Fresh

Wow, so October proved to be a bit of a dark month for me. I had found a new lump while doing a breast exam late September...had my Dr. appointment October 9th...Dr. said "This is a cause for concern, and I found 4 other lumps" and wanted to get me in for a Mamo and ultra sound as soon as possible, which ended up being November 8th. So as positive as I tried to be my thoughts often took me down a darker path and often thought of what every ones life would be like without me and I am overjoyed to report we don't have to find out for a really long time!!!! Seriously imagine a world without me...how dull. *wink* During my dark month I ate way to much Halloween Candy and started baking bread...my thoughts were "Well, I may as well plump myself up because who knows what the next few months will look like." Bad move. Now I have to detox...ugh. Back on track as the saying goes.

I have a few "Clever & Lovely" things I would like to report on. I purchased a King Sized Brunelli Duvet from 'Harbour Rose' downtown Kincardine and it is DIVINE. The weight of it is perfect, it has the little doohickies to tie into the duvet cover so it doesn't slide down. (major peeve of mine)I love the sound of it when I move around, it is so cozy I may have a nap under it today. You seriously need one for this winter, it's going to be a cold one, I can just feel it.

If you have not eaten at "The Bruce" in a while it is high time you rediscover this lakeview restaurant and please do yourself a favor and order The Bruce Burger (Jr.), it is so tasty and the homemade buns really adds to the yummyness. Another added bonus about "The Bruce" is they are serving Organic beef. I find their food actually tastes fresh and good in comparison to other roadhouse type restaurants. (Which by the way an employee at a highway restaurant told me all there food comes from a "box in the freezer".) Think 'local' not 'corporate' the next time you are picking a restaurant.

My new favorite place to hang out is "Bean's Bistro", another lovely lake view setting. This is the former "Books and Beans". It has undergone a makeover inside and out, and I believe new management, she is delightful and efficient and is most definitely a welcoming face. Nice moves on the new hires so far. Oh and for all you mommies and daddies out there....da da da da...they have a change table in the bathroom...how novel. And they are getting in high chairs. It is about time someone taps into "Work at Home parents" and "Moms on Mat leave" gang. We like coffee, we like getting out of the house, we like businesses to cater to us...cause guess what? We'll come back again and again and again. Oh another point to mention about "Beans Bistro", you will not find anyone, patrons or employees smoking out front or side. wooo hooo. That was always a little "off putting". And I betcha didn't know this, they serve hot breakfast, bacon, eggs, toast, fruit and potatoes and a cup of their great coffee for only $5.75.

Well great, now I'm hungry!


Peace, love and joy to you and yours
Marcia

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So Tired.

I have been feeling a little glum lately. I'm working on changing that, positive thoughts, smile more etc. but I just can't seem to shake it sometimes. Last night I stayed up until 1 cuddling my snoring dog and smelling her corn chip paws. Then finally dragged my bum to bed. Sadly this morning I was just soooo tired. I got up and served my kids an atrocious breakfast....freakin' fruit loops (Grrrrr Dalton) and OJ and kiwis (so not too bad). Made yummy lunches for the kiddos, got them on the bus, let the dog out for a pee. Trixie curled back up in her bed and I devilishly said "Good Night Again" and I curled back up in my pok-a-dot sheeted bed for 2 extra glorious hours of much needed sleep. The house was so peaceful and warm while the winds were howling and branches banging outside. I felt at peace, I felt thankful, I felt....more rested.

The kids will be home soon, early dismissal day. We are going to snuggle on the couch and eat popcorn and watch Marley and Me.

Rolie and I have a date tonight with some other mothers and their oldest. We are going to see Craig Kielburger founder of Free The Children
Really looking forward to it.

Hope you are having a lovely day
Marcia

Puppy Update

Trixie Vans is 5 months old!



Our girl is growing up. We are in love. Trixie is a lovely little dog that is soon to be big. Her muscles are really starting to show and she is quickly growing into her skin. Her under bite is the cutest thing ever. Her brindle markings are starting to lighten. She is a happy dog and loved very much. Our American Bulldog rocks.

Woof.

