Three Weeks of Happenings

-halloween came and went. (why does that seem like it was so long ago.) I was both happy and sad about that. It was the last year for any of my children to dress up and go out trick or treating. Since Halloween isn't one of my favourite occasions, I'm glad, but sad that my baby is growing up.

-both Matt and Spencer have started their in-car driving lessons. Why did we put them both in at the same time? I have enough grey hairs as it it.

-Cameron and Spencer played Oh Canada at the Argos game (with the combined Divisional Youth Band and the Junior Divisional Youth Band)

-we ran the first scrapbooking day at our Church. I eneded up doing a beginner class ... not my strong suit and totally out of my comfort zone!

-we celebrated John's (ahem) 48th!!!!! birthday. Yes, he's older than me! Not by much, but he's older. (as long as I keep reminding him, and myself, of that, it makes me feel younger, lol)

-We went to London to take my parents to Cirque Du Soleil. Wow! What an awesome show! I can't wait to see more.

-I've been bitten. Yes, it's true! I just had to check it out to see what all the fuss was about. Now, I'm a Twihard! My friend, Joanne, loaned me her Twilight books and now I can't put them down. I even had to watch the first movie.

-Milena and I are going to New Moon tomorrow afternoon, to sit in a theatre filled with a bunch of screaming teenagers. What are we thinking??

-Spencer was asked to play trumpet for a school production. It's him, a piano player, and a drummer. I think he's enjoying it ... but it's eating away at all his free time at the moment.

-I haven't had the time or energy to do much in the way of scrapbooking lately. I just picked up a tonne of new pictures from Costco so I really have no excuse.

Wow! Has it really been three weeks since I've blogged? It's not often that I neglect it for that long. Actually, in many ways, it seems like it's been three months.

You know how sometimes life has a way of taking the wind out of your sails? The past three weeks have been rather stressful around here. I can't really go into all the gory details, but I think we have the whole mess all sorted out and have things in place to help.

I really appreciate those who noticed my absense and were checking up on me. It feels so nice to be missed and loved like that. I had a nice long chat with an on-line friend last night who knows first hand what we are going through. I don't know if it's that misery likes company, or more that it's nice to talk to someone who really gets it.

I've been reading the blogs on my reader list, and have tried to make some comments. I promice that I will get to those very soon.

Sketchapalooza

I decided to kick my creativity into high gear (especially before December hits and I'm forced to put it all on hold.) I love using sketches when I scrapbook so I signed up for Sketchapalooza. It's a fast paced class that lasts for 4 weeks with 20 different sketches (4 each week). It started this week and so far we have had two sketches. Wanna see the finished layouts? Well, even if you don't, here they are:

This is a layout about my friend, Deb, who got engaged a few months ago. I'm so happy for her.

And one about the special bond I have with Rick (my younger brother with Downs Syndrome)

If you're interested in joining in on the fun, I'm sure it's not too late. Just go here: http://feelingscrappyclasses.blogspot.com/search/label/Classes

Thirteen of our Favourite Meals

1. Satay Chicken Noodles. I think this would probably top everyone's list here. Whenever I make it I make a lot so we have enough for leftovers. Unfortunately the leftovers don't usually last until the next day because they're eaten.

2. Pork Tenderloin - I have a very yummy recipe that has a nice marinade that I thicken into a sauce for serving.

3. Chicken Cordon Bleu - Very fiddlely, but worth the effort.

4. Chicken Divan.

5. Chicken Broccoli Braid - a Pampered Chef recipe. Yum. We had it for supper last night and I have some leftovers for my lunch today. Can't wait.

6. Tacos. Not my favourite, but everyone else loves them so they're on the list.

7. Chicken Enchiladas

8. Chicken Fried Rice - another meal that I make a tonne of for the leftovers

9. Fajitas

10. Roast Beef - John's favourite

11. Teriyake Chicken Burgers on the BBQ

12. Steak - in mom's special marinade

13. Maple Pork

All that being said, my boys will eat just about anything that I put in front of them and they always make me feel like I'm a gourmet cook (which I so am not!)

I'm hungry.

To play along with Thursday Thirteen, or to see others who do, go here: http://thursday-13.com/

Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY...

Outside my window... the day is just starting and the sun is rising. 20 minutes ago the sky was still black, but now it's a nix of grey, pink, and orange.

I am thinking... that I could get so much more done with my time if I would just shut off my computer.

From the scrapbook room ... nothing this week. I didn't get anything done. I learned how to download some digital files and how to use some of them.

From the kitchen... dinner will be very easy for the next three nights. John is travelling and while he's away, we eat a little differently (and not in a good way, lol)

I am wearing... my PJs still. If the truth be known, I would live in my pjs.

I am going... for lunch today with a couple of friends ... at least I'm supposed to be, we'll see how Cameron is feeling.

I am reading... I'm going to borrow the Twighlight books from Joanne today.

I am hoping... that Cameron recovers from this flu bug quickly and that no one else gets it.

I am hearing... Spencer in the kitchen getting his breakfast.

Around the house... two boys are still in bed. One is on Reading Week (and needs to get up soon to get to some assignments) and the other has the flu.

