Sunday, December 23, 2007

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Prayer Request

To save sending a ton of facebook messages I shall blog.

We finally found out that Jonny does not have West Nile. Normally this would be a good thing. However, he is still sick and still off work. Also, he has been having these killer headaches that will actually be so painful he will throw up. Because of this his doctor is sending him to a neurologist so that we can find out what is going on.

Please pray for Jonny. The Bible says where two or more are gathered in God's name he is there. I believe the same is true in prayer.

ps. I'm sad today.

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

The Storm

Two blogs in one month - almost unheard of it seems. But as I sit here while Emerie and Jonny are both getting some much needed sleep I can't think about how fortunate we are. It's no secret we're going through a bit of a rough patch right now - which has made me have a lot of heart to heart conversations with God lately. Reading my Bible today I came across a letter written by Gigi Graham Tchividjian (Billy Graham's daughter), who by the way I saw her son on tv today and he talked quite a bit about his family. A coincidence I happen upon this note? I think not.

Here goes:

I lay on the soft white sand while the children played happily in the surf nearby. Suddenly a shadow fell across my face. I looked up just in time to see the sun disappearing behind a big thunderhead. I turned my gaze to the ocean, which only moments before had been a bright mirror reflecting the blue sky. Now the whitecaps danced restlessly, and the gray waves angrily pounded the shore. Before I could collect the children and run for shelter, the heavens opened and the rain poured down. I was amazed how quickly the storm had gathered.
As we huddled in the shelter, my mind wandered back to anther storm.
Jesus had had a busy day. Helping, healing, and teaching, he was surrounded constantly by people. Now it was evening. As Jesus gazed out over the peaceful blue of the Lake Galilee, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side" (Mark 4:35). The set out in a small boat and soon Jesus fell asleep.
While he was resting, a powerful storm arose. The waves beat against the sides of the ship, filling it with water. The disciples were afraid and cried out to him, saying, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?" Jesus got up and looke dotu over the sea. He saw the waves and felt the wind and said, "Quiet, be still!" And all was calm again. Then he turned to his disciples, "Why do you have so little faith?" (Mark 4:35-41), author's paraphrase).
Storms arise in our lives, too. A telephone call brings sudden jolting news. A letter brings disappointment. A child has an accident. A small pain develops into a serious illness. Death...divorce...financial reverses. Or maybe the source of distress is jus the everyday pressures and tensions that build and bulid unti the thunderhead erupts into a storm.
I, too, have ahd my share of storms. Some have been brief afternoon showers. Others have been caused by tensions that have burst upon my life suddenly, hitting had and leaving in their wake damage and debris. Like the disciples I have been afraid and have cried out, "Lord, don't you care?" And later, when all is calm agian, I hear him say, "Gigi, why do you have so little faith?"
He has never promised a life free from stomrs, but he has romised to be with us in the midst of them and to bring us safely to the other side if we believe in him and rely on him.

Okay, It's Leah again. Isn't that a great little letter? A week ago I was definatley asking God why he wasn't looking out for us. No sooner had I asked God that question we then started to receive God and his blessings. I see now that we never really were in any real danger and that we were in God's care and God's plan the entire time. Praise God for all of you who God has used to help pull us through all of this. We do see a light at the end of this seemingly endless tunnel that we've found ourselves in.

Saturday, September 15, 2007

Up-diddly-date

Well at the request of my adoring fans I am updating my blog.

It seems like so much is new but the only thing that is on my mind these days is Jonny. A loving sentiment? Maybe. But really it is (as most of you know) because he has been so sick lately. We appreciate everyone's concern and prayers. He really is feeling better. It started about two weeks ago he was sent home from work. We've been in and out of the doctor's since then. He's been tested for west nile and mono. One doctor even asked if he had been out of the country and caught malaria somehow. They've ruled out mono and malaria (obviously) but we are still waiting for the west nile test to come back. I guess to make a long story short Jonny's still off work (by doctor's orders). Hopefull this clears up soon, work needs him and we need him working ;)

Moving on to more exciting things. Last night was the Beyonce concert. Soooo good. Beyonce doesn't exactly make my top ten list as far as music goes but we went with a group and we sat sooooo close and she really is a great performer. I was excited because Sean Kingston was opening for her and I really like "Me Love". What a disapointment he was - I don't think he sang a single note on key. I have the say the part of the evening that was most humerous to me was because we were so close and off to the side we could see all the goings on back stage. At one point about 3 or 4 of the roadies were doing all the dance moves as the dancers on stage at the same time as them. Very funny for me to witness this, but very distracting.

So today there is a dance in Melfort (this is just for Shannon and Kristy's benefit). I really wish I could be there ladies - but alas I must stay and look after my hubby. After all, as you say, I am whipped.

Thursday, August 02, 2007

Summer...so far.

FUDGE!!!!! I just finshed this blog and then my stinkin computer froze and I lost it all. Hmmm - serves me right for not saving. People - save your blogs periodically before posting! ARGH!!

Okay - enough venting - happy thoughts - happy thoughts.

So on to summer things. This summer seems to have been stupidly busy. I have been working an insane amount of hours. Like some 87 hours a pay period - so much for part time. Oh well - it turns out I really like money - or spending it rather - so this works out good for me.
I have had a little bit of time for some fun so let me tell you about that instead of boring you with details about my fabulous job.


