alot to do about nothing

Oh spring, please hurry..

So today feels like a good day.  For starters, It so nice and WARM outside.  The weather, it agrees with me.  As well, yesterday morning Grace and I brought home a Antique toy box, which I am in LOVE with, and I gotta sat, she loves it too!  Its so Me, and the price wasnt bad either.  I plan on doing a post about her room one day, so maybe I'll put pictures in then.

Then, I managed to clear out her closet and tidy it, and gathered up her clothes to take to once upon a child.  Once that job was done I got the rest of my house cleaned, pretty much to my old standard (you know the standard pre-baby learning to walk).

My Friend, Tammy's Garden. 

So when I woke up this morning, I had nothing to clean up. My heart feels happy just thinking about.  Just ask my husband, my whole mood can rest on the state of my home.  Now add to the mix, a friend popping over for tea with her baby boy.  Someone to share my "mug of tea" ?  Done!

Then I piled grace into the car, sans jackets, and headed over to have tea with another friend. Chocolate MINT tea from Davids tea, ah, is there a better kind?  Not for me.  And Tea with a great friend? Well, you can't pay for a therapy like that!

And tonight, we are headed out with our Friends Cole, Kandice and Baby Lexie (who just so happens to be exactly 2 weeks younger than Grace face).  We get to sit in box seats at the Oil kings game.  A night out of the house where the kids can still be contained, ah, yes please.

BBQ's in the summer, aren't far off now!

So, while Grace is down, and the house is still clean,  and the sun streams in the windows, I think I'm gonna peruse the internet, looking for a double white beds, or maybe an old white bed that's just waiting to come home to me... 

Hope you can find your way to the sunshine today, a little of it can go a Long way..

Is loving you a crime?

Geoff and I in the early days, ha

One of my friends from afar had recently asked, via facebook status(gotta love that) If you'd have a do over in your "proposal", would you?   I couldn't help but laugh.  I would love a do over.  Sorry Geoff, but I gotta say why... Its too much to keep to myself...

At the time we were living in Edson.  All- in- all ,we were only in Edson, I think, 8 months.   The people there we enjoyed(still do)  But the being far away from the city thing had too many disadvantages (although there was one store I loved, thyme's two) I don't think I have many Edson people who read my Blog, but for the ones who do, we wonder about you guys every now and then, but Edson living wasn't for us.

Anyhow, One day Geoff called me at work and said he was getting off work early.  So since I was working an evening shift, I asked him to meet me for a quick supper.  He told me no and said he was too tired and had things to clean up at home.  I immediately started to argue with him.  I figured, whats a 30 minute lunch break with the girl you love.  And as for the cleaning up his apartment? Pfft.  I did that for him, as well as his laundry.
So that conversation didn't really end well.

He's so cute!

Anyhow, an hour or two later he showed up at my work with my brother in law.  He said he would take me to dinner after all and that he just got Justin to drop him off on their way home.  Well that fixed that for me.  And off we went.

As soon as he walked me back to work, I walked in the door and told the girl I was working with, He bought me a ring.  She asked to see it and I said, no, I haven't gotten it yet but I'm going to soon.  I'm not really sure how I knew that day, Maybe he was acting different.  Maybe it was the sudden change in mind to see me.  Or maybe a girl can just tell (but don't worry, I don't buy into that one either)

Our Wedding in the maritimes

So, the next day, I worked to close.  In Edson that means 6pm.  A good thing if your the one working, a bad thing if your the one doing the shopping.  Anyways, Geoff was waiting for me after work to drive me to my sister's.  We were invited there for supper.  I quickly called my sister to tell her we were on our way.  But there was no answer,  So strange I thought, they knew we were coming over.  What could we even do till then.  And I really didn't want people to see us driving alone, especially in a small town.  SO as I got into Geoff's old red ford truck and slid in to my spot, right next to him, Told him that I wasn't sure what we should do since Belinda wasn't home.  He suggested we check out a trail he had always drove past but never knew where it went to.  and I agreed.

Now, this is kinda where the story kinda gets a little funny.  Or sad, it really depends on your take on it.  As we were pulling up to the trail I noticed a box shaped object in Geoff's pocket.  And THAT'S WHEN I KNEW!  Haha.  Gentlemen, can I just say for future reference, If you plan a surprise proposal, make sure you Hide the ring box.  Us ladies, well we pick up on that right away!  Geoff you may think that's embarrassing, and  That I'm making fun of you, But I swear I find it so endearing.  

Our wedding Out west..

So Once I knew I started to get nervous.  It was April and everything was melty and messy, so the trail wasn't the best choice, but it was better than by the plane on a stick(as Joanne would call it).  The trail was short(thank goodness) and we came to a clearing where there was a tree stump carved into a chair.  Awww, I thought, that kinda worked out.  Geoff told me to try out the tree stump.  So I sat down and that's when he got down and looked at me-  With the most terrified look on his face.  Now I like to think, he was just overwhelmingly nervous, and not scared, But whatever...

I don't remember exactly what he said to me that day, but I said yes, and that I would of married him if he had proposed with a gumball machine ring.

