Beach Blog

Summer of 2009

2009-09-17T08:54:00.001-07:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

Amendment

2009-04-03T17:01:00.000-07:00

I have to say that I didn't actually write that post on March 05, I started to work on it but couldn't finish it until March 30 so the timeline makes more sense. But that isn't the reason for the amendment, the real reason for the amendment is that I stated that Karis did not have any teeth and well she got her first tooth yesterday. My girl is tough because she did not complain at all, no fowl mood, just a little bit of a diaper rash and a lot of slober. Thats why we were caught off quard. My little toothless suzi is now a toothy lucy!

8 months

2009-03-05T18:11:00.000-08:00

I can't believe she is 8 months, boy time just flies by. Enjoy every moment because it goes so fast!!! All she wants to do is walk or stand . I never crawled and went straight to walking so we think she is going to follow in my footsteps (no pun intended ok maybe a little intended ;-) She can only walk if we are holding her hands, she can't walk on her own yet but I say in the next months she will be. She just starting to get into position for crawling but she rather walk. She is a jatter box especially when it is time to go to sleep, she loves Bella and wants to pet Dutch (Graham's cat) all the time. She still has no teeth, her hair is finally growing, she has little wisps around her ears. She adores her dadda and I think Graham was born to be a father, he is so amazing with her. He lives for her! Here are some pictures of her over the last couple of months:

I love the one below, that smile just encompasses her essence.

Yes, its her middle finger but she has no clue, but this picture shows the hair she is getting. I love the picture below because I am usually the one behind the camera and so I finally get a picture with my sweet pea.

I just read Marley and Me and the dog so reminds me of Bella but this picture just makes me think about the relationship between a dog and the children in their lives. I love this picture.

Karis has been such a joy, and such a wonderful daughter. She is always happy and such an easy going baby. She makes be proud day after day, hour after hour and minute after minute. She is such a blessing, my life is forever changed.

6 months

2009-01-22T18:56:00.000-08:00

I know I skipped a month but 5 months was on Christmas Eve. The last two months have gone by so fast and Karis is changing every day. We are soo loving this stage right now, she is extremely interactive, making sounds and laughing at us but she doesn't talk back yet! She is sort of mobile, she rolls over and she is pushing her butt in the air to get ready to crawl. We had to start her on rice cereal 2 weeks ago because she was not sleeping through the night, one night she got every hour and half. Rice cereal has done the trick! Graham loves feeding her, she goes wild when he comes around with a bowl.

We still can't believe that she is going to be six months, thats half a year! It feels so sureal because it has gone by so quickly that putting it the context of a year it really makes us step back and go, whooo.

Oh well I wanted to check in and give a little update but honestly, long posts aren't going to happen a lot because I much rather be spending time with my wonderful, amazing daughter.

4 Months

2008-11-28T19:30:00.000-08:00

On Monday, Karis turned four months. It's hard to believe. She rolled over for the first time on Nov. 8th and now we can't stop her from rolling. She is holding her head up strong and trying to sit up sometimes. I don't have my camera here to download pictures but she getting bigger and more beautiful as the days go on. Some people say she looks just like me when I was little and some say she looks just like Graham. My mom has decided that Graham and I must have looked a lot a like when we were babies (I am not sure how to take that :-) She without a doubt has my blue eyes and Graham's nose. We see signs of red in her hair so we think she might have strawberry blond hair like Graham.

I hear my baby crying so I must go but I hope all is well in blogland. If I don't write, I hope everyone will have a great Christmas!

3 months, 1 year and eternity

2008-10-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

Karis turned 3 months on the 24th, she is growing so fast but she is learning everyday and doing new things that it makes it a little easier to deal with it. Here is some recent pictures:

I know I am very late but last month on the 15th of September Graham and I celebrated our 1 year. A lot has happened in this past year, within the first month of marriage I became pregnant so not only did Graham had to get use to dealing with a wife that is adjusting to marriage but an hormonal one at that. Then after getting pregnant, Graham lost his job 7 months later and then hurt his back at the next job. We have grown and learned a lot together. I wouldn've done it with anyone else. Sorry, we don't have a picture for our anniversary.

On September 21, Karis was baptized (thats the eternity part :-) ) It was really funny, we were standing at the front with her Godparents and the pastor when to open the baptismal font to sprinkle here with the holy water and there was no bowl or water, everyone cracked up laughing. Then after that for every baptism at church they all made a joke about having water. Here is a picture, she wore my baptismal dress:

Yikes, I have taken to long and my baby needs me. Sorry, can't write much more talk to you guys again soon.

Karis' first play date

2008-09-25T15:54:00.000-07:00

I have a really good friend that was due 5 days after me, we laughed that it would be funny if we were in the hospital at the same time. Guess what! Guess who showed up ready to have her baby just after I had given birth to Karis. She had a boy, named Ethan. Here is a picture of Karis and Ethan at there first play date. I love how Karis is smiling, and Ethan is like what is this creature beside me.

6 1/2 weeks

2008-09-08T19:49:00.000-07:00

Karis as the princess she is. We took this picture at Granville island today. I just love the look on her face, it's like get this thing off of me.

Sucking her trusty soother, we tried to get her to suck her thumb but she likes her soother better. This picture was taken last night.

Grandpa putting her to sleep like nothing.

I can't believe my baby is this old. She is growing like crazy, how do you slow them down? She is a wonderful baby, she sleeps well, she is letting me sleep 6 hours straight every night and she eats well. She loves to cuddle.

(Sorry I couldn't rotate it) Graham is wonderful at getting her asleep. He is such a wonderful dad, I had no doubt. Her grandparents are going crazy spoilinng her rotten but she deserves it. I love her so much!

She has arrived!!

2008-07-30T19:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry, for not blogging sooner but trying to get to a computer has not been easy. Karis Christina Kullman was born on July 24th at 4:38 in the morning, she weight 9 pounds and 2 ounces. I was induced on the 23rd and by 7 that evening my water had broke, except it was no fluid but blood and clots so we called the maternity ward and they said call the ambulance, so I had my first ambulance ride. Her head was big and my pelvis was too small and there was a moment when her heart rate went down and we almost had to have an emergency c-section but the doctor used the vaccum and we got her out. She is the most beautiful baby, I see Graham in her and me, she is not fussy, loves to snuggle. I can't believe loving someone this much.

No baby- July 20th

2008-07-20T14:16:00.000-07:00

I think she listened to me when I told her she is staying in till she is 18. Kids really do hear everything you say. Doctors say that she is healthy, doing fine. She just doesn't want to come out now. She still hasn't fully engaged, two possible reasons, I have a small pelvis (the one with big hips, I don't believe that) or she has a big head, like her father. I choose the second. If nothing happens I am scheduled for an induction to get the ball rolling. Then we will know if her head is too big.

Don't worry we will notify people when something happens. We have been getting a lot of calls, and we have to answer the phone everytime with "no baby yet." We are seriously thinking of putting that on our answering machine.

Hopefully, next time I blog will be with news. I know I said that last time.

July 9th

2008-07-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

No baby yet. But the head is engaged and that means anytime now. She better not come late because I am ready to meet her. I am ready to have my body back, to be able to roll over in bed and not feel like a egg. I like the weather the way it is now but not last week. When it was so hot, I had to find some water so Gray and I went to the waterpark in Walnut Grove, you should've seen the looks we got from the parents, they were all looking for any kids that belonging to us. I did not care!

With the heat my feet have swelled up a lot so the doctors put me on more rest, I guess I was too busy getting my house organized. Once I relaxed, I got a cold so thats what I have been doing laying on the couch watching the first season of lost. I am hooked now.

I just thought I would check in. Got to go. Hopefully next time there will be news of a baby.

June 20th Last day of work

2008-06-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of work, I am taking advantage of the computer since we will not have one.
I can't believe that I get an whole year off, I have been here for 5 years, seems really surreal to me.

The last couple of months have been busy with doctors appointments and all that jazz. Graham and I are excited we found out that we are having a little girl. Graham has already stated that he will dawn a pink tutu and dance with her if that's what she wants. Graham is already pudding in her hands and she hasn't even been born yet.

3 more week and I am so excited. Right now I feel like a blimp, and I can't wait to be able to roll over in bed without feel like an egg. Sorry no pictures, I don't want to. Although I am still a little nervous about the labor part but like everyone says, you just do it and forget the pain once your baby is born. I know that Graham is going to be incredible supportive during the labor, he has been since the beginning. I think the hardest thing for him is going to see me in pain.

I will try to post pictures when little baby Kullman is born but it will be a couple of days maybe weeks but I will have more time to go to my parents to blog.

Just thought I will give you guys an update on things since it's been a long time. Talk to you in a couple of weeks with the good news.

