Apple Jacks Mommy

NEW BLOG

2011-01-16T11:32:00.001-08:00

I am no longer updating this blog please find me HERE

BLOG HAS MOVED

2010-12-15T14:26:00.000-08:00

This blogs has moved!!! www.applejacksmommy.com
Please come and visit us HERE

Going to find Santa!

2010-12-11T09:04:00.000-08:00

I am back "home" in Saskatoon and loving being in the city. My mom greeted me with a Starbucks latte which was lovely:)
We are off to go and find Santa today!! I hope the pictures do not turn out like these!!!

2010-12-08T15:29:00.000-08:00

Outside my window...SNOW SNOW and More SNOW

I am thinking.....that I should probably get off the computer and cook supper or go to the gym.

I am thankful for... Jack, Kim, My Pooches, My family, Friends, Health, 1 year maternity leave, everything I could ever want I have and more.

I am wearing.....lululemon from head to toe

I am going... to a family night at a school tonight with a new awesome friend and hopefully to Saskatoon tomorrow if the weather cooperates.

I am reading... MAGAZINES. Bought a photography one today!

I am hoping... I get to Saskatoon safely tomorrow.

I am hearing... TV on in the background.

Around the house... clutter from me. everywhere I go I tend to leave a trail behind.

One of my favorite things... making Jack smile. Kissing Jack and just loving him up in general.

I cannot wait for....my NEW BLOG to be done!!!!!

Teaching a baby

2010-12-08T15:12:00.001-08:00

Since it is Jack's 1st Christmas and he is too young to really know what is up I was hoping I could get some educational stuff for him. I have no idea where to begin or what to get. It is mind blowing to realize that I am responsible for teaching him everything he knows from now until he enters the school. As a teacher I know how important it is to be involved in your child's education. Learning and development happen outside the classroom and if you give your child a strong foundation they will be that much better off when they do begin school. I have seen many kids whose parents just leave it all up to the school system to teach their children and it is really quite sad. If anyone has any suggestions for good quality educational products for babies please let me know!

My Little Tubby Man!!!

2010-12-07T16:03:00.000-08:00

Excercise DVD's

2010-12-07T15:31:00.000-08:00

My husband and I bought a new TV stand for our TV which meant I had to organize my portion of the DVD's. I took a quick snapshot of the one's I currently own....I think it is about 30. Oh and I just ordered another one today. Starting next week when I return from Saskatoon I will be starting a 10 day challenge. I must do one exercise DVD a day for 10 days. I will review each DVD as I do them. I am looking forward to getting the one I ordered today because it is a baby and me DVD which will give Jack and I something to do during the day while we are cooped up inside. I sometimes feel bad that I do not entertain him enough. Do you have any suggestions for indoor activities to do with 12 week old babies? We usually go from playing to the swing to his play may to his bouncy chair and do that rotation a few times a day. The poor little guy must be bored. Oh wait I do random photo shoots with him where I make him wear crazy things like a pet Santa hat, beads and throw random Xmas tree balls on him!!!

On another note I thought I would include the only picture Jack will ever have of his mommy and him in his 3 months of existence as my husband is not good at picking up the camera to take shots of us at all. He only seems to get the idea when I have not showered and look like complete crap. This photo was taken after I went to the gym and was a sweaty mess but oh well!!!

I had to include a picture of Ruby because she is too sweet. I really would love to get another pooch. One her breed and age so she has someone to play with. Benji just does not play well with her and he is grouchy and growls at her sweet face:(

The bottom 2 DVD's are one's I would maybe like to order but I am not sure. If anyone out there has tried them please let me know. I have a couple of Tracy Anderson DVD's and they are a bit ridiculous but maybe this one will be good?

December 5th

2010-12-05T16:48:00.001-08:00

I must say this little guy grows on me more and more everyday. Look at his sweet little face. Although he is not smiling in these pictures he smiles soooo much these days it is awesome!!! I am beginning to realize that winter is going to be rough. I tried to take him out for a walk in his stroller yesterday and well....let's just say Canadian snow covered roads are a nightmare with stroller. We were getting stuck in ruts and snow drift and almost tipping over. It would really help if I lived in a place where there were places for him and I to go but there is NOWHERE and it really bothers me. I hate complaining about it but it is really upsetting some days. There is nowhere to even go grab a coffee...like I mean nowhere.
Today I tried to go to the gym in town and it was closed so I came home and did Body Pump which has been my favorite weight workout forever and it really is awesome. It is 1 hour long total and each major muscle group is work for 5 solid minutes to fatigue.....there is nothing quite like it really. I bought the equipment from my cousin's gym before I moved away and I am so glad I did. Now I must work on the ol' cardio and running situation!!!! My great friend Kass just text me and told me she ran a 1/2 marathon in Vegas in under 2 hours.....AMAZING!!!! YOU ROCK KASS!!!!
I plan on going to Saskatoon on Wednesday for some much needed city time:)

Carter

2010-12-03T07:17:00.001-08:00

1st off I know my blog is a MESS!!! I am in the process of getting a new blog as this is a disaster!!! Just wanted to share a little pic I took of my friends little guy Carter a few weeks ago.

December FANTASY wish list

2010-12-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

Well it is that time of year again. Xmas is just around the corner and I am a consumer's dream as my mother tells me. I actually do NOT want anything for xmas this year.....seriously. My mother reads my blog sometimes and this is directed at her....DO NOT GET ME ANYTHING. Each and every year since I was born my mom goes over the top at Xmas and spoils me rotten. This year is Jack's 1st Xmas and it is about him although he does not need anything either. All I want for Xmas is to go away in January or February and to shop while I am down there.
If I did want things for Xmas it would be as follows:
1.North Face triple C Jacket as seen on Angelina Jolie. I am sure she is wearing it in LA or somewhere stupid. I have wanted this jacket for like 4 years now but it is expensive.
2. FUJI instax Polaroid camera WIDE because it's cute
3. AN IPAD just because I LOVE all apple products
4. Starbucks mug.Especially this lovely pink one. LOVE LOVE LOVE I collect starbucks coffee mugs.
5. Cute yarn ball mobile for Jack's crib.
6. Just for fun a "cheap" lens. Canon 85 mm 1.8

OK I have been on www.koodeal.com ALL day trying to bid on something and it has taken over 5 hours and I am sure I will loose my bid. I think this site is a scam.....does anyone know?

Jack's Unfinished Nursery

2010-12-01T14:56:00.000-08:00

When I was prego with Jack I searched the internet looking for nursery inspirations. There are so many beautiful nursery's out there and I was inspired. I wanted a neutral palette with lot's of room to POP color. I am nowhere near being done with his room but I thought I should share a little with you. As you can see we have a closet door problem! Oh and his room is really really small as it is hard to incorporate too much stuff. The teddy bear does NOT stay in the crib so please don't worry I just picked it up off the floor for the picture!

Today I:
- had coffee with my awesome mom's group
-went to the gym for a fantastic workout
-played with pooches outside for a little bit
-cleaned the house
-spent too much time online as usual!!!

Bath Time & Sleep Training

2010-11-30T11:44:00.000-08:00

Thought I would share some pics of Jack enjoying a special bath at the farm this weekend. As you can see from his face he LOVES bath time! Oh and in a nice orange bucket made it different and special this time.
We just got back from a few days at the farm and it was Jack's 1st visit ever. Kim was really excited to take him there as he is a farm boy at hear and it is his home. Grandma and Grandpa LOVED having him and LOVED playing with him. It is great to have grandparents as that relationship is so special for both child and grandparent...oh and a nice break for Mom and Dad as well.
Jack is in his crib right now crying a little.....I am trying to get this little bugger sleep trained better. He is a cat napper throughout the day and it sucks. He needs to just go down for a solid 1 hour nap twice a day and sleep through the night. He is currently not doing either and it is making me crazy!!!!
OK now he is screaming gotta run!!!!!

Happy Jack

2010-11-26T14:50:00.000-08:00

We are off to the farm tonight for Jack's first ever visit!!!

xmas card

2010-11-26T14:49:00.001-08:00

Stylish Snowflakes Black Christmas Card

Make a statement with custom Christmas cards at Shutterfly.

