8 Things: The Good of 2009

As many of you know, 2009 sucked LARGE for me! Broken elbow, kidney stones, car accident, unemployment, deaths, in law issues, being UN-invited to a funeral, more medical issues, blah, blah, blah......
I thought it would be nice to find 8 things that were POSITIVE.
Without question, I can come up with the obvious ones - my family, my friends, my faith, etc. I wanted to come up with specific items. Sadly, I had trouble!! Well....at first.
I was on the phone with my best gal Sandra and we made a partial list together, Sean helped with some as well :) Once I started my list, I realized I had many things :)

In no particular order......

1. Proud to have been a special part of Mark and Sandra's beautiful wedding day!!
2. Enjoying a many hour car ride with my wonderful friend Lee to her home in Cape Cod.
3. Having the opportunity to meet friends in REAL LIFE!! Amazing how you can be friends with someone online for quite awhile and then finally meeting them in person. Proof that friendship does not have to be next door.
4. Jonah learning to ride his bike without training wheels!
5. Seeing Jonah's face when he got to climb thru the roof of a "real-life" racecar!
6. Enjoying an amazing family weekend at Great Wolf Lodge.
7. Sean finally getting closure on the abusive childhood he experienced.
8. Seeing first hand what true friendship is about.

Do you participate in 8 Things? Would you like to? Head on over to Magpie Girls Blog > *8 Things.

A Child's Wisdom

I received this email from my friend Michelle and had to share it. It reminded me of something Jonah would say.

A Dog's Purpose? (from a 6-year-old).
Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker 's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ''I know why.''

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me.. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.He said,''People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?''

The Six-year-old continued, ''Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.''

Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

1. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
2. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
3. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy..
4. Take naps.
5. Stretch before rising.
6. Run, romp, and play daily.
7. Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
8. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
9. On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
10. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
11. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
12. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
13. Be loyal.
14. Never pretend to be something you're not.
15. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
16. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!

For Today....

(inspired by the Simple Woman's Daybook)

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW ... it is grey, but very still. Our weather has not been giving us the "Christmasey Feel" I look forward to each year.
I AM THINKING ... it has been a long time since I slept in until 9am! What a feeling!
WE ARE LEARNING … to be more organized. It is something Sean craves, and something I really need to focus on. We live in a small house but have so much crap that we haven't touched in quite some time. We will be purging a lot these coming weeks.
I AM THANKFUL FOR ... the gifts Santa brought Jonah that keep him quietly occupied in the morning so that I can grab some extra zzzzzs.
FROM THE KITCHEN ... it is actually CLEAN!!! We finally put away the special dishes we used at Christmas and we are not making any new messes since we're still eating leftovers!
I AM WEARING ... reindeer jammies that the elves snuck in on Christmas Eve :)
I AM GOING ... to make a plan and stick by it this year. I always hear of people who love to make lists and I figure I should give it a go.
I AM READING ... About Alice by Calvin Trillian. It was an easy read that Santa popped in my stocking. I am glad to be reading again after being traumatized by the Shack!
I AM CREATING ... a wellness journey for myself this year after a very unwell 2009.
I AM HOPING ... that Jonah gets better and does not end up with pneumonia like his Momma and Daddy. He has this insessant cough that just will not go away.
I AM HEARING ... the sound of Lego Batman for XBox. Jonah is quietly playing while I get some online time.
AROUND THE HOUSE ... there is still the spirit of Christmas, presents still under the tree, lots of laughter, lots of love.
ONE OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS ... having time to catch up on the blogs in my reader. It is amazing the inspiration you can find out there. Whether it be for creative inspiration, spiritual inspiration or just connecting inspiration. It is out there. And I am absorbing it as much as I can.
A FEW PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK ... Enjoy our time with Jonah before he heads back to school on the 4th, continue cleaning and organizing, get packed and ready to leave for Great Wolf Lodge on friday! What a great way to start 2010!!

A PICTURE TO SHARE ...

Jonah being his cute cheeky self :)

What do you use?

Christmas card displays - what do you use to hold your cards? Are they hung on a string? Are they in a basket? Do you have some kind of crafty do-hickey thing?

Every year, I pull out my silver Christmas Tree stand that has card holders.
Every year it topples over.
Every year I curse it.
Every year I say it is crap.
Every year the cards don't get the show time they deserve.
Every year I say I am going to get a new one.

Every year I say that.

So my crafty friends.....please help me embark on a new project - a Christmas card holder!!

Why am I starting this now?? Because I need the 11.5 months to get it finished! HAHA.

