Pretty Crafty

Setting Sail...

 
    

Tomorrow is Remembrance Day and also the day we go to the Cemetery to say our final goodbyes to my Dad. I figured tomorrow would be a fitting day to say goodbye, since my Dad served in the military and the 11th was a day he respected. Like I have said before, I am still in shock but so thankful he is finally at peace with my Mom.

I also cannot help but feel like I am setting sail on a new journey. Life feels very different now and I cannot help but feel everything just a little more. That applies to the bad and to the good, I am trying to focus more on the good these days. I truly have so much to be thankful for, even though this past year has been full of trials. Lately, I have been making sure to enjoy each and every moment with my kids. I think they are the neatest little people and I want to spend every day making sure they know that.

Speaking of the little ones...They are both suffering from this flu that is making the rounds. Although Evan is on the mend, now little sister has it and next in line Mommy. Taylor is taking tamiflu and it tastes pretty bad. So after a dose of medicine, Evan ran in with a drink of water to wash it down with. Didn't ask for it, but he just wanted her to have it. Awww:) Tonight he nearly broke my heart, when I was putting the kids to bed Evan came in and said--when I have my last day here I will give you back your stamp collection. I said okay, wondering what he meant. After looking at his face it was clear he was about to burst into tears. I asked him what he meant and he started sobbing, that he didn't want to have to leave home. I told him that is not something he needs to even think about and tried to explain when that time came he may actually be excited to have his own home. That didn't cut it and I merely told him this is his home as long as he needs it to be and our home will always be his home. Now hopefully he doesn't think he will be living rent free for the rest of his days. I am wondering if they were discussing Remembrance Day today and about all the young men that left their homes to fight in the wars? I don't know. He asked if he would be living at home for the next thousand years and I suddenly remembered that I am talking to a six year old and their world doesn't always make sense to us grown-ups. He is such a sensitive little boy and his kind heart is certainly one of his greatest attributes.

Hard to believe that it is almost time to contemplate shopping for the wee ones. I really want to try and make this a year that we focus on more than just getting more and more and more. I am thinking I may buy a few toys and then also give the kids some "experience" gifts. Coupons to Science World, coupons to a movie,etc. Gifts that involve us getting out there as a family. I would also like this to be the year we do some charity work as a family. I have a few ideas and will share them with you if they work out. I realize that I am missing an important window with the kids. I so want them to grow up to care about more than just their own world and want them to feel a calling to give back.

Time for bed. I hope tomorrow you are able to find a moment to reflect. Take care.
 
 
 

Orchids and some other stuff...

One of our super-sweet customers surprised me with this today. This picture doesn't do it justice, and I only hope I can do it justice. My thumbs are not green, maybe a bit on the black side (as in death for plants!). But I will strive to keep it beautiful and will certainly enjoy it. Marilyn is one of those people you are happy to have met--just plain ol' nice. We are very lucky to see her on a regular basis and lucky to have so many other customers/friends like her. That is certainly my favourite aspect of the store, the wonderful people I have come to know.

Was telling my Sister the other day, that I feel a sense of peace regarding my Dad's passing. It deeply saddens me that he and my Mom are no longer with us, but the thought that they are together brings me peace. I am not religious, but certainly believe there is another "place" that we go when this life is over. When people so important to you pass away, it is certainly a thought that occupies your mind. 

Okay, so just something to throw out there--what is up with the door-to-door Sales pitch? Have businesses not realized that this is just not the way to go about finding new customers? Am I wrong or does everyone HATE having strangers knocking on their door? Just had a woman trying to get me to sign up for a service that saves you money on your Gas Bill. Nope, not interested and don't want you to bother. My favourite is the guy trying to sell me Food or frozen meals---but they are so good! Nope, not interested and never will be. The thought of buying my dinners from a guy that knocked on my door gives me the creeps. Just doesn't seem to be a worthwhile enterprise, there just has to be a better way.

Went to see the Michael Jackson Extravaganza known as "This is It". Sorry but when it was done I found myself asking, That was It? I guess I am just no a die-hard fan. Don't get me wrong, the guy was very inspiring as an artist. I guess I was just expecting something a bit more magical. But maybe I just don't care enough and would never see that magic? It was enjoyable and I loved seeing the behind the scenes aspect of the film. My heart breaks for all of those people that worked so hard to put the Show together and they never made it to the finish line. At least the film allows the public to see how great it would have been.

