Quirky: An Oddity of Behaviour

Last Post

2010-01-15T08:18:00.000-05:00

Well it's officially my last post for this blog.....boo-hoo!

It's been an awesome experience and I hope it only get's better with the new blog.

It's still me, just improved...or I hope improved....lol.

So heres my new website...click HERE

And for the new blog click HERE

Please add to your favourites so you won't forget me :)

Today's Quote

"Twenty years from now you will be more upset by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover"

~Mark Twain

Multi Tasking

2010-01-13T13:16:00.000-05:00

This is what happens when you're taking clothes out of the dryer and your baby cries.

You forget about the dryer and when you notice the door of the dryer left wide open and you go back to finish folding laundry....

You see this :)

And here's a picture of Jesse when he was doing tummy time yesterday.

He's doing much better and not crying as soon as I put him down.

There for a while he "hated" tummy time.

Too Young

2010-01-11T10:37:00.000-05:00

It was June, 1992

I had just left the baseball diamond/playground that's next to the school. It was my first "date" with Kristen. I was 12 he was moving away the next day and it would be last time I would see him for several years. We sat in a swing together, he put his arm around me which I reprimanded him for. I mean that was moving WAY too fast for my liking....lol. Hey I was 12!!

Anyway...I had just left to walk "down around the point" to find my brother. I was allowed to be out later as long as I came home with him at his curfew.

I found him hanging out with his classmates, one being Myrna.

Myrna had a boyfriend, his name was Clayton.

That was the first time I met him. And what did he do? He gave me a compliment.

Yep, that's what he did, Clayton was a charmer :)

From that moment I was absolutely smitten. I went on then to spend most of Grade 7 with a huge crush on him (Kristen who? I kid, I kid) Which I'm pretty sure him and the whole school knew about. It was a small town.

A few years later I would go on a couple of dates with him but nothing serious. But that's what he did, he was a charmer. And I was smitten.

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This past Friday night I was told of the news of his passing.

Another young life taken tragically and quickly due to the Newfoundland winter roads.

I still haven't cried over the news.

I'm not sure if I'm in shock, denial or what it is but I do know that when I'm up at 3am for Jesse's feedings, it's all I think about.

I think about his poor mother who at one time changed her son's diapers like I'm changing Jesse's now. And all I think is no mother should ever lose a child. I never understood this statement as vividly as I do now.

I go back to bed after Jesse has dozed back off to dreamland and I can't sleep.

I think about the days of highschool when I knew Clayton. I haven't seen him for years, the last time being a softball game in Brampton.

And though a stranger to me now I was one of many girls that he charmed the socks off and will never forget him.

My condolences go out to his family...this cliche statement but a statement that is also true.

They are in my thoughts and in my prayers.

To his Mom....I can't even imagine the pain you may be feeling. But may God give you some peace in your heart that you find strength to go on.

Know that you raised a good man that was loved by many and he has you to thank for that.

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Check out Myrna's post about Clayton HERE

RIP Clayton :(

50mm

2010-01-10T11:33:00.000-05:00

Yes Tara, to answer your question. I did get a new lens for Christmas. The 50mm fixed 1.8 to be exact.

And to answer your question Myrna yes, the shots of us out to dinner and Kristen with his turkey were all taken on the new lens.

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Now if you're not a photographer on an SLR camera then the above statement means absolutely nothing to you. But if you do photograph with an SLR then you already know a 50mm lens is a MUST HAVE and honestly I've been dumb to not have owned it sooner. It is honestly the permanent lens on my camera 'since' Christmas.

The reason I went so long without it is because I was holding out to buy the 1.4 which is considerably more expensive....however when Kristen & I did some research before Christmas we found out that unless you're photographing EXTREME low light conditions which I rarely do then you are not getting the value for your money.

Next thing I knew...Kristen had one under the Christmas tree for me. I love my hubby :)

For you point & shoot photographers, lets see if I can actually "show" you the difference

On the left is Uncle Blaine, his background is actually farther away than the background on the right with Papa.

Yet with the 50mm lens you get a greater depth of field (blurrier backgrounds) which is exactly what you want.

You don't want people focusing on my Ikea lamp behind Papa but on his smile while holding baby Jesse.

Yet with Uncle Blaine the photo is just as sweet yet you're sizing up my Christmas village on the top of my cupboards as well :)

Get it!?!

I'm so excited about the weddings this summer...can you just imagine how awesome the close up's of my brides are going to be? Yeah....I know!!!

Speaking of close ups...here's a couple Kristen & I took of Jesse & Boone the last couple of days.

If you look closely this photo isn't blurry as Kristen suggested it was....I used a single focal point.

That's another lesson for another day, but in short, his left eye, to the right of the photo is actually where my focus was, thus leaving his right eye looking somewhat blurred.

He LOVES his elephant (Kristen took this shot....told you he's a better photographer than me)

And here's Boone :) as handsome as ever

Oh getting back to my "normal" blogging was also a resolution for 2010....how am I doing so far?

Christmas & 2009 Year In Review

2010-01-08T12:35:00.002-05:00

I know I'm very late with this post but it wouldn't be right if I didn't do my year in review post.

This past year, 2009, has been absolutely amazing!!!

I've themed it the year of Jesse for obvious reasons. I had went into 2009 hoping that Kristen & I would soon be blessed with starting our family and in January it happened.

I went from this

To this....

And to now where we celebrated a wonderful Christmas with 3 month old Jesse

Lobsters on Christmas eve

Cookies & Milk for Santa and don't forget carrots for the reindeer

Jesse didn't get a thing! LOL :)

Christmas Day

Mommy & Jesse with Cousins Brittany and Baby Alexis she is 13 days older than Jesse

Then New Years was quiet....started out with dinner with friends

And ended with a quiet evening at home with my parents playing card games :)
On New Years Day Kristen deep fried the turkey

My Mom & I did the fixin's!! It was delicious!

This past Christmas and really all of 2009 was truly about Family.
I went into last year making my new years resolution to be a better person and yet things never work out how you think they will.
It was YOU who showed me how amazing YOU are.
The generosity and love shown to us the minute we shared that we were expecting was just overwhelming. We cannot thank you enough and I'm so humbled by the experience.
It wasn't me making me a better person it was you...from the bottom of my heart....THANK YOU!
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This year I want to pay it forward, this year my new years resolution is to GIVE.
Be generous, give more of my time, go pro with my photography but include "free" items with every package, show love the way it was shown to Kristen, Jesse & I in 2009.
This year I turn 30...I know...its sad leaving my 20's but I'm looking forward to a new decade, a new genre of adulthood.
And with that its with VERY mixed emotions that I announce the end of this blog. Quirky Christa....
I started my blog of ramblings in 2005 I can't believe I'm into my 5th year as a blogger, even before it became mainstream and the "thing" to do but with starting my own business and becoming a mother maintaining two blogs have become too much.
So in the coming weeks I'll be launching my new blog...no worries, I'll be posting the link here. Along with launching my photography website.
It'll still be the usual me, with giveaways, contests, recipes and ramblings. But my photography will also be incorporated. I hope you don't mind :) oh and a new look too!
I'm going to miss this blog but it's time to move on. I'll be doing a few more posts before moving over to the new blog and I cannot thank you enough for your loyalty, patience and continually "checking back" to see if I've done a post or not as I've adjusted to motherhood.
I love being a mom but it's been quite the challenge to say the least :)
Again thank you....without you there would be no quirky christa...well I'd still be quirky just nobody to share my ramblings with.....lol.

Okay now I'll end this post since it's quite long. Would love your feedback as always as I continue on my journey of life. I'm so happy with where I am right now and look forward to whatever the future may hold. Please tag along, I love the company!
Much love, Quirky Christa~

Merry Christmas

2009-12-23T21:26:00.002-05:00

From my family to yours Merry Christmas

Christening Day

2009-12-22T10:04:00.000-05:00

Jesse was dedicated this past Sunday at Peel Pentecostal Tabernacle in Brampton.

He did really well only cried a little bit.

Here we are at the front of the church with 3 other families. There were 4 dedications that day. And all the grandparents were invited to come stand with the families.

Kristen & I listening to the Pastor

Jesse laughing at the congregation.....lol

Here Pastor Flight is giving him his name.

Then Pastor Russell took him for prayer in which Jesse did really good until he started to cry

Me saying "shhhh" trying to settle the poor little guy down

Family pictures after church

This is my parents (Jesse's grandparents) and my brother Blaine (Jesse's Uncle)

A family photo...we had to keep the blanket under him because just before the service was over Jesse poo'd and it all came through his pants. Yeah I know!

Thankfully it was after his Christening and not before!

Very proud Papa with his first grandchild.

It was a great day....Jesse also turned 3 months old on Sunday.

I can't believe how big he's getting and how fast time has gone already :(

Is everyone all ready for Christmas? I officially finished shopping last night and today I have to wrap and bake more cookies.

Everything I did at the girls cookie bake will probably be gone by today. Speaking of, can someone send some pictures to me of the cookie bake?

Vancouver 2010

2009-12-19T08:59:00.000-05:00

I was watching CP24 this morning and realized that the Olypmic Torch was minutes away from a street not far from our house. So I bundled poor little Jesse up and took him out in the freezing cold so we could experience a part of history

The passing of the flame

Everyone cheered at this moment

A nice man took a picture of Jesse & I to document the occassion :)

Yes its cold and I only had him out in it about 10 minutes so don't worry all you people who are going to give me heck for taking Jesse out in the cold :)

I miss you.....

2009-12-15T13:52:00.000-05:00

I miss blogging...and I have so much going on with Christmas around the corner that I don't have time to write how I really would like :(

But I promise to get in a few post over the Christmas holidays and a BIG announcement in January. Your hint is, it affect this blog....yep.

Love you and miss you all but please don't abandon me. I'll be getting back on track soon.

And the main reason I'm off track...my awesome little man Jesse

Let it snow...Let it snow....

2009-12-01T07:51:00.000-05:00

Look what I woke up to this morning....exciting isn't it???

Yay!! NOW it feels like Christmas :)

Up

2009-11-30T13:35:00.000-05:00

Kristen & I still try to watch movies on Sunday nights as were our tradition before little Jesse came into the picture.

Last night we watched the Disney animated movie "Up" and I absolutely LOVED it!

I love animated films and lately they've been okay but not great. This one I thoroughly enjoyed. I think because the soft side of me just LOVED the storyline. I would honestly say this movie could be more for adults than children.

Older children would definitely appreciate the story more so than toddlers I would think...but who am I to say for sure?!?!

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Things are going well with Jesse, he's still on a rough routine which I'm liking since I like to be so organized all the time and Jesse not being on a schedule is quite an adjustment for me.

He's growing like crazy, had his first needles last week which went good.

And only a few more weeks and its Christmas!

I haven't had time to get any decorations out yet but hoping to start doing a little bit here and there this week to have everything completed by this weekend.

I've also been pumping since nursing only has really made me feel confined to home at times. And now with being the owner of a breast pump I'm actually going to attempt going to Kristen's Christmas party this Friday night for a few hours.

