The snow fort made by Tracey and the kids in the front yard during and after the last big storm. 

Thirteen Things about Alison

1) Grandmother is still in the hospital

2) They now say she has a fractured pelvis

3) Yesturday she was so confused she thought that the hospital was the train station

4) I'm taking Claire in today so they will all have seen her before she fades anymore

5) We head to camp tomorrow for the weekend

6) I have tons to do today to get ready to go

7) I was given a Kitchen Aid mixer for my birthday by my birthmom and brother and grandmother.

8) It does mighty fast work of kneading bread dough

9) Saw someone the other day that we have not seen in a couple of years

10) My brothers girlfriend has joined me in the card making addiction

11) I'm getting excited about new garden plans and other outdoor projects

12) I still miss my best friend desperately

13) I have another headache....



Links to other Thursday Thirteens!
1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)

Better Safe Than Sorry

Ramblings of a Transplanted Frog

Mar

Kimmy and Jacob

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Well then.....

The last few days have been an absolute blur! For those that were wondering, yes it was indeed my birthday on Sunday. Saturday Hud was on a football field all day and Karen and the family came up from the Valley so we could exchange kids and have a birthday supper together. We ordered in Chinese food and we had cake and all. Thanks to everyone who has been asking where I have gone....

Sunday we were to have dinner at my birthmom's house. Upon arriving we learn that Grandmother had fallen getting ready to come to the party. My birth mom had found her on the bedroom floor when she went to get her. Ambulance trip to the emergency center near her home. They say she fractured her hip. Ambulance ride to the hospital in town. They say no fracture but they want to keep her. Large man enters emerg, grandmother gets booted from cubicle to hallway. Birth mom left at 1:30 am, grandmother still in hall. I get there at noon on Monday as I had to go to the moms group and show the ladies their craft instructions for the day. Grandmother still in hall all alone. Mother and aunt and two cousins have gone to get her some lunch. They returned and then fed her and then left to get some rest. Both mother and aunt are sick. I told her that I would stay with her 'til they took her upstairs.

Four in the afternoon and we are still waiting. Ten minutes the nurse says. Finally they call over the speaker they need the patient in the hall transferred. No one came. Next call they came and up we went. They settled her and I waited in the hall and was joined by my birthmom again. We then went in to her and just caught supper. She ate like crazy. She hadn't really had anything other than soup since breakfast the day before. When she was done eating she was quite sure it was time to go home. When we told her she couldn't go home she got annoyed with us. She tried to get off the bed, demanded her keys etc. She does not realize that she will never go home again. She has had incident after incident and has been waiting on the nursing home list for five months.

I finally decided at 7 pm that I needed to go home to my family. I kissed her goodbye and as I was putting on my coat she asked what would happen if she expired while I was gone. I told her that I would miss her very much and that I would want her to go knowing how much I loved her and then I left. I think that was the hardest thing I have ever done.

Sam and I went in this morning to find that she had had a rough night and when she woke had been calling for Wendy. Everyone was asking if I was Wendy and I kept saying no. I'm the grandaughter. She had been trying to climb out between the rails on the bed. She was angry with everyone. I was taken out by the social workers who wanted to know if her confusion etc was a regular thing or a result of the fall. Sadly that's grandmother. They agree she cannot go home. Ever. Thankfully. We stayed for awhile, watched her walk with the physiotherapist and then tucked her back into her chair in time for lunch. I'll go again tomorrow, I'll go as long as I need to, as long as she is with us.

Thirteen Things about ALISON 1) The storm is over 2) I moved the van today only to find another driveway worth of snow underneath 3) While driving Hubby to work noticed the van started shaking 4) Perhaps there is too much snow stuck in around stuff and it's causing problems 5) I hope it's better tomorrow as I am supposed to drive to the valley for a visit because the kids have no school 6) We finally got snow so we were set to hit Martock this weekend but it is supposed to rain on Saturday 7) Sam is snoring away on the couch so I need to get the neighbor to watch for Claire after school 8) I have no idea what to cook for supper 9) Daniel has an orthodontist appointment this afternoon 10) I have looked into going back to school but it's a little scary 11) I'm not sure I could juggle the house, kids and school 12) I miss my best friend desperately 13) I'm heading to book club tonight Links to other Thursday Thirteens!1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!) Leslie Better Safe Than Sorry

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!
View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Well....

I asked for snow and BOY did I get snow! Who even knows the accumulation at this point, and we are supposed to get another 15-20cms by the end of it today. Everything is shut down in Halifax as the wind is sooo strong we are under a blizzard warning, and the RCMP are asking people to stay off the roads. Of course having a husband who is incapacitated is just perfect on a day like today with huge amounts of shovelling to do. I have made it from the front door to the driveway so far and am now in enjoying a cup of tea. The driveway will get done a bit at a time, and that's that. The kids are soo excited although with the wind it's not quite as enjoyable. A perfect day for fort making, movie watching and popcorn eating.

I'd post some pics, but the memory stick is missing from the camera.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU Colin and Tracey from next door who helped me dig out. Amazing how fast a snowblower and an extra set of hands makes a big job go.

