Open Book

2011-01-29T19:17:00.000-06:00

I've got bronchitis. I'll be back when I don't have bronchitis anymore!

Whopper Wednesday

2011-01-17T09:21:00.000-06:00

Justin and Magda have been together for 3 years now. They celebrated their 3 year anniversary last Wednesday. Magda, being a female, was quite excited about their upcoming anniversary, and told Justin that she was excited that they would have been together for 3 years on Wednesday. Justin, being a male, told Magda that he was excited that it would be Whopper Wednesday on Wednesday.

As a direct result of the above conversation, Justin felt as though he needed to do something to make it up to Magda. So, he made her sushi. (and for you to understand how much of a big deal that is, you need to know that Magda would eat sushi for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Every day. For the rest of her life if she could!)

It's teriyaki chicken with avocado. It was yummy (I stole a piece the next day!)

Magda came over on Wednesday morning, and she came bearing a gift for Justin....

...a whopper! I thought it was very sweet!

Happy Belated Anniversary guys!

Date Night

2011-01-15T12:01:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday night, Helmut and I embarked on our first date of the year. It was very simple, we went skating and then to Starbucks for coffee afterwards. And, even though the ice kept popping under my skates and made me feel as though I could fall through at any moment, it was a fantastic date.

On the way home, we ordered food from Earl's, picked it up (48 minutes after we ordered, 28 minutes after it was supposed to be ready) and went home to relieve our wonderful babysitter (and daughter), Kelsey.

Notes for next time:

- Make sure Helmut wears a proper toque or a belaclava. He was cold before I was!
- Find a pond that doesn't "pop" under my skates.
- Order Earl's at the beginning of the date. Maybe then it will be ready by the time we go pick it up!

Helmut wore his new contacts, and we skated around the pond at St. Vital Park; talking about nothing in particular and holding hands. It was a wonderful and relaxing evening of just being with each other. I love you baby!

**As a side note, I apologize for my absence this week. I've been very sick and am currently typing this in bed, with one hand; a cup of tea in the other hand and a pile of dirty kleenex surrounding me. I will be blogging about Whopper Wednesday later this weekend.

This year...

2011-01-09T22:59:00.000-06:00

Helmut and I are focusing on each other more. We found that last year, we just didn't connect enough. Yes, we were in the same house with each other most evenings, and worked together every day, 10 feet away from each other, from September on, but it doesn't mean we were actually focusing on each other. I think it's important to do in a normal marriage, but when you're in your second marriage, in a blended family, with children between the ages of 3 and 21, with all kinds of activities, it's even more important. There's a reason second marriages have an 85% divorce rate.
We're in love with each other; we love our kids. That should be enough. But it isn't.
What is almost enough is the fact that we are committed to each other. I can tell you now that if we weren't, we would have split up last year. To be honest, we almost did. Twice. The things we've been through together aren't worth doing for/with someone you aren't committed to. They were hardly worth doing/going through at all; irregardless of committment.
We are committed to the Lord and that is the basis for our committment to each other. That's the real reason we are still together today.

Once we realized how very real the end of our relationship could be; we talked. We really really talked. We both listened. It was great, and things have been slowly improving.

This year, we are taking a few steps to strengthen our marriage, and because I have a blog (and therefore have the ability to tell you all) I'm going to tell you what those steps are.

1) A date night every month. This was actually my Christmas present to Helmut. One date a month, pre-planned and paid for. This is one thing we've not done at all over the last 4 1/2 years. Part of that is because we have kids. We never seem to find the time, unless we are deliberate about making it. This year, we are going to make the time.

2) Go to bed at the same time every night. This is actually something we do every night already, and always have. So, this one will be easy. It gives us time to talk and wind down with each other every night. Makes a big difference in *many* areas of our life.

3) Doing little things that we know make things easier for each other. For example, Helmut asked me to have the kitchen table completely clean when he came home from work tonight. I don't understand why (because I would have rather made an extra batch of buns, I only got 3 batches done today) but I knew it was important to him, even though it was such a little thing, so I did it.

4) When we talk to our friends about any difficulties we are facing, we only talk to friends who believe in marriage forever and remaining committed to your spouse. They support us, help us through, talk us down (me more so than Helmut) and are there for us when we need them. (I should make it clear here that we do not tell them specifics of what we're going through. They just remind us that we are committed to each other and help us through the rough times).

So. Those are just a few steps things we will be doing consistently this year to grow closer to one another. I'm sure there are a thousand other things we could be doing, and these are certainly not the only things we are doing, but these are some conscious efforts we will be making to stay connected. Because this marriage will last.

pretty pretty!

2011-01-06T13:50:00.000-06:00

Okay, so these are the cutest little people I've seen! I'd love to see these ending up in my Valentine's Day gift! So special!

found here.