My Aunt is going to babysit Jesse, and I'm already nervous. I'm sure everything will be fine but it's nerve wracking for sure.

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Well that's it for now....oh and to finish up a picture of our little man :)

Jesse's First Leaf's Game

2009-11-23T11:43:00.000-05:00

Saturday night we attempted bringing Jesse to his first Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game.

He did awesome!

We missed the first period due to NO parking....ugh!

But he made it through the 2nd period and by the 3rd period he was asleep and we decided to take our time and start to head out to beat the traffic, etc.

Here's a few photos....ugh what's with bloggers new way of uploading these dang photos...grrrr

Anyway....

Here's Jesse at the game...yes we were WAAAYYY up in the stands

Mommy & Jesse

Go Leafs Go!!

After the game we tried to take a group photo. A nice couple with a 6 month old noticed us and offered to take the photo.

Sorry its blurred but at least we have one :) That red streak going up into the air behind us is the CN tower....I know you can't see it. But it's there!

And I would just like to say I REALLY miss blogging. But Jesse is doing better and starting to get on a "rough" schedule so hopefully I can start writing more.

I miss all of you :(

Ladies Love Jesse

2009-11-16T10:27:00.000-05:00

We had more visitors this past weekend and the ladies really seem to love Jesse....go figure :)

Isn't Shannon Beautiful??

Short post today because I need to attempt to run some errands.

New Post

2009-11-10T08:34:00.002-05:00

New post up on the PHOTO BLOG check it out!

2009-11-09T13:39:00.000-05:00

I said to a friend this weekend that I honestly feel like I missed fall.

I guess because I've been home so much that I didn't see the trees with their beautiful fall colours.

Now that I'm getting out more the leaves have already fallen to the ground and I missed it :(

However that being said, I can't wait for Christmas this year :)

I'm already in the mood to listen to Christmas music and decorate the tree.

But I'll refrain, I normally take all my decorations out around Dec 1st, this year I have a feeling it'll be closer to Nov 25th (1 month before Christmas)

I'm soooo excited.

Probably because its our first Christmas with Jesse.

I know he can't open presents or "really" understand what will be going on but it doesn't matter. It'll be our first Christmas with him and that's awesome.

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Anyway....my friend Myrna & her daughter Sarah came to visit on Saturday for a few hours.

It was great seeing them since they live so far away.

I have one photo to share.

When Sarah arrived she immediately wanted to hold Jesse.

So Mommy set her up on the couch to safely hold him.

While she looks down at him, this 2 & 1/2 year old little girl who I think is going on 16 looks at baby Jesse and says

"You're sooo cute!"

With the perfect tone of voice and expression, I totally cracked up laughing.

Sarah I think it's you that is "so cute!"

It's a contest!

2009-11-04T13:03:00.000-05:00

It's a giveaway check out Myrna's blog HERE to enter!

Halloween '09

2009-11-02T10:40:00.001-05:00

A few pictures from Jesse's first Halloween.

Here he is next to his first Jack-o-lantern

I carved this pumpkin myself, and was sooooo disappointed that I missed the girls annual pumpkin carve. The first time since we started the tradition years ago :(

But its how things go once there's a little one to worry about.

Boone dressed up as a bumble bee....he, he

One of Jesse smiling at his Uncle Blaine.

Oh and thanks to Marianne & Sydney who gave Jesse the awesome skeleton shirt :)

And of course one of Jesse with Mommy.

I was going to dress up this year but couldn't find some of my stuff. So I just went with wearing black and pumpkin earrings instead.

We only had 13 kids...which still blows my mind when the next street over has around 90 kids.

Oh well that's why we give out "good" treats cause we don't have to buy as many....lol.

How was your Halloween? Did you eat lots of candy?

Today's Quote

Change is as inevitable as rain in the spring.

Some of us just put on our raincoats and splash forward.

~Amy Bloom

Tummy Time

2009-10-30T09:55:00.000-04:00

It's been a rough week for lack of sleep and Jesse cluster feeding with another growth spurt.

But I did manage to do tummy time with him one day....here are a few pics

And who could forget Boone in on the action too

Happy Friday & Happy Halloween

Fun Video

2009-10-26T21:31:00.002-04:00

Another video...but there are just so many good ones out there these days :)

A Day in the Life of Boone

2009-10-25T12:18:00.000-04:00

Now that I'm home with Boone on a daily basis, he has kindly allowed me to document him and take photos to share with you.

So sit back with your favourite dirnk, be it be tea, coffee, juice, milk, water or wine and enjoy this EXCLUSIVE glimpse into the life of Boone!

Enjoy.....

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Take a big poop and then get the "zoomies" and go crazy in the backyard with this big board that really is too big to be a stick to "go fetch"

Then go missing and be caught in the porch licking Kristen's hunting clothes cause it still smells/tastes like the Big Buck he got the other day.

Just "act cool" when Miss Queen B Maggie the Cat comes strolling by and tries to intimdate me

Think she bought it?

Take a nap

Then Dad came home and gave me a NEW SHEEP!

But here's why...check out this before and after shot

Yeah it was that bad...that's after many many washes and sewing jobs to try and "fix it"

And then to finish the day I take a moment to just look pretty and say "cheese"

Today's Quote

"A dog is the only thing on this earth that loves you more than he loves himself"

~Josh Billings (Henry Wheeler Shaw)

Buck Down....

2009-10-22T08:06:00.000-04:00

Every year Kristen is like a kid at Christmas when its the night before opening day.

Normally he doesn't care to shoot a deer the first day since he loves the outdoors so much that it's not a big deal. He'd rather enjoy the experience, be outside and just take the day as it unfolds.

However, this year his goal was to get a deer as quickly as possible so he could have more time home with baby Jesse.

And up until Tuesday evening he just wasn't having any luck. It seemed all the odds were stacked against him.

On Tuesday he headed back out immediately after work, I said you better get one tonight. He's like I will, I have a good feeling.

And he wasn't wrong....here's this years Buck. Quite big for a deer eh?

I'm so proud of him. Not only did he get his deer "early" season but it's a trophy buck that he'll be having the head/antlers mounted. Not really my thing....and we'll probably have quite the heated debate as to where in our house it will be displayed...but that's no time soon so we'll leave that discussion for another day...LOL :)

Congrats Kristen...you realize this means you have to cook me a good meal from this now.

Today's Quote

"There is a passion for hunting something deeply implanted in the human breast"

~Charles Dickens

Happy 1 Month Birthday

2009-10-20T15:04:00.000-04:00

Jesse is 1 month old today, how time has flown already....here's a photo I took this morning before he went down for his nap.

Just soooo happy that he cooperated for the mini photo shoot :)

And a update, I am surviving without Mom in law here, yesterday was rougher in the afternoon but today Jesse has cooperated perfectly. Fingers crossed that he's the same tomorrow.

Today's Quote

"I believe there is a calling for all of us. I know that every human being has value and purpose. The real work of our lives is to become aware. And awakened. To answer that call"

~Oprah

2009-10-17T20:26:00.001-04:00

It's Saturday night, Mom in law is gone home, Jesse is taking a nap, Kristen is on his way home from deer hunting and all is well.

I thought since I actually have a moment I would try to do a blog post :)

How life has changed these past 4 weeks, yep Jesse will be 4 weeks old tomorrow.
So tonight I'm going to post a few photos that we've taken over the last few weeks in hopes to get everyone caught up on what's been going on with us lately.

First a photo of Boone, who is doing AWESOME with Jesse. He's been so mellow and honestly he almost seems understanding about my lack of mobility when Jesse is feeding. I think I love Boone even more than ever.

A few photos from thanksgiving

Kristen's brother Brian playing with Boone

Me making my homemade stuffing (the stove top version)

The turkey....excuse the blurriness....it wasn't taken on my camera

I love this photo Kristen's mom took of us. I look like crap, I'm exhuasted but it's us. Its OUR family.

These photos are on our walls that we took of Jesse when he was 4 days old

Love this one of Kristen holding him

and this one

This photo you can "kind of" see the frames on our wall

Kristen took his mom to a Leafs game, she was very happy :)

and last but not least...This is by far my new fav photo of Kristen and Jesse

and on a sidenote...loving that blogger gives the option for "extra large" photos..finally!!!

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Today's Quote

"Our essential purpose is to become the best version of ourselves"

~Matthew Kelly

Food Friday: Free Subscription

2009-10-16T16:46:00.000-04:00

If you receive the What's Cooking magazine from Kraft then you must sign up for another free subscription....check out this link that I found on the Smart Canucks website.

Click HERE

Will's Wisdom

2009-10-14T09:13:00.000-04:00

Loved this video....check it out and be inspired

Mother in Law

2009-10-13T10:36:00.000-04:00

My mom in law has been here for just over 2 weeks now.
It's been wonderful.
My house has never been cleaner, the dishes are washed, laundry done, floors are spotless.
I cannot thank her enough for everything she's been doing during her stay to help out myself, Jesse and Kristen.
But I'm also scared.
I'm scared for when she leaves this Saturday and I'll be on my own while Kristen is at work.
What if she's helped me out too much and then when I'm home alone with Jesse I won't be able to handle it on my own???
She's been especially helpful with Jesse when he's been fussy and I've done everything in my power to soothe him and nothing has worked.
She's gladly taken him from my arms and showered him with grandmotherly love and walked the floor until he's settled down.
Who's going to help me when she's gone?
I know I'll figure it out and I'll do okay but honestly I feel like I've been spoiled and now going it alone is a very scary thought.
I guess it's all part of the process...the plus side to this is I'm healing quite nicely so physically I should be able to handle the walking the floor (if necessary)
And I also feel like its time now that Jesse will be 4 weeks old this coming Sunday to "hopefully" start some sort of daily routine on my own, just me and Jesse....IF I can.....LOL. We'll see if he cooperates with that idea.
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Today's Quote
"Your so-called worst problem could be sparing you even greater distress. You can thank it for that. And then you can get rid of it"
~Martha Beck

What did you think?

2009-10-08T12:57:00.000-04:00

Did you see this video of Prime Minister Harper singing?

What did you think of it?

I personally really liked it, I thought it was fun and witty on his part.

I especially liked that Canadian news earlier this week was ALL about this and not necessarily american politics and the American President that seems to take up a lot of their air time.

Was it just a stunt to get voters, maybe...most likely.

But who cares? At least he's in the media in a "positive" light and now a You Tube sensation....

Hopefully small things like this will start getting younger people aware of politics and maybe next time more people will get out to vote.

Whatever works :)

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Today's Quote

"Don't follow trends - follow yourself, you have to stand tall and proud"

~ Manolo Blahnik

Baby Brain....

2009-10-03T17:46:00.000-04:00

I know I haven't been posting much, partly because I've been busy with a newborn. But partly because I don't know what to write about.

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I just want to talk about Jesse....like today he's only sleeping 2 hours instead of 3 hours.

Or he has the cutest "voice" when he cries. Honest! If a baby could have a nice cry, he does. I even want Kristen to get it on video cause it's so sweet sounding.

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Anyway....I'll get it together soon and start writing sensibly again.

My Baby Story....

