Tulip Hill

Craft Night with my RS ladies

2012-02-10T11:23:00.000-08:00

( It was my mission to maintain an Arizona-ish atmosphere for my friends who can never quite feel warm enough.....bare feet means success ! )

What a lovely evening ! I so enjoy these ladies and am delighted that they thought that they would be up to helping use up some of my enormous stash of scrap booking supplies. It feels good to share and I so enjoy hosting...:)

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-08T19:19:00.000-08:00

A walk to Stories Beach with just my Liam & I

A thoughtful gift......

2012-02-07T19:50:00.000-08:00

from Keisha, Ana & Anthony's Tutor......Mr. Wheeler....he's such a sweet man !

a little play time......

2012-02-03T21:34:00.000-08:00

.....before dinner made for a super calm evening and a house full of happy kids !

next on the list is.........

2012-02-03T14:23:00.000-08:00

ITALY !!

Moving forward....

2012-01-30T22:25:00.000-08:00

I'm so thankful that this month is over. This time last year I was filled with a knowing that the year was going to be a good one and it was for the most part. So far 2012 has been taxing to say the least.....I've decided to vent a little bit....one day my darling children you will find these thoughts. I want you to know that I was human and that I too had my bad days/months. I try to be a glass 1/2 full kind of person.....I'm trying really hard to redirect our path.....to be a healthy role model for each of you......but sometimes the world seems to have another plan for me......

- the weather as gone from one extreme to another. Causing all kind of cancellations and rearranging of events & plans. Which in turn has had all kinds of ripple effects....gremlins, gremlins, anxiety dragons, more gremlins and we were doing so well......I'm sorry that I snarled back instead of helping you chase your gremlins away....

- the last few weeks I have found myself re-evaluating my position & boundaries with some of our family members. Sadly, this is not the first time I have felt the need to step back and reassess. I find myself grieving for so many things......I'm angry with the ongoing selfishness........I'm sad that the disfunction from my childhood is being passed on.....I'm reminded how much I dislike mental illness & addiction......I'm so tired of being treated as the families "emotional black hole"......it's all so tiring......I worry that by setting these boundaries you will judge me and worry about how I will support you as you navigate through the hurdles to come.....I just keep reminding myself that I can only control how I react and that we are so fortunate to be surrounded by an amazing " chosen" family.

- then you throw in some of the everyday old normal kind of challenges like vehicle issues, the quotes for the upcoming home repairs are a bit intimidating, I haven't heard anything back from Keisha's neurologists....I'm so hoping that no news is good news ! Big boy I know you need to find your way but your testing me a little too much this week and if all that wasn't enough a ghost from the past has decided to try and widdle her way back into our lives.....that so not going to happen......a promise is a promise you can trust me......

So February is a new month......I promise to try harder to shake off the funk I've been in.....glass 1/2 full right Ana ! We have so much to look forward too......another set of swim lesson almost done....you guys are just flying through them. We're going to start our family study of Italy. The days are already getting longer....which means we may be able to get back to our evening walks/rides.....And the last but not least our upcoming trip to the Yukon for "Rendeveoux" & visit with Aunty Vanessa, Noah & Seth. I'm so excited.....our first trip flying all together !!

Homeschooling Wednesday - Games & visiting at Ms. Nicole's

2012-01-29T18:00:00.000-08:00

Vega Testing

2012-01-07T12:48:00.000-08:00

Just before Christmas I went for the first time to have my allergies/food sensitivities tested at a Wholistic Health Care Center. Their are several testing methods...I went with Vega testing. I have only heard positive things about the accuracy and ease of the testing. I met with Ms. Dana Hook CHC, CHP. She's great ! She is also the mastermind over at Healing Bliss Botanicals. Well...I knew going into it that I was missing something and was hoping it wasn't corn or eggs. The test confirmed what I already knew.....that I shouldn't eat Wheat, Dairy, Raw Citrus, Caffeine, Honey, Peanuts nor Almonds ( with the exception of Cashews). It also showed that I shouldn't eat sesame & SOY ! I can eat all the eggs & corn my little heart desires.....It was SOY all the time.....

Dana recommended several suppliments in addition to eliminating my toxic foods to help balance out my acidity level, detox my liver & my adrenal glands ( their a bit stressed ! ). I went into this knowing that I was at the point to embrace the results and recommendations. So off I went to the Health Food store to pick up some " Brad King Anti Stress", " Milk Thistle" & " Chlorophyll ". Well, it's been a month and I feel pretty good. I'm sleeping better, I've dropped some more of that stress weight....back in my old clothes...:))

**********************************************************************************

The kids all went this past Monday & Tuesday to see Dana to have their Vega testing done...their results are has follows.....

( The testing works on an X system - XXXX means an allergy never eat/ anaphylaxis, XXX means a allergy never eat/no anaphylaxis/ still medically dangerous, XX means intolerant shouldn't eat, X sensitive when body is under stress.)

Ana - Wheat - XXX
          Buckwheat - XXX
          Alcohol - XXX
          Soya - XXX
          Caffeine - XXX
          Turkey - XXX
          Dairy - XXX
          Cane Sugar - XX
          Beef/Pork - XX
          Oats - limit to 1x per wk
          Spelt - limit to 1x per wk
          Dark Chocolate - occasionally

Keisha - Wheat - XXX
              Alcohol - XXX
              Chocolate - XXX
              Soya - XXX
              Casein - XXX
              Whole Milk - XXX
               Buckwheat - XX
               Peanuts - XX
               Coffee - XX
               Banana - XX
               Oranges - XX
               Beef/Pork - XX
               Cane Sugar - XX
              Gluten - XX
              Tomatoes - X

Anthony - Wheat - XX
                Buckwheat - XX
                Alcohol - XX
                Peanuts - XX
                Soya - XX
                Coffee - XX
                Oranges - XX
                Whole Milk - XX
                Cane Sugar - XX
                Corn - X - limit to no more than 1x per wk
                Beef/Pork - X - limit to no more than 1x per wk

Liam - Wheat - XX
           Rye - XX
           Alcohol - XX
           Peanuts - XX
           Walnuts - XX
           Almonds - XX
           Soya - XX
           Caffeine - XX
           Whole Milk - XX
           Cane Sugar - XX
           Oats - X - limit to no more than 1x per wk
           Chocolate - X - limit to no more than 1x per wk

WOW !! The good thing is that we can all still eat eggs, goat's milk/products, rice, all veggies and most fruits, tomatoes in moderation, a few of us different nuts, flax & lots of seeds, potatoes, amaranth, most of us corn, arrowroot, vinegars, yeast, herbs, ghee, maple & agave syrup, olive/vegetable/grapeseed oil, chicken, wild meat and any thing from the ocean.

I have to tell you I was initially feeling quite panicked and needed to give myself quite the talking too....:) The kids are all embracing their results amazingly well at the moment. Liam is the only one who is having any detox symptoms ( headache, muscle ache, moodiness...)...I'm confident that these will pass soon....

Christmas wrap up.......

2012-01-06T14:11:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning

- was a wonderfully calm very enjoyable morning.....it was just the five of us this year...:))

( The whole set of Harry Potter books from Papa Tom & Grandma Heather )

Christmas Dinner

- we hosted this year....the amazing " Neilson's" joined us along with our very wonderful sister missionaries Sister Bosshardt & Sister Duffy....we laughed, we played, we happily worked together...we were sad to say " Good Night "

Christmas Travel....

- Papa & Grandma & Aunties & Uncles & Cousins & Shopping & Playing......