Love! I really really really need to stop browsing Etsy. I am finding waaaaay too many things that I want to buy. And seeing as we are being very frugal this year, it's not much fun. I've got a favourites list 10 pages long in my Etsy account! It's gonna be a long year if this keeps up!

But, one of this year's goals is to try to buy most of my gifts handmade or vintage/upcycled. Etsy is the perfect place to fulfill that goal! So, at least I'll get to buy a few things from there. Hee hee.

A Memorable Occasion

2011-01-05T22:21:00.000-06:00

Khai and his hockey team the Dakota Canadiens, had the honor of playing 7 minutes at the MTS Center yesterday; during the 1st and 2nd period of the 17 and under Junior Hockey bronze medal hockey game. Helmut took him, and from the looks of things, they had an amazing time! Khai was very excited that he "played with the Moose" (he didn't really, but you know what he means) . It was a great experience for him and the team! Wish I could have been there!

I hope you remember how excited you were yesterday, forever. I hope you have this boyish enthusiasm for life always. It's infectious and I love it.

2011

2011-01-02T08:12:00.001-06:00

Photo by Erin Keown Photography

This year will be filled with new things.

This year will be filled with lots of family time.

This year will be filled with more laughter (and less tears).

This year will be filled with consistency.

This year will be filled with prayer.

This year will be filled with loud noises and big messes and smiling children.

This year will be filled with choices.

This year will be filled with love.

Happy New Year to you all!

December 10th, 2010

2010-12-21T15:19:00.000-06:00

This year, I have felt particularly cut off from the kids school. With me going back to work, I have felt very isolated and, among other issues, have felt as though the fantastic connection that I had with the school last year, has been lost. I have been feeling very frustrated and I miss being involved in the classroom a lot. But, even though I haven't been in the classroom yet, not even once, I was able to make (with the kids help) some handmade teachers and students gifts for Khai and Declan's teachers and classmates.

First step, clean off your table. Today, I had a little helper. I use the word helper very loosely, because I had to wash the whole thing all over again once he was done, but, at least he had fun! (I love that he has a helpful spirit. It always makes my heart swell when the kids are helpful. Like, one day, I came out to the van and Brett had cleaned the whole thing off for me. *sigh* So sweet.)

Then, get some cinnamon. LOTS of cinnamon. Like, I bought 2 huge things from Superstore and I have only a tiny bit left. Dump some into a large bowl. Add applesauce until it makes a dough type consistency. I realize ratios here would be nice, but it really depends on the applesauce and how moist it is. I used 2 different kinds of applesauce and it took different amounts of cinnamon to make it the right consistency.

Once you are done mixing, dust your workspace (and your rolling pin) generously with more cinnamon. Roll out your "dough" to desired thickness (I found that I liked the thicker ones much much better, but they take considerably longer to bake) and cut out with your favourite cookie cutters.

Use a straw or something else that is similarly sized (and clean) to make holes so that you can hang them later.

Place on foil, wax paper or parchment paper on cookie sheets.

Bake at 250 degrees F for an hour. I actually did mine for a bit longer, because they were still quite damp when I took them out after an hour. I also waited until they were quite cool until I removed them from the foil.

String a ribbon through the hole and tie a pretty tag to it! I am also including a note that says that it isn't a cookie as I'm giving them to both 2-5 year olds and 6-7 year olds.

Each kid in Khai and Declan's classes are getting one ornament, and the teachers will each get a set of 4. A super fun activity to do with the kids, plus, it's easy on your budget!

December 9th, 2010

2010-12-21T11:09:00.000-06:00

image found here.

This year, I was hired by a friend to cater his company Christmas party. There has been a ton of planning (and too many lists, according to my husband) and I anticipate many late nights cooking and baking as much as can be made in advance. Tonight was meatball night. So, while Helmut took Khai to piano, and then Brett to hockey, I stayed at home, making batch after batch of meatballs. Sadly, I was too tired at the end of it to remember to take any pictures of my own. But, after making as many meatballs as I have tonight (200+), I know that this will be something I make in large batches and freeze for our family as well!

Note to self : freeze on cookie sheet and THEN put into ziploc bags. Otherwise it will take too long to separate them when you take them out of the freezer.

December 8th, 2010

2010-12-15T12:49:00.000-06:00

Every year. Every single year, our gingerbread house decorating goes awry. Here's last year's decorating day. And this year, was, well, almost as interesting (and almost as much fun!)

Next year, I'm doing this! It's a fantastic idea, if only I'd seen it before this year's disaster.

We started out again, with an E-Z build box kit. I don't know why I don't ever remember that these kits really don't work.

It looks good, right? Sadly. It didn't stay that way!

Still looks okay...just wait though...