2009-09-26T15:12:00.001-04:00

1 week ago today I was cleaning my house in a frenzy.....I couldn't scrub the floors, wash windows or vacuum carpets quickly enough because I knew it was happening but I was in denial. And I wasn't ready, I had 10 days to still prepare for a baby!

It had been a weird nights sleep where all I did was have weird dreams. I wasn't awake but I wasn't restfully sleeping either. Even a couple of times through the night I was sure I felt braxton hicks, 7am I had enough. I got out of bed where the braxton hicks continued. Off and on all day they would show themselves, sometimes hard, sometimes soft, sometimes consistently and other times I'd go a few hours and feel nothing.

Around 4-4:30pm Saturday afternoon I went to the washroom and knew things had "changed"

Kristen insisted it was now time to start timing these braxton hicks which were now contractions. But I still wouldn't admit defeat...I kept busy. Afterall the midwives had advised me to do JUST that. If you're in early labour keep yourself busy and distracted because it will get worse.

We headed to the grocery store to buy some bread, milk and orange juice, just in case this was real labour and we didn't have a chance to get groceries yet that weekend. By the time we got home it was around 7pm, the contractions were consistently every 3 minutes but not lasting too long. By 9pm I called the midwives...Ellen one of my midwives came to the house to check on me. I was dialted 1cm but progressing well so she suggested I take some gravol, have a bath and get some rest because Baby Hann was definitely going to be born in the next 24 hours.

I couldn't believe it......

I went to bed around 10:30 and by 12am I "knew" the contractions had changed, they were lasting between 90 seconds and 2 minutes only 4 minutes apart and the pain was something I had never felt before or could compare to anything. I called Ellen again who advised us to meet her at the hospital. To all our surprise when she checked me again around 1:30am I was 7cm dialated....yeah go figure.....

So after a couple of hours of hard labour I was finally able to receive an epidural around 3:30am and seriously for you women who had your kids without pain relief....WOW! You are on the highest pedestal I could ever have for someone. I applaud you!!!

Kristen took a photo of me "working" through a contraction....

After the awesome pain relief...I could actually smile

Around 4:30 the midwives broke my water and 7am it was time to push, at this point I had let the epidural wear off enough that I felt everything...yeah...everything definitely not to the point of someone who didn't have an epidural but I had insisted to the midwives from the very beginning that IF I had an epidural I still wanted to feel as much as possible without "all" the pain (I think I ended up with 90% of it....LOL). And over two hours later at 9:14am Sunday morning, Sept 20th we welcomed Jesse Blaine Manuel Hann into the world.

Blaine after my only brother and sibling

And Manuel after Kristen's grandfather on his Mother's side

This is Holly another one of my AWESOME midwives just as Jesse was born

And this is Ellen on the left and Lindsay on the right. Ellen was with me from the very beginning even though I hadn't had a chance to meet her at my regular appts up to this point. We were scheduled to meet on Monday, Sept 21st

On the right is Lindsay a student midwife who showed up after Jesse's birth to assist with his assesment and getting us ready to go home.

I cannot go on enough about how amazing these women are.

Supportive, encouraging, just exceptional people who I have the utmost respect and love.

And now that little Jesse is 6 days old, Mommy is recovering & adjusting well, Daddy is loving being a daddy and the midwives are still doing at home visits with me until day 10

They've been a Godsent, truly.

We are so blessed to have this little boy, I know its a cliche but he really is a miracle.

Thanks to everyone who sent gifts, well wishes, congratulations, the whole nine yards.

ESPECIALLY to those who sent food (Stephanie, Holly & Sandra), you have NO idea how helpful it was and still is to us in these early days when life has completely changed.

From now on I know I'll be bringing food to any new parents, because we know how much we appreciated it.

Not sure when I'll be back to doing "regular" posts but I was feeling up to it today so here we are.

Please be patient, I hope to get some sort of routine in the coming months in the meantime posts may be irregular but I'm still around, just bear with me :)

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Today's Quote

A child fills a place in your heart that you never knew was empty

~ Unknown

Food Friday: Faux Fried Chicken & Rosemary Mashed Potato Gratin

2009-09-18T09:33:00.000-04:00

Faux Fried Chicken:

Published by Chatelaine on 10/1/2009

Ingredients:

1 cup (250 mL) finely crushed croutons, cornflakes or taco chips
1 tsp (5 mL) poultry or Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp (2 mL) each dried thyme leaves and salt
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 tbsp (15 mL) vegetable oil or 2 tbsp (30 mL) regular mayonnaise

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400F (200C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray with oil. In a shallow dish, stir croutons with poultry seasoning, thyme and salt. Lightly brush a chicken breast with oil, then coat with crumb mixture. Place on prepared sheet. Repeat with remaining chicken, oil and crumb mixture. Discard any remaining coating.
Bake chicken in centre of oven until coating is crisp and golden,from 25 to 30 min. Wonderful with roasted cherry tomatoes.

Rosemary Mashed Potato Gratin :

Ingredients

6	medium potatoes
2 tsp	salt
1-1/2 c.	milk
1 tsp	minced fresh rosemary
1/4 Tsp	pepper
1-1/4 C.	shredded provolone, asiago or gouda cheese, divided

Preparation

Peel potatoes and cut into chunks. In a pot, cover potatoes with cold water; bring to a boil over high heat. Season water with 1 tsp salt. Reduce heat and boil gently for about 15 min or until fork tender. Drain; return pot to low heat for 1 min to dry, shaking often.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan or in a microwave-safe measuring cup, combine Milk, rosemary and pepper. Heat, uncovered, over medium heat on stove-top until steaming, for about 3 min.
Preheat broiler. Butter 8 large ramekins or a shallow 8-cup (2 L) baking dish.
Mash potatoes while gradually adding warmed Milk mixture. Mash in 1 cup of the cheese and 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste. Spread into ramekins or baking dish and sprinkle with remaining cheese. Broil for about 3 min or until cheese is browned

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Today's Quote

"Ah! There's nothing like staying at home, for real comfort"

~Jane Austen

Blogger Backgrounds

2009-09-17T10:09:00.000-04:00

A while ago I shared The Cutest Blog on the Block for free blogger backgrounds.

The only thing is its more of a jpeg file that's hosted by photobucket.

But if you're looking for something different that's not hosted by a server. Then check out this website:

B Templates

they have some awesome templates....however WARNING!! they reformat a lot of your settings so be prepared to do some clean up and fixing once you upload it.

Not to mention be sure that you really like it and wont' tire of it and be wanting to change it in a few months because you'll have the headache all over again.

My cousin Kayla uses one of their backgrounds for her blog and I LOVE it!

Here's her BLOG!

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"No gesture is too small when done with gratitude"

~Oprah

The Special Letter Project

2009-09-16T08:56:00.000-04:00

I follow a blog called Purple Lemon Designs.

Kelly of Purple Lemon Designs put out THIS challenge!

Today I'm challenging you to do the same.

I really want to do this and I've been thinking about who I could send a letter too.

I haven't decided yet but I'll keep you posted if/when I do.

It's a little intimidating truthfully to make yourself so vulnerable to just randomly send someone a letter to tell them how they've affected your life and how you appreciate them.

Yet on the other hand if I were that person receiving that letter, I know I would appreciate that gesture more than anything.

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“The supreme triumph is to be most vividly,
most perfectly alive.”
— D.H. Lawrence

New Houses

2009-09-15T09:16:00.000-04:00

Congrats to my brother Blaine who officially purchased his first house last night.

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It's a new house so he won't be moving until next November.

Hopefully there are no delays and all goes well.

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I'm very proud of ya bro, very few single guys are responsible enough to go and purchase their own home. You should be very pleased with yourself.

Congrats again, can't wait to help you decorate :)

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Today's Quote

"If you want to be successful, be excellent. If you want the best the world has to offer, offer the world your best."

-Oprah

It's all Kristen's fault......

2009-09-14T09:26:00.000-04:00

I laughed after I wrote the title to this post, because it IS all Kristen's fault.....LOL.

No not really, but he is the one who "insisted" I post these belly photos today.

As previously mentioned I'm really not a huge fan of the bare belly pics, but since I hadn't really taken any belly pics since our professional ones and now that I'm basically down to 2 weeks, Kristen decided last night that we needed more photos and that they had to be bare belly.

So.....here we go

As soon as Kristen started clicking the camera he started laughing and told me to stop pushing my belly out.

I immediately reacted and exclaimed....I'M NOT!!!!

Sure looks that way though doesn't it..... :)

This was late Sunday night, I'm dishevled and tired.

Hey it was a busy day, I cooked Sunday dinner.

Which by the way took about 2 hours longer than expected because at one point I went to check the chicken to see if it was cooking okay to realize I hadn't even turned the oven on.

Yeah....baby brain for sure!

And to all of you who keep telling me it doesn't come back...not nice!

Cause I'll go crazy if I keep doing things like this.

The front shot, which blows my mind cause I still can't get over the distinct lines of when my belly starts and ends. It's just so fascinating...really :)

So yeah....me on display like a monkey in heels.

I've felt that way more than once since being pregnant.

It's weird how complete strangers make conversation with you and sometimes make the dumbest remarks.

The lack of attention is something I won't miss when this baby comes out. At least all the attention will be on him or her then....thank goodness :)

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Today's Quote

"I am my best work, a series of road maps, reports, recipes, doodles, and prayers from the front lines"

~Audre Lorde

Food Friday: Meal Plan

2009-09-11T10:01:00.001-04:00

It's been a while since I've done a meal plan, so today here are my suggestions for this week.

Don't forget to add any missing grocery items to your shopping list this weekend :)

Monday: Almond Chicken & Rice (click HERE for Kraft recipe)

Tuesday: Lasagna with Garlic Bread

Wednesday: Grilled Salmon & Garden Salad

Thursday: Buffalo Chicken Wraps (see last weeks post HERE)

Friday: Grilled Steak & Greek Salad

And since Fall is definitely in the air maybe try some comfort cooking this weekend.

How about a pot of chili or stew to simmer??? Mmm....with hot crescent rolls fresh out of the oven :)

For dessert...how about THIS Kraft recipe

Chocolate Walnut Coconut Bars

Today's Quote

"Food is how I show my love"

~Paula Deen

Engaged: Steph & Ed

2009-09-09T09:13:00.000-04:00

I get so teary eyed every time I look at these photos.

It's because I know they're happy and they're truly in love.

Stephanie & Ed were engaged this past weekend....yay!

Congrats :)

I knew it was coming.....I was kind of involved in helping pick out the engagement ring.

Can you imagine how hard it was keeping that quiet from Steph....geesh!!

It took place on Signal Hill in St.Johns, Newfoundland.

When I told Steph to have a good vacation I bet she had no idea that this would be part of it.

----------------

Ed had asked Steph's Dad for her hand in marriage (not sure if he asked in those words or not....lol) but anyway the family was all in on the event about to take place.

Steph's Dad snapped these couple of photos

"The" moment....

Awww...she said yes!!!!

And the awesome ring!

Yes its blurry but hey c'mon you keep your hand steady after being proposed too!!