New Years

- was spent with our Jim & Joy & Hailey & James....:))

I Love hosting.......

2011-12-25T16:09:00.000-08:00

Roasted Turkey

Gravy

Roasted & Mashed Potatoes

Baked Acorn Squash

Smashed Carrots & Rutabaga

Baked Yams

Brussell Sprouts

Corn

Broccoli

Stuffing

Dill & Kirkin Pickles

Gluten Free Apple Pie

Gluten Free Sugar Cookies

Gluten Free Cranberry Tree Cakes

Ms. Nicole's Chocolate Bark

Pomegranate & Grape/Apple Sparkling Juice with champagne corks and all !!

This years Christmas Eve tree photo shoot........

2011-12-25T00:45:00.000-08:00

Went pretty much like last year and the year before that......it was a complete gong show .....:)

Merry Christmas from Our Crazy Family to Yours !!

Highlights of the last couple of weeks

2011-12-24T16:59:00.000-08:00

We started decorating & writing our Christmas cards......

We had our last gymnastics class for this session.......

We started doing some Christmas baking......gfcf gingerbread cookies........

The girl's each had Christmas parties at Pathfinder's and Girl Guides....

On the 19th we heading down island to Nanoose Bay for an Adoption Christmas Party. Yes, it's along way to go for a party....but it was so worth it !

The we help celebrate our good friend Mr. Neilson's birthday.....

We worked hard at soaking up every little drop of vitamin D possible.....

and then last night we enjoyed an evening of skating with friends......

I'm looking forward to tomorrow....a quiet morning at home with just my children & I.......then an evening of hosting......what a great way to spend the holiday...!!

Church Dinner & Nativity

2011-12-17T08:30:00.000-08:00

What a lovely evening ! Sister Terry and I worked together to organize a nativity with the kids for our Church Christmas potluck. Anthony played Joseph, Keisha played Mary, Ana play our Angel and Liam was one of the Shepherds. We also had 3 Wise men, another Shepherd, an owl, a goat, a lamb, a chicken and an adult narrator.

The food was so abundant and beautiful.......

Despite so many options, my funny boy chose 5 dill pickle & a slice of ham.....:)

I Love that Ana kept her halo on........:))

Homeschooling group - Christmas lunch & button crafts

2011-12-15T16:36:00.000-08:00

Swags with Refief Society

2011-12-15T16:19:00.000-08:00

Homemade Gluten/Dairy Free Tomato Vegetable Soup.........

2011-12-09T16:09:00.001-08:00

................the perfect lunch

Ladies night - my place - card making

2011-12-07T23:49:00.001-08:00

This evening some of the ladies came over to play with the crazy amount of scrap booking/card making supplies that occupy my cupboards. We visited, snacked, played and shared several hours of uninterrupted conversation. Here's hoping it's only the first of many " Ladies nights".

Thanks Nicole, Linda & Cori I needed that....I Love you all so much !!

Homeschooling Wednesday - Wreaths at Ms. Maren's

2011-12-07T17:14:00.001-08:00

We have a little birthday tradition.......

2011-12-01T22:43:00.001-08:00

.......that started long ago between my little sister and I..........

......the morning after your birthday celebration you eat as much cake as your little heart desires........My boy is so thankful I decide to keep this tradition going......:)

K & A are 14......

2011-12-01T09:58:00.001-08:00

.....a GREAT Celebration !!

Homeschooling Wednesday

2011-11-30T23:04:00.001-08:00

Playing " Settlers of Catan"

The younger kids spent most of their time playing in the yard...taking advantage of the break in the weather.

Keisha is never short of someone to read too....

Oh ! and my buddy Ewan Loves my camera and I so like taking pics of him......

Vanessa Falle Photography

2011-11-13T08:43:00.001-08:00

What more is there to say? Than I'm so pleased and so not surprised with the greatness of my dear friend Vanessa's talent. When Vanessa shared that she was thinking of going " pro"........I just knew that she would be amazing !! My only disappointment was that Anthony was away when we were able to meet up for this shoot. We're heading up her way in Feb. for " Rendezvous" and here's hoping we can arrange a shoot for my big boy...... Your the best Vanessa !!

Homeschooling Group - Card Making

2011-11-09T21:10:00.001-08:00

Late night transactions........

2011-10-22T16:21:00.000-07:00

( Organic " Belles")

( Ana & I loading the dehydrator for the first time...)

( Liam's favorite....muffins !)

( our first batch of dried Belle's using the electric dehydrator)

Late one dark rainy evening there was a knock at the door....a stealthy figure motions towards the trunk of an older model sedan.......as not to draw to much attention....there was a quick exchange of cash and the deal was done..........60lbs of the most splendid organic apples were ours !!!

Thanks Ms. Nicole you sure know how to hook a girl up.....:)))

Every Sunday we enjoy a heart breakfast....this morning it's blueberry pancakes....

2011-10-16T09:28:00.000-07:00

( apparently these are aliens, cyclopes & road blocks monsters )

( who me....my cheeks are not full of blueberries......)

( my little chef....)

Port McNeill Volunteer Fire Department Open House

2011-10-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

How are things going having them all home fulltime?

2011-10-14T17:05:00.000-07:00

Is now the question I am asked most...which is usually follow by various versions of " I couldn't never do it...." I find it interesting to listen to the kids explain what it is that they do all day. When they went to "public school" they had many totally "politically correct" answers to this question. These were all very standardized...pretty much what any child would say when asked. It took a lot of trust for them to open up and actually share what school was truly like !

Our days/weeks are spent learning to enjoy learning again.......

For Creativity/Artistic/Therapy/Passion

( I am Thankful posters....)

( playing dress-up and games of imagination with friends)

Reading/Langauging/Comprehending

( we LOVE visiting libraries...)

Writing/Technology/Relationship Development

( writing letters & emails )

Mathematics/ Live Skills

( the kitchen is the greatest classroom....)

( money math is so much better when using " real" moola)

( playing board games create endless learning/skill building opportunities)

( reading labels - choosing the safest/healthiest/budget friendly option)

Are just a few examples.......we also add in Ranger's, Pathfinder's, Guides, swimming lesson's, play dates, gymnastics, field trips, book work for some, Homelearner's group, audio books, church activities, travel, therapy, gardening and tonnes of socializing just to name a few......

Don't get me wrong it's not all sunshine & rainbows......we still have "gremlins", FASD, Attachment disorders/trauma, ADHD and 3 out of 5 of us still are and will always be considered " highly sensitive".....what as most definently improved is our ability to manage the effect of all of these "labels".

Thanks Giving - Gluten & Dairy Free

2011-10-08T12:46:00.000-07:00

Roasted Turkey

( Unstuffed)

Bakes Ham

Roasted Potatoes

Smashed Carrots & Rutabaga

Peas & Corn

Bakes Yams

Green Salad

Bread and Butter Pickles

Cranberry Sauce

Bubbley Cranberry Juice

and Soy Egg Nog

Pumpkin Pies

Mixed Berry Crisp

Funtastic Gymnastic's

2011-10-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

( The older kids warming up before their session.......the weather was perfect for a jog to the beach and back !)

( Liam was so excited to work with Ms. Heidi again and to get to use the rings !!)

Yesterday we started our first session of gymnastics for the " school" year. This go a round we are making the 30 minute trek into stories beach to Funtastic Gymnastics with several of the other homelearning families from Pt. McNeill. The kids were so excited and had a blast ! We have split the kids in two groups ( 3 to 7yrs olds & 8 to 15yrs olds). I am the only Momma with kids in both groups. We are all so pleased that Heidi was willing to make a daytime slot for us. Who knew OT could be some much fun !