Lady Weekend

I have never been alone in my house for a whole weekend. No husband, no kids. For the first time in 7 years...7 years! I watched as Dalton and the Kids loaded up the Jeep and headed for London to spend time with Big Grandad and Auntie Anne.
Is it wrong I was a little giddy about it? Even if I was going to clean the house for a couple of hours. I got to clean it...and no one was there to drop a toy and leave it, mess up my newly mopped floors, dishevel their beds, leave Canadian Tire flyer's on my counter. It was glorious.
My dear friend Lisa arrived late Friday night, we drank wine, ate nibbles, and girl talked to late at night. Saturday we slept until 9 am, got the house ready for a wonderful workshop I hosted at the house. "Calm Mum", created and facilitated by Carol Peat and I implore you to check out her company Babies Naturally, yes even if your kids are 5 and 7. We can all use some guidance ie. "hand holding" and personal growth as parents education, and Carol is the person to do it, from preconception to teens. The workshop took place with 6 other women and I believe we all left better mothers (and daughters for that matter). In a perfect world Carol Peats workshop would be mandatory for all parents and grandparents, much like getting a drivers licence before you can drive. I feel refreshed as a Calm Mum, I'm going to trust my instincts and my children more, they know what they want and need and if we are patient, present and aware they let us know. I am going to try my best to not worry about what other people think of me and my parenting simply because "Their judgement/opinion of me and my parenting is none of my business." Don't you just love that? Lets write it again "Other peoples opinion of me is none of my business." Freeing...isn't it? and Breath.

So later that day Lisa and I took Trixie for a big walk at the lagoons, it was a lovely walk, crunching on leaves, sunshine and chatting. Oh and Trixie ate shit. How gross is that? I said "So that's what getting shit faced really is?" I can seriously crack myself up. I'm my own personal stand-up comedian.

Then...Lisa and I got gussied up and went out for a delightful dinner and wine at Tramontos then Guinness time at Hawg's Breath. Such fun with a dear friend.

On Sunday I slept till 11:00, hot damn that was nice. Then the kids and Dalton got back in the afternoon and I was soooooo happy to see them and smooch their spectacular little faces.

Have a lovely day,
Marcia
xoxox

Our new baby

Trixie Vans Spencer



Our family has been blessed with a new addition. Her name is Trixie. She is an American Bulldog. She is so lovely and has a great personality.
Sasha now has a kindred in the house.

Nighty night
Marcia

Answering The Call

I need to write this post as a "shout out" to a friend who "Answered The Call". This call happened to be "The Call of a Mom needing a time out from children". She was "picking up what I was laying down" on a facebook status this past week. And I just want to say how grateful I am for her. Rolie had a great day and I had some much needed quiet time with Sasha. So thank-you Ashley, your kindness was so appriciated.

Have a lovely Saturday evening,
Marcia
xoxoxoxo

Buisness up front...Party in the Back

This photo is the "Pre-Mullet" stage. I'll post the new do when he gets it.
My boy in jonesing for Mullet. Rolie has been watching RAD the movie and loves the guys hair. So Dalton told him he could get it...maybe even get a RAT TAIL!!!!! For the love of Justin Beiber someone throw me a life line. Apparently fauxhawks and brush cuts and even The Beibs hair just won't do. Rolie says "Mom, it's okay, I just want a mullet, and I want to bring back the '80's, old school style". So from this moment on Roland is officially no longer allowed to hang out with his Dad, ever again, no more long bike rides and all the chatting and reminiscing because it is affecting the way I want to style my son. (Of coarse I kid, he can totally hang out with his Dad & as if Rolie ever let me style him in the first place.) My main thing is for Dalton to not be the one to cut his hair, this is a job for a professional.

On another note: I got gussied-up this past week, on Wednesday in fact, to go out to dinner and see Sting at the JLC in London. I went with my lovely seestor Amy and Mom and Dad, the folks just celebrated their 42nd Wedding Anniversary so we did it up right, no hubbies and no kids! ha ha ha. Actually, the hubbies and kids would have LOVED the concert. It was a nice treat to hang out, just the 4 of us. Love them. So I love talking about food and our dinner was delightful, we ate at Waldo's On King I had ceasar salad, so fresh and crisp with a pancetta medallion and Parmesan round, steak and frites, green beans, 3 glasses of red wine, and homemade lemon sorbet and blueberry tea (Grand Marnier and Tea (My friend Kayli introduced me to that yummy goodness)
Can I just put it out there that Sting is Sexy. He is 58 years old and just has that certain something, he was even wearing kind of a ridiculous outfit though,really tight black skinny jeans and a white pirate blouse. Now if my hubby were to wear that out I'd be laughing at him all night, not with him...totally at him.
So anyway, Roland and Sass love it when I get dressed up. They walk around in my heals, smooth my freshly shaved legs, ask to have some lipstick on, wonder what I can fit in that little purse. Roland asked if he could take my picture. Of coarse I said "yes"...here it is....

ya sooooo, he's more of a handbag, shoes, legs kinda guy, jeesh, I thought I was worthy of a full body shot but apparently not.
Busy week ahead, summer is full, fun and got us on the run, with some lazy dayz of summer sprinkled in,
Love
Marcia

This is me Happy

Under a red Kitty Cat Umbrella ella ella hey hey!