Ok so now your thinking, well that's not so bad, its even a little cute.  No, there were no fire works, there was no marching band, not mountains in the back ground, but we did have our little clearing in the woods, that was gonna be our stump.....Now here is where you'd hear the sounds " dun-dun dunaaahh" ..........

So, APPARENTLY, that clearing was not just ours.  No.  We shared that scene, with...sigh... dead hookers.  DON'T worry, they weren't there at the time, it had happened way earlier.  But that sweet little scene, was a crime scene.  If only we could of known.  I can't remember who told us that, and perhaps they were lying to us(I cling to that hope), but likely, the way things go for us, something definitely bad went down there. (and I'm not talking about the proposal)..haha

SO there ya have it.  A do over?  Yes, but Only the setting, I'd keep the boy and the words and even that terrified face.  Heck, I'll keep the box shaped object, that he didn't know to hide. But, I don't think I'm being too fancy to ask not to share my proposal "scene"  with crime tape, do you?...

Geoff, One day, we should have a do over... I think I'd like that...

Tea From a Mug

Today I wasn't sure what to post.  I have been running around gathering up tax stuff and doing paper work, making appointments, cleaning and whatever.  So there has barely been room in my brain to form a straight thought, let alone be creative.

So after I finally got the important stuff off my "to Do" list, and gave up on cleaning up after a toddler, I put the kettle on to boil.  I need a little break, before I BREAK.  So yes, I boiled it the old way, not the "throw the water in the mug and Microwave (sadly this is what i usually do).

When I reach for a mug, I always think about what one I want to use this time.  I couldn't tell you why it matters to me, but it just does!  Stacked in the very back, peeking out from behind Geoff's new "mike" mug(monsters, Inc) was my pioneer mug.  Our teachers gave them to us the last day of classes.  A pretty perfect keepsake, I think.

As I was getting out my tea, chai(tiny bit of milk and a tiny bit of sugar), and letting it soak, I couldn't help but remember back to pioneer school.  I Loved it.  There are not many things that I can be proud of in life, but that, my friends, is pretty much at the top.  One of the best things for me, was the friends you make.  I met 18 or so of the most fantastic people.  Its honestly heart warming to be in room with those kinds of people.  I will never forget those 2 weeks.

However, I was scared to death.  I am not a studious person.  I'm just not.  And if we're telling the truth, I'm not the smartest kid. And as you know, I'm scared to death of any sort of public speaking.  And then there's the rambling on awkwardly in front of strangers.  Yeah, there's that.

I was placed in a car group of four, one morning, to try out what we had learned.  I was way more at ease in a smaller setting, and was able to relax.   One of the lovely ladies I was with said some things to me that day, that changed the whole way I looked at myself.  And who knows, it might help you too.  I had voiced my thoughts of  not feeling very qualified to be there.  Telling her that, my whole life i have felt not very good at anything, but that I felt I was just about average in most things.  I told her I wish there was just one thing I could be good at, something that I could be confidant about. She Told me she had felt the same way for years, but then she figured something out.  Being "ok" at a lot of things, is what she was good at.  She was able to help out in a lot of different areas, a best she could, and she was ok with that.

Huh, why hadn't I thought of that?  Is there any shame in being useful in a few different areas, and helping out a few different people?  Maybe I can be there to help clean your house, maybe I can bring a salad to dinner, maybe I'm helping you right now.   See, I may not be able to be a Fantastic cook, I may never be able to Jog in a marathon, I may never make a dress that stays together when I'm through sewing it, and I will never be winning any best mom awards.  But, maybe I can be ok with that.  Maybe being "pretty" good at a few things even has its advantages.  Some day you might need me for something and you'll know, I'm willing to try.

See, that was just one memory from pioneer school.  But It was something that made me like "me" a little more.  Well, I'm down to last few sips of tea, and the baby is still asleep.  I feel so. Much. Better.  Do you think my mug has any idea how useful its been to me today?

Hey, maybe that's why it takes me so long to choose my "Tea cup"...

Just a quick thought

Hi!  I think I'll be putting out a post later this afternoon, but I thought in the mean time, I'd ask you for something.. I know some people have been have difficulties signing up to follow my blog, so I thought I'd try to help...

Ok, so on the right side of my blog, there is a button that says Follow(right below it are the people that already follow) click on that follow button.. A box will pop up..Then it gives you 3 accounts to choose from , google, twitter, and Yahoo.  Click on one of those if you have an account with them.  If you don't have an account with them, there will be a place that lets you create one!  I'd really love to have ya!

If you like, I'd also like to have email addresses, so I can send them to your account when I update my blog (espescially if you decided not to follow) Send them to my personal account.  I would never give them out to anyone.  They would stay just with me. 

Thanks everyone! Look forward to hearing from you soon!geoffandkatie@hotmail.com

They say its not the same, but to me it will never change.

You Know, when people from my circle started moving Out West, We started to get a bit alarmed, down home(Just a reminder, I'm from the east coast, Sussex, NB)!  There were a few of us who were excited for the ones that left, most of us wondering what life for them would be like "out west".  But there were a few who thought,(and had no problem voicing it) we should stay.  For Life.

This is in Shediac.  by the beach. A must if your in the area..

