4

Noah turned 4 on Monday. He wanted his Birthday at Koko's Play Centre. I told myself a while back I would never have my child's Birthday at a place like that...I had only been to Crash Crawleys..I shouldn't have judged, and I should know by now, never say never. It still is a germ pit, but the kids run wild, it seems reasonably clean (or cleaner than some), and the party packages allow you to mingle with your guests, and have a coffee or a simple conversation! The past 3 Birthdays of Noah's I have never been able to do that! I felt strange after, like I was forgetting something, I have NEVER hosted a party that was so simple, and I have hosted a lot of parties!

It was hard for me to cut his guest list....but I figured this was the year to start letting him decide who he wanted at his party. He has been with the same group in preschool for two years now, and he has buddies. They are a great group of friends, and a lovely bunch of parents to go along with them! It has gotten really cool to watch him interact with his friends. I noticed this year, the gifts and toys were at a total different level than any other year, we have entered into BOY toys :-)

I always get a little sad when his Birthday rolls around. Another year passed, years further and further away from when he was born. It was my little Noah that made me a mommy, I say this all the time, but really, I can remember every little detail of the time he was born.

He is developing such an attitude, I never thought I would use so much bribery as a parent. I have promised that if he pushes me to the limit, I will take all his toys away! I do not know where they will go, but I will follow through! He has adapted this form of "deal making", I think he got that from his uncle....he is starting to lie to get out of cleaning a mess, his mess, which he insists he did not make, and whines at everything, the sound of whining...drives me crazy! "I didn't do it" is coming from his mouth more regularly, even when I have just stood there and watched him do it....oh growing up....I get thats what it is, and I need to learn to not sweat the small stuff...however I will not give up the rule of jumping on the couch/furniture, and taking all the pillows off the couch, that I will stay stern on, even if daddy allows it, grrrrrrrr.

What a jumble....

Noah, you make me laugh, you make me smile, you really make my temper rage at times, you're silly, you are sweet, you are smart, you are conniving, curious and full of life, I adore you, treasure you, and love you beyond all measures, I would do anything for you, you are my son, my first born, hope you had a Happy 4th Birthday....even if you were a total grump by the end!

So what theme are we doing for next year!? HA HA!!

K

A little taste of HEAVEN!!

I am not sure if I believe in heaven, but let me tell you, I have read some things about how its supposed to be.....and this recipe, is surely a little bit of that, in your mouth!!!

Jillian Harris posted a recipe on her website for Food Friday yesterday...I went out and got the ingredients, it seemed simple enough to make for an addition at Noah's birthday party..so I tried them. They took a matter of 10 minutes (longer to set) quick and easy cleanup, one downfall, the recipe didn't make enough!!! There aren't very many left for the guests!

http://www.jillianharris.com/post/food-friday-coconut-cornflake-chews

I highly recommend these for the holidays!! The Mackintosh's Toffee was a bit hard to find in the bars, so I found the bags of bite size ones at Superstore....best thing, is these won't break the bank, the ingredients are inexpensive!

Enjoy a little bit heaven!! Thank you Jillian for sharing!

K

"mommy, who is charity?"

So another Charity Kris Kringle has come and gone, always a successful event, always a lot of fun! A chance to see everyone over the holidays, and a chance to donate to those in need. Our open house seemed to be successful, allowing people to come and go over the afternoon and into the evening.

Today was drop off day. I try my best to explain to Noah just what it is we are doing, and what we are collecting for, I couldn't help but chuckle to myself when he said to me, "mommy, who is charity?".....

This year we donated to a selection of charities, and groups within the community. The toys and gifts went to the Burnaby Christmas Bureau. With the cash donations, I purchased new socks for men, women and children for the "Sock It To Poverty" that the Me to We group at my school (Douglas Road Elementary) has put together, as well as Walmart gift cards that went to the Walden Safe House for teens.

Everyone who attended should feel very proud of themselves for being involved in such a great cause! Thank you to all that came, and made our Charity Kris Kringle 2011 a great success!!

K

Marbled Nutella Banana Bread

For my bracelet party tomorrow, I wanted to make a few sweets. While Anabelle was napping and Noah was at school, I got to work. I made Hello Dollies, Eatmore Bars, and with the browning bananas that were on my counter, I wanted to make a banana bread. I thought it was going to be a peanut butter one that I saw on Pinterest but I didn't have the wheat germ flour it called for, so I clicked on something else that looked interesting...Marbled Nutella Banana Bread...pardon me, Nutella in banana bread!?? IM IN!!!!

The recipe was easy, and quick, with just one extra step of dividing the batter, adding some nutella and spooning it into the pan...it has a marvelous crunchy top, and a lovely soft centre, I will definitely be making this again!!

Instead of writing out the entire recipe, I have attached the link from the Blog 'For Goodness Sake' www.fgscatering.com

I probably could have done better "swirling" but I think it ended up looking pretty darn good! FYI, It calls for 1 1/4 cup mashed banana, I used 3 bananas (just to make it a bit easier!).

http://www.fgscatering.com/2011/08/marbled-nutella-banana-bread_03.html

K

so simple, so useful, so chic!

