kiddlebug

Wish List Wednesday

2012-01-25T08:06:00.002-06:00

I don't know what it is about this print by Allison Trentelman of Rocky Top Studio, but I think that I need to find a place in my home for it. I keep going back to my Etsy favorites for visits!!

There are some other beachy prints that I think would look great in my space as well. There are too many fabulous prints to choose from.

Whoa!!!

2012-01-24T21:36:00.000-06:00

Where did the time go? I didn't think that it had been quite so long since my last post!

The other day, I was thinking about all the changes that our family has gone through over the past year. My return to a Monday to Friday job has certainly been a big adjustment and continues to be in some ways, but I suddenly feel like this is normal. I feel like I have found my groove and I am not berating myself so much for the things that I forget or the mistakes I make. I am just doing the best that I can do.

There are many things that I miss about being a stay at home Mom. I miss the time that I used to have to get things done during the day so I could spend more time enjoying the kids. The other day, I spend the night playing with the kids and I didn't think about my "to do list" more than a couple of times. (I will admit that I did think about it, but I didn't do anything from it!) The kids and I were laughing and having such a great time and I realized that I do not take this time very often any more. In addition to my day job, I also have a part time job that I absolutely love, but all of these things keep me hopping.

Since then, I have tried to make a conscious effort to be in the moment with the kids when we are playing. We have also started to schedule one-on-one time together. Last weekend, my oldest and I went our for lunch, then to our local Conservatory. We skipped over to a small gallery afterwards and picked our our favorite paintings. The next day was my youngest daughter's turn. She chose going out for dessert and baking cookies together. (She has a bit of a sweet tooth!!)

I am realizing that, what once came naturally, needs to be worked on at this point.

Conservatory

Happy Holidays to Me!

2011-11-29T07:14:00.000-06:00

I have been unsatisfied with our bedroom for a little while now and have been looking for a change. We have a new wall colour picked out but I just need to find the time to get it done. Last night, I took the plunge and ordered some new bedding from West Elm. I am so excited!!!

Pintuck Bedding from West Elm

The next item on the list is a desk. I have been keeping my eye out for desks that would suit the space and are affordable, but I'm coming up empty handed so far.

The paint colour that we are leaning towards is Faded Ink from the Martha Stewart line at Home Depot.

Wish List Wednesday

2011-11-02T07:48:00.001-05:00

West Elm

Do you like owls? Do you like mercury glass? I do!! I love the look of these mercury glass owls from West Elm. Should I buy myself an early present for the holidays?

Where did the time go?

2011-09-19T07:06:00.000-05:00

Well it has been a while since my last post. With the start of school comes a new set of challenges. I definitely didn't miss the rush. The rush to get ready in the morning, the rush to get to work after taking the kids to school, the rush back to pick them up from school then the rush to make dinner and run off to the evenings activities. Whew!! I get tired just thinking about it!

In my internet travels, I found a website to help with lunch ideas and planning. Although my kids would never eat salmon stuffed eggs, I was able to play around with the menus and plan lunches for the next 17 days. Here is the Lunch Box Tool from Today's Parent.

Although it doesn't help with much of "the rush", at least it takes some of the school related stress away.

Too Much?

2011-08-23T18:13:00.000-05:00

Years ago, I heard a stand up routine by George Carlin all about stuff. He talks about how our houses are just places to put our stuff and when we get too much stuff, we need to get a bigger house. This is what popped into my mind the other day when I ran into one of the Mom's from my kids' school. They had a decent sized house, bigger than ours, but they just bought another house because they needed more space.

We live in a bi-level that is 950 square feet on the top level. My husband bought the house when he was a single man and then I came along....and then a 60 lb dog....and then two kids. These days, it is pretty rare that I feel like I need more space. More often than not, I feel like we have to much stuff for the space we have. I have no intentions of moving any time soon. We have talked about adding a garage onto the house with a room over top, but we have been talking about that for about 10 years now. We don't need more space. Sometimes we want it, but I would not use the word "need".

My dream is to pare down. I would love to more everything out of the house and only bring back the things that we actually need or truly value. Do I really need my cassettes that are hiding behind the magazines under the tv stand? Probably not. I also don't need all of the magazines! (Ironically, many of which are about organizing.) The kids don't need all the toys they have and we could definitely do without the wok that has been sitting above the stove for years.

When you really think about it, it is just too much stuff rather than not enough space.

West Coast Weekend

2011-08-08T14:06:00.000-05:00

The family took a trip out to the West Coast this past weekend for a wedding. It was the perfect setting and we had an awesome time. It was a family wedding and every single member of my Mom's side of the family was able to attend. It was a beautiful morning wedding followed by a delicious lunch buffet. After lunch, music started playing and everyone started dancing. We opened the doors to the patio and the dancing and singing spilled out into the sunshine. The views were amazing but the best part was having everyone together for such a wonderful occasion.

Mommy and baby seal

Just part of my yummy wedding meal

The view from the beach

I thought this spot was awesome too.

Overheard

2011-07-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

This is what I overheard today while the kids were making necklaces....

Kid #1 - "You're going to get the Nobel prize for beading."
Kid #2 - "What's the Nobel prize?"
Kid #1 - "It's for people who don't have bells."
Kid #2 - "Oh good. I don't have a bell."

Too funny!

Yesterday, I was carrying my oldest child across the playground and giving her kisses as I went. One of my neighbors was out on her lawn and said that my daughter was almost too big for that. After we walked away, my daughter said "I'm not going to be too big until I decide to be."

I hope she never decides to be too big.

Grilled Chicken and Veggie Sandwich

2011-07-25T21:54:00.001-05:00

I found a recipe online a couple of weeks ago, tried it and liked it. Then I thought.....what if I added some things and changed up some things and the grilled chicken and veggie sandwich was born. It was soooooo good......I mean mouth watering, juicy good and I couldn't keep it to myself.

Grilled Chicken and Veggie Sandwich

6 slices of bread (Calabrese, French.....we used a whole grain, harvest loaf)
Cooked chicken breast - thinly sliced
Large portabello mushroom - thinly sliced
Zucchini thinly sliced
Red pepper cut into four equal pieces lengthwise
Yellow pepper cut into four equal pieces lengthwise
Mozzarella or havarti cheese
Margerine, butter or EEVO

Lightly butter one side of all pieces of bread (or brush with EEVO) then place butter side up on a cookie sheet and broil until golden. At the same time, grill mushroom, zucchini and peppers on BBQ or indoor grill until softened but not mushy. (You should be able to pierce it with a fork) Place three slices of your toasted bread, toasted side down, on the cookie sheet and layer with cheese, grilled veggies and chicken. Place back into the oven until cheese is melted. I spread flavoured mayo on the top slices of bread (recipe below) and pop in on top of the sandwich.

These sandwiches are addictive! Don't say that I didn't warn you. Enjoy!

