Kim's Corner of the Web

January 29, 2012

2012-01-29T22:39:00.000-07:00

Here we are...two days from the end of January! One more month of winter under our belts and into 29 days of February! Yup...it's a leap year!

January has been a pretty good month! Despite one week of nasty winter cold, the trend has been milder than usual...I LIKE that! The days are longer and brighter and with that my energy seems to be increasing! YAH! I love leaving work at the end of my day and driving home in daylight!

Taylor finished his last exam of his 1st semester on Friday. I know he is glad to have the monotony of studying and writing exams done, I am anxious to see how his marks come back! New Semester starts this Wednesday...with Chemistry, L.A., Social & Mechanics! A full course load indeed! May he stay focused as the weather starts to improves!

Bill has been busy as usual with work and spending much of his limited spare time practicing on his keyboard! I think he's doing great considering the length of time since he last played {35+ years!}. I can recognize what he is playing...and Camp Town Races rocks our family room most nights!

I have been getting some scrapbooking done after a month or two of very little time! It continues to be a hobby I love! It just falls so nicely in place with my love of taking pictures. I'm happy to have a purpose for new and old pictures, instead of just throwing them in an album to collect dust! Bill pulled out some old albums from the basement a few weeks back and I have been trying to re-purpose some of those memories! Many of the pictures no longer have any meaning, so I have also gotten rid of lots! I love to throw out unnecessary garbage! Feels so good! Here are some pages using the "found" pictures! Way more interesting to look at now than in an old dingy album!

January 12, 2012!

2012-01-12T14:21:00.000-07:00

Hello 2012! And look, you're already almost half way through your first month! Go figure, looks as if we are all back on the roller coaster of life! Here's to a good ride this year!

Bill, Taylor and I are all back into our normal routines again. Taylor's will shortly change as he has exams soon and then will start a new semester of subjects! I always remember liking that change in a semester system, a sense of renewal always seems to feel good! I think as individuals we love the "illusion" of new beginnings, new ideals, new motivation...I know I do!

Bill will resume the next level in his Spanish classes this month as well as test his ability with the keyboard! Taylor and I bought him 4 private piano lessons and surprised him with a keyboard to bring home at his first lesson! He is the toughest person to buy for as "practical" is his middle name. He never wants for anything, so I think we pulled the wool over his eyes on this one! Next Christmas we expect him to play us some Christmas carols!

Mexican Mariachi Christmas Band

We broke from tradition this Christmas and spent a wonderful week in Mexico at the Mayan Palace! It was a perfect balance of lounging around the pool, getting out to see some sights and taking in a bit of Mexican food and culture! Bill did a great job at putting his Spanish skills to work, while I worked my new camera to record the memories! Now the process of going through all those pictures is a task on my never ending to-do list! Fortunately it's a labour of love!

Mayan Palace pools were amazing to say the least!

Chips, salsa & margaritas

Excaret

Tulum

I look forward to whatever 2012 wants to share. It will continue to involve coffee with friends, scrapbooking retreats, Taylor's sporting events, work, a trip to Nova Scotia in the summer, good wine and who knows what else! My goal for 2012 is to Move More & Eat Well...no more dieting! I will share this year long goal with a group of like minded people online at Big Picture Classes...our Motivator in Command is Cathy Zielske - a breath of fresh air!

Clearsnap!

2011-12-12T18:02:00.001-07:00

No time to spend on a Blog post, but have to share some Clearsnap fun!

November...already!

2011-11-13T08:27:00.001-07:00

So here I am again, sitting and trying to put some words to "paper" [so to speak]. I tried to update my blog yesterday a few times but always got interrupted or pulled in another direction, this is lovingly known as "squirlling' by my wonderful friend Cathie Allan! She has adopted this saying from a movie [can't remember the name] and has declared it a verb...I love it! I live it! You should take the time to check out her blog, she is an amazing teacher and artist with paper and ink!

Life has been very crazy for us the past few weeks! Taylor schedule is very busy with hockey, tutoring, drums and work...Bill and I do a lot of chauffeuring from one activity to another. It makes for some crazy nights and a welcome bed at the end of our day! This week we had a bit of a reprieve as Taylor sprained his ankle and was off hockey for the week, this plus a week off school for Fall break lightened our schedule and put a bit of calm into our week! Back to hockey tonight and 2 games early in the week!

We were blessed [ I use the term loosely] with our first snow on Friday night! Not a huge amount, but enough to blanket the ground and stay there. The temperatures will keep it there for a while now. I know at some level I shouldn't complain, we live in Alberta and have had snow and cold temperatures way earlier than this...BUT I have just loved the gorgeous autumn we have had and wish it could stay longer! In my next life I think I will try to come back as someone who LOVES winter...not happening in this life! I will, however; try to make the best of it when I can and get out for walks with the dogs and wait for gorgeous hoar frosts...there are moments that can be breathtaking...too bad they involve COLD! That being said my boots are ready to work for me, my down coat has been brought up from the basement and the gloves...well they have already been put to use! Bring it on and lets move forward to Spring!

For the love of dogs!

With all our running around I have had little time for "play". I did get some Christmas cards made during a weekend away in Pigeon Lake with some wonderful friends, and finished up on a scrapbook page that was taking too long to complete. I am working on an advent project for Christmas right now, and will show it when it's completed...it will be fun! So, I guess some things are getting done!

Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine has their November sketch up, so I am hopeful I will find time this month to work with it: I really like it!

November's Sketchy Challenge!

So, on with my day I must go! Taylor was up early for work and I suspect Bill went to the gym after dropping him off [he's not home yet...good assumption!]. I have lots of little things to get done today to help make our week flow a little smoother. I'll get to the bottom of the laundry hamper [hopefully!] and maybe get something into the slow cooker for tomorrow. In an ideal world I'll get out with the dogs for a walk as well, but not right now...the wind is blowing, it's snowing, grey and looks awfully cold! Bella may just have to play indoors with her new favourite toy!

Bella giving her new toy some lovins!

October 23, 2011

2011-10-23T22:06:00.001-06:00

We are nearing the end of October, which means my birthday and Halloween are just around the corner! I am loving the fact that our weather has been very Fall-like...which means NO SNOW! Sadly I have experienced too many cold Alberta Octobers and anticipate snow on Halloween! This year could be an exception! We have had lovely mild temperatures and sunny skies, great weekends to get out with the dogs or tidy up the yard and deck for what is to come!

Bill has been busy putting things in the garage and raking leaves to be composted. The dogs are enjoying the long walks and off leash runs they have been still getting...life is pretty good!

Ball obsessed Bella!

As usual I try to get in some creative time whenever I get a chance, it is what I love doing in my down time! Canadian Scrapbooker Magazine has put out another sketch for the month of October. I look forward to them posting other peoples take on the sketch...it's always amazing to see how different all the entries are.

Here is my take on October's sketch:

Enjoy the rest of October and have a great Halloween! Keeping my fingers crossed that the snow stays away!

Canadian Scrapbooker » It’s a Sketchy Challenge

2011-09-14T13:55:00.000-06:00

Canadian Scrapbooker has come up with a new Sketchy Challenge. You can read more about it at this link: Canadian Scrapbooker » It’s a Sketchy Challenge:
Basically they have provided a sketch for people to work with and then submit to the magazine for a chance to be published in an upcoming issue! who doesn't like to see their work in print! The catch is to use at least one product from a Canadian Manufacturer. I love that they keep coming up with great ideas to keep this magazine very Canadian!
Here is a screenshot of the current sketch:

Here is my take on the sketch:

My Canadian content is a rubber stamp called "Happiness" from Local King Rubber Stamps. I have used it to create the butterfly paper behind my photo mat.
I look forward to more sketch challenges over the months. It is a great way to get the creative juices flowing!

Scrapbooking update

2011-09-07T10:32:00.001-06:00

Trying to stay on top of things while time allows, so you get another Blog post so close to the last one!

Before going on holidays I was fortunate to be asked to join in on a scrapbooking class at Treasured Memories, my favorite store in Edmonton. A friend was not able to make it and I gladly filled her spot as this class filled up very quickly. It was taught by Ingvild Bolme who is a Prima instructor. The supplies were primary from their line of products, which are always beautiful. Although the style of this page is not what I would typically do (it's a bit too flowery and bulky for me), the techniques learned and the products used were awesome. Ingvild introduced her line of scrapbooking tools and ink and they are great. I look forward to their introduction to the stores in the Fall. Her distressing tool is the best ever! and her ink colors are beautiful-can't wait!

Since being back from holidays I have managed to get two pages done. It was nice to hunker into my craft room again, it's a happy place for me! Bill and I bought a small TV for my room and got it mounted as the one that was there was about 25yrs old and didn't work so well when the TV stations switched to digital broadcasting. I actually get great reception now and a couple extra channels...no need for cable for my needs!

webster's pages, Coredination card stock, Harmonie Mosaic Tiles,
Stampin Up heart stamp, Glimmer Chips, Souffle Markers & misc. inks

G.C.D. Studios Zen Garden paper, Cricut for title & softballs,
Bazzil cardstock, Tattered Angels Glitter Glam

Always look forward to time spent in my room. With all the pictures I have from Nova Scotia this year and last, I have lots to keep my busy.

September

2011-09-07T08:35:00.000-06:00

Well we are back from our holidays in Nova Scotia and have quickly resumed our routines! How does that transition happen so fast?

Taylor has started grade 11 this year and (so far!) seems to be happy with his courses and teachers. As the semester progresses we'll get a better feel of things. I am hopeful that he stays focused in an effort to improve his marks from last year

Bill is off to Winnipeg today for a quick overnight work trip. I am off today and have managed to get lots of paperwork updated and bills paid this morning. I will not feel any guilt this afternoon when enjoying what is shaping up to be another gorgeous day!

September weather is the best! The days have the potential to be warm and sunny, but the nights cool off so sleeping is so comfy! Sadly, it is what follows autumn that sends my head spinning! Today is supposed to reach 30C and the rest of the week is hot and sunny! Bring it on!

I have been slowing working away at going through my many pictures taken while in Nova Scotia. It takes so much time to weed through the best ones and get them ready to print, share, store. Fortunately it is a labour of love! Here are a few that I have uploaded to my SmugMug account:

preserves in the Tangled Garden, Grand Pre

gorgeous barrels of flowers at the Tangled Garden, Grand Pre

sunset at Black Rock Lighthouse

hummingbirds at our neighbours

I have so many more to go through and that means more to share. Hope everyone enjoys a fabulous day!

Visual Report

2011-08-18T16:45:00.000-06:00

July 18, 2011

2011-07-18T20:35:00.000-06:00

Just another day in rainy Sherwood Park, not really. We woke to a fantastic storm this morning around 6:00am. One of the first good summer storms of the year for Sherwood Park, though certainly not for Alberta. The sky was orange and eerie and the the thunder sounded angry as it it approached. The storm system stuck around for about two hours, I found it almost hypnotic as I laid in bed listening to it. Managed to get up to shut some windows, then curled back under my covers to enjoy. Was a nice morning NOT to be getting ready for work.

