Hague'r & Rempelstiltskin

New Kitchen

2011-01-25T19:11:00.001-08:00

fall

2010-10-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

Fall is definately here. We had a great family day today - we went out first thing and got 2 loads of firewood, then came home, unloaded them - had a fire in the yard and raked leaves. Funny how it's the little things that make the best family memories!

Silence

2010-07-19T07:26:00.001-07:00

Not too hard to tell that I haven't been too chatty lately. I feel like I am just on the other side of a fairly major stress breakdown. I had no way to anticipate that the transition to a new job in government would be so hard on me. Stress is a strange beast when you don't recognize it!

I am moving forward.. I am alive and well. Just thought I'd at least update that much. :)

AAhh, paid to surf the net

2010-03-12T09:11:00.000-08:00

Well I just can't say enough about being paid to invigilate an exam at the college. 3 hours of paid time to surf the net on unsecured wireless networks. This new job is great!

The sun is finally out.. feels so much like spring here which is at least a month ahead of normal for here.

Collin is at his new (yes new again) job and things are good - he has been really happy, I am settling in to my new job - once all this training is over I will be glad. I have never been great at travelling around too much but this has been all a bit overwhelming for me... so I think next week will be the last of it for a little while.

Spring break is coming up - though we don't have any travel plans, it will still be nice to have a break from making lunches. Who knew that could be so exciting!

Things are really looking up

2010-01-25T07:56:00.000-08:00

New job, new hair, new outlook on life.

Maybe it was just the shopping spree for some more super professional clothes, maybe it's that I am being spiritual for the first time in years (and this time it's my version of it.. not some watered down or hyped up "supposed to be" that I didn't quite fit, maybe it's that my husband is just so fantastic to me and as a father, maybe it's that my kids are so damn cute and getting so independent (and stylish), maybe it's the love of new friens and the laughter that I haven't had in a long time, maybe it's the new Rosewood's Diary album by Greg Ventin & the band, maybe it's how great and supportive my family is and has always been through my hardships.. I just don't know - OR maybe it's all that and I just finally feel blessed and fit and even ~m~a~y~b~e~ sexy.

I am lovin' the new job, how professional and purposeful that I feel.

*sigh* Life is good.

Here I am world.. the drugs must be making my world seem lovely!!

2010-01-12T18:33:00.001-08:00

I am posting a picture of myself from today.. markedly one of the best days that I have had in the last 365.. blissfully spent material shopping and giggling with my mom & sister and family. It's been great. I am also 58lbs down and just all around feeling like a million buckaroonies.

Blessing to everyone.. have a drink, hug a friend!!!!

WAIT - NEW INSTALLMENT... craziness is making me see sexy hairdressers too... here's my new makeover hair.. I love it.. it's a little more funk...

New Year

2010-01-11T14:45:00.001-08:00

Well things have been kind rocky lately, new job, lots of sickness, etc, etc. I am just getting out of the hospital today after a 3 night stay - not really going to divulge all the deets but, I am on the mend. My new supervisor is superb in understanding my need for a mit of rest time until I am back on my feet. It's a good job so far.. everyone is great and I know I am going to just love it.

Our Christmas was just fantastic. Collin's family was here, his Mom & Dad, older brother and his 3 kids.. it was SO much fun. I just love Collin's side of the family. Only ones missing were Jeff/Carley & the kids.

I have yet to download any new pictures, maybe later - then I will update you all. Hope you all had a great holiday and your new years are starting out just perfectly!

Love and hugs....

I got it...

2009-11-24T08:32:00.000-08:00

I know.. that was a long time that I made you wait to hear the details of my new job.. things are still in the works so I was keeping things on the down low. I have accepted a position with Service BC, I will be the "Senior Client Service Representative" that will be my new title. Rather lengthy.. I'll have to come up with something a little flashier!
I will be supervising and have an enormous budget - I will also be acting as the Government agent for Vanderhoof. If all y'all want to know what I will be doing there.. click here (trust me, I'll have to research it too!!)
It is vastly different from what I am doing and have been doing for the last ba-zillion years but.. I think the change will be good. I will need to up my wardrobe so that I have a bit more proffesional stuff to choose from.. poor me.. I have to shop. :)

JOB INTERVIEW

2009-11-10T08:38:00.000-08:00

Yikesy.. I have a job interview in 45 minutes and I am kinda freakin' out. I am trying to stay all Z~E~N and tell myself that I will do fine.. so .. this will distract me if only for a moment!

This job is one that I hadn't considered because I didn't know that it was vacant - but of course like anything.. once you know it's there - you start really seeing yourself in it and wonder what would I do if I don't get it?? I've already imagined my life with it. Does this make sense?

It's funny though because a week ago I didn't even know it existed!

Anyhow - I will try to post and update how it went afterwards so that you all can know that I didn't die from an anxiety attack!!!

2009-10-13T14:09:00.000-07:00

We had a great thanksgiving this year... we decided to take a break from reality and spend this thanksgiving in Kitimat with Collin’s Aunt and Uncle. We have never been there and neither had the kids so it was a great opportunity to have an adventure.
Even the drive there was so pretty.. this time of year as well as a lot of historic towns on the way.. Here’s us in Moricetown at the falls..

As soon as we had arrived, we went out for lunch on the Douglas Channel, went beach combing, went to MK Bay Marina to buy prawns for supper and sightseeing around the town. Including hiking up a tiny trail to a nice waterfall.
The next day we decided to head out to LakeElse Lake for a picnic lunch, we hiked up a mountain/rock climbing area to the top, it was hard but so much fun. Then on the way home we went mushroom picking. We were quite successful – we found slippery jacks, king bolete’s, and chanterells. YUMMY YUM!
Of course the next day we did the whole church + turkey day.. and it was great too. We had such a fun time there.. can’t wait to do it again!

Work Force Adjustments

2009-10-08T09:10:00.001-07:00

WOW.. I know it's been much too long since I posted so.. I don't know if I can cover off everything. The most important or at least the most prevelant in our life right now is JOBS. Sept. 2, I got called into a meeting room and told that my job is REDUNDANT. Government is making cut backs and I happen to be one of them. SUCKY SHIT is what I thought.. I was totally shocked and blindsided because all the months of talks about cut backs, etc and there was never any indication that it could have or would have been me. So I have 90 days working notice until the end. *sigh, now that is stress.

Collin's job causes him a load of stress because he has a boss that is the type that blames all his own mistakes on everyone else and tops it off with some verbal abuse -- Collin is really not happy at his job. And hasn't been for about 18 months. He had been looking elsewhere for work and put his resume in at another place.. just waiting, waiting to see. So Monday he got the call that he got the other job and he gave his 2 weeks notice at this one. It's a lot to be going on right now with all the worry about my job and the change in his but.. WOW what a difference in Collins happiness. SO worth it. It's nice to have him come home and say that the is looking forward to things again.

So as for my job, I am still hoping that I will be able to utilize the union that I pay so dearly for and be able to get placed or bump someone so that I can keep a job here in Vanderhoof. I will keep you all posted.. it will most likely be a long road until I find out. I am keeping my chin up and staying positive.. I know something will work out!

The playhouse

2009-09-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

We have all had fun with this project! The girls wanted to have a playhouse in the backyard so we converted an ill-used lean-to to being their new and oh so fantastic PLAYHOUSE. It is not yet painted (their intention is to do pink & purple stripes) but that will come later. The girls helped us with the building and screwing & nailing and holding up boards here and there.. it's been great. They even sanded their own window sills for the inside for plants. Here area few pictures along the way!

My baby is 8

2009-09-15T12:21:00.000-07:00

Last week, Millie turned 8. Was a great party.. man.. where has the time gone?

The list

2009-08-19T11:41:00.000-07:00

Well the reno’s are still a go-ing.. and what’s great is that we still don’t seem to have tired of them. We have accomplished a lot in the few months that we have been here; here’s the list

• Painted the living room, hallways, dining room, massage room, laundry room, kids rooms, house exterior.
• Replaced all the windows in the entire house.
• New garden door in dining room
• Replaced all outside light fixtures
• Replaced majority of interior light fixtures
• Um, yeah – took off and cleaned behind all baseboard trim. (I know, seems like this shouldn’t be on this list cause it’s just cleaning.. but if you only knew how disgusting it was behind those boards.. bleck, icky.. yuck – you’d understand that this was a major undertaking)
• Repainted cold air return grates
• New trim around windows and doorways
• Cut a 6 foot doorway into the dining room/hallway wall to create better flow/open floor plan.
• Built a coat rack
• Built a custom mirror
• Painted the kids room trim
• Installed new curtain rods & curtains upstairs.
• Yard work.. took out crappy woodpile & planted grass, pruned the mayday, the birch, the mountain ash, & the ornamental crab, extracted (by quad) the hedge of cedars, an enormous rose bush, and another mammoth cedar, cleaned up flower & garden beds, created new flower beds at the front of the house.
• Built & painted new gate to allow for quad width to drive through
• Organized the impressive cold storage room.. it’s about 5’ by 20’ ((NICE))+ (why do previous owners always leave old paint and canning? Like I want to eat the “who knows what” jam from 1997!)
• New main bathroom tap (this is phase 1 of the bath reno.. still to come!)