Lemon Pepper Mayo

1/2 cup of mayonnaise
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. lemon juice

You can adjust the amount of pepper to your liking.

Ahh Summer...

2011-07-03T19:58:00.000-05:00

We spent the weekend with friends at their cabin. We spent a lot of time on their pontoon boat and even watched fireworks on the lake. Even though the fish flies were insane, everyone enjoyed the show.

The most handsome dog relaxing on the dock.

There's nothing better than Smores by the fire

We lit up the boat like a Christmas Tree!

The pictures don't do it justice.

Fish Flies!! Yuck!!

On My Radar.....

2011-06-30T21:29:00.000-05:00

Do you ever have something that occupies your mind? Something that you decide that you love and can't stop thinking about?

For me right now.......that would be cane chairs. I really REALLY want upholstered cane chairs. I don't know where I would put them (well I know, but we already have a "newer" chair where I would want my dream cane chair(s) to go) but I want them all the same.

Source Unknown

http://www.smallburst.com/

Resolutions Revisited

2011-06-16T06:56:00.000-05:00

I had so much confidence in my ability to live up to all of this year's resolutions. (Cue the sound effects....whah whah whaaahhhhhh) Let's review, shall we?

1. Have monthly family meetings - Well we missed March and May and June is not over yet. What I like about the family meetings is that tasks are assigned and people are accountable for completing them. The kids can bring up ideas, plans or concerns that affect them and hopefully feel as though their opinions make a difference.
2. Have a family game night - We have had one more game night than crafternoons. I will give us a D+ on that one.
3. Crafternoons - Yeahhhhhhh.....I think we did this once!!
4. More physical activity with the kids - I wanted to do yoga with the kids, but I have not done that yet. On a positive note, the kids are in soccer for the first year ever and my husband is helping coach. One big item on my shopping list is a new bike. I picture us packing a lunch and riding to the park.
5. Cook more with the kids - A solid fail on this one.
6. Be more vigilant about clean up - I have been better at this, but not as good as I would like. The kids are helping clean up more which is also a function of my going back to work. I still dream of perfection sometimes, but I live "good enough".

I'm glad that I am looking back at these goals because, quite honestly, I forgot about some of them. After three months of being back in the office, I suddenly feel as though I am finding my groove. I need to work these resolutions into my new life. I should post them up somewhere so I won't fizzle out in the last half of the year.

Living Off the Land - Container Edition

2011-06-06T17:46:00.000-05:00

Well the kids and I took a trip to the garden centre and picked up some yummy plants. My oldest picked out a tomato plant, my youngest picked a strawberry plant and I brought home lettuce, thai basil, chocolate mint and rosemary. They also picked out a vine and lobelia to make the pot look extra pretty.

On Saturday, all of those plants went into containers. I still need to buy another pot for the strawberries though. My kids said that we are growing a salad.

Living Off the Land

2011-05-23T21:53:00.001-05:00

Sometimes I wish that I had a larger property. Our yard is a good size for entertaining, children playing and a couple of flower beds, but I would like to plant a vegetable garden.......and maybe have chickens. Do they make chickens that are self sufficient and don't require much work? I didn't think so.

We do get a bounty of tasty goodness from neighbors, but it would be nice to grow my own. I plant tomatoes in containers every year, but they do not produce very much. I was thinking of planting some lettuce and herbs in my containers this year. Has anyone ever tried planting lettuce in a planter and if so.....how did it work for you?

Wish List Wednesday

2011-05-18T06:23:00.000-05:00

How many Decoylab clocks can a person own before it is considered an obsession? I only have one right now, but I think I may need one more....or two....

My houseplants are not doing too well, but I think I could keep a houseplant clock alive.

OK Computer

2011-04-30T22:29:00.000-05:00

I finally have my computer back after two weeks of being out of the loop. Apparently, my computer and many, many others, we struck down with a very bad virus. It took just shy of a week to clean it all up, but then when I brought it home, I couldn't connect to the internet......for another whole week!!

For a girl who used to spend some time on the laptop, amazingly I didn't miss it as much as I thought I would. I could connect to the server and therefore receive email during the second week, but between no computer and playoff hockey (which is resulting in at least one male taking over the TV....), my screen time has been cut down quite a bit over the last little while.

And guess what? I am surviving!! I am not getting much done beyond the day to day requirements and I'm hoping that will change as I hit my stride, but I am trying to get things done with 35ish hours less time in the week. Adjusting to the life of a working Mom (even though it is not full time...) has its good days and bad. I can be short tempered at times when I'm feeling rushed and overwhelmed but on the other side of the coin, I find that I am putting more effort into enjoying my children and the time with them. I am also trying to loosen up and laugh more with them.

When you are at home with your kids, it can be easy to take that time for granted. I think that was happening to me at times because now, I feel as though I am more present in the moments with them. I know I can do a lot better in that department, but baby steps are better than none at all.

I am also still carving out some "me" time, which is mostly made up of working out and occasionally flaking out on the sofa at the end of the day to my recorded shows. I have not been drawing, painting or (GASP!) sewing lately. (Not counting the zipper pouches I sewed for my friend Emily who was selling them to raise $$ for the MS Walk) I miss my creative time, but I find my time getting sucked up by more practical chores.

I should give myself a deadline for getting back to flexing the creative muscles before they lie dormant for much longer. Maybe the deadline should be tomorrow.

Weekend Rewind

2011-04-11T06:56:00.001-05:00

This weekend, I fought evil dust bunnies with my trusty crevice tool but recently, the kids and I had a fun Saturday without worrying about cleaning up a thing. With sketch books and pencils in hand, we headed off to the local conservatory and spent the afternoon drawing and taking photos.

We headed off to a family restaurant next and filled our bellies with tasty food.

Not the healthiest option, but it was sure tasty!!

Weekend Goodies

2011-04-09T18:27:00.000-05:00

Lemon Poppyseed Cookies

Sometimes you just need to treat yourself to a little bit of sweet goodness from a small neighborhood bakery.

It's Alright....

2011-04-05T20:50:00.000-05:00

I heard this song on the way to work this morning and it sums up my feelings toward the coming of spring. I love to see the sun shining, the snow melting and people coming out of their homes with any excuse to enjoy the weather.

Meal Planning

2011-03-28T12:58:00.000-05:00

With my return to office life, I've been trying to load up the freezer with easy meals. I found some great prep and freeze meals in the latest Canadian Family Magazine. Today and made Maple Orange-Glazed Salmon and yesterday was Tangy Asian Pork Chops. We already tried and ate the salmon and it was delicious!

On the menu for this week, I am making...

Brazilian Chicken with Coconut Milk
Tortellini Soup - that I posted about before...
Tangy Asian Pork Chops
Fish and Chips (with tasty codfish)
I am going to make my husband responsible for using up some of our ground beef for Friday's dish.

I am so glad that I started meal planning over a year ago. It makes me feel like a domestic rock star.

