~It's a simple thing... an eVeryDay RiZZuto thing~

advent activity updates

2011-12-28T21:25:00.004-07:00

A quick recap of some of my favourite advent activities. Well the ones I got a photo of! Not only did I forget to post them, I managed to take a camera with an empty battery to every activity! Thank goodness for iphones, saying that mine seems to take funny pictures, anyone know why? YES I have cleaned the lens!

Enzo's- need i say more?

Snowflake blueberry pancakes for dinner

Carolling, and playing the sticks

love his donkey

wrapping and writing,wrapping and writing

Yes Michael and Enzo did that to me, no self control I tell you, it was cruel. I had to stop looking at the tree and not be alone in the house. I still can not stand not knowing.

After a week that included 3 violin performances, 1 school concert and 9 ice times, we decided Anthony needed a day off school to stay home a do some Christmas baking.

Mia first hot rollers? Not sure why she needed them?

ready for the snow

Skating party with some GREAT friends

So pretty!

One more thing I forgot

2011-12-28T17:41:00.001-07:00

Beautiful pictures
day 23

Okay, well I forgot that I had started this advent thing? What can I say. I also forgot my visa pin number on the 22 and my password to log onto the computer? I forget on a daily bases! I am not surprised! I quick mention of are favorite advent reads.

Along with the Nativity story of course!
day 24

day20

day21

day 19

My personal favorite! Get the tissue!
day 18

a long one but a good one
day 22

day 15

we had an extra this year! so we doubled up one night!

Advent Week 2 part 2

2011-12-11T22:26:00.001-07:00

Day 8

Here's what we read! Lots of short fun books like these!

Let the baking begin! Who doesn't love this activity?

Whipped candy cane shortbread is a good place to start!

Day 9

Yes I know there is no unselfish good deed, but we do them anyways. This one we invited some friends! It made it much more fun! The kids made sandwiches for the drop-in centre in are city. 10 kids + 25 minutes = 184 sandwiches? SO simple.

The book of the day

This one has a CD! Good one of the car! I also like DIck Van Dyke's voice!

Day 10

Sledding!! What a gorgeous winters day! I explained to Enzo that winter starts on the 21st. Boy was he disappointed. He thought we were half we though, even on a perfect almost winters day, it wasn't fun to think, really winter hasn't even started! At least we had fresh snow blue sky!

The advent book!

A Star for Christmas

Day 11

The advent book!

A soon to be Canadian Classic?

The activity for the day was to perform three random acts of kindness.

They did it! I wasn't sure who this one was going to go. The boys went right to it! Enzo had his done in first one with in 3 minutes! Even cuter was listening to him explain what it meant to Anthony." it doesn't count if anyone know about it" he shouted! Anthony wasn't as excited, but he did it!

Advent week 2

2011-12-07T23:50:00.000-07:00

Day 5

Back to life no question!

Today we read The Legend of the Christmas Stocking

Are activity for the day was a fun and easy one. Well they are all this week actually.

A Christmas Tree Surprise for each of us! An ornament to help us some of are favourite things this year!

Day 6

St. Nicholas Day! A northern European tradition as well as one in the Rizzuto home! We shoes were out, and yes we got Chocolate!

Here's what we read!

Day 7

The Activity, Silent Night! Today we come home, light the fire, light the candles, turn on the tree lights. and enjoy the dark silence of the season. We cook, eat and read with out the lights. Very little talking is done once inside the house. It's a nice night. We just enjoy the silence. It's very peaceful!

The book one of my favourites... Get the tissue!

The First Christmas Stocking

Gingerbread time

2011-12-04T21:13:00.001-07:00

Day 4

Today we read The Light of Christmas It's one of Enzo's favorites. We read it often this time of year, he doesn't move a muscle when he listens to this one. In fact he is almost asleep by the end every time, year after year!
The advent activities continued with Aunt Tiff. Gingerbread houses! Anthony's is still being constructed. The perfectionist! We need more candy, of course. He is building the house to live in. Mia made the dog houses? I think the boys told here to do that one! And Enzo - I love this one. He made COP. Hard to tell in the picture, but it's AWSOME! It has a bike park, ski hill, skating rink, bobsled track, ski jump, just like the real thing. He is the one that loves to play!
I feel some serious gratitude towards my sister. I think gingerbread houses are lovely and very fun for kids to make. It is defiantly one tradition I can do without. WAY to messy. I love that she made them today. It was 100x more fun with out Mom around! I can only imagine the state of the kitchen. It was perfectly clean when we got home! THANKS!

a DATE!

2011-12-03T00:20:00.001-07:00

Day 3

We read Christmas Eve Magic I love the illustrations in that one! Only I did read it! ;0

The activity this was a good one! My favourite. Zoo lights It's an annual tradition with cousins, 2 brave Aunts, the patient Uncle and babysitting Grandparents for the ones that are just to little! Finished off with a Sleep over with Aunt TIff because Mom & Dad went here

to enjoy the snow and see this guy! I don't know who loved it more, us or the kids? A trip to the spa to finish off a peaceful weekend has left my skin so slick you could skate on it. Ohhhhh, how that feeling makes me smile!
An ever so slight kink in this much anticipated advent event for everyone else. A snow storm! It missed us but hit home right about the time they were leaving for Zoo lights. They didn't make it. Very sad, instead they spent an hour and a half in the car trying to get home. However the night was saved by the playing in the freshly fallen snow with cousins and the light of the moon WAY past bedtime! Love those Aunts!! Doesn't the thought of being kid in new snow with cousins make you want to frolic in the snow tonight? I might go build me a snowman in the dark!

The best way to spread Christmas Cheer, is singing loud for all to hear.

2011-12-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

Day 2
We read The Grinch!

The Activity was a Christmas Movie and Eggnog Milkshakes!-SO YUMMMMMYYY!

Anthony Picked Elf "THE BEST WAY TO SPREAD THE CHRISTMAS CHEER IS TO SINGING LOUD FOR ALL TO HEAR"- love that!

We also filled Essential backpacks. I forgot to take the picture, but it was fun. It is amazing how much you can get done in 20 minutes when you all share the same goal! We filled 20 of them with all sorts of things. The boys had a great time. They would put things in and Mia would take them out!

It's beiginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2011-12-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

The year Mia was born, I did a lot of blogging over Christmas. It was my effort to "make Christmas happen!" Today I told my lovely SIL that it's not the traditions for Christmas day but the traditions of advent that we love. After this comment I thought that is very true! What am I doing to preserve the magic of this season? Then I remembered... I have a blog I should use it! My goal is to share are traditions of the season! All comments/suggestions are welcome! I can always use more ideas! I would love to update it daily, but really who am I kidding? I don't even check my emails that often!

Advent 2011

My goal for my children is to create a place and time for quiet and reflection in the dark, yet very busy winter. We celebrate our gifts in simple acts of giving and togetherness. I make it a goal to have all the decorations and tree up before the 1st. As well as most of the shopping!

This is what we do for Advent.
Are very first advent with Anthony started the year he turned one with wrapped books.
We open a book a day, who ever has the red quilt on their bed chooses the book to unwrap. The quilt ends up on the bed on the child who has done something a little extra special.
We also have an Activity Calendar. Lots of very simple actives but something that brings us together every day.
On the Friday of the month, we give service to a local organization that needs it.
Sadly I couldn't resist these again...Mia got a sticker advent.

Day 1
Today is was The Christmas Candle

Activity was Letters to Santa!

Back to school, back to blog

2011-09-08T09:54:00.001-06:00

Back to school already? Summer is just not long enough for this family. I decided my much over due entry was required, really I just wanted to share these sweet pictures of the first day of school. This year Anthony grade 5, Enzo Grade 1, and Mia pre-school two mornings a week! She was so excited she has been waking up for the last week saying "schooool? schoooool?" then crying when I tell her not yet. Notice her PINK patent shoes, only Mia could pull those suckers off, really? Enzo was vibrating and in true Anthony fashion, came home and read the whole entire book the class is reading for novel study. The next day when he told his buddy, his buddy replied by saying "really? I didn't get passed the title." Oh what does the year have in store for the Rizzuto children??? Michael dropped of Mia and I went with the boys. Enzo didn't even pause to say good-bye, just ran to find his buddies for a game of grounders, before the bell called them in! Anthony as always gave me a proper good-bye, with no hesitation, that was a first.YAY!!
Me? Well rode my bike home the at the speed of light to get a report from Michael on Mia. She was off and painting! Then I was off and running the hills with my very inspiring girls, followed up by a little yoga! What a beautiful day to start a new year!

ockey anyone?

2011-06-14T22:23:00.000-06:00

She Loves
She love to cuddle,
She loves to give hugs,
She loves to try on clothes,
She loves to shop,
She loves shoes,
She love pink,

She love dresses,

She loves dolls,

She LOVES HOCKEY!

She uses a stick given to us when Anthony was born. The last photo of her asking Anthony to put new tape in on. I have to say I will be sad to retire that very well used stick Dave!

36 at 36

2011-05-26T00:16:00.000-06:00

WHOOT WHO!!!!! IT's my birthday! here are 36 random thoughts of gratitude! ....count your many blessing, name them one by one! (In no specific order)

the sun, when the sky is blue I am not
yoga it makes me feel taller
michael and his sense of humour
movies, and hugh grant, will farrow, owen wilson, and matthew mcconaughey
fresh mint, well all the herbs actually, make my food taste cleaner, and fresher
enzo's flashy smile
anthony's thoughtfulness
mia's eyes
colour i think it's my hairs fault i'm use to something bright that and stands out the more colour the better
that i figured out what was causing my headaches and i can fix it
music. turn it on when i'm happy, sad, driving, cooking, need to run, need to sing love it! all of it
that i can go on a trip every three to four months and leave home
the mountains and the trees love that oxygen stuff
he fact that michael has been nicknamed "hot michael" at our children's school. it reminds me that when i want to squish him, he's not hat bad
we own are own businesses, and all the hard working, kind staff we have
mrs.brown
organic local fruits and vegetables i think they smell better
my family, parents, sisters, brothers they love me unconditional i think.....
goodies- the gross artificially coloured candy. got to have a vice
tea- herbal, green anything this year may favourite is pukka
shopping for clothes, shoes, anything wearable
imaginary pets- easy to clean up after then the real thing
inspirational women stacy julian martha stewart world needs them
old friends, new friends, best friends
heated seats in my car
coloured sharpies - i like to leave my mark everywhere
that i drove though 4 radar traps in one day and came out ticketless
that i learned my lesson, in march i got three tickets in 2 days
sandals, flip flops... oh i love them
the ocean smelling it, swimming in it, listening to it
days off my children have from school and all holidays
vita-mix- 3cups of spinach, 15 almonds, 1/4c hemp seeds, chia seeds, sunflower seeds 3 cups of water mint leafs, 1/2c berries, 2 dates=YUMMMYYYY
the sound of children waking up, and the sound of them sleeping
sticky tac
my heart, my body that i know it works and that it is like a machine it needs to be used and not taken for granite or abused
my bed, duet cover and pillow really i think that is actually sleep