We still want to do the kitchen, the bathrooms, new attic insulation, new shingles and paint the basement walls – then perhaps we will relax.
Phew.. seems like so much when you write it down. We are now trying to focus on building the kids a playhouse. They have been so patient through all this.. they deserve a little something. We have the area all cleaned up and ready for building – we just need to get some supplies and get things started. I will try to take pictures along the way so that I can share them.
Hope all of you out there are doing well, I’d love to hear from you!!!!

A-hem..

2009-08-04T13:43:00.000-07:00

Now would you just look at this:
I know, sometimes I can really be an activist.. a serious womans lib-er... but there is something to be said about 100% domesticated, fresh from the oven, I baked it myself, with my own two hands.. BREAD! And.. it's wheat free at that. And for any of you who have ever baked with flours that are non-wheat, you will appreciate that it's not the shape of a hockey puck!
It actually rose, and looks beautiful. (Well at least one looks beautiful) So the loaf on the left is a spelt bread (thanks to my gf gillian - and my ma, who kept the recipe all these years), and the loaf on the left is a mixed flour flaxy bread which (though ugly) tastes great and will make good toast.
I am so happy and MAN did my house ever smell great. Home cooking.. at it's best. OMA - you would be so proud!

It's been so long.. I forgot my password

2009-07-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

*sigh, I don't even know if I have the energy to update what we've been up to!
RENO's + more RENO's mixed with a bit of camping and a trip to my second home... Summerland.
Was so great to see the Rogalls.. with the exception of the J/L crew. What a great vacay.. much needed!
Here's some pictures...

And as for us...

2009-05-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

Well we've been quite busy as of late with the whole house move and what not. But we are finally in.. officially for the last 7 days we've been at our new place. It's so great to be there and get settled in. I thought it was time to show it off a bit so that you can all see what it looks like.. BEFORE all the renos!

*sigh.. I think I am actually starting to like renovating! So - here's the little slideshow of the house now..

We plan to:
Paint or replace the siding to a more modern color
A whole window package on the house
A lot of landscaping
Add a clothesline
Replace the railing on the existing deck
Possibly put in a lower deck
Re-do all the bathrooms
Re-paint the ENTIRE house on the inside
Take down a few walls to open up the space
Fix the patio block area
Add more raised beds to the garden
Put in a few sun tunnels to lighten up the bathroom and staircase
Replace all hardware in the kitchen, new countertops and backsplash tiling
New flooring in the basement

*PHEW.. I am tired already.. that's the list now.. guess we'll see if we have the energy to get it all done!

Thinking of my girlfriend Fernanda...

2009-05-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

Of course I am certainly thinking of all my friends and family out there with this Swine Flu outbreak. Parts of me always think, well we are just in a small town, it's not likely that anything will happen to us - I think most people take the "it won't happen to us" approach or attitude. Yesterday we heard that there are 2 confirmed cases in PG which is a town only 100kms from here... kinda hit home a bit.

But even more so.. on my mind today is my friend Fernanda. She has two small kids (with existing health concerns), a husband who is a doctor.. and they live in MEXICO City. She is so concerned over the well being of her husband as he has been called into the hospital to care for those who are sick, as well she and the kids have been keeping themselves in isolation so that she can ensure they don't get infected. *sigh - I can't imagine the stress that she must be under.

So - I am definately sending happy & healing thoughts to her.

How are the rest of you doing out there with the thought of all this? I'd love to know.. I'm getting a little freaked out - I must say.. you????

Bought & Sold

2009-04-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

Our house has sold - YIPEE! The last few weeks have been pretty intense around here as we have been looking and looking and looking for a new place to buy and WOW there's just isn't much out there.
But... we went back for a second look on a place that we'd seen before and thought - *if we can get this for the right place, we could take on another renovation project and it would be great!
So.. we did.
We will be moving partially May long weekend and then fully on the 23rd. FAST and FURIOUS which is great by me.. the waiting part is agonizing and so, we just have to pack our "hynnies" off and we'll be golden!

EVERYBODY HATES CANCER

2009-04-06T09:49:00.000-07:00

These are the words of my oldest daughter Oaksana. One of my mom's closest friends just got the bad news. While they were waiting for her husband to get treatment advice for his prostate cancer diagnosis.. she realized that she had a lump in her breast. She's already had the masectomy done and has started her 15 month chemo treatment plan. Oaksana's teachers son (who is only in his early 20's) is battling this terrible disease as well.

So Oaksana decided to cut her hair in order to support them all. As long as I can remember, Oaksana has been VERY serious about having long hair. She won't even have a conversation if the words hair and scissors are in the same sentence. So I was amazed when she said that she wanted to do this.

I am really proud of her for making a personal sacrifice like that.. makes my heart just melt.

So.. here's her before shot...

And here's her after shot:

Another notch on the "Jen"TOP..

2009-03-31T10:49:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know this inside joke but for those of you who do not.. when I was growing up.. I moved to so many towns and places that my dad kept track of them on his truck canopy. There is a brand of canopy called the GEMTOP.. but he called his, the "JEN"TOP becuase that was all he ever used it for. *sigh.. still loving you for all those KM's Dad!!
_____

Well we have been quite busy getting our house ready to sell again. Last year we missed the market by a month or so and things seemed to really fall apart here around when it came to real estate.

But we have picked ourselves up and scraped ourselves off.. and we are ready to list again. We (and by we, sometimes that means my "best painter ever" sister) have continued to do lots of updating; painting all the bedrooms, hallway, entrance, living room, sewing room, laundry room. We've updated light fixtures, light sockets & light switches. Of course that's all in addition to all the work that we did prior to that so.. cross up your fingers all y'all.

It's kind of exciting to look at new places and think of new possibilities!

Trip to Victoria

2009-03-11T13:09:00.000-07:00

I was invited to a conference for work that was in Victoria. Now normally I would say, "um No-ooo Mister, Ms. Jen does not fly!" (cause I'm crazy that way),,, but I really felt that it was a good work opportunity and one that I would really enjoy as taking on to be part of my workload. Anywho.. I asked *if I did go, could I drive? And the answer was "YES - crazy lady that would rather a 16+hour drive, you may!"

So with the kids and my mom in tow.. off we headed to greener pastures. And boy were they greener.. we left the hoof with -31 and arrived to a balmy, no jackets atmosphere where the kids froliked in the yard and raked grass. *sigh (remind me again why I live in the North?)

The trip was great - besides a small flu bug on day 2, we had a great time. My Auntie Margaret and Uncle David allowed us to invade their home with flu bugs, teddy bears, strange food requests and math problems. We had a lovely bunch of visits with cousins and family that we rarely get too see, and the kids had an immensely enjoyable time siteseeing. They went to Craigderroch Castle, tonnes of parks, the Marina, rowed with Shane to MaryTodd Island, went beachcombing, fed the seals (a lot - there is a seal somewhere right now, calling Jenny Craig because of us!), they played at parks, did crafts, etc, etc. It was a great holiday. The only thing missing was Collin. We sure missed him. We were also lucky enough to stay with Oma & Opa on the way there and the way back. It's great to see them too, hard not to have them in Vanderhoof anymore

Anyway, here's a small slideshow to give you an idea of all the thing we did!

Karate

2009-02-19T15:34:00.000-08:00

The girls have been taking Karate lessons. It's quite cute - they are learning fast and having so much fun! Here are a few pictures of them. Millie has not gotten her Gi (Suit) yet, as she is a little shrimp and we had to re-order to get the smallest size they have!

BC Place Name - ANSWERS

2009-02-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

1. Victoria
2.Burnaby
3.Salmon Arm
4.Shuswap
5.Courtenay
6.Sandspit
7.Princeton
8.New Westminster
9.Chase
10. Lions Bay
11. Ocean Falls
12. Alert Bay
13. Hope
14. Sicamous
15. Surrey
16. Whistler
17. 100 Mile House
18. Oliver
19. Grand Forks
20. Nelson
21. Meritt
22. Kitimat
23. Boston Bar
24. Terrace
25. Field
26. Campbell River
27. Trail
28. Port Hardy
29. Redstone, Red Rock, White Rock
30. Horseshoe Bay
31. Barkerville
32. Fernie
33. Abbottsford
34. Kamloops
35. Clearwater or Clearbrook
36. Prince George
37. Chilliwack
38. Prince Rupert
39. Cache Creek
40. Departure Bay
41. Armstrong
42. Port Melon
43. Hell’s Gate
44. Ladysmith

British Columbia - Place name puzzle

2009-02-06T11:42:00.000-08:00

This is for all you scrabblers, or soduko lovers out there! I'll give you the answer to #2 so that you get the drift -- and try to do it, without using the internet! I'll post the answers on Monday...

