My Girls CONCLUSION : The luckiest girl in the world

I want to thank my girls for letting my share with everyone why you are all so special to me.

The hardest part of our friendships is the distance between us. I know you are all just a phone call away but some times it is very lonely out here. For me our get together's are a way to feel like me again. Not mommy, or wife or employee but Keri-Lyn.

I started this blog at the beginning of the year so that I could try and find that happy place again (and i HATE writing so this was me over coming a fear). I guess I defined my younger self as a skinny, volleyball playing girl who talked to everyone and had this amazing out look on life. That girl is still in here just in a different mold and a little less of a filter. (I have a tendency to say what is on my mind even when it is not always wanted.) There are no secrets in my life. I live it like an open book. I want to share with people my triumphs and am grateful to have those same people there when I fall, helping me back up.

There are a couple of things that I know for sure in this world.

FAMILY & FRIENDS will always come first (and always have!).

I will go that extra mile for someone every time because at the end of the day I hope they would do the same for me.

Find JOY in the journey! We only ever to get to live this life once. Why waste it?

Being sad is a part of our lives ~ just don't let it consume you.

Mothers have an ever lasting effect on us and I strive everyday to be the best mom I can be (I don't always succeed but tomorrow is a new day and I will try again ;)

No one is PERFECT so except people for who they are OR move on.

You can tell alot about a person by the friends they have. I couldn't imagine not having the girlfriends that I do in my life (that includes the ones that were not mentioned on this blog... ) There is a bond that two woman share that is so sacred and only they can be the ones to change it.

Don't think that someone knows how you truly feel about them... tell them. We only become better people by hearing we matter in this world. I encourage you to make someone feel like they matter today! Don't wait for a birthday or a holiday... pick a random day and make it special! You will be surprised at how good it will make you feel :)

My Girls PART 7: The GLUE

I'm not really sure where to start. I feel like I need to explain me a bit before I tell you about the most amazing woman/person I know.

I was a floater in high school. I could hang out with almost anyone but I never really felt like I had a HOME with any one particular group. Don't get my wrong I had some really amazing friends in High School some of those people I still talk to today. I somehow still always felt a little lost. I started working at a local restaurant and for me that is when I got to experience friendship like I have never known. I was introduced to my BEST FRIEND. Really it doesn't matter where you find that person but that you find a connection that bonds you for life and you know there is no looking back.

At first what attracted me to her was her ability to capture the attention of an entire room just by her presence. She is a petit girl but has an amazing ora about her that people are drawn to. If you have ever met Nicole you know that just by talking to her for a split second you have met someone really special. She can make conversation with anyone. If you thought you were someone who doesn't open up to people, there is no doubt you will tell her all of your secrets. She genuinely cares about what is going on in your life and will give you sound advice if you need it. I had never met anyone like her. It doesn't matter where you come from or how old or young you are she will make you feel like you matter.

In my eyes Nicole always had her priorities in check - Family and friends are most important and nothing has changed in 12 years. She has taught me so much.

Here are just a few of those life lessons:

The Universe works in mysterious ways. What you put out in to the world you will get back. Open a door for someone, smile at a stranger or pay for the coffee for the person behind you in line and it will come back to you ten fold. I have witnessed this on countless occasions while with her.

Nicole once told me "What will you remember 10 years from now - that day at work you weren't allowed to miss - or that funeral for so and so??" I have applied that to so many things in my life. What will I cherish and remember the most? The places I have gone or the people I have touched? (I will choose people every time!!)

I have never met a more honest and natural mother. To watch her with her kids is like watching a really good family comedy. There is so much love and humor that goes on in that house. I learn new and creative ways to teach my child on how to be an exceptional person by watching and listening to her with her kids. When I see Toad kissing and hugging his baby sister with so much love and pride, it melts my heart. That is a true reflection of how his parents have taught him to treat others. He shows this same love to all of our kids.

I love that there is no sugar coating in our relationship you tell it like it is and then we move on. I can call her and talk to her about anything with no judgement or ridicule. It is truly rare to find that kind of person. We laugh together, cry together, drink together and dance together. I have a bond with her for life.

One of Nicole's favourite quotes is "be the change you want to see in the world" she lives everyday with that on her mind and in her heart. In our world it is really hard for people to find the positive in anything. We live in a fast passed, electronic and non verbal (face to face conversation) generation. Nicole has been able to integrate all of those things and still finds time to call and see the people she loves. I have to say I learn everyday how to be a great friend, mother and wife by her example.

Our friendships are linked by one amazing human connection and that person is Nicole. We may have never maintained the relationships that we all have if it weren't for Nicole that is why I call her ~ the glue.

Words to describe Nicole are hysterical, great story teller, generous, loving, honest, playful, adventurous and a humanitarian. She will find the good in anyone. I mentioned that Pauline is an Angel on earth and I feel the same about you. Grateful doesn't even begin to describe what it means to have you in my life. I have so much love in my heart for you and your entire family that it makes me want to cry just thinking about it. Thank you is not big enough!! The only words that I know that are bigger then that are I LOVE YOU!

The word that I love to use the most to describe Nicole is FAMILY. I can not imagine my life without her in it. She brings me so much joy, encouragement and makes me want to be a better person every day.

Thanks for being my Oprah!!

My Girls PART 6: The Potty Mouth

Kathy and I go way back. I was 19 and she was roughly 21 when we first started hanging out ;) We started working together at a restaurant and that is where my life would be forever changed. We have gone through lots together. I never met someone who loves to laugh as much as this girl. It is infectious. I can't wait to hear her stories and look forward to the times we get to hang out.

Kathy in my eyes has a beautiful light around her. She is gorgeous, smart and insanely creative. Although she will never admit it she is one of the most talented and humble people I know. What I love the most about Kathy is her spirit. You see it when she is around her family, friends and husband. She would do anything for anyone of them and they would do the same for her.

We all face obstacles in our life and it is how we handle those difficult times that tell you the most about someone. Kathy what I know about you is that you are passionate, caring, optimistic and above all a great friend.

We may not get to see each other as much as we would like but when I do get to talk to you you always manage to bring clarity, wisdom, compassion and laughter to my world. Even if you have to RAISE YOUR VOICE WHEN YOU GET EXCITED SO THAT I HEAR YOU... lol I always look forward to our conversations.

Kathy remember every day you are blessed with an amazing husband, a fantastic family (Tina I adore you) and the best friends in the world. We all love you to pieces and know that a cold beer is never that far away :)

My Girls PART 5: The Coach

I had to rename this post because I had completely forgotten that she already had a nickname and that "The Coach" better suits her.

Wow -- where do I start????!!!

One of the Funniest people I know... check!

An amazing Mother.... Double check!

A very Loyal friend....check!

BEAUTIFUL..... check!

Inspirational..... check!

I was honoured when Pauline and her husband said yes to being our MC's. There were so many reasons why we chose them but to see them together shows you what a true partnership is all about. They have an amazing relationship and what a better couple to represent us on our wedding day. PLUS they are really fun to be around.

Pauline is full of hilarious stories... most of them involve her doing something insanely funny - it usually means she has done or said something really embarrassing. Most people would hate to re-live it ~ however Pauline will tell you the story and be crying so hard by the end from laughter that she won't be able to finish it. Those are always my favourite. She is also notorious when it comes to needing a little motivational talk. You might think you can't drink another sip, or you are too tired to go somewhere or do something ;) but this girl will make sure you are ready to go with a wave of her finger and some uplifting words.

