicken Kebabs with Indian scented rice and Cauliflower with turmeric and cumin and some Naan bread. Oh my. I was in heaven. It was so good. We ate dinner on the deck.

Saturday night we ate Tilapia Piccata with Oven roasted potatoes and hmmm... what veg? I can't recall. We also had crostini with Baba Ganoush.

Sunday we ate grilled Steak with Mole Poblano rub, mushroom ragout, corn on the cob and grilled asparagus. Yum.

This week, Paul is away to Winnipeg so we don't eat quite so well.

He comes home Wednesday night only to fly out to Kansas for his final interview, Thursday morning. Back on the plane for sales meetings in Toronto tuesday morning. Canada Day if you can believe that.

About Kansas... we have all but decided if it all works out legally, we will be on our way. We are quite excited about the possibilities but on the flip side, we would be equally happy to stay. We finally have our back yard in shape, Paul's travel will be reduced as they hired a man for Manitoba and of course, the familiarity of life as we know it. It won't be long until we know.

On another note, I found out that I have to have a surgery this summer. I am on the urgent list so I hope to have it done soon, before we leave anyway. I am not sure about US health coverage and here in good old Saskatchewan, it is free. Free to me anyway. Someone somewhere is paying for it. ;)

I'll keep you all posted about our possible move and about my surgery too.

I'll leave you with a couple of pictures to feast your lovely eyes on.

2008-05-27T10:19:00.003-07:00

Thanks everyone for the input on our possible move to Kansas. I was glad to hear your thoughts. We have almost decided that if all of the logistics work out, then we will be off. At least for a few years.

My dear husband has always had big career plans and with this job there is no exception. He has a timeline and a plan. My North Carolina sister told her husband that she was glad he "didn't have any ambition". Funny hey? But this man is already at the top of his game and is glad to stay there so I am sure there was a lot of ambition involved at one time. :)

Anyway, with thoughts of going to a new place bring thoughts of leaving another. I have been sitting on my deck in the evening just listening to the birds and the quiet. Going to sleep knowing that we are safe and secure. I seem to be more appreciative of the everyday, the ordinary. Just seeing Athena and her Dad relaxing on the hammock is wonderful to me. But, I must not forget, if we do go, Daddy will be home almost every night!!

Oh PS Athena thinks if she moves there she will be friends with Dorothy and Toto. :)

My one dread is breaking the news to one of my daughters. She will not be pleased.

I leave you with a few pictures from the weekend.

2008-05-23T08:58:00.003-07:00

Pondering Big Changes

I live in Canada. I live in Saskatchewan. I have lived in Alberta twice in my lifetime. That is it. Canada is a wonderful country. Saskatchewan is a fantastic province. My small town is safe, quiet and just far enough away from Saskatoon. Life is good here. It always has been.

Now, my husband has be presented with a great opportunity in his career. An opportunity to teach. An opportunity to work 8 to 5 for the first time in our 25 year marriage. An opportunity that can quite possibly lead to a position for him in Denmark! How exciting would that be. Trouble is, this position is not in Canada. It is in the United States. In Kansas. Olathe, Kansas to be exact. That is far away. Far away from our 3 grown daughters and 3 baby granddaughters too.

On the up side. What a place for them to come and visit. What an adventure for us and our 4 year old daughter. What a great thing to have my husband home every night. Decisions, decisions.

I don't really know anything about life in the United States, save for that which my sister who lives in North Carolina tells me. Some good. Some not so good. Anybody have an opinion on this subject? Anyone? Anyone at all?

2008-05-14T15:16:00.003-07:00

There are those who think little girls

should have long hair.

I beg to differ.

This little girl is so busy outside in the yard

and helping in the garden

that she hasn't the patience for hair

that is constantly in her face.

I agree with her.

(And... six bucks for a haircut isn't too hard to swallow either.)

2008-05-06T09:11:00.002-07:00

Spring Frenzy

It is nesting time here in the Prairies.

It is especially crazy here in my back yard in Saskatchewan.

We have several pine trees that are upwards of 40ft tall,

lots of space for a nest you would think.

I don't know what the bird criteria is for a good nesting spot

but it is evidently the strongest in one of our 8 backyard trees.

There are bird fights galore. Lots of noise and activity.

In one tree we have 3 types of birds all building nests

A pair of Robins, Grackles(yuk!) and Mourning Doves

have all started to build.

We have other birds in other trees like a pair of Northern Flickers in one,

(Very exciting to us)

but that tree remains the most popular.

Kind of interesting.

2008-05-06T09:04:00.003-07:00

OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES

"Mommy, Mommy, my eyes have the power to make all things dark!"

Oh really? How is that?

"When I close them, everything is dark. When I open them, all is light again."

That is cool. Let me try.

"Nope, you don't have it. When you closed your eyes, I still saw light."

2008-05-03T19:11:00.003-07:00

ANOTHER LUCKY BREAK FOR ME!!

This must be my lucky week. I just has to be. My new next door neighbours came to me while I was weeding my front flower beds. They told me they were going away for the weekend and that while they were away I could help myself to anything they had growing in their yard because next week they were taking everything out and putting grass over the entire thing. I couldn't believe it.

This morning, Athena and I scouted everything out and started to excavate. I got a total of 21 plants and could have had at least that many more but I haven't the room. Among these treasures was a John Davis climbing rose. Pink. My favorite color. Explorer roses, my favorite as well, (besides English roses, which don't winter very well here on the prairies). I also got a few peonies, 3 other rose bushes, some bleeding hearts, columbines, ferns, hen and chicks, and a few things I have never grown before. Amazing. I hope they transplant well.

2008-05-02T08:20:00.002-07:00

GARDEN TIME

We have a big yard. Quite big in fact. Only trouble is it is filled with gigantic pine trees. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE those trees. It is so nice to still see green in the dead of winter. Those trees saved our yard/house from some very damaging winds last summer as well. The only problem I have with them is that they shade my yard so a big organic garden is out of the question.
So... I put an ad up at the corner store (how rural does that sound?) asking if anyone in town had some garden space they were not planning to use. Today I got a call from an older gentleman saying he had some space for me. 5 ACRES!! It is just 10 minutes down the road. He had a rototiller and would set up some irrigation for me. All he would ask for in return is some cucumbers and potatoes. Can you believe this?
So of course I have been thinking most of the morning if I can actually do this. Of course I wouldn't want 5 acres but I could have the garden of my dreams. I could plant enough food for my little family of 3 and have plenty to spare for my 3 grown daughters and their families as well. It sounds so promising. I am excited just thinking about it. But then... there is the work that comes with it. Am I up to it? I am still struggling with my iron and all the tiredness that comes with it. What to do?

2008-04-21T14:20:00.002-07:00

Earth Day At Our House

Last week, Athena and I were walking down the streets of our town. She spotted some pop cans and crumpled up candy wrappers on the road. She said "Mommy look! Someone is not caring for our earth." She started to bend down to pick up the garbage. I told her that I didn't want her to pick it up because she didn't have any gloves on and nor did we have a garbage bag with us. I told her it was Earth Day next week so on that day we would put on some gardening gloves, grab some trash bags and head out to clean up "our earth". Grand intentions. That day it was a warm spring day. Tomorrow, as you well know, is Earth Day. Problem is, our town is covered in a fine layer of snow and tomorrow more snow with a high of -2 C is forecast. Ughhh! Now I wonder if I should go with her anyway or not tell her it is Earth Day until it is a bit warmer. Hmmm.

In related news, our output of garbage has significantly lessened over the past month or so. I have been extra vigilant about the recycle. We have recycled every bit of cardboard and paper that we come across. We have always done cans and bottles but I really noticed a huge difference with this extra attention. Even empty toilet paper rolls make it to our bins now. This makes me happy. Another noticeable improvement was that I used the Diva Cup this month for the first time. I loved it! No waste (cuz I recycled the box). I didn't know how it would work out but I am a believer now. Most of my garbage is food scraps and peelings. If my husband weren't so opposed to compost bins I don't think we would have much to roll out on garbage day at all.

So, I'll let you know if we brave the elements to clean up our town or if I wimp out and do it another day. Happy Earth Day to you!

2008-04-10T18:53:00.002-07:00

ME TIME

Some days I wish I could just run away. Not really, but it seems that I seldom find time to do the things that nourish my soul. I know that I have a 4 year old at home and that presents its challenges and I know that my husband travels more weeks in a month than I even want to think about but still... There are 24 hours in a day. I should be able to find some time for myself. Some days when Athena is in bed I just sit in the front room with a glass of wine, finish it off, shower and drop into bed, I'm just that tired. Anyway... what I want to know, I guess, is how do you find time for yourselves and what do you do with that time? What brings joy to your heart besides your husband and children? Do you even make time for yourself. I hold my breath waiting for your response.