I feel joyful and happy. Nothing in particular, no massive event, no gifts on my door step. Just a feeling of happiness. Plain and simple...joy. Every now and then I like to "take stock" of what is going on in my life and really feel thankful for it. Yes, I still have a few things that stress me out but all and all a wonderful, fulfilling life.
Things I am thankful for in this moment:
a)A husband to love and loves me right back, something fierce comes over me when he walks in the house.
b)Two beautiful, healthy, energetic children so bursting with smarts, creativity and wildly funny personalities.
c)Getting to be with my children for the summer, beaching it,pipebanding, exploring and daytripping our way through the warm weather.
d)A roof over our heads, food in our bellies, a car to take us from A to B in AC.
e)A sister like no other, to share our hopes, dreams, laughs, triumphs and tribulations with.
f)My parents who live on the same street as me. Getting to "pop in" for a nice hot "cuppa" and a chat.
g)My girlish figure, witty personality and devilish thoughts.

There is a smile on my face and warm thoughts in my heart for you on this summer evening,
smmmmmmmoooooch,
Marcia

Holding Hands - Heartwarming

Happy Friday!! This moment - A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

Have a lovely weekend,
Marcia

Summer Lovin'

SASHA & ROLAND my little Summer Lovers.

This is why we live here in the blistering 8 months worth of Winter/cold/wind/snow/rain. For this. We take what we get, 4 months worth of pure bliss.

Love
Marcia

SLOW Summer

With the last days of school nearly behind us I am excited to have my little chickens home with me for the summer. I have declared this our good old fashioned slow summer. A summer with no major agendas, no major organized sports. The plan is to enjoy the summer and enjoy each other, literally take time to smell the roses.
Now with saying that there is no agenda does not mean we have no plans, on the contrary, we have assembled a list of activities we would like to do this summer and we have a few activities that we have booked but in general it's pretty loose.

* Explore the Bruce We are going to Explore our community and surrounding area maybe once a week or every two. Fun.
* BEACH BUMS We are sooooo fortunate to live so close to beautiful beaches, a 10 minute walk from our house. (half an hour with kids in tow) The sunsets are breath taking. The water is warm and clear, the beaches are sandy. This will be our main playground for the summer. And with not having evening planned up we can stay as long as we want. woo hoo.
* WaterPark in Goderich for a change of scenery.
* Parks and Pic-Nics in Kincardine. We have has lovely spots for pic-nics and play time, Tiny Tot park, right by the lake, Lions Park @ Davidson Centre (this one is a favorite, lots of shade, pic-nic tables and of course the coveted Skate/Bike Park. Geddes Park is another lovely spot along the river.
* Library time, I have a feeling we may need some quiet afternoons or rainy days. We love going to the libary (and as always *FREE*)
* Port Elgin Skate Park. Our second home. Again *FREE* Pack some food, plenty of water, and bikes and skateboards. FUN. (Lawn chair for yourself)
* We are setting up an art studio at home, we have all the supplies bought and ready to go for some exciting creations.

Project Driveway

I am so mad at myself...I just finished writing a post about an hour ago and for some reason I erased it. Bugger, shit, damn, darnit, cuss, blinking, flip. I won't do that again, I'm still stewing from it...and...now...I'm done.

Remember Me?....

Ya? No? Well I'm the dining room set that has been in the family for 30 odd years, that Marcia absolutely loves and was in the middle of redoing when....
VOILA! This curvy legged, sturdy, comfy seats dining set entered the picture. What ever happened to me? I'm sanded, repaired (by Rick) cleaned and ready for a fresh coat. Maybe one day she'll love me again.

I'm thinking of painting the hutch a glossy white...what do you think?

It's true Dalton and I fell in love with this new set, how could we resist. She was 50% off and we really liked her. We were so seduced by the "Business closing 50% off" But when we saw her we knew we had to have her.

Lovely Peonies in celebration of our 8th Anniversary. Merci Mama et Papa, they are gorgeous and smell delightful. They will always remind me of my Wedding Day.


I am smitten and have been bitten with inspiration from Holly at White Berry in Western Canada. I have never been into Shabby Chic, but her take on it is so lovely I am going to incorporate it into my Contemporary Glamorous Minimalist style. So I believe that would read "Shabby Glam with a side of Contemporary Minimalism" Yes, that is my style and I like it. If you like something make it work. So the other day I found this beauty on kijiji, I swooped down and bought it, today I sanded, cleaned and primed it, tomorrow I paint it. Oh and I bought lovely new pewter drawer pulls I think will work just nice.


Finished project updates soon.

A family picture gallery I have been wanting to do FOREVER but have not gotten around to it because of my Major disease...Procrastination. Don't worry it is not contagious but it is terminal and I live everyday with it, it's who I am and I'm not going to fight it anymore. Some days are better than others, those would be the days I actually get stuff done and most people wouldn't even know I have it.
Anyway, I really like the way it turned out, I love seeing these pictures everyday, each one of them brings a smile to my face.