Bedtime for the little ones. Hope you had a good Tuesday:)

Happy Thanksgiving and Hello Fall!

Taylor in October 2007 

So this weekend was Thanksgiving here in Canada. A time to remember all you are thankful for and eat a bit of Turkey or whatever you tend to cook. Yesterday, my family placed my Mom's ashes in their niche. It was a bittersweet goodbye and we were able to have a nice dinner after wards. My Sister did a great job of cooking a turkey and all that good stuff. Time to move on and prepare my Dad for the move into our basement. We have had so many generous people offer and give their help in getting this project done. My Sister and her husband are coming from Alberta to help finish off the basement and put up the drywall. My Father-in-law and my hubby's friend Ben, have also been incredibly giving of their time. That is all certainly something to be thankful for. The kids are excited to have Grandpa in the basement. Taylor says she can't wait to watch TV with him--not sure he knows what he is in for:)

Today was a day at work and a quick dinner at my hubby's Aunt's house. So two yummy dinners and that will do me until Christmas.

Our weather has been amazing these past couple weeks. Clear, crisp and NO RAIN!!! I can only hope this trend continues and we can enjoy the sun for a bit longer. I love fall and I think this time of year has grown to be my favourite. I love the sun and crisp weather, so much more enjoyable than the crazy heat we experienced this summer. I also love the colours of Fall--golds, browns, greens and reds. I cannot believe the picture above is our Taylor--she seems so grown up now. Need to take some more pictures this year of both the kids. I would love to hit a park with lots of gorgeous leaves and do a photo shoot. We will see if we can find some time and two will participants--usually a bribe works when I need to snap some pictures.

Been thinking about the East Coast and a trip we took a few years ago. Would love to take that trip again some day and during this time of year. We hit Montreal, Boston and NYC and it was such a great trip and the Fall was such a beautiful time of year. Hopefully next Fall, when Taylor is a bit older and can get more from the trip. Also wouldn't mind visiting Chicago again, what a great City that is.

Noticed something funny when I was putting my dishes in the dishwasher...I try to buy soaps, cleaning stuff that is environmentally friendly, so no phosphates and other nasty chemicals. Also would like to avoid for our own health too. But this new dishwasher soap is supposed to be so much more friendly and contain none of the bad stuff, but it is a soap tab that is housed in a bag and also individually wrapped in plastic. What?? Why waste more plastic? Seems to kind of defeat the purpose doesn't it? Things that make you go hmmm.

TV is quite enjoyable right now. We (well I) am loving Glee on Fox--perish the thought. It is such a fun show, love all the singing and quirky story lines, but mostly the singing/dancing. Also became hooked on Flash forward (hubby likes it too) and it is keeping me happy until Lost starts up again. Very Lost-like, but good on its own merits as well. My other Fave show (True Blood) is done for the Season and I will have to wait to find out what has happened to Bill.

I was making good progress on the housework, that is until I put the kids to bed and hopped on the internet. Blasted technology and it's interference. Who am I kidding, it could have something to do with my lack of willpower.

Need a Get-a-Way

Have you ever had a day where you felt like you need to just hit the road? That would be me all this week.I remember growing up when our vacations would just be packing up and taking a road trip. I would love to be able to do that.Just finished reading a blog detailing a family's trek across the Country.That is certainly on my to-do list and would like to do it over the next couple years.I have seen a lot of the Country but my Hubby and kids have not.I think we are going to start planning our vacation for next year, that will have to tide me over.

Nothing much new here...the kids are in a Daycare for the rest of the summer. They are having a blast and it has made my life so much easier.It is great knowing that they are having a blast when I have to work or be with my parents.Cannot believe that summer is almost over and school will be back soon.

Have I mentioned I am getting the moving bug again? I think my Hubby is to, we are due for a move. Seems like every 4-5 years we move.I am eyeing Fort Langley--love it there.I think we have decided to just keep our eyes open and see where that leads us.

Do you ever feel like the universe is trying to teach you a lesson?I am dying to know what lesson I am meant to learn, but I know there is one in there.The challenges just keep piling up and I feel like somewhere along the line I have been misjudged. Do you really think I am this strong? That is the internal dialogue lately:) I guess only time will tell and time will reveal what lessons are to be learned.On the positive side, I am just going to consider this a character building session and wait patiently.

I am itching for an adventure today and maybe I should make one happen? The thought just crossed my mind to pack up the kids and drive to Seattle for the day. I think my husband would be very sad he missed that though...hmmm, what to do? I will let you know what ends up happening.

