A Gaggle of Gages

The day before the rest of my life...

2010-09-26T08:36:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow I board a plane and head to Oracle, Arizona. What will I find there, who will I meet, how will I absorb all that is taught me?! I started on this journey almost one year ago when I began taking classes in Saskatoon, SK. My friend and mentor reached out to me after several sessions and told me she felt moved to see if I felt a calling to teach. What an understatement; I have flet a calling to teach all my life!! But, was I being called to lead someone on their own personal spiritual journey while practicing some amazing yoga? I first had to reawaken my spiritual journey before I could turn to assist others. Which leads me to.. the day before the rest of my life!!
I will be disconnected from technology while on retreat at the C.O.D ranch, so no updates while I am there of my progress, but I am really excited to see how transformed I am when I am through. I am, however, under no circumstances implying that my journey or my transformation will be complete after 8 days in the desert!! My life course is changing and I am scared, excited, entralled and intimidated. These past 8 weeks of webinars have given me a glimpse of what's to come, but I am sure I will be overwhelmed with the enormity of it all once there and fully immersed.
I have done my best to prepare, but will put it in God's hands that I am ready to receive. Thank you all for your prayers, guidance and support along the way. I couldn't be the woman I am or the one I hope to become without you!

Quotations that spoke to me today

2010-08-13T06:41:00.004-06:00

After only a few short hours of sleep, I am awake and ready to spend a little time on my mat this morning. We had an amazing Holy Yoga class last night and I can't wait to transfer some of this energy; both muscular and organic, into my practice today. Why is it that we can't feel this enthused all the time?! These next 6 weeks are simply going to fly right by and I have so many goals to achieve, things to get organized and miles to travel until the time arrives. Can I do it?! Doubt is creeping in, but if I simply breathe and allow God to take over I know it will happen.

I found these two quotes this morning, they are not scripture and I don't know who said them, but they spoke to me today... are they saying anything to you?!

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond imagination. It is our light more than our darkness which scares us. We ask ourselves – who are we to be brilliant, beautiful, talented, and fabulous. But honestly, who are you to not be so?"

"You are a child of God, small games do not work in this world. For those around us to feel peace, it is not an example to make ourselves small. We were born to express the glory of God that lives in us. It is not in some of us, it is in all of us. While we allow our light to shine, we unconsciously give permission for others to do the same. When we liberate ourselves from our own fears, simply our presence may liberate others."

God Bless

Kenny Chesney - The Boys of Fall

2010-08-11T10:16:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wednesday.... it's back too ;-)

I'm back.....

2010-08-10T08:40:00.002-06:00

Wow! In re-reading my last post from 2009, I can not now take this opportunity to apologize for being away for 3 weeks as it has been 17 months since I have last written :-( It is not because I do not love y'all; I just got sidetracked, waylaid, and/or rerouted in my efforts to check in!! I am sure you know the phrase..."Life happens while you are making other plans!"

I believe Facebook actually took over my computer time as I became more involved in viewing other friends and family's pages while updating my own status on a far too regular basis. I am always trying to learn and grow and I believe FB has many amazing good qualities (just like chocolate and wine), but I have consumed too much. I really like the personal nature of my blog and want to reconnect to the intimacy of just talking to YOU versus my myriad of Facebook Friends.

Time management has become more and more important in my life as the kids get busier, life gets crazier, and Dennis begins traveling again (to CHINA). I find that I am trying to continually carve a new niche for myself as I never want to stop growing or learning - EVER.

Holy Yoga is my new passion and I have never felt more complete - what a blessed calling!! My new accountability partner, the lovely Liv, in fact, is the one who brought my attention back to my much neglected blog. Thank you!!

Speaking of the Fall, I have some amazing adventures ahead - truly, amazing, really, truly, AMAZING!!! I can't wait to share my thoughts, reflections, anticipations, anxieties, joys, trials and everything in between!! In the past, I would back track and fill in days, events, items I had missed, but I feel the need to only look forward for now. Once I get on a roll and am posting regularly, I may add some things that impacted my life, made me proud, or just brought a smile to my face - you'll have to stay tuned to find out!!

As always, thank you for being part of my journey. I appreciate the time you set aside to spend with me. Love, love and more love...

One hundred and one

2009-02-08T09:28:00.003-06:00

It is hard to believe that this is my one hundredth and first post :-) I am writing today to sincerely apologize for having been away for three weeks! I do not know where the time has gone, but I do know that it has not been floundered away - promise! After posting Dennis' birthday pics I realized that that was my 100th post and I honestly couldn't believe it. I took some time to look back at old posts in random order and WOW, what a blessed life I live! I am truly thankful and humble when I think about how lucky I am.

At this late date and time, I do not believe I will backtrack and finish the Christmas pics - I know there was just a huge collective sigh of relief out there on the world wide web! Suffice it to say, our holiday was wonderful and the kids got everything they could ask for and more...

To update you on the present goings on: we are all happy and healthy. Alison went on her ski trip last week and had a blast. Jack and Kitty went swimming with their class and enjoyed a much appreciated break from math that day :-) Ali will be going speed skating next week for the first time. We'll see if she can live up to her Dad's capabilities around the oval! We have February break upon us on the 16th-20th. No plans but to hang around the city and relax! I, however, do have plans in March to head to my beloved Big D with Tannis. We have no plans on arrival, just being there and spending time. Dennis will be heading back to the Ukraine at the end of March and he just returned from a grand adventure in Vegas with Chris and Corey to watch the SuperBowl. So as those little highlights might detail, we do not allow any grass to grow (or snow to pile up) under our feet around here!

Thanks for hanging with me as always! I love you XOXXOX

A birthday to celebrate in between Christmas installments

2009-01-16T08:16:00.000-06:00

Dennis celebrated his 63rd birthday in style. He had coffee and donuts delivered to him in the morning by Corey, several phone calls before lunch from some of his favorite ladies, a great Asian afternoon meal with me(!), a quiet afternoon to himself, a few more phone calls, a birthday dinner at Fuddruckers, a personalized video from Linsey, a call from his sister Kay and last but not least the piece de resistance - coconut cream pie :-) Happy Birthday darling. I love you more from year to year!!

This one needed a post all on it's own - still the Texas warm up to Christmas 2008

2009-01-13T09:56:00.005-06:00

The reason this one needed a post all on it's own is because not only is it captured in amazing photographic fashion (thanks honey!) but it highlights that my beautiful Linsey knows the perfect way that to reach my heart. She has an incredible knack of of being able to let you know how much you are loved without saying a word! She first displayed this technique 16 Christmases ago when she gave me a wooden angel. I wept then and as can see; it wasn't the last time...

Here I am so happy to be unwrapping....

Everyone is cheering open it, open it

Oh no, I've caught a glimpse of the word GiGi

That's all it took to bring on the waterworks...

I love it!!!!!!

I couldn't be a prouder GiGi! These are all my grandson's hands and my baby granddaughter's feet. Honestly, could there be anything more precious? You can not believe how incredibly moved and touched I was, but the pictures do a pretty good job!!!

A BLAST FROM THE PAST........
I couldn't resist scanning in a couple of photos from Christmas 1992. It appears the face I make just before I cry hasn't changed, but thank goodness the hair and the nails have!!!

I love you Linsey with all of my heart. Thank you again for EVERYTHING. Your thoughtfulness and compassion overwhelm me!

The Texas warm up to Christmas 2008

2009-01-13T09:03:00.006-06:00

I was very honored to be asked by Nathan to attend his last day of school Winter party. The kids all had so much fun doing puzzles, playing games - such as "velcro the carrot on the snowman" and eating lots of good yummy Christmas treats. Nathan and Josh both got a chance to take a spin and get a chance to find the perfect spot for Frosty's nose...

While Chris and Gina were attending Chris' company party, we took care of the boys and met Linsey at the Frisco Fire Station's Safety Town.l What a blast. They had it all decorated and the kids really enjoyed playing in the real fire truck and walking around the town with buildings just their size :-)

Since Linsey and Dave had a Jackson family Christmas year, we decided to hold the Gage family Christmas a little early so that we could all be together for a meal and cup of good cheer before Christmas Day actually arrived. We did have a token fire in the fireplace, it was cold enough for one, but the only one we lit during our stay. We ate wonderful stew, homemade cornbread and then we are all too full for Linsey's amazing peach cobbler! Karen and Jordan joined us and we were happy to have the house so full of laughter and love!! It was a wonderful pre-Christmas festivity and I am really glad that we were all able to say that we spent "Christmas" together!!

Two Steps Forward One Step Back

2009-01-06T18:25:00.007-06:00

Before adding all of my Christmas pix, I thought I would jump ahead to some family photos we had taken just after the holiday. We are at our Savannah Community Center and Amy Howe took great care in making us all look good :-) Thanks Amy!!! It was a bit windy outside, but we still managed to take advantage of the blue skies and beautiful December day for some of our shots. I am sure in years to come we will be able to look back at these and remember our first Christmas in our new house in Texas - 12/27/2008

I can't decide which one I like better!!

Our grown up Alison - love the red shoes darling!

The twins - Jack and Kathryn - sweet and sassy

Love this one of Kitty - it looks antiqued!

How's this one of our little man Jackson?

Everyone has such great posture!!! My three greatest accomplishments :-)

The last few things to wrap up before heading to Texas....

2009-01-04T10:52:00.006-06:00

Here is Kitty and Wren opening presents at our Weber Family Christmas. We went to Jason and Joanne's house to celebrate and as always really enjoyed our time visiting and laughing at the kids. Jason has perfected eggnog, by the way, and I am already anticipating next year's good cheer! Love you guys ;-)

Jack and his super cool new ant farm

Alison received a beautiful purple shirt from Grandma

The Festival of Carols at TCU Place was held the afternoon before we left - here is Michael and Jack ready to sing...

Kitty can always find the camera in the crowd and she was posing for this shot :-)

Grade 3/4 French in all their glory - the looked great and sounded wonderful - such a nice treat to kick off the holidays

Here is my brood ready for the first of two planes - destination Savannah, Texas

Even Dennis is ready for the journey...

Stay tuned for all of the frolic and fun we had in Texas over the course of two very quick weeks. Time definitely flies when you are having fun :-)

A New Year!