Well, in July my dad got married - I supposed that is blog worthy, wouldn't ya think? So I now have a new step mother, Joanne, two step sisters, Amber and Jenna, and two step brothers, Justin and Cody.
It really was the place that they got married that impressed me the most. This place is set up like the wild west. It was so cool. This must be Saskatoon's best kept secret.You can actually rent one of the houses and stay for the night. It's like having a sleepover in boomtown. Crazy!

These are goats. I dared not get any closer than this. There was a sign on the bridge "Goat Drop Pass". This too me said "Don't come any closer unless you would like to be pooped on". Nuff said.Ah yes, Satanic chickens. I tried to touch one and it growled at me in it's very chickenish way, I swear it told me to "bruck off".

I always thought the idea of "family camp" would be absolutely lame. Turns out I'm wrong. Living Waters was a blast. We will definately be going back next year.
There was tons of our friends there that we got to hang out with. Even the girls found friends to play with.Speaking of friends. My friend Megan, who I hadn't seen in 3 years came to visit me. Alanna and I double dated with Megan and her daughter Cassidy at The Cave. I don't think I've laughed that hard during a meal in a long time. Turns out our girls are quite the comedians. The girls made fast BFFs and put on little dances for us afterwards. It was "just one more" up until they were sent to bed. Alanna and I hope that it isn't three more years until they visit again.

So that is the first half of my summer, in a nut shell. I hope everyone's summer is equally as fun - maybe a little less busy - as mine has been. August looks like it'll be just as full so I'll post a blog for the second half of summer later on.

Sunday, July 01, 2007

Ears Pierced...again.

So to preface this story - Alanna had her ears pierced when she was 4 six months later on my wedding day I went to change her earrings - for the first time. She panicked because she thought it was going to hurt like when we got them pierced so we got the earrings out but she wouldn't let us put ones back in. So of course, her holes have since grown in.

Today Alanna decides that she would like to pierce them again because she is brave enough and really would like them. So we go to the mall and she meticulously picks out the exact pair that she would be most happy with. They pierce the one side and she decides that she cannot bare the pain of having the other side done and won't get it done. OH FOR THE LOVE OF PETE!!!

To make a long story extremely short after much coaxing and bribing and grocery shopping she decides that she'll get the other side done because she can't very well walk around with only one ear pierced. (and by now the other side isn't hurting anymore) Then when we get back in the store she decides she can't go through with it again. I'm sure other people in the mall thought we were making our kid get her ears pierced without her consent at all. So finally she agrees but only if I get mine done as well. So I agree that I will get mine done as soon as she does hers. So then she agrees that that is acceptable and says to the lady that she can go ahead. So they lady (who is using a gun) is pretty wound up after this kid has made such a fuss in the store - her hands are now shaking which I wasn't going to point out in front of Alanna. But then the gun is jammed so with it up to Alanna's ear it is clicking but not actually piercing anything. Way to psych the poor kid out. But alas it finally works and Alanna is now pierced in both ears.

So as we are leaving Alanna says wait a minute....your supposed to get yours done too. Oh...yeah.

Now, I have been pierced a ton of times all recently with a needle(both my ear lobes, the top of my left ear, my tongue, and my navel three times) so I'm like this is no big deal. So after the gun clicks a few times to psych me out it turns out that the gun friggin hurts. I guess I should mention that because I'm me and really don't like doing anything too normal I only got the one side pierced and it turns out I quite like it.

I told Alanna that I would take pictures of us for my blog - she says that my earring did not show up enough - hence the close up.

Thursday, June 28, 2007

The Zip Line

So the weekend of my cousin Elise's wedding turned out to be quite an unexpected adventure but tons of fun. She was married out in the boonies and then the reception was in an equally boonyish location so for those of us who had nowhere to go between locations decided to go out to the reception place. Which was the Shekinah Retreat Centre (Shawn - I highly recommend this place for the next youth retreat). So we're sitting there hanging out bored out of our skulls when this strapping young man comes up to us and says that if we wanted to go on the zip line he would man it for us.

Me and my sis take one look at eachother and off we go to change.

First of all Mr. Man did not tell us that there was going to be so much walking involved. I was tired before I even reached the hill. Meanwhile my 13 year old cousins are walking like they do this all the time ;) (I'm so out of shape). So we get to this hill (which is hardly considered a hill) and I'm like oh, this'll be no problem (yeah right). So I decide to head the train up the hill. Well I can't look like a complete goof so I'm trying to truck up this hill has fast as I can. About half ways up I'm just short of dropping to my knees and crawling the rest of the way. But I was quite proud of myself that I did not and kept up my pace (for appearances only). So Kellyn and I as soon as we hit the top were basically holding eachother up so as not to pass out on the spot. This treturous climb did not even phaze Alanna - oh to be 7 again.

btw - my weight loss is now at a grand total of 12 lbs as of last Saturday.

So yeah - then we zipped from the top of our hill to the middle of another hill through the trees. Then you climb that other hill and zip from the top of that hill back to the first hill. The pictures are quite deceiving. Those trees that you see are the tops of the trees that are in the valley between the two hills. Amazing experience, I highly recommend it.

So I had to take pictures of the zip lining stuff - then my camera died so I did not get one picture of the wedding party.



Monday, June 25, 2007

Happy Anniversary! - to me?