To Steph & Ed congrats...I can't wait for your wedding.

And yes I'm still rootin' for down south!! :)

Stephy my dear friend.....you deserve this.

I wish you nothing but love & happiness.

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Today's Quote

I hold it true, whate'er befall;
I feel it, when I sorrow most;
'Tis better to have loved and lost
Than never to have loved at all

~Alfred Tennyson

Weekend In Review

2009-09-08T09:34:00.000-04:00

It was a really nice weekend....did some more organizing of the nursery, officially packed the baby's bag, Mom's bag is started but not completed yet.

And honestly I'm pretty much in panic mode, I want everything done NOW! Not that I think I'm going early but I just want it all done no later than this weekend, just in case :)

Saturday night we headed to a friends house for a surprise birthday party.

Here's Jamey the guest of honour.....realizing that the surprise party is for her and not her friend

That's her fiance in the background (you might remember them from one of my Just Because sessions this summer on the photo blog)

Jamey with all the party guests, Jamey's sister (the hostess) had Jamey's face glued to popsicle sticks so that when she arrived she would know it was for her and not the friend.

Thought it was a really cute idea.

Sunday I had a couple of photo shoots, these were a few "straggler" ones I call them that slipped in past the August 15th cut off date. After that I didn't do anything the rest of the day because I was so tired.
That's why I was supposed to be finished the 15th....LOL.
Yesterday I spent the day with Kristen & Boone on a mini day trip. Last night we spent a couple of hours with friends and that was it.
Relaxing overall but busy enough that I wasn't home the way I wanted to be, thus panic mode!
If all goes well the nursery will be done this weekend and I can post pics next week! Yay...finally :)
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Today's Quote
Pregnancy is the only time in a woman's life she can help God work a miracle.
~Erma Bombeck

Food Friday: Buffalo Chicken Wraps

2009-09-04T08:52:00.000-04:00

I received my Kraft magazine the other day which featured this recipe

Buffalo Chicken Wraps

Ingredients:

8 frozen breaded chicken breast strips (we substituted these with spicy Chicken strips)

1/4 cup Mayo

1 Tbsp. hot pepper sauce (left this part out since the chicken strips were already spicy)

2 cups shredded lettuce

4 large spinach flour tortillas (mmm....loved these way more than regular wraps)

1 large tomato, chopped (skipped the tomatoes since it makes everything soggy in my opinion)

1/2 cup Shredded Cheese

Directions:

BAKE chicken as directed on package. Meanwhile, mix dressing and pepper sauce until blended.
PLACE lettuce down centres of tortillas; top with chicken, tomatoes and cheese.
DRIZZLE with dressing mixture; roll up.

TIP!!! Warm up your wrap for 20 seconds in the microwave.....keeps it from tearing and falling apart when you're trying to eat it.

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I had wrapped a couple leftover with saran wrap and refrigerated over night. I think they tasted better the next day for lunch :)

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Today's Quote

It's like spicy food - sometimes you have to tone it down so more people can enjoy it.

~ Kenneth Edmonds

Baby Shower #3

2009-09-03T09:44:00.000-04:00

Is it possible to have too many baby showers!?!?!

I'm so overwhelmed by everyone's generosity....and my co-workers were no different.

Yesterday they threw a potluck lunch (just my department) and then later in the afternoon everyone who contributed to the gifts joined us in the lunchroom for cake.

I just can't say enough thank you's

I honestly feel like we don't deserve it, but I keep telling myself, it's not for me, it's for the baby.

It's how I cope....LOL.

Here's a couple of photos

This cake was a gift from a friend/co-worker in my department.

Her friend made the cake, who's super talented.

In case you can't read the wording it says "Hello Mummy, Bye Bye Tummy"

Yeah...you can say that again!!!! :)

Mmm...all the awesome food at the potluck

The cake for everyone who contributed later in the afternoon

That's my friend Stephy who organized everything.....yeah she helped Vicki with the other shower too.

She's such a good friend who has went above & beyond. And as of today is gone on a much needed vacation.....ENJOY!

It reads "Happy Diaper Days - Christa & Kristen"

And the only reason I'm showing this photo was because I was so startled at how huge I do look from side on.....LOL

Again thanks to everyone....we're truly grateful!

Today's Quote

"Ah, life is a gate, a way, a path to Paradise anyway, why not live for fun and joy.....why not go to your desire and laugh"

~ Jack Kerouac

Expressions

2009-09-02T09:35:00.000-04:00

Today I received the remaining photos from Baby Shower #2

I had all intentions of sharing the random photos but it took a turn when I noticed all my weird expressions.

I've often been criticized for not being sensible when I'm the one having the photo taken and that I'm always "silly" ....Myrna....LOL!

So today's post is called Expressions....here's a few from my baby shower....

they are NOT flattering but hey I'm trying to keep my sense of humour here

But it get's better

I have no explanation

This one I DO have an explanation....dang hat!!!

It was payback for doing this to Steph at her baby shower....I'm sorry and I'll never do it again

Here I know I'm thinking..."Don't wreck the cake, don't wreck the cake!!!"

And finally ONE nice photo....at least it's of me cutting the cake which I'll most likely be adding to the "baby" scrapbook when I actually start it

Today's Quote

My style is very strong poses and expressions.

~John Kricfalusi

September Really!?!?

2009-09-01T09:08:00.000-04:00

I can't believe September is here. There's definitely a "Fall" feel to the air already.

I'm loving the cooler nights since it makes for comfortable sleeping weather (for the most part)

The summer has flown by....it was a busy one but I loved every minute of it.

Now I'm just preparing those last few things before the arrival of our little one.

The nursery is painted and I'm slowly getting clothes washed, organized, and getting furniture put together (that part is Kristen) and decorating soon to be started.

I'll have photos as soon as the nursery is presentable....its not quite there yet :)

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Today I'm 36 weeks! And this past Sunday I was officially 1 month til my due date.

I keep getting a few remarks that I'm going to go early but I really don't think I will.

IF I do it'll still be within a week of my due date, I'm convinced of that. Mind you I could be wrong but I just don't "feel" that way. Not yet anyways :)

I find it truly fascinating how aggressively opinionated "some" people can be towards pregnant women. For the most part people have been supportive, encouraging and understanding. But some have been down right rude, aggressive and if anything very discouraging about the whole deal. I've just taken it all with a grain of salt and so far haven't ended up in tears over it.

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On another note....I sent out my first Cyball Photography Newsletter this morning.

Very exciting :)

I'm sure there's room for improvement but I am happy with how it looks for the "first" issue and all.

Thank you all for your support, you guys are the best friends, family, blog readers a gal could ever have!

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Today's Quote.

"I believe that every single event in life happens in an opportunity to choose love over fear"

~ Oprah

House 9 Hockey Foundation

2009-08-31T12:26:00.000-04:00

Saturday evening we attented the 2nd annual "House 9 Hockey Foundation" Charity hockey game.

Hosted by Aaron Downey

A few of the NHL players showing up for the game

The one in the grey shorts is this guy, Kyle Quincey

And his friend whom I cannot remember his name for the life of me....

Plays with the Philidelphia Flyers & had a tonne of penality minutes.

This is Aaron Downey just before the game.

He came out to chat with a few friends

Thanking the crowd for their generosity.

100% of proceeds all went to charity

Then it was game time, this is Mark Bell to the right of Aaron Downey

It was a nice evening and even greater to support a good cause.

It was so neat seeing these guys play hockey, they just seemed so smooth and suave on the ice. Even if it was just for fun.

But I guess that's what happens when they're "in their element" considering it's what they do for a living.

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Today's Quote

“Money has no power on its own.
You alone are the power source.”
— Suze Orman

Food Friday: Bakerella

2009-08-28T09:08:00.000-04:00

I love Bakerella.

She doesn't post frequently...maybe once a week?

But the projects she does are amazing and awesome.

Which is probably a good thing that she only posts once a week, especially if you're someone who's going to attempt her weekly features.

Last Sunday she had Cowgirl Cookies

They are the cutest things ever!

But on top of that she has the free .pdf file that you can download so you can add the oh so cute labels to your creations, just like she did.

For all the goodness, click HERE

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Today's Quote

"The kitchen is where the action is, where the big conversation is happening. It's the place to be"

~ Jewels Elmore

Happy & Sad News

2009-08-27T11:50:00.000-04:00

Today is my parents wedding anniversary.

If my pregnant brain is working correctly today, they've been married 33 years. Cause my brother is 32 and he was born 10 months after their wedding. Yes I think that's right?!?!

I just want to say congrats and I love you both very much.
-------------------------------

In sad news....

Last year on one of our visits to our breeder before officially taking Boone home.

Our breeder had mentioned how excited she was about the soon to be birth of a grandchild.

We found out today that her 14 month old grandson drowned.

I just want to send out our thoughts and prayers to the family.

And please remember them as they go through this very difficult time.

I can't even imagine how the must feel.

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Also please remember the Caines family.

If you've been watching the news most of you have heard about the freak accident of a young 5 year old boy getting hit by lightning in Brampton.

Well he did pass away from his injuries and now the family is trying to deal with not only a tragic loss but just the shock of something so unlikely happening to their child.

I know a few members of the family though I didn't know the 5 year old boy or his mom personally. His Dad was a childhood friend of mine and I'm still friends with his sister (the 5 year olds aunt)

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This reminds us that time is precious, that tragedy is a fact of life and it might be us who has to deal with our own tragedy at any moment.

Don't take anything for granted....tell your family & friends you LOVE them.

You might not have the chance tomorrow.

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Today's Quote

Sometimes late at night
I lie awake and watch her sleeping
Shes lost in peaceful dreams
So I turn out the lights and lay there in the dark
And the thought crosses my mind
If I never wake up in the morning
Would she ever doubt the way I feel
About her in my heart

*chorus*
If tomorrow never comes
Will she know how much I loved her
Did I try in every way to show her every day
That shes my only one
And if my time on earth were through
And she must face the world without me
Is the love I gave her in the past
Gonna be enough to last
If tomorrow never comes
cause Ive lost loved ones in my life
Who never knew how much I loved them
Now I live with the regret
That my true feelings for them never were revealed
So I made a promise to myself
To say each day how much she means to me
And avoid that circumstance
Where theres no second chance to tell her how I feel
*chorus*
So tell that someone that you love
Just what youre thinking of
If tomorrow never comes

~Garth Brooks

Mat Photos for Nursery

2009-08-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

The problem with liking so many photos from our maternity shoot is deciding WHICH photos to put up in the nursery.

Even though I have a couple of favourites in colour. I'm leaning towards the sepia toned photos since the nursery is going to be pale yellow walls, with white furniture and a few brown accents (such as the wicker laundry basket, etc)

Here are the 3 I'm "thinking" about going with.....

My thought process is: One of Mommy alone

A belly shot

And then one of course of Mommy & Daddy together

What do you think?

Obviously I need to touch up my editing to make sure the sepia tone matches on all 3 photos.