Humor aside this girl is so caring, compassionate and positive about everything. She would give you the shirt off her back. One of the things I love most about Pauline is you will never catch her saying a bad word about anyone. There is so much love in her heart.

In our life time I think we only ever get to meet a hand full of people that show us how to live an amazing life with so much love, charisma and empathy for others. Pauline you are a true ANGEL on earth. Every weekend/day/minute I get to spend with you is like a little charge of energy for my soul.

I don't get to tell you this very much but I LOVE you from the bottom of my heart. You are so special and I'm so proud to say we are friends.

MY GIRLS PART 4: Super woman

For me this post makes me the most emotional. I have so much respect and envy for this woman. To me she is the definition of STRENGTH and CLASS. I can honestly say that I'm not sure I could handle the situations that she has on a daily basis with such grace, courage and dignity.

Amanda is what I like to call SUPERWOMAN. She is an AMAZING mother, great wife and super friend. One of the things that I love about Amanda is we have that kind of friendship where we don't have to talk everyday but when you pick up the phone we can talk like no time has passed. I enjoy her candidness and honesty. She wears her heart on her sleeve and anyone who gets to call her a friend is so very lucky.

Amanda is funny, caring, compassionate and always ready for a good chat about any of the Twilight movies incase you wanted to know :) (GO TEAM JACOB!)

It's funny how time matures us and makes us see things in a different light. I can without a doubt tell you that I know no other woman who possesses such determination, poise and humor like Amanda.

HONOURED TO CALL YOU MY FRIEND!

My Girls PART 3: The dreamer

There are people in your life that inspire you and motivate you to want to be a better person. I am fortunate to have a couple of those people in my life and one of them is Krista.

Krista lives her life with such GUSTO (if you have not seen The Holiday please see it- it should explain alot.) She is a goal setter, a vision board holder and a free spirit. In my eyes she is strong, fearless and a risk taker. If she wants to do something I have no doubt in my mind that she will accomplish it. From traveling the world to going back to school to getting healthy there is nothing this girl can't do.

Aswell as being this amazing goal oriented person, she is a warm, caring and an absolutely beautiful woman (if you don't believe me ask our husbands). Krista is a very loyal friend and a confidant. She speaks her mind and I love that about her. We can go from watching a country concert to talking about why boys can be so stupid to crying over the passing of a loved one. She truly has the most generous heart and I can only say that I am a better person for knowing her. She bring so much joy, love and laughter to my world and I have found a friend for life.

Some might call her Krista or Aunt Krista or even Rosemary but I call her one of my BEST Friends and I'm so proud to have someone like her in my life to inspire, challenge and motivate me to be a better human being.

xo KL

My Girls PART 2: The Diva

You know that friend you have that is always put together - Her nails are done, her hair looks good and she has her makeup on (and it's not from the day before). Em is that girl. She is a beautiful person on the inside and out.

She is also the girl that will crawl through the bushes with you in camouflage or she might call you to go to the bar late at night (when we were much younger of course) . There is always a good time to be had when she is around.

Now a days instead of throwing back a case of beer (Blue - with her face on the label) we chat about nursing and working and everything inbetween. I don't get to see Em as much as I would like. She just welcomed a BEAUTIFUL new addition to her family - Quinn. Em is one of those Mom's that was meant to have little girls. Her daughters are gorgeous and a true reflection of their mom. (They are better dressed then me! hee hee hee)

There are some friendships that get tested by time and to be honest we have been friends this long I have no doubt we will be friends for life.

xo KL

My Girls Part 1: Warm Fuzzy's

I'm killing my self laughing over here because I have just come across an old box. When I opened it heaps of papers fell out. I started looking through them and realized they are from high school. I can't believe that I have kept them for all of these years. Some are from my high school girlfriends who would pass notes back and forth between classes. They are of course folded in to cute little shapes and have drawings all over them. However the ones that I loved reading were the letters that I got while at leadership camps (ie. D.A.R.E) other campers would write you a WARM FUZZY that consisted of things that they felt were great about you. Even-though one of them says "you have a great ass" the rest of them were amazing to read. They are inspiring and something that I think we as a society neglect to say to people all the time - How great they truly are!!

This week I dedicate my blog to my Thursday night girls.

Here is a little warm fuzzy for you.

Krista: The Dreamer

Kathy: The Potty Mouth

Pauline: Makes you Laugh until your Belly Hurts

Amanda: Superwoman

Emma: The Diva

Nicole: The GLUE

Me: The Luckiest girl in the world

Each day I will post a little something about each one of these amazing girls and hope that you will see why I'm truly the luckiest girl in the world.

Turrets and my Wife

If I had turrets I would have been in big trouble today. People kept telling me or asking me things today that I had already given them or told them atleast 2 times before and I kept saying to my self in my head ... don't say what you are thinking out loud, don't say what you are thinking out loud. I would curse them out in my head or tell them what I was really thinking at the time when they were talking to me. It really did make me feel better. Today has just been one of THOSE days. Total case of the Mondays.

I am flying solo this week at home and my two year old has decided that she no longer wants to be good for ME at bedtime.. just me no one else. Of course she chose this week. Not only was I tired today from the constant negotiations with her last night but I think it's my grumpy time of the month.

Last night I had help. I would like to call her my wife. She came to our house cooked us dinner (with her own food) and cleaned up afterwards. She helped with Lexi's bath and read her stories. She was amazing and it was so nice to have her there just for the moral support. I think everyone should have a wife :)

This is going to be a FUN week - I really do look forward to my time alone with Lexi. I have planned swimming for us, some super fun crafts and a little surprise for Daddy when he gets home. I think about all of the parents that have to do this on there own - day in and day out and I thank my lucky stars that my husband is the BEST father I could ever ask for.

Love you beyond words and I thank you for making the last 4.5 years really special. Happy 2nd Anniversay!

Lexi's little friend .. dare I say boyfriend?

A couple of weekends ago we hung out with a bunch a good friends and ours and The T's were there.

There little man is so stickin cute that we have already arranged their wedding and P and I have already coordinated what colours we are going to wear.

T1 is a very handsome little man and he and Lexi get along very well. What I mean by that is Lexi likes to tell boys what to do and T1 seems to take direction very well.

After you catch me can you please go tell everyone to start being quiet we are going to bed soon!

"Excuse me ~ May I have your Attention Please!!! EXCUSE ME!!!

Is this thing even on?

Great! now come in side.

"OH T1 you are so funny!"

Let's lay down!

" Holy Smokes Batman.. I think that Girl just had a # 2... I'm out of here!"

"oh Wait... my mom can change me... I'll be good as new in 2 mins."

I can only imagine the amount of pictures we will have to go through to figure out what to put in the wedding slide show.

Happy Tuesday!

Sarnia Beyfest 2011... and momma brought home a guitar

** Not so Silent Mommy ~ Sarah, If I knew you were going to be there I would have totally tried to hook up with you. Glad you had Fun **

This weekend almost didn't happen for me. My Aunt has asked us a couple of times to go to events with her and unfortunately it has never worked??? Except for this year!

She has "friends" on the inside (as I like to call it) and she scores VIP tickets every year for Bayfest. The first year I was invited I had to reluctantly decline because I had a baby the day before it started. (I guess this was a valid excuse??)

Then last year we had a 1st birthday party and really I couldn't miss that??? (Eventhough I had to really think about it.) So this year I was going even if I had to change my own daughters birthday to make it happen. That's right this mommy is SOOOOO in LOVE with Lady Antebellum that I was considering moving her birthday weekend all together. Instead I decided to do what all crazy mom's do - IT ALL!!!