1.Former Queen
2.Overcook a honey maker ~ANSWER=Burnaby~
3.Fishing appendage
4. Exchange footwear
5.To woo a joint
6.Gritty Salvia
7.2000 pound monarch
8.Recent preacher here from the east
9.Pursue
10. Feline’s Cove
11. Sea drops
12. Aware Cove
13. Between faith and charity
14. Attack a large animal
15. Horse drawn Buggy
16. Famous mom in a Rocking Chair
17. Century Home
18. Dickens Character
19. Big utensils
20. Admiral of the fleet
21. Award
22. Cat’s rug
23. Massachusetts Tavern
24. Balcony
25. Open Pasture
26. Soup Stream
27. Path
28. Rugged harbour
29. Coloured stone
30. Ringer’s cove
31. Noisy Dog Town
32. Fuzzy Joint
33. Costello’s Chevy
34. Automotive shaft circles
35. Transparent fluid
36. Royal Twin Boys
37. Cool Hit
38. The other twin from 36
39. Money River
40. Leaving Cove
41. Tough Limb
42. Left side of a cantaloupe
43. Devil’s entrance
44. Women at forge

if you look up Hysterectomy in the dictionary.. this is what you'll find!

2009-02-05T08:09:00.000-08:00

Oaksana: Mom, the next time that you guys want to buy me something - I really want a realistic doll, but the one that I want is like $200

Millie: No I think we should start saving this whole families money up, like everybody's money, so we can buy a baby sister!

Jen: Um, oh.. you want a baby sister?

Oak/Mil in unicen: YES~!!

Oaksana: But I think Dad would prefer a boy.. so he can take it in the shop.

~~Pondering Silence~~

Oaksana: Mom, do we have an orphanage in Vanderhoof??

Jen: Nope

Millie: I'm pretty sure you have to order sisters online, like on e-bay.

Tutu's

2009-02-03T10:49:00.000-08:00

The girls have joined Ballet again. I couldn't resist making them each a cute little tutu to go with their ballet outfits. Aren't they cute?

Painting class

2009-01-27T12:13:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while it's good to do something that's just for you. And this was it, I enrolled my little self in a painting class to learn ink & oil rouging. The piece itself isn't really my "style" being that it's rather "tole painting for ladies over 50" style vs. my "scare the crap out or potential house buyers with my color choices" type of style. But nonetheless, it was good to learn the technique and I will be able to apply it to something a lot more ME.

Regardless, here it is... rather impressive *IMO considering that even my kids can't tell what my stickmen are doing!

So - what have you done 'JUST FOR YOURSELVES' lately? I'd love to know..

it's so simple..

2009-01-23T14:35:00.001-08:00

Parenting itself can so often feel like we've mis-placed a parenting for dummies handbook. It often leaves so many of us to wonder why on earth kids don't come with a manual.. why (not all days, but) somedays a person feels like they are failing their kids, that they perhaps don't have enough to give to really make a good impression on their kids, to really give it their all. Anyone who has kids, has at some point or another felt like this. I certainly have my share of days when they look at me with sad eyes and say "why are you always so busy, mom?".

I downloaded the last batch of pictures from my camera this week and an ear to ear smile crossed my face looking at these pictures of Millie. If anyone is familiar with Love Languages - her primary is QUALITY TIME 1,000,000 %. She doesn't need fancy stuff or presents or kisses or hugs even.. she just wants our time.

And this my friends.. is time - topped with sugar, flour, a mixer, getting to "crack her own eggs" and some butterscotch chips. Enough to fill her heart for another day.

So it really is just simple when you realize what it is that each child needs to F~E~E~L loved vs. what you are used to doing.... and give it to them. It really does go a long way!

Back to work..

2009-01-08T14:32:00.000-08:00

Well the holidays are all over - we had a great Christmas. My grandparents (Oma & Opa) came to stay with us for a week. It was good, the kids got some much needed time with them. Opa & Collin made them a chinese checker board, made puzzles and did lots of visiting. It was great. We are really lucky to still have them in our lives. Opa is 91 this year and still moving like he was 65 - it's amazing. Here's a picture of Collin and Opa ripping around on the old TNT skidoo.. I think it was about -25C this day.. yikes...

After that Mom & Dad Hague came for a few days to spend Christmas with us. We had a great time and the kids loved having them. Though I think that Oreo is the sad one now.. she doesn't have another dog (Marnie) to play with. Poor thing.

And here are just a couple shots from Christmas morning and the kids' school concert! Enjoy and Happy New Year!

To prove that I really exist!

2008-12-16T09:27:00.000-08:00

It's funny how usually being the mom, I am the one behind the camera - the one who is hardly in any pictures. I make sure the shots look nice and memories are fondly captured on digital image. But very, very rarely am I ever in those photos.. perhaps I should invest in a tripod?
This photo was taken by a friend at my staff X-mas party on the weekend. I am not sure what was so damn funny when she was taking this but.. nevertheless.. here it is.. I DO EXIST! And it's one of the rare shots of Collin and I smiling and laughing.. at the same time.

Just before the buzz of Christmas starts...

2008-12-12T14:58:00.001-08:00

I am really enjoying myself these days. I have enjoyed the Christmas shopping and getting things ready - our tree is up (all 8 1/2 feet of it), the house feels cozy and warm. There's a fresh dump of snow from last night.. all that's left waiting for is.... company. AND of course Christmas.

My Oma & Opa are arriving tomorrow. They will stay with my parents until Wednesday - then it's my last day of work till Jan.5th. YIPEE.. so after that they will stay with us. Collin's parents will arrive (hopefully) before New Years Eve so we will have a housefull. And.. I am not feeling stressed. It's lovely.

I may not update again before I am off for holidays so I wanted to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!

A well deserved update..

2008-12-10T12:36:00.000-08:00

I am sorry blog, I have been neglecting you as of late.. I will try better.. maybe you could be my resolution?

We have been enjoying the nice-ish winter weather here. Getting ready for Christmas and company.. it will be so nice to have so much family around. In lieu of a long story about what we've been up to.. this will be much more exciting to the senses!

i'll take you to the candy shop...

2008-11-05T13:05:00.000-08:00

Well if you have kids.. you'd know that practically anything goes when it comes to the imagination of children. Our girls often play in the kitchen, or on the trampoline, or in the fort outside. But bar none.. this most recent "game" keeps them occupied, for days.

This is their CANDY shop.

And I kid you not.. they take like 45 minutes to set up.. and then they wait. The will literally wait all day for customers (being of course me and Collin) to stroll on by on the way to the "Laudromat" and the "Smoke pit", the "Massage Spa", the "Public Restrooms", the "Hot tub zone", etc, etc. It is just adorable. I am amazed though - normally they would grow tired of waiting for us "customers" and start to complain - but not in this game. In this game, aparently they don't get annoyed or angry.. oh.. hmm.. THE CUSTOMER IS ALWAYS RIGHT, maybe that's what's going on here!

You'll also notice the bucket o' money near the entrance of the store.. it's labeled "EXTRA MONEY FOR CUSTOMERS" so not only are they well behaved for literally hours on end but we don't even have to use our own money to buy treats... they are happy to lend us theirs! Ahh, if only life were this simple!

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T10:29:00.000-07:00

This is a pic of the girls as we were heading out the door this morning.. They plan to be witches at school and then a poodle and tiger tonight for the pumking walk. Trick or treat!

Oh, and this is the pumpkin that my group at the office carved up - nice, hey?

I've completed my REIKI level One training!

2008-10-29T15:34:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to bring this into my life and to my massage clients.. I had a great time learning this from a good friend of mine. Just thought that I would share what I have been up to!