One of my favorite things... the wonderful colours and smells of this season.

A few plans for the rest of the week:
-Chiropractor appointments
-dental appointment
-lunch today (maybe)
-get ready for halloween
-photo editing and layout planning

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
This is a layout I did for a scraplift challenge. The ladies in the picure are some of the original lunch bunch ladies. Some have moved onto other things, but some of us are still getting together every Tuesday (for about 9 years now).

Doing a Fly By

I'm just popping in quickly today to share a couple of layouts.

On our way to Tennessee last year we went through West Virginia. We were reading about a bridge that we were going to be crossing and it was listed as a must-see attraction. So, we pulled off. It was hot and we had to hike a short distance to see it. When we got there we all looked at each other and said "It's just a bridge." I don't know what we were expecting. Check out the looks on the boys' faces, LOL!

This one is of one of our favourite things to do at the trailer - put together a puzzle.

OK, I'm off. We have a busy day ahead of us. Enjoy your day.

Week Wrap Up

I've been going to the chiropractor three times a week, and, in the course of conversation, he will always ask me what I have on for the day. Then John will come home and ask me how my day was and what I did (no, he's not checking up on me, he's taking an interest in my day.) I usually reply "not much." Most of my day is filled with very mundane activities of a stay at home mom - certainly not blog-worthy material.

So, this morning I find myself at the end of another week, wondering what I managed to accomplish, and what exciting things happened. So, here's my recap of the week:

-I won't include all the boring errands, housework, running boys around all over the map

- Cameron was accepted into the Halton Junior Jazz Band again for the school year. He was very excited to show me the paper telling us that he would be playing 1st trumpet this year. Needless to say, he has been practising the new pieces quite hard to prepare for their first rehersal on Tuesday of next week. I really wish I had taken a picture of the look on his face and how he was beaming with pride! We're so proud of him too.

-Cameron and I attended another training session this week on his lap top. This time we learned Dragon Speak. This will be the main software that he will be using. He did voice training with it, and now he can just speak into the head set and the computer will type his words and follow his commands (Ok, not all his commands, but you know what I mean.) Facinating!! I'm always astounded at the assistive technology out there.

-We have organized the first scrapbooking day at our Church. Once a month we will be hosting a day. There are some ladies who are wanting to begin so I will be doing some beginner classes.

-Matt has been struggling the last couple of weeks with the work load at school. He has some overdue assignments and a couple of tests to make up. Fortunately he has a reading week next week so he will be using that time to get all caught up again.

-we finally ordered our new front door. For those who don't remember, we had a break-in last March. They kicked through the front door damaging the door frame. As a result, the whole door/side light system has to be replaced. It took us a while to decide, but I'm very exctied about what we finally decided on.

This is what it will look like, but just one side light.

Unfortunately its about an 8 week wait until install so it won't be in in time for Christmas.

-we have a free day today. Yay! I actually managed to sleep in until 9:30. All those 6 a.m. mornings are catching up with me.

It's time again ...

for Thursday Thirteen. I'm thinking that it would be nice if time slowed down just a little between each Thursday.

Anyway, my list this week is
Thirteen recent songs I put on my ipod:

1. I gotta Feeling - Black Eyes Peas
2. If It Kills Me - Jason Mraz
3. Cecillia - Simon and Garfunkel
4. Kiss a Girl - Keith Urban
5. Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop - Landon Pigg
6. When I Go - Slow Club
7. Wash Away - Joe Purdy
8. The Sweet Escape - Gwen Stafani
9. Hallelujah - Jeff Buckley
10. Time of Your Life - Green Day
11. Ordinary Day - Emillie Mover
12. Hey There Deilah - Plain White Ts
13. Ordinary Day - Great Big Sea

What's your list about this week? If you want to participate, go to the Thursday Thirteen Meme here http://thursday-13.com/

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY (Monday, October 19th)

Outside my window... it's a beautiful fall day. The sun is shining, the sky is blue and the air is crisp. I love days like this.

I am wondering... if anyone actually reads my simple woman's daybook when I participate in it.

I am thankful for... friends who share my passion for scrapbooking. I enjy spending time with them either cropping, shopping, or just chatting. I'm blessed.

From the scrapbook room ... I spent the day at a crop on Saturday. I didn't get as much done as I could have, but I had a great day laughing and chatting. I even got my bags all unpacked and all my stuff organized and put away again.

From the kitchen... Satay chicken noodles. Yum!!

I am wearing... my usual Monday morning yoga pants and top, with a green sweater over top.

I am creating... I just finished my menu box to hold my weekly menus and recipies. I will post pictures later.

I am going... To the Chiropractor shortly. I think it's making a difference. I haven't woke up with a sore back in a week.

I am reading... nothing right now. I've been wondering if I should pick up Twilight and see what all the fuss is about.

I am hoping...

I am hearing... the news on the television. Can you believe the Balloon Boy story?? What do you think, hoax or no? It sure sounds like it's a hoax.

Around the house... It's time to get painting again ... especially before things get busy for Christmas.