Please don't burst my bubble if you have seen these before! Even if you have, I have not, and I thought it was the BEST idea! I was so excited to see it on Pinterest, and if it hadn't been so late at night I would have headed out then and there to get the supplies!! I am so looking forward to using these at my next event!!

I have never been a fan of wine charms, so I thought this was a modern swing on wine glass labelling...check it out!

So incredibly easy to do!! I had a can of chalkboard paint already (got it at HomeDepot), so I just got some wine glasses from the dollar store, and dipped them! I laid down some newspaper, then put my cookie cooling rack on top of the paper, after I dipped them, I place them on the rack...I let the first coat dry, then dipped them again...this is what takes a while....I put them back on the rack and left them overnight. The next morning, I flipped them all over, and with a sponge brush, smoothed out the bottoms with a bit more paint...and let them dry.

Mine came out a bit bumpy, but they are still easy to write on! I am curious to see how they wash up?? I know I wipe my chalkboard frame with a wet cloth, but because this is stemware, that you will drink out of, they need to be washed....I will let you know how that goes! I may give them a few more days to completely dry before I try them out!

What a cute gift! A set of wine glasses with a pack of chalk!

Now wasn't that an awesome craft to wait for!!! Now go try it out! They will be a hit over the holidays!!

K

The Other Room

My dad showed his amazing talents yet again as the Director of Sales for the new store

'The Other Room' in North Vancouver. This past Thursday was the introductory party for the new store, a division of Country Furniture. It was a great night with a live DJ, great drinks and food, great company, an amazing space, and great lines of furniture!

Modernly fresh and clean The Other Room houses gorgeously sleek pieces. I had my eye on an amazing horn legged aluminum table....here are a few pics from the night.

Head over and check them out, introduce yourself to my dad, Gordon Guenter!!!

The Other Room

1626 Lloyd Avenue, North Vancouer

Tuesday-Saturday 10-6

Sunday closed

Monday by appointment

K

pork tenderloin

I love pork tenderloin. I hate the look at it before you cook it, but its a really nice, lean, meat. I posted a rubbed bbq pork tenderloin this past summer that was delicious, but since its snowing, I thought I would try something out in the oven. I thought of what I had in the house to make my own little easy marinade. This is what I did....

1/4 cup oil

3 crushed garlic cloves

1 tsp of dried oregano

a few shakes of salt and pepper

Combine all the ingredients, spear the pork all over with a knife (so the juice can seep inside), pour the marinade over the pork, or baste with a silicone brush. Bake at 375 for about 40 minutes..I think I baked mine longer, but its done when no longer pink inside (time may differ for a larger piece of meat). Let the pork sit out of the oven for 10 minutes, slice and serve!

This picture is not the best colour palette, I needed something green, was too lazy to make some green beans, but the cheddar mashed potatoes and the oyster mushrooms did the trick!!

Try this one out, it was super easy and really tasty! Fredo came home late this night for dinner, so I sliced his meat up and poured the drippings over it so that I could wash the pan...next time, I will spoon some drippings over each serving!

Happy weekend!

K

Bestest Lasagna EVER

Maybe not the best lasagna for you, but the best tasting lasagna I have EVER had. I make this all the time, thank you to my Auntie Jenny for the recipe! I thought that I had blogged about this one already, my apologies!!!

Lasagna

1 tbsp vegetable oil

3 tbsp butter

2 crushed garlic cloves

1/2 cup chopped onion

2/3 cup chopped celery

2/3 cup chopped carrot

1 lb lean ground beef

salt/pepper

1 cup milk

pinch of nutmeg

1 cup dry white wine or beef stock

1 large can of plum tomatoes

1 cup parmesan cheese

Fresh lasagna pasta sheets (I get mine at Bosa Foods 8 sheets for $3.99 I think)

Put oil, butter, onions and garlic into a large pot. Over medium heat, cook until onion is translucent-add celery and carrot, cook about 2 minutes. Add the ground beef, large pinch of salt and some pepper. Crumble the beef and cook until no longer pink. Add milk and let simmer until it has bubbled away. Add pinch of nutmeg, about 1/4 tsp. Add wine or stock and let simmer until liquid has evaporated. Add tomatoes and stir thoroughly. When it begins to bubble, turn the heat down to a bare simmer, and cook uncovered for 3 hours.

Bechamel Sauce

3 cups of milk

6 tbsp butter

4 1/2 tbsp flour

1/4 tsp of salt

Put milk in a saucepan and heat on medium heat, bring just to the verge of boiling. In a different pot, melt the butter on low heat. Add the flour to the melted butter, whisking so it doesn't burn. Whisk consistently for 2 minutes. Slowly add the warm milk, whisking with one hand, while pouring the milk with the other. Whisk until all the milk is used. Put pan back on low heat, add salt, whisk until thick, resembling thick cream. Add to the tomato sauce, mix well, set aside, off the heat.

Preheat oven to 350, smear you 9" x 13" pan with butter, spoon some sauce in the pan, then put your first layer of pasta. Pour more sauce, then sprinkle with parmesan cheese, another layer of pasta, repeat until you end with a layer of sauce and parmesan cheese, dot with butter on the top.

Bake until a golden crust forms on top, around 35-40 minutes. Remove from oven and let settle for 10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!!