chicken pox

2011-05-16T21:25:00.000-06:00

May is my favourite month of the year! Yup love it more them Christmas!
I feel like have just lived though a very bad dream with a happy ending it when like this!
Oh ya... Spots= chicken pox.
March 16- Enzo starts not feeling good mild fever, flue like. No big deal. I keep him home from school thinking oh here it is the Chicken pox! Nothing!
March 20- Michael and leave for L.A. First time anyone has ever had to put Mia to bed, I'm nervous. Enzo says look a spot. 1 spot on the side of his face.
March 22- mild fever, 6 spots.
March 23 -all gone but one on his face. He goes to school.
Tried and cracky but with out no spots
April 8- Enzo spent the whole day with a friend. 12 hours. They eat together, bathed together, showered together, could not have been closer! (highly contagious Enzo was, without us knowing. So nice of us to share that with them.)
April 9- wakes up with the spots! Mild fever, CRABBY!
April 13- leave for Hawaii why not, the salt and sun will heal anything right?
April 14- spent 7 hours at the beach! So happy to see the sun. I had to drag the boys out to drink water, eat and hummm reapply sunscreen.three times. Well Anthony can do that himself. (no sarcasm)
April 15- wake up at 3:30 the kids are adjusting to the time change.go for a walk to watch the sun rise, and see a beautiful show the whales put on for us! Anthony was complaining his wrist hurt. Got back to the room took a look! Holy moly.... What the heck happened? 7:00am going to look for a clinic. His entire forearm right to his knuckles were honestly more then tripled in size. Michael thought his skin was about to ripe it was so swollen. In the end a very bad sun burn? We felt like neglectful parents. As for Anthony, wasn't hurting that much? Seriously? I could hardily look at it. He hardly feels pain, it drives me nuts!
Day 5- Anthony arm is blistered, grossest thing I have any seen. Michael and I were sick about it. He was embarrassed. Mia well covered in spots! She had been miserable since we got there.
The worst part a king bed wasn't big enough for her Michael and I. One night Michael took her for a walk at 2:30 in the morning. She just could not sleep.
Day 8-Enzo's friend, who also is now in Hawaii wakes up covered in spots! Don't we feel like good friends?
Day 9- Spend the day at the beach with are forgiving friends, then when for dinner with them. Anthony's close friend happens to be in the same family.
Day 10-Anthony has the spots....BAD! He must have had 500 spots on his neck and face by the time we return home! More importantly, we did it to are friends again! This time Anthony - highly contagious! So kind aren't we? Can you believe that?
May 16- Anthony missed two weeks of school, still has enough scabs on his body that he wears long sleeves and jean to school every day. Is still very tried, not himself. Enzo has one scar in his face he is very proud of! Mia, well still waiting to see how many are actually scars!
The good news, it's over, it's May, and we will go to Hawaii again! Oh and we are all still friends!

Little Miss.Mia Maria Anne is 2!

2011-03-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

Mia turned two in January! I love two year olds. Really don't you think it is the funniest age?

Two things love about Mia at 2!

Her need to give 50 kisses and hugs to every person in the room before they leave or she goes to bed.
Her sense of style! The other day I was going though clothes that she has finally grown out of. She had to try them all on. Then would say "smmall" and throw them in the Rubbermaid.

We also love all her words. She is a talker. She has at least 100 words, we understand. this week it was YoGurt! My favourites words are, hug, look, Shoes, hocKEY, store, eat, monKEY Mia like, and Mumma Mia? That Mom don't forgot about Mia!
She laughs a lot. Well giggles actually. When she cries she leaves the room, and closes a door somewhere. That works okay.
If anyone is near the kitchen she will be found on the counter with apron on and nose right in whatever is going on!
When we are out she can be found right at my feet, holding my leg with a smile, and hat on her head. It's very rare she leaves the house without a hat.
She dresses, undresses her self, hangs up her coat when coming in, and puts her hat and gloves in the drawer! I love that one, Michael is still working on that!
At bed time it's the same every night. Goodnight Moon, The hungry Caterpillar, I love you through and though, Counting kisses, and her VERY favourites!

One of them is seriously gender role reinforcing, I can't decide how I feel about it, she share loves it, what do you think? Take a peek inside.

hand hand finger thumb

brown bear

hug

Little Mommy

We Won!

2011-02-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

Holy Molly...I can't believe it!
That's may not be the right word to use but that's what came out of my mouth! Anthony is playing hockey for the second year. Likes it well enough, but is still learning a lot. Michael is assistant coach that keeps it fun! Esso Minor Hockey week was a while back. It's a tournament all across the city for every team in every division. Actually every city across Canada has the same tournament. It's kind of a big deal in the world of hockey. His team played the first game and lost.
Did I mention his team was ranked 10th out of 12 going into the tournament.
Second game. WON! Wow, that was lucky we thought! Then they processed to win games 4,5,6, and 7! THEY won the the division! The 10th ranked team won the gold metal! I have never seen happier, more excited boys! The team worked SO hard! You see this means they get the team picture in the paper and a banner that they all sign to hang in the home area! I shouldn't sound so shocked, really we thought it was going to all be over after game 2! The best part was when they signed the banner Anthony asked if he could put his number next to his name. This is what he wrote.
- Anthony number 11!
I guess he hasn't learned about # yet! You kind of had to be watching, but it was pretty cute!
Sadly we had a violin workshop that day and because the whole week had been about Anthony. Michael had taken Enzo to violin. He is not in the picture, and sadly didn't get to see the game, but Nono was there with Mum and Mia to cheer him on and help us find the car in all the snow after!
Michael was just as surprised by the text I sent him that said we won 5-1! GREAT DEFENCE ANTHONY!

Six things we love about Enzo at six

2011-01-08T21:53:00.000-07:00

Enzo turned six in October and we had a great party for him in December at the Gymnastic center. We asked him who he wanted to invite? He had a list of 33 friends, not including family! The social one in the family! Six things we all love about Enzo at 6!

Enzo is still a little ball of fire we love to laugh with him, but beware a fire burns inside him! A.K.A - "trouble" He is starting to understand potty humor, its part is being a boy right? Whoopee cushions are so funny! He puts them in our bed before he goes to sleep. What a surprise when with sleepy eyes we crawl into bed!
He has beautiful big Delicious lips, and long monkey arms! They love to give hugs and kisses. He still love cuddles! When those lips aren't handing out kisses they're smiling!
Lego, Lego, Lego that's all there is to say about that! The world stops to build a Lego man!
He love books still, he can sit and look at books for hours. Don't even think about interrupting him. He's busy.
Enzo love orange, and shirts with collars. He has a brilliant orange coat he loves it, it just will not come clean. You can spot him a mile a way, its perfect for the ski hill.
His brother and sister are defiantly THE most important and most loved people in his life!

For his party we had a five and five. That is where instead of a gift the guests give him two five dollar bills. One he keeps for a gift the other he donates to a charity of his choice. Works great when you have that many guests!
When we asked him who he wanted to donate the money to he said the police! He loves the police, if he doesn't end up being one I will be relieved but surprised.
Love ya Enz! - forever and always no matter WHAT!

Welcome in a new year!

2011-01-08T21:09:00.001-07:00

2011!! Yippee! I feel like everywhere I turn is weightless adds, and advice on how to news way to become a new you? It frustrates me. I don't think I need to find a me? Do I? It drives me batty, New years resolutions? Well, I don't like pressure or to conform to anything. What will I do in January? I guess I do set new years goals. My new years resolution, if that what it's being called is to sleep more and have more fun! (Well, fun weekly date with Michael! The kind where you actually go out and leave the house!) That is all! Every year I try to learn something new, and try something new. Maybe I will share those soon. I'm keeping it simple! I am looking forward to a new year. No big plans just more of the same. Another Valentine's Day, more birthdays, more family trips, another summer fall, and Christmas! I just plan to stay on top of it all this year! Think I can do it? Happy new year... Good luck on perfecting the " new you".

Fall trip 2010 ~ part 2

2010-12-16T22:01:00.000-07:00

WARNING: THIS IS LONG!

Good Bye San Francisco, and we continued down the cost stopping on and off! We saw whales, seals, sea lions. Not animals we see at home. Not much to say about the coast other then BEAUTIFUL! I want to live in Monetary or Carmel. May be both I just live it down there. If only I was born in the 50's before all the people to California! Enzo continually confused the ocean with the sky, he couldn't tell where one ended, and the other began. We reached Pismo Beach, in perfect time for a beautiful fall sunset and a pre dinner swim!

We were sad to leave here. It was perfect. The grey whales swam in earlier that day. They where feeding right in front of the Hotel. The staff said in all their years that was a first. (remember I said it was a perfect trip) Anthony Mia and I watched and listened to them by the fire in the dark. We stayed up way to late. It was highlight. No good pictures of them sadly.

On the way to Newport Coast we stopped and did the first outlet shopping! This place is actually one of my favorites. I think you need two full days. We only spend two hours. It was defiantly more fun with girlfriends. One thing haven't changed... too many deals. I still ended up buying Mia pink Uggs in Santa Monica instead of the Ugg outlet. Go figure. We made into Newport, the traffic sucks in LA I couldn't handle that daily, or even weekly. We checked in,and yet again had a fabulous view of the Ocean! YAAAH!

We had to pull the boys out before hypothermia set in. They spent half a day in that cold water! We are Canadians! We also played in the tide pools at this beach. Anthony was trying to take the crabs home. Enzo wanted to pull off it's heads! Next was Disneyland. We spent two 11 hour day there. Can you believe that? Mia had one brief meltdown as I was putting her pajamas on her. Once I got her in the carrier she was asleep and we went on playing! Anthony's favorite ride? The California Screamin', in California Adventure. Enzo's the Peter Pan ride. Oh and Toad Hall. We all went on Mickey's Fun Wheel. I almost Died, all three boys laughed. After two days I think Michael was glad to check Disneyland with the kids off his bucket list. It was Christmas at Disneyland. That turns the Happiest place on earth into the most Magical place on earth! Oh Enzo and almost throw up on space mountain. He yelled Make it stop mommy make it stop for most of the ride. It was a little funny. I think he thought he almost died too! Mia she liked it all.

Me almost dying!

After that we just kind of hang out the rest of the week. Michael got a haircut...funny. Went to Santa Monica. Walked by a young girl singing for money. Later her and her parents sat at the table across from us at Wolfgang Pucks for lunch. We had all order something yummy. The three of them order one plate of roast chicken and mashed potatoes. Good life lesson for Anthony and Enzo. I can't recall what any of us eat, But I think we will all remember what the three of them shared.

We also got asked to do an interview on how we meet, it was for some Reese Whitherspoon show.

We said no. It was all SO Santa Monica. I love it.

We swam more and built sand castles at the beach. The time had come to leave, and a cold front was on it's way in. Good timing hey! We checked the weather. It was Arizona, Vegas or Palm Springs. Palms Springs was the hottest so we headed there! We stayed in Rancho Mirage. I think that is such a weird name. Why is it called that? We shopped a bit more. Mia fell out of her stroller face first onto the parking lot, Enzo was punishing us for going into a Prada outlet store. He undid her seatbelt. Nice! She was fine! We then swam a lot more, and just enjoyed being out in the sunshine. This was the R&R part of the trip! Enzo decided he wanted a lazy river instead of a bathtub at home. Anthony killed some GAINT crickets here. It was time to head home.