Awkward?

2011-03-24T20:06:00.001-05:00

Do you think it would be awkward if I packed a suitcase and moved to West Elm?

Wish List Wednesday

2011-03-23T21:24:00.000-05:00

My Village by Syko

How cute are these soft houses by Syko? Super cute! The colours remind me that spring is just around the corner and it's time to replace our warm winter accessories with more bright and colourful options.

WOW!!

2011-03-21T23:04:00.000-05:00

I thought life was busy before but going back to work has increased the business factor ALOT!! As I mentioned before, last week was my first week back to a regular, every day office job. (After a 9 year break....) There are a couple of things that I have noticed right away:

1. I am staying up later to try and get things done.
2. I am watching TV faaaaaarrrr less than I was before.

When I had more time at home, I would have the TV on a lot but I wouldn't necessarily be watching it. Many times I just had it on so the house wouldn't be so quiet. I realized how much I watched things that I really wasn't enjoying just for the sake of watching something. Now I am recording the shows I really like and watching when I can.

Running out to grab this or that is pretty non-existant during the week. I pass by stores on the way to and from work and wish that I had just 15 extra minutes to run in and grab something that I need.

I'm sure that I'll find my own groove and things will fall into place, but I feel a bit like a hamster on a wheel right now. A hamster that hasn't been on her sewing machine in far too long.

Lucky

2011-03-15T22:08:00.000-05:00

I went grocery shopping tonight and noticed that some areas of the store were running low on stock but I figured that it must be because it was the evening and the day had been busy. Then I got to the produce department and saw rows and rows of empty bins and shelves. There was no lettuce at all, the apples and were running low and the ones that were left were obviously picked over. There were huge gaps all over and in the empty spaces were signs explaining that due to poor weather conditions and road closures, the food could not be delivered.

This got me thinking about how lucky I am that I can go to the store and usually buy whatever I need whenever I need it. I started to think about all the people that aren't as lucky and how quickly things can change.....like in Japan. You might just be going about your business and life can change in a heartbeat.

All I wanted to do was come home, hug my family and count my blessings. Which I did.

Wish List Wednesday

2011-03-09T21:41:00.000-06:00

Emmeline

I think that this rug by Korhani would look great with my new bedroom colour scheme. Here's the bonus.....with every rug purchased, 30 percent of the proceeds go to charity!! Here is the extra bonus.....they are very reasonably priced and come in three sizes!

There are two designs, each with three colour schemes that are available for purchase online. I also really like this design in red. Beautiful.

Big Changes...

2011-03-07T11:25:00.000-06:00

One week from today, there will be a big change happening in the lives of my family and...of course....myself. After 9 years of staying at home to take care of my two sweet kids, I am heading back to my old career. This job just fell into my lap and it was too good to pass up. It will allow me to still take the kids to school and pick them up....which is awesome.

I am very excited and a little scared too. It will be a big adjustment for everyone. I have been working a few hours a week as a fitness instructor for the past two years, but that was something that was flexible and I could fit into my time with the family. I still had time for cleaning, cooking, volunteering and let's not forget crafting!! I am worried that things will start to fall through the cracks and I won't be able to keep up with the demands of home. I am also worried that the other members of my household will not step up to the plate and take some of the load off. I'm sure I'll need to constantly remind myself to give up some of that load as well. For so long, I have been the "household manager". I have been the housekeeper (though not a great one!!), chef 5 days a week, social planner, financial consultant and general candlestick maker for 9 years. It will be hard to hand over the reins for some of these jobs, but I know that I will need to.

It will be an interesting journey.

Wish List Wednesday

2011-03-02T15:12:00.000-06:00

With spring hiding just around the corner, this woman's thoughts are turning to clothes. Anthropologie has so many gorgeous things that I had to narrow my focus to one....dresses. I couldn't pick just one, so I'm adding three dresses to my wish list. Now I need to check out cute accessories to go with them!

Leftover Party Food

2011-02-28T13:14:00.000-06:00

We had a big party last weekend and my husband bought enough food for four parties. We have been snacking on leftover fruits and veggies ever since, but there is one food item that I thought we would not be able to finish before it went bad. My hubby bought a gigantic bag of broccoli and it did not even get opened for the party.

I decided to try my hand at making Broccoli Soup, but I wanted to make a healthier version. I found this tasty recipe on the Canadian Milk Dairy Goodness website. The touch of orange rind and thyme made it extra tasty and it was a hit! (Not with the kids of course. They wouldn't even try it because it was green.)

I'm going to make more and see how well it freezes.

Sooooo close!!

2011-02-17T06:31:00.003-06:00

We are just putting the finishing touches on Stage One of our bathroom renovations. I bought a new shower curtain today (I would have preferred the West Elm shower curtain but this one will do for now.) and new towels that I just love with a capital L! I realize that I should not be as excited about towels as I am, but we have not gotten new towels in ten years.

I need some art for the walls and I was thinking that I might try my hand at painting my own. I used to have photos up so I may also take one of the photos from our summer trip and frame that.

We also have to cut down and cover the toilet bolts but you aren't supposed to notice that... It is a little hard to make out, but we used 3" x 6" white tile in the tub and wrapped it around behind the toilet. We are still looking for a tile to finish the edge, but I am discovering that a 1" wide tile is almost impossible to find.

We are saving up for Stage Two of the reno which will involve replacing the vanity top and sink, refacing the vanity doors and replacing the mirror and lighting.

Every time I have a shower, I feel like I'm in a hotel and it is awesome!

Wish List Wednesday

2011-02-16T09:12:00.000-06:00

I think that these crocheted floor cushions by La Casa Decoto would be fantastic in a kids space. My kids' space is light and bright just like these cushions and I could see the kids laying around on them or resting their feet.

Sigh....

2011-02-10T15:11:00.002-06:00

I have two amazing children that I could not be prouder of. One of my amazing children is more sensitive and quirky than the other kids. She doesn't like loud noises or big groups of people and is a little bit shy when it comes to new situations. This has resulted in her becoming a target of teasing at school.

It started small but seems to be building and getting more frequent. She has been told that she "sucks", "stinks" and "nobody likes you" and lately, there has been taunting or chanting of little phrases. As an adult, these chants seem silly, but they are slowly chipping away at my daughter's self worth. She actually believes that these kids are more important than her and this breaks my heart.

Yesterday, I was feeling particularly helpless and I posted the following status on Facebook:

What do you do when your child is being teased on a regular basis to the point at which she doesn't think she is as important as her peers?

What happened soon after was so heart warming to me. I had comment after comment of support and stories of other people whose children were having similar problems. I also got phone calls and emails. People were not only talking to me and giving advice, they were also talking to their own kids about how they treat others and what to do if you see someone being teased or bullied.

