MEET BAILEY!


Bailey is the newest addition to our family. We havn't been blessed with a third baby yet so here is the next best thing.
Bailey is a 6month old golden retriever border collie X. She has a great temperment, a quiet disposition and she has more energy then any child I know combined. She loves the kids and

they love her. She is gentle and never barks unless I have the vacume on. She is my personal trainer, we run our 10K together. We have a great off leash park really close by and spend a lot of time up there. She has been a great addition to our family and I am glad to have her here. I will admit though that the first 2 months were hard. I have potty trained 2 kids and now a dog and I'm not sure which is harder, but I'm sure glad that's over. I hope you can all meet her soon she loves company and if she's pees a little when you meet her, that means she likes you. Please don't be

offended though if I don't. I like you anyway.

A Romantic Evening.

For our anniversary we had a lovely evening together thanks to good friends who took our kids and dog overnight.

We started out with a fabulous steak dinner at the Cattle Baron which was probably the best steak dinner I have ever had. We had French Onion Soup to start and a beautiful steak dinner to follow. The resturant was lovely and mostly quiet except the loud laugher in the far corner. Now that may seem rude but I am a loud laugher and my laugh is loud!

Well this person (not sure if it was male or female) was REALLY annoying. That did not stop our evening though.
Next we checked in at the Greenwood Inn for the evening, but decided that it was a little early for being inside so we headed to Best Buy where my honey bought me a new camera for our anniversary. Then we poked around a little more and headed back to the Inn.

There we had sparkling grape juice, a box of chocolates and a king size bed waiting for us. It was a great night and the room service breakfast was a great way to end our stay. Next 10yr mark I plan to do it again. (in Hawaii)

10 Roses for 10 years!

You have to understand my hubby HATES buying flowers and this year he is really on a roll. Thursday April 24th 2008 was our 10th wedding anniversary. I was not feeling great as I was experiancing a toothache (nothing unusual lately, more about that later) and I had not intention of running to the door to greet anyone, until I saw a a humongous package in his arms. 10 roses for 10 yrs joined my Mums and orchids. The roses have been getting bigger everyday and are gorgeous on my kitchen ledge. We also had a lovely lunch at the Olive Garden with our 21/2 yr old to chaperone. The evening was a bit of a disapointment as I ended up having a root canal that night and was totally out of commission.

I must say 10yrs has gone by fast but all our hard work has made it worth it.

Here's to 10 more.

An Amazing Thing!!

This weekend I did an amazing thing with some amazing women. I ran the Vancouver Sun Run 10K race. Yes you read that right I RAN!! Not only did I cross the finish line I RAN over it. I RAN the whole way. I did not stop RUNNING the whole race. It was the first time I have RUN 10K and I have to pat myself on the back for all my hard work. If you can't already tell I am pretty darn proud of myself.

I went with Tracy and Amber and Tracy sister Sue ran with us. It was a first time race for all of us and we came away feeling pretty darn good about ourselves. The most I had run was 7k on a treadmill and 41/2 on the road here at home but when your in a crowd of 59,000 + people and running with friends the fear of losing them keeps you moving. It was the most amazing feeling crossing that finish line and knowing that I did something great for myself. My running this race was all for me and showing myself that I am capable of anything. I also have to say how proud I am of my girls for acheiving the same goal.

The weekend wasn't just about running the race either we had a great time catching up with old friends and doing a major shopping spree. We kept it exciting also; everything from Value Village shopping to Lululemon workout gear. We know how to have the best of both worlds. I love shopping with my friends and being girly.

We ate all our favorite foods with all our favorite friends, Sushi w/ Marcy and Tricia and Heather, Fish and chips on the beach w/ Hazel and Sue and The doctors office we were racing with bought us a fabulous meal downtown Vancouver the night before the race. We got to stay at the Vancouver Fairmont Hotel the night before the race and that was a real treat. The start line for the race was just outside our front door. We hope to make this an annual thing and I can't wait to start training for the next one.

Thank you girls for making this weekend the best one I've had in a a long time. Thank you Hazel for putting us up and always making us feel welcome. It's always so great to catch up and keep in touch with those I care about. Maybe next time they will come visit me.

Can't Sleep and Need To Breath!!

It's 3:30 in the morning and I am having an a mild panic attack. I haven't had one in about two months and this time it woke me up. The only thing I can think of is my pets and are they having to much variety in there diets and am I making them sick. Would you like me to back up a bit, o.k. here goes.

The last time I blogged was about January and I was so excited about a new year and all the things I was going to do. Then I started having some problems with anxiety. Small attacks here and there, not wanting to go to work (weight watchers) not happy at home, not feeling like I was doing enough you know the usual mom, wife, women stuff. I had a little bit of depression and between the two it was enough to worry some friends and make me think I was losing my mind. When I went to seek help I was told to take a step back and down size my life a bit. Good advice I actually quit my weight watcher job, said NO to more dayhome kids and excersised more. I was actually feeling better. Oh did I mention the retail therapy that helps too. My mom came to visit and that was also better. I have been doing really well and my life also feels alot less cluttered. My home is getting better organized and that also feels like a huge weight lifted.

Just so I didn't feel to relaxed we decided to get a dog in january and she has also been a full time job. That job is starting to ease off a bit now, she is mostly house trained and is training quite quickly, that cat hates her and so she just keeps her space but you can sure hear her when the two meet. Piddles is a great cat she just hates everyone except us. So this last weekend my hubby and I went off to the Pet Expo to see what we could do for our animals. We came home with bags of food samples for each pet and a few new toys to try out. Now for some reason all I can dream about tonight is all this food and are we going to make them sick trying new stuff and how bad is that for them are we doing them any favors by changing there diet and why is this bothering me. I have alot going on this week and maybe I need to slow down a bit but holy cow am I wired right now. I havn't felt this way in a really long time. Breath Tammy the animals are fine and you need a holiday. It's a good thing I have one booked for this weekend.

Yes you read that right I am going away this weekend for a little break. Tracy and Amber and I are going to Vancouver to do the Sun Run. A 10K run through scenic downtown vancouver. I can't wait to hang out with my girls and just relax. Between sick kids, animals, hair, husband, church callings, and all the other stuff I do I am looking forward to sushi with friends, fish and chips on the beach and a 10K run that will most likely kick my butt. Am I ready to run, well were about to find out. The nice thing about being a dog owner is that I have my own personel trainer who demands to be run every day. Did I mention she's a big dog. Her name is Bailey and she is half Golden Retriever and half Border Collie. She is a very high energy dog/puppy and she keeps me motivated. Although she won't be at the race to drag me to the finish line I am depending on my friends to do that for me.

Well I am calming down now and am starting to feel a little bit better. I want to post more and I am sorry for the long gaps in time. Perhaps if I these attacks more often at night I would stay current. For those of you wondering why I never called to tell you about my issues please forgive me, I kept it quiet for many reasons and I know that everyone would be so supportive but I needed to work through this and have become a much stronger person because of it. I have a beautiful back bone I hope to never use on the people I love.

See you soon
Tammy

Something New!!

Hey everyone, go and check out my salons new blog at

headoverheels.blogspot.com

Tell me what you think??

Tammy

HELLO WORLD DID YOU MISS ME!!!

I can't belive this is is happening but I actually got back on my blog. I have been unable to get here for months. It would never let me sign on and now here I am. I am totally stunned. In fact I am speechless and that is a first.