Tonight I was looking around CTV's Facebook page and found this awesome picture posted from a fellow in Edmonton. Really captured the storm front beautifully!

photographed by: Moslem Noori

We seem to be in such a weather rut the past months. Since June 1st we are at something like 35/45 days of "measurable" rain. People are just fed up with this weather. To boot we have optimal mosquito breeding conditions! Never in all my life have I experienced anything like this, I am soon going to wear DEET outdoors and in! It's that bad! You know when "our" skeeters make the National News at 11:00pm...it's pretty bad!

All this weather has left some time for scrapbooking which usually gets put on the sideburner over the summer. Here are a few pages I have worked on since June.

Nova Scotia pics form last fall

back in the day, Lahr, Germany

3 generations of Gowdy's

icecream anyone?

Autumn in Mahone Bay, NS

Took in a bit of the Street Buskers on Sunday, though we only caught the closing show! Good timing as it highlighted the buskers who showed up, each did a short act so was a good over view!

Starting to get ready for our summer holidays, two weeks until we go! May the weather at the cottage be more to rave about! Signing off for now!

Cool things to be found on the web!

2011-07-02T07:57:00.000-06:00

Here is neat list of uses for common household things I found on Pinterest, enjoy!

Source: womansday.com via Dianna on Pinterest

On line classes

2011-06-25T12:08:00.000-06:00

Over the past several years I have found a few sites that offer some great classes online. I have trusted my instinct and have been pleasantly surprised at the quality of courses available over the internet. I have taken photography classes, Photoshop Elements classes and scrapbooking classes. My favourites sites are Jessica Sprague and Big Picture Classes, they offer "forever access" to class materials and lessons. Their sites are easy to follow and teacher availability has been great!

The past 3 weeks I have been taking a class from Claudine Hellmuth, called Composition for Collage. Collage is way our of my comfort zone but I have really enjoyed it. I feel any class on design will better my scrapbooking and photography, because so may principals overlap! One more week to go! Has been lots of fun.

Here are my "homework" samples for the class so far. Week one was about asymmetrical composition, week two was about using horizons in composition, week three was about vignette compositions and this week we are using grids for our compositions.

Asymmetrical

Low Horizon

Vignette

I love the last one the best! I am glad I used this picture of Taylor (he is actually in the image twice!) mixed with lots of the images Claudine supplied as downloads. I think it's a fun collage/scrapbook page! It makes me smile! Haven't decided what I'll play with this week, if I get time I'll put it up on my Blog to share!

Baby Laughs At Bubble-Eating Dog - CollegeHumor Video

2011-06-17T17:28:00.000-06:00

This could just be the cutest video you will see! Thanks to my friend Sue for sharing. Can't get enough of this little girl!

Baby Laughs At Bubble-Eating Dog - CollegeHumor Video

Exposure (1) A balancing act

2011-06-05T17:54:00.000-06:00

I came across this article today from one of the sites I follow. I think it is a great resource for photography basics and refresher when one hasn't used their camera enough over winter! It links to other articles at the end of the article.

Exposure (1) A balancing act

May 28, 2011

2011-05-28T21:35:00.000-06:00

Almost to the end of May, has been a busy month! We have spent most found time in our yard and garden getting it weeded and cleaned up. It's looking pretty good so far and everything seemed to survive our long winter really well. Bill and Taylor spent most of last Saturday hauling cedar mulch from the truck to the back yard to the garden. I am hopeful that this will stop the many black footprints found on our carpet each Spring, Bella love to bring the dirt indoors!

The apple blossoms on our trees have been beautiful, sadly they don't last long enough and the wind we had today has blown many off the trees. I did manage to get some great shots last week when they were in their prime.

Bill and I celebrated another anniversary on May 20th..., 22 years has gone by so fast! I feel very fortunate that our goals for the most part are the same, though our way to get to them may differ! So far it seems to be working well for us! HUGS TO HIM!

Have managed to slip in just enough scrapbooking this month as well. I have yet to tire of this fun hobby! Here is a sampling of what I have done this month:

Signing off for now! G-nite!

Bull River

2011-05-13T11:42:00.024-06:00

Two weeks ago already!

On April 29, my friend Connie and I packed up my car with all of our

scrapbooking needs for a long weekend in Bull River, British Columbia! This

would be my second year there, Connie's fourth. Armed with cameras, coffee

and visa for gas we were off for our 7ish hour drive. We whizzed through to

Calgary with no problems, traffic was fine and we missed rush hour (YAH!).

Our first planned stop was in Nanton, AB for gas, a quick bowl of yummy stew

and of course a pee break. This is where we ran into the start of some bad

weather! The worse came on highway 22, the Cowboy Trail. We got stuck in

some of the worse winter conditions I drove in this year (remember it is

April 29th!), white outs, wind and slippery roads. Fortunately we were in a

small convoy behind a plough/sander, so on the upside things could have

been worse.

Connie captured our road trip

Once we got to Frank Slide, AB, the stress of driving was hugely

reduced and we were that much closer to our wonderful destination!

Once there we set up and unpacked all of our stuff, arriving early gave us

choice seating with lots of room to spread out! Slowly everyone started to

show up and the noise volume was crazy. It was like a homecoming party! This

is such a great group of ladies. Was great to see friends that live farther

away, but the icing on the cake was all the ladies I met last year, who

through the wonders of Facebook have become wonderful friends! Not much

scrapbooking happened that first night as everyone caught up with life.

Although scrapbooking is the intent of this weekend, it really is about the

FOOD! C.J. is the most fantastic chef!

C.J. and her sweet daughter "mini-me"

Hidden in this gorgeous lodge in the mountains is a treasure! Three

meals a day, she WOW'd us with scrumptious meals that looked

as good as they tasted! Here are a few samples of what we

enjoyed or you can check out my SmugMug site for more mouth

watering views.

Dale, also employed by the lodge, kept our wine glasses full and from what I

hear made impressive Caesars! She was always there to help with things and

did it with a huge smile. She fit right in with the fun of our weekend!

There were too many laughs to mention but watching Jayme belt out the words

to Paradise by The Dashboard Light was priceless! I think she has another

calling!

Sadly all good things come to an end. On Monday morning after an incredible

breakfast everyone packed up and said long goodbyes!

More friendships were made, other strengthened. We'd have to start our

countdown for next year's retreat! Seems like a long ways away, but it is

sure to fly by as fast as the past year. Fortunately I have lots of pictures

to keep the fun alive!

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T16:35:00.000-06:00

So as a gift to myself, I let myself finish a book that has taken some time to read. It was a wonderful book that should have taken a lot less time to read, but I find I don't allow myself time to sit and read often. I grab 15 or 20 minutes here and there or read while waiting at appointments. Today I spent about 2 hours enjoying the final chapters of the book.

The Help was a great book about living in Jackson, Mississippi in the 1960's. The story of the need for change and how some brave women chose to start change. Loved this book and so glad it was loaned to me as a great read!

You guessed it...more snow!

2011-04-14T20:23:00.001-06:00

I'm starting to get a bit confused! I am pretty sure it is April 14th, at least the calender tells me so. However, March was "In like a lion out like a lamb"...I am pretty sure that April "showers bring May flowers"...so what in the heck does 15cm of snow and the same on the way for tomorrow bring...a pretty miserable bunch of Albertans!

Bella and I looking out the door in disbelief!

I have just about given up on seeing Spring! Or have I given up on life in Alberta? I am just not sure! Fortunately Taylor choose to shovel because I refused to do it, it's just not right! I wished away the snow indoors todays, leaving only to go to yoga this morning and to get Taylor to and from school.

My shoveller.

Mom! It's all ice under here!

I do love this guy!

Laundry got done, a visit with my friend and neighbour and some cookies made. I tried a new recipe using Quinoa flour, they turned out pretty good. Taylor noticed a bit of a difference in taste but still went back for more. I didn't tell him I switched out the flour for a more nutritous option...a little more protein and fiber will do him some good! what he doesn't know will only do him some good!

bet you can't have just one!

Stay tuned for the continuing snow saga that has become my life! Hope you're enjoying your SPRING!

April 6th, 2011

2011-04-06T13:42:00.002-06:00

Just as I had suspected! Just back from a gorgeous walk in the sunshine! The melt is definitely on BUT still too much snow! It will be interesting to see how long this lasts! Bella and I walked for over an hour. The sidewalks are wider today and seem to have less water on them for the most part. Probably because there are areas off the concrete now for the water to flow. Some parts still had ice today even though we went out at noon, must have gotten pretty chilly last night. So here's a look at what we look like today!

greenbelt across from our cul-de-sac

backyard

front yard *sigh*

April 6, 2011

2011-04-06T11:51:00.000-06:00

As I sit here waiting for my iPhone to charge so I can listen to some tunes for my walk, I thought I'd post some pictures from Sunday's walk! Still way too much snow but a definite sign of Spring has arrived. The Canadian Geese have returned! I am sure in their tiny little brains though, they too are wondering what in the heck is going on. Poor things are having trouble finding open water and i am sure there is not too much food to be found either! So this is a pretty crappy iPhone picture...but for real they are here!

looking for water and food

Here is another view, still to much winter for my liking, but what can I do? I am hopeful that todays walk will show more signs of Spring! Come on sun and get your "MELT ON"!

across our snow covered, still frozen pond

For the Non-believers

2011-03-31T21:17:00.000-06:00

I have had this sneaky suspicion that my friends "back home" think I am complaing about the weather a little too much. I, along with my Albertan friends (especially Edmontonians!) would dare to differ!

So to those nay sayers who think Spring surely must have come, these pictures are for you! They were taken while out for a walk with Bella. Yes, today was a beautiful day and we did see sunshine...the first full day in about two weeks, but need I point out how much snow you are about to see in these pictures!

Just so you know...in MY WORLD this is just way too much snow to have to deal with on March 31st! Now you know what I am complaining about...sympathize!

Me Again!

2011-03-27T18:43:00.000-06:00

So I thought I would redeem yesterday's post, since it was so down in the dumps! Let in be known though that there is absolutely no change in the weather!

Last night I spent some quality time in my craft room and completed a page that made me happy. Love how it turned out! I used a kit that was purchased from Scraptivity! last year. I have always had good intentions to use the paper, stamps and goodies that came with the kit but never had the right inspiration at the right time! Last night, it all came together!

Here is another page I worked on this weekend, I think the common theme was my neice and nephews! I came across these pictures while cleaning out some drawers...they show much better here than tucked under a bunch of things that got thrown out!

Had a great visit with my friend Connie this afternoon, never a lull in our conversations and the coffee is always good!

Taylor and Bill get home tonight after being away for the weekend. Taylor's hockey team was in a tournament in Cochrane, AB. Taylor was unable to play as he is still healing his shoulder after an earlier hockey injury, but he was there to support his team. Always fun to sit with him and listen to his reactions while watching from the stands, it is a very different perspective of the game. Today they detoured into Banff for a sit in the Hot Springs and a walk in the town, and should be home between 8:00pm and 9:00pm.