I was never really sure whether I wanted to stay or go.  I spent half my days dreaming of being out here on my own and the rest of my days were pretty much kept busy by my friends.  Ya know, when you have the beach at your disposal and your not chasing the dollar bills around, there really is no reason to leave.  Not that I don't think people should see what the rest of this planet has to show you, I'm just saying, that way of life is all most people could ever wish for, really.  When you have a few good friends, a great view, and some place warm to lay your head, your living well, as far as I'm concerned.

This is my BFF since diapers(literally, my next door neighbour when I was born)

and our babies

But I did end up here, the "west", and have found a place, I like to think of, as my home.  I think that makes me a little sad.  But that's only because, there are people 5000km away, that I considered home for 18 years.  You know, I don't have great view here, well not one within 4 hours, but I do have good friends and a place for me and my family to sleep.  I've made some really great memories here too, like :  I meet and married a boy from here and  I delivered the most beautiful girl I have ever laid eyes on.  For those two reasons alone, this place can be called my home.

And I do have the mountains.  There is a bit of a drive, but not too long.  The first time I saw the mountains, I was struck by the unreal beauty of them.  They looked like a picture.  We didn't have that back home.  And there there were the high rises, and wing nights, and the new friends, and, especially, the friends that became my family.

But, to my Friends, family, and Friends who might as well be my family, from the east coast, I will never be able to replace you. I would hope you never think that I forget about you.  There is not a day that goes by that i don't  think about one of you and wonder what it is your doing that night.  If I can share a story about back home, I can't help but smile.  When I do tell stories, I want my people out here to have all the details, so they will fall in love with your charm, like I did. 

I have spent hours, likely, telling people about the sights to be seen "back home".  I Have sold people on trips out there to see you.  I have bragged about the laid back atmosphere(something I miss the most about you).  I talk about how we live a life that's so completely different from here.  At home your welcome to walk in and use our bathrooms if we're not home.  We'll spend our weekends and evenings, moving our friends, fixing your cars, repairing your roof, or building your deck.  You can pay us in beer.  You can drop in unannounced and be welcomed.  We'll give everything in our fridge and apologize for not having enough.  We remember what your favorite food is, so we can have it in stock.  We like were we're from and we're pretty unapologetic about it.

Mom and Dad #2, and my other Bff from Diapers

You you haven't seen the East coast, its a shame, I think.  No, we aren't exempt from life pressures.  There are still divorces, sadly.  Families struggle.  People still get sick.  But there's something different about the way we live.  and Its nothing I can explain on here.  If your wondering, well, you really gotta go.

They had a BBQ for us when we went home!  So Sweet!

That's why, I can have lived here almost 9 years, and still be homesick.  They say once your an east coaster, your one for life.  That's true I think.  I really hope I can raise my baby to have the heart of an east coaster, since she can't have our accent(which, is just a shame).  I hope she loves the ocean more than the mountains.  I hope she can be happy here but always be looking for a way to the Ocean.

So, to my east coast friends, I haven't forgotten my roots.  I haven't forgotten you.  I really hope I still have the Maritime in me.  I hope I always will.  I hope, maybe, you think of me, just as much as I think of you.  I hope you can remember a story or 2 about me.  I hope when you tell that story, you'll smile. 

I might have lost the ocean, but I apparently, never lost the accent;) 

baby you'll be famous, chase ya down until ya love me..

Geoff and I have been known to argue over music.  He thinks music should be on all the time.  I think, if I'm in the car visiting with him, I want it off or at the very least turned down low.  He'll get ready and have to have music on.  He thinks to compromise, he'll let me pick a song.  And for the most part this works.  Except on the days when it doesn't.  But this doesn't mean I don't like music.(generally speaking, it means I don't like his choice, hah)

But what he doesn't know, what YOU don't know, when I'm driving alone, I'm a little bit of a star, in my own rights.  I sing like I mean it.  And I ENJOY it.  When I have a Doctor appointment and Grace is being watched, I leave a little early, Pick up a Starbucks and turn up my radio. Driving to and from work, watch out GaGa, you gotta little competition tonight!

I do seem to like the Gaga, Or Pink, but a little bare-naked ladies can make my day(the band not, well, you know...).   Do I know all the words?  Of course not.  Do I make up my own?  You know I do.  Would I win a Grammy? Nope, Not even a Juno.  But In my car I do.

The best driving and singing mode is a warm summer day around 6.  Or Early morning, when the sun Is shining, around 9.  I really excel.    But the sun doesn't have to be out, it doesn't have to be the right time of day, but what it has to be?  The right song, for that moment, anyhow.

Today, I'm headed to Medicine Hat with Ginny and Baby.  From here, its a 5 and a half hour drive.  And I can't be  talking the whole time.  Hopefully the radio is playing something I like.  And I just might let them sing back up.

Equal rights = Equal nights

If you ever get the opportunity to walk along the Disney Board walk, especially at night, you take it.   The signs light up and you can see them across the other side of the lake.  Wander around the different resorts, inside and out.  I've said it before, they have charm that we don't often see in buildings anymore. 