Sewing - Angry Birds

2011-10-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks Mrs. Neilson for a great afternoon in the sun....boy your one patient women.....:)))

Wednesday Home schooling Group - Pt. Hardy

2011-09-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

It was so good to be back together with all these wonderful families. Our original idea for the morning didn't work out has planned and had to be rearranged. Since we are a creative bunch we quickly ( standing in a parking lot) came up with another plan. The Port Hardy Museum.

Then we headed to play at the water front and were blessed with a little sun !

National Forest Week

2011-09-22T17:25:00.000-07:00

The kids and I joined up with several school groups for a very full day of playing in the woods. We learned about being a forestry worker & a tree planter. We enjoyed a very informative hike with three extremely knowledgeable forestry workers. Keisha & Liam delighted in sharing all their knowledge and quizing the men. I think it's quite likely that Ana may have a go at being a tree planter in a few years.

Man we live in a beautiful place !!

Summer Road Trip - Chilliwack

2011-09-21T22:06:00.000-07:00

This year I planned our trip for later in the season. I wanted to spend more time in my garden, the kids wanted to take swimming lessons at our outdoor pool and we wanted to go to the P.N.E .which is held the last two weeks of August. We decided to stay at the same campground we stayed at last year, in fact we had the exact same site. The weather was brilliant 24 to 30 degrees the whole time and better yet with the exception of a couple wasp there were no bugs !!!!

( we have a new tent......)

( This was our first time hauling the bikes along.....now the 3 out of 4 are riding. Keisha's thinking that maybe she may want to try and give it another go, so maybe next year we may all be on two wheels.)

All in all we away for 23 days, 20 of them in Chilliwack. We spent a great portion of that hanging with family. A good 12 hours or more at the public library, several different trips to the lake & waterparks/pools, endless hour of playing, picked and jammed 7 icecream buckets worth of blackberries...1 lg sack of crabapples and 3 lbs of elderberries, saw 2 movies ( Cars 2 & the newest Transformers), visited some farms, toured about and did LOTS of reading and hanging low !!!

( Great Blue Heron Nature Reserve)

( Harvesting Elderberries...a first for us)

The ideas are already flowing for next year already.....it like kids and their birthdays....barely finish one and their already planning the next.....:))

Why do you travel like you do?

2011-09-18T20:16:00.000-07:00

I always find it interesting how often I'm asked this question..... Well because all the people that are important to us don't live on the North Island ! It's not like we're jumping on a plane every other week...we wouldn't even if we could. Road tripping is our mode of choice.

This years " Summer" road trip was to the mainland. First on the agenda was the P.N.E !!! The kids have been once before ...6 years ago. After much organizing, information gathering, height measuring and color of shirt choosing the day finally arrived. We were joined by Aunty Marina & cousin Connor & his buddy Cameron, Aunty Joy, Uncle Jim & cousins Hailey & James and our friend Cory & his son Quinn.

We arrived at 11am ( when the gates opened) and I had to drag them to the van ( with HUGE smiles on their faces) well after 10pm. I'm glad we went and happy it's off the " To do list" for the next few years. We're hoping to have everything in place for a trek to the USA next summer.......

Wednesday Home schooling group - Max's 3rd birthday

2011-08-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

The rain held off just enough for us to enjoy some lunch at the beach with our friend Max. Ana & he have such a great little relationship. It's been a busy summer and we have missed getting together with our fellow home learning families. The plan is to try and harvest some more spud from our communal potato patch....finger's crossed the weather co-operates !!

Veggies, Veggies, Veggies

2011-08-20T21:45:00.000-07:00

This mornings picking......

Our first pick of the Scarlet runner beans.......

I'm just loving the rainbow chard we planted this year....it's at the top of the seed list for next year!

Orca Fest

2011-08-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

We had a great time today at this years Orca Fest ! The weather was perfect and the whole town seemed to be in great spirits. This was the second year of having the " Logger Sports" back in Port McNeill. It was our first time attending. Everywhere we went people were smiling and happily enjoying themselves...I can't even recall hearing any fussing little ones....Such an enjoyable day !

a afternoon trip to Sointula.....

2011-08-16T19:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we headed over to Malcolm Island and the town of Sointula just for the fun of it ! Ms. Janel and her littles joined us in the big white van...it was nice looking in the rear view mirror and seeing all their little faces smiling back at me....I miss the days when all the seats were full ! We headed out to Bere Point to check out the campgrounds there for the future and then it was out to the Ash's ( they man the Coast Guards light house). After visiting a bit & poking around the shore line we headed back to Sointula to check out the town. We were hoping to check out the local museum however, it was closed. Instead we went for a drive around.....Ana really wants us to paint "our house like all these pretty artsy ones". We'll most certainly visit again, maybe on a Wednesday so we can visit the museum and take in the blacksmith demonstration.

sun, sun, sun, sun, sun, sun, sun

2011-08-08T14:57:00.000-07:00

We've been enjoying every minute ! Sadly though I don't have many picture to share......Oh! here's one....

( spuds from our Homeschooler's potato patch)

while the kids and Piper ran around the yard building forts & spraying each other with the hose....I managed to put the new BBQ together.......well maybe I have more pics than I thought....

I went on a mission to acquire BLUEBERRIES and was successful ! To date I have frozen about 16lbs, eaten 2lbs or so myself and because I'm a generous momma....I've shared another 4lbs or so with my little darlings.....

Anthony has developed a new love for fishing in addition to crabbing this summer....he's out on the boat this exact moment catching dinner I hope ! Papa you would be so proud ....he's got all kinds of ideas for you & him when we see you next !!! update...He caught 4 !!!

We've been enjoying our after dinner walks/plays at the park....a lovely new tradition.......

The kids have been swimming up a storm....having the outdoor pool so close is such a priviledge.

We tore apart my room finally....ripping out the old disgusting carpet, cleaning the walls and fixing some of the "mold" issues ( one of the not so pleasant aspect of living in an old house in such a wet climate). My pals Matt & Janel and Keith showed up just in time to give me a hand, so much appreciated ! Matt actually was able to wrangle me up a new piece of carpet when we discovered that the lino in the closet did not continue out into the room like the other bedrooms....Oh so thankful !

The weather report is predicting that summer is not quite over let......at least another week....here's hoping their right......let's see what should we do this week?

Your the best kind of " Crazy" !!!!

2011-08-08T07:02:00.000-07:00

Down loaded some pics this morning..........

I sure LOVE this girlie of mine....she just cracks me up !!!!

Good Morning

2011-08-03T09:32:00.000-07:00

I Love this boy so much! I especially Love his sleepy face of late......

Well, I checked the weather forecast just a few minutes ago and guess what it said? Sunny & warm with only minimal chance of rain for the next 7 days. That's right you read that right...the next 7 DAYS STRAIGHT....meaning consistent....in a row....believe it or not !

Now to figure out what to do with this gift........

LOOK, LOOK, LOOK.....

2011-08-02T17:54:00.000-07:00

....a warm, dare I say HOT day here in wee sweet wet Pt. McNeill ! The weather channel said sunny/rainy/cloudy/clear...the typical forecast for here. Monday was a total surprise....one we weren't going to miss a single drop of. We started our morning with getting dressed in " summer clothes", then it was a quick breakfast & out we went...bike riding, hanging the clothes out on the rack, gardening....a really enjoyable goodbye lunch with our dear sister missionaries....they're on their way home ! We had bbq...burger's. Since the weather was holding we decided to head to beach....Stories Beach to be exact.....