That about wraps up my day. Not as gnarly as yesterday, probably because I spent less time outside in the cold! Josh, our local weather guru, says we should be above 0C in the next week. May it be a trend we continue.

So done with cold!

2011-03-26T19:38:00.000-06:00

It's over a month since I last updated my Blog and honestly I would have expected to be much warmer! We are still in the throws of winter, though the calender tells me it's SPRING! Yes the days are definitely longer, but as of lately they are not brighter! We continue to have grey skies, snow, cold and wind. It is just making me so cranky, and has zapped the energy out of what was a pretty good exercise rhythm.

COME ON SPRING!

I've decided to keep this entry short...cuz it certainly isn't SWEET!

treadmill

2011-02-20T16:11:00.001-07:00

Brrr...we have had such a cold, bitter week. Although the sun has been shining brightly, it hasn't had enough allurement to call me out for a walk. So I have been going on the treadmill and doing my Yoga once a week, it's been okay! For me that is!
Bella is another story. Running out in the backyard just isn't enough, but her paws bother her when she's out and about. Today she was pacing and whining to get out, almost like she had no control to stop. I have heard of people taking their dogs on the treadmill and thought...what have we got to lose? Taylor, Bill, Bella & I headed downstairs for an attempt. Bella was not quite loving the idea, but her tail was still wagging! To our surprise, she did pretty good! We learned quickly that she needed the speed to be higher than I would use and we increased the incline! After 15 minutes we stopped her and to our excitement, we had her panting, the whining stopped and she worked out the cobwebs! This will definitely be a trick we keep up our sleeves! Check it out (click on picture to view video):

Stalled lesson...

2011-02-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

So we are into week two of Digi in Deeper class and our instructor, Jessica Sprague, has landed herself in the hospital for some unknown reason. Not so good for her, and I wish her a speedy recovery, but was good for me! Somehow I managed to get behind this week and just finished our first lesson/layout tonight. Up to this point her class has been very fast paced which I like, but very time consuming if I want to get everything done (which I do!). we will resume on Monday with the next two pages in this lesson and extend the class by one week at the end! Here's to keeping up! Tonight's completed page looks like this:

That's it for now...time for a little glass of red wine! Enjoy your weekend!

Digi In Deeper, week 1 DONE!

2011-02-15T22:08:00.001-07:00

So I have finished my first week of Jessica Sprague's, Digi In Deeper, online class! I am forever excited to learn everything that Photoshop Elements 9 can do! I consider myself pretty advanced with what I have taught myself over the past several years...but she has lots of tricks up her sleeve! Loving it!

Although the pace of this class is really quick...day 1 - assignment set up & downloads...day 2 - lesson...day 3 - assignment set up & download...day 4 - lesson...day 5 - assignment set up & downloads...day 6 - lesson! I think you get the picture! I am already behind for week two as I have to throw in work and parenting into the scheme of things as well! Life does have to go on!

Here is the reveal of the three lessons/layouts we did last week, with the focus on grunge design:

I'm excited to move through the next weeks lessons. Her focus is on Freestyle design, so it should be interesting! I'll show more soon! Love this hobby!

Another Class...

2011-02-07T22:35:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to be starting another Jessica Sprague digital scrapbooking class. This one is called Digi in Deeper, it's an advanced digital class. I am sure from her past classes this will be full of ideas and new tricks to learn. Although I LOVE traditional paper scrapbooking, I do love the portability and no mess of digital scrapbooking. So in my world I enjoy the process of both, depending on my mood!
Here are some samples of the pages I worked on in past classes she has offered:

As I progress with the next four weeks, I share what we we've been doing!

2011-02-03T07:29:00.003-07:00

The Official Canadian Temperature Conversion Chart:

50 Fahrenheit (10 C)
Californians shiver uncontrollably.
Canadians plant gardens.

35 Fahrenheit (1.6 C)
Italian Cars won't start
Canadians drive with the windows down

32 Fahrenheit (0 C)
American water freezes
Canadian water gets thicker.

0 Fahrenheit (-17..9 C)
New York City landlords finally turn on the heat.
Canadians have the last cookout of the season.

-60 Fahrenheit (-51 C)
Santa Claus abandons the North Pole.
Canadian Girl Guides sell cookies door-to-door.

-109.9 Fahrenheit (-78.5 C)
Carbon dioxide freezes makes dry ice.
Canadians pull down their earflaps.

-173 Fahrenheit (-114 C)
Ethyl alcohol freezes.
Canadians get frustrated when they can't thaw the keg

-459.67 Fahrenheit (-273.15 C)
Absolute zero; all atomic motion stops.
Canadians start saying "cold, eh?"

-500 Fahrenheit (-295 C)
Hell freezes over.
The Toronto Maple Leafs win the Stanley Cup

checking in....

2011-01-28T11:14:00.000-07:00

No exciting title today and really nothing exciting to post. Life has been busy. It amazes me how fast the days have gone by despite being winter. Here we are already into the last of January. January is one of those months I am happy to see fly by. I have never been a winter person and suspect I will never come to love it. Although I do make a conscious effort to complain less about it!

As we get ready to head into February our days are obviously longer and brighter, one of the things I have to admit that I love about life in Alberta. As quickly as those days shorten in December, so the opposite occurs. I can feel a sense of relief when I leave work in daylight and know now that almost a year will have to pass before that happens again! YEAH!

Lots of snow kicking around here these days, but a week of warmer weather was a nice reprieve from the cold. Our driveway is down to bare concrete (a great accomplishment) and ready for the next bout of winter to hit...someone told me to expect February to offer the same amount of snow we got in January. Not sure where we'll put it...but bring it on!

So signing off for now, have to get Taylor up and about for a physio appointment. Hockey has been rough on his body and my brain this year! Couple more months of it and we can move into a sport with less body contact!

A Woman's Version of the Night Before Christmas

2010-12-18T12:01:00.004-07:00

Subject: A Woman's Version of the Night Before Christmas

T'was the night before Christmas and all through the kitchen;
I was cooking and baking and moanin and bitchin.
I've been here for hours, I can't stop to rest.
This room's a disaster, just look at this mess!

Tomorrow I've got thirty people to feed.
They expect all the trimmings.. Who cares what I need!
My feet are both blistered, I've got cramps in my legs.
The cat just knocked over a bowl full of eggs.

There's a knock at the door and the telephone's ringing;
frosting drips on the counter as the microwave's dinging.
Two pies in the oven, dessert's almost done;
my cookbook is soiled with butter and crumbs.

I've had all I can stand, I can't take anymore;
Then in walks my husband, spilling rum on the floor.
He weaves and he wobbles, his balance unsteady;
then grins as he chuckles "The eggnog is ready!"
He looks all around and with total regret, says,
"What's taking so long....aren't you through in here yet?"

As quick as a flash I reach for a knife;
He loses an earlobe; I wanted his life!
He flees from the room in terror and pain
and screams, "MY GOD WOMAN, YOU'RE GOING INSANE!!"

Now what was I doing, and what is that smell?
Oh darn, it's the pies! They're burned all to hell!
I hate to admit when I make a mistake,
but I put them on BROIL instead of on BAKE.

What else can go wrong? Is there still more ahead?
If this is good living, I'd rather be dead.
Lord, don't get me wrong, I love holidays;
It just leaves me exhausted, all shaky and dazed.

But I promise you one thing, If I live 'til next year,
You won't find me pulling my hair out in here.
I'll hire a maid, a cook, and a waiter;
and if that doesn't work, I'LL HAVE IT ALL CATERED!

Life with Bella

2010-12-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

Long Time - No -Post!

2010-11-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

So I have just started another online class called "Finding Holiday Joy", we are just into week one and I think I will enjoy it! Lots of photo prompts and a great online forum for every taking the class to ask questions and inspire each other. Here are some pics I took yesterday and today while decking the halls for you know what!

tree is up and lights are hung...worst part of the job

my Nova Scotia favourites

handmade ornaments, many from my friend Gail

another one of Gail's creations, they are standing the test of time

Christmas elf, one of four that guards our garland

just a little holiday cheer :-)

....painting!

2010-11-13T13:49:00.000-07:00

Well not a whole lot has gone on in the last little while other than painting every weekend for the past 5? weekends. If we are lucky tomorrow we will be done the main part of the house, and we can start thinking about hanging pictures, buying a mirror for the living room and changing out our kitchen hardware. There are still rooms to work on, but I want to focus on the main living area first. It is looking so much fresher after 10 years of the same colour! Was time for a change, and time to start transitioning some older items for new!

The main color through the house is now Benjamin Moore's "Stone House", the accent colour for three walls will be Benjamin Moore's "Nordic Gray"...we'll be working with that colour today & tomorrow, it will also eventually go into our small main floor bathroom! One step at a time!

We also want to change out much (all!) of the lighting in the main area. It is all very ugly, dated and so not functional! This, I think, will make the biggest change of everything we plan to do!

No pictures to share today...got to get back to work!

Sketches 2 Scrapbook

2010-10-27T19:25:00.001-06:00

Sketches 2 Scrapbook

Looking forward to our wonderful LOCAL scrapbooking artist, Anam Stubbington, to get this app up and running! I love working with sketches and this will be awesome to take along on weekends at Pigeon Lake & Bull River!

Back.....again!

2010-10-07T09:20:00.011-06:00

Well, lucky me! I am back from my second trip to Nova Scotia this year! Three weeks at the cottage this August was great, but a second trip playing tourist with my friends was the icing on the cake! Connie, Sue and I spent five days touring around the Fundy Shore and the South Shore of my favourite province! I can hardly believe all the sites we managed to take in.

In anticipation of lots of rain that was in the forecast, we packed our bags accordingly. I'm sure in the back of each of our minds was the dissappointment of lost pictures and less outdoor time than we wanted, with the predicted weather! NOT TO BE! We toured in heat and humidity under overcast skies...everyday in the high 20C's. We contibuted our weather good fortune on Connie's purchase of an authentic Bluenose Souwester...in preparation for rain...there was none!

Day one took us to Chester, Mahone Bay, Lunenburg and a quick stop to visit my Aunt in Liverpool. The South Shore did not dissappoint (it never does!), although time did not allow us to get to one of the many gorgeous white sand beaches found in this area! Lots of fall harvest for camera lenses and shopping at the local stores...a great day!

Day two took us down a windy, narrowing road with rocks that started to get too sharp and bumpy for my liking...a quick 360 turn and we were back on better roads,heading towards Halls Harbour. A quick detour, brought on by curiousity,took us to Huntington Point (where the nasty road was to eventually lead too). This was a perfect find! At the end of this road was a gorgeous little cottage that easily could house Snow White and the Seven dwarfs! There was a series of cottages here that were colorful photo opportunities! The shore here offered some great rock hounding and a view of Halls Harbour! Off to Halls Harbour where we easily passed away three hours! We took in the eco trail, the scenery and a great lunch before heading for a car tour of more local towns. This day also introduced us to three local wineries and a love of the many available local wines!