But I think these might make a nice little gallery on the wall above the change table :)

Picture an 8x10 in the middle and 5x7's on either side maybe?!?!
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Today's Quote

"I'm in awe every time: By planting so little, you can reap so much"

~Oprah

Baby Update: 35 Weeks

2009-08-25T09:09:00.000-04:00

35 weeks....getting down to the wire now. Only 5 weeks and I'll officially be a Mom.

Scary stuff.....lol.

But very happy & exciting at the same time.

Last night I FINALLY started painting the nursery. It'll probably be an all week project since I'm taking my time, and I'm also doing the trim first (since that's the part I hate doing the most)

I'm super happy with the colour though, its exactly as I hoped it would be.

I'll post pictures when the nursery is completed....not before, so don't ask :)

But I will share a couple of photos from my baby shower on Saturday. I don't have many yet but I can share these couple.

First a picture of the OH SO AWESOME cake....when my friend Vicki asked if I saw the cake I said no? To realize I did in fact see the cake but I thought it was a decoration.

I immediately fell in love!

Thanks to Vicki's Aunt Angie for making it....the girl sure has talent!

Also everyone who attended the baby shower was each given a onesie or diaper shirt to decorate for Baby Hann.

I've never seen anything like this done at a shower before and loved the sentiment behind it.

There were two blanks left over, so I coloured one and Kristen has yet to complete his.

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Here's a few decorated by the guests

A bit closer up...

"Spit Happens" is one of my favourites

When I have more photos I'll definitely share.

I've been so blessed to have the best friends & family who so generously gave to Kristen & I

To the point that there's barely anything that we'll need to buy ourselves. I really don't know how to express in words how truly grateful and appreciative we are :)

Thank You!

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Today's Quote

"Learn to enjoy every minute of your life. Be Happy Now! Don't wait for something outside of yourself to make you happy in the future. Think how really precious is the time you have to spend, whether it's at work or with your family. Every minute should be enjoyed and SAVORED!"

~Earl Nightingale

Weekend In Review

2009-08-23T21:33:00.000-04:00

Another busy but great weekend!

Friday evening Kristen and I headed to the hospital to pre-register and do our tour. We didn't physically walk through the hospital but we went to a presentation that shows the map of the hospital, where we need to go, and all that good stuff. So I'm officially ready to go in to labour (speaking from the hospital point of view) from every other aspect, I'm not quite there yet.....lol.

After that we headed to our friends house because I was in on a secret pamper party that was being thrown for Kristen.

Thanks to Jason & Corey who put in all the work to throw the "guy baby shower" just for him.

I know Kristen isn't one who would outwardly gush on about how grateful he is that he had "his moment" of becoming a Dad. But I honestly think he loved the gesture.

Sorry I don't have photos...if I get any I'll post them then.

Saturday was my baby shower here in Ontario hosted by my dear friends Vicki and Steph.

Girls you guys went above and beyond for little 'ol me. I know you enjoyed doing it and I loved every minute of it. To everyone who attended "thank you" baby Hann is already one spoiled child :)

Again I don't have photos but a friend of mine took some, so when I have them I'll share.

Later that evening Kristen & I went out to the movies to celebrate our 2nd wedding anniversary.

I can't believe it's been two years since we tied the knot!!! And now we're soon going to add a child to the mix. I am happy though, I truly am grateful the wonderful life we have together.

Then Sunday we headed to Tristan's 3rd birthday party....here's a few photos of the fun.

Enjoying one of his presents.

Since Tristan is a HUGE spiderman fan the birthday had a Spiderman theme

Blowing out his Spiderman candle on his spiderman cake

Then it was time to "BE" Spiderman and shoot some webs!

Where I think the adults had just as much fun as the kids

Happy Birthday Tristan! I hope you had lots of fun :)

Today's Quote

Everything's been different

All the day long,

Lovely things have happened,

Nothing has gone wrong.

Nobody has scolded me,

Everyone has smiled.

Isn't it delicious

To be a birthday child?

~Rose Fyleman

Food Friday: Chocolate Zucchini Cake

2009-08-21T09:04:00.000-04:00

I bought zucchini from the Farmers Market and then I didn't know what to do with it.

So I asked Myrna for her recipe to make zucchini chocolate cake.

Here were my results.....

================

In first bowl, blend until smooth:
3/4 cup shortening
2 cups sugar
3 eggs

In bowl #2, mix:
1/2 cup milk
2 cups grated zucchini
2 tsp vanilla flavouring

In bowl #3, stir together all dry ingredients:
1 tsp salt
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 1/2 tsp baking soda
2 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp cinnamon

½ cup cocoa
Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or walnuts

Gradually alternate adding the zucchini mixture and the dry ingredients to the shortening/sugar/eggs.

Mix and pour into 2 loaf pans - bake for about 50 minutes on 350 degrees.

OR, if you use muffins pans, reduce the time to about 30 minutes.

And voila.....I topped mine with vanilla icing.

YUM!!

Yes the fork is dirty I just HAD to take a bite before taking the photo

So if you're headed out to the Farmers Market tomorrow, buy zucchini and make a veggie cake. Call it your healthy cake.

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Have your cake and eat it too!

Turkey Rap

2009-08-20T08:44:00.000-04:00

Kristen is ALWAYS researching something about hunting...especially now with open season just over a month away

Last night he discovered this video that I thought was super cute

Today's Quote

"When your life is on course with its purpose, you are your most powerful. And you may stumble, but you will not fall"

~Oprah

It's Wednesday....

2009-08-19T09:39:00.001-04:00

...and I'm tired.

It's really hit me how busy I was all summer with my photography, full time job, home life and social life. Oh not to mention a baby on the way!

Officially my photography season is over, with the exception of 2 photo shoots left to take place. But I'm definitely not taking anymore bookings. I'm too big and too awkward.

However, that being said I can't believe how awesome this summer ended up being, I really had no idea the power of Facebook. Which is where the majority of my bookings stemmed from.

So if you're looking to start your own business or promote a project you're working on, I would strongly recommend going that route.

My only dilemma now is deciding when I should go pro.

I know I'm up'ing my pricing next year, I just don't know by how much yet, because there's no WAY possible I can maintain the schedule I had this summer, have a child, and hope to go professional where the photography would be my source of income.

At my rates.....I'd lose my house the first month in business.....LOL.

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But it's such a fine line of keeping clients, losing clients, and justifying costs that MOST people are ignorant too and just won't pay a "professional" photographer the rates they need to charge to survive.

Especially when everyone pretty much owns their own awesome digital SLR these days.

Oh well....I know its my goal and I'm not giving up.

I have all winter to ponder these questions, scenarios and decide if I want to launch in 2010.

Again you my friends, your input is always welcomed because you are all so honest with me.

And its questions I can put here that I wouldn't necessarily pose on my photography blog. You know keeping it professional and all :)

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Today's Quote

"You can have anything you want - if you want it badly enough. You can be anything you want to be, have anything you desire, accomplish anything you set out to accomplish - if you will hold to that desire with singleness of purpose"

~Robert Collier

Baby Update: 34 weeks

2009-08-18T07:06:00.000-04:00

Only 6 weeks to go......so today I'm going to share this email that I received the other day about wives tales as to if you're having a boy or girl.

My symptoms/situations are in red....lets see what we end up with.....

Sleep Position Pay attention to which way you lay down in bed tonight. If you prefer sleeping on your left side, you'll have a boy. Right side? Your pregnant with a girl.
Upset Stomach Little girls aren't always sweet. Extreme nausea means you are having a daughter.
I was definitely sick.... :(
Soft or Dry Hands If your hands are dry during pregnancy, you are having a boy; soft -- expect a girl.
Food Cravings Your favorite pregnancy foods may tell you what sex the baby is. If you're craving citrus while pregnant, you're having a girl. Nope craving sweet
Adult Acne If altering hormones makes your skin break out, expect a girl. Skin has been super clear
Graceful or Clumsy Pregnancy If you feel as though you're gliding through they day, you'll have a girl. Stumbling? It's a boy.
Face Weight Gain If your face gets fuller, it means you're having a girl. No idea if I have...not really I guess
Sugar and Spice Food Cravings Craving salt during pregnancy? Potato chips, pretzels, and popcorn means a boy is on the way. Need a little something sweet? Ice cream, chocolate, and candy means you're having a girl.
Mood Changes If you're experiencing pregnant mood-swings, expect a baby girl to arrive soon. Not really...feeling pretty happy overall
High or Low Pregnant Belly If you're carrying the baby low on your stomach, expect a boy. If it's high, you're having a girl. No idea
Baby Weight If you're carrying baby in front, it's a boy. Is the baby weight spaced all around your middle? It's a girl. No idea
Pendulum Test Dangle a chain with a charm over your palm. If it swings back and forth: boy. In a circle: girl.
Model Your Hands "Show me your hands." If you would hold your hands palms up it's a girl. Down? You're having a boy.
Toddler Advice Get baby advice from a nephew or friend's little boy. If a toddler boy shows interest in your belly, you'll have a girl. If he ignores you, it's a boy. Our friends little boy actually TOLD us we're having a gurl....LOL
Eat Garlic Guess the baby's sex by eating garlic. If the smell seeps out of your pores it's a boy. If there's no scent it's a little girl.
Key to Pregnancy If you pick up a key by the round end, you're having a boy. If it's by the long end? A girl.
Even and Odd Numbers If your age and year of conception are both even or odd, it's girl. One even, one odd means a boy.
Baby's Heartbeat If the baby's heart beats more than 150 times per minute, you're pregnant with a girl. Less than 150, it's a boy.
Stress Test A child tends to be of the same sex as the parent who is less stressed at the time of conception.
Dream Meanings If you dream about having a girl while pregnant, you will wind up having a boy and vice versa.
Breast Size If your right breast is larger than the left while pregnant, you are having a girl. If the left is larger, it's a baby boy. No idea....LOL

-------------------------

It's close but it appears to be "leaning" towards a girl....what do you think?
Since this weekend I think everyone I see is telling me they think it's a boy
-----------------------
Today's Quote“Love looks for us, regardless of how we orient ourselves.”
— Heather Sellers

Weekend in Review

2009-08-17T08:33:00.000-04:00

Another great weekend....it was hot and humid but no complaints from me since it appears summer has finally arrived. I will admit Sunday I was pretty uncomfortable, but I'm just happy it was sunny and hot :)

Friday night Kristen, Boone & I headed out to Scottsdale Farm with Holly of Hark Photography to do our maternity/family photos

Here's Holly very hard at work taking some solo shots of myself

I seriously LOVE sunset light and was so happy we could schedule our session for this time of day

Boone waiting in the car for his turn in the family photos

Thank you Holly sooooo much. I can't wait to see the results!!!

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Then Saturday it was time to go to my cousin's pool party. No I didn't go swimming, even though the weather was HOT and perfect for it. I did enjoy the company however, LOTS of people....old friends, new friends. Had such a great time :)

CANNONBALL!!!!!!

The boys cooling down with a drink

And this one of Boone...he's only wet from being sprayed with a hose not from being the pool.

Here he was sitting pretty in hopes that I would give him my bottle of water to play with

He eventually was too cute to ignore...I finished up and let him have it.