Today's the day.....

Hud is now under the knife for "the procedure". Last chance for babies has come and gone. Well, then again..... I guess we still have a wee window. We're just waiting for the call to go and pick him up.

Had another fabulous phone conversation with Lori today. She's right about being much faster than typing, and one can get much work done at the same time.

Had a quick visit with a friend today as well. Good times! I guess it's been a busy day!

AAAAHHHHHH....

The sweetness of a real live phone conversation. So fun to hear real out loud laughter as opposed to LOL. I hope today was the first of many fabulous conversations. Thanks for being such a good friend.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY.....

to Hudson...... Hope you are able to sit back and enjoy your day once you have finished the bathroom! Oh yes, and walked the dog, and taken out the trash, and, and, and....

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU

Dear Lori, what a treat to have your card and gift in the mail today! I have put the card on my kitchen window ledge so I can see it all the time. I can't wait to use my gift...I guess it's up to me to surprise you one of these days. Dang the time change. Then again, you might be up already...

TAGGED BY ANDREA......

Four jobs I have had in my life:
1) babysitter
2) sales clerk
3) assistant manager
4) mommy

Four movies I would watch over and over again:
1) Life Is Beautiful
2) Steel Magnolias
3) Pride and Prejudice
4) The Princess Bride

Four places I have lived:
1) Halifax NS
2) Annapolis Valley NS
3) Fredericton NB
4) Timberlea NS

Four TV shows I love to watch:
1) Desperate Housewives
2) Law and Order ( all of them )
3) CSI ( most of them )
4) House

Four places I have been on vacation:
1) New York
2) Ithaca NY
3) Prince Edward Island
4) Vancouver BC

Four websites I visit daily:
1) Yours
2) Yours
3) Yours
4) All the rest of yours

Four of my favourite foods:
1) Anything Thai
2) Indian
3) Chocolate of any variety
4) Chinese

Four places I'd rather be right now:
1) In bed
2) In my garden
3) At Karens
4) At a spa

Four bloggers I am tagging:
1) Margie
2) Lori
3) Emily
4) Perri

THAT'S MORE LIKE IT!!!!!!!

We started getting snow last evening, and this is what we awoke to this morning. Sam wasted no time getting out to enjoy his christmas sled. He's only had to wait a month to christen it! This should help the ski slopes so Daniel may get to go snowboarding this weekend. 

The snow has finally found us. Not that it's here to stay for long..... 

IT'S SNOWING!!!!!!!!!!!

...and accumulating.......

Mmmmmm....

pork stew and cornmeal muffins on a blustery winter evening.......

Beware the Fish!!!

As I said yesturday, we went to see Grandmother. We rang her buzzer and she didn't come. We waited a while as sometimes it takes her a minute to get up and hobble to the intercom. After a few minutes I buzzed again. No response. I was a little anxious, as she had trouble a week or so ago with a fall. I could not for the life of me remember her phone number so we left and stopped at my birthmoms to drop of some boxes for moving. Brian said that Mother had taken Grandmother to emerge, something to do with a fish bone. The homecare workers said she choked on one but seemed fine. This being a few days later and her still complaining of a sore throat, they thought she should be seen. Well, it turns out that there was no bone stuck in her throat, instead it was in her tongue. On examination, her tongue was swollen on one side. Mother had to hold the tongue out while they froze it, then the Doctor cut her tongue open dug around for the bone and then stitched her tongue. Poor grandmother. 84 years old, frail as can be, just waiting to get into permanent care and now this.

I always check my fish for bones, especially for the kids, always thinking of the choking factor. Never once did I think of a bone getting stuck in ones tongue.

The Wave Pool

I took the kids to the wave pool last evening. I thought for sure that Claire would be terrified as the waves are crashing up on the deck at the rate of a strong ocean. She absolutely loved it, and I had to work hard to keep up with her and Sam who were ploughing off in different directions. The waves settle out every fifteen minutes so for a few minutes we had just normal water. That was a little easier. Then the siren goes again and the waves start rolling. The crowd goes wild, all crashing into each other. It's hilarious to see wee kids trying to surf in a pool. The water was soooo warm, rather beach like in fact. Poor Daniel was beaned by a stray flutter board in a rather sensitive area which made things even funnier.

Rainy again today so we are off to visit Grandmother, and the grocery store and maybe take in a movie at some point. Hope you all have fabulous weekends....

Just what I needed....

A night out with some friends to celebrate all of our birthdays. Six of us have birthdays all within weeks of each other and we figured we deserved a night out to celebrate. We went to a place called Niche. None of us had ever been. We had our entertainment cards from the entertainment book so were able to get six dinners for the price of three. Share that out between us all and we ate for not much at all. They had some live jazz that was great except when the guy on trumpet let it rip. It killed the conversation and he would hit these notes that just are not meant to be hit in a low ceilinged space. We opted to eat dessert elsewhere. The Fireside Cafe is a fabulous spot full of intimate little clusters of couches and comfy chairs as well as tables. We sat in front of the fireplaces and had incredible cheesecakes and the like. We were having so much fun, it wasn't until Rosa and I went to the loo that we realized it was after eleven. We packed up and headed for home. I was so wired I had to watch the news before I fell asleep.

