Maggie's Musings, Mutterings and Minutia

Today. . .

2012-02-06T12:48:00.000-08:00

too much to do and no will to do it. . . So Ron and I went out to lunch together and took a bunch of pictures. . .

The glacierA heronSome hungry ducksCanada Geese and Swans. . .

Saturday we went to the Temple, then saw Sean, Des and the girls- it was a very good day. The morning was foggy, but by the time we got to the lower mainland it was clear enough to see Mt Baker AND Mt Rainier. Dax, Kaili and Elizabeth joined us on the trip.

Groundhog Day 2012

2012-02-02T07:17:00.000-08:00

I juet love the "ping" and "pop" of jar lids sealing . . . I this morning I finally made the cranberry applesauce I have been planning to do for the last few weeks (months maybe?). Time seems to really be getting away from me these days! I am still trying to get last year's photos and annual letters out (maybe this week).

They have cut hours at work, which is hard on the budget, but good because I think I need to take a break and just breathe a bit. Maybe I can even catch up on some long-delayed projects.

Last week there were several big emotional stressors for me - I got an upsetting email from someone that I could not respond to for clarification until much later in the week (it had me quite worried), a couple of days later, a friend's 18 YO son was involved in a major car accident (he remains on life support), the day after the accident I was at work and called to help with a 1 week old baby who wasn't breathing. Two of those issues have resolved with very good outcomes, and I wasn't really "directly involved" other than emotional support for others in these crisis, but it still seemed a lot for me to process all at once. We continue praying for my friend and her family.

The swans are still in town and I snapped this picture last week as we drove past their field. I hope to get a few better pictures of them before they head back to the tundra.

Ron and I are planning a trip to the Temple on Saturday and we will get see our grand-daughters then too. I'm not even sure they will recognize us . . . We don't see them very often because everyone leads such busy lives and our schedules don't seem to mesh very often.

Hope all is well where you are.

The true face of our family. . .

2012-01-18T07:19:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago we were finally able to get everyone in the family in the same place at the same time long enough to get a few family pictures taken. . .
Here is the family we HOPE to portray to the world-

This is probably a more realistic picture of who we are-

WT Strikes North of the 49th!

2011-12-08T10:34:00.000-08:00

This is my thumb after nearly 4 hours waiting in the ER and shortly before getting 5 stitches in it today.

For those that don't know, my grandfather Wilford T. was always slicing, dicing and abrading himself somehow. Those genes appear to be alive and well in my mother and me. This morning, shortly after Ron left, I was washing dishes when a glass platter broke in my hands and sliced my thumb a tad. I *did* have a lot of things planned for today. . . well, there goes that! I had to call Ron and ask him if he was able to come take me to the hospital as it is hard to hold pressure and drive at the same time. . .oh well, It was a beautiful day for a drive (even a short one) and the swans always make me smile as we go past them in their field.

Nov 22, 2011

2011-11-22T05:17:00.000-08:00

We had snow here a couple of days ago that even managed to stick around for a few days. Last night we had one heck of a rain and wind storm that washed it away which was fortunate, because I had a BUNCH of tulip, crocus, iris, anemone, hyacinth and allium bulbs/corms that needed to get into the ground. I planted most of them this morning before getting ready to go to work. While I was outside enjoying the bright sunshine and relatively warm temperatures, a bunch of geese honked their way overhead, then there were 3 bald eagles squawking and chirping while they flew around the neighborhood for awhile.

My thoughts are with my family down south right now, my aunt has just received a diagnosis of ovarian cancer (This is the aunt who recently lost a husband and sister to lung Ca). "They" think she has about 5 years . . . I'm sure it could have been a worse diagnosis, but it is still not something anyone would have chosen. Fortunately, my Mom and her friend Debbie (a former oncology nurse) are there to give her the physical and emotional support she will need.

Adam will be 20 tomorrow, so we will be doing the American Thanksgiving thing in conjunction with his birthday celebration tomorrow evening.

A citizen of North America. . .

2011-11-10T13:34:00.000-08:00

So my mom says I'm "bi" now- I prefer to refer to my status as dual, or even better. . . a Citizen of North America.

Yesterday Elizabeth and I completed our 7 year journey through the immigration process and received our Canadian Citizenship. I had spent much of last week doing as many practice quizzes as possible and re-reading the study guide that was sent to me at this time last year. I still felt like I was going to throw-up while waiting to write the test yesterday morning (apparently I passed). After writing the test and going over the paperwork with an immigration officer, I was told to come back in the afternoon to take the Oath of Citizenship. I was still feeling a little nervous about whether everything would go through or not. I was missing some of Elizabeth's paperwork, but apparently they weren't crucial pieces.

After Ron picked the kids up from school, we put on some nice clothes and went to the ceremony. Out of the 72 candidates that had interviews or tests in the morning, 60 of us were there to take the oath in the afternoon. After some final paperwork, we took It was a very moving experience and I teared-up a couple of times. Elizabeth had the honor of leading everyone in the singing of O' Canada at the conclusion of the ceremony.

The Knights of Columbus provided everyone with cake, coffee, tea and lemonade afterwards. We took the family (minus Adam, who was at work) out to Boston Pizza to celebrate -anyone else see a bit of irony here?

Now to get 4 Canadian passports and enough money together to be able to use them. . .

I think it was a success . . .

2011-10-30T04:50:00.000-07:00

We had a Halloween party at our place last night(after some SERIOUS preparation!)

There was~

a plate of deviled eggs,


Bowls of punch


a veggie tray,


a pair of Cops, a zombie and a smiling Kaili

a transformed family room,

pond scum punch (Tasty!)


beautiful women,

some Jello,


more Jello,


a fruit plate with lemon dip,

a cake,

a couple of Jokers,

a rockin' old lady,

some hot dogs,

chips and salsa,

loud music, laughter, and bit of apple bobbing. . .

The parents mostly stayed upstairs and played cards.

Quick Update -October 20, 2011

2011-10-20T17:50:00.000-07:00

Patchyface loves birdwatching! This feeder is on the window and Patchy spends a lot of time watching the chickadees coming and going.

It seems I have barely had time to read emails, let along write anything down lately, so here is a quick rundown of the last week or so-

Mom, Doris and Debbie came last Thursday afternoon and spent the week-end here. Debbie made us a beautiful quilt that now graces our bed. . .I will get a photo of it posted one of these days.
We had a late Canadian or early American Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday. Ron's Mum, step-dad, sister Janice, a couple of neighbors and the missionaries also joined us for the big dinner. It was really good to see everyone, even if the visit was too short.

The California contingent went home on Monday morning, early and I got started making applesauce, canned pears and caramel spice pear jam. A couple of weeks ago we got a 5 gallon bucket of apples (Gravenstiens -YUM!!!) and some pears last week from friends at church. I spent the day canning and "jamming". Now we just need to start using them, so I will have jars to fill next year!

Last night, I attended a school concert of the jazz bands and choirs from the 3 high schools in the Comox Valley (Elizabeth was singing). It was very different from the "school band" concert I attended last year. There are some really talented kids around here. Ron spent the evening teaching a genealogy class at church.

Kaili has had some intermittent tachycardia, so she is wearing a holter monitor for the evening, we'll see what happens; her episodes are so sporadic I'm not sure it will catch anything.

The weather has been just beautiful and the trees are wearing their fall finery and brightening up the greenery with reds and golds.

That's the report for now. . .Hope all is well where you are!

Sept 26, 2011

2011-09-26T21:04:00.000-07:00

Adam had his wisdom teeth removed this week. He seems to have recovered very well and seems not to be bothered too much by it. Ron and I met our new family doctor last week, and Adam will be seeing her on Friday. He is in process of getting all his stuff done to go on his mission and should be ready to turn in his papers soon.

Our 16 year old next-door neighbor was baptized on Saturday and will be going to church with us now. She asked me to give a talk on baptism and this is what I said (mostly):

I have been asked to speak about Baptism this evening, first, we’ll get the
―book‖ definition out of the way-
According to –The Guide to the Scriptures online @ LDS.org- The word
Baptism is ―From a Greek word meaning to ―dip‖ or ―immerse.‖ Baptism by
immersion in water by one having authority is the introductory ordinance of
the gospel and is necessary to become a member of The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is preceded by faith in Jesus Christ and by
repentance. It must be followed by receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost in
order to be complete (2 Ne. 31:13–14). Baptism by water and the Spirit is
necessary before a person can enter the celestial kingdom. Adam was the
first to be baptized (Moses 6:64–65). Jesus also was baptized to fulfill all
righteousness and to show the way for all mankind (Matt. 3:13–17; 2 Ne.
31:5–12)‖
Now as good as that definition is, there is still much more that can be said
about baptism, I don’t think we really want to be here all night, so I will just
mention a few things.
Alma taught that when we are baptized we make covenants with the Lord
to:
1. Come into the fold of God.
2. Bear one another’s burdens.
3. Stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all places.
4. Serve God and keep His commandments.
When we are baptized and keep the covenants of baptism, the Lord
promises to:
1. Forgive our sins (see Acts 2:38; D&C 49:13).
2. Pour out His Spirit more abundantly upon us (see Mosiah
18:10).
3. Give us daily guidance and the help of the Holy Ghost (see
Acts 2:38; D&C 20:77).
4. Let us come forth in the First Resurrection (see Mosiah 18:9).
5. Give us eternal life (see Mosiah 18:9).
The first definition I quoted, describes baptism as the ―introductory
ordinance‖. I like to think of it as the beginning of a long, sometimes
arduous, but ultimately, worthwhile journey. You have already done some
work, and made personal changes before undertaking this important first
step. It will require even more work to continue to journey’s end, and like
any excursion there will be a mix of challenges and rewards. You should
remember you are not on this road alone.
Listen to this poem. . .
From One about to Be Baptized
By Kathy Gailey Stephens
I’ll still need you
After I’m baptized—
Don’t forget.
My new-forged testimony
Isn’t strong enough
To stand alone
Just yet.
I can’t perceive
In one day, or year,
The entire gospel plan;
You’ve had a lifetime
To learn it,
And still don’t
Completely understand.

Like this author, once we are baptized, we are only beginning our new lives
trying to live within the Gospel. We need help from the people around us to
fully understand the commitments and covenants we have made. When I
was baptized, I felt very much the outsider, because I didn’t really know
very many people in my ward, but as I attended meetings and activities, I
got to know more people; they truly became my brothers and sisters. Don’t
be afraid to continue to search the scriptures and pray and to seek help
from your new ward family. I know that I have grown quite a bit in the
gospel since my baptism 9 years ago; (I mentioned here something about
my own baptism being a pivotal moment in my life where I changed course
from some self-destructive directions/decisions) I also know I still have a
great deal left to learn.
Your Heavenly Father loves you and there is rejoicing today because you
have decided to make this important first step.
In Jesus Christ’s name, Amen

Today we had some serious wind and rain until mid-afternoon when we had brilliant blue skies and sunshine. I LOVE the changeable weather here! I got off work early and had a really nice nap, then went outside to add a big bucket of plums to this year's harvest.

It is kind-of funny, so far this year I have harvested about 6 strawberries, 3 cups of blueberries, 3 gallons of Italian plums, 2 tomatoes, some mint, and basil, and 2 lemons from our plants- It looks like we will get a couple more tomatoes and 2 apples before it is all said and done for the year. My lemon tree has about 10 baby lemons on it right now, and my orange tree has a bunch of mini oranges, but we'll see how many actually make it to maturity. It doesn't seem like much, but next year we should do better. We are hoping to have at least one planting bed put in the lower part of the yard where we get a good amount of sun.

I have stashed the plums in the fridge and hope to get many of them canned later this week. Maybe I will even make a plum strudel on Friday like my Gramma Kay used to make. We could then have it for Saturday morning's conference breakfast. Sunday we will probably have our traditional crepes before Conference. . .

Ron, Dax and Elizabeth are at St. John's for the evening, but I bowed out. I think I am now coming down with the cold that has been going around (probably why I slept so well this afternoon).

Sept 12, 2011

2011-09-12T17:22:00.000-07:00

A few of the paintings I did when we were on Gabriola last month.

Today we put aside the "should do"s and "have to"s for a few hours and shot 18 holes. I haven't touched my clubs (other than to move them) in about 3 years, so it was a pretty ugly round score-wise. The weather couldn't have been better and it was good to get outside to enjoy it with Ron for a change. There are quite a few courses around here, and some of them are quite reasonably priced, so hopefully we will be able to squeak another few rounds in before the season ends.

This evening, I put up 10 quarts of pears while Ron took Ellie to her St. John Ambulance cadet meeting and Dax and Kaili worked on math homework. I think Ron is also covering a few of my responsibilities while at SJA too. I will have to sneak in there later this week, because I am WAY behind!!! I have gotten much canning done this year. I did manage some Blackberry jelly, syrup and canned Blackberries last week. I am hoping the kids can pick a few more berries before too long, so I can get a few more jars put up.

Seminary has started up and the kids are settling into their routines. Tomorrow I will be working a full day at Walmart, so Ron will be taking the after-school chauffeur duties. Adam will probably spend part of the day getting things ready to go on his mission; I believe he plans to have the papers submitted before Halloween.

Time to go get some lunch together for tomorrow and go do a bit of reading before bed. Ron and I still haven't moved back inside to sleep yet and hopefully we can stay outside for a while longer.

August 29th, 2011

2011-08-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

We just got home from church, where Dax gave a great talk on prayer, the little stinker didn't even let on that he was giving a talk today before it was announced. He did an awesome job of preparation even with attending a dance and working several jobs this week!