View the entire collection of cards.

Jack at 10 weeks

2010-11-24T07:39:00.000-08:00

JACK will be 10 weeks old tomorrow and I just wanted to document a little about who this guy is right now.
Dear Jack you are:
1. SO cute it kills me.
2. Smiling more and more. Last month you were only into smiling in the morning but now you smile all day!
3. You love love love to eat! Your 3 hour feed me now or else schedule is rock solid no matter how much I would like it to change.
4. You are a little chubber weighing 14 pounds.
5. You Love your play mat.
6. You Love bath time with either me or Daddy. SO many smiles its adorable.
7.You no longer like tummy time.
8. You like car rides but often just fall asleep which is a good thing.
9. Your cooing is so sweet and music to my ears.
10. You look a lot like your Daddy who just loves you so much!

Bath Time!

2010-11-21T18:36:00.001-08:00

Bath time is proving to be Jack's favorite time of day!! I have been sick for 2 days and have not hugged or kissed my little guy because I do not want him to get sick:( It is hard to keep my hands off of him!!!

STSPCP-NORWEX

2010-11-19T14:19:00.001-08:00

http://www.healthandswellbeing.com/ Check out Ange's Blog I just found it>>>>looks like it will be a daily read of mine.
Oh and I wanted to mention I LOVE NORWEX!!! Mom if you are reading this I know you will fall over but I loved cleaning the bathrooms today!!! I wiped out my Norwex bath mitt that I bought at a small town sell people crap party and OMG it is AMAZING. Anyone that knows me knows that I am all about chemical free products and this stuff is amazing. I am now a proud member of the NORWEX cult. My bathroom is sparkling and it literally took less than 10 minutes to clean from top to bottom not using 1 single cleaning product. Next time I am invited to another small town sell people crap party I am going for this stuff!!!!

Mom's into Fitness- Lindsey Brin

2010-11-19T11:34:00.000-08:00

I have discovered Lindsey Brin and I think I am going to like her. I ordered 3 of her DVD's and I did the first one last night. I like her approach to fitness first being a mother and second her original and more unique approach t fitness. I am so OVER bootcamp style classes. I am just simply over military style workouts I like feminine dance/pilates style moves and she has it!!! She knows a lot about core workouts.....especially since the core after a baby is really a unique experience to say the least!!!
I will keep you posted on the other 2 dvd's.

The many faces of JACK

2010-11-18T16:46:00.001-08:00

I am back! I was away for quite sometime however I am now back and settling into winter/hibernation mode. It is FREEZING here now and it is full on winter. I just got back from almost 2 weeks in Saskatoon and had a great time. I do LOVE the city, I really do. My days there are busy and filled with things to do. Here in Meadow I am so isolated and there is nowhere to go and nothing to do. I am trying not to let it get to me to much. I just feel that with Jack the city offers sooo much more....mommy and me aerobics (that I went to with Katie), kindermusic, pilates, gym with daycare and activities galore for babies and kids. Here I have my mom's group and that is it. It is a great thing that we invested i a good treadmill and my exercise DVD collection is quite extensive. I seriously think I might actually hibernate all winter. It is going to be rough but that is why I am planning a trip to Palm Springs for January!!!!!!
Jack turned 2 months old this past week and boy has he changed. He is smiling , cooing and more alert than ever. he is soooo chubby it is beyond sweet. I am wondering if we may have to start shopping at Penningtons for babies hahahhah!!!
Speaking of shopping my HUNTER rubber boots arrived and I love them.......just not on me:( My legs are WAY to fat and just don't look good in them. They are $200 rubber boots so now I am debating do I keep them and hope my calves shrink or do I return them? I just don't know how practical they are right now!
Tonight is my first night alone with Jack. Kim went to Regina for the night for a course. I am thankful my 1st night alone is now and not 4 weeks ago. He was much to fresh for me then.
OK I better go and pick a DVD to do tonight as long as JACK allows me the tme!

Saskatoon

2010-11-07T21:07:00.000-08:00

I am in Saskatoon now for awhile hanging with my mom because Kim went to Regina for a course for a few days. Not sure how much I will be able to blog but I will do my best. Tomorrow I am going to a mommy and me exercise class with my friend Katie! I am excited as we simply do not have luxuries like that in the ghetto..oops I mean Meadow!!! I plan to take in all my former home city has to offer for the next few days. I was itching to hit up my all time favorite Superstore tonight but it closes at 6 on Sunday's BOO!!!

A blog post is simply just not complete without pictures so here are three randoms:
1. My fur baby Ruby......I LOVE her so very much. Even after having a baby it is still VERY possible to love puppies despite everyone saying "oh you just wait till that baby comes those dogs will just be second fiddle blah blah blah blah blah!!!!!" I still love my pups & Jack!!!
2. Ruby loves Jack and Jack will grow to love Ruby
3. My husband sleeping with his mini me. He never ever wants his picture posted anywhere online so we will see how long it takes him to notice!!! See if he reads my blog:)

MOvember-Jack is into it!!

2010-11-05T20:07:00.000-07:00

Jack decided to get into Movember this year as you can see from his mustache. My uncle was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year and he seems to be doing just fine thank God!

On another not I wanted to review my sketchers Shape Ups that I decided today DO in fact enhance a simple walking workout. I was SUPER skeptical about purchasing these awful looking shoes however I figured after Jack was born that I planned to do a lot of walking and if they could help I was in! I have worn them quite a bit for walks and thought they were ok until today I went for about an hour pushing Jack in a stroller and boy oh boy by the end my leg were really tired...not sore just felt like they were worked and tired. They are supposedly supposed to mimic the feeling of walking in sand and really they do! Tonight I went on another walk and wore my regular runners and my legs felt totally fine not really tired like they had this morning. Two walks in one day....two different shoes and now I am a believer the the Shape Ups. They are not the answer to everything I think they are simply a good addition to a walk and a good addition to home work-out gear.
Tonight instead of the stroller I took Jack out in the baby bjorn and we walked to visit my husband at work as he was working night shift. As you can see by the pictures I stuffed jack the bear in the baby bjorn and off we went. I thought it would keep him more alert and more stimulated than when he is in the stroller.....I was wrong 4 minutes into our walk he was out like a light!!! Speaking of being awake someone is awake now and demanding my attention!!
Bye for now!

2010-11-04T22:15:00.000-07:00

November is going to be a busy month for us and we are very happy about that. Today we had coffee with my mom's group, Kim and I did the shred video and then I had a jewelry party at my new friend Gwen's house.
On Sunday we are heading to Saskatoon for lots of visiting. Oh and my mother has informed me my boy should be sleeping longer (I agree just have no idea how to get him to do so) so I have welcomed her to step right up and show me how it's done. She said by this time she had my brother and I sleeping through the night!! Can't wait for ol' Potsy (my mom) to show me how its done!!!

November is the Month

2010-11-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

November is our Month to SHRED the weight off. Kim and I started a mew eating and fitness plan this month and yesterday we started it off with a Jillian Michaels shred video. Jack began to fuss in the middle of it so I strapped on the baby bjorn and did a modified version. Now that I have a baby I do what I have to do I guess!!!

Happy Halloween Jack!!

2010-10-31T13:15:00.000-07:00

I think he likes to actually wear costumes as opposed to a pumpkin!! We still have yet to do his last costume of the day his giraffe!!!