2009-01-03T12:00:00.003-06:00

Welcome to 2009 - January 3rd, 2009 to be exact. We have just returned from a wonderful trip to Texas for Christmas and New Year's. We are so lucky to have a home there close by to family and all the conveniences one would ever need! I have lots of pix and stories and good things to share, but first I must take down our tree here in Saskatchewan and tidy up so that we may put another Christmas into boxes and usher in this bright new year; plus it is -34C outside and I am not even getting dressed today :-) Happy New Year Y'all!

Ali's Winter Band Concert

2008-12-18T09:34:00.000-06:00

Alison and Teagan - the two flutists from St. George

Ali ready to play

Full of concentration and playing beautifully

Had to get the gorgeous footwear - my daughter's feet are officially bigger than mine :-)

Christmas Baking with Dad

2008-12-11T14:00:00.004-06:00

Jack and Kitty are having a bake sale at school that is just for Father's and kids - soooo much fun! We poured over recipes and discussed techniques and finally settled on thumbprint cookies with a Hershey Kiss in the middle - yummy :-) Good luck with the sale y'all, if nothing else these cookies are full of love!!

Kitty is ready to get the baking started - she is doing her thumb exercises in preparation!

Jack is diligently looking for the 1/4 teaspoon and big sister Ali is offering her advice

Found it! Now let's measure the salt

The dough - gotta love the KitchenAid

Dad and Jack finding distractions in the kitchen

Kitty and Dad holding up the lovely tins that I bought last year after Christmas for .50!

Making the thumbprints was by far their favorite part

Looks great y'all. Job well done :-)

The finished product! Of course, Dad and I had to taste sample and let's just say, "Um Um Good"

Frosty December Day

2008-12-07T14:32:00.001-06:00

The landscape is frosty, but not a lot of snow....

Here are my beautiful babes fresh in from the great outdoors!!!

Turkey Day 2008

2008-11-28T10:23:00.012-06:00

My beautiful brined 15 pound turkey!! It was so moist and yummy :-)

Where else but the kitchen...the hub of all activity on Thanksgiving or any other gathering for that matter.

Mum taking care of a little pre-dinner clean up

My station by the stove

Time for a quick cuddle in between duties :-)

It's gravy time

The whole gang enjoying being together before the feast

Me and my girl Tannis

Mum, Me, Tannis and Esther - what Thanksgiving is all about :-)

The babes are ready to eat!!

Looks good...
Oh no, Jack is falling out of his chair with joy ;-)

Dennis' plate for when he returns from the Ukraine...straight to the freezer

A little gift for the ladies and I have no idea what story I'm telling...

Love this picture of Tannis and Esther

The 4 Gage present and accounted for...just missing Big Daddy

We switched on the holidays lights, turned on the Christmas carols and let the countdown begin before I even started the dishes... A wonderful end to a fabulous day. Thanks to the Webers and the Nichols for making a special day even more so. Love y'all!

Thanksgiving Officially Became a Holiday in 1863

2008-11-27T22:09:00.002-06:00

Most people believe that as Americans we celebrate THANKSGIVING because of the pilgrims and the Indians. While I do think that the feast to celebrate the first successful harvest, certainly does make a good story...I love what President Abraham Lincoln had to say when he declared the first thanksgiving holiday more. One hundred and forty five years later his words still ring strong and true!

Lincoln's Thanksgiving Proclamation

Washington, DC—October 3, 1863

Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863.

The year that is drawing toward its close has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added which are of so extraordinary a nature that they can not fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever-watchful providence of Almighty God.

In the midst of a civil war of unequaled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign states to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere, except in the theater of military conflict, while that theater has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.

Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defense have not arrested the plow, the shuttle, or the ship; the ax has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well as the iron and coal as of our precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege, and the battlefield, and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged, as with one heart and one voice, by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the imposition of the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the divine purpose, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity, and union.

In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the city of Washington, this 3d day of October, A.D. 1863, and of the Independence of the United States the eighty-eighth.

Twilight

2008-11-23T18:35:00.007-06:00

Finally, I have seen "the movie"!! It was very true to the book and I even grew to love the actors that played my beloved characters - even though they did not match the ones in my imagination - at all :-)

Everyone in my household is a fan and since this film is about kinder, gentler vampires I took the whole crew plus two of Ali's girlfriends from school. We had a great time and I was super happy that I had purchased my tickets online and didn't have to wait in line; except for popcorn, of course!

Here are a few pix from our theater experience...we can't wait for the next book to make its movie premiere. Look out 2010!

Happy Birthday Jilly!!!

2008-11-19T19:39:00.010-06:00

Jillian Grace celebrated her 1st birthday with a lively and colorful lady bug party. She had all three grandma's there (there is a pic of us all, but I don't have it...), a grandpa, aunties, uncles, cousins and friends! We had a great afternoon and everyone was happy and cheerful. I felt blessed to be there and really enjoyed all the festivities. Happy Birthday sweet baby girl :-)

To Dallas and back again

2008-11-13T21:05:00.002-06:00

So, quick update, my friends. I have just returned from Big D and had a wonderful time. It was 7 days of shopping, eating, playing, spending time with my "big" kids and my grandkids. Tannis and I had a hoot and she was truly introduced to a Southern way of life! I am pretty sure she is looking forward to her return in the summer with Corey and Co. and perhaps an annual November trip is in the works for us ;-) I have photos and stories and I'll try to fill in as many pieces at a time as I can. Dennis is off on Saturday for three weeks and we have snow falling as I type. My prediction will be at least a couple of quiet days to spend at my desk catching y'all up... it's great to travel, but always nice to be home too!

Happy Halloween 2008

2008-11-01T13:05:00.010-06:00

Mrs. America 2008 - my costume for work and yes I made it 8 hours without a wardrobe malfunction!!!
Our trick or treaters all ready to hit the neighborhood for their annual candy grab

Kitty, Ali and Jack aka Masquerade girl, Military babe and Elvis!!

They're ready to go....

The morning after...

Hope everyone had a safe, fun and candy overloaded evening!

Halloween Memories from years past...

2008-10-31T07:27:00.007-06:00

We aren't sure who carved this masterful Jack-o-Lantern, but we are thinking, Kay!!!!

Look at my handsome clown and all his bounty... I wish I could see the ring on his finger better!

I love this one :-) The bird cage is on the table!! Dennis hamming it up and Kay and Larry are just happy to be hanging with their little brother and sharing the fun!

3 years old in my homemade bunny outfit. Great whiskers, eh?!

And a short leap to a 4 year old and Miss America... my, didn't we just grow up so fast :-)

Happy Halloween y'all. Have fun, be safe, and I hope you receive more treats than tricks!!

2008-10-30T17:11:00.008-06:00

Okay, so they didn't get posted by the end of the actual birthday day, but they are making it up by the end of my next day off :-) As per our tradition, Ali and Jack and Kitty came to wake us up and jump in bed to open presents on Tuesday morning. She was raring to go and still unsure of exactly what 12 should feel like. A lot of gifts were received a bit early this year, such as her ear piercing, contacts, and new bedroom duvet and sheets (which haven't arrived yet...), however, there were still a few things to open!
The birthday girl

Kitty explaining her "gifts" to Alison

Twilight - yippee! And Rockband - oh yea!

The birthday girl is ready for her big day at school and a lunch out with Mom and Dad

At the end of the day after swimming and dance and a good long chat with big sister, Linsey, we enjoyed an ice cream cake complete with sprinkles and an attempt at a written birthday wish :-)

Alison turns 12!!!!!

2008-10-28T15:09:00.002-06:00

Here's my baby girl when she first arrived in Canada almost 12 years ago. It was a few days before Christmas and we had arrived from a balmy 80 degree Dallas day to a -40 degree evening with horizontal snow! Isn't she cute?!?! What a bundle to such a beauty. I am certain we had no idea in 1996 that we would end up building a home and a life in Saskatchewan, but here we are and Alison is certainly flourishing. We had a lovely morning with presents and an omlette breakfast and then Dennis and I were able to take her out to lunch at Earl's for a grown up treat. We have a busy evening ahead with swimming and dance, but I will post the rest of the photos before the end of the day. Happy Birthday darling! I love you :-)

Thanks Facebook :-)

2008-10-18T22:20:00.003-06:00

Okay y'all, just have to say, I am loving Facebook and quite seriously should join a Facebook Anonymous rehab group - I'm addicted!! I love seeing all of my old high school chums, my relatives, my buddies and what they are all up to. It truly brings me joy. So bring it on and add me as your friend and let's check each others status :-)

Canadian Thanksgiving with the Nichols

2008-10-14T10:28:00.027-06:00

We had a bright, crisp, gorgeous fall day on which to celebrate Thanksgiving 2008. We arrived a little ahead of schedule, but we just couldn't wait to come and enjoy all the food, friendship and fun that awaited us at the Nichol's house. Tannis always spoils us with such good home cooking! Our blessings are many here in Saskatchewan, and the Nichols continue to keep their spot at the top of our list :-) Thanks y'all as always for opening up your home and your hearts to us. We love you...

Tannis and I enjoying our FIRST glass of wine prior to donning our aprons

Here is Ali, our photographer for much of the day, finding a quiet moment to capture a self portrait!

Happy Hubbys!

Happy Kids!

Taking a moment before the 10 minute mad dash to complete supper is on and having a giggle!!

The calm before the storm

The bird she is ready - yum yum!!!

Green beans and gravy - oh yeah :-)

Dennis has the power - but doesn't know where to plug it in! Any ideas, Tannis?!

Carving the bird and the assembly buffet is ready...

God is great, God is good, Thank you God for this food :-)

Working off some dinner by playing the new Wii Fit!!!!

The ladies enjoying some pumpkin pie and a quiet moment - aaaahhhh!

The Birthday Weekend

2008-10-12T18:06:00.025-06:00

This is 7 a.m. on Friday morning!! They were so excited about turning eight that they simply couldn't wait another minute to wake us up and begin the celebration :-)

Then it was off to Regina, Saskatchewan and Chuck E. Cheese...

Jackson is pedaling in his flying trapeze

Kitty is caught behind some mesh bars

The kids are all busting a move with Chuck E. himself!!

Happy Birthday Jack and Kitty - you have now spent your first official day as 8 year olds!

The birthday party chapter....

Matt, Jack, Colton, Michael and Noah

Marie, Julia, Nikayla, Kitty, Adrienne and Sarah

Everybody has concessions and is ready to watch "Beverly Hills Chihuahua"

Ay Caramba!!!

Birthday cupcakes to be enjoyed by all after a lovely pizza lunch...