2008-04-08T07:11:00.002-07:00

HER SPRING ROBIN

Upon the recommendation of Jen, Athena and I checked out the book My Spring Robin from the library. It is a cute story about a little girl who is waiting for her spring robin to return in the spring. We have read and renewed this book several times. We have been looking for a robin to return for weeks. Yesterday I thought surely there should be robins back by now so we went for a long walk, hoping to find one. No luck.

This morning she came in to my bed quite early. Daddy is away on business so she had plenty of room. As we snuggled and talked a little bit I heard the unmistakable song. So did she. Yes, we heard a robin at last. We got up and got ready for the day. We rushed downstairs and looked out the patio doors. Lo and behold, right on the fence stood her spring robin. What a day to celebrate for a 4 year old. Now we will hear the robin's song all summer long. "Cheer up, cheerilee, Cheer up, cheerilee, Cheer up, cheerilee" Happy Day!

2008-04-04T11:22:00.002-07:00

APRIL

April is upon us at last. What a wait it has been. Although I love winter, the last grey slushy weeks of it are not my fave. The winter I like is cold, snowy white, sparkly and crisp. I never know what to put on Athena when she goes outside. One day it is her snow suit and the next it is slush pants and rubber boots. But, alas, April is here.

Almost all of the snow is gone now, save for a few stubborn piles in the corners of the yard. The skies threaten rain but you never know in Saskatchewan. It could just as easily turn to snow. Nevertheless...

I thought I would share with you some wonderful new blogs that I have come across. Not that you don't read enough already. These blogs are all Stay-At-Home-Moms, like I am. Some are Waldorf families, some are Homeschoolers but all are Tree Huggers and Earth Lovers. All seem like wonderful women. So, if on a rainy April day, you have a few spare minutes (read:hours) be sure to check a few of them out.

Also, April is National Poetry Month so I leave you with a short poem we probably all know by heart:

March winds and

April showers

Bring forth the

May flowers.

2008-04-01T12:14:00.002-07:00

Spring Cleaning

Yes, it is that time of year again. Spring cleaning time is upon us. Boy do I need to clean my house. I have just begun to make a mental list of all I want to accomplish. It is a long one. Our basement looks like a disaster zone. My curtains in the front room have not been washed since we moved her almost 2 years ago. Horror! I just got an energy efficient front load washer and new dryer. Sparkling brilliant white. My laundry room however is a catch all for who knows what. We have wine to bottle, piles of recycle to haul into the city. Salvation Army donations piling up. The list goes on and on.

This week I plan to make a comprehensive list and compile my supplies. Dear Husband needs to paint the kitchen and the front room, not to mention the ceiling in both as well so some of my work will depend on his schedule. Other than that I am roaring to go. I want to have it all done before gardening season starts too.

Thank you Nature Mom for the banner and the motivation.

2008-03-31T08:24:00.002-07:00

Earth Hour 2008

As any informed citizen already knows, Saturday March 29th was the day to mark Earth Hour. 8pm-9pm local time. Great idea. It started in Australia last year. Millions of people took part this year. The idea was to bring awareness to global warming. It worked. I have proof.

My husband is not the most environmentally friendly man around. He begrudges (albeit a little bit) my recycling, especially of cardboard. He says it takes up too much room in the garage and he doesn't like having to haul it all to the city. Yet this man was all for turning out the lights, turning off the furnace, unplugging the phones and the computers. It surprised me too.

We decided to have our Earth Hour at 7pm so our little girl could take part in it with us. We set a timer and at a few minutes to 7 we turned everything off and lit a plethora of candles all around the house. She had her bath by candlelight. We read books by the dim glow of her Mobi Tyke Lamp. She loved it!

At about 7:30pm my husband got a call to put out a fire so I was left alone. I poured a glass of wine and sat in the darkness at the kitchen table. As 8 o'clock came and went, I kept the lights off anyway. I took my wine and a few votives and headed to my piano. It was so nice just to sit in the candlelit room and play. I imagined all the great composers writing their music by candlelight so many years ago. After some time I went upstairs and had a shower by candlelight too. How completely relaxing. I carried my little beeswax pillar into my room and went to sleep.

So, we actually had 3 earth hours. I was glad to see that at least one more family in Delisle observed Earth Hour as well. I looked out the front window to see the darkened house of the elderly neighbors across the street with the unmistakable flickering light of a candle.

Earth Hour is a great idea. I, like many others, would like to do this more often.

2008-03-17T15:34:00.001-07:00

I guess it is high time I revived this old web log. I deleted my old one, as you may know. Stay tuned. M

2007-10-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

By Request: Our Thanksgiving Menu 2007

Turkey with Stuffing and Gravy
Mushroom Strudel
World's Best Baked Onions
Lemon Roasted Broccoli with pine nuts
Make ahead Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Tomatoes, Onions, Garlic with Spinach
Fall Roasted Carrots

Jill is bringing an appetizer of some sort.
Jess is making a Butternut Squash and Carrot soup
Jen is bringing pumpkin pie.

Wines:

Laboure-Roi History 2005 (Beautiful Canada) Pinot Noir from France
Lindeman's Sauvignon Blanc (for those who prefer white)
Piat D'or Rose from France
And a Port (for dessert) from Australia

C'est tout!

2007-10-02T15:10:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving Dinner Again?

I was going through my recipes today. I have been cutting out recipes from magazines for at least 10 years so you can just imagine how many I have. They are all in black binders in my recipe cabinet. Anyway, I am trying to put together my Thanksgiving Menu. I finally have it nailed down, I think to myself. I am going through the recipes for weeding out purposes, I might add. So in the course of my weeding I find a page, in my own handwriting, that says, THANKSGIVING MENU 2006. I read through it and much to my chagrin, I have almost the same thing planned this year!! NOT ON MY WATCH! Back to the drawing board. Only one more day until I have to head to the city to get the provisions. Wish me luck in coming up with a NEW menu that will please everyone. Any suggestions?

2007-09-26T09:29:00.000-07:00

UPDATE AT LAST

I realized that I have not been updating this blog as much as I should. I also realized that 53 of you checked it yesterday alone. I suppose there are those who are interested still so I'll write a little something in here now and then.

Exciting news, Jen gave birth to a lovely baby girl yesterday. Another Granddaughter for me and Paul. We can't wait to see little baby Josephine Lauren. And that makes 4 little girls under the age of 4 in our ever growing family. Now we just need some more men. Paul and Jordan are the lone males in our clan. Jess and Jill will likely marry some day but until then, it is two guys and 8 girls!

Athena started school a few weeks ago. She is going two mornings a week. She loves to see all her friends but is so so tired when she gets home. Monday and Wednesday afternoons are on the quiet side. She likes to look at books and listen to Baby Songs. She almost always asks to watch a video too. She is very into Madeline Videos and Books. More days than not she is "Pepito, the son of the Spanish Ambassador", and he is a Bad Hat.

She has been helping out quite a bit getting things ready for winter. She helped me pull the garden and helped me and Paul stack wood for the fireplace. We are getting a full cord delivered this weekend so she'll have a lot of work to do there. No complaining either. I am sure that won't last long. Speaking of fires, the girl is mesmerized by them. As our weather has been quite cool, her Daddy has started making fires and she will sit and gaze and the flames. Yes, we will all die of toxic lung disease, I know, but fires are wonderful to behold.

Paul has been working so much too. In fact, he will be out of town 3 of the next 4 weeks. Ugghhh! I can't stand that, but what can one do? He also has the added stress of trying to find a new company vehicle. He has not found one yet and Jill is chomping at the bit as she is buying his old company vehicle for a very very cheap price. He has also been busy with the fire department as well. Mostly medical calls. Lots and lots of Car vs. Semi, which is never good. Can't wait until they twin highway 7 out to Delisle.

I have been recovering, slowly but surely, from my health problems. I hope to get back on my Yoga mat very soon. I am so glad that I took a leave from teaching classes this fall. With Paul gone and my health issues it would not have been good.

I have an opportunity to teach again in January. I am hoping to take advantage of that for sure. My real desire now is to start painting. Yes, our house needs paint, but I am referring to painting on canvas. I have a wonderful easel and art set that I have not even used yet. It sits, out of sight, quietly whispering my name. I hear it and pay no heed. Hopefully I will find inspiration soon.

We will be having all the girls, all six of them, and Jordan and Mark (Jess's mate) out for Thanksgiving Dinner. That is so wonderful. It is a ton of work but worth every minute. I am making turkey (ewww!) and this year I will make sure to remember to bake the stuffing! I haven't worked out my menu yet, but it will include an assortment of fall veg for sure. I think every one of us loves fresh brussel sprouts so that will be one dish for sure. Jill loves sweet potato, we all love pumpkin pie I think. Wait, maybe Jen doesn't. I'll have to check. I try to make one dish that they all love so all will be happy.