We drove up though the interior of the states. It was getting very cold. Las Vegas was only 6 degrees. We were glad to keep driving. As we drove on through Idaho Falls the roads got bad, blowing snow. 3 cars and a semi truck in the ditch later we turned around and spent the night in Idaho Falls. We awoke to what was called "THE SROM OF 2010" it was a bit funny. Turned out we were stuck! SNOWED IN! All roads out of Idaho were closed. The boys thought it was like the movies. Heheh! Not sure what movie? It was also the day before Thanksgiving, so lots of travelers. We were all snowed in together. It was kind of fun. We did more swimming, spent as long as we could at Target, bought a crazy hunting game, I think it can only be found in Idaho. Then called it a night! We decide the storm was natures way of telling us it wasn't time to go home yet! It was fun! We made in home the next day. It was a long driving day, but the kids where AWSOME! Coming home was hard, for us all. We didn't really have that - Oh I'm glad to be home feeling, it was more like, yeah we home. Bitter sweet!

We did and saw so much more, then is written down here. It would take me days. Hope you enjoyed some of the Pictures, and letting me ramble!

Would we do it again? Oh yeah!

Funniest thing said.

Anthony was explain to Enzo what Remembrance Day was. Then tells him "In the U.S it's called Veterinarians Day" Oh my thats still really funny to me! Michael almost drove off the road laughing.

Fall trip 2010 ~ part 1

2010-12-12T21:46:00.000-07:00

A flawless trip! Totally not what or where we had expected to be but it was one of the most perfect trips we have ever taken! Really! I don't usually blog trips however I have had people ask to see pictures, and I haven't got around to much recording yet. SO here are a few to many of 380 photos!

A little bit of the lots we did.

First driving day was perfect I could have driven for days. We left home in the middle of a beautiful, warmer then usual fall. Michael and Mia slept, the boys read and I drove one of the most beautiful roads in the province! It was empty. The sky was clear and brilliant blue. It looked as though it had no end. The fields were that beautiful Alberta golden you either love it or hate it! I LOVE IT! In fact I think my next paint colors will be sky blue and grain field gold! (I think naming paint colors would be a great job!) It was a great detox drive! Soon we hit the ocean I cried! Love the ocean I really do! Seattle saw the Wharf, Market, Bowing Factory/biggest building in the world! And the Harry Potter Exhibit! We surprised Anthony with that one. He loved it. We should have dropped him off and pick him up hours later! It was a bit painful near the end for Mia and I. The highlight fresh seafood! Oh we found a lost baby, just barely walking. Great reminder of why we hold hands in strange cities! It turned Out good, don't worry.

Next real stop was Oregon. The weather on this trip like everything was perfect! Seattle was overcast, muggy, rainy on and off. Just what Seattle should be like. The kids enjoyed the change. Oregon, well we wanted rain and storms thats what we got! We could not even walk around Cannon Beach it was raining so hard. It was PERFECT! Just what we asked for. Enzo and I woke up at 4:20 in the morning from the storm. He couldn't sleep it was so noisy. I sat him on a chair and opened the curtains and he sat and watched in awe. Anthony soon woke up to join him. They both just sat there for hours listening and watching in amazement, very exciting, very peaceful.

We had a lesson in darkness, when the sun sets. No street lights, no city lights. Not a good idea to walk very far! "Wow night is dark here "-Enzo

As we drove on we saw and heard the famous Oregon Sea Loins and the Tilamoock Cheese factory!

"It sure smells different then home down here."-Anthony

We hit the forests and the Redwoods! We drove though a tree in the rain. It got dark, and the road was interesting! It was like "Sleepy Hallow" spooky, romantic. Pretty cool as odd as that sounds. We had planned to stop, but kept driving Michael and I were enjoying so much it was very dark, foggy, rainy and all three children peaceful slept.

When the children woke they were warm and cozy in a hotel in the Sanoma Valley. The Sky was blue and the wind was warm! CALIFORN-I-A!!!!! I cried again!

We hit Muir woods at opening time Perfect! Man that place is amazing, make a trip if you haven't been. We decided to go on a hike. It turned out to be a 3.5 hour 1 way hike that took you out of the woods? ... Not what we had expected. It took us up the woods on a steep, narrow path, to a view of the ocean? Oh and a washed out bridge that needed some tricky cross overs. One of the boys highlights for sure! We turned back after about an hour, and got a lesson in sign reading.

Lunch in Sausalito with birds then on to San Francisco!

So much to see and do here. It was 25 degrees in November! Perfect, remember!

They sure had fun learning how the cable cars work! We are big Herbbie fans! It was a bit much for Enzo to take in after 15 minutes of walking by the homeless, street performers, tourist and the smell on the wharf. He needed a hug and a trip to Ghirardelli ! It was worth the long walk up all the hills for Enzo. We didn't tell them where we were walking too. Enzo could smell Chocolate 2 blocks away. He guessed it and was right! We did a lot in 48 hours. Walking city's = a parents dream!

Oh yah, I have a blog

2010-10-30T21:12:00.000-06:00

I love this fall! LOVE IT. We have spent more time outside lately then we did in the summer. In fact it's wearing me out. In a good way. Here are some of the random thoughts and events from this fall.

Enzo lost his top tooth check out the hole! We are waiting with anticipation to see what will grow in a space that large. - I told Michael to start the brace fund! I was in his class at school last week. My face hurt from watching him smile, it was like sunshine on a cold day. He loves school, and his friends. He told me he has five girlfriends and is going to marry them all. The next day, he told me a girl can't be the mayor. When I asked why he said, because she needs to be a mom, who would cook? Funny because he makes a salad for us every night for dinner.

Anthony is being home schooled this year. He loves it, I think he sees his friends more now then ever. He so desperately want to be a farmer. This week we fought — not talked FOUGHT about why we can't have a bee farm! Last week it was chickens. Next week I'm sure it will be something else. He read Owls in the family and wanted to save an Owl. He has way to much compassion for nature and the animals. He is earning money selling mazes he has made to donate to a force for nature he has shed more tears over the bears then I think I have cried in a lifetime. We told him we have adopted a family for Christmas, he responded by saying... come on mum can't we adopt some woodlands. He is also playing hockey, Michael's coaching him so he is having a great time. Michael tried to take him to McDonald's for breakfast after a 6 am practice. He responded by saying gross Dad I'm not eating there! Michael came home hungry. They had him playing center, he was so mad! He loves defense. Today he got 2 breakaways and a goal. I think it was all my cheering!

pre hair cut- I don't have a post yet!

Mia Mia Mia! Oh she is funny and little! She is almost 19 pounds, and 29 inches tall! We (Anthony, Enzo & myself) are always forgetting about her, and tripping over her because she's not in sight, she becoming very tough. She has her brothers wrapped around her fingers. She barks at them, and they give her anything she wants. It is funny to watch. They can't stand to see her sad. We got to karate last week, I look at her and realized someone cut her hair. In shock I said Mia did someone cut your hair? She nodded, Mia did Enzo cut your hair? She nodded again. He cut like 4 inches of in spots of the back!

Michael & his lovely sisters!

Michael is doing good. Still trying to figure out what to do when he grows up. He always seems to pick the wrong days to work. He is away this week reopening a shop we closed to reno. I'm glad he's gone, and not me. Pre-opens are lots of work it's nice that he can just give all his attention to it, without being pulled a million different direction witch is what happens when he is here. After deciding no more shops for a while. We just got another January 1?? We are trying to figure that one out! He is pre-mid life crisis. I'm waiting for the crisis, I don't like waiting for anything. We are going away for the month of November. We leave this week, after he gets back. We don't know where we are going. Keep meaning to talk about it, but haven't got to it, how would you feel about this if you were the one packing? Enough said.

Let's talk about me! I feel like glue, holding everything and everyone together for the last month. I tell myself almost every day, you can yet though the year! I dream of waking up to a day where I'm blinded by the sun. Working out before everyone is up then sending everyone out the door locking them all then turning the music up REALLY loud dancing around naked and taking a bath alone with no guilt or interruptions! School is going well, I am never alone. I LOVE to be ALONE. I had a party — because I like to be alone — funny. It was a favorite things party. Thanks Karen! It was unexpectedly awesome. I was sending people out the door at 3:00 in the morning. Now I know my children will sleep though that amount of noise, I'm hav'in more dance parties! Homeschooling/unschooling Anthony is talking major energy and time. Its good, fun, but seriously that boy loves to do and learn. He is without a doubt a hands on learner. The hardest part is the scheduling. I want games, practices, and lessons that are on the same day and time every week. I want a husband that works 8-4, everyday — not just when he feels like it, and a driver. Think I can ask Santa? However Anthony is lov'in seeing what's out there, and spending some serious quality time with Mia. I have been worried about going away next week, I think because I don't know what to pack for or where we are going. Michael said, just think no grocery shopping, no cooking breakfast, lunch or dinner for 30 days! Now I don't care if we even take clothes! It's been a fabulous fall, on many levels, really fabulous! Here are a few of my favorite things!

I think that was summer?

2010-09-15T09:12:00.000-06:00

We decide to stay close to home and explore Alberta, do lots of hiking and sight seeing where we live! For a couple reasons. We have lots of trips planned this year, and summer months are the warmest months here right? No, I think it was the coldest summer EVER! We hiked LOTS and managed to miss lots of rain I still somehow feel water logged. Gloves in August? Seriously! Hail damage on the car, the house, and the garden. The garden was the most talked about! Enzo keeps asking when it's going to be summer. When I tell him this is summer he says well when is it going to be hot? I actually was missing the sun so much a few weeks ago I decided to go on a swimming trip last minute to Arizona to get a giant dose of vitamin D before fall! We love 40 degrees, not 18. We actually went to a barbecue at friends on the weekend, we walked into their house the fire place was on?? It's August... We really do live in CANADA this year! Besides missing the heat, we have a very busy very fun summer filled with great friends and lots of adventures! We really love living in a beautiful province! With the exception for losing 1000s of pictures, thinking I got them back, only to discover I'm still missing way to many of them. Here is a few to many I have! Most from my phone, so really not that great, but at least I have some. RIGHT?

enzo would yell "MUM - take my picture " and pose

never enough biking

enzo leaving his mark roadside

enzo mountain bike wipe out

way to green for September

look at anthony, so tempting!

9 things I love about Anthony at 9

2010-08-29T20:20:00.001-06:00

Anthony you turned 9! We love having you be the oldest! You are god at it. You are a growing boy, faster then I ever dreamed. The air bags now stay on when you sit in the front seat of the car! THAT is BIG! For almost nine years you have asked, now you are sitting next to me touching everything! I like the company, but I think Enzo misses you in the back! For your birthday you asked to go to Mercato, then the farmers market. We came home and made pies and jam. Just as requested. You are amazing! It was a special day for Mom, Dad and you! (sorry those were some of the missing pictures)
You are fully in the "nine year change" Being with Anthony these days is like being on a roller coaster. It's a good thing we love a good ride!

Nine things we love about Anthony at 9 years old!

You are starting to take a great deal of pride in your heritage. Somethings are just in your blood. Like building damns every chance you get. You also have an amazing palate! You love cook and are very good at it. You love fresh food, and fresh herbs on everything!
You love watching soccer, hockey, well any sport these days. You would pick the discovery channel over a movie night any day.
You still get out of bed and ask to had your feet rubbed every night before you fall asleep.
You love to read. You will stay up into the morning hours to finish a book, but hate libraries and other peoples books. Too dirty it makes you feel ill! Plus if the book is good enough to read, you should own it! ( Italian blood)!
You are a great big brother to Mia. You try to give her everything she wants, and you can always make her laugh.
You are a great big brother to Enzo. You read him a story every night before bed, and listen to him talk until he falls asleep.
You are very wise! Always have been. You have good common sense, and are safe.
You love the world! You hate seeing new houses built. You feel sad for the animals. Every time we see trees being cleared you say; "Come on man, why are they doing that? Can't we make them leave the trees alone"?
You can't get enough nature. You live, eat, sleep and breath outside. Every climate, every season, you love to be one with nature!

