Tuesday 25 October 2011

Beautiful Lights...

My husband and I got home late tonight from our trip to Grande Prairie. We headed out after he got off work to look at a quad. We bought it (so excited) and came home. The Northern Lights were spectacular and as the clouds cleared away the better our view was! When we arrived at our little farm we stood on our lawn and looked up at the right to the very top of the sky and enjoyed the peace and beauty of being on this wonderful piece of property. I came in wanting to share this but before doing that I checked out horse a forum that I frequent.

Recently a member on the forum passed away. She was a mother of two young girls and it has been sad even though I only knew her as an internet person. From what was said without details it appeared to be a sudden tragic death so one assumes car accident. Apparently it actually had been thought to be a horse riding accident that actually turned out to be a brain aneurysm. The whole thing has left me with such a sad feeling that I wonder how exactly a life a didn't know passing can affect me so much.

It is simply really. The knowledge that someone was here, full of life, counted on by many and then, in one small moment of time is gone from the earth is really truly hard to accept. You realize in these moments how much you need to trust and put your faith in God even more because without him what do you have? I understand for some eternity does not bring any comfort. The question and worry whether they will live forever or somehow not pass into heaven. For those people they often give up on the idea of no eternal life and instead embrace all we have is here and now. For me that sort of thinking brings no comfort at all.

I would much rather believe that should I die suddenly and leave my family to live on without me, God will continue to care for them. That I will go to be with him and Heaven and that my family with have the peace knowing that, though they miss me, I am truly in that "better place". I want them to have that comfort.

But it is late and I am afraid my heart is too full. Fully of the beauty of God's nature and of the frailty of our life on earth. I think I better head to bed!

Thursday 20 October 2011

The Epilator!

So the title tells all. Unless of course you don't know what an Epilator is...  and now that you have read my handy link you know. Don't you feel smarter?

I decided after an evening of my leg hair regrowth torturing me with itching that I needed to google some help on the subject. It seemed that as dryness and irritation due to the shaving lotion was already ruled out for me I should try waxing or epilating. I've tried waxing and DYI was so annoying and messy I decided never to do it again. And I can't even imagine what salons charge up here if my eyebrows now cost $30!

So, epilation it was. The only problem was that the epilator at walmart was $74.99. I was not going to pay that to try it out. While on our trip I came across the smaller version for $54.99 and decided to buy it. And yesterday I used it for the first time.

OUCH!

Actually, I am totally joking. It hardly hurt at all. In fact I kind of wanted to try my bikini line and armpits too but decided I was getting a little hair ripping out crazy and just stuck with the legs. I don't know yet if it is an improvement on shaving. I don't think I will know for a little while yet. I am supposed to epilate once a week to start with. As it didn't take long I don't mind that idea. There were a few sensitive areas on my skin but that could also be due to the sores from scratching (totally disregarded the warning about not doing it on broken skin or consulting a doctor if pregnant. Frankly, I am sick of these companies telling pregnant woman to constantly consult a doctor. Umm, I'm pretty sure I'll be fine, but thanks for covering your butts.

So that is my story for today. I survived epilation and plan to continue doing it and see if the results are better than those from shaving.

In other news my OB/GYN is back in 10 days and then I can make the appointment to find out a little bit more about this person inside me.

Tuesday 18 October 2011

Too cute for words

That is my daughter. She is still at the stage that even her fits are cute and it takes all my man power not to smile when she throws herself upon the floor in protest because I am being "mean".  Today it is the two of us again. Back to normal. And everything I do she must do with me. Yes, it makes certain tasks take twice as long but I love her expressions and chatter. Even as tiring as sharing my water bottle gets I would not change any part of her little personality (or big personality).

Right now she is seated beside me, singing and playing with the blanket that is over both our laps. Every once in a while she reaches over and tries to help with my typing even though she knows my keyboard is off limits. Before I even have a chance to correct her she often rips her hand away and smacks the pillow in anger.

Yesterday she held her fork in both hands and stabbed her pancake while saying, repeatedly, "die, die, die"

All these things, even when slightly distributing, are moments that remind me why I am a mother and why I am a stay at home mother. For me, it would be awful to have her discover all these new things and develop under someone else's gaze. I am not saying this to make those who cannot stay at home feel guilty but rather to remind myself not to feel guilty about staying home.