Pumpkins & Pumping

2010-10-31T06:53:00.000-07:00

I am just sitting here hooked up to my breast pump at 7:00 a.m. hoping my father in law does not come walking up the stairs soon as the in-laws are visiting. I DO not exactly look like the lovely pictures I posted hooked up to this MILK machine. Kim calls me BESSIE!!! It truly is a lovely sight to see really! Kim tried to take a pic of me the other day and I kindly said no.....can you imagine Jack looking at that picture when he was 18!!!!
WARNING-try not to Blog and pump at the same time like I am. I just looked down and my right cup is full and my left is empty because I was hooked up wrong! Now I have to be on here twice as long!!!! and now my right breast feels like its going to fall off.
To DAVE my only male reader....I am soooo sorry you have to read this post if you are still reading that is!!!
I am an a bottle feeding new mother and now I am officially out of the closet! Not breast feeding your child in this day in age is pretty much a flippin' crime if you talk to some people and it is a really really sensitive subject that for some reason is not written about in books these days. When women cannot breast feed or simply choose not to its like we are evil mothers that are torturing our babies. It is supposed to be the most natural way to feed a baby but NO ONE tells you how hard and painful it can be and how often it simply does NOT work for people. It did not work for me at all. My milk did not come in for a few days and Jack decided that he preferred to eat the skin off my nipples rather than latch properly. I contacted lactation specialists that tried to help me MANY times but it simply was a disaster. I could often be found trying to nurse Jack propped up by a gazillion pillows, bawling and crying huge tears that would fall on his tiny little head. I would basically be in fear when it came time for him to nurse....it was a disaster. Now I pump and supplement with contraband known as formula and guess what he is still alive and actually thriving!!!
I decided to come out of the closet about my bottle feeding and no longer be "ashamed"of my decision after reading my favorite bloggers recent post. Check it out HERE. After reading her post I sent her a message over on Facebook and she sent me a really great message that made me feel good about my choice. She is thinking of starting a support group for us banished bottle feeding mothers.....I am going to be the 1st to join hahahha!!!
On another note we shoved Jack in a pumpkin yesterday and took a few HAPPY HALLOWEEN shots that he clearly LOVED!!! Sorry for the blurry photography its just that he was SO upset I was shooting so fast I did not check my settings. Poor little man!!!

Only in The Ghetto...oops I mean Meadow Part 2

2010-10-27T22:24:00.000-07:00

This is a print I saw over at www.ohdeedoh.com and I want it!!!
OK so in all honesty I am 2 days off the shred. What he heck I know. 2 days on and 2 days off. Jack has not been sleeping that great and I am TIRED. I know I now not an excuse at all. Tomorrow I am shredding I swear.
Tonight we went out for supper to Meadow's finest establishment called the Bear's Den. It's a really high class kind of place where they actually have all patio furniture as their dining decor. It was fine until the 15 year-old skid kids playing pool almost hit me in the head with a pool cue a few times as we were seated right next to the pool tables.
My favorite Meadow moment of the week was today when I was at the Pharmacy waiting for a prescription when a Meth addict so kindly budded in front of me and demanded her crack drugs from the pharmacist. The Pharmacist took time away from filling my prescription to serve that crack head. It took forever and I finally just left because I was too busy winning mother of the year having Jack waiting in the LOCKED car for me!!!!
ONLY IN MEADOW!!!!!!
I get to go home to Saskatoon in just over a week and I am so excited!!!!
I am now looking for some good organic soy based baby formula. If anyone knows a good brand please let me know!

Shred Day 2 complete

2010-10-25T08:44:00.000-07:00

WOW Jack had an awesome night last night!!! We usually wait until he let's us know he is hungry....the loud fierce cries are our usual alarm system. However last night we woke him up to feed just once and it set the tone for a wonderful night which woke me up just once!!! I do not want to jinx our system but I hope it works again tonight because I feel soooo much better!!
The picture of Ruby sleeping on the couch was taken last night.....what a doll that girl is. I love her soooo much!!!
Speaking of LOVE check out Jack sleeping on the couch as well. What a guy. He is there right now napping away. Oh and the stink eye...he is really good and giving us the old stink eye for no reason!! He better not do that when he is older I tell you I had enough of that look in the classroom and my child will NEVER do that to a teacher EVER!!
I am having trouble uploading pics:(
Just finished Day two of the Shred and Kim did it with me. It kicked his butt!!

Shred

2010-10-24T17:54:00.000-07:00

Today is the day I have started Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred. I bought this DVD in Vegas when I was prego and I have been waiting to check it out. I am now 5 weeks postpartum and I have decided I am ready. I have yet to check with my doctor but I am sure it will be fine!
I did the DVD today and it was really really good. I have to use my abdomend as I could feel my c-section area when I was doing jumping jacks. I think this DVD is really good because the workout are only 20 minutes long but quite intense. Well....they felt intense to me as I am SO out of shape. I really need to build muscle to carry my little 12 pound tub of love Jack around.I have worked out with a number of trainers in the past ( pre-baby) and I think this DVD is VERY similar to a work-outs I have done with trainers. The best part is the time commitment because with a 1 month old I just do not know exactly when I can get to the gym or get an hour long work-out in.
I can and will commit to doing this for 30 days.
I am wanting to post some before shots and measurements sometime soon but I am a little scared to do so right now. I am inspired by my good friend DAVE'S weight loss journey.

More on my post-baby fitness plan later. I am excited to get my new HUNTER boots. I bought online just a few minutes ago! I think they will sever me well here in Meadow with all the snow we are getting. YES it started to snow today. I know they are not snow boots but I plan to use them with super thick socks as snow boots once in awhile!!!

Jack is getting cuter and cuter each day! My husband has been home all weekend and has been hanging out with Jack sooo much! Its wonderful!

Jack is 1 month old!!

2010-10-19T13:20:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe it has been one month since Jack arrived! I am now finally getting into the swing of things. I am able to stay awake during the day better and basically just function better every day. This past week I was in Saskatoon for 5 days and it was blissful. I love and miss all my friends and family soo much!!! I am looking forward to going back next month as it is my goal to get there at least once a month. Next time I hope to make it all the way back without having to stop and feed him on the side of a dark dirt road. It was a nightmare...he messed his diaper really bad and was freaking out to eat. I took his clothes off but could not get a clean outfit back on him. So I stuck him in his seat with two blankets on him and CRANKED the heat in the car! To top it off there were 3 strange men on the side of the road that wanted a boost......ahh. It was all good we eventually made it home and we both survived.

Thanksgiving

2010-10-10T20:04:00.000-07:00

It is Thanksgiving long weekend here and the weather is AMAZING!!! I survived my 1st week alone with Jack and I have to say it went rather well. Maybe it is because Kim was working nights and he took over the night shift as soon as he got home at 1:00 a.m.
LAst night was the 1st night he slept in his crib alone and he did great!
He is a hungry little monster this guy and has been eating a lot. The pics are of him airing out his tushy as he has a horrible diaper rash at the moment poor little man.
I have to go and pump and Jack is kinda loosing it so I will try and write more later!!

October so far

2010-10-05T19:13:00.000-07:00

Wow Jack has been keeping me super duper busy I barely have time to be on the computer or anything else for that matter. We are working on a 2.5 hour window of opportunity these days. He wakes up and demands to be fed, ultimately whatever I have fed him goes right through him and we change diapers right after, we hang out for a bit, change diapers again and then nap time. I seriously have no time to go to the bathroom let alone shower sometimes.
I am slowly getting the hang of this mommy stuff although it has taken me awhile. Actually Kim is at work right now for the 1st and I am all alone.....and I have not broken down yet!! Wow I actually feel good:) My hormones have been insanely out of whack and I was a bit of a crying machine there for awhile but I think I am getting through it. I am just missing home soo much right now. I miss my family, my friends and all that Saskatoon has to offer. My entire support system is in Saskatoon and I never realized it until Jack arrived. I am sort of not liking Meadow at all right now but I know I have to stay positive and make the best of it. It is hard sometimes when I go downtime and see how many low life losers there are all over this place......it is quite disgusting actually!!!!
I am trying to take a picture of him each day although it can be challenging for me to remember! Jack LOVES LOVES LOVES his tummy time and he is actually napping on his belly right now....shhhhh don't tell the parenting experts out there...I am a horrible mother that is actually letting my kid nap on his belly!!!!
Ruby is a soother maniac. She LOVES finding and destroying soothers....what a stinker:)

Happy 2 week Birthday Jack

2010-09-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

This little man has been around now for 14 days. He has been really really good so far. He only cries if he is hungry or we are changing him. He currently has a bad rash on his tushie that is really sore:(
My mom is here right now helping us out and it is wonderful!! I love her sooo much for being here....caring for Jack, Cooking, Cleaning and just being supportive. Love you mom!!!