Day three's attemp to get to Balancing Rock, west of Digby, came to an end due to heavy fog. Our efforts in getting there were not wasted though as we found a great little fishing harbour at Trout Cove, a cool little beach with old boats docked in the fog and lots of shells and beach finds. We also spent an intriguing hour with Mr. O'Brien and his painted bikes and apple loving cows! This was one of those moments that unfolds when you least expect it! Off to Digby for some lunch, our belllies were well on there way to being very grumpy by this time! A decision was made to spend the rest of our availabe time in Bear River. A steep, windy road took us into the stunning little town nestled in a valley. All buidings at the lowest level are built on stilts to accomodate the tides...picture perfect! Two more vineyards to visit here and we were off to take my Mom out for her birthday dinner at Kellock's in Berwick.

Day four was a second attemp at Balancing Rock. This time we were smart and ate dinner first at a local cafe recommended by our new friend, Mr. O'Brien - from the previous day. The weather was promising as the skies were brighter and the fog was lifting. Our trip towards Tiverton was interesting, as the day before was heavy with fog. We saw the coast this time and the beauty that was previouly hidden! Once again as we got closer to Tiverton the fog got really heavy. This time we dicided to go as far as the ferry and decide from there if we should continue! After a quick chat with the ladies at the restaurant at the ferry, we decided to go across and see Balancing Rock despite the heavy, heavy fog! So glad we did! A quick 5minute ferry trip took us to Tiverton, and the fog though heavy was not as low and visibility was Okay! We had just enough time to take the short hike to the 200 steps that lead down to the platform...Balancing Rock was worth the effort! 200 steps up! 5 minutes to spare before getting back on the ferry...off to Annapolis Royal for the whirlwind tour and a quick treat from the German bakery! Time was not on our side at this time as we had to get home with lobsters in tow for a lobster boil with Mom and Dad...a fun & messy meal! Was lots of fun watching Connie & Sue eat their lobsters with very specific instructions from my Dad!

Already day five! Packing is the priority of the morning, I had to get Connie & Sue to the airport by 4:30ish! We spent a bit of time at the shore near the cottage while a load of laundry was washing. Quick stop in Berwick to have lunch and homemade ice cream at Mum's Bakery, then we were off in hopes of finding Pumpkin people in Kentville! Although not all of them were out and about, we met enough to enjoy the moment! Always a fun tradition during Nova Scotia's harvest season! On our way to the airport we managed to take in two more vineyards! One more case of wine to be shipped! A total of three cases over the course of the week...it will be a happy day when those cases arrive at our doorstop!

This was such a great week! Not sure if it could be duplicated again...the company was just perfect! I look forward to going through the hundreds of pictures we all took...there will be lots of laughs! Makes me thankful to be surrounded by such great friends!

Time for change

2010-09-19T15:41:00.000-06:00

I am ready to update the walls that surround us! We have lived in this house for ten years with the same colors and they are growing OLD!! I took the plunge for the first time to have an interior decorator come in to offer some input. It was a great idea!

I have really felt stumped with ways to move forward on the decorating front as our furniture is old and dated BUT functional. Not quite ready to fork out the money to replace everything I don't like but needed to find colors and ideas to help with the transition that may take place over a few years! So now I have a plan that won't break the bank.

Bill seems to be on board for the most part, but definitely not as gungho to get "a movin". Yesterday I moved some furniture around as was suggested and took down some dated ivy from our kitchen. It's a start! Today some large items got out to the curb for Big Item garbage pickup this week. This week I/we? will decide what room to paint first, so the wall prep can be done. It's a long painting road when Bill chooses to do it himself, the longer we wait the longer it takes! Have to take the bull (or the BILL?) by the horn and move on!

Once the painting is done, we'll look at lighting, cabinet hardware, small tiling job...all doable things! I'm excited!

Wish us argument free decorating...these are tough times on a marriage!

working through my pictures

2010-09-09T12:28:00.001-06:00

Well I have been slowly working through my Nova Scotia pictures, a half hour here and there adds up and gets things done. I enjoy the process of weeding out the bad pictures and deciding which ones to upload and save.

"Halifax Harbour Boardwalk walkers"

"who can resist Theadore the Tugboat?"...(Taylor!)

"Anyone you know?"

"Yes! those waters are policed!"

"Couldn't you just HUG them all!"

"Let's NOT grow into this chair!"

Bored you enough...if you want to see more...you know where to find them!

Long weekend.......GONE!

2010-09-06T20:46:00.000-06:00

Where the heck has this long weekend gone? We stayed around town, and I know we were busy, but I don't seem to have much to show for my days off!?? How does that happen?

Taylor spent yesterday at West Edmonton Mall's water park with his friends, celebrating one of their birthdays. The day turned into a sleepover for some of them - so a great day in Taylor's book. Bill and I also spent most of yesterday on the West End, but only a brief time at West Edmnonton Mall to pick up some pages for Bill & Taylor's coin collection! You would have thought it was christmas, the mall was stupid busy! Not quite sure why!

Taking advantage of a meal without Taylor, we went out for dinner to a restaurant on St.Albert Trail called Lazia, a neat spot with a nice menu, lots of Asian influence! Bill had salmon, I had a chicken pesto panini sandwich and we started off with some amazing spring rolls.

We also had the dogs to the off leash area this weekend, for two-2hour runs! Bella has two speeds on or off! Fortunately, these runs takes the wind out of her sails for the remainder of the day. We are so fortunate to have this great off leash area so close to home. There is a large open area to throw balls and rough-house with other dogs, then some trails through the woods for some trail blazing. I took my camera today, but haven't gotten through the pictures yet, so will post some another day!

Got some cards made and finished a scrapbook layout as well:

That just about wraps up our weekend, I guess

time flies when you're having fun!

Cards

2010-09-04T22:35:00.000-06:00

Have been busy making cards...this is one for Taylor's friend! He and I are happy with how it turned out. :-)

Routine...

2010-09-04T20:37:00.000-06:00

So we are now two weeks into our usual routine after 3 great weeks in Nova Scotia. Not only have we quickly fallen into life before holidays, but it seems we've walked from Summer right into Autumn! Oh, how I'd like some of those lazy days back again!

Taylor has his first week of highschool under his belt, so next week should not be so intimidating. He is adjusting to only 4 subjects in one day - everyday! I think he is undecided whether he likes the semester sytem or not! His course load is a good balance, with two core subjects and two options.

Bill also is back into work full force with trips to Calgary, Red Deer and Winnipeg and a little golf fun as well! No changes at my office other than everyone has finished their holidays, so mo more temps for a while which will make things run pretty smooth!

No plans for the Labour Day weekend, which is just fine with me. Weather not looking so great anyways, so would not want to be camping. Will probably get in a few scrapbooking hours, walks with the dogs and to dos around the house! Hope your long weekend is what you want it to be...those still enjoying summer like weather...send it our way! I have been *slowly* adding more pictures to my SmugMug site, check them out if you are inclined to do so!

Testing

2010-09-04T18:00:00.000-06:00

Just a little test from my phone!!!
Sent from my iPhone

We're back...

2010-08-26T16:19:00.000-06:00

So it's now just about a week since we have returned from Nova Scotia. The dogs are back home again, work has started and Taylor has registered for his first year in High School. How does time go by so fast?

We had a fantastic trip to Nova Scotia, I love our cottage! We took in lots of day trips, had friends over for dinners and had some great time spent with family. It was a perfect balance of planned and unplanned events.

I have not yet gotten through all of our pictures, but have started a gallery on SmugMug, feel free to check it out, I will continue to get our pictures up there.

I can't wait to share some of the Tidal Bore Rafting pictures, we had such a great day of play with the River Runners. Anyone wanting an adrenaline rush should try it some time!

From the tidal bore rafting we headed to Pictou so we could catch the ferry the next day for PEI. We had a quick day and a bit enjoying PEI before we took the confederation bridge back to the "mainland" for a full day of driving Nova Scotia's Glooscap Trail, on the Northern side of the Bay of Fundy. I have never been to this part of Nova Scotia and it did not dissappoint. We spent some time at Joggins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then passed through Advocate Harbour on our way to Cape d'Or Lighthouse, we were in awe at the rip tides at Cape d'Or and the ruggedness of the cliffs on this side of the Fundy. Too hazy on the bay to across to our cottage-but we tried! Next we stopped in Parsborro for some scallops on the wharf then a final 3 1/2 hour drive around the Minas Basin to get home. So much driving this day, but we saw so much!

Now if I could get rid of this sinus cold...life would be good!

Devonian Gardens...

2010-07-04T17:46:00.000-06:00

On Friday, my friend Connie and I hauled our kids to the Devonian Gardens for a day of picture taking and hanging out with our kids. I think the kids all had a pretty good time despite walking around the gardens. There was lots for them to see and plenty of space to run if the urge came over them!
One of the highlights for all of us (except Taylor) was the butterfly exhibit. So many beautiful butterflies, but not so many that the skeemish (Taylor) couldn't handle it! Connie and I had lots of opportunity to get some great shots.

The two other indoor exhibits were also intriguing...cactus and bromelian. The kids were all pretty impressed with the many cactus plants and their amazing blooms. I was pretty amazed myself at the varieties, many could take the lead role in a "Men in Black' movie. One of the flowers looked just like a star fish...pretty cool!

The Japanese garden offered a stream and rock climbing, though I kind of remember reading a sign " NO CLIMBING ROCKS"...how can you expect 4 boys not to play in water surrounded by rocks???? They were respectful of the space while doing a little off trail climbing...heck I think I did too!

From there, we had some lunch before heading to the second part of the gardens. Here the boys took in the maze and and a little horsing around the castle.

Next we headed over to the creek, although it was dried up, and finally over to the Alpine garden which was stunning. Little trails meandered up and down the garden...just a nice place to be.

By this time the guys had had enough of the garden viewing and were ready to get on their way! Taylor and Alex were anxious for an ice cream promised to them at lunch!
It was just a NICE day! Lots of pictures and no complaining from any boys! For more pictures of our day, check out my SmugMug link!

Stormy skies!

2010-06-29T21:18:00.000-06:00

Well, what was shaping up to be a good storm, really didn't produce much action! No spectacular lightening (a few!) or big thunder boomers! I got my plants into the garage to protect them from possible hail and downpours and even set my camera on it's tripod in hopes of catching a pictures or two. After a fun chat with my neighbour and a few missed photo ops I headedback in. Here is the one picture I managed to get...

Maybe if I'm lucky another storm will roll through before bedtime!

Thanks...

2010-06-27T08:55:00.000-06:00

Thanks to my Dad and Connie for letting me know my feathered friend was an American Goldfinch. As soon as I heard the name, the fog was lifted! Really! I should have known that, now that it has been pulled from the filing system of my brain it's sure to stay in the recently used pile! LOL! Have a great day!

Anyone know what kind of bird this is???

2010-06-26T12:08:00.000-06:00

So this morning as we were finishing up with breakfast we had the pleasure of seeing these two little yellow birds playing/eating on our sunflowers! I knew there was reason why I've wanted sunflowers for several years! Fortunately the dogs were inside and my camera not far from the window! Tough taking pictures through our new windows, but this was able to be cropped to a decent picture! Enjoy...and if you know what it is let me know!