Reiki (ray-key) is a multi-faceted spiritual energy that can be used to help us with meditation practices, spiritual growth, healing relationships, manifestation of goals, and activating the Divine healing power within all living beings. Reiki is a tool to help us develop “wellness consciousness” and also to understand, on an experiential level, what it truly means to be “One with all Creation”.
Reiki is usually considered to be a “hands-on healing technique”. This is one application, but it is so much more. Mikao Usui discovered this healing art in Japan in the late 1800s. The Japanese Kanji characters that represent the word Reiki can be translated to mean; Rei = Spiritually guided or wisdom of God and Ki = Life force energy.
As we know, everything in our Universe is energy. There are many forms of healing energy and Reiki is one of many healing rays. Reiki is unique in that it is truly guided by the Divine heart and the Divine mind. This energy is infinitely wise and knows precisely what we need to relax, release stress, and activate the healing power within.
All forms of healing whether traditional, complementary or alternative have an impact on the human subtle energy system. Each method also carries a unique vibrational frequency and consequently will create different effects. A beautiful characteristic of Reiki is that it has the ability to harmonize energies that may normally be incompatible and can create the best possible outcome. Therefore Reiki enhances anything we do.
Many people are practicing techniques to improve their health such as meditation, exercise and improved diet. As this is done, a deeper awareness often develops concerning the flow of subtle energies in and around the body and the connection between these subtle energies and one's health. This developing awareness validates the ancient idea that strong life force energy contributes to good health. Conversely a diminished supply of life force energy can contribute to illness. The existence of life force energy, and the necessity for it to flow freely in and around one's body to maintain health, has been studied and acknowledged by health care practitioners and scientists. Our body is composed not only of physical elements such as muscles, bones, nerves, arteries, organs, glands, etc.; it also has a subtle energy system through which life force energy flows. This subtle energy system is composed of energy 'bodies' which surround our physical body and assist us in processing our thoughts and emotions.
The energy bodies have energy centers called chakras, which work somewhat like valves that allow life force to circulate through the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual bodies. We also have energy meridians and nadas. These are like rivers, or streams, which carry our life force energy throughout our physical body, to nourish us and assist in balancing our body’s systems and functions. Our physical body is alive because of the 'life force energy' that is flowing though it. If our life force is low or blocked, we are more likely to become ill, but if it is high and free flowing, we more easily maintain health and a feeling of well-being. One thing that disrupts and weakens the flow of life force energy is stress. Stress is often caused by conflicting thoughts and feelings that get lodged in one's subtle energy system. These include fear, worry, doubt, anger, anxiety, etc. Medical research has determined that continual stress can block the body's natural ability to repair, regenerate and protect itself.
75%-95% of all visits to doctors are the results of reaction to stress. The effects of unreleased stress range from minor aches to major health concerns, such as heart disease, digestive disorders, respiratory and skin problems.
Stress can also activate our fears and cause our life force energy to diminish. When this happens we weaken our ability to respond to fear appropriately and to transform it.Reiki is a technique that aids the body in releasing stress and tension by creating deep relaxation. Because of this, Reiki promotes healing and health.
The Reiki system is comprised of techniques for transmitting this subtle energy to yourself and others through the hands, eyes or chakras into the human subtle energy system. Reiki restores energy balance and vitality by relieving the physical and emotional effects of unreleased stress. It gently and effectively opens blocked meridians, nadas and chakras, and clears the energy bodies, leaving one feeling relaxed and at peace.

Ninety one and wearing leather chaps.. a lesson for us all.

2008-10-20T11:04:00.000-07:00

All right people ~ this one absolutely tops the charts for me.

My grandpa (Opa) is one of the most fantastic and amazingly youthful people that I know. His youthfulness is bar none one of his best qualities. I have had the pleasure of living within minutes of them (Oma & Opa)for my whole life - until they moved to Abbotsford a few years ago. I miss them so much!

My Aunt (whom I consider to be my second mother ;)) Just send me these photos - from Thanksgiving this year. They are of my Uncle Pete (love you too!) & my Opa (who may I say.. is 91 this year) out riding a HOG... chaps and all!

So the lesson of the day? Never grow up!

*sigh, you can see how these work conferences are tough on me..

2008-10-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

I was on the organizing comittee for a Regional conference for work. We decided we would try to make the environment as personal and peaceful as possible. So.. we headed to the LOGpile Lodge in Smithers, BC. It is absolutely gorgeous there.. the food is so fantastic, the scenery even better.
I was there for 2 nights / 3 days. Poor me.

This one is the view when checking in..

This one is the room.. note.. no TV, no Radio, no clock.. just silence.

This one is the view from my personal balcony..

This one is the personal balcony..

Proof that I really do have menonnite heritage..

2008-09-17T08:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend my mom and I (who is straight from California) decided to do some canning. I actually love canning, I love how it looks and I certainly love it in the middle of winter to have such lovely preserves.
We pickled cucumbers, carrots, and I tried something new.. pickled green tomatoes. They sounded so interesting that I thought "what the heck, why not?" So I will update you if there are as good as I am hoping. We used my hague-mom's recipie for the pickles cause her recipie kicks ass.. ooohhh, I can't wait till late October when they are ready.
We also did 40 lbs of stewed tomatoes. Yum - it's so much better homeade.

And I just can't resist.. to post a pic of the kids. Aren't they so cute???

Some recent pictures..

2008-09-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

A couple of weekends ago we went camping with my sis and bro-in-law & nephews to Ormond Lake. We only went for one night but it was so much fun.. the kids made a huge fort in some willow trees, we went quading, we sat in the sun, they fished, we walked, *sigh, I love to camp. It's so relaxing. Here's a couple pictures from that trip!

Food Meme

2008-09-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

How do you like your eggs?
Over easy

How do you take your coffee/tea?
Adore Coffee - always with one sugar (or sweetner) and one cream.

Favourite breakfast food:
IF --- I had a chef.. It would be crepes with sugar.
SINCE --- I do not, a protein shake w/ PB

Peanut butter:
Yum, like it with lots of stuff - especially w/ apple slices.

What kind of dressing on your salad?
Hidden Valley Ranch.. there is no other kind that's as fantastic.

Coke or Pepsi?
WATER

You’re feeling lazy. What do you make?
Depends on who is there for the meal... if it's my family and I am super lazy bone sack-ish, Bacon, eggs, toast. If it's just me.. rice cakes and cheese melted on the top.

You’re feeling really lazy. What kind of pizza do you order?
Cheese, mushroom, feta

You feel like cooking. What do you make?
Curry Chicken w/ rice and steamed & Salted Endame

Do any foods bring back good memories?
Angel Food Cake - every year my mama makes me one for my birthday.. YES, even now!

Do any foods bring back bad memories?
Food no, drink yes... DAMN you Peach Schnapps.

Do any foods remind you of someone?
Ozzy style Popcorn.. reminds me of my granpa Oz, he had a bowl on his table 24hrs a day until he passed away. Fried noodles.. my mama. New Years Fritters.. my oma. Orange popcicles.. my hubby.

Is there a food you refuse to eat?
sushi.. icky

What was your favourite food as a child?
Wareniki and Sausages.

Is there a food that you hated as a child but now like?
Onions.

Is there a food that you liked as a child but now hate?
Nope

Favourite fruit and vegetable:
Fruit: Pineapple
Vegetable: Fresh "just outta the garden" carrots. Grape tomatoes are a close second.

Favourite junk food:
Sweet & Salty Kettle Popcorn

Favourite between meal snack:
Almonds

Do you have any weird food habits?
Other than I stand at the table.. cut everything up to bite size pieces prior to resting my butt down to eat. But that's not wierd is it???

You're on a diet. What food(s) do you fill up on?
Cottage cheese w/ fresh dill.

You're off your diet. Now what would you like?
Back to popcorn.

How spicy do you order Indian/Thai?
Wimpy-ish... I don't like spicy and I don't "do" risky.

Can I get you a drink?
Yeah... a chilled glass of PINK TRUCK wine please.

Red or White Wine?
White & Blush

Favourite dessert?
Chocolate log.. made from whip cream and small chocolate wafer cookies.

The perfect nightcap?
If we are talking drinks.. an early grey tea
If we are not.. some good good lovin' from my hubby

Spanky new cell phone

2008-09-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

It was time.. about 2 years ago to get a new phone. What sealed the deal was the fact that Collin "dreamt" that he was a cell phone technician and decided to take apart my phone becuase parts of it were wiggly. He promptly woke up - hmm.. possibly I am not a cell phone tech?? Who knew.
So.. sad Jenny - had to go shopping. TORTURous.
It has a built in mp3 player which I l~o~v~e and can wirelessly play my music by FM transmission! Check it out!

The Great Grey Owl

2008-08-14T14:42:00.001-07:00

I took these pictures of this great grey at my parents house.. only about 5 feet from their sundeck - very cool. He was hunting some smaller birdlings and stayed around for at least an hour.

Summer Fun

2008-08-12T10:05:00.000-07:00

When we went to drop the kids off for their 2 week adventure with Grama and Papa, we met them in Barkerville. The kids thought it was very cool, though for them and the other neices/nephew - it might as well have been called Gophertown. They spent so much time trying to get a picture or a feel of these little guys. Who are very friendly and will actually eat right out of your hands. So they had a great time.
I have fond memories as well of the CANDY SHOP and got a snap of the kids in front with their suckers! It was a good time all in all. We spent 2 days in the town of Wells, BC which is just minutes from Barkerville. The kids went on to the Enchanted Forest, Crazy Creek, Miette Hot Springs & so much more..
Now they have a week to enjoy in Fort St. John and just hang out. We sure miss them but it's been a nice break for Collin and I. Today is our 8th Wedding Anniversary. WOW - hard to beleive that too. Things are great for us and we are looking forward to a lot more happy years together!