One of my favorite things... looking out both the window in the family room, and my scraproom, and seeing the big tree right outside with the bright golden leaves ... especially when the sun is shining on it. Beautiful!

A few plans for the rest of the week: Same old, same old around here. Driving boys around, cooking, cleaning, laundry. Nothing exciting.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...
This was for a challenge where I had to use both bling and a heart on a page. That's a challenge with teenage boy pages.



To participate in the meme and see others who have, go to http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

How fun!

I was surfing some of the blogs from the Scrapbook Star girls and I came across this video on Nita's Blog.



What a great way to encourage positive behaviour.

Being Thankful

I'm a little late on this. It was a very busy weekend for me. Still, I wanted to take a moment to list all the things that I'm very thankful for at this time of the year.
I'm thankful for
-my wonderful husband
-my three sons
-having a great extended family who are very supportive
-great friends
-having a roof over my head and food on the table
-A God who cares enough for me to have a personal relationship with me
-great health care which won't put us into the poor house
-good health
-hearing the laughter of children
-my cat Oliver who is a great source of comfort and relaxation for me
-time to savour the fleeting moments of my boys and their childhood
-music
-chocolate
-the internet and this information age
-dedicated teachers
-scrapbooking
-a husband who supports my scrapbooking
-the wonderful colours and smells of Autumn
-my ipod touch
-being able to capture moments in pictures
-curling up on the couch in front of the fire on a cool night
-warm fuzzy pjs and socks
-fresh produce
-the 4 seasons
-Tim Hortens
-true love
-the smell of flowers
-mom's pumpkin pie - YUM!

I'm sure I could go on and on, but I think I will end it with saying that I feel so blessed and fortunate. I have all I need in life ... all that's important.

Another Week

Another week has zipped by and is coming to a close. At the beginning of the week I always have such great ambitions about what I want to accomplish during that week, but then end up not even getting to half of what I needed and wanted to do. Maybe I shouldn't have such an extensive list, or maybe I need to take extra caffine, I don't know.

Anyway, here's a list of what I did manage to get done this week:

-I finished a recipe/menu box that I've been working on for a few weeks. (I will post more about that when I take pictures.)

-I managed to get everyone to where they needed to be on time

-endless housework

-shopping for Monday's big family dinner that will be here. Today there's still more to do

-I went on a jeans hunt for Cameron's pants. At the beginning of September he had a drawer full of pants. I have no idea what happened to them all. I had to throw 2 pairs out this week because the knees were gone. The rest are mia! I did manage to find two of them at the bottom of Spencer's closet (?!?!?!?!?) He also told me that he had at least one pair in his locker at school. Sheesh!

-I went through Spencer's clothes to see what he's needing for the fall/winter. It looks like we will be going shopping this afternoon for more jeans for him too. Why won't they stop growing?

-we managed to get up the new chandalier - very nice!! I love it.

-I got some more scrapping done.

-I spent far too much time on this computer!!

Well, there's always next week, sigh!

This is a recent layout I did. I took these pictures of Spencer last Spring when he was taking the Go Train into Toronto by himself to attend a Master's Class for piano. It really struck me at just how grown up and independent he is becoming.

Thursday Thirteen

Hmmmm .... what to write for this week's list.

Well, I guess I will do a completely random list of just thirteen things in my head. This could be scarey!

1. I just bought 4 tickets to Cirqu Du Soleil. We're going to take my parents. I still owe my dad a birthday gift, and we want to thank them for giving up a week to come and chaufeur my kids around while I was away.

2. Thanksgiving is this weekend. I love Thankgiving.

3. On Sunday we're going to go to Guelph to spend the day with John's family.

4. On Monday my family is coming here for turkey.

5. We managed to find a big bird!

6. I bought impulsively ... well, not really impulsively because I've been thinking about it for a long time ... yesterday. I bought a new chandalier for the dining room. John doesn't like it, but I told him he will once it's up. He will. I really love it. I had enough of the cheap Walmart one that's been there for the last 9 years.

7. I got the results from the assessment from the Chiropractor. I has scoliosis! Yes, that's right. The bottom of my spine curves one way and then my neck curves in the opposite direction. No wonder I've been having back and neck pain, and migraines. Hopefully it will get better after he works his magic. I've gone for two adjustments and this morning I woke up without a sore back!

8. I'm still scrapping. Tomorrow night I'm going to Cathy's for a scrapping night at her house ... unless she's too tired from her trip.

9. Wow! Was it ever windy yesterday. I saw a lady who was struggling with her gazebo that was in a tangled mess. I was so happy that I took our canopy off ours when I heard that we were going to get a lot of wind this week.

10. It doesn't look like the weather is going to be that great this weekend. It really feels like winter is coming. It's too early for these temperatures.

11. John's taking the day off tomorrow. It's been a long time since we've spent the day together without the kids around. I wonder where we'll go for lunch.