Do you have an awesome card holder that you can share with me? You can send me a link in the comments field to whereever it is pictured, or you can email me at ohara.c at rogers.com

Thanks for the inspirations!!

Merry Christmas!

Yes, I just posted a picture of myself with NO make-up wearing Reindeer Jammies :)

I want to wish you all - friends near and far - a very Merry Christmas! Thank you for being my blog pals, listening to me vent when I needed to, sharing my moments and letting me be a part of your day (on the days I blog, of course!)

Remember to Live, to Love and always Laugh.

Much love,

A Message for Santa

And the WINNER is........

......................Kari Ann!! Yay! Thanks to all who participated and helped spread the word about Kim!

KariAnn - Please send me an email to ohara.c at rogers dot com and I will fill you in on how to collect your fabulous prize!

For everyone else, if you haven't already checked Kim out, please take a look at her site. She has fantastic kits! You can find her here! >Express the Moment.

Winner of my Giveaway - Stay Tuned!

Jonah wanted to draw the name when he gets home. I will post the winner soon :)

For Today

For Today.....
(inspired by the Simple Woman's Daybook)

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW ... the sun is shining brightly and I just want to soak it all in!

I AM THINKING ... I have a lot to do this week! Need to get the last of the Christmas stuff done now instead of last minute.

WE ARE LEARNING … that sometimes life hands you a lot to deal with. Stand strong, plow through and you'll be better for it as you come out on the other side.

I AM THANKFUL FOR ... friends who truly understand and cast no judgement.

FROM THE KITCHEN ... my counter is covered with Christmas goodies from my cookie exchange. Thinking it is not a good thing for me to be alone with them. :o)

I AM WEARING ... my comfies!

I AM GOING ... with Sean and Jonah to Great Wolf Lodge this weekend! Very excited!!

I AM READING ... blogs right now. Starting a new book this week from Sidney Sheldon - my fave author. Hope it gets "The Shack" out of my head. That book really bothered me.

I AM CREATING ... a plan for 2010. Technically, it is what I created for 2009 but that gone blown all to hell. Giving it another try, different path.

I AM HOPING ... that the hospital can get their schtick together and confirm my surgery date. I am going crazy!!!

I AM HEARING ... the tv in the background. Breakfast Television, my favourite breakfast news show.

AROUND THE HOUSE ... the decorations are up and bringing me a lot of joy. I could sit and stare at them all day.

ONE OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS ... is snuggling up in a blanket and watching a movie.

A FEW PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK ... work, laundry, packing, last minute shopping. Lots to do!

A PICTURE TO SHARE ... nothing like a boy getting dirty, playing in the leaves :)

A Message from Santa!

http://santa.sympatico.ca/watch/fdacc1347b90e88958d89f37025733df

So cute! Jonah will love this.

Scrappy Giveaway!

In previous years, my focus for scrapbooking was always "to not be behind" on my layouts. It got to the point that I was not liking my layouts at all because I was concerned that I was still at last years Easter holiday and I just slapped it together. It was suggested by some of my scrappy friends to broaden my horizons, learn some new techniques and get back to enjoying my scrappy creations. So that is what I did - or attempted - to do this year. I enjoyed many classes, even though I wasn't always able to fully participate. Not only was I learning through classes, I was learning through many scrappy friend blogs. So much to learn out there and a wonderful way to get to know other people better.

I was lucky enough to win a fantastic giveaway from my sweet friend Kyla, free class from my talented friend Jayne at Feeling Scrappy as well as been the taker of Lee's generous scrap room clean outs!

Now it's my turn to give back!

My newest addiction - thanks to Monica, Lee and Kari Ann to name a few- are monthly scrap kits. I have found a fantastic kit club, and a new friend! If you haven't already, please head over and check out Express the Moment. They have wonderful kits! Not only that, Kim is the sweetest gal I have met in a long time. I have been following her blog, she speaks right from the heart and is fantastic to know. You can check out her blog HERE.

To show you how great Kim's kits are and to thank everyone for the wonderful support I have had this year, both creatively and personally, I am giving away an Express the Moment kit! You pick it, I pay for it! You can choose either a card kit or scrapbook kit!


Here is how you can win! Three chances!

1. Post this giveaway on your blog (or twitter, facebook) and send me the link in the comments section.



2. Leave me a comment telling me what you learned this year - not just creatively. Anything.



3. Leave me a comment telling me what you like about scrapbook kits.

I will draw the winner on Tuesday December 15th.

Good Luck!

OK, I do like the colour Pink

This is one of the very few times I enjoy the colour pink - the other reason is it makes me think of my wonderful friend Jayne :)

This video was a fantastic idea to bring awareness to breast cancer. Happy to share it here with you!
Enjoy!