Yes, I am alive

2008-01-25T16:14:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am alive, very much alive just haven't felt like blogging. I guess I haven't had the words to say or really didn't want to let this out into the world but I am pregnant, just starting my fifth month. Yep, me a Gray don't do anything slow! We were both shocked and nervous but God knows the plan and he is never late in his timing. Don't expect pregnancy pictures, I just don't want to. Little Kullman is due July 12. We are both over-the-moon now that the shock has worn off.

I am feeling great but I wasn't at the beginning, morning sickness turned into all day sickness, still have it but with medication it calms it down. And this is the biggest shock of all, Pickles the Fat Hobbit has an aversion to pickles right now! I hope that goes away. I thought this is the one time I could really chow down on them, isn't that irony!

I have weird cravings, one week it was Subway sandwiches, the next week Big Macs. Hardest thing to give up is coffee, I guess I have to admit that I was junkie, oh and I have had this huge craving for red wine!

Next month we will be going for our Ultrasound, we will be finding out the gender but I am not sure if we will tell people. Graham has a hard time containing his excitement.

But I got to go.

The Gravy Attacked ME!

2007-11-14T09:02:00.000-08:00

What is it with food causing me bodily injury? First it was the avacado almost cutting my thumb off, now it's the gravy!

On Sunday we were at my in-laws (wow, I have in-laws) for Graham's birthday and we were having a delicious turkey dinner, as I was standing at the island dishing my dinner out, I went to pour the "hot off the stove" gravy on my mashed potatoes. It came to fast, off my plate on to my wrist, where I incurred a 3rd degree burn. Luckily, I was surrounded by two sets of parents (mine and Graham's) who quickly rushed into action and held my wrist under cold water for half an hour.

So now I have a bandage around my wrist and I really hope I don't get a scar because it's a pretty big burn. Graham's mom gave me some medicated burn cream from when she was going through radiation for breast cancer so that is helping it heal. It sure stings though, I definitely think dying by fire would be the worst death ever.

And more pictures

2007-10-26T16:27:00.001-07:00

More pictures

2007-10-24T16:26:00.001-07:00

A picture

2007-10-18T12:32:00.000-07:00

I still have to respect Graham's decision not to be on the blog so I will post the one picture that I have and it's only of me and my friend Erika. Hopefully, we will have more pictures tonight because we are going to see the photographer.

Coming at you as Mrs. Graham Kullman

2007-10-10T16:36:00.000-07:00

I know a lot of you have been dying for me to update my blog with pics and all the dirt. I don't have any pictures, still waiting on the photographer for that, how come everyone else has pictures but us? :-) The day was perfect we had great weather, no hiccups except Graham's cuff links had to be driven to him an hour before he needed to be at the church. Someone told me before the day not to sweat the small stuff so I was pretty calm. I wasn't a late bride!!! Graham was so eager to get married he jumped the gun and said "I do" before the pastor actually told him what he was saying "I do" too. It eased the tension. I dropped Graham's ring when I went to go put it on his finger, hey at least I was being myself, a clutz.

The reception was a blast, both families were dancing together it was like an old party with old friends. Well it really was since our families go way back. I danced my feet off. I have always said that at my wedding I don't care but I am going to dance, dance, dance. Graham cried when he gave his speech to me. He is such a teddy bear on the inside! and a cuddly one on the outside :-)

We went to Las Vegas for our honeymoon, Graham got sick so we stuck around the pool and took it easy.

Married life has been busy since we got home. We thought it would slow down after the wedding, that is funny.

As a wedding present from Graham, he got me a puppy!!!!!! He is 10 weeks now we have had him for 2 weeks. He is a black lab/border collie, all black with a small white patch on his chest. We named him Duke because Graham has a cat named dutch (he is all black too) so we thought it would be funny to call them Duke and Dutch, we really didn't think that one through. When I go to call Duke I slip up and call him Dutch and vice a versa. Poor dog probably has schizophrenia by now.

It was definately not the wises thing to get a puppy being first married but if we can handle it we can handle anything :-)

Well got to go, I have stayed late to blog but the poor puppy needs to let out of the grate.

Busy, busy, busy

2007-08-14T15:05:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy with wedding stuff and family stuff. My Auntie Bev threw a surprise shower for me on Saturday and I was fooled. Everyone was in on it and I had no clue. I thought I was going to my Auntie Bev's surprise 60th birthday party. I guess the surprise was on me.

On the long weekend, Graham and I and our friends went camping!!! We had a blast, we went to Hope and went tubing and boating on Kakawa lake. It was great weather, great food (Graham cooked campfire style!!) and great people. I love summer!!!

I can't believe that it is August 14th already.

Where did July go?

2007-07-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

July has been a whirlwind of events. Everything is coming together well. 53 days left and we have a lot accomplished. We are busy now with the small little details but it's all really fun.

Christie moved out last weekend and so I finally have my place back until Graham moves in. Yes, I jumped on my couch :-) I also danced in her room! Graham's condo goes on the market tomorrow. So if you are looking to buy a two bedroom, one bathroom condo in Langley let me know!!

My Grandma has really settled into her new home. She is getting to know some people and she is participating in the little things that are going on.

Oh well, I have to go. Pickles the Fat Hobbit has a lot to do. Soon she will be Mrs.Pickles the Fat Hobbit. Hmm Graham needs a name. I think it should be Gordo the Fat Hobbit, right Kimu?

A year without Molson

2007-06-26T14:55:00.001-07:00

July 2 will be the anniversary of Molson's passing. I still miss him but it is getting easier. Another furry dog has not taken his place but has refocused my affection. Sometimes I see glimpses of Molson in Bella and I catch myself. My screen saver of Molson that I couldn't imagine taking down now has been replaced with Graham and I. Last year around that time I was mourning and on July 1 I will be celebrating, July 1 is Graham and my engagement party. Like in the Bible there is a time for all things. A time to dance, a time to cry and oh how a year changes things.

September 15th

2007-06-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry for not blogging but I my life is going to be busy for the next couple of months. September 15th is the date. Plans are trucking alone. So if I am not updating for awhile, you know why.

Picture of the Ring

2007-05-22T15:36:00.001-07:00

I don't have a picture of the ring on my finger because it is getting sized because it was too big and I was worried that it would fall off, so I am wearing a rubber band instead. I can post a picture of something similar. Please note that this is not the ring, but it's white gold and the design is close.

One Word

2007-05-22T08:28:00.000-07:00

You.
Can.
Only.
Type.
One.
Word.

1. Yourself: elated

2. Your significant other?: forever

3. Your hair?: blonde

4. Your mother: constant

5. Your Father: softie

6. Your step father?: N/A

7. Your dream last night: wedding

8. Your Favorite drink: fizzy

9. Your Dream Car: red

10. The room you are in: sun-soaked

11. Your Ex: forgotten

12. Your fears: foolish

13. What do you want to be in 10 years: wiser

14. Who you hung out with last night: fiancé

15. What You're Not?: fake

16. Muffins: chocolate

17: One of Your Wish List Items: happiness

18: Time: eternal

19. The Last Thing You Did: laughed

20. What You Are Wearing: dress

21. Your Favorite Weather: warm

22. Your Favorite Book: romantic

23. The last thing you ate: pizza

24. Your Life: progressing

25. Your Mood: joyful

26. Your Friends: cherished

27. What are you thinking about right now?: love

29. What are you doing at the moment?: informing

30. Your summer: anticipation

31. Your relationship status: enamoured

32. What is on your tv?: Grey
33. When is the last time you laughed? now

34. Last time you cried?: Saturday

35. School?: over

Progging

2007-05-04T11:43:00.000-07:00

We have done it! Kimu and some help from a trusty friend, Meis, we came up with a new word. You see I have had many of you pressuring me to put a picture of Graham on my blog. Well I went to Kimu to ask if he could think of a word to describe the peer pressure I have been feeling from many of you.

The word we came up with was Progging: pressure+blog=prog. Meis likes it because it sounds like people are poking at you to do something. You can read more about this discussion on Kimu's blog.

There are two reason's why you will never see a picture of Graham on my blog. 1) I do not like giving into peer pressure. 2) Graham has asked me to not put is picture on my blog. He doesn't feel comfortable with it. I have to respect his wishes.

So you can keep on progging me but it's never going to happen.

I guess if you want to see him you will have to meet him in person.

Picture of Graham

2007-05-02T08:18:00.000-07:00

Many of you have expressed that you would like to see a picture of Graham. Here you go:

Also for all of you who expressed your wish that I post a picture I think you should read Kimu's post.