We had a great time and Jack and Kitty received many wonderful gifts from all of their friends! Thanks to everyone who made their birthday weekend so special :-)

Happy 8th Birthday Jackson and Kathryn!!!

2008-10-10T08:45:00.003-06:00

Well, not quite 8 years ago, Jackson and Kathryn entered the world. It will be 8 years exactly at 10:03 p.m. and 10:26 p.m. EST. My how my world changed during those moments!!! We have had a beautiful morning with pancakes and presents :-) We are now off to Regina to do some shopping and find the one and only Chuck E. Cheese in Saskatchewan - yippee!! I will take photos along the way and post tonight. Happy Birthday to my twin blessings. I love you.

No new pictures; no free time.

2008-10-05T22:07:00.003-06:00

Life in the past week, has been , well LIFE. Totally full, totally blessed and totally crazy. Dennis and I are dividing our time between meeting friends for coffee chats a couple of times per week, trying to grab a lunch together here and there and otherwise permanently behind the wheel ferrying the kids to and fro. Our Tuesday schedule now consists of Ali swimming straight after school, changing the twins for dance and feeding them a snack while they do homework at the pool, driving them to dance, returning to pick up Ali, feeding her dinner, going to the library for homework time, dropping her off at dance when I pick up Jack and Kitty, feeding them, returning to grab Ali and home by 8:30 p.m., which we left at 8:30 a.m.!!! Not all the other days are quite as hectic, yet they all do contain some form of extracurricular this or that. So, needless to say there has been no time for candid photography lately, but I promise that once this schedule becomes a routine, and it must, I'll just throw my camera in my bag and go with it y'all!!

Peace be with you and maybe a nice glass of wine...

New Outfits, a Loose Tooth and Picture Day

2008-09-30T13:55:00.002-06:00

Picture day is today at Jack and Kitty's school and I have lost control; if I ever actually had any!! To back track, Alison's picture day was last week and I had nothing to assist her with. We bought her outfit in Texas and she saved it for the "special" day and even chose her pose and background color without any input from me - so there. J&K on the other hand have been a little more needy. We went shopping on the weekend for a new top or two and then had to sit down and choose everything from underwear to shoes and socks for the photo. Then the big decision of background and pose - oh my goodness - the deliberations. Didn't it used to be easier?! I remember coming in off the playground and sitting down for my photo and just being told to sit still and smile and then hearing, "next, please." There were no choices, of course, junior high and high school a completely different ball of wax - I primped!!

Now along with all of the foofing this morning, there was cologne before 8 a.m. - Jackson was very concerned with his fragrance and thought he should smell nice in his photo, probably for the sake of the facial expressions of those near him should he stink! And Miss Kitty has had a loose tooth all weekend that she wouldn't allow any one to pull. All of sudden with picture day approaching, last night she decided it must go. So, she twisted it around and around on that last dangly root until out it popped! The tooth fairy note was written ( It said, "I love you, Mom!") and off to bed for her full course of shut eye.

As I shooed them out of the car this morning, Kitty was proclaiming this to be the best picture day ever! I sure hope so :-)

I have VOTED

2008-09-27T07:32:00.002-06:00

What an amazing feeling to know that my vote will be counted and my support shown in the Presidential election of 2008. I continue to consider it a great privilege to vote in the United States of America and take my part in the political process. One should never doubt for a moment that their vote will not or does not make a difference. I am urging my readers that if you have an opportunity to vote early, please do so. I fully believe that the lines will be long on Tuesday, November 4th and I do not want you to have an excuse to walk away! With that being said, bring a book, because if the lines are long - you should stand in them anyway!! Be proud, be strong, go to the polls and VOTE - you can make a difference...

I can see clearly now - well, Alison can :-)

2008-09-24T07:25:00.006-06:00

After three early morning visits during the month of September, Alison is now officially a contact lens wearer!!! She made the comment on what a BIG year this has already been for her with her ears getting pierced and all and she isn't even 12 yet :-) I took a few photos of the process during this next yet very important stage in my beautiful daughter's life. I love you honey!

Congratulations!!!!!!

Happy Fall Y'all

2008-09-22T20:48:00.002-06:00

Today is officially the first day of Fall 2008. There is not a better place in the world to be than Saskatchewan during this time of year. I have a picture perfect backdrop outside my kitchen window as I watch the colors change from day to day and the geese begin their journey south. Driving home for the past few days, I have noticed a truck parked at the beginning of our country road selling potatoes. This truck has been bringing a smile to my face and a sense of peace to my soul. Again, no where but Saskatchewan can I imagine this as a reality in my daily world. Embrace this change of season for all the glory and wonder it may offer you!!!

Community Fun Day - one week ago!!

2008-09-21T14:15:00.009-06:00

Hey, hey what do you say...the gang's all here! We had such a fun time a week ago Saturday out at the Silverwood Heights Community Fun Day. We ate a burger, had a drink, watched the kids dance in the street and just hang out with all their friends. The evening culminated in a fireworks show with popcorn and a mug of coffee with a splash of Bailey's - yum!!!

Elton John Recap

2008-09-17T19:18:00.007-06:00

A little musical treat for y'all - Elton John - LIVE

Elton John was amazing! What an incredible pianist and all around talented man :-) He definitely rocked the house. It was a one man show with no opening act and he kept full control for 2 1/2 hours!! "Rocket Man" lasted 25 minutes... Dennis and I had a lovely evening and really enjoyed ourselves. I know I have said it before, but it is really nice to live in Saskatchewan and have so many great friends and generous colleagues who allow us to attend some of the hottest events in Saskatoon. We are blessed!!!

The true piano man

He was such a ham!!

Great shot, eh?!

Aaahhh - Dennis and I before the show :-)

Off to Elton John...

2008-09-15T18:25:00.002-06:00

We had an amazingly wonderful weekend filled with family and friends - just the way we like it :-) I have pictures to post from our Community Fun Day and I am hoping to get off a few snaps of Sir Elton tonight too. I have a busy 6 day work week ahead of me as well as a magazine collection and draw to do, but I promise to do my best to get a couple of posts in by Sunday night at the latest and I am really striving for sooner; promise!!! Hugs and kisses to all I know and love...chow for now

Never Forget

2008-09-11T16:29:00.003-06:00

'MEET ME IN THE STAIRWELL'

You say you will never forget where you were when
You heard the news On September 11, 2001.
Neither will I.

I was on the 110th floor in a smoke filled room
With a man who called his wife to say 'Good-Bye.' I
Held his fingers steady as he dialed. I gave him the
Peace to say, 'Honey, I am not going to make it, but it
Is OK..I am ready to go.'

I was with his wife when he called as she fed
Breakfast to their children. I held her up as she
Tried to understand his words and as she realized
He wasn't coming home that night.

I was in the stairwell of the 23rd floor when a
Woman cried out to Me for help. 'I have been
Knocking on the door of your heart for 50 years!' I said.
'Of course I will show you the way home - only
Believe in Me now.'

I was at the base of the building with the Priest
Ministering to the injured and devastated souls.
I took him home to tend to his Flock in Heaven. He
Heard my voice and answered.

I was on all four of those planes, in every seat,
With every prayer. I was with the crew as they
Were overtaken. I was in the very hearts of the
Believers there, comforting and assuring them that their
Faith has saved them.

I was in Texas , Virginia , California , Michigan , Afghanistan .
I was standing next to you when you heard the terrible news.
Did you sense Me?

I want you to know that I saw every face. I knew
Every name - though not all know Me. Some met Me
For the first time on the 86th floor.

Some sought Me with their last breath.
Some couldn't hear Me calling to them through the
Smoke and flames; 'Come to Me... This way... Take
My hand.' Some chose, for the final time, to ignore Me.
But, I was there.

I did not place you in the Tower that day. You
May not know why, but I do. However, if you were
There in that explosive moment in time, would you have
Reached for Me?

Sept. 11, 2001, was not the end of the journey
For you. But someday your journey will end. And I
Will be there for you as well. Seek Me now while I may
Be found. Then, at any moment, you know you are
'ready to go.'

I will be in the stairwell of your final moments.

God

Hidden Treasures

2008-09-07T18:23:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, while on my walk down Memory Lane, I knew I had the picture of Ron, Dennis and I in a frame upstairs in our room. So before retrieving the photo album, I went upstairs to get that one particular picture to scan into the computer. Much to my surprise, I found two others tucked behind. Both were from the same year - 1995, but evoked two entirely different memories - one great and one not so great. The first one -

It is the first summer that Dennis and I were married and in Destin with the kids. Chris is 20 and Linsey not yet 15. How awesome that we have all been able to go back as a family and bring the next generation to our beloved BEACH! Love this pic :-)

Okay now for the 2nd one -

Here is Dennis in paintball gear for a team building exercise in Moscow. Guess who wanted to tag along and "play"? Super bad idea. This was Halloween eve and it was a beautiful afternoon. I learned quickly that I was not cut out for combat. I was put on a team opposing Dennis and all of my teammates were Russian. In the heat of the battle, I stood up from behind a barrel and everyone was yelling at me - in Russian - and I was like " what?" I didn't understand anyone. I was pelted with more paintballs than you could shake a stick at and in spite of my protective gear I had paint in my mouth, my hair, everywhere! I cried like a baby and was so embarrassed. Of course, being the boss' wife the guys were unsure if they should steer clear of me or comfort me. The game resumed and I licked my wounds, but I never asked to join a "team building" exercise again. Well, maybe there was that trip to Bangkok...

Anyway, my challenge is for those of you who are picture fanatics like me - pick up a couple of frames sitting around your house and check to see if you have stored any "Hidden Treasures" behind the current photograph!!

Happy Hunting!

Happy Birthday Ron!!!!!

2008-09-06T19:02:00.011-06:00

This afternoon, while drinking a cup of tea (in honor of Ron!) I traveled back in time to 13 years ago today... And what happened thirteen years ago today, well, Kay and Ron came to visit Dennis and I in Moscow, Russia. We were so lucky to have them come and see us all over the world!! I went through my photos and picked out a few highlights for all to enjoy, so please do :-)

Kay and Ron at the Bolshoi Ballet - don't they look awesome?!

I love this one - definitely my favorite!

Our guide Felix, whom we enjoyed greatly. This was on our way to the site of the battle of Borodino.

Are we pretty or what?!

Ron and I at St. Basil's on his birthday

Happy Birthday to you, Ron!!!