I am also getting behind on my slipper knitting. I made Athena's already but Jordan and Jill are in line and I hope to get Abby's done before they come for Thanksgiving. So you can think of me this next week, sitting in front of a warm fire, sipping my Cabernet and knitting slippers for my loved ones. Sounds rather nice on a chilly fall evening, don't you think?

2007-09-11T13:18:00.000-07:00

Busy, Busy, Busy.

That is the word I would use to describe Athena these days. She Just started school this week and so far so good. She will go on Monday and Wednesday mornings, giving Mommy some much needed alone time. She has seemed to "grow up" all at once too. About a month ago she told me " I am too big for diapers". She was right. Before that day, I could count on two hands the number of times she woke up dry. Since that day I can count on ONE hand the number of times she didn't quite make it until morning. Woo hoo! I thought that day would never come.

She has started to take an interest in books, coloring and playdoh. Before, all she wanted to do was run and jump and imagine. You will see this sun she made all by herself. Rolling each ray carefully and placing it just so.

She is sleeping really well too, (except for a few days last week). She goes to bed around 7:45pm and wakes up around 7:45 am. Gotta love that. Some days she just sings in her bed until 8:30 or so giving me and Daddy an hour or so to have our tea (in Paul's case, coffee) and to read the paper. Growing up is good.

2007-08-21T12:45:00.001-07:00

Stars Without Makeup
Next time you are feeling a little down cuz your hair isn't just right, click here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RokIWzt5YLw&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eanvari%2Eorg%2Fcols%2FStars%5Fwithout%5FMake%5FUp%2Ehtml

2007-08-20T17:25:00.001-07:00

This girl brings so much joy to our lives. She is smart, funny (although she doesn't know it) and so sweet. She wakes up every morning bursting with energy, ready to take on the day. She never gets bored. Never. She has such a wonderful imagination too. Now, finally, (and I have been waiting a long time for this) she has taken an interest in "reading" her own books and making up her own stories. Not a day goes by that she doesn't make us laugh out loud. What a blessing it is to have her.

2007-08-09T13:39:00.000-07:00

Athena is gone. The house seems eerily quiet. Where is she and what is she doing?

She is at cousin Abby's house. So far she has scared Auntie Jen out of her wits about a hundred times, (See above picture and you will know why) eaten lunch, played in Abby's pool and tried to wear some 24m sized dresses of Abby's when she actually wears 4T. I miss her already, but... it is like a refreshing glass of water on a hot summer day to have some time alone. Thank you dear Jen.

2007-08-07T09:38:00.000-07:00

Summer Fun

Summer time is nearly over. Hurray! I find summer the most disagreeable season of all. This one in particular. It has been hot. Way too hot. I am not a complainer by nature but come on! Give us some nice moderate weather.

Anyway, we have had some wonderful times. We had the Payette family up for a bbq and they ALL tented in the back yard. Great fun. They are such nice people.

It was Edens birthday so we celebrated with cake. Speaking of Eden, I will include a picture of her taken on the weekend swinging by herself. She is great at is for only being 3 years old. She was trying to teach Athena by repeating "Pump and forward, pump and forward..." about 500 times. I told her she was going to lose her voice and Jill shouted from the deck "Oh no Mom, she has a looooong way to go before that happens" Payback, I thought as Jill talked nonstop as a little girl. She even went so far as to say, "I think I may have told you this but pretend you don't know."

Athena and Daddy have had some great times this summer too. Paul bought a tent and sleeping bags, set them up in the yard and at random times I find them out there together reading books. He took her twice to "eat lunch on a blanket" and she went to her first movie Shrek the Third. She of course had to wash her bike when Daddy washed his too. Monkey see monkey do. The two of them are just nuts some time. Just yesterday they picked all of the apples off of the tree. She remembers that and looks forward to it each year.

Paul and I celebrated our 24th anniversary as well. My how time flies.

This coming up week, Athena is spending two days with Auntie Jen, Uncle Jordan and Abby. She and Abby play so well together. I hope it won't be too much for Jen, being almost 9 months pregnant and all. They will bring her back on Saturday just in time for the 4th Annual Thompson Family BBQ. I will have some time alone to prepare all the food so that is extra nice. It is a whole lot of work but so worth it. What a fun time. I understand there are a few minor feuds in the family so I may have to have arranged seating. :)

So with the barbecue coming close and the weather days getting a bit shorter, my mood lifts as I look forward to the fall. My most favorite time of year.

2007-07-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

I want you to know that I will not be posting on this blog very much anymore (as you may have guessed). I will post the odd story or family get together along with pictures for my relatives to see. I have started a new blog on which I will regularly post called Yoga and Natural Health Diary www.michellesyogablog.blogspot.com

I am teaching a few Women's Health and Yoga Workshops this summer and I decided to catalog my journey with my students. Stop by if this interests you. If not, thanks for tuning in. M

2007-06-20T16:42:00.000-07:00

Chopped As Well (By Big Sister Jill)

This is the before and after of Athena's summer 'do'.

You will notice in the first picture

she is playing with a "sleeping waxwing"

that flew into our front window.

She wrapped it in a towel and pushed him

on the swing the whole time he slept.

The next morning she saw him on the apple tree.

He must have awakened while she was sleeping.

2007-06-13T19:02:00.000-07:00

TAGGED BY WANDA: 8 RANDOM FACTS ABOUT ME

1. I have never lived by myself. Never. Not in 42 years.

2. I would love to be a vegetarian, possibly even a vegan but my carnivore husband and youngest daughter cause me to cook animal flesh.

3. I have no desire to travel anywhere ever. Put to it I would choose Alaska.

4. I have only loved one man my whole life. If that were to be taken away I don't know if I could love another.

5. My 4 children and 2.5 grandchildren mean more to me than anyone would ever know.

6. I love my only son-in-law as if I had given birth to him.

7. After reading #2, you would be surprised to know that on occasion I crave a nice piece of grilled beef tenderloin.

8. I think I am a darn good cook. Actually, let me rephrase that... I KNOW I am a darn good cook.

And, that is the end of my post. Thanks Wanda.

2007-06-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

And Yet More Pictures For You

2007-06-12T12:57:00.000-07:00

More Family Pictures From A Great Family Day!

2007-06-12T12:50:00.000-07:00

Some wonderful pictures of my daughter Jill and her daughter Eden.

2007-05-29T07:18:00.000-07:00

This is what happens to Athena when she doesn't do what Abby says.

Just kidding of course but... one time when they were visiting, Abby actually put Athena in a "time out". Strangest of all... Athena actually went for one and didn't come out until Abby said she could.

2007-05-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

Reunited. At Last!

No further words necessary.

Notice the matching anklets

cousin Katie made for them.

2007-05-29T07:09:00.000-07:00

After years of wearing ratty, bent spectacles,

Jess got some new glasses.

Looking good Jess.

2007-05-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

This ...

is what happens when a 3 year old

jumps into the firepit

24 hours after the fire was put out.

And the following weekend,

Daddy had "Bob the Builder"

come with his bobcat and dig it out.

Daddy was very scared.

2007-05-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

AN EXCITING WEEK AHEAD

We are planning a wonderful week ahead. Starting today. Wonderful in many ways.

The town of Delisle is having its annual garage sale weekend. I really need one of those garden tools that you twist to break up the soil.
It is also the towns Clean Sweep weekend where the Fire Department hauls away all of your junk for free!! (Junk that cannot be recycled that is)
Tomorrow is Mother's Day. Both Jill and Jen and their girls are coming over for a BBQ. Jess is busy otherwise she would come too.
Athena, Eden and Abigail will all get to play together for the first time since before Christmas. I promise to take lots of pictures.
Jen and Abby are staying with me for a few days while Paul is away to Kansas City on business. Athena thinks we are taking Abby to the city to get her ears pierced. We'll see about that.
I will go to the greenhouse and get my annuals for my garden beds and pots.
I get to help Jen plan her first "homeowner garden" both flower and vegetable.
The weather is supposed to be warm.
Jen will babysit Athena while I teach my Monday night Yoga class so I won't have to get a sitter.
Paul has a 4 day weekend coming up.

Now you tell me that isn't a grand week!

2007-05-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

ATHENA'S PRE-SCHOOL FUN

Finally a lovely spring morning.

Athena got dressed all by herself.

She put barrettes in her hair so

you can see her new PIERCED EARS.

She only has a few more classes left for the term.

Next fall she will go 2 days a week.

Ms. Coleman says she is doing well.

Notice her As on the chalkboard.

She really looks forward to Tuesdays because of two things:

School and Idol!

The last picture is for Jen's amusement.

I laughed out loud when I saw her carefully doing this to her socks.

Bring back any memories Jen???

2007-05-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

2007-04-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

The Interview

These interview questions were asked of me by my oldest daughter Jen. I'll do my best to answer accurately. Here goes.