Conversation with Grandma

2007-04-23T15:46:00.000-07:00

Sometimes my Grandma comes out with the funniest things. This is a conversation I was having with my Grandma yesterday.

Grandma: The Peske's want to know who Graham is (apparently we are the gossip around church, we have officially reached the old folks.) I told them that you two are good friends.

Leah: Umm, we are more than good friends Grandma, he is my boyfriend

Grandma: I know you two are good friends

Leah: No, Grandma he is my boyfriend

Grandma: yes, good friends

Leah: No, Grandma I kiss him, he is my boyfriend

Grandma: (in a childish giggle) Hee hee hee hee you kiss him

Leah: Yes, Grandma Graham is my boyfriend

Grandma: Oh I get it Graham is your boyfriend!

Finally!!!

Sneak Attack

2007-04-02T16:26:00.000-07:00

I had the most pleasant sneak attack today. You are wondering if sneak attacks can be pleasant but this one was. Graham was not working today because he has a pretty cushy job that allows him to do that and I didn't know he wasn't at work. Well, as I was sitting at my desk working Graham comes walking up with a bouquet of Roses. What a guy! I am so lucky and blessed.

Yes, it's been a long time

2007-04-02T11:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, I know that it's been a long time and I have been very bad in updating my blog. Oh well, thats life!

Life has been really good and crazy busy. Things are going really well with Graham and I. Last weekend Graham's parents treated us to Italian Opera night at the Pan Pacific Hotel. It was amazing, it was a buffet of Italian food (so delicious) and two Opera singers serenaded us while we ate for 3 hours. It was awesome! Graham's parents booked a suite for all of us to stay in so we didn't have to drive home. It was so cool, we relaxed in the hot tub and swam in the pool. Mrs. Kullman and I got to enjoy a King size bed, the boys had to sleep on the pull out couch and a cot (hee hee it pays to be a girl!!!) The suite was on the top floor of the Pan Pacific and we had the most amazing view. Then that Sunday, they took us for brunch at Milestones down by Kits.

What an amazing weekend! it was so cool.

Potatoes on the Brain

2007-03-07T15:58:00.000-08:00

It has been about a month now that my Grandma has lived with my parents and it is going be a long next couple of months but sometimes little things happen that just makes you laugh at the situation.

The other day my Mom told me about the conversation she was having with my Grandma about dinner. I guess the last previous two nights they had pasta and rice but not potatoes and my Grandma was not impressed with that, she became very cranky and asked my mother "if they ever made any real meals like a roast with potatoes?" My mom had made two roasts and two roast porks, both with potatoes, so my Grandma had nothing to complain about. Then last Friday morning my Grandma woke up and was mixing up her words, it was like she was trying to say the right word but her mind and mouth didn't connect. Well, my mom was trying to encourage her to get up by telling her that I would be coming over and my Grandma replied by saying "Oh is Leah thinking about Potatoes" what she meant "is Leah thinking of coming over" The Doctor was not concerned and said that she had a bladder infection.

You can take it two ways and think it is a sad situation, or you can choose to see it as a funny situation and just part of getting old. We choose to find the joy in the situation. My Grandma has stopped doing it but we think it's hilarious how potatoes are on her brain lately. Maybe my Grandma should be called "Grandma the Potatoe hobbit" Seems fitting doesn't it?

Spring is coming, Spring is coming!

2007-03-07T15:50:00.000-08:00

You know when you can just smell it in the air and feel it in your bones! thats the feeling I have been having, it's been warmish while it's been raining and warmish when the sun is out. I feel the call, I feel the call to the ocean. I need sunshine! I need a tan! I need to go outside. The sad thing is that daylight savings is coming really early this year and it means we spring ahead, so that means we get less sun in the morning and more in the evening. I like more light in the morning. I can't believe it's March already! I guess that's what happens when you are having to much fun, time just flies by.

Me and my hilarious antics!

2007-02-21T11:16:00.000-08:00

I forgot to tell the story in my last post but on Saturday Graham and I went to his parents for dinner.

As Graham and his Dad were sitting on the couch watching the hockey game I was sitting on a stool at the island in the kitchen. Graham's parents have an open concept kitchen/living room so were all in the same room. I was talking to his mom and I guess I was leaning forward on the stool and all of sudden the stool slide out from underneath me and I fell with a loud bang onto the floor, everyone ran to see if I was ok, especially Graham and once they found out I was ok, they all started laughing (including me.)

Of all places to be a clutz! Lets just say that there was a lot of heckling and joking at my expense but it was all done in fun! If I wasn't comfortable around Graham's parents before I certainly am now.

I know, I know

2007-02-21T11:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know it has been a long time since I have blogged. No, I have not reverted back to my old behavior but rather I have been busy for reasons I will explain below:

1) I have been sick

2) I took a couple days off to pack up my grandma's things, so I have been helping my Mom get my grandma organized.

3) No news

4) I have a boyfriend and I don't want to stay late after work to use the computer.

Other than that life has been really good. I was surprised yesterday with these beautiful roses, Graham picked them because he hadn't seen the color before. I love the color! I had to bring them to work because I wanted to be able to see them all day long instead of only when I go home. Also, I knew someone at work would have a digital camera.

Packing up the memories

2007-02-05T16:01:00.000-08:00

As my Grandma waits in the hospital to heal and be well enough to leave, my mom gave noticed for her apartment.

My Mom and I are already preparing ourselves for the transition. Even though my Grandma has not passed away, it feels like we mourning her passing. Going through someone's belongings and memories when they are still around is a difficult emotion. But this is the best for my Grandma and for my mother. My Mom will now be able to rest assured that my Grandma is safe and secure.
Now, my Mom will have time to focus on Bella who is craving attention. The other day, Aunt Edna left her camera on the coffee table and Bella the crazy dog, wanting attention took the camera and chewed it, she chewed it so bad that she punctured a hole straight to the film and the film was lost. My parents bought Aunt Edna a new camera but the perogie party pictures are lost forever.

Perogie Party

2007-01-29T11:03:00.000-08:00

Since Christmas I have been craving some of my Grandma's homemade perogies but since she probably will never be able to make them again, I was disappointed until I heard my Grandma's sister, my aunt Edna was coming out from Melville Sask. to visit us and my Grandma. If I can't have my Grandma my aunt Edna is the next best thing. So, my Mom though it would be a great idea to have friends come over and join us in the making of perogies, so Graham and his parents came over as well as Christine my best friend and her parents joined us. Graham's parents and Christine's parents and my parents grew up together so it was so fun. It was like the old days when my Grandma would invite everyone over and the kids would play together, the Dads would either watch sports or play cards together and the women would be cooking in the kitchen. It felt so comfortable and soothing.

The perogies were delicious but I think I had more fun just hanging out with everyone! Definitely a memory that we will have for a long time.

Walking on Thin Ice

2007-01-22T09:31:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a pretty traumatic day but everything turned out great. It's amazing how a simple pray to God in a crisis can make a difference. Yesterday, my friend Christine, Graham and I decided to take Bella for a walk. We went to Cresent park and at the park there is a duck pond that you can walk around. There was signs clearly laid out "Caution: thin ice" too bad dogs can't read, before I could catch Bella, she ran out onto the ice and towards the unfrozen part and she fell into the water, she tried to get out but she couldn't.The fear and the panic on her face was heartbreaking and it's an image that I am going to have in my mind for years.

Luckily, you could walk around the whole pond and to the side that wasn't frozen, we tried calling her to come swim that way but she was too scared, her yelps just put fear in your heart. I was just going to go in and get her but Graham wouldn't let me, he said that he would. I ran to the car to get towels and the blankets in my car, as I was running back to my car the only thing I could think of doing was saying a simple plea to God to keep Graham and Bella safe. Thank God the pond was only waist deep, so Graham didn't have to swim and hold Bella at the same time, Bella just laid in Graham's arms as they safely reached the bank. By that time I was back with the blankets, Graham and Bella were at the bank so we wrapped both up and dried them off. Everyone was safe and warm.

God is there in the quiet and traumatic. God is my protector and Graham is my hero.

Grandma business

2007-01-15T11:42:00.000-08:00

The doctor's have confirmed it, my Grandma did have another stroke on Tuesday. This time she hasn't recovered so well, this stroke has not effect her legs or movement but more her mind. She has become confused and disorientated. She keeps thinking that my parents stole her good mattress and that my Uncle Steven (on my dad's side) kept coming over to get drunk with her. (kinda of funny, because lets face it you have to find humor in this.) With the social worker my mom insisted that she be put into long term care and that she placed at Zion Park Manor which is part of our Church and place that my Grandma has volunteered her time many times. It seems only fitting that my Grandma lives there.

The social worker was going to send my Grandma home but have home care come everyday but my Grandma's doctor and mom insisted that should not happen.