( Seaweed for my garden....)

Then we made a quick stop at the store and head home. Dinner was leftovers. It was still nice so we met up with Ms. Janel & family for a visit/play at the park. What a great day ! Today, it's grey and spitting....yesterday was such a pleasant blessing...Oh so thankful !!

Two wheeling !!!

2011-08-02T16:35:00.000-07:00

This weekend was very enjoyable. The sun was out warm & consistent. Everyone was in great spirits for the most part. While working out in my garden Liam announced he was taking off his training wheels, himself ! To be honest I didn't feel that he was ready....but he did... so off they went. Ana gave him some pointers and off he went......

I took this little video off him Monday morning ! A reminder for me not to second guess my kids......

Inspiration.......

2011-07-28T18:30:00.000-07:00

Over lunch today we got talking about Christmas....I know it's July ! I have tried to adopt a less is more approach to gifting over the last decade or so and now that everyone is growing up I think it's time that it becomes more of a whole family "thing". They have always participated with parts based on their age, ability to keep a surprise and my patience level.

We pulled out some paper and started jotting down some of our collective ideas. They had some really realistic ideas. After delivering Ana's papers we headed down to the library to search out some inspiration....34 items later and a longer list on order....we're hoping to get ahead of everyone else. I'm curious to see what other ideas they come up with......Homemade as much as possible is the plan......

a peek at the garden........

2011-07-26T17:26:00.000-07:00

Rainbow Chard...Oh ! so close to eating.....

Green Beans

One little tomato so far.....

The Carrots are growing....

the Patty Pans are trying to decide what they want to do......

the Rutabaga, green onions & Scarlet Runner Beans are coming along nicely.....

I'm laying things out for a new bed....maybe for potatoes next year.....

when the bulbs fade away the corner garden is still full of color & life....

Well, that's the most of it.......we actually tamed to meadow aka lawn.....I don't know what I like better !

From my kitchen - some gluten/dairy free lovelies

2011-07-26T10:23:00.000-07:00

Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

Chocolate chip cookies - from " Cooking for Isaiah"

Crunchy Flax Cookies - from "the Best Gluten-free family cookbook"

Meat filled pocket pies - pastry mix from "Celimex"

Sunflower Flax Bread - from " the Complete Gluten-Free cookbook"

Mixed Berry Pie - crust from "Celimex" mix

How are you feeling ?

2011-07-25T20:42:00.000-07:00

maybe your feeling peaceful, content, happy....

maybe your feeling silly.....

or maybe your a touch annoyed or angry....

Oh no ! Your sad....but why?

no that's not it...your full of so much energy & confidence you think you can fly .......

no still not it......now your the ruler of your domain....big & strong like a T-Rex.....

How are you feeling today?

Such fun !!

2011-07-18T23:15:00.000-07:00

We're back......we had such a good time ! The weather was being a little difficult on Friday & Saturday, which caused a few changes with the " Young Men's" camp. Thankfully most of our plans were indoors. Our buddy " A " decided to join us for this little road trip....he did so well and I think he'll probably be up for joining us again. After meeting up with the guys and swapping gear and collecting a tired soggy Anthony in Campbell River we headed to Courtenay, dropped Piper off at her favorite " doggy camp" and checked into the motel. After filling our bellies with Autunm soup we headed off to the newly opened Costco to stock up on a few things. The kids enjoyed checking out the well stocked book section while I quickly sprinted my way through. Then it was off to the Wave pool. Two hours of full on exercise and a little visiting with Nana. I was hoping to tucker them out enough that we wouldn't have any fussing around when I declared it time for bed......and it worked ! Liam crashed out in the middle of playing on a pile of blankets on the floor :).

First on the agenda for Saturday was hair cuts for us girls. Then it was on to the " Farmer's market". Nana met up with us again, which was lovely. Most of us indulged in a little gluten/dairy free treat from " Sweet Surprises". I Love her ginger cookies !!

Next, it was the dreaded Superstore. There's something about this store that just brings on the "gremlins". It took all our strategies but we survived ...barely ! We decided that food was the best remedy....so after much discussion we decided to give the " Whitespot to go" a try. Mr. A & Anthony went for burger meals & the rest of us stuck to the fries which we took back to our room. I reheated some turkey/veg burger's (with out the buns) & some raw veggies to go with the fries to round out our meals.

Then it was onto the main event....." Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollow's part 2"......

This was the first of the series that we saw in 3D. The kids are all very curious about how this 3D thing works and why my eyes don't do 3D ( yours eyes need to work together for it to work & mine don't even with my glasses on). I still need to wear the 3D glasses it's just looks normal to me. We all enjoyed ourselves. I'm still deciding whether I like seeing the movies before or after reading the books. When we got back to the motel the kids decided that they really needed to swim in the motels outdoor pool. They sweet talked the guy on duty into removing the cover and in they went....

Sunday we rose to no rain and warmer temps. We packed up, checked out and headed down island to Errington to meet up with our new learning consultant with " Self Design". Wendy was on the island and visiting with her families. I thought it was best to meet up at the "N. Island Wildlife Recovery Association". I was thinking that this would allow everyone the space to interact in a calm and fun atmosphere. It was all that with one exception .....it had a gift shop...a gift shop you had to walk through to enter & exit. We had already reached our sensory overload with anything to do with " shopping". 45 minutes into our visit the " gremlins" took over and we ended our visit with me carrying them out to the van and leaving. It took a few km, lots of "don't engage " for them to get the message that they don't run the show and then all was calm again. It was nice to get to meet Wendy in person even though our visit had to get cut short. She definitely got some more insight into our family and some of the challenges we face.

Before picking Piper up we made a stop at the Courtenay air park for a snack and a little kinesthetic release.

Overall it was a good trip ! Looking forward to our next one at the end of August......

Gf rice/buckwheat blueberry pancakes

2011-07-13T20:25:00.000-07:00

4 cups brown rice flour
1 cup buckwheat flour
1/2 cup ground flax seeds
3 tbsp baking powder
2 tsp xanthum gum ( will work if your out)
3 tsp vanilla
6 eggs
1/2 cup oil
5 cups liquid ( water, rice milk etc.)
frozen blueberries ( also works with blackberries or raspberries)

- Mix dry ingredients together in a large bowl, make a well.

- Combine wet ingredients, mix

- Add wet to dry and mix thoroughly. Batter should be a little on the thick side.

- Scoop batter onto heated skillet, sprinkle top with frozen fruit, flip when edges start to firm up.

- Makes approx. 22 medium sized pancakes

We like ours with Vegan butter & pure maple syrup. They heat up well the next day also, Enjoy !

So...How's it going?

2011-07-13T19:52:00.000-07:00

We have been eating gluten/dairy free over month now. I feel great ! I've notice many changes for the kids also. So I thought I'd jaunt them down. *Be prepared for lots of details !

Ana:

- The biggest change I've notice is the intensity of her rages. Things have changed so much that we've dropped her afternoon meds. We have stopped the fiber substitute & laxatives. She's no longer constipated. She has had little round " rabbit turd" BM's her whole life. Now, they are regular healthy human BM's. Her skin is looking great...no more dark circles under eyes !

- I'm pleased to see her reading labels and embraces the changes. She recognizes for herself that things are improving. She's tuning into the little things and is connecting the dots with what is going in or on and how her body is responding. Her sugar cravings seem to have mellowed out also....