Daniel has an appointment with a psychologist on Monday, and we are anxious to see what she thinks of the situation.

We continue to have freaky weather. My crocuses are coming up, and either daffodils or hyacinths are on their way as well. Snowboarding is out of the question for Daniel, and so we struggle for weekend entertainment.

Tidbits and beyond.....

I have nothing profound to say. Things are pretty mellow around here, although my body is doing strange things. I am losing weight, not feeling great, have bits where bits should not be, etc, etc, etc. Had a doctors appointment on Monday where she told me that the bits were a problem but they could be fixed. My cervix does not look as one that has birthed three children. Have you ever had your cervix shoved around? It's not the most pleasant of experiences. As I answered her questions she scribbled notes which to me is never a good thing. I had to go for blood work today, and now I guess we just sit and wait. For what? I'm really not so sure.

Sam and Claire were put on time out yesturday for disturbing the peace. They were told to sit apart on the kitchen floor and not move. Almost simultaneously, they both lay down and Sam said that they were taking their time out on the beach! Freaks!!!!

Tonight Sam and I were saying his prayers. He started asking the questions we all get asked. Where is God and Jesus? I told him that they were in heaven. Up in the clouds? Yes Sam. I want them here. Well Sam, ask them to be with you while you sleep. Will they take me to heaven? Yes Sam, but I hope not for a long time. Mom? Are there good people in heaven? Yes Sam. What about bad people? Well Sam, if they love God and tell him they are sorry then they will be in heaven too. But mom....not the pizza man!

Delayed reaction...

Since the death of the teacher from Daniel's school, he has maintained that he is ok and has no worries or concerns. Since finding out she was murdered, he still holds that all is well, and that he doesn't need to talk about it. I'm beginning to think differently. He has started wetting the bed, and although that was a problem for awhile for him, he had long outgrown the habit. Last night was no different, and when he came into my room, he said that he had dreamt that Claire had been murdered. I think it's time to get some help. It's obviously playing on his subconcious mind. There is another information session at school on thursday evening and I think I will be taking this one in.

FAMILY FUN

The new Cranium Family Fun game is fabulous. We spent the afternoon playing it. Too hilarious! And yes, Daniel and I won!

We spent the day yesturday with friends from the valley. The husbands went to MEC with the oldest boys where Daniel bought a spedometer for his bike. HE was most excited that it will also track his mileage, has a clock, and keeps track of his various speeds. They then hit Home Depot where they got the supplies to finally finish my bathroom. We hung out here for a bit then Karen and I took off pajama shopping. After three stores we met success, grabbed a whack of pizza on the way home and then enjoyed some more hanging out til it was almost bedtime for some.

Good times with good friends.

and as an aside, I'm going to be an auntie again.....

Spring has Sprung yet again....

The air is mild, the ski hill closed, the birds are chirping, and my plants are budding and sending up new growth. This is simply NOT normal for the 13th of January. I miss the fun of playing in the snow, of spending weekends at the hill with Daniel and friends. I love to garden but now is not the time. I want SNOW!!!!!!!

It was in fact murder....

Our teacher was in fact found to be murdered. Reporters were at the school yesturday when I went to get Claire, and there were more on our street when we were heading home. This is very disturbing for all of us and especially those who knew her personally. The question remains about who killed her and why. The school has informed the students that although Ms. Gallant was harmed, and found in the trunk of her car, in the school yard, that they are safe at school.

Our community is a quiet little place. Scary to think that murder happens anywhere, let alone literally in your back yard!

PANIC!!!!!

Poor Claire. She was asked to eat some spanish rice tonight for supper. I separated the meatballs from the rice as she prefers to have "naked" meatballs. I also gave her the tiniest little pile of rice. The kids wanted chocolates after supper and I being the evil mother that I am, told her she needed to try some of the rice or she would get no sweets. She didn't want anything on the rice. Major panic ensued as Hud tried to take a grain of rice at a time, clean it off and give the fork to her. DAD, DAD, I saw an onion!!!!!!!!! EEEEEWWWWWWW get the tomatoe off it!!!!! She did manage, in the end, to eat about twenty grains of rice one or two at a time, and gag down (literally) three meatballs. It's amazing to me that she is growing at all.

Girls Night Out!

The girls from the book club and I went out last night to see Memoirs of a Geisha as we had read the book a few months ago. Before the movie however, we went out for Japanese food. Some of the girls were a little afraid that we would be dining on raw fish but they were in for a treat. We ate and ate of the most sumptious food imaginable. One of the girls however thought that the wasabi sauce was avacado so scooped it up and put it in her mouth in one go. She was in AGONY!!!! She felt the burning all through her head and she expected to see flames coming out of her ears. She survived and was eventually able to continue on. So many different flavours, all prepared different ways. It was a real experience.

The movie itself was great, not following the book completely but that was really no surprise. It didn't really portray some things as much as the book had but it still was amazing.