I have been thinking a lot of beginnings and endings. My Grandma has lived such a wonderful life and how her choices in life have effected my life now.

Like how my Grandma and Grandpa determined that they were not farmers and became the rebels in the family and moved to Vancouver from Sask. If they stayed there, I might be used to this kinda of cold weather. Do you think that God has a destiny planned out for everyone's lives or do you think he just rolls with the punches as we exercise our free will cards? Surely he knows what choice we are going to make.

Changing addresses... No not me

2007-01-12T10:01:00.000-08:00

A lot can happen in 24 hours and a lot has. My Grandma has slowly been going down hill rapidly to the point that she can't remember how to get dressed in the mornings. Last week she had fallen in the middle of night, no broken bones but a lot of bruising. Growing up my Grandma has always had a high pain tolerance (she broke her leg, had polio set into it, got ran over by a car and all before the age of 10) but lately in her old age of 87 years she hasn't been able to handle a lot of pain. Early Wednesday morning she called her lifeline because the bruising was unbearable. She was taken into the hospital, where the doctors convinced her it was time that she moved into a care facility. She will be in the hospital for a couple days while they find her a bed in a care facility, she is really confused but we know that she will be safe.

This is a big relief but it is going to be a change. My Grandma has been so strong and independent and it is heart-breaking to see her so frail and childlike. But I guess that is the cycle of life.

When the lights go out

2007-01-10T12:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, my power went out again last night because of the wind storm. We have been having some crazy weather.

I got to use my cozy pink housecoat because at 3 in the morning the stupid fire alarm went off. But something even funnier happened to me, it was pretty hilarious sight to see because that evening I was complaining because I had this really annoying zit below my nose (because I have had a cold so I have been blowing my nose a lot) So Graham suggested that I put toothpaste on it because it's suppose to dry it out. So I did it, but with all the flurry and craziness of a fire alarm going off at 3 in the morning I forgot I had it on my upper lip, so I go running outside with this white mustache but thankfully my great roommate caught me before we actually saw anyone. But lets just say Christy and I had something to chuckle about while waiting to go back to our places.

So let's just say I am very tired today. Also the power didn't come on till an hour ago ( I heard from someone, because I am at work right now, on my lunch break :-) ) so I didn't wake up till 15 minutes before work started and so I had to get ready by flashlight. Do you know how hard it is to get ready by a flashlight. I wasn't sure if I matched till I got to work. And word to the wise, don't put mascara on by flashlight. Pretty painful.

Now we have a winter wonderland, actually scratch that we have a winter nightmare. Snow is no fun after Christmas. Go away Snow! Why can't we have our old reliable BC weather back? Rain is ok with me!

New book idea, Pickles the Fat Hobbit and the white mustache!

Vancouver Giants

2007-01-09T13:07:00.000-08:00

Graham's parents has season tickets to the Vancouver Giants and on Sunday they gave us tickets to go. It was a great game, they played against Red Deer and we won!! It was an intense game.

During the break we decided to take a walk and Popeye's nutritional store was there with samples so we trying their meal replacement and protein shakes. Gross, Gross, Gross. We both took one sip and then threw it out.

The Vancouver Giant games are cool. It has become really popular. The attendance for that game was 10,000 that is really good for minor hockey.

For those of you wanting a picture of Graham. You are just going to have to wait till I get a digital camera for my birthday or Christmas. Plus, I am not going to say "hey Graham, lets take a picture so I can put it up on my blog because my friends want to see what you look like." Patience people patience!

I wished I had a digital camera

2007-01-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

I know a lot of you are saying, "You want more just after Christmas, boy you are a spoiled brat" Well hopefully you aren't calling me a spoiled brat but I bet you all are wondering about my blog title.

The reason I want a digital camera is because I would like to take a picture of the 10 pink roses that Graham surprised me with last night. He chose pink because he knows that pink is one of my favorite colors. Then he took me out for dinner to Pasta Polio in Langley (great homemade pasta!)

So hopefully now you're not calling me a spoiled brat and more like, wow she is so cool she wants to show us her pretty flowers.

New Year!

2007-01-02T11:18:00.000-08:00

I am back, I have been on holidays celebrating with family and friends and haven't been near a computer so excuse my absence.

I had a great and relaxing Christmas. I got my pink Ipod that I wanted from my parents and a pink fuzzy house coat for those evening when the fire alarm goes off. I got some really good smelly body shop stuff from Graham.

I met my cousin Matthew and my Uncle Steve's girlfriend for the first time. Matthew is only 31/2 and so fun. They came to spend time at my parents place and we had a great time.

For New Year's Graham cooked dinner for me. Yummy steak and mushrooms! And we watched Superman's Return. It was a great movie. It was a good New Year's. It was quiet and relaxing and after the craziness of having family for a couple days it was well needed.

It really was a great Christmas and I am really looking forward to 2007. Happy New Year everyone.

Good blogging year

2006-12-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

2006 has turned out to be a great year for blogging and me. I know in past years I have been a bit forgetful or dare I say lazy but I think I have redeemed myself. Blogger is telling me that I have posted 89 times in 2006 (90 if you count this post) compared to last year when I only posted 28 times. I know some of you are way ahead of me for 2006 but I think I have done really well. I am not going to say I will double for 2007 because that always jinx's it for me so I am going to say, what will happen will happen and hope that 2007 will bring eventful and funny little stories in my life that I will just have to share with all of you. Because we all know that my life is pretty funny and that the strangest things happen to me.

I use to hate how weird and cultzy I was but now I embrace it and welcome those experiences just so that I have something to blog about.

Jumping on the Couch

2006-12-15T10:00:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again! My roommate left today for Christmas and I have my home all to myself!! and as in usually tradition when she leaves I will have my ceremonial jumping on the couch festival to pronounce that the season has begun! (I don't care if it's my couch, it's all about the symbolism people!)

Don't get me wrong, I have a very good roommate and she is barely home and when she is home she is quiet and in her room the whole time but there's something to be said for having my space to myself. I don't have to do the dishes right away if I don't want to, I don't have fold the blanket after using it (I don't usually do that so that doesn't really count) I can use her bathroom instead of always running the far distance to go use mine. I think I might trying having a shower in the quest bathroom because I have never have and well it is my shower, I should be allowed to experience that too!

You know it still amazes me that I own my place and that I own 3 sinks and 2 toilets. I really do love my home. It's so cozy and me.

Life is good for me right now and it's Couch Jumping Season! Let the festivities begin!!

29 Isn't so Bad

2006-12-11T09:45:00.000-08:00

29 isn't as hard as I thought it would be. I don't feel any different than 28. I had a great birthday. I got a Lululemon jacket like I wanted. It's so nice and cozy. I got the red one like I wanted too! and my grandma got me the perfume that I wanted. It's called Kimono Rose and it's from Thymes. I love the box too, it's so pretty!

I went to my parents for brunch and my Grandma, Auntie Lynn and cousin Kyle joined us. Then I went out for dinner with all my friends and then we went dancing because I love to dance! I really enjoyed it. Having birthdays like that makes turning 29 really easy to do.

Last year of my twenties

2006-12-06T14:44:00.000-08:00

On Saturday I turn 29. I have one more year left in my twenties. Makes me sad. But I think I am going to live this year up. I am going to do things that you are only allowed to do when you are in your twenties.

I never thought I would get to be this age.

Hey what are you doing in there?

2006-12-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

With the crazy snow storm my parents had to capture Bella's reaction to the snow. Can you see a bubble coming from her head saying, "what'ca eating?"

And now the bossy side of Bella comes out, She is demanding that they come out.

What a day!

2006-11-27T10:27:00.000-08:00

I got some bad news while sitting on reception. My mom called me and it looks like my Grandma has had another stroke. She is trying to dig herself out and go pick my Grandma up to take her to the hospital. She isn't in danger she just is disorientated and confused. Please pray. Christmas is not a good time for my family. My Grandpa passed away on Christmas eve, 20 years ago this Christmas.

Tagged

2006-11-23T15:10:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by Stefanie.

A) Four jobs I have had in my life:

1) I worked at Dairy Queen
2) I worked in the Student Affairs office during Unversity as an office assistant
3) I was development Assistant at the BC Schizophrenia society
4) Web editor

B) Four movies I could watch over and over:

1) Anne of Green Gables
2) Pride and Prejudice- BBC version
3) The Hope and the Glory
4)Happy Feet

C) Four places I have lived: (I have only lived in 3 places so this one is short)

1) North Delta,BC
2) Edmonton, AB
3) Langley, BC

D) Four TV shows I love to watch:

1) Gilmore Girls
2) 24
3) America's Next Top Model
4) Grey's Antanomy

E) Four places I have been on vacation:

1) Florida, USA
2) Toronto ,ON
3) Mexico
4) Melville, Sask.