So, what have you been working on lately. I'd love to know. Don't be a strange and drop me a line.

All my love
Marcia

Remember me?....

Ya, I'm the dining room set Marcia was going to refinish because she LOVED me so much. Well, apparently not enough cause...
Voila, I've been replaced by this curvy number. She liked the curvy legs and the sturdy comfy seats. Nice. She even got me all taken apart, sanded and repaired (by Rick) She is so flighty.

It's true. I was in the middle of redoing the dining room set when Dalton and I walked into a furniture store going out of business and we saw this set for 50% off and absolutely love it. It is the first dining set we have bought...ever...we are officially grown ups buying dining room sets. What next...driving a mini van. (not that there's anything wrong with that)


This lovely bouquet of Peonies in celebration of mine and Daltons 8th Anniversary. Merci Mama et Papa. They are gorgeous, and always remind me of my wedding day.


New project, I bought this solid wood, Canadian made (in Quebec) dresser and Mirror off of Kijiji. I love it. As soon as I saw it I knew it would be the perfect first piece to redo. I have been officially inspired up one side and down the other by this lovely lady Holly from White Berry out in Western Canada. I was never into Shabby Chic but I have been bitten by this bug and I love her take on it, and I think I can incorporate it with my contemporary/Glam/minimalist style. So that would read "Shabby Glam Contemporary Mini". I like it. That's my style fo'shizzle.

Sanded, cleaned, now primed. I bought lovely new pewter drawer pulls. And I will be painting a very light grey/white.

finished project to follow shortly.
Family picture wall. It only took 3 years of wanting to get organized and up on the wall.

I really like the way it turned out.

What are you working on these days?

Have a lovely day
Marcia

Rainy Wednesday

Sass with her lined up racing hotwheels.

No car today. Dalton had to use it for work today. I don't mind though, it gives me a chance to slow down and just "be" at home with Sasha. (Don't get me wrong I love going to Wednesday morning playgroup aka coffee talk with friends, while our kids play)
We are still in our jammies, well, I am, the more responsible of the two of use got dressed. Sasha and I had a lovely breakfast, then I put the kettle on for tea and biscuits while we read books. Sass did some drawings. One of me and her, she is walking a dog, and her and I are holding hands, I have a circle around one eye. I said to Sasha "oops you forgot the other half to mommy's glasses." She said "you're not wearing your glasses, its a black eye, you walked into the corner of a wall because you were not watching where you were going." Me "I should have had my glasses on."
I think while I am secluded to our house I will actually make all the beds, actually empty the 3 baskets of folded laundry and actually play on the floor with Sasha.
We aren't totally trapped though. I am going treasure hunting at the Dumps Re-Use it section with a friend today. I am after really large gaudy frames and what ever else catches my eye.
Enjoy your rainy day too
Marcia

Me and My Beau

Big "D" and Me.

This is us all ready to go out for dinner with my parents, Auntie Judy and Uncle Bob, and another lovely couple (not sure if they would like there names on here). In honor of Mama's B-day. Happy Birthday Lanny!

I love going out with Dalton on my arm. He is a lovely husband, best friend, wonderful provider and support, oh ya and a great dad. Plus he's not to bad to look at.

Here's to date nights with your beau!

Love
Marcia
xoxoxoxo

Boys

(nice hair Dalt)

As the poem goes "Little boys are made of...Snips and snails, and puppy dogs tails". First of all how gross. Second of all I disagree, at least mine aren't. My boys are made of "Two wheels, bike chains and Fox wear".
I often write my posts on food, decor,communty, Sasha,family and the childrens behaviours etc. This post will mostly be about my little boy and my big boy. Rolie and Big "D" if you will.
You'll also notice there has been a big lag in my writing. For good reason, the weather has been absolutely scrumptious. We have done more summer activities in the last month then we did all last summer. I have barely been at my computer, but that's not to say my brain has slowed down with writing ideas, my poor brain is back logged so sorry in advance if this post gets a little jumbled.
As promised "MY Boys". It has taken me awhile but for all the little things Rolie does that drives me bananas most times I am finally in the position to let most of it go and accept him for who he is and not for this weird idea of who I sometimes want him to be. For instance, he LOVES his skinny jeans, with holes and all and that he will wear them every day (if I do not kidnap them for the laundry) when he would wear these jeans to school or out it made me feel really anxious and feel like everyone would see this as a direct reflection of my poor parenting. I imagined teachers, friends, parents (anyone really) would think I don't care about my son, or that we can't afford to cloth him in sensible pants etc. I know this to be so untrue,I couldn't care about him or love him more and he has a closet full of sensible, fashionable clothing. But he chooses to express himself through his cloths. He has been this way since he was 3, it has been 4 years of clothing battles and I am waving the white flag. For all you parents out there that can just lay out an outfit and your child will wear it and wear it all day with no wardrobe changes, bravo, good for you, that works for you and your child, no offence, but it's not just because you "trained" him that way, it's because he just doesn't care what he wears, it's just not his thing right now (and this is a good thing)Rolie, just happens to be a Diva in holey jeans. *sigh*. Even though it may not look like it, A LOT of thought has gone into each outfit he wears, every outfit takes him on a journey, or event, be it real or imaginary and I for one think it is pretty neat. Sure my Grandad would not accept this "behaviour", but times have changed, so must our thoughts and expectations of our creative little ones.