Of course, a bunch of girls can't just go home so we went out for dessert. After figuring out what we would each have and being brought desserts big enough to feed a family we enjoyed much laughter as we picked on the poor waiter. He humoured us in fine form, and didn't seem any worse for wear when we left.

At the end we were all ready to crash as most of us are early to bedders. We made it home and I crawled into my cozy bed and fell asleep in minutes. I still feel full this morning, maybe I won't eat today!

Tagged by Jodi.....

"The first player of this game starts with the topic five weird habits of yourself and people who get tagged need to write an entry about their five weird habits as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose the next five people to be tagged and link to their web journals."

1) I can't stand the kids walking on the carpet after I have vacumned it.

2) I have an obsession with brushing my teeth. So far it has served me well, I have no cavities. I am so obsessed however that before I call people on the phone I need to make sure my teeth are clean!

3) Hud, when driving, puts his left foot on the side of bump at the far left of the drivers floor. It irritates me to no end as it gets it dirty and in this weather, salty. I can't help myself and I have to tell him to take it off.

4) I am obsessed with my living room curtains hanging just right. To the entertainment of neighbors etc if they get messed up due to the kids, I go in and out of the house frigging with them and looking at them until they are as I think they should be.

5) I have a hard time making a decision without talking to Karen first. Big decisions anyway......

I now tag: Connie, Margie, Busymom, Lori, and Cathy

It was a dark and stormy night......

Dark, rainy, and mild. Not so much winter weather. Jammies, homemade pizza, and a movie, and the kids and I are settled in for a night of cozy relaxation.

After school we went out to get the kids some badly needed new clothes. The boys have grown inches in the past month or so. We hit Old Navy and managed to walk away with much for not much. Jeans for Claire rang up at the cash for $3.97. You can't get much better than that!

Frustration abounds when......

~One is expecting something and it doesn't happen.

~One is trying to build a train track with one's three year old and one simply cannot find the pieces one needs to do as one wants.

~One has a hankering for something and the cupboards are empty, yielding anything other than what one is looking for.

~One's son packs himself to go away to a friends, packing extra in case of wretched weather that would keep him from getting home, and then neglects to bring said extras home thereby leaving a large gap in his wardrobe causing his mother to double time on the laundry so that although he is wearing the same clothes over again at least they are clean.

~One gets the house all back in order again after the festivities of the season and no-one pays any heed and simply dumps their things willy nilly here and there.

I guess that's enough rant for today, and now I feel better and will head back to train tracking with Sam who couldn't care less whether or not the track is set up as mommy wants it. He's just glad to be having fun!!!

Poor Sam couldn't handle anymore fun, flopped upside down on the sofa and went to sleep.......

So .....what's new?

We seem to have settled nicely back into the regular swing of things without really any incident. The kids were back to school yesturday, and Sam to pre-school today. One of his classmates, the son of one of his teachers ,was diagnosed with leukemia over the holidays. He is three. This world is full of such sadness and not so nice turns. I can't imagine being given such news. They say the prognosis is good, but it is a two and a half year long treatment with no way of knowing the outcome until the very end.

We got an e-mail from a friend today telling us that as of last night he and his girlfriend are engaged. Some good news in all of the unpleasant anyway.

The weather is still so unwinterish except the temperature, that playing outside is not so much fun. One can't make snowforts with no snow.

Karen and I are now in the process of planning a trip for spring break. It likely won't be anywhere far afield but will involve a couple nights stay in a hotel. So long as it has a pool that is. Two moms, six kids.....that'll be nothing but chaos but think of the fun.

From our house, well actually the neighbors, to yours.....

FESTIVITIES......

New Years Eve was spent over at the neighbors house with fun for all. We had a Twister tournament which Claire and I seem to be very good at. Not looking forward to seeing some of the photos I know were taken. Unbelievably, all of the kids managed to stay awake until midnight at which point much noise was created. We enjoyed beautiful weather so were even able to have a bon-fire. Good food and good fun made it a great night. New Years day found us with a house full of friends from the valley with much more good food. The kids were thrilled to have all their friends here. Daniel went back to the valley with Adam and is on the ski hill today snowboarding for the first time this season. He and the rest of them should sleep well tonight.

And so begins our year. I dismantled many of the decorations today, and the tree is at the side of the road. Seems sad in a way but I do look forward to all this year holds for us. The kids head back to school tomorrow, and then real life begins again......

BE SAFE AND HAVE FUN!!!!!!!

And we thought we lived in a safe neighborhood!!!

This morning police found the body of a woman in her 30's in the trunk of a car in the school parking lot. Rumour has it that it is actually a teacher from the school. Her family reported her missing last night. Helicopters have been flying very low over our home the last hour or so, not quite sure what they are looking for, but we are all thinking it must be related.

It's sad that we all have this false sense of security; nothing can hurt us in this safe family oriented neighborhood. How do we go about explaining this to our children who return to school next week?

~update~ Sadly the rumours are true. The woman found was in fact Paula Gallant, a grade three teacher at Daniel's school. She was the mother of an 18 month old. They even interviewed one of her students on the news this evening. She will be missed deeply. Grief counselling will be available to the students on their return to school next week.