Life with Jack

2010-09-26T17:34:00.000-07:00

Life with Jack so far has been wonderful, a blur and full of emotions. Each day gets a little easier and he gets cuter and cuter each day. My husband has been home with us for the past week but goes to work this Tuesday. My mother is coming to help out tomorrow. I am sooo thankful for a wonderful husband and great mother.....REALLY REALLY THANKFUL!!!!

Introducing JACK

2010-09-22T14:22:00.001-07:00

Born September 16th
8lbs 5 oz
He is perfect ,beautiful, sweet and we are so blessed to have this little angel in our lives.

Leaving today to go have a baby!

2010-09-14T09:08:00.001-07:00

I am leaving to the city today to go have a baby. Be home in a few days!!!!

Happy Birthday to ME!!!

2010-09-12T19:49:00.001-07:00

Today is my birthday and I had a great day! My beautiful friend Kass drove 3 hours north to visit me today along with her 2 boys. Not only did she drive forever to visit she brought me cupcakes (sooo yumy), bought me a magazine subscription (everyone knows I LOVE magazines) and a baby gift that I love. Kass I know you read my BLOG and I want you to know that I am really really blessed to have you as a friend. What you did today meant soooooo much to me and I really really cannot than you enough! Love u my dear friend:)
So here it is 32 things I want to do, Know or whatever at 32!
1. I want to have a healthy baby this week.
2. I want to be able to hold off going into labour this week.
3. I want to be a good mom even though I really think I will suck at it.....I still don't feel that maternal....I know I should not admit that.
4. I want to create new family traditions with my new baby and sweet husband pictured above. Yeah he has a sweet head. I am not allowed to have pics of him on the internet.
5. I want to travel to 2 different places this year with baby and husband.
6. I want to commit to healthy eating and a fitness focused life as soon as I possibly can.
7. Goal is to be able to complete a 10K run by June.
8. Re-certify my aerobics certification.
9. Take a picture a day for one year 365 project...probably will start this once baby arrives.
10. Take better pictures
11. Take more pictures....Kim and I have taken no pictures together since our wedding and I feel like 2 years of our life has gone by with no memories recorded.
12. Oh man my ADD has kicked in and I cannot possibly thing about all of these things in one sitting.
13. Continue this list tomorrow!!!
Good Night Everyone!!!!

2010-09-11T18:53:00.000-07:00

Today is our last official weekend without children and it is freaking me out....our very last one. It is also my birthday tomorrow.....my very last one before kids. It cannot believe I am going to share a birthday week with my son. I cannot believe I am going to have a son.
I would LOVE a birthday present from HERE
Beyond that now that am an official townie I order stuff directly from Sears and I ordered Clinique's 7 day scrub and I must say I am a fan. I used it for the first time today and I really feel and see a difference.
Tonight I am loving a REAL HOUSEWIVES marathon!!!!
In the nursery pic above I like the little black and white painting.....might just paint one for the nursery.
Tomorrow Kass and her 2 son's are driving up to visit me for the day. Sooooo nice and thoughtful of her. We are going to take her 2 kids to visit the detachment tomorrow so I think they will like that!

Friday September 10th- I might be crazy!

2010-09-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

Today is the 1st day of an online class I am taking called NURTURE YOUR CREATIVITY AND BE BULLETPROOF. The class is taught by a girl originally from Saskatoon Kal Barteski . Kal is an amzing artist, mother, creator of things cool and just seems to be super cool. The funny thing is that I think she went to my neighboring high school but I am too chicken to ask her:) I think that might be one of my first bulletproof things to today is just ask her.
This class is all about nurturing our own creativity not only artistically but in our everyday lives. It is about being bulletproof and staying positive no matter what.
I plan to document my process here. I am taking the slow and steady class because I am about to have a baby in 6 days so my post may be few and far between but I am working on it.
Today I must come up with my own definition of creativity. It is nice to finally be a student and not a teacher for once.

Because no post is ever complete without pictures I am posting images of a nursery I found on Spearmint baby. I am inspired and feel it is creative so....yeah it fits!!!!

Baby Weight Must GO!!!

2010-09-09T07:26:00.000-07:00

Every time I go to the doctor as a pre-natal patient they weigh me and I hope yesterday was my last weigh-in of this whole experience because I HATE it!!! I know, I know there is a baby growing in me and I should be happy and fine and not worry but I do! I know it is so selfish of me.
So anyways I am due to have a c-section in one week from today. I plan to breast-feed and I understand I need to eat healthy for both the baby and I and that is my plan. I have been binging on carbs my entire pregnancy and it is time to get my cracker, popcorn and potato addiction under control.
I have The Eat Clean Diet book by Tosca Reno and it is great. SO great I ordered the Eat Clean Diet for Men for my hubby to read and I think I really need the Eat Clean Diet for kids.......not only for our future baby but for me. Anyone that knows me knows how picky I am and that I have the palette of a 5 year old. The eat clean for kids book would be right up my alley because it is simple and geared toward a palette like mine:)
My post baby health and fitness goals are as follows:
- eat clean by trying new recipes
-exercise each day in some capacity with baby and without
-complete a 10K run by June
-re-certify my aerobics instructing training by next summer

That is it. I do not want to get too complicated or outrageous. I have never had a baby before and I have no idea what it will be like. Here in Meadow I have a feeling the winter is going to be SUPER LONG so I need to stay as active and healthy as possible!

So many people start fresh in January and I think the Fall is the perfect time to re-charge and set new goals. Must be the teacher in me usually getting ready for my school goals:)

Only in Meadow

2010-09-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

Since I know live in a new place (Meadow Lake) that is VERY different than Saskatoon where I am from, I am going to begin a monthly feature titled "ONLY IN MEADOW"
My first only in Meadow moment to report was tonight when my husband and I went to Will Ferrel's new movie The Other Guys. First and foremost the movie is a renter but WHO BRING a BABY in a stroller and a 5 year old to a Will Ferrel movie.......well apparently people in Meadow find that to be totally appropriate. The baby squirmed and made noise the entire time and the mother barely saw any of the movie because she was too busy taking the squawking baby out to calm her down. Yes I know I am going to have a baby in less than 2 weeks and I am a terrible person for such judgment!!!! Come on!!!!
ONLY in MEADOW!!!!

September 3rd

2010-09-03T09:42:00.001-07:00

I have 2 weeks left of "alone" time before baby arrives and I have really been into online shopping. Especially since the GAP, Banana Republic and Old Navy now ship to CANADA. Since I live in an isolated community online shopping is my hew hobby......despite my hubby's unhappiness about the whole situation. Hey it just dawned on me I am using our air mile credit card for all purchases so maybe if I buy enough stuff we can go on a holiday this winter.... I am BRILLIANT!!!!

A few of the things I have bought are:
1. Aimee nursing gown and robe. You see I wear the tragic robe that I bought from the old lady department at Sears daily and my husband HATES it with the passion. As soon as my new robe arrives I have promised him I will get rid of "pinky".
2. Stripe onsie from Baby Gap
3. Skull Knit onsie from baby gap
4. This Giraffe costume from Baby Gap
5. I did NOT order the pig but I want to today it is %25 of.......

Oh and i added a new link over to the right on all of the blogs I stalk regularly. Check out www.anewdaveisdawning.blogspot.com He is a good friend of ours that is beginning a new weight loss adventure! He is awesome and you must check him out.

Today

2010-09-01T05:38:00.001-07:00

Well I broke down and ordered a plain jane glider from Sears. this baby is coming anyday now and my grand idea to re-furbish a glider and make it funky and cool has subsided. Not sure what i will do with the used glider I bought from the trailer park a few months ago. It is covered in cat hair and smells like smoke no matter what.....and I got hooped into paying $70 for it....its worth about $40 at best!!! My generic glider should be here soon I just hope my owl pillow might make it look cool!

I am now into full on townie living since I ordered skin care from Sears online as well. I had no idea how much townie people rely on ordering through Sears......growing up in the city we just went there if we wanted something but we had so much more to choose from we never went there. It is my new favourite store and YES i KNOW I AM A SNOB!!!!!!! Was talking to AMANDA last night and she told me clinque sucks but we will see.