I havn't been here since May and a lot has happened. My baby girl turned 2 in june, my hubby turned 35 in June, we did a little camping in july and saw the sights around town. One of my dayhome kids lost his dad very suddenly to cancer in August and that was really hard. He is no longer comming to our home as his mom had to put him in a registered dayhome so she could get subsidy. Our basement troll Sally moved out at the end of August and good friends came to visit. My mom and dad came out also for a visit and my mom is now 50lbs lighter and SMOKIN' HOT. My son started grade 1 and is gone from me all day. I have no more dayhome kids except for 1 little girl in grade with my son and it's only after school for a couple of hours. Yahoo!!! I lead 3 meetings a week now for Weight Watchers all on Wednesday. My baby girl and I are together all day and love our time alone. I get to go to the gym at least 3 times a week now and I am loving that. I went to England for ten days with one of my best friends Tracy and we had an amazing time. I have to travel to edmonton at least every 5-6 weeks now for hair, I am that busy (thanks to tracy and renea). Craig and Mary had a baby last friday and he is gorgeous and we couldn't be happier for them. Tracy also had hers, so did Allison, Adrianna, and now we are waiting for Jen the Mom to have hers. Keep up the good work friends, the more you do the less attention gets put on me.

Life is pretty crazy but it's my life and I love it. People are always telling me to slow down and not work so much but I think if I did I would probably die, (of boredom at least)
Well I am just so excited to be here again and I will return very soon.

I hope some one reads this and missed me if not well that will teach me to be away for so long.

Toodles.

I'm Back Did You miss me???

I'm soooo sorry to have abandoned everyone for so long I have had the hardest time trying to get on my blog. I was having password issues and it would not let me post.

Well I'm back and have had a ver busy few weeks.

Update #1

Florida was AMAZING!!!! It's was truly the best week I've had in years and no I am not exagerating one little bit. I want to make it an annual thing every year whether it's to Florida or anywhere else I don't care. I can't really say we did anything to terribly exciting but I can say we rested and relaxed and slept and didn't have to feed or entertain anyone but ourselves. We didn't watch any cartoons or eat anything that came with a toy. We stayed up late and ate ice cream at midnight and breakfast for lunch and came and went as we pleased. We shopped and shopped and shopped and then when we felt like it we shopped a little more. I have never spent so much at one time in my life and it was soooooo fun. My little girl is the best dressed 2 yr old ever. I came home tanned and little crispy in parts and they are almost recovered now. Who knew the crease of your bum could burn so bad and make life so uncomfortable. My traveling companions were the best girls ever to be with. We all got along we all agreed on everything and I would go away with any of them anytime. I took lots of pictures and I will post them asap I promise.

Update #2
I came home to absolute chaos. Not with my family but my hair business obviously missed me. I havn't stopped working since I walked in the door two weeks ago. That will teach me to go on holidays. It's nice to be needed by others then just my family. It was good to be busy but I think I need another vacation.

Update #3
I discovered Facebook. I thought it was so dumb when I first heard about it and then Tricia informed me who I could contact on it and now I'm hooked. I found an old friend that I was glued to my last 2 years of high school and I can't wait to hook up again.

Update #4
I have fallen off the Weight Watcher band wagon. I need to get my motivation back, I havn't gained more then a couple of lbs but I feel gross and need to get back to being nicer to my body. I joined the Goodlife gym at Superstore and I love it there and the daycare is great. My kids love it and they will also watch them for me while I grocery shop, how great is that. I also get unlimited tanning in my membership so my Florida tan is here to stay for awhile.

Other then that now much else is happening, Jen the mom and I are having a joint garage sale this saturday and hopefully that will pay off some of Florida. It should make for an interesting day anyway. Well I'm off to cut more hair so I will see you soon.

Apple Pie Made With LOVE!!

When we went to Edmonton for Easter my son wanted to make a pie with Great-Grandma. She was thrilled, a little nervous but thrilled all the same. Great-Grandam is the one who keeps this family going. She is the on that everyone looks up to, and loves unconditionaly. My children are no different. Our son is especially dear to her heart because she was right there the moment he entered the world. She was with us when he was born and has been right there to watch him grow ever since. She proudly shows all her friends her pictures of the kids when ever she gets the chance. So much so that one day we walked into her apartment building and my son went running down to her door and as we ran past a women in the hall she looked at him and say " oh my that's evelyn great grand son boy has he grown " I have no idea who that woman as but she knew my son and probably knows as mucha bout him as I do. I thought it was sweet. I loved watching them bake together and create this wonderful symbol of love and commitment to each other. Nothing says grandma like warm apple pie. I heard it even tasted really good, I never did get any, snooze you lose I guess. I hope the kids will have there Great-Grandma around for awhile yet so they can continue to make more wonderful memories with her.

I apologise for some of the sideways pictures your about to see but I havn't figured out all the kinks yet with this picture posting thing, but I'm working on it.

Enjoy!!

My Handy Work!!

So I tell everyone I'm a pretty good hairdresser and I like to think that I'm not to bad but here's the proof folks. These are my two friends Tracy and Renea from Edmonton. I spent Easter weekend making them both over. Tracy was a challenge because she is A) Pregnant and always wanting change (I can handle that) B) running out of hair to change (I refuse to cut it really short) C) Were heading out on holidays soon and being the only pregnant one she needs to be hotter then us because she can't shop for new clothes while were away so hair it has to be. I'm pretty proud of how it turned out, the back is actually inverted and so the layers in the back are many and she can wear it curly, strait, flipped out or under and the bangs were a really cute addition. We went with blond highlights because it's warming up and tracy looks HOT as a blond in the summer with her gorgeous Tan she always gets. She is on hot momma if I do say.

Renea was also a challenge. She has a BUTT LOAD of hair and it takes me about 3 to 3 1/2 hours to do the whole process. Not to mention we didn't start coloring her hair until about 11:00PM on Friday night. We were done buy 2:00 AM though, not bad on my end. We had been coloring her quite red with some blond highlights for quite awhile and it was time for a change. We took her back to a dark brown and loaded her up with lots and lots of blond. Her hubby loves her blond and I have to admit so do I. She has come a long way with me this year. She also let me wax her brows not that long ago and let me tell you there was a beautiful girl under those brows. It was a lot of work that weekend but here is the final result and I was quite pleased. You both look amazing and I'm looking forward to flauting you both off in Florida. If you think these two look good you should see what I did to Reanna, Renea's little sister, I promise to get a shot of her next time. What I won't do toTracy with the short cut I happily did to Reanna.

My Baby Girls Room!!

Well here it is folks, the room I was soooo proud of. This is my daughters room that I did all on my own. I'm quite proud of my creation and I hope she will grow to love it as much as I do. I also hope she doesn't plaster the walls in long hair rock star pictures like her mother did when I was young. My poor mom must have been so frustrated with me. Oh well I did my part and hopefully the words will inspire her to be a little more well behaved then her mom was.

Don't worry Nana I never did anything bad in my room ( there were to many other rooms to choose from ).

Keeping Tricia Happy!!

A) Four jobs I have had in my life:
1. Weight Watchers Leader
2. Hairdresser (self employed)
3. Day Home Provider
4. CIR Realtors Receptionist

B) Four places I have lived:
1. Spruce Grove AB
2. Surrey B.C.
3. New Westminster BC
4. Calgary AB

C) Four TV SHOWS I love to Watch:
1. Numbers (the nerd math guy is CUTE)
2. Sex and the City
3. Friends
4. CSI

D) Four places I have been on vacation
1. Salsburg Austria (I was 17)
2. Banff ( My honeymoon)
3. California ( as a kid )
4. Florida ( as of may 5th it will be official )

E) Four foods I like:
1. SUSHI
2. Rice Cakes ( BBQ )
3. Lettuce Wraps ( frm Joeys )
4. Warm Cookies from the oven

F) Four places where I would rather be right now:
1. Florida with the girls
2. Spa
3. Asleep in my bed
4. Did I mention Florida

G) Four Hobbies or Games I enjoy:
1. Scrapbooking
2. Reading
3. Girls nights
4. Karaoke

H) Top four moments of my life:
1. Getting Married
2. Having my Children
3. Buying our first home
4. Booking a trip to Florida with no kids comming along.