1. If you could spend one year anywhere you wanted, where would it be?
That is a tough one for me. One year. Well, I would REALLY love to spend an entire year in Alaska. I would love to see all of the wildlife up close and to look upon that magnificent landscape. As winter is one of my favorite seasons, one can understand why I chose that place.
2. If you could master one type of cuisine (Italian, French, Japenese, Mexican) which would you choose?
I think I would like to master Indian cuisine. No wait, perhaps Italian or Asian. I don't know. There are too many that I like. No, Indian it is.
3. If you were having a dinner party and could invite 5 celebrities, who would be there?
Okay, no laughing here. John Gormley ( the radio personality because I think he is very knowledgeable), Richard Gere (cuz the whole Buddhist thing intrigues me, plus he is easy on the eyes), Ellen Degeneres (because she is so so funny, even though I never watch her show), The Dalai Lama (for obvious reasons) and Meryl Streep (just cuz I love her acting).
4. What is one thing you MUST do before you die?
I must orienteer a canoe on a quiet lake all by myself.
5. What is one lesson you hope your children won't learn the hard way?
Oooh, good question. I don't want them to forget to appreciate all of the good things they have. They and I have so so much. People who we love and who love us. Enough money to live. The safety and security we each have just because we live in Canada. That is so important. We could all grumble and complain about one thing or another but if we compare our lives with those in other countries we have little to complain about. So, I don't want my girls to ever forget to be thankful for what they have. To learn the hard way would be terrible, like the song says " Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got til its gone."

If you want to be a part of this too, here's what you have to do:
1. Leave me a comment saying, “Interview me.”
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. I get to pick the questions.
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

2007-04-27T11:41:00.001-07:00

Cute Story I am inside on the computer, obviously and Paul is out in the yard chopping wood. Athena is playing in the back yard and all I hear is her singing " Who let the dogs out? Who, who, who, who?" Oh brother. I downloaded that song about 2 months ago. Let her hear it and deleted it. She just started singing it out of the blue. What a character.

2007-04-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

Learning to Use Chopsticks

It took her a few tries.

And a few sets of chopsticks,

but she finally mastered it.

And I use mastered loosely.

She ate all of her spicy lime chicken

and her basmati rice with them

Good job gal!

2007-04-26T14:22:00.000-07:00

Athena and Eden and The Big Day

What a day it was too.

What fun they had.

They played in the yard.

They collected worms.

They went for a one hour walk

(all by themselves).

Jill and I thought Paul had taken them out.

Turns out, he got a fire call and

the girls got out the gate.

Jill and I sat in the kitchen, drinking wine,

oblivious to the fact that our children were

on the loose.

Oh well.

Good thing we live in Delisle.

You have never seen such dirty children.

Later on we roasted hot dogs over the fire

and the girls had a bath and watched Baby Songs before bed.

All in all a wonderful day.

2007-04-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

Spring Fun

It was a cool, cool Sunday morning but that didn't stop

Athena and Daddy from trying out the new kite.

Daddy tried and tried to get it up in the air.

After some time Mommy said to just

give the kite to Athena and she could play

around with it by herself.

Daddy handed Athena the string and

the darn thing just went up into the air...

and stayed there.

Go figure.

Maybe Daddy know now why Uncle Don hates kites!

2007-04-13T13:48:00.000-07:00

ENJOYING MY "ME" TIME

After I read Kaili's comment on my last blog about enjoying my "me" time, it got me to thinking. Thinking about what I would like to do in this all to brief life we are afforded. Here is my list. Jen should love this one as she is the "Queen of Lists".
In no particular order:

I would LOVE to canoe. I think of a long ago seen picture of Pierre Trudeau canoeing. I have wanted to do that for so long. Not with anyone else. Just by myself. I think it would be so calming. Like a Zen meditation.
I would love to paint pictures. Paul bought me a wonderful easel, loads of canvas, paints and brushes. I have the desire but each time I think about what I will paint, I draw a blank. I think I may move it out to the deck when the weather settles. I'll have a lot of inspiration in my backyard.
I would love to have my own restaurant. I would never make it in a small town Paul says, because my menu would be so foreign to the locals. I would make hummus, miso soup, all types of curries and the like.
I would love to be a contract worker for interior design. I love to move furniture around and stage rooms. Lots of fun.
I would love to get up early, before Athena wakes up, every single day. Trouble is, Paul likes to stay up late with me and she likes to wake early. It is so nice to get ready, have my Green Tea and read the morning paper all before she comes down from her room. I would even like to squeeze yoga in there.
I would like to run. I know that it would not be prudent for me to start at this age. Walking in a wooded area like my sister in North Carolina has available to her sounds equally as alluring.
I would like a pie in the face. Just kidding. Although that was on my list when I was in my 20's. Nuts hey?
I would like to swim naked. Isn't that odd? Actually, i did that last year in our pool outside. Only a 10ft pool but still. That is about as wild as this woman gets. Paul wants to put a bigger pool in so I am sure I can do that one again soon.

Anyway, those are my desires for my life at the moment. If I asked you what yours were, what would you say?

2007-04-11T01:58:00.002-07:00

THINGS THAT ONE THINKS ABOUT AT 2:56 AM

Yes, that is right. It is 2:56 am and I am down in the kitchen on the computer. Why you may ask? Why indeed.
Athena was so sick all last week. She ended up on antibiotics and completely lost her voice for several days. Her voice has returned and she is feeling much better. As soon as she was back to health, I got sick. Nice. So, as I am not a mouth breather at all and my sinuses are completely blocked, here I sit, trying to breathe. Geez.

Anyway, we did have a nice Easter. We made a whirlwind trip to Regina. In and out in one day. We had brunch with the Payette family as Jen mentioned on her blog, and then dinner with the Thompson side. Some of the family played poker. Mom cleaned up in the end. Who knew all of her online gambling games would pay off? We left around 7pm Sunday evening. Athena fell asleep about 2 minutes out of Delisle. Figures.

Another thing I think about it trains. Yes, trains. We have lived here in Delisle for nearly a year now. A CN track runs the length of the town just a few short blocks from here. We sleep with our windows open year round. Trains blow their whistles at every grid intersection. I know I have heard each and every one, even though the locals have assured me you get used to them and don't even notice. Hard to imagine. One just passed by a few minutes ago. 5 whistles. 5!! I count them every night. It is true that it doesn't bother me as much, but I still hear them.

Athena is going away for a little visit with Grandma and Grandpa and Mike this coming up weekend. Paul has some business in Moose Jaw so he will drop her off Thursday noon. That means that I will have 2 days to myself and another day and a half with Paul. I really look forward to it although I get a bit worried about her while she is away. I wonder if she will eat properly. She likes certain things and dislikes others. She only likes raw veg. She doesn't like beef. She doesn't like anything mixed, and by mixed I mean anything mixed. Chili, lasagna, stew, casseroles of any kind. She likes her chicken and fish. She loves rice and pasta. Won't touch a cooked potato unless it is in the form of french fries. I know she won't starve and that if she is hungry she will eat but still... I also wonder what she thinks at bedtime. I understand she has her own room there. She doesn't sleep well when she is away. Gets up waaaaaaaayyy to early. She will survive. What I do know is that she really likes going there. She loves seeing them all. She talks about her favorite dog, Silky, all the time. She has such fun. I guess I shouldn't worry. Still, I am a mother. We do things like that.
Athena had her yearly Well Child Check Up today. She is 41 inches tall. Tall is right. She is in the 100th percentile for height and only 75th for weight. All is well with her. The tiny lump on her lower jaw is just a lymph node. No problem. Doctor says we won't worry about her still wearing a diaper to bed and soaking it until she is 4 or so. Okay. Continue with the antibiotics until they are finished. No problem.

Yoga classes are going well so far. I teach another tomorrow, or pardon me, tonight. I have so much prep to do for them as I want to make the course different from the last. I'll have ample time for that on the weekend. I should spring clean my truck too. And take out the summer clothes, even though there is a freshly fallen blanket of snow on the ground today.

I played basketball with my brother and two nephews on the weekend as well. What fun. I was wearing a skirt and sandals and that is my excuse for being the weakest link. I think we may put up a hoop on the garage. This time I won't let Paul win just because he is my boyfriend, like I did 25 years ago. I'll need a lot of behind the scenes practice though. Good thing he travels so much. I used to play 21 with my Dad when we lived in Sherwood Park. That was a great memory. I rarely won. I wonder, actually, I bet that the times I did win, he let me. Is that so Dad?

Anyway, I can actually breathe now so I suppose I will go on up to bed. Thanks for allowing me to amuse you for this short while. Good night.

2007-04-05T12:39:00.000-07:00

HOW CUTE IS THIS?

Athena came home from school on tuesday with this

adorable Easter basket made from a milk jug.

On a sadder note, she also came home with illness.