One night, while in Orlando, we were able to have Grace looked after by the Ecksteins, so we headed for a night out.  We ate at the Cape may Cafe, watched the Fireworks at Epcot, and than wander the board walk.  You fall in love with that boardwalk.  Or maybe its just me.  But I know its the sounds that float through the air.  Its the smells of the homemade ice cream.  And it was the carefree feeling of that atmosphere.  Sigh, Vacation.

My sister and Bro-in-law were a few feet ahead of us, chattering away.  And I was thinking-  I could live here.   I could do this every night.  Such a  great place for a date night.  AND that, my Friends, is when it happened!  Geoff Leaned over and whispered in my ear, "I have to Fart!" Sigh, fantasy OVER.

How did he know exactly what to say to make this night BETTER?  I can't help but wonder, who raised him? Ladies, they say chivalry is dead.  But I can help but think, If that's true, than we beat it to death!  Don't follow?  Well I can't help but think that women have fought and fought AND fought to be found equal to man.  Don't get me wrong, I think there has been great advancement made, sure.  But, than I think, how far is too far.  At what point do you just WANT to be treated like a LADY.

I think, we live in a world, where, some guys won't open a door for you.  Some guys don't know to let you walk on the inside of the street.  But I also don't believe its always there fault.   I think they are caught in a tug of war over, whats proper etiquette and whats equal rights.  And to be fair, do we even really know anymore?

All I know is this:  Should I ever have a baby boy, I will make sure he's opening doors and saying excuse me.  He will offer his coat and his seat.  At least that's what I hope for.

But. whatever happens?  I'll always have that night on the boardwalk  and those 4 little words...

I think thats why your eyes are so blue

Dear Sparky,

I know you know, this is for you.  You've been torturing yourself for way to long.  You seem to think you need to figure out how your story ends,  All you need to know is that you have one.  I'm not sure why you keep finding yourself in these situations.  Perhaps they find you.  No matter, its found its way before you and your left to figure it out.

Don't you sometimes wish life had a recipe, one tailored just for you.  Of course if that was the case, YOU'D never follow it.  You were never good recipes.  But maybe it would help you to see a path laid out before you.  But I'm telling you, friend, you don't need it.  Your making all the twists and turns we all had to make, and your doing it with such finesse.  Your making your recipe look good.

You said you have a hard time making decisions.  Whats the hurry?  Those decisions will still be there.  When those ones are gone, there will be news ones ready to take their place.  Decisions aren't always good, but they don't always have to be bad.  Some decisions are as small, but some will change your whole world. And Sometimes the smallest of decisions are the ones that change your world

You said, your afraid of always being "that girl.."  But some of us think that girl is enough.  There are worse things in this life than being exactly what you are,  You could be the person who doesn't worry about a future or a tomorrow, or a recipe.  But, I venture to say, some of us are afraid to lose what you've become.  Please don't change the recipe to fit someone Else's taste.  Your sweet enough for me.  If you'd give yourself the chance, I think you'd find your good enough too!


I know you have your sad days, I think that's why your eyes are so blue.  You've known a heart ache in life and over came it with such grace, that I think you don't give yourself enough credit.  Do you know, your mom would be so proud(I'm a mom now, so I know what makes moms proud!)  Your family did a good job in making you.  And they didn't even have a recipe....






 

Every now and then I get a little bit terrified

 I have had nervous energy since as early as I can remember.  Most of this came out in biting my nails.  I bite them till they bleed. EVERY SINGLE NIGHT, I can feel my heart beat in at least one of my fingers.  I have chewed one nail completely off once.  It took a LONG time to grow back.  I also twist my hair.  I twist it until I hear a snap and then I start over.  If I try to stop either of these habits,  I have and actual ache in my gut-  a craving, I suppose.  As a adult, these habits are so unattractive, I do realize.  And If I could stop I would.  Well maybe I could, but i think I'd rather work on a million other things and keep those comforts.

When I was about 13 years old, I started having anxiety attacks.  I can remember sitting in my classes and feeling a rise in panic, over absolutely nothing.  My heart would race and I could barely breath.  It was all I could do to keep my self seated and not run from the room.  Or i would be at a service group and start feeling so nervous I thought I'd be sick.  At night I would start feeling sick to my stomach knowing I'd have to leave for school the next day.  The next day I'd be scared to death the walk out the door, not knowing when my next attack would hit.  My Dr. eventually said they were anxiety attacks and that I could take gravol to control the nausea.  I can remember refusing to walk out the door because I had no gravol to take with me.  I made my mom drive me to the pharmacy to get more.  Than I made her drive around until I felt the gravol kick in.

When I got to be about 17, public speaking became impossible.  If had an essay to read in class, I would shake and sputter the whole way through it.  I would get to my seat and hide tears of embarrassment.  At the hall commenting had the same reaction and giving a talk became impossible.

I don't have panic attacks all that often anymore, in fact, I hardly have any.  Mostly, though, they come when I least expect them.  most in the middle of the night.  I had one the other day at the theatre, when I was out with a couple of friends.  I felt like i had a fever and that there was a 1000 pounds of weight resting on my chest.  I took of my coat and sweater and fanned my self to feel like I was getting enough air.  I keep my attacks to myself usually, and come to think of it, that likely makes them worse.  It makes me more panicky.