The helicopters were in fact related, taking pictures of the neighborhood.

What will they think of next?!?

This is one of Sam's most entertaining gifts. Darth Tator!!! He's hilarious! 

Christmas Sparkle....

One of the things I find so peaceful about Christmas aside from the greatest gift ever given, is the softness of the lights on the tree. I can sit for long periods of time just enjoying the stillness. Now that the rush is over, the panic over last minute things is gone, my evenings are even more relaxed and special. I'm hoping that all of you are now able to find some quiet moments for yourself in which you can reflect on all that is important and dear to you. Let us take nothing for granted. 

Cozy creatures, only a "little" excited!

Waiting for Santa.......

A collection of some of the christmas activites. I love the picture in the middle of Craig and Claire. They look so peaceful just enjoying the wonder of the night.

Just to let you know....

I am a stupid woman!!!

oh my, oh my......

A visit to my Gram's is never dull, but at Christmas we always have a special time. Today we went for brunch. Her home is a lovely little winterized cottage, not so child proof that I can totally relax! Anyhoo, we arrived at 9:30 this morning and right away she serves egg nog. Now there was some child friendly nog, but ours was far from kid proof. Two large glasses later on an empty stomach and I was near done. We then sat down to brunch. I ended up sending the hooligans outside so we could have some quiet and mellow adult conversation. Of course, after brunch we had to have a couple of slippery nipples. Very yummy, but oh my, I'm thinking I now need a LONG nap.

I have plopped the kids in front of the TV to watch a movie, Hud has left for work and I am just going to putter VERY slowly about the house getting ready for our open house tomorrow.......

Hope you are all ready for the joyous season nearly upon us and that you are all able to sit back and relax with your dear family and friends. Cheers to all of you!!!

just a thought....random at that.....

~Alison unleased+ a tin of Quality Street Chocolates= a very happy and hyper Alison~

Hope the rest of you are enjoying all of the treats of the season as much as I, ever mindful of our blessings. (However they present themselves!)

And so we say good-bye.....

The funeral for Matyas' was this afternoon. What a heart wrenching service. One of the biggest things that touched me was the difference in our cultures as far as how we express our grief. We would be inclined to weep silently, putting on a brave face. Samea on the other hand wept openly and loudly. Her grief was so intense. She could hardly walk down the aisle as she hasn't eaten more than a few sips of soup the last few days. Hudson said that last night at the visitation was even more heart breaking as she cried so much, almost to the point of falling asleep. At one point she reached over and rubbed Matyas' head speaking quietly to him.

Please continue to pray for her and her children. She has stopped nursing the baby, and is still not talking with the others. Hudson will go again tomorrow to be with the children.

The family was featured on the news last night and was on the front page of the paper today and today many, many calls from people wanting to help have come into the church and for that we are all very thankful.

Be extra thankful for your families, and stay safe!

And in the Midst of Joy, Tragedy!

Yesturday, while we were enjoying the snow, the youth group girls were here baking cookies for people in our congregation, and many others were going about the business of the season, a young man from our church was killed in a car accident on one of our busiest highways. He leaves behind a wife and five children. The youngest only three weeks old. They had come to Canada only a few short years ago, the language still very much a barrier for his wife. He had been working as a custodian until last month when there was not enough work for him. The family has very little, and now are even worse off.
Hudson will go this afternoon to be with the oldest boy who is not speaking to anyone. The pain is unimaginable. The fear probably equals the pain.
This puts a whole new perspective on life, how we spend time with each other, and what we choose to make important in our lives. My prayer is that I no longer take for granted the moments with my children and Hudson. That I never assume that I will have a tomorrow. I need to make the best of every moment I am blessed with.

**update** Hud just called as he was leaving their home. Since she was told of Mathias' death, his wife has not spoken to her children. She nurses the babe when he is hungry, but her grief is so intense that she can't cope. She has not left her bed since last evening. All of their Sudanese friends are at the apartment. There is some talk of her wanting to return to her home. Simon was in his room with his sister surounded by his friends but there are two younger ones as well who have not only lost their father, but for the time being are without their mother as well. Pray that she is able to find comfort in her children. That her pain would be alleviated enough that she can nurture her children through this as well.

Our first snowfall of 2005, and it was a good one! I came out in my jammies to take some pics. Looking at me Hud says..." and that's why we call her Barbie!" It's a beautiful day, light wind and sparkling snow. Who could ask for a better Saturday?

Remember When?

Post a comment with a COMPLETELY MADE-UP, FICTIONAL MEMORY OF YOU AND ME. It can be anything you want--good or bad--and can include fellow bloggers, if you wish. Keep it within a PG rating, please. I'm anxious to read about our fictional past.I encourage you to do this on your blog, so I can post some made-up memories about you too! I seem to recall you milking a cow for the first time.....

Thanks to Jamie Dawn for this fabulous idea!

Christmas Mice.....