So this weekend was my parents 7th anniversary. So, as generous as my parents always are - they invited us over for supper.

Oh my GAWD!!!! It was amazing. Mom had set up a little garden party for us all in the back yard where we dined on crab legs, steak and red wine. Anyone who knows me knows that this is my dream meal. Why wouldn't this be anyone's dream meal, for that matter. During dessert (which by the way - was a fruit and marshmallow chocolate fondue) my parents announced that they are taking me and my sister on a cruise!!! Can you beieve it? We will be gone for 9-ish days. I think the cruise (which is in the Nassau Islands) is for 3 days and the rest of the time we'll be hanging out in Fort Lauderdale. The only MUST DOs on our list so far is to go scuba diving and we are going to the everglades on one of those hovercraft boat thingys.

Seriously - I'm such a geek - I've never been anywhere - ever. I've never flown - so please try not to be annoyed with me in the next 6 months. I'll try not to talk about it ALL the time.

ps - horrifying near death experieince story still to come - please be patient.

Wednesday, June 20, 2007

The baby is 1!

So my baby girl is now a number. I cried for a week when Alanna turned one. For some reason I was definitely not sad about it this time.
We just had a small little wienie roast with my sister and her kids - Dave and Deb and their kids, Jonny's mom, and of course Uncle Torry.

ps - Kraft's creamy poppy seed dressing is amazazing!

So pictures - for you viewing pleasure (not like everyone that looks at this hasn't already seen them on facebook, lol)Did I mention - I love cake!
A little water to wash that down.
You didn't tell me there would be presents!
A little storey - Emerie has a thing with stuffed animals. It is like a pacifier with her - she loves to cuddle with them and she brings them close to her lips and almost sucks on them. It's very soothing for her. So of course she got a brand new puppy from Grandma and Grandpa for her bday.
Okay Alanna, now you need to show me how this thing works.

Stay tuned for blogs to come - This week I will tell you all about my near death experience climbing a mountain on the weekend. (my camera broke and I need the pictures to go along with the storey) The suspence must be killing you all.

Friday, June 01, 2007

Facebook

So, so, so addicted to Facebook now. I know I said I would never convert - but seriously I am in contact with people I haven't talked to in AGES! I just signed in yesterday and already I have 54 friends. Really - I wasn't aware I had that many friends - I am SO blessed.

In other news - I got a hair cut. I love, love, love it. Also, since starting work I have neglected Curves completely. Honestly, I have not gone once. HOWEVER!!!! Since starting work I have lost 8 pounds. Oh, faithful readers - how I'm sure you've longed for a happy blog from me.

How could I not be in such a good mood now that So You Think You Can Dance is on the air. Suck bliss.

Good night all! I promise not to neglect you.

Thursday, May 17, 2007

My Vacation

This morning before I even opened my eyes I could feel the warm sun shining through the window onto my face. The satin sheets felt so soft against my skin. But the best part really was the smell of the cool breeze rolling off the ocean into our beach front villa. I stretched my way into consciousness and Jonny came into the room with breakfast that was just delivered by room service. There is something to be said about fresh croissants, fruit, and hazelnutt coffee, mmmm.

After breakfast we took a stroll along the beach. I can't believe how tall the trees are on the island. The coolest thing was that we saw a giant sea turtle making it's way back into the water - what a majestic creature.

After a picnic lunch by the water we decided to head into the village to check out some of the local markets. We didn't buy anything but it was pretty interesting watching other tourists bartering.

Next we went back to our villa and had massages out on the patio, of course while sipping on virgin pina coladas.

It was pretty late by this point so we were going to just grab a quick bite somewhere and go to bed - but - we made the most amazing discovery. There was this little bistro tucked into a corner of the resort's grounds. It was outdoors and completely candle lit. I mean there were candles everywhere. We had the most amazing steak and crab legs ever and a chocolate fondu for desert.

What a perfect day!!

Keep dreaming, bloggers.

Wednesday, May 09, 2007

The Fashion Show

Hello All!

So I haven't blogged in what seems like a really long time. I know it seems like I've just been complaining a lot - really I've just been tired (and my whole family has been sick). But other than that things are going really well. I am really enjoying work. I've been getting a ton of hours - I've actually been turning down hours so that I can have one day off a week (which this week is Friday).

The exciting thing that has happened recently is that my family was in a fashion show on Sunday (hence why I was not in church on Sunday). I must say my family is extremely good looking. This was a fundraiser for The Learning Disabilities Association of Saskatchewan (which is where my mama works). Here are some pictures of my fam on the runway.






My mom looks like she is having tons of fun. Everytime it was her turn on the runway our table would hoot and holler at her. Someone made a comment that we were embarassing her, but I think that the picture shows that she was milking it.

My sister gave a speech honoring one of the SCORE teachers as my baby sis was one of graduates from that program. She was so nervous - she isn't the biggest fan of public speaking. I'm sure that me snapping pictures helped tons. Sorry the lighting on her was crappola.
Jonny and Torry sang as entertainment. Of course, they were phenominal. I wouldn't want to say too much but I do believe that they got an offer to play at a fairly significant event in the city this summer. Keep your ears open. I apologize, to Torry. I meant to get a picture of the two of them performing. Here is Jonny warming up before the show. And to follow are just some other random pics taken during the day.




Oh! And just as a note of pictures to come. Emerie is one her way to walking - I believe her record is about 6 feet.