You see, in today's society if a woman doesn't embrace the feminist movement, control or at least 50/50 the purse strings, have a career, or even place her kid in daycare she can often be viewed as less of a woman. Because it is my "right" to have a career many woman believe it is some how letting down womanhood to choose not to have one but rather be old fashioned and stay at home.

I am not saying having a career is wrong for a woman. And I am thankful women can work outside the home now and things have changed. But it is not for everyone. Just because I have chosen to stay at home with my daughter instead of going back to work doesn't make me less of a modern woman. It just means I have different priorities. I am thankful that I can stay at home and even if it means giving up the extra cash it is worth it for me.

So, if you are a mother feeling guilty for not bringing in the money, stop. The moments you have with your child/children is far greater than any monetary gain you might receive from having a job outside the home.

Sunday 16 October 2011

Home!

Well, so much for blogging on the trip. Way too late of nights! Thankfully besides yesterday our mornings started at around 9 or later.  Have I ever mentioned how much I appreciate having a child that sleeps in?

Here is the trip

Day-2

I know I already blogged this day but I forgot to mention on really big highlight of the day. We went to "elements on the fall" restaurant for our lunch and it was fantastic. Our table was right beside the fall and the food was presented so pretty on our plates with fresh fruit for garnish. Which was good for Hadassah! We also enjoyed an amazing Spinach and Artichoke dip with Asiago cheese and flatbread. Mmmm... If you ever go you must try to go there. But make a reservation. If you do they will try to get you a window seat. Website

Day 3

we finished up our Adventure Pass by going to The White Water Walk along class 6 rapids. We headed to Toronto then and stopped at a little Italian Restaurant called Diverso by Ferraro. We went to Casa Loma next. It is a castle like mansion full of extravagant finishes and has an unbelievably high tower it in.  We lost a lot of weight walking around that place. We didn't have a lot of time to explore but we did manage to see everything though not listen to all the audio tours. The grounds were lovely and I wouldn't mind going back just to sit in them for a while and gather inspiration.

We found a parking lot near the CN Tower and walked down to Lake Ontario. We then headed to the Tower for our fine dining experience in the 360 Restaurant. Loved it. I had purchased two meals through Airmiles for Matt and I. We got a bowl of Borsch, my first time ever having it, bread and butter, tender, tender chicken with beans and potatoes and then a heavenly chocolate mousse desert. Combined with the vivid lights of Toronto below us as we slowly turned it was worth every Airmile point spent!  Hedy pruchased her own meal and quite enjoyed her steak and choice of desert. It was quite late by the time we got back to our hotel but definitely worth it.

Day 4
Gone was the hot, good weather. It was still warm but rainy! We went to the Butterfly Conservatory and the Bird Aviary in the morning then ate leftovers at our hotel for lunch. Matt wasn't feeling well so we just stayed there for a while until evening and then went to Clifton Hill to ride on the Sky Wheel, do a mirror maze and check out the Wax Museum. We had a light supper at TGI Fridays and then went back to the hotel for bed.

Day 5
This was the only day we got up early. My sleepy roommates weren't stirring so I finally poked Dassa until she woke up. Then everyone decided it was time to get up. And a good thing to as on our way to the Toronto Zoo an accident happened just moments before us up the road. After a short time waiting we decided to be brave and find a way around the accident. Which we were thankful for when we found out it had shut the highway down for hours! We made it to Toronto Zoo and had a wonderful day there. It was cooler but not cold and never got any of the promised rain thankfully. The zoo grounds are beautiful and the falls colours were in their full glory. In the short time we had we managed to see most of the zoo and did a lot of walking.

We then headed to Medieval Times. Matt and I have been before in Orlando but this was Hedy's and of course Dassa's first visit. Okay, I'll admit it, this was my fourth time. Because I had found a good discount ticket I splurged for us to have the VIP seating so we were right in front. Hadassah enjoyed most of it and for a 2 hr show was really quite good. She had a few temper moments like when I wouldn't let her down to go see the horses or let her throw my food or let her bang me with the cheering banner we had.... I know, I am so mean. But her fits were always short lived and quickly forgotten. I am slightly concerned that her favorite parts were the fighting and other tense moments. This was another late night but well worth it.