Ron was a ruble millionaire for roughly $100 US bucks

To my dearest Ron, I want to wish you the happiest of happy birthdays. May your day be filled with love and laughter and may you be surrounded by family and friends :-) Wish we could be there to give you a big birthday squeeze!!

Overwhelmed!

2008-09-04T00:04:00.003-06:00

I feel compelled to write even though it is way past my bedtime on a work night... I came home this evening after attending a meeting for Alison's PTA and had the great fortune to have a wonderful husband who had taped the RNC for me tonight. I went upstairs, kissed my kids and then settled on the couch ready to take it all in.

First off, Guliani was amazing. Loved him!!! I thought he had some great points and a really superb delivery. Nothing, however, could have prepared me for Sarah Palin. She rocked da house!!! I cried, I laughed, I cheered and I was so proud to be an American. I have waited a lot of months throughout this campaign for someone to point out the obvious about Obama - thank goodness McCain found a woman to do the job! She makes us PTA moms look good :-)

A few pundits were saying well, it was a good speech, but wait until she has to speak from the heart or the cuff. Let me tell you no one could have delivered that speech if they didn't feel it in their heart and to the very core of their belief. If I were Joe Biden not only would I get "the VP thing in writing" , I would be working something fierce on my delivery before I had to stand up and debate her in October!

I do not want to turn my blog into a political forum, however, with that being said I do have a passion for politics... I have been so charged up lately and totally consumed by the conventions! But, my PTA business ( I'm running a magazine campaign - do you think that may one day qualify me to be President?!) will be keeping me busy for the next month, so how about I check back in on this subject after the Vice Presidential debates and we'll go from there :-) Thanks for listening y'all. God Bless and God Bless America!

PS I promise pictures in my next post!!

McCain/Palin - woo hoo!!!

2008-08-30T14:07:00.004-06:00

I am sitting on the edge of my seat as I absorb all of this exciting information that keeps filling my ears, mind, heart and soul as I learn more about the next Vice President of the United States. I am so proud of McCain for choosing such an up and comer in the GOP and embrace the experience she does have as opposed to the lack of experience shown by Mr. Obama. This is an historic race to the "nth" degree and I an so proud to be a part of it. I found these funny cartoons posted after the DNC on another website and wanted to share them with you. Laugh out loud as you look forward to the RNC on Monday and get ready to ride the wave of Country First with McCain/Palin '08

http://olbroad.com/2008/08/30/obamarama-79/

1st Day Pix

2008-08-28T11:32:00.008-06:00

So there they are: the Gage babes 3. Everyone was so happy and excited this morning. It is going to be a great year!!!!

The First Day of School

2008-08-28T06:51:00.002-06:00

Can you feel it...the excitement is in the air!! My kids actually went to bed EARLY last night so that they could be up and ready for today. I have snuck out of bed slightly ahead of them so that I can enjoy my first cup of coffee, get their lunches packed and sign the cards that I bought to put in their bags. I have written their names on crayons, on Kleenex boxes and French dictionaries. They each have 12 brand new precision sharpened pencils, two new pairs of shoes (one indoor/one outdoor), new coats for when the cold winter air comes calling. I think they are prepared. It certainly was alot of work to get them here, but we all LOVE the first day of school :-)

I will post pictures after I return from dropping them off this morning. There will be no tears; just high fives, hugs, good lucks, have fun, don't forget your manners, learn lots, and play nice! I think I hear Ali just rousing and the shower beginning to run. It is official, August 28, 2008, the beginning of the next 10 months of our lives - starts now!

A Day at the Forestry Farm

2008-08-25T21:32:00.008-06:00

We had such a lovely day today and probably better than most especially because it was a Monday and I wrote the post I did 12 hours ago...

The kids and I picked up Grandma, Wren and Berg and went to the Forestry Farm this afternoon. It was super hot, but we endured. We rode the train, walked through sprinklers, saw a baby Yak and a Grizzly Bear walking in circles!! Our highlights were in the children's zoo where we were able to see the baby White Bengal Tigers and a very entertaining Capuchin Monkey; plus it was air conditioned in there!!! The kids had a refreshing popsicle and a play at the playground and then we were off to visit the butterfly garden - boy, was it ever hot in there :-) I was able to get some great shots of the kids in some trees out front too! After we had had our fun, it was back to Grandma's for watermelon and fort building in the basement.

Again, it was a lovely day of simple pleasures, warm weather and family memories.

Monday

2008-08-25T09:19:00.002-06:00

What is it about Mondays?! You either love them or hate them, right? I am sitting firmly on the fence of not being able to jump for joy on a Monday morning. I guess I look back at the weekend and think about all the things I could have accomplished, but didn't and then realize on Monday that I have 5 more sleeps and busy days ahead before I can get back at it - whatever the task at hand might be...

With this Monday, I find it to be the last Monday before the kids are officially third and seventh graders. School starts on Thursday and we won't look back for 10 months. My list should probably be longer in getting them prepared for the big first day, but it isn't. I am thinking about my future Mondays with them safely at school and me at work to tidy up whatever messes Saturday left behind. Ugh - I for sure don't like Mondays. But, on the other hand, once Monday is said and done the rest of the week is pretty good because you always have Monday to compare it to!!

Whatever this Monday and any future Mondays may bring for you, I wish you peace, laughter, no long lines at the post office or grocery store, and sunny skies because "Rainy days and Mondays can always bring you down..."no excuses necessary!

Memories from De Anne's visit

2008-08-21T14:30:00.014-06:00

I cannot believe the time with De Anne came and went so fast. We were action packed over the two and a half days and three nights we had; but, of course, there is never enough time to catch up and just sit and be. Here are some highlights of the times we had and I certainly can't wait until the next visit. I'll let you know I'm coming so you can leave the porch light on...

Talk about shock and awe!! I am completely overwhelmed...Thanks Karen for getting this shot.

The embrace of realization, joy and a dream come true. Thanks again to Linsey and Dennis!

De Anne and Dennis haven't seen each other in 6 years!!!!

Hey Smiley!!! We are still backing in the glow of our reunion at Bucca de Beppo. Yippee my Dee is home :-)

We were able to celebrate Josh's 4th birthday early and De Anne is watching the action along with Gage and Dave.

Mom got a surprise too!!

Kim, Kelly, Karen and DeAnne - don't we look like we just belong?! We needed Betty and the kitchen table to make the circle complete!
Our one and only up and close and personal shot and Jack took it!!!

Ali is so excited to be receiving her 12th birthday present - early! And we are so happy that Auntie Dee can be there to share the moment :-)

Our lady in waiting...

Pine Cove 2008

2008-08-19T11:38:00.010-06:00

The kids had such a wonderful time this summer and Pine Cove was certainly a highlight. Dennis and I saw a tremendous growth in them all when we picked them up that Saturday morning. Growth in height, independence and spirituality. We have registered them to return next year (that side benefit of having a week alone with no children did manage to factor into our decision process a little bit!!) I hope in the far, far, distant future when they look back upon their childhoods that these weeks will have amounted to some of their most treasured memories.

Mirror, Mirror on the Wall - or Not?!

2008-08-18T19:39:00.003-06:00

My day today, literally began with a bang! I was actually happy to be up early, getting breakfast ready and making lunches ( I know this feeling will soon pass, so I was enjoying it!) I had just finished the last lunch kit and was talking to Kitty at about 8:10 when a very loud crash, bang boom occurred; not once, twice or thrice but about 27 to be exact. Jack came running into the kitchen where I was holding onto Kitty shaking. I now know that in the midst of a crisis I do not flee, I freeze. I put up the hand that wasn't around Kitty and asked Jack to stop, so that we could make sure that the noise was finally over.

I made sure we were all okay and we were and then we went to investigate. We started for my office/laundry room as that was were the noise had seemed to come from. We stood with our jaws open as we saw - NOTHING. It took a few seconds to register that everything was perfectly normal. What had made all of that horrible racket? All of sudden, Jack piped up, "Mom, I know what it was." I said, "What do you think, Jack?" "Your mirror," he replied.

Sure enough we backed out of the office and shifted slightly to our left and there was my beautiful mirror leaning up against my dining room table with glass everywhere. The kids and I looked at it dumbfounded and said a lot of "what ifs". We went to wake up Dennis and tell him what happened and inspite of the mess I still had to get them to French camp by 9:00!

Dennis and I left the clean-up until later in the day and actually made quite short work of it. We have remounted the frame on the wall, sans mirror and we'll decide what to do later. The kids would like to fill it with photos, I have thought of gluing a mirror to the wall itself and then placing the frame around it and I believe Dennis would like it restored. I'll let you know what we decide!!

Home Sweet Canadian Home

2008-08-17T08:37:00.002-06:00

Our 7 week journey has come to an end and we are back home in Saskatchewan safe and sound. The drive was uneventful minus the big crack in the windshield from a loose stone about 100 miles from the house!!! An oil change and the wind shield repair are the first orders of business come Monday morning. Dennis is a wonderful road warrior and we are so lucky to have him behind the wheel. I only drove about 2o0 miles of our 1800!!

I have been uploading my photos from summer into the computer since last night when we arrived. I am amazed to see that I amassed over 700 photos in a short span of time and this does not include the two CD's of photos from Pine Cove which have over 900 pix a piece on them! I will spare all the time involved looking for a glimpse of a Gage and preview them and then add the GREAT ones to the blog!! As I uploaded these photos during the summer (onto Dennis' computer), I tweaked, cropped and removed red eyes, unfortunately, I get the opportunity to do it all again now that they are on mine :-( I will try to work in batches so that I can get some new highlights out to my devoted followers - I know that you are waiting patiently by your computers to see what I post next....

We had such a fabulous summer and were very sad to see it end. The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is that we get to return for Christmas! Of course, we have so many wonderful memories and pictures to back them up, that I may be reminding you all of summer until then - lol!!! Thank you to our children and grandchildren for continuing to brighten our lives and reminding us what truly lucky people we are!! Hugs and kisses and all my love -

The best birthday surprise ever....

2008-08-11T08:33:00.004-06:00

It may have been 2 weeks after my actual birthday, but I could have never recieved a better present with more thought and love attached to it. My wonderful daughter, Linsey and husband, Dennis arranged to fly my very best friend, DeAnne, in to visit me from North Carolina. We haven't seen each other in two years and a visit couldn't have been more needed!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone involved in making this reunion possible. I continue to consider myself the luckiest lady on the planet to have such amazing family and friends :-)

More Summer Fun...