Wednesday, May 02, 2007

Bad Luck / Good Luck?

Well yesterday was certainly adventerous. So I drove home from work at 3:30 - if you've been keeping tabs on my traffic whoes, I will have you know that at 3:30 the traffic is much better. Anyways, so I go and pick up the kidlets and then Jonny calls. Well, Jonny has a fitting at Anthony's because him and Alanna are both in a fashion show on Sunday (more on this to come). He would like for me to come with him to his fitting as a second opinion.

Sure - sounds like fun - hey, how bout I just drive out to Sleepers and we can leave the car there and then the fam can go out for supper afterwards. Super fun family time.

So I drive out to Sleepers with the kids to meet him at 5. So now I have basically volunteered to sit through the 5 traffic all the way down Idylwyld to downtown Saskatoon. Imagine my shgrin. The fitting went well - Jonny looked tres hot!

When we left we discovered that the vehicle parked next to us had gotten run into and had a busted passenger window - which totally sucked for them - they were still in the vehicle when it happened that there was two kids in the back seat (how scarey would that be).

So then we decide to stop at Walmart quick to pick up a few things. We get out and Alanna notices that our rear tire is completely flat. We could actually hear the air escaping. We knew that the tires were getting pretty bad but tires are so friggin expensive it just hasn't been a priority. Luckily Jonny had gotten his SGI rebate cheque in the mail that day so that would cover the tire expense. So we start talking to the Walmart tire dude and after looking at it he tells us that it can just be repaired and we don't have to replace the tire - turns out the tire isn't as bad as we thought. WOO HOO! While Jonny was going outside with Walmart dude I was getting a key cut and Walmart announcer dudette says - Attention - would the owner of a white Jeep Grande Cherokee please note that they have a flat tire. I'm like - thanks tips.

So then we just grabbed something quick at McDonalds and headed home because at this point we are beat. We get home and realized that we had forgotten the things that we needed to buy. So I get the kids ready for bed and Jonny runs back to the store. He gets back and we go to get a bottle ready for Emerie and realize that there is no more milk. URGH! So then it's my turn to go back to the store.

Sigh - today has been a much better day! Traffic was clear - both ways to work - and I didn't have to go to the store at all. The kids are in bed, Jonny's a choir - finally some down time all to myself.

Tomorrow - day off. Coffee with the ladies, hip hip!

Good evening, all.

Monday, April 30, 2007

The Traffic Report

It seems as though there is either construction or grid lock in every direction between work and home. Correction - it doesn't seem that way - it IS that way. Last Wednesday it took my 1 1/2 hours to get home.

I have had no time for blogging - no time for visiting - no time for cooking- no time for cleaning.

FYI things get better next week. At least I get two days off in a row.

Monday, April 23, 2007

Can I Get an Amen!

I'm not sure why I titled my blog that. I'm not planning on saying anything inspirational today. It is my day off I am officially required not to think too much. AMEN!!

To all those out there that I usually speak to/see on a regular basis - does it not feel like I have been wiped off the face of the planet? I feel so completely out of touch with my peeps. I'm going to coffee with my sister today, then tomorrow is chat n play - ps. Jenn and Lisa I will be contacting you for a coffee date for a hopeful tomorrow pm.

Oh! Did you hear that the pope declared that there will be no more Limbo? Can he do that? I don't believe in such a place but the Catholics have always believed that babies that haven't been baptised or those who haven't had a chance to decide if they are believers or not go to Limbo. Is it up to the pope to decide if this place exists or not? That would be like Pastor saying that there is no more heaven you will now be rerouted to Figi (or something to that effect).

Thursday, April 19, 2007

First Week Working

Phew! I have been absolutely bushed the past couple days. Since Tuesday I have been in training at my new job. Today was probably my most favorite day. I have discovered that I have learned so much more in just today than any other day. I actually got to jump on the phones and schedule bus routes myself today and it is so much better than just watching people do it. Once I got to actually work I found that my day just flew by. It can get really busy and there is always stuff to do when there aren't any calls coming in. Tomorrow I get to start dispatching - how exciting/terrifying.

I really like the ladies that I'm working with. And get this the only girl that I haven't met at work yet I actually think that I went to school with her in Grade 3. I work with her for the first time tomorrow so I guess I'll find out then.

Alanna has really been liking the before and after school program. She was having trouble with some of the kids on the bus so this is a really great thing for her. Emerie has been such a good girl this week. I know Jenna said she had a little trouble but Jenna's a big liar. Just kidding. I know Emerie probably was a little upset that she had to share someone's attention. She has been though, a perfect angel for grandma.

Well, tomorrow I start work tomorrow at 6am - there is not another one of these in my schedule as far as I can see - thank the Lord. However, I am going to bed now as I have to wake up at a very un-holy hour.

Good night all!

Monday, April 16, 2007

Don't Say Good-bye Just So Long

Sigh - today is my last day of official stay at home motherhood. Tomorrow I start training at my new job. Everybody has been asking me how I feel about starting work again. I'm really not sure what to say about it. I'm not really worried about leaving my girls - I'm confident with my sitters so that isn't really an issue at all. Plus I'll only be working part time so it isn't a huge deal at all. I can't say that I'm nervous about my first day. I've been "the new kid" my whole life and am pretty confident that the work will be quite manageable. I'm really excited to find out what days I will/will not be working so I can plan my life around them. But I am having trouble getting excited about going back. I've really been enjoying staying at home with the girls - it's not so much that they need me, I just like the idea of being home for them. Not too mention the social perks of being a stay at home mommy. Ah well - I'll post about my first day of work soon.