F) Four internet sites I check daily
1. Thelife.com (for work)
2. My bloglines blogroll
3. Retirement With A Purpose.com (for work)
4. Gmail

G) Four of my favorite foods:
1. Hot Wings
2. Thai food
3. Perogies- chedder cheese
4. Spagetti (I know it's spelled wrong, but I too tired to look it up)

H) Four places I would like to be right now:
1. Sitting on my cozy chair in my cozy little condo with the fireplace on
2. A Tuscan villa in Italy
3. Hanging out with all of my friends
4. Walking Bella in the fields out back of my parents place

I am not tagging anyone. If you want to do it go for it!

Found a picture

2006-11-21T16:19:00.000-08:00

I found a picture of Hot Dr. Johnny but it doesn't do him justice so I am not going to post it. I don't want to ruin it for you guys because of a disappointing picture. I like to point out that I only like looking at Dr. Johnny because I can appreciate God's creation but I have no romantic feelings for him nor do I want to. I just like looking at him.

Little things make me happy

2006-11-20T10:06:00.000-08:00

I am so excited. I have the full cable service bundle. For the last year, in my attempt to live within my means I was only getting basic cable plus one tier. It was limiting and I had dreams of one day being able to watch all channels. I realized by looking on Shaw's website that I was only saving $5 so I said forget that!$5 dollars is not going to make me live beyond my means! so I have full cable. It's such a free feeling. The selection is amazing, no more days of being confined to a certain amount of channels! Freedom is so great. Just in time for Turner Classic Christmas movies! Yes, I know that I am a geek but it's the little things that make me happy.

Memories of my teenage years

2006-11-17T11:44:00.000-08:00

The last official piece of my teenage years are going away. My Dad's black Aerostar van has finally died and my parents have bought a new SUV.

It actually is affecting me more than I realized. I learned how to drive in that van, the van has moved me all the way to Edmonton and back, it has moved me into my place now. I remember doing my grade 12 car rally in that van. This is an end of era.

I think my Parents are more excited than I am because they bought a 2007 Saturn Vue, in cybress green. It is very pretty but it doesn't hold the memories like my Dad's van.

Life moves on and things turn to dust but the memories are what stay with us. This new SUV will have some of it's own memories I am sure.

Storm of 2006

2006-11-16T15:33:00.000-08:00

Many of you have probably heard of the storm that hit the west coast, many of you probably lived through it. Wow, was it a dozie!

At work the power stayed on but I live 4 blocks away and the power was out in my building. As I drove up to my place I was praying that the garage door was open so I could park my car underground. It was! but as I shut my car down and turned all of the lights of it went pitch black.

Do you know how hard it is to find your way to the door in a pitch black underground parking lot?I finally found my way to the door, but trying to get up the stairs and to my door took me 15 minutes because I had to feel my way the whole way because again it was pitch black.

So most of the evening was pretty boring, no TV, no one to talk to. I was lucky that my radio had batteries. At 9:30 I was so bored I decided to go to bed. Well, I had just gotten to bed but two minutes and the firealarm went off.

First thoughts that went through my mind was a candle fell and there was a real fire. So I threw on some jeans and sweatshirt and grabbed my purse (with everything I needed, the rest is just stuff) and helped the elderly lady next door down the stairs. There was confusion and panic in the hallways so I helped as much as I could. We all waited in the front for the fire trucks to come. It was a great time actually meet some of my neighbors, had a good time just hanging out.

After the fire trucks came they did a sweep of the place and determined that what happened was that the water was not being pumped to the sprinkler system on the 3 & 4th floors because no power to keep the pumps working. Once the pressure was low enough the firealarm went off.

So the fire department told us that we could all go inside. Everyone helped everyone inside and but 10 minutes of being in bed the firealarm goes off again. Well, out we track again into the cold and rainy. This happened 5 times in total last night and each time we had to leave the building.
When I left in the morning, I still didn't have power and I am amazed that I wasn't that late for work. But I sure am tired today.

Mark it on your calendar!

2006-11-14T13:39:00.000-08:00

Ok everyone get your calendars out and mark this day down. Today is Pickle Appreciation day! Oh what a wonderful day. I declare that in memory of this great day that I am going to make November 14 Pickles the Fat Hobbit's birthday.

What would you do?

2006-11-08T14:23:00.001-08:00

Today I treated myself to a coffee at Starbucks (Gingerbread Lattes are nowout, Woot Woot) sitting by the door was a gentlemen that had been weathered by the outside, obviously hungry and homeless. He could hardly stay awake, he was so weak. He kindly and unobtrusively asked if I had any change. Unfortunately, I never carry change so I apologetically said "no."

My heart aches when I see people in these situations, it is only during these times that I wish God would let me win the lottery so that I could help. Sadly, I am not a lottery winner. I decided that I was going to give up my luxury of coffee and buy this gentlemen a coffee. But first in situations like this I have learned to ask the establishment about their policy about these kind of situations. The barista requested that I not buy anything for him because it only encourages people to come back. They promised me that they would handle the situation and give the gentlmen something.

But I just feel sad that this world has come to a place that we can not help those who are needy because we are afraid that they will inconvenience society or make others uncomfortable. We should feel uncomfortable, we should feel guilty. We are living a blessed life that God has bestowed on us, it was freely given, we should freely give away. I feel disappointed in myself that I gave in so easily. What would you do in this situation? more importantly what can we do to help this situation?

Saying Goodbye

2006-11-08T14:05:00.001-08:00

As you have been reading, the last couple months I have blogged a lot about Bella. She has really helped me get over Molson. I still miss Molson, he still means so much to me but Bella has helped heal my heart a lot. With Bella becoming more and more important in my life, I have felt the need to have pictures of her around me. On my desk at work, I have two pictures of Molson in frames and I have his picture on my computer desktop. I think I am ready to take Molson's pictures off my desk. I am not ready to take Molson's picture off my desktop (everything in moderation, right?)

This is a big step for me because it feels like I am moving on and Molson's season of life has ended. It is hard letting go but God has blessed me with another crazy dog to focus my attentions on. Oh what a crazy dog she is!

What else should I have done?

2006-11-07T15:36:00.000-08:00

I woke up at 3:16 in the morning today and I laid awake for like 45 minutes thinking about how I was still awake. I decided to do something about it and I got up and went to the gym (I know what you are going to say, but my gym is open 24 hours.) Me and the other 3 people at the gym enjoyed the use of any machine that we wanted without a line up. I worked out for an hour and went home. I set my alarm for 7 (well 7:20 to be exact) and slept without problems until my alarm went off. It sure beat laying in bed for hours thinking about how I just want to go to sleep. You may think I am crazy but I still got 2 hours and 20 minutes of a good sleep!

No, I am not winking at you

2006-11-06T15:52:00.000-08:00

You know when you are tired and your eye keeps twitching! Thats what has been happening to me all day long. What is even stranger is that my eye will twitch and then my nose. I feel like a rabbit and I am winking at everyone.

Wench not Wrench

2006-11-02T15:28:00.000-08:00

I went to a costume party on Saturday. I went as a gypsie but I kept telling everyone that I was a wrench. What I meant to say, was that I was a Wench not a wrench. Yes, again I was joke of the party. Guess what I am going to go as next year? hint: It belongs in a tool box.

Hot Dr. Johnny

2006-10-27T14:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, another episode in the Hot Dr. Johnny saga. I went to see Hot Dr. Johnny on Wednesday this time there was no machine, he used his hands! Yes, I had hot Dr. Johnny squeezing and pushing all the tight knots out of my Gluteus Maximus. For all those who don't go see a Chiro, you should know that it really isn't as fabulous as I am portraying, yeah it's actually really painful. But the sad news is that the treatment is working and I don't need to go every second day. Ahh what will I do without having Hot Dr. Johnny's hands all over my Gluteus Maximus!

Hilarious story

2006-10-20T10:49:00.000-07:00

Last spring I went to the Chriopractor because I was having troubles with my hips.Iit has been awhile since I needed to go but while I was looking after Bella I fell down the back stairs and hurt my left hip. So, I made my appointment with Dr. Johnny. Dr. Johnny is hot!!! He looks like Kaysar from Big Brother. My left butt check hurt more, and well it was soo funny having hot Dr. Johnny feel out my butt! He decided that it was too tight to use ART on (wow should I take that as a compliment!) so he needed to use a machine that would send little shocks that stimulate the blood flow and will loosen up any knots. Ok, so Dr. Johnny had to put these little electrodes all over my butt, if felt like someone was squeezing my butt. I am so happy he left the room at that time because it was taking all of my strength not to burst out into laughter.