Over the holidays!

Here are some things that I am wanting to do with my family over the holidays...

Visit the North Pole, right here in BC

www.northpolebc.com

Stanley Park Christmas Train

http://vancouver.ca/parks/events/brightnights/

Dogwood Christmas Tree Farm

http://www.dogwoodchristmastreefarm.com/Dogwood_Christmas_Tree_Farm/Welcome.html

Vandusen Gardens Festival of Lights

http://vancouver.ca/parks/parks/vandusen/website/events/fol.htm

Santa Claus Parade

vancouver.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=vancouver&cdn=citiestowns&tm=13&f=00&su=p554.19.336.ip_&tt=3&bt=0&bts=0&st=10&zu=http%3A//rogerssantaclausparade.com/

The Peak of Christmas on Grouse Mountain

http://www.grousemountain.com/peak-of-christmas

What are some things you do with your family over the holidays??

K

who would have thunk!?

This January I start a course, The Responsible Adult course, a course that will allow me to substitute in a preschool setting, as well as some other things....I am really looking forward to this, for many reasons. Who would have thunk that I would miss doing homework!? I miss trying, trying for a good grade, trying for praise, working for recognition...I am eager to take a test, get results, and not a pregnancy test, or a Gestational Diabetes test.....a real test, that will earn me certification :-)

I don't get graded for making a good dinner, doing a good job at cleaning the house, making the beds, laundry...I must tell you I think I would mostly get straight A's if I did (is that being narcissistic?) oh well, I said it anyway...maybe a B- when it comes to cleaning......I know I do great at my job, I know I enjoy my meals, my baking, my crafty skills...but I am truly looking forward to completing homework, doing quizzes, and having my name on a certificate, even if it isn't a degree...

Do I wish I would have gone to University? Sure, but I still wonder what I would have taken there!? I always wanted to me a mom, but somehow, these days, it just doesn't cut it...I struggle all the time thinking of things I would be good at, courses to take, programs to enroll in...I often look at the Special Education Assistant Program....but I just don't think I am cut out for that...I miss retail, I miss my customers, I miss smiling and getting a smile back (most of the time) I miss wrapping, and ringing in sales...I miss strolling in with my coffee, eager for the sales of the day...

Is is bad to say I miss a full paycheck!? or to say I miss the hustle and bustle of a full time job...being involved in something outside of the house....being part of 'the' crowd...sigh.....why is it that we always want the things we don't have!? No, I am not truthfully grateful everyday for the things I have, I am envious, jealous, and sometimes get resentful...I can admit that, and I think that its only natural...there are days that I want what everyone else has...I would change some things if I could...I think we all would, wether they are big or small...I think you are kidding yourself if you say you wouldn't...but what I always say to myself is, "things could always be worse". It doesn't mean I love my kids any less, or my husband or my family....and for any of you who think that came out wrong, I am grateful, just some days I need some more reassurance than others.....

I will continue searching for something that makes my heart and bank account happy..it has to be out there somewhere, and I know I will rock this course, it's been a long time coming!

K

made my heart smile....

Sometimes, when I sit to write a posting, I wonder who is even going to read, or care what I have to say.....I often feel silly, or slightly embarrassed to hit the 'post' button...sometimes I write, not thinking anyone will even look..today, I had someone tell me one of my posts made their day, put them in a better mood.....that, made my heart smile. I don't use proper grammar, I am sure I make spelling mistakes, and don't always use appropriate english, but I write what my mind says, what my heart says. I am not a journalist, I am a daughter, a grand-daughter, a sister, a wife, a mother, a friend...I enjoy sharing wonderful things, whether it's a recipe, a good laugh, a moment with my family, an event.....what I love the most, is that what I feel like writing, you read...and my most favorite compliments, come from those who don't even have Facebook, which means they have to sign into my blog (you know who you are xo) to see my postings, they don't just show up on their wall...this compliment today, came from one of you, and it truly did make MY day, so thank you. Thank you for calling me just to tell me that, it made my heart smile.

We all underestimate the power of a phone call...I recognized this when I called my grandpa to speak to him one last time before he passed....to hear his voice was magic, like I was right there with him in that hospital bed....since that phone call, I call my grandma a few times a week, I call my other grandpa just to say hello, hows the weather...I called a dear friend to see how she was feeling, she mentioned she was sick in an email, she is 21 weeks pregnant, I could have sent a text, I called. I called a family friend to say sorry about the loss of her husband....she told me she loved me, thank you for calling, that made my heart smile.

Tonight at a family dinner, I over heard my son telling his cousins at the table "we should be grateful we have food, some kids don't have any" he does listen, that, made my heart smile....

I recently had a woman tell me she loved my nature, that too made my heart smile...

Thank you, to all the things that make my heart smile, it sure feels good.

K

a must get!