Schools need to do more to make sure that they create an environment where kids can feel safe to be who they are, but communities need to do the same. I felt such amazing support from my community yesterday that I can only feel hopeful for change. No matter what happens, I know that I have a daughter who is funny, kind and smart and who lights up a room with her smile and I'll make sure she always knows that.

TV Unit Refurb

2011-02-08T13:25:00.000-06:00

I had several items on my "make the playroom better" list and I just completed one more. I painted the walls to brighten up the space, I created an art wall using prints, maps and free downloads and I just finished painting out the dark brown entertainment unit.

Here is the "during" picture...

And here is the "after" picture. I replaced the hardware with brushed nickel to tie in with the light fixtures in the space. (Don't I sound fancy?)

Next on the list......a craft area for the art factory that I am hoping to move off of the dining room table.

Snow what?

2011-01-28T17:39:00.000-06:00

So we've had a little bit of snow this winter.

Today I realized a big difference between adults and children. To adults, snow means shovelling and poor driving conditions. To kids, snow means just plain fun!! The snow fort below was built out of packed snow blocks that were scraped off the driveway. Good times.

Wish List Wednesday

2011-01-26T16:28:00.000-06:00

I think this sign would be really cute above the front hall closet. Right now, it is a very tall wall of nothing. This recycled wood sign by William Dohman of Oh Dier would be a sweet greeting for guests....and for me too.
I also like the sign below. It would cut down on me repeating the same sentence to the kids. (I could pretend that it didn't have another meaning....)

Tortellini Soup Recipe

2011-01-24T22:49:00.000-06:00

When I moved out of my parent's house, my cooking consisted of grilled cheese sandwiches, popcorn and salads from a bag. If I was feeling really fancy, I would cook up a turkey burger (from a box). Now that I have had more than just myself to feed, I have gotten more adventurous.

I usually stick to recipes, but every once in a while, I take bits from several recipes to make something all my own. Usually, cooking on the weekends is my husband's job, but he was grouting the bathroom tiles yesterday and it took longer than expected. I took a peek in the cupboards and fridge and decided to try making a tortellini soup. Guess what? I liked it!! A lot!!

Here's what I used:

1 package of cheese tortellini
1 can of diced tomatoes
1 cup of chicken broth (I will use three cups if I make it again, since we used up the liquid in two servings!)
A clove of garlic (diced)
Half and onion (I'm not a big onion fan...)
A couple tablespoons of oil (I used EVOO)
1/2 to 1 tsp each of basil and oregano
A pinch each of crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper

I started by putting the oil in the bottom of the pot and cooking the onion and garlic on medium heat. Then I just poured everything else in and cooked on high heat (stirring frequently) until the tortellini was all done.

Yumtastic!!

Half eaten pot of Tortellini Soup

Family Crafternoon

2011-01-22T08:39:00.000-06:00

Finding a little spot away from the rubble of renovations, the kids and I had our first crafternoon. I wanted to pick something simple that would not add to the upheaval in our space, so we made little aquarium pictures.

I cut pieces of clear contact paper and then the kids and I cut out our seaweed, fish and octopuses (or octopi) then backed it with a layer of blue tissue.

Easy peasy lemon squeezy.

Wish List Wednesday

2011-01-19T06:26:00.000-06:00

The bathroom renovation is moving along. My hubby is in the process of tiling which we have decided will extend past the tub area and wrap around behind the toilet and vanity. Next I will have to paint the ceiling and walls. We have decided that we want a bright and airy feeling so we are going with a colour called Cumulus Cloud for the walls.

Soon after those items are ticked off the list, I'll need to accessorize. I really wish there was a West Elm in my city, because I found some beautiful bathroom items on their website.

If I close my eyes, I can almost picture it.........ahhhhhhh.

As Time Goes By....

2011-01-14T14:06:00.000-06:00

Wow! Time is flying by! I didn't realize that it was so long since my last post. Life, as usual, continues to be busy and I am scrambling to keep up.

The bathroom renovations are moving along slowly but surely. The old vanity is back in as well as the new floor, toilet and bathtub. Next on the list is tiling, priming and painting.

I have also started trying to follow along with the 2011 New Year's Grand Plan Challenge as seen on organizedhome.com. Last week was organizing the front entrance and this week I'm working on the living room. I have actually scheduled sections of the house on a week by week basis in an attempt to get it together. I will also confess that I took "before" pictures not for the blog, but for myself. I am hoping that the "after" pictures will look a lot better!!

We had our first family meeting last weekend which went really well. We set some game night and crafternoon dates and set some goals for the family and our home. Although my youngest was initially resistant to the meetings, she came around when I told her that the meetings were not about "picking on the kids".

I am also trying to take some time to rethink my shop and what I sell. I still love making the dolls but I feel like I need to add some other items to freshen things up.

I am really looking forward to this weekend. The kids and I are having a sleepover (with 70 other kids) at the local museum. We get to watch a movie about space, play in the science gallery and have a flashlight tour of the museum. Although I don't expect to get much sleep, I think it will be a blast!!

New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-04T09:51:00.001-06:00

I never used to make resolutions because I believed (and still do..) that if you want to make a change in your life, you can make it at any time of the year.

Last year, I got all gung ho and decided that I would try my best throughout the year to plan 5 meals a week for the family. This worked so well for us. I wasn't trying to figure out what to make at 4:00 in the afternoon and we saved quite a bit of money as well. Food wasn't wasted and I could load up on food when it was on sale.

Note - I just figured out that I saved a cool $1000 last year by planning my meals!!!!! Sooooooo excited!!!

This year along with my annual resolution of organizing my home, (this year it's going to work...erg!) I have made up a list of resolutions to improve our family life. I thought it would be fun to share them.

1. Have monthly family meetings - Even though the kids are still young, I would like to have a family meeting at least once a month to talk about our goals as individuals and as a family. We can talk about things that we would like to do in the month and schedule dates. We can talk about anything we feel is important to us or our family.

2. Have a family game night - I have wanted to do this for some time, but I want to actually choose the days for this and mark it on the calendar so it will be honoured. We have sooooo many games that are rarely played that I think it would be fun to get together as a family.

3. Crafternoons - When the kids were small, I was creative with the things that we did. As they have grown, they play together all the time and I have gotten a little lazy about thinking up my own forms of entertainment as they entertain each other. I miss the things we used to do and just like family game night, I want to schedule regular crafternoons with the kids.

4. More physical activity with the kids - I would like to encourage more physical activity as a family. I would like to play a game of soccer in the nearby field or make a fun obstacle course. I do yoga and the kids will sometimes do poses along side me, but I want to kick it up a notch or two this year.

5. Cook more with the kids - The kids do help when I bake, but I would like tham to be more involved in the day to day meal preparation. They can help make salads or mix up ingredients for a dish. I think they would really enjoy it.