12. It's a crazy schedule in our house right now. Our normal, sit and eat as a family for dinner, routine is all messed up. We're all eating on the fly right now. Monday and Wednesday Matt and Spencer have driver's ed at 6 p.m. so John has to eat by himself. Tuesday Matt is late getting home, and Spencer has to leave early for Jazz band and I drive him. John's comes home a little earlier but eats by himself and then leaves for badminton and Matt eats by himself when he gets home. Thursday is band practise night so Cameron, Spencer and I eat, Matt eats at school and then I pick him up, and John eats on his way to band practise. Friday is our only evening together right now ... and the weekends. Fortunately Driver's Ed is only for another two weeks.

13. I'm really struggling with the fact that my boys are growing into adulthood. I know it's natural, and I'm trying to facilitate it, but I don't have to like it, do I? OK, sometimes I love it, but sometimes I miss my little boys.

To participate in Thursday Thirteen, go here:
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Blog Challenge

Over at Scrapbook Star we have started a blogging group where we will have some blogging challenges and just share our blogs with each other when we update them. It should be a lot of fun.

The first challenge is a simple one: share your favourite scrapbook product right now.

Well, right now, I'm totally addicted to journaling spots/blocks. I love them. Every time I hit a store, the first thing I'm looking for are journaling spots. I'm starting to build a nice little stash of them. I just need to get over the "they're too nice to use" thought in my head.

These ones are digital, unfortunately! Aren't they gorgeous?

Check out these journaling stamps by 7 gypsies. I need to find these!

Here's are recent layout I did (a very quick and simple one) using a journaling spot. I'm sure you'll be seeing a lot more of these in the near future!

Trying a new Sunday Meme

Sorry, I don't really have anything blog worthy today so this will have to do. This one is from
Sunday Stealing: The Starrlight Meme

1. What was the last thing you put in your mouth?
I just had a cup of tea and some toast with honey on it.

2. Where was your profile picture taken?
At my Great-Aunt's 90th birthday celebration.

3. Can you play Guitar Hero?
Not very well. I have played it a handful of times with the boys and end up embarrassing myself.

4. Name someone who made you laugh today. What was it about?
John made me laugh, but it's a little ex-rated so I don't think I'll repeat it here.

5. How late did you stay up last night and why?
I think I was in bed by 10:30. I'm an earlier to bed kinda girl. I like to curl up for a while with a book, magazine, or some mindless TV. It's not long before I'm starting to drift off.

6. If you could move somewhere else where would you and why?
I love living in Canada and would never want to move away permanently. We have lived in Barbados for 5 years when the boys were small and really enjoyed the experience. I would love to live somewhere abroad like that again for a fix number of years.

7. Ever been kissed under fireworks?
I think so, but obviously it wasn't that memorable as I can't say for sure.

8. Which of your friends lives closest to you?
I have a few friends that live fairly close. I think the closest ones would be Deb, who is about 15 minutes, and Milena, who is about the same.

9. Do you believe ex's can be friends? With benefits?
I think they can be friendly and even enjoy spending time together, but definitely not friends with benifits ... without it becoming too complicated.

10. Do you like Dr. Pepper?
Ewwww!

11. When was the last time you cried really hard? Really hard as opposed to just sniveling?
Probably within the last year.

12. Who took your profile picture?
either my dad or my sister.

13. Who was the last person you took a picture of?
Probably the girls I traveled to Maine with.

14. Was yesterday better than today? Why?
About the same. Busy with boys and their rehearsals.

15. Can you live a day without TV?
Yes. It would be easy too because there's not much on TV these days that it must-see. Actually, the whole week I was in Maine I think I only watched TV twice.

16. Are you upset about anything now?
No.

17. Do you think relationships are ever really worth it?
Absolutely!! ...and they are necessary.

18. Are you a bad influence?
Ummmm ... I would say no, but my boys may say something different, LOL!

19. Night out or night in?
Night in. I'm a homebody.

20. What items could you not go without during the day?
My laptop, my hairdryer and curling iron. (I just have to straighten my hair.)

21. Who was the last person you visited in the hospital?
Ummmm ... I don't know. Fortunately my family and friends are all pretty healthy.

22. What does the last text message in your inbox say?
"The bus is running late so I'm going to be another 15 minutes."

23. How do you feel about your life right now?
Very content.

24. Do you hate anyone?
No one in particular, just people who bully, and mistreat other people.

25. If we were to look in your Facebook inbox, what would we find?
Arrangements being made for Thanksgiving dinner.

26. Say you were given a drug test right now, would you pass?
Yes.

27. Has anyone ever called you perfect before?
Just my dh (John)

28. What song is stuck in your head?
None right now, so don't put one there, thank you very much.

29. Someone knocks on your window at 2 a.m., whom do you want it to be?
Someone telling me the house is on fire, otherwise they better not be knocking on my window at that time of the morning. LOL!

30. Do you (or did you) want to have grandkids before you’re 50?
No and No I don't want to either.

31. Tell us your Saturday night.
Last night we were at a Salvation Army band concert that Cameron was playing it. We had to drop him off early for a rehearsal so John and I went for dinner - just the two of us. We don't do that often enough.

32. Do you think too much or too little?
I think way too much. I tend to analyse things to death.

33. Do you smile a lot?
I don't think I smile often enough, although one of the mom's from school said that I'm always smiling.


I'd love to hear all your answers to these questions.