I have the perfect thing for stocking stuffers, goodie bags, or birthday gift add ons...the Loot Bag combo from Mabel's Labels is an incredible steal of a deal for only $30! You get 6 sets of DIFFERENT name tags, hence the 'loot bag' name for this combo, giving you one large metal bag tag, and five sticky name tags (dishwasher and microwave proof). I know previously I have ordered similar labels through Olivers Labels, but seeing as Noah's school is doing a fundraiser, I thought I would give them a shot for all the upcoming events, and Christmas.....

http://www.gilmore.mabel.ca/products/colourful+loot+bag+combo

Quick and convenient shipping, I chose standard delivery, and they came in about a week. Get creating yours today!! I loved the bright colours and cute little designs you could choose from, personalizing each and every set!! My second round of these should be on their way! A great way to support a local preschool, and a Canadian Business!!

K

Just in time for Christmas..

"On the day that we met and I put you to bed,

I noticed a crown on the top of your head"

"It was made up of sparkling, glimmering things

like moonlight and fireflies, and dragonfly wings."

The Crown on Your Head by Nancy Tillman

Nancy Tillman has come out with another book just in time for Christmas! Thank you to the Coscto catalogue for letting me know, I nabbed one the other day for $12.49. The gorgeous illustrations, and heart wrenching words, make her books my favorite for bedtime, although I can never make it to the end without crying...

If you are not familiar with Nancy Tillman, start now! Her books are special, great keepers to have in your child's library. On her website, you can view trailers for all her books...get your tissue!

K

The Invisible Mom

Standing watching our kids play after preschool, a bunch of us mom's got talking....we were so relieved to hear we were all having behavior and listening issues with our kids....the talking back, having an answer for everything, the not listening when we tell them "stop jumping on the couch!" and so on...I often tell Noah I am going to take him to the Doctor to get his ears cleaned out, they must be full of wax or something!!?? I will have to try something new...it really is not working....when asking to clean up the toys, or put something in his room, there is no response, instead he just goes and does something else that pisses me off...I always say out loud, "I might as well be talking to myself!"...the other night at dinner, he wasn't eating...I was having a bad day, I lost it, I bent down in his face and told him he should thank his lucky stars there is even food on his table!! He isn't even 4.......but it felt right in that moment. I left the room, and cried.

Everyday seems the same, wake up, bathroom, make coffee, make breakfast, usually eggs and toast per Noah's request, clean up the mess, make the beds, get Anabelle dressed, then Noah, brush teeth, get myself ready, remember to brush my teeth, drink cold coffee, eat nothing for breakfast because then I will have to clean up another mess, my mess....leave for work, come home, get Noah, start to make dinner, serve dinner, fight with Noah about eating dinner, clean up dinner, make coffee, get Anabelle ready for bed, brush her teeth, put her to bed, fight with Noah to get his jammies on, have my coffee, give up and let Noah lie on the couch and watch cartoons (lately, letting him fall asleep there, BAD) put him into bed, finish my cold coffee, put my feet up, put myself to bed, ugh......I don't want to get back up to brush my teeth.......

I received an email this morning that spoke volumes...it came in perfect time, yes it made me cry, but it made so much sense. I received it from another mom at the preschool, I forwarded it onto some other moms, my sisters, my mom...the subject read, The Invisible Mom...

Here is the link to read the story, read it in full, it made my day....

http://blushink.com/the-invisible-mom/

Thank You to blushink.com for the link on your blog!!

Have a great weekend!!

K

a little fix

I felt my living room needed a little fix..it has been feeling too dark, possibly why I have been in a bad mood for the last while!? It needed a pick me up, so me and the kids headed to IKEA. I had seen quite a few new things in the catalogue that I wanted to check out in real.

Noah fell asleep on the way there, and Anabelle had her goldfish crackers, so we were good to go, this wasn't going to be a chaotic trip that I was going to regret, leaving my items at the front, and storming out with screaming kids and no bags....we all know that has happened numerous times before!

For $58.18 I got a great little fix! Two picture frames, a throw, two toss cushions, a feather insert and a great piece of fabric for new pillows in the bedroom!!

KVILL Frame $6.99

(you would never know this frame was plastic!)

IDGRAN Throw $14.99 VALBORG Cushion 16x24 $6.99 Feather Insert $6.00

Found in the As-Is section, just over a meter of fabric for $3.00

There were so many great inexpensive things that I would have loved to get! Great bedding, great area rugs, and awesome pretend play for kids!! Best of all, I left with my cool, I wonder if there was an attitude adjustment on the bill!?

Have a great day!!

K

A Sugar FREE Halloween Treat for the little ones, and big ones!

Have you ever made your own Play-Doh? I know I have done a blog on the recipe a while back...but since then, I found a much easier recipe, that requires the same ingredients but less of them! Last year, I always made the Play-Doh for Noah's preschool, but I never played with it myself..I always packed it away, and sent it off to school. Not too long ago, Noah and I made some at home for Anabelle and him to play with. It was delightful!! Especially when it was fresh and warm!! I never knew something so simple could be so relaxing and therapeutic...a great stress reliever, for a few minutes anyway! On Thanksgiving, Noah brought his Play-Doh to dinner. After we all ate, he wanted to dive in and start creating, not five minutes passed and he was bored of it, but I tell you, I looked around the table and every single adult had a chunk! They were all busy making things like roses, fish, trucks, snakes, snails.......