A plug for a friend

Hey Everyone. My friend Lester has started a remote computer assistance company. It doesn't matter where you are located, as long as there is an internet connection, he can help you with all your computer needs - virus removal, full pc tune-up and software installations.
He has done wonders for our computers and is very trustworthy and inexpensive.

He has a 25% off coupon right now. Coupon code is FACEBOOK537.

Check him out!

http://www.lestermacdonald.com/

I'm still here!

My goodness, it has been awhile since I blogged. It will be the same excuse, life just got in the way. Actually, life has been given me a few bumps once again and I started to feel overwhelmed. To the point that I was not online, turning off my cell phone and just basically sticking my head under the blankets to hide. And you know what?? It felt good! LOL. But I am missing my online connections and I have lots to update on. So stay tuned, I will be getting back in the groove this week.

I am also going to be having a giveaway - scrapbook related of course! Be sure to come back to check it out!

I've missed you all, hope you are all well.

Honest Scrap Blog Award

I received this wonderful blog award from two of the greatest bloggers I know - Lee and Kyla.

THEY are honest in their blogging, in their scrapping, in their friendships, in everything they do. Straight from the heart. I am very lucky to know them both.

Getting this award kind of made me giggle. Often at times, my honesty can be overwhelming for some! HAHAHA. But that is who I am. :)



I'm supposed to pass this award along to 7 bloggers who write from their heart. I am SURE there will be duplicates, but just know that there is one more gal who thinks you are pretty spectacular :)

1. Monica

2. Steph

3. Kim

4. Jayne

5. Stacey FH

6. Vikki

7. Becky


Lee and Kyla too of course!



I am also to provide you with ten things that you may not know about me:



1. I swear WAAAY to much. Granted, you probably did know that.

2. I got in trouble at Graceland for sitting on a bar stool.

3. I am having a torrid affair with Jon Bon Jovi. I can't say he is a willing participant ;-)

4. I have an addiction to chocolate.

5. I cannot scrapbook or play games in my bare feet. If I feel them, I am distracted.

6. I was told I would never be able to get pregnant - by 3 different doctors. Jonah proved them wrong.

7. I have a fear of airplanes. They make me freak out. Ironically, I would love to skydive. No problem with jumping out of them, just can't get in them.

8. I cannot use a public washroom without gagging. Lee got to witness that on our drive to Cape Cod.

9. I have to sleep listening to my iPod play a thunder and rainstorm.

10. "Kife" is a family word that has been proudly passed to Jonah. It is a substitute word for....well.....a lot of other words! Mostly in the negative.



And there you go!!!

8 Things Thursday - Thankful

In honour of my American friends celebrating Thanksgiving, my 8 things are things I am thankful for! I know we don't need a holiday to realize it, but it is nice to post it every once in a while. Say it out loud!

I am thankful for my amazing family - blood and extended - for their unconditional love and support.

I am thankful for two-way friendships. The kind where you know you will be there for your friend in a heartbeat and know that they will do the exact same.

I am thankful for being able to use my arm better than was expected.

I am thankful for Rhonda's brownies.

I am thankful for being able to speak freely.

I am thankful for stretchy pants. After eating Rhonda's Brownies, I really need them.

I am thankful for the land of internet, where I can connect with friends - old and new!

I am thankful for my scrapbooking to give me a creative outlet, to learn and document everything that I am thankful for!

Thank YOU for being here with me.
Much love

For my American Friends

Wishing you and your families a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. We all have so much to be thankful for. Sending you much love, Char.

I gotta feeling....

whoooooohooooo.......this was so brilliant. Loved it!

11th Month, 11th Day, 11th Hour

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead.

Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

Nightly Ritual

This has become a nightly ritual for Jonah and Daddy:

First Jonah climbs up Daddys back. Daddy of course will wiggle to make it difficult.


Once he gets up on Daddy's back, he "belly surfs" and tries to not fall off.

After the bellysurf, Daddy makes a back slide and Jonah slides into bed!

No wonder Sean has a bad back!

But it is worth the smiles!

Hallowe'en Fun - times two!

Jonah is right into his Transformer Stage. Naturally, the costume choice this year would be all about this stage. His first pick was Optimus Prime, but we could not get one that would fit my very tall 6 year old. We settled with Megatron along with his blaster of course.

Jonah's class did a Hallowe'en party where they all got to dress up. They of course had some rules for safety. No masks, no props, no weapons. So much for dressing up as Megatron for school. To make it easy, we bought a cape and some face paint - voila! Count Jonahcula!
Of course he was thrilled to get to have two costumes this year. What 6 year old boy wouldn't?