My two boys Rolie and Big "D" love them some bikes. BMX, Mountain, Motor anything with two wheels, they will ride it, modify it, fix it, dream about it, race it, talk about it, pray to it. Not kidding, biking is their church, it is where they get great joy, peace, solitude, community and time to meditation. They are always more clear minded when done biking, not to mention more tired and very hungry too. I am almost dreading the winter already, where will they ride, they need an indoor track.




I have a confession. I am not a morning person. By golly I wish I was though, I completely love the feeling of early morning, the fresh crispness of that time of day, but for petes sake I cannot get my butt out of bed that early. I sleep to 7:30-8:00 most mornings but I day dream about sleeping until 9:00. Anyway, wow long story to get to this short one. The other morning as I lay in bed I hear some action going on in the kitchen. A few minutes later Rolie comes into the room and says "Girls get up, time for breakie, I made breakfast for you guys." We get up and Rolie has my favorite cups at each of our spots, orange juice poured, bowls with spoons, napkins, 3 types of cereal out, Almond milk, and fruit all set up neatly on the table. Double *sigh*. Isn't he the sweetest. He has a flare for presentation and he really loved the praise from preparing such a lovely treat. He will make a good husband someday.

Big "D" is the bike master. If he cannot have his two wheels, I don't know who he would be. And that's the truth. Before we even started dating I would see this crazy looking tall guy, wearing a lime green bike jacket, tight black riding pants, long dreadlocks hanging out the back of a bike helmet going like 9o down Richmond Row in London with his pitbull running beside him. I remember thinking "what a nut", who new I would marry that nut. Anyway, he has passed the bike bug onto our Rolie and it is a match made in heaven. It has been a wonderful way for these two men to bond and I believe it is a gift of a lifetime passion.

In other bike news. Sasha is riding two wheels now too. The run bike was a huge success. She never needed training wheels. She simply got on two wheels, Dalton held the back for like 5 seconds and she was gone. Within 2 weeks she has also started standing and riding and riding "one hander".

My little family is growing up.

Bike on friend, bike on,
Marcia
Me and Big "D"

Smile on my face

We were all at the dinner table the other night and when finished Sasha got up and cleared her plate to the sink. Came back, got out her markers and paper. While we were all still eating and talking she was drawing, which she can be found doing 80% of her awake time. Love it. Then she gets up and goes to the kitchen drawer to get the tape. We are all still eating and chatting, she is busy finishing and taping her picture to the seat of her chair. She sits down on her chair and declares "A Genius sits here", me being her mother agrees whole heartily. "No really mom a Genius sits here" she gets up off her seat to show us the picture she has drawn. It is a self portrait with swirly eyes and a finger in the air. She is standing there staring at me with her finger in the air and a giant smile on her face. I'm not really sure if she knows what the word Genius means. I think she is pretty darn genius at being funny, cute, smart and artistic all rolled into one perfect little human.

Hey, ever notice the day after your kids birthday they actually seem a whole year older just by the words they use and the tone of their voice?

Love
Marcia

Today was Awkward

WARNING: This blog post is a tad self loathing...
I had an interview today. One I was very excited about and a job that is perfect for me and I really, really want it. It will be mine oh yes it will be mine.
So my day started out lovely, Roland and I had a leisurely breakie and conversation before school. After he left I had a nice hot shower and got ready for my interview, what to wear? Ran downstairs and picked out my favorite pale grey trousers and a white eyelet blouse, perfect, throw on my pink bead and I've got myself a cute interview outfit. However, I put on my lovely grey trousers and lo and behold my rear end looked like to much sausage was shoved in the casing. What a sight when I got a good rear view look, not only were they tight as hell, it flattened my butt and all you could see was the giant V of my underwear line. Damn it. Peeled them off, found my reliable black ankle pants, quick wink in the mirror, (no time to wallow over my extra large derriere) and off to my interview.
Well the written part of the interview went 'wellish' but my actual interview...hmmmm...I don't think I came across as very skilled...I was a complete bundle of nerves, I know this stuff, I can talk to anyone about any of the questions they asked me with such ease on confidence,but put me in front of 3 interviewees and I am a babbling fool. I did present a Professional Portfolio and left them a copy of some ideas I had, hopefully that helps ease the nasty verbal interview. Fingers crossed, please pray for me. :) At least there was chocolate at the end of the interview.