Being without child(ren)

2008-07-30T12:15:00.000-07:00

This weekend we are packing up the troops (the girls) and heading off to Barkerville, BC. This kids are set to spend 2 weeks with Gramma Gisele. WHOO HOO! They are so excited. I swear they have wanted to pack for weeks now.. everyday we get the countdown. I am so happy that they are getting this opportunity to spend so much quality time with them.. but I have to say.. only one question comes to mind.
WHAT THE HELL AM I SUPPOSED TO DO WITHOUT KIDS? I mean seriously, this will be the first time in over 9 years that Collin and I have "been without child(ren)". It's going to be odd, nice -- but odd.
We have no idea what we will do, we have been throwing around a few plans here and there but so far we have come up with nothing! I am sure we will think of S~O~M~E~T~H~I~N~G ;) that we can do!
Honestly I think it will be harder on me than them.. I will miss them!

For the love of ETSY

2008-07-23T09:53:00.000-07:00

I don't know if everyone out there has discovered ETSY or not.. it's like E-bay but for the earth concious. Everything listed is handmade or recycled. I love the concept and even more, I think there is something much better about things you know are handmade. It makes paying a price for something really feel worth it, feel like it took a real person a real amount of time.
I find that I can spend hours on ETSY looking for anything and everything.. so I am trying to also make some stuff so that I can open up my own ETSY store. I am crafty dammit and I really enjoy sewing (well small projects) which fits in nicely to the ETSY environment. I have started to make coasters.. shown below. I've also made a bunch of "Oh so hot" - rice bags to heat up.
Once I get it figured out how on earth to set up my store I will post a link here! If you've never been there - follow the link on my daily addictions list. It's fantastic!

"Blacky" the rabbit that won't stay away!

2008-07-15T08:56:00.000-07:00

About a week and a half ago, Blacky the rabbit got loose. Millie had been cleaning out her cage and accidentally didn't latch the gate - so in the morning.. NO BLACKY. There were no tears shed by Millie and she actually said "I'm not sad anyway, we would give her away when we move to town." So away we went on our merry life.. low and behold, the girls and I were out on a bike ride and a man in a van pulls up and says - "Are you missing a rabbit?" and hold up a rabbit with striking resemblance to our beloved BLACKY. *sigh* in the presence of the children I could not say "Hmm, nope sorry sir - no rabbits here!" So we again have our little compost-a-holic back in our lives again. The girls are happy, so I guess we are happy.

Also, we have had some lookers at the house but so far nothing as far as an offer has come in. Although we did have a couple last night that seemed a little interested so we will see how that goes. Collin said that he slept with his fingers, eyes, & toes crossed last night! Can't imagine how that would be comfortable - but whatever works, I guess!

We watched a beautiful great grey horned owl last night from mom & dad's deck. It was hunting about 10 ft from the deck.. very cool. We got lots of great pictures and the kids found it quite interesting. He stuck around for at least an hour then we left so who knows how long he was there.

Not much new here

2008-07-03T09:04:00.000-07:00

We've had a good summer so far, the weather is finally nice here.. it's been hot!
The girls have been wearing bikini's for 6 straight days. It's so nice to be able to just relax and enjoy that the mosquitoes are too hot to eat us alive.

No luck yet on selling the house but we are still trying to be patient. Here's a little slideshow of a few recent pictures - enjoy!

Random Acts of Kindness

2008-06-17T08:10:00.000-07:00

This morning was typical of so many mornings in the last while - we slept in 25 minutes too late and everyone's schedule is just a bit off. Coffee did not get made, hair-do's excaped the brush, and socks - well they only have to match if someone can see them!
So of course along with all that comes a shift in mood by all as well - a little on edge, a little assuming and arrogant - Cue guilt trip to husband who leaves the house 15 minutes prior to us.

So in my/our frenzy to get to daycare/work on time.. I decide today is the day that I just can’t go without coffee any longer – I AM TOO WEAK FOR LENT. So I will go to Tim Hortons.

To my delight there is only 1 car ahead of me.. a small, beautiful, successful without children & living in Vancouver kind of car. I admire – get to the window and she says.. “free today ma’am, the gentleman in front of you paid for your coffee!” Did he feel my sexy glare at his “bumper”? Nonetheless – these small, rare Random Acts of Kindness are really what makes a persons day – something un-expected, and lovely. So thanks to you Mr. Hot Vancouver convertible – you made my day!

Oh how I love a good dinner party!

2008-05-27T15:55:00.000-07:00

On the weekend we went for dinner with some great friends of ours, the girls always have a fantastic time at their house. It's so unique (with a circular staircase) they have so much to do; run around the acreage, check on the chicken & their eggs, ride the horses, play in the garden, watch the birds.. the list could go on and on.
The meal was fantastic as always and this time there was an additional treat of 2 other couples that came along as well. 2 of which I have met through work and their spouses (who we have not met) but were so lovely and great for conversation!
Heather was one of the women there - she (as you will tell from the pics below) is a great photographer! She got these shots of the girls while out on the range with our hostess!

*sigh* this of course re-affirms to me that I NEED a new camera - a lovely one like this one. So that my picture value could improve. I'd also love to take a course on photography too. Ooh and just in case SANTA is reading this -- I'd also love a digital video camera! Promise, I'll be nice.

For Sale

2008-05-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

Our house is for sale.. officially - just came onto the real estate website this morning. Check it out! Later on today it will have pictures of the inside of the house - wish us luck with a quick sale!

I'm a buck tooth beaver

2008-05-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

Well this weekend (among other things) Millie lost her 2 front teeth. One Sunday, one Monday. So of course in true pre-teen spirit, Oaksana taught her sister to try so say the phrase above - which we all know.. without front teeth ends up sounding like the "F" word. Hilarious.

Tooth #1

Tooth #2

Wishin' & Hope-in'

2008-05-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

It's been a mad fury of looking at houses to see what' on the market here, we are hoping that we can do a couple of things with this move. We would like to be closer (as in --IN TOWN) so that we are not constantly driving back and forth from town, we would like something that is not so difficult for me to look after whilst Collin is away at school for the next 3 years, and to get ahead a bit financially. We have been very fortunate with the last 2 houses that we've bought/sold that we've done work to them and made a bit of a profit each time.. and who doesn't like that?
So we are hoping to get into something that is mid-range (i.e. under $200,000) so that maybe, just maybe we could be mortgage free prior to needing a wheelchair!

The market is good here, but it seems that we are a picky bunch.. we want 4 BDRMS, 2 BATH, side by side parking, a place to park the holiday trailer & sundeck & a fenced yard. Who knew that would be so hard to find? We have looked at about 6 houses, and non are EXACTLY what we need, but there is one.. that we all just feel at home in.. but.. we are "Wishin' & Hope-in' & Pray'in & Smoke'in (well Collin is)" until we hear back about our offer. *sigh* it's hard to wait.. patience is not a virtue that I would say either of us possess!

If this one doesn't work out.. I just don't know.. guess we will have to make up a plan B!

UPDATE =
Well plan A did not work out, we can't come to an agreement on the price. We are both OK with it though - this was offer #2 on this same place so it just is not meant to be. We'll just keep lookin'

We've got the ITCH.. ..... ... again!

2008-05-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

We might be selling our house and buying a new one.. that's all I am going to say for now.. oh and buying a holiday trailer again too... we will see. I will update once we know anything final!

Stuff

2008-04-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

WOW it's been a while since I posted... hmm, what has happened since then?

Oaksana turned 9 // I turned 32 (yikes) // my dad turned 50something (I never keep track), Oreo got a mysterious injury so she's a bit scratched up and favoring her hind leg. Work has been work, for both hubby and me. Oaksana is in Basketball camp (which she is loving) and things are winding down for Sparks & Brownies.

Our weather has been not so spring-like with the exception of the last few days, so bring it on spring/summer -- we are ready for you.

Collin's parents and our 2 nieces and 1 nephew are set to arrive tonight to stay for 4 days. The girls are SOOOO excited to see their cousins and grandparents.. it's been tough getting them motivated to get to sleep this week as they are just bursting with anticipation! Should be a fun weekend for all of us.

The girls had a friend stop by last night and were so excited to see his big JEEP.. (as per the picture).. talk to y'all soon.

the tea set

2008-04-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

Of all the people in the world who would like to inherit a tea set.. I can think of only 2. My sister Tracy, and her clone - Auntie Margaret! If it were up to them, their lives would be set in some Jane Austin movie and they would wear pretty dresses, get to town by horse & buggy and wear bonnets. To hang laundry on a line, work at a school house, etc, etc.. you get the picture.
((Side bar.. sister's married name is Austin.. co-incidence?? I THINK NOT~))

But au' contraire (sp?), people that ACTUALLY inherit a tea set.. the hippy dippy sister, the abstract, the rebel without a cause (cause really, who needs one?), the renegade... yes me, I, I have inherited the Royal Albert tea set from Oma.

Now with all my cynicism, you might think that I don't appreciate this - it's not true. I think it's lovely and full of heritage and looks great in my china cabinet. (Which is again another anomalie - how did I get a china cabinet prior to Sister Jane? Maybe all of these events symbolize one thing... am I growing up? Or do I secretly want to wear a bustle? Hmm.)