Leprechauns

2010-07-21T20:47:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago Enzo was playing with a friend, as I listened in I heard them pretending to be leprechauns! Talking about how Leprechauns eat small animals. Truthfully I thought this was a little odd, however they were playing well so I left it alone.
A few days later he asked Anthony if Leprechauns were herbivores or carnivores? and if they sleep in the day or the night? Again a little odd, I giggled? What else was I to do? Anthony wasn't sure how to answer. I was laughing to myself listening to Anthony's reason on why he would have NO clue what the answer to his question are. He was very puzzled why Enzo was so interested in Leprechauns. Again I left it alone. We had seen a double rainbow a couple days prior to the Leprechauns talk so I thought maybe he's still thinking about it?
He then came home from a birthday party at a pet store, extremely tried. I asked him what animals he saw and if he got to pet any? His answer — "YEAH! Leprechauns!" All I could do was giggle! I decide I needed to get to the bottom of his sudden interest in Leprechauns! Later that day at home we talked about the party what he did and saw. Again he told me Leprechauns. Time to dig. I started with what did the Leprechaun look like? "It had lots of spots." Was it very big? "about as tall as me but a little fatter, and longer" So now I'm thinking something is actually wrong with him, he is loosing it! I tried to recall if maybe he fell and hit his head somewhere? Serious panic going on in my head. Anthony is just starting at me, speechless? On went the conversation. Did you pet it? Here it was the most serious Enzo has ever been "are you nuts mom it would eat me" ??????? I was giggling to hard I had to take a break and leave the room. I had NO clue what he was talking about. I didn't no what to do, even Anthony was getting worried. So I asked Enzo, do we have a pictures of a Leprechaun anywhere? Thinking maybe he saw it and is having night dreams? "sure I can show you one" He grabs his animal book and opens up the page to.... LEOPARDS! Anthony and I booth sigh with relief, and shout A LEOPARD. "oh yah a leopard oops" says Enzo. It was really funny, I think because we don't talk about Leprechauns in are house very often. Does anyone? He was tricking us about seeing one at the pet store. Apparently he has had a real thing for Leopards lately.

A week later, we decide to go to the Zoo. Enzo shouts "can we go see the Leprechauns"

A little bit of May

2010-06-02T16:30:00.000-06:00

WOW WEE! And that my friends was May. It is my very favorite month, it's my birthday month. I celebrate my birthday the WHOLE month long. Thats because I like to celebrate with everyone. It is however getting very tricky. I guess it's not just all about me any more.
It's about soccer 5-6 times a week. Violin competitions, school plays and festivals, pink eye, play dates, and pink eye again. Grand openings, planting a garden, yes thats why it snowed on more then one occasion this month! Three baby showers, two wedding showers. A really GREAT concert, birthdays dinners, birthday lunches, Mother's Day, my Dad's birthday. Croup, getting my car fixed. This was GREAT! It eased the bad memory of side swiping a parked car then the next day backing into my neighbors parked car. I little reminder I needed to slow down! Multiple doctors appointments, three dentist appointments. Shopping and feeding my wee ones in an attempt to keep them strong and healthy. What felt like a million loads of laundry, I had a first this month. I really like to do laundry. I know thats odd. It never sits. I start it finish it and putt it away one long day of the week. Well, this month it SAT. Not a little for little it sat for two weeks it lingered in various stages, in various places though out the house. I can't lie it made me feel sick. I have some good friends, growing up their Mother was the ironing queen I will never forget her pile of ironing in their family room, I still do not know how she ever got it all done. I remember feeling SO excited for her when the basket was empty. I can't imagine the hours she spent. Recently Michael was going to buy this shirt he ask me what I thought, "High maintenance" was my answer, and I thought of her and the pile! He didn't buy the shirt! Thank Heavens! The purpose for my rambling on about laundry? It's always come back. I use it as a gage in my life to justify how I'm feeling... when it piles up I think of her pile, and don't feel bad about myself. Is that crazy or what! Back to my list. Tried to get Mia to walk, She didn't, BUT she grew! I had a party! I seriously did not take enough/any pictures. Not sure what happened there. I feel REALLY bad about it. It was hard to remember the pictures. Poor Enzo had his first violin competition. After he posed while getting his award, I just smiled. Forgot the camera, forgot my phone. It was a little embarrassing . I also tried to run, do my yoga, bike to school, clean my garage, and finish decorating a Mia's one year old room! The last two did not get done. I also missed celebrating with way too many friends. I did how ever. Read 100 books to enzo this month, let him make a salad almost every night. Play scrabble and Uno with Anthony too many times to count. Go on a family walk after dinner almost every night and only listen. Make breakfast almost every morning. (cereal doesn't cut it in this house) Take a quick trip to Arizona with Michael and Mia and YES I turned 35! YAHOOOOO!!!! Some not so good phone pictures!

Mothers Day Interviews - 2010

2010-05-05T23:16:00.000-06:00

We did these little interviews on Monday. A tradition since preschool, a little Mother's Day gift to my self! Same questions different answers every year. Helps remind me they grow! Every year they seem to understand a little more about life. I took these pictures of Enzo one day last week. Then after he answered the T.V question I thought it would be fun to attach them. He is continuously in the world of play. He was all alone having a quiet time when I turned to see him dressing up like a cowboy then wedging the stick horse in the chair. I waited and out came the lasso! I showed him the picture later that day and he said" hey how did you see me?" He was SO deep in play I really don't believe he even knew I was there. If only I could jump into his head for just 1 minute! I can't imagine what I would find!

My MOM - Enzo
How old is she? 22

What does she do around the house? Laundry & stuff, everything I think!

What her favorite thing to eat? Cheese and pickles, oh and cookies and tea.

What is her favorite show on T.V? She doesn't watch T.V it makes you not smart… but I LOVE Man tracker.

What does she cook? Dinner and breakfast… But not lunch I do that. Or sometimes Grandma

Where does she like to go? Hawaii or anywhere the grass is green

What does she like to buy? Shoes and cars and tea.

What is her favorite thing to do with you? Jump on the trampoline and ride bikes.

If you could do something kind for your Mom what would it be? A hug, oh and take out the garbage!

Finish the sentence. I love it when my Mom.... Plays lego and makes cedar salmon, I like it now!

My MOM - Anthony

How old is she? You know that. Okay before her birthday or after? Oh come on.

What does she do around the house? Cooking and cleaning girl stuff.

What her favorite thing to eat? Icing, apples olives and pickles.

What is her favorite show on T.V? Mum.. I don't think she watches, oh wait, I know David Rocco and CNN.

What does she cook? Food! (ha ha ha)

Where does she like to go? Yoga!

What does she like to buy? Everything!

What is her favorite thing to do with you? Read Harry Potter with me.

If you could do something kind for your Mom what would it be? Clean my room.

Finish the sentence. I love it when my Mom.... Cook me Italian food, and takes me on a date.

enzo made cookies on his own

2010-04-23T20:36:00.000-06:00

Enzo LOVES cookies, He made some all on his own today! There's a little piece of the conversation we had in the process!

Enzo, what type of cookies should we make?

Chocolate chocolate extra chocolate chocolate chip!

Okay, Go wash your hands

Okay then I should use hand sanitizer just in case

In case what In case I missed a germ

My finger in more level then a knife mom

Wow I'm a natural at this

What's your favorite part about making cookies?

This part!

Oh YEAH! This is good!

Do you need my help?

Nope I'm a natural! remember

How does it taste? PERFECTO!

What's your favorite kind of cookies Enzo?

The ones you make Mom. What's your favorite kind?

The ones you make Enz!

22 random things, happenings, and observations...

2010-04-15T21:49:00.000-06:00

Thanks Lindsay I'm snagging your 22 random things, happenings, and observations... I'm feel a little grumpy later for no apparent reason I thought this might cure me!

I think maybe I could die from death by chocolate covered almonds one day. Maybe today? I'd like to sue Costco for this.
I hate cold wind, it hurts my ears. I'm to vain to walk around with cotton in my ears.
It makes me mad I have to tell Anthony he cannot stay up and read for 4 hours every night, I wish he could without being tried the next day.
I think the person that discovered sand boxes in backyards had a shower at the door.
I recently drove a REALLY fast REALLY nice car, I LOVED IT! LOVED IT! It hugged ME! I dreamed of trading in my MDX with 3 car seats. I told Michael I need a $100,000.00 sports car when Mia turns 16. If I don't get it, and out live him, it will be the first thing I buy. I got excited!
I talked to someone recently who eats roast chicken every Sunday and makes chicken soup every tuesday. Of EVERY WEEK! I don't know how I feel about this... I think yes it may be simple, but come on, a little boring?
In a prior life I was a groupie, and loved it, sometimes miss it!
I will always love Sting and I'm sorry... Tiger Woods (you can't be perfect)!
I PVR Murder She Wrote, and Little house on the Prairie.
I love to floss my teeth, but dislike the dentist.
I take Excedrine tension on occasion for a caffeine fix, instead of drinking coke, or anything like it.
I dream daily of moving somewhere the wind only blows warm, well somewhere there is no wind. I still can't figure out where that place is? I think the wind made me cranky this week.
I am a magazine addict, I'm am proud to say I have never and still do not buy gossip!
Growing up I had a cousin who was soap addict. She now has 4 kids, and I always wonder... does she still watch soap operas... WHO in the world watches those thing??
Oh ... I forgot. My Grandma is a serious Young in the Restless addict. I guess it would be the 90+ crowd?
I love avocados and apples together.
I want to go to school to become a sex therapist, I think it would be funny to go to work. How ever I would be happy to never work again.
I am daily holding myself back from going spring shoe shopping.
I don't really like chocolate, everyone thinks I do I sometimes even forget. I used to before Enzo came along. I really don't like it. I think I should stop trying to!
I support bag and tag. Come on... get with it!
I am really looking forward to Arizona for my birthday, can lie! I can't wait to put on my swim suit!
Anthony was telling Enzo the other day when I was little I had to get the milk from the cow. I asked him what he was talking about. As serious as can be the conversation went like this

Ant "when you were little you had to get milk from the cow"

Me "thats where all milk comes from"

Ant "no. you had to milk the cow"

Me "what?"

Ant "well where else would you get it from?"

Me "Co-op?"

Ant "there was a Co-op's that long ago Mom?"

Me "Yes, where do you think the food come from?"

Ant "wow I didn't know that, I thought you had to grow it!"

He was really surprised? It was funny to me, still is funny! Don't you think? It was on the same day he told me 35 was almost old enough to be a Grandma!

WOW I FEEL BETTER THANKS 22 Random things!

I LoVE yoga

2010-04-08T20:14:00.000-06:00

I LOVE LOVE YOGA!! It is the VERY top of my list right now. I wish I could spend all day every day doing it. I make every one do it with me at some point of the day. I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!! I am SOOOOOoooo lucky to have two of the very best teachers in our city, I learn SO much from them. I am SO grateful! On Thursdays one of them comes to my house! She is SO inspiring. She gets up at 4:20 every day to practice and teach. Isn't the incredible? I feel like the lucky girl in the world. Mia goes down for a nap, Enzo is at school and for 90 minutes I am made totally aware of my body, and breath! It's bliss. This was the blessing today, the sun was shinning! Now I look out my window at WAY to much snow and WIND! It makes me extra grateful I did my practice today! THANK-YOU!