I don't usually work Friday's so that was my day to cook, make Cupcakes and hang out at the splash pad with Lexi and her whole Daycare.

Then up early Saturday to spend some quality time with my little girl (who is not so little any more :( Then I had to drive from TO to London (pick up the fam) and then off to Sarnia. This is what was waiting for me....

The next little bit will be told via photo montage.

Did I mention that my Aunt gets us front row seats and in before anyone else. LOVE you Aunt D!

Front Row - Thank you very Much!

This was everyone behind us.

Opening Act - Local band and seriously entertaining. His moves were straight out of an Elvis concert. Those hips don't lie! He said he would give away his guitar to the loudest fan... really the only person who could have taken this from me was Nicole and thankfully she was not there :)

Thats's right folks I came home with a John Deer guitar.

Aaron Prichett - Beautiful to look at but a COMPLETE camera whore. Not my fav!!

The reason I wanted to go..... LADY A!!!

They were doing covers of other songs....

This next video is poor because I took so many pictures my camera was dying and the battery actually ran out on my at the end here.

(Side Note: The Video's are shaky because I was deathly afraid that I was going to get my camera taken away. Eventhough I had slept with the Bouncer in a previous life... or this one... roughly 6 years ago...or not? I can't remember his name? My previous life is still a little fuzzy to me ~ That could be a whole other blog post....lol)

The drive home afterwards could not have been done without my superstar sister (we got in to TO at 2am) and the birthday that day was a success.

Unless Shania Twain is performing next year with Garth Brooks I might have just gone to my one and only Bayfest. But never say never.....

Please OH Please GO TO SLEEP!!

Since day one Lexi has been a - how do I say this... a difficult sleeper.

She never napped more then 20-30 mins from 3 months to roughly 7 months. Bed time was a whole different ball game. We have tried everything from the "Baby Whisperer" to rocking her to sleep, different types of music, books... whatever you can think of we did it. One thing we were always firm on is that her bed time routine with one parent has to be exactly the same with the other. Bath, Book and then Bed.

I come from the school of letting her cry it out. (Before you judge - hear me out!)

When she was really young we had a counting system. After 1 min of crying you would go check on her, after 2 mins of crying you would go check on her, after 4 mins of crying you would go check on her.... then 8mins, then 16 mins, then 32... this progressed into this snowball counting thing. Only one time did it go to 32mins. We graduated to 5, 10, 20.. and usually by 10-15 mins she would be out. However every night she would cry.

Some nights were more challenging then others. If she wanted to have a toy in her bed, we let her. Once she was sleeping we would go in and move the toy. If she wanted to wear a tutu to bed - no problem. We would go in and remove it after she had fallen asleep.

We do not do this every night but sometimes you just have to choose your battles.

She is now 2 - she nows that there is nothing bad that is going to happen to her in her room. She does not cry ever night. Generally by 8 - 8:30 she is sleeping (or talking to her friends in her bed).

Last night was a regular night for us. She had her bath, we read books and I put her to bed. She did her normal... Mommy don't go routine but I just said (what I always say when I leave her room) Mommy loves and I'm just going down stairs. Good Night! She screamed at me but that is pretty normal. I shut the door and she can't get out (door knob contraption that I can barely use.)

About 30mins later I went to check on her - still awake in her bed. I go back down stairs and come back up another 30mins later. This is what I found.......

Well she is sleeping??? Just in a standing/leaning positions. bhahahaha

Oh wait is gets better.....

Not only did she fall asleep standing up... she was reading Harry Potter... Omg this kid cracks me up!

Each family is going to do this differently. What works for one family might not work for another (I've also heard the same for multiple children.) For our family - I'm okay letting her cry it out. Once she goes to sleep she stays asleep until the morning. She is a good kid and really that is all that we can ask for.

Good Night everyone - may your night be peaceful and full of sleep :)

7 things you might not now about me.

I thought I would change it up a bit and send out some points that you may not know about me. There are many isms that I have but here are a few.

1) I don't finish all of my prescriptions. Once the symptoms are gone I stop... bad I know.

2) Toilet paper has to roll over not under.. and I may change it when I come to your house if it is the opposite way :)

3) I'm really good with power tools. Grew up watching my dad fixing and create amazing pieces of furniture out of wood.

4) I have a love/hate relationship with Jared the Subway cat. If you have never been to my house you would never know there was a cat living there. I still call it Brian's cat (4 years later).

5) One of my most embarrassing moments happened in an email to Brian (my boss) not my Husband... however I didn't realize I had made a mistake until we had talked back and forth 2 or 3 times... What was even worst I spelt his name wrong when I sent it - It started off Hi Brain! Ackward!

6) I HATE belly buttons. For real can't stand them, especially outties - sorry if you have one..just not a fan. Even worst if you are pregnant and it comes out... omg this actual almost made me hurl typing it.

7) It bothers me that B takes our good cutlery in his lunch to work. I've gone from 12 large forks to 9??? He says it was not him but I don't take them to work with me??? So it must be the dishwasher?!

I'm not sure why B chose to marry me but man he puts up with alot :)

My last Oprah

Wednesday Vent:

Can I be pissed at Oprah? Is this allowed? I feel like if she could have just pulled a Bob Barker or Regis Philbin. I would be happier as a person.

Yay great you have your "OWN" network. Thanks for reminding me every single time I watch any NEW episodes. Thanks for only having 2 interesting shows to watch on your new network (In the bedroom with Laura Burman - there are crazy f'ed up people in the world worst then ME! and The Judes - LOVE these two ladies).

What I won't miss about Oprah (B would say everything right now... he wouldn't even let me have it on in the same room as him. He's clearly the drama queen in our family...lol) was her knack for repeating everything someone said like it was the MOST interesting thing anyone has ever said in there life. That drove me crazy. I also hated - what I felt was her phoniness towards certain people.

Today marked the last day i will ever watch a NEW Oprah. Sure there are episodes out there that I have not seen but after the "behind the scenes" (oh yeah I watch that too.) I will be done with The Oprah Winfrey show.

There are lots of things that I love about Oprah. She really does pull at your "heartstrings" she has been a great resource for books when I'm stuck and don't know what to read? I have laughed so hard at some of her guests. Her shows are amazing topic started with friends and in my case, strangers.

There seems like there is so much negativity in our world right now and for me Oprah's show was a way to feel worthy, like I can make a difference and maybe even help brighten or change someone's life.

One of my favourite episodes was about Motherhood and there was a woman on the show who had a blog and she was seriously FUNNY! She talked candidly about her struggles with being a new mom and trying to be a "good" wife and that not every day was a good day. This opened up the doors for woman to talk openly about the struggles in our everyday life, let your guard down and tell the truth is healthy and natural. True friends won't judge you they will support you and some times tell you - they feel the same way.

Oprah.. thank you for 25 wonderful years but I'm pissed you are no longer going to be on the air. I plan on having more children and now you will not be there every day to give me that ONE hour of solitude that I long for in my day.

I hope your billion dollar empire continues to be successful because my dollar empire over here is not looking too good!

complaining

Thursday's Vent:

I'm sick of people complaining about the weather. It's either too hot or too cold or too rainy . People it's summer. I do not want to hear it. If you are one of those people like me that really looks forward to summer because you are not a fan of all the layers of clothing then you best be shutting your pie hole about it being (potentially) too hot.