Four friends I think will respond:
1. Hopefully Tracy because she is the only one who will find my Florida ranting funny.
2. Someone who can't think of what to blog today
3. Jen will because Tag your it.
4. Allison guess what Tag your it too. Ha Ha girls

I don't usually do stuff like this but I'm having one of those avoid the rooms where chldren might be. So I hope you enjoy.

Why Do I Care So Much!!

I have been blessed with friends who love me and look out for me. I like to think that I am a pretty low maintenance friend and don't require to much attention alot of the time. So when I have friends who need me emotionaly a little more then usual it's not really that big of a deal, but then why am I so danged overwhelmed by everyone else's lives.

I am a mother to two lovely kids so why am I forever feeling like I need to mother everyone else around me. I know that most of these people don't even care what my opinions for them may be but sometimes when I see people I care about making such STUPID choices I can't help but get frustrated that the obvious is right there and they are missing it completly.

So the question I pose is this... Why do I or we as women care so much? Why do I constantly think I have to take care of everyone and there kids and keep them fed and loved and coddled half of the time. These people have mothers and some even have sisters to do that for them. Why can I not just detach myself and say that it's none of my buisness and I don't need to be responsible for what goes on in there lives. Why do I care. I have always belived that I was a caring individual and I want to continue being that way but I just don't think I need to be lying awake at night pondering everyone elses problems especially when they don't even think they have a problem. I have the problem and I'm not sure how to change my inability to not get involved. Maybe I'm just nosey and need to feel involved, I don't know.

Help me Dr. Phil!!!!!!

Moving up the Ladder!

On last wednesday night I attended my Weight Watcher meeting as usual and was chatting with my receptionists when I hear one of the girls say... "Look out were being observed". I turned around to see one of my W.W. peers standing at my door wanting to be let in. Sure enough I was to be observed that very night. Oh Crap!! Well she couldn't have picked a better night to come I have to say I was on that night.

Our meeting topic was handling holiday food and situations. I was also giving away the easter basket I had made and that was also the night I gave away all the point info on the candy. Well talk about well informed. It was the biggest meeting I had ever had and my members were fantastic. They were funny and chaty and most of the meeting was them helping each other I just had to steer the conversation the right way. Well the observer was thrilled with my meeting and had only good things to say and she moved me up the ladder to a Leader 2 postition. I now make commision on my members that attend my meeting and can move onto my next level of training.

I felt sooooo good after that meeting that I really knew why I do this job. I love to help people lose weight and feel good about themselves but I also just love my members. They are my family now and I can't imagine a week without them.

41/2 lbs of chocolate have been added to this body!

Yes that's right 41/2 lbs of stress and weekend hoildaying have been added onto this butt of mine and I am feeling a little remorse. Yet I still have a hard time with not wanting to eat all the candy I can find. Somethings never change and me and emotional eating are here to stay.

Our Easter weekend was not quite what I expected but there were some great moments that's for sure. I arrived late thursday night to the Brown home where I was greeted by the ever lovely Tracy and her luscious Sex in a Pan just waiting for my arrival. We were up until 2 am doing her hair which I must say turned out really cute. You have to understand Tracy is pregnant with baby #4 and gets bored rather quickly with her hair. It's a good thing I have a good imagination because pretty soon she's gonna end up bald. But this time we found a keeper I hope, even though her sweet hubby doesn't like it. too bad.

I worked all friday and dragged myself to bed at 2 am again after another rousing evening of hair and laughter with friends. I even taught Tracy how to foil her sisters hair and that was a hoot to watch. I must say though she did an awesome job and I am very proud of her.

Saturday we spent with Great-Grandma making apple pie. My son was so excited to help His Great-grandma make pie and she loved the time together. I have lots of pictures to show you and I promise to get them up this week. We then spent some more time with the Brown family at west ed. mall at the amusement park. The boys had a great time and we wore them all out quite quickly. Then the evening's entertainment was spent at a very nice resturant and then dancing at the lounge. We always have a good time when were all together and it feels so good to just let loose and be ourselves. That night didn't end until 1:00 am and I was really feeling it by the time we got back to the in-laws.

The next morning we decided we were ready to head home. Grandma and Grandpa were not interested in anything fun to do with the kids so we came home for our egg hunt and and just relaxed together in our own home. The kids were good all weekend and now my Florida trip is all paid for. The Boys leave this Saturday and they are really really excited.

Thank you Brown Family for making our Easter weekend enjoyable if it hadn't been for you it would have been a real drag of a time but you always know how to make the days exciting. Especially with Jamie and his coupon book. See you soon

Am I The Good Witch or The Bad Witch?

I have had the lousyest couple of weeks I ahve had in a long time. I am overworked, underpaid, extremly tired and really tired of kids, work, demands and constant reminders of things I keep forgetting I have said I would do.

Then I have an incident with a family member and now I'm being asked " what happend to the compassionate Tammy we all used to know " well to tell you the truth I probably ate her!!!

I know I can be little short lately and well you try my life for awhile and see if you don't keep things short and to the point. I'm not a bad person but I just don't have the patience to sugar coat everything anymore. I'm sorry if I have hurt anyones feelings but life is black and white and if I don't see your grey ideas then to bad. I have grown up and maybe I do need to lilghten up a little bit sometimes, but I do alot for the people in my life and when I get slapped with guilt trips then I just don't have time for that.

The only person I really feel sorry for is my poor hubby. He gets the brunt of most things. He doesn't deserve that and I kbow he can't wait to go to Florida and escape his nutso wife for a few days. Maybe by the time he comes home I can saw off some of the horns and find his sweet compassionate wife that he married 9 yrs ago.

Sorry for the rant but I was unable to cry about it so here's what came out. Have a great weekend.

The truth will set you free and make you fat!

Since this is the week leading up to the Easter weekend and because of that I decided to do a little homework and see how depressing all the goodies can be. When I was a member of W.W last year at this time my leader took the time to look up all the points values of the treats and post them at the meeting for all of us to see. So I am doing you all the favor (if you want to look at it that way) and here they are.

Peeps (sugar coated marshmallow ducks) 2pts for 5 ducks.

Malted candy (whoppers) 5pts for 1/2 for 56grams (about 10 candys)

Hershey marshmallow egg coated in chocolate 2pts for 1egg

Cadbury mini eggs 3pts for 1 small snack bag

Reese peanut butter egg 4pts for 1 egg

Individual chocolate eggs wrapped in foil 5pts for 6

Cadbury creme egg 4pts for 1

Mr Solid, Mr Munchy, Mr Fruit & Nut 20pts for the whole bunny.

So what are you going to choose for the holidays. Carrots are looking pretty good right now actually. What I want to know is what would you put in your kids baskets if you decided that you wanted to make this holiday a little healthier.

I have been blessed with some really skinny kids but that doesn't give me a free pass to load then up with crap just because there not big. I heard on the news the other day that the obesity rate in Canadian children has grown so much that if your child is obese they will have a shorter life expectancy then there parents. That makes me what to cry. I was a plump little girl and thank heaven I learned early enough to take better care of myself, but who's teaching our kids if we don't. Please lets all try to make Easter a little more healthy this year and remember when Christ was resurrected he didn't come with a Mr. Solid bunny in his hand.

Have a happy Easter and Enjoy all your family has to offer.

Who Inspires You!!

That was the meeting topic at my Weight Watcher meeting last week. I don't pick the topics they are assigned to us from Weight Watcher International that way if you cannot attend your regular meeting the topics are the same all over the world. Well it got me to thinking... Who really inspires me.