WHY I WAKE EARLY (BY MARY OLIVER)

Hello, sun in my face.
Hello, you who made the morning
and spread it over the fields
and into the faces of the tulips
and the nodding morning glories,
and into the windows of, even,
the miserable and the crotchety –
best preacher that ever was, dear star,
that just happens to be where you are
in the universe to keep us from ever-darkness,
to ease us with warm touching,
to hold us in the great hands of light –
good morning, good morning, good morning.
Watch, now, how I start the day
in happiness, in kindness.

Things to do

2010-03-29T09:05:00.000-06:00

I having decided to keep a better to do list going of new, fun, creative projects i'd like to do or try.
Look what lovely Amy posted this morning.
Amy's iron board cover
Thing 1! I am going to make this, with the hope it will help me like something I REALLY dislike! Iron stinks, I figure if I had a pretty board I may enjoy it more! Thanks Amy!

22 things my children have taught me

2010-03-26T20:35:00.000-06:00

This one I took from stacyjulian Thanks!

22 things my children have taught me

there are way to many great books out there, we should try to read them ALL
breakfast food for dinner will cure any bad day
we are born with some sort of rhythm what we try and do or don't do with it is up to us
35 is really old, but 55 is okay if you're a grandma
socks and shoes should not be mandatory outside in the winter the sand feels nice even frozen
dressing your self, making your bed and brushing your teeth is a big accomplishment
what ever I have planned to do tomorrow, I should re plan and only do half
the beetles were inspired to write "Let it be" It sounds so much kinder when the phrase is sung
followed by of course... you can never sing enough beetles songs loud enough in the car
a sense of style can be learned by selective shopping
there is not enough dirt and water in the world
enough fresh air will put anyone to sleep
males are still a little barbaric, i thinks is in their blood
routines are essential and really equal happiness
recycling even the little plastic tags on milk jugs WILL change the world
if the earth is a precious gift shouldn't earth day be a big celebration, better yet a holiday with dessert
creativity; is unique;brave; we should be grateful for it and in brace it in ourselves as well as others
joy is something you sometimes have to find
it can always be cleaned painted. repaired, or replaced
it's okay to just not feel like it today, we can try again tomorrow
bedtime really means a shower, stories and cuddles
laugh, it's more fun then crying, then laugh harder and more often!

Elk

2010-03-08T21:01:00.000-07:00

SERIOUSLY.... Who stumbles upon this? I've driven, walked, and biked tunnel mountain and never "stumbled" on this! Way to GO BOOM!Boom's Elk

Mia's FIRST haircut

2010-03-03T14:22:00.000-07:00

I'll let the pictures do the talking for this one!

The "before"

The "distraction"

The "after"

We made it! MIA is one!

2010-02-01T21:30:00.000-07:00

Mia is one years old, we made! I can't decide if this is a celebration for her or I? We are still celebrating her birthday, and haven't taken one year photos yet, hopefully by next week.

At one years Mia......

loves kefir, peas, anything tomato related
has six teeth, but really doesn't like to eat food, loves to nurse
loves to smile, laugh, give hugs, pull hair, kick her legs, play peek-a-boo, and look at books
loves to play lego with her brothers, without eating it, I'm proud of that one!
crawls, stands, and lays down on command but doesn't stay
wakes bye, almost blows kisses... almost
says hi, bye, mama, and something we believe is anthony... enzo
naps twice a day at 8:30 and sometime before 1
goes to bed at 7, doesn't sleep at well at night after 10:30
insists on waking up at 4 and the morning for a two hour visit, yes we tried to break the habit multiple times, NO it has not worked
still wears size 1 diapers and 3-6 month clothes
weights 16.3 pounds and is 27 inches
has "RIZZUTO" ears that Enzo loves to pull on
likes to go anywhere with Mom or Anthony
hates the stroller, unless she is facing Mom, and Mom is pushing dido for the shopping cart
if it possible, she loves pretty things, soft things, girl things, pink and purple things, even girl books
SHE LOVES MOM MORE THEN ANYTHING OR ANYONE AS LONG AS WE ARE TOGETHER SHE IS A WONDERFUL, CO-OPERATIVE BABY, HAPPY BABY!

IT'S HERE!

2010-01-08T13:50:00.001-07:00

All that craziness I felt coming in November is here! Hence why I felt the need to blog my way to Christmas. It was great, We are GREAT! This is what is and will continues to keep us busy for a bit! Spread the word!

We are excited to let you all know that our second brand in the Angles family,

c u r i o u s H A I R S K I N B O D Y continues to grow and is set to open its second location January 18th in Aspen Landing!

We will be having Grand opening Specials all week long and on Saturday, January 23, Our talent stylists will be doing free hair cuts or blows outs when a donation is made to kids cancer care of Alberta in support of two young, talented, beautiful and BRAVE girls Emilee and Josie. Emilee and Josie will be in the salon on Saturday collection the donations. I think we can probably get them to sweep some floors as well.

We will be taking appointments starting Monday, January 4th. Call 403-685-6611 to book in today and help us preform over 150 services, while supporting kids cancer care of Alberta!

Santa

2009-12-22T23:39:00.000-07:00

Christmas has changed this year for Anthony. Anthony is changing, growing up. This year he has wanted to spend more time doing a project instead of a craft. Drawing alone, instead of wrapping a gift. Playing outside or hockey more then baking. In fact today he wanted to go on the treadmill alone, instead of wrapping with us, who can blame him really. He keeps asking me to prove there is a Santa! So the other morning he woke up to this email from santa. I let him watch it alone. He spent the day grinning telling me he knows a little secret from Santa! Today he woke up tried and cranky telling me Santa doesn't have the longest beard in the world, and wondering were he get all his fresh produce from? Oh Anthony life is SO complex at 8!

Zoolights

2009-12-22T21:53:00.000-07:00

We have a great tradition. Zoolights with Aunt Tiff! Here are some photo's and some Beautiful photography! THANKS Brandon, Tiff and Grant!

Brandon AWSOME website!

She stands

2009-12-22T21:42:00.000-07:00

This week has done me in. Teas, Lunches, Christmas gatherings, hockey, and work, has almost put us over the edge! Thank goodness for take out pizza! We have enjoyed it all! It was a full week! Mia continues to grow, even with all everything going on on! She stands!

Seniors lodge

2009-12-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

Enzo had his first public violin performance today! It was at a seniors home. The Seniors loved him! I didn't think they would be taking photos? However they did and he was asked 10 times at least, to pose!

It was REALLY funny. He did perfect. He was the first one up on stage! He bowed, stood in play position for twinkle on the piano, then bowed again...... he stole the show! He is our little performer! He had one little old betty say to him " I put lipstick one for you tonight, for the first time all year" He didn't really get that, kind of funny. Not as funny as the crazy old soul who sang "Oh Come All Ye Faithful" to every song Jingle Bells, Rudolf, even What child is this! She didn't stop. It was very funny, really. I came to the conclusion Living in your own world at that age, looks way more fun then living in the real one!

Patricia the book lady

2009-12-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

Almost every week for 7 years now I have been getting book advice from the most beautiful, insightful, kind and funny lady. Her name is Patricia. I do not know her, out side of being the "book lady at Indigo" However, she is totally amazing! Go to the children's section of Indigo Westhills, and ask her any question, she will have the book! I think she has read every book in the whole store, seriously! She knows everything about every author. I have gone to her with some of the craziest situations and ask for her recommendation on a book to help us work it out, she always has such great advice! Today I went in and told for I was looking for about called something magic to read to my 5 and 8 year old boys. It took a minute then, "Ah ha" she said. The Magicians Elephant-Kate Dicamillo
She was right, like always. I then proceeded to leave the store with all the following I am sure the boys will love! This year we are taking her a Christmas gift! I have regretted not giving her one the last two years. So this year we are doing it! We are grateful for wise Patricia, she is a legend around here!

Imagine a Day
Sarah L. Thomson

Monkey Business
Wallace Edwards

Butterfly Lion Pb
Michael Morpurgo

Half Magic
Edward Eager

Mr. Popper's Penguins
Richard Atwater, Florence Atwater, Richard Atwater

Ragweed

Christmas baking with Tiffany

2009-12-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

Baking! It is a christmas tradition a must! I like to do it little by little. Let the yummy smells linger as long as I can! Tiffany and I always pick a day to make a HUDGE mess, and cook up some pretty looking cookies and candies, and then she goes home with most of the baking, and I clean up the mess! Just kidding! In all that she usually runs to the store for the forgotten ingredient, picks a child or two up from school, and does the dishes at least once! Meanwhile I taste our creations! In 9 years of doing this we have learned a few things.

Don't count on anything turning out, and it will!
Always buy extra butter, you may need a remake!
Prepare to get dirty! This year I wore flip flops all day, went I took them off my feet stuck to the floor it was so sticky!
Do more then three recipes at once, we get confused!
Yes, it really can be that easy.
Plan to package them that night, oh and have the packaging ready to go!

Most important...

Stick with what you know! Today is not the best day to perfect the "new" recipe you have been wanted to try!

HAPPY BAKING!!

snicker snack

2009-12-14T20:55:00.000-07:00

At are kindergarden there is a little gnome called Snicker snack. Once a week you someone gets to take snicker snack home for a sleep over! When he returns too school he does so with a basket of muffins for snack! Enzo brought him home this week! I also found a picture from 2006 when he came home with Anthony!

Finishing touches on Christmas gifts for friends

2009-12-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

I am just going to let the pictures speak for this one!

What I have learned

2009-12-12T22:18:00.000-07:00

I can't say it's been hard to take a picture a day. I don't feel any pressure to get a picture taken, or get something written down. I really have learned some unexpected truths about my self right, it explain a lot!

It takes time or at least thought to take a good picture most of the time
I am in a picture taking rut, witch I don't like because I think photo are important
I forget things WAY to fast, hence daily write down is SO important now, tomorrow the thoughts will be gone
I am in a cooking and baking rut, just don't feel like doing it
A sense of accomplishment really is not as important to me as it once was
Winter is hard, and every year it gets harder

So I don't forget, this is what Enzo had to say after school;
Mom I the huge snow plows we saw this morning, came by well we were out side and sprayed was with snow. Everyone even all the teachers. We couldn't see we all looked like snow men and snow ladies. The teachers had to go home and take a steam. Nick, Jollie and I licked the snow off each other. We had to be to the bathroom so we went inside. Then we had the soup the we made, but it had marshmallows in it today, chocolate ones in stead of carrots. We started sewing the stars and Sam sewed his star to mine. I told him he could keep it for 20 bucks! I stopped him there. He could go on hours. Can you even guess how much of that story is not true?