Some suggestions for those people get an AC, buy a fan, put your windows down when you drive your car. Whatever it takes. Unless your job requires you to be outside no matter the weather I DON'T care to hear about the heat!

I'm off to go hang outside with Lexi Bug, if I gets to hot I will turn the gardne hose on us - or jump in the neighbours pool- our fence is still down. Can you imagine him looking out his kitchen window and sees B and I skinny dipping in his pool - I mean Alexis and I splashing around...lol

Happy Thursday Everyone.

Enjoy your long weekend I will be at the cottage so I will be back on Monday :)

You parent your kid I'll parent mine.

Wednesday Vent:

I'm so worked up over this I'm sorry this might be a little long.

I have been in SEVERAL situations where someone else has felt the need to parent my kid when there kid is being a brat (mostly strangers).

We are very excepting to other families rules, however they may not be our rules that we implement in our house. At our in-laws Alexis bed time is much more flexible then it is at our house. That's okay! They have limited time with her and however they can get her to fall asleep in a bed is fine with us - rocker her for an hour, whatever! Read her 15 books, whatever! Our parents are awesome with Alexis - they spoil her rotten and she loves every minute of it. That's what grandparents are for. This is when we will bent the rules.

When you don't know my kid or think it's okay to interrupt my parenting THIS is when I have a problem.

If your kid is splashing my kid at the pool and you yell at my kid to move - I just might throat punch you.

If you honk your horn at me in the parking lot because my kid lost her shoe while trying to run away and wasn't listening to me and I acknowledge the fact that the shoe is on the ground however I felt the need to teach my child a lesson (don't run around parking lots) don't honk at me again. I got it the first time.. it's just a shoe!

If you think it's okay that your kid yells in a restaurant but when my kids is imitating your kid.. don't give me a dirty look. I didn't pinch her - SHE WAS COPYING YOUR KID!

If I'm playing with my kid and ACCIDENTALLY dislocate her elbow and take her to the hospital (after crying my eyes out and calling telehealth and discussing with the ER doctors that is was clearly an accident) Don't act surprised that they did not call CAS on me. Clearly you don't know me... I'd never do it on purpose??

B and I sometimes disagree on how we should discipline Alexis but at the end of the day we can discuss our goals and actions so that we are on the same page. We live with her and know her personality. Don't think because you are in the same room as her that you get to boss her around. We knew what we signed up for when we got pregnant -we can handle it. Thanks!

My favourite quote I heard on The Mom Show was "I was a much better parent before I had kids." I have to agree with this. BK I would see a child acting up in public and say "when I have kids I will never let my kid do that... fastforward 3 years and here I am. The mom with the kid yelling at her to get down and walk on her own at the grocery store. There are certainly things that I now know and can understand better as a parent then I ever could before I having one of my own.

Happy Hump day!

Where are we going??

Tuesday's Vent:

My husband might kill me but this erked me this weekend.
We have been together for 4 (crazy) blissful years. We were married 2 years ago this September and have a beautiful baby girl.

I have the best life. I don't worry about alot of stuff because B takes care of it all. He is super supportive hardly ever complains (really!!) and loves his family more then anything. There are a couple of things that erk me about B (if I want to stay married I will keep those to my self... lol) but this weekend I found my self very frustrated - for something so ridiculous that I had to tell myself to cool down you are being CRAZY!

My hometown is London. We drive in together atleast once every 2 months. I usually drive. I take the exact same route EVERY single time we go. I like to take the "short cut" that does have a few more turns but it avoids going through 800 lights (exaggerating of course). Let me remind you it's been 4 YEARS!!!!

B drove this weekend, so when we got in to London I thought I'll just go with it and see what way he will take us to my parents house. He asked me if he should turn left... I said "take which ever way you know!" I was being a bit of a witch but I was curious, would he take my way or the long way? Really there is nothing wrong with the long way but for some reason it erked me when he chose to take it.

YES I'm being stupid and there is nothing wrong with him for doing it I just felt like "what are you doing EVERY single time I'm driving?" I then went in to the "he obviously doesn't care about me if he can't even get to me parents house?" - at this point I had to calm myself down and I decided to ask him why he always goes this way? B's response "It takes less turns and really only adds on less then 10mins to the drive - does it matter which way I take?"I guess not???!!

For some reason it still erks me??!! Nothing wrong with B - it's clearly my crazy issue!

Happy Tuesday!

Parental Parking Spots

This week I'm going to talk about things that "erck" me. Not so much wanting to complain but to see if you feel the same way? Or if you have any advise?

Mondays' Vent:
This weekend I took Lexi to Walmart on Saturday morning to A) Give Brian the opportunity to sleep in (WIFE of the year :) and B) pick up some much needed groceries.

When I get in the parking lot it was packed. There was a free spot for "parents with young kids" so I decide to take it. I get out of the car and go around to get Lexi and realize maybe I should grab a cart first and then I don't run in to the whole.... "no mommy I want to walk" fight! I look around for the "Grocery Cart Hut" and it's 10 cars away??!! This is my comment - what is more important to you as a parent - the fact that your parking spot is slightly closer to the front door or that you park close to the "hut" so you don't have to leave your kid in the car while you run your cart back after putting all of the groceries in the car?

1) I like the fact that they give new moms/expecting mom's the first couple of spots to park. However I think they should move the "Shopping Cart Hut" closer too!

2) At what stage are you no longer allowed using these "Parents with young kids" parking spots?

3) IF you are without your children or have no kids.... don't even think about parking in that spot. (or the handicap spot either.... I will find you and cuse you out !! Don't mess with me.)

My favourite grocery store for parking is Sobeys. They some how have figured this shit out. The parent parking is one of the closer spots to the door. The "hut" is roughly 3 cars away from the parent spot and there NEW shopping carts are super kid friendly (aka easy to do up the buckles). Now if they could just get there prices down I would be going to them all the time.

This could just be me but I feel better getting it off my chest!

Happy Monday Everyone!!

Thong or Grannies???

I've been having this problem lately - I can't decided if I'm a thong girl or a granny panty girl.

See BK I hardly EVER wore full backs. Post child I hardly ever wear thongs (I'm sure B has been lovin' the past two years! ) Lately I have been going to my never fail outfit -- the SUMMER dress. I put on one piece of clothing (on top of under garments) and go. Super simple can't f' it up!! However I have this small itty bitty problem. If I wear a thong and bend over my butt likes to eat my dress. So I end up pulling at the back of my dress all day.

Today I decided to be smarter then my butt. I was going to wear granny panties that way there was no where for my dress to get caught. After about an hour at work I realized that the underwear that I chose are officially the WORST underwear I own. You barely need to move and they just start creeping. Because I'm not really a thong girl any more it takes me a couple of minutes to get use to them when I put them on. Then the rest of the day usually works out but they usually are not my first choice. These stupid things are worst then thongs. I'd rather a small piece of fabric start off where-the-sun-don't- shine verses a whole bunch of fabric that really shouldn't be there in the first place.

I guessing I'm back to square one with this whole issue. I need to find me some SUPER underwear that make everything look right, don't ride and are comfy. This could be worst then jean shopping??!!

My shelf....

I'm still on my weight loss journey. I have been slacking at the gym and if I'm going to be honest I have been cheating on my NO fast food diet. I keep telling my self it's because I have been SO busy at work or because I want to spend time with my family or .... really I could make up any excuse to not get my self healthy.