What did your kids dress up as??

Hope you all enjoyed your Hallowe'en!

Knox Pumpkin Farm

One of my favourite things about Fall is heading out to the pumpkin patch. This year we went to a new farm - well, new to us - called Knox Family Farm. My friend Stacey (who is a frequent commenter here ;o) ) recommended it. I am so glad she did!
The weather was beautiful, the animals were out and there were still lots of pumpkins to choose from! Good ones! We enjoyed candy apples, horse ride, wagon ride to the patch, a tire swing - remember tire swings?? We will definately be back.

Here are some photos from our wonderful family day!

Altered Hand Soap

This is a bottle of Purel Antibacterial Soap that I altered during the Seasons Class at Feeling Scrappy. I had made it for Jonah's class, but I did not know that they are not allowed to use this soap because of the kids putting their hands in their mouth! Alcohol content is too high. Sigh.

So we are enjoying it at home!

Thanks Feeling Scrappy for a great class!

ED: My links do not appear to be showing. Please check out Feeling Scrappy at http://feelingscrappyclasses.blogspot.com

Happy Hallowe'en!

H1N1 Vaccine - yes or no?

There have been many, I mean MANY discussions in our house on whether or not we should take the H1N1 vaccine. I admit I have never been one to get the regular flu shot. I never saw the point. It doesn't cover all threads of the virus and the chances of you getting the flu are still pretty high.

Swine flu is a whole different level. The WHO is declaring it the next pandemic. That right there is enough to get people into panic mode. My main concern is that they have no idea what the long term, or even short term effects of taking this vaccine are. Sure, it may prevent the virus, but what if the effects of taking it are much more worse than getting the flu itself??

Add to this the tragic story of the 13 year old, healthy, athletic boy who died 2 days ago from H1N1. There are people who I know who were "on the fence" with me about getting the vaccine. The death of this boy has pushed many of them off the fence and they are on their way to stand in line for the vaccine. Even if they do not "qualify" for it right now.

My main concern, of course, is Jonah. Am I a bad mother for not vaccinating him? Will I be a bad mother if I DO get him vaccinated and he ends up with some kind of long term effect? I just do not trust how quickly this has been approved without the research to support what effects, if any, there are.

I am curious on how others feel about this. Will you get the H1N1 vaccine? Are you doubting it? Would love to hear your thoughts!

History of the Velociraptor - FUNNY

Ok, maybe I was over tired, maybe I watch Friends WAY too much, but last night the episode where Ross speaks to his class on the history of the Velociraptor was on......I was laughing so hard I was crying.
I am sharing the laugh with you!! Tell me you didn't laugh....I dare you ;)

Happiness

A wonderful email I received from my friend Jeanie:

A 92-year-old, petite, well-poised and proud man, who is fully dressed each morning by eight o'clock, with his hair fashionably combed and shaved perfectly, even though he is legally blind, moved to a nursing home today.
His wife of 70 years recently passed away, making the move necessary. After many hours of waiting patiently in the lobby of the nursing home, he smiled sweetly when told his room was ready.
As he maneuvered his walker to the elevator, I provided a visual description of his tiny room, including the eyelet sheets that had been hung on his window. I love it,' he stated with the enthusiasm of an eight-year-old having just been presented with a new puppy. Mr. Jones, you haven't seen the room; just wait.' 'That doesn't have anything to do with it,' he replied..
Happiness is something you decide on ahead of time. Whether I like my room or not doesn't depend on how the furniture is arranged .. it's how I arrange my mind. I already decided to love it. 'It's a decision I make every morning when I wake up. I have a choice; I can spend the day in bed recounting the difficulty I have with the parts of my body that no longer work, or get out of bed and be thankful for the ones that do.
Each day is a gift, and as long as my eyes open, I'll focus on the new day and all the happy memories I've stored away. Just for this time in my life. Old age is like a bank account. You withdraw from what you've put in.
So, my advice to you would be to deposit a lot of happiness in the bank account of memories!

Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

1. Free your heart from hatred.
2. Free your mind from worries.
3. Live simply.
4. Give more.
5. Expect less.

Have a fantastic day my friends!

TADA!!!!!

How do you like the facelift on my blog??

The very talented (and easy to work with!!) Diana of Custom Blog Designs
made my signature and header for me and did some fine tuning on my colours. I am thrilled with it! I was just not happy with how it was before. I needed it to be a little more personal. I have a few minor adjustments to make on the right panel but other than that, its done!

Now I just need to update more regularly! HAHA

Thanks again Diana!!