She got sick suddenly that afternoon.

She has a high fever and no voice.

And now she is sporting that "seal bark"

cough that only Croup provides.

Poor little love.

She had to cancel a much anticipated

weekend with Grandma, Grandpa and Mike.

Not to mention Silky, Monty and Bentley,

their three miniature schnauzers.

Maybe another time.

2007-03-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

SWIM CLASS

Athena took her first session of swim class without a parent.

The first class was a disaster.

Poor Cal, her teacher, spent the entire class saying

"Athena, get over here. Athena, come back."

Now we have only one class left.

She is much improved on her listening.

I think she just didn't get the concept of

having to listen to the instructor and

having to do what he says.

She gets it now.

She loves to swim and she is quite good at it.

One more session, I think, and then

Paul plans to erect an 18ft above ground

pool for her in the back yard.

Talk about spoiled!

PS The pictures are courtesy of Jen and her new camera.

2007-03-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

AND ONE OF ME THAT NIGHT AS WELL

2007-03-19T14:44:00.000-07:00

FAMILY DINNER

We had a great time on Saturday night.

Everyone made it out.

Jen and Jordan.

Jess and Mark.

Jill and Clint.

Paul and I.

Best part, we ate after the girls went to bed.

All adults.

Beef Tenderloin steak, grilled to PERFECTION

by Paul.

All the trimmings to go with it.

Jen made a lovely Lemon Pound Cake for dessert.

What a nice evening.

2007-03-13T14:32:00.001-07:00

A COUPLE OF CUTE STORIES

On Sunday I took Athena and Eden outside for a sled ride. We came upon the tobogganing hill and I decided to let them go down a couple of times. We came to a little rise about 50 feet before we even got to the top of the hill. It was far off to the side. I chose (stupidly in hindsight) to let them go over this hump of snow. And go they did. The sleigh kept going and I was running after them in knee deep snow. I couldn't catch up and of course they were headed for the only bush in the area. They slammed right into it!! I couldn't believe it. Hoping they were uninjured by the branches I heard Athena cry out " Mom! I'm lost in the forest!" I knew all was well at that point but it could have been worse.

Second story. I had both girls in the front of my grocery cart at Superstore. Hoping to keep them amused while I picked up some groceries, I put a large white woman's sunhat on each of their little heads. Of course my little one said, "Look Mommy, I'm a lamp." She cracks me up all the time.

2007-03-11T20:43:00.000-07:00

RANDOM FAMILY PICTURES

Keep reading, I posted 5 blog entries today.

I know, it has been a while.

Guilty.

2007-03-11T20:40:00.000-07:00

2PM THIS SUNDAY AFTERNOON

PAPA AND EDEN TAKING A NAP

2007-03-11T20:35:00.000-07:00

IMAGINATION TO SPARE

This little gal has such a vivid imagination.

And she is smart as a whip I might add.

She was eating an icecream cone the other day.

She saw that it had started to melt and

was running down the length of her sugar cone.

She said to me

"Mom, there is sap dripping from the tree.

I will lick it up like a Pygmy Marmocet."

Oh my.

I didn't even know what that was

until she taught me.

Go Diego, Go!

2007-03-11T20:14:00.000-07:00

SNOWMAN SNOW AT LAST!!!

2007-03-11T20:06:00.000-07:00

MY LITTLE ARTIST

2007-02-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

It Has Been A While

It sure has been a while since I sat down to write. I, like a lot of bloggers, seem to have dropped that ball lately. None so more than I.

Athena has been just wonderful lately. She is really enjoying her swimming class. She is starting to get the hang of actually having to listen to her teacher. This is taking a while and may turn out to be a long process. She has a hard time understanding that she cannot just go play while she is in the water. She has wandered off a little too deep on more than one occasion, only to be called back to the fold. She'll get it sooner or later.

School is going well for her too. Her teacher is one of my yoga students so I have had some opportunity to talk with her about my little A. She says that you will never see anyone concentrate as much as she does during the craft portion of the class but as for the rest of the time she is a little less focused. She goes from one toy to the other in record time. Overall she says she is really good and not a problem at all. Phewsh!

In recent development, she can proudly tell you "Boys have a penis. Girls have a skirt and tights!" Just so you know.

We had Jen and Abby here for a few days while Jord did some painting with oils. Being pregnant and all, she can't be around the fumes. It was a lot of fun. I took Abby and Athena outside one day for a sled ride and to play in the yard. Even little Abby didn't want to come inside. Now that, my friends, is real progress. The other day when I was talking on the phone to Jen, I heard Abby ask if she could go outside. Jen told her she sure could... as soon as Daddy got home. Heehee. In Jen's defense, she and Abby spent 25 minutes outside yesterday. Way to go Jennie!

Paul had a week of holidays last week and spent most of it building a built-in wall unit, complete with cabinets and shelving. It looks grand. I do begrudge the time he spent away in his garage though. He has almost every type of power tool imaginable out there. He also has the guards for each of the power tools hanging on the garage wall. At least I will have a spot to nail up the dismembered digits. Geez!

I have been quite busy myself. Spending time with my little gal, or should I say pussy cat, dog, horse, Princess Fiona, Anastasia or Snow White. I have also been teaching 3 yoga classes each week. They are slowly drawing to a close. 2 weeks left. I have had several requests to teach more, which I would like to. I have been asked to drive out to Vanscoy ( about 7 minutes away) to teach. I will consider it but I sure am having a tough time finding childcare. Who would have thought?

Now, as you all know, it is tax time as well. I have so many different papers to collect before I start. Having a home office makes it that much more time consuming. I will likely do Jill's and Jess's taxes as well, like I do every year. Hopefully we don't all get an audit, like we have seemed to get a lot of lately. Jen and Jord got one, we got one, Jess got one and I can't recall if Jill did or not. Maybe Payettes were the target name for 2006? Who knows.

Anyway, I will install some new batteries in my camera and get some pictures posted very soon. Ttyl as they say.

2007-01-30T14:46:00.000-07:00

My Yoga Classes

As I mentioned a post or two back, I have started to teach Yoga classes here in Delisle.

I taught my first class in Martensville 5 years ago. I absolutely loved it. I still do.

I am teaching three classes in one day, which is rather difficult. Difficult for several reasons. First and most difficult is the fact that Paul travels a lot so I need to find a sitter for two separate times. The evening one is not hard to do as there are several teenage girls who sit for us. The daytime is something else. I am having such a hard time finding a sitter. I got one for tomorrows class just this afternoon. Talk about cutting it close. Athena isn't old enough to just sit and draw or read while I teach, obviously. The second reason is that it is difficult for me physically to do three classes in one day. Third is that I get home at 8:30 at night and I am not tired at all. I eat my dinner then and have a glass of wine but I can't sleep. Frustrating.

All that aside, I just love teaching Yoga. I love helping my students to discover the great benefit of yoga. I love bringing the body/mind/spirit connection to their awareness. I love when they say they are standing a little taller, breathing a little easier and that they feel more flexible, their headaches are manageable, that their anxiety and hot flashes have decreased. I love to help them in a therapeutic sense with their various ailments.

I am able to incorporate what I know about alternative medicine and eastern therapies into the classes. They appreciate this as well. I love when I can put them in Savasana and through mindful meditation, bring them into a state of deep relaxation. I cannot extol the benefits of yoga on every level enough.

I haven't been able to convince my own family though. My sister Lyse practices yoga and she loves it. My daughters have dabbled in it. Jen is on the hunt for a prenatal video to do, so that is good. I caught Paul reading my Yoga Journal magazine the other day. When I asked him if he wanted to practice with me he declined saying if he can't do it exactly right, he doesn't want to do it at all. Humph! As they say, "a prophet is without honor in his own country" or more commonly, "the shoemakers children go without shoes." Someday...

2007-01-30T11:05:00.000-07:00

Jessica and her new puppy Pinner.