Ok, so the time was up and he had to take off the electrodes, what I didn't tell you that he had to but a gel like substance, so now he had somehow wipe it off. In my head I was saying "ahhhh, Dr. Johnny is wiping my butt." It was the most hilarious thing and I couldn't laugh. Why couldn't my Dr. Johnny be old and bald then it wouldn't bother me so much. Well, I have another appointment so stay tuned for more hilarious stories.

Hey I could do a Pickles the Fat Hobbit book about this but I have feeling that it might be too x-rated for a childrens book. Pickles the Fat Hobbit and Hot Dr. Johnny!

Ahh my life is back to normal

2006-10-20T10:41:00.000-07:00

It feels so good to get things back to normal. To sleep in my own bed, to hear all the old familiar sounds, the clock in my living room that ticks loudly, the rain falling through the cutters by my window. It just feels so good to be back at home, I love my little place. Also if feels so good to have my Mom and Dad back, to have someone to talk to about my day. I didn't get anything Prada but I got a great leather purse, a lovely warm sweater, and a baseball cap that is PINK and says "Cio Bella" (yeah that's funny, I say in a sarcastic tone). But I am mostly happy to have my parents back.

Caramel Frappuccino- My favorite Frapp

2006-10-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Caramel Frappuccino

Creative and expressive, you tend to match your Frappuccino flavor to your mood. And a flavored syrup is always a must!

What Flavor Frappuccino Are You?

2 days till I get my life back

2006-10-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

My parents will be coming home in 2 days. I think I need a vacation from their vacation. I just want to go back to my place, sleep in my bed, sleep till my alarm wakes me up and not a puppy that wants to play. I want to go back to my nice pretty home.

At my witts end

2006-10-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been a disaster. At a time when I should be thankful for what I have I find myself very angry. It makes me angry at myself because I know I have a terrible attitude, which makes me so disappointed with myself. Bella has been terrible, she has gotten out of the yard 3 times today, the last time I was getting ready to leave and she makes a run for it before I get to close the kitchen door, then down the stairs and quick as she can she goes through the whole in the fence, I spent 20 minutes trying to catch her in the cul-de-sac and then I just gave up, I literaly stopped caring and walked away, the dog followed me home but I was at a point that I just didn't care.

No, I have to change my attitude because gratefulness is all a matter of perspective.

Ok, this is what I am thankful for:

1)The colorful leaves that I was blessed to see as I took Bella for her walk
2)My Grandma that loves me
3)An awesome Aunt who realized that my Grandma and I were alone for thanksgiving so invited us over
4)Long weekends
5) A God that forgives me when I have a bad attitude
6)A puppy that will grow up into a Molson dog (she isn't there yet but I know she will be)
7) Loving parents that are finding me pretty things in Italy, when I don't deserve it

Beta blogger is making me mad

2006-10-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

Beta Blogger is making me mad!! I have been doing some stuff to my template but everytime I get it to what I want and go to save it, I get a message that 'An error has occured. Please try again" I have been trying all day!! It's like I add a feature, go to preview it and if I don't like it I can't change.

I hope the blogger bosses see this and know that I am not impressed!!! I know it's beta, I brought it on myself. Oh and I really want to change my header because I have this great header but only one person replied to my plea!! Come on all you who have a personalized header, talk to me!!!

fweee, ok I had to rant, please forgive me, I am so grumpy this evening. My Dad's van has a flat tire and it's really low, I found the air compressor but I must have done something wrong because it didn't blow it up.

I just want my life back, this responsiblie life with a house, a car, a dog, a grandma is a lot for just one person and the stupid tire won't blow up!

Chinese Thanksgiving

2006-10-05T19:00:00.000-07:00

As my parents are enjoying Italy, my grandma and I are alone this thanksgiving. And since I never cooked a turkey before and my grandma is not capable to cook a turkey anymore we decided that we would go out for Thanksgiving, the problem is that every resturant is closed. So, my Grandma and I are going to order Chinese food. This might be a new tradition. I am so looking forward to the long weekend.

Of course!

2006-09-29T18:39:00.000-07:00

I knew as I put that claim about being in-dependance of God out there that he would test me. How come so quickly? Have you found that when you want God to take action in your life, he usually makes you wait to know the answers but when it's an action he calls you to make he acts quickly when you accept it.

Funny. Maybe he is anwering your prayer through your act of contrition and he is leading you to where you asked to be in the first place.

100th Post

2006-09-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

This is my 100th post. Yes I had a slow start but the last couple of months I think I have been really good at blogging. I guess I have a lot to say lately and find writing helps me.

Like right now with my parents being away, having no one to talk to just to tell how my day went I have felt this intense need to write. I think God is using these three weeks as a time to refine me on the inside. I don't like not having anyone to talk to, yes I have my Grandma but it's hard to talk to her because she can't hear.It loses it's emotion when you have to scream. I also tried speaking my woes to Bella but I get the distinct impression that she has no clue what I am saying on the account of the tilted head.

It's very weird to feel so disconnected, yes I am doing the same things in the evenings as I always do but knowing that there is someone out there that wants to know how my day went is very comforting and not having that kind makes the day not as fulfulling. I guess I am really not as independant as I thought I was. I guess I really can't do it all on my own. Honestly, I don't think I want to. I think I need more of God and less of me. Have you ever taken a look at the word "Independance" it's in-dependance, in-dependance of. Thats what I want, I want to be in-dependance of God. I want to relie on God, to lean on him, to be dependant on him. My independance is tied into my dependance on God.

It's just an epiphany that I've had and it has made me think. I guess this silence (among the dog barking) is a time for me to look inwardly and redirect where my strength comes from.

Thank God for Doggie Daycare

2006-09-27T21:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, I think I can make it. Bella has been a zombie all evening. I still take her out on the leash to go to the bathroom but she has been out cold on the couch, laying on her back and snoring. It's a funny sight to see. Yeah, Bella is going to doggie daycare tomorrow and the day after that. I will survive!!

Looks soo sweet but bad to the bone

2006-09-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

This is for my parents because they are checking my blog while in Italy. Bella misses you a lot and she is saying "Hi." Not sure if you are going to see a puppy in one piece when you get back home Mom and Dad. So I though I would post this for you guys something to remember her by. (No, don't worry I couldn't harm her, I just wish she would grow up and be a Molson already)

I miss you guys too, counting the days till you come back. Only 17 more sleeps!

Yes, to everyone in blogworld I am a Momma's girl and proud of it! (and a daddy's girl, Dad)

Amendment

2006-09-26T19:17:00.000-07:00

My barcade didn't work, had to go chase Bella around the neighborhood again. This is going to be a long long three weeks.

Bad Bella......Bad Bad Bad

2006-09-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a long 3 weeks. I am already exhusted and it's only day 4. Well, Bella and my first work day went off with a bang. I let her out to go pee and somehow the sneaky scoundrel found a hole in the fence and got out of the yard. I saw her running around in the cul-de-sac at 6:00 am in the morning. She was trying to entice the neighbors dog to come out. She stood in the front lawn starring up at the window barking and prancing around. Then when she saw me she was so excited, it was almost like "Leah ,what are you doing here? I am so happy to see."

This morning I was up to her tricks, she wasn't going to fool me, so I went downstairs to the yard with her but that dog ran for the hole in the fence right away and was out of the yard in no time. So, at 7:00 in the morning I walk quickly to go get her. So after work I spent most of my time trying to board the whole in the fence. How come she has to find the dirties, cowebish, spider-filled spot to escape from?

Well, after an half an hour of chasing Bella around the yard because she stole my hammer, I decided to just baracade her from getting to that spot. I have let her out and tested to see if she could get out and she hasn't left the yard yet. Thank God tomorrow is Bella's day to go to Doggie Daycare.

This has put any thoughts of getting a pet to rest in my mind. No, the single life is the life for me. No responsiblities, no worries, free and fancy free, it's a Pirates Life for me! (well not really but it sounded right)

Oh I am sure that there is a Pickles the Fat Hobbit book in here. I would start writing those books because I have a quiet house to do it but I am too busy chasing a puppy.

Need your help

2006-09-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

Hey I want to add my own personal header to my blog but I don't know how. Does anyone know? I have updated to the Beta Blogger.

Living in a house

2006-09-24T19:01:00.000-07:00

Well, the next three weeks I am living in a house, with no noisy people below me or above me, no long trecks to take the garbage out and I don't have to go through 3 security doors to get inside the building. But instead I have one 9 month puppy that I have to feed, take for walks and make sure she doesn't get in trouble (ha haa hahhha, like thats not going to happen), one lawn to cut, 4 TV's with full cable (yeahhhhh) and I have to take care of my Grandma but she isn't living with me. Where's my parents you say? Why do I have so much responsibility at such a young age? Because my parents are running around Italy, cheeze those parents are so irresponsible! All I can say is that they better bring me back some Prada something.