More Grade Nine Farewell

2010-06-16T23:20:00.000-06:00

So I just uploaded a few more pictures from Taylor Grade Nine Farewell. That will be all of them, so enjoy if you take another peek! Click here for the link!

Taylor is now in end of school mode. One provincial exam done and three to go next week. The trick is to keep him motivated (in a relative sense) to study! This is not his strength as there are more fun things to do in his life! Wish him luck...or better yet Bill & I! :-)

Grade Nine Farewell

2010-06-12T16:51:00.001-06:00

So last night marked another milestone in Taylor's life. His school hosted the 2010 Grade Nine Farewell ceremonies...next year High School! It amazes me that 10 years of his schooling is done. didn't he just start Kindergarden????? Yes those years certainly do seem to go by faster!
This week began the rollercoaster ride of should I or shouldn't I go? Taylor was definitely on the fence. I tried to stay out of his decision, other than saying he will only have 1 grade nine farewell (we hope!!).
Monday-maybe
Tuesday-yes
Wednesday-I dunno
Thursday-no
Friday-I'll go to the ceremonies!
Note that I found out 3:45 pm. Ceremony starts at 6:00pm. "Mom...I need a black shirt & tie...and maybe some black pants"
ARGHHHH.....
Trying to hold back my parent anger...I had asked him all week NOT to decide at the last minute...we were in the car and off to the mall. "Mom I think I need my hair trimmed too"....SURE! cause we have all the time in the world to hang out at the mall!
Long story short....he cleaned up very well! and seeing him looking so fine made all the frustration go away!

The ceremony was just enough time. Was great seeing all his friends dressed so fine. There was definetly a huge mix of clothing. Some a bit over the top for a grade nine farewell, but they all were having fun!

So I guess that was our parent training for the real deal in 3 years! May all of Taylor's friends stay true to themselves. They are a fabulous group of kids!

For more pictures, head to my SMUGMUG gallery. I don't have all up yet, so check back again.

Out & About...

2010-06-05T08:08:00.001-06:00

Took my camera with me last night while Bill and I were out with the dogs, but nothing too exciting to take pictures of. Couple of ducklings, goslings and a muscrat! Despite that it was a nice walk and the dogs settled in nicely for the night!

Hopefully today will remain nice and we can walk tonight as well! If those dogs are lucky we may even get to the off leash area for a BIG run!
Taylor's hockey registration is today, time to get ready to wait in line with the rest of the parents! Have a great day!

A Fun Day of Pooh-isms

2010-06-02T21:58:00.000-06:00

"You can't help respecting anybody who can spell Wednesday, even if he doesn't spell it right; but spelling isn't everything. There are days when spelling "Whensday" simply doesn't count".... so "Winnie" has important stuff to say too!!

Kim Gowdy Winnie has the most important things to say! Pooh is a really wise soul!

Cathie Allan AAAANNNNNDDDD theere r sew meny two chooose phrum .... howsss abowt this won ...... Don't underestimate the value of doing nothing, of just going along, listening to all the things you can't hear, and not bothering.
Winnie is an absewlute GENEYUS!!

Robin Mowat Ah, the wisdom of Pooh!

Kim Gowdy It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn't use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like "What about lunch?"”
Winnie the Pooh quote

Cathie Allan Yeah!!! Let's play "Pooh"!! ..... When late morning rolls around and you're feeling a bit out of sorts, don't worry; you're probably just a little eleven o'clockish.
I'M SMILIN' SO HUGE .... this is going to be fun .... TAG, Kim .... you it!

Kim Gowdy "Supposing a tree fell down, Pooh, when we were underneath it?"
"Supposing it didn't," said Pooh after careful thought.
Piglet was comforted by this

Cathie Allan I LOVE THAT ONE KIM .... how about this one ...... If there ever comes a day when we can't be together keep me in your heart, I'll stay there forever!!! .... awhhhh, he is SOOOOO CUTE!! ..... TAG!

Kim Gowdy "Hallo, Rabbit," he said, "is that you?"
"Let's pretend it isn't," said Rabbit, "and see what happens."

Cathie Allan I love this .... here's another ...Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.
..... TAG ....

Kim Gowdy "Before beginning a Hunt, it is wise to ask someone what you are looking for before you begin looking for it." - Winnie the Pooh

Cathie Allan Kim ... you are soooo much fun to play with!!
"I don't see much sense in that," said Rabbit. "No," said Pooh humbly, "there isn't. But there was going to be when I began it. It's just that something happened to it along the way."
TAKE THAT and enjoy it!!

Kim Gowdy I have thoroughly enjoyed our day of Pooh-isms! Tomorrow back to wrok....Have a great day! Until we play again! G-night!...one for the road..."If the person you are talking to doesn't appear to be listening, be patient. It may simply be that he has a small piece of fluff in his ear."
Winnie the Pooh

40 minutes ago ·

24 hours....

2010-05-29T20:57:00.001-06:00

It amazes me at times how different 24 hours can be! Today is May 29th, 2010...two months into Spring and one month away from Summer! Yesterday my world actually looked like Spring...

Today however I am in the midst of Winter...once again!

ARGHHH!!!!

That's all I have to say.

Victoria Day...

2010-05-24T21:42:00.005-06:00

Well, so ends another Victoria Day long weekend...with weather very typical of Alberta! We had rain, snow, wind and fortunately today even a bit of sunshine! Fortunately we were not out camping as many people attempted...I can see no fun in being cooped up in our tent trailer with two dogs, Taylor & Bill...love them all BUT would be too close for comfort!
Instead we managed to get some things done in the house and today even got some gardening done and mowed the field our lawn became with all the recent rain! Taylor was a great help with removing two old, dead Dogwood trees from the garden!
So not much photography opportunity with the weather, but I managed a couple of shots of my apple tree before the weather took away all the beautiful blooms!

Hope everyone had a great long weekend...regardless of weather and enjoy a short work week!

Pages to share...

2010-05-06T22:00:00.004-06:00

Well I had the most wonderful time at Bull River Guest Ranch last weekend. I was at a scrapbooking retreat in British Columbia, a little piece of heaven for sure! My friend Connie and I had a long drive from Edmonton, which seemed really fast as we talked and laughed the whole time. A couple pit stops for gas, pees and pictures and we arrived in time for dinner!
The ranch has it's own lovely chef on staff, and C.J. prepared the most amazing meals for us for the entire weekend. Pictures of some of those meals will come in a few days...but unfortunately this site does not support scratch and taste for your total enjoyment!
The group of ladies I spent the weekend with were fabulous and welcomed me into their world. So many laughs to be had between scrapbooking, Jell-O shooters and wine! Despite feeling not so productive at times I did manage to complete some pages!
Monday came way too quickly and after feasting unnecessarily on C.J.'s last meal for us, Connie and I were once again packed into her car for our trip home! Our trip home proved to be a journey through all weather systems...torrential rains, hail, crazy winds, dust clouds, thunder, lightening and yes we did have brief moments of sunshine! Despite the conditions we made it home in good time and I slept like a baby in my bed that night!

Bull River Guest Ranch!

2010-04-30T07:24:00.004-06:00

So I'm packed and ready (I think, I hope) for a weekend of fun at a scrapbooking retreat in British Columbia! We are heading to a spot that I have heard so much about over the past year, Bull River Guset Ranch! Location, Location, Location and a chef with food to kill for!
I look forward to some great laughs with this group of friends and the opportunity to meet a few new ones! If I'm lucky I may even get some scrapbook pages done...that is yet to be seen. All of my gear is sitting by the door, and my camera is on board. I'll post some pictures when I get back....

They're Back!

2010-04-27T19:29:00.008-06:00

Driving home from drum lessons tonight was the same as usual.Left turn here, another left and then a right turn into our subdivision! By habit I always take a peek at the pond and wetlands on my way home. I was thrilled to see three pelicans back in my neck of the woods!

I have always been fascinated with the pelicans here as I associate them with warmer, southern climates. As I have learned this type "summers" in northern Alberta and Saskatchewan. We will have a few weeks to enjoy there beauty and majestic size before they continue their journey north! I look forward to spending time taking more pictures of them, This photo was taken about three years ago...my camera and lens are better now! (Hopefully my skills are too!)

Paint Ball

2010-04-23T21:01:00.007-06:00

Last Saturday, Taylor's hockey team had a yearend party which included an hour and a half of Paint Ball in Edmonton! Nothing like watching your boy suit up to get shot with marble sized liquid bullets!

He was a little leary at first, as the days leading up to the event he had been told many times how much the paint balls hurt if you get shot! Despite what he had been told he braved the "paint balls" and had a blast!

I foresee a few trips there this summer with a group of friends so he can enjoy the "battle" once again! Here is a link to some more paintball fun!

Settled in again...

2010-04-11T19:24:00.007-06:00

So Taylor has now been back from his trip to France for a week. His internal clock has reset again to Edmonton time and he has connecting with all his friends again!

It was great to hear all his stories, good and not so good. I think he had a great time, though was ready to get back home and enjoy his favorite, although limited, foods!I think that is what he struggled with the most! He had no issues with losing camera or passports and everything that went with him came home! Not sure if every parent was that lucky!

He took some great pictures,feel free to take a peek. I was pretty impressed with his shots. We may have a budding photographer on our hands...I'd love him to take an interest as he did a good job!

It has also been prety neat to hang out with him this week. He has been super responsible this past week and THANKFUL for everything! I like that. We'll have to send him away more often! *LOL* It's almost like he's enjoying hanging out with us...we'll enjoy it while it lasts! He'll be 15 next week and has a few more teenage years ahead of him!

PARIS-day 2

2010-03-27T10:18:00.003-06:00

So don't be thinking I will be giving you a play by play every day...that my friends is only something Bill and I would enjoy! But if you are at all interested in all the things Taylor will be doing...here is a copy of their BUSY schedule (aka-what will make them so tired they will sleep at night!)...

Bienvenue a Paris!

2010-03-26T16:21:00.002-06:00

So after a very early start to our morning (4:15am), we got Taylor off to the airport to meet up with his French class for their Spring Break trip to Paris!

They should now be in Toronto, waiting for their evening flight to get on it's way! I'm am so excited for him and everything he is about to see. I'm not sure if he quite has a handle on all the history and sights awaitng him! I look forward to hearing his sories and hopefully seeing lots of pictures!

We'll see if he gets a chance to call home or remembers! If not, I will accept that No news is Good news! It's a bit tough sending him on his way without us to such a far away destination, but I know he is in good hands! Sadest part of my morning was only getting "half" a hug from him before he went through customs. He was trying to keep his cool around his friends and teachers! I get that! But would have loved a big ol' bear hug goodbye! *SIGH*

Spring...

2010-03-20T09:34:00.004-06:00

Short on words at the moment,but enough to wish everyone a HAPPY SPRING! Whoo Hoo! Another Winter under our belts, and a pretty darn easy one at that! That being said what happens when March comes in like a lamb and OUT LIKE A LAMB??? Hmmm....I hope it doesn't mean a nasty Spring or Summer. Only time will tell!