6. Be more vigilant about clean up - The last 5 goals were more fun, but this is where I have to turn "Fun Mom" into "Business Mom". I have not been good about getting the kids to clean up after themselves and I realized how easily I am manipulated into doing things myself. I am determined to change that!!! (Can you tell I mean business?) I have recently discovered that if I give my kids a written list of specific things that need to be cleaned, there is a better chance of those things being completed. They (like many of us) like to cross the items off the list as they complete the job.

So now that all of this is in writing, I will have to follow through....right? I think it is going to be a busy and wonderful year.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-24T10:51:00.000-06:00

Wishing you and yours all the best this Christmas! Enjoy every minute of the food, friends and family and above all, have fun!

Handmade Christmas

2010-12-23T14:13:00.000-06:00

I wanted to try out the tutorial I posted about a couple of weeks ago. It was the tutorial by Cally Cruze about taking an old t-shirt and making it into kid's pants. I decided that I would make a pair of pajama pants for my youngest. I used a light purple thread but, if I do it again, I'll try and match the thread colour to the fabric.

I also used fabric paint and a rubber stamp to add a little extra fun! Here are the before and after pictures...

I just hope the recipient likes them!!

Wish List Wednesday

2010-12-22T08:08:00.000-06:00

What I really wish for this time of the year is a group of elves that will do whatever I ask. If I close my eyes really tightly and wish as hard as I possibly can, do you think it will come true?

AAAAAhhhhhh!!!!

2010-12-21T20:29:00.000-06:00

I have finished all of my Christmas shopping (well.....almost all....just a couple of stocking stuffer to go) and almost everything is wrapped and under the tree. Now with only 4 days left, I need to get my buttocks in gear and make the kids' gifts.

This is the third year that the kids' presents will be handmade. I like the idea of giving them something different than what I would find in the stores and I'm going to try to get away with making their gifts for as long as I can.

This year, they have requested bear clothes and I was planning on making jammie pants as well. I'll post some pictures when I get them all finished.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-12-15T13:25:00.000-06:00

Chunky Warm Neckwarmer Scarf

As I run around from shop to shop and from event to event this season, I think that this chunky cowl by Beautiful Bridget Designs would be just the item to complete my winter wardrobe.

It just looks so cozy and warm while being stylish at the same time.

Holiday Kiddlebug Kids

2010-12-14T22:16:00.000-06:00

This holiday craft show season was a lot of fun. Many Kiddlebug Kids went to new homes and I hope that the result is a lot of smiling faces on Christmas morning. This has been my busiest fall/ beginning of winter season to date and I am thankful to all of my supporters out there.

One of my favorite craft show moments was when a little girl took home the first mermaid that I ever made and sold. Her parents had a table at the show and she wanted the mermaid soooooo much that she spent about 2 hours (on and off.....but mostly on) at my table. She would hold the doll and when people would come to the table, she would bring the doll close to her chest and turn away from anyone who might possibly want the doll too. I was so pleased that she was able to take her mermaid home with her.

Do you have a favorite craft show moment, either as a seller or a buyer?

And it all started with a toilet...

2010-12-12T22:45:00.000-06:00

That corner by the tub doesn't look so good...

A couple of months ago, Home Depot had a great sale on energy efficient toilets. I thought "Hey! My toilets are kind of gross and old and use a lot of water" so I drove off to the store and picked up the last two out of three left in the city!! After bringing them home, I thought "Hmmmm......we really do need new flooring so there is no point in putting a new toilet on old flooring. We should just redo the floors as well."

A couple of weeks ago, I found and ordered the flooring I wanted and picked it up last week. It was a little more taupe than expected, (I was looking for more of a grayish feel) but after two months of maneuvering around two toilets (one boxed and under the stairs and the other removed from the box and sitting in our master bedroom closet.....yes...that's right) I was ready to take what I got and work with it.

Fast forward to today. Today is the day that we started to rip out the old vinyl flooring. (And by we, I really mean mostly my husband) When he lifted the vinyl beside the tub, we discovered that the sub floor was moldy underneath. Yuck!

So now we need to replace the subfloor too, but wait........the second layer is also gross and black so we should just rip that out too. One problem. It carries on under the tub. "We'll lift up the tub" says my dear handy husband, but I point out that we can't lift the tub without taking off some tile. Can you see the domino effect happening here?

So as of this afternoon, this is what my bathroom looks like.

Where the tub used to be

Where my vanity used to be

Wish List Wednesday

2010-12-08T21:55:00.000-06:00

I was feeling a little uninspired with my wish list today. Not because of a lack of talent out there, but with a house full of sick people I think I was just feeling a little dull.

Then I saw these incredible snowflake ornaments by Peppersprouts. It amazes me when people can come up with ideas like this. Did you notice that the outside of the snowflake is lined with animals?

Wintery Goodness

2010-12-07T21:13:00.000-06:00

Even though the weather outside can sometimes be frightful, it can also be pretty amazing and beautiful. This morning was one of those days. I love when the frost covers the trees like they've been dipped in sugar.

This was the view while walking the kids to school this morning....

Wish List Wednesday

2010-12-01T07:08:00.001-06:00

Cupcake Stand/ Dessert Pedestal - Heirloom Scallops

Drool............'nuff said?

Please can I have this gorgeous dessert stand by Burlap and Blue? Santa's cookies would taste much better on such a pretty plate. This pedestal is made from an upcycled candlestick and a scalloped edge plate and it was love at first sight.

Awesome Tutorial

2010-11-29T14:10:00.000-06:00

I was perusing my bloggy favorites today and found this awesome tutorial on Cally Cruze's blog Calico (hence the blog title) for t-shirt pants and skirt. It is so simple and quick that I am totally going to steal one or two of my hubby's shirts to try this myself.

It will be number 163 on my To-Do list. (It might move up rather quickly though....I really want to try it!)

There's No Business Like Snow Business

2010-11-26T13:55:00.000-06:00

Exactly one week ago yesterday, my youngest was complaining about the fact that it had not snowed. She really wanted to go sledding, build snow forts and go skating. Well........be careful what you wish for because it started snowing last Friday and stopped only yesterday. Now the kids are complaining as we walk to school....."You're walking to fast!", "I'm cold!", "My feet hurt!"

I think it is going to be a long winter! Oh and guess what? I just looked out the window and it's snowing again!!!

The Most Handsome Dog in the Land

My feet are there somewhere!

The Back Stairs

Wish List Wednesday

2010-11-24T18:16:00.000-06:00

Norwegian Reindeer

The holiday season is quickly approaching and for the next four weeks, all my wish list items will be holiday related.

This week, I have found this beautiful, hand printed tea towel from Strand Redesign. I am trying to find more "grown-up" holiday decor and get away from the country look that I liked so much many moons ago. This would look great with the paper snowflakes that the kids taped all over our staircase wall. (There are 38! )

Whaaaa?

2010-11-19T12:51:00.001-06:00

When I picked the kids up from school yesterday, I could still see grass everywhere. Now look!