1) My mom and dad - for always beliving that I could do whatever I put my mind to and never discouraged me from acheiving my goals. There are many times in my life now that I could call my parents and say " I guess you were right I should have listened " but hey I just said it on the internet so that's good enough.

2) My Husband - For always trying to make me a better person even when I don't want to. It's because of his faith in me that I have accomplished some of my greatest acheivments and I love that even though he may use some tough love sometimes it's really because he loves me.

3) My kids - Because they love me unconditionaly and that is the greatest feeling you will ever experiance. I'm not a perfect mom but they think I am and that means I have a lot to live up too.

4) My Friends - I could spend days describing how each friend I have drives me to be a better person but I can sum it up by saying that I have the best friends anyone could ever have. We may all be different and even make each other crazy sometimes but they are always there and when I need someone I can always find a friend to make the world make sense.

5) My Weight Watcher Members - I have an amazing group of people who insire me to keep going every week. I think every single one of them are amazing and each week they overcome obstacles that a lot of people would give into. They are inspiring and beautiful and I love being with them each and every week.

If I missed anyone or anything I'm sorry but if you can take a moment have a thought about who inspires you and let me know maybe they can inspire the rest of us as well.

Things that make me happy right now!

My clean house that only took an hour to clean because my hubby tidyed up Saturday and we did nothing on sunday.

Doing nothing on sunday for a change I think I actually got a day of a rest.

Being in my P.J's all say and not doing anything with myself for a change.

Having my hubby still hug me when I've done nothing with myself and I mean nothing.!

Watching my kids hug and snuggle on the floor and not bicker.

Hearing laughter at the dinner table when were all together.

Having girlfriends who just understand when it's unexplanable.

Clients who trust me and let my creative juices run wild on there hair.

I would have to say that my life in general is pretty good right now. I'm in a good place, I know there are lots of areas that need improvment but hey when the house is clean and the baby's are sleeping what else could you ask for.

Parent Teacher Conference!!

I'd like to say that my son is brilliant and is going to be the next Doogie Howser but lets be honest he's got my genes and it's going to take some work to get to that point. But Mrs Nichol his kindergarten teacher said that he's doing so well and he's a joy to have in her class. What more could a mom ask for. He's liked amongst his peers, and he loves going to school. Is it strange that through the whole meeting all I wanted to cry because I was so proud of this little boy who has grown up way to fast. I know he's a smart, wonderful, kind boy but when you hear someone else tell you it just makes your heart swell. I just have to tell him how much I love him and how proud I am of him. I can't wait to watch him grow more and see this little boy become my little man.

Home is where you hang your hat!

It's true when you hear that expression. If your anyone who has ever moved away from home you know that sometimes going back to your roots doesn't always feel the same.

I went home to Vancouver B.C. this weekend to surprise my dad for his 60th birthday. We had such a good time. It was well worth the money to see the look on his face when we walked in the resturant. We being myself and my little girl. I remember my dad turning 40, my mom made a huge deal out of it and it was a ton of fun, but 50 was quite foggy for me. So when I realized this was 60 I knew I couldn't miss it.

The weekend started on friday night. Tracy and Jamie came up to Calgary on the friday night and had dinner and a visit until about 10pm then they and there kids and me and my baby packed up in the van and headed out for the long drive. And long it was. Jamie was amazing I couldn't have done that drive. We had everything from Rain, snow, white out conditions and very little clear sky. He did it though and we were sure glad to see the Abbotsford exit signs up ahead. The kids were perfect, they all slept through the night and made it a little easier.

My baby brother Scott picked me up in Sumas and took me back to his house, but not before he took me past our old house. A little history for you, I grew up in one house only and lived there from the time I was born until I got married. My parents sold that house about 4 yrs ago and moved permanatly to 100 mile house. It was an old farm house that really needed some love and attention, but it was home to me and I have soooo many wonderful memories from that dwelling. Well my house it is no more the new owners have magically changed it into something amazing. I won't bore you with the details but HOLY CRAP what a difference, and hat's off to them it looks great. That was my first hint that home was not the same. We arrived at Scotts and hung out and showered and changed into some clean clothes and headed out for some breakfast and shoppping. Then we met up with my dear friends Marcy & Tricia and had a great visit over a healthy lunch amongst wiggily babies and my screaming daughter. It was soooo good to see the girls and catch up again. It never seems to matter how long were apart we always have so much to share and being with them feels like home.

After a busy morning and a very long night we headed back to Scotts and had a great nap so we were rested up for the evening. Then we cleaned up and headed off to the birthday party and saw some old friends and family I hadn't seen in a very long time. Most of the people there had never seen my daughter and it was nice to show her off. She was so good and that made the evening even nicer. We later wandered over to some friends house to visit with mom and dad a little longer and when I started to fall asleep in the chair Scott took me home to bed.

Then next day was spent visiting more friends and enjoying some good weather. We had brunch and headed off to the beach to stroll along the pier. I was shocked at the sight of the water. It use to be nice place to play in the water as kids but that has all changed. The water was brown and gross and we stuck to dry land but the air was fresh and clean and that was great. Baby Girl stole my ice cream cone and enjoyed every lick she got. It was a wonderful afternoon. We said goodbye to mom and dad there and then headed off to a fair in Cloverdale and met up with more friends and took the kids of some amusement rides and that was hoot. I love to watch my kids scream with glee and fright all at the same times. Both of my kids love rides and nothing seems to faze them.

We then wandered off to see more friends who offered to let the baby sleep at there place while Scott and I went to see a movie and enjoy some time together without any distraction from her. Monday morning we were up bright and early and off to the airport to head home to Calgary and The flight was great and we had no problems getting in right on time.

It was a great trip and very fast, but I saw a ton of people and caught up with everyone I wanted to. As we drove around my old neighborhoods it was very clear to me that I would be so lost if I moved home. Sure I would adjust but it doesn't feel the same anymore. Calgary is my home and I love it here. I miss my friends terribly and if I could buy them all homes here I would and then I could have the best of both worlds. I will never stop being amazed at how fast life changes around us, and yet I love how my life is ever changing and ever amazing.

Happy Birthday Daddy and here's to 60 more. (If anyone could do it you could. Unless the bears eat you first HA HA)

A poopy break-through!!!

Now you know your a mom when your child does something that would have totally groosed you out as a young adult, but as a mom your over the moon.

Just to back up a bit, I decided in January I would bring down my potty from storage and give it a wash and show it to my my youngest who was a mere 18 months at that point. I wasn't asking for miracles just giving her something to think about. She has an older brother who she alway's follows into the bathroom anyway so why not give the option. Well she loved to sit on it and everytime I went in to conduct my business she would join me. The only catch was she refused to take off her diaper. To actually sit on a cold seat was just to much for her precious bottom. Well today she told me she had to "pooppy on the potty" my usual reaction was "whatever" but she insisted and so I let her into the bathroom. I asked if she wanted to go and she said yes and headed to the potty. So I took a chance and removed her pants and undershirt (the kind with buttons) and then I took off her diaper. To my suprise she was actually starting to poop and when the diaper came off she sat right down and you'll never belive it she actually did it.

MY BABY POOPED ON THE POTTY!! I am beside myself with joy and yes I know it may not happen again for another year but hey it was momentous for me and we made a huge deal out of it and she was quite elated to recieve her candy treat afterwards.

It's these little moments that give me hope that there is a light at the end of a very long poppy tunnel. Here's hopin' for more perfect moments.

Tag I'm It!!


Real Mom's Have No Problem With What May Come Out Of Our Mouth's!