7. I am still tried, listening makes me tried, I don't think thats going to change for a bit yet!

A real bow and baking

2009-12-12T21:57:00.000-07:00

Enzo started the violin this year! He has the worlds greatest teacher! He was started on a box with a pencil until his bow hold is perfected, this is a common thing. Way less tempting for a little guy. Today he started playing with his REAL bow & violin! He was thrill. In true boy fashion the second my head was turned he was playing away without even holding it. Ha, temptation! My favorite part of this picture in his rosy, rosy checks for playing outside. He just loves it out there! We also did some Christmas baking today and had the school Christmas concert! Anthony was out standing. He REALLY doesn't like to perform. He has way to much anxiety for it. In fact last year, when he saw us watching him he stuck out his tongue, and frowned. This year he did much better. He run out, saying his line in a loud clear voice, then dancing a perfect dance! I could see him looking for me, and I have to omit, I did a kind of duck thing, thinking he would be less nervous, not thinking about us watching him. (it was a suggestion from his violin teacher) It worked! He was beautiful to watch. He is growing so well. He's reading the Hobbit right now. I can't believe it. He doesn't seem old enough?

Camera highjack

2009-12-12T21:37:00.000-07:00

I figure a working Wednesday would be a great day for a wordless Wednesday! Enzo highjacked a camera this is what became of it.

Lego base on the fireplace

Mias feet

His Christmas stocking

another snowy frigid day

his violin

Dear Santa

2009-12-08T14:38:00.000-07:00

I took these picture with a point and shoot by candlelight. We have not turned yellow!

We wrote letters to Santa on Monday. Anthony was nervous to ask for more then one thing in case he didn't get the one he REALLY wanted. (the swiss army knife) it was pretty funny. So he drew a picture.

Enzo on the other hand. Drew pictures of what he wanted. He kept drawing and drawing, we almost ran

out of paper!

Oh Christmas part two & Gratitude chain

2009-12-07T10:24:00.000-07:00

We finish the tree the next night, I just forgot about it. Enzo took this lovely picture of it in the daylight. I'm sure another one at night with it light up will turn up somewhere so I thought I'd use his.
This is the list of some of the things we on the grateful chain we have been making. Its crazy where their minds go sometimes.

breakfast food
Lego
snow
good teachers
funny books
christmas music
Grandma remembering to pick us up for school
toilet paper
The soldiers that were in world war one (I didn't ask but do you think Anthony was saving the other wars for another day?)
sticks
floor heating
pillows
snow boats, snow pants and mittens
that dad know about lots of things, like how to fix a over flowing sink, thats spitting food at us

Just a Saturday in December

2009-12-07T10:08:00.000-07:00

Anthony and Enzo were outside the moment the sun was up today! Fresh snow is a blank canvas for these two. They LOVE it! If only the wind would stop blowing! Michael came home with new boots that read -70. I didn't think that was funny, only a sign that if he needs those its time for us to move! He tends to be a little extreme. When Enzo had enough of the wind he came inside. I gave him a basket and turned him into a forklift. It was amazing how much cleaning and putting away we got done. I will have to remember the forklift game. I think he carried up and down stairs 30 times! Enzo also spent part of the day making gifts for his friends. It was a little messy! Anthony had hockey that afternoon. Scored one goal! YEAH ANTHONY! Then babysitter time! Pizza, popcorn and Night at the Museum two, with Aunt Tiffany. It was a great day to be 5 and 8! They love to decorate pizza. Enzo I think put a pound of spinach on his. The spinach was the hair. All Anthony could say was "your not going to eat that much spinach" He did!

FrEeZIng Friday

2009-12-06T11:34:00.000-07:00

We woke up early agin, I think Anthony is trying to set a record for the most 5:30 wake ups.

It's snowing! Really snowing, winter is here today, or at least a winter storm. The nice thing was it is still warm. Anthony spent 3 hours outside in the snow after school. One of the many things his did was start building a shelter. By the time he came in the snow was really starting to blow, Highways were closed. We stayed in to keep warm, and finished a sewing craft. Michael came home early and went out so shovel!

Felting Thursday

2009-12-06T11:12:00.000-07:00

I am making these wonderful wool balls with bells in the middle, for Mia this Christmas. Late tonight Michael took over. He spent about an hour felting the ball. I think it's very funny. We were trying to place a large opening order for the new shop, it got delayed an hour. I think all the stabbing helps release some built up frustration! If you have not try I it. It comes highly recommended from both Michael and I! Here is the finished project!

Wicked Wednesdays

2009-12-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

Wednesdays I work, so not a lot else gets done. Mia works with me, well sleeps while I work mostly! Today I discovered that watching a movie on the computer while I work, keeps me forced on my work, and WOW I got a lot done. It was a cute movie. I didn't want to leave the room! I wonder how long I can keep that up for. I concluded I am a true multitasked! I picked up the boys, we lit our advent candle and made breakfast for dinner in the dark, the finished the night by reading a Christmas favorite. Mary's little Donkey.

Advent begins

2009-12-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

December 1! It is an exciting day. It started this year with two very restless boys waking at 5:38 to start the big countdown with advent calendars! Little did these lego loving boys know we had a surprise lego advent to go along with our annual Christmas books and activity calendar. Yes, it contradicts my feeling of what advent is, however ENZO loves lego men! I could not resist. So in order to open a lego door, they must first write down on a stripe of paper something each is grateful for. On Christmas Eve as we close advent we will have a lovely paper chain, of all these blessings! (and some AWSOME lego)!

Oh Christmas tree part one & yummy banana pancakes

2009-11-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

Things don't always go as planned! Tonight did not, and that is okay! We got sidetracked. The delivery guy got in an accident, the food was cold, Mia, Enzo & Anthony were tried! The tree is in the house and together, the decorations can wait. Enzo was a little bit upset at first, then we told him Christmas was not tomorrow! Imagine his disappointment! He wasn't really. I think happy he could try again tomorrow!

The tree Part one:

Really yummy pancakes we love right now!

Michael asked Enzo if there were good he replied "No Delicious!"

Banana Oatmeal Pancakes

1 cup oats

1 cup flour (i used 3/4c whole wheat)

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tsp. soda

1 tsp. baking powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

1 or 2 bananas mashed

2 eggs

1 c plain yogurt

1/2 cup milk

1/2 tsp. vanilla

1/4 cup of butter or applesauce (the boys need the fat so I use butter)

She Sleeps

2009-11-30T01:34:00.000-07:00

She is asleep, and I am awake! Why is we wait, for these precious little babies to sleep, then when they finally do we lay are wonder, when will they wake? I have waited 10 months for her to sleep, and tonight she does, and I can't for the life of me. I pray it becomes a habit! (the sleeping that is) I am post thinking, it will put my mind to rest, so I can sleep!

We did the Christmas party thing this weekend! I love taking off my shoes it is the best feeling ever! It was fun! We enjoying being out, as much as Michael pretends not to, we do! Always the last to leave.

I was asked if we were going any where this season. I had anxiety, had to get a glass of water! Just when I think I have put the p.p.d to bed it manifest in the weirdest places. I am having such a HARD time leaving home. I can't even think about it. We have a tradition of going to the mountains for three days with friends a couple days before Christmas. It amazing for the kids, so many neat activities we don't even have time to swim. I'm having a REALLY hard time booking it. Thats very weird for me. I have to remind myself it will not last forever! Right?

We made advent candles yesterday. Anthony made one for every one in his class. Advent is a big thing at school. The idea of letting the light in our hearts shine this Christmas season, lighting the way in the dark nights. We love it! This is the verse that goes with the candles.

Winter is dark, yet each tiny spark

Will brighten the way to Christmas Day;

Shine little light and show me the way

To the bright light of Christmas Day.

Mia 10 months

2009-11-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

Mia is 10 months! I'm still having camera issues, (funny because it makes this hard using my phone to take pics) and she has whatever Enzo had. At the end of the day I manage to snap a picture with our groceries from spud! Oh I love them! They make life so easy on Fridays. Look at those little hands! Mia has gotten sick on everything she owns, that I dare put her in while she is sick. She is wearing she last pair of P.Js a favorite hand me down from Anthony! I guess its laundry time. On a good day she;

says "mama"
army crawls
almost stands up
Picks up a Cheerio broken into four with her thumb and pointer finger. The same ones she uses to pinch me while nursing
waves bye
says "i" (hi)
naps twice a day, we are not ready to talk about the night yet
pulls Enzos hair
looks for Anthony
smiles at almost anyone
sleeps on her tummy
eats smashed peas occasionally loves to be passed back and forth from Mom to Dad

She weights just over 15 pounds and is 27 inches long. I little short we thought. Then Anthony informed me that is taller then the shortest man in the world record book. I have yet to look that one up!
She is fun to have in our family, the boys love her. Mia is extremely cuddly, happy, sharp, and has her own little personality! She gets called a little pixie or fairy baby by everyone when she's out.

We are glad she's part of our family, even if she doesn't sleep!

Happy American Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T11:06:00.000-07:00

American Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays! I know thats funny, first because I live in Canada and second because we don't really celebrate it. I do in my own little ways. We go to work, and school, and carry on with normal thursday activities! With lots of thanks! I still love it. I grew up listening to stories of my distant ancestors arriving in America on the Mayflower. Some of the first "white" people to set foot on, and give birth in what is now the The United States of American! I guess now days the correct word for white people would have been Europeans? After all those generation, there is still some American patriotism left in my genes! I loved trips down to the states on this weekend. Everything is Orange and brown, people are on a holiday, over eating with loved ones. You go to sleep, wake up to Red and Green, and people bustling about, Christmas music playing. Its like we have permission have Christmas! I love it. I love the madness of "black Friday" It's one of the few commercially induce holidays I LOVE! OH how I wish I was there. I almost got in the car and drove to spoken this morning! Then I remembered I'm done! Next year! If Michael can't come with me, anyone and everyone is invited! L.A, Vegas, Seattle? I will be there! Eating turkey and shopping, without the lines! (I never buy anything that requires a line?) Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends! I the sprit of the holiday here is my top ten thankful list of today!

I'm amazing school that teach our children more then just math and reading
Wonderful teachers our children love
The stories of my ancestors, and the heritage I have
The memories of family trip we went on as a child
The welcomed chinook this week, with out a chinook headache
The beauty of snow when it finally comes, and Anthony's worries if it will be here for Christmas
Advent
My funny, funny husband
My warm, car, house, bed, and fridge full of food
Vitamins! to keep us healthy

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

We work

2009-11-25T23:03:00.000-07:00

1 Month till Christmas! I am very glad I have done as much as I have, I am prepared! The crunch of opening a new shop is here. I felt it today! So we work. Today we worked a lot. We did however enjoy an amazing chinook! Another thing we love about winter! It was even pretty at sunrise! There was not a lot of Christmas with the kids today, other then the promise that in 4 more sleeps with good bedtimes the Christmas tree can go up! It goes up the last Monday of November or the first Monday of December, depending on the year. Little do they know we picked this Monday, as a bribe so they would sleep well for babysitters this weekend. Its Christmas party time. I hope Mia stays a sleep!
On a random side note... we don't eat a lot of breakfast cereal in our house. It a little joke the boys & I have about Michael. Often in the morning we will wake to find empty cereal boxes on the counter, and wonder? This is what he does every night. Right about now in fact! This is why we keep buying cereal!

Oh Enzo

2009-11-24T20:39:00.001-07:00

Today nothing, that did not NEED to get done, got done. I picked Enzo up from school. Started driving to a friend to have him say; "Mom I am going to barf" "NOW"! And so he did, in the car, on the sidewalk, in the car again, in a bag in the car. Everywhere except at home, or a toilet! Joys of motherhood. So he parked it at home, and grandmas while we went to violin. It's a good thing she's so close! We did all this while listening to Enya's And Winter Came.... Still a little bit of Christmas!

Why are little boys so darn cute when their sick? Maybe it's because there still!