My Fantastic Family :)

Here are some family pics that were taken at Thanksgiving. I am very lucky to have a fantastic family! Clearly I had a headache that day as I am wearing my glasses (like I am supposed to). Very annoyed that I forgot to take them off.

Here I am with my best guys :) Wish I knew photoshop well enough to get rid of that hideous elbow scar.

My sister Dawn and I. We are four years apart in age. And yes, we get along!

My sister Dawn, her boys Ryan and James and her boyfriend Ian.

The annual family shot. This was take 20 I believe! By then Zeus, my sisters dog, gave up. I like to get a group shot every year.

Have a great day!

Char

Changes

There has been a lot going on in life. Leaves are changing, new challenges are amongst us, change, change, change.
I realized there is something else that needs to change.....MY BLOG! LOL. I am giving it a bit of a facelift, with help from Diana at Custom Blog Designs, in honour of the Season of Change!

So stay tuned!!!

**bit of a hint....something that is not here now, will be with the new design!**

Evening Sky in Ajax, Canada

Last night on my facebook page, I noted in my status for everyone to have a look outside their window - in particular, the folks in Durham region. The colours in the sky were beautiful. Yes Jayne, even the pink! ;o)
I told Jonah to look outside. He immediately said, "We have to call Tee-Tee!"
My sister Dawn is Tee-Tee to Jonah and Jonah knows that TeeTees favourite colour is purple.
Unfortunately, Tee-Tee didn't answer her phone!

Here are the pics I took of the sky from my backyard. Not the greatest photos with the hydro lines, etc. But you get the feel of the night.

For Today......

Inspired by the Simple Woman's Daybook

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW ... it is still dark as it is early. But it should brighten soon!

I AM THINKING ... I should put the thought of making and FOLLOWING a "to do" list into action. Thinking of it does me no good!

WE ARE LEARNING … that mice are fast little buggars! The leaping around the kitchen last night trying to catch him proves that! LOL.

I AM THANKFUL FOR ... so many things, which makes me even MORE thankful!

FROM THE KITCHEN ... a big ole mouse trap filled with peanut butter to catch this friggin buggar!!

I AM WEARING ... my favourite jammies. And the way I am feeling, I will probably be in them until at least noon!

I AM GOING ... to chaperone Jonah's school trip next week. Should be interesting since it will be in french!

I AM READING ... The Shack. I am a third of the way through. Not really feeling it so far. Might be because I now the premise of the book. I think I need a good hour to delve into it. Not just bits here and there.

I AM CREATING ... nothing. And it is bothering me that I have not been to my table in a week!

I AM HOPING ... that Jonah's good behaviour he has had this past week continues to shine.

I AM HEARING ... Breakfast Television. My must watch every morning! They make me laugh everyday!

AROUND THE HOUSE ... lots of chores to be done, especially laundry!!

ONE OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS ... that I am able to eat breakfast and dinner everyday with my Jonah. I am so thankful to be working at home that allows me that.

A FEW PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK ... our regular day to day stuff, some scrapping, dinner with friends, and hopefully knock off a lot of our big "to do's"

A PICTURE TO SHARE ...

This was taken Thanksgiving weekend at my aunt and uncles cottage in Bobcaygeon. It was friggin freezing, but Jonah didn't care and wanted to go check out the waves from the dock. No mitts and no hat either!
Have a fantastic week my friends!!

Friday Fill Ins - Oct 16th

Jonah and his mannequin pet! LOL

And...here we go! My answers in bold. Join me?

1. So are we going back to Great Wolf Lodge my Momma? Yes, Jonah, we are. Happy early Christmas!!

2. Self-inflicted personal challenges are what's up ahead. And I am determined to defeat them all!

3. I love to hear Jonah's sweet voice waking me up. It's the best way to start my day!

4. I need to create a routine or list of some sort.

5. I walk a lot less than I should. I need to fix that.

6. Love, trust, friendship, joy and faith is the true elixir of life!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to nursing this sickness to feel better for tomorrow, tomorrow my plans include a long awaited visit with my Michie Mee! and Sunday, I want to head to the farm for some fall fun and apple picking!

Happy Friday!!

That funny Jonah of ours....

After shopping for a Hallowe'en costume and enjoying a yummy family dinner at Kelsey's, we thought we would pop in to Old Navy to see if we could find some winter accessories for Jonah. We didn't find anything unfortunately.

As we were leaving, Jonah did his typical hide behind the rack to scare us routine. However, he wasn't behind the rack. Instead, we found him here..........

....yep, that is the mannequin display! LOL. So glad I had my cell phone camera to take this picture!