Not a creature was stirring ... not even a mouse!

It's very quiet here this morning. I had every intention of sleeping in, but I woke up a 7 and couldn't get back to sleep. So, here I sit, enjoying the peace a quiet, totally envious of everyone else in the house who are still sleeping soundly.

In attempt to make this totally useless post have purpose, here's a random list of some things that are going on around here:

-Matt is doing well at school. He's enjoying the couse (particularly working in the lab) and seems to be keeping up on the work load. I know it was a huge adjustment for him to start at college and to have a full course load. He has met up with some of the "kids" that he met while in Dominican Republic. Some of them are at the same college. He has been hanging out with them a little.

-Matt and Spencer started Driver's Ed this week. Yikes!

-Cameron is doing well with his laptop. If you remember last winter when it was being prescribed for him he was fighting getting one and we got him to reluctantly agree to it. (a lot of kids get one, but then refuse to use it in school - which seems very pointless.) He's been using it in his classes, and he has even had some of his friends ask how he got one. He and I go for another training session in a couple of weeks to learn more of the software that's on it.

-I broke down and went to a chiropractor yesterday for an assessment. There are definately some issues in my neck and lower back, but the thing that concerned me most was that when he asked me to walk heel to toe in a straight line, my whole centre of balance is off and it looked like I was drunk. I have to go back Monday for the results of all the tests and exrays that he took.

-My friend, Deb, is getting married. (I'm sure I mentioned it in a post back in the spring.) They have set a date for May and she has asked me to be her Maid of Honour (I'm going to refuse saying Matron because it makes me feel old)

-it's going to be a busy weekend. Today we have to head into Agincourt. Cameron has a band rehersal in the afternoon and a concert in the evening. Maybe we'll kill time in between at Ikea. I love Ikea.

-Sunday is a DYB rehersal for Spencer so that means going back into Toronto in the evening.

-last night we went to Mother Tuckers to celebrate Spencer's birthday. I was very surprised that he didn't choose Mandarin.

-I'm back in the scrapping groove. In fact, I think I'm going to end this and go and scrap while no one is begging for the computer that sits on my table.

Here's another recent layout:

Freebie

I found this yesterday when I went wandering around the internet. It's very cool to print as a mini book, but I think I just may use it for journaling blocks.

You can find the download here:
whiskergraphics

In other news, last night we were at the high school for the Awards of Excellence night. Spencer got an Honour Roll award as well as the Grade 12 music award. Of course, he didn't tell me until Wednesday that he was getting the Honour Roll award (which we knew that he was on the honour roll anyway) but he didn't say anything about the music award. Actually, I don't even think he knew that he was getting it until it was in his hand. What a guy! We're so proud of him!

Today he turns 17! Where does the time go? I have to admit that I'm struggling with his growing up ... and in all likelyhood leaving home next year for University. Don't get me wrong, I'm excited for him and his future, I'm just not ready for one of my chicks to fly the coop.



Here are some then and now pictures. In the first one he's the baby, of course. In the second one he's the cute blondie on the left. (although, they're all cute!)











And now:





Happy birthday Spencer! We love you!

I need to step it up!

My brother asked us to set a blogging goal several months ago and I said that by the end of the year I would be at 500 posts. Well, if I'm going to make that goal then I need to get busy! I will apologize in advance for the silly and senseless post I will be making ... oh wait, is that any different then I do now? Oh well. Business as usual I guess ... just more of it.

By the way, David has just hit 500 and he started blogging at least a year or two after I started.

OK, so I'll stop blathering and just share two layouts that I completed last week while I was watching the leaves change in the mountains. Sigh!

Why is it that I can't seem to get a picture with my boys now without this happening?

Yes, another layout of Cameron hunting for critters. What can I say. It's the only time he's not making a face at the camera, LOL!

Thursday Thirteen

Thursday Thirteen

The last thirteen things I have purchased (let's see if I can remember them all):

1. Two metal pumpkin candle holders. (maybe I should count this as two.) (50%off)
2. Two candles to go into the pumpkin candle holders.
3. Two bags of candies for a project that Spencer is doing at school ... hmmmmm ... sounds suspicious doesn't it.
4. a Fall floral arrangement for our entry way (50% off ... gotta love it)
5. a note pad (can never have too many of these around)
6. a big pack of boy scrapbook paper from Michaels (yay, 40% off!)
7. groceries (I'm not listing them individually because they would take the whole list)
8. a scrapbook magazine
9. lunch from Harvey's (yum!)
10. tea from Timmies
11. the last of Matt's textbooks (actually he bought them with my debit card)
12. some journaling blocks (for scrapbooking)
13. more paper.

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others’ comments. It’s easy, and fun!

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Murder Mystery

One of the nights while we were away, we did a murder mystery party. It was Murder at the Deadwood Saloon. Everyone really got into it and played their characters really well. We laughed so much that I had a hard time keeping my moustache on. It was so much fun.

I was the bartender. Can you believe that? Too funny!

Very funny!

I saw this video at the final programme for National Music Camp. Everyone had tears in their eyes they were laughing so hard.