I guess pretending that the snow was not coming until Dec 24th did not work. I think it is funny how quickly we adjust to the extreme changes in weather though. People will just throw on their boots and get on with it.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-11-17T09:17:00.000-06:00

Bone China Pinecones

Since the holidays are quickly coming (5 1/2 weeks!), I thought I'd pick something to help "holiday up" the house. I think these bone china pinecones from Crate and Barrel are simple and very pretty. It gives the country look a little bit of a modern edge.

Holiday Sewing

2010-11-16T09:51:00.000-06:00

I thought I'd "fancy up" some of my onesies for the holidays and I just finished a 3-6 month holiday outfit. I also did some for the baby boys with an appliqued tie using coordinating fabric.

I'm wondering if two ruffles is enough or if I should add a third..... I don't want the baby to end up looking like a band member of Prince and the Revolution.

Goodbye my Friend...

2010-11-12T14:40:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, I said goodbye to my washing machine. It suffered from paralysis of the motor in the night and after a good fight.....we finally pronounced it dead in the early afternoon.

I did have a love/hate relationship with my washing machine, but looking back......I see that it was just doing its job. The machine is not what made the dirty clothes, sheets and towels but what helped me clean them. (Most of the time)

I must admit that it was not usually the favorite among my appliances and if I could have, I would have avoided seeing it. I couldn't quit it though. I would return week after week, sometimes 8 times or more and now our time together has ended.

Goodbye dear washing machine. I didn't realize how much you would be missed until you were gone....

Wish List Wednesday

2010-11-10T07:50:00.000-06:00

Cities of Europe by Transit Design

Pleeeeeeese can I have it? With sugar on top?

I think this canvas bus scroll by Transit Design is fantastic and I love the bold statement that it makes. This one lists some places I've been and more places that I'd like to go, but there are other designs in the shop as well.

Sleep is overrated....but I love it

2010-11-08T13:36:00.000-06:00

Some people can function fully on less than 8 hours of sleep a night, but I am not one of those people. This weekend, I stayed up late Friday and Saturday with a long list of to do's. With the birthday party and craft sale over and completed, I went to bed early last night and slept almost 11 hours!!

I was extremely glad to have the extra hour on Sunday morning to get some more sewing done. I finished my first female pirate. She doesn't have an eye patch though, but I think she might get one...

Ahhhh!!!

2010-11-05T17:54:00.000-05:00

This weekend is going to be a little crazy. Tomorrow, we are having a "princess banquet" birthday party and on Sunday I am participating in my first craft show of the fall.

All week has been full of sewing, shopping for princessy goody bag items, sewing, thinking up crafts for the party as well as food and games and.....did I mention sewing?

In addition to my regular cast of Kiddlebug Kids, I am working on a couple of custom dolls which is always a lot of fun. It is the time of year that I take over the dining room table and transform it into my sewing room. I do need to clear it all off for tomorrow's banquet. All the princesses need room to eat their fancy royal pizza. (Which is what all princesses eat...)

Wish List Wednesday

2010-11-03T18:20:00.000-05:00

Martini Side Table

Although this doesn't go with my current home decor, I am loving this Martini Side Table from West Elm.
Ohhhhhhh! Shiny!!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-30T21:41:00.000-05:00

Style at Home

I could pretend that this is my home, but this fabulous Halloween decor is from the talented people at Style at Home magazine.

Have fun trick or treating!

Halloween Decorating

2010-10-28T06:04:00.001-05:00

A lot of halloween decorations are pretty kitschy, but wouldn't it be fun to add some more "grown up" decorations to your home? I found these vintage movie posters from Spook City Arts and think that it would be a great way to add a little spooky to your home this Halloween.

Spook City Arts has many, many prints to choose from and they are all very reasonably priced.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-10-27T19:44:00.000-05:00

Pottery Barn

The other day, I thought it would be a great idea to make a cool centerpiece out of mini pumpkins and my white cake pedestal, but when I went to buy the mini pumpkins I discovered that they were all starting to go bad. (Not the look I was going for.)

These white pumpkin candles from Pottery Barn would add a great touch to the Halloween decor and will not rot in the process. That's what is called a win win.

Braggin' Rights

2010-10-22T19:21:00.000-05:00

I was so pleased with my Asian inpired meal this week, that I had to post a picture. With the exception of the packet of plum sauce, everything is made from scratch.

I may even post the recipe for the Shrimp Spring Rolls that I frankensteined together using a couple of recipes and a couple of things that I came up with myself.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-10-20T06:10:00.002-05:00

Pretty Raccoon

I loooooove this screen printed Tribal Tee from Pretty Raccoon. It is high on my list on things that I will most likely bring to my home. It's funny how certain items just catch your eye and your mind. I can't stop thinking about this one.

Meal Planning

2010-10-18T06:14:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of the year, I decided to turn over a new leaf and actually plan our meals for the week instead of waiting until 4:00 in the afternoon to think "Hmmmm....what should I make for dinner today?"

I sat down after the new year and put together 7 weeks of meal plans and I was very proud of myself. My husband was a little skeptical however since he has met me before and knows my history of cooking. Before having children, he did much of the cooking and when I had to fend for myself, I would resort to popcorn and grilled cheese.

He thought that the lists that I made were great but doubted that I would keep up with making the meals that I had planned for the full 7 weeks. I'm sure he also doubted that I would make any more lists after that....but guess what? I did.

I have done regular planning since the beginning of the year and have found that:
1) It has saved our family money. In fact I have saved at least $100 a month and close to $200 a couple of other months.
2) It makes my life much, much easier. I know what I am cooking every day and have the ingredients I need when I start cooking.
3) I have tried many new recipes that I probably wouldn't have tried otherwise.

This week, I'm cooking an Asian inspired meal. Chicken with Broccoli and Cashews, Homemade Shrimp Spring Rolls and Rice.

Photo by Kraft

What A Girl Wants...

2010-10-17T18:27:00.000-05:00

A girl can only take so much Etsy goodness before she has to break down and buy something. I bought something for me and something for the house. I don't buy things very often and when I do, I feel like a kid and it is Christmas or my birthday and I'm waiting for the postal truck to bring me presents from far away.

After about a week, I start looking out for the postal truck and waiting and hoping that it will come. When it does, I think I scare the poor postal worker because I get so giddy with excitement.

I am starting to feel giddy already!!!!

My Lola Fashion

Decoylab

A Wake Up Call

2010-10-13T13:30:00.001-05:00

Every so often, we need a wake up call. Something to remind us how special this life is and how thankful we need to be for every precious minute we get. Watching the rescue of the Chilean miners has been such an emotional experience that it gave me a little bit of a wake up call.

Before I met my husband, he worked in two mines over the course of 5 years. I can't even imagine the emotional turmoil that the miners and their families must have been going through for over two months. Not knowing from day to day whether or not they would survive would have been torture.

Even though these people are strangers to me, watching the miners emerge one by one has really affected me as well. It has also been amazing to see that most of the world feels the same way and we are all really pulling for these people.