At the moms group today, we made the cutest little mice. Totally edible, I thought they may be something fun that some of you might like to do with the kids.
Simply separate a double cream oreo cookie
dip stemmed marachino cherry in melted chocolate
immediately stick on a hershey kiss
place on the cookie
snip mini marshmallows into little ears
use green and red gel icing for holly, and red for the eyes......

'tis the season for good fun. We even had a light dusting of snow last night....things are getting festive!

HAPPY DECEMBER.......

This is the tap Dance part of Claire's christmas recital for the seniors....

Powered by Castpost

Claire , although sick with a snotty nose etc, participated in her ballet recital at a seniors complex last night. She seemed to enjoy it although perhaps a little off balance.....

Powered by Castpost

And for Andrea and Cori we have LIPS ALMIGHTY!!!!!!!

Here you are girls! Who's lips are who's? Can you guess? This picture required a second evening of purple lipdom....hope you have enjoyed it! Lips seem to be the thing these days.......

Show me the prince !!!!

According to a test I took off Andreas blog, I am a romantic princess who is most likely to free a cursed prince from a terrible spell with a single kiss. Well as we learned awhile ago I am the kisser of men, so it would only be right! But I want to know why it has to stop with a single kiss?!? Bring on the royalty!!!!!!!

Just so everyone knows, we all look glamorous in purple glittered lip gloss. Hud won't know what hit him when he walks in the door and sees a family full of purple lips!

Christmas is coming.....

And the baking's underway! Date balls, and chocolate cherry cordials, and shortbreads too. Wonder what to make next. Fruitcake yet to go.....

More and more of my christmas lights are burning out. Sooooo frustrating since they were already up in the windows. Nova Scotia power will exchange 2 sets of regular lights for 1 LED set at the annual tree lighting this weekend. Perhaps I'll have to make sure that I am there!

Some girls are coming over tonight to work on christmas cards and wrapping paper. It's much more fun making them with friends. Good food, good friends, the perfect way to spend an evening!

Of course the weather is anything but winter wonderlandish. Rain, wind and more rain!

"tis the season to be jolly.......

And so the season begins.....

Tonight was the annual Parade Of Lights in Halifax. We thought we were going to be late but actually got a great parking spot and then a fabulous spot to stand. We were actually so close that a couple of times as some really big floats came by, we and those around us had to move. Claire and Sam loved it, Daniel would have preferred to be home in bed. Next year he can stay home! At this parade you have the opportunity to bring in food for the food bank and toys for needy kids. I was thrilled to see the trucks responsible for collecting the stuff overflowing. The giving was incredible! I'm hopeful that as we head further into the season that people remember what we are celebrating and that the generosity never stops.....

So much ......

for my evening all to myself. Hud is away overnight, so I was looking forward to a bubble bath and a good book, and a bed all to myself. Sam had other ideas! He's enjoying a late afternoon nap which means it's mom and Sam date night. Not that he is a bad date, it's just that I was looking forward to some solitude at the end of a crazy week.

Mmmmmmmm......

The smell of ham cooking, and the coziness of being inside on a torentially rainy day........

The girls are back.....

We are back from our weekend away and we feel that we are rested and ready for the onslaught of the season. We settled into our hotel room, went for a swim, spent some time in the hot tub and sauna. We were starving so went for a fairly early supper at Baahn Thai where we ate much spicy food. After walking around a bit we went back to the hotel, dropped off our coats etc, and went to a cafe in the bottom of the hotel complex. I had never experienced the incredible taste and texture of a flourless chocolate cake. I enjoyed it so much that I am endeavoring to make it for tomorrow night's bookclub.
After dessert, we thought we should hit the pool again. We traipsed our way to the pool in our robes and on rounding the corner, we were met by two men coming out of the pool area. They greeted us with " Oh man, there are four of them!" We had a good laugh and enjoyed some more relaxing, 'til we decided that we were ready for some wine and snacks. Once back in our room we got comfy in our jammies, broke open the wine etc, and spent the rest of the evening enjoying good food, and some interesting conversation! At two we turned out the lights, at two thirty we were being woken by the phone. The front desk was calling to tell us that our pizza had arrived. I told the guy on the other end that we had not ordered any. He wished us a good night and we managed to go back to sleep. Until six thirty that is when the alarm clock went off! We went back to sleep 'til almost eight at which point we went back to the pool.
We then hit the market, went out for brunch , and then went across the harbour to spend the rest of the day and evening shopping. We ended it all off by having chinese food for a late supper, then I got dropped off and the others all went on to the valley. Good times with good friends. It doesn't get much better than that!

And we're off....

Nancy, Christine, Karen and I are heading out for our latest 24 hrs+ of freedom. Nancy is putting us up in a hotel on her airmiles, we are going to eat much spicy food, shop, swim, try to get Nancy to sing with the piano player at the bar in the hotel, etc,etc.....

Here we go again...high wind, and water in the house...

This would be the shutter that flew past our neighbors living room window landing under yet another neighbors car. It seems we just went through this not long ago. Everybody else manages to keep theirs, but we always lose one or more in any good storm. The water bucket is close to half full, with the source of the leak still unkown. We only know it is on the west wall of the house somewhere! Maybe in the spring we will dismantle that side of the house and start from scratch! One can always count on some issue or another with us!