2007-01-28T10:33:00.000-07:00

I'M BACK!
Jen asked me if I had quit blogging. I have not.
We were without a computer for about 10 days, which was tough, but we made it through. ;)
We have just been so busy lately.
Athena started preschool like I posted before. That is going really well for her. She is not happy about leaving her shoes there though. She brings them home with her every week. She has also started swimming lessons. ALONE. She is by far the youngest in her class. Her poor teacher, Cal, spent most of the first class saying "Athena, come here. Athena come back here." Poor guy. She had soooooo much fun though. She shouted to me in the middle of the class "Mom! I am so happy!" and "Mom, I am swimming. Can you see me?" Very cute. We took her out for pasta directly after class. I have never seen her eat so much.
I also started teaching yoga classes. Paul, of course was away in Houston for my first week so I had the problem of finding a sitter. I am teaching 3 classes, all in one day. What was I thinking? Tough stuff. I was surprised to learn that I have 38 students in all. Quite a turnout for a town of just over 800 people. There are some women and a man who drive in from Vanscoy just for the class. One woman comes all the way from Grandora. Nice. The classes are going well. I'll blog about that later.
This past week we were in Regina for a couple of days. Paul helped Jordan with some painting and repairs and I tried to give Jen a break from the drudgery of moving. Got to spend some time with my little Abby. What a sweet girl she is. Jen and Jordan's house will be so nice for them. Jen's choice of paint color is wonderful. I love it. I am looking forward to seeing it after they are all moved in. Abby will have an enclosed yard to play in, which will be nice. IN SUMMER. Which leads me to my next thought... Abby is just like Jen when it comes to cold. Weather or otherwise. We went swimming in our hotel pool. Little Athena would climb into the swimming pool, swim to the other side (she has a swim suit with a flotation device built right in) and come out, jump in the hot tub and go right back to the other pool. Over and over she did it. Talk about good Hydrotherapy. Abby wanted to be with Athena but each time Jen would dip her into the pool she would say "Get me out! It's too cold!"
Like mother like daughter. That is why I say that Abby will enjoy her yard IN SUMMER.
Talk about a disjointed post. Oh well.
Anyway, I will return to blogging regularly as things begin to settle down. Jill and Eden are coming out for dinner tonight. That will be nice. Athena spent the weekend with Grandma and Grandpa in Moose Jaw. She feels very comfortable there. Barely blinks an eye when we leave her. On a sick note, Bentley, on of their dogs peed right on her face when she pet him. He was on his back and when she rubbed his belly he let it go. Of course it hit her face. She cares little as she loves those dogs. Except Silky, who "pees on the floor and bites her sandwiches" by her report. She gets home today around 4. We miss her but we got to sleep in 2 days in a row, which was nice.
Paul leaves tomorrow for Winnipeg for 5 days. It is not fun to be a single parent half of the time. Hats off to those of you who do it full time. I mean you Jill.

2007-01-10T18:29:00.000-07:00

Show Yourselves!

I have just learned that this is De-Lurking Week. So if you read this blog often, sometimes, rarely,whatever- leave a comment, even if you have left one before!

2007-01-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

TRUE STORY

The other morning, Athena asked to go outside.

I got her dressed in her ski suit

and sent her out the patio doors.

Paul was reading the paper and
I was talking to Jen on the phone.

She has just started to go out to play by herself.

I usually leave the window open so I can hear her.

Today I did not.

After about 10 minutes Paul hears her calling.

He goes to the patio door and says,

" Michelle, she is up in the tree!"

Sure enough, she is shouting,

"MOM, HELP ME DOWN!"

Paul ran out in his house slippers

and I, of course, ran to get the camera.

Proof is in the picture above.

She's pretty high up isn't she?

2007-01-09T11:43:00.000-07:00

A Couple of Cute Stories

Yesterday, Athena was playing in the front room

with her basket of animals.

I had little to do so I decided to go up and down the step.

Just the first step.

You know, like in step class.

Just for a bit of aerobic activity.

Up up, down down.

I saw her watching me curiously.

She walked over and said,

"Aw Mom, you can't get up the stairs?

I will help you."

*********

Second story:

I got some pictures developed.

I was putting them into frames.

I put a large Black and White one of her

into a nice matted frame.

I held up the picture and asked her

who it was.

She said,

" Its Athena Amaris, but why do I look like a ZEBRA?"

How cute is that?

2007-01-06T18:32:00.000-07:00

By Request
I have had a request to post a few pictures
of Jessica's art.
The first picture is the one she just made
for Jen and Jordan.
The second is one she made for me.
Both are textured.
The third picture is one of
my budding artist at work.
The pictures I took don't do them justice.
Jess gets better at her craft
with each creation.
We are very proud.

2007-01-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

FIRST DAY OF PRESCHOOL

Today was Athena's first day of school.

I had been trying to prepare her for a few days beforehand.

This morning I told her that today was the day.

"No, I don't want to go. I want to stay home and be a puppy dog"

was her response to me.

"Just try it. There will be kids and toys and a teacher there."

I pleaded.

So, Paul dropped her off. She went to the top of the stairs.

She met the teacher.

Another child arrived to whom she shouted from the

top of the stairs,

"Come on up. Take your jacket off."

With that, he left her.

I went along to pick her up.

We listened at the door as the teacher said

"Okay children, get your boots on. It is time to go."

Then we heard "MEOOOOOOOOOOW"

We looked at each other with wide eyes.

Paul opened the door.

There was our little kitty on all fours.

I asked the teacher if she was a kitty all morning

to which she replied "Only half of the time,

but she sure can talk. I don't think she stopped talking

all morning. She told me she would like to come back."

Phewsh.

That went better than I thought.

She loved it.

She talked about exercises and temperature.

Now I have 2 whole hours a week to myself.

I wonder what I will do.

2006-12-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

AFTER ALL WAS SAID AND DONE

Our little girl just wanted some quiet time

with Pocahontas.

(Really a Barbie doll

but when she spied it

in the store she shouted

"There is Pocahontas Mommy")

She is in Moose Jaw right now

with her Grandma and Grandpa.

She'll get home on Saturday.

We miss her but we are

enjoying our time alone as well.

2006-12-18T14:07:00.000-07:00

LOOK MOMMY!

I HAVE BIG BOOBIES LIKE

BELLE!

(from Beauty and the Beast).

And so it begins.

2006-12-18T13:56:00.000-07:00

CHRISTMAS PICTURES

We had a wonderful Christmas celebration last weekend. Jen, Jord and Abby drove up in less than ideal weather from Regina. Jess and Mark and Jill, Clinton and Eden came from Saskatoon. The highways were miserable but all made it safely.Look out the window on the one picture and you will see the blowing snow. Jill and Clint ended up staying the night due to weather so we had more guests for breakfast than we planned for. No Biggie, as JIll would say.

The day was grand. The little girls had so much fun. Great gifts were exchanged. The big girls all brought appetizers and I mad the dinner. Beef Tenderloin. Yum.

After the girls all went to bed, we had so much fun playing Mad Gab. Girls won, of course. We went to bed around 12:30 and Paul and Jord stumbled into bed around 3:30. See, Jord got some poker chips from Jill and they just couldn't resist trying them out. It was an evening to remember.

2006-12-10T18:15:00.000-07:00

SOME CHRISTMAS TIME PHOTOS

We have been very busy around here these days. Busy with Christmas activities.

Today Paul and Athena made their first gingerbread house together.Note it is the same one as Jordan and Abby's.Then they both got haircuts by Mom.Next they played outside and went for a sled ride. They were outside for over an hour and a half. It gave me a chance to clean the house and vacuum. On a side note, unfortunately, Athena WAS allergic to the dog so we had to sell her. On the plus side, we made 50 bucks in the deal. That is why I was cleaning on a Sunday. I vacuumed every surface in the house trying to get rid of all the dog hair.

We decorated the tree last week and Athena put several ornaments on the same branch. When she was finished, I moved them around. A few minutes later she returned to ask " where is the family?", referring to the group of ornaments she set up. I stood in front of the bough and quickly put them back, stepped aside and said, "there they are!". "Oh good. " she replied. There they hang today.

What a complete blessing it is to have that little one around. What a joy she is.

2006-12-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

SIMPLE PLEASURES

I had the most lovely simple pleasure this past Saturday.

We were out with the masses doing some shopping

and we stopped at DQ for lunch.

After Athena ate her chicken strips we got her her first ever

ice cream cone.

Paul told her to lick it.

She was so intent.

I sat there for 15 minutes just watching in silence.

She would lick the ice cream.

She would tip her head sideways

to bite the cone.

She had an ice cream beard and moustache.

She had ice cream on her nose.

She would take her napkin,

blot her mouth and then continue.

She ate only a third of it

when she handed it to me and said

"All done."

She liked it well enough,

but like me,

she would much rather

"Bite some fries."

Anyway, it was so peaceful in a zen sort of way

just watching her eat her first ice cream cone.

A moment of silence.

Time stood still among

the hustle and bustle.

2006-12-04T07:48:00.000-07:00

UH OH
I think something bad is happening.
My girl has had red, swollen itchy eyes for 3 days running.
It can't be!
She has never shown allergy to dogs before.
What else can it be?
Nothing else new in the house.
Hmph.
Tikka is a superb dog too.
Poor little lass.
She loves animals.
We will see if it continues.

2006-12-04T07:40:00.000-07:00

DECLUTTERING

Today I plan to declutter.

My home, my life.

I have the boxes ready.

I will be ruthless.

I won't let Paul see what is in the box.

He is a packrat.

This drives me nuts.

I will let my girls look through

the boxes when they come.

First come first serve.

Jen will be here first.

She may need some things for her new home

I have been dreaming about doing this for days.

I am excited.

I hope I fill at least 4 boxes.