Right now my biggest complaint about my self is what I like to refer to as the SHELF. BK I could pride my self on the fact that I had a pretty flat stomach. I'm almost 6 feet so when I gain weight it distributes evenly throughout my body (actually is generally goes to my chest.. great for hubby..no so great for my clothes.) HOWEVER after having a child (whom I love and wouldn't trade for the flattest stomach in the world) I now have a shelf right below my chest. It starts out right below my bra line and sticks out pretty far. The reason I know this shelf is not only noticeable to me but other people is because I have been asked twice today if I was pregnant. Oh how that makes a girl feel good.

This is how I know that I need to lose weight, if one more person ask me if I'm pregnant today I might just have to start an exlax and water diet.

Funny Side Story about my Bestie:
We were going to a shower (4 years ago) and Bestie offered to pick me up. I was at my parents place so when she got there everyone came outside to say hi to her. As we started walking back to the car my dad (not the sharpest knife in the drawer) asked her when she was due (my dad knew she was pregnant because we talked about it none stop. ) Bestie looked at him thought about how to respond and said "I had the baby 3 weeks ago.... Jack Ass!!" ( I almost fell over I was laughing so hard) My dad was mortified. He said after that he would never ask another women again when she was due or if she was pregnant!
My Bestie is one of the most beautiful people I know. Her humor puts her in a league of her own. She is has radiant today as she was when I met her 12 years ago.

Rule of thumb... wait for the person to tell you they are pregnant before asking them. It will save embarrassing yourself.

To my shelf:
I love that you hold my beer when I have no where else to put it. I love that when I need to rest my arms you are there to support them. You have been very helpful during the winter months keeping me warm. Unfortunately it is about time to say good bye to you. I have lost 8 pounds since I started this whole "healthier" living thing... I will miss you dearly.
Sincerely,
Me

I LOVE FEDEX!!

This week has been a rough week for E. She lost her Grandma and has been in Winnipeg with her loved ones, away from home, her dog and PD.

If you know me I would do anything for my friends. Even if that meant flying to Winnipeg to support them through difficult times! Unfortunately the flights were much too expensive but I really wanted to do some thing special.

Grandma R. was a true lover of life. She laughed and loved all the way into her 97th year. She was thoughtful and caring and loved her family. She was a big fan of card games, bananagrams, knitting and was a founding member of the Girl Guide programs in Winnipeg. Along with flowers I thought I would send a personal gift of Girl Guide Cookies ( I have been saving them since FEB… it has been upsetting B because he keeps trying to eat them and I keep telling him NO!) a deck of CARDS with the word BRIDGE on them and a beautiful sweater that Grandma R made for Lexi when she was born… it honestly is a family heirloom now. I wrapped them all up and sent them out FedEx to be delivered with my flowers to the flower company (Beyond Flowers).

EXCEPT – I didn’t calculate the time change and also the fact that the delivery truck for the flowers leaves earlier in the morning. I emailed my local Fedex Customer Service Rep – her name is Tammy – or as I would like to call her my little Angel. She went ABOVE AND BEYOND what I would have expected any CSR would do. She contacted Winnipeg, she arranged for it to be re-routed directly to the church so there was no middle man at no charge. She followed up with me every step of the way. She even called me when they were signed for just so I had peace-of-mind.

I’ve worked in the customer service industry for 12 years and can tell you that it takes a lot to impress me. I feel if I get exceptional service it should be recognized. Lucky for me her boss came in to our office today (he was shadowing an employee - Fluke!!) and I was telling him about my experience and I said I’ll do you one better. Give me your email address and I’ll send you a quick note on this WONDERFUL staff member. It went something like this…

“Tammy is a hardworking, dedicated and a kind employee. She made me feel like a valued FedEx customer and handled this situation like it was her own parcel being shipped. FedEx is beyond lucky to have her as part of their team.”

I find as a society we are becoming more and more negative and selfish as time goes on. People feel “entitled” to things instead of earning or working for them. I still believe – treat people how you would like to be treated. Would you like to be yelled at or snipped at or put down… then don’t do it to others. “Please”, “Thank you” and “Sorry” go along way with me.

Take the time to smile at a stranger today; it could change their entire day!

He is a 61 year old Senior.. it wasn't his fault Officer.

Ok, to say that my Dad is one of the funniest guys I know is an understatement. He has always been the life of the party and you always knew when he walked in a room because he always has some thing to say.

The way my friends use to described my dad in high school was the "white version of Uncle Phil" (from the fresh Prince of BellAir). He looks like he could be in a biker club however get him around his grand daughter and he is a BIG ol' teddy bear.



This is a typical story that would happen to ONLY my dad.

He was working in the garage, cleaning and puttering around when he heard the neighbors lawn mower stop and his name being called "Mr. Mann....... Mr. Mann" (in a low whisper). My parents neighbour is the old man from Denise the Menace, he hates my dad more then anyone in the world. Old man asks " Did you cut down my tree?" My dad was trying to think back to the last time he "trimmed" back the tree that is hang on his property???? Ah it was was 3 years ago. Nope my dad says. Then the old man started to yell at him. Well one thing led to another and the old man picked up some pine cones and started throwing them at my dad. There is a very small wooded fence that separates my parents front lawn and the neighbours. They were each standing on their own sides and my dad reaches across the fence and slaps the man...... Yep I grew up in this very loving, caring, compassionate family and my dad is the guy who (for lack of a better word) bitch slaps the neighbour. The neighbour is so pissed he calls the cops. Oh yay it gets better!!!

The Cops show up and take the old man's statement.. he is trying to file an assault charge on my dad - who has now gone back in the garage to continue puttering. When the first cop showed up he saw my dad and called in back up. After the third cop came it was time to get my dad's statement. They send in the littlest cop in to my dad's garage.

Cop: Hello Mr. Mann can you please explain why you hit your neighbour?
Dad: Well you see officer I'm a 61 year old senior and he started throwing stuff at me and I didn't know what it was? I was just defending my self.

The officer was not buying it.

Cop: He is also telling us that you have a vicious dog.
Dad: My dog is in the house right now you are more then welcome to go up to the front door and look in the window to see him.

Cop walks over to the window and walks back.

Cop: Are you trying to tell me that the "little" white dog (Jack Russell) is the dog he is complaining about?
Dad: Yep!!!

Side story- My dad and this neighbour have been fighting since the day we moved in. He just likes to complain about everything. He keeps telling my dad to stop letting the dog poop on his property. They have a really bad skunk, raccoon and rabbit problem in there neighbourhood and the chances that it is the dog are very slim??? One day my dad went out to his car and there was poop smeared all over his windshield and under the door handle to his car. The neighbour had collected it all and thrown it on my dads car. Did my dad call the police... NO! (He was more excited it gave him a good story to tell his friends. lol)

The cop asked my dad and the neighbour to shake hands and that there are better ways of defending your self them hitting.

Neither my Dad or the neighbour would shake hands. So the drama continues.....

Pretty Woman

I was channeling my inner Julia yesterday.

We have a wedding coming up next weekend and I really wanted to find a new dress. I would have taken a hand-me-down but none of my girlfriends are my size?? (note to self: lose weight so you can borrow more dresses- you will need to shrink a bit too in-order to do this).