2008-08-08T08:44:00.027-06:00

The week following our trip to New York City found us with a house full of laughter, love, wet suits and lots of shoes!!! We were so happy to have my sister, Karen and our niece, Jordan staying with us as well as our grandsons Nathan and Josh and even a weekend visit by our son, Jason and grandsons Will and Andy. Of course, we were able to have Linsey, Gage, Jillian and Dave to hang out with too!!!

Please enjoy the pix of our activities and get a glimpse into how wonderful, full, joyous and blessed our life here in Texas is....

Summertime is always watermelon time

Is this a beautiful picture or what?!... Ali and Jillian

Big Daddy and Jilly - check out her reflection in his sunglasses!

Big Daddy and GiGi having fun with our littlest angel

So happy together :-)

Gage & Big Daddy and Nathan & Jack playing in the cave where it is nice and cool and dark!!

Pepa's birthday visit - July 30, 2008

Sisters just enjoying spending some much needed time together

"Breaking Dawn" midnight book launch at Barnes&Noble with Paige, Ali and Kitty

Paige and Ali; not only cousins, but Friends :-)

Love this pic too - it was great to have Jason and the boys visit this summer!

ANDY

WILL

Karen and Jordan

Jack, Jason, Josh and Andy

A group shot!!

The sign of a full and happy home :-)

Day 1 of Amazing New York City - REALLY!!!

2008-08-06T07:15:00.011-06:00

It is hard to believe that I left for NYC two weeks ago today; where has the time gone...? Thank you for your patience and standing by while I attended to two of my grandsons for a week, my sister and my niece, a son and two more grandsons for a weekend - plus got the three babes ready for a week of camp! I must say I have been enjoying my quiet moments over the past three days, but enough is enough...on with the blog!

We arrived in NYC on July 23, 2008. Our morning started off perfect with us dropping off Jack, Kitty and Ali with my cousin Tina, Ali's Godmommy. They were in the best possible hands and we were on our way by 9:15 a.m.

After driving around DFW looking for a longer term parking place and finally finding one, I received an automated message from American Airlines saying that our flight had been cancelled - Not kidding!!! I called the 800 number from our shuttle van to the terminal and honestly had us re-booked by the time we reached the building. It was going to mean an hour and a half delay in departing, but the just meant we had time for breakfast! Well, it turned out to be lunch because it was after 10 a.m. at this point and everyone knows no one easts breakfast later than 10 a.m. So, a chicken ceasar for Dennis and a spicy chicken and rice pilaf for me.

We boarded our new flight on time and then sat on the runway for an hour. We got put in a holding pattern over Pittsburgh, PA due to weather in New York and to top it off were then told that we couldn't land at our designated airport because they had closed it due to weather - egads! Our pilot persevered as did we and kudos to him we actually landed at La Guardia :-)

Of course, we had dinner reservations for 6:30 p.m. (we were supposed to arrive in NYC at 3:00), so once we had collected our bags and caught a cab - hmmm, no rain was in site or wet ground to indicate it had rained - our cab guy said it must have been raining high up above us and just never made it to the ground - good theory, eh?! Anyhoo, we get to the hotel fairly quickly in relative terms, get checked in and have a half hour until dinner. We get unpacked, freshen up and hit the streets at Broadway and 7th. Crazy!!!

Our dinner was amazing at Amalia. It was NYC Restaurant week and we were able to take advantage of a prix fixe menu of three courses for $30. My cocktail, an Au Pear, was not included in the set price and was $16.50 all by itself - it was super yummy, but not $16.50 yummy actually. We enjoyed our meal there with great service and food. The waitress even overheard Dennis saying something about my birthday and she fancied up my dessert - no candles thank goodness!

We leisurely walked back to our home away from home - the wonderful Marriott Marquis - and took in all the sites and sounds New York City has to offer. I love this place; the energy, the excitement, the smells, even the people. What a special place to spend my 40th. I loved it!!!!

The view from our room on the 28th floor!

My hubby at Amalia
My lovely pre-birthday dessert

Times Square, NYC, New York - July 23, 2008!

We love Marriott! It has always provided Dennis and I a home away from home no matter where we land. Our room was beautiful and of course, we were right in the heart of Times Square and didn't miss a moment of the action.

Amazing New York City - Day 2 - Lordy, Lordy look who's 40

2008-07-28T14:10:00.002-06:00

At 6:48 a.m. I offically turned 40! I woke up to an overcast morning, but a day of adventure ahead. I was able to rustle Dennis awake by around 9:30 a.m. and we were up and off. We decided to take the subway downtown to Ground Zero and work our way back uptown. I was expecting Ground Zero to be a somber site for me as I remember 9/11 so vividly. However, with all of the construction and people, it was very hard to find a quiet place or a quiet moment. I will be happy when construction for the memorial is done and people can find some peace to reflect on what actually happened there and the lives that were lost.

From there we made our way down to the Statue of Liberty via Wall Street. The sun finally broke through after a few showers at the pier. We decided to stop for a bite to eat and had the biggest sandwich we have ever seen! Luckily, we wanted to save room for our dinner before the show and asked to split the "Woody Allen". It was 1 1/2 pounds of corned beef and pastrami and two little bitty slices of bread :-) The Carnegie Deli was definitely a highlight on our list of places to visit today.

A little more sightseeing like Central Park and Tiffanys, of course, and then back to the hotel to get ready for the show. We had reservations at 6:00 p.m. for the View restaurant at our hotel on the 48th floor. It is a rotating restaurant with 360 views of New York City - wow! The meal was a pre-theater prix fixe menu and we were out the door by 7:15 p.m. "Wicked" here we come... we walked to the Gershwin Theater which was about 6 blocks away and were ready to take our seats by 7:40 p.m. Honestly it was above and beyond expectation. We loved it!!! Dennis was along for the ride to indulge my love of the Wizard of Oz and musicals and celebrate my birthday, of course; he was quite pleased that he actually enjoyed it as much as me :) We went to Roxy's Deli for a post theater dessert - a birthday brownie was my choice - and it was delicious. We were back at the Marriott with still a few birthday minutes to spare. I had a remarkable day today from top to bottom. Thank you so much Dennis for always encouraging and supporting my dreams and desires and still believing I am 22!!!!!

Amazing New York City - Day 3

2008-07-28T08:39:00.008-06:00

So here is a short recap of our last day... we decided to take the train from Grand Central Station which was a quick subway ride from our hotel. The train ride was lovely and we really enjoyed the time to read the newspapers and talk. We were picked up by a Lincoln Towncar taxi in Rye, NY to drive us into Purchase and the PepsiCo Headquarters. What an amazing place! I was so pleased to get to see all of the sculptures that Don Kendall had amassed for the 145 acre compound. We had a guided tour by Karen which told us all about each sculpture and how is was acquired and how the gardens were planted around each placement. She was so knowledgeable and you could really tell this was the favorite part of her job at PepsiCo!!! Jodie Turner was our other consort for the day. She drove us in to Rye after the tour and took us to lunch. We ate at NewMoon and had some amazing Asian food and I enjoyd a wonderful Watermelontini - yummy! We took the train home and napped instead of reading this time :-) When we returned to our hotel we decided to go see a movie and a dinner out for our last night. We saw "Wanted" vs. a Disney or Pixar film which is what we normally see... and we loved it. Totally our kind of movie - thumbs up! We then ate at Juniors which is another great deli in NYC and I had the best eggsalad BLT ever. We finished up with strawberry cheesecake back at the hotel. Aaahhhh NYC, what a wonderful place to visit and I couldn't have asked for a better way to ring in the big 4-0.

Last Post As A Woman of 39....egads!!!!!

2008-07-23T06:17:00.007-06:00

Okay, my friends this is it! I am on my way out the door for New York City and my final day of my 4th decade

of life. Wow!! Honestly, I feel great and I am embracing the future with unbridled optimisim and enthusiasm. Bring it on...Thank you to all of my family and friends who have supported, encouraged, loved, criticized (with kindness) and had my back for all of these years!!! I love my life and certainly wouldn't be half of who I am without each and every one of you.

Hugs and Kisses :-)

A Day at the Savannah Water Park

2008-07-17T13:52:00.020-06:00

What a wonderful day :-) By shortly after 10:00 this morning we had 8 kids rallied and ready for the water park. We greased everyone up with sunscreen and set them loose. Savannah has such a great area for the kids and they love it all. Gage and Linsey made their first visit today as well as our cousin, Paige. Nathan, Jack and Uber were hard to to catch for photos, but I think they managed to sneak in a few. I got nothing but water splashes and feet when I tried to catch Josh and Nathan on the slide!! The cave was definitely a favorite spot, but too wet for the camera ;-( I feel as if I am posting from Mars by using Dennis' computer as I am having a hard time getting my pictures to layout exactly as I'd like. I hope you enjoy them in spite of their wacky configuration and you can tell by the smiles the fun that was had by all...

Party Pics

2008-07-14T07:14:00.010-06:00

Happy 70th Mom!

2008-07-13T22:02:00.002-06:00

On July 13, 1938, Kelly Ann Hawkins was born. Today she celebrated her 70th birthday with her daughters and grandchildren. A grand feast was prepared and enjoyed by all!!! Happy Birthday Mom and we wish you many, many more :-)

My internet connection seems to be fading in and out tonight, so words will have to suffice. I will post pictures from today's party tomorrow!

Yea Friday!!!

2008-07-11T09:59:00.002-06:00

Another day of adventure continues... We are off to Build a Bear as a reward for excellent report cards and just good kids. I will pick up a gift for my Mom's birthday this weekend, not at Build a Bear, but at the mall - lol! I am also having major Target withdrawals!!! I can not believe that I have been here for 5 days and I haven't set foot in a Target yet - help me, I can't breathe. It is a must today, even if it is just for a quick look see :-) TGIF

BONUS

2008-07-10T06:12:00.009-06:00

One of the best bonuses life can offer is to live near family! Coming home to Texas means so many special things to us, but my favorite reason is we get to spend precious time with our children and grandchildren. Since arriving on Sunday afternoon we haven't missed a meal with someone from the gang yet!!! These photos are just a little peek into a family meal and an end of of the day routine. I love it :-)

Wordless Wednesday

2008-07-09T06:54:00.008-06:00

2 weeks in the blink of an eye....