Public speaking is still really hard for me.  But I make myself put my hand up at least once a meeting, if at all possible.  I can now be a householder again and not freeze up, and have be able to for about 3 years.  Picking up the phone when it rings still puts me on edge.  I screen almost every call.  Not because I don't like people, but for some reason, the phone gets me jittery.  So I just avoid it.  (this drives my friends and family crazy)

My doctor when I was a kid, described it as, I was scared that I would get scared.  And until he said it, I would never of be able to describe it.  But that's the simplest way.  I had anxiety over getting anxiety.  Sounds pretty messed up hey?

A funny story?  My wedding.  There is a high stress situation for ya.  I had to walk down the isle in front of a crowd.  And than say my vows- in front of a crowd.  Yikes.  I begged to elope.  I was willing to not have all the things that make your wedding a memory just to avoid that hour of anxiety.  Geoff said no, and my mother would of killed me.  So walking down the isle I shook like a leaf.  My friends mom had to remind me smile.  Then when it can time for me to say my vows, I had NO voice.  I know  people thought i was choked up in the emotion of it, and maybe part of me was, I was terrified.  Its took me a FULL MINUTE to find my voice.  I remember looking up at our speaker and wanting to tell him, Its ok, I want to do this, just give me a minute!  But then if I could of said that much, there would of been no problem anyhow, right?  After a quick prayer and several deep breaths, we were able to carry on.  Afterwards, everyone told me I had them on the edge of their seat.  I had you on the edge of your seat?  How do you think Geoff felt. Haha.


So if you've seen me viciously chewing my nails.  Or you seen the remains of a twisted dread lock looking hair.  Or even if you seen me cry after a horrible horrible comment?  I'll Be ok.  I'm working through it...













                  

I keep your photograph and I know it serves me well

Its so sunny and warm.  It feels like spring.  Its Alberta where I live, so we will still have several more storms and a possible drop below 30 still, But TODAY?  Well, Today Is Perfect.  On a day like today, when I feel good and the sun streams through my windows and my floors are semi-clean, I feel very content.  For someone like me, contentment, has to be a daily persist.  A constant battle.  A series of unlikely events. ha.  But On a day like this?!  It feels so easy to be happy....

Have I ever told you how I met Geoff?  Speaking Of series of unlikely events!  Just kidding.  I had lived in Alberta a little over a year.  I was successfully doing absolutely less than nothing with my life.  Well I was "having fun".  But the fun I was having, wasn't feeling like fun and wasn't(and never will be) anything I am proud of!
I had never met Geoff before, although our paths crossed(literally)and we never registered each other.  Edmonton is not a big city, especially when your a Witness(or lamely trying to be one).  His friends, were friends with my friends.  One of my better friends, was one of his better friends even.  I don't know how we didn't meet sooner, but in alot of ways, we weren't ready for sooner anyhow.

The weekend I met him, was Dec 24- Holidays.  Last Minute, My friend Candice and I decided to drive up to Jasper for the night, to visit our friend(who was also a guy I liked) .  I remember asking Candice who he was there with and She told me, "Geoff".  I didn't really care who he was there with, I liked this guy anyhow right?  I know, it gets a bit weird, but stay with me..

I remember the second I first saw Geoff, I don't know why It stands out like it does, but it just does.  My first thought?  Oh dear, a city cha chee boy.Haha.  (Geoff I know you hate that I tell people that, but really, it all worked out in the end)  I mean who really wears a toque and sunglasses indoors?  Haha.(sorry again)  So no, we didn't click right way.

But when we met up with them the next day, we ended up getting along really well. I thought he was actually one of the nicests guys, and pretty stinkin' hilarious too.  And yes, he was still cha chee to me.  HE SAYS, that when he asked me for my number, I told him no, I just don't give it to anybody.  Haha.  I don't remember it going exactly that way, but listen, he did get my number outta me eventually.

How did I make the transition over to liking that one guy over to Geoff?  Looking back, it was really pretty easy.  For the main reasons first-  We had similar interests, we laughed easy, and so on.  But even better, he cared about real things in life too.  He went to all the meetings, service and talked about Jehovah.  We were both no examples, and in no way really ready for a relationship, but we were pretty NOT worried about that.  And we both knew we had to be doing more.  We always said, "we have such good intentions".
 The Family I was living with at the time(I told you about them once, remember?)  Well, the Father told me, when he was dropping me off to meet Geoff said"It doesn't matter what you have in common now, or whats cool now, or that you both like WHATEVER.  All that matters is that you both Love Jehovah.  Then you have something to work with when it gets hard."  That made my decision to be with Geoff so much more easy!

Isn't funny, when you first start dating someone, How everything just seems soooo good.  It makes it feel like a day like today feels.  But It can be pouring rain-ruin your plans, ruin your face and its ok, you'll eat in and he still thinks your cute.  Or you couldn't wait to get off work to see them?  Or your heart skips when you see there name on your phone?  Or you'd try to wait till they were distracted to catch a good look at them? (wait, is that only me?)  I also think that, because things start off sooo good in the beginning, when people have problems once there married, they panic.  Some marriages are over before they really get to start.  Just because Its work, maybe some people think its not working.  I don't know about you, but i don't trust anything that seems too easy!