Loving the black, white and turqoise nursery I found over at SPEARMINT BABY.

My Etsy Purchases as of late

2010-08-31T10:22:00.000-07:00

A few things I have bought from Etsy lately!!! Now that I am living in isolation from retail stores I have been looking online for more stuff to buy. I think I like this online shopping thing but it is too easy to do. Today I also bought a glider and ottoman for the nursery and some clinique skin care.
We just got back from the city last night and if all goes as planned baby will make his appearance on September 16th.....I just hope I can hold out until then! Every time I stand up it feel like he might fall out.....or he is simply crushing my bladder!
Baby names I like today:
Lewis
George
Charlie
Benette

2010-08-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

In saskatoon today and going to the doctor........I want a c-section and this may be my only hope!!!

Dog, Bro & Oil

2010-08-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

Pardon my randomness but here are a couple of things I want to share today.
1. Macadamia hair oil is the bomb.com good for over processed hair like mine and smells wonderful!!
2. Mr brother was in a charity bike race alongside Lance Armstrong yesterday. That is him on the right wearing the Korpan tractor gear!!! So proud of my bro:)
3. My little pooches.....LOve them and love staying at home because of this picture!!!

Best Friends Blog

2010-08-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

CLICK HERE to visit my best friends BLOG. She just started it a few weeks ago and its awesome. I am linking you her post on Salt and Vinegar Chick peas. this recipe is seriously awesome if you are a crunchy salt freak like me.
You can read all about Amanda on her blog but it is crazy how long we have been friends and how different our lives are now that we are adults...yet we remain besties over the years despite not seeing each other that much. We met back when were in 6th grade, many moons ago. We have always been very different yet somewhat the same. She was always the tomboy athletic girl and I was the girl that was into dancing and art. When we finished high school Amanda moved away almost immediately pursuing a career in acting and singing while I stayed home and pursued my Arts & Education degrees. I turned into this super homebody and she went out to discover the world. Well that is not entirely true.....I went traveling to places like Australia, Singapore, Thailand etc and she was busy exploring the world of music and acting. We met when we were 11 years old and now we are both 31......OMG we have known each other for 20 yeas now!!!!! I could go on and on about our history but I will spare you all the goofy details unless I can get some good pictures to post as they are worth a laugh!!! The only pic I have on my computer currently is from my wedding 2 years ago. She is coming to town next week and I cannot wait to see her!
Love you Amanda!!!

Work in Progress

2010-08-24T18:30:00.000-07:00

Ok bear with me I am posting pics of our baby room which is totally raw and in progress. I am not perfect like all the other blogs I read that only post pretty perfect pictures of their rooms. I need help and some advice about how to pull this room together! Oh and I am adding pics of my real true Expedit desk and a belly shot just for good measure 37 weeks!!
1. Ruby matching the carpet looking sweet despite her bad hair cut.
2. Belly pic 37 weeks...its big I know!
3. Dogs sniffing baby tiger costume my friend katie bought me.
4. Print I ordered from Etsy.
5. Closet
6. Painting of Ruby we bought in Asheville North Carolina. Its not really Ruby but it does look like her!
7. G from anthropologie for our last name.
8. Dresser mess
9. Crib
10. Expedit desk from Ikea

Tuesday

2010-08-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

Today is the day I was to go back to work and I am happy relaxing at home and enjoying my 1st ever maternity leave. I cannot believe after 7 years of teaching I finally have the joy of experiencing fall in all of its glory without work stress hanging over me. It truly is a wonderful time of year and I finally get to cherish it. If you think about it I have been in school my entire life and my fall has always been consumed by school....elementary school, high school, University and then life as a teacher. I am FREE!!!
I found this cute nursery on Spearmint Baby today and i really love it!!! It has the EXPEDIT shelves we just picked up from IKEA. Oh and I found a pic of my new desk, it is the EXPEDIT desk from IKEA as well. This desk is awesome because it is totally affordable, BIG and has lots of storage space. I LOVE IT!!!!

New

2010-08-22T21:57:00.000-07:00

It is 11:00 p.m. and I am sitting at my new desk that my husband just assembled. It is a nice new clean white desk from IKEA....pretty simple but I love it. I have been working on his old desk forever and it just was not my scene. I will post a pic of my new office soon it is just still a work in progress. This new space has inspired me to finish up editing all the pictures I have left from the summer. I have one more wedding to shoot this Saturday and then I am on maternity leave from photography for awhile.
Speaking of our baby.......I feel like I am gonna pop any second and I am extremely uncomfortable but oh well I will survive!!!
The image above is NOT my belly just so you know.....I just cannot blog without a pic.

On the road again!

2010-08-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

My goodness I have been on the road ALL summer!! Since moving here to ML I have been traveling allover the province this summer between weddings and doctor appointments. I just got back on Sunday from Toon and now I am on my way back for a doctor appointment:( I really really wish they could just offer me an epidural here in ML and my life would be sooooooo much easier!!! Thought I would include a picture of what I want sooo bad.......an epidural!!!
Actually I really want a c-section but here in Saskatchewan you cannot have an elective one:(

Nursery

2010-08-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I just returned from a whirlwind trip to IKEA. The closest one is 4 hours away so we did a day trip there yesterday........yep 8 hours of driving just for IKEA. The thing is that sooo much of the stuff I wanted they would not do online or over the phone AND the 2 items out of 8 I wanted that they would actually let me order were going to cost $250 simply for shipping......CRAZY!!!!! Today I am posting inspirations from www.spearmintbaby.com it is such a great blog!!! My new colors I think are blue, green, yellow, white and a little black!
I will post pictures as soon as possible!! I think I need more RIBBA frames but I am not driving 8 hours for $4 frames!!!

2010-08-03T07:37:00.001-07:00

We are home from 2 weeks at the lake. It was a wonderful and relaxing 2 weeks full of sunshine, boating and simply relaxing. Our cabin has now turned into the place where we meet up with friends and family. Many of my Saskatoon friends and family vacation
at the same lake so now that we have moved, the Lake has become a place to meet up with everyone. I love it!
That said it is nice to be home in our comfortable house where the dogs have a huge fenced in yard to play in. Ruby loved the lake and LOVED chasing squirrels. She is soooo dirty now its not even funny!!!
While I was away my Mat & Nat Teal diaper bag arrived from ebay and I LOVE it!!!
I am still searching for a cardboard deer head for the nursery.
I am thinking I want to do a painting for junior's room before he arrives but all my art stuff is packed away in the garage and I have no access to it. I am inspired by the print on these bags for a painting.

House Progress Pictures

2010-07-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

Please remember these are pictures of the place IN PROGRESS not actually finished. My husband has been busy with baseboards, painting, flooring and lighting!!!! It is a total work in progress but I am loving it so far! Ok now we are off to the lake!!!

2010-07-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

http://www.fawnandforest.com/ anything from this website is lovely!!!! i think I am going to order the owl wall clock!!!

I have been browsing Etsy

2010-07-15T11:26:00.000-07:00

I have been online looking for cool nursery finds. We have like 60 days to go before he arrives!!! We have decided to re-paint the nursery b/c the color is just too purple for our liking, I will try and post some house progress shots soon!!!
Right now we are off to the lake for 2 weeks:)

Our House Before Pictures

2010-07-13T15:41:00.000-07:00

We moved in on April 1st and these are the pictures of our house BEFORE we began to re-vamp it and make it our own. My husband has been working really really hard doing lot's of painting, prepping, baseboards, lighting etc. I feel like it will be awhile before I can post after pictures but I am thinking I may post some during pictures just for a sneak peak into what we are up to!!!
This past week we had 2 sets of visitors my mother and then our good friends Dave & Laurel. It is hard to know what to do with company here because I still have no idea what to do around town. Downsizing from a city of 250,000 to a town of 5000 is a BIG change!!!! I am adjusting pretty well so far!