That Jonah sure makes us laugh.

For Today...From the Simple Woman's Daybook

Outside my window... I am enjoying watching the leaves turn into such vibrant and warm colours. I love Autumn.

I am thinking... that I need to get my ass in gear to lose this yucky weight and get myself in better shape. I really need to work on my strength.

I am thankful for... the most amazing family and friends a gal could ask for. Their support is what got me thru this year.

I am wearing... my comfies - they really should be called my sloppies. LOL. Today is chill out day, so comfy it is!!

I am remembering... when I was a young girl and how excited I would get when the Scholastic Catalogues would be sent home from school. I felt that excitement again when Jonah brought his home and I saw they had Amelia Bedelia in the catalogue!! I am tempted to order it for me! Remember Amelia, the funny maid?

I am reading... The Shack - I know what the major incident of the book is - not going to mention since my friend Lee is also reading and I don't want to ruin it! - but I am excited to see what I get out of this book and the lesson learned.

I am hoping... that 2010 will be a kinder year to my family and friends. What a rough ride 2009 has been.

On my mind... way to much. I need to learn to not get into my head so much. It gets overwhelming and doesn't do any good!

From the learning rooms... everyday Jonah comes home with a new french word. I am loving his excitement with it and refreshing my own limited knowledge of the language.

Noticing that... when you go thru a tough time personally the line "we are here for you" from people in your life is either true to the heart, with no limits, filled with undenying love and selflessness or it is a load of crap that they say to make themselves feel better.

Pondering these words... I forgive....why are they so hard to say for many? Including me.

From the kitchen... no turkey today - that was taken care of this weekend! It will be a light on the tummy day.

Around the house... really needing to get more organized and more tidy. And I am determined to catch that lil bugger of a mouse.

One of my favorite things ~ when Jonah says "Well hello my sweet Momma!" That will NEVER get old with me.

Picture...love this photo of Jonah in a tree. He was so proud to climb it.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving to all my fellow Canadians!

I am thankful for so much - my family, my friends, my job, my life!

I am truly Blessed.

Have a wonderful holiday!

Friday Fill Ins - Oct 9th

And...here we go!

1. Sweet dreams by the Eurythmics is one of my fave songs!

2. Being un-emotional is hard for some people, especially for me. I take things to heart A LOT!

3. Silliness at school is something we are trying to teach Jonah is not acceptable.

4. Once again, Sean is dressing up to scare the crap out of the neighbourhood kids this Halloween.

5. Outstanding or not, I do not think baseball, hockey or football players deserve multi-million dollar salaries! Doctors who save lives do!

6. Chocolate, my forever craving, is what I want right now!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to movie night with my boys, tomorrow my plans include a pedi with Sandra, then Thanksgiving dinner with the family and Sunday, I want to go to church and spend more time with family!

Happy Friday!!

Win a Feeling Scrappy Class!

I have mentioned MANY times on my blog of my favourite site to take online scrapbooking classes - Feeling Scrappy . Well, now is your chance to get in on the fun....for FREE!!

Feeling Scrappy is featured on The Ella Publishing blog today! Another fantastic blog that you should really check out!

They are giving away TWO spots in the Sketchapalooza 5 Class that starts October 26th. I have taken the other Sketchapalooza classes and I lalalaLOVED them!

All you need to do is leave a comment on the Ella Publishing blog to be entered to win.
You have until Friday, October 9th ~ Good Luck!

Blog Award!

My dear friend Jayne - who I really wish lived closer! - gave me this award on her blog so I thought I would play along :)

This award comes with some rules and then some fun!

Rules:
1. You Can Only Use One Word!
2. Pass this along to 6 of your favorite bloggers!
3. Alert them that you have given them this award!
4. Have Fun!

The Fun Part:
1. Where is your cell phone? lap

2. Your hair? red
3. Your mother? Sharon
4. Your father? Bud
5. Your favorite food? Steak
6. Your dream last night? bad
7. Your favorite drink? malibu
8. Your dream/goal? positive
9. What room are you in? living
10. Your hobby? Scrapbooking
11. Your fear? death
12. Favorite place to eat? Keg
13. Where were you last night? Home
14. Something that you aren’t? unemotional
15. Muffins? apple
16. Wish list item? scrapstuffs
17. Where did you grow up? Ontario
18. Last thing you did? email
19. What are you wearing? jeans
20. Your TV? On
21. Your pets? Gone
22. Friends? amazing!
23. Your life? blessed
24. Your mood? confused
25. Missing someone? Jayne!
26. Vehicle? Kia
27. Something you’re not wearing? pink
28. Your favorite store? Scrapbook
29. Your favorite color? non-pink
30. When was the last time you laughed? today
31. Last time you cried? today
32. Your best friend? undeniable
33. One place that I go to over and over? Walmart
34. One person who emails me regularly? mom

I will give this award to:

1. Vikki
2. Stacey FH
3. Kyla
4. Lee
5. Becky
6. Steph

Enjoy your day!!