Yesterday, after the nightmare of a "cash-only" shift at Walmart (more in a minute) we went to Goose Spit for a fireside. The weather was beyond awesome and the ocean was mirror-smooth. We roasted marshmallows and made smores. Our little friend Luella was having a great time in the bucket of water. I always thought the water was there for fire safety reasons, but I guess I was a bit narrow in my perspective.

The sunset over Comox and the mountains was gorgeous. . .

Now the Walmart thing. . .our store's network was down all day yesterday. That meant, no credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, no selling phone cards. . .or any other cards. . .no nada, just cash. It seems not many people carry much cash around these days, and with it being essentially one of the last Saturdays before school starts, people were a little less-than understanding about the whole situation. I was more than happy to escape to the beach. . .

I wonder; is there a "clinical" name for my special brand of crazy?

2011-08-26T13:37:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling run off my feet lately (still), so what do I do? Back off a notch or five? Nope, not ME!!! I made a quilt yesterday. . .granted it is a baby quilt, but it is a quilt, nonetheless.

Ron and I were planning to go to Duncan (2hrs away) for the evening for a youth dance, but we decided it was just too much. I have 2 lessons to prepare for Sunday (still not done) and I worked today and am working another short shift tomorrow.
Since we decided not to go to Duncan for the night, that means I am able to attend a baby shower that I thought I would be missing in town this evening. Since I thought I would be missing it, I had no gift ready. . .hence the last minute quilt. I have been wanting to do an "I Spy Quilt" for a little while now, so I managed to do this one. . .
I even managed to laminate a card with a BUNCH of items to find on the quilt.

There were a few inadvertent little "jokes"; there is a panel of bears and they took very interested in the cupcakes in the panel next door to them and the cheetah seems to be eying the little baby chicks.

A few random thoughts-

The honkers seem to have started heading South, but the weather is still mighty fine
Ron and I are still sleeping out on the deck.
I got some plums the other day and I am really hoping to get them into jars soon.
I actually got out the water colors and did some painting while we on Gabriola.
We really enjoyed Sister Pung's visit with her family and here is one of the photos I never got around to posting. . .

Aug 9th

2011-08-09T16:26:00.000-07:00

Kabobs ready for the barby. . . .

So far so good with the new hot water tank; no water on the floor, and hot water is coming out of the taps!

Today was a little of this and that for me, I managed to stay home and catch up on laundry and a few other little domestic chores. Ron has been at work for Don (vending machines) all day. . .he isn't even home yet, and it is after 8pm. The kids helped me with a few chores, then did their own things- Adam plugged away on his schoolwork, Dax went to his job this afternoon, Kaili worked on a sewing project for a hospitalized friend while Ellie read, played piano and goofed around on the computer.

For dinner, I constructed kabobs, Adam BBQ'd them and Kaili made some saffron rice. I guess Dax and Ron will have to do left-overs. . .

Nothing too exciting going on here, but the weather sure has been nice!

August 5th, 2011

2011-08-05T05:51:00.000-07:00

Summer seems to have arrived and my succulents are blooming up a storm.The blueberries are plump, plentiful, ripe and sweet!
After a quick blueberry harvest, we got down to a bit of yard work yesterday. The store was clearing out the plants for 50 cents a piece the other day, so Ron and I took advantage of a few of the great deals. As a consequence, we had about 2 dozen new plants to get in the ground, then mulched and wrapped in deer netting yesterday. We planted about a dozen strawberries, 2 grapes, a gooseberry, some dahlias, a canna lilly, a Forsythia, plus a few other assorted ornamentals . . .and as bonus, we finally got the Spartan apple that I had picked up a few weeks ago out of it's pot and placed in the yard.

Ron is doing a family history mission from home and has been having a hard time helping clients over Skype the last few days (the old laptop in his words- has "had the biscuit"). So, after finishing in the garden, we picked up a new laptop for Ron's upcoming birthday. We got a demo model that had already been marked down, so we got a really good deal on pretty nice machine.

Ron wanted to go to the beach, but everyone was pretty tired from the day's activities and decided they would rather hang at home, so we took the kids to DQ for a quick treat, then kicked-back at home for the evening. It was especially pleasant on the deck

Next on the agenda is dealing with the water heater that is showing signs of imminent failure. . .(i.e. it is beginning to leak with greater and greater frequency).

Poor Isis is positively worn out after a day of basking in the sun while the family did yard work. Ron is in his "jammies" on the deck with his laptop enjoying the nice summer evening after our busy day.

July 28, 2011

2011-07-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

We have had a few days of summer-ish weather over the last week or so, it has been really pleasant. Ron and I moved the extra bed that was downstairs out on the the deck and have been sleeping outside for the last few nights. I seem to sleep better outside for some reason!

This week I have worked quite a few hours again. I also made about a dozen jars of lime marmalade and finished a colorful summer skirt that I have been playing with. There will be a lot going on here this week-end because of the holiday (It's BC Day on Monday) Dax, Elizabeth and Ron will be busy most of the week-end with St John Duties, I will be working, teaching Sunday School, and trying to fit St. John in where I can.

July 14, 2011

2011-07-14T06:27:00.000-07:00

Wow, Dax is 18 today!!!
He is away at the Stake Young Men's camp and is probably soaked to the skin after yesterday. The rain came down in buckets starting at about 3 am and persisted until late into the night last night. Fortunately, it is broken clouds today, so maybe the young men will have a chance to dry out a bit.
I was called in to work a couple of hours early yesterday. We had a couple of sick calls and we were quite busy; in part because of all the "damp" campers looking for a warm and dry way to spend the day. . .
Today I will begin the catch-up with some of the Saint John Ambulance paperwork that was ignored while Young Women's camp occupied so much of my time and energy.

Time keeps slip-slidin' away. . .I can't believe we are nearing mid-July already!!!

2011-07-12T11:53:00.000-07:00

The 5am Sunrise Devotional and Testimony meeting at Lakeside.

Bailey's Special Sunscreen Formula

We used almost 500 little stickers as records of completion. . .they were surprisingly popular with the girls.

Jane Modeling Triangular Bandage-wear

Last week found us at "Girl's" Camp where we did some hiking, campfire building practice, orienteering, knot tying, purifying water, building emergency shelters, and having lessons in triangular-bandage fashion (and other First Aid). The certification part of camp was my bailiwick, and I wanted the girls to learn what they were supposed to, but have fun too. I found out that junk food is the grease that keeps the cogs running smoothly for most of them. My supply list was something like:

LOTS of M&M's (Lesson on what to do when lost)
Candy Necklaces (treasure for orienteering)
Candy Laces (knot tying practice)
Chocolate covered raisins (rocks in campfire building practice)
pretzel sticks (logs-Campfire building)
Hickory Sticks (BBQ potato chip strips- leaf litter in campfire building practice)
Cotton Candy (dryer lint CF building)
Dried Apple Slices (Cardboard CF Building)
Bubbles (More treasure)
Cake Decorating Gel- Red & White (blood and burns in First Aid Scenario)

The couple who were to be our first-aid/Security people had a medical emergency and could not be there. Thankfully, Ron was able to come down as a last minute replacement for them.

I was pretty busy, so didn't get many photos, fortunately I was able to snake a few from Kaili's camera. The last morning we got up for a sunrise meeting at lakeside-5 am!

It was fun, but exhausting. . . Now I am working as much as possible, trying to get my stuff unpacked and working on a little crazy quilting project. This is what I have so far-

Dax left for Young Men's Camp this morning. . . I guess we will have to celebrate his 18th Birthday this week-end after he gets back.

We are experiencing a non-summer, summer here. It has been unusually gray and cool. Fortunately, there is a few really beautiful days sprinkled in to help us all stay sane.

Celebration of Excellence. . .

2011-06-16T19:03:00.000-07:00

Monday night Elizabeth got to sleep with the fishes and next week she is going on a school camping trip! Her class spent last Monday night "sleeping" in the Beluga whale exhibit at the Vancouver Aquarium-How COOL is THAT!?! Next Tuesday they will be hiking to the local Scout camp and spending the night in cabins. . .again, how COOL!

Tonight Ron and I spent the evening with Dax and Kaili at "The Celebration of Excellence" at their school. They both made the Honor Roll of Distinction (GPA= 3.5+). Dax was disappointed because he missed the Principal's Honor roll (4.0) by 1.4% in ONE of his 8 classes. . .SO close!!! Kaili also received recognition for Jr. Dance and Textiles 9. . .WTG Girl!!!

We took them out to DQ afterwards in honor of their accomplishments, they have really done well this year!

On other fronts, no riots (yay!) and no mail (boo!) in Courtenay, and though it has been cool the sun made another appearance today.

June 10, and another attempt at a quick update. . .

2011-06-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

Wow, time has really been getting past me lately! I tried to post this a few days ago, but it got eaten or evaporated somehow. . . Since my last successful post a few things have happened:

Ron, Dax, Elizabeth and I all attended the annual inspection and general meeting for St. John Ambulance-Dax and Ellie took their oaths.
Elizabeth competed with her school at a track and field meet.
Mom and Debbie came up for a nice visit. While they were here, we got to attend the Highland Games and watch Kaili compete. She got 3rd place in the swords!
Dax has completed bike and radio courses, he has one more day of training, then he can be a member of the Bike First Aid Squad with St John.
The weather has finally gotten REALLY nice for a few days running now and I have been playing in the yard as often as work, chauffeur duties, and chores allow. We are also able to give the dryer a rest and use the clothesline--YAY!
Dax and Elizabeth have also been to another first aid competition (this one included a banquet and dance)
Ron has nearly completed his training and is taking on cases as a family history consultant as part of his service mission. . .just call him "Elder H." now ;-)
Adam and Elizabeth performed together at music recital this evening. She played her clarinet, he his base clarinet and a friend accompanied them on the piano, then she played two piano pieces. It was really nice to hear them play together.
Oh yeah, Costco opened here last week, so no more trips to Nanaimo for Costco stuff.
We have a new Bishopric in our ward.
The girls went to a climbing gym last evening.
Tomorrow Ellie has a car wash fund raiser she is working, Adam and I will be at work and Ron will be headed to Victoria for the day with the other two for the Seminary grad/ Scripture Bowl/ Dance.

That's it for now, the bed is calling to me, then it is time to get up,deliver Ellie and get ready for work.

May 13, 2011

2011-05-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

This week Kaili has been doing dance stuff every day after school. She had a performance last night and will be performing again tonight. Unfortunately, I am working both nights and will miss it. I guess Ron is buying the DVD so I will get to see it at some point. I finished her vest with 1 day to spare. It isn't perfect, but it will do--and the $150+ savings by doing myself was worth it! The next one should be easier, especially if she and I can manage our schedules so that I will be able to fit it to her.

The cold has essentially cleared up and I am left with the allergies everyone else has right now, the pollen is coating everything in yellow at the moment.

I'm trying to get a few chores done, then I'm headed off to work. I am really looking forward to Mom's visit next week, and I managed to get the time off while she is here. Now, it would be awesome to get a stretch of nice weather for her visit too!

Post Mother's Day Post

2011-05-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

I got a call from work on Saturday evening asking if I could come in yesterday. I told them if they couldn't find anyone else, I would be there. I thought that some of the folks I had heard lamenting the lack of hours they were scheduled to work would jump at another 5 hours--guess not!

I woke up with a stuffed head and sore throat, but Dax made me hashbrowns for breakfast, and that always makes one feel better! Then he, Kaili and Elizabeth brought me handmade cards and flowers. Ron and I delivered the bake sale goodies to the school on our way to church. After Sacrament meeting, Ron took me to work instead of attending Sunday School class.

When I got home from work, I called and chatted with Mom for a bit. By the time I was finished, they had quite the spread set-up for dinner; steaks, asian salad and tomato/cheese/herb bread. The kids had all been busy baking all day too. Adam made a devil's food cake, Kaili made cupcakes and Dax made the low cal brownies I like to take to work with me. Also, the African violets that didn't survive the move from Kamloops have largely been replaced after yesterday.

We ended the day by watching "The King's Speech". . .It was a very nice Mother's Day for me and I definitely was blessed to have "felt the love". I am so grateful for my family. I do miss having my Mom next door and wish my grandmothers could see the influences they have had on me as well as on the the children they either never met or barely knew.

Oh, and the stuffy head and sore throat has blossomed into a full-on cold, I was hoping it was only allergies!

Chocolate covered cherry cupcakes!?!

2011-05-07T18:13:00.000-07:00

I have nearly completed Kaili's dance vest, but I needed to come up with something to contribute to a bake sale fund raiser for Ellie's class tomorrow. . .yes, they are holding it on Mother's Day. Anyway, I stole an idea from Robin for decorating cupcakes, but I wanted them to be something different without being too bizarre flavor-wise. As I was perusing the cake mix isle after work yesterday I saw a cherry chip mix. Then I grabbed a can of ready made fudge frosting. . .yeah, I know. . .I shoulda done scratch. Anyway, I did the cherry chip cupcakes, then dropped a cherry from some canned pie filling in the center of each cupcake before baking. They all got a coat of chocolate icing, then Kaili and I did the marshmallow flower thing to finish them off. I made 6 extra, so the fam got to taste test (they passed-the cupcakes, not the fam).

After spending my morning madly stitching, seam ripping, altering, re-stitching, baking and decorating, Dax had come home from his job and was telling me about his plans for the rest of the day. Kaili and I were just finishing up the last of the cupcakes and I mentioned I could take Dax with me when I went in to work at 12:30, then he could hang with his Dad and Ellie at the mall. Dax then says "Uh, Mom if your leaving for work at 12:30, shouldn't you get going?" It was 12:25!!! I had a shower, grabbed lunch, brushed teeth and hair and was out the door in 10 minutes, kinda reminded me of the old fire-fighting days.