Tomorrow is the creme de la cremem of Epicure parties. I'm really excited - some awesome appys will be making an appearance. I know I've been telling people what kinds of things I will be making but what I haven't disclosed is the amazing things that my Epicure lady is bringing. Everyone is invited! If you are interested in coming and I haven't had a chance to give you the details of the when and where yet either leave me a comment or get a hold of me and I'll hook you up.

Things to look forward to - I am going to seek out a preview that I saw for a movie this weekend. The movie preview stated that the movie was based on actual events. Oh, I can't even tell you what the movie is about - you'll just have to wait and see.

http://nightskiesmovie.com/media/trailer.html

Here is the link to see the preview. Please note that this preview is a lot more graffic than the one I saw on tv. Dontcha think that instead of "Based on a true storey" it should say "Based on a storey"?

Wednesday, April 04, 2007

A 7th Weird Thing

So all this talk about weird quirks and what not has stimulated some thoughts. It was hard to come up with truly weird things about myself I did think of a thing that is weird but not necessarily about me.

I am afraid of mice/rats. This is because of my mother. When I was little to get me off of my soother she cut into bits while I was sleeping and told me that a mouse got it. One day when I was at my parent's grocery store a native lady came in wearing shorts and she had some kind of skin thing going on where she had blotches of white skin on her legs. I was five at the time and I asked my mom why her legs were like that and she told me that it was because a mouse ran up her leg and scared her so bad that it changed the color of her skin. No wonder I have a fear of mice.

Monday, April 02, 2007

6 Weird Things

Or so some people seem to think.
"Here are the rules: Each player of this game starts with the 'six weird things about me' blog post. People who get tagged need to write their own six weird things post and state the rules clearly. At the end of the post, tag six more people and don’t forget to leave a comment on their blog to tell them they have been tagged and tell them to read your blog."

1. I haven't broken any bones. But, I did sprain my ankle being chased by an owl when I was 15 years old, in Melfort.

2. I don't know if this is weird so much as maybe a little known fact. I used to be a public speaker for Students Against Drinking and Driving. My speech was an hour long and my largest crowd was 700 people at the Regina provincial conference.

3. I talk in my sleep. I get really, really angry when people try to carry on a conversation with my while I'm doing so. I will yell at you in my sleep.

4. I have the hardest time falling asleep without the radio on. I tap my toes to sleep.

5. I will take listening to 50s and 60s songs over any other genre of music.

6. I don't like to be alone. I don't necessarily have to be talking to them or anything I just like having people around me.

So now it's my turn to tag. I will tag...Megan, Lisa, Alison, Jenna, Tanys, and Fashionista. Have fun!

Saturday, March 31, 2007

A Promise Made is a Promise Kept

I promised the management at The Great Buffet of China that I would share this story with everyone that I know. So just for good measure I shall blog about it.

Today we went to The Great Buffet of China restaurant for lunch (Me, Jonny, Emerie, Torry and Jeremy). After the bills had been split up and Jonny and I had been given our portion we noticed that we were charged for a child's buffet as well. Now my baby is only 9 months - not quite ready to partake in the chinese buffet. During our meal she happily munched on her puffed wheat which travels everyone whith us. We let our waiter know of the mistake and he said that he would look into it. He soon came back with the manager of The Great Buffet of China and she explained that if a child eats something and makes a mess (we are still working on accuracy with Emerie, only half of what she shoves towards her face actually makes it into her mouth), even if the food does not belong to The Great Buffet of China they will be charged for a child's buffet and that was that.

YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!!!!!!!!

So we grudgingly agreed to pay but let them know that we would share this story with everyone we knew.

Okay, I also have a Juno sighting story. Torry, Jonny and I were standing in the mall today when Torry says "Hey, aren't those the guys from Canadian Idol?" And wouldn't you know walking in the front doors is Farley Flex and whoever the white guy with glasses is. So when they get closer of course Jonny and Torry do the head nod 'sup thing that only cool black guys do and Farley returns it by patting Jonny on the shoulder and saying "'sup man" and then they keep on walking. We just stood there watching them walk away, thinking to ourselves "Well, that was different."

Mmmm, now I shall go and curl up on the couch and finish my venti chai tea latte. Good night all!

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Verbal Diarrhea

So many things that I want to talk about today. I hope that I remember all of them.

For starters - I got a new job. I've been applying for different jobs with the city for a couple of months now and I went for an interview yestery and they phoned me shortly after lunch and offered me the position. I wasn't sure about going back to 12 hour night shifts so I've been keeping my eyes open for something new. Anyways, I will be working at Access Transit (which is the public transportation for people with disabilities) where I will be the scheduling clerk. People have to phone in and schedule their pick ups and drop offs and I'll be the person that they phone in and talk to. How nice it will be to actually deal with the public again instead of sitting with headphones on for 11 hours straight. The hours will be so much better as it is just a part time position so I'll still be home for my babies alot too (and not sleeping all day long either).

April 17th is the much aniticipated Epicure party. All are welcome. I'm pulling out some new recipes plus some old favorites. Let me know if you are interested in coming and I'll give you all the details.