Sorry no picture with this post. I'm afraid it would have been to scaring for you, Funny, yes, but scaring.

Have a lovely day
Marcia

May Flowers (ugh...predictable title)

Pre party nap
Tissue puffs are Martha Stewart Kit. Super cute eh?

May is my most favorite month. It is the month I decide to grace the world with my presence. You're very welcome world, I am pretty lovely. (wink wink nudge nudge) The month my daughter was born, the month I became a mother for the second time, it is the month I celebrate my mother and her mother and my dads mother,my husbands mother and my nieces and nephews mothers. May is the month gardens bloom, I marvel every year at fresh buds and so pleased that the plants made it through another winter. May seems to be the month when it just seems brighter out. May is the month we start heading to the beach on a more regular basis. May marks fresh beginnings, it is hopeful and friendly. When it rains in may, it is not a bother or a nuisance, it is needed and welcomed.
May you are freakin alright in my books, I hate it when you end, but look forward to the next one.

Have a Mothers Day,
Love
Marcia

Sasha's custom Birthday Cake made by Tartan Toad Devine Baked Goods.

Poor little Birthday Girl, not feeling so great on her big day...The party must go on.

Party Flag Banner. Made by me using Amy Butler paper.

Rambling Rose

So at about 2:00 a.m. Saturday morning we were awoken to "I NEED A BUCKET!!!!" Really really loud. Dalton got up and ran to Rolie's room were Rolie proceeded to vomit all over his bed and Dalton, and then proceeded to vomit about 3 times every hour until 8:00 p.m. We left Roland with my mom and dad around 10 am thinking he would be okay, while we took Sasha to Toronto to see a Jays game. When we got back at 8:00 to get Roland we realized we were sooooo wrong. The poor little guy was sick all day. Called Telehealth, gave them the 'dets', expressed his extreme lethargie. "Any medications or illnesss?" she asks "He has AVS (Aortic Valvular Stenosis). "I'm recommending we call an Ambulance right away" Me "I can drive him up" "No no I'm calling the ambulance right now they are on the way". Me, heart racing, me, thinking worst case senerio, me, thankful that we live in Canada.

When we finally got home and got to tuck Rolie into bed, I felt peace again. He slept solid the whole night. And the next day he was good as new.

Monday turned out to be a lovely day. I spent the morning hanging with Sasha and getting ready for an interview (for the EA supply list with BWDSB). Had my usual issues with pre interview stomach upset. Had a great drive to Chesely, tunes cranked, green tea and my GPS (cause I get lost...hard) The interview went great (I think) in fact I could have done 4 more interviews that day, I was just in one of those moods. After my interview they gave me a chocolate ( I like their style) I hopped back in my car and headed to Paisly for a 'me time' afternoon. I checked out a new shop "Daydream Believers" and bought Sassy a Cupcake Trinket box for her birthday. Next stop "Back Eddies" for lunch. Oh my word so delicious. I had a spinach and feta whole wheat phylo wrap and a huge salad with trail mix and hemp buds and lots of veggies, all for $7.95. And a coffee to go go for my drive home. After lunch (ENTER CREEPY EXPERIENCE HERE) I popped into the Elora soap shop. It was really quiet in there, no one around, then this big guy with long curly hair and half closed eyes (simular to those of someone smoking alot of pot) came out and said "hello" mumbled a bunch of other stuff to me then followed me around the whole store while in my personal space (within 18 inches of my body) and mumbled about every single product. He was so close I actually thought "I am so glad I have this really hot coffee in my hand cause I can toss it on him if he gets any closer". I was going to buy some soap when I initially went in, instead I finally got back to the front door and high tailed it out of there. Note to Elora Soap Company, keep dude making the soap, hire a new sales person.

After dinner we took the kids to the beach. They wore their swim suits down. They swam for about 20 minutes! It was so fun watching them in the water. I'll join them in July when the lake is actually warm. After the swim we got them changed and walked the board walk and enjoyed all the gardens, then got to the park and the kids had a good play. This town rocks. Lake, boardwalk, beautiful gardens, park, sunsets, what more could you ask for.

Have a lovely day,
Marcia

Photo montage: Check out the 'mad skills' of Sasha, sucking her thumb and using binoculars.

Tuesday.