2008-07-08T06:40:00.002-06:00

Well, it has been two weeks since I last posted and I can not believe the days went by so quickly! I am truly blessed with the most amazing kids on the planet who ride patiently in the car for hours knowing that their reward is a hotel pool somewhere on route! I do get the repetitious "how many more miles?" as well as the other favorite "how many more minutes?" but it is few and far between and I always answer honestly - much to their chagrin at times!!!

We arrived in Port Lambton, Ontario on Friday, June 27th to a smiling Rhonda and Doug away on a business trip. How lucky were we to get her all to oursleves!! We took over the place as per usual and that first week flew by... we had BBQ's, trips in to Sarnia to the mall, a visit in Grand Bend with an old Pepsi friend, Kay and Ron and Dave and Aimee over to pre-celebrate my birthday that I'm ignoring, and lots of pool time and good quality catching up. I miss them so much already :-(

We then crossed over to the Michigan side of the river and were able to spend two wonderful days with Kay and Ron. I know that the kids are getting big as I believe this was the first year that they did not ask to get out the Fisher Price and Sesame Street toys!!! 4th of July was BBQ, potato salad, apple pie and ice cream, and a full day in the pool. We watched the most magnificent fireworks display from New York City in HD - we had the best seats in the house!!!

After another two days of driving we made it it Savannah, Texas - home sweet Southern home! Christopher had arrived earlier in the day and turned on our air, hot water and had new ice cubes for cold beverages already forming! We took about 2 hours to unpack and re-explore all the nooks and crannies that we had left behind in March and then headed out for our first Mexcian dinner with the local "big" kids and grandkids. Everyone was amazing :-) The girls and I headed off to the grocery store after dinner to stock up on some goodies while the boys went to get the shop vac from Chris' house and attack the spiders that had set up their homes in our nooks and crannies!!

Our first full day yesterday was spent hanging out at our own water park paradise and finishing up with dinner at Olive Garden with my sister, niece, mom and those darn Frisco Gages again - lol!!! Dennis also put a few miles on the car while he and Dave, our son-n-law, ran errands and tried to stay cool in the Texas heat.

I have taken a few pics so far along the way and I think I will post them all tomorrow for Wordless Wednesday, so be ready.... It is great to be back and I sure have missed y'all! Thanks for standing by.

Love, love -

On the road again...

2008-06-25T05:47:00.002-06:00

It's Wednesday morning at 5:54 a.m. and I am signing off for a bit. I am about to let the rubber meet the asphalt for a few days and start my summer holidays 2008 - yahoo! I do hope to have some fun and interesting things to report along the way. So, hang in there and I'll be back!!! Happy Summer :-)

Mom leaving Saskatoon on Sunday after a great visit to see the kids in their recital - see ya soon Gabby!

Jack's Final Game 0f 2008

2008-06-18T20:29:00.008-06:00

What a great season for the A's! The boys are really growing and learning to love the sport of baseball. This year they played a three strike rule and actually made defensive plays with three outs. It was wonderful to watch them grow and get better each and every game. Our coaching always remains an issue; but with the help of some supportive Dad's our kids never felt neglected or as if they just didn't matter. We were super lucky to have a beautiful spring evening for our final game and I think I got some great shots :-)

Way to go Jack! Great hit...

Nice job working the pitching machine, Dad

On first and ready to run

And he's off ... rounding third

High fives all around with his best bud, Matt

Tennessee Kin Folk

2008-06-16T20:25:00.008-06:00

I have lots of family pics to post, so I am just going to get at it. Dennis had such a wonderful time in Tennessee and always loves getting to hang out with Edward, Johnny, Jennifer and the gang. The kids and I will miss stopping by the mountain this year, but maybe it will prompt some of those kin folk to come see us in either Texas or Saskatchewan - hint, hint!! Thanks as always for your warm and welcome hospitality. We love y'all so much :-)

Howdy Edward!!!

Jessica and her Uncle Johnny

Jennifer making a nice cool drink

Johnny and Edward

Danny manning the BBQ and Edward making sure it all tastes alright. The dog, of course, is wondering where's his share :-)

Vicki and Johnny - did y'all notice a pattern of Johnny just posing for pictures... he's such a pretty boy!!!! Love you XOXO

Father's Day 2008

2008-06-15T19:20:00.005-06:00

What a wonderful day we had!!! Dennis arrived home last night on his iron chariot after a 4,000 mile journey to Tennessee and back. He was cold, tired and ever so happy to be home. We let him sleep in until almost noon so that he could feel rested and recovered and enjoy the remaining hours of HIS day. I still had coffee on and the kids and I had purchased a dozen doughnuts - 6 of his favorite sour cream glazed dedicated only for him. He ate three of them while he enjoyed his homemade cards and a T-shirt the kids had painted for him with their hand prints. The rest of the day was spent on the computer, catching up on some UFC programming he had taped while away, and thinking about the Dagwood burger he was going to build for dinner :-) We have chocolate cake left to devour after our burgers, coleslaw and fries settle in our tummies. Tomorrow is the start of another week and no rest for the weary; with yards to be mowed, ball games to be played, field trips to attend and a Harley to be detailed and made road ready for next year! To my fabulous, gorgeous husband whom I adore...Welcome home and I love you with all of my heart. Happy Father's Day darling!

Dagwood burger extraordinare plus a Pepsi Max with slaw & fries - what could be better than that?!

Nice shirt Big Daddy. We love you!!!!!!

Field Trips Galore

2008-06-12T07:10:00.004-06:00

It is that time of year; Field Trip Time!!! We technically have 9 days of school left, but I am not sure how much work is actually going to be getting done in the time remaining :-) This week the twins and Ali each had a field trip plus year end Mass and Alison has another on Friday. I was able to accompany Jack and Kitty to the Putt 'N Bounce this week and it was really nice to have our Grade 2 class all together for one last hooray. Our class is getting split next year, so some of these little ones that have been together in the same group for 4 years will no longer be class mates. There is definitely a sadness, but a hope for new friendships as well as strengthened old ones! Thanks Grade 2 and Madame Johnston for allowing Madame Paradis and I an opportunity to spend the morning with you. Merci!

Addendum: After this post was written, the school in its infinite wisdom decided to keep all of our kids together for the 2008-2009 school year! They will be amalgamated with the current grade 3 group and their teacher will be Mme Cowie - we are very happy to keeping our core strong :-)

Please pray for Chloe

2008-06-09T06:42:00.004-06:00

As I awoke this morning, I knew what my first post of the week was going to be. Last night, my precious son, as I was putting him to sleep, signed the cross on my forehead, my lips and my heart. Such a quiet gesture; it spoke volumes. I am so blessed as a Mom.

However, I started my coffee, sat down at my computer and opened my e-mail. I was so saddened to find news from a friend amongst the SPAM. I have a girlfriend, whom I met when we lived in VietNam, who has a daughter that is fighting for her life, again. Chloe is 13 and has just undergone surgery for the removal of the 2nd medulla blastoma tumor in just under three years. She was first diagnosed with cancer in Singapore when she went in for a routine eye exam. They have lived in a Ronald McDonald house in New York for 9 months as well as endured Shirley's own battle with breast cancer at the same time. The scan this time was routine and the results incredibly unexpected and devastating. They have been BEATING this thing.

They feel positive that they have removed the tumor fully after a 5 hour emergency surgery. Now, the chemo and radiation awaits... Please, please pray for this family. Thank you.

Tales from the road

2008-06-07T10:30:00.005-06:00

Dennis left for his annual Harley trek on Thursday, June 5th. Every year he battles different weather and road conditions, but soldiers on because he is a Harley Davidson enthusiast and a true biker. He does not have near as many opportunities to ride here in Saskatchewan as he did in both Texas and Florida. So, this one BIG ride normally does it for him for the year.

This year he has chosen Tennessee as his destination and will visit with his cousins Edward, Johnny and Jennifer. As I type, he is on his way this morning and should arrive in time for supper; which will probably be a big steak and a baked potato.

He phones in each evening during his journey and tells me about his day. The first day he battled some rain and high winds, but made it about 500 miles. The second day began with rain and then turned into 80 mph winds in South Dakota. As he crested a hill, he came upon an eighteen wheeler that had been toppled by the wind along with two vehicles that were stopping to help. He had no cell phone coverage at that point, so he just kept riding with his head behind the windshield, I am sure. The winds eventually died down and he was able to complete 700 miles yesterday, but not without one more scare. The sides of the highways are all quite overgrown with long grasses as he was riding through Iowa and he was being passed by two vehicles on the left. The first vehicle passed and as the second vehicle came parallel to him, a deer jumped out from the grasses. The car nailed it. I could actually feel the impact as Dennis told me this story! But by the grace of God, is all I can say. Dennis actually always starts each morning with a prayer of safety for his family back home and for a good days ride. He without a doubt had a co-pilot yesterday.

Backing out of the garage

On the road to Tennessee

In the eyes of the Lord...

2008-06-06T11:28:00.008-06:00

My twins are official members of the Church! They have been confirmed and received their First Eucharist. What a beautiful ceremony we had with the Bishop Albert LeGatt presiding. Jack and Kathryn were very excited about their big day and even more so in learning that they were receiving new names as well. Jack chose Denis as an honor to his Dad along with the fact that Denis is the patron saint of France. Kathryn chose Cecilia, which is her great-grandmother's name, and who is also the patron saint of music. Obviously, with the kids genealogical French background on Dennis' side and the fact that they speak French every day in school; choosing French confirmation names was one of the easiest parts of our journey to this evening.

Jackson McKenzie Denis and Kathryn Mae Cecilia received Bibles with their names embossed and a new rosary too. From the Church they received a bracelet with a medallion of St. Ann, who is the patron of our parish. Dennis and I are very proud of them and it was inspiring to watch these little souls become so immersed in the Spirit. We as a family continue to be blessed in our journey with the Lord. God Bless you all.

Looking stylish and super excited about their evening

On our way to Church

June 4th 2008

Bishop LeGatt with Cecilia et Denis

The confirmands and their Dad

A Day at Kinsmen Park

2008-06-01T08:17:00.017-06:00

We were so lucky to get a call yesterday from some friends that had moved out of Province a while back. Jack had a buddy over for a play date already and we decided to meet up with the out-of-towners at Kinsmen Park. Woo boy was it fun :-) The kids had a great time hanging out and playing like there had never been a gap in their friendship. It was awesome to visit with the adults while the kids completely ignored us for almost two hours!!! And the best part was after all that laughing and playing and eating ice cream; we beat the rain home...