My thoughts will stay with the miners and their families and I hope that they can all recover from this ordeal.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-10-13T07:20:00.002-05:00

With Halloween quickly approaching, I decided to include some scary items to my wish list. I like these Haunted Halloween Coasters by Cheltenham Road because they are spooky and not cutesy. They would add to the overall theme without making the house look "theme parkish".

Every year, I seem to pick up just one more thing to add to the Halloween decoration container and these would fit, because they are small....right?

Do Over

2010-10-12T07:57:00.001-05:00

How many of us wish that we could start over with a clean slate? For me, that clean slate is my home. For most of it, I wish I could have a "do over". There are so many beautiful ideas in decorating magazines and shows and I would love to bring some of that style into my home. I have great ideas but lack the finances to carry them out. Here is some eye candy that I wish I could bring into my home.

Samantha Pynn

Tommy Smythe

Canadian House and Home

Sarah Richardson

Oh decorating fairies........please come to my home and work your magic for free!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2010-10-10T21:42:00.000-05:00

Martha Stewart

I want to wish a happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian friends!

Good Day Sunshine

2010-10-08T14:30:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a great day. The sun was shining, the sky was blue and it was unseasonably warm out. Yesterday morning, I worked on my playroom project and things are coming along swimmingly. The painting is pretty much done and I purchased a couple of low cost pieces to supplement the room, including two storage ottomans and two chairs for the craft table. I am looking forward to getting it all done and posting photos.

Today is even better out. If I were a child, it would be the kind of day where I would wear my bathing suit all day and have drips of popsicle on my belly. I have many things that I should be doing, but guess what? I'm not doing them. (With the exception of a couple of errands which were carried out with the windows rolled down and music turned up)

I am so happy today that I feel like standing in the yard with arms outstretched and spin in a circle a la Fraulein Maria.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-10-06T15:24:00.000-05:00

I've been checking out different sites for some seasonal items and came across these Winter Animal Canape Plates from West Elm. The shiny, platinum animals remind me of the cold crisp days that are on their way.

Hello Autumn

2010-10-04T06:48:00.001-05:00

Lost in the Corn Maze

It was a gorgeous day yesterday and the kids and I spent the afternoon navigating through a corn maze, going on a hay ride, petting rabbits, pot bellied pigs and lamb and eating mini donuts.

Life is good.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-09-29T06:57:00.002-05:00

Jake + Cleo is a brand new jewelry line made in an eco friendly way using 100% recycled silver. As soon as I saw this square cutout silver necklace, I knew I wanted it and guess what? I already bought it for myself! Let's just call it my back to school present.

Here's Your Hot Water.....oops

2010-09-27T10:01:00.000-05:00

My eldest child often has trouble falling asleep so the other day, I thought I'd make her nice and cozy by bringing a warm hot water bottle to her bed. I filled it up and headed into her room where she was already in bed waiting. Just as I was about to hand it to her, it sprung a leak and not a little dribble either. It started to spray water all over the wall and the bed and all over my daughter. The stream was the thickness of my pointer finger. By the time I got control over the situation, my daughter's bed was soaked and water was dripping down the wall. At that point I burst out laughing and thankfully, so did my daughter.

Lert's just say that no one went to sleep very quickly after that and I need a new hot water bottle.

Egli's Sheep Farm Hot Water Bottle Cover

Wish List Wednesday

2010-09-22T07:49:00.003-05:00

I have been a fan of Mummysam for some time now and was excited to see that she has taken her art in a new direction. She has created some fantastic fabrics and is selling them in her Etsy shop.

This fabric, called Mr. Fox, is just one of several great patterns for sale.

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2010-09-21T10:56:00.000-05:00

The kids are back in school and for the first time in many years, I have the entire day (less lunch time and my part time job) to myself. Before our big family trip, I took on the revamping of the basement/ play area and had started painting. The "lower level", as I like to call it, was quite dark and the kids didn't really like being there, so I decided to brighten it up. I started painting in June, but then we went away and I decided to finish when I had some alone time in September. I used Benjamin Moore's Personal Color Viewer to check out how the new colours would look together. (I used one of their home photos, this isn't my house!)

before

after

The old playroom also had cedar panel wainscotting on two walls and we took that off. I have a lot of ideas about how to spruce it up and I need to dig in and get it done. We got a new sofa bed for the space and I've been looking at fabrics for a blind, pillows and the ottoman that I want to recover. I also want to create a work area for the kids crafts and homework.

Well....I'd better get back to it!!

Dance Like No One is Watching

2010-09-17T08:23:00.000-05:00

I wish I could dance like this any time the mood strikes me. Don't you?

Wish List Wednesday

2010-09-15T15:34:00.000-05:00

I am a big fan of milk glass and white decor so when I saw the Rosanna Decor White Bon Bon Collection on Organize.com, I was in awe. Can you imagine how these would look on your table filled with colourful treats? I can....and I am right now.

Colouring Pages

2010-09-14T09:32:00.000-05:00

A while ago, I made some printable colouring pages of the dolls that I make....Kiddlebug Kids. I thought I would share them all on this post. If you click on the image, you can easily print it out. Enjoy!

Wish List Wednesday

2010-09-08T14:27:00.000-05:00

In honour of back to school time, I have included one of my kids favorite writing instruments...the smencil. It is a pencil that smells delicious and my kids always want them anytime we see them. They remind me of my Mr. Sketch smelly marker days without the mess. I am partial to orange and cherry. (Just like I was when I was a child.)

They are made of biodegradable plastic and recycled newspapers, so not only do they smell great but they are good for the conscience too.

The Last Days of Summer

2010-09-06T18:27:00.002-05:00

Covered Wagon Ride

Playing in the Dunes

The Summer Home

Every year we go on two group camping trips, one at the beginning of the summer and one at the end. We have been going with the same group for years and for this trip, we all shared a group campsite. There were 10 adults and 9 kids and it was the perfect way to say goodbye to summer.

As soon as we arrived, we realized that although we brought our cooler, we had left behind our box of dry goods....including our dog food. Thank goodness for great friends and a nearby town, because we were just fine. We went into town and picked up some groceries, including some delicious buns at the bakery and fresh honey and vegetables at the farmer's market.

We ate half the buns for lunch and left the rest on the picnic table inside the screen tent overnight. In the morning, I woke up to find muddy raccoon foot prints on the picnic table and the buns strewn all over the ground. Not one of the buns was completely eaten, but each one had a large bite taken out of it.

Even though things did not go perfectly, it was a perfect way to end a great summer.

Eco Craft Collective

2010-09-02T21:05:00.000-05:00

There is a new shop in town called the Mozy Rue Eco Collective. It is a place filled with handmade goodness where crafters can showcase their work and share in working at the shop. I had no idea what to expect when I walked in the door, but I have to say that I love it there. It is welcoming and modern and filled with loads of eye candy for those who love handmade and those who don't realize they do yet.