A Monday

2009-11-23T01:52:00.000-07:00

I came home tonight to find a sweet little note on the door from Anthony. It was a wonderful little surprise that made me laugh. It even had a cute little spelling mistake!

winter festival

2009-11-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

Okay so I just lost my post, I forgot to save it. I will rewrite at another time and leave this for today.
If you have seen it, see it again!

in the sprit of thanks giving

Village Moms

2009-11-20T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today In the sprit of Christmas, It was the Village Moms lunch today. A group I belong to. It started out as a group of friends that get together regularly for lunch, and decide there needed to be a purpose! So now its lunch with a purpose. We chose a local charity to support, each lunch. The charity chosen for this Christmas lunch was BrendasHouse. It is a shelter for homeless families. The last time the group support this charity over $6200 was raised. This time around it was to collect items for a Christmas store of sorts a place where the children of the families would be able to come and shop for a small gift for their parents/grandparents while staying at Brenda’s House. The shop would serve approximately 30 – 45 homeless families over the Christmas season. Can you ever begin to imagine what those children must be feeling? Hopefully we will have the opportunity to go in and help at their Christmas party, where the store will be set up. I think that will be fun! All week, I have been thinking about these families. It kind of leaves me speechless. Grateful I have a home, and that my children go to bed in the same, safe, warm bed every night!
Oh we also bake, decorated and hang our cookies today. Thank goodness there was no school! I'll have pictures tomorrow!

Thursday

2009-11-19T22:28:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm caught up, I think I may decide to be a day behind! My the time I remember to post, I am to tried to write! If it takes 21 day to break a habit, does it take 21 days to make one? There is 36 days till Christmas so maybe I'll figure it out before then!
We started making gingerbread men today. We have to make, decorate and hang 96 of them for Saturday. Enzo thought the molasses smelt "delicious"!

shopping - done

2009-11-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

Making an effort to catch up, I thought I'd do another double day entry. The first!
Wednesday

I spent a large part of the day Christmas Shopping. I'm am done! (almost) Just a few little things to pick up. I love on line shopping, really it is the best, It makes life so simple. My children's gifts show up wrapped tag and boxed, waiting till Christmas. MatsterMind toys one of my favorites, free shipping and great specials. Its like a gift to parents! I love it. I also LOVE CHRISTMAS shopping. I love to do it all in one day. Start to finish. DONE! I love giving it all my attention to it. Not thinking about anything else then those I'm giving to, and maybe a pair of shoes, for a party for me! Listening to the sounds of Christmas as I walk through the stores, there are SO many beautiful things out there. It makes me wish I could give something to every one! How to unselfishly chose the right gift, for the right person? My favorite part, watching that gift I have tried to match perfectly be bagged! The question always gets asked "is this a Christmas gift" Exploding with excitement and respond "YES, YES it is"! Its like magic! The grumpy, unhelpful sale person all of a sudden has become this, kind, beautiful elf! Taking all the care and time in the world to wrap this gift. Smiling as though it was them giving the gift!

It's magical to watch. Then the bagging comes! OH!! That really is my favorite part! It's my own little gift to me. I LOVE BAGS! Yes, I do. I love gathering them all up, taking them home laying out all my gifts. Then its fun for me! I carefully smooth out all the bags, exam them the handles, the colors, the textures, the sizes, some are so BEAUTIFUL! I put a few works of art away in my drawer of inspiration! The others I recycle! I still Love bags. I tried to give them up, I can't! When My cameras is working I will post a picture of my favorites! So inspiring! The Museum of Natural History in N.Y has a really COOL bag! Yes, I bring bags home from trips!
Okay back to Christmas, and giving! Here are a couple things I'm really excited to give!
Giant playing cards
Michael Smith Cookbook

easy said then done

2009-11-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

Okay so I had a bad start! I actually forgot the first day. Kind of funny. Then I have had some camera issues that have thrown me off. So its catch up time!
Monday - Clean-up day
We cleaned our playroom. Not just a tidy, a BIG clean up. I wanted a picture of this! We had 2 garbage bags full of trash. 3 boxes of things to give away. I am pretty sure it took us 4 if not 5 hours! The recycling bin was full after this one! We did this for a few reasons. I needed to get ALL the lego downstairs! FAR away from Mia, in hope she will crawl soon. It was also time to swap out the toys and donate the not used. But most important, as the boy would say.... "So the elves tell Santa we have room something new"
I thought the pictures would be fun from this day, instead here is a list of the all time favorite boy toys in are home!

Lego! Lego heads, Lego men, Lego wheels, Lego wings anything Lego
Wooden blocks, all shapes and sizes, these get used as EVERYTHING. Cars, buildings, food
Wooden train tracks, these can be used in so many different ways. Right now they love making marble tracks out of them.
Bees wax. Love molding all sorts of stuff with this. Boat races never get old
Dress up bin, need I say more?

Tuesday
Finished Christmas cards today! I took the easier way out and just ordered them! There are some AWSOME designs out there! Tinyprints is who I used. I would love to spend the time to design them my self and be creative, time just doesn't allow it all. My time is better spent somewhere else this year! As fun as they are to make! I was tried trying to get the order in. Here is a picture reject! Actually is one of my favorites! I hope I made to right choice!

a week of projects

2009-11-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

WARNING: May be a picture of your Christmas gift!

The boys have been busy little bees all week. Making all sorts of gifts!

Enzo has talked about putting up Christmas lights since the first snowfall. He picked them out and lost sleep over when we could put them up. The time finally came, he bagged to go up the roof. Up the ladder with Michael close behind him he went. He couldn't do it, thats as close to the roof as he got! YEAH! He has a bit of fear!

Anthony has learned to sew, and is having fun making things, but has even more fun sewing his fingers together and freak'in us out! Enzo almost throws up every time! I decided to teach Enzo to sew on the machine, (his need for speed)! He did his whole project using the hand wheel! IT WAS incredibly straight! Don't you love the cookie!

This one is always fun I just love the colors! Its like magic!

This one we did lots of sanding! Wonderful that 10 days into July we could do this one outside!

One of Anthony's finished projects! Yes, he crochets! Better then I ever will! I love how he thinks anytime he bakes he must put on a hat! Isn't he cute?

It's that time of year!

2009-11-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

Can you Guess what we did today! Yes, family photo day! Did the matching jackets give it away? At what age do you stop dressing children in match clothes? Anthony Loves it! I cannot even imagine the look on my sisters faces if I ask them to wear matching jackets for a picture? I love matching. I am VERY traditional that way. I'll save the pictures for another day, or a Christmas card!

Christmas start 2009

2009-11-12T06:36:00.000-07:00

There is a lot of chatter going on in my head these days! I doing something about it! So here I go.
A post a day from now until Christmas! Here is what we do to get ready for Christmas! This is what we do in the short days and dark nights of winter. I want to print it into a blog book after, just for fun! Try it out. blog2print. I also feel I need to do this so I am held accountable, and get Christmas done! I can see that magic of the what to believe in starting to dwindle in Anthony. I want to cherish and remember each day of the season while the magic is still in his eyes and heart! We will keep Believing!

We are having a fun November break. We cancelled Disneyland, because we weren't feeling so hot. That left lots of free time! I am going to back date a couple days to include some funny Christmas memories from the week! Wish me luck!

Halloween

2009-11-03T21:50:00.000-07:00

I don't like Halloween. I like the colour Orange, Pumpkins, and thats about it. However, it did make for some good pictures this year!

Month 9

2009-10-27T09:46:00.000-06:00

Month 9!

So hard to pick a colour? She's cute in them all!

Five things we love about Enzo

2009-10-26T00:23:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Enzo!

Five things we LOVE about Enzo at five!

He really believes the only reason he goes to school is to play! "why else would you go"?
His need for SPEED! Fresh snow on his birthday! First he went sledding off the deck, so we decide to take him to a hill! I think he may become a thrill seeker!
How incredibly engulfed he can becomes in his own imagination. When he plays everything else falls to exist!
He LOVES dressing up. One day it's a cowboy, the next he's building jackets & hats out of tin foil to go into space in his cardboard rocket ship!
He LOVES Pizza, pancakes and broccoli soup? Oh and "treats"

Someone recently described Enzo as a contained ball of fire. We can't think of a better description for him at five. I love that!

2009-10-18T07:22:00.000-06:00

Inspired by Ali Edwards' blog entry on Oct 16 and The Simple Woman's Day Book.

Outside my window...it's pretty much pitch black and snowing at 6am.

I am thinking...i am very tried, when can I sleep today?

I am thankful for...PVR. Enzo is watching George Shrinks behind me.

I am wearing...Lulu pants and a I Love NY hoddy.

I am remembering...how wonderful it felt to wake up in the morning and not be tried!

I am going... to go make french toast, and lunches.

I am reading...The Soft-Spoken Parent (More Than 50 Strategies to Turn Away Wrath)

by H. Wallace Goddard and The Girls by Lori Lensens

I am hoping...Enzo feels good, and goes to school soon, Mia figures out her world is more then ME!

I am creating...Christmas presents! (shh)

On my mind...will I get it all done before the new shop opens? When will I be able to leave Mia with ANYONE?

From the kitchen...everything fall. squash, apples, tomatoes. Anything still fresh from B.C!

Around the house...it's pretty much quiet. And clean!

One of my favorite things...my Christmas planner, and yogi tea!

A few plans for the rest of the week...doctors, school, hockey, violin, birthday party plans for Enzo, staying warm, more Christmas stuff, and a wedding on the weekend!

A photo to share... I love fall!

She has a tooth!

2009-10-05T22:52:00.000-06:00

Michael and I spent our 1oth wedding anniversary at school! Anthony's harvest feast. It was a wonderful dinner his class grow and prepared all the food for. He has the most amazing teacher! That's another post. We tried to celebrate it the next night. It wasn't perfectly planned either. First because I have not yet been able to leave Mia with anyone. Second of all she cut her first tooth! She stole the stoplight, she does that VERY well. We are really happy she has a tooth! No tears here. We like to see babies grow!

It made it kind of a special night, just not about us! In fact we were glad the boys were with Grandma & Grandpa so she really could have the spotlight! As for our anniversary? We have had many perfect moments, and there is always next year!

Month 8

2009-09-29T14:25:00.000-06:00

Month 8!

We are hang'in in there. Sitting, not eating, not sleeping, not leaving Mom's side for more then a quick picture! Getting dressed everyday, and HAPPY! VERY HAPPY!

Some favorite summer pics.

2009-09-15T07:33:00.000-06:00

Month 7

2009-08-28T12:07:00.000-06:00

Month 7.

First ride in a Costco cart!

First doll! Please Please let it help our sleeping issues! PLEASE!

Month 6

2009-07-30T06:56:00.000-06:00

Month 6

any one what to edit these for me?

Eight things at 8

2009-07-24T00:56:00.000-06:00

Eight things we Love about Anthony at 8!

His smile with all his missing teeth!
His Love of learning new things. Real things! Factually things!
He Loves to hang out with Dad!
He is a gentle big brother to Mia!
He is a rough & tough big brother to Enzo!
He wants a"real" summer job.
He growing tall, tall, tall and still love wearing his sweat pants to bed, with no shirt.
He can spend hours, hours and I think days to, playing outside!

Month 5

2009-06-28T20:22:00.000-06:00

Month 5

Schools OUT for SUMMER!

2009-06-21T00:34:00.000-06:00

Summertime! No more lunch time! Fun in the sun time. Right?