I hope your day is a good one.

Photography, Twitter and some goodies

What else is new---so many thoughts so little time to share them with you. Is that good or bad? Guess it depends on the person I am asking;)

For the longest time I have been in love with photography. I have always loved looking at family photos. Photography is everywhere and I love it all. Some photos are just there as a means to capture an image. Then there are photos that give you a tingle. I get the tingle when I see those great shots. The shots that are taken by an artist, someone that truly loves photography. Someone that puts their heart into it. It has always been my dream to study photography and one day maybe I will. Growing up, I had an addiction to Vogue Magazine. I remember thinking I loved the pictures and the ads. I don't think it is an accident that I turned to scrapbooking. What a better way to give a little extra love to your photos?

I wanted to share some photographers with you. If you scrapbook you may have already discovered them. I love them because they capture everyday life and all those moments in between. Here are links to their blogs--Candice, Tara and Rachel.

   

Twitter? Okay, I admit that I just don't get it. I even signed on one evening to see what all the excitement was about. I still don't get it. Maybe that is the case with everyone else--they joined, keep tweeting and still don't get it? Not sure about the verb usage there--do you twitter or tweet? I seem to see "tweet" used. I guess it is just another way to make our lives public and know what is going on in other peoples lives? Don't get me wrong, I am not slamming those that are sharing their lives via the Internet. That would be a first class case of "pot calling kettle black" wouldn't it?

 

So guess what I did today? Betcha can't guess? I unpacked lots of card stock (well Heather and I did) and lots of ink. Lots of yummy Cats Eyes ink pads--every colour under the rainbow. So nice to see our shelves filling up again. All of the recent trade show goodies are hitting the shelves. We also have a great sale on right now--the more you spend the more you save. Come to one of the stores  and check us out. All of our instructors are busy designing our upcoming classes for May/June as well. So many things to look forward to!

Well, it is getting close to bedtime for the kids and I should say goodbye. See you later.

Hello There! Randomness warning...

Not much going on in this neck of the woods. Went out with a small assortment of Clipper Chicks last night. Went to see "he's just not that into you" at the Movie Theater. It was still entertaining the second time around but that's it for me. It won't make the scrapbooking movie rotation but hey not every movie is worthy.

If you are in Canada or BC and are following the news, you know that we are having a wee bit of a gang-related violence problem. Just enough to make us the Gang violence capital of Canada--or so I read. I have to say it is surreal. I have never lived in an area with this problem before. It seems everywhere you go people are discussing a shooting, a fight or some other incident. This past week, there was a false alarm at our local Walmart. No shots were fired, but a Hells Angel member was arrested. Like I said surreal. Let's hope the Police can get a handle on this situation before innocent lives are lost.

Feeling rather restless this fine Sunday. Kind of wishing I was heading on an adventure of some kind? Hmmm, maybe one day soon? A girl can hope...

At the movie I ate a few pieces of Bridge Mixture---what is that stuff? I know it is some sort of chocolate covered candy but what is the chocolate covering? Blech.

Woke up today to more snow. I could rant and spew forth expletives but I will not. I have decided I am going to take a zen approach from now on. Maybe the weather is like a petulant child, if I ignore it it will go away?

Watched the new Apprentice last night with the hubby. Wow, they are scraping the bottom of the barrel this season. A model from Deal or No Deal? Really? Is that the best you can do? Then there are the Rivers (Joan and Melissa) and a Poker Player. Hmmm, I say the Casting Dept. had a tough time this round. However, Joan Rivers appearance does serve as a bit of a service to the public---just say NO to plastic surgery. I think this should be the shows last season, it has grown a bit tired.

The housework is beckoning and unfortunately will not complete itself. Hope you have a great day.

you know you are old when...

You go to buy a CD and are baffled at the lack of a plastic case. Back in the old days when I purchased CD's, they were encased in a square plastic case. This one (Serena Ryder) was missing the case and was just a cardboard sleeve encased in plastic. I was baffled, I kept inspecting it to make sure there was a CD in there. I decided to take my chances and purchased the CD. Imagine my joy when there was a disk inside the sleeve. Geeze, am I really that out of the loop? Yes, I guess I am. I must give mad props to whomever came up with that idea. Do we really need the plastic case? Nope I guess not. By the way, the CD is fabulous and I love her voice.