Looks like they are short-handed tomorrow, so I will be working tomorrow too now. I feel like I gotta make hay while the sun shines. . .Hope everyone has a nice Mother's Day!

May 5, 2011

2011-05-05T14:24:00.000-07:00

On the way to work this morning, I discovered this little gem blooming next to where we park the Sonoma. I just love these Trillium and was very happy to find some of them growing in our yard.

The dance vest is coming along, though I haven't done any work on it today. I found out that Kaili will need it for her dress rehearsal next Wednesday evening, so I will have to get cracking! I also have cupcakes to make and decorate for a fundraiser at Ellie's school on Sunday. I am planning to steal Robin's marshmallow flower idea for them. I plan to get a picture and post it when these projects are completed.

We have had a lot of people out at work and I have been picking up quite a few extra shifts lately. I am still waiting to hear back from Canada Citizenship about the extra documentation they called me and said they needed a month ago.

People are starting to really complain about our late start to spring, but I guess it will get here when it is good and ready to get here. We have been getting more sun, but it is still staying pretty cool.

Sunday at the Spit

2011-05-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, May 1st, was the first day for campfires down at Goose Spit for this year. The day dawned bright and sunny, but was breezy and cool by afternoon.The hot dogs, hot chocolate, roast marshmallows and banana chocolate cake were happily consumed by everyone. Our furry children even got to eat a hot dog or two. We gathered with a few friends after church and had a hot dog roast down at the Spit. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and relax a bit. There was a brief observation about in the old days, when woodsmoke negated the need for deodorant at one point. . . yeah, I don't think so. Do ya think Kaili and Holly have enough marshmallows on that fork??? I think there were about 10 of them on there.

Today is all about removing the smoke smell from various articles. I also need to get going on a certain velvet dance vest, as I am quickly running out of time to do so.

Easter- 2011

2011-04-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

This week found Dax and Kaili spending a couple of days in Victoria at a multi-stake youth conference. They came home completely exhausted. While they were away, Ellie had a personal movie marathon while Ron and I worked and Adam plodded along with his school work.

The sun has been out for the last 3 days in a row (seems a record for here). Yesterday, Ron and I volunteered at Earth Day and Ellie accompanied us. We picked Dax and Kaili up in the evening and all colored eggs when we got home. This morning I found that my face had been colored too. . .RED. I guess I should have put on some sunscreen yesterday!

Here's Ron hard at work on one of his eggs. . .

Our church service was really beautiful today with a couple of extra musical numbers centered on Easter and the Atonement. They were REALLY moving. I had waves of goosebumps during the first number. When the second number followed, my eyes became misty. I noticed a LOT of sniffling in the congregation, then I noticed one of the members of our bishopric; he is pretty large and can have an intimidating presence, but he also has a very soft heart. . .his eyes were red and his cheeks were wet. I guess I wasn't the only one feeling the Spirit.

April 18, 2011

2011-04-18T07:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday, after getting up at 4am, we (the whole family including the dogs + our friend, Milena) caught the early ferry to the mainland. At our first stop, we picked up a kilt for Kaili; I feel very fortunate to have been able to find one that fits her; that she actually likes the tartan is a bonus. I will need to do a few very minor alterations to the buckles/straps and make her vest, then she is "good to go" for her first competition. After the kilt store and a stop at the mall, we headed to the Home Storage Center, where we were able to pick up a bunch of beans and such for our food storage. Next we went to the Temple. While the kids did Baptisms, the dogs and I caught 40 winks in the car. Between me and Isis, ther e was some serious snoring going on, so it was a pretty interesting proposition. After my snooze, Ron and I were able to attend a session together.

Next we made a quick stop in Pitt Meadows to visit the grand-daughters. Desiree made some REALLY good, gluten-free cookies for us all while we were there. The girls are getting big and seem to be keeping Sean and Des pretty busy. We were able to catch the 7 ferry back and were home at around 10:30.

Yesterday after church we celebrated "little Kaili's" 16th birthday. She was shocked (and overjoyed) to receive a cell phone of her own. We had a few folks over for bar-b-qued burgers, fries and cake. Since Kaili doesn't like icing or fondant, we had angel food cake with whipped cream and berries-YUM!

It is a brilliantly sunny day here today even if a bit cool and breezy. For now, I need to do some organizing in my little office/sewing room/laundry room if I am going to get a dancing vest completed in time.

I guess the KISS principle just isn't my style. . .

2011-04-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

You know the "Keep It Simple, Stupid" principle. Case in point; I saw a really cool project on another blog a few weeks ago that made me think "wow, great idea!" It is a magnetic monthly menu board, to see it go here.

THEN. . . I thought, with us going every-which-way, we need to have our activities on the same calendar as the meals; if we are really going to do any meal planning. NEXT I realized two months would work better than one for us.

My work schedule is always changing, so the labels need to be laminated, so I can write my hours on them.

Next, I realized the store bought clear calendar components are too small for my purposes, so I find a poster frame at Wally World. After lining it with sheet metal, making calendars with scrap-booking paper and sandwiching everything behind the clear acrylic sheet, the magnets don't stick. . .HMMM. Then I tried velcro, but that just looked BAD and didn't really work the way I wanted. Next I tried Mylar, but it was too loose. One magnet went on fine, but the next one would pop the first magnet right off on to the floor. I tried affixing the Mylar with craft fusing, but that just pulled the paper completely away from the sheet metal and none of the magnets stuck.

Finally, I figured it out! I used clear contact paper cut slightly larger than each square and stuck them directly to the metal. Now the little magnets stick just fine. I hope to have the rest of the little bugs worked out and have the calendar in full use by next week . . .YAY!!!

Oh, and I guess things aren't crazy enough for me yet, I wrote the test for Stats Canada yesterday. I may be picking up a part-time job with the Census soon too. We'll see what happens with that by month's end. . .I may need MORE labels!!!

. . .one more thing. . .

2011-04-04T07:09:00.000-07:00

As I was reading my notes from yesterday's conference I came across one little snippet that I forgot to put in yesterday's summary. Jeffrey R. Holland was speaking of Christ's promise of gentle blessings coupled with Chist's high expectations of His followers. Elder Holland went on to say " Clearly, anyone who thinks Jesus taught no-fault theology was not reading the fine print in the contract. No, in matters of discipleship, the Church is not a fast food outlet; we can't always have it our way."

If you would like to see his whole 17 minute talk go here.

Bling?

2011-04-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

This was General Conference week-end. Usually we spend Saturday and Sunday watching all the sessions as they are broadcast. This year Kaili was the only one who could do that. Saturday Adam and I worked, Ron went to a hiring clinic and Dax & Ellie spent the day in Victoria where they participated in a First Aid competition.
We all were able to watch the sessions today and here are a few of the sound bites and ideas I grabbed this time. . .

Our personal portrait of the Master comes to us like a puzzle; one piece at a time as we study and pray.
The answer to our prayers may come to us while on our feet answering another's prayer instead of while on our knees.
Preach the Gospel at all times; if necessary use words- Attributed to St. Francis of Assisi
The cloth of righteous societies has been woven of the golden thread of charity.
As we increase our own self-reliance, we increase our availability to help others.
We need to adopt a willingness to accept and even seek out correction if we are to meet the high expectations of Judgement Day.
If we resist correction often enough, eventually the guidance will be withdrawn.
"To be" and "to do" are interdependent; one without the other is to be a hypocrite.
"comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable."
"Bedlamites"

After conference, we went to a baptism at the church. It was a very good Sunday for us.
Oh. . .the photo from above. . .these are a few of the medals Dax and Ellie brought home yesterday. She ended the day with 2 bronze, a sliver and a gold. Dax got one of each and today I overheard him describing them as his "bling".

March 30, 2011

2011-03-30T17:52:00.000-07:00

Here goes try number TWO!!! I just composed a very long blog (for me) and had it disappear into the ethernet!

As I was saying. . .I have been dealing with my intermittent insomnia again. In part this is due to the hormonal roulette that my body is playing at. It is also due to some heavy brain activity, some creative, some emotional and some just there!

The emotional stuff has to do with some serious health challenges that are being faced by my uncle right now. He has been diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer in the last week. Owing partially to my immigration status, a trip to California just isn't in the cards just now. Fortunately, we were able to spend some time with him last summer and will have fond memories of him, if he doesn't pull through this.

My dad has also had some interesting and worrisome things going on with his health. Nothing has been determined yet, but they are still trying to figure out if anything serious is going on or not. I probably still have at least another year or so before travel becomes easier again, so this situation is making things a bit anxious for me at the moment.

I have also run into a couple of ideas that I want to do (crafty useful type stuff) and I have been mulling them over and plotting and planning how I can accomplish these projects to best fit our family's needs. I will be posting photos if/when I get them going for real and not just in my head. . .

Finally, I have been thinking about some of the maintenance/repair issues around our house. The house was built in the early 70's and has a few things that could use some attention. I routinely think about priorities and where our money/time should go first. Last night (2am) while I was rolling around the sound of running water finally got to me. I grew up in circumstances that taught me to really place a high value on water. I HATE WASTING WATER!!! The toilet upstairs has had a slow leak for months. It has progressively gotten worse. . .for months! The local regional district is offering sizable rebates for replacing old water wasting toilets with new efficient ones. Early today (2am) I finally decided that I didn't want to miss the rebates and I HATE WASTING WATER!!! Today we plunked down the plastic and picked-up two dual flush toilets. The 1973(?) Avocado Green toilet upstairs has now been switched out for a shiny white dual flush. . .non-leaking, non-running model. The 1973(?) Harvest Gold one downstairs will share the same fate tomorrow. Then fill out and submit a few papers and we should get almost1/2 the cost reimbursed. (YAY!) PLUS, no more listening to perfectly good water run down the drain for me!!!

My seedlings are all waiting for Mother's Day and their trip to the garden. . .Kaili has that pasty white complexion of the sick (she has been down with the flu for 4 days now). . . The Snowbirds are back in town and practicing aerial acrobatics (cool!!!). . .I think that's the report for now.

Spring is sprunging. . .

2011-03-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

It has been cooler and wetter than usual according to the locals around here, but our crocus seem to like it just fine.
Last week was CRAZY busy for our house. Kaili had dance on Tuesday evening, Ellie had school concerts on Wednesday and Thursday nights, the ward talent show was Friday night and Dax left for a St. John Ambulance NCO camp (I'll explain) early Saturday morning. I worked during most of these activities, but caught Ellie's clarinet and guitar performances on Thursday night.
Now, about Dax's NCO camp. It was 4 days of marching and drilling, leadership classes and following military-type discipline. The camp is for non-commissioned officers (Hence the NCO name) of the St. John Ambulance Cadet Corp. Dax got home at around 12:30 last night and said he had a great time.
Last evening Ron took the girls to catch the Powell River ferry while I was at work. Today they are on a hike somewhere over there. They went with a SAR member and will be practicing emergency shelter building and some other back-country stuff. I would have LOVED to go, but I worked until 10:30 last night, so I literally "missed the boat" this time. Adam is still plugging away with his school stuff and enjoying his job.
This morning I noticed that our neighbors across the street got 2 new "dogs". Which is interesting, because they (Niel and Diane) are in England right now, so the new "dogs" are having to munch on the potted plants and various garden greenery.
I re-potted several of my seedlings today, among them are pink grapefruit and tangerine seeds that I got started in a wet paper towel. We'll have to see how they do. . .

Today's little bit o' wisdom. . .

2011-03-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

Ya can't have rainbows without a little rain.
I have started LOTS of seeds now, in readiness for spring. So far I have about 2 dozen little tomato sprouts,some basil & cilantro,a cantaloupe and a few bean plants. There should be lettuce, spinach, chard, kale, more beans, watermelons, marigolds, nasturtiums and peas coming up as it gets closer to planting time. I am planning to get a pressure canner this year and home can a TON of spaghetti sauce, pickled beans, and maybe even some pickles too.
The neighbor across the cul-de-sac told Ron that she tried digging in her garden the other day, and she now has what amounts to a canal in her yard. The ground is thoroughly saturated.

Stake Conference March 2011

2011-03-13T16:56:00.000-07:00

This week-end was our Stake Conference (instead of "regular" church meetings, we meet in Nanaimo with several other wards/branches (congregations)) to hear from the leadership that presides over our Stake (district).

Last night was the adult session, so after an up and down shift at work, I picked up a few other folks and Adam & we all headed south to Nanaimo. It was a really good meeting and here are a few tidbits I picked up this time. . .

We build our testimonies of the Truthfulness of the Gospel much in the same way maple sap fills a bucket; slowly, one drop at a time, over time.
Comparing ourselves to others is one of Lucifer's greatest tools; he can use it to destroy us.
"We must improve ourselves before we cannot."

Today's session was for everyone, so the whole family dragged themselves out the door an hour earlier than usual. Our ward's choir performed a beautiful hymn, beautifully during the meeting (our kids are all choir members). Then we heard two wonderful conversion stories; one, a brand new member in his early 20's, the other a woman who fell away early in her twenties and who has now come back into the fold in her 50's (?).

A few of the little nuggets that I picked up today were. . .

The Celestial Kingdom is the only place forever families exist.
Even the economy of the region in which we live can be affected by our righteousness.
"Busy-ness" is a mental trick and a flimsy excuse for Spiritual laziness.
Obedience to God is the key to freedom.
"Stick to the church until it sticks to you"- This one was directed at the youth.

It has been a blustery couple of days with the weather, but very uplifting Spiritually speaking. I have the warmest feelings for our stake leadership and feel so privileged to be under their care and guidance.

Many of the locals are complaining about the late start to spring this year and wondering when we will be able to get our gardens started. I am just grateful not to be in Japan at this point. I have several trays of seeds in various stages of growth that will go into the ground whenever spring does decide to make an appearance.