I'll let you know how I make out.

2006-11-30T17:11:00.000-07:00

YIKES!!
I noticed (because I have a stat counter) that the RCMP in Ottawa have been checking my blog since I wrote about that lunatic in the bar.
If you are checking again Mr. RCMP, the guy's name was Jerry or Gerry, He is in his 50's. Short stature, short grey hair. He is frequently at the Fox and Hound Pub in Saskatoon, SK on Sunday afternoons. I have seen him there since. Good luck.

2006-11-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

This was me today.

I am sure it was everyone else in Delisle.

And Saskatoon.

And Regina.

Good news.

Paul is back tomorrow

so HE can shovel the rest.

It snowed today and is

supposed to contine all night

and all day tomorrow.

I have done my share.

Time to drink hot chocolate

and watch him out the window

as he does the rest.

2006-11-28T10:59:00.000-07:00

IF YOU EVER WONDER WHAT I DO ALL DAY

Nowadays I sweep.

And sweep.

And then I sweep some more.

I take a break to go shovel snow.

(Paul is in Winnipeg all week of course)

Then I come back inside and

sweep again.

I bought some shed stopper guaranteed to work.

I hope to God it does.

How do people live with dog hair

all over the kitchen floor?

Any tips to reduce shedding?

2006-11-28T10:53:00.000-07:00

WHEN SHE PUTS HER MIND TO SOMETHING
When Athena has something in mind,
it is best not to stand in her way.
She called me from her room the other day.
I found her on top of her shelving,
reaching for a particular skirt.
She then asked me for my
old black boots.
She ran to her "tickle trunk" and got
her red headband.
After she put this ensemble together she announced.
"Now I am Hercules the Hero!"
What a gal.

2006-11-24T13:46:00.000-07:00

GROWING OUT THE HAIR

I personally like her hair short.

Jen and Jill think a little girl should have longer hair.

They say kids are mean and will call her a boy.

Meanwhile, we have a shaggy "do".

Peer pressure from my own girls.

Humph!

2006-11-23T08:33:00.000-07:00

STAR OF BETHLEHEM PERHAPS?

The other day we were out for a winter walk.

We saw a crane on the street behind us.

When we got to where it was,

it was already coming down.

We wondered what it was doing.

Later that night we found out.

I was getting myself a glass of water before bed

and I saw a bright glow out the window in the darkness.

I opened the blind to discover

that the neighbor two rows back

had erected this giant brilliant star.

This picture is taken from my kitchen window.

Note how it shines right between

two of our pine trees.

No he does not turn it off EVER.

Joy to the world!

2006-11-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

MEET TIKKA

Tikka is Athena's new playmate.

She is an 18 month old

purebred Chocolate Lab.

She is fully housebroken and

very obedient.

She is so gentle and quiet.

I am not patient with puppies at all.

God knows I've had my share of them.

We decided an older dog who

is trained would be best.

So far so good.

I'll keep you posted.

2006-11-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

ONE HUNDRED THINGS
1. I know that this will be a difficult task.
2. I wonder if I'll get halfway through and delete before publishing.
3. I have talked with my Mother more this week than ever.
4. I kind of like it.
5. Paul is in the city with Athena today.
6. Daddy daughter day.
7. They are going to the humane society to look at dogs.
8. I think about getting a dog for Athena,
9. Then I change my mind.
10. I love cats.
11. A lot.
12. Athena is allergic to cats.
13. I have 4 sisters and 1 brother.
14. They are all so different.
15. I worry about my sisters getting breast cancer.
16. I think about getting it myself.
17. I am the only one in my family who has never been to college or university.
18. I am a certified yoga instructor.
19. I also took a tutor training course.
20. I homeschooled my 3 girls for 3 years.
21. I loved it.
22. Jess and Jill loved it.
23. Jen did not.
24. I won't homeschool Athena.
25. I would love to go swimming every day in an empty pool.
26. Chlorine bothers my skin, of course.
27. I love winter.
28. I dislike summer.
29. My dream vacation would be to go to a cabin in Alaska and watch wildlife.
30. I lived almost a year of that dream in Peace River Alberta.
31. I love homemade soup.
32. I make great homemade soup.
33. I don't like the taste of beef, pork and chicken.
34. I love bacon though.
35. I have only really ever dated my husband.
36. We have been married for 23 years.
37. Most of them have been wonderful.
38. Our hardest year was the year we bought our first home.
39. We were 21 years old.
40. I play piano.
41. I am not very good at it.
42. I would like to be.
43. I would love to play violin.
44. Paul bought me one.
45. I gave it to Jill.
46. He got me a complete art set for Christmas.
47. I want to paint.
48. I used to draw when I was younger.
49. I used to write stories too.
50. I had the biggest crush on my cousin Keith for years and years.
51. In our family album, I can always be found standing next to him.
52. He died of cancer last year.
53. Everyone in my family who has died, has died of cancer.
54. I hate that my children still eat margarine.
55. I talk to Jen, Jess and Jill, almost every day.
56. I like them all.
57. It is harder to be a mother of a toddler at 41 than it was at 21.
58. It is easier in some ways too.
59. I know what is important for her.
60. I know what is not.
61. I would love it if we became vegetarians.
62. Paul is game.
63. Athena would starve to death.
64. I haven't any products in my house that contain parabens.
65. I haven't any food in my house containing hydrogenated vegetable oils.
66. I don't exercise enough.
67. I think I would walk more if I had a dog.
68. My sister Tamara has 3 cats and 2 dogs.
69. My sister Lyse lives in North Carolina.
70. She loves it there.
71. My sister Keri is a very conscientious person.
72. My brother Mike is expecting his first child.
73. He will be 33 years old.
74. I had my first child at 17.
75. Second child at 19.
76. Third child at 20.
77. We got Athena when I was 40.
78. My sister Dana got married the same day I did.
79. 22 years later.
80. My Dad lives in Crowsnest Pass Alberta.
81. My Mom has had 3 knee surgeries in 2 years.
82. She didn't know the places her parents were born.
84. I do. I told her.
85. I'll be she doesn't remember.
86. My Grandma restricted her egg and icecream consumption because she was afraid of heart disease.
87. She died of cancer.
88. I wish that I could practice yoga every day.
89. And meditate.
90. I could, if I made the time to.
91. I haven't had a cup of coffee in 4 years.
92. I drink green tea.
93. And copious amounts of red wine.
94. Probably too much.
95. I love to cook.
96. Not so keen on eating.
97. My favorite snack is nuts.
98. I love Miss Vickies Chips too.
99. Paul sometimes frustrates me so much.
100. He is still the love of my life.

That wasn't hard at all. I guess I should get out more.

2006-11-09T12:28:00.000-07:00

YESTERDAY IT SNOWED.

It snowed a lot.

We couldn't wait to go out and play.

Unlike most people, I love winter.

I hate winter driving,

but I love winter.

After lunch we went outside.

We both shoveled the walk

and the driveway.

The snow was almost mid calf.

That took us an hour and a half.

Then we got to play.

We made snow angels.

I pushed her on her swing.

She slid down her slide.

She ate a pile of snow.

Boy oh boy did we have fun.

We thought we'd go out today but

it was -31 degrees with the windchill.

I expect we will have more chances

to play this winter.

Do you think?

2006-11-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

MY VERY OWN SNOW WHITE

And I am not kidding.

She has not taken the costume

off since I bought it the

day after Hallowe'en.

She'll get a great surprise

when she opens her Christmas gift

of six more assorted costumes.

All half price of course.

Great gift hey?

2006-11-09T12:02:00.000-07:00

LOOK, I PLAY "SHOCKEY" MOM!

Great Athena.

You stink.

Can you imagine anything more smelly

a child can try on?

2006-11-04T18:11:00.000-07:00

FUNNY STORY

Today I made a lemon meringue pie.

After dinner, Paul went to slice it.

It brought to mind every time he served pie in years past.

Of course, when all the girls were home,

we cut it in five equal pieces.

When Jen moved out, four.

When Jess moved out, still four,

at my insistence.

Jill moved out and I started cutting the pie.

More for his waistline than anything else.

Today, he cut the lemon pie.

I was worried.

Athena doesn't eat pie.

I was expecting a huge wedge.

When he brought the pie to me I was stunned.

As Jill would have said, had she still lived here:

"What the hell?"

Eighth's.

He cut it in eighth's.

To reiterate:

What the hell?

2006-11-01T12:23:00.000-07:00

A NEW SOUND TO MY ALARM CLOCK

My alarm clock started making a new sound today.

It took me by surprise.

I awaken almost every day to one of two chimes.

One is "I'm a kitty cat Mommy"

The other is " Mom, I wake up now!"

But today was totally different.

New.

Fresh.

Exciting.

Today my alarm clock shouted

"Mudder! Mudder! "

Oh joy.