A few things I am grateful for today.
* "Ladies Who Lunch" only we eat breakfast.
* Popping over to my neighbours for a sec. and having a giggle over our matching uniforms: Messy hair, sweat pants and cozy top (ie track suits)
* Finding all my ECE documents, workshop, project stuff all within five minutes of looking.
* Finding my "Sweet 16" ring I lost about 10 years ago.
* Rolands version of the Russian YouTube singer. Totally made my morning. Still laughing about it.
* Sasha wanting to play Mama and Baby Pig. "Your the Big Mama Pig and I am the baby pig and I'm going to drink milk from you, but not really mom, I'll just pretend over your cloths".
* Dalton's curly hair looked awesome tonight. Super handsome. Not so 'Vinnie Bobarino'.
* Sally our pet chipmunk, sitting on the chair looking at me inside. I almost let her in.
* My yummy dinner of Scrambled Eggs&Sliced Avocado (seriously yummy combo, sounds gross but for some reason it works) tomatoes, Sesame seed cookies, lemonade.
* Tea with my Dear Friend K. Always a pleasure.
* The lake looked breathtaking today, bright blue towards shore, almost purple blue in the horizon, SUNSET spectacular.


A couple of things I'm a little bummed about tonight:
* Really felt like watching T.V. tonight...we cut our cable.
* My new glasses still are not ready.
* The laundry is never done.

Good night, and have a pleasant tomorrow,
Marcia

My New M.A.C. Spring/Summer Lipstick

Me and my girl wearing "See Sheer" Lustre M.A.C. lipstick.

I love M.A.C. make-up. I love the smell of it, the application, the packaging, the quality, it's Canadian and I love the creative spirit it was created from and still is. I was first introduced to this line in 1989, during my "trying to make it as a model days". I wore "Pecan" lipstick in matte finish for the rest of high school. (side note: holy crap that was 20 years ago!!!) We were in London this past weekend and I picked out new Spectacles and thought I should get a new lipstick to go with. What a nice treat. Fresh, smelling good, sheer lipstick. The simple things make me so happy.

Next time you are in the city, go to the mall, seek out the M.A.C. counter and treat yourself to a new lipstick. It really does brighten your day.

Smmmmmmooooch,
Marcia



New Subject: "ManPacking". So recently (pretty much throughout the winter) there has been some pretty funny banter back and forth between friends about the dreaded "ManCold". Well, for all you ladies out there that know what I am talking about I have a new "Man Peeve". It's called "ManPacking". So, Dalton signed up about 2 months ago to go away for a 4 day ATV trip. Lovely, have fun Dalton. Two months he has know about this trip. Night before he leaves, "Mar, have you seen my rain boots?" "Mar, do you know where my back pack is?" "Mar, what tooth paste should I bring". He searched for rain boots for about 2 hours. Backpack, lifted a shirt, there it was. Toothpaste, decide to take the one that is almost finished, about enough to last 4 days. He took hardly any cloths with him. Not sure if P.J.s even made it in. I hope he is having fun. And can't wait to see him on Saturday.

By Design Dinner Recipe

So we all know I am a big fan of The Life By Design concept. I feel great when I Eat By Design. I do find it a wee bit challenging sometimes making full meals 100% completely By Design but I am getting better. Tonight's meal was soooooo yummy, tasty, nutritious and 100% Eat By Design. (Just a side note: Eat By Design is Gluten, Wheat and Dairy Free)

First: Saute Extra Lean Ground Beef (or Chicken or turkey) preferably Organic. Drain set aside. Oh by the way, Your Welcome for not posting a picture of sizzling meat. (blarf)
Second: Saute Shallots, Garlic, Tomatoes, Broccoli. While this is Sauteing boil Cauliflower in another pot.

Third: Add the beef to the veggies. Add pesto (I used jarred) Mix it up.
Forth: Place baby spinach on top, put on lid to let it steam about 2 minutes. Take lid off and mix together.

Fifth: Drain cauliflower, add a bit of olive oil or olivina marg, S&P, and a dash of nutmeg. Blend with a hand blender until fluffy. Looks like mashed potatoes

Sixth: Dollop Cauliflower Mash on plate, Spoon the Pesto Veggie Beef mixture. Top with Walnuts. And Enjoy.

Honestly sometimes I amaze even myself. Not only was this dinner esthetically pleasing to my eye, it was delicious and my belly has been full for hours.

Wow big day for my blog, two posts in one day. Sometimes I'm inspired sometimes I draw a blank.
Have a lovely night
Marcia

New Project: Eating/Socializing Room

A miracle has happened, my 4 foot by 4 foot monster picture finally got framed after 5 years of leaning, warping, and falling off the buffet. I am so happy it is on the wall. Job well done "Photo shop" downtown Kincardine. For those that may be curious the picture is of my wedding bouquet, my friend Jill took it with her wicked awesome camera. Full of my favorite flowers, Giant Pink Peony's, White and red roses, white freesia, and different shades of pink Gerbera daisies. It smelt heavenly.