It is beautiful, and my girls love to have tea in it... so I thought it would only be fair to share it with you all.. so that you can enjoy them too! So thanks to Oma, the girls and I really do enjoy it, and can't wait to have "high tea" with you this summer.

The dog who thinks she is a kid

2008-03-27T10:34:00.000-07:00

Well OREO is the funniest (and best) pet that we have ever had.. she has so much character, as I am sure you have all heard us tell. This is a funny shot of her and the girls - OREO had climbed right up into bed with them (which is not un-common) and so the girls tucked her in and had a great time. The hoped that she would have a sleepover - but all the giggling and chaos didn't suit her fancy for long. In this picture she was yawning (with sound effects) that made the kids absolutely burst into laughter.. it was so funny!

"Posh" Millie

2008-03-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Well Millie, who is a avid HATER of the spray/brush system, finally said... "That's it - I want a haircut!"
So here she is post hair cut.. looking very POSH SPICE LIKE.. she loves it! She thinks it's pretty cool cause it's short but still long enough on the sides to have Fraggle Rock pony tales.. I am sure I can get a shot of that for you too!

Kamloops Wildlife Park

2008-03-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

My best Bud..

2008-03-04T13:14:00.000-08:00

Just came back from Kamloops and it was so fantastic to see Sherie - her and I have been friends since we were just toddlers. It is always good to see her and our kids love to play together. Sherie is just the same as she ever was!! Stylish, funny, carefree & just fun to be around. Thanks for the good time Sher!

Back to work.. back to life

2008-03-04T08:02:00.000-08:00

Well.. it's been 6-ish weeks since I had my surgery done. It went by fast & slow at times. It was certainly harder to have so much sedentary time without Collin around to visit with. You don't really appreciate the adult conversation and interactions at work until you are away from them.
Collin is coming home soon. (10 more sleeps!!!!) We are all very excited to have him come back. The girls just adore Collin and have had aching hearts since he has been away -- and of course, my heart yearns to have my hubby back. And OREO too.. I still find her cuddled up on Collin's side of the bed sometimes when I get home from work!
I hope all is well with you all out there..

Surgery went very well

2008-02-14T10:21:00.000-08:00

Let's see - I had my hyster on the 22 of Jan and it went brilliantly! I had a bit of a hiccup a few hours after surgery - I started to bleed really badly (they actually asked me "how do you feel about blood transfusions?" YIKES - was my first thought and luckily it did not come to that. That only lasted an hour or two and then I was back in business. I went on off the "good" drugs that night and on to T3's. So all in all I have had very little pain and I feel fantastic.

I woke up one morning thinking... "Uugh, I am going to get my period today.. bleck" then.. (AND YES I AM RUBBING THIS IN!!) I realized.. "Oh that's right.. I'm not.. and I never will again --- HALLELUIAH... "

Anyhow.. Collin is still at school and having a good-ish time. He is bored with nothing to fix or shovel or plow or .. etc. But he is doing great in his class.. his first test yeilded a fantastic 87% (WHOOHOO) He is a start student with nothing to do but study!! We are proud of him.. the girls of course miss him to bits!

Getting my HYSTER & my hubby is leavin'

2008-01-18T13:34:00.000-08:00

Just got the call yesterday from the OR booking office -- My hysterectomy is scheduled for this coming Tuesday! Nothing like 5 days notice!
So I am in panick mode (well not really panic) more like organization mode - I have 1,000,000 things to do to organize the kids and Collin.

Collin also leaves for school in 2 weeks so... it will just be us girlies. I think he is actually getting a bit excited, must be strange for him to be away for 6 weeks. He had commented the other day that he is looking forward to guilt free "wieners & beans"!

I will update as soon as I am back in business after my surgery, etc!

My final post for 2007

2007-12-19T10:53:00.000-08:00

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The Grey Cup - Magnus Style

2007-11-26T13:42:00.000-08:00

We were so lucky to have Collin's Aunt and Uncle drop by yesterday. They live in Kitimat, BC and were in PG doing x-mas shopping, so decided to come and watch the game with us. It was so great to see them. The kids of course were stuck like glue to Auntie Joyce and had a fantastic time.

f*^%ing Renovations.....

2007-11-19T15:21:00.000-08:00

This is how I feel today.. I am so frustrated with renos. I know I am supposed to be nicey nice and smile everytime I get a bill from a contractor that is 3,4,500 dollars more than what I was quoted, I know I am supposed to jump for joy everytime things are set back by 2/3 weeks by each step.. this I know.. BUT.. to find out that the DOOR that was supposed to be "worst case scenario" showing up Oct. 24.. to find out this afternoon that low and behold - the company that Collin frickin works for.. yes them... OH.. they forgot to order it. Yeah, yeah people, that's right.. FOR-GOT to OR-DER. So it will be another 6 weeks.. my ass. What a load of crap.. and to top it all off.. Collin works there so I can't just go in and give his boss my $2.25 cents worth. I can't looooooose it and freak out that it will be -30 when my door shows up and that my heat bill will be horendous, and that I can't use my pretty new addition... GRRRRRR. I just get to say (ONCE AGAIN) Oh... that's ok... I don't mind.. I love icicles in the middle of my new rec room... GRRRR. *sigh*

2007-11-02T12:49:00.000-07:00

A slideshow for you...

2007-10-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

A few pictures..

2007-10-05T09:33:00.000-07:00

Last night my sister and I (and the kids) went for a short but sweet "Fall Leaves" walk. It was fun - we had good intention to go watch all the migrating geese on a pond nearby but when we got there.. they had all gone away for the night. So we walked down another path.. it was so pretty (though these pictures don't do it justice) until we saw a big pile of bear poop.. and we turned around and scooted right back to the open field. I don't really want to be a bears last snack before winter!

Okay, okay,, Update time

2007-10-01T12:33:00.000-07:00

It's been a while.. Millie had her 6th birthday in September.. can't beleive that she is that old already, it just seems crazy that my baby is in school fun time. They each got good teachers and are enjoying themselves a lot. Oaksana is taking Ballet and the girls are both still in Sparks & Brownies. So we are in the full swing of things.

Collin also had his 31st Birthday in September. Now he's all caught up to me! We had family over for cake and just enjoyed the day together.

We have started the reno's on our garage.. things are in full swing. The garage doors are down, the RO's for the new entry door and picture window are in and sheeted. We are needing an electrician - should be coming end of next week. We have an inspector coming to eye up our new pellet stove and help us to install it. So once that is done.. we will have heat. Which will make wanting to be out there building much more enjoyable. I will post some pics as soon as they are off my cam. Hopefully won't be so long between posts this time~!

Visit from the Hague Sr.'s

2007-09-05T09:46:00.000-07:00

Collin's parents came for a visit

-- it was so nice to see them.

The girls just love to visit with Grama Gel and Papa Ken - we don't see them all that often so the times that we do are very special.

We mostly just stuck around home - Collin and Ken worked on some more house projects and the woodpile, and us girls just visited. It was nice... and we got some great photos~

And Oaksana took this FANTASTIC picture of Gisele...

Pics as requested..

2007-08-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

I don't have one of blacky..

we are a crazy animal farm..

2007-08-23T10:58:00.000-07:00

We now have ...
a hamster named "Chuckles Hamsy James Hague"
a mini satin rabbit named "Jesabell Anne"
a mini/Rex cross rabbit named "Blacky"
a stray DEAF kitten named "Scooter"

.. how did this happen you say??? ....
Aparently... WE ARE officially ~~~~ SUCKERS..

Oma & Opa

2007-07-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

My grandparents (on my dad's side) are up for a visit. They moved to Abbotsford quite a while ago and since then - my girls have been so sad without them here to visit on a moment's notice. So we asked them to come stay with us. This is them yesterday heading out on a walk with Oma & Opa. They had a blast. They are loving having them here.

We also went out to a friends farm yesterday to look at all their animals - the girls thought it was really cool. A shout out to Keena, Steve, Evan & Dylan - you guys are fantastic, I love your place -- it feels so homey and comfortable.

They have chickens, lambs, llamas, rabbits, a hamster, cats and dogs. Here are a couple pics..

2007-07-09T09:20:00.001-07:00

Well we did some more reno's on the house.. new paint in the kitchen/dining room and new laminate flooring... It was hard work painting with the vaulted ceilings and 2 long days flooring with just me and Collin but SO worth it~! The house looks much improved and finally brought it out of the 1970's! The pictures don't do things justice but here they are just the same!

This was the laminate that we bought at the flooring auction!

Here's the new paint color "Khaki Sun", oh and the new dining table & china cabinet!

And the new windows that Collin installed - this made such a huge difference in the lighting of the whole space!

¡Bienvenidos a la familia!

2007-06-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

My cousin James got married. He met a woman from Nicaragua a few years back when he was travelling there - they have kept in touch over the internet and just this year decided to get engaged and get married! His new wife Madeling & her son Samuel came to Canada earlier in June and they were married in Quesnel.