With the coming of Spring, so ends a wonderful 12 week online class with Cathy Zielske. Her class on design in the world of scrapbooking was so great! Learned lots and got so many completed pages DONE! AHHHH...good feeling!

So I'm be back when I have more time...HAPPY DAY! HAPPY SPRING!

a few more...

2010-02-22T22:16:00.006-07:00

So my days keep going by so fast! Not enough time to get everything done! Here are some more layouts I have finished. They are again inspired from Cathy Zielske's Design Your Life class at Big Picture Scrapbooking! Love the classes offered here!

We are into week eight of this class, four more to go. I must say it has made any spare time I have very productive! I will be sad to see it come to an end, three layouts per week fills an album quickly!

Otherwise all is well in our world! Taylor is busy with schools, hockey & drums. His Paris trip is coming up quickly so they are into weekly school meetings going over details. I am envious of the fun he'll have. Sadly, no parents as chaperones or I would have jumped at the opportunity!

Bill is getting over a nasty cold and a recent office move with work. They have relocated their office back to where he originally was. This means the two year (maybe 3?) stint of living 5 minutes from work is over! It was very convenient for him and some of our after work activities. As before, we will make it work!

HUGZ!

2010-02-13T15:57:00.003-07:00

This was e-mailed to me today and I love it. It rings true to my heart. I have been and continue to be fortunate in my circle of friends. Here's to celebrate all of you!

GIRLS IN MY CIRCLE

When I was little,
I used to believe in the concept of one best friend,
And then I started to become a woman.
And then I found out that if you allow your heart to open up,
God would show you the best in many friends.

One friend is needed when you're going through things with your man.
Another friend is needed when you're going through things with your mom.
Another will sit beside you in the bleachers as you delight in your children and their activities.
Another when you want to shop, share, heal, hurt, joke, or just be.
One friend will say, 'Let's cry together,'
Another , 'Let's fight together,'
Another , 'Let's walk away together.'

One friend will meet your spiritual need,
Another your shoe fetish,
Another your love for movies,
Another will be with you in your season of confusion,
Another will be your clarifier,
Another the wind beneath your wings.

But whatever their assignment in your life,
On whatever the occasion,
On whatever the day,
Or wherever you need them to meet you with their gym shoes on and hair pulled back,
Or to hold you back from making a complete fool of yourself ..
Those are your best friends.

It may all be wrapped up in one woman, But for many, it's wrapped up in several..
One from 7th grade,
One from high school,
Several from the college years,
A couple from old jobs,
On some days your mother,
On some days your neighbor,
On others, your sisters,
And on some days, your daughters.

one more layout!

2010-02-02T21:42:00.005-07:00

Just wanted to share one more layout recently completed because...well...I love it! This was another layout form Cathy Zielske's class using "real world color"...thanks for peeking!

mind funk...

2010-02-02T21:11:00.007-07:00

So I was going to sit down and write a bit about the chaos that seems to be my working life as of late, but cannot bring myself to spend much more of my thought process on the lack of communication that is happening between a group of really great people! Needless to say it is making my working environment a stressfull place to be these days, and ME not the happiest person to be around at home! I am hopeful that things will begin to calm down soon as it has me in a pretty nasty "MIND FUNK" these days....thankfully Bill has been supportive with open ears!

Instead...I will put my head to happy thoughts! The ones that have been creating scrapbook pages. I am soon to enter week 6 of a 12 week online class with Cathy Zielske at Big Picture Scrapbooking. I am LOVING her design lessons, and just a little sad that we are almost half way through already! This weeks lesson was on White Space...keeping the clutter of the page!

Here are the three layouts I worked on this week:

So....that was my effort to take work off my mind...very briefly! Will share more of my pages again soon! HUGS!

Interesting e-mail that was forwarded:

2010-01-23T16:13:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks................if your STILL MAILING YOUR PARCELS THRU AN IN STORE POSTAL OUTLET read this.

Canada Post, from a random blog:
" I learned something over Christmas that I feel compelled to share with you.
This won't change your life dramatically or help you survive the apocalypse but it will save you some $$$.

I recently mailed two identical packages via Canada Post one week apart.
One would think that the postage should be exactly the same...well, let me tell you...

Pkg # 1 was mailed from an actual Canada Post Office. Postage came to $11.74. Since I knew a second identical package would be mailed in about a week's time, I bought sufficient postage for the second pkg while I was there.

When it came time to mail Pkg #2, I went to the post office in Shopper's Drug Mart. I handed the pkg to the clerk to be put in the outbound mail bag, I was informed that I did not have sufficient postage attached. The clerk proceeded to inform me that I needed to purchase and additional $6 worth of stamps. After explaining how I knew exactly what the postage should be, the clerk offered some lame excuse that Canada Post is unionized and they can say and do anything with impunity and if I wished to mail that pkg from Shopper's then I needed to purchase more stamps.

I told the clerk to stuff it and took back my package and headed to the "real" Canada Post Office, where I would raise hell...
Much to my surprise, the Canadian Postal Clerk took my package, weighed it and tossed it in the mail bag, and it was it's way...When I asked if the amount of Postage I had put on the parcel was right she shook her head and said "yup, no problem"...

The Truth comes out:

Canada Post Offices charge postage for packages at the published Canada Post rates.
Franchise locations such as Shoppers Drug Mart can charge whatever they like.
So remember if you regularly mail packages at franchise locations (ie Shoppers Drug Mart,) you are probably paying too much. Franchise locations are found in shopping malls, drug stores and private businesses everywhere. From now on, all of my mailing will be done from a real Canada Post location.
Still perplexed by what I was told by the girl in Shoppers, I fired off an email to Canada Post for clarification.
This is the reply I got from them:
Thank you for your message to Canada Post.

A postal outlet is not a federal government agency and is not owned or managed by Canada Post. For example if the postal outlet is within grocery store or pharmacy it would follow the stores working hours, therefore if the store must be closed, so will the postal outlet inside.
Only Canada Post Depots and Corporate Post Offices are obligated to follow the price of stamps and postal products that are legislated by Canada Post. Any commercial and private establishment may charge extra fees as a convenience to their customers. It is at their discretion to apply additional service fees to products that they sell. We suggest visiting a Corporate Post Office in order to avoid paying additional service charges that corner stores or other establishment may implement on their products.
Regards,
Veronika Strofski
Customer Service "

Design Your Life...

2010-01-22T22:30:00.003-07:00

Another completed scrapbook page inspired by Cathy Zielske's class at BPS. Really enjoying her energy in teaching the basics of design as it relates to scrapbooking! we are into week 4 of a 12 week course. Love doing it on line, as I can go to it when it's convenient for me!

Another surgery down...

2010-01-22T22:11:00.004-07:00

So this was Taylor's space at the Royal Alex hospital this past Wednesday. We had an early start to our day, as we had to arrive for 6:00am! This was Taylor's 5th surgery for tubes to be placed, we had hoped by this age he would have outgrown needing tubes! This time we only needed to redo the right ear, but we opted to remove the adenoids as well in the hopes that it might help resolve the ongoing issue of fluid building up in his ear. I guess only time will let us know if this was a good decision or not.

Taylor was a trooper through it all, though very nervous about having a needle for the IV. We/he had a wonderful anesthesiologist who used the gas mask to put him out before doing the IV! This relieved much stress for my brave guy! I also got to go into the OR with him as they put him to sleep! Although I always stay brave for him during the surgery, it's never fun to see your son in such stress, and there is always that little window of what if...

Today he is definitely feeling himself again. We let him stay home from school again and he is now well rested. Will be off of hockey until early/mid next week and back to school on Monday!

Here's to better hearing!

It's a New Year!

2010-01-02T12:01:00.004-07:00

So, the month of December is happily behind us now and honestly I am ready to hunker into a quieter schedule! Whether that happens or not is yet to be seen. I feel the past two months have been a blur in my life...on the go non-stop. When I had some down time there seemed to be so much to do that my head was spinning. I do not preform well like that! Here's to some balance in 2010.

One thing I have put on my plate is a three month online course, Design Your Life with Cathy Zielske. I have taken courses by her in the past and she is a fabulous instructor. I look forward to the coming weeks..this will provide some of the balance I so desire! It is a course on design as it relates to scrapbooking..should be fun. Here are two samples to share from week 1:

Just so you know, as beautiful as this winter evening appears...my fingers nearly froze in the process of taking these pictures! We are into another Alberta deep freeze...may it be short lived!

Happy New Year!

JOY

2009-12-27T00:21:00.003-07:00

Well Christmas 2009 has officially come and gone. Hard to believe, but true! We had a wonderful day...quiet morning at home opening gifts and talking with family in Ontario and Nova Scotia. We headed over to the Exell's for an awesome Christmas dinner and a few games on their Wii system. I need much more practice before I should play again in public! Fortunately, Taylor got a Wii system from Santa this year...maybe I can practice in private! Any newbies on board?

Bill and I did not exchange anything too fancy as we just recently purchased a new TV and stand! We finally had to get rid of our big "klunker" from Indonesia as the teak was drying out and cracking. Actually was nice to open up that corner of the family room and move some furniture around!

I am back to work on Monday, and lucky for Bill and Taylor, they have next week off. Guess the will be my "kept men"! If I'm lucky I'll have dinner made those nights I work??? Time will tell!

Wishing lots of HaPpInEsS to everyone for our coming New Year...2010! HUGS to all!

BRRRRRRR!

2009-12-11T08:08:00.002-07:00

We are about to head into another deep freeze...these temperature DO NOT include the wind chill which is heading our way! I have hear temps around -41C with windchill by Sunday! Time to hunker in!

December 10th already!

2009-12-10T23:30:00.008-07:00

My life seems to be whizzing by me these days! Last time I checked I was sure it was Halloween, now we are into December already! November was a blur to me. We had way too much on our calender, with no time to think. I don't function well like that. I need down time to refresh and organize things, it's what makes me me! Needless to say I was quite happy to rip that page off my calender to bring in December!

Although I am behind on my Christmas to-do list, I am enjoying my evenings at home! Our tree is up and loooks great. I always love hanging up all the little ornaments that I have collected since I was about 15years old. Everyone seems to have a story associated with it...I love that! It is by no means a "Home & Garden" tree but it is ours and I'm not trading it in anytime soon!

Tomorrow my carpets are getting cleaned...a well needed task! Miss Bella should be done tracking in dirt from the garden for a few months as we are well into an Alberta deep-freeze! Winter has hit with a vengence, I am tired of it already...and officially it's not even here yet! ARGHH! I look forward to moving the furniture around a bit tomorrow to freshen things up a bit.

Stay warm and drive safe on our crazy winter roads!

TAGGED!