- Currently she's eating: a small amount of potatoes & brown rice ( Tamari is a must), any type of corn, fruits & veggies ( raw & cooked), gluten/dairy free baking, rice pasta, meat/poultry/seafood, hummus, rice crackers/cakes/cereals, dried fruits & nuts, jam, nut butters & sauces.

- She's missing: cheese, wheat bread & crackers, canned tomato soup & pastry

Liam:

- The changes haven't been as obvious for him. He's eating more. His skin has more color. He seems to have more energy. His BM's are slowly improving and are not as " ripe". For the most part he's has had no issues with the changes with one exception.....he's really missing having cheese, oatmeal & granola bars!

Keisha:

- Keisha has joined us and has gone back to eating gluten/dairy ( she eat gf/dairy free for 9 yrs & has only been eating restriction free for the last year & a 1/2 or so) . After speaking with her neurologist we decided to go back to the old way to see if that helps. She was totally okay with it. This time around she's not acting deprived or sneaking or binging !

- She has always been a great fruit & veggie eater and has made the transition back effortlessly. The only thing she's really missing is butter & ice cream.

Momma:

- the biggest change for me is that without much effort I have lost 15 of the 25 lbs I had put back on over the last couple of years. My eczema is improving. My joints are not aching and my sinuses have cleared up. I feel like my grouchies days are less frequent and my metabolism is revving back up. I'm no longer experiencing bloating or cramping. My gut feels great !

- I've been mostly eating veggies & chicken, turkey, pork & eggs. Rice & gf flake cereal, seeds, brown rice & new potatoes, my own gf baking & homemade meals & soups. Being that I also have other allergies I eat minimal raw fruits & no nuts. I have thankfully found a brand of rice cracker that I enjoy the flavor of. I am missing butter, cheddar cheese, wheat crackers & oatmeal. I'm planning to visit the health food store down island this weekend. Ana & I have been thinking of giving quinoa a try.

I realize that our making the switch has gone smoother than it probably does in other households being that I had all those years from when K&A were little. Things have come a long way since my first visit to the gluten free section of the health foods store. I remember standing there just hoping to find any of the " strange" ingredients from the two gluten free cook books the library had. Now I can find most thing in the mainstream grocery stores and between the library & internet I'll never run out of recipes. It also helps that I'm comfortable in the kitchen and have a fair knowledge of nutrition & the body. For all those families who situation are not like mine you have my sympathy. I can only imagine how overwhelmed you may be feeling.

What a lovely Monday.....

2011-07-11T18:20:00.000-07:00

I woke to the sun shining into my eyes this morning....such a nice way to start the day ! For most of us the morning went smoothly. Liam had a little " ee-or " episode on the way to the pool other than that it has been quite a nice day. Keisha, Ana & Liam have been taking swimming lesson for the last few weeks. Sadly, the weather hasn't been so pleasant. Today was the exception.......

By time Liam & I got back to the pool I missed getting some pics of Keish....maybe tomorrow. It was still so nice and warm that we decide to walk home via the playground. My friend Janel and her brood decided to join us. Two hours later they had checked out every piece of play equipment, chased each other around in various games of imagination and had devoured every snack we brought. Our tummies were telling us it was time to head home for something more substantial.....

Once back at home we filled our tummies and Anthony & I started packing for his next trip. Tomorrow he's leaving for his first " Young Men's " camp. This year they are going to Butler Lake near Gold River for 4 days. This will be his first camp without his Momma or someone to handle all the food planning & preparation. The three boys attending from our area have formulated their meal plan and with a little tweeking from their Moms they shouldn't starve !

Now it's onto a little after dinner " Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire". We have been re-watching the whole series this past week in preparation for " Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows part 2" . We are heading down to Courtenay for a weekend of fun & visiting and a much anticipated trip to the cinema !!!

We've been waiting so long for a little summer.....

2011-07-09T21:41:00.000-07:00

One of the blessing of living in a place that receives so much rain....a constant flow of vibrant wild flowers !

Kicking the ball around would be so much more fun if it were dry......

The berries are so close to bursting....now all we need is some heat.....I'm so ready to start picking!

Between the library and my own personal stash I've been brushing up on a few things.....

This morning we woke to sun....real burn the fog off, clothes drying, vegetable loving, stay all day sun !

So I weed the garden......

and helped Piper shed some of her winter coat....

we played in the yard and walked to town ..... picking salmon berries the whole way........we strolled along the pier and stopped by the library.......the kids enjoyed homemade freezies ...... I sat on the deck and read .......the clothes dried on the rack.......our sheets smell so nice......would it be considered greedy to hope for some more tomorrow?

Crunchy Flax Cookies - Gluten & Dairy Free

2011-07-07T15:46:00.000-07:00

2/3 cup sorghum flour
1/2 cup buckwheat flour
1/2 tapioca starch
1/2 ground flax
1 cup cracked flax seeds
2 tsp gf baking powder
2 tsp xanthan gum
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup vegan shortening - softened
1/2 cup vegan butter - softened
2/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups quinoa flakes

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, line or lightly grease pans if not using baking stones

1. Combine all the dry ingredients and then set aside

2. Cream together shortening/butter, sugar, eggs & vanilla.

3. Mix together

4. Bake for about 10 mins. I think they taste best when allowed to fully cool.

I LOVE these cookies. I'm planning to play with the recipe to see if I can get it to work with substituting stevia for the sugar. I'll keep you posted......

On my mind........

2011-07-05T23:16:00.000-07:00

- What do you say when your seven year old asks you " Mommy, why don't we have a Daddy? Maybe if you hadn't adopted us you could of found a Daddy.....then you could of found me later....."

- What would it have been like to parent in a partnership?

- How can I be so thankful for how well their growing up, while at the same time wish they would just stop growing already.....I mean Anthony has facial hair for crying out loud & has a deeper voice than any other male I know !!

- I still can't wrap my mind around how people say " I love you" whilst treating each other so badly.....

- If it's possible for the North Island to actually get enough sun to dry things out !

- A constant stream of ideas for how this next " school year" could look like.......

- What house project should I tackle next?

and so on and so on and so on...........maybe I'll wake with all or some the answers......

Canada Day.......

2011-07-02T10:40:00.000-07:00

......was...well.....WET & STORMY !!!! There was no sitting out on the deck or bar bq dinner's around here Sheesh......

So while my sister Marina & family were celebrated & taking in the fire works and my sister Cheryl & Josh were delivering their new daughter....I was standing in the rain ! Okay enough whining...it is what it was moving on. Despite the unfriendly weather the kids had fun.

We finished the afternoon off by taking in a movie " Rio". Our little theatre is under new ownership. A non-profit called the Gate House Community Association. I'm curious to see what they have planned for the place....there's some cool ideas floating about !

Grade 7 Grad

2011-07-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

This week as been so full. We've been up & down the island to the neurologist ( things are in motion) along with all our regular activities. The biggest by far though was the ending of our time in public school. Keisha & Anthony finish grade 7 with a great celebration ! The gym was decked out with a crazy amount of bling all borrowed from the grade 12 graduation. The kids were in great spirits and dressed to the nines. Keish just glowed all night. Ms. Danielle had gifted her this fabulous second hand dress several months earlier for dress - up purposes. It was so perfect ! She decided that "it" was the dress for the night ! Anthony looked all sleek & dashing and did an amazing job addressing the whole audience ( I can't believe how deep his voice is getting). My camera situation really needs to improve......so thankful that J.R. from Straight shooters was on scene. Here are a couple shots of mine ( I'm planning on ordering from J.R. his are way better)

After the ceremony part of the evening the parents & sibling left the graduates to party !!! Apparently there was lots of Justin Beiber songs, a few group dances & Mr. Gough pulled out the smoke machine...super cool !!!