July 6th

2010-07-06T04:13:00.000-07:00

WOW It's already July 6th. I have been on summer holidays for almost one week now. I am currently awake at 5:00 a.m. because I just cannot sleep for some reason. I am sooo out of whack it is not even funny. I am feeling really big and uncomfortable. I went for a walk last night and had to come back within 25 minutes because I had to pee. I cannot believe this baby will be here in roughly 8 weeks. I think that is why I am wide awake because I am in full on nesting mode now.
1. If anyone knows where to buy this Deer crib duvet please let me know!!!
2. The black mirror is similar to one I purchased recently...my hubby is gonna kill me!!!!! We are having a bit of an aesthetic battle in the new house...love him dearly but he likes cheap and easy. Me on the other hand I love different unique maybe not so cheap. I think he gets frustrated because all of my DIY ideas involve him doing the majority of the work:)
3. I want to refinish a glider for the nursery.......HOW this will happen now that I live in the boonies is beyond me.
I will post pics of our house is progress as soon as I find my usb cord for my point and shoot.
If you are interested in looking at what I have been shooting with my real camera please visit www.swoonphotography.blogspot.com

1st official day In Meadow

2010-07-01T02:43:00.000-07:00

I arrived here in Meadow tonight around 5:30. It is now 3;30 a.m. and I cannot sleep so i am online looking for bathroom decor inspiration. I can't find much at all. i am looking to paint 3 bathrooms and I would like to do something different. I painted this new house all different shades of Gray and I am ready to POP the bathrooms with some fun and color.
While browsing online I found a baby monitor that I am interested in and a wall color I like.....that is it, that is all.
It was hard leaving my mom today. We have seen each other sooo much over the past few months. I lover her so much and I hate being away from her. I guess we will have to just make lots of visits and lots of phone calls and maybe a trip (or 2) away together every year.
I am going back to Saskatoon on Saturday so it was not a HUGE goodbye or anything. I am transitioning out of Toon slowly so I think that is a good thing. I hope this blog turns into more of an account of my new life as we have a lot of new things happening around here.
I better run and try and get some sleep!
Night....or shall I say morning???

4 more days

2010-06-26T08:34:00.001-07:00

I am such a slacker blogger! The good news is that I will be off work this coming Wednesday for 14 months of maternity leave!!! I cannot wait for work to be done. I have been at the same school for 7 years and I am ready for a change!

Today I want........

2010-05-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

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All images are from ETSY. I love the dog tutu minus the American red, white and blue cheesiness!!!!!
1. My hair fixed NOW!!!! It is soo bad I HATE IT SOOOO much!!!!
2. Enjoy my last day here in Meadow for awhile.
3. to not get anymore pregnancy induced migraines.
4. Stop eating and craving so much sugar!!!!
5. get ready for Vegas tomorrow with my mom. I am taking her there to celebrate her 60th birthday!!! Her birthday was in October but we are going now. Might be our last mother daughter trip for awhile since I am due in September.

Hair Disaster

2010-05-22T16:52:00.000-07:00

DOes this look like a few low lights to break up the blond? I don't think so. I am looking for a before picture but cannot sem to find one. I HATE it sooo much!!!!!

May 18th

2010-05-18T06:25:00.000-07:00

I just got in for an early morning walk and my feet are all blistered now. Its going to be +30 out today OMG. I am not sure I am going to like this being super pregnant in the summer thing!!!!! I left Meadow yesterday and I am sad b/c I really hate leaving. It is getting worse each time I have to leave. I feel bad for the pooches because they follow me around the entire weekend and then try and leave with me when I go. I think they are wondering when they get to go "home". Poor little guys!!!
One week from today and I am off to Vegas with my mom. We are going for her 60th Birthday. I am taking her and it should be wonderful.....shopping, spa, pool etc!!!!

inspirations of the day

2010-05-15T17:37:00.000-07:00

I came up for the weekend to see my hubby had painted the nursery gray....it looks nice!!! I cannot wait to decorate the rest of it. The only thing is we have a black crib and i think i want a white crib......not sure yet. I really want a faux deer head for the room, I know it is really 2009 but I still love them. I just do not want to spend $400 on one. As well I love the name Harper however due to the fact that our priminister's name is Stephen Harper I just don't think the name will work.
I am wondering why I never talk about my pregnancy on here? is this turning into more of an inspiration blog or a blog about my life???

2010-05-12T13:41:00.001-07:00

Sitting at a workshop sooooo bored right now!!!

Goldie - Perforated Diaper Black Vegan Bag | Matt & Nat

2010-05-09T09:47:00.000-07:00

Goldie - Perforated Diaper Black Vegan Bag | Matt & Nat
I think this is the diaper bag I would like.......

Ruby Love

2010-05-05T21:28:00.000-07:00

My sweet sweet Ruby!!! I had a post on my other BLOG about RUBY and I just felt the need to do another one here. We adopted Ruby from the shelter in October and I swear my heart grew bigger that day. She is the sweetest little gem that I have ever met. If you have read my blog you will know that I am passionate about rescuing pooches and she just proves why it is the BEST thing that anyone anyone can do. She is sweet, happy, social, a pleaser, a cuddler and a real peach. Everyone keeps telling me " oh wait for your baby to come you dogs will be NOTHING" I feel like punching people square in the fricken face when they say that to me. I have had dogs for the past 14 year all on my own and I NEVER EVER EVER would even think of not loving them as much or putting them on the back burner. I have plenty of love in my heart for both. The ignorant mentality that baby takes over EVERYTHING in life makes me wanna scream. I swear many women shit out their brain when they give birth and I will NOT be one of them!!!!!! I have actually promised my hubby this and he is well aware of the stunned mother complex that we often talk about how this cannot happen to me......we BOTH will not let it!!

Inspirations for today

2010-05-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

I am still dreaming about decorating our new house and these are a few images that I am inspired by today.
1. Funky glider....love it.
2. Cute nursery.
3. Kim loves the name JACK but I think it may be too popular of a name.....any thoughts?
4. I love this room decorated by Rachel Denbow for her daughter Ruby. I love the quilt with text and the sweet painting!
On another note I found a really cute and modern boys room in a magazine recently and I LOVE it.....I am hunting for pictures and will post some soon.

Today's name list:
Fletcher
Sutton
Berkley
Fynn
Cooper
Tucker
Jack

Choosing Paint colors

2010-05-02T08:24:00.001-07:00

I am up in Meadow Lake this weekend and we are deciding on paint colors for the house. I am posting a bunch of images I love but the two colors we are thinking is wedgewood Grey which is the picture of the unfinished room. The bedroom is another color we like except it looks much darker in real life. Our bedrooms are really really small in this house so I do not want to go too dark. What about Dark bathrooms....is that a no?

2010-04-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

OMG I just watched a video on child labour and I just don't think I can do it!!! HELP ME!!!!!!

Names I like

2010-04-24T03:09:00.000-07:00

Today we found out the sex of our baby and I am really excited. I am so happy I did not wait as now I feel like I can finally identify with what is going on inside me. Maybe that is why I am up at 4:00 am looking at nurseries and thinking of names. I am certain only 1 person reads my blog.....HI KASS.....thanks for always reading!!! So I am not worried about spoiling anything for anyone. Whenever I write something down on paper I always loose it so I am going to use my blog as I always do as a work in progress idea gather-er!!!
Names:
Cooper
Charlie
Fletcher
Jack
Easton
Benton
Berkley
Bennet

That is all we have so far. I really cannot find any amazing boy nurseries online. I know I want to keep it simple and not go all out with a theme room as that is simply tacky in my opinion. I am obsessed with Gray right now so I think it would make a nice neutral palette and I can change things up as I go.

bored

2010-04-11T11:51:00.000-07:00

Ok So I am officialy bored. My husband and I moved 3 hours north and I am actullay still in the city until the school year is done and I finsish my teaching job up in June. This weekend neither one of us could commute to see each other because there was a nasty snow storm and the highways were closed!!!
So here I sit in my mothers basement creeping endlessly on the internet looking for house inspirations. We are totally updating our new house as it badly needs it and these are images that I am loving right now!
Oh and the picture with the cute little girl in it is because we are expecting our first baby in the fall and I need to start getting my head around the idea!!!