Elizabeth has two different concert performances this week, I hope to get a few pictures, but we'll see what happens.

Everyone heads back to the routine in the am, and this is the last week of school before the kids have spring break.

March 8, 2011

2011-03-08T12:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday when I went out to play in the dirt, I took my camera along; I am not nearly fast enough with it though. When the 2 immature eagles were settling their dispute while wheeling through the sky overhead, I couldn't catch them in the frame. There was a mature bald eagle soaring even higher in the sky above the two squeaking and squawking youngsters. The whole display only lasted a couple of minutes, but it was really cool! After the show, I managed to re-pot three of my houseplants, start some catnip and oats (for the cats) and get a little raking done.

I also started seeds for watermelon, cantaloupe, peppers, basil and cilantro. I already have tomatoes and beans sprouting in the window sill. I am hoping to have a substantial garden this year, since we will be sticking close to home for the summer.

I have two shifts behind me at work, now and it seems to be going pretty well so far. Last Saturday was a little crazy for us. . .Dax had Medical First Responder class, Adam and I were at work and Ron spent much of the day volunteering for St. John Ambulance at Seedy Saturday while the girls just chilled at home for the day. It seems we are beginning to have days where we are going in 5 or 6 directions now, and I imagine this will only get more pronounced as time passes.

They were predicting snow and rain for today, but we only got a little sprinkle very early this morning, then wind/breeze with scattered clouds this afternoon. It looks like another unsettled weather week for here.

A year later. . .2/28/11

2011-02-28T13:21:00.000-08:00

This time last year, we were getting ready to spend our first night in our "new" house, here in the Comox Valley.

The house is much the same as when we moved in, different paint in the bedrooms. A new closet in our room and less ivy in the yard. There is plenty for us to do in the home improvement/repair/maintenance area, but we are still SO glad to be here.

We have made some great friends and the kids are very involved in several activities. . . Highland dancing, Saint John Ambulance cadets, school and church activities and music lessons keep us all hopping. Adam is liking his job and loving his co-workers/supervisors. As a bonus, since moving to the Island, I am no longer in need of daily allergy medication.

Our house feels very much like our home, even after only a year. . . Here's hoping next year finds us just as content with Island life.

Feb 25, 2011

2011-02-25T17:06:00.000-08:00

It has been a chilly few days here, but we haven't really gotten any snow to speak of lately. The sun and blue skies today were stunning.

Elizabeth spent the day at home with the flu. Poor ole' "Pukin' Pete" was throwing up all night last night and most of the day today. She is not quite so pasty looking now, and I think she will be over it by tomorrow.

Dax has begun his Medical First Responder course this evening. He will spend the next two week-ends immersed in first aid study.

Last sunday I engaged in a little unintentional remodeling of our friend's house with the Suburban when I went to pick them up for church. I managed to send a good portion of a concrete post through the back window of or car. Fortunately, no one was hurt (other than my pride). The 'Burb has spent the week in the shop and we are driving a new Dodge Caravan until Monday. We are really enjoying the satellite radio, but it will be good to have our own vehicle back.

I have stitched a couple of purses together this week, and continue to be obsessed with calorie intake vs. exercises performed, but have basically been laying low and keeping warm. I am using a website called myfitnesspal.com and it seems to be making more aware of my bad (and good) dietary/exercise habits. I am averaging 1lb per week wt loss so far. . .only about 50 more to go. . .

A day in the life. . .Feb 19, 2011

2011-02-19T11:34:00.000-08:00

Mr (or Mrs.) Eagle watches me in the afternoon breeze near Kye Bay. . .

Courtenay as seen from Back road. The swans are down there in the flats.

Aurora gets a snootfull of snow and fresh air out the window in the morning.

Kye Bay with the morning snow lingering on the shoreline in the afternoon.

My swan friends share their puddles with a few mallard sas they paddle the afternoon away. The mallard ducks are the little brown things in the lower right corner; I never realized just how BIG swans are.

The kids were convinced they were going to be sent home for a "snow day" yesterday. They were really disappointed to have to spend the WHOLE day at school. I was feeling lazy, so I picked up a friend and we drove around looking at beautiful area in which we live. The sun is still out today and much of the snow has disappeared already.

"Fowl" weather ?

2011-02-17T13:09:00.000-08:00

It has been hard not to make cracks about the foul weather this week and how "Ducky" it has been. I tried to get a picture of some ducks swimming in a puddle at the high school, then I thought I would catch the swans in their puddles, but it never really happened for one reason or another. This one I took awhile ago. We have had periods of very wet punctuated by periods of damp, then soggy and finally, now we have had snowy to add to the mix. Believe it or not, the sun has even peeked out here and there too.

I finally got the call to return back to work part-time at Walmart. I should be on the schedule at the beginning of March, but may be able to pick up a shift or two before that. It will be good to have the paycheck (and the discount card) again.

Feb 9, 2011

2011-02-09T06:04:00.000-08:00

I went with Ron for a while yesterday and while he serviced vending machines, I played with my camera. . .

Feb 7, 2011

2011-02-07T11:58:00.000-08:00

Really nothing too exciting going on at the moment. . .I started this grass for the cats a week-or-so ago. Apparently, I will be hard pressed to keep enough of it going for Patchy.

Friday night we drove Dax, Kaili and their friend, Milena to a dance in Nanaimo. There weren't really very many kids there (maybe 30), but they had a good time. The next morning Elizabeth joined them in a trip back to Nanaimo for a stake youth gathering. Everyone was a bit snoozy yesterday.

After church we went to the Kramer's house for dinner. Bailey did her "famous" french bread, Madison did corn bread and Robin made chili and a potato soup. Another couple was there too and they brought a coleslaw. Our contribution was the ice cream and an apple/blackberry puff pastry thing for dessert. Everything was really good.

Today has been blustery, but clear. The kids had the day off school for a "Professional Development" day. The girls helped me with a few chores around the house and yard while Ron and Dax went to Campbell River on the vending machine route. The guy Ron helps out is in Mexico for the next couple of weeks, so Ron will be working most everyday covering his routes. One of Kaili's girlfriends is over here now and they are keeping the blu-ray player busy.

Groundhog Day, 2011

2011-02-02T16:29:00.000-08:00

This week has been fairly dry and cool, so Ron and I managed to get the plum and apple trees pruned. They don't appear to have had a haircut in quite some time and I am hoping I didn't butcher them too badly.

Last night we finished picking up all the supplies to make the vest for Kaili's Highland Dance costume. I had to order the buttons, braided trim and pattern online. Unfortunately, the kilt that we thought we were getting for her turned out to be too small. Now we are once again, on the hunt good used kilt (and socks) that will fit her! It would be a bonus if we can find one to match the fabric I have all ready bought for her vest. If we can't, I'll just have to pick up more velvet. . .maybe black this time?

I managed to finish sewing the blouse for Kaili's dance costume today, then Ron and I watched Ground Hog Day on Netflix. We are supposed to get back into the wet stuff again for the week end. The kids seem to be settling into their new classes nicely and are busy, busy, busy.

Date night- Jan 28th, 2011

2011-01-28T17:05:00.001-08:00

Tonight Ron and I went to see a performance by our local symphony orchestra (http://strathconaorchestra.ca/index.html). The program was called "A Salute to the Silver Screen" and included many popular movie themes. It was a very enjoyable evening, even if it was proved that there are still people you can dress up, but still shouldn't take out. Case in point; We have three friends who play in the orchestra, so when one of them took to the stage, Ron bellowed her name from the back of the theater and started frantically waving at her. When she looked up she found about 8 of us in total waving at her. I'm sure yesterday's complaint to our family "I'm being forced against my will to play in the concert this week end" had nothing to do with Ron's outburst. (She is a teen-aged friend of Kaili's). I am hoping our planned spring visitors will be here for their next performance on May 27th or 28th.

The kids were ripping it up on "Guitar Hero" (Video game) while we were gone and surprise, surprise, the fire was nearly out when we got home. I guess they will figure it out when they have their own kids!

Date night- Jan 28th, 2011

2011-01-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

January 26, 2011

2011-01-26T06:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon/evening was a whirlwind for me. . .

I worked on Kaili's dance blouse for a bit between my chauffeur duties-. At 1:00 it was time to deliver Kaili to her exam, come home sew for a bit, pick up Ellie and Kaili from their schools (2:30-2:45), and get Ellie back home in time for piano lessons (3:15), deliver Kaili to Dance (4:15), back home to pick-up Ron, run errands around town, pick up Kaili (5:15), run home, cook and gobble a quick bite, shower and get into my St. John Ambulance uniform, to be at the arena by 6:00.

Ron, Dax and I all volunteered at the "Battle of the Badges" Old-timer's Hockey Challenge last night (Cancer fundraiser). It was an ice hockey game played between retired professional hockey players and RCMP officers. Nearly half of the pros didn't even bother to put on helmets for the game. It was a bit like watching a cat play with a mouse before she kills it. There were a few "random" penalty shots thrown in by the ref (maybe in an attempt to even the score). There was a clown in the stands doing all kinds of goofy stuff and he nearly gave me heart failure. He decided to play his trumpet while perched on top of the glass. When he toppled over backwards and caught himself by one knee, he changed his mind. He may have shared my visions of blood and brain splattered all over the ice 15 feet below him (he looked a bit shaken up for a few minutes after that)!!! We also ran into an old friend of Mom's at the game too; Flat Stanley was having a photo taken at rink-side!

Today is a much slower pace, and much more to my liking (though I am concerned about my uncle's heart surgery in California today). I will continue with Kaili's blouse, taxi kids to school and exams, and hang with Ron. The hard decision for today should be- pork steaks with mushroom gravy or tortellini with marinara sauce for dinner?

Jan 24th, 2011

2011-01-24T13:05:00.000-08:00

Not much exciting stuff going on around here. Yesterday I taught a lesson in Relief Society on "Of Things That Matters Most", a talk given by President Uchtdorf in the last General Conference. The main point of the talk was, the more stress and difficulty you face, the more you need to slow down. In our electronic age, we seem to be going ever faster and expecting to continue with a break-neck pace, no matter what is happening in our lives. President Uchtdorf said that we should remain focused on the 4 most important things in our lives, which are relationships; First our relationship with our Heavenly Father, second with our families, third with our fellow man, and finally with ourselves. We also covered a few of the strategies to accomplish strengthening those relationships. My lesson seemed to focus on my ever-present "to-do" list and where maybe that should be pared back a bit. The ladies I taught seemed to enjoy the lesson, and I hope at least a few will have found something useful in it.

Dax and Kaili have exams this week, so they will only be going to school for a few hours here or there. Today we ventured to Nanaimo and got some ghillies for Kaili to dance in. I also procured a tank top and some eyelet lace. The next trick will be to turn that into a dance blouse for her (along with some sleeves I will make from a scrap of eyelet from my pile o' fabric).

Today was gray and damp, with a little brightening of the clouds this afternoon. The temps are pretty mild, and it isn't really too bad out.

January 20, 2011

2011-01-20T05:03:00.000-08:00

This week has been another interesting one, even if frustrating at times!

The bouts of teen drama/angst/'tude have been present (but not overwhelming)
Dax and Kaili have finals this week and next, they seem to be under some stress
A computer bug on Saturday lead to me breaking the bank with the purchase of a new one (computer, not bug!) Good riddance VISTA!!!!
Kaili has decided to begin Highland Dance competitions now. . .Awesome! . . .wait. . .that means Kilt, socks, shoes, vest, etc. etc. to the tune of $1000.00+!!! Fortunately, we may have located some decent used stuff for about half that. . . .wait, that is STILL 500 bucks!
Wonder why my insomnia is kicking up again?!?
I have now moved Adam out of my sewing room a.k.a. the laundry room. I have set up my office in there now, maybe I can get some of the sewing projects taken care of now. (He is in the back corner where my desk used to be, since he REALLY only does school work about 1 day a week and is at work the rest of the time anyway.) This also means I can hide behind a closed door now too. . .if I want to. . .but I usually don't. . .

On the plus side, the weather guessers seem to call for some sort of precipitation nearly every day, but fortunately it also seems they tend to be wrong most of the time. The picture is what yesterday looked like here; note the heron with the Comox Glacier as a backdrop.

I shot it when Ron and I ate our lunch at the beach. We saw a seal swimming around just offshore, the water was glassy-smooth and the sky was clear. There were about a million ducks and geese floating around (maybe not a million, but there were a bunch of them). Today is a completely different story. . .blustery and gray with the trees blowing around. I LOVE this place!

Elizabeth's 13th

2011-01-14T18:12:00.000-08:00

Elizabeth had a pile of girls over here this evening to help celebrate her 13th birthday. We got her a new comforter for her bed and a bunch of books. She seemed to like her "bookworm" birthday cake, it was chocolate with a layer of mint/chic chip ice cream.

The house is still standing and she has some very nice, if loud, girl friends. They made pizzas for dinner, watched movies and had popcorn. A couple of Kaili's girlfriends also came by for the evening and helped clean up, so the house is in really good shape, considering the crowd.

The older teens entertained themselves for quite awhile by defacing one of Ron's newspapers. It is amazing how a couple of bic pens and the newspaper could cause such laughter and jocularity for them.

Jan 12, 2011 "Snow Day"

2011-01-12T15:06:00.000-08:00

The kids have been praying mightily for a "snow day". We got nearly a foot of wet, sloppy white stuff last night and they got their snow day. The sun was out and it was gorgeous day out, but they mostly played on the Wii and watched movies today. They did do a minor amount of shoveling and wood fetching, but they basically just had a day off.

Ron got to sleep in, but my insomnia was spurred on by the snow bombs dropping from the trees on to the house last night. Isis and I watched old movies and dozed in the family room after I spent some of the wee hours filling out an online job application for a census job with Statistics Canada.