2009-11-21T20:50:00.003-07:00

by my friend Connie. So just in case you wanted to know the one word answers to the following:

1. Where is your mobile phone? charging
2. Your hair? highlighted
3. Your mother? quilter
4. Your father? gardener
5. Your fave food? pickles
6. Your dream last night? hmmm?
7. Your fave drink? coffee
8. Your dream/goal? longevity
9. What room are you in? office
10. Your hobby? scrapbooking
11. Your fear? death
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? cottage
13. Where you were last night? Costco
14. Something that you aren't? skinny
15. Muffins? blueberry
16. Wish List Item? lens
17. Where did you grow up? Nova Scotia
18. Last thing you did? laundry
19. What are you wearing? slippers
20. Your TV? dusty
21. Your Pets? dogs
22. Friends? fantastic
23. Your Life? great
24. Your Mood? content
25. Missing Someone? always
26. Vehicle? Honda
27. Something your not wearing? bra
28. Your fave store? Ikea
29. Your fave colour? sage
30. Last time you laughed? today
31. Last time you cried? hmmm?
32. Your best friend? awesome
33. One place that you go to over and over? bathroom
34. One person who emails regularly? Connie
35. Fave place to eat? Out

Getting ready...

2009-11-11T23:19:00.003-07:00

So today I stayed on task to get through all my laundry and pile of paper on my desk. There seems to be a lot of that lately! On Monday I was up late with our bookkeeper and friend Teresa getting Bill's year-end done. Hate that task, but it has to be done...and it is! Today I paid billed, filed receipts, scanned and shredded papers that need to be filed...the pile is much smaller and that feels good!

I remembered to pause at 11:00am...thankful for all who risk their lives yesterday and today in the name of freedom for our country and others. Because of those soldiers I enjoy the pleasures of my life. For that I am forever grateful.

I also spent some time tonight packing for a Scrapbooking retreat at Pigeon Lake with with some great friends. We haul tons of stuff twice a year to this great location and enjoy of weekend of laughter, drinks and sometimes even productive time! I have a massage and pedicure booked on Friday morning to get the weekend started, should be so much fun. Might even get some Christmas shopping done at some of the unique local shops and I know a meal or two will be had at the Eco Cafe! I am so looking forward to some time WELL SPENT!

2009-10-22T20:26:00.002-06:00

How good looking are these boys! I took these pictures on my Dad's birthday. After all the guests left we sat down and watched Dad open his gifts. The boys were all smiles, loved that I got these great pictures of the three of them. It was a fun day with family and friends, we managed to surprise Dad which was our goal!

Yesterday & Today

2009-10-19T22:14:00.003-06:00

So I am into week three of an on line course from Big Picture Scrapbooking. I am loving their classes, and am getting things done! This class being taught by Ali Edwards, is called Yesterday & Today! I am loving her relaxed approach to scrapbooking. Each week includes a video lesson with several downloads to get me motivated for the project of the week. although I think the intent is to complete an "album" with this specific theme, I will probably use these pages in my current albums as I see fit! I've been going through some older pictures that I have, this will be my biggest challenge! Although I have enough to keep my going, I'd love to spend a day going through my parents albums and slides...that will have to wait until next year's trip home! So if any of you have any old pics that you think I might be able to use...feel free to scan and send along! I'd love that!

Charles Schulz Philosophy

2009-09-28T21:12:00.002-06:00

(This is marvelous!! Scroll thru slowly and read carefully to receive and enjoy full effect) The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read the e-mail straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.

2. Name the last five world trophy winners

3. Name the last five winners of Miss World contest.

4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.

5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.

6. Name the last decade's worth of FA cup winners.

How did you do? The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies.. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.

2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.

3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.

4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!

5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier? The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials.. the most money...or the most awards. They simply are the ones who care the most.

'Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It's already tomorrow in Australia !' '

'Be Yourself. Everyone Else Is Taken!

2009-09-27T14:05:00.002-06:00

The Amazing Cucumber

This information was in The New York Times several weeks ago as part of their "Spotlight on the Home" series that highlighted creative and fanciful ways to solve common problems.

1. Cucumbers contain most of the vitamins you need every day, just one cucumber contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium and Zinc.

2. Feeling tired in the afternoon, put down the caffeinated soda and pick up a cucumber. Cucumbers are a good source of B Vitamins and Carbohydrates that can provide that quick pick-me-up that can last for hours.

3. Tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower? Try rubbing a cucumber slice along the mirror, it will eliminate the fog and provide a soothing, spa-like fragrance.

4. Are grubs and slugs ruining your planting beds? Place a few slices in a small pie tin and your garden will be free of pests all season long. The chemicals in the cucumber react with the aluminum to give off a scent undetectable to humans but drive garden pests crazy and make them flee the area.

5. Looking for a fast and easy way to remove cellulite before going out or to the pool? Try rubbing a slice or two of cucumbers along your problem area for a few minutes, the phytochemicals in the cucumber cause the collagen in your skin to tighten, firming up the outer layer and reducing the visibility of cellulite. Works great on wrinkles too!!!

6. Want to avoid a hangover or terrible headache? Eat a few cucumber slices before going to bed and wake up refreshed and headache free. Cucumbers contain enough sugar, B vitamins and electrolytes to replenish essential nutrients the body lost, keeping everything in equilibrium, avoiding both a hangover and headache!!

7. Looking to fight off that afternoon or evening snacking binge? Cucumbers have been used for centuries and often used by European trappers, traders and explores for quick meals to thwart off starvation.

8. Have an important meeting or job interview and you realize that you don't have enough time to polish your shoes? Rub a freshly cut cucumber over the shoe, its chemicals will provide a quick and durable shine that not only looks great but also repels water.

9. Out of WD 40 and need to fix a squeaky hinge? Take a cucumber slice and rub it along the problematic hinge, and voila, the squeak is gone!

10. Stressed out and don't have time for massage, facial or visit to the spa? Cut up an entire cucumber and place it in a boiling pot of water, the chemicals and nutrients from the cucumber with react with the boiling water and be released in the steam, creating a soothing, relaxing aroma that has been shown the reduce stress in new mothers and college students during final exams.

11. Just finish a business lunch and realize you don't have gum or mints? Take a slice of cucumber and press it to the roof of your mouth with your tongue for 30 seconds to eliminate bad breath, the phytochemcials will kill the bacteria in your mouth responsible for causing bad breath.

12. Looking for a 'green' way to clean your faucets, sinks or stainless steel? Take a slice of cucumber and rub it on the surface you want to clean, not only will it remove years of tarnish and bring back the shine, but is won't leave streaks and won't harm you fingers or fingernails while you clean.1

3. Using a pen and made a mistake? Take the outside of the cucumber and slowly use it to erase the pen writing, also works great on crayons and markers that the kids have used to decorate the walls!! Pass this along to everybody you know who is looking for better and safer ways to solve life's everyday problems..

a few years back....

2009-09-26T10:03:00.003-06:00

Here's a page I completed last night using the September Scraptivity Kit. Pleased with the way it turned out, even though I thought the purple page kit would be hard to work with! I have always liked this picture, it makes me smile! Maybe it's because Shelley looks so thrilled to have her picture taken or because I look so darn cute!

Recent Projects

2009-09-17T15:20:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple of recent pages I have completed.

Short on words and time..goodbye!

September 17, 2009

2009-09-17T15:10:00.002-06:00

Wow, here it is September already, I think I told myself Iwas going to stay up to date with things here, but somehow life gets in the way. Many of you I stay in touch with on facebook, which seems to be my friend connection of choice these days. It's quick and easy and did I mention...FUN! I love catching up with what people are doing and enjoying logging on to some of the shared links. I am able to stay in touch daily without having to write 100's of words to catch up *sigh*. So stay tuned and I will update things here soon...those of you in Alberta, hope you're enjoying this amazing weather we've been having. May it stay with us!

Taylor's Home Town Boy!

2009-08-27T17:39:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to share a link to Taylor's Sidney Crosby Pictures. He took these while we were in Nova Scotia. Sid the Kid was there on his birthday for a big parade. Taylor joined about 80000 people out to catch a glimps of there star player!

We warned Taylor not to be dissappointed by not getting an autograph as there would be thousands of people at the parade and closing ceremonies! Never did I imagine there would be this many show for the event! Anyhow, long story short....Taylor & Bill spent the day patiently waiting for Sidney and the Stanley Cup entourage. He managed to get a few decent shots and lots of blurry ones too! Icing on the cake...imagine my surprise when he came home with 2! signatures on his Stanley Cup Hat. Crosby & Talbot! This could just be his "kucky life"! I was thrilled for him and loved seeing the excitement as he told his story and showed off his hat!

http://kdgowdy.smugmug.com/Sports/Sidney-Crosby/9429427_5ug6h/1/632136666_K6yAE

Life Is Good

2009-08-18T07:45:00.001-06:00

Just a quick page share before I head to work! This is a page I did (and LOVE) from an online course at Big Picture Scrapbooking. As soon as I saw the version Nic Howard had I knew exactly what picture I wanted to use for mine! I think it turned out great, and is definitely one of my new favorites! Picture is from our trip this winter.

Catching Up!

2009-08-17T22:55:00.000-06:00

So today is August 17th, 2009. Just over a month and a half since I last updated my blog! Heck...how does life whiz by like this?

Anyway we have returned from a great trip to Nova Scotia and I now have the daunting task to go through my hundreds of photos to narrow them down to the best ones. I have gotten over the "I can't delete any pictures ever" attitude and try to only save pictures that have real special meaning to me or ones I am willing to share with other for what ever the reason! I will soon start to share some here and on my Smug Mug site.

Taylor is back to school in two weeks. This year they start on August 31st, just seems wrong! To me it seems like they are being shorted a week of an all ready too short, Alberta summer. ARGHH! We have started to pick up a few school supplies & he got his hair cut and highlighted today! Next Friday we have a date to go clothes shopping...he is in desperate need of some jeans...all of his have holes in the knees! Aren't kids supposed to grow out of that phase? His big ol' feet won't stop growing either so sneakers are also on that list!

So, it's past my bedtime again! I'll say good night to you all and I'll be back here soon!

PS...aren't my nephews and Taylor too cute for words!

Point Of View

2009-06-28T17:57:00.001-06:00

After so many attempts to get outside and battle the crazy wind that seems to be our new norm!
I finally decided to bring an IRIS indoors to practice some macro photography.
In my quest to learn all I can about taking pictures, POINT OF VIEW, comes up
all the time
whether you are taking portraits, landscape, macro, etc...

Point of view involves moving around your subject, looking up, looking down, looking in...trying lots of different angles to try to get something unique and pleasing.

After several attempts at different angles and trying to "break" the wind! I choose another option I learned.
If you the photographer can't move around to find a pleasing shot , do one of two things!

Move your subject! Or move along!
In this instance I chose to move my subject indoors and not battle the wind!
I think it was a good choice!

What's Up With That?

2009-06-21T08:04:00.000-06:00

So after letting Bella out at 4:00ish this morning and going back to bed only to listen to Bill snore, I mozied my way downstairs to finish my interrupted sleep on the couch. This too was to be short lived as I was pretty wide awake at this point. Try as I may I just could not get any more shut eye! So sad for the girl who really likes her sleep!