 

So I have a little story to share. Perhaps the reason behind the fact that I am not rapidly losing the weight I would like to be losing. One night last week, I put the kids to bed and hopped into the car. Fully intending on actually going to the gym, I was dressed for it and everything. As I was stopped with my turn signal indicating a left hand turn, I quickly turned right and headed in the opposite direction. Where was I heading? A fast food establishment--nope! A Shopping Mall--nope! I was heading towards the Movie Theater. I will not completely pretend I am innocent. I did check the show times--BUT my plan was to see the late movie AFTER working out. But (typical me) I just had to see the early one. I went to see HJNTIY and it was gooooood. Just the kind of movie I needed. Mindless fun. I actually would like to see it again. I must say I have a bit of a crush on Justin Long---I kind of like the geekier,odd guys. For those of you wondering...Yes, I went on my lonesome and Yes, it is fabulous. You should try it sometime. Come on, we aren't in highschool anymore don't worry about what random strangers may think;)

I have a surprise to share with you all one day. I am not ready to share it now. I need to tell the hubs first. A) I am not pregnant--that is just crazy talk and physically impossible. B) I did not win the lottery C) just be patient and I will tell you what I did in due time (don't worry it is perfectly legal)

Feels like Spring today. Finally and I hope it continues. I bought TayTay a cute Spring jacket. All she has is her winter one and that is going to be too hot soon enough. One can hope.

Thanks for visiting. I bought some cute Blog Couture and will hopefully install it soon.

these three

Have you ever had one of those days? You kind of lose sight of what is important or what it is that you truly need. I will be honest, right now I really need a home on Grand Cayman Island. Actually Tuscany would do nicely as well. I have been going through my photos and found this one taken on our cruise.

 

These three are all I really need. I get cranky sometimes and I think it is easy to stop appreciating those things in life that are truly important. I am so lucky to have these guys in my life.

Well, the sun is shining today and will melt that snow (I hope). I feel very strongly this will be our last snowfall...right? right? It simply has to be. I am starting to get the spring cleaning itch and the itch to beautify our yard. That can only mean Spring is on it's way. I must say, I was a little worried about the bunnies we have living in our yard. I hope they still have their winter fur. Brrrr.

Found out yesterday that Evan is 98th on the waiting list for the Langley Fine Arts School. So I am thinking it is not looking promising for next year. One of the Mom's at school just got a call for her son. But her son has a sibling in the school and that helps. Evan did make it up to 98 from 148, that is a big leap. There were that many people that have made other plans, so I guess you never can tell. The school only has 44 spots for Grade 1 to fill.

I have to sign Taylor up for some dance classes. That girl has such rhythm it would be a shame to put it to waste. Taylor is happiest when she is singing or dancing or both. I told Scott her whole life is a musical. She will quite often sing about what is going on or what she is doing through out the day. So cute!

Well, I really must get back to the to-do list.

P.S If you are a customer of the Clipper Street Stores. Make sure you pop in some time. We are getting in a bunch of new product. Pretty Prima products, MME,Basic Grey,etc. It has taken a little longer this year, but it is on it's way. Brace your wallet's ladies:) I know mine has been coming home a bit lighter these days. But shh, don't tell my husband;)

Have a great weekend.

Utter Nonsense!

  Just say no to snow! I cannot believe as we approach March that we are still getting snow. If recovering from vacation hang over (you know when you return from vacation, depressed and wishing you were back in the sun,etc) was hard in sun, it is even worse in SNOW!

Oh well, truly nothing I can do about it. Looking forward to Lost tonight. I am dying to know how John Locke died and what is going on there. I saw Widmore talking to John--when did that happen !?!

I should be cleaning this house, but no I am on the internet and blogging. Some things never change do they? I think I need some nice spring-like weather to get me in the mood. Sigh...

Some exciting news...I thought I owned all the seasons of Sex and the City but I missed Season 5. Yahoo! The snuggling in bed with my portable DVD and SATC shall resume. A smidge sad,eh?

More fun news...In October 2009 I will be teaching a class here. Check out the website. It will be a lot of fun and a perfect escape. My class project is not up on the website yet, but check back soon.

As I am typing our power is browning out a bit. I think I better get some stuff done while I can still see what I am doing.

Hope your week has been a good one!

Yuck.

Forget the fountain of youth, I need a fountain of something called willpower. Oh and maybe a procrastination buster. Although I have the feeling the two are connected.