Not much else to report here. We had an awesome sunset again (of course the photo doesn't quite do it justice) and we are supposed to get rain for the next week or so.

Jan 10, 2011

2011-01-10T17:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was nice, the sun shone brightly and it was crisp out. After church some good friends came over to help celebrate my birthday. It was very comfortable and low-keyed. My dad sent me a heartfelt ,but still humorous email reminding me in part that my first word was a swear word directed at another child who was misbehaving. Mom phoned and we had a nice chat. I also got numerous good wishes via computer, it is amazing how much the electronic age has brought us closer is ways, even while distancing us in others.

The sky has become quite gray this afternoon and some are predicting some flurries. . .we'll see. The kids are fervently praying for snow to close school without realizing (or caring) the time they miss would be have to be made up in some way.

Now we will begin the preparations for an invasion by a bunch of 12 and 13 year old girls for Elizabeth's celebration on Friday. . .which I'm sure will be neither quiet nor low-keyed!!!

Date night- - Jan 7, 2011

2011-01-07T17:16:00.000-08:00

Ron and I haven't had an actual date night in quite awhile. We finally made it out together tonight and saw "True Grit". It was very well done, and not the usual Cohen Brother's fare. Jeff Bridges does a good job with Rooster, and there were actually some pretty funny moments in the movie.

Nothing much else has been happening around here this week, Ron and I have both been pretty lethargic with whatever this cold-thingy is that is going around. My ears are still plugged and the netty pot has been working overtime keeping my nasal passages somewhat clear. We did poke around down town for a little while the other day and found a really cool (unique and quirky) German/Dutch deli and gift shop. We had just eaten, but Ron says he will be trying a sandwich there someday soon.

It has been mostly rainy all week, but is supposed to be clearing for the next few days. I even noticed a few stars on the way home this evening.

Jan 4th, 2011

2011-01-04T16:04:00.000-08:00

We got a bit of white earlier today, now we are getting some wet on top of it (much to the kid's chagrin!).

Ron and I endured a bit of chilly waterbed syndrome over the week-end. Our waterbed heater seemed to give-up the ghost last Friday night. Being a holiday week-end, we were out of luck until Monday as far as replacement went. After locating and purchasing a new one, we realized that the heating pad had simply come unplugged from the temperature regulating unit. It is amazing how well it works when everything is all hooked up!!! It is so nice to climb between warm sheets again.

The kids are back in school as of today and life is quickly returning to normal. I continue to have sinus/ear issues with the cold the kids brought home for vacation, but it is manageable. While the kids were at school today, Ron and I tried a fish and chips place we had never been to before. We were pleasantly surprised and even delivered a cup of their clam chowder to Adam at work for his lunch. He only had one complaint when he got home. . ."there wasn't enough"!

I am now studying my How to be a Canadian book that Immigration has sent to me. In a few months, they should be getting back to me with a test date/time/place and I am hoping to be well prepared before then.

I guess that's all for today. . .

December 29th 2010 (I think. . .)

2010-12-29T06:41:00.000-08:00

I haven't been doing too much on the computer lately, because I am still pretty turned around from working nights and doing holiday stuff.

The kids have generously shared the head cold with me now. I am still trying to convince my body that daytime is for wakefulness and nighttime is for sleeping. . .

It has been quite wet here and there was some minor flooding in the ares, but today is just gorgeous!!! The sun is out and the skies are an azure blue against the snow on the mountains.

Monday we drove to Shawnagan Lake and were able to visit with Ron's Mum, sisters and nieces. The food was good and the company was great. Yesterday the kids were at the Temple for the day, so Ron and I basically laid low all day.

Today we are starting to get a few of the neglected chores caught up around here, but it is still a pretty low energy kind of day.

I got a REALLY nice camera from Ron for Christmas, and am looking forward to having the energy to go out and put it to good use.

I guess that is it for the ramblings from North of the 49th. . .hope all is well in your world. . .

Here goes nuthin'. . .

2010-12-03T17:19:00.000-08:00

Headed off for my first overnight shift in awhile, we'll see how it goes. . .

Oh, and here are a few of the swans that are visiting our area for winter.

November 27, 2010

2010-11-27T04:45:00.000-08:00

Thursday found us celebrating "American Thanksgiving". There were 15 of us here. Ron, Adam and I had the day off work, and the other kids got the day off from school for parent/teacher conferences. Ron took care of the turkey while Dax and I baked 3 pies. It was a very relaxed day and we were almost comatose by the end.

I managed to contact one of my cousins who has been out of work for quite an extended spell. . .it seems he will be starting a new job soon. I am really happy for him, though it may require relocation (to Portland Ore. from Whitbey Is. Wash.)

I have the annual letter started and am in possession of school pictures. Now I need to get Adam's face recorded and have my proof-readers go over the correspondence before I can get it all in the mail. I am hoping to have them out soon (unlike last year!)

This time next week I will be preparing for my first overnight shift at Wallyworld. I will have the 11pm-7am shift 'till Christmas. I am interested to see how it goes. . .

We had snow here for Thanksgiving (a wet 2" of it), but it has all been rained away now. The sun was out this morning, but it seems to be clouding over again.

That's the report for now. . .

Adam's Birthday 2010

2010-11-24T14:56:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Adam's 19th birthday. We have had colder than normal temperatures and a little snowfall, so the tire shop where he works has been CRAZY. For his birthday he got to go in to work early and stay late. In the afternoon, Ron and I stopped in with a tray of cupcakes and candles. He hadn't told anyone at work that it was his BD, but his boss paged everyone to the front counter and they all sang to him. He is fortunate that it was -11 C with the wind chill, or they would have immersed him in the "dunk tank" in honor of the event.

I have been working lots and we got the report cards for Kaili and Dax the other day. There were 7 A-s and 1 B between the two of them. . .they are doing quite well in their new surroundings.

We will celebrate "American Thanksgiving" at our house tomorrow with about 10 others joining us for turkey dinner. It is supposed to snow a bit again tonight then be raining by the week-end.

That's all for now. . .

So . . . if your parents go with you, is it still a date?

2010-11-06T16:57:00.000-07:00

Last night was the Harvest Ball in our stake (church). It is a semi-formal dinner and dance for those aged 16+ and was held about an hour from here in Nanaimo. Dax had invited Holly (it was a first date for them both). Holly's Parents drove Ron and me, Dax and Holly, another teen-aged couple and our Bishop's wife down in the "Loser Cruiser" (15 passenger van). The kids hid in the very back seat while the adults crowded to the front of the van and everyone attempted to give everyone else plenty of space. It was actually pretty funny, because I think the adults did a better job of ignoring the kids than the other way around. . .A certain mortified teen-aged girl "had" to reprimand her father for his embarrassing facial expressions while he was dancing.

The meal was good, the entertainment was entertaining and the dancing was enjoyable. I think everyone had a good time. . .though I was badgered into buying some "nice" clothing for the occasion, and now have little twinges of. . ."did I really have to spend THAT much on an outfit?" Hopefully we will have a few more opportunities for me to get use out of my new duds.

Adam had to work, so he and the girls kept the home fires burning while the rest of us partied into the wee hours.

The sun was out yesterday, but the rain has returned again today.

November 3, 2010

2010-11-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been so lax about posting lately. I am slowly adjusting to working again and will probably be back in the swing of things soon.

Adam carved the pumpkin that graced our front step for the TWO trick or treaters that came by our house. Kaili dressed as a cowgirl, Elizabeth chose to be a ghost (with a dark wig and wand?) and Dax decided to be a "chick magnet" for their first halloween celebration on Friday night this year. Ron and the kids had spent Saturday at a demonstration in the mall. Kaili and some of her friends were made up with various wounds and the cadets demonstrated their first aid skills on the casualties. That evening (in the pouring rain) Elizabeth and Dax wore their St. John Cadet uniforms. Kaili was a casualty complete with realistic wounds at the ward's "Trunk or Treat" activity. Adam and I were both working, so arrived at the end of the festivities.

Yesterday and today have been stunningly beautiful, with brilliant sunshine and fall colors mixed in with the greenery. The rain is supposed to be back with a vengeance beginning tomorrow.

That's the report for now. . .

October , 2010

2010-10-30T16:04:00.000-07:00

I have begun my 2nd full week of work now. I am feeling a little more at ease now, and starting to feel like I have half a clue about what I'm doing. This mornig Adam and I carpooled to work, so I had about 1/2 an hour to kill in the parking lot before I needed to go in. The sunrise was drop-dead gorgeous! There were ever-changing layers of blue, pink, and grey all across the sky.

The kids have been at halloween parties/activities for the last 2 evenings. They should have enough sugar to power a rocket after this. . .PLUS we bought a ton of stuff for tomorrow night, which I doubt will ever leave the premises.

October 16, 2010

2010-10-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

The nice weather continues. . .cool days (mid-50's) and cooler nights (into the high 30's / low 40's). The trees are changing and painting portions of the landscape in shades of yellow, gold, orange, red and plum. There is still plenty of green around too. Today has been exceptionally quiet here. . .Adam at work, Dax in Vancouver for the week-end and the girls are "hangin' with friends" for the day. Ron, the dogs and cats have all found little niches in which to catch 40 winks as the sunlight pours in on them through the windows.

I have been puttering here and there, I finished reading Eat Pray Love this morning. I really enjoyed it and was amazed how true the movie stayed to the book. She has a few good pearls in there that caused me to stop and ponder a bit too.

I had an hour and a half conversation with Melissa this morning (She said to say "Hi", Mom and your place falls in among her fond memories). It was really good to get caught up with her again. That's all from North of the 49th for today. . .

October 12, 2010

2010-10-12T05:28:00.000-07:00

We had a really nice Thanksgiving here yesterday. When it was all said and done, we had 23 people here for dinner. Do the 5 dogs and 2 cats count as part of the crowd too? We ate turkey, dressing, yams, holiday potatoes, cranberry 'n' orange relish, gravy, green beans with bacon & almonds, two different green salads, brussels sprouts, multigrain buns, pumpkin pie and lemon meringue pie. . .plus the grape centerpieces, olives, pickles, crackers, cream cheese with pepper jelly that people picked at. . . .I guess you could say it was a feast!

The food was good, but not the best part. We were surrounded by family without any family drama. We swapped stories, laughs and gave Ron's family the nickle tour our our place. The Kramers were here, as were the sister missionaries. Ron's Mum and step-dad, his sister and niece, and my mom and step-dad were all here. After we all had our fill of dinner and shared what we were thankful for, some had to leave, some had a good sleep but most of us watched a movie together in our semi-comatose conditions.

Today we try to get back into our "normal" routines. . .

Some non-medicinal uses of triangular bandages. . .

2010-09-29T07:06:00.000-07:00

Last week-end Ron and I attended Brigade Officer Training for St. John Ambulance. As part of the course, we were to choose a topic from a listto make a short presentation on. The topic I chose was 3 non-medical uses for a triangular bandage, though "ways to eat an Oreo cookie" was a tempting one for me.

My presentation went something like. . .

There are many non medical uses for triangular bandages; I am here to share just a few with you today. Let's say you are going on a vacation somewhere, and being a good Boy Scout Girl Guide or First Aider, you like to be prepared. One way to insure preparedness is to make yourself a TB (Triangular Bandage) travel pillow for the flight. You simply make a packet with 6 bandages like such. . .

Once you reach your destination, Cuba, Hawaii, the Bahamas, etc. You will likely find your checked bags went to Ontario, Siberia or somewhere like that and you are left with only your carry on items. No worries, your TB Travel pillow can easily become beach attire, including a skirt, bra, head covering and a towel.

If you happened to forget your pillow in the plane seat, again, no worries. Your hotel or motel will have bed sheets or a shower curtain. Simply tear them into 40 inch (or 1 metre) squares. Then cut or fold on the diagonal and you have triangular bandages. So there you have it 3 non-medical uses for triangular bandages. . .a travel pillow, beach attire and a towel.

Thanks again, to my good sport husband who acted as my model.

Last week we got our new fireplace insert installed, Kaili has decided that it makes too much heat when we had a test fire in it during last week's rain storm. It is essentially an airtight wood stove. It will definitely keep us toasty this winter and should use a LOT less wood than the 40 year old Heatalator fireplace system did. We still need to get a piece of custom trim done for the top of it because I want to keep the nice arch element of the original brickwork.

Yesterday the piano got tuned for the first time in 10+ years and 300+ miles. I can't really tell the difference, but I am sure anyone else who hears it will. Adam and Elizabeth have both commented on how much better it sounds and I'm sure Elizabeth's piano teacher is relieved not to have her ears assaulted by the discordant sounds emminating from it anymore.

It was rainy at the end of last week, but the weather has been gorgeous the last couple of days and is expected to continue for the next week or so. Elizabeth and I have finally succumbed to the NASTY cough bug that Ron and Kaili had been dealing with, so I haven't been able to get out on the bicycle. Hopefully, I will soon.

We are all looking forward to visitors soon, hopefully the weather will still be nice for them. . .

There it is. . .

Sept 23, 2010

2010-09-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

Sunday night's dinner went off without a hitch. The kids were of great help serving. We ended-up actually feeding around 140 instead of the 100 we had planned for. As a bonus, we also managed to spend about $80 less than our $300 budget and everyone really seemed to enjoy the food.

The weather and my schedule haven't been too conducive for bike riding lately, so I have started doing Wii fit work outs again. I did skip today, because I think I am finally coming down with the sickness that Ron and Kaili have been battling for several weeks now. I woke up at 4-something this am with a pounding headache. I took some T-1's, did the netty-pot thing, had a little juice and read for a bit, but I still couldn't get back to sleep.