The red dining room set is getting a makeover. In these pictures it actually doesn't look to bad. Let me tell you, in person...it has seen better days. The set was manufacture by Maskinonge Furniture Inc. in Maskinonge Quebec in 1968. My parents bought it second hand from their friends in the 70's sometime and was in my parents dining room up until they gave it to us in 2005. It went from Good Condition to near Scrapyard Condition in 10 seconds flat. Since we've had it 2 babies/toddlers/children have eaten, crafted, banged the shit out of it. Since we've had it we've used it for every single meal, since we've had it, it has hosted and served us well on many celebrations. Since we've had it, it has lost it's sheen and now has water marks, the sun has faded the once very vibrant red, the chair cushions are so flat your bum gets pins and needles after awhile, plus they are so stained from food and juice. We have loved this set and have many wonderful memories with it in the back ground. I still really like the style of it and the buffet is so handy, I'd hate to see it go. I feel like I just need to jazz up the joint again, while we're at it lets give it an new title, "Modern Mid century Glamorously Casual Dining Set", It is getting painted out Onyx black with satin finish, the chairs are getting covered in black with white pokadots, the table may get replaced (not sure yet) with the old one getting repurposed as shelves etc. The banister is getting painted out glossy black and the trim going downstairs is getting painted white. I would also like to get 2 dining armchairs from Ikea and recovered with some gorgeous fabric for the ends (for me and Dalton), we do love to linger at the table and chat so a nice comfy chair would be lovely don't ya think?

Oh and I found the "Little Sister" chandelier at Brushwood that I may just have to purchase while Dalton is on his ATV trip this week. I'll move the "Little Sister" to the living room and put the "Big Sister" over the table. Okay seriously I want all this done by yesterday.

Are you working on anything right now? Care to share?

Have a great day
Marcia

Happy Birthday Lucy Lu Lu!!!

My adorable little niece Lucy Eileen turns 4 today!!! This little monkey is full of sunshine and giggles (along with a little piss and vinegar too) She has THE best facial expressions I've ever seen. Lucy is so much fun and always ready with tall tale or two to tell. And she can often be found wearing a bodysuit and showing of her dance moves. Lucy is a Daddy's girl with her Mommy's spunk&spirit, it is a wonderful combination. I love Lucy more than "Kids Love Cake!" Have a great birthday Lucy.

Love Auntie Mar Mar
xOxOxOxO

Pink Shoes...Nuff Said!

It's no secret I love Pink!

And apparently I love Pink Shoes too. Mental note, stop buying Pink Shoes. (fully aware I need to toss the pink flip flops in the bottom. Um Nasty) Days just seem brighter when my tootsies are covered in pink.

Tuesdays Munchable

Love my Laptop Lunch Boxes, a must have for a litterless lunch.
Rolands Lunch: Dried Fruit Bits, Organic Skim Mozzarella, an Apple slice (which Roland said he had a teeny tiny nibble of to try)Chirizo,Flax Crackers (Bulkbarn), Half a bagel with non-dairy cream cheese, Roasted Garlic Hummus.
Sashas Lunch: Yogurt covered raisins&dried fruit bits,Apples, Celery, Cucumber, Blackberries, Flax Chips, Chirizo, Hummus and Organic Skim Mozzarella

Wildly successful lunch with Sassy, Roland not so thrilled about the piece of apple but all and all an enjoyable lunch.

I had a munchie kinda day today. Feed 1: Breakie at Sutton Park, 2 cups of coffee, 2 poached Eggs, 2 pieces of dry Rye and 4 slices of tomatoes.
Feed 2: Banana, 2 Brazil nuts, 6 walnuts and 6 cashews, green tea Feed 3: Homemade Gluten and Dairy Free Energy Bars (Nut free too so the kids can have them for school) Green tea Feed 4: Hamburger on really flat whole grain buns, topped with baby spinach, fresh tomatoes, Org. Ketchup, Mustard, veganaise, a handful of Snapea Crisps (Run don't walk to the Bulkbarn to get these little babies), Pickles and Artichoke Hearts, water and a big sip of Daltons Beer. Apres dinner coffee. (hence me not sleeping right now) Feed 5: Another Homemade Energy Bar. So not too bad, a couple of off track "Eat By Design" items, I know it and I can feel it. I did miss a proper lunch. I will do better tomorrow :) Must kick my coffee habit, the cream is killing me, and I am not fond of it black, plus the caffeine is a bugger. Hmmmmm do they make coffee scented candles?

Good Night and have a pleasant tomorrow,
Marcia