What can I say who can resist those looks?!?!! :)

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Today's Quote

"Winter is the season in which people try to keep the house as warm as it was in the summer, when they complained about the heat”

~Unknown

Food Friday: Sausage Spaghetti

2009-08-14T07:02:00.001-04:00

I don't know what else to call this dish, it's spaghetti with sausage. And delicious!

Start by putting a can of seasoned diced tomatoes on the stove to simmer out some of the excess water

Then grill hot italian sausages

And cook some spaghetti

Now add some fresh oregano from the herb garden to your tomatoes, along with pepper and garlic

Take the sausage off the grill and slice up

*Sidenote* Hubby did all the grilling and cutting up of the sausage for this recipe :)

Then mix it all together....MMM

Now...take a bit of pasta put it in a bowl

Layer some of the sausage on top

Some fresh grated cheese, this is mozzarella...fresh parmesan would be better but we were out.

A bit of oregano for touch

and ....

VOILA!

Note: I added NO SALT to this meal. Figured there was enough in the sausage and canned tomatoes.

I also added extra seasoning with the fresh herbs and the pre-seasoned tomatoes for those of you who think this dish might be "too" plain.

Simple is good :) and healthy too

Today's Quote

“He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything.”

— Arabian proverb

Baby Update: 33 Weeks

2009-08-13T06:47:00.000-04:00

I haven't had time to post they way I would like since returning from Nfld.

I feel like some of my posts are seriously lacking. Most of it due to all the photo shoots I've been trying to process, which also meant not having time to convert the pdf files from my 31 week ultra sound to jpeg files to share with all of you.

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If I haven't already mentioned it, the follow up ultra sound was perfect.

All areas they wanted to double check are okay and really was no cause for concern to begin with.

Also I was able to see Baby Hann again :)

Here's a couple of shots from the Ultra sound.....

First the side profile

Inside the red circle, hopefully that helps you pick it out better

And the front of the face.

I keep teasing Kristen that the baby SOOOO has his nose and lips.

Even if he or she does or doesn't, this is my fav ultra sound pic and I think is totally cute

If you look really closely, to the far bottom right of the circle you can barely see two little fists all curled up. He, he

Only 7 weeks left til my due date. I'm nervous and excited. More excited though, I really can't wait to meet OUR baby, our bundle of joy.

Wow....just such an awesome feeling.

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Today's Quote

Babies are always more trouble than you thought - and more wonderful.

~Charles Osgood

Hello Wednesday

2009-08-12T07:18:00.000-04:00

Wednesday is here, this week has been nuts and doesn't show any sign of letting up.

So today just check out my photo blog, there have been some "amazing" photos put up this week...honest!

Til tomorrow!!

Today's Quote

"Don't Worry, Be Happy"

Boone's Frist Plane Ride

2009-08-11T06:50:00.000-04:00

This year's trip to Newfoundland also entailed Boone's first trip on a plane.

Kristen took this photo of him in his kennel before being taken away :(

Time to get loaded with the luggage

Last on and first off....

He did okay though. The first night he paced my parents house a lot. More from everything being new I think. More so than actually being upset about flying.

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Here he was a few days later....completely adjusted and goofing around

And another

Today's Quote

“It's quite possible to leave your home for a walk in the early morning air and return a different person—

beguiled, enchanted."

— Mary Chase

Weekend in Review

2009-08-10T08:42:00.000-04:00

Another busy weekend, Friday night....photo shoot.

Saturday....photo shoot, while I was waiting for my client.

I took this photo

Sunday morning....photo shoot in Toronto

And then Sunday night we had this!!!

We very rarely get power outages, and when we do they usually only last 10-15 minutes

But last nights outage lasted an hour. Accompanied with one of the worst thunder storms I've ever seen

But it's all good. The power came back on, we didn't have any storm damage, and then got a half decent nights sleep. Even though still feeling pretty tired today.

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Today's Quote

"The whole point of being alive is to evolve into the complete person you were intended to be."

— Oprah

Food Friday: Jen's Spinach Dip

2009-08-07T11:18:00.001-04:00

For some reason I thought I shared this recipe before but I can't find it, so I'll share it today or again.

Jen's Spinach Dip

You will need:

1 pack of frozen spinach - thawed & drained

1 pkg of cream cheese

1 small onion - finely chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

I'm doing this recipe from memory so if anything is wrong, Jen or anyone correct me.

Mix spinach, cream cheese and onion well.

Microwave 2-3 minutes.

MIX WELL and add about half of the shredded cheese.

Microwave again another minute.

Mix well and throw remaining cheese on top or mix through. Whatever you prefer.

Serve with nachos, crackers or pumpernickle bread. Yummy!!!

Today's Quote

“Slow the pace of your meals. Pay attention to what you're eating…After a pause, you'll likely find that 'mostly full' is full enough.”
— Dr. Katz

Newfoundland 2009

2009-08-06T06:50:00.000-04:00

Newfoundland was awesome. Again the trip was WAY too short. 8 days? Seriously what was I thinking?

I do have some photos on Facebook, so add me as a friend if you haven't seen them yet.

But if you haven't, here's a few of my favs while we were there.

Some of Kristen.....

I love the old fishing boat behind him

Ahhh...my honey and Mom's boy :)

And now my favs of Boone

This might be my fav fav :)

And a family photo,...its CRAZY blurry. I set the camera on the timer and didn't realize it was focused on the wrong thing.

Oh well I still like it, out of focus and all

I have way more photos but that's enough for today :)

Today's Quote:

Basic beauty lies in the way a woman walks; it is health and an attitude to life.”

— Nancy Astor

Staying Connected

2009-08-05T08:52:00.000-04:00

I recently discovered that the oh so beautiful Seaside Suites, located in Woody Point of Gros Morne National Park has a webcam that shows the local ferry ramp.

And I LOVE it!

I know its kind of creepy like a big brother/stalker type thing.

But its not like that.

I love going on the live webcam just to see what the weather is like, if there are any new boats out in the bay and that sort of thing.

For whatever reason it makes me feel like I'm still connected to home.

Check out the webcam link HERE

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Today's Quote

“Accept the present moment and find the perfection that is untouched by time.”
— Eckhart Tolle

Weekend in Review

2009-08-04T07:38:00.001-04:00

It was a great weekend, unlike most weekends since we have Missey still with us.

Here's a few photos of her and Boone swimming on Saturday after we went to the Farmers Market.

They had so much fun but were exhausted on the drive home

Boone using Missey as a pillow.

Kristen's brother also came to visit us, he works in the area in the summer months so every now and then he is able to get a few days off and spend some time with us.

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I also did a mini shoot for a friend this past Sunday. And most of the weekend, including my holiday Monday I spent working on the Newfoundland photo shoots.

If you haven't checked my photo blog lately you're missing out on this

And this.....

Today's Quote

“…it is always the simple that produces the marvelous.”

~ Amelia E. Barr

Food Friday: McCains International Pizza

2009-07-31T06:45:00.000-04:00

Our meals very rarely come from a box, bag or can.

Everything is from scratch, for example mashed potatoes are real potatoes boiled and mashed. Not the ones that come in a bag, that are dehydrated where you add water and voila.

But every now and then life doesn't allow a meal from scratch.

That's where frozen pizza comes in :)

This week we discovered the McCains International Multrigrain thin crust pizza.

If I remember correctly chicken & tomatoe?

All I have to say it was good.

If you're a bruschetta lover, then you will DEFINITELY like this pizza :)

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Today's Quote

"We live in an age where pizza gets to your home before the police"

~ Jeff Marder

Dog Sitting

2009-07-30T07:21:00.000-04:00

The next couple of weeks we'll be dog sitting my cousin's chocolate lab Missey.

So far it's been a great experience.

Boone & Missey are getting along well, we're starting to figure out Missey's personality and how she differs from Boone, and overall hasn't upset our normal routine all that much.

This was the first night they met

Kristen's view in the backyard last night

And my view from inside the house

Will keep adding photos while we have her, stay tuned.

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Today's Quote

“You achieve much once you stop telling yourself you can't do things.”
— Elizabeth Kadetsky

Are Women Born this Way?

2009-07-29T07:10:00.000-04:00

While in Newfoundland my Dad showed me this video....it's pretty cute....LOL

Today's Quote

Life is like riding a bicycle. You don't fall off unless you plan to stop peddling.

-- Claude Pepper

Baby Update: Newfoundland Baby Shower

2009-07-28T07:03:00.000-04:00

Today I'm officially 31 weeks pregnant, can't believe I only have approx 9 weeks to go.
So figured today's post would be appropriate to share some photos from the baby shower that my Mom and friend Myrna planned for me while we were in Newfoundland.
--------------------------

It was amazing. I was so overwhelmed when over 40 women showed up. All with gifts for Baby Hann to be.

I cannot express in words how truly grateful and appreciative Kristen & I are to the people of Bonne Bay who gave so graciously.

Here's all the gifts when they were put at my feet to open, see me just taking it all in. Told you I was overwhelmed.

There's a little story that goes along with this Tigger....
My 9 year cousin Sabrina wanted to give a gift just to the baby just from her. She included a card with a message along the lines of .....
"Tigger was my favourite toy when I was a baby so here's one for your baby"
I'm the worst and remembering exact wording but you get the idea.
It was sooooo sweet of her :)

My mom made this quilt. It has sheep on it. When she said she was going to make a quilt for the baby I requested she make THE quilt for the crib. So in lieu of buying a comforter set, this is the quilt that will be used instead.

I love it....love even more that it's from my Mom and made with tender loving care.

And Nanna is proud as a peacock that she can brag that she made the baby's crib quilt.

The baby shower was held at the Chocolate Moose Bakery & Cafe

Cake made by Myrna who not only is a dear friend but also runs the place :)
This cake was sooooo good...layers of vanilla, chocolate & marble. It read Pink or Blue we Welcome You

Can't go wrong with that.

Again thanks to everyone.

But especially Myrna & my Mom. You did such a great job with the shower, the food, the games, even the "oh so many" people on the guest list......lol. I know I give you guys a hard time about making a fuss over little 'ol me but I do appreciate it. Even if you sit me in the front of a room so everyone can stare up my dress :)

I love you both!

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Today's Quote

A baby is God's opinion that the world should go on.

~Carl Sandburg

Boone's First Retriever Meet

2009-07-27T09:18:00.000-04:00

I am exhausted...it seems since I arrived home VERY late Friday night, technically Saturday morning my body has finally told me to slow down and get some rest.

Saturday I spent the day getting groceries, tidying the house a bit, and resting! Which meant not doing much like reading or starting to organize over 3000 photos that I took in Nfld. Just under 2000 of them being the wedding. It might even be closer to 4000 photos, I'll try to get final numbers once I really dig into editing, processing, etc all the shoots.

I was supposed to have another shoot on Sunday morning but that was post-poned due to the thunder showers. However, that didn't stop Kristen, Boone and I from heading out to a golden retriever meet.

It's the first time we've been to anything like this and it was a great experience. Despite the rain and lots of MUD!

Here's a few photos

This is when we first arrived......