I'd hate for you to think, that I have a easy marriage. Haha.  Anyone who knows us, I mean really knows us, can say that we are both babies in our families and tend to act like it.  We fight over cheese(that's a good story, but for another day) We argue over kitty litter.  And I'm pretty sure hes wants me to change the way i sleep(which, Geoff, is impossible, I'm asleep, get used to no covers for your feet)  But Like I said, on a day like today, All is good.


 So there you have it.  Its no fairy tale.  but I think its a pretty good story.  We had a bunch of really great moments, that i like to think about every now and then.  Especially, On a day exactly like this... 

call it a day

Whew-  What a week, and its not even over yet.  I'm really so sick.  Geoff is not doin so great either.  This flu is a knock out.  To any of my friends that have got it.. I share my glass of ice chips with you.  Sorry no post really this week.  But I can barely see straight.  Today I feel my best, and am going to wash my hair.  Sigh. Yucky, I know.  But On the up side I have been thinking of future blog posts- So thats something, is it not?

But for now, and for your sakes, I think I will keep this short.  But I miss this and you guys! (ps-Angela, I haven't heard a peep from you, am I to assume your busy with BNB? Also An Idea I have for future Post!)
If you are looking for something entertaining this afternoon, and cant summon the energy to do something off the couch?  Check out this site  www.whiteberryreinvented.com  Best blog, and she's having a blogarage sale!(Angela, good furniture for a BNB, check that out as well, in her furniture part of her site)

Anyhow, for now, I think I will shower up and curl back into bed with my fat FAT cat Stewart and my slender white foot-warmer, Zoey, and call this afternoon, over!

 No day is so bad it can't be fixed with a nap.  ~Carrie Snow

Let it Rain

How's your weekend so far?  Good I hope!  We are having a LONG weekend.  And I don't mean that in the sort of way that implies an extra day off.  Sigh... But I sure wish I was.  I know, I know, to downer blogs in the span of one week.  No. Its ok, I will try my hardest to steer clear of the tears and the self pity.

But I will quickly tell you when Its been a long one so far..  Grace has had a flu since Wednesday .. a  day and night of puking..a day or so of NOT moving and last night? up all night.  She couldn't get comfy.  I don't know if that was her actual problem, but that's how I would explain it.  We are tired.  As a baby, Gracie slept, as a toddler, well she's decided sleeping is for babies! YaY!

Not every weekend can be fantastic, right.  And If i had the chance of making it great, I don't have the energy.  Ha.  So today, I'm choosing to be happy at the super small things.  Like a warm blanket.  Or Good TV.  Or chicken Burgers for super.  Or in light of the recent events in the world, I think I'm happy to have a warm bed that we can toss and turn in.  Or that we have food in our fridge.  Or that I know exactly where everyone I love is.  All accounted for.

Doesn't it feel a little ridiculous to be worked up over a flu...My heart goes out to absolutely every person affected by the tragedies in Japan and all the after effects.  But that being said, we all have our own small tragedies.  And although they may not be tragic enough to make the news, they certainly can knock us off our feet.

When I was on vacation, my sisters father in law said something that I knew I instantly needed to remember, and That I would want to share with you later. (this was before the earthquakes and is not said to be cheeky in any sort of way)

"What do they do in Japan when it rains?  They let it rain."

So many things that we can't help.  We cant control.  No way to stop.  I think I need to stop worrying about that stuff.  Sure it warrants some thought, but, In the end, Its not in our hands.  What we do control is, well, the small things.  Grab a good book, or a good show, maybe something great to eat.  Hey, maybe grab someone you love.  I know its not gonna change the world, but it just might change your weekend!  

I'll tell you my dirty little secret, hope that you can keep it!

I have a secret.  I try to hide it.  But everyday I have anxiety that someone will find out.  Its awful really.  But I thought, today, I'm gonna show somebody, and who are you gonna tell anyway, right?

I like to try to keep a tidy house.  I was way better at it before I had a toddler- I swear.  But now, and even back than, I admittedly try to rush through my house cleaning.  I mean, I make sure my surfaces are clean and yuck free and I vacuum everyday, wash my floors every 2 to 3 days(Yes, it gets that dirty)  But when it comes to clutter, my answer in a hurry is "shove it away where it cant be found"  Yea, not really words to live by.

So today, I put my poor sick baby to bed and decided to tackle a few horribly horrible hiding spots.  Ready for the reveal?  So embarrassing, but here goes..

 

da da daaaa.. lazy suzanne

Yuck.  I have never ever know how to use this thing.  I hated it.  So there you have it.  So today I tackled this along with a few other things.  Then I kinda thought, maybe a good topic for today's post should be about organizing, and one of my favorite things- making the best use of the things(and space) you got!

Since I have lived outside my parents home, I have had limited space.  But only within the last few years have I learned to work with "clutter" I love, to STORE things that needs a home.

 I am forever throwing away potatoes that go bad because they are under my sink- gone and forgotten(we don't eat potatoes that often).  So recently I was given some crystal treasures that I couldn't say no to.  Well I washed them up, along with my baby potatoes and found a home for them both. 

Traditionally, we display fruit, but when space is limited, be creative!