Not having my parents around has really opened my eyes, I have realized the day when my parents aren't around I am truley going to be by myself. I have no siblings, my Mom is an only child too, no Aunts and Uncles around. My future is all my responsiblity, I better start a RRSP now so that I can afford buying that shack by the beach when I retire. It's all on my shoulders. Hey maybe I can sell off my Prada shoes that my parents are bringing back from Italy, that will be a healthy start to my retirement fund.

So close to the Stars

2006-09-18T14:02:00.000-07:00

What an amazing morning!!! I was so frustrated because the internet was down in the office so I couldn't do any work. So I was stuck looking out my window but luckily a made-for-tv movie was being filmed outside my window and low behold what would my wondering eyes come across? It was Jason Priestly from Beverly Hills 90210. I couldn't believe it. I knew who it was instantly! It was really exciting. I loved watching 90210 as a teenager. Dilon was my favorite but I loved the good guy Brandon too.

Living in Vancouver you come accustom to having movie sets all over the place, you just resign yourself to the fact that you never see anyone famous but it is really exciting when you see someone.

This just made my day, who cares if the internet is down, I have my own movie set out-side my window with famous people.

I love Bella

2006-09-14T16:26:00.000-07:00

Some how that crazy puppy has crept into my heart. I don't know how or when but I love Bella. I love Bella in a different way than Molson (I still miss him and always will). Bella is definately a different puppy than Molson was. Molson was an easy going, happy go lucky puppy that learned quickly. He was confident that he was wanted and much loved so had no reason to be bad but Bella has been a crazy and bad puppy.

She steals food from the counter, chews my favorite flip flops and lays on the flowers but somehow I absolutely love her. I love how she is the biggest clutz (a girl after my own heart or feet). She trips over her big paws when she runs and just does a roll on the ground and gets up and goes. She loves her belly being rubbed and lays spread eagle on her back (it's rather indecent). I love how when on her back is itchy she rolls around on her back growling at herself. She likes to give hugs and all she wants to do is to be with us. I think she a Dennis the Menace of the dog world. She is going to be an amazing dog, I am sure our days are going to be full of crazy antics and hilarious stories.

Stupid ugly cell phone

2006-09-07T19:13:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday I had a beautiful cool green cell phone that I got last year and today I have an ugly blue boy phone. It literally looks like a men's razor. I some how lost my cell phone while I was downtown Vancouver. I feel so disappointed in myself because I use to never loose things. I had to buy new phone because I renewed my contract last year so I couldn't buy a new plan so I bought the basic phone which cost $129 dollars. I know some of you are thinking that I should have waited to look into all my options and when I have saved some money up I should have bought it but I use my cell phone as my phone, I don't have a landline. I felt so helpless last night when I realized I didn't have my cell phone because I couldn't call anyone. I felt so disconnected. I was able to keep my same plan and same cell phone number so thats a blessing but I just can't help but be disappointed in myself.

Autumn breezes

2006-08-30T08:53:00.000-07:00

I can feel the change in the air, Fall is coming. I see the trees change color and I am getting so excited. Fall is always soothing to me. The colors of the changing leaves are like a warm cozy blanket. The bright crisp air is so refreshing and beautiful. The way life gets back into a routine, signifies a new beginning and a time to reflect on the Summer.

I was truly blessed this Summer. I was lucky to run barefoot a lot, feel the refreshing, soothing feeling of the lake on a hot dry day. I basked on a floating mattress while soaking up the summer rays. I celebrated with family and friends under the cover of fragrant grapes and ate delicious food and wine. I mourned the death of a beloved friend and pet and got frustrated with the new beloved puppy's behaviour. I laughed with friends till I almost peed my pants. I worshiped my Lord and creator in the beautiful BC mountains.

I was able to see God's love for me in these experiences and through the people that I got to share it with. SHMILY- yes God I see.

Car=Evil but God=Amazing

2006-08-22T16:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I took my car into be fixed. I took it to the local college because you can get repairs done for just the cost of the parts needed. At first I though it was my starter but no it was not that. All that my car needed was a clutch adjustment. No parts ordered, no labour means Leah didn't have to pay. Yeah to God!!

Stupid/Evil Car

2006-08-17T17:18:00.000-07:00

A couple posts before I told you of the incident where my car wouldn't start. It was hilarious at the time but I have to say it's not so funny anymore. Tuesday I awoke 15 minutes before I had to be at work. Good thing I live 5 minutes away. I was all ready by 8:00 and I would have only been 5 minutes late which I could have easily made the time up. But guess what!!! My stupid/evil car wouldn't start!!!! All my luck. So, I had to walk to work. I was 20 minutes late. I kicked my car a couple of times in my frustration. Well, I think I made her mad when I kicked her because ever since she still won't work. I have been walking to work ever since. My car is almost as stubborn as I am.

So Excited

2006-08-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

I am so excited, my friends Rob and Patricia ( I like your new header) are coming out at the end of the month. I am going to hang out with them and have great adventures. I went to visit them in Florida in May and had a wonderful time. Yeah to Rob and Patricia!!! Hey, I could do Fat Hobbit Book about this: Pickles the Fat Hobbit and the Americans :-)

Home to Myself

2006-08-11T16:06:00.000-07:00

I am so excited, I have my house to myself for a whole week!!!! Not that my roommate is bad, she is great when I see her. But there is something really nice to know that its all yours for a week. Like if I don't want to put my stuff in the dishwasher I don't have too. Last year when my pyscho roommate left for a month I ran around our apartment and jumped up and down on her couch. But not as much satisfaction if it's your own couch that your jumping on but I am still going to try it.

Bruised Bum

2006-08-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

I know you all are saying, too much information. But the story is rather hilarious. On the weekend after Staff conference I felt like I needed to spend some quality time with my family. So we decided after dinner that we would take Bella to Crescent Beach. All was going well, Bella was retrieving the ball (like a good golden retriever should) and then she decides to run under the fence and escape. My dad went the long way to go get her but my mom wanted me to climb the fence to go get her. She wouldn't because she was wearing a skirt (I was too but her excuse was that I am younger)

Well, by the time I was over the fence Bella had come back, of course!!. As I was trying to come back the other way, I kinda of got stuck (don't ask) so my Dad offered to help lift me off the fence, but he dropped me!!!! and I fell back onto a rock, my elbows are all scraped up and I have the biggest, blackest, bluest bruise I have ever had but the funny thing is that it really didn't hurt that much.

It really makes me laugh when I see it because it was such a funny scene. My mom is worried about how black it is because she is afraid that I am going to get blood clots (because she did a couple of years ago) so she wants me to go to the doctor. Yeah right!!! Can you imagine the call to the doctors:

Me: Hi I need to make an appointment for the Doctor
receptionist: And what is this regarding?
Me: The bruise on my bum!!!

Yeah thats not going to happen. I am going to be fine. And no you are not going to get a picture of it.

Working out with Paul Henderson

2006-08-07T12:26:00.000-07:00

Yep, thats right me and Paul Henderson are tight. I pump iron with Paul. This past week I have been up at Whistler partaking in Staff Conference and one of the cool things is that we stayed in a nice hotel with a work-out room. I did not want to give up on my work-out schedule so I got up early as usual and went down. In walks Paul Henderson, he said hello and ask how I was doing, my inner monolog was screaming, "Ahh, Paul Henderson knows who I am" but then he told me that I did really great last night and I am thinking "umm ok, I didn't do anything last night" and then he asked me how my husband was. AHH, in my head I said "husband, I have a husband does Paul know something I don't know" but then I clued in no, he has me mistaken for the emcee at staff conference. Trust me I didn't look anything like her. So I had to correct Paul Henderson but then I introduced myself properly.

So, at the the conference everytime he say me he said hello and used my real name. Yep, me and Paul Henderson are tight, we're work-out buddies.

Pictures from Camping

2006-07-28T11:58:00.000-07:00

Posing for the camera. Notice the lake in the background.

One of my best friends, Christine, she is making pancakes.

Posing for a group shot, while having a bathroom break.
(Left to Right- Mike, Christine, Maria, Me, Robin)

Pop the Clutch

2006-07-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of weeks I have been having problems with my car. My Dad believes it's the ignition because I can turn the key and the lights and radio turn on but the engine doesn't start. Well, the other night I went for coffee with two great friends. We had a great time, we laughed all evening. As we were going I was going to give my friend Maria a ride home, I turn to start the car and nothing. Of course!