This means that I seriously need a new work wardrobe. The dress is pretty casual there but I definately do not want to keep up the utter drab rut that I have desperately fallen into. I'm looking at this as my opportunity to gain back my fashion abilities. Believe it or not there was actually a time in my life where people commented on my keen fashion sense. This may sound strange but the biggest item on my list right now is a great pair of grey pants. Nothing so casual that I'm in cargoville but not dress pants either, something that can go either way. If any of you know where I can attain such a find please let me know (keep in mind this gal is on a budget).

Something that has frustrated me lately is lines. Standing/waiting in lines, specifically. I do not understand why people get so frustrated and antsy waiting in line to the point where they will walk out of the restaurant if the wait is longer than 10 minutes. But on the other hand they will wait in Tim Horton's drive through for upwards of 15 minutes for a stinking coffee. What's worse is I'm one of them!! What is the world coming to. Since when is coffee more important that a beautiful dining experience?

Here's something good. Have you seen the commercial for the hearing aid that helps you eavesdrop on other peoples conversations? WHAT!!!! This is actually one of the uses advertised in the commercial. It shows that when you are wearing it you can listen to the messeges in church better, you can hear your kids playing accross the playground, you can hear the tv when it is down low so you don't disturb your spouse - AND eavesdrop on a conversation that is happening across the room. Tempting, I know. But come on, REALLY? All this for the low, low cost of $19.95. And it looks like you just have your IPOD earphones in. Good grief - people beware.

I should have gotten out of bed in the middle of the night to write this blog while all the thoughts in my head where actually keeping me awake last night.

Can you believe the snow on the ground this morning? Honestly, how disappointing was that? Sometimes I think God is just bored up there and thinks "Hey, I'm gonna mess with those Saskatchewan's for a while, ha ha ha!" Well - IT'S NOT FUNNY!!!!

So I got a free ticket to the Juno's. Jenna had a spare ticket. How exciting!!!! I immediately started to phone people to brag that I was going, especially my husband. 10 minutes later it turns out that the spare ticket wasn't really a spare ticket anymore. Son of a bisket! It's okay - Jenna knows I'm not mad.

I just checked the "So You Think You Can Dance" website and they are doing auditions as I type. Infact they only have one location left. Let the obsession begin.

I had a Curves weigh in yesterday and I am 4 1/2 inches smaller. Oh, the little things in life.

Hmm, seems that's all I got. Until next time...

Monday, March 26, 2007

Single Black Male

I am posting an advertisement for my single friend Torry.

This guy is just the sweetest guy ever. He orchastrated a great day for me and my hubby's anniversary. He arranged for babysitting and cooked up a fiest in our house (which was a complete surprise to me until I stepped into my house to change for going out for supper) and treated us to a movie afterwards. What a doll! So to all those single ladies out there you better snatch him up quick because he is quite a catch.

Okay I'll stop that now, I am preparing myself for the reprucussions of blogging such a blog. Mwahaha mwahaha mwahaha!

Friday, March 23, 2007

Second Anniversary

So Jonny and I have our 2nd Anniversary on Sunday. This is what I found online for suggestions for such an occassion. What a lame-o website. I'll let you guys know how it actually turns out.

Ways to Celebrate Your 2nd Anniversary:
Plan a Cotton Club themed evening together and listen to jazz music.

Plan a movie night and watch your wedding video.

Get tickets for a movie, sports event, concert, theatre, etc. to attend together.

Gift Suggestions to Purchase for Your 2nd Anniversary:
Cotton gloves.

Cotton handkerchiefs or bandannas.

Cotton T-shirts.

Cotton plush towels.

Canvas shopping bag or book bag.

Cotton table cloth, napkins or place mats.

Nifty looking cotton socks. (this one I find particularly humerous)

Cozy cotton his and hers bathrobes.

Egyptian cotton sheets and pillowcases.

Rope hammock.

China plates.

China figurines.

Garnet jewelry.

Gift Suggestions to Make for your 2nd Anniversary:
Put together a gift basket that has a variety of Cosmos seeds, along with a pair of cotton garden gloves, and a coupon on red paper stating your willingness to help plant the seeds. (who wrote this?)

My Inner Child

Your Inner Child Is Happy

You see life as simple, and simple is a very good thing.
You're cheerful and upbeat, taking everything as it comes.
And you decide not to worry, even when things look bad.
You figure there's just so many great things to look forward to.

Monday, March 19, 2007

The Secret

OMG!! I JUST WROTE LIKE THREE PARAGRAPHS OF STUFF AND MY COMPUTER ERASED EVERYTHING! I'M SO MAD - I AM NOW GOING TO TRY AND REWRITE EVERYTHING. THERE IS A VERY GOOD CHANCE IT WILL NOT BE AS GOOD AS THE FIRST TIME. ARGGHHH!

Oprah has had a couple of shows recently on a book/dvd series called "The Secret". All of a sudden it appears as though everybody is talking about it. Now, I don't know a whole lot about it because if my memory serves me correctly Lisa, Jenn and I were having coffee they day it aired on Oprah and it seemed a little sketchy so we stopped watching. However, today on The View they were talking about it and it caught my attention. They summed up the dvd as being about how to visualize what you want in every detail and then you will attain it.