I have learned through my many years experiance that I am actually a really gross person and I don't care who knows. I say a real mom is someone who canbe gross and whos' kids think that's funny and husband will still sleep with them afterwards so here I am in all my glory. Love me or leave me. A real mom will never turn down a dare no matter how nasty or disgusting and will never be out done by a boy no matter how old.
So now I'm supposed to Tag 5 other people who are to find us a picture of what a real mom is, so I say Marcy, Tricia, Tracy, Tag your it. I am so pathetic that I don't know 2 other people who can tag so if you feel sorry for me then jump on the wagon and let's see what you got.
Well now that I can put up pictures there's no stopping me, wish me luck!

Being Accountable!

One of the hardest things about being a parent is having to disipline your children. Not only do you need to find a punishment fitting to the crime you also need to be more and more creative each time so they don't get the desire to keep commiting the same crimes.

Well my son was caught with the evidence in hand ( or mouth as the case may be ). My hubby is a HUGE computer geek. He likes to play a game on the computer called Battlefield ( purchased by my mom Thanks alot ) and he has gotten quite involved with it. He has a set of headphones with a microphone attached so that when he is online he can chat with the other nerds while they play. Well my son has taken to wearing the headphones while he play's his games on the computer. This is ok with us but it turn's out he has also taken to chewing on the microphone. No he was not raised by dogs but he has inherited a nasty habit from his mom. Yes I to am a chewer. Well in any such case he has now broken and fryed the microphone and to say the least his dad was not very pleased. I'm very proud of my hubby though he stayed calm and didn't yell, spank or any other of the usual reactions most parents have when they find something valuable broken. He had a good chat with our boy and asked me if I would help come up with an appropriate punishment. Well after much pondering here's what I came up with....

As of right now he is responsible for paying back his dad the money used for purchsing the headphones. He will do 3 additional chores to his regular load and when each said chore is done I will give him $1.00, until he has $50.00 saved. That money will then go to replacing his dads toy.

He must do the following chores that are usually his dads responsiblity's each and everyday...
1: Clean out the cat litter everyday.
2: Do the dinner dishes with Sally (our little tenant) every night.
3: Clean the two living rooms every night before bed.

To a 5 year old it's a mountain of chores, especially when he still has to feed the cat's twice a day, clean his room everyday, and help set the table each night for dinner. Call me cruel but hey for the most part he's a pretty great kid. I think I'm doing all right with this one. If only I could find the manual for his sister. I'm not a perfect mom but I'm doing the best the kind and if you ever meet all my dayhome kids you hopefully would agree I'm not bad. Yes I'm a little arrogant but hey you spend as much time with this many little people and you would toot your own horn once in awhile as well.

Happy parenting!

PMS Overload!!

Ever since I gave birth to my beautiful little girl I have turned into the biggest b*%&## ever. I was fine after my son but with her I'm not sure what happened. My period is normal but the week before I am such a bag!!!!

Heaven help my family for when Mama's not happy ain't nobody happy! God bless my husband yesterday for being smart enough to just wrap his arms around me and hug me and say nothing at all after I almost put my fist through the wall. And yes I can do that now. 9 yrs of marriage and two baby's later I'm much more open about my feelings. Thankfully that's why I have diet pop and girlfriends who love me no matter what. Also a hubby who alway's knows when I need a little girl time.

My kids are really good to ( all 6 of them ) they just seem to know when I need them to be exceptionally well behaved and they do a great job. Don't get me wrong I have a wonderful life and an amazing family but I am still a woman and when my hormones start rushing get out of my way. Would I rather be man, heck no! Would I want there jobs NO. Although sometimes I think that would be easier then having my 3 jobs and running a home all the time. But hey I think I do a pretty good job. Just cause I look hot in the pants doesn't mean I don't like trading them in for a cute little flared mini sometimes.

Don't worry my friends I purchased a box of Midol and I'm good to go. If all else fails take pills right? How do you deal with your PMS?

Inquiring minds want to know?

If I started a blog that was just weight loss tips and suggestions would anybody read it?

Let me know what you think.

I Struck Liquid Gold!

If any of my readers are not Mormom (such as myself) you may think I'm totally crazy but I found something I've been without for a very long time. You better be sitting for this. I found Caffeine Free Iced Tea made with Slenda at Wal-mart last night. It's in the little packages for your water bottle and they are flavored ( I bought Tangerine ) I am in love right now. I havn't had Iced Tea in years and it's the one thing I miss the most since I joined the church. I don't miss beer, or smoking and wasn't into anything illegal, but iced tea was a favorite. Well deprived I am no more. And It's made with Splenda so it's Weight Watcher friendly. I was so excited to actually drink water today and that hasn't happened for a long time. I even like it more then my diet pepsi and I didn't think that was possible.

You know it's the little things that make life work for me. I let you know what other finds I come across. I did come across some berries and creme Dr Pepper and it's not that great. I prefer the cherry vanilla much better but hey I can say I gave it a shot. On a scale of 10 it's a 5-6.

Boy's, Boy's, Boy's!

This weekend we had the privledge of having the Brown family come and spend the weekend with us. I have forgotten what 4 boy's in one house canbe like and it reminded me that my house is not as big as I would one day like to have. We had sooooo much fun. Tracy's middle boy was turning 5 and we were able to celebrate his birthday with him. How much fun!!! As you all know I love to make birthday cakes and No I am not the fancyest or best but I still love to try. We made Keagan a "Sword" cake. You know like Knights and stuff. It was pretty fun and the boy's loved it. Then the dad's took them to the monster truck show and let us mom's have a break. It was mucho fun and I know the boy's really enjoyed each other. After they all left my son asked if he could send Keagan a letter telling him how much fun he had and asked me to mail it. (will be mailed today Tracy)

I love our visits with the Tracy and Jamie. We had som much history and so many fond memories (some of which I need to remind them of due to some peoples short memories Ha Ha). Jamie booked us girls our trip to Florida on saturday. Yee Haw. 5 days with no kids, husbands or work to take of. If you know how crazy my life is you would really appreciate that. I can't wait to be in the sun and shop and hang out with no responsibilitys at all. We have a good group going down and it will be soooooo much fun.

On of the promises I made myself this year was to have a little more fun and this will be a great way to start. Oh and our shopping spree at Value Village on saturday was a good way to kick it off as well. Thanks Tracy for more great memories and I can't wait to see you in a couple of weeks for our pre-florida weekend. Stay tuned for the post on that bad boy.

Well laundry awaits and then I'm off to tend to the babes. Have a great day.

Friendship and Me!!

It has recently come to my attention that a very good friend of mine has been misinformed that she is thought of by someone as something she is not. I won't go into detail but I have a few thoughts on how I feel about the friendships I've made.

Growing up I never really made a whole lot great friends, I was not very popular and really not very well liked because of whatever reasons. I grew up in the era where material things meant alot more to young kids then they ever should have. Fortunatly though as I approached young womenhood there were some wonderful people who were ready and willing to be there for me through thick and thin. Part of me want's to tell you about each and everyone of them but I could be here for hours and who knows what the kids could to the house in that time.

Let's group some of you together. Tricia and Marcy. You guys have been with me through school, many boyfriends until we found the right one's, weddings, baby's, moving away and so many other little things in between. You know me well and even though I only see you once a year now, when we are together it's like time waits for those moments. I love that no matter what you were there for me and no matter what you alway's will be. You are both kind and loving and think only of others when your needed. I love you.

Jenny you are my saving grace. When I need you, you are 110% there for me. You keep me sane and never do you make me irritated or annoyed. Our kids are close and that makes our friendship even more better. You are the sister I should have had and not just because your mom is crazy. I love our 12 phone calls a day and even when they are only 30 sec. long. I would not make through my long day's without you. I love you.