This week has flown by. . .Monday I sent off the citizenship paperwork for Elizabeth and me. Our Permanent Resident cards expire in a few days and I found out that it will take almost 8 months to get new ones. We only need the PR cards to get back in to Canada, but the application is a pain; in part because we have to track how much time we spend outside of Canada and submit an accounting every 5 years as a part of the application process. The citizenship application process seems pretty straight-forward so far. I will have to write a test at some point before being granted citizenship. The Canadians don't seem to have a problem with dual-citizenship, but I have heard that some of the American border guards can get a bit testy if they find out you carry both citizenships.

We have spent a bit of time stacking firewood this week. Fortunately, the Kramer kids helped ours with a BUNCH of it on Saturday. Without their help, we would be piling wood 'till next Christmas. We should have about 6 cords all put away when we are finally done. About half of the wood is a load of mill-ends; really cheap, but they tend to be on the small-side (and LOTS of work to stack).

Last night Ron and I went to Elizabeth's school for an open house and corn roast. Her teachers commented on how focused she is and that she continues to be complete her assignments way ahead of her classmates. She is now helping one of the slower students with some of the classwork. Later, we went to the open house at Dax and Kaili's Secondary School. Ron met Dax's teachers and I met Kaili's. The kids are both doing very well so far. We were both very impressed with the programs available to the kids there. The school seems to be placing a special emphasis on attendance. Tonight I was teasing Kaili about how cute her English teacher was. I asked her how she could concentrate on her lessons with such a hottie teaching her Kaili's response was "EEWWW!!! He's married and he's like FORTY or something. . .EEEWWW!!!!"

This morning the two cats got to go to the vet for check-ups and vaccinations. They both got a clean bill of health and we were told they probably won't need to go back unless something drastic happens since they are indoor kitties. Missy had three of us on the run this morning trying to box her for the trip. Ron nearly had her in the crate, when she turned into hissing fangs and claws. We finally cornered her in Kaili's room, then we nabbed Patchy when she came to find out what all the ruckus was.

Tomorrow we will be getting our 40 year-old Heatilator replaced with a high efficiency fireplace insert. Ron will be out for the day, so I will probably get to be the one to Christen it with the first fire. It has gotten gray and rainy here, but it has still only gotten into the 40's at night so far. The tomato plants are loaded and I will probably bring in a bunch to ripen on the window sill.

Not much else to report from here for now. . .your turn, Mom.

Still scrambling. . .though the dust is settling. . .sort of. . .

2010-09-18T03:20:00.000-07:00

The thought of going to school made Kaili sick. I think the cats just figured she was there to cuddle with them.

The kids are beginning to adjust to school life and busy routines now. They are really beginning to like some of their classes and teachers. Dax has joined the robotics club and is enjoying his dance class (I wonder if the 1 guy: 27 girl ratio has anything to do with it. . .). Kaili has finally gotten over her sick-making fear and has joined the science club and the improve team, she also attended her first Highland dance class on Tuesday. Her favorite teacher so far, is her Spanish teacher. Elizabeth has made lots of new friends and seems to be thriving in her new environment. She is taking piano lessons at home and has chosen to study clarinet at school. The three younger kids will be participating in the St. John Ambulance cadet program. Adam is still really liking his job, and plodding ever-so-slowly along with his schooling. He is also joining the St. John Adult brigade with Ron and I. All four of the kids are also choir members at church. We have such an unbelievable pool of musical talent in this ward. There are several very accomplished, talented and well educated members leading the way.

Ron and I will be attending officer training next week for St. John Ambulance. They seem to have plans for us. . . The brigade here has gone through a MAJOR shake up recently and is in the process of rebuilding, hopefully, Ron and I can help with that process.

Last night Dax and Kaili had a youth dance to attend in Duncan (Almost 2 hrs South of here). Kaili had Improv after school, so we got a late start. The kids had a great time and it was actually a pleasant trip, with nice conversation. We didn't get home until 1 am. Elizabeth spent the night at the Kramer's place. We have LOTS of wood to stack today. It is raining and everyone had a late night, so we'll have to see how that goes.

Robin and I are also preparing dinner for about 100 men and boys for tomorrow night; we drove to Nanaimo and back yesterday as part of the supply gathering mission. We will enlist the aid of various youngsters for this task too. Since tomorrow is Sunday, we will do almost all of it today, and just combine and heat things tomorrow. Pulled pork sandwiches, baked potatoes, green salad and pumpkin cake is on the menu.

Tonight there are 2 baptisms happening at church. Adam has been assisting the sister missionaries in teaching one of them, so that is pretty cool too.

Other than that, not much happening here. . .

Oh, so THAT explains it!!!

2010-09-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today we were told the following story:

When God created dogs, they were given 20 years to spend their time napping on the porch and barking at passing cars. Dogs decided that was far too much time for this task, so they decided to ask God if they could just do it for 10 instead; He agreed and the dogs gave God back 10 years. Next God created monkeys. They were given 20 years to be spent goofing around acting silly and entertaining people. The monkeys also decided this was twice as much time as they needed for this task. The monkeys struck up an agreement with God and returned 10 years. Cows were created next and God gave them the task of being a beast of burden and serving people. The cows were to toil in the baking sun, battering winds and endure the freezing storms for 50 years. Of course, the cows felt this was far too much time to be engaged in such activity and offered to give God back 40 years, choosing a 10 year lifespan instead. When God created man, he was to grow in health and vigor, exploring God's creations for 20 years. Man felt that 20 years seemed hardly adequate for this task and asked God if perhaps, man could be granted the years the the others had given up. God assented, and that is why man is healthy, vital and inquisitive for 20 years, spends the next 40 years in toil and labor for others, then spends10 years playing and acting silly for grand kids, and finally does 10 years of napping on the porch and barking at passers by. . .

The picture was taken on our bike ride last week. The maple trees are just beginning to change in a few places.

Kaili is still lethargic and will be headed back out into the thick of it tomorrow. She and Dax have their first seminary class in the morning. I think she is really overwhelmed by the 1500 person student body of strangers and I wish there was a way to make it less scary for her. She will need everyone's prayers this week as she makes another attempt at it. . .

I know it's tough, but some-body's gotta do it. . .

2010-09-08T17:54:00.000-07:00

Today was another horrible day in Paradise. Several of us got together and went to the beach to pick more berries. This is the view we had to put up with while there. After we gathered berries (along with the requisite scratches, thorns etc.), we just relaxed on the sand with a bunch of other friends who had showed up to enjoy the great weather. Ron and I had to leave a bit early to pick up Ellie, then we got a call that Kaili was in the Nurse's office at school. The kids were really tired after school yesterday, but they stayed up late last night watching movies anyway. Kaili was beyond exhausted, really stressed, and now she seems to have the flu. I hope she feels better soon.

I was at a baby shower last night and borrowed an idea from one of my friends in Kamloops. This fruit skewer "bouquet" went over really well.

Labour Day (Canada) aka Labor Day (USA) 2010

2010-09-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had our first "family-type" visitors to our house. Sean, Desiree, Alexis, Vienna, Debbie (Des' mom) and Mike (Des' step-dad) came over for the evening. We had a really nice visit. I think they liked our place, and Debbie commented on how comfortable and homey it felt to her. (Watch my head swell now!!!)

Alexis had a great time digging through Aunt Elizabeth's Barbies, and Vienna really enjoyed the blackberry pie we had for dessert.

I had plans to hit the blackberry bushes one last time today, but it is raining. We ran a few little errands with the kids then rented movies and we are doing the movie/veg thing for the afternoon today. Kaili has been getting upset every time anyone mentions school starting tomorrow. . .so, of course it is being mentioned plenty just for her benefit.

I bet Martha has never done this!

2010-09-03T18:34:00.000-07:00

Tonight we had a bunch of friends here for dinner. Afterwards we did smores in the living-room. We used Teddy Grahams and Vanilla Flavored Shreddies (a cereal similar to Chex) mini marshmallows and chocolate chips. We toasted the marshmallows with fondue forks over candles. Everyone really seemed to have a good time with this and it was fun watching the kids puzzle over what we were going to do with the various item I had assembled.

I would love to take credit for coming up with this idea, but I actually borrowed it from friends who were talking about making "mini-smores" over candles a couple of weeks ago. Robin tells me they used to do this on dates.

Sept. 2, 2010

2010-09-02T16:26:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night we went out for cheap movie night with Don and Carolin. We saw "The Expendables" and to quote a friend. . ."That's 2 hours I'll never get back." I was not impressed, it was over-the-top gore and violence. I don't mind a weak story if there is snappy dialogue, some suspense or lots of action, but this one was pretty thin on all of those. It seemed like the "good old boys" just got together for old time's sake and happened to film it.

The sun's out and the temps are in the 70's again. Ron and I have been working on exams for St. John Ambulance, now we may be attending a course later this month to learn even more about the organization. We finally got the exams completed and turned in today.

After I made dipped candied ginger in chocolate for Ron, the kids and I (with Milena in tow) went for another short round of berry picking. I made some syrup and jelly with Splenda (Milena has DM) and a couple of pints of syrup for us. Tomorrow I will bake the BB pie I promised my picking crew.

Augst 31, 2010

2010-08-31T06:12:00.000-07:00

The weather has been really nice up until this morning. Today, it seems as if fall has arrived all at once. It is rainy and blustery. . .I hope my tomatoes make it; they are all still green! I was also hoping to get out for another session of blackberry picking this week. . .we'll have to see what the moisture does to the berries.

Last week Ron and I went ot Vancouver for the Regional Mona Vie conference. We have been taking a hiatus from our business (and as a result haven't been drinking it either). My joints have been really acting up lately and I am really glad to be getting started again. We finally tasted M(mun) (reminiscent of pears) and we learned Mona Vie now has 4 patents and that they have changed the juice formulas to include more fiber and vitamins, etc.

While we were in Vancouver, we were also able to see Alexis, Vienna and Sean for lunch. Vienna is already walking, and is quite shy. Alexis shared my lunch with me while we had a nice chat with Sean (Ron's oldest).

The kids stayed home while Ron and I were gone. They did take and bake pizzas for dinner and played non-stop Wii. They also did a good job of deciphering and following the chore list that was posted for them. Adam worked and the others went to a birthday party for a friend on Saturday afternoon.

I called and got Kaili and Dax`s course line-up today. This semester Kaili will have fashion & design, guitar, Spanish, English and science. Dax`s classes include electronics, drafting, social studies, and Spanish. We got most of the school supplies yesterday, though I`m sure we missed something.

Today`s chore list includes cookie baking for the kids and I think a big pot of beef barley soup for dinner will have to be on mine. I am also hoping to finish a course for St. John Ambulance and do some required Immigration paperwork . . . I just LOVE red tape and bureaucracy!

August 26, 2010

2010-08-26T12:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a long, fun and productive day. The weather was beautiful, sunny and warm. The night before, the kids had 5 friends for a "sleep"-over, so everyone was in a festive, even if slightly sleep deprived sort of mood.

After Adam left for work, we took one friend home and picked up several more. We went all went berry picking behind the Superstore near our house. After a while there, we picked up a couple more and went to Air Force beach for more berry picking. There are feral rabbits all over and some of them are quite habituated to humans. Some even would eat out of your hand. Robin had one little guy (or girl) climbing into her berry bucket for a nibble. After just over an hour or so we had about 5 gallons of blackberries.

We were all pretty warm (and hungry) so after another quick trip home for the dogs, a change into shorts and walking shoes Robin treated us all to pizza. 5 pizzas were inhaled in 6 minutes. . .it was something to see. Next it was time for a quick dip, so we went to Angel Falls. . . What a COOL spot!!! The kids had a great time jumping off the rocks into a nice swimmin' hole. Robin and I even took a quick dip. The water was very refreshing and soothing.

Next, it was back home again to make dinner and process the berries. I put a big roast and a BUNCH of potatoes into the big roaster and let'er go. Robin and I worked on berries late into the night (with various assistance from kidlets). Thank goodness for the covered deck and scookum camp stove we have. It made the whole thing a whole lot less unpleasant than working in a hot kitchen. When we were all through, we ended up with 42 jars of jelly, jam, and pie filling, 3 quarts frozen berries and 1 berry puff pastry thing. The pastry lasted for about 5 minutes (only because it took that long for me to distribute it.). Hopefully the canned stuff will last a bit longer. I hope to get a few more berries next week and do some syrup, freeze more berries and do a pie or two. I think I will let my scratches heal and get the thorns out of my fingers first, though.

August 20, 2010

2010-08-20T06:07:00.000-07:00

We have spent this week at home! Ron's birthday was Tuesday, so we ate out on the deck. We had some nice steaks, twice baked potatoes, "Asian" salad (actually a North American pre-packaged version, but yummie non-the-less) with devil's food cake for dessert.

I have been trying to get the kids up and going before 8 with some success. School starts for them in just over 2 weeks. These guys haven't had to get up for school in almost 5 years now, so I think it will be quite the adjustment for them.

Since we have been gone for the bulk of the summer, nothing has really gotten done around here. I have been writing a chore list on an erase board; once they finish what is there, the day is free for them to do whatever. We have actually managed to get quite a bit done that way, and the house is staying fairly tidy for a change.

Thursday night the 3 younger kids attended "Movie under the stars" in Comox with their friends. They saw "How to Train Your Dragon". I went to a picnic at the beach with the Relief Society where we had taco salad and a gab fest. It was very relaxing. Ron had a quiet evening at home alone with Adam.

The weather was record breaking warm last week-end, but has cooled off into the 70-80's now. I am really enjoying the more moderate temperatures and have actually ventured out on my bicycle a couple of times.

I guess that's the report from Courtenay for this week. . .