The three of them visited us Tuesday, and it was so nice to meet them. Clearly I have to brush up on my spanish so that I can talk to her until her English gets a bit better. Anyway - very cool to see James as a husband, and also very awesome to have Madeling join the family - she is a sweet person, you can tell. :) :)

blah..

2007-06-19T12:14:00.000-07:00

Well this spring has turned out to be rather *blah* as noted above. Only a few sunny days peeking in between a tonne of rain and flooding. As I am sure it's the same for some of you out there! We are still waiting for Spring/Summer to arrive and shine down on us.
This picture was taken at the kids' sports day at their school. They are on the same "HOUSE TEAM" and so on group days like assembly's, sports days etc. they are always together. I love this photo, it's so cute to see them interact together and work with one another as sisters & friends without anyone around.

Weight Loss.. cont..

2007-06-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

Well as of yesterday, I have lost 25lbs since last summer! Which is fantastic... though I honestly think it must be coming off my organs not by tush but - whatever, guess that's good for my organs too!

I remember a while back there was a number of you who said you'd like to get a small group of us together to support one another, etc. So if you guys still want to - let's do it. I organize a "BIGGEST LOSER" group at my office and it's nice to have some others to motivate or be motivated by.. so let me know... and update me on how the rest of you are doing on your journeys!

Little CAMP on the Prairie

2007-06-04T09:01:00.000-07:00

The Brownies / Sparks had a camp out week end on June 2. So Millie was there for a day trip and Oaksie got to stay the night in a bunkhouse cabin. They had a great time, had to dress up "pioneer style" like Little House on the Prarie. They looked so cute. Oaksana is wearing a dress of Tracy's (my sis) that we wore as flower girls to my uncles wedding when we were about 9/10 years old, and Millie work the Christening gown that Collin's grama (Perron) knit for Oaksie as a baby. Thought I'd update with these 2 pictures..

.............

2007-05-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

Collin is in his 2nd week at his new job and loving it - so refreshing to see such a positive difference in Collin's outlook on life. The smallest change brings the biggest result. We are enjoying a lot more sun and nice weather and that always helps.

Collin spent the entire day on Saturday reno-ing my/our greenhouse. We put glass windows in all around and it looks so good - and get's hell burning hot in there now - it's great. Yesterday it was up to 38 degrees at lunch. Should grow some great stuff! And it looks so cool - being able to be in there and working and still be able to see - it's so nice! Definately banked up quite a few brownie points~ :)

We've sold the boat, the truck, and someone is looking at the holiday trailer tonight. BIG CHANGES and it's a bit sad to see all this stuff go, but (can you bleleive this?) in the words of Collin - "It will feel so good to lighted our debt load and just be a bit simpler for a while!" WOW, he's so smart.

This is a FANTASTIC photo of the girls from Sunday evening - they ran around for quite a few hours having so much fun screaming and freezing in the cold water of the sprinkler - makes me feel like summer is really here!

Update time..

2007-05-09T10:21:00.000-07:00

Let's see - Collin is starting a 4 year apprenticeship on Monday. He will be working at All West Glass, working towards his "Glazier" Journeyman-ship. We are so excited for him, and of course proud of him too - to make such a leap of faith. It will be so great to have him working in town, shorter days and a much nicer work environment. So after 8 years, he is saying so long to mill work! Yippeeeee...

Let's see - my work is busy as usual, just how it is when you are the bottleneck for when permits get done so loggers can log! I woke up this A.M. to the sun shining through some brand new poplar leaves - it really was fantastic.. I love spring! I have also lost a total of 22 pounds since last summer - so I am freaking pumped about that!

Millie is slowly making a turn for the better and we have managed to have a handful of events where mommy has to be gone and she hasn't lost her mind with anxiety attacks and panic. It really has been a great releif cause it's been a long road. She sees a counsellor at her school and he is great - we haven't had any major epifanies as to what is or was causing her great mix up.

And finally Oaksana - she is really growing up so fast.. sometimes she says stuff and I just look at her and think OMG in 5 minutes she going to be 12 and then what??? LOL. She is going to have 2 day surgeries to have some very suspicious moles removed. One from her back and the other from in her hair behind her ear. She is very nervous - as I would be too -- her first one is on Monday the 14th and the other on the 29th. The doc said she will send them away and let us know if anything is not good with them after that.

So all in all - we are pretty even keel'd. Miss you all - come visit us!!! We'd love to have you..

And again..2 days later..

2007-04-30T14:40:00.001-07:00

Local Celeb again..

2007-04-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

Life & etc.

2007-04-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

Life always catches me by surprise - so busy, so great. I am still full underway preping and collecting for a Pub Steak Night / Silent Auction Fundraiser this Saturday. Should be a great time - I have 72 tickets sold and $3000.00 worth of stuff donated to be autctioned off. I really hope that all goes off without a hitch and that we can manage to raise lots of money for the kids.

Two weeks after that - I got a grass seeding contract with CANFOR which will earn us $2800.00 - whoo hoo, so we are turning it into a campout with the full day of grass seeding the day after - I am looking forward to that as well.

Collin is recovering nicely from his run in with the forklift and the pothole (long story, ending in 2 weeks of light duty & 7 stitches to the forehead, sore shoulders, and a wake up call). Collin has really not enjoyed working at P & T for the last few years, alot of mindless cynicism, negativity and of course - the 45 minute drive each way, each day. So he is eagerly looking for work here in Vanderhoof and trying to make a change. I applaud him, I want him closer to us and it would be great for him to find a little more enjoyment out of a job. So we wait with baited breath to hear from the 3 places he's applied so far and hope for the best.

Oaksie is just perking up from a cold, Millie's got it now, and they both had sore tummies this morning - let's hope they make it through the school day!

Last night I went to a .... ooh ... even typing it isn't easy.... well... a.... uh... OMG a Scrapbook class! There I said it - it's out there in the universe. My sister is well on her way to leading a cult of scrappers and has been trying to recruit me for years. I gave in as it was a Paper bag album class - which (albeit it's still scrapbooking) I love these little albums. Dawn Carpenter has a little scrapbook Cottage and holds classes all the time. So I have to say that I did enjoy myself and will maybe / possibly scrapbook again - I will not be taken easily, I will not go gently into that dark light.. .. :)

So all in all - we are well, reno's underway on the house, anticipating summer, loving life. Miss you all out there, xoxoxoxo!!

My baby is 8 today

2007-04-13T10:02:00.000-07:00

Well - Oaksana is 8 years old today. WOW - how fast the time goes. She is such a wonderful girl, so caring, such a good sister and daughter.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEETIE!

Real Moms

2007-03-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

Read Vicki's and thought I could come up with a few...

Real mom's let their kids play in the "MUD" - cause they are having the time of their lives, then break it to them gently later what the words horse corall mean...

Real mom's spray paint their kids hair orange & pink (even if it stays in for weeks) to have the "Best Sleepover party" ever~

I built a website for the school!

2007-03-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

I think that I posted about this a long time ago, it's actually been built for over a year. It took some time to get the principal to talk to the right people at the school board, etc. but as of today my (well the school's) website is LIVE!! - Check it out! http://www.sd91.bc.ca/ed/ I had so much fun learning how to build it!

sushine, snow, quadrides, trampolines...... & the tooth fairy

2007-03-19T14:24:00.000-07:00

It was a busy weekend around our house, I had Friday off, which was completely topped off with the fact that Millie had a Kindergarten day tooo - so it was all to myself~ ahhh, it was so nice. One would think that I would curl up with a book and drink tea all day but.. no - I tackled the "closet project" did 5 loads of laundry, cleaned the kitchen, the house, etc. I met a friend for coffee, paid for some new playground equipment for the school. Oaksie went to a figure skating winter carnival & then a sleepover. Saturday I had a massage client but in the morning Collin painted in the kitchen again, then we just went to my sisters for a movie and some popcorn. Oaksie also pulled another tooth. Sunday we hung outside, played in the yard, got out the trampoline, had a hotdog roast and burned some downed trees. Had some friends over for supper - it was great! It was a nice relaxing weekend!

Weight Loss

2007-03-08T09:33:00.000-08:00

Just another update - down ten from the start of this eating thing and down 16.5 from last summer! YIPEE - I am so excited.
I still have a lot of hard work until I can have my hysterectomy but - I'm getting there!

OK so further to the last post..

2007-02-26T16:04:00.000-08:00

..I called around to a few places myself to see if I could talk with a counsellor. I wanted to make sure that I was dealing with Millie properly and that I wasn't setting her back at all. I found out that we have an "ART Therapist" for children in town and I spoke with her on the phone. She seems fabulous and thinks that we/she can help Millie figure out a "plan" of what she can do when she is feeling anxious or paniced. Without seeing her, the Therapist can't tell if it's general anxiety or seperation anxiety - either way, she figures with some work we can get her back on track. Each day we try to keep things predictable, calm, and happy so that she feels secure, etc. We are on a wait list for this therapist so I am hoping that we can get in to see her sooner than later.. until then - we will continue with this.