T.G.I.F - Oct 2

I am TRUSTING that we are making the proper choices in the path we are leading Jonah on. And that we will go with what is in our hearts and not what others think is best.

I am GRATEFUL for the friends in our lives. We have had many bumps this year and their warmth, love, guidance, support and compassion is overwhelming. It is interesting to learn who is really a significant part of your life and those who just pretend to be.

I am INSPIRED by my husband. He has been faced with some tough decisions the past couple of weeks and he has shown me that forgiveness is possible and how deep his heart really is. Even to those who may not have returned the feelings to him. He is my inspiration.

It's FRIDAY and my focus is my husband. His mother passed away this week and although their relationship was tumultuous, it is still very difficult for him. Even if she was unable to return the feelings, he loved her. She was his mom. And for that, I will pay her respects while Sean says his last goodbye.

For Today

For Today....
(inspired by the Simple Woman's Daybook)

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW ... I am in awe of how quickly the leaves are changing colour. And I LOVE it!

I AM THINKING ... that in the next week we are going to be dealing with some unfair judgements. It is expected so we are not going to let it bother us.

WE ARE LEARNING … french all over again. Thanks to us enrolling Jonah in french immersion. I am liking it!!

I AM THANKFUL FOR ... my very good friends who are supportive and non-judgemental.

FROM THE KITCHEN ... I am making pulled pork for dinner. YUM!!

I AM WEARING ... comfys :)

I AM GOING ... to have a busy week, but will do my best to not get overwhelmed.

I AM READING ... The Shack. I have just started so I don't have any feedback yet. I just finished Kite Runner and it was FANTASTIC!

I AM CREATING ... a little less than I would like to be right now. But I have a lot of to do's in the craft list so hopefully I will be drilling them out soon!

I AM HOPING ... that people back off pressuring Sean to make the right decision. He will make the one that is right for him, not everyone else.

I AM HEARING ... the leaves rustle. Love this season!

AROUND THE HOUSE ... I am learning to PURGE! Colleen will be so proud!

ONE OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS ... Jonah waking me up in the morning to say Good Mornin My Momma!

A FEW PLANS FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK ... work, visits, appointments, and a scrapbook class!

A Thank You from Alison's Mom Elaine

I wanted to list this as a post in case my readers don't see or read my blog comments. It is a thank you from Alison's mom Elaine:

Hi Char...I just read this blog and saw how much money you raised. OMG Thank you everyone for caring so much. The money is important at this time but please know that the most important is the way all of you have reached out for someone you may not even know but appreciate her suffering. The money will be gone but the remembrance of such thoughtful individuals will live on in our hearts forever..... Thank you!
Take Care each and every one.
Love Alison's Mom Elaine.

I would also like to thank everyone again for all their support.
Much Love
Char

Draw Winner!

When I first thought about doing the draw to raise some cash for my friend Alison, I was only expecting a few of my scrapbook friends to be participate - hence the Blacks Photo Card. But then I posted here on my blog and on my facebook profile. The response was touching.

I received a lovely email from a fellow in Ireland, who I do not know and who does not know me, Alison or Kevin. He is a regular reader of my blog and wanted to help.

I received another email from a lady in the UK who came across my blog from another blogger. She sent a donation just because - didn't want the ticket.

I went to a scrapbook retreat with a group of wonderful ladies. They just forked out money for the retreat, but did not hesitate to help me out.

I ordered some scrapbook supplies thru my CM consultant. Instead of asking for payment, she told me to put the money in the pot.

Even my Jonah took $10 out of his piggy bank to help "the pretty girl at that place with the big yard!"

With all the donations, together we raised $178.45!! I am thrilled!! I am going to top up the deposit to make it an even $200.

Thank you to everyone who helped me help a friend.

And now for the winner of the draw!! Thanks to Random.Org, the winner is........

Lorna Mckenzie!!

I will contact you about your prize.

Thanks again everyone!!
much love
char

Still Time!

Hi Everyone,

Thank you so much to everyone who has responded to my fundraiser for my dear friend Alison Mounce.

There is still time to get in on the draw! I am drawing today at 6pm est.
If you are interested, please send me an email.
ohara.c@rogers.com

THANK YOU!!