The next morning Keish along with most of the grade 7's slept in. Anthony however was up and out early to take advantage of the all you can eat pancake breakfast being served up for the students as a last day treat. Keisha & I joined the others at the school around 12:30 for a special student awards assembly. I had received a call that it would be a " good idea for me to attend" code language for one or more of my children was going to be receiving something. I didn't say anything to either of them...deciding to go with the surprise approach. If I only knew what was to come I would have had a larger tissue supply.

They each received a class award for their consistent impressive effort and attitude for learning. The tear jerker was that they were also awarded the " Brittany Rothenburger Friendship Award". Brittany was a much loved student who had passed in a quading accident several years ago. We didn't have the pleasure of knowing her. She was best known for her amazing ability to befriend everyone. She was warm and loving and a true friend. Her family and friend created a playground and this award in her honor. I feel so blessed that my children were honored for their beautiful hearts !!!

It's GROWING.....YAHOOH !!!!

2011-06-26T09:31:00.000-07:00

( planting more dill seeds)

( rutabaga)

( bush beans )

( baby bokchoy )

( Kolrabi)

( Patty pan squash)

( red leave lettuce)

( scarlett runner beans)

( clematis - the blooms on this one are the size of a dinner plate )

Cocunut Macroons - a gluten free indulgence

2011-06-25T22:19:00.000-07:00

So..... I'm just finishing my third week of eating gluten free in addition to my eating dairy/ any other allergen free. It's going really well. My sinuses are clearing, my eczema is fading, I've lost weight and my metabolism is revving back up !! Ana's finishing up her second ......she's doing very well....I'm already seeing a difference. Her moods swing are much tamer, her sleep is calmer, her skin looks better, the dark circles under eye are gone and she's eating up a storm. She announced this evening that she feel's better and thinks she should keep eating "this" way. We both know that she has a REALLY hard time handling even the slightest feeling of deprivation. There have been a few moments over the last couple of weeks. She's gotten upset in the moment but hasn't allowed a rage to take over. One of our strategies has been to do a lot of menu planning. My recipe books are full of orange post it note and I think I'm running out of room to book mark any more online.

Yesterday the ladies at church gathered for a group birthday luncheon. After much thought I decided to bring chicken veg. kabob, veg. flavored brown rice and two sweat treats. Chocolate Marshmellow squares & Coconut Macaroons.

I make the marshmellow squares following the regular recipe except I used vegan margarine, half crispy rice cereal and half puffed rice and I threw in about a 1/4 of a cup of pure( no dairy) chocolate pieces.

The Macaroons recipe is.......

2/3 cup coconut
2 tsp. cornstarch ( you could probably substitute a different type of starch if you don't use corn)
a sprinkle of salt
1 cup sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
3 egg whites

- Preheat oven to 275 degrees, line baking pan with parchment paper.

- Combined coconut, salt & starch. set aside.

- Beat egg white until fluffy but still shiny, mix in sugar gradually

- Fold in vanilla, then coconut mixture

- spoon onto lined trays leaving an inch or two between the cookies

- bake one pan at a time for approx. 20 to 30 minute. just until they start to change color. allow to cool for a few minute then remove to cooling racks to finish cooling

Yesterday I double the recipe....it wasn't enough ! So I made more today.....we'll see how long these ones will last. I may need to hide them !!

Wednesday Homeschooling Group - Potatoes & Picincing

2011-06-22T17:08:00.000-07:00

( It was time to mound up the potatoes.....since we're all new to spud farming, Maren did a little research...we think we did it right...I guess we'll find out won't we......)

( Maren has a thriving herb garden. My favorite is her "Thyme Oregano" and she is super gracious in sharing with all of us !!)

Crabbing

2011-06-18T18:55:00.000-07:00

This morning my big boy was up and at it early...he was going crabbing for the first time with the " young men" & president Terry. He was so thrilled and successful !

If he has it his way my canner is going to be busy, my freezer stuffed and his sister will be pros at digging out the meat by the Fall. He's so proud to be giving them lessons and to be the one who provided such a special meal. I guess I should get searching for crab recipes !!!

Homeschooling Group - Family Day at Stories Beach

2011-06-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

a change of diet.....

2011-06-16T20:14:00.000-07:00

For a while now I've been mulling over the idea that Ana & I might be sensitive to gluten or wheat. We have a lot of similarities for two people not genetically related. We both have sensitive nervous system( I however manage to keep my raging to a minimum) & dairy. For 9 years I cooked gluten free for K & A, for some reason it never crossed my mind that maybe we should all be eating that way. I ran the idea past her a few days ago & gave her some articles to read. I explained that many children like her have had huge success in being able to regulate and control their rages after changing to a gluten free/dairy free diet. As of today she has agreed to give it a try. I have asked her to commit to a least 6 months, after a few questions she agreed to that also. In a effort to keeps thing positive we went searching for some new recipes. I pulled out all my GF cook books and paroused some blogs. We made these this morning......they were a big hit except for the fact that I'll need to multiply the recipe by 6 to feed my brood !!!

( Gluten Free Apple Waffles)

Wednesday Homeschooling Group - Birds with Mother Goose Cori

2011-06-15T14:45:00.000-07:00

( making egg carton bird feeders)

( we all LOVe it when Mother Goose Cori reads to us !!)

( playing crack the egg)

My Big boy.....

2011-06-14T11:16:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I love him so ! He & I are making our way through the " teenager" stage of life together. He's my guinea pig child ! As his mom I don't have the mainstream view on this stage of life. Maybe this is because I wasn't an " average" teenager myself. He's away this week on his grade 7 trip to Victoria. We are all missing him already and it's only been one night !! He asked me " What I was going to do with out him?" just before leaving yesterday. I reassured him that we would miss him terribly and do our best to manage...:) He's so charming. How I LOVE that smile of his....I sure hope he's having a good time !!!

Baptisum

2011-06-13T23:27:00.000-07:00

Eight days ago .....we were baptized and officially became members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

I went into 2011 with a strong sense that this year would bring peace and maybe that last bit of healing we had all been working for. I had no idea how or in what form this would happen I just knew..... Shortly into January we were invited to attend church with dear friends of ours. Oh. Let's back up a bit !

For sometime now the girls had been requesting we attend church. You may remember this post? Anthony however was most certainly not interested ( let's just say I have reason to think this is trauma based). We attended services at a couple of our local churches but nothing fit. Anthony joined us out of respect for his sisters however, he was more than a little uncomfortable. Which left me in a difficult situation. I was raised and baptized as a infant in the Catholic church until I made the choice to stop attending at around 12 or so. I wasn't comfortable with what was going on around me and my father honored my decision. Over the years I attended service at various denominations but never found the right place for myself. As I entered into parenting I kind of just gave up. I tried to live my life in a way that honored my strong belief in a higher power....or so I thought at the time ! For some crazy reason I thought I could raise my children who pretty much see the world as " black & white" in " grey" when it came to religion. Well really let's be honest I was living in " grey" myself. So back to January......Anthony was invited to attend church by his friend " A" the youngest child of my dear friend. He came home really excited to attend and hoped I'd allow him to go. Of course I said yes and off he went the next Sunday. The girls were terribly disappointed that just Anthony was going this time. He arrived home that afternoon just beaming. I asked him if he'd like to continue attending and how he would feel if we attended as a family....he was more than okay with that ! So off we went and haven't looked back.