Then they gave us a bandana to wear around Boones neck with his name...he's the one on the far left with a red bandana

Meeting another golden...after this photo they proceeded to sniff each others butts :)

Taking a VERY brief moment to pose for us

More running & frolicking

I think this is his half brother.

Same father from the same breeder....pretty neat huh?

Then it was time to go home.....very muddy, wet and tired.

But a great day by all, if I do say so :)

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Today's Quote

Dogs are miracles with paws

~ Unknown

I'm back...temporarily

2009-07-23T17:10:00.000-04:00

This is a quick post since I've very little time on the computer while on vacation.

I just cannot believe my vacation is almost over.

Kristen is back in Ontario and I fly back tomorrow.

I've had a WONDERFUL time in Newfoundland and have so many photos to share once I'm back home and back to the grind.

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But to hold you over until Monday, here's a photo my Dad took a few days ago of Kristen, Boone & myself

Today's Quote

"The place where land, water and sky
embrace like old friends."
Newfoundland & Labrador Travel Guide

Food Friday: Tasty Kitchen

2009-07-17T06:55:00.000-04:00

Pioneer Woman has launched another food blog.

And it looks good.....

If you're looking for recipes, here's the place to go.

For a better explanation about this website from Pioneer Woman herself, click THIS LINK

But if you want to skip thatn and just find the yummy food then.....

Click HERE to go to the website

Today's Quote
"One of the delights of life is eating with friends, second to that is talking about eating. And, for unsurpassed double whammy there is talking about eating while you are eating with friends"
~Lori Colwin

Vacation Baby!!!!

2009-07-16T10:26:00.000-04:00

T minus 4 hours and I'm Newfoundland Bound baby!

So excited.

I'm normally excited when going to Nfld but this trip is going to be so awesome on so many levels.

Can't wait :)

On the agenda....

5 Photo shoots

A wedding

A baby shower

Visiting with friends & family

Lots of good food

More visiting with friends, even one from Calgary that'll be home at the same time.

Yeah totally awesome.

As I write this Kristen and Boone are boarding their flight to Nfld. Long story as to "why" we're on separate flights.

But anyway.....I'm a bit nervous on how Boone will do other than that all is well.

Oh and since no official baby update post this week, I'm 29 weeks. Doing really well with cutting out the extra sugar in my diet since last weeks mid wife appt and feeling good.

I'll do my best to keep the blog updated while on vacation but if there's not much going on, you'll know why!

Christa...OUT!!

Today's Quote:

No man needs a vacation so much as the person who has just had one.

~Elbert Hubbard

Conversation Set

2009-07-15T08:37:00.001-04:00

Well here's our conversation set....it's really comfortable

Flowers in our front yard

And my dog that I bought last summer from Home Sense....Love him :)

Today's Quote

Where flowers bloom, so does hope

~Lady Bird Johnson

OH....I almost forgot....a VERY Happy Birthday to Myrna

Boone Likes to Swim

2009-07-14T09:07:00.000-04:00

Last Friday Kristen was off work and decided to take Boone swimming.

It's a new thing he's been working on since Boone hasn't really been exposed to the water or swimming. But since he is naturally a water dog he thought it would be good for him.

Well Boone did not disappoint....look at these awesome photos Kristen took of him enjoying the water

Today's Quote

If one synchronized swimmer drowns, do all the rest have to drown too?

~Steven Wright

Weekend in Review

2009-07-13T08:39:00.000-04:00

What a weekend!

Friday night I headed out to Applebee's with a couple of girlfriends (one that I haven't seen for quite a while) for great food and conversation.

I don't know how many times I've already said this, but I seriously LOVE girl time :)

It's good for the soul!

Saturday was a completely wasted day...honestly...I didn't feel motivated to get anything done. I did get a bit done but I felt I should have been so much more productive.

We did however get a deal on a new conversation set (picture patio set with a coffee table instead of a dining table) which was meant for the backyard but we loved it on our front porch so much we ended up keeping it there. I'll post a photo of that this week since I haven't taken one yet.

Then Saturday night Kristen, Blaine (my brother) and I went to Shoeless Joes for a late dinner (I swear I never eat out this much) and to watch UFC 100 and later on another friend met up with us as well

Now I like UFC but I don't love UFC...if I never watched it again I wouldn't be upset.

However, once I get watching it, I get really in to it. And Saturday night was no disappointment. I thought all the fights were really good.

Then on to Sunday......

I was up bright and early to cook breakfast, finish painting the spare room in the basement which is now officially completed...again will have photos of that next week and a WHOLE story about the paint colour. All Kristen has to do is move the furniture out of the nusery and that room is ready to paint. So exciting how it's all coming along.

Then Sunday afternoon I had the opportunity to photograph my friend Holly....please please please check out the photo blog as I'm quite proud of these photos and I think she looks so great :)

But in the meantime here's a couple of my favs

Today's Quote

“A friend is someone who understands your past, believes in your future, and accepts you just the way you are.”

~ Unknown

Christa's Mozza Bacon Burger

2009-07-10T09:33:00.000-04:00

So I decided half way through making these burgers that I should take photos for my blog.

Before we get to the photos I had already mixed:

lean ground beef

1/2 pack onion soup mix

2 tbsp worcestershire sauce

(I like to keep things simple)

Form the beef into patties and onto the hot grill

In between flipping the burgers, I'm in the kitchen doing the following..........

Frying onions

I hate raw onions and LOVE fried onions

Frying some bacon and cutting up mozzarella cheese

When the flipping is just about done, I add a small amount of a hickory bbq sauce

Don't forget to toast the buns!

Then start layering.....

**Sidenote: I SHOULD have put the cheese on the patties before removing them from the grill so it would have melted all nice and gooey....but my pregnant brain caused me to forget this step**

See? Would have been so much prettier if this was a gooey mess

Mmm.....fried onions

And what's a summer grilled burger without some Heinz

Happy Grilling :)

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Today's Quote

A life without love is like a year without summer.

~Swedish Proverb

Baby Update: 28 weeks

2009-07-09T09:17:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone...I know I know I'm behind on belly pics.

But a lot has been going on. Kristen has been working like crazy to complete the spare room in our basement so we can officially start the nursery. I've been helping too, in my limited way.

I've had lots of photo shoots. And then yesterday I had my mid wives appt.
So to hold you over here's a photo my brother took almost 2 weeks ago while we were visiting our Uncle and family

Everything is good, I received all of my paperwork to do my follow up ultrasound, a glucose test and a letter saying that I "should" be okay to fly. They can't say for sure that I am cause really "anything" could happen but IF the airline tries to give me a hard time next week when I go on vacation, at least I have something to back me up.

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At my last mid wives appt, the mid wife from my team and I agreed I wouldn't do the glucose testing. Everything had been completely on track up to that point. Then yesterday I had a replacement mid wife, since the girls on my team are on vacation.

Since my last appt I've gained too much weight, or more than the mid wives would like to see. Not extreme but enough. Enough that this "fill in" insisted that I take the glucose test.

I know I know, its a standard test and not a big deal but I know I've had a sweet tooth this past month and I know that's exactly why I've gained the bit of extra weight. I just had hoped that they would have given me a bit more time to get on track before insisting I do the test.

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It's hard enough taking time off work for the mid wives appts as it is, but now I have another ultra sound to do, a glucose test to do, I need to take time somewhere to register with the hospital and do their required tour, and on top of that my dentist office keeps calling cause I'm due up for a cleaning.

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All of these things have finally gotten to me and last night as I was about to walk the dog I just had to go in my bedroom, lie on my bed and cry.

I just had to get everything off my chest. You seriously have NO idea how upset I am about this weight gain and the guilt I have about it possibly affecting the baby in a negative way.

But steps have been taken immediately to correct everything I've been doing wrong and the mid wife did suggest trying to replace my sweet cravings with protein, another thing that I'll be trying today....so wish me luck that by my next appt (even with vacation) everything will be as it should be....**fingers crossed**

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Otherwise, everything is on track. The baby is healthy, moving lots, and I'm loving every minute. Even the sleepless nights. The experience so far truly has been a blessing....and if I get a chance to take belly pics tonight I'll post them tomorrow...okay? Okay :)

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Today's Quote

“You know it's a bad day when you put your bra on backwards and it fits better"

~Author Unknown

Boone's Sunset Photo Shoot

2009-07-08T10:16:00.001-04:00

Saturday evening Kristen wanted to go fishing.

I wanted to practice using our 50mm manual lense.

So while Kristen fished, I snapped photos of Boone (and some of Kristen too)

Here are a couple of my favourites

I love this one :)

And a couple of Kristen...again he won't be sensible when I take a photo so the silly one gets posted as well as payback :) Now next time you might smile nice Dear!!

Today's Quote

Fishing is the sport of drowning worms.

~Author Unknown

I won! I won!

2009-07-07T09:17:00.001-04:00

Yeah baby!!! I actually won a contest.

I'm always entering contests that are on my favourite blogs and I finally won!

Woo-hoo!

I follow a blog called Dingbat Press

It's basically custom designed stationary, invitations, recipe cards, you name it, if it can be printed on paper then Adrienne at Dingbat Press can probably design it for you. Yeah she's good.

I've been following her work cause I'm considering using her for some stationary supplies when it's time to officially launch my photography biz.

So where do I begin....I know first I'll begin with the PRIZE!!!

Here's the BLOG POST of the contest

And here's what I won.....gift tags/enclosure in 3 yes I said 3 different patterns/designs

Aspen trees with yellow envelopes

Then these lovely red enclosures....the red/grey combo may have inspired me to do something with a red & grey theme. How classy is that?

And my absolute favourite of the 3

The lace pattern with brown envelopes

I LOVE LOVE LOVE these....if it wasn't for everyone doing the blue & brown theme these days I would be all over this for so many different things.

Now I'll be ~~not so~~ patiently watching my mailbox!

Please please please....check out the Dingbat Press website by clicking HERE

To check the Etsy site to buy already made items click HERE

And for the blog, click HERE

Hint....there's another give away going on RIGHT now!

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Today's Quote

Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun.

~Mary Lou Cook

Weekend in Review

2009-07-06T10:14:00.000-04:00

I had such a nice weekend.

Friday night had a late dinner, walked Boone & then just relaxed.

Saturday morning we did our usual garage sale routine, I bought a couple of books :) Paid $1.50 total

Then Saturday afternoon it was sunny with a really nice refreshing breeze, I took advantage and was able to get all of my laundry done. I love that I was able to dry it all on our clothesline....

Saturday evening we headed out to Dairy Queen for some ice cream.

Then we went for a drive so Kristen could do some fishing and I was able to get a couple of AWESOME sunset photos of Boone but of course I forgot to upload them, so tomorrow will be the photos of Boone :)

It really cooled down Saturday evening, which meant the perfect time to have our first backyard fire of the year.

And yesterday I had a photoshoot, that sneak peek will be up on the photo blog later this week.

I can't say enough good things about this past weekend, busy enough, relaxing enough, productive enough, and enough time to spend with Kristen & Boone :)

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Today's Quote

"Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you."