So the dilemna is.....

Due to the fact that I am going grey at an amazing rate, do I go gracefully or start now down the road of hiding the grey. And if I do that, at what point is it cool to have the nasty roots while letting myself go back to au naturel?

Mental health days, and other things ....

Our first mental health day was had today by Daniel. He just couldn't cope with things this morning so I gave him the option to get dressed and head to school or head back to bed for the day. He chose the latter. I must say it has been a great day for both of us. We got to have lunch together, almost alone.... worked on his spybotic and just enjoyed some time together.
Today was the last day of cranking his mouth wider and he's off at the orthodontist with his father, where we will learn how long he needs to have the appliance in his mouth. Last appointment they were very pleased with the progress, now it's just the jaw that needs to be pushed into it's proper spot.

Claire has been enjoying her piano lesons and gets soooo excited when she actually plays her pieces by herself with little or no help. It's fabulous to see such joy in her eyes.

Sam is happy being Sam. He's crashed now on the couch in the family room, tired out from all of the fresh air. He has been enjoying Daniel's lego more and more, everything he creates being one type of weapon or another.

Beef and barley soup is cooking away in the slow cooker, filling the house with such a yummy smell, the sun is shining and the wind is blowing. A perfect fall day.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CRAIG!!!!!!!

I'm so proud of you and I'm so glad that you are my brother. You add so much to our times together and I couldn't ask for a better uncle for my kids. We all love you! I hope this year, your thirtieth, is the best one yet!

Tell me.....

How it is that Samuel managed to get himself stuck under the stove? I was downstairs switching laundry, and talking on the phone with Karen when I heard screaming from upstairs. I ran up as fast as my old lady knees would take me to find Sam tucked as close to the stove as possible, one arm underneath. I got down beside him and tried to pull him out, but it wouldn't budge. Not really familiar with the underside of a stove, I wasn't sure if he could have it caught in something so I didn't want to yank too hard and what I was doing was making him cry harder. Karen was still on the phone so I asked her to talk to Sam while I ran next door to get help lifting the stove.
As I'm leaving the house I hear him saying to Karen..."no I'm not fine! I'm stuck...." Come to find out later she had asked him not if he was fine but rather could he hear her!

Tracey came right over and we lifted the stove without too much trouble and Sam was free. He almost immediately started to laugh. Goon! He had been chasing a silly rubber bouncy ball! I knew I didn't like those foolish things. Anyway, all is well and we are back to our normal selves again.......

Latest keywords that bring up my blog.....

'I know she was watching me october 2005' what on earth does that mean?
housewife home alone
free nudist cycling quite sure I never offered such a service
housewife nudist and again...what's with that?

Halloween with my brother. A yearly tradition. The kids love the fact that Uncle is tireless, and will go as long as they are able to walk.... pumpkins and gourd greeting all of the trick or treaters, all 200+ of them!

Worlds Dullest Blog...... and I thought I never had anything interesting to say!

Of Bagels and other great things......

Today I tried something new. Making my own bagels. Not a difficult task at all and they even came out looking like "real" bagels!

The kids were thrilled as they seem to be their mainstay as of late. Daniel thinks they taste better than store bought, Claire is not so sure but is not willing to give any up. Sam only says mmmmmm......

I finished a fabulous book this morning. The Kite Runner. Absolutely incredible story and such a great read. Our book club will be discussing it at my place in November, and I can't wait to hear what everyone else thought of it.

The kids were home today, and we couldn't have had better weather. Sunny, mild and wind free. The kids had a great time out in the leaves, and helping to drape the trees with cobwebs. Here's hoping monday night is as nice...

Homemade pizza night here at our house, followed by a movie and pop-corn. The kids have such funny tastes, Claire likes olives and cheese, Sam olibes (spelled that way on purpose) and bacon, and Daniel is willing to try just about anything. I'm happy so long as their are olives and hot peppers, and lots of veggies. Hud misses out as he is at work.

Mom was here for a couple of days this week, and the kids had a blast. Especially the last day when they discovered that she was very good at air hockey.

Hope everyone has a safe and happy weekend......

Now if only I could somehow get my hands on the money......

My blog is worth $14,113.50.
How much is your blog worth?

Yes Dad...this is just how I want my mouth to be!

A little help from Grammy....

Working hard.....

Jake wanting not to miss out on any pumpkin sampling!

Mustn't miss any seeds for roasting.....

Like my top?

Sam chose not to have a pumpkin as he couldn't find one small enough, so he opted for a gourd instead!

The finished product!

What's up with the roses still blooming at the end of October?

One of the last Hollyhocks....

And today from Andrea we have this game......

Go to http://www.google.com/ and select Images. Type in your responses to the questions below and choose a picture from the first page only that represents your answer.

Your home town?
The town/city where you now live?
Last years favorite Christmas present?
Your occupation?
Your hobby or pastime?
What's your favorite meal?
Favorite smell?
Your ideal vacation spot?