August 15, 2010

2010-08-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

We spent most of this week (Tuesday-Saturday) on Gabriola Island visiting with Ron's folks again this week. Adam stayed home and did the bachelor thing, because he had work and a beach party to attend. It was a very relaxing few days. We did have a bit of excitement when a pod of killers passed in front of the place. The neighbors came and told us they were there, then several of us gathered on shore to watch for a good half hour or so. There were also a couple of seals hugging the shoreline at this particular time. 3 or 4 boats drew in for a closer view and a couple of kayaks headed out that way (they got a late start and missed the show, though). The boat people are much braver than I am! We could see that there were several babies and at least one VERY large orca in the pod.

It has been very hot here. . .90's, humid and smoky from the 300+ fires in the province. The ocean is very calm and much warmer than I am used to, so it is actually nice for wading and swimming.

We are planning to cool our heels around here for the next little bit, and the kids start school in about 3 weeks or so.

August 7, 2010

2010-08-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

Entrance Island as seen from Gabriola

It seems forever since I have had internet access. Monday was BC Day, so while Ron and I volunteered at the first aid post with Saint John Ambulance, the kids wandered around Nautical Days with friends. The evening was topped off with a drill by the Sea Cadets (marching and many LOUD guns and cannons being fired), then there was a nice fireworks display.

Tuesday morning we met with our friends, Grant & Robin (and 4 daughters, 1 son) and we all headed for Gabriola Island. On the way there, we stopped at Parksville and visited the sandcastle competition. The sand sculptures were completed several weeks ago and preserved with white glue. They are unbelievable! (I will post pictures soon) My favorite was called "The Missing Links", though, it was tough to choose just one favorite.

We spent the week exploring the various beaches and neighborhoods of Gabriola, shopping at the "recycle", napping, watching the ferries pass in front of the house and generally relaxing. We also made a trip to visit the petroglyphs on the island. The kids pretty well ran amok and had fun. Dax got to have a 10 year old boy hang on his every word and the girls had friends to run with. The dogs ran so hard, they slept the whole way home and continue to sleep even now we have arrived.

The weather was good, but the 400+ fires in BC added to a thick smoke layer for a couple of the days we were there. It was a rainy day today as we left; maybe the island was mourning our departure?

August 2, 2010

2010-08-02T04:46:00.000-07:00

It seems I have been too busy to turn on the computer the last few days. . .I'm not sure what I have been busy with, though!

Ron and I volunteered to cover the 1st aid booth at Nautical Days in Comox for St. John Ambulance on Saturday. We were there from 9 am- 10 pm. Fortunately, it wasn't too busy for us in the booth. The weather was perfect and the music from the stage was awesome!

Ron just left to cover the booth again today, and I will join him in a few hours (hopefully I will remember to take my camera this time). I will get a few more things packed and ready to go to Gabriola Island tomorrow. The Kramer family will be joining us, and I am really looking forward to the trip, even if it will be a short one. Adam will stay behind for work this time, though he may join us for his day off later in the week.

This morning is overcast, but pleasant and it is predicted to clear off for this afternoon.

July 28, 2010

2010-07-28T16:04:00.000-07:00

Today Dax had a bunch of friends over to celebrate his birthday two weeks late, since we left for Girl's Camp on his "real" birthday. They made 5 different pizzas and gabbed. Dax had requested a strawberry crate cake, and I am pretty happy with the way the chocolate sides came out on this one. The kids are now all watching "The Clash of the Titans" and eating popcorn and candy with Ron.

My back has been "speaking" to me since just before we left California. It has been stubborn about feeling better, even with rest, and was beginning to get pretty swollen, so Ron got me in to a chiro today. Man, what a difference! I will see her again on Friday to get another tune-up before going to Gabriola Island next week.

July 24, 2010

2010-07-24T18:18:00.000-07:00

It seemed to me as though I was in a beer commercial for much of the day today. You know , the ones with the beach umbrellas in the idyllic settings.The illusion was broken a few times though. Once when, much to his daughter's horror, Ron modeled his "man-kini" for us.We spent nearly the entire day at Goose spit, roasting hot dogs, making smores, snacking on salami and crackers, fresh fruit, chatting, wading in the water and watching the kids and dogs all romp. This is a leash optional beach for the dogs and there are also a few fire pits to use. The weather was just perfect and it was surprisingly uncrowded. . .well except for the crowd we brought with us. The day was topped off with a fireside discussion with the sister missionaries about Pioneer Day. July 24th commemorates the first wagon trains entering the Great Salt Lake Valley in Utah.

July 23, 2010

2010-07-23T20:05:00.000-07:00

Wednesday evening we (a group of women from church and Ron) went for a stroll to Nymph Falls. It was a very easy walk, and was really beautiful. The teen girls baby-sat the toddlers at the church, so we were able to relax and chat for a bit at the falls.

Yesterday I thought we were going to have Ron's family up for a visit,but they had some things come up and couldn't make it. Instead 4 teen girls stayed here for the night. They are really good kids and I am so glad they all get along so well. We also had one set of parents join us for mexican food dinner on the deck with the kids. Everyone seemed to have a good time, but somehow the cookies that were made yesterday afternoon didn't make it beyond morning (I guess that is one way to get your oatmeal). . . I wonder how the cookies disappeared like that . . .evaporation maybe?

Today, after doing a few chores, the kids spent the afternoon with their friends at the "free pool day" down the street. I pulled a few weeds and did a little housekeeping stuff, but I really have been taking it pretty easy lately. Tonight Ron and I went out with friends to see Salt. I really enjoyed it. Tomorrow looks like a beach day for the family.Well, except Adam who gets to go to work instead.

The weather has been pretty great, sunny and mid-70's during the day with mid-50's at night. It is pretty hard to take, but I think I'm up to the challenge.

July 18, 2010

2010-07-18T14:19:00.000-07:00

Here is the last month or so in a nutshell~

We meet the newest addition to the family, Haley. In this photo, she seems pretty happy to be in cousin Adam's lap.

Next, the older kids attend EFY in Santa Barbara, they probably look so happy because they just had In 'n' Out Burger for breakfast. . .

There were a few days spent gold prospecting on the beach with Grampa Bill.Here, Ron H. inspects the resident king snake. . .and Ron D. shows off some of the Daniel's Woodland creations. (Check out their website http://www.danielswoodland.com ) Mom, Bill, Ron and I got the "nickel tour" while the kids were visiting with Grampa John.

After Farmer's market in San Luis Obispo, I showed the kids "Bubblegum Alley". When I was a kid it was only on one side of the alley. Our kids didn't make any contributions this time (I think they couldn't quite get over the "eww!" factor.) Maybe next time. . .

This is the cake I did for the farewell bar-b-que at Mom's place. The sides are dark and white chocolate planks. The bottom was devil's food cake with strawberry jam filling, the top was vanilla with apricot/pineapple jam filling. The whole thing was covered with butter-cream icing and fresh strawberries.

After the blazin' heat the last day at Gramma Gale's place, it was almost surreal to drive across the fog enshrouded Golden Gate as we made our way North. We stayed on the 101 (with a quick overnight at cousin Liz's in Rio Dell) until Reedsport in Oregon. The second day of our trek, Ron drove from ~9:30 am 'till 3 am. We made it home at about 5:30 pm the 3rd day (Monday).

Tuesday was spent getting unpacked, doing laundry, shopping for supplies and packing for Girl's Camp. I was asked to drive and be a "tent mom" at camp. . .It was AMAZING! There were about 50 women and girls, one small boy and two older men (who made themselves extremely scarce until they were called into action for something). I could not believe the lack of drama with that much estrogen floating on the air. There was very little sleep to be had, outhouses and fairly primitive circumstances, but very little complaining. The weather could not have been better and Sprout Lake is unbelievable . . . huge, with clear water and just about the perfect swimming temperature (you know, refreshing without being bone-chilling.) It was really nice for me to be able to relax and get to know a few of the women from our stake a little better. I also got to feel useful without really being responsible for too much. I helped with a few packs, answered a couple of orienteering questions, bathed in the lake, went on a few short walks, sang songs around the campfire with everyone and did a few other minor things here and there. This was Elizabeth's first year at Girl's Camp and Kaili's fourth. The fourth year girls went on a canoe trip and camped over night across the lake.

This week is looking like it will be a pretty busy one too. . .

July 2, 2010

2010-07-02T12:56:00.000-07:00

We searched Paso for the Canada Day festivities yesterday! I know it will be shocking for you to hear, but we were unable to locate any. We took Elizabeth to see Eclipse at the movie theater to celebrate instead. Then, we shopped for the supplies that she and Kaili will need for girl's camp when we get home.

Ron and I have been laying low while the older kids are away at EFY. Tuesday night, Elizabeth went with the youth to a bonfire and beach party for the evening. They paddled around the bay at Hearst Beach in San Simeon and BBQ-ed burgers and dogs for dinner. She had made snikerdoodle cookies to take with her, then forgot to put them out for everyone to eat. She brought home a bag of cookie crumbs home. . .I think the chickens will enjoy them when they finally make it into the coop. While Ellie was at the beach party, Ron and I went to see Knight and Day. We really liked it and thought it was smart and really pretty FUNNY. I enjoyed the blend of romantic comedy and action.

Wednesday evening, we all went to Uncle Gary and Aunt Doris' place for a really nice dinner on the deck. It was a very relaxing evening and the mosquitoes seemed to have been kept at bay by an application of Listerine before we got there. Gary gave me a BIG surprise by presenting me with my great-grandma and grandpa Sheffer's old phone. I have been asking for it and threatening to steal it for a long time now.

I borrowed these "culinary mystery" books from Mom. I have been reading about 1 a day. They are the Hannah Swensen Mysteries by Joane Fluke (her web site is www.murdershebaked.com ) We refer to them as bubblegum-type books. . .they aren't really very challenging or too deep, but they are fun. There are also more than a few new recipes I want to try in them.

Unfortunately, Rocco is still on the lam; I am relatively certain someone decided to appropriate him when they found him. He was wearing tags, a collar, a halter and was dragging his leash when he took off. I have been alternating between anger, sadness and guilt over his disappearance. I hope my brother and Jamie will be able to forgive me for their loss.

I can't believe it is almost time to get ready to head North already, just one more week before we leave.

Thankfully, the weather continues to be on the cool end of normal here. . .

June 28, 2010 (I think)

2010-06-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

Today we dropped the 3 oldest kids off at UCSB for their Especially For Youth Conference (EFY). The boys have been twice before, this is Kaili's first time. We took Hwy 1 up to 46, stopping to shop in SLO and enjoying the views along the way.

It was Hades-like here yesterday, and didn't cool off as much as normal last night. Today it was a nice day on the foggy and cool coast. Apparently, it didn't get quite as hot here today either, and it has cooled off nicely this evening.

Elizabeth has a party on the beach to attend with the Paso youth tomorrow evening; we may escort her there, but we don't know yet. Right now her nose is buried in the "Diary of a Wimp" books that she bought today.

June 25, 2010

2010-06-25T14:23:00.000-07:00

All is well here (except I managed to lose my brother's dog today. We are praying Rocco shows up safely at home before too long.)

When we got home from baby-sitting at Ben and Jamie's and dog searching, Ron and I saw Mom's king snake. He/she is about 3 feet long.

These dial-up speed posts are PAINFUL. . .I will post pictures and probably a little more often when we get back to faster internet availability (at home).

We are all headed to the beach tomorrow. . .

June 22, 2010

2010-06-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

The weather has been in the 90's; cooler than normal for this time of year here. Dax went gold prospecting at the beach with Grampa Bill today. Adam is still flogging the books (I hope he is finished soon). The rest of us went to SLO bought train tickets for the kids return trip from EFY next week and hit Costco with Mom. Other than that, we have been doing laundry, other minor errands and just driving around.

We may do a little geocaching tomorrow, then take the girls to their favorite discount clothing store before their money burns holes in their pockets.

June 19, 2010

2010-06-19T15:35:00.000-07:00

My blogs will probably be even spottier than usual while we are here. We have continued the cleaning and rodent hunting exercises. . . we are getting one or two mice a day now. I think we have just about gotten them all now and the house has been pretty well gone over with disinfectant. There are a few minor repairs to take care of around the place, but nothing like last year.

The weather has been especially gorgeous and I am anxious to have a "no car day" soon. My brother, Ben, Jamie (his GF) and their baby girl, Haley came out for a visit last night. We went to their house the other day too. Haley seems to have eyes for Dax. She was cooing and talking to him a lot.

Tomorrow, we will be going to church earlier than we do at home, then we will come back to a roasted sirloin and potatoes with garlic (in the dutch oven) for Father's Day dinner. Mom dug the hole for it today and Bill will start the fire for it early in the morning.

June 12, 2010

2010-06-12T18:49:00.000-07:00

We have had great weather and have been busy getting ready for the trip South. Ron and I went out with two other couples last night and saw "The A-Team". We really enjoyed it and I was pleasantly surprised.

Adam changed the oil in the 'Burb and gave it the once-over today. The result was 2 new tires. . .I guess it is better to deal with it now than once we are on the road somewhere.

This afternoon-evening (2:00-9:00) Ron and I did the Saint John thing at a Cubaree. . .a scout camp for cubs. Ron was selected as a judge for their cook-off, so he ate 6 different dinners this evening. He has been waddling around since about 7:30 when he finished the last meal. I sampled a few of them too, the cooking was really quite good.

We are headed to Gabriola after church tomorrow, then will take the ferry over to the mainland on Tuesday and head South from there. We should be in SLO area around Thursday or Friday.

June 8, 2010

2010-06-08T16:00:00.000-07:00

It was sunny here today, so we got most of the watering system put in, the lawns mowed, the trailer has been cleared and partially loaded, and the 'Burb has been vacuumed. We also took Elizabeth to her new school for a little tour today. Ron and I are very impressed with what we have seen of this school district so far. In Kamloops, it was not unusual for them to be figuring out which teachers had what classes well into the first week of school. Here, we already know who the teachers will be for her grade next fall.