I went to a Mall here in Burlington and decided to scope out the "expensive" store because I wanted a dress that would last me a long time. I walked in to the store and Skinny Bitch - is what I will now refer to her as - asked me if I needed help. I said yes! I told her about this wedding and what I wanted and she looked me up and down and said our sizes only go to 16??!! I was slightly shocked ... I looked her up and down and said "Perfect that is my size." I was then in one of those I'm going to fit in to one of these dresses just to prove her wrong. After trying on 3 dresses - Which all made me look like a box, Skinny Bitch told me I should be shopping at Laura (they have a PLUS section). I must have looked like I was catching flies my mouth was wide open. I walked my butt right over to Laura's. This store definitely does not need my business

I will say this, the ladies at Laura's were super helpful. When the sales lady approached me and asked if I didn't help I told her "absolutely", we will likely be on a first name basis by the end of this and Sandy was a gem. Ironically when I went in looking I knew I wanted a dress that looked like something you would wear at a Kentucky Derby (straight out of Pretty woman). I found something perfect for the wedding.

I have figured out there needs to be a store for in-between sizes. I don't fit in to 14, 16 in a regular store and 18 are usually too big. But at the plus stores 14 (the size they start at) is sometimes too small? Damn you boobs. You might be nice to look at but you are seriously hard to dress.

After purchasing my dress I wanted to so badly to walk in to the expensive store and say to Skinny Bitch (while holding up my bag) BIG mistake, HUGE - Alright well I'm off to do some more shopping but I didn't.

I still feel that Julia would have been proud of me :)

BEST MOM AWARD GOES TO....

MY MOM!!!

I have always been really close with my Mom. I considered her one of my closest friends growing up. She was there every night I would come home for a party or friends house and sit down to discuss who said what and what guy I was crushing on at the time. With my mom she never gossiped or betrayed me or made me look stupid in front of a group of friends. She was my sounding board.

In my early twenties (when I still lived at home) I would come home from the bar and she would be up waiting to hear the crazy drunken stories I would share. Some times in the morning I would ask her "what happened last night" because I "may" have been too hung over to remember. My mom is the best. On some druken occasions when we couldn't get a cab I would call her and she would come pick us up. You would think this would have been short lived... NOPE! Last month while out with my husband and friends we called her (as a last resort) and she came and picked our drunk butts up from the bar. She really is the best mom in the world.

This weekend she received The Best Mom Award. She came down for the whole weekend. Some people may cring at the thought of there mom down for 2 full days. I was excited. She helped out with Lexi so we could get stuff done around the house (my gardens are thanking her too!). She did roughy 8-10 loads of laundry (I've been busy .. don't judge!) and cleaned up after dinner. On Sunday night we had tickets to go see Glee in concert so she took care of Lexi so we could go out and have a date night. When we got home I knocked on her bedroom door and went in to sit on the bed to tell her all about the concert. Just like I use to do as a kid.

This weekend made me feel young again. Remembering back in the day when you didn't have to worry about the bills, or laundry, or looking after a VERY active 2 year old, or dinners, or a clean house?? You could do whatever you wanted and that was this weekend for me.

Thank you Mom for the countless times I come talk to you about life and you just listen. You show me every day the kind of Mom I want to be for my kid(s). You were always there for our school plays or baseball games or just to hang out. Thank you for teaching me what is probably the biggest and most important job I will ever have... parenting.

I'm now lovin' the God.... I think?

Last Saturday was one of those impromptu days where we wanted to do yard work and clean the house and all the fun things that come with being an adult and owning a home. My mom came down this past weekend to visit with friends and see her granddaughter – really I was just glad that she would be able to help us out with Lexi ( I will post about her visit tomorrow).

My morning was busy (hair cut, grocery shopping and gym) and when I got home the wee one was sleeping. We decided we would try and go to a FUN fair at a local church that our daycare had recommended. The fair was from 3-7pm. We arrived at 4pm and upon our entry given a rubber chicken and asked to participate in an attempt to “beat a Guinness Book of World record” contest. The record was the LARGEST rubber chicken toss. Random??!! But really fun. Not really something I had on my bucket list “to break a world record” but it is now. After this we walked over to the toddler section and they had a bunch of rides that Lexi could go on.. The Dora Bouncy Castle was her first choice. We were looking around for where we could buy tickets??? There were no tickets. All of the rides/games/face painting/crafts were free!! AMAZING!! Lexi had the best time and we really enjoyed watching her play with other kids. We were all starting to get hungry so we decided to grab burgers and hot dogs here to help support the church. We got in line to get food tickets and after 3 adults and 2 children were fed (hamburger and drink) we spend $4.. Everything was $0.50??!! Unbelievable!

While walking around and playing with Lexi on all the fun blow up toys we ending up meeting so many really nice people. It made me think. Do I have to be religious to go to this church or can I just start showing up? Is it wrong to want to join a church only to increase my social life in this city with other normal and “FUN” parents? People who go to church drink right?

Basically I’m going to start putting myself out there even if that means I start Friend Pimping at the local church. God wouldn’t mind would he… I’ll confess my sins to the priest or minister or whoever the dude is that talks at the front. See you on Sunday :)

Bra Pocket

I can’t be the only one???

Last night I went out for drinks with friends. I got my self all dressed up (aka put makeup on) and went to leave the house and decided I did not want to change my purse over (I was wearing black shoes and a black belt- my purse was brown) enough said!! I decided I would take my credit card, id and my phone with me. I was wearing a dress that had no pockets, what would you do??? Well I did what I sometimes do when my hands are full - I stuck it in my bra. To be honest, if I hadn’t pulled out my credit car to pay, no one would have known it was there.

I have been very fortunate to have been (cursed) blessed with a large chest. I use to try and hide them as a teen, used them for evil (aka get what I want) in my twenties and they had a whole new meaning when Alexis was born. These days I never seem to have enough hands to hold my keys, purse, grocery bags, blankies, kid and the list goes on. That’s why I now use my bra as a pocket (not for blankets or grocery bags or my kid for that matter) but I can fit my cell phone, keys and credit cards all in one side. Thinking about it now I wish I could fit more like a spare diaper or my wallet. I could be hands free. If I had shorts or pants on I would use the pockets in them instead of my bra but it really is convenient.

Dragon’s Den here I come… I’m going to start marketing the Bra Pocket.

Blog Obsessed

I have to say up until a couple of days ago I had 1 follower. Yep I've written 19 blogs and ONE follower. I really don't care about this number because I now have tripled my following to 3... that's right there are some super nice woman who have added me out of what I would like to call "pity". They are hilarious bloggers. Please check some of them all out

Not So Silent Mommy
The Real Housewife of Oxford County

Staceroo

I have to say the first time I linked my blog to facebook I was really scared. I kept thinking... my besties are amazing bloggers and I'm not as good a story teller as they are... my blog will sound so boring to people. Since this year I'm turning a new leaf I'm trying not to be afraid of things that normally terrify me I pushed the button and linked my blog... . and the feedback was great! The hardest blog for me to write so far has been - The scariest number I know... I felt like it was the most honest I have been in a long time.

The best thing about blogging is connecting with people who feel the same way you do. I have been really fortunate in my life to be blessed with the BEST girlfriends any one can ask for. They are supportive, funny, loving and most of all brutally honest. On girls weekend (a couple of weeks back) we talked about things that I feel most woman would have been too afraid to even bring up. There was no topic too out there for us not to talk about. These woman mean the world to me and the minute one of them says "I know how you are feeling", it takes some of the weight off that I tend to carry towards how I feel I "should be" as a mother, daughter, wife and even friend.

Now that I have started sharing with many more people on a whole new level I have to say it feels a lot like sharing with my girlfriends. As soon as one person say "I know how you feel", it validates you as a mother, wife and human. I would like to say Thank you to the lovely ladies that have chosen to follow me. Really if no one chose to follow me I would be okay with that too but it's nice to know that you ladies are out there.