Halifax

Where do I live now?
Time with my family was by far the best gift!
Stay at home mom is my job
Gardening
Thai food at Talay Thai
Vanilla
The Bahamas

Would you be concerned.....

if, when you turned your back, your three year old was trying to ignite his dinner roll using the candles in the center of the table?

Sam the dog farmer, all geared up for his pre-school harvest party.

Alone and other things.....

Hud is away this weekend with the youth. I am here with the kids. I love having the bed to myself, but I hate the noises of the night when I am alone. Last night I was awakened by a sound like dishes from downstairs. Me being me, was terrified and therefore frozen under my duvet. It didn't help matters when I started thinking about the show Criminal Minds that I had watched the night before, where women were being attacked in their homes in the middle of the day. I lay there torturing myself for a couple of hours 'til sleep finally won out again. I wasn't nearly ready for the day when the boys climbed in with me at 6:30.

Karen and her kids came later in the morning and we spent the day watching them tear through the house so glad to be together again. After we cleaned up from lunch we sat down while the kids played, watched movies etc, and made some christmas cards. YES....I know it's early, but it's best to get at it when a spare moment is found. Just like old times, hanging out, making plans for home renos, drinking far too much tea than is good for one's bladder and laughing 'til we wet ourselves. We enjoyed one of our favorite suppers together, loving the kids antics at the table. We had shared thanksgiving dinner at their place last week, so it was a real treat being together again so soon.

Andrea's post was very fitting, reminding us all not to take our friendships for granted as they can be altered so easily by circumstance. Distance is not my best friend, it sure makes things different, but I'm willing to do what's necessary to keep it alive.

Daniel's retainers are strange, having to crank his mouthpiece wider on a daily basis is odd, and a little nauseating as he gags when the crank gets to the back of his tongue. So far we have managed not to have a mess but it's been close a couple of times.

Underwear boy lives on, ready to take on any enemies he feels are present. He spends his days flying through the house with some sort of sword. Andrew sent he and Daniel some little wooden knives he carved for them and so now Sam is properly equiped for his rampages.

Claire is loving school and is so very organized in regards to her homework and everything else school. She has been on her toes keeping us as a family on the ball in regards to our thanksgiving leaves that we write on every night in Oct. After every supper she brings us leaves and a pen and we need to come up with what we are thankful for. Her best one yet is bananas dipped in chocolate. I'd have to agree on that one.

Off to tuck a wee boy into bed...planning on enjoying a good book listening to the rain as it continues to pour outside.

And now we give you ....

Bumbling Bav! AAAHHHH Whooo Hooo AAAHHHH!

**bav steps forward and motions crowd to settle back into their seats**

Thank you friends for such a warm welcome. Today I would like to talk to you about FRIENDSHIP.

** more cheering**

Thank you. I feel so blessed to be here and to speak of such a heart felt topic. You see friendship can be a life saving gift. We all have it in us to give... but do we all not drop the ball for time to time. Do we not get caught up in our own lives forgetting the things others may be going through.

**crowd is very quiet**

Lets start with this new thing called BLOGGING. You see when you go and start up a blog you slowly build friendships. And you may have things happening in your life and the blog gets put to the side. You are then taking your friendships that you were giving through said blog, and leaving you devoted (very beautiful and smart) friends just hanging.

**big gasp from crowd**

I know, I know ... you say you would never do that. But people I am telling you... I have been one of those people myself. Shshshsh, settle down. I know this sounds horrid. And I promise this will have a good outcome. Please stay with me.

You see, I have left my blog. I too have not updated for days. (tearing up) This is so hard to talk about. (wipes nose with sleeve) And I too have let my friendships go stale with no love or attention. But then I got a call. No it was not a burning bush. It was a call from my friend Alison. You will all get to know her in a minute. You see Alison saw that I was letting go. She, being a good friend called me on accountability. And with that call, (deep breath) I saw that the friendships I had planted on my blog had grown and become a park full of life.

Alison gave me friendship and I hope that I too can repay the favor. For Friendship should be given freely so that the garden can continue to grow.

**crowd goes crazy, people are cheering and crying**

People... People... My friend Alison!

TAGGED

I was tagged by Margie....

1. Go into your archive.
2. Find your 23rd post.
3. Find the fifth sentence (or closest to).
4. Post the text of the sentence in your blog along with these instructions.
5. Tag five other people to do the same.

Here's my 23rd posts fifth sentence:

" Oh daddy, I can't get to the door..there is just too much lava!"

I tag...Lori, Emily, and Cori, and anyone else who wishes to play!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

I'm now sexier than ever!

Hear the sarcasm! Went to physio this afternoon, enjoyed the normal ultrasound, and electric stuff, and then got to have my knee caps taped in place! When I squeeze my muscle, instead of moving up and down they move side to side. The taping is supposed to force them where they are meant to go. Crazy theory...we'l see if it helps! So for now, I am walking around stiffly with giant bandaid type things on my knees. It's really a shame that summer seems to be back, and it's too hot for pants!

It's going to be a long month....

Sam came to me after it was dark outside last evening and asked if it was time NOW to go christmas treating! Not only is he confusing his festivities, he is also way ahead of schedule!