 

I always like to try to have like things together, If at all possible.  And when I spotted this tin, I needed it, but wasn't entirely sure for what!(often my problem)  But Once I got it home, I figured it out quickly enough.  I store flour bags, sugar bags, and other baking things. This idea works for me, maybe not you, but keep an open mind people!

And I seem to really like containers with writing on them.  So Into my cart they go.  Do you share this love.  Don't be afraid to use them.

 Now in my coffee tin I actually store Granola bars, suckers and other snacks.  The Tea?  Tea believe it or not.  And the yellow in the back Is a picture.  If you have limited cupboard space, try displaying a pretty picture, or something you find Great!  It frees up room in the cupboards and you actually get to see some of the things you buy!

And that sort leads into my next couple of pic's.  I have a couple of cook books I like to flip through regularly so I like to have them close.  As well, when I get the urge to bake, I like to have it out as well(ok its bragging rights really)  So I like to display those as well.  The cake plates really make things look good and free up space again!

If you look close you will see a keepsake I got ME in Disney.

 

 

 

Ok lastly, are the more obvious ones, but cookie jars!! Use them!  You don't have to store homemade ones either.  Or even cookies.  Mine held tootsie rolls for the longest time.  And the other one, if you need more room in your drawers, this is the way to go. 

SO that's that, for now, anyhow.  Oh Yea? And My shameful secret, well I feel a huge weight was lift, letting you see that.  I was also motivated to tidy it up!

When you lose something you cant replace

18 Followers! Yessss!  Thank you thank you thank you, to my Friends who continue to read!  I look forward to Posting and love when I get your feed back!  If you guys have any ideas for future posts, let me know!  Because I can check my stats, I know there are few more who aren't followers.  So Please join! The more I know I have looking for a new post, the more likely I'll put up a new post.  Either way, though, thanks for checking in!

Today I woke up not feeling too fantastic.  I wish I could say otherwise, seeing as I have an adorable baby who chose to sleep in till 930.  I think it was caused from a tossy-turny kinda night.  No real reason for it either, I should add.  Although, Geoff is in school and therefore not working. And seeing as he was self employed for a little over a year, he doesn't qualify for EI.  But truthfully, I don't think I feel too worked up about it.  Which is strange because normally that would have me running for the covers.

Most of you know this about me already, But for those who don't, I suffer with migraines.  Horrible Horrible Migraines.  They started for me about 8 or 9 years ago.  I knew they weren't a typical headache when I could stand up right at work, and from then on they had gotten worse.  And yes, I have tried almost everything, the things that are fairly affordable anyhow.

Lets see, at first, I would just take a couple Advil migraine, which quickly progressed into--7 Advil migraine.  I know that sounds ridiculous, but so was the pain.  Then one day, shortly after I was married, I asked Geoff to take me to emergency because, well, I was pretty sure I was dying, and if I wasn't, I wanted to.

I eventually was prescribed migraine pain killers.  Which really did the trick- most of the time.  I had to really bad set backs that ended up with me in emergency.  One of the times Geoff came home from work and I was crawling from the bathroom to the bedroom and had vomit down the front of my pj's.  So he drug me to emerg, where they bumped me(thankfully) to the top of the list and immediately put me in my own room and hooked me up to IV's.  The second time, we headed to the hospital and same story-- only this time I was put on morphine.  Side note, Hate morphine, pretty sure my heart was gonna beat outta my chest, eek) 

So those 2 incidents and an 18 day migraine, I sat in my Dr.s office and asked her to fix me--or do SOMETHING.  A few weeks later, I was headed to see a neurologist.  3 medication changes later, i became pregnant and gave up on that neurologist.  For the first little while after my pregnancy I never had a migraine, but slowly and surely they have came back. Grrr.

I am on a medicine that I take when I feel the migraine coming on.  I know acupuncture can help some of my migraines.  Hot HOT baths take my mind off the pain, even if just for a few minutes.  And wearing sunglasses as much as possible goes a long way.

I do realize that this comes out sounding quite like a sob story.  But todayI feel a little done in.  Migraines have completely changed my life.  For awhile they controlled my life.  I do try not to let it be that way anymore.  But they took alot away from me.  If i don't get enough sleep, I can get a migraine, too much sleep, migraine, red wine, migraine, turn my head a certain way, migraine, and the list goes on.   

So waking up feeling yuck today, has me a bit uneasy.  A simple trip to Costco has me anxious. But I do think I have came along way, and there are still some things I want to try.  And i really don't need you to feel bad for me, most days I feel bad enough for the both of us, haha.  But some days its hard to be upbeat, in this world lots of days can be like that, right?  I am going to lay down and dream of sandy beaches and palm trees, or the music at Disney, or maybe both.  The way I look at, we all have our mountains right?  The trick is, learning how to navigate, I guess. 

How are you doing today?  Do you need to vent?  Unload?  Remember, Its ok once and awhile, but its also ok to run for the covers!

I want it that way

I used to love the backstreet boys.  No.  To be fair, I used to BE IN LOVE with the backstreet boys.  #1 favorite?  Nick.  Blonde hair, blue eyes?  Ok!  My best friend, Stephanie loved Brian.  Sure he was cute when he grew into those cheek bones.  AJ? bad boy, mmm, he was ok, but i apparently go for mama's boys.