Tracy, you know things about me that no one else knows. You have seen me grow as a latterday saint in ways no one could. You have been my example and my strength for so many years. Your family is like my own and I wouldn't be the person I am today without you and them. You make me a far trendier mom then I would ever be on my own. You bling me up when I am all frumped out and I havn't worn my overalls since you looked at me with such disapointment that day Ha Ha. You are beautiful and wonderful and I love how you glow with that spirit. I still have never seen a more beautiful bride than you were on your wedding day and I have seen alot of brides, but none that shone with your light. I love you.

Tina and Mary, you two are the reason God brought me to Calgary. We have needed each other in may ways and I am honered to know you two and your family's. You are me family out here and I would be so lonely if it wasn't for your friendships. We have been through more things in 4 yrs then I have been through in 30 yrs, and that is know exageration. I love you both for your courage and strength and hope that you will always turn to me in your hour of need as I know I have turned to you guys in mine. I love you.

As for the rest of you girls, I love all of you. I have been blessed by so many wonderful women in my life that it's hard to put all I want to say in words. Thank you for letting me ramble on and when I am old and gray, well old anyway, I can look back on these words and remember how loved I really am.

Thank you!

A fresh new look!!

Well I finally did it!

I got brave enough to actually paint a room in my house. My daughters room was my first attempt at designing and I have to say I did an awesome job. Her room is now a beautiful shade of Lavender that we found in a mistint pile at Canadian tire for $10.00. Then I stenciled all the young women values (faith, divine nature, individual worth, knowledge choice and accountability, good works and integrity) all around the top of the room. Above her closet though it say's " A daughter of God " with the values following after. They are all painted a light pink with a dark pink outline. Then I stamped (yes that's right marcy and tricia I stamped) daisy's all around on either side of each phrase. Then I got white curtains and hung them in her window and tied them with some pink ribbon so you can still see out the window. I am in love with this room. It feels so feminine and girly. and I hope when she's older she can appreciate the wisdom in the words that will surround her. It's my first attempt at being really creative with our home and I LOVED IT!!! I can't wait to do another project now and hone in on my painting skills. I think I'm scaring my hubby though. I did get a few spots of purple on the ceiling but my touch up work was pretty dang good. Now I need to my son's room and I'm envisioning the colors of Spiderman. I won't do a spiderman themed room. but red and blue would be pretty cool, and the blue would match his bed perfectly, but I guess I should let him have say seeing as he is 5 yrs old and will probably have an opinion of his own. Curse you independence I miss the day's when I could think for them. Oh well as soon as I take some pictures of baby girls room I will post them for all to see. And if for some weird reason you don't like it keep it to yourself I like the my happy bubble just the way it is. Ha Ha

Just Another Day In Paradise!!

If you want to call 5 days of straight snow paradise. Don't get me wrong I love this city but Holy Crap the snow is getting old. Yes Yes I know we havn't had much this year but it's a good thing we havn't cause I'd probably lose my mind. It's pretty to look at but if I hafe to sweep the snow off my steps one more time today I'm gonna lose it.

Well now that my rant is over, it's been a pretty good day thus far. The house is almost clean, the laundry is half done and I stole an hour to cuddle with my baby girl and snooze in the rocking chair. I really don't have anything profound to say but I thought that if I don't get something down while I have a moment I may never see the light of the computer again.

I did have the opportunity to have a date with my hubby on friday night. We do try to fit each other on once in awhile but life tends to get in the way so much. Well much to my surprise he made a reservation at a quaint little italian resturant and we had a wonderful dinner. The food was amazing, I love the Olive Garden but the portions here put them to shame. It was soooo good even hubby couldn't finish his and had to pack it up to bring home. (first time in 10 yrs I've seen him do that) It was nice to dress up and be a grown up for a change. I must add that I was quite hot, so hot in fact I turned myself on staring at me. I have discovered the wondrous world of the corset. No lady's they are not only good for getting him riled up in a bad way, but my waist shrunk and my belly was as flat as it was before I got married and popped out 2 kids. I was GORGEOUS!!!! I like to think of myself as fairly humble but hey I am allowed to let loose once in awhile.

My children are wonderful, my son is growing up too fast for me, but I have learned that he still loves to cuddle under a blanket with his mom and watch cartoons on a sunday afternoon. My little girl is becoming quite the little girl. She has a new love of sitting on my lap while I do my hair on sunday morning and then she will let me curl hers. She has the straightest hair ever and when it's curly she looks just like me when I was her age. She melts my heart and wraps her daddy ever tighter around that little finger of hers.

So I guess snow and all my world is pretty good, even a little like paradise sometimes. We are heading off to Edmonton this weekend for some hair and family time. The best part will be that we are arriving on friday which is Tracy Browns birthday and we will be off to celebrate once we arrive. YEE HAW. It's always fun when us girls get together and this will be no exception.

See ya then.

Resolutions, Resolutions, Resolutions!!

We all say were not going to set resolutions, but we will set goals, or a plan or just try to do better this year at whatever it is needs to be better. I've got news for you, no matter what you call it, it's still a resolution. We guess what I'm in there like a dirty shirt.

Goal #1: Remove as much debt as possible
Goal #2: Lose 10 Lbs (again)
Goal #3: Possibly have another baby
Goal #4: Not work myself into the ground (oops to late)
Goal #5: Spend more time with my hubby (see I can't even remember his name)

They are typical resolutions but hey I'm a pretty typical girl. So if you have any tips for any of them pleeeesssseee let me know I need all the help I can get.

What are your plan for the new year let me know and let me help.

One hot 30 year old!!

Yes folks that's right I am 30 years old now and I am hot. I had a great birthday this year. Probably the best I've had in years. My wonderful friend Jen the mom, planned a swinging party at a pub here in the NW, it was not the pub she was thinking of but you know what it was just what we all needed after a week with sick kids. We watched a couple of hockey games, shot some pool, did some karaoke. It was a blast. We did have a party pooper in our midst but that pooper left and we resumed our good time. I havn't laughed so hard ever in my life. Tara even got the bartender to make me a virgin shooter. A muff diver if you can belive it. For those who are unsure, you take a very large martini glass and place a shot glass inside. My shooter this evening was Coke and Grenadine, then you fill the whole thing up with whipping cream and bury the shot glass. My job was to stick my face inside the martini glass and dig out the shot glass with my tongue and shot er back. Well a drink virgin I may be but a tongue one I am not and I was quite successfull in finding said shot glass. It was a riot.

It was sooo much fun, and I am so grateful to have a friend like Jen who would take the time plan such a great night for me. I have been so richly blessed with friends in my life. I may not have any real sisters but the women in my life make it complete. Thank you Jen for making 30 a little less painful then it could have been, you just wait till yours, you ain't seen nothin'.

Happy FEBRUARY New Year!!

Soooooo Sorry for the delay but my life has turned into the dayhome, hair salon, Weight Watcher world of crazyness. Don't get me wrong I love my life but holy crap what have I gotten myself into.

Well for anyone who may be wondering we had an amazing christmas. My whole family was here and it's been 4 years since we were all together ove the holidays.

First Nana and Papa arrived with Tara and her three kids in tow. Then Donn and Brandi and Emma-lee showed up two days later, and Scott arrived two days after that. Our home was full and fortunatly so was our fridge. Everyone came happy and healthy and my chlidren made sure to share all there germs with the Emma (10 months) and she came down with her first cold. I felt like the worst aunty in the world but fortunalty for me she loved me best and it was non stop kisses for aunty. She is the cutest little thing I have ever seen. My kids are definalty cute but Emma is a jewel and I can't wait to watch her grow.