More Cali Pics

2010-03-11T15:30:00.000-08:00

Just did a little more editing to my California pictures. If any potential brides are looking at these images and liking them.......keep in mind what good quality make-up and hair can do for a girl!!! This summer I am bringing in a professional make-up artist from Vancouver for a week. If you are interested in trying her out please contact me for more information. She did my make-up for my wedding and she rocks!!!!!
Oh and i always suggest getting your make-up done for engagements pictures as well. It gives you a chance to see how your face will translate in photos.

2010-02-11T20:29:00.000-08:00

I see I have not been keeping up with my blogging!!! I promise to be better when I return from Cali next week.

We are moving!!!!

2010-01-29T16:35:00.000-08:00

We have sold the house and we are moving!!! Not for a little while yet but we are moving and I am sooo excited to start house hunting. I really want to find a nice bungalow and renovate it to suit our needs and style. I cannot believe i will be quitting my teaching job that I have had for over 7 years now. It will be a little sad but exciting at the same time.
On another note my little Ruby got shots at the vet yesterday and boy oh boy she had a sore leg...the poor sweet girl!!!! She is much happier today. I hate seeing animals in pain it is truly heartbreaking:(
My husband is leaving to go to the Olympics on Monday for an entire month......crazy. I will miss him. My dad and i are going down to California next month so hopefully that should break up the long month a little!!! I am flying down for a photography workshop and the we are driving home together in his old hippie van. That is right over 3000 kilometers in an old van with my Dad!!!!! I am hoing to take some cool pics along the way!

Camera For SALE

2010-01-23T20:45:00.000-08:00

I thought I would do a quick post to see if anyone is interested in buying my 7 month old Nikon D300 Camera. I am not letting go of it until the middle of February however I am looking to see if there is any interest out there.

D300 body only- $1200 obo
1. Nikkor 85mm 1.8 - $450
2. Nikkor 18-105mm- $340
3.Nikkor 5omm1.4 - $300

I am a bully

2010-01-22T18:41:00.000-08:00

I bullied my way into this lovely ladies blog!!!!

Courtney is a really cool wedding planner from BC that I have actually never however I consider her a blog buddy. It is a crazy small world because my BFF is a make-up artist in Vancouver and I was telling her about Courtney and now they have hooked up and I am sooo happy. I am a bully b/c when Courtney featured Amanda on her blog I was upset( but just jokingly) that Amanda did not include my pics as an example of her work. Needless to say i was bugging both girls and now my face is on Courtney's blog. I should not be such a brat b/c Courtney has featured my wedding on her blog a few times...CLICK HERE to see!!!!
So I am a brat and a bully but it was all in good fun!!!!

Amanda the HI is for you!

Oh and that is a blackberry pick of my little Ruby in her new car seat. She has to have it because she thinks that it is cool to sit on my lap while I am driving and sometimes even thinks she should perch her front paws on the steering wheel to get a better view!!!!!

Decorating inspiration!

2010-01-21T18:16:00.000-08:00

Our house is for sale and we are moving and my new obsession is looking at style blogs for decorating inspiration. Those of you that have been to my current home you know I went super dark with the walls and my kitchen cabinets are maple. Well....in the new house I want a WHITE kitchen and light walls!!!!!
I love reading a lot of blogs from the US and I find that although I love the style, most of it is not available to duplicate here in Canada.....we just do not have access to cool vintage pieces.....we do but not really.
Anyways my husband I are looking forward to getting a house that is much Cheaper than the one we are in now and we want to make it our own!!!

Balance

2010-01-19T05:21:00.000-08:00

Well this morning I finally got my butt to the gym at 5:50 a.m. and i still had time for blog reading and a smoothie. I love the gym in the morning it is quite and there are no d-bag muscle freaks around. I need to get there waayyy more often at that hour.
Oh and our is now officially on the market...there is a for sale sign on the front lawn right now! I will not be moving until June but it is exciting to look at houses and get inspired for new decorating ideas. We are looking to downsize our house into a nice little bungalow.......for Cheap!!!!
Ok off to work.....by Amanda....nope NOTHING is NEW....NOTHING!!!!!!

Busy Week

2010-01-16T07:57:00.000-08:00

It has been a busy week. Last week I attended two funerals, both for people that were WAY to young to pass away. I went back to the mountains where I lived for three years and it was truly beautiful....but I still love my flat home here in the prairies.
This week I was busy getting ready for my students photography show at a gallery downtown. My husband has been cleaning our house like a mad man trying to get it ready to sell. This task is challenging for me as I do not like cleaning and I have a hard time keeping things clean....ahhh I feel like I want to move out for a week while it is being shown so I don't mess it up!
Things are changing around here more than you know!!!

2010-01-08T05:12:00.001-08:00

This weekend I am traveling to Canmore to attend a funeral. My cousin's fiance was tragically killed in an avalanche this week. They were due to get married in three months. It is sooo ironic because the day I found out was the exact day that I had re-looked at their wedding website and just RSVP'd that morning. This whole things makes me want to hold my significant other closer and make sure I show him often how much he means to me. Hahahah we laughed on our trip about our resolutions and I was telling him that it is my goal to be a better wife....clean, more, cook more, take care of him more....not always just about me!!! I am not allowed to post pictures of him online as he works for the federal government.....otherwise i would share is awesomeness with the world....but I guess i can just keep that to myself and enjoy!

2010

2010-01-03T06:54:00.000-08:00

Well we are finally home!!!! Yeahh it was such an awesome trip but we are both soooo happy to be home as it was a LONG 2 weeks of living in random hotels and eating out all the time!!! I am so happy we went as it was truly an adventure and we both laughed alot......essentially just at each other's Southern Accents that we kept repeating over and over. My hubby has a gift for any accent....he can hear just a bit and then just run with it......it is sooo funny!
So 2010 it is now.....wow!!! I am not going to create a long list of resolutions b/c I like to keep those things to myself but I thought I would share a few.
1. I am GIVING up coffee. Yes it is true...it tates bad, gives me a stomach ache, makes me hungry and fat...I hate coffee!!!! Hence the picture of the lovely tea bags. I will drink green tea but NO coffee!!!!
2. Pic of the tree's is just lovely and not mine but it serves as a reminder that I want to take more pictures that are meaningful to me and not just for others all the time.
3. Interior Space pictures- since we are moving I want to be sure to make our new house really pretty and inspiring. The house that we are in now is just a little too big for us. This will be my first move as a mountie's wife and i am actually looking forward to the change.
4. My white camera arrived yesterday yeah!!!! Sorry ADD as it has nothing to do with 2010 resolutions.
5. Scale picture- just need to believe it and hope it inspires me to stop being a fat ass!
6.2010 this pic should have been at the top.
7. TEA is good for you and coffee is bad for me!!!!
8. No more no more no more
Finally the big thing that i struggle with everyday is brown or blond???? my hubby likes brown....and I think I do to but it is such a hard thing to commit to after being blond for soooo long!!!! Please let me know what you think!!!
Happy New year Everyone!!!!

We are almost home!

2009-12-31T06:08:00.000-08:00

We are sitting in our 2nd last hotel room of our 2 week road trip waiting to go home. It has been a wonderful trip and a great experience.....but we are ready for home. We are both sick of eating out and staying in random motels and I miss my pooches soooooo much! I have to say that It has been great having No agenda, sleeping in, discovering new places and roaming around as free as can be for the past 2 weeks! Not sure when we will ever have this opportunity again!

The South

2009-12-29T14:48:00.000-08:00

My hubby and I have been on a 10 day road-trip throughout North and South Carolina. I thought I would share a couple of snapshots from our travels. The south is beautiful and very amusing....today we had a local ask us if we got sick of being in the dark 6 months of the year....LIKE really...are u serious lady!!! Oh and our southern accents are awesome especially my hubby's, he can pick up any accent and just totally do it no problem. We have put on over 1000 miles so far.....fun stuff!

Charleston

2009-12-27T07:38:00.000-08:00

We have been here in Charleston since the 24th and it is such an amazing place. Last night we went on a ghost tour through a local graveyard....it was great and not really scary. Yesterday we went out to Boone plantation which was beautiful...it had the southern look I have been searching for with the avenue of oak tree's. Today we are off to Folley Beach to check it out.