I cringe at those embarassing memories.  My saving Grace?  I wasn't alone.  But to this day, if a BSB(as I so affectionately refer to them as)comes on the radio i can't help but smile.  It brings back to many memories.  When I was growing up my summers were so simple, yet I dont remember a bad one.  And every summer revolved around My best friends, country roads and whatever was playing on the radio.

Where I grew up was "typical" small town.  My friends and I were usually at one of our homes, far outta town, laying on the floor listening to the radio.  Stephanie's house had a basket ball hoop, so we'd play that till early early morning. We'd plan dances in our spare time and always follow through on them.  Since we were a town that had three cities around it we could invite people from all around.  Don't get me wrong, these weren't always the fanciest things.  Usually we'd shove all the furniture to the walls, hang fairy lights and play music we taped off the radio.  Perfect.  Simple.

We'd walk down to an old deserted graveyard.  It was hidden trail off the side of the road.  We usually go at night time.  Add a little excitement I guess?  If there was a full moon, you could see pretty clear.  We could talk in there for hours.  Usually the only reason we wondered home was for food.

In Sussex, the town is also know for its annual Flea Market.  Every August, over 900 vendors would set up on our baseball fields and you could wonder up and down the aisles for 3 days.  I don't think I will ever forget the smell of deep fried french fries and kurt sausages.
 

Another summer time past time was going to the beach- namely, St. Martins.  It wasn't till i moved to the prairies did i realize how great it is to have the ocean at your toes!  30 minutes and you were at the beach.  We'd camp, literally, a 30 secound walk from the ocean.  We'd have campfires ON THE OCEAN!  Our days consisited of hikes, eating greco pizza, and listening to the radio.

To end off summer and start up school Our town also hosted the Hot air balloon Festival.  I don't know how many come now, but back then, there must of been about 30 balloons.  If you laid out white sheets on your field, the balloons might land on your property.  And in night time, you'd head back into town to see the moon glow.  Some of the balloons would be inflated so they would light up the night sky.  If you've never experienced that, its definitely something worth seeing!

Its funny, how when your doing your growing up, you don't realize what your flying past.  Adults always tell you, enjoy this now.  But never ever could you understand that you had everything you needed right in front of you.  We were never rich, heck, we were pretty poor, but I had a lot of things lots of kids didn't.

So, I can't help but dream of the hot summer days I've had.  Especially on -30 days.  I  am always looking in peoples driveways for basket ball hoops.  I search the skies every now and then for a hot air balloon.  I crave the smell of french fries and sausages being barbecued.  I can't help but be intrigued when I see a sign for a flea market.  And I think I'll always love the backstreet boys!

the way things should be

Hello!  We're back!  We had the best time in Florida.  The weather was incredible.   25+ everyday!  Loved it.  And our Baby girl is a traveller.  She was really good and loved the Disney Parks.  I don't blame her.  We loved them too!  Its always nice to come home, but MAN, do I miss the warmth and the Palm Trees.

Aren't vacations such a nice escape?  Without fail, on vacations, I become- wait for it- a morning person.  I know. SO WEIRD.  But I cant help it.  Knowing that there is a sun and palm tree on the other side of that curtain- well there is just nothing like it, is there?  I also love having coffee visits in the morning with people, especially the RIGHT people.   We traveled with My sister, bro-in law and his parents.  Good coffee makers, better company, especially Justin's mama, Marleen.  You will never meet a nicer lady.  And super positive.  She has had her share of horribly rough patches in her life, but is the prime example of how to live beyond the set backs that get thrown your way,  There is not enough good things to say about her.  Marleen, should you ever happen upon this, you've got another fan.

 Isn't funny how vacations can make you forget?  And talk about escaping reality-  Disney World is the place to do it.  Cliche but, It really is the happiest place on earth.  I had the opportunity to meet a few "characters".  They were taken to me.  Perhaps they say that to all the people.  But, ah, I took it personal.  Ha ha.  Mary Poppins said she liked both Grace and my outfit.  I know, I'm totally bragging.

If you go, you have to try the boardwalk out on Disney.  At night its so beautiful and the shops are a throw back to the times when it was about style and not how many buildings you can throw together in a short time.  Its the way things should look.  One day, I believe they will.  

When I'm on a trip, I love gift shops.  Over priced stuff? Yes Please.  In Florida  I really had to control myself, and I did well.  Maybe too well.  The only thing I regret not buying was a Alice and the Wonderland big Tea cup.  It was white(i shouldn't have to say more) and it was a perfect size for morning coffees.  If ever you are that way, think of me, I'd be super grateful.

You know, I really believe Disney is a place for everyone- with or with out Babies.  But when your a parent, and you get to take your baby to Disney, you see it through those huge admiring eyes.  Reason number 379 of why having as baby has paid off for me. 

 But yes, we are home now, and trying to get into the swing of things again.  Back to reality.  But  my vacation will linger on for a few more days.  I have a few more freckles, a few great souvenirs, and one fantastic picture, that fulfills a life long  wish....

better one to come, once our disney disc comes!