Day 6
Our relaxing day. We got up slowly, got ready slowly and then headed to The Secret Garden Restaurant. It wasn't bad but it and TGI fridays were definitely our meh dining experiences. We then when to Fallsview Waterpark. I had a pregnancy meltdown in the changeroom. Before we left I found out the shorts to my swimming suit didn't fit so I grabbed the swimsuit I had used during my pregnancy with Hadassah. But, I am apparently not as large in the chest and of course everything sags down now. I looked awful and if you have ever been pregnant you know that once in a while you just need to fall apart. Poor Hubby tried to help by searching for safety pins and only coming up with elastics. He then tried to send his mother in... Apparently he is clueless and has not learned that when your wife is a bawling mess, threatening to spend to whole time in the change room the MIL is not someone she wants to see. So ashamedly I sent her from the room. She understood as a fellow woman and as she is truly a wonderful person. Finally, after I got control of myself, we decided I should just wear my tank top over the offending bathing suit... And honestly, I forgot about it shortly after and did have a good time. Dassa loves the water and they had a little kiddy slide that she loved. She was so proud of herself when he learned she culd climb the stairs and go down it all by herself. MIL and Hubby are not as laid back as me and I think sometimes I really test them when I allow my daughter to do these things on her own... or let her go under the water before helping her stand up. At five we finally called it a day even though Dassa was not ready to go. But her screeching for the water and slides was quickly forgotten as usual.

We dined at Napoli's italian resteraunt. It was our last hurray and fabulous. We enjoyed every bite and if you ever go to Niagara Falls you must go there if you enjoy Italian food. It is an authentic Italian restaurant and definitely worth checking out. I would have ate there a few more times if it hadn't been our last night there.

Day 7

We got up at 3:00 Toronto time, drove to Toronto, flew out at 7:30 and then landed 3.5hrs later at 9:00 Alberta time. We hopped in our van, drove to Ikea for breakfast and to pick up Dassa's toddler bed (Which is indefinitely out of stock!) and then headed on home. We got into Dawson around five our time and I went to bed at 7:00 as I couldn't keep my eyes open one moment longer. But everyone was home safe, sound and happy so all and all it was a fun and wonderful trip.

Today I am just recovering and doing laundry!

Monday 10 October 2011

Happy Thanksgiving Day

Today was apparently a record busy day. Most likely due to the record high temperatures for this time of year. It didn't seem too hot as we spent the whole day at the falls. We did the Adventure Pass and I must say that of the three parts we did today Maid of the Mist was my favourite. Dassa loved Niagara's Fury 360 show. She did not appreciate the Maid of the Mist as she was sleeping in the Bjorn when everyone let out a whoop and startled her awake. She awoke only to find herself surrounded by the dreaded plastic poncho. They are quite evil apparently.

All in all it was an excellent day. I am feeling my lack of sleep and must sign of to get some rest.

Sunday 9 October 2011

Everyone loves Marineland!

... except for the protestors we drove past to get in. Yes, we ignored them and went anyways. At the gate we were met with Marineland employees who gave us brochures on why the animals are not in torment... but let's start at the beginning.

We arrived in Niagara falls at 2am Toronto time. Hadassah traveled like a pro. I didn't even have to resort to cracking open her 'trunkie' to occupy her. And she also slept for an hour or so during air turbulence.

Today she continued on in her superstar behaviour. As I mentioned we went to Marineland, We ate a picnic lunch first thing and then headed to see the attractions and animals. I was proud of my MIL who went on the Sky Screamer with Hubby. She is one brave senior (she got the senior rate at Marinland so for today she was a Senior.

Hadassah was able to go on a few kiddies rides. This was great because the midway at the fall fair in town does not let the kids on any rides if they are under 36'. For my 30" daughter it is going to be a while before she gets to experience those rides. There was even a kid's roller coaster she could go on. Which the little speed junkie loved! When my photos are uploaded I will get pictures on here.

Dassa's other favourite was the underwater viewing areas. She loved watching the Belugas swim about. It was definitely worth bringing her and sharing this experience with her. Just because she won't remember doesn't mean we won't and it doesn't mean she didn't thoroughly enjoy it.

After Marineland the toddler had her only nap of the day for 1/2hr in the car and then we went to the Rainforest Cafe for supper. I love eating there and apparently so does my daughter because she polished off a lot of food! We walked to the falls to see it lit up at night and then headed to the Guinness World Book of Records Museum. Now we are in bed ready for a good night's sleep and hopefully as wonderful tomorrow as today.