Thank you to all of my facebook followers too. I hope you all are enjoying a little piece of my crazy world.

What time it is Mr. Wolf?

Really??!! REALLY??!! You are asking me what time it is?
I love him - he is an amazing father, beyond supportive husband and an all round great guy but sometimes our rolls get reversed and I question him??

Take last night for example. We ate dinner and put Lexi to bed then went down stairs to watch t.v. After the show was over B was ready to go to bed- I was not! So I went to watch some of my t.v. because I was still wide awake. I said I’ll be up in a bit. When it was time to go to bed I went upstairs… not so quietly… and got ready and climbed in to bed. I’m getting the covers on and B asks what time is it?? I say “ I think it’s close to 11:30pm???” – yes folks 11:30pm. I was living on the wild side last night. It really is the only ME time I get all day and last night I wanted it to last. However when I got to bed I was bombarded with questions... “I thought you said you would be up in a bit??” For a minute I thought I was the one who was talking….. I use to say this to B when he would come to bed at 1am or 2am. Why all of the sudden am I getting this talk? Then he asks "what were you doing?" I'm thinking to my self - Why does it matter what I was doing? I was watching quality television… or So You Think You can dance?? Same thing... right??!! I am now confused?? Why am I getting the third degree? To smooth things over I said 'Hey Hun are you tired??!! (wink, wink)" He said YES and rolled over. Wait a minute this is usually my roll in this relationship? When did the tables turn?
I use to go to bed at 9:30 -10pm and he use to stay up playing video games until 1 or 2 in the morning. Why is it that I can't watch some meaningless t.v for an hour come to bed, spend some "quality time" with my husband and go to sleep. Is this too much to ask for?


SIDE NOTE: My husband is a truly wonderful man and I probably did something to piss him off so I’m sorry for whatever I may or may not have done. See you tonight same place different time.

Can you be cool in a Swagger Wagan???

I honestly was not one of those people that were dreading getting a Minivan. I felt they are practical, great for camping and accommodate many people. No big deal… I did however feel less cool in my minivan. Now that I’m getting older I’m not really turning heads anymore. A girl likes to feel good if she has put some effort into her appearance (most days I don’t do anything so I don’t really care) but now with my minivan - no one is even giving me the time of day.

So the other day I had to work late and didn’t finish until 10pm. I got in my car just excited to be out of the office. I started driving home and noticed these two guys in a sedan looking at me. I was thinking “WOW I dressed up today, brushed my hair and put on makeup… good day!! They might be checking me out??” This went on for 2 blocks. We were coming up to a stop light and there was a car in front of me but not in front of them. They stopped well before the line and I ended up driving beside them. I stopped and started playing with my radio pretending not to notice that they were looking in my direction. The passenger motioned to put down my window, so being the smooth operator that I am I pushed the button, smiled and said yes! The driver leaned over the passenger and said… “You need to turn your lights on!”. Wait… did I just hear him correctly??? my lights are on??? I check.. nope they weren't on. I was slightly embarrassed so I quickly said thank you and turned my lights on and drove away as fast as I could.

There were so many things that were going through my head… I should have told them it was a new car and I’m still trying to figure out all the buttons?? Why did I care that these two middle aged guys were “potentially” checking me out? Why do I even care if someone in general would or wouldn’t check me out? My husband still finds me attractive so do I really care what other people think? The honest answer to this question is yes! Whether it is other mom’s at the grocery store or a random stranger in there car driving beside me - if I have done myself up that day I would hope that someone would notice (especially my husband) because really I could wear my sweat pants, tank top, flip flops, throw my hair in a pony tail and wear no makeup all day long if I didn't have to work.

Heres hoping someone notices you today!

My bladder ain't what it use to be....

I find myself talking lot about before kids (bk).
- bk there were mornings we could sleep in
- bk I had a flatter stomach
- bk I could be out the door (shower & breakfast included) in 20 mins
- bk we would stay up all night "talking"
- bk I had a "fish" crumb free car
- bk our house was much quieter and cleaner

Before kids I could hold my bladder (not much better but better). We owned a trampoline growing up and had many a fun nights jumping and flipping around. We use to stick the sprinkler under the trampoline and jump in the water on a hot day. When I got older if someone would get me laughing on the trampoline I was a goner. I've peed myself more then once on that old death trap. Sorry if that trampoline was a memory for you... I might have just ruined it??

This week at work we had to set up a VERY safe trampoline in our warehouse (for a toy show coming up) I thought to my self - that looks like it would be fun, it would bring me back to my child hood. I decided to be brave and give it a go. Well let's just say I'm not 17 any more BUT I was pretty impressed that I still had it :) Except I forgot one small detail - I've had a kid since the last time I was on a trampoline. For any Mom's out there that can relate to this story let's just say I barely got out in time. Could have been MUCH worse.

Then last night I went to the movies with my sister and Maloley. We decided to see Bridesmaid. I have heard great things about this movie and was excited to check it out. We had to stand in a line because the first show was sold out ;( This was the only option, my premeditated kid free time was not going to be wasted. I drank a lot of Pop while waiting in line and thought I should really go to the bathroom??!! Guess who didn't -- ME! The movie starts and I am already laughing really hard... I'm thinking to myself I should really try to go to the washroom now... oh wait this part is funny... how about now???.. oh this part is so sweet... how about now??... ohhhhhh no!!! This is not good... I'm laughing so hard I had to cross my legs, shift myself in my chair and pray to the bladder gods that some where down there a muscle still works. I did NOT wet my self but I can honestly say the next time I watch that movie I might just have to where depends (or stop and go to the bathroom??)

I did not marry a Nacho, Nacho Man

Everyone has a go to dish. You know the one I'm talking about - that meal that takes little time and cleans out your fridge when you think you have nothing in there.
I have a couple of go to dishes.

1st Scrambled Eggs and Toast.
2nd Spaghetti.
3rd Home made pizza.
4th Perogges.
5th Chicken and rice.

I can honestly eat any one of these meals on any given night. However I use to have another go to meal that use to be on this list. It was Nachos. Growing up we ate alot of chicken and potatoes. But every now and again my Dad (who is the cook in our family) would throw down some tin foil on a cookie sheet and start what can be labeled as "a mountain and goodness". Layers of nacho chips, cheese, peppers, onions, ground beef and more cheese. It is likely one of the most unhealthy meals in my arsenal but it really doesn't matter... my husband does not like nachos.. .so guess who doesn't get to eat Nachos very often. ME!!!

I started this blog for many reason one was to share what we eat as a family but also to find out what other people eat. I would love to hear what your go to meal is so that maybe I can increase my repertoire.

Playground initiation

This past weekend was beautiful outside. We got to visit with family and friends and put up a new swing set in the backyard. We have yet to mow the backyard so there were still a couple of trips to the BIG park as Lexi likes to call it.

As parents you try and protect our kids the best we can, we pick them up when they fall down. We kiss there boo boo's. We hug them when they are sick BUT sometimes you just have to let them figure it out on there own.