Win a $50 Blacks Photo Card for $5 For a Good cause!

As some of you know, our dear friend Alison lost her husband Kevin in a tragic accident that occurred on August 30th. Alison and Kevin were married barely 4 months. Kevin was only 30 years old, much too young.


A trust fund has been set up for Alison. Friends and family have been coming up with ways to raise money for her. I am joining that cause!

I have purchased a $50 Gift card for Blacks Photography that I will do a draw for. I am selling tickets for $5 each - all money goes to the trust account!

I will be making the draw this friday.


If you are interested in purchasing a ticket, or making a general donation to the trust, please paypal me at ohara.c@rogers.com and indicate in the comments field "Alison Mounce Fund"


Please help me help my friend.

Thank you so much for reading this.


Much Love

Char

Friday Fill Ins - August 28th

Another round of Friday Fill-ins. My answers are in bold!

He was a Democratic Lion. RIP Mr. Kennedy.

Lazy summer days, fresh fruit and outdoor play is what I look forward to most this time of year.

My best friend will forever be a part of my life.

As I hope you would be with me, I promise to be honest with you.

Appearances can be misleading.

The last person I gave a hug to was my Jonah.

And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to seeing the band with my sister, Ian and mom and Dad, tomorrow my plans include Christian's 1st birthday party! and Sunday, I want to rejuvenate and enjoy some family time!

I hope you all have a wonderful Friday!

Oh the things he will say......

One thing I know other momma's have experienced is when your child says something embarrassing at the most inconvenient time. I predict a lot more in my future.

Yesterday I was at my Gyne Specialist (that is another post) and I took Jonah with me as I knew the appointment outcome would be sad. He could be my distraction. It was only for a talk so I was fine with him being in the room with me. I knew there would be no trou-dropping.
Now Jonah has been in many doctors offices that have had graphic posters. He asks what they are and I tell him. I figure it is best to be honest as to not confuse them. On the wall was a poster of a woman's reproductive make-up. It was very detailed. Jonah was staring at it and asked what it was. I told him that was what my inside looked like. Showed him where he lived in my uterus, how he was fed, etc. The poster also showed the baby coming out. Jonah always knew that he grew in my belly, but he never asked how he got out.

Well, today was the day......

I told him that I had some tummy cramps and that I knew he was ready to come out. Then I went to the hospital and had to push him thru the tunnel - which I showed him on the poster.
Now on the poster, as I said, it was pretty graphic. Jonah sees a "hole" and was visably upset. Mouth open and all. He stammers out, "You mean I came out of your Butthole?? Like a big piece of pooh???"
I didn't want to laugh because I wanted him to take this seriously. I should note that I deserve some kind of award for not laughing hysterically!
I assured him I did not pooh him out. I waited for his next reaction.
"No way I came out of the Gina, right Mommy?"
"Well, yes, you did."
"I CAME OUT OF YOUR GINA??" I am sure the ladies in the waiting room heard this.
"Yes you did. Keep your voice down"

At this point the doctor came in and Jonah jumps up and says "Did you know that I came out of my Mommys gina?"
She laughed and said, "I do know that. That is my job."
Jonah looked shocked. "You take babies out of ginas??"
It seemed so unreal to him. Thru the whole appointment and walk to the car, Jonah kept saying "I can't believe I came out of your gina."
He let it go for the ride home....or so I thought. I pull into the driveway and we get out of the car. A neighbour walking by says hello and Jonah tells HIM - "Did you know I came out of my mom's gina?"

Oh, the embarrassment!

I took him inside and told him that if he has any questions, to ask me. I also explained to him that we do not discuss this with anyone else. All I could think of was what he was going to talk about the first day of school!!

Oh the things he will say..........

My Best Shot Monday 8/24

Many of my friends are participating in the Best Shot Monday Challenge. I am often saying that I would like to better my photography skills, whether it be by taking a course or reading photo blogs, etc. When I have asked others where they learned to take great photos, their responses were usually "Keep taking pictures"- so that is what I am going to do! This challenge is perfect!

When I was a kid, I loved seeing these "Hot Dog Bushes". To be honest with you, the real name has escaped my brain. Hmmm.....will have to come back to that......I can't explain why I liked them, they just made me smile.

There is a beautiful conservation area near our house and Hot Dog Bushes are lined up along the pier. Jonah said to me "Those look like those thingies I had at that place that had the, you know, rides and stuff?" - Translation - Corn Dogs at the C.N.E.

They looked beautiful blowing in the summer breeze and it immediately brought a smile to my face. I had to capture them. So glad I did :o)

Bullrushes?? hmmmm......help!