Now, I can buy that if you are working really hard at the same time to achieve this goal, but, they said that it was mainly about material things and it was almost like a magical thing. The example that they used was how a kid envisioned a particular bicycle and concentrated really hard on it and then his grandpa showed up at the door with the bike. Or you visualize your hands wrapped around the steering wheel of your dream car and then *poof*, I guess. This seems like a crock to me. I have spent endless hours thinking of my dream home - it is decorated in my mind and everything and so far - nothing. I think this book/dvd has good ideas in theory but are missing what the purpose to life really is.

HA HA - good segway. So I was reading The Purpose Driven Life right afterwards (my small group would be so pleased as I haven't touched it since Day 14). I have no idea what day we are on so I just kind of picked whereabouts I thought we might be. Day 29 (which after getting Shirly's email today I now know that we are on Day 28). In the very first paragraph it says, "While many best-selling books offer advice on how to "get" the most out of life, that's not the reason God made you. You were created to add to life on earth, not just take from it." HMM - coincidence I happen upon this - I think not.

Then I came upon a passage written by Colleen Townsend Evans which read:
"Jesus promises that satisfaction will come to those who seek the good things of God. He says that they will be filled - not with an easy way of life, not with someting of limited value that can be taken away from them... but with the joy and contentment that come from doing God's will. The filled people are the truly happy people in life"

But, of course, Jesus said it best.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
(Matthew 5:3-10)

Point to Ponder - Am I seeking my house, my furniture, my perfect paint color? Or am I seeking salvation?

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Purple People Eater

As promised here are the pictures of Alanna and her purple hair. I'm not sure you can tell how purple it really is but it's darn close. I just love her to bits.

Here's an old picture of Emerie I found. This was at her dedication. Can you believe how much she has changed!?

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Times A Changin'

Ah spring - a time of changes. Diggin' the new look? I figured a springy looking blog was in order. I know spring has always been a time of change for me. I can't make any really big changes in my life anymore without rocking the family boat a little too much so I have turned on my daughter. I died Alanna'a hair purple last night. (pictures to come) I think it looks so great on her. She loves it!

Is it not the greatest feeling in the world to have your windows open and not feel cold or anything. I am in such a good mood right now. Spring really is my favorite time of year. I just get that get up and go feeling (which could be bad because it can mean more trips to the mall out of desperation for something to do).

Okay so this is probably the employee of the police station in me coming out - because it is getting nicer out the crime rate goes up without a doubt. Not too much I can do about it personally (except blog about it, lol). But it stemmed a thought. I remember when I was a kid we didn't have to deal with half of what goes on now a days. I can't imagine how baby boomers feel to see how much times have changed. That being said, times have changed and with that so many more things are permissable now compared to even ten years ago. Kids go to parties assuming that someone there with be carrying a weapon of some sort on them. That was unheard of when I was a kid. But, how much of this starts with the parents. Do you think we allow our kids to get away with alot more than what our parents let us get away with. For example have you seen how much movie ratings have changed in the last couple years. Half of the PG rated movies I would never let Alanna watch. Jonny and I watch virtually everything before we let Alanna watch it. There was a scene in Monster House where the babysitter kicks her boyfriend out of the house with his bottle of beer, screaming at him that he needs to respect women more after the two of them were "giggling" on the couch. And I can't tell you how many "childrens" movies have "adult" humor in them. Is this so the parent can enjoy watching the cartoon with their kids? You watch cartoons with your kid primarily for their enjoyment not yours. That's whey there are kids shows and adult shows. But if sexually suggestive dialogue is making it into the G rated movies I think we need to seriously examine what we as parents are letting into our kids lives. No wonder times have changed so much - how many more teen pregnancies are there now compared to twenty years ago. Maybe if we kept our kids at the old G ratings we wouldn't have X rated teenagers.

That paragraph took a little bit of a different turn then I had originally anticipated but that's okay - I don't remember my original point - but I still agree with what I wrote. Let me know what you parents out there think. I know that some people have said that Jonny and I are extremely strict with our kids but honestly I think that my reasons are reasonably backed up.

Friday, March 09, 2007

Free Boobs!!??

So this is the rumor of the week. I heard through the grapevine that mothers may now be covered under Saskatchewan health for free breast lifts and tummy tucks. Here's the deal. If someone has had twins they are eligible for a tummy tuck and if they nurse they will throw in a free breast lift. And for those who don't have twins - if you have nursed three babies then you too can qualify for a free breast life.

How stinkin' amazing is that? It makes me seriously consider having that third baby that Jonny and I have been hmming and haing about. I would wear a maternity shirt that clearly states "I'm doing it for the boobs".

I did try to research really quickly about it and didn't find any evidence to support this rumor. I didn't spend a lot of time on it though, so if anyone has any information on this please post it.

One of my dear friends said it best (I'm assuming she would want to remain anonymous) "If I get stuck with three kids and no boobs I'm coming after someone!"

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

Velvet and Sandpaper

We all have known family or friends who bring out the worst in us instead of the best, rubbing us at just the wrong spots, uncovering our weaknesses rather than our strengths. They're like sandpaper. It is good to remember that Jesus encountered these sandpaper experiences at times even from within his inner circle. It is also good to remember that one of his closest friends was one he knew would never understand him and would even betray him. He was a constant sandpaper to Jesus, yet Jesus loved him daily as he did the others. Even in this way he was laying down his life. Since we are also loved sacrificially we are to lay down our lives for each other (1 John 3:16).
But the Lord gives us others who are like velvet, whose words are comforting and supportive, and who really understand us. They are the soft cushions we need when we are scraped with the "sandpapers" and can listen to us as we explore the weaknesses and needs they bring out in us. They tangibly reveal God's perspective - just when we most need it.
- Kathy Narramore, Alice Hill

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Go Blades Go!