If you are in Winnipeg, Manitoba, head over to 531 Osborne Street and check it out. You can even take a Kiddlebug Kid home with you.

The dolls are enjoying the view

Wish List Wednesday

2010-09-01T14:34:00.000-05:00

I think that the colour and design of these dipping dishes by Hope Johnson Ceramics is just beautiful. In fact, all of her dipping dishes and small plates are just fantastic and would make a great addition to any table. (And especially my table!!)

Bounty

2010-08-26T22:07:00.000-05:00

Today my neighbor brought over a bag of carrots from her garden, then another neighbor brought over half a dozen cobs of corn. A couple of hours later, yet another neighbor brought over a bag of peppers and tomatoes from his garden. While I was walking home from the park with the kids, another one of our neighbors handed me a gladiola from her garden.

Yesterday, one of the neighborhood kids came to our door with garden cucumbers and last week, the neighbors behind us gave us two bags of apples from their tree. (I've already baked three pies and an apple coffee cake!)

Did I mention that I love my neighborhood? My sister calls our street Rainbow Friendship Bay.

Surprise!!

2010-08-26T15:02:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite moments on the trip involved this snail. We were heading into a restaurant when my youngest found this pretty shell in the parking lot. She brought it into the restaurant and was playing with it at the table. She put it down on her napkin for a little bit to join the conversation. The next time we looked down, we discovered that the shell wasn't empty and had a very curious inhabitant checking us all out.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-08-25T06:28:00.000-05:00

Piano Bench Designs makes fantastic jewelry out of sterling silver wire. She makes all sorts of different shapes, letters and words but I am partial to this one. I am a craft geek and proud of it.

Green Tea Smoothie

2010-08-24T09:01:00.001-05:00

I've been starting my days lately with a tasty green tea smoothie and I thought I'd share the recipe. I don't remember where I first saw the recipe....I think it may have been Real Simple but I'm not positive.

Green Tea Smoothie

2 cups frozen unsweetened mixed fruit (peaches, melon and grapes)
3/4 cup hot brewed green tea
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Combine fruit, tea, honey and lemon juice in a blender; blend until smooth and frothy. Serve immediately.

It is yumtastic!!!

Note: It tastes just as good without the honey.

Cross Country Trip - Part Five

2010-08-19T12:31:00.000-05:00

The wharf was a great place to scoop up crab.

The kids spent many hours going for rides in the punt.

My dog found a rock to sit on and watch the boat go by.

Wish List Wednesday

2010-08-18T08:50:00.000-05:00

For some reason, this song has been running through my head on and off for a while now. When I saw it cross stitched by Chez Sucre Chez, what else could I do but smile. Love it.

Cross Country Trip - Part Four

2010-08-16T08:24:00.000-05:00

"Snail Daycare"

Look What I Found

Hiking with by the Ocean

Being in Newfoundland was like being in another world. We stayed right on the ocean in a town big enough for one stop sign and a small store. The kids spent their days hiking, throwing rocks into the ocean, finding shells and finding crab. They loved it.

Cross Country Trip - Part Trois

2010-08-12T06:51:00.003-05:00

Streets of Old Quebec

A View From the Room

Le Chateau Frontenac

After camping our way toward the coast for a week, we indulged and spent the night in Old Quebec at Le Chateau Frontenac. It was heaven!!

We strolled the cobblestone roads, looked at artists work displayed in the street, watched to buskers and street performers and ate breakfast at an outdoor cafe. If you've never been, you need to go. At night, the street was alive with music and people. I didn't want to leave and I will try my best to go back. (Maybe just with my husband next time!)

Wish List Wednesday

2010-08-11T10:31:00.000-05:00

Sea Pinks creates fantastic "fun stuff" using felt and embroidery and I immediately gravitated toward this Goldfish Pincushion. I think that it might be too pretty to stick pins in though!!

Cross Country Trip - Part Deux

2010-08-09T06:07:00.002-05:00

When we drove through Toronto, it was extremely hot and we made the mistake of hitting downtown Toronto during rush hour. I couldn't believe how hot it was outside (107 F) and prayed for our van to keep running as we crept along the highway. Thankfully.....it did.

I never thought I'd love a van, but times...they are a changin'.

We made it to Niagara Falls that night and the skies opened up the next day. We decided to head on over to check out the sites regardless of the weather and the rain cooperated with us. It stopped for the time we were sightseeing and started up again when we returned to the campground.

Oh.....did I mention that we drove across country towing our classic 1973 tent trailer. Good times.

The Falls

Waiting for the Maid of the Mist

Marineland

Home Sweet Home

2010-08-06T06:00:00.001-05:00

A month is a long time to be away....for me. Maybe other people can handle it and even enjoy it, but I like being at home, sleeping in my own, comfy bed, eating my own food and carrying on with my own habits. I missed my bed.....a lot! I also missed my sewing machine and the chance to express creativity in the usual ways. What I had to replace the missing fabrics and craft drawer was my camera. At last count, I had taken over 400 photos.

I won't share many of them with you, but I would like to share my favorites and maybe a couple of stories to go along with them.

The picture on the top was taken at our first campground at Kakabeka Falls and the one on the bottom was at Lake Superior Provincial Park, both in Ontario, Canada.

One of my favorite moments took place early in the morning just beind that dock. I took my yoga mat and rolled it out over the rocks and did yoga beside the water while the sun rose in the sky. Time passed by so quickly and it was so peaceful. There was no one else in sight which is good, since I would have gotten very self conscious very quickly is someone had spotted me.

I'm Back!!!

2010-08-04T07:45:00.000-05:00

After a month long vacation with the family, we have returned home. After an 11 hour day of travel, we got in last night and today will be filled with opening mail, checking emails, doing laundry and filling up the fridge. When my head is clear, I'll start sharing some of the great places we saw and the adventures we had. Until then, I wanted to share a picture that sums up the roughly 5000 kms (or 3000ish miles) we travelled by car.

Time For Adventures!

2010-07-02T09:01:00.000-05:00

I'll be away from the blog for the next month. I'm taking some time to regroup, spend time with the kids and make some new adventures! Please come visit again in August or feel free to look through the archives.

Have a fantastic July!!

Wish List Wednesday

2010-06-30T08:27:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't like bees? (At least images of bees!) This mini clasp purse by EmenGee Designs is so sweet and would be perfect for rounding up those stray coins, cards or whatever else is loose in your purse.

Comments

2010-06-27T08:43:00.000-05:00

Lately, the only comments that I seem to get are odd. They are only a bunch of squares and then a bunch of dots. Has this happened to anyone else? I don't know whether or not these are spammers or if there is a problem with Blogger.

I haven't had a comment that looks like actual words for a while now. Hmmmmm.

Let me know if anyone else has had this problem and hopefully it won't look like squares and dots when I see it!!