In Memory of Ralph Edward Stauffer

2008-05-29T07:06:00.005-06:00

I have been dreading this post. For almost a week now, I've been tossing around ideas of what I might say about how losing my Dad has impacted my life. I'll go back to that day momentarily and then progress forward. It was a Tuesday and I was scheduled to work a full day. The weather wasn't very nice, rainy, in fact. I received a call from Dennis around 1:30 p.m. that Kitty had been in an accident and he was on the way to the hospital; she had fallen on a pencil and had a puncture wound in her forehead! I rushed from work and arrived just as they did. I scooped Kitty up and carried her in. After it was determined that she would receive stitches, Dennis left us to go back and pick up the other children from school. In my mind, I thought to call my Mom and Dad and let them know when I got home. Kitty was feeling lousy, of course, but she was fine - Thank God.

Well, we got home, had supper to make and dishes to do as well as a community meeting to attend a few houses over. I did manage a call to my Mom before we left. Daddy liked to stay up late to watch the evening talk shows, so I knew I could catch him when we returned. We had just arrived at the meeting when Dennis' cell phone rang. It was my sister-n-law, Laura from Texas. She said that something was wrong with Daddy and it didn't look good. She had no more information than that. I hung up, looked at Dennis, said I had to go, and started running for home. By the time I made it, there had been several more phone calls to the house and I needed a moment to catch my breath! Very quickly after that, Daddy was gone. Pronounced dead at the hospital. I was on my way to Texas...

In the year since he died, my grief sometimes becomes overwhelming to me. There is a TV show, a joke, a newspaper article, a political contest, an e-mail, a hug that he is missing. Not only is there a huge gap in my life, I see so much of the loss in my children. A ball game that Dad will never see Jack win, a dance he won't watch Kitty perform or a band concert he won't hear Ali play; Watching them grow and seeing what wonderful people they are becoming. I believe collectively, my siblings and I, can all say we miss him most for our children. He was such a wonderful Grandpop. We were so blessed to have him for 50, 47, 38 and 34 years of our lives - what an amazing grace we were given!

I LOVE YOU DADDY. I miss you each and every day and hope that you have peace and joy, warmth and laughter, access to a beautiful golden horn to rally the angels, a nice Saltillo plate every once in a while and a Harley Davidson for when your wings are tired.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-05-28T07:48:00.005-06:00

I just can't get enough....

2008-05-24T23:38:00.003-06:00

Please enjoy, again and again and again....

David Cook - Guitar Hero

Walking with Dinosaurs

2008-05-24T10:39:00.009-06:00

Wow! Last night was such a treat for us :-) We went to see a traveling production of Walking with Dinosaurs. It cost 20 million dollars to develop and requires two days of set-up at the venue. They travel with thirty 18 wheelers and the venue must have a clearance of 50 feet (ours had 52!). The sounds, the lights, the dinosaurs were amazing. It is wonderful to have opportunities such as these to not only educate but entertain the kids. They couldn't stop talking about it all the way home!! I don't know that this will spark any new curiosities in our household, but certainly when the time comes for them to study history, geography, science; they will be able to recall something that they learned last night and then enhance it. Super Cool!!!

Thought for the day :-)

2008-05-23T14:38:00.000-06:00

Life is short! Break the rules!
Forgive quickly! Kiss slowly!
Love truly, Laugh uncontrollably..
And never regret anything that made you smile.

Alison's Band Concert

2008-05-22T07:40:00.005-06:00

It is hard to believe that Alison has been thinking about or actually playing the flute for a year now! The process at school is great; you decide if you want to play in the band and then they have an instrument try-out day. The Saskatoon Symphony comes to school and they show you how to play each instrument and then basically give you a top three choice of the instrument that you are best suited to play. If I remember correctly, Ali had her heart set on playing the clarinet (her Mom's choice of Grade 6 instrument, by the way) before this instruction. The flute is a lovely fit for Ali and I do believe she has enjoyed playing. In fact, I know that she is going to continue into band next year - yea free music lessons!!! Here are a snapshots from the evening as well as a sampling of the talented skills of 6th graders from 4 local elementary schools. They are led by their band teacher, the wonderful Mr. Peter Pizurny!

YES!

2008-05-22T00:10:00.001-06:00

American Idol Prediction

2008-05-20T18:08:00.002-06:00

DAVID will win!!!! Ha Ha, funny, funny - I know... I am anxious to watch the show tonight and see the results tomorrow after Alison's band concert - thank goodness for my PVR. I think this will be a great final with two very talented artists. I am leaning towards David Cook as my go to guy - fingers crossed but not able to vote north of the 41st parallel! So, somebody call once or twice for me, eh?! Thanks :-)

Four more golds, plus Championship Bronze and Silver

2008-05-19T16:10:00.006-06:00

We have had a glorious long weekend! What a luxury to have 4 fabulous days off in a row :-) We actually even started our long weekend early, by pulling all of the kids out of school on Thursday so that they could watch Kitty dance the first of her two numbers after lunch. Kitty performed her large group ballet and her large group jazz; which both received first and gold in their categories! Friday was yard work day in which I dutifully received my initial sunburn of the season. I did get a lot of weeds picked though!! Jackson had a baseball game and then Dennis and Corey went to the Dakota Dunes for some card playing while Tannis and I took the kids out to dinner. By Saturday, we were up and at dance again by 10:00 a.m. Kitty performed her solo and then her large group tap. Again, two gold medals were to be found at the end of the rounds. Tannis and Emma came to watch as did Grandma. We then enjoyed a wonderful evening of homemade burgers and hand cut french fries at the Nichols. Delicious!!!!! The Dance Power competition also provides for a Championship dance off on Sunday evening and Kitty's ballet and tap were chosen as two of the top five numbers in their division. We were very proud that the 7-8 year olds were able to place so high against the 9-10 year olds in their division. Sitter School of Dance took the three top spots with Kitty's tap garnering third and her ballet second!!! Today we went to a movie and saw "The Chronicles of Narnia ~ Prince Caspian". Awesome, Amazing, Adventurous Epic! We loved it. Tonight we are going to BBQ and just enjoy the lingering hours of our holiday time!! Hope you all had a wonderful weekend too :-)

My Prizes Arrived!!!!

2008-05-15T17:14:00.002-06:00

Okay y'all, now I get to add words to my Wordless Wednesday pic! It is me, in my kitchen, of course, but I am trying to show you all of my beautiful prizes from the "Great Blog Hunt" that arrived in the mail yesterday. The doorbell rang around 11:00 a.m. and I was so happily surprised to see that it was freebies being delivered by my postman instead of bills!! My gorgeous apron is from a company called, Flirty Aprons. It is so cute and I can't wait to get to cook something fabulous while wearing it :-) I also received two Spot On wall hooks and a Skinny Strip, which is an adhesive-backed magnetic bulletin board. Sarah Kimmel, the sponsor of the contest, also sent me a DVD of her daily home planner software. I haven't tried it yet, but I am hopeful that I can begin the 2008-2009 school year in September more organized than ever!

How fun is it to win something?! I am actually on a virtual roll these days as I won something on Monday night at the Silver Spoon Dinner too. I am definitely thinking of buying a lottery ticket - soon, before the luck wears off!!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-05-14T15:14:00.002-06:00

Mother's Day 2008

2008-05-11T20:16:00.005-06:00

Today was a wonderful day filled with Family and Friends. I am so proud to be a Mama! My job as Wife, Mom and Grandma make me complete. Who could ask for anything more....?

A long time coming...

2008-05-10T12:43:00.034-06:00

I am terribly sorry that it has taken me so long to post our update from the second trip to Moose Jaw! Life was obviously continuing on without us at home and I had work, a retreat day at school, another rehearsal for next weeks competition and laundry that captured my attention prior to sitting down and knocking this out!!! Kitty garnered two more first place finishes to make it a grand total of 4 for the week. She is very proud, as am I, of her job well done. The trip to Moose Jaw is an easy one, but I'll be very happy to be posting the results from the next competition right here at home. It will be nice for Dennis, Alison and Jackson to be able to show their support for Kitty as well.
So, without further adieu, I present our photo montage from Moose Jaw, SK. Enjoy!!!!

Our hotel was a spa - woo hoo!!!

Kitty in the lobby...
Look I was there too :-)
The flags of all the countries from people who have "taken of the waters".

The indoor pool is around 98 degrees and the outdoor pool 104 degrees.

A few sites...

Kitty's evening performance was "Down on the Farm". As you can see the whole barnyard was present! These 7-8 year olds won 1st place with a mark of high distinction for a score over 90.

We went to DQ for our celebratory treat for a job well done!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-05-07T13:53:00.002-06:00

I'm a Winner!

2008-05-04T15:15:00.002-06:00

Back in early April, when I was just beginning to think about becoming a blogger, I participated in a contest called "The Great Blog Hunt". It took me to 22 different blogs in which I had to read posts and find a clue. After finding all of them, I sent an e-mail saying I was finished and attached all the clues I had found. Well, lo and behold, yesterday I received an e-mail saying I had won first place!!!! Woo hoo :-)

It got me thinking, had I ever really won anything before...? What about you, have you ever won anything? I attend several functions a year here in Saskatoon and honestly, never win any of the draws or early bird prizes. I "win" silent auctions regularly, but then submit my monies that I pledged, so , it isn't really the same thing. I had to dig deeper and recall my younger days, I remember being about 11 and having my name drawn from an entry in which I won an "Air Supply" album -yes, folks, a vinyl record! I won a Dallas Cowboys keychain for a drawing or slogan I submitted in Grade 6 at school. And believe it or not, I still actually own both of these items!!!But it would appear that my luck dried up somewhere around 1980...

Everyone loves to win - something, anything really. So, I will continue to fill in the slips of paper or send back my Publisher's Clearing House Sweepstakes as you never know when it will be your turn. I am anxious to find out what my first place finish has earned me, and I will make sure and let you know when I do. Until then, happy submitting to whatever contest or sweepstakes you currently have your eye on. Good Luck!

Ist Place x 2

2008-05-03T20:06:00.006-06:00

Moose Jaw, simply put, was a success! They did so great and really knew their stuff :-) Two first place finishes and smiles all around....

The Brass and Sass Team

Miss Kitty
The Hot Shots

Congrats Kitty - You ALL were amazing today!