We didn't stray to far from home to often, it's amazing how much work it is to herd that many people out the door in the morning. Church was a feat in itself, but yes my whole family went to church with me and it was soooo wonderful to have the spirit surround us all together. We did manage to get to the zoo and the kids were perfect, we went to banff on christmas eve, we did lots of shopping. Nana and Papa were in a spending mood and spoiled all of us the whole visit. Our evenings were full of Karaoke and cards and more laughter then I've had in a long time. I love being with my family and especially my brothers. We are so different yet we can laugh at the same things and also at ourselve's. I really wanted to show my big brother how grown up I really am. That I can keep a home, a job, kids, and a hubby and still keep my sanity. I don't know why I've never grown out of wanted to impress him but I havn't and I guess I will always be that way. I look up to him and love him and just want him to know I'm o.k. My baby brother I just want to take care of, he has been my best friend for most of my life and alot of my favorite memories are of him and I doing really simple things and mostly just being there for each other. I would do anything for both of them and I know those feelings are returned.
Now my sister in law, I need to live closer to. She is so freekin funny. She comes across as quiet and shy but that is just a cover, she can be loud and hold her own in a poker game. She is a famtastic mom and a great wife to my brother. I loved giving her a makeover at 10 at night. There's nothing like removing facial hair from the ones you love. She got plucked, dyed, cut and streaked all in one night and it was sooooo much fun. She looked awesome. I can't for our next visit so we can re-live and make new memories together.

It was also great to see Tara and the kids again and see how much the kids have grown and changed. It was also a shock to see how much tara shrunk. Skinny cow lost 45 lbs and never told me she had till she got here and suprised us all. She looked hot and I forgot how much I missed our talks and visits. It was also really fun to chop all of her and Britt's hair off. I never get tired of that!!

All in all it was a fabulous holiday and I look forward to the next one but holy crap am I glad it's a whole year from now.

There Is Something Terribly Wrong With Me!

If your not sure what I mean let me explain....

I have a disease called the " can't say NO to anything " disease. Let me go further...

Tammy can you cut my hair RIGHT NOW? Why sure come on over. (never mind the fact that it's 10pm and I've been up since 6am)

Tammy can you find a gift for my parents (my in-laws) to give to them in two days? Sure I'm up for the challenge of buying for the two hardest people in the world ever.

Tammy can we bake cookies and peanut brittle and rice krispy squares shaped like candy canes and fudge and chocolates and make christmas cards TODAY? Sure I only have 4 clients and a Weight Watcher meeting to do tonight.

Tammy can you watch 12 kids, cut hair, bake for the neighborhood, sing in the choir, dance on your head, sew a new dress, wrap all the presents and keep the house clean and not serve corn dogs for dinner. Sure I'm at your service.

HELP ME I HAVE A PROBLEM!!!!!!!

I cannot say no to anyone, why is that.

I love to make people happy that's why I cut hair and teach Weight Watchers. I love to make people love themselves and love what I can make them become. I need to remember though that supermom was my mom and I do not need to be that women. My mom was amazing but I can bet my life she was probably very tired some days. I am tired most days. I have this thing that when I'm tired my body lets me know by starting to ache. It usually starts in my legs and works it's way up my back and If I've really pushed my self my arms start to ache as well. Yesterday I could barely lift up my arms to drive home from my W.W. meeting and I arrived home only to be joined my a full head of highlights, which if you want to do a half decent job you do need to lift them slightly higher then my waist. Well three Advil later I was on my way to giving said client and beautiful head of hair that I know will knock her hubbys socks off. I on the other hand was not a happy girl when the alarm went off at 6am and I dragged my butt out of bed to start a new day this morning. I need some calgon take me away time. Not happening though. I am heading off to Edmonton tomorrow to do 8 more heads of hair before the holidays start.

Why do I do this you ask? Well we will have a very merry christmas this year because of it and in the end I REALLY love what I do. I love making women good about themselves and I love feeling needed and I know that alot of my clients could never afford these luxuries if I didn't offer them. I keep prices low so we can afford to feel good and not feel guilty. So hey I will back on Sunday night and if I can make you good this holiday please let me and if not I will sure as heck be waiting for buisness in the new year.

Are We There Yet?

Crap this holiday is exhausting!! Have I mentioned I have 18 people coming for Christmas this year. It's not that I'm not excited because I'm totally pumped, but holy crap I am tired. I have tried to be as relaxed as I can but all of a sudden I realize that the gifts are not bought, the tree only just went up yesterday, the house is still a disaster (even after a full trunk load went to the 2nd hand store) and I'm really stinkin' tired. So what am I doing to remedy it, I am sitting here on Jen the Mom's computer while she pick's up her kids and I hang out at her house and pretend that the mess in my house doesn't exist. Is it working?

I have had lot's of drama in my life lately none that I can go into great detail about at the moment but let me tell you life is never dull when you have friends and family like mine. I love the people in my life but WOW am I grateful for my uneventful life and my boring kids and husband. Knock on wood life stays boring for awhile. Jen the Mom was right when she said I suffer from a disease called the can't say NO disease. I am going to duct tape my mouth shut on the first of January so I can hopefully have a restful month. How much you wanna bet that that won't last long. Oh well at least I'm never looking for something to do.

On a positive note the kids and I did get a good start on the holiday shopping last night and we may be done by the end of the weekend. Well maybe not done but at least almost there. I hope all your preparations are going well and don't worry the Christmas cards will hopefully be mailed out by Monday. Miss Tricia Price was the official first holiday card that arrived at our home today and was soon followed by one from Ron and Bel Bishop.

See you soon

A Growing Family!!

Don't get all worked up, It's not what your thinking. Our new additions have come in many forms and shapes and sizes. First off we are the proud parents of a 18yr old teenage girl let's call her Sally ( sorry creppy people no real names used here. ). She comes to us from Kamloops B.C. and is a Massage Therapy student going to school and working here in Calgary. We LOVE her. She is a wonderful addition to our home. The kids love her and so do hubby and I. She is the teenage pregnancy I should have had. She is funny and charming and so well matched to our little family. Yes she is member of our church and so family prayers have been added onto. Now we are learning how to worry about a teen when she goes out on dates and I find myself waiting up for her. Hubby checks out all the guys she brings around ( although it's only one guy she's smitten with ) and we have an extra set of hands to help with the kids and that is priceless. We have tried to make her arrangement with us as similar to home as we can and according to her weve done a good job. Welcome home Sally and we hope your here for while.

Secondly we have also adopted my hubbys latest baby, a 52 inch LG t.v. It's a DLP, rear projection t.v that hubby has been looking for for almost 6 months now. We looked and looked and had given up the dream for awhile when sweet Sally called from work ( Electronics store ) and said that one had been returned, repaired and left behind and the store wanted it gone for $800.00 including the stand. Well that's better then the $4000.00 we thought we would have to spend to get what we wanted. So needless to say it is proudly displayed inour basement and hubby is feeling like the million dollar man right now. Thank you Sally!

I on the other hand have the project of getting ready for this up comming holiday of merryment. Am I feeling merry yet? well it depends on the moment. Last night after picking up a few gifts and wrapping them I felt pretty good. Today while I dusted the house and tryed to re organize the entire house Not so much merryness here. I have 18 people comming for the holidays and my house is only 1350 sq ft. It's good thing we developed the basement or I would be Merrily screwed. It will be a tight squeeze but we will make it work somehow. If you have any suggestions please let me know I could use all the help I can get.

I'm a Skinny Hairy Girl!!