This weekend we learnt that all new kids get to go through an initiation process at our park. Picture this - Dad puts there precious kid into a swing he starts pushing, slowly getting the child in to a good rhythm when out of no where a kidlet comes running across the playground to get the free swing beside him and *smack* the kidlet goes flying. The first time this happened the Mom went rushing over to the kid and was upset at the dad for not being more careful with her precious child. I turned to the dad and said - Playground initiation. Not even 5 mins later a new kid gets to the park starts running towards the swings and *smack* gets hit by the swing... he is slightly surprised but you could tell this kid is a vetern to this parks he was on a mission and wanted the free swing. I turned to see the mom's reaction and she was like - He's still standing so we are good. I knew I was going to like this mom :)

Lexi experienced this for her self. She really wanted to push her friend Nayla on the swing but did not realize that once you push you need to move back.. her pour little arms weren't long enough so she took a step in and *whack* she got a swing in the face. I asked if she was okay and she said - in a low voice.... Mommy (is it) my turn? One of these days she'll get the hang of it.

Every kid has to learn to watch where they are going and know if the swings are a rocking... don't... RUN IN FRONT OF THEM!

Let's work it out...

I have so many comments about gym memberships that I could talk about them all day. To save you all I have summarized them for you.
1) Woman who wear sport bras only. I found a shirt that fit me so put the one on that you brought because this mommy tummy is about to trip you on the treadmill.
2) The RIDICULOUS cost. Really how many times do you actually go to the gym vs. how much you spend. I use to get all excited and buy a full year membership to save on cost and go for only a week or two? WASTE OF MONEY.
3) Classes that NEVER work for my schedule. I have a job and a kid... really 7pm does not fit in my schedule :(
4) TOO many naked woman in the change room - and they are never the fit ones. Really you had to blow dry your hair before you put clothes on? Put your boobs away and cover your crack because I can barely look at my own let alone yours :)
5) MEAT HEADS - Yes! you might be able to bench press me - but if I were to stand behind you and asked you to turn your head to see me I bet you couldn't?
6) too many people in one place judging me... well that's what I tell myself when I walk in.

To conclude my little rant I got a gym membership at a 24hr facility.
1) No mid drifts allowed to be shown ... actual Rule!
2) Still pricy but I can pay month to month with no penalty for canceling.
3) Virtual Studio. You walk up to the Workout ATM (as I like to call it) you pick your work out - I usually chose YOGA and a massive screen drops down and my instructor is right there at the time I want her to be (I like to go after 9pm).
4) Private bathrooms - you get your own shower, sink and toilet in an actual bathroom.
5) The members are average people, I have yet to see one guy sitting on a bench checking himself in the mirror while holding a weight that looks way too heavy for him.
6) During the times that I go there have never been more then 6 people in the gym at a time.

I'm trying to be as diligent as possible with going - I have to make this my life style or I will not be able to live the life I want: healthy, fit and present for my daughter, husband, family and friends.

My journey continues.....

Memory Bank #1

I was really looking forward to this weekend. I love entertaining. Really I just love when I get to spend time with loved ones.

Saturday afternoon of the long weekend:
We have gone to visit Aunt Sandra and Uncle Scott and we are home now. I'm getting dinner ready, standing at the sink and looking out in the backyard. I'm watching my Husband and Father work away on the deck with a beer in their hands talking about how they should proceed to the next project. In the living room my mom and my daughter are killing them selves laughing at what I'm sure is something silly Lexi is doing or saying. This warms my heart and fills my house with some much love.

I kept thinking this is a moment I want to remember.

Long Weekend....

This is the actual email I sent to Brian today (actually it was longer but I edited it for your sake):

Plans this weekend:
Friday Night: Swimming/Groceries
Dinner: Spaghetti
Saturday Morning: Pick up NEW car/Parents Arrive
Breakfast: Eggs/English Muffins
Saturday Afternoon: Go visit Uncle Scott and Aunt Sandra
Lunch: Left over Spaghetti
Saturday Night : Dinner and relax
Dinner: Burgers on the BBQ
Sunday Morning: Brunch with the Aunts
Brunch: Waffles and fruit
Sunday Afternoon: Set Up Swing Set (for Monday)
Snacks – veggies, chips and dip
Sunday Evening: Relax
Dinner: Pizza
Monday Morning: Nayla and Family come for a visit.
Breakfast: Cereal/Toast/Whatever??
Monday Afternoon: Visit with Nayla (really this will be more like morning)
Lunch: Gourmet Grilled Cheese, Apples, Salad
Monday Night: Relax

I did this for 2 reasons. 1) I like to be somewhat organized. This allows me to figure out what we are eating and what I need to get for groceries. 2) Brian is natorious for saying "you never told me that??" Some times I really do forget to tell him stuff but most of the time I have the same conversation with him twice.

Silly things I like to do... really this is bordering more on crazy but you get my drift!

Peanut Butter World

Some times I dream about what I would do if I won the lottery. Yes the obvious has popped in to my head, vacation, new car/home, quit my job… all of those things but what if you really did win the lottery and could do anything you loved. What would it be?
Would you purchase your own Tim Hortons and serve all of your friends free coffee, or even randomly buy coffee for strangers just to make there day?
Would you travel around the world to see different cultures and scenery?
Would you buy a new car and drive it with the top down on beautiful days?
Would you learn a new language or go back to school and start a new career?
With all of these options I sometimes dream that I would be a stay at home mom with 5 kids… but then I realized I would actually have to raise those kids and birth them… not something my body or mentally I think I can do.

If I won the lottery I would open a restaurant/diner. It would be called All Nuts Allowed. There would be a sign on the front door that would say “If you have a nut allergy then I would suggest you take 2 steps back because this place is not for you.” Every single item on the menu would have peanut butter incorporate in some way. This is how much I LOVE peanut butter.

Our featured item would be - Burgers with Peanut Butter (placed under the patty so it melts and gets all warm and delicious) This is honestly something we eat regularly here at the Smith house. Once you have tried it then you can comment:) If are are a peanut butter lover - All I can say is YOU'RE WELCOME!!!

I could go with out chocolate, candy and even BEER... but take away my peanut butter and I will be one grumpy girl.

Bring on the winning lottery numbers Momma's got a restaurant to open..... really I should just start with buying a ticket :)

The scariest number I know……

221

I feel like if I put things out to the universe and there are no secrets I will feel lighter as a person. This will make me a better daughter, friend, mother, wife, etc. To me there are only really a couple of scary things in my world.
1) Walking over grates… I really hate them- this plays in to my whole fear of heights.
2) Jean shopping – I’m 6 feet tall and really there are no regular stores that carry jeans in my length and size. (To all of you short people out there – At least you can hem your pants.. .I can’t make mine longer.)
3) Reading out loud – Steams from my childhood and getting made fun of because I had a hard time pronouncing words.
4) Writing – I know weird since I am blogging. I have the worst grammar and spelling and I don’t want to look stupid. This is me trying to over come that!
My biggest fear of all is not being loved or wanted. This is where that number comes in to play. That number is what the scale said this morning. The more I looked at it the more I hated my self. This is when the judging began – how could I let myself get this way? How would anyone (my husband) ever find me attractive? God I hate those rolls and that spare tire I’m carrying around. My stomach never looked like this before I had a kid… then I thought … I should really shave my legs… lol I went through all of these scenarios and realized the people that love me don’t even know this number (you do now). They don’t judge me on that number they love me no matter what that scales says. They still think I’m funny at 221 pds as much as I was 180 pds (if they even thought I was funny at all?). They love me, respect me and want to hang out with me even though I have all of this extra “stuff” hanging around. At the end of the day I’m the only one that can change my appearance and really set my self straight.
The older I get the more I realize the less I complain and worry the lighter I feel and be the best me I can be. Even if that me is 221 pds!