Just a couple of pics from the south

2009-12-25T06:42:00.000-08:00

It is early xmas morning and Kim is still sleeping so I thought I would try and edit a couple of pics from the trip. The first is a shot of me in front of Poogan's Porch an AMAZINg restaurant right outside our hotel. People such as Ronald Regan, Barbra Streisand, Martha Stewart and Jim Carey have eaten there....and now we have and it is excellent. It is named after a dog named Poogan....which makes the place that much better!!!
The last 2 shots are from our tour of the Bellamy mansion in Willmington NC.....sooo cool!
Merry Xmas Everyone!!!!

the south

2009-12-24T19:35:00.000-08:00

Today the hubs and I drove from Myrtle beach to Charleston and my oh my......this place is OUTSTANDING!!!! We went out for diner this Xmas eve to Poogan's Porch a historic restaurant here that has had many famous people eat there. We are off to church right now but i will write more later. Oh and we booked into the Mills hotel......sooooo beautiful, the pic above is a shot of our bed!!!

Xmas Vacation in NC so far

2009-12-21T14:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a busy day for us. We woke up and found the local starbucks and headed to the Chapel Hill area to check it all out. Chapel hill is a beautiful old college town with an amazing campus and really lovely all American houses surrounding it. Kim and I wandered around there and then headed off to find a mall where we shopped around until we were tired!
After that we went back to our hotel, showered up and then drove out to meet a photographer "friend" that I had never met before. Prior to coming down here I was on a photography site called I heart faces and it was there that I connected with Michelle. Michelle invited us out to her place and we actually went out caroling with her sweet family and friends. It sort of felt like and out of body experience to do something like that b/c that is just not us......but it was really great! We came in from caroling and sat down with Michelle and her husband and chatted the night away. Kim and I were worried that it would be wired or uncomfortable but it was nothing like that. tonight we are meeting them for diner!
During the day today we shopped around Raleigh. It is super busy right now because of the holidays but the weather is fabulous. Tomorrow I think we are going to Wilmington to check out the Outterbanks.
I better run and get ready for diner!

We are here!!!

2009-12-19T18:51:00.000-08:00

My hubby and I left early this morning and we are finally here! We are sitting in our lovely hotel in Chapel Hill and relaxing! We went out for a nice bite to eat and the food was excellent. When we arrived it was dark so we have yet to see much. It is funny because the locals think it is sooooo cold and it is really nice....like 5 degree's or something!
Off to bed, looking forward to a wonderful day tomorrow!
Dave if you are reading this......THANK YOU for the GPS....you saved us!!!!

Early Xmas

2009-12-13T19:34:00.000-08:00

This weekend was a busy one and I am soooo tired. My hubby's family came to town to celebrate and early Xmas. It is freezing here...like seriously way too cold....-45 with wind........YUCK!
We had a house full of people and pooches. I made a lasagna for the family that I never tried cause I hate lasagna however they told me it was really good!
We went out for Greek food last night and enjoyed the belly dancer as entertainment!
Today we have been hibernating and i think I need to sneak back onto the couch!!!
Bye!

Reading new pretty blogs and getting excited for our trip

2009-12-08T05:22:00.000-08:00

This morning I have been sitting here readingnew blogs and getting really excited. I changed the name of my blog and lost all of my old blog links for some crazy reason. While I was updating it again I added more links and I have really been enjoying my new reads!!!
Pretty much all of the blogs I read are American girls with wonderful style. I cannot wait to get down to North and South Carolina to do some serious shopping. If anyone has any cool shopping advice for me please let me know!
Oh and it is freezing here today.......-32......great! Too warm for my work to cancel buses though:( Off to work I go!

Today

2009-12-05T07:28:00.000-08:00

I have a photoshoot at 2:30 Check out more HERE....it is my side gig!
My fuji Instax mini is on it's way!!! I cannot wait! I want to use it for our trip to North Carolina...I want to make a fun little travel journal!
A few inspiring spaces that I love. I am sorry for not always sourcing my images but basically they are all from my blogroll to the right...you can see who I read. I signed up for google reader and I am following over 200 blogs right now....such a loser!!!!!!!
Oh and I changed the name of my blog address....I was an idiot when I first signed up and used my name......I am a slow learner.
We have company this weekend and they brought their two golden retrievers.......LOVE LOVE LOVE them!!!!
OK I better run!!!!

Random We Heart it shots of the day!!!

2009-12-03T05:29:00.000-08:00

The top pic pretty much sums up me + Blogs = I get addicted easily.
The amazing work spaces are from a photography blog and I am dreaming of having a space just a lovely one day....maybe when we move from here!

Picasso In North Carolina

2009-11-30T05:09:00.000-08:00

I might just pee my pants.....I just looked up Art museums in North Carolina and there is a Picasso Exhibit at DUKE University on while we are there!!!!!
OMG!!!!!!!
That's me kicking it with Dali and Picasso at The MOMA in August of 2008 on my honeymoon!!!!

2009-11-29T16:52:00.000-08:00

Images that Inspire me:
1. I love art that involves Text....LOVE it.....seriously!
2. Love this image of old cameras.
3.Love this cute little garland
4.Cool photo
5. I do not promote smoking but I love this pic. I love natural organic backdrops with cool people and colors!!!

I had a wonderful weekend catching up with friends. Friday night we went out for diner. Saturday I had a kick butt work-out with Katie and our trainer, went to a Stella & Dot jewelery party, visited with old friends etc. Went over to friends for appetizers and on Sunday Katie and Charlotte came over to play and eat Vietnamese food!
What a wonderful weekend!!!

Target

2009-11-27T21:10:00.000-08:00

The countdown is on...we are leaving for Raleigh in less than 4 weeks. My plan is to pack two outfits at most and head to the nearest Target and stock up!!!! I found this cute yellow purse online and I will hunt it down. If anyone out there can recommend any shopping in North or South Carolina I would really really appreciate it!!!!

2009-11-25T20:47:00.001-08:00

All inspiring images are from We Heart It.
I love...
1. Cool Photography
2. Cake especially cute cupcakes.....it is the only dessert cannot pass up. Usually I love my salt and could care less about sweet but when it comes to cupcakes....LOOK OUT!!!
3.Paris...I went for the first time this past summer and it was magical!
4. Love Text
5. Cool girly/modern interior

2009-11-22T18:18:00.000-08:00

See my blog friend made the wreath we wanted to as well CHECK IT OUT!!!! She even has a tutorial!!! I must finish the wreath...I must!!!!

Ooopps I posted the heart pencil's twice and I cannot remove it b/c I cannot read html sorry!!!!
It is Sunday night and I just woke up from a nap and I have energy!! Yeah!!!

The pooches

2009-11-21T20:03:00.000-08:00

Benji and Ruby sitting around. Benny was wearing his Halloween shirt and Ruby was wearing her PINK sweater b/c we had to shave her. Not gonna lie posting this sort of breaks my heart. I really have pulled back from making this BLOG personal as I felt I did that before. The one guy I blogged a lot about is no longer with me and my heart is still totally shattered about loosing him. I cannot even go back into my old posts because it kills me. I miss u soooo much my bear!!!!

THis is the wreath I tried to make!!!!

2009-11-21T18:53:00.000-08:00

Check it out...the wreath I tried to make but didn't. I love it.....I got the Image from Late one Night's blog!!!!

I want to make a wreath soooo bad

2009-11-21T06:34:00.000-08:00

Just a couple of pics for today that I love. I really really want to make a xmas wreath......I have one in pieces in my basement that was supposed to be really cool. In fact I saw one of my new blogger friends actually finished the wreath....I will find a pic and post it soon. Kass move home so we can finish our wreath's please and thank you!!!!
OK I have to go out to work to photography the volleyball tournament......yyyyeahhhh....NOT!!!! My philosophy with school sports is there is no "I" in TEAM therefore I NEVER played.....oh wait I did play rugby for 3 years...that was fun just hanging with my friends.....not sure I actually even liked playing!!!