Every time Halloween comes around, I struggle with an idea for a little treat to give the little guys...this year, I thought it would be nice to make them some orange Play-Doh!! I found stubby mason jars, did a label with a little pumpkin on the top, I wanted to add a tag with the recipe but didn't have time, maybe next year!!! (or on the goodie bags at the next birthday!!) and there you have it, a cute little treat for trick or treaters of all ages!!! Another thing I wanted to do was to add a little pumpkin cookie cutter, I didn't get around to that either, man I feel frazzled!

The best part about this Halloween treat is that there is NO SUGAR!!!! Its loads of fun, for the kids and the adults!! Here is the new recipe...

Simplified Play-Doh

2 cups flour

2 cups warm water

1/2 cup of salt

2 tsp vegetable oil

2 tsp creme of tartar

2 little packs of koolaid, colour of your choice

(.59 at Safeway)

Add all the ingredients to a large pot. Heat over medium to high heat stirring continuously. Mixture will start to resemble mashed potatoes, and start to become a bit firm. Once a ball starts to form, and it is no longer easy to stir, poke to see if it's no longer sticky. Plunk out onto the counter, knead like dough until smooth, form into a ball. Let cool, place in an airtight container or ziplock bag, have fun!!

Happy Halloween!!

K

no tricks, just treats, for those in need!

This Halloween, Anita Alberto of Portraits By Anita is putting on a heck of a Halloween event!! My kids had the pleasure of trying out the backdrop for the event this morning, and I must say they looked awfully cute, and I can't wait for my images!! Along with us, in exchange, we brought a bag of non-perishables for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank! She has 10 boxes waiting to be filled by YOU!

October 29th 10am-3pm

October 31st 10am-1pm

FREE 4x5 Halloween portrait of your trick or treater with every canned food item or $5 donation!

Please RSVP to anitaphoto@telus.net

Instead of struggling to get a photo of your kids in their costumes this year, bring them to a professional and support a great cause!!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

K

I have a feeling some of you will do this along with me...

Pinterest, a delectable online source for unbelievably gorgeous images, ideas and heart wrenching phrases and quotes....I have gotten so much inspiration from this piece of heaven, almost dizzying at times! I am so glad I decided to join after being sent an invitation from a dear friend of mine...this particular idea I re-pinned from one of my sisters boards, and I am excited to start it this year!

It is a book of Birthday Questions....a set of questions your ask your child every year. The same questions, on their birthday. I have decided to start this year, when Noah turns 4, I think this will be a great start to some pretty hilarious answers! I am looking forward to seeing how they change over the years!! I can cry just thinking about it!!!!!

Following is the image, and the link from the blog it originally came from. You can click the image on the blog to read the questions more clearly, or, come up with your own set of questions!!

An incredibly simple idea to document how things change through the years!

http://reavespartyofthree.blogspot.com/2011/09/20-questions-birthday-q-album.html

I am looking forward to starting mine! Who is going to join me!??

I would like to thank reavespartyofthree.blogspot.com for sharing!!

Happy crying!!

K

wedding dress...

I was browsing through Pinterest tonight, and decided to search 'lace'. I was looking for inspiration, ideas, beautiful photos....I came across a photo that I remember oh too well...

This is my wedding dress....the photo from House Of Brides, the photo that scored me a deal on my dress!!!! Man, I can remember how this dress felt. How it hugged my body, the weight of it, 8 lbs to be exact! I fell in love with this dress because it had sleeves...the plunging neck line only suited for my flat chest back then...man I wish this dress still fit me.....

I felt beautiful in this dress, it was meant for me!

K

ps. Pinterest, I love you!!!

Ginger Lace Cookies

I can't remember if I have done this recipe before...but I made these over the weekend, they are delicious and look simply lovely! A great cookie to use as a give away, with it's nicely cracked sugared top.

Ginger Lace Cookies

2/3 cup butter

1 beaten egg

4 tbsp molasses

1 cup white sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp ginger (the powdered one)

2 tsp baking soda

2 cups flour

A shallow bowl with approximately 1/4 cup of white sugar for rolling

Mix wet ingredients in a medium bowl, then add all the dry ingredients. Combine well. Roll into 1" balls, then roll in the white sugar to coat the outside. Place on a cookie sheet, do not flatten then balls! Bake at 375 for 12 minutes.

Best served with a cup of tea to dip :-)

These cookies remind me of my grandma...it felt nice to bake them, and think of her. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do! They are a great cookie to bake over Christmas as well.

Hope you all had a lovely Thanksgiving weekend!

K

How is life?

Today, while waiting in line at a store, the clerk asked the woman in front of me "How is life?" her response was, "It's there." they must of known each other to ask such a question, to that the clerk responded, "I know what you mean.". There are so many people that seem so dissatisfied with their lives, I fall into this category sometimes, I must admit. There are days I wish I made more money, days I wish I was thinner, days I wish I owned more property or had a big diamond like Kim Kardashian...but in the end those are all material things. When I stand back and really look at what I have, I should be grateful beyond words! I have an amazing family, a wonderful husband, two amazing children, a roof over my head, a great job, and food, always on my table. I have warmth, I have clothing, I have shoes to walk in.....I can't speak for everyone, because I don't know the roads and paths they have had to take along the way, but I can say I truly am grateful, and I should be extremely satisfied with what I have, and want to say, when someone asks me, "How is life?" I will respond, "Life is wonderful! I am healthy, and wealthy beyond measure with love and support, life is great!".