So my other friend Christine noticed that we weren't leaving so she pulled over to see if she could help. Well, the three of us decided that I needed to pop the clutch to start it. I was just taugh the other day how to pop the clutch so I was like "Ok I can do that" but first of all we had to back the car up or else it would go straight in to the store. So my friends began to push backwards, I have to mention that we were all laughing already because it was so hilarious. So I was sitting in my car and they were pushing and they both said wow, it's not moving ,and asked if my car was in neutral, but I had in first gear (laugher insued, almost peed my pants), so after we calmed down I put the car in neutral but I forgot I had my e-brake on but this time I got out to help push. It wouldn't budge! and then we noticed that the e-brake was on! More laughter
insued. Oh but it doesn't stop there!

So we finally get the car backed up and enough room to pop the clutch. So, Maria and Christine start to push, but my mind goes blank, I can't remember how to pop the clutch. Let's just say we were laughing on the ground.

We decide to call Maria's husband, Robin. So, we sit around laughing and chatting. I decided to try turning my car on one last time. Guess what!! It started, more laughing. Let's just say, my car is going in to be fixed after Staff Conference.

Hot Hot Hot

2006-07-26T10:02:00.000-07:00

No, I am not talking about myself (ok maybe a little) but I was describing the weather we have been having. It has been amazing, I love warm weather. It reached 38 celsuis in Vancouver but I was not in Vancouver this pass weekend. I went camping up to Kelowna with a group of my friends. It was 45 celsuis and I loved it. We stayed in the lake the whole time and just floated around on the islands of paradise. Amazingly I did't get sunburnt or much of a tan. I went with 5 friends and then we met up with our other friends.

It was funny because it was so hot that you could see everyone clammering to get out of their tents around 7:30 in the morning because it was so hot in the nylon tents of doom. Most people experienced SBS- sweaty butt syndrome. Come on you all know what I am talking about!

New idea for the Pickles series "Pickles the Fat Hobbit goes camping " or even better yet "Pickles the Fat Hobbit's battle with the nylon tent of doom"

I Still Miss Moe

2006-07-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

It's been almost 3 weeks and I still miss him. It has gotten better, some days I only think about him a little bit. I just can't believe that this world doesn't have him in it. I can still remember what he feels like, his squishy, soft body. I still remember how he loved to cuddle on the couch everytime I came over for 5 minutes and then it was time to go play. I miss how concerned he was if I was upset or sad. When we tell people that Molson has been put down, everyone is so sad some people have cried too. One of the coolest things someone did for us is that they gave a gift to the SPCA in Molson's name.

I am still in shock that this world doesn't have him in it. One of the greatest gifts from God is the love of an animal. I think if you haven't experienced the unconditional love from an animal you have missed out on one of lifes many blessings.

As a family we are going to buy a tree for Molson and put his collar around it. The only problem is that we can't decide what kind of tree to buy. He already have a dogwood in remembrance of another dog that we had. Moslon was such a goofy dog that at night he would bark at every bush and tree because he was so afraid of them.

On another note, I think their should be another book for Pickles called Pickles and Molson's great adventures. Oh boy I could write forever about those.

Ready to Talk

2006-07-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for your sincere words of encouragement and care. I really appreciate it. I have been off this week and I think God has perfect timing. I really needed this time just to be quiet and heal. Some may read this and say "it's just a dog" he was more than that to me, he was an unique creature created to make a lasting impact on my life. He gave me love when no one else did, he listen with eagerness when I talked out loud. He was a warm fuzzy being, that sat by my side when I needed not to feel alone. He was a crazy, goofy dog that cracked me up laughing.

You all might be wondering how he came to pass . On Saturday Molson started experiencing seizures the vet told us that he had cancer in the brain and that the seizures would only be getting more frequent and less intense. That was when we decided that it was better for him. So in a quiet room with a cozy fireplace and a blanket on the floor we said goodbye. He died with his most treasured people around him. For me, the treasure was in his life and what he taught me. Love the people in your life with your whole heart and cherish the moments and experiences with them. That's the meaning of life.

Molson Golden Jenvey May 2, 1996-July 2, 2006

2006-07-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

He made me smile, gave me joy, taught me about the stuff that matter. He was truely a gift from God. He will always be the best dog in the world.

Rollerblading Clutz

2006-06-28T16:03:00.000-07:00

Ok, I don't think I want to be a rollerblading girl anymore. For the past week, I have been rollerblading to work. It's been a good work-out, it saves on gas, and reduces harmful emissions.

Well, this morning as I was rollerblading to work I was coming up to a drive way, I was half way through when a car comes up, I was there first but it keep going. So I had a choice pavement or be hit by a car. I chose the pavement, scraped my knee and my hands but the sad thing is that the lady didn't stop to see if I was ok. She drove off!

I think I will stick to being a beach girl, the water will be a softer landing.

Roller Girl

2006-06-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

Along with being a beach girl and a children's novelist I want to be a roller girl. Not one of those mean rollerderby girls no way, but one of those girls that can play roller hockey. My friends and I have this tradition of playing rollerhockey in the summer we go to some empty parking lot and just have a fun game, boys are less rough because the girls play but we all have fun. I really try my hardest to do well. Yesterday we had one of those games but it was for my friend Chris's 30th birthday and his wife Ang rented an arena. It was so fun! I only fell down once and got elbowed in the mouth by accident (a little bit of a fat lip.)

It's rather funny if a girl would fall, she would get back up and start playing, no time out, no stopping the game. But for the guys, oh boy stop the game if they had a little blister on their hands. The cry for band-aids was unbelieveable.

Can you see it now: A surfer girl on rollerblades!

Summer is here and the living is easy

2006-06-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

I have written in the past about my parents beautiful garden and all the great evenings spent under the Grape arbour listening to great music and the smell of intoxicating Honeysuckle floating through the air. Well I have some pics to show you guys now!

I Am Just A Lucky So and So

2006-06-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite songs is by Louis Armstrong called " I am just a lucky so and so." Whenever I hear the song I always think of Molson strolling down a street with Cherry Bloosom trees lining the road, and Molson with his great big smile on. Now with Bella around I imagine the two strolling together happy as can be. Here are some pictures of the two luckiest so and so's around.

Happy New Years!!

2006-06-15T16:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am 6 months late but my friend Chris finally got around to sending me these pictures. Here are some pics from last year's celebrations. We play board games, and my friends roll up their carpet and all us girls danced in the living room.

Ang and me sitting on the couch playing Tripod
Shannon and I striking a pose while dancing

The girls having fun (L-R: Me, Ang, Jen, Shannon and Denise)

My dream has come true!

2006-06-15T16:32:00.000-07:00

Well, I wished for it and my friend Rob made it happen. He found a site that would let you custom make T-shirts. Look at this:
http://customink.com/cink/r.jsp?E=leahj%40crusade.org&F=picklesf

The problem is that they only sell in quantities of 6 and if I get more than 6 its cheaper. So, I am taking orders. Anyone who wants one of these lovely T-shirts for $13.06 let me know!

Blasphemy!

2006-06-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

Laurs sent me this link. If they had a shirt that said Pickles are from God! I would pay $10 dollars. Or what if they made a T-Shirt that said Pickles the Fat Hobbit. Oh my gosh I sooo want a T-shirt that says Pickles the Fat Hobbit now!

Laughing at Myself

2006-06-13T16:04:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I do such stupid things and then I realize how funny those stupid things are and they crack me up. Like sometimes I snap back to reality and it's like knock knock Leah are you in there? and then I laugh at myself. I am my own entertainment. I guess I am the most hilarious person in my mind.

Wow, I just got a new idea for a book in the Pickles the Fat Hobbit series: Pickles the Fat Hobbit and her multiple personality! Or Pickles the Fat Hobbit Entertains Herself

Hmm is this whole Pickles the Fat Hobbit thing something I should laugh at myself about? Ahh naw everyone has to have a goal in life right?

The Grandma Saga's

2006-06-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

My grandma has been home from the hospital for a couple of weeks now. She is still walking with a walker and is slow-moving but she is determined to get back to her old self again. Well, because she is so slow my mom had to buy my Grandma a new answering machine. Her old one was really old and wouldn't change to more than 3 rings.

Well, the other day she called my mom and told her that she thinks that there is something wrong with her new answering machine. My mom asked what was wrong and my Grandma answered that everytime she checks her messages she keeps hearing a man's voice and doesn't know how he got on it. My mom could hardly contain from laughing out loud, and told her that it was just her answering machine telling her that she has no messages. We though that an answering machine would be easier to figure out than voicemail. When we explained the answering machine to my Grandma she cracked up laughing too.