So Jonny's band was supposed to play in Regina on Friday but because the roads really sucked they ended up not going. This turned out to be really great. Jonny and I spent the whole day together. We became mall rats for the day but it was nice just to hang out together. Friday night we went with Torry to see Stomp the Yard. Everybody warned us against it because the story line was just like You Got Served - um, hello, you don't go to a movie like that for the story line or the acting, you go for the dancing (which was better in You Got Served).

Saturday night was the best night we've had in a long time. We took Alanna to a Saskatoon Blades game! Now while I'm not the biggest hockey fan I really enjoy going to any live sporting event. The best part really was watching Alanna.

The first period made it really easy to get into the game. Saskatoon scored three goals and there were two fights all in about 15 minutes. We told Alanna that it is only okay to fight in hockey, and only if you are a "real" hockey player. This made fer comfortable to stand up and yell "fight, fight, fight" at the appropriate times. Her favorite part was the penalty box. She loved the idea that these adults got a time out for doing bad things just like she does.

On the way home she said "this was the best family day in the whole part of my life"! Made us feel like parents of the year. She was also amazed that the Blades won 5 to 1, she says "boy the Americans must REALLY suck"!

The photographer for Jonny's band is also the photographer for the Blades. We were sitting up in the nose bleed section but he was up in the rafters and took a picture of us from there so that we would have a little momento of the evening.
In other news after Heroes last night (which by the way was an excellent episode) a new series premiered called "The Black Donnelly's". It's about five twenty something Irish-American boys who are involved in mod like activity. It looks pretty good. Normally I only commit myself to one tv series but I figure if it's going to be on right after Heroes it is okay to get involved in this one as well.

Off to chat n play now - catch you on the flip side (I wonder who ever invented that saying, it's really quite dumb)

Friday, February 23, 2007

Fire Resides Takes the Stage

This is really just a blog to brag about my family.

Last night I went to the Fire Resides concert (the where opening for a UK band called Johnny Truent but for all intents and purposes to me it was the Fire Resides concert). It was at Walker's nightclub, which is a real dive, I must say. It was an all ages event so it was filled with teens. I have discovered two things, teenagers are weird and they stink. There was two little table fans on top of two speakers attempting to circulate air. All it was doing was creating a gontlet of BO. I have never seen so many pencil pants in my whole life and I have decided that they do not look good on anybody. Despite all the things wrong with the location and the people there I must say I really enjoyed myself. Fire Resides was great, I really like watching Jonny on stage, reminds me of why I married him. :)
This is the best pic I could get of the band as a whole. Everybody did really well. It was Jeremy's first time playing with them and I thought he did a great job.

They guys were supposed to play in Regina tonight but because of the stupid highways closing down they were unable to go. It really sucks. Jonny really wanted me to come with them and wouldn't shut up about it. So Torry and I worked out a plan, because Jonny, Phil and Steve were going to leave at noon and Torry, Dave and Jeremy to follow at five I was going to jump in with Torry's group and surprise Jonny. Needless to say the master plan was unable to be fulfilled. Too bad, he would have been sooooo happy.

Okay on to my favorite topic, my babies. I just have to say that Alanna is the best big sister in the whole world. She is such a big help with Emerie.

Okay, can you say bedhead?

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Family Weekend

So this weekend was the first ever "family" weekend. I must say we had a pretty good weekend. Alanna was gone to Melfort for the weekend but she was home from school the whole week before so we got to hang out. On Friday I brought the girls sledding at the Cardinal Leger hill. It was so much fun. Jenna and her kids and my sister Kellyn and her kids came out as well. They had so much fun. It was funny to watch Emerie crawling around the top of the hill, she looked like a little cartoon character.

Yesterday was Ava's 2nd birthday (this is my sister's baby for those who don't know). So we had a little shindig at my mom's house for her. Alanna was pretty excited that she got to make it back in time for the party.

You see the gigantic cake, there was like 8 of us there, three of which were babies. So we brought half of that cake home with us because they couldn't eat all of it. Jonny brought it to work with him today and there is still a bunch that will be coming back home with him. It's a good thing I like cake.
Jonny, Ronnie, and I took the kids sledding after the party as well. We also brought my little cousin Kooper. He just turned 3 and he is the tiniest little thing. And sooo sweet. He was so excited. I went down the hill with Alanna and our sled got turned around so we were going backwards and I could see Kooper jumping up and down, he looked like a little jumping bean. Everytime he jumped his knees just about touched his chin.

Today was chat n' play day. This is where mommies get together for coffee at the church and the kids get to play with eachother. I got told twice today, for the first time ever, that Emerie looks like me. This excites me greatly. This is a picture of Emerie and Terran playing in the ball pit together. How cute!

I had to add this picture of Emerie. She fell asleep on me on Sunday so Gina took a picture of us. The camera ended up waking her up and she shot the dirtiest look at Gina afterwards. Pretty funny if you ask me.