Today, let us be grateful for the simple things, and let all the extras follow. Take a deep breath when the kids scream, don't panic if the table setting doesn't look as you imagined. Who cares if there is dust on the base boards, and big deal if the gravy doesn't turn out...HAPPY THANKSGIVING, be grateful for life, be grateful for breath, be grateful for every little thing, that possibly, others don't have.

How is life??

K

A second opinion

I found a dress, I tried it on...I put it back...then, I couldn't stop thinking about it. It had sleeves, I love dresses with sleeves....I went back, tried it on again, in two different sizes, had to take a picture and ask a second opinion, have you ever done this? It was my first time! (the navy dress hanging behind me was SO nice, but upon trying it on, I realized it was an extra small, on a medium hanger! Tricky!!!!!! It went in the absolutely not pile!

The consensus was yes so I bought it, I figured for $24.99 I wasn't breaking the bank. Winners is a great spot to find a last minute "something new" to wear!! I slapped on some black opaque tights and my boots, and I was ready to go!

K

We thought we were Wilson Philips.....

We would sing our hearts out in the car, on the long drive to Saskatoon in the summer...the three of us, sisters, convinced we were good enough to crack a record deal I'm sure...as I write this I am singing "Release Me", I cry, a lot, while singing...it's not necessarily the lyrics, just the song, knowing the words, whatever they are, and belting them out, from the heart. It feels so good to sing, loudly. I want my kids to know the joy of music, how powerful it is. I want them to sing from their hearts. I hope certain artists remind them of us, like Van Morrison and Bob Dylan always remind me of my mom and dad. Sometimes songs make me feel so sad, I can feel it in every crevice of my body, and others, so frickin' happy, I think my face will crack from the smile thats spreading across it! It really is hard to put into words how I feel about music...I came across this on Pinterest, it sums it all up..

Its as simple as this, "Music Is What Feeling Sounds Like"....it places me in different times of my life, occasions, sorrows...music is truly amazing. I can remember just how much my heart swells when I hear the twang of Eric Clapton's guitar when "Wonderful Tonight" starts....and how sore my feet were on December 9th 2006, dancing with my new husband...the first time I danced with my Dad, to Louis Armstrong's "What A Wonderful World"...or the summer of Grade 8, driving in a friends car listening to "Return of the Mack" by Mark Morrison. The grief of my grandma's passing, "Smile" by Nat King Cole and "I Wish I Was The Moon" by Neko Case...I could go on. I hope you all feel the music, good music, real music. Music that is felt in your heart, through your veins, your soul.....music makes everything better.

K

Lovely Ladybugs...

A little Ladybug I know is turning 1, and I am helping decorate! I LOVE a themed party!!

K

Terrific Turkey Meatballs

Here is another recipe from the October 2011 issue of Canadian Family Magazine, Turkey Meatballs. I made my own tomato sauce instead of store bought, so that made it a little longer, but they were still simple to make.....

Turkey Meatballs

by Susie Cover from The Supper Club

6 cups tomato sauce

1 cup panko bread crumbs

1/3 cup whole milk (I used 2%)

2 lb ground turkey

2 large eggs beaten

1 cup parmesan cheese

2 tbsp oregano

2 tsp kosher salt (I don't see why you can't use regular salt?)

1 tsp ground pepper

1 tbsp olive oil

1. In a large pot heat your tomato sauce, remove from heat and cover to keep warm.

2. Put the panko crumbs in a large bowl, add the milk and let the crumbs soak it up, add the turkey, eggs, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper and oregano. Using your hands, or rubber spatula, combine. Do not over mix, this will make the turkey tough.

3. Roll the turkey into 1" balls, and place on a rimmed cookie sheet. Put in the fridge to set, about 10 minutes.

4. In a large non-stick fry pan, heat the olive oil on medium heat, cook the meatballs, turning as necessary, until golden, about 8 minutes.

5. Transfer meatballs to the pot of tomato sauce and place on low heat, simmer for about 15-20 minutes.

Serve over spaghetti or linguine, with a nice big salad and garlic toast!

Tonight, I am trying the Mac and Cheese Cupcakes...I think they will be a hit!! I know I am looking forward to them!!!

Enjoy the rain!!

K

Chicken Curry with Apples and Peas

This recipe was delicious! Chicken Curry with Apples and Peas..in fact I am having left overs for breakfast! Quick and easy, a bit spicy, so I am glad I toned down the curry paste, in fact, you could probably omit the curry paste all together if you want to serve it to your kiddies....here you go!

1 1/2 lbs boneless chicken breast (I used 2 breasts)

1 tbsp vegetable oil

2 medium onions, peeled and chopped

1 tbsp minced garlic (I used 3 cloves)

1 tbsp minced ginger

3 tbsp mild curry paste (I used 2 tbsp green curry paste)

1 cup chicken stock

1 can coconut milk

1 large granny smith apple cored peeled and cut in chunks

1 cup frozen peas

Heat oil in pan, saute onion, garlic and ginger for about 2 minutes. Add the curry paste, and cook, stirring until fragrant, add the chicken pieces and stir to coat chicken with spices.