My family, and friends who are in the Salvation Army will really appreciate this. Enjoy.

I'm back after a very relaxing week away. It's always so nice to get away for a week like that with a group of friends who all enjoy each other. I love it. This year was a little more low-keyed than others as there wasn't a lot of shopping and touristy things to do. I thought it was great because it made for a very relaxing week and lots of scrapping time.

The highlight of the week was definately the zip lining. Three of us went. There were 10 zips, two suspension bridges, and two rapels. The longest zip was 830 feet across the tops of the trees with the mountain side below. It was so cool! I loved every second of it and can't wait to go again.

We took lots of pictures along the way. My friend, Joanne, took some videos too. Check them out! There was one video that showed how long the longest zip was, but the file was too big to upload and I didn't want to post it on youtube.

I'm Here.

I had every intention of posting lots while I was here in Maine, but somehow I just haven't found the time. I don't know why really, because I've had time.

It's quite beautiful here and I'm really enjoying being able to relax and do nothing more than hanging around with a great bunch of girls and scrapbooking. There isn't much to do in the way of tourist stuff in the area (which is a good thing because then I'm not tempted to go off and do other things.)

Tomorrow, three of us (the only brave ones in the group) are going on a three-hour canopy tour with zip lining. I can't wait!

Sorry there aren't any pictures as of yet. They are all still in my camera. I came to bed early to get rid of a headache, and here I am on the computer. Go figure! I will have pictures to share later.

OK, I'd better go to sleep. We have to be up very early to go zip lining.

I'm off!

I'm off this afternoon for my yearly scrapping vacation. I'm exhausted after everything I had to do to get ready, but I'm done and ready to go.

I'm leaving after picking Matt up from the Go Bus (hopefully by 1:30). After meeting with the other girls who are travelling together, we'll drive to Montreal tonight where we'll stay over night. Tomorrow morning we plan on hitting the scrapbook store there before continueing on to Main.

Then we're spending 7 wonderful nights in this nine-bedroom beauty! (poor me, I know. How will I ever manage.)

We will be cropping in the huge pool house.

So, that's it. I'm off with 19 of my scrapping buddies to crop in the mountains. I'll try and blog while I'm there, but I just may be too busy relaxing!

I'm getting there

I've been a little swamped this week with everything that I need to do to get myself, and my family ready for my going on vacation. I know all you moms out there know exactly what I mean. When John travels, all he has to do is pack his bag (usually an hour before leaving), grab his passport, and give everyone a kiss good-bye. I wish I could be so lucky. Not only do I have to get myself ready, but I have to make sure that everything is in place and ready for the family. Here's a list of all that I had or still have to do before I leave tomorrow:

-plan my layouts and get pictures printed

-prepare all the packets with paper and embellishments to go with the layouts and pictures

-pack my scrapbooking stuff

-pack my clothes

-make sure laundry is done for everyone - the older two do their own, but I still need to nag them to get it done

-figure out rides for all the activities and school

-figure out how Matt is going to get to and from the go bus everyday (thank you Mom and Dad for agreeing to come and stay for a week to chaufuer kids around.

-rearrange items on the schedule that I won't be able to attend

-get lots of cat food

-write lots of lists for everyone

-photo copy timetables, and bus schedules

-get groceries (although John will have to replenish every couple of days anyway because somehow it disappears as fast as it comes into the house)

-get Matt's old psyco-educational reports and other reports copied and into an envelope so he can take it to his meeting at the school next Friday

-make sure there is enough perscription medications for the week

-clean the fish tank because there's no way it would last another week ... OK, I actually farmed this job out to Cameron

-get the house somewhat cleaned

-send off an application for a youth retreat that Spencer wants to attend while I'm gone

-get Cameron some new black shoes for Sunday - somehow his feet grew so much in the span of the summer that he can't squeeze them in anymore

-get my indoor plants sprayed and brought back into the house from the backyard incase of frost (gasp!)

-banking - that is if I want any money to spend while I'm away

Sigh! I have a feeling I will be sleeping a lot in the car on the way to Maine.

OK, before I head off to tackle some more of my list, here's a layout that I did earlier in the summer from our day on the catamaran in the DR.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY, September 14th...

Outside my window... it looks like Fall is here. The leaves are starting to change and there's a coolness in the air. I don't mind because Fall is my favourite season.

I am thinking... that so far everyone has settled into school nicely. Matt seems to be enjoying college (although those 6 a.m. mornings are a bit draining for both of us) and Spencer and Cameron are resuming all their activities.

I am thankful for... such good boys. They are truly a blessing and my pride and joy. They are mischieveous as times (OK, a lot of the times) but they don't get into any trouble. They are wonderful!

From the scrap room ... I'm starting to pack up for our week away next week. We're off to Maine this year (for our annual girls scrapping vacation. We have a gorgeous 9 bedroom house overlooking the mountains. What a way to spend a week! I'll be sharing lots of pictures later, I'm sure.

From the kitchen... I'm thinking it will be chicken fried rice tonight.

I am wearing... jeans, a t shirt, and a sweater.

I am creating... a recipie/menu box to sit on my kitchen counter. I saw this idea on Jana Eubank's blog, and just had to make one for myself.