Also, this pic was from the weekend, Oaksie was at a sleepover and Millie wanted to play a game so.. I set up this wash line and Millie played "laundry day" for about 2 hours with me. She would wash the clothes in her washer machine (she just got new batteries again so it's like a new toy!), then hang them to dry in the sushine, and spray them with "fresh linen" scented bathroom spray. Ahh what a great day... it really was so cute.. as you can see.. the sun was very bright out by the wash line.. hence the sunglasses!

I seem to have misplaced my parenting handbook ~

2007-02-22T08:22:00.000-08:00

For the last 8-10 days Millie has really been going through and extremely rough patch. She has every single classic sign of GENERALIZED ANXIETY. She has been suffering from excessive and uncontrollable worry. She seems to worry about things like the future (where we are going to be), being on time for appointments, health, school performance, crime, change in routines, and family matters. She seems to worry when there is really no problem or any realistic circumstance to cause the worry. Mostly she's good when she's distracted but as soon as her mind relaxes - it's back to the same panic mode. It has been really hard on all of us - especially her but for us, it's horrible just having to worry about her feeling so helpless, you know? She doesn't want to be at school or daycare, or with Collin, she worries about what's happening in 20 minutes, 3 hours, tomorrow, constantly - her muscles are so tight and she is so tired. Poor thing. Usually with general anxiety, it could be any event from the last 6 months that has triggered this, not just something from last week.
I am going to see the family doc tomorrow - hoping that he can set us on the right track or confirm that we are doing the right things with her. So as I said before, where the hell is the chapter on kids and stress? *sigh*

Just a few new pics..

2007-02-14T16:20:00.000-08:00

All is well here.. just thought you'd like another slideshow!

Art in the Park

2007-02-08T10:36:00.000-08:00

An artist friend of mine offers kids Art classes on Saturday afternoons. Last saturday was to be an "Art in the Park" theme but since the weather was chilly -- they met up in the local Arts Unlimited building instead. The kids (and me) painted old chairs for the local library. They wanted them to be interesting and unique - the kids had a great time cause they could do anything they wanted.. it really was cute. Here's some pictures to enjoy!

The post weekend weight in...

2007-01-29T09:03:00.000-08:00

Well all weekend I have been eating Breakfast, Snack, Lunch, Snack, Dinner, Snack.. like I was supposed to. All the while I was freaking out thinking... "There is a lot of food going in.. I don't know if this is going to work". So this morning I stepped on the scale (There's one here at the office - we don't have one at home) and guess what??????????????????

I'm down 3 pounds!!! What the heck.. this might just work!

Appt w/ the nutritionalist

2007-01-26T08:04:00.000-08:00

I desperatly have needed a hysterectomy for the last 4 years, my Adenomyosis is getting worse with every cycle. The doctors have said they will do it as soon as I am at a certain weight. I also am still hoping to get my breast reduction done.. and again there.. need to be at a consistent, "pre-baby" weight in order to get the best results.
Well, it's high time that I figure out what's up with my weight. As most of you know I have struggled with this for years but it seems like things are getting worse not better. I think a lot about all the reality shows of late -- the "biggest loser", the "x-weighted", etc and often ponder if this is my "ROCK BOTTOM". This is the point where I say I can't take it anymore... I'm not sure if this is what that feels like but... I think I'm there.
About 5 months ago I got an Ellyptical trainer and have been doing Cardio at nights, some core excersizes on the yoga ball, taking some classes, trying everything from a soup diet to Slim Fast.. ++ plus the last 3 months I have joined the gym. Me and a friend go 3-4 days a week at lunches.. and for all of that effort... I have lost a whopping... 10.5lbs. I know.. granted that is nothing to scoff at, it's great.. but.. what I need is to lose 80 lbs so the little 10 doesn't seem so big in comparison.
So.. I decided to see a nutritionalist as that is definately a key to success that I have been "thinking" I was doing right. She had me track all my food for a week, and low and behold.. I'm not eating enough. ?? How does that KARMA work?? I have been averaging only about 800 calories a day so my body is in starvation mode.. so all the while when I have thought I was eating small portions, etc.. I have been scaring the sh*t out of my body and it has been storing it all to fat. LOVELY.
So the new plan is to .....

eat more (every 3 hours) and of course make them healthy choices
drink water more consistently through the day
try to sleep more too - I am only getting about 6 hours of sleep now, and that's just craziness!
add more cardio and less weights to my workout routines

At this point I am only working on a 2 week goal so I dont' get overwhelmed. I will see how it goes, but I must say -- I haven't felt this optimistic in quite some time. So.. posting this is mostly just a bit of therapy for me, getting it out there, making it real by being accountable.. but you are welcome to read on and anticipate updates.

It is possible to be busy doing nothing special

2007-01-23T09:22:00.000-08:00

And that's precicely what we have been doing. Just humming along, not up to much - hench the lack of posts, I guess. We are back to work and school and schedules, etc and that seems to keep us as busy as we ever want to be.

Collin had a flu-is/cold-ish virus and he was sick for at least 8 days (3 of them off work - which is HUGE cause he never takes days off). The girls and I for the most part averted that disaster and didn't get it... until last week - It hit me hard and I was off work for 1 day then back - I didn't get it as badly as Collin. Millie has a snot nose and Oaksie has remained fairly healthy. Of course as of yesterday Collin is back to the body aches again so hopefully he doesn't get too bad again. Not sure if he could take it!!

In other news - Oaksie finally lost her first front tooth... so cute... So with the one that she had to have pulled further back and that - she is little gappy tooth redneck! Gotta love this age.

We have also been going on some snomobile trips with friends and family.. just last Sunday we were "trying" to go ice-fishing at Cluculz Lake. Well we took the 25 minute drive to get there and per the men it was "too windy" so we decided to go to Cobb Lake. (which after getting lost and driving back and forth up the highway and back.. is about a 1 hour drive.. in actuality only 15 minutes) The two other men that we were travelling with got stuck in the snow prior to even getting to the lake. So our Sunday afternoon fish trip turned into a 3 hour "dig out 2 pick-ups" extravaganza!! It was funny. Of course - all forestry workers, all 4x4 trucks.. stuck - having to phone a friend with an even bigger truck to save the day. The kids and me sat in the truck at the junction to direct the hero's to the site of the rednecks! While we were there WAITING.. we took some pictures of a feller buncher that was there.. it was cool for the kids!

New look for 2007

2007-01-11T11:18:00.000-08:00

Whatcha think? I am trying to get 2 minutes to update but for now here just a quick "HI" - we had a great x-mas and New Years.

Merry Christmas to all...

2006-12-20T12:52:00.000-08:00

Well it's my last day of work today, and thus will be my last day with high speed, wonderous internet access! So it will be my last little comments before Christmas...

#1 on my list is Gisele --- THANK YOU so much for the picture of you and Ken! I was so pleased to see it when we opened the package up!

#2 thanks to my wonderful husband Collin who is 30% more into the Christmas spirit this year and is really holding us together (LOVE YOU BABE!)

#3 YIPEE - Oma and Opa are here... the kids are having such a great time with them.

#4 Congratulations to Wade and Cathy with their new babe "Wynne" - she is so gorgeous and what a great 1st Christmas you will have!

#5 thanks to everyone who sent us pictures and/or letters for Christmas - they are so great to receive!

#6 we are certainly wishing we could be with Collin's family in Boyle this year too.. (if only we could move Boyle, AB to Prince George, BC!!)

#7 Here's to hoping that 2007 is just as filled with excitement as this year was!

#8 for anyone that I didn't have an address or forgot (jeez I hope I didn't), here's our family photo for 2006......

We have a new family photo...

2006-12-04T15:31:00.000-08:00

BUT you'll have to wait for it in the mail! HA - I know that's mean, but I just had a look at them and I wanted Collin to be able to pick which one he liked the best before I publish anything! I will however give you a tidbit of the girls.. They look so much more grown up all of a sudden, how does that happen?
I am beginning to feel a bit more in the Christmas spirit~

.. more house pictures...

2006-11-28T11:35:00.000-08:00

I posted some pics quite some time ago.. right when we were buying the place - mostly outside pictures, but now when I was taking some pics of the bathroom renos-- I got a few inside shots.

This is our entry - with new paint job (Grassland Green)..

This is the kitchen/dining room area.. the main plan is to paint the walls Merlot and the cabinets will be white much like the bathroom ones. We are also replacing the range overhood fan and the countertop range. Eventually...

This is just looking the other way from the kitchen/dinning room area.. this is our table + our reading by the fire area..

Next is the living room, and you can see the entrance in the background..

Then the officey/workout/sewing/playing area... it's cluttered but it works.

There are certainly other areas of the house but pictures just don't do the rooms justice, they always look funny, so until I get some better shots.. this is it!!