Did I mention that today it was in the high twenties? Yes, that is right. Hot and wonderful. A last taste of sunshine before winter. Yes, I said winter.

Friday 7 October 2011

Packing, laundry, blogging instead of packing.

Tomorrow my husband, daughter, mother-in-law and I leave for Niagara Falls. And I have so much to do I am doing what I usually do when I feel overwhelmed... procrastinating. It is an awful trait and the only way to get over it is NOT to procrastinate. Obviously I need more will power in this area.

The trip was my idea. I had my usual itchy feet to travel and even though we haven't got our investment from the sale of our previous home I just had to book this trip. Dassa, my daughter, is free right now to fly and for most things and I am not so huge that traveling is uncomfortable. I don't know when the next vacation will get to be.

insert-
 Hadassah just came from her room with the Calico Critters bride and groom dolls that graced my wedding cake. she is making them kiss and very exaggerated kissing noises.  At least they are
 married...

So, the cats and farm are being watched by a young man who I still see as being a small boy. But he has a full time job, is over six feet and 19yrs old. The puppy is at my mother's place and I am "packing."

I hate packing. But worse than packing is unpacking. The one downfall to travel. Thinking about after the trip.

But enough of that. I must get off my rear and start packing. Honestly, I think the whole point of this post was to motivate me to start packing... I apologize to my readers suffering through it.

Thursday 6 October 2011

Busy avoiding a poopy bum.

A few months ago my darling daughter pooped in potty. She would sit and poop and sometimes pee in her potty then put her arms out that she was done. We then cheered and clapped over her accomplishment. (ah, to be young and bowel movements in the toilet be "cute"). Then she got sick and we lost the toilet training we are working on. In fact, if she is having trouble pooping all I have to do is put her on the toilet and voila, she poops after I take her off and get her diaper back on.

Now, I am not worried. My daughter isn't even two yet. But for quite a few months I rarely had to change those vile toddler poops. I got spoiled. But children don't always do what we want. And sometimes, I find for myself at least, I think they purposefully do the opposite of what we want. While this can be true... it isn't always. Yes, kid's are smarter than we often give them credit for but I know, as a reasonable adult, that my child doesn't poop her diaper just because mommy has to change her then.

What an interesting post this is after not blogging for a time.  Once again, I planned for my blog to be deep and meaningful, even profound. Instead I talk about my daughter's poopy bum.  And enough talk, time to deal with it.

Saturday 1 October 2011

"insert something witty, clever or profound here"

I hate coming up with titles. In fact, I despise it. When I spent time writing stories my least favorite part was coming up with a title. Some people seem to have a gift for it. In fact, I considered stealing a friend's idea (but changed slightly) as all her titles are interesting and follow a theme. But, I decided as she does read this blog she might notice. And you other two friends who also read these blog would notice.

I do have many things to blog about besides the unimaginative titles to my blog posts but I am still forced to using my iPhone thanks to incompetent country Internet (thank-you Internet provider for going down right before the weekend) but I suppose I can't complain. A Year ago I did not have this handy little tool that allows me online so long as I have cell service.

So now that I have talked about two random topics I will talk about something a little deeper.

Today I attended a funeral for my great-uncle and also grandfather to a close friend. We knew he was dying and we were so thankful he made his peace with God and yet it still is sad to say good-bye. Looking at the little programy thing was sad for me for another reason. There on the list of predeceased siblings was my own grandmother. As time passes a lot of her siblings have passed away and each time it is a reminder of losing her for me. You see besides her brother who died during WWII my grandma was the first to pass away. She was not the oldest and I remember feeling how unfair it was. Since then more have passed as is inevitable as we grow older. Some to cancer and some to plain old age. And yet there is so much to be thankful for. She was in a family of 15 children and they all stayed surprisingly close despite the number of kids. I do feel for those left behind though as I think they can't help but wonder who among them will depart this world next. It is such a reminder to me what it must be like to be growin older and watching your generation pass around you. It is really a morbid thought but after such a day it can't be helped. Death is a large part of life.

That is why I am thankful I have a hope in an eternal life. If this was it I am afraid I would despair. Everything must come to an end. But today, I saw what was one man's end was really just the beginning to his eternal life. Today he is in Heaven and is seeing his sister, my Grandma, and fellowshipping again.

And I can only imagine her words to him are something of the sort: "Glenny, you just got in by the skin of your teeth but it is sure good to see you here."