We are looking forward to it! Here are a couple soccer shoots! We had a fun season. The weather was SO great I think this is the first year without rain, during soccer. They both played on teams with friends, they both had fun, and they both learned something new. Anthony more goal keeping skills, and Enzo Not to score on your own team!

Month 4

2009-05-29T23:38:00.000-06:00

WOW! Month 4.

We had a busy month. Mia met Auntie Cassandra! This is who she gets her dimple from we realized! She loved the Sun in Arizona as much her family. She napped in while we swam. She napped while we golfed, and she napped while we shopped. She is smiling! She slept so great. I was sad to come home. I think maybe the fan above her bed?

Month 3

2009-04-28T23:34:00.000-06:00

Month 3

Month 2

2009-03-28T06:29:00.000-06:00

Month 2

Month 1

2009-03-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

I was going to try and post Mia as she grow, however. I can't keep up. So this is a bit late. Life has been a gong show! REALLY! I have recovered very well this c-section was done well. Enzo is adjusting well to Mia, and keeping us laughing! We have had Lice, Scarlet Fever, and Mia had RSV all in one week. It's been a little much. I can still say, even when we are sick...we are still HEALTHY! THANK HEAVENS!

Always dress for adventure!

Mia first, and hopefully only, ride in an ambulance.

Happy birthday in the hospital, this was the day she got to go home!

Mia

2009-02-02T23:05:00.000-07:00

She Made it! January 27,2009

Mia Marie Anne!

Enzo can't stop kissing her and Anthony wants to hold her all the time. She is very loved!

She looks like ME! She has my eyes, and lips. Michael's ears and hair.

Can't wait to watch her grow.

The Pictures I didn't take.

2009-01-06T22:39:00.000-07:00

Michael and I were SO grateful to go to Austin Texas for a friends wedding. In keeping with tradition, we forgot a camera. I turned out to be one of the greatest trips ever! Austin really rocks! So 10 pictures I forgot to take, and would have cried taking! (hormones)

The beautiful city! I had no Idea? The lovely view of the river and downtown from our hotel.
The "REAL" Texas barbecue, It look delicious, and smelled amazing the ribs were bigger then by plate! If I was SO pregnant I 'm sure it would have tasted amazing.
My big belly, I'm having a baby in three weeks.
Breakfast every morning at whole foods, walking around whole foods for an hour, because I could!
The sun! Oh I love the sun, and lunch outside in the sun!
Peanut butter toast, and a Burger at 11:30 pm for 8 dollars!
Music row, it really is the place to be. I couldn't find Willie.
My self sleeping! Yes, I SLEPT! WOW it felt like a first!
Dave and Hannah, WOW! They both look FABULOUS!
New Year's Eve fireworks, staying up till 4 in the morning, with good friends. We spent New years together ten years ago, WOW life really does just keep going!

I'm Giddy!

2008-12-26T22:21:00.000-07:00

SO It's been a while since I posted. I have never been SO tried. I can't even think about how tried I am going to be after little baby arrives. I don't sleep. It's a REAL problem. I have tried it all. I think I am being conditioned. I'm worried. When I do sleep it's not well. So not much is getting done. Christmas was FUN. Truthfully it's a bit of a blur. I got amazing gifts I have to say. The little blue Tiffany's box always bring a smile, however.... The real purpose for my entry? I am GIDDY! I have to share the greatest gift I received. I am SO excited! I have not been able to stop flipping though this book. Maria Sinskey you are truly inspired! I think I have all ready read it cover to cover three times!! I only wish I had the energy to start cooking! Thanks Mom!

Legoland

2008-10-27T13:09:00.000-06:00

WOW! Legoland was about 10000 times more fun then expected. Highly recommend it for little boys that love Lego! Anthony was almost to old. I'm glad we went this year! I was truthfully going as a labour of love, thinking Sea world be the highlight. Was I wrong!

We will go back to Legoland! SeaWorld...I think once may have been enough. I am not sure who had more fun on this trip Michael, or the boys! Enzo loved getting his "Volvo" drivers licence! Anthony touching the sharks, and seeing the giant Lego creations. Michael I think... the rides! Me the SUN of course. It was SO great we forgot we lost a car seat on the flight to Arizona! We had a great 10 days! Again to many pictures! I need to take more time uploading the good picture.

Thanks GIVING!

2008-10-18T07:43:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for my health, and my families health

I am thankful for a Beautiful safe country I live in

I am thankful for Michael

I am thankful I can travel near and far I love it

I am thankful Enzo & Anthony LOVE each other SO darn much

I am thankful for good books

I am thankful for my faith

I am thankful for brilliant teachers

I am thankful for on-line how to videos

I am thankful I can see all the beautiful colors of fall, and the beautiful food

I am thankful I am spending thanksgiving weekend alone with my two boys in the mountains

I am thankful we all came home alive from a windy gondola ride, and icy hike

Happy Thanksgiving!

I bought PINK!

2008-09-26T21:26:00.000-06:00

Tiffany and I went to New York. We was an interesting trip! We had fun of course. When don't we? It started as a work class. Bumble and Bumble. That was great! Even better... I had more own room, in chic New york Hotel. It was AMAZING! I found my self in this incredibly city, able to do anything I wanted, and all I wanted was to be alone in my room, with my oversize bath robe! It was SO great to be Alone, I actually planned to stay in and be alone one night! Sorry Tiffany! I don't sleep anymore, and I slept! It felt like the first time ever! The bigger news of the trip. I did it. I bought PINK! Yes pink! This was REALLY hard for me to do. I know it's silly. But it was. It's going to be a girl January 25. She has an adorable tiny outfit from Lucky and a sweet set of pink organic cotton nightgowns & caps. Oh and a matching blanket!

Summer pics

2008-08-29T21:08:00.000-06:00

Okay so I had to add a few. That's right. In six weeks of playing it's hard to pick a few. These aren't the best, I'll post some more later.....sorry

Two things I love!

2008-08-20T06:05:00.000-06:00

I said it once all ready, but really isn't it a BEAUTY!!! I love the farm, and my cousins! What a great weekend that was.

I LOVE Summer!

2008-08-13T20:37:00.000-06:00

This might me all I get down for the summer.

A top ten list memories list ~thanks for the tag Nancy

Feeling disgusting, all the time! Motion sickness brands digging into my wrists!
The heat! Utah and Arizona I LOVE IT! Doing nothing all together!
The rafting trip. The water was so high we walked the raft around a bridge, we couldn't get under. Enzo getting sick, and Anthony Lov'in it!
Road trips! We really do love them. The luggage racks, and the elevators.
swimming, scooting, swimming and more scooting
Shopping, shopping and shopping with Tiffany and no kids!
slide rock park and the storm coming into slide rock park
the giant bubble baths in the giant hotel tubs!
Enzo and the statue, enzo falling asleep half way though eating ribs in a busy restaurant!
The bad, bad weather, that drove us to leave early and come home!

Is spring really here

2008-05-10T08:32:00.000-06:00

I think it is really spring, that means summer is around the Corner! YAHOO! This picture is the reason I believe this to be true. Anthony has time before school, in a short sleeved t-shirt to go outside and blow bubbles! How wonderful! I hope it keeps coming!

The FARM!

2008-04-15T19:58:00.000-06:00

We are so Lucky! We got to go visit the farm during spring break. My eyes water, my nose ran, the wind blow, we played in the icy creek water, listen to the sounds silence,and the cows! Walked and walked, chopped wood, rode in the tractor to feed the new calf's! I think this is the GREATEST, most beautiful place in the world! I'm so glad I know it's here! Thank-you!

A day in the life of Enzo!

2008-04-03T19:34:00.000-06:00

He wakes up at 7:30,Starts eating, and continues to eat every hour on the hour until 2 pm!

yogurt
pancakes
fruit
an egg
almond (and maybe another yogurt)
carrots sticks & peas
broccoli soup
cheese & tomato & lettuce sandwich
a muffin
an apple

And he's done! In between all this we read a book, dress up several time, go to the park, talk about Curious George. Play something make believe, today we your a race car picking up monkeys. Make something, and gently try to get the glue out of the bottle before resorting to a Knife! Clean up. Walk to school to get Anthony, play at the park. Walk home and do it all again with Anthony!

I spoke to soon

2008-03-26T20:22:00.000-06:00

Just when I thought that was it for the milestones for a while. Anthony FINALLY lost his first tooth! Well Nono pulled it out. He's almost 7. It had been loose for a year! He has decided to keep it. No giving this one up to the tooth fairy! Not Anthony. Next to trying to get this tooth out, his life is all about paper airplanes! They are EVERYWHERE! He has learn to make all sorts of crazy airplanes! I thought I needed to see the joy in 100's of airplanes everywhere, and flying everywhere all the time. SO we took a picture! They create madness for me, but bring him JOY!

happy birthday Michael

2008-03-23T06:50:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHAEL!

He finally did it!

2008-03-11T20:18:00.000-06:00

We have Really been struggling with Enzo to dress him self. It's the last thing on this I'm a boy not a toddler list. Well, HE DID IT! ENZO IS A BOY! He came up where the perfect play outfit! (No sarcasms there.) This may be the last of our Milestones for a while!

2008-02-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

Today! Enzo colored, and colored! Played dress up, went for a walk to the park, and colored some more. He has discovered coloring IN the lines. It is a sad day for me when that happened. I remember when it happened to Anthony. It's the end of toddler hood! He has entered the square world of restrictions. He's conforming, losing his creativity, and imagination. We do we own coloring books? I'm going to stick to loose leaf!

Today! Anthony has a cold. Still LOVING grade one, but didn't go today. He has a hand working class he is really enjoying and doing well at. Right now he is work on a bag to keep his flute (recorder) in. He has better tension then me!

Another cold Family day!

2008-02-18T09:41:00.000-07:00

I really believe family day is the coldest day of the year! Someone should look into this! We still when to the mountains. We hiked up to to the upper falls at Johnston canyon then headed back to Lake Louise. It really was beautiful. The boys had a great time. There was six other people on the trial. It was So peaceful, so Anthony started singing! Then Enzo in his Lovely HIGH pitched voice started yelled "wait for ME buther" just the way the mountains should be!

I was tagged.

2007-12-29T06:04:00.000-07:00

Whose temper is worse? I would say if pushed, we are pretty equal. I loose mine first.
Who does the laundry? 100% me unless I ask him too help, or do it all.
Who does the dishes? Again I would say pretty equal right now. Who ever doesn't cook.
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Who's right? I'm closer to the door. He can sleep though ANYTHING, so I need to pop out of bed any every little sound.
Who pays the bills? Me.
Who mows the lawn? Michael, I would do it, He likes to and always beats me to it.
Who cooks dinner? Usually me but because of the time of day dinner is. If the timing is right we will do it together. If it was left to Michael we would be eating a 10:00 at night, by the time he came home decided what to make, when to the store, made it, and finally ate it. It's a pretty big production!
Who drives when you are together? Him, I'm too busy looking around!
Who is more stubborn? Again, I think thats a tie. I'm a red head!
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Another tie!
Whose parents do you see the most? Both of us? Pretty even I think. He talks to his Dad the MOST!
Who proposed? He did.
Who has more friends?He has some really great old friends, I say I have more, and more time for them.
Who has more siblings? Both have 4.
Who wears the pants in the family? We share a BIG pair of them.
If you haven't done this yet... You are it!