I am going... did I mention that I'm going for a week of scrapping in the mountains in Maine with 19 of my scrapping friends?

I am reading... I just finished reading "If I Did It" ... the murder confession book by OJ Simpson. What a chilling book!

I am hoping... that Matt is able to get all of his textbooks today from the college bookstore.

I am hearing... the bubbling of the fish tank ... the newly cleaned fish tank.

Around the house... the house is slowly getting back into order after a summer of coming and going, and no one to keep it tidy. Yesterday three of us took 2 hours to rearrange Matt's room, sort through everything, and spring clean it.

One of my favorite things... having a room that has just been spring cleaned.

A few plans for the rest of the week: I have so much to do this week.

-groceries (a few times this week)

-I have a costume to get for a murder mystery party

-I have to book driver's ed for two boys

-bring Rick home for a sleep over

-tonnes of emails to write

-to do lists to write for everyone

-go to the apple store in Mississauga for a microphone for my ipod touch

-training session at Cameron's school for his laptop

-cleaning - lots and lots of cleaning

-ditto for laundry

-pack

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Back to School Report Card

Matt:
Attitude - A
Getting ready on time - D (because he fell back asleep on his bed instead of getting in the shower)
Being Prepared - A - (I think he was getting a little annoyed with me checking that he had everything - but he proved to me that maybe I don't need to do that anymore.)
School Day - A - he made it to all his classes, made it to the book store, and made it home without missing a bus.
Looking ahead - A+ - It looks like he's going to enjoy the programme and do well. I think he's going to enjoy his new environment and love being "grown-up"

Spencer:
Attitude - B - he was rather grumpy
Getting ready on time - A - he made it to school in lots of time
Being Prepared - A+ - he was very organized for the day
School Day - A+ - he's quite happy with his classes and teachers. He has friends in all his classes.
Looking Ahead - A+ - He's going to really enjoy his year as a Senior in High School. He does well with the academics, has lots of friends, and is focussed. Great things ahead.

Cameron:
Attitude - C- -if it wasn't for the fact that every five minutes he was counting down on the clock until his "loss of freedom" he might have scored higher.
Getting Ready on time - A+ - this is huge for this very disorganized young man! He was wanting to leave ten minutes early.
Being Prepared - A+ - this, too is huge. He needed very little help from me to make sure that all his supplies were in order and where they needed to be.
School Day - A+ - he loves his teachers, has a couple of friends in his class and is already talking about music (that's my boy!)
Looking Ahead - A+ - I got a call from the SERT and his lap top should be in next week. We (Cameron and I) start our training sessions next week for the software.

Mom:
Attitude - B - I was a little anxious about how they were doing
Getting ready on time - A+ -I'm giving myself high marks for this one because I got a lot done before even starting the school runs.
Being Prepared - F - can you ever be prepared to send your first born off to college?
School Day - A++ - I went to visit some friends at lunch, I got a lot of errands done, and I got a lot done around the house.
Looking ahead - A+ - It's going to be a great school year for all of us.

5 End of Summer Thoughts:

1. Life in our household is changing for us as we send Matt off to college tomorrow. He seems to be OK with it all. I'm sure the next few weeks will be a huge learning experience for both of us.

2. Between music camp, vacation, and spending time at the trailer, I feel like I've hardly spent any time at home this summer. My house is really suffering because of it. It's a total mess and once the boys are off tomorrow I need to get my butt in gear and get it cleaned up again.

3. I don't think I went swimming once this whole summer. The weather really wasn't hot and I need to have really hot weather to get into the water. OK, I did go once when the twins came to the trailer. I got in with them. How could I resist that!

4. I enjoyed catching up with a lot of friends over the summer months ... many that I only get to see during the summer up at camp. I want to try and do a better job of keeping in contact through the winter months.

5. I need to spend the next couple of weeks getting ready for the annual scrapping vacation that I take each Fall with my scrapping friends. This year - Maine!

To participate in this Meme or to read others who do, go here: http://beccagirlblogspot.blogspot.com/

The last hurrah!

This is it. The last weekend of the summer. It has gone so fast.

We've just spent the last hour or so getting the backpacks ready. My head was all in a fog as I was trying to remember all the things we needed to do. I felt like a drill sargeant firing off instructions left, right, and centre. Matt and I spent a lot of time going over everything from schedule to what he needs to do when he arrives at college tomorrow. He has a whole list of things that he needs to see about tomorrow, from getting paperwork from the college to prove that he is a student there for the Go Bus (to get student fares), to seeing if he can switch a class to a different time slot, to getting a book list and dropping a fortune on books and fees. I just hope I didn't overwhelm him too much.

Anyway, we are laying low today. No one was wanting to leave the house. In fact, no one even wanted to get dressed, but at least we got that far.