~Oprah

Food Friday: Twice Baked Potatoes

2009-07-03T08:55:00.000-04:00

Sunday Kristen & I had baked potatoes.

I made too many.....

So on Monday I made "Twice Baked Potatoes"

Cut your baked potatoes in half.

Scoop out the inside and leave the "shells"

Fry some bacon

Grate about 1 cup of cheese, put half in a bowl with the scooped out potato

Leave the rest for later

Mix the cheese, bacon (including grease) and potatoes well and put in the potato shells

Now sprinkle that leftover shredded cheese on top

Bake at 350 til golden :)

YUM!!

Happy Friday

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Today's Quote

“The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.”

~Jon Hammond

Baby Update: 27 weeks

2009-07-02T12:01:00.000-04:00

Happy Thursday! I hope you enjoyed your Canada Day celebrations.

I'm officially just under 3 months until my due date of September 30th

Still feeling good, still growing, and this week the swelling of the feet has been non-existent.

Probably because weather-wise it's been much cooler.

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I have an appointment with my mid-wives next week, following that one they will then be every 2 weeks instead of once a month.

Time is sure flying by.

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Paint has been purchased for the nursery.

I haven't started painting yet though. Hoping to do that before I go on vacation in 2 weeks, but we will see how some final renos with our house pan out.

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Other than that....all is well :)

Today's Quote

Everything grows rounder and wider and weirder, and I sit here in the middle of it all and wonder who in the world you will turn out to be.

~Carrie Fisher

Canada Day '09

2009-07-01T10:58:00.001-04:00

Today I'm enjoying a relaxing day at home.

What a better way to celebrate Canada's birthday and being Canadian!

We are a very fortunate nation to have the freedom that we do.

And some of the luckiest people in the world to be known as the friendly country eh?

Not to mention some of the best mountains, rivers, oceans, scenery that our great earth has to offer.

This is what I see from my front porch looking up our street. Sure makes me proud!

Happy Canada Day!

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Today's Quote

Canada is a country whose main exports are hockey players and cold fronts. Our main imports are baseball players and acid rain.

~Pierre E. Trudeau

New Moon Movie

2009-06-30T09:05:00.000-04:00

November 20th....that's when the latest Twilight movie will be hitting the big screens

New Moon

I'm very excited...not sure if I'll actually get to the theatres or if I'll just wait for it to come out on DVD but either way it's exciting.

If you haven't checked out the trailer yet, you should.

Click HERE to view it!

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Today's Quote

A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken.

~James Dent

Weekend in Review

2009-06-29T09:09:00.000-04:00

What a weekend....so busy but oh so productive

Friday night I had an engagement session. Quite happy with those results. A sneak peek will be up on the photo blog later this week.

Saturday Kristen & I headed out for our usual garage sale routine where we discovered an Estate sale. I've never been to one before but boy did I have the time. This house had the BEST atiques and vintage items. I did get a couple of things. One is shown on my photo blog today. The other I'll show at a later time (lets just say it's a really cool photography prop)

Then we spent the evening with family, who had invited us to their house for a delicious dinner. Yum!

Sunday Kristen & I headed to Home Depot to get the supplies need to complete our basement AND...I bought the paint for the nursery. Hoping to have that done in the next couple of weeks before I go to Nfld on vacation. Figure if the nursery is empty, clean and painted then it'll be much easier to bring things home from the baby shower that my mom and friends are hosting while I'm there. Which I must admit I am pretty excited about.

And then last night we decided to unwind by watching the movie Gran Torino

This movie is VERY predictable YET I loved it.

Seriously....its been a while since I liked a movie this much.

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Today's Quote

Manners are the kindness we give without judgment or expectation.

~Tom Chiarella

Food Friday: Backyard BBQ

2009-06-26T09:18:00.000-04:00

Last weekend we hosted our 2nd Annual Backyard BBQ

Yes it was raining but that didn't keep us from still having a great time

Today I'll share some of the food & menu that we did for the day

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Appetizers:

Crackers & Melba Toast served with Roasted Red Pepper dip

Veggie Tray with Renee's Buttermilk Ranch Dressing...seriously this stuff is SO much better than regular ranch dressing

Newfie Appetizers which I really didn't want to make but Kristen requested them

Main Course (this is where Kristen comes in since he's the bbq master at our house)

Preparing the chicken....it passed Boone's inspection

Marinated and refrigerated overnight

The same with the beef roasts

Then the actual day of the bbq I forgot to take "after" photos...here's the best I could do since I remembered way late.....

Oh and we had smoked salmon too

Sidedish Menu

Baked Potatoe Bar with topping choices of butter, plain sour cream, sour cream & chives, shredded cheese and crumbled bacon

Corn on the cob

Grilled green beans in butter & garlic

Dinner Rolls

Again I remembered to take a photo after the fact...here's the leftovers....lol

Dessert

Jen's Caramel Cheesecake, which I TOTALLY forgot to take a picture of and it was probably the hit of the party. Everyone who tried it loved it and I even sent out the recipe afterwards :)

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Hey Dollies, this was Myrna's recipe. Again delicious!

And a healthier choice, a fruit tray of strawberries, clementines, mango and kiwi

Mmm....makes me want to go and prepare everything all over again. Yummy!

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Today's Quote

"It will be fine for a barbecue tonight, all this talk of hurricane force winds is rubbish" - John Fish

Baby Update: 26 Weeks

2009-06-25T09:02:00.000-04:00

I think I'm 26 weeks, yes I'm 26 weeks this week.

Obviously my forgetfulness hasn't lessened any, and with this brutal but awesome heat that we're getting my feet have taken it's toll with swelling.

But I'm not complaining, I love summer. I love these hots sunny days.

I just wish I were relaxing in my backyard with my feet up, getting some Vitamin D and watching Boone play in his pool.

Instead of sitting all day in an office which is what is causing the swelling :(

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According to my baby books the baby should be just under 2lbs by now and starting to put on weight, or "fill out" Kristen commented last night that he thinks my stomach feels firmer. I told him it must be everything getting tighter where the baby is getting bigger and there's only so much room in there...he, he.

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Other than the swelling bothering me I feel really good. Sleeping at night has been a little more restless but not unbearable. I still feel rested in the morning. I'm feeling the baby move lots and lots so that's a good thing.

And I'm cotinually growing which is good for the baby but not so good for my ego :)

I'm still really enjoying the experience of being pregnant. Quite surreal somedays but such a miracle.

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Today I finish up with a pregnancy quote that I thought was pretty cute.....LOL

Today's Quote

Life is tough enough without having someone kick you from the inside. ~Rita Rudner

Turkey Vultures

2009-06-24T08:52:00.000-04:00

While out for a Sunday afternoon drive down a country road Kristen saw this!

That's right a turkey vulture.

I find them kind of ugly & creepy looking. But very fascinating just the same.

He was patient for a minute or so for me to snap off a couple quick photos but then he flew away

So we went on our way....

While making our way back down the country road. Kristen noticed that they had flown up in a tree

Then it was his turn to take a couple of photos

Kristen took this photo which is my favourite of the vulutres even though it's more of a scenic photo rather than one of the turkey vultures themselves.

Today's Quote

Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul.

~John Muir

2nd Annual Backyard BBQ

2009-06-23T09:41:00.000-04:00

Last week was nuts! From Wednesday evening until Saturday I'm not sure if there was a day that I didn't go to the grocery store. But it's all good, Kristen and I love the work and preparations that go into our annual BBQ.

Good food and good times, can't ask for more than that.

Here are a few photos from Saturday :)

Oh yeah.....I was there too :)

Thanks to everyone who came....I seriously love you all.

You're all such good friends and you truly enrich our lives.

Today's Quote

“I took advantage, sucked up the nutrients that I could find, forged relationships with others in order to grow, bathed in the sunlight of the moment.”
— Novella Carpenter, from the book Farm City

Boone Is One!

2009-06-22T09:13:00.001-04:00

One year ago yesterday Boone came into the world :)

So yesterday we decided to celebrate

First we let Boone play with the sprinkler in the backyard

It was pretty hot on Sunday so then he took a dunk in his pool

Then he played with his toy...about 10 minutes after I took these photos I had to throw it in the garbage because he had it torn to pieces and was starting to eat the plastic

Then we headed to the front yard for some Kodak moments

This is my FAVOURITE :)

Isn't he beautiful? I might be a biased Mommy but yeah....I think he looks awesome in this photo

His ribbon says "Birthday Boy" if you can't read it clearly

The rest of the day he would play, sleep, play, sleep....until dinner time we took a few more photos

His 1 year old candle in his food. I know it looks gross but it's still cute

Time for gifts....well one gift...a new sheep toy! When Kristen brought it out from the store, I said this is cute enough to go in the nursery...we can't give this to Boone!!

But it was Boone's gift and he loved it...even this morning he was still walking around the house with it in his mouth.

And that was Boone's first birthday. Not sure if we'll do the same next year considering we'll have a little one crawling around but it'd sure be nice if we could :)

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Today's Quote

"I know for sure that life is full of delightful treasures, if we take a moment to look around." — Oprah

Food Friday: Drying Herbs

2009-06-19T07:13:00.001-04:00

Have you started your herb garden yet?

If yes, here's a little step by step tutorial on how to dry your herbs when there's just to many growing out of your pot and so little time to use them fresh.

I read a blog called Purple Lemon Designs where she did a post about doing just that.

Read the step by step instructions HERE

And Happy Birthday to my bro
This photo was at Christmas....which you probably have figured out by looking at the tree

Today's Quote

“What it comes down to, for me, is that people want to do what will make them happy, but in order to understand that they really have to understand their world and what is going on around them.”
— Mark Zuckerberg

Port Dover

2009-06-18T09:09:00.001-04:00

And now some photos of around town and the pier from our day trip to Port Dover

Kristen & his buddy Boone

What's that you're looking at Boone?

Ahhh I see....ducks

The beach...no dogs allowed!

The lighthouse & some seagulls

Today's Quote

It is a fine thing to have ability, but the ability to discover ability in others is the true test.

-- Elbert Hubbard

Murphy's Diner - 2009 edition

2009-06-17T09:31:00.001-04:00

August 2006 I did THIS POST

I still can't believe I've been blogging just over 4 years

Anyway.....that post was of when Kristen & I stopped at a little restaurant for lunch called "Murphy's Diner" to eat the best burger I have personally ever had.

I've since learned it's not "ham" per se but a good 'ol slice of cottage roll that gives this homemade burger it's extra something special.

Here are a few photos from our Murphy's Diner re-visit - 2009 edition....and yes the burger was as good as I remembered.

First Kristen checking out the menu

While waiting for our burgers I snapped a few photos around the Diner & our table

Yep that sure is a bottle of Frank's Red Hot sauce

THE highlight of the place for Kristen is that they serve hot pepper rings with your meal

Then the meal arrived.....cheers heard all around.

Well not really but in my head there were :)

See the cottage roll on the burger? Yum-O!

It may not look like it but I was really happy :)

See?

Today's Quote

Some beautiful things are more impressive when left imperfect than when too highly finished.

—Francois de La Rochefoucauld