A Quick Week in Review

2008-05-03T07:46:00.003-06:00

Good morning all!!! Well, it is a busy household today after a busy week. Kitty and I are up and off to Moose Jaw , SK for her first two numbers in this years competition. My props go out to the makers of the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser - I saved my household just under $100 by cleaning up two pair of dance shoes and making them look clean and sparkley new!!! We have Tap and Jazz to get under our belts today and about 5 hours of driving for two three minute performances - I am a supportive mother, I am a supportive mother :-) I believe encouraging children to find their paths in life is one of the greatest gifts we can give. I don't know if Kitty will dance forever, but for now, it is most definitely what she loves the best.
Other household news this week includes two visits from the tooth fairy, a rained out baseball game and then one actually played (Go A's!), two school field trips, a charity fashion show (in which I showed my American badge - more later) and two trips to church for 1st communion and confirmation classes. Of course, I worked 4 days out of 5, Dennis cut the grass for the first time this year and had our new US car Canadianized. To close out the week, we will attend Mass and confirmation class tomorrow as well as a "hot tubbing" (they're 7 year olds!) birthday party.
I hope everyone has a fantastic, wonderful, lovely weekend. By the way, Spring has finally sprung in Saskatchewan and we are loving it. 40 degree Fahrenheit days means flip flops and no jackets - get over it you wussy Southerners - we have developed a thicker skin up here in the North - we are hardier than y'all, eh?!

Better late than never, Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-30T21:15:00.002-06:00

Teaser...

2008-04-28T07:27:00.003-06:00

For the last few weeks, actually since September 2007, Kitty has been preparing for dance competition. This year she will be competing in ballet, jazz and tap as well as a performing a ballet solo. She doesn't necessarily love all the "prep", but now is her time to shine. I recorded her solo practice with Ms. Carmen this weekend as well as her dress rehearsals for the big three. I submit the following and ask you to use your imagination to envision Kitty as a squirrel... :-)

A Newborn's Conversation with God

2008-04-27T00:14:00.004-06:00

With Mother's Day fast approaching, I received this from a friend today. After reading it, I had to pause and reflect on several families that I know of that are going through trying times at the moment. Please be strong and retain your faith in the Lord. He knew what he was doing when he made you someone's angel... God Bless You

A baby asked God, 'They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?' God said, 'Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you.'

The child further inquired, 'But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy.' God said, 'Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you. And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy.'

Again the child asked, 'And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?' God said, 'Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will ! teach you how to speak.'
'And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?' God said, 'Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray.'

'Who will protect me?' God said, 'Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life.'

'But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore.' God said, 'Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you.'

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, 'God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel's name.'

God said, 'You will simply call her, 'Mom.'

Parlez Vous Francais?

2008-04-25T07:32:00.003-06:00

Our kids speak French! What an amazing feat from two parents who struggle with the English language from time to time - lol. Their accents are beautiful and I could not be any prouder of my three babes. Yesterday, Jack and Kitty had a French Oral Presentation at their school and we were lucky enough to be able to attend. It included kindergarten through grade three students and ranged from songs to nursery rhymes to poems. Here is a sample of the great job that was presented by the second graders - no translation necessary - Enjoy!!!!

Take me out to the ballpark

2008-04-24T21:05:00.004-06:00

Even though there is snow on the ground and more forecast for tomorrow....baseball season is preparing to begin. Jack has played for three years now and really loves it. His team this year amalgamated with another team in the city and they will be the Saskatoon A's. In previous years, he was a Redsock (which was actually super cool as the "real" Redsocks won the World Series!). He and Dennis and Corey and Matthew all had a guys night out, including a supper at McDonald's, to pick up their uniforms and any new equipment for the season. I haven't been feeling great this week, so I was already in the bathtub when they got home. A modeling session of the new goodies was in order, of course, so I watched the parade of fashions from my warm water perch. If good looks have anything to do with winning, I predict it's going to be a season full of home runs - Go A's!!!!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-23T07:41:00.004-06:00

Date Night

2008-04-19T12:15:00.006-06:00

Yee Haw! Dennis and I had our first date night in far too long last night :-) We were looking forward to some quiet time alone at dinner and a movie, when we received an e-mail on Wednesday night offering us concert tickets to see Brooks & Dunn and Alan Jackson! We immediately snapped those up without a second thought and changed our course for a night of entertainment! We are truly blessed by our friends and family and their "connections" which they so generously seem to always remember us when opportunities arise. Thanks y'all!!!!

Dennis picked me up from work and we had a wonderful meal at The Ivy. Our quiet time was well spent talking and laughing and enjoying not having to remind three children of their table manners! We got on the road for the venue in good time and actually managed to avoid a lot of the traffic back-ups due to my husband's expert driving skills. We were quite pleased once inside the arena to find that our tickets were actually in a box and we had bar service just two steps away - another rum and diet Pepsi, please!!

There was an opening act, Jesse Faraday, I think. She was cute and sang well, but definitely just a time filler. Brooks and Dunn started around 8:30 p.m. and sang their hearts out for an hour. We really enjoyed their performance and they seemed to just energize the crowd....here is one of my favorite songs from their act -

Alan Jackson didn't arrive on stage until around 10:00 p.m. and his stage was much simpler. He commented that he was just a guy with a guitar and that he hoped to play a few songs we knew and encouraged us to sing along and dance if we felt like it! He was genuinely humble and tipped his hat to the crowd in gratitude for the support of his music over the years. He did an amazing video of images from around Saskatoon set to his song "Where I Come From". The crowd went crazy when they saw images of Timmies, Canadian Tire, Our Armed Forces, Gordie Howe, and of course, the Maple Leaf! I love pride and patriotism in any fashion and this was truly a highlight of my evening :-) Here is, however, my favorite song, and I have no idea whose voice you hear in the background - could it have been too many rum and diets - nah, it's 5 o'clock somewhere.....

As Dennis and I left the concert, we realized that snow had started fall - it was predicted, but we tried to push the idea out of our minds that we could actually receive 50 cm of snow in mid-April! It was a wet, but peaceful drive home. We had a wonderful evening and it was such a joy to be able to spend quality time with my best beau. I will relish this outing until our next; whenever that may be!

And I wasn't even wearing yellow....

2008-04-18T07:13:00.002-06:00

It was a beautiful day here yesterday and I was having an "excellent" day (more on that to follow in another post...). I was working when a man entered the store with a rose. I had just answered the phone and we had several customers milling about. I was not thinking this gift was intended for me. I was indeed taken aback when he handed me the rose and said, "a beautiful flower for a beautiful woman." As quickly as he appeared he was gone. I hung up the phone and had a stunned look on my face when I peeked inside the package and saw that it was a YELLOW rose. How did this stranger know that I was from Texas, first of all and secondly that I have an affinity for yellow. Bizarre!

Well, my boss and I and a few of our clients had a good giggle about the incident and I pretty much didn't think about it again for the next few hours. As part of my daily routine, I had to go to the tailors, which is just about a block away from the store. Much to my surprise, my flower man, was waiting outside our building when I returned. As I was entering, I hear a , "hey, hey" but completely ignore it because who the heck knows me downtown. Then as I am opening the door, he is right beside me speaking quickly and saying, "Hey, can I buy you a cup of coffee?" To say I was caught off guard is an understatement. I stammered, "No, I am still working." I kept walking and he followed. He said again that I was beautiful, I kept walking.

He didn't follow me into my store, but he obviously knows where I work! I do not like the feeling of looking over my shoulder or feeling as if I am being watched. I am sure the sentiment will fade over time, but I realize I shouldn't let my guard down either. I am off to work again this a.m. and I will probably weigh my clothing choices carefully. Not that I think that we should allow others to dictate what we wear, but I am conscious that other people are watching my choices closer than I would like.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-04-16T14:21:00.006-06:00

It's the simple things

2008-04-13T22:02:00.003-06:00

While Dennis and I were watching our current fave show, "New Amsterdam", on the PVR this evening he enlightened me with what makes him happy :-) It's the simple things he said, "A clean garage, warm banana bread and listening to my wife laugh." (that would be yours truly). In response, for me, it is also the simple things - A beautiful spring day, our first BBQ of the season, working together as a family to get a job done, loving my husband more with every breath I take and being able to blog about him while he is in the next room!

Banana Bread

2008-04-13T20:23:00.003-06:00

Who knew that banana bread could be so pretty?! After having several of these tasty loaves in Texas over Spring Break, I finally had the opportunity to make it myself. It almost looks too good to eat, but I have several anxious children and a husband who has a fork in hand...yummmy! Thanks, Linsey :-) Here is the recipe for anyone else who wants to give it a try:

Ingredients:
1/2 cup margarine, softened
1 (8 ounce) package low fat cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cups white sugar
2 eggs
1 to 1 1/2 cup mashed bananas (about 3 bananas)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions: Cream the butter or margarine and cream cheese together. Gradually add the white sugar, and continue beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas, vanilla, brown sugar, cinnamon and nuts. Add flour, baking powder, and soda; mix until batter is just moist.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 1 hour(plus, depending on the size of the bread pan), or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
I baked mine in a bunt pan for 45 mins and it was perfect!

The posts that could have been....

2008-04-13T10:24:00.002-06:00

Good Sunday morning to every one! Over the past 24 hours I have had some amazing post ideas, unfortunately, none of you will read them. I am a in the moment type of idea maker and if I don't do anything about it right then; it is gone. I had a great idea dropping off my daughter for a play date yesterday, as I was laying my head on my pillow last night - brilliant idea -, and this morning as I was preparing coffee, tidying last nights popcorn bowl and picking up three children's stray socks, another moment of inspiration lost. I think I will start carrying a notebook to help me jot my ideas down so that I may expand on them later. In theory this sounds like it may work, but since I can never even find my cell phone, when it is ringing and flashing, in the bottom of my purse, a notebook will probably get consumed within its depths as well. I guess I will just have to get better at trying to document things/ideas/notions/moments in time as they happen. Stay tuned, as I never know when the post that could have been will become a post that is! Have a wonderful day y'all, eh?!

What?!

2008-04-10T22:21:00.003-06:00

I can not believe that Michael Johns is off AI. We had an AI marathon this evening with the Top 8 show and then Idol Gives Back taped from yesterday and watching live tonight to see who was leaving. I am shocked that it is Michael. I actually enjoyed his version of Dream On. I thought David C. was off, Carly sounded angry, and everybody else is just way better than Kristy Lee. Jason Castro (shout out to the Texas boy) was awesome last night and Somewhere over the Rainbow will always be one of my favorite songs - Judy Garland's and IZ's versions both!

I'll miss you Michael and the dimension you added to the competition. I know, however, that we will hear from you again. Good Luck!