We rounded-out the day with dinner at the Atlas Cafe. We used the $120.00 in gift certificates from our realtor and the 6 of us had a very nice dinner.

Not much else to report from here. . .

June 6, 2010

2010-06-06T10:31:00.000-07:00

Had a great day at church, though many of us were dragging.

Yesterday was the annual Scripture Bowl, Seminary Grad and Dance for the Island. Ron and carpooled with friends to Victoria (3hours South) for the event, since Kaili and Dax were competing this year. The Courtenay Ward looked very sharp in their "BOM Squad" tee shits. (BOM=Book of Mormon). This picture was taken while they were listening intently to a clue. Once the clue is given, the moderator says "go" and they find the scripture alluded to, and stand up before time runs out. These kids were very fast with their scriptures. There were also periodic knowledge questions and answers given. After the Scripture Bowl, we had a nice dinner, the Graduates for this year had a graduation ceremony, then there was a multi-stake dance held. The women's rooms were transformed into wardrobe storage, since the dress code for grad/dance is more formal than for the competition. The dance ended early (9:30) so we stopped for ice-cream on the way back North. On the way home, the van the kids were riding in wouldn't start after gassing-up. After some prayer and a helpful gas station attendant, a temporary solution got them back on the road and we all got home safely just before 1 am. It seems everyone had a great time.

Adam was working yesterday, so he stayed in Courtenay and Elizabeth went to her friend's house for the day. They took a long bike ride and it sounds like they had a good time also.

June 4, 2010

2010-06-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

The week seems to have gotten away from me again. . .

We took Dax and Kaili to the new student orientation at the school they will be attending in the fall. They are very excited, there are TONS of course selections, activities and clubs to keep them busy.

Ron and I have completed the shelving projects in our bedroom. Next we will be focusing on getting ready for the trek South. Today we found an irrigation supply place, so we get the drip system set up in the yard. We then took a stroll along Goose spit.

Adam is enjoying his new job immensely and Ron helped our friend with the vending machine stuff yesterday.

Ron and I were supposed to go to a St. John training meeting last night, but we threw an impromptu, surprise, birthday party-open house-pot luck thing for one of the sister missionaries instead. Even with very short notice, Ron counted 45 people here at one point in the evening. I was really impressed that so many could make it since Thursday nights are crazy busy in our ward (Young Men's, Young Women's, Faith in God, Choir, etc). Adam helped me put together 6 pans of enchiladas, Dax and Kaili made a green salad and the kids made a huge birthday card and decorated the house with balloons and streamers.

The day started with brilliant sunshine, but it has clouded over again this afternoon. The weather-guessers are calling for more sun next week.

Picture Perfect- I am Summer

2010-06-04T13:22:00.000-07:00

I am Summer

Escape the inland inferno

to cool off in a seaside breeze

where shoreline treasures are found. . .

Those from California's center may be able to relate to this one ;-)

Welcome to

P I C T U R E P E R F E C T

...oOo...

Each week a new theme will be posted here on Friday morning. You are invited to put up your best picture on your own blog with that theme in mind, and you do have the whole weekend to post your picture, so there is no rush. Cutoff time is Sunday at midnight!

Remember it should be just ONE and ORIGINAL, taken by YOU,and not off the internet,

Then go to http://fotofriday.multiply.com/journal/item/314/Picture_Perfect_Theme_I_am_Summer and leave a comment on the page in the comment box so that everyone can link to your blog and see your photo. Don't forget to OPEN your page to EVERYONE for that day.

Mixed bag week. . . May 29, 2010

2010-05-29T06:18:00.000-07:00

This week we went to "cheap Tuesday" at the movies with Don and Carolin, we saw Ironman 2 and we enjoyed it.

Wednesday I woke up with a migraine that took me out for the day, fortunately, this one only lasted a few hours before I hurled, instead going on for days like they used to.

Ron has started working occasionally for Don in his vending machine business and spent two days doing that this week. Adam has started a new job at Kal-tire this week, so he will be able to get his apprenticeship hours in and complete high school (Whew!).

We continue puttering on the various shelving/storage/organization projects, but it is slow going right now with everything else we have been doing. I need to get my watering system set-up before we head South and the lawn really needs a shave. The weather has been mostly grey and showery broken by a few sun breaks and downpours. Not really great yard work type weather this week.

Yesterday Ron and I spent most of the day at the school district's track meet manning the Saint John Ambulance First Aid post. Between icing and bandaging minor injuries, Ron and some of the other guys spent a lot of time joking with the kids or each other.

Last night we went out to see Robin Hood. It wasn't very true to the original fables, but it took an interesting twist on them and I thought it was good, even if a bit too gory at times.

May 24, 2010 (Victoria Day)

2010-05-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today we basically puttered; Ron worked on shelves, I rewired a lamp, did several loads of laundry and we made a couple of trips out for miscellaneous supplies.

Three of the kids worked on over due school work and the other had friends over They made radioactive-looking cupcakes (they tasted good though!), watched movies and just enjoyed the day off together.

Not much else to report from here. . .

May 23, 2010

2010-05-24T05:37:00.000-07:00

I continue to be astounded at the musical talent in this ward. Today one family (a large, extended family) sang "Teach me to Walk in the Light" (in parts and with 2 flute and piano accompaniment). It was SO beautiful. . .

This evening a few folks came over for spaghetti dinner. We played a game called "What's the Story" (like 20 questions) while we ate, then we watched "Single's Ward" after our chocolate fondue dessert. There were 16 of us all together. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

The picture is one of the Scottie dogs that was wearing a kilt for the Highland Games. . .

May 22, 2010

2010-05-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

Today found us at the Highland Games all day. We started off by watching a friend play bagpipes before a judge for the first time (He took 3rd out of 6. . yay Ammon!). There were bagpipes and drums galore, Scotty dogs on parade, highland dancers, stone throwers, caber tossers, dirks and kilts and dancers,

several friends (Hi buster!), and our kids ran in pack for the day. Ron was really happy to see his favorite Pipe Band from Simon Frazier University perform.

When the Comox Valley Pipe Band competed, a little guy came out and joined them on the field, he got right in the middle of the action and played his drum with them. They didn't seem to notice him, and he marched off the field wit them, so we figure he was probably with his mom out there.

It was a really nice day, but I think there are a couple of kids in this house who won't be forgetting the sunscreen the next time we head out for the day. . .

May 21, 2010

2010-05-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

Today started with a blustery, rainy morning, then it morphed into a beautifully sunny and warm afternoon. Ron was getting more of the shelving installed in our bedroom, when he got a phone call. I could hear him saying, "No, I would love to another time, but I have to do the shelving ." When I asked what the phone call was about, he told me that Grant had invited him out to the driving range. I haven't touched my golf clubs in 2 years, and it really was a georgeous afternoon, so we called Grant back. We then went with Grant and his wife, Robin, to the Comox Golf Club and hit some balls. There were about a half dozen deer in the driving range and they weren't interested in moving out of the way. It was a bit disconcerting. A couple of them were hit with golf balls, and they would flinch, then go back to chewing their cud.

After we finished with the golf balls, we all went to Robin and Grant's place (where there were about 20 kids running around, our 4 included) and had a nice bar-b-que.

The Highland Games will be happening tomorrow, so I guess the shelf project will continue on Monday. . .

May 16, 2010

2010-05-16T14:40:00.000-07:00

Today after church, I finished one book, began another and promptly fell asleep. After a nice nap, we had a great dinner of steak and asparagas. Then, while I was perusing my Facebook stuff, I ran across some VERY cool and surprising news. It seems one of my 40-something YO cousins (who I thought was a confirmed bachelor) is now engaged to a really intelligent, beautiiful, and all-around-good gal! Yeah!

May 15, 2010 (posted a day late! Just in case you are watching)

2010-05-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

Today started with frantic grocery shopping followed immediately by a service project at the church. For our service, we pulled weeds and cleaned up the grounds at our building while other ward members worked in a garden at a local nursing home.

After the weed pulling, some of Kaili's girlfriends came by to hang out while I made jam. Mangoes have been about 7 dollars for a box of 12 lately, so I made a batch of mango jam, them I made a batch of strawberry-rhubarb jam. Both of them have been big hits with the family and they have already almost finished off a jar of each.

Later, a couple of my girlfriends (Kaili's friend's moms) came over and we had a dinner of grilled hamburgers and hot dogs (thanks, Adam). It was a very busy, but productive day and an enjoyable evening. We have really been enjoying the deck for some of our meals. After the kids did the kitchen clean up, the boys headed out to play pool and hang out with some of the guys for awhile.

Several folks have commented on how quiet our place is, but I don't really see it as all THAT quiet. It reminds me of Granma Jessie's house in the respect that, when I am outside, mixed in with the bird's song and lawn mower's drone, I can hear, in the distance, the sound of the Ryan Road traffic, punctuated with the occasional siren, loud motorcycle or plane. I think because we are on a cudesac, somewhat nestled in the trees, and the deck isactually limb-level, the illusion of being in a more rural setting is created.

May 14, 2010

2010-05-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

This s the bed I planted the tomatoes and peppers in yesterday. They are interspersed with the blueberry plants we put in earlier this year. I won't be doing the big veggie garden yet, because there are just too many other things to organize this year. Maybe I can get to it next spring.

This other picture is Isis and her two buddies. She LOVES the cats so much. This also illustrates why the couch has a sheet on it most of the time. . .can you say pet hair?

Today Ron and I spent most of the day patching up scrapes, icing ankles and watching kids run around at a big track meet. We will be volunteering first aid services with St. John again at the same event much of next week.

Right now we are all (except Adam, whose allergies are going nuts) headed off to spend the evening at the talent show (at church). I think Kaili is the only participant from our family this time. She will be playing piano with a girlfriend.

Jan 6, 2010

2010-01-06T16:06:00.000-08:00

I got spoiled this week. Ron and I enjoyed TWO ocean cruise meals!!! It seems more often than not, when we tell friends we are aiming to move to Vancouver Island, they exclaim "oh no, you will have to deal with the ferries". We actually find the ferry crossings quite enjoyable. Many times we spend the 1-1/2 hour trip at the buffet, enjoying the great food, beautiful scenery and relaxing.

The house hunting bore no fruit this time, but we still have time. We will find out if our house has sold for sure on Friday and the home inspector will be dropping by tomorrow. After our visit, to the Island, we are both really looking forward to being Comox Valley area residents.

We did see LOTS of swans, herons, various water fowl and bald eagles on our journey. We also painted Ron's mum's family room, hung her new curtains and did her late-night furniture arranging for her. We are both totally wiped-out for some reason tonight!

Dec 30, 2009

2009-12-30T18:26:00.000-08:00

WAHOO!!!!! The papers have been signed. . .

As you may remember, our house was on the market. We had gotten one low-ball offer, so we were about to get SERIOUS about the lipstick we were putting on it. We went out and bought new kitchen appliances last night (we got a screamin' deal) and had plans to begin putting in new flooring beginning next week. Well, the low-ball offer came up enough for us to accept it this evening, which means the appliances will be headed for our new place on the island (wherever THAT is). AND we won't have to deal with the floors now. . .YAY!

We will probably begin searching in earnest for our new place next week, followed quickly by all the business of packing up and relocating. If everything goes through the way it is supposed to, we need to be outta here by the last week of February. After some big-time insomnia last night, I'm hoping for some shut-eye tonight, but we'll see how it goes.

I managed to do some hair maintenance on the guys today and I finally got the holiday letter written, but I guess it is already outdated! I may decide to wait and send it in a month or so when I have our new address. . .I dunno. . .What do you think?

Christmas Day 2009

2009-12-25T13:58:00.000-08:00

This is the bowl of cioppino that Ron had for dinner last night as is our Christmas eve tradition. I think this batch came out pretty well considering the limited access to fresh shellfish in this neck of the woods.

I think everyone had a nice day at home today, we got started at about 6:30 am. For breakfast, we ate a bread I made of multigrain flour with a cinnamon-apple-raisin filling yesterday. it was nice to have it all ready except for baking this morning. There has been nearly non-stop Wii fun with the new games today (MarioKart and Wii Sports Resort). I think my shoulders may be a bit tender tomorrow after my turns paddling in the canoe races with Ron and Dax this afternoon. There were the usual holiday family phone calls made and received. It is always good to talk to our folks. The dogs got new stuffies and they have been loving them up all day.

We had a fairly simple early meal of roast turkey, brussels sprouts and spicy yam oven fries. The kids have been munching on candy all day today, so I think the pumpkin pies will be saved for a meal tomorrow sometime. I will probably also make the dressing, cranberries and gravy at that time so we can have it with the left-over turkey. It was really nice just to "chill" with the family today.

The weather was beautifully clear, cool (+/- 37 F) and crisp today.

December 21, 2009

2009-12-21T14:28:00.000-08:00

Last week we went to the "Holiday Train" where I volunteered with St. John, we made donations to the food bank and enjoyed some chilly evening entertainment. I also covered the "Wildlights" display at the wildlife park for St. John one evening AND we had 4 more showings of our house. Apparently, we are expecting a "low offer" on Wednesday. We'll see just how low, low is.

I have finally managed to get a bit of the Christmas baking done today. I made some applets, rocky road fudge, almond roca and another batch of spritz today. Tomorrow I plan to do a batch of hrstula, then package up the goodies and make a few small deliveries.

There is a light dusting of snow outside, but we have rain in the forecast. . .time will tell if it will be a white Christmas around here.

I am SO grateful the days will start getting longer after today. . .