If you havn't noticed it's almost 11:30 at night and I am awake and talking to myself on the computer. I started my day dashing off to a Weight Watchers meeting I was asked to sub, very last minute night before last. Then I rushed back to pick up my Son at school, come home and make lunch, putter around in the afternoon, make dinner, then rush back out (in the snow I may add) and do another meeting for my loyal over weight fans, then I came home and spent two hours giving a new male client a fantastic head of highlights that he loved and when I was finished that I proceded back to the kitchen to put away dinner (funny how everyone else missed that) and make lunch's for the boy's for tomorrow. Now when I should be crawling into bed beside myself with exhaustion I have cleaned up the basement and ended up with you folks filling in my time on this my ever faithful blog. CRAP I'm crazy. Would I trade this for anything? NO. I love both of my jobs and when people are happy I'm happy. Although I think I should try a little snoooze, this desk is looking pretty good, I wonder what would happen if I put my head down here..... zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Why Am I Awake??

Well It's 7:15am and the first time in a week I'm up way earlier then I need to be. So here I sit trying to thinkof something profound to tell you. I gotta say I'm stumped.

I used to be the worlds best morning person and now two kids, one husband, multiple jobs later I would give anything to be able to bury my head in my pillow till noon and not even acknowledge the fact that life began at 7am. Oh well kids grow up and one day I will look back on this think that was such a quick moment. Then I will roll over and go back to sleep, honest I will.

Well this past week has been interesting, my hubby has taken on a seconf job in order to purchase a few extra toys that he has been dreaming of. He didn't want to take from the family budget and for that I am thankful because it's tapped out. On the other hand that kida have barely seen him this last week. There missing him but they will have most of saturday with him and in the long run they will be fine. I grew up not seeing my dad as often as I'm sure he would have liked, but jobs and early bedtimes sometimes don't always mesh together well. I still love my dad and when he was with us we got all of him 110%. It won't be forever and when he buys me my very expensive birthday present (that he will I'm sure) it will make everything all better.

I have always been the one to work multiple jobs for our family, before and after babies. I know there are many dear friends out there who have always thought I work to much and should be able to just be at home and relax, but unfortunalty I'm not made that way. For example I currently juggle being a stay at home mom, with 3 that's right count em up 3 part time jobs. I have a small day home with 2 lovely kids in it, I work 2 to 3 times a week for weight watchers, and I also do hair at home for an increasing group of wonderful clients. I am proud to say that I drop off and pick up my son everyday at the school and even though I would like to volunteer more it would be hard with my daughter who is still pretty little (16 months). I have no regrets and have worked hard for everything we have. I'm happy that hubby is having a small taste of my life and hope he gets those toy's soon, so can enjoy his rewards.

Well speaking of school it's almost time to go and I don't think it would appropriate to drop him off and head out to walmart in my house coat (as sexy as I am.) See you after work!

It's not a Tumor!!

It's my son, attached to my back that is already aching. Why is it when I want to take a few minutes to check my e-mail and catch up with a few friends the kids decide they should glue themselves to my body and drive me nut's.

I decided that the kids were not to play any video games at all today. Not because they have been bad but because I wanted them to actually use there very vivid minds that I know are in there. They are becoming so used to being entertained that they don't want to play lego or do puzzles any more and it's kinda sad that they would rather shoot people and monsters and not stare longingly at a square box. So today I made them actually play together and you won't belive it but they actually got along quite well. The boy's even sat in a chair together and read a book. What a crazy thing eh? I think I need to do this more often and find a few more thinking toy's for them. I know they have imaginations, they just don't use them enough. Computer games and video games are fun and useful for sometimes but not for all the time.

Am I a bad mom for doing this or should I have done this sooner? Let me know.

I Gobbled Till I Wobbled!!

And that is no lie. I can't belive how much I ate, it's almost embabaresing how much I stuffed in body, and then expected it to function normally. Well let me tell you it was struggling. I did manage to have a really good visit with my In-laws and that was the most important part. I have to tell you I am really fortunate to have a mother and father in law who treat me like one of there own. I my hubby ever died or ran off if someone floozy who was hotter then me ( yeah right he knows a good thing when he's got it) I know that my in-laws would never let me go. My father in law is especially good to me. He treats me like the daughter he's always wanted and nothing is too good for me. He is responsible for purchasing all my salon equipment and also for instaling it all. He always cooks all my favorites when I visit and then send me home with a car full of goodies. This weekend was no exception. I came home with ALL the leftovers. And when I say all I mean I came home with 10 count em up, that's right 10 tupperware containers full of Turkey, Stuffing, Veggies, Potatoes, Jelly, Sweet Potatoes, Cherry Pie, and all the Gravy. That didn't include the whole pumpkin pie that was on the floor of the backseat. And I also got the leftover carcass for soup as well. How's that for the mother load.
The only down side was my mother-in-law woke up sunday morning with a terrible flu and slept the whole day. Then I took home all the leftovers and she got none. Just on my own defense I was unaware that I was inheriting all the food or I would of made sure she got a plate of something. Oh well who am I to complain.

The kids also had a nice visit with my hubby's grandmother. She absolutley adores her great-grandkids and you can see it when she looks at them. That my friends is true love. That is the soul reason why women have kids in some case's. This women raised four of her own children and also raised my husband when his mom died when he was just 2months old. Grandma Hanson took over and raised him as well.

If I've totally confused you now, let me give you a brief summary. My husbands mom died when he was an infant. His real Father never wanted him. So when his mom passed away, Grandma raised him and when he turned 8yrs old, she took on the help of her son John. John raised him till he was grown with Grandma's help and so that is how he grew up. Now the man I call my father in law is actually Uncle John. Do you follow me now. My mother in law is John's long time girlfriend Sharon. They have been my in laws for the last 8 1/2 years. Which makes there love for me even more amazing because the ties we have created were just there and It show's me how much we were meant to be together.

Now back to the turkey, did I mention how freaking great it was. My father in law is the most awesome cook and he dominated thanksgiving dinner this year.

It is good to have another holiday over so that we can move ourselves a little closer to Christmas. I know I'm crazy for saying that but that's when the family arrives and that's when the fun starts. I can't wait to show them the city and do all the touristy stuff with them. We will even take an overnighter to Edmonton and do the mall and visit with my in laws once more.

Well I hope all your weekends were wonderful and you enjoy your turkey sandwich's all week. Till then.

I Blame The School For This!

My Son was complaining about a sore ear on saturday and I thought nothing about it, then yesterday he woke up with a slimey green eye. Can you guess what disease he has now. That's right you guessed it, Pink Eye. Even though it's more green then pink right now, that's what they are calling it. Not to mention the disgusting ear infection that caused the eye problem in the first place. Can it get any better. I blame school for this I know that it's not directly there fault but better them then me right. I didn't give him any of this, so which little minion with the dirty fingers did. Luckly for me Liam actually enjoy's being medicated and the drops don't bother him at all. He loves the doctor and was quite insistent that I take him to the clinic last night. I wasn't moving fast enough for him. Anything to be the center of attention wonder where he get's from??

Now it's Monday morning and I woke up to a beautiful snow fall this morning. I love waking up to white, and no that's not sarcasm. Growing up in Vancouver white was something you only saw once a year and the whole city would shut down. Now White is just part of my everyday life this time of year and it doesn't bother me at all. We had a beautiful summer and a short but lovely fall and now it's time for old jack frost to come a nipping. The only thing that I did realize this morning is that my poor baby girl has no winter coat. So off to the mall we go this morning to try and find one. I've waited many years to try and find just the right pastel pink or purple coat with hopefully a little faux fur on it to dazzle and woo all that are in her presense. Perhaps we will be able to find a matching pair of boot to accompany it. How lame am I but hey I only to get to dress her for ashort period of time and I'm going to froof her up till she's vocal enough to say no. Wish me luck and if your child has been any where near mine in the last four days keep a close watch on there eye's to. Sorry!!