2006-10-31T08:02:00.000-07:00

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE ONION IN THE DAYTIME

Funny thing.
When I chop onions with my glasses on, my eyes inevitably water.
When I chop onions with my contacts on, I always always sneeze.
Go figure.

My Celebrity Look Alikes?

2006-10-26T08:18:00.000-07:00

2006-10-25T20:09:00.000-07:00

SABOTAGE AND YOGA PRACTICE

I have been ardently trying to practice yoga on a regular basis.

It has been going well these past few weeks.

I stopped in at our new Health and Wellness Centre

here in Delisle the other day,

and after speaking with the owner

I was asked if I would be interested in

teaching yoga there.

Of course I would be I told her, but

only after Christmas.

What I didn't tell her was that I needed time

to get back into the swing of things.

So I have been practicing with a vengeance.

I decided to "up" my practice with a harder tape.

Tough workout.

I think fate may be against me on this one.

I started my tape at 1pm.

The timeline unfolds this way:

1:10 pm- Jen calls.

(Everyone of my family members has a distinct ring)

I don't answer.

She leaves a message on the machine.

1:20- Jessica calls.

"Mom, this is Jess. Call me."

1:35- Jill calls.

No message.

1:45- Athena comes out of her room.

"Mommy, I have to go pee pee on the pottie."

1:55- I finish the tape by settling into Savasana,

the final relaxation pose.

1:56- Paul phones.

I answer it.
He is in Winnipeg on business and is between meetings.

Hmph.

I long to be a yogi, but I guess I was a wife and mother first.

I guess I always will be.

Namaste.

2006-10-22T14:30:00.000-07:00

Pet Expo Saskatoon

Today we took Athena to the Pet Expo.

She loves animals.

She had a great time there.

She even licked a Golden Retriever

after he licked her first.

She was so happy riding a pony.

She watched llama vs dog races.

She had a ball.

The last picture was taken an hour

after we returned home.

Darn allergies.

Poor baby.

No pets for this girl.

Just figures, doesn't it?

2006-10-19T12:02:00.000-07:00

GRIZZLY MAN

Since Paul has been in Thunder Bay all week

I decided to watch my kind of movie.

My sister Lyse, (hi Lyse) told me about

Grizzly Man.

I watched the entire 103 minute chronicle

of this man who spent 13 summers in

Alaska, living with the bears.

No weapons.

Just him and a camera.

The last summer he brought a girlfriend.

He was interviewed by reporters

who asked him if he thought he would

be killed by the bears

Of course he said no.

How stupid.

And of course he was.

He and his girlfriend.

The last day of the last summer.

Mauled and eaten.

Two things come to mind here.

First, I think the man was nuts.

For real.

Second, I find it hard to understand

why people put so much effort into

saving animals when

there are so many people in need.

And on that note,

I couldn't see how his presence there

actually did any saving

for the grizzlies.

Hmmm.

2006-10-17T16:09:00.000-07:00

26 YEARS

It has been 26 years to the day

that Paul asked me to

"go steady", as was

the saying back then.

26 years.

Seems like only yesterday.

Our life together has had

its twists and turns.

But like the song says

" I could have missed the pain,

but I'd have had to miss

the dance."

Here's to another 26 years Paul.

I love you more today

than I ever have.

2006-10-16T09:54:00.000-07:00

WHY YOU SHOULD NEVER DRINK TAP WATER

Paul changed the filters in our Reverse Osmosis

water filter system.

If you drink straight tap water

this is what you get.

Nice.

2006-10-16T09:35:00.000-07:00

SNOW DAY

DELISLE, SK.

OCTOBER 16, 2006

2006-10-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

I MISS MY GAL ALREADY

She is away on a three night sleepover

at Grandma and Grandpa's.

And Mike to of course.

She was excited to see Grandma

and Great Grandma yesterday

when they came to pick her up.

Paul and I have a ton of chores planned anyway.

We have already washed windows and

I have steam cleaned the carpet.

He did the weather stripping on the

overhead garage door and the back door.

Lots more to do before it snows,

which apparently is Sunday.

Well be busy so I guess she

will have much more fun in

Moose Jaw.

Love you baby.

2006-10-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

I have resistant gray, so they say. Hair color does not stay in my hair no matter what. I have tried several times over the years to no avail. Imagine my joy when Clairol came out with a new product called Gray Solutions. I hesitated but gave in and bought a box. It sat in my cupboard for a month. I was skeptical to say the least. Thanksgiving was approaching so I decided to give it a go. I even left it on an extra 5 minutes just to be safe. I followed the instructions to a tee. (I didn't do the allergy test first though) I rinsed my hair, dried it off and slowly took off the towel to reveal my new gray free hair!
Jill came over the next day. I told her about it. She looked at my hair. I said that it didn't work. 'No it didn't " she replied. Alas, I am destined to have grey hair. Oh well. After all, I am a grandma right?

2006-10-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM ALL OF US TO ALL OF YOU

2006-10-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

YOU KNOW YOU'VE HAD A HARD DAY WHEN...

You go upstairs to get ready for bed.

You shave your legs.

You run the shower water.

You reach in the drawer and paste up your toothbrush.

Hop into shower.

Grab toothbrush.

Start brushing...

only to discover that

you squeezed vaseline on your brush

instead of the toothpaste.

On the upside,

my teeth are soft and shiny now.

Good grief.

2006-10-02T11:34:00.000-07:00

HIT ON AT A PUB

Yesterday Paul and I were having a pint at a pub.

We were finishing up and Paul left the table to pay the bill.

While he was away a distinguished getleman walked over to me.

He was handsome.

Mid fifties was my guess.

Black turtle neck, sport coat and jeans.

He started to talk to me.

Wow! I thought. This has never happened to me before.

Woohoo!

He began an intellectual conversation.

Even better.

Then Paul walked up.

What would Paul think? What would he say?

Then all my great self-esteem was dashed in one sentence.

My suitor said, and I quote

"So I bought a gun to kill everyone in the Canadian government"

Oh geez.

A nut case!

Just figures!

Hmph.

Paul said to me in the car that he saw the man and thought

"Oh-oh. She will like him. He's handsome, well dressed.

When I heard him speak of politics and current events

I got worried.

Then he mentiond the RCMP being criminals and

buying the gun. I knew I was safe with my conversation.

Let me see your boobs.

Wanna have sex?

How about now?"

Oh brother.

2006-09-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

LOOKING SO FORWARD TO THE WEEKEND

I can't wait for this weekend.

It is going to be great, I just know it.

Tomorrow we are going to Regina.

Jen and I are going to a few lectures in the evening.

On on natural health and another on whole foods.

Should be very informative.

On saturday Paul and I are going back to Saskatoon ALONE!!!

Yes, you read it right.

Jen and Jord are keeping Athena for the whole weekend.

I am so excited. Did I mention I am so excited?

We plan to stop in Saskatoon on our way back

to Delisle.

We are going to a pub for a few

pints of Newcastle Ale!

We haven't done that in almost a year.

We used to do it every saturday.

We will watch two movies in a row.

Both nights.

We will sleep in.

(Probably not but we will try)

We plan to rake leaves, wash windows.

put summer stuff away for the winter.

We will cook "adult" meals.

Spicy grilled shrimp.

Chateubriand.

It will be grand.

Paul will pick Athena up on monday afternoon,

as he has business in Regina.

I will have an entire day to myself.

WooHoo!!

Thank you so much Auntie Jen and Uncle Jordan

and Abby too.

2006-09-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

DOES THIS SCENE APPEAL TO YOU?

It does to me.

An pathway leading somewhere.

To where?

What is around the next stand of trees?

This wooded path is a path I would like to walk down.

I could think undisturbed.

A walking meditation.

I would listen to the birds singing,

I would hear the sound of leaves

crunching beneath my feet.

I would smell the smells of the forest.

Musky, earthy.

When I close my eyes, this is what I see.

Solitude.

Serenity.

Peace.

Now does this scene appeal to you?

I does me.

2006-09-22T18:08:00.000-07:00

Bitter Sweet Chocolate

As some of you (Jen, Jess and Jill) know,

I keep a stash of expensivish dark chocolate

in my corner cabinet.

Each night after dinner, I walk over and

take a piece.

I savor it.

I let it melt in my mouth before I begin to chew.

The girls have learned to love it too.

More Jess and Jill than Jen, but she may come around.

So I have been giving small pieces to Athena.

She likes it too.

The other day after dinner she said, and I quote

"Aseena meed a chokwat"

Translation:

Athena needs some chocolate.

So, I walk over to the pantry to get her

a dozen or so chocolate chips.

As I open the door she says, and I quote once again,

" No mommy no! Not that chokwat!

Over there! That one!"

As she points to my secret stash.

It is a secret no more.

PS Kaili, You are not the worst blogger, I am.

Look how long it has been!