When I started on this journey it was for my " girls", then it was for my " children" and along the way I realized it was for me too. However, it's more than that ! I realized I have more baggage from my religious upbring than I thought. Baggage is like that it tends to trip you up when you least expect it ! Here's the deal...My Dad did his very best. He was raised Catholic and he passed on what he knew. He could have " forced " me to continue attending but he did not. He had always encouraged my sister & I to look outside of ourselves and to see and honor the ways of others. To be respectful, caring and of " use" to our community and to think for ourselves...sometimes I wonder if he ever regretted it !! Hehe.

On June 5th we as a family were baptized ( Liam received a blessing & will be baptized after he turns 8). It's amazing how making the right choice can feel so freeing and grounding at the same time !!

Homeschooling Wednesday - Telegraph Cove

2011-06-08T19:34:00.000-07:00

June....

2011-06-04T19:47:00.000-07:00

has started off so nicely.......yesterday we attended a celebration in Alert Bay being held by the students at the local cultural program. It was very enjoyable...I wish we could have stayed longer !!

( The big house )

( the tallest totem pole in the world)

( heading up the dock.....)

( traveling across to Alert Bay on the NIAAD Explorer)

(Swimming on his own....being 7 is sooo great !!!)

( gardening, gardening, gardening.......:)

This morning we enjoyed a late breakfast and then took our time for the rest of the day. We visited with friends, worked in the garden, pretended we were " fossil finders", baked a super large carrot cake for tomorrows potluck, the boys had a water battle, sold some girl guide cookies, enjoyed a summer dinner and a family movie & some snacks.

( our new fence....)

Adoption Camp - Camp Homewood

2011-05-30T12:53:00.000-07:00

We just got back from our second weekend at Camp Homewood so far this year. This weekends group was made up of 7 families. The weather was great and the kids did super well !!

( Putting together their pop bottle rockets)

( Rivelry)

( Treasure hunt using compasses )

( Sailing )

( Heading out to Outdoor Living )

( fire building )

( Ms. Vicki spent hours painting the kids up....She did amazing !!)

( launching their pop bottle rockets....this was crazy fun !!!)

( Playing games )

( Anthony holding a hermit crab at Rebecca Spit )

These weekends are so good for us. We get to be " Normal" for awhile. The whole weekend is about spending time with " like" families doing really cool activities. This time around we had very little " Gremlin" episodes. I get to chat, laugh & share with the most amazingly diverse group of parents. Single parents, couples, large families & small, veterans & newbies ! We all slept well, made new friendships and are already talking about the next camp !

We're nearing the end.......

2011-05-26T20:47:00.000-07:00

....of what seems like the busiest month so far ! One more weekend left and it's jammed packed....we're heading back to Camp Homewood for our 2nd adoption camp. This week we:

( started planting our veggies & weed wacked the yard )

( We caught up on the laundry in between trips to the library, Guides, Homeschooling group, story time, church etc)

( drudged throw the rain to collect returnables for Guides/Brownies)

I keep telling myself just one more weekend....we're tired...good tired...but tired ! I'm looking forward to a few days free of cooking & cleaning. We have so much fun at Camp Homewood that's it's worth it. June's looking to be much calmer....I guess only time will tell....

Wednesday Homeschooling Group - Potato Farmers

2011-05-25T15:53:00.000-07:00

Spring Camping - part 4

2011-05-23T19:06:00.000-07:00

Our third day was cooler...it sprinkled on & off most of the day. We started our day at the " Farmer's Market".

We spent the afternoon lunching at Nana & Grandpa's, hanging at the library ( we love the Comox branch) and then it was on to the Wave pool for a little energy burn......

We ended the day with a camp fire and some toasted marshmellow's . We got tucked in just as the rain started. I didn't think much of it until I was woken by a little panic voice....." Mom, I'm all wet !!" Well after close inspection in the morning it was apparent it was time to bid farewell to our good old friend.

After packing up we decided a hot breakfast out was in order and headed off to " Ricky's". The kids finished stuffing themselves just in time for us to meet up with Jim, Joy, Hailey & sweet baby James to say our goodbyes. Well that is until September !!!

Spring Camping - part 3

2011-05-23T10:30:00.000-07:00

Our third day in went at a gloriously slow pace........

( My late riser)

( Lego, Lego, Lego & more Lego )

( Keisha is currently in Love with everything & anything " Wolf" related )

( Ana spent the morning investigating the "insides" of the local rocks)

( Nana joined us for hotdogs on the fire and a couple of hours visiting on the beach)

We spent our evening with Hailey and James at the cottage. Jim & Joy went out for a " date night" and I got to soak up several more precious Aunty hours. We played chase.....which is James's favorite game, watch a couple of Dvd's and chatted and snuggled....What could be any better?

Spring Camping - part 2

2011-05-22T22:04:00.000-07:00

This was to be our first of two beach days. We headed off to Kia Bay for the afternoon. It was so beautiful and so much fun !

( Aunty and a sleepy James)

( James and his Anthony....)

( There were purple star fish all over the beach this day !)

( Liam was finding all kinds of critters...this is a sun fish)

What a splendid way to spend an afternoon......Our day wasn't done yet......We made our way back to Jim & Joy's cottage for dinner, more playing and some marshmellow toasting !!

( The boys playing lego )

( Corn on the cob & Ketchup !!! )

( James is just crazy over corn...he ate 2 whole cobs then help Anthony finish off his....)

( Who's kids are these?)

( Making sure they're just right....)

( Sticky Aunty.....STICKY AUNTY !!)

( a little rock throwing to end the evening)

( James & Keisha playin in the water)

Spring Camping - part 1

2011-05-22T21:20:00.000-07:00

We headed down to Courtenay on Wednesday for a few days of camping and visiting. Jim, Joy, Hailey & James had come to the island for a holiday week at a lovely little cottage on the ocean. Nana & Grandpa were back from Aunty Fran & Bruno's wedding in Italy and the weather forecast was to be sunny & warm !

( a shot of our dear old friend....if this tent could talk ......the stories/memories it would share)

( The campgrounds in right by the ocean and surrounded by heritage apple trees - photo taken by Ana )

( Ana was having fun with the camera...it's nice having help with the picture taking)

( Liam went straight to building....)

( Our outdoor kitchen)

( This is the caretakers cottage....I Love how they've restored it....it's given me some ideas for our little house !)

So excited !!!

2011-05-17T17:15:00.000-07:00

......that our seedlings are doing so well !

.....to be big enough to have your own bank account & B-day money to deposit in it !!!

.......to be getting ready for our first camping trip of the year !

.......for lovely long warm days !

.........for the life lessons our sister missionaries share with us each week...today's was about " The word of Wisdom" - health and wellness !

Seven

2011-05-14T21:54:00.000-07:00

L -"Mom, I would like to have french toast, sausages, a fancy drink, syrup, hashbrowns, eggs, and a chocolate cake has big as my head for my birthday dinner, OKAY !"

M - " Okay, Love"

L - " And Mom I would like to invite the Neislon's & Dominque's family & Ms. Sheila & The sister's....and I want to have a chocolate cake, okay Mom ! "

M - "Okay Love, I'll give them a call...."