Add the stock and coconut milk, simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken (mine didn't get very thick). Add apple chunks and peas, and cook for another 5 minutes or so.

Serve with basmati rice and naan bread. The best naan is the Presidents Choice brand from Superstore, $2.99 for two large pieces.

Stay tuned for more recipes from the October 2011 issue of Candian Family Magazine..next week I am trying a whole bunch of new things!!

Enjoy your weekend!

K

Canadian Family Magazine

I subscribed to Canadian Family last year through the preschool, a suggestion from an aunt of mine. I have really enjoyed it! Great articles and delicious recipes!!! Here are a few from the October 2011 issue that I am going to try, some on my menu this week!!

Sauteed Pork Medallions with Warm Cabbage and Apple Slaw

Cranberry and Soy Glazed Chicken

Tex Mex Chicken and Rice Bake

Confetti Corn Bread Cupcakes

Meat Loaf and Mashed Potato Cupcakes

Macaroni and Cheese Cupcakes

Hardy Minestrone Soup

Easy Stove-Top Lasagna

Sweet and Sticky Pork with Vegetable Fried Rice

Chicken Apple Curry

Turkey Meatballs

www.canadianfamily.ca

I will be sure to let you know how they are!! Tonight we are having the pork medallions, and Friday is the Chicken Apple Curry with Naan....mmm mmmmm mmmmmmmmmmmm!

K

it is what it is....

A friend first referred to this statement after suffering a devastating loss of her own...there is no way to put this pain into words. The only comfort is knowing that "it is what it is" and there is no changing it. I lost my grandfather early this morning. I was lucky enough to talk to him only a few hours before, on a cordless phone, as he lay in the emergency ward in Saskatoon...surprised at myself for even phoning, I do not deal with these things well, I will forever cherish his voice, and being able to tell him I loved him, something that is never said enough, and being able to say good-bye.

What blows my mind, is just like that, things can change. Just like that a little boy returns home, just like that, a family member is lost.....and just like that, it's over. I keep replaying in my mind, seeing him sitting in his rocking chair. With his elbows on the golden wood arms, his slippered feet crossed, leaning a bit forward, to get in on the conversation. My heart aches for my grandmother, who for so many years, sat across from him in her own chair, sharing years and years together, where will her chair go now?? I cannot help but put myself in the same situation, the devastation and sadness that over powers me is too much....

My intention of this post is not to make people cry, or reply with their condolences, just simply to write it down....please hug someone today, and don't be embarrassed to tell someone you love them. I will forever be grateful I worked up the courage to tell my grandpa, even with the circumstances.

Grandpa, I hope they are right when they tell you that you are re-united with those you lost. I hope you find her....

K

xoxo

(no comments please)

70 minutes

Holy, its been a week since my last post.....I can't tell you how happy I am to get back into a routine. Not saying that I won't be ready for a break when Christmas rolls around, but for now, I am happy to have somewhere to be, and even though its only 70 minutes, it's my 70 minutes, 70 minutes of doing something for myself, and others, instead of my own family. Does that sound bad? Sorry...but it's true, the gratification I get from doing a good job makes me feel good. Then I can come home, and do an even better job with my husband and kids, because I am in a better mood!

I couldn't believe, while walking around the school grounds, that Noah will be in public school next year. My heart skipped a beat when I thought about him being out there alone, with his buddies, hopefully lots of buddies....I wondered what kind of friend he will be, will he cause trouble, will he remember his manners..........one of those things you just hope you have taught them at home......and hope for the best!

Sometimes I think its a measly 70 minutes of work........but then I come home to my real job......and I thank god that it's only 70 minutes!!! And I thank my lucky stars for a great position that gives me a bit of sanity.

K

perfectly chilled

These are by far my favorite water tanks for my kids! They are by Thermos, and they are awesome! I bought them while we were away, because at Target they were $13.00 and here they are close to $20.00. I filled them with cold water from the fridge in the morning, by 10pm, the water was still chilled! A downer is that they are on the heavier side, but I think we can make do, and give up the luke warm water. They were a perfect addition for our trip to the Woodland Zoo!

I also love the addition of the name labels by Olivers Labels, get your own today!!!

K

perfect cure..

A heavy feeling is still weighing on my heart. I thought it would go away..it has joined me for the whole summer. I am hoping by the time I go back to work, and Noah starts school again, that the routine will bring an easier feeling...my chalkboard in my kitchen reads "This too shall pass, eventually" I have been waiting a while now, thought with the sunshine it would be gone...its something I really have no words for, I don't even know how to begin explaining it.

It's 7:59 pm, Anabelle is sleeping, Noah is at his Nonna's (Grandma's) house, Fredo is working. I have an urge to go and wake up my sleeping angel and cuddle her, squeeze her, let her know how sorry I am for yelling, and scolding her for being naughty (and man can she get naughty!), let her know I am sorry for not taking her to swimming lessons because I don't want to put on a bathing suit, and tell her that her and her brother mean the world to me, no matter how mad they make me.....this feeling of nostalgia will pass by morning I am sure.....but some moments, songs, videos, tv shows help you to put things into perspective...I am sorry I have been somewhat absent for the past while...