Last night we decided to go to the drive in. It's been two or three years since we've done that. It was great. It was a double, double feature (4 movies) but we only made it through two of them. We saw the Time Traveller's Wife. Wow! Great movie! The other one we saw was Inglorious Basterds. Well, Matt enjoyed it, but the rest of us didn't. There were so many fast moving sub-titles that it was very hard to keep up. Poor Cameron probably missed most of what was going on. I ended up grabbing a nap about two-thirds of the way through. Still, it was fun. There's nothing like the experience of laying in the back of the van with the hatch open, in the cool of the night watching movies like that. Why don't we do it more often?

Doing some house cleaning

...not in the house, although it's in desperate need right now after I've been away for most of August. I've been house cleaning on my computer. I've been deleting old things, sorting other things, moving pictures into their right folders, and sorting through older layouts that I've scanned and never did anything.

So, here are a few that I don't think I've shared here, but have been taking up space on my computer for a while:

This is one that I did for an online challenge. You had to come up with 5 things that you like about yourself. Easy? Not so much.

A very quick and easy layout from our trip to Calgary 3 years ago. Yes, 3 years ago!

This one isn't as old. It's from our trip in March. It was a rainy day in the DR so we spent a lot of time in the room. Spencer and Cameron curled up together to watch a movie. How sweet!

I don't think I shared this one yet. It's from the same trip in March. It was inspired from a layout I saw on the internet somewhere, but it's been so long that I can't remember where.

I'm back from the trailer for another year ... except maybe a couple of weekends in the Fall. When I went back up last week, I dragged all three boys with me. Spencer was only there for a couple of days and then he went on Saturday to spend a week at the National Music Camp. Matt went home with John on Sunday, so it was just Cameron and I for a few days.

It was a very pleasant few days, just Cameron and I. We hung out together, he played lots of video games, and I got my scrapping stuff out. It felt really good to be scrapping again.

Now I'm home and have a lot to do to get everyone ready for school next week. I haven't even done back to school shopping yet. Yikes. It's going to ge a busy few days.

Before I leave and try and get to some of the chores around here, I'm uploading a new layout I did this week. It's the first layout from my Virginia Beach trip I took last year with my scrapbooking friends. I figured I'd better get going on some of these pictures because in a couple of weeks we're off on our 4th annual scrapbooking vacation and I will have another trip to scrap.




Ok, off to do some laundry and unpacking. Wish me luck!

Yes, it's true ... sad, but true!

I am the mother of three teenagers! Does that scare you? It does me.

Cameron turned 13 a week and a half ago. It's not like I didn't see it coming ... I had no choice. He kept reminding me everyday for the last month that it was going to happen. "Mom, 13!" That's all he had to say to see the blood rush from my face.

When the other two hit that milestone, somehow it was exciting for me. I knew I still had a little boy in the house. Not anymore. All I have to do is look around here to see that I have three teens who are quickly becoming men. Yikes.

So, as I mentioned in my last post, my niece, Jenn, my nephew Jason, and the twins came up to visit us at the trailer and it just so happened that it was on Cameron's birthday. We enjoyed a very yummy icecream cake and spent the afternoon swimming in the pool.

Check out these two cuties! Aren't they adorable!



That night we went into Newmarket to celebrate. When it's your birthday in our house, you get to choose where we go for dinner. Cameron's choice ... The Mandarin. (ouch! - but it was a little easier on the wallet as Spencer was at Music Camp)

So tell me, does this boy look like a teenager? All I see when I look at him is my little boy. (don't tell him that.)

Is it just me or has the summer just flown by?

After a busy July and two weeks on the road, I was looking forward to lots of R & R at the trailer for the month of August including lots of time for scrapbooking. Well, I've spent a lot of time at the trailer, but I haven't managed to get in any scrapbooking time. What I have been doing is enjoying lots of time with family and friends:

-My friend Milena, and her two girls came up for a couple of days. It was a very relaxing time.

-I attended a birthday party for my great-aunt who turned 90! It was so nice to spend a day with family that I don't get to see often enough.

this boy enjoys waterguns way too much!

-after the family function, my parents came to the trailer for a few days. It was the first time we had them to the trailer over night so we loved having them with us.

-while my parents were there, my aunt came for dinner

-My friend, Joanne, came up for a day of fun in the sun with the girls. Cameron really seemed to enjoy teasing them.

-we got together with friends at the trailer for a fun night of playing cards

-my neice, Jenn, and nephew, James came up for the day with Jenn's twin boys and it just so happened that it was Cameron's 13th birthday that day!

-our friends, Kevin and Bev, popped in for a visit when Bev was coming up to help out with a camp. We really don't get to spend enough time with them, but really enjoy our time together when we do

-my cousin, Carol, came for the afternoon and to drop off her son Josh, who stayed with us for the week to hang out with Cameron

-while Josh was with us, my Aunt Eva (who is Josh's grandmother) came for dinner again

-Senior Music Camp was in last week, so that meant being able to see, and catch-up with many people that I don't get to see throughout the year

I have really enjoyed my time with everyone. For those who know me well, you know that I'm an introvert by nature which means that, while I enjoy being with others, it is exhausting, and we need some "alone-time" to recharge.

So .... that's what I am doing now. I'm home for a few days to recharge (between going for dinner with the girls tonight, doctors appointments tomorrow and going for lunch with Deb on Tuesday). I feel like I could sleep for a week!