L - " Oh ! Mom and you remember I like balloons right? "

M - " Yes Love, I'm sure we can do that too ! "

We had a lovely evening with dear friends, lots of his favorite breakfast foods ( French toast, whipped cream, syrup, strawberries, cantaloupe, sausages, Sprite, berry crisp and one massive chocolate marble cake). We sang " Happy Birthday" to him seven time in various languages, relighting the candle each time as requested !

Happy 7th Birthday my sweet boy !!!

Service in the garden.......

2011-05-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

is so enjoyable with these ladies and their families !

Wednesday Homeschool Group - building planters with Mr. Paul

2011-05-11T20:27:00.000-07:00

Missoula Children's Theatre - Treasure Island

2011-05-08T11:37:00.000-07:00

Well, another season done and over with. They all did so well !! I've resigned myself that I'm just not going to have perfect pictures. We are fortunate to have a performing arts theater here in our wee town. However, it's quite old and has extremely poor lighting. It's all about documenting right ?

Can't wait until next year..........

What a week.....

2011-05-06T22:18:00.000-07:00

Monday afternoon was the auditions for this years Missoula theater". This year I was able to encourage all four to give it a try. Being on stage is so not Anthony's first choice ! He was so thankful to be given one of the assistant directors spots( he's also the sound guy). This years story is " Treasure Island". Ana is playing one of the villagers ( this is her 3rd year). I wasn't sure how things would go for Keish & Liam. I figured if Liam hung through to the end of the audition he would get one of the cute little kids roles ( this year they are seagulls). He did amazing, so amazing he was given two parts - a seagull & the pirate's parrot ! Keisha was the wild card. It's hit or miss whether she'd participate or just freeze. Then if she participate what role would they give her? Well, she did it. She is the pirate " Captain Patches". Which turns out to be a great role for her. The captain doesn't really have any lines because he's a clown. He uses a horn and some animated body language to communicate - which is perfect for her !

( Liam running his lines with one of the fantastic Missoula ladies )

Each day this week we've had rehearsals from 3:30pm to 7:45pm which is a HUGE sift in our normal schedule. They're a little tired but other than that they are doing so well. I've been staying for the half of the rehearsals that Liam is attending and am supper impressed with how well they are doing with minding, staying on task, remembering their lines & ques. I'm absolutely certain that if Ana & Liam were still under the stress of being in the public school system it wouldn't being going this good. Tomorrows the big day.....dress rehearsal and two shows at 3pm & 7pm. This year I've decide to purchase the dvd since all four are in it.

During the day we've keeping things as low key has possible. Today we planted our seeds.....scarlet runner beans, green & yellow bush beans, rainbow chard, chives, parsley, rutabaga, and 5 different types of flowers. Here's hoping they sprout !

The rest of the weeks has been spent doing the normal chores, helping and visiting with friends, working in our books and being creative....

We've also made a couple of trips to the library to pick up several bags of books & dvd's we had been waiting on. Ana & I are onto the 3rd book in the series of " Percy Jackson and the Olympians" this week. Liam has decided that we need to read the entire series of " Just me...." by Mercer Meyer. He borrowed every single one they had on the shelf....16 to be exact.

So excited about tomorrow......Penny's being super generous in sharing her " big/real" camera for me to use during the dress rehearsal ( this way I can get up on chairs & such without bother anyone) YAH for Penny !!

I'll try and post pics on Sunday....

on our walk home from voting yesterday......

2011-05-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

( hunting for 4 leaf clovers)

( Salmon berry flowers)

( I don't know what these lovely flowers are named. There so pretty & are all over town this week.)

Highlights from a busy wknd

2011-05-02T13:46:00.000-07:00

We started our weekend on Friday baking........banana bread, chocolate zhuccini bread, oatmeal raisin cookies, blueberry muffins, turkey vegetable soup & wholewheat biscuits.

Some for our Relief Society session that evening( I was asked to lead a conversation on budgeting), some for our adoption potluck the next day, some for the immediate consumption and surprisingly some made it into the freezer for this weeks lunch/snacks.

Saturday morning we loaded up and headed down island to attend an annual potluck for families created by adoption. Our hosts are the amazing crew from 14 children & holding. We had a lovely time and so looking forward to all the camps & gatherings planned for the rest of 2011.

While we were down island we checked out a couple of shops that tend to have some super budget friendly deals. The key is to be patient & diligent. We hit the jack pot in our effort for low cost/good quality bread. 40 loaves for just $1.20 each. Now who doesn't like that ! We also stopped by my fav. dollar store in Campbell River. A few months ago while down I had picked up a couple detailed coloring activity books that I was hoping would work for everyone( coloring is a fun positive way to do therapy). They were such a hit I was eager to pick up more if possible. To my delight they did still have them. Even better, they now had three new versions and at only $1.50 each I'm now kicking myself for not picking up more. Here's hoping they'll still be there when were back down in a few weeks.....

Hold on....deals aren't done yet ! For the same price as lunch out....I was able to treat myself to two beautiful trays of starter plants, two new tropical plants for the house, a new plant pot and some bamboo garden polls for my beans. YAY !!

An early introduction......

2011-05-02T12:24:00.000-07:00

Our young friend Morgan turn the big 3 a few days ago. To celebrate her family hosted a luncheon and for most of the guest their first trip to the spa......Ana's hooked !!

BEFORE

AFTER

Sea Soil

2011-04-26T16:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday turned out to be the perfect day for......hauling loads of the loveliest sea soil around. I decided to sweet talk my Dad ( aka Papa) into being my driver. I have a love/hate relationship with his utility trailer ! He lovingly agreed and off we went. We're lucky to be only a short distance from the best sea soil place around. For the locals that are willing to make the drive it's a great bargin. $40 buck a yard. If I was to purchase this same amount bagged from the garden store it would have been more like $ 100.

It's crazy how delighted I am about this beautiful pile of dirt ! I was so delight with life that we did a second run for my pal Cori. We're both dream of our gardens and all the glorious food we're going to grow!

Thanks again Dad !!!

Easter

2011-04-25T23:22:00.000-07:00

A beautiful day of thanks & appreciation......

- a lovely Sunday morning with my beautiful children & my much loved parents.
- a day filled with appreciations for the sacrifice made by my Savior

- Oh! so thankful that my Dad is on the mend....He LOVED playing " Easter Bunny" for the kids.

- so thankful my " bigs" still enjoy a good egg hunt....

- Have I mentioned how welcomed & at home we feel with our new church community.....so thankful to share this most special day with them.

What a Lovely day.......

2011-04-23T19:09:00.000-07:00

Stories Beach with Papa & Grandma.......

2011-04-22T19:37:00.000-07:00

" I'm glad it was nice out, Mom ! "

2011-04-21T14:07:00.000-07:00

Our winter sure has been long, wet and dark......However, I think maybe it's starting to be " Spring". Last night, well actually all week has be community " pitch in". Anthony & the Rangers were cleaning up along the shore Monday evening ( It was dark & drizzly). Tuesday Keisha & the Guides were clean up the local hiking trail ( It was side ways pelting rain & wind !!.....poor Keish) and much to the surprise of everyone...Ana & the Brownies were treated to a beautiful evening to work around the ball diamond !

Sunset Cultural Fashion Show

2011-04-14T17:41:00.000-07:00

Wednesday Homeschooling group - Ms. Maren's

2011-04-13T14:01:00.000-07:00

We had our first visit at Maren, Eva & Max's home today. I now understand why the others speaks so highly of the home they have set up for their family. They have the loveliest sunroom for the kids to play. We chatted, picked herbs, played, stomped through the bush and soaked up the sun. A very peasant way to spend a few hours......