I put Anabelle to bed, and made myself something....a rootbeer float, this, felt like a HUGE hug...a much needed hug. It felt incredible.

K

ask and you shall receive!

I thought out loud the other day how fabulous it would be to have a diaper rash spray....I love the bum bum balm, but wondered if such thing was even available.....turns out it is!!! I quite like it!!!! This may sound selfish, but I hated getting gunk under my nails whenever I have them on (BSF04's of course!). I found it at Target. So far, I think you can only order it from the States, Toys R Us has it on the US site www.toysrus.com

toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3910211

I hope the link works??

Happy to have found it, and glad I gave it a shot, so far so good!!

K

"wait on the carpet by the front door!!!!!!!!"

We are done.....another week of soccer camp, finished! Man its a challenge to get three people fed, ready, snacks made and packed and geared up to be out of the house by 8:15 am five mornings in a row!! Noah sure loves his soccer camp, but who's idea is it to start at 9 am, at Town Centre in Coquitlam!! (wink). I wink, because that person would be my husband.....he is gone, alone by 7:30 am, he misses the chaos, and leaves the channel on TreeHouse, does he have any idea how distracting that is for a 3 year old that's trying to finish his eggs and toast in a timely manner, ha. But we sure do love what he does, it allows Noah to have a BLAST for a week with buddies at soccer camp, Coquitam Metro Ford Soccer Camp!

I think as soon as you become a mom, you learn a lot about the importance of timing and organization, and it definitely gets tested when you add on more children. You think you have one ready, then you find the other playing tea set, or puzzles, then you realize they haven't brushed their teeth, nor have YOU brushed your teeth! Your stress level rises and before you know it, you are yelling for everyone to "wait on the carpet by the front door!!!" After saying, "okay lets go" about 10 times, you have the keys and you are out the door...once the kids are buckled in, and you get yourself in the front seat, SHIT you realize you forgot your coffee.....out you go again, lock the car door (someone might come and take the kids) run inside, grab your to-go Tim Hortons cup, and you're off 8:29 am...thank goodness the clock in the truck is about 10 minutes fast! You can breathe a sigh of relief once you pull into the parking lot, we made it!!!

I am sure Noah wishes he could go to soccer camp everyday of the summer, but I sure am happy I can have a leisurely morning tomorrow!!

K

chicken lettuce wraps

This is a super easy meal that takes barely anytime at all, and the kids love it (sans the lettuce for them). I don't make these as often as I should, they are so yummy! I use ground chicken, but you can also use ground pork (maybe turkey, I am just not a fan..)

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

1 package of ground chicken

1 tbsp vegetable oil

2 minced garlic cloves

1 minced onion

3 minced celery stalks

1 minced carrot

1/4 cup oyster sauce

1 head of lettuce

Serve with Hoisin sauce, chopped green onions (and crushed peanuts if you like).

First things first, cut the stem off your head lettuce, enough so that you can pull the leaves away, trying to keep the leaves as big as possible, this gets tricky when you get to the inside leaves, but no one is judging you and your lettuce leafing skills. So long as you can put some chicken inside, its big enough. Put aside.

On medium heat, heat the oil, garlic and onion in a sauce pan. Let cook until garlic is fragrant and onion is slightly soft. Add the ground chicken, cook until no longer raw, then add the celery and carrot, mix, then add the oyster sauce. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, until everything is done to your liking.

I usually put my lettuce leaves, chicken, green onions (peanuts) and hoisin sauce on the table in little platters and bowls, and let everyone help themselves...creating their own little pocket wraps. I serve rice along with because the kids really enjoy it, and when they aren't having a 'wrap' it gives them something to eat with their chicken.

Bake up some spring rolls to enjoy with your wrap to make it an Asian inspired night! Clean up is fast and easy!

K

bubbly

Absolutely DEVINE!!! Nice and chilled, a few glasses went down way too smooth....having received this bottle as a gift I had never heard of it, but am so grateful to have experienced such pleasure!! You can find this at Everything Wine for $25.99 a bottle. Col de Salici Extra Dry Prosecco is what you are looking for.

I have found that whenever I go out to eat, I check the menu for a glass of bubbly, so far, I have been in luck at Cactus Club and Browns. Both serving delicious varieties. Prosecco is my drink of choice. I truly enjoy a nice flute (or 2 or 3....)!

Cheers!!

K

mini blueberry muffins

I had blueberries to use up, they were starting to get wrinkly.....so I made these :-)

Mini Blueberry Muffins

2/3 cup sugar

1/2 tsp salt

2 1/2 cups flour

1 tbsp baking powder

1 large egg

1/3 cup vegetable oil

1 1/4 cups milk

1 tsp vanilla

1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries

Preheat oven to 400. Combine sugar, salt, flour and baking powder. In another bowl combine all the we ingredients, egg, oil, milk and vanilla. Make a well in the middle of the dry ingredients, pour in the wet, mix lightly, add blueberries. Combine until a soft batter forms. Fill your mini muffin tins with cute papers. Fill, and bake for about 12 minutes or until the tops are golden.

A perfect size for perfect little hands!

K