So here I was at 5:15am wondering what the heck to do. It's now 8:10am, and WOW what a productive morning it has been. Amazing how much you can get done in the calm of the morning. Dishes are put away from the dishwasher, downstairs bathroom has been cleaned, digital scrapbook page started last night has been completed, few pictures have been edited and deleted PLUS Bella and I have been out for a 50min run/walk! If nothing else gets done today..I'm OK with that! Although I'm sure I'll want a little catnap at some point!

I wish I were a morning person, but I'm not. I know this will not become my norm any time soon but when my body does insist on an early morning I love to make the best of it! Tomorrow when the alarm goes off for work...that snooze button will call my name!

Happy Day to All...especially all those great DADS celebrating Father's Day! Mine being at the top of the list!

Life of Riley!

2009-06-19T21:22:00.000-06:00

Whoever coined the phrase, "Life of Riley", has yet to meet Bella Latte Claws! These were taken this afternoon after a hard morning chewing her bone and playing in the back yard!

As you can tell, she's extremely comfortable in her surroundings and has made herself quite at home in her one and a half years under our roof. Some would call her a "Lab Dog", we think she's a "Lap Dog"!
Despite a few shortcomings, she has made her way into our hearts. We have a few social etiquettes yet to break..i.e....jumping frantically on anyone with a ball thrower (this is NOT a good trait!) and finding an inside voice when she thinks it's time to play! Fortunately, she is darn cute...so that will buy her some time until we get a handle on a few issues. Soon we may have to call in Ceasar the Dog Whisperer!

Close Up & Macro Photography

2009-06-12T18:15:00.000-06:00

So here are a few pictures I took last week on a field trip with our macro class, to Wagner Bog. We have been practices our techniques each week and so much has been trial and error. Depth of field is so shallow at these distances it's hard to get everything in focus. I Think these are my best of the week...so I'll share them with you! Tomorrow is our last Saturday morning class, and we'll review and critique lots of pictures. This class has made me more aware of aspects of close up and macro photography but has also been some what disappointing. I don't feel we spent enough time on technical aspects of this style of photography. That being said I often spend more time taking pictures after the fact and things some times come together then. We'll just have to wait and see! One thing I do know...this kind of close up view can be addictive!

The Tides Have Changed....

2009-06-04T14:48:00.000-06:00

After a full month of nothing but losses, our team "SWARM" has a changed mindset since last weeks tournament. They had their first TIE and WIN! I don't know who was more excited, the kids, the coach or the parents. Regardless of who you were...it just felt good!
One of the changes made to the team was that Taylor went into net to cover for Ty while he re cooperated from a kick to the shin...Guess what?? Taylor was pretty darn good! I was very surprised! Taylor has never played Keeper and has never mentioned wanting to play keeper...he is now one of the teams keepers!
Taylor and Ty have both spent time in net since the weekend and it works really well. They both have their strengths in the net and on the field! This has been a really exciting change to watch, though I must say as a parent it is more stressful watching Taylor play keeper. Any goals scored on him he takes very personally!
I'm so pleased that our team has this renewed sense of purpose! You can see it in their approach to the games since they are no longer 100% defeated! And although they have all been good sports about their many losses....it's so much more fun to WIN a few games! Way to go SWARM!

Updated Cottage Pics

2009-05-28T15:40:00.000-06:00

So My parents have been VERY busy working up a sweat along with my B-I-L Jimmy to get our cottage up to snuff for the upcoming season, our first with the cottage! I have been told my little sister Marj has a handle on the John Deere and does a fine job mowing! Feel a little guilty having them work so hard, hopefully next year will not be as demanding.

This is the first picture I have seen with the tide high..this is proof positive we are on the Fundy. I am anxious to get there for our summer holidays, two and a half weeks will go by too fast!
The new deck is completed and ready for use...looking great! I think I will owe a big lobster dinner to everyone that loaned a helping hand! Thanks So Much!

CHILLAXING!!!

2009-05-16T18:13:00.000-06:00

Finished this page today, and really like how it turned out.
Pictures taken last year on one of our camping trips just outside of Wainright.
Taylor and Alex are comfortable in each other's space. They
can have a good time just hanging out or when plans start to take
on a bigger purpose.
Love Taylor's choice of friends!

Microblogging

2009-05-16T15:10:00.000-06:00

Okay...any of you who are friends with me on Facebook, you will notice an increase in my daily activity over the next few weeks! SORRY!!! I am taking this fun online scrapbooking class called: Everyone Can Write A Little. The gist of the class is to use Facebook and/or Twitter to write down the random thoughts that cross our mind or to note the little misc. happens of the day. So it is used as a means of remembering all these little thoughts to then use in my scrapbooks. I'm thinking this will work really well so bear with me if some things just seem really random. They may not have meaning to you...but they sure do to me! I'll show the end results when I'm done! Check out more fun classes at Big Picture Scrapbooking.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-05-09T12:02:00.001-06:00

Who doesn't like a great chocolate chip cookie? Doesn't matter what your age, this ranks high on the list of comfort foods. A friend and co-worker made these cookies for us and happily shared her recipe! Taylor loved them..as did Bill and I, sadly they didn't stick around too long!
:-(
so I though I'd share this recipe, just in case you may be looking for a new?? version of an old stand by!

1 1/4 cups sugar
1 1/4 cups brown sugar
1 1/2 cups margarine or butter
2 tsp vanilla
3 eggs
4 1/4 cups flour
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1-2 12oz pkg. chocolate chips

BAKE @ 375 FOR 8-10 MINS. YIELDS ABOUT 6 DOZEN COOKIES! ENJOY!

Halifax Fire

2009-05-03T09:53:00.001-06:00

Thought I'd share these pictures with every one. They were taken by a friend of my cousin's from Dartmouth looking across the harbour to Halifax. Taken just a couple of nights ago, from what I have heard 8 homes were lost, but fortunately no lives were lost. The wild fire forced over 1200 people to evacuate their homes!

The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year!!!!

2009-05-01T16:36:00.000-06:00

You can hum the title to the well know Christmas Carol, but for me today was the start of the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.
You may ask why today?
Well for starters our lawn has been aerated, power raked, edged, mowed and looking great...
but the icing on the cake is....
when the STREET SWEEPER comes to town.
You know spring has officially reached Alberta when
your streets, or in our case the cul-de-sac, is cleared of gravel and dirt
collected over the long, cold winter!
Now we'll have the want to keep the yard and house looking great again. Keeping up with the "Jones" so to speak and having our neighbourhood look fresh again!
If we could only get our one neighbour to move his written off vehicles (can you say DUMP?) life would be peachy! Sadly he's a good neighbour, so it's a tough battle to approach!

HaPpY sPrInG eVeRyOnE!

Photography Course

2009-04-24T10:07:00.000-06:00

So I am once again taking an on-line photography course. This time it is on portraits! Am really enjoying it, and feel it will challenge me quite a bit! It is being taught by Allison Tyler Jones and she is a powerhouse of energy!

What I really like about her style is that she is about having her portraits show a relationship or emotion instead of the typical "who, what, where" stand and look at the camera shot. We have just started week four of a twelve week course and I am feeling that this week is going to be a tough assignment. I have to find a photo that inspires me (whether it's the lighting, compositon, emotion,etc...) and then take a picture with my own point of view (NOT copying) based on the inspiration! I may have to call on some neighbour's kids to help me out. One can only take so many pictures of Bill, Taylor and the dogs before their will to be in front of a camera is sucked out of them! LOL!

Wish me luck on improving my skills, and I'll keep you posted on how this assignment goes!

Happy Birthday Taylor!

2009-04-14T07:36:00.000-06:00

Yesterday (April 13th), Taylor turned 14! How the heck did those years fly by so fast?
He has been asking for drum lessons for several months now
without letting up on the idea, so we figured now was the time.
Taylor was thrilled to get a drum set for his birthday and we'll start lessons soon!
I'll have to follow up with this to see if we made a smart decision! We will try to keep happy neighbors and will have a supply of earplugs ever ready! LOL!
It's actually pretty fun to listen to him bang away and the smile
on his face makes it all the more worth while!

Off Leash

2009-04-04T16:47:00.000-06:00

Once again we went to the dogs favorite place to be next home ( I hope)! The off leash area just south our our subdivision is a great place to go play HARD! Bella has energy to spare and just lets it all go while we're there. Fortunately for us she loves to run but loves us more, and will never be out of our sight for long. Especially if she wants to fetch balls which is, well, ALWAYS! I have never met such a ball obsessed dog as her...she could go for hours, and often does! Her speed is unbelievable, people are continuously amazed at how fast she can travel. We have not yet met her match and she can keep track of both her balls and others like no ones business! Give her a third ball and she'll find a way to get them all in her mouth...especially if she thinks Java may want one of them!

Java is just Java. Happy to be doing her thing and always close by as well. She still manages to surprise us with her will to keep up with other dogs. At 10years old she's doing just fine! She is a true example of why dogs are " Man's Best Friend"... always loyal to us and by our side! Love this girl. Here is a link to more pictures of our wonderful four legged friends if you are interested: DOGS

Not Quite There!

2009-03-29T09:20:00.000-06:00

So I'm thinking we're still not quite there! Although yesterday felt great...anything above -15C does these days....I can't help but think we haven't seen the last of winter. The temperatures for the next week just aren't great! I will try hard to stay positive and go out for some walks but I am so done with winter. Every cell of my body is ready for some warmth from the sun!
....not quite there!

2009-03-27T18:56:00.000-06:00

I love this hobby!
I love that I can take tons of pictures and have a purpose for them.
I love that I can put them to paper with great embellishments and words to tell a story or feeling!
I love the awesome people I have met with the same passion (obsession?...it's a fine line)!
I love the colors and patterns of paper.
I love the challenge of creating new pages.
I love using other peoples ideas to create my own works of art.
I love that Bill and Taylor benefit from my hobby!
I love scrapbooking stores and websites.
LOVE IT! LOVE IT! LOVE IT!

New Computer....

2009-03-26T10:21:00.000-06:00

So after my cruise I downloaded my !hundreds! of pictures and my computer was not happy! It was taking so long to open, view and do very basic editing! I knew this day was coming as the computer had been pretty slow! as of late! Bill was kind to agree to getting a new one a few months earlier than we had planned, so off to Costco we went. I love getting things at Costco if they have what I want (usually NOT a problem). They have such a hassle free returns policy, if the need arises and they are great at given money back for coupons that come out after a purchase has been made!
We ended up getting a nice laptop with lots of memory, speed and a great screen for working with my pictures and scrapbooking stuff! After what seemed like forever, I think I have everything setup and loaded for my needs. I have started to remove programs and files from my old computer, so it too is happy! I will keep our business stuff on the old one and some other programs I use not so often. I am hoping to keep this one running fast for a very long time! No more storing photos on my hard drive...they are now all on an external hard drive...happily waiting to be opened and used on an upcoming scrapbook page or shared with family and friends on SmugMug (my new favorite place to share photos!).
Happy Day to All!