I believe this was Declan's addition to the house. So cute!

Eating the candy was Khai's favourite thing to do!

Justin took a break from studying to help us accomplish this...masterpiece!

A typical "Brett" face!

He clung quite tightly to those candies!

I always feel the need to do a group shot!

I'm sorry to say, it was my idea to put a Tech Deck (with the wheel part taken off) on the roof and have a little guy snowboarding down it. It was originally supposed to be a Lego guy, but Khai couldn't find his ONE lego guy, so we used a gingerbread man instead. It was inspired by Khai's "Hopes and Dreams" assignment at school. He said this year he wanted to snowboard off of our roof!

Justin helping to re-adhere the roof. It didn't work.

Declan holding up the "little guy".

Still holding.

Brett trying to cement him into place with icing.

It didn't work.

And, because they ate the rest of the candy, we could only decorate one half of the roof. Yeah. Next year, I'm doing this.

December 7th, 2010

2010-12-13T22:19:00.000-06:00

Tonight, was all about this guy! He needed a chauffeur to take him to a few places, and I was heading out to take Khai to Boy's Club anyway so he tagged along. I really enjoy watching other people spend money...hee hee...so it was no problem for me! We went shopping for part of Magda's Christmas present. Justin spent $600. (HA! JUST JOKING!!! That's just what he told Magda to throw her off the scent!)

It was great to spend some time together, just the two of us. He is such fun and pleasant person to be around and I really enjoyed it.

Thanks J-shoe, for the memories!

20 Questions

2010-12-12T20:23:00.000-06:00

I needed a break from my December Daily posts. It takes me a lot of time (probably too much time) to write each entry, and my brain (and my heart) needs a break! So, I stole this from Lens and Pens (thank you!) and decided to do it myself!

1) Wrapping paper or gift bags?

Wrapping paper. I think there is something special about actually unwrapping a gift.

2) Real tree or artificial?

Real trees. Yes, you read that correctly. Plural. See here and here. Helmut doesn't know what he started!

3) When do you put up the tree?

As close to December 1st as possible. Usually the first Friday after the 1st.

4) When do you take the tree down?

After New Year's. Sometimes it's on New Year's Day, and other times it's the following weekend. I like to have my Valentine's Day decor ready to go shortly after I take down all the Christmas stuff.

5) Favourite gift received as a child?

Interesting. I don't actually remember any of my Christmas gifts as a child. I can remember some of my birthday presents, but no Christmas ones. I remember family. I remember spending time together. I remember love.

6) Hardest person to buy for?

My parents and Helmut's parents. They buy whatever they want/need for themselves, so come Christmas (or birthdays for that matter) there is nothing left for us to get them!

7) Easiest person to buy for?

The kids. They always know what they want, and they aren't old enough to spend their money by themselves yet.

8) Mail or email Christmas cards?

If I send them at all, they get mailed or hand delivered. I really want to do that this year, but still haven't decided which photo to send out!

9) Favourite Christmas movie?

Well, we actually have a list! The Muppet Christmas Carol, How the Grinch Stole Christmas (the original), Lanny and Wayne in Disney's Prep and Landing, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (made for TV movie), The Christmas Blessing (sequel to The Christmas Shoes...which Helmut loves!) and White Christmas (or Holiday Inn, depending on your copy! Did you know they only changed the name to White Christmas after the song became popular?) I'm sure there are others, but that's all I can think of at the moment!

10) When do you start Christmas shopping?

This varies from year to year. This year I started doing bits and pieces online in November.

11) Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?

Nope.

12) Favourite thing to eat at Christmas?

Ham on Christmas morning, and pretty much anything my Mum makes.

13) Lights on the tree (clear or coloured)?

I want to have warm white (clear) lights on the tree next year, this year, we have pure white, and they are so harsh, they almost look blue.

14) Favourite Christmas Song?

I really really love Enya's "And Winter Came" album. But my all time favourite is Mary's Boy Child. My dad said he liked it when I was a kid, and it's been my favourite ever since.

15) Travel at Christmas or stay home?

I love being at home.

16) Angel, star or ribbon on top of the tree?

Nothing. We don't have a topper for our tree yet. I'd love to have one, but we haven't found anything we love yet.

17) Open the presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning?

We usually open with the kids on Boxing Day (the day after Christmas for my non-Canadian friends), but this year, we get them Christmas morning! YAY! Helmut and I might exchange our gifts on Christmas Eve...maybe. We haven't decided yet.

18) Most annoying thing about this time of year?

Commercialism.

19) What do you want for Christmas this year?

I will do a wish list post next week sometime!

20) Traditional colours or other colours?

Mostly traditional. Red and white and wood in the bedroom; red, green, gold, brown and wood in the living room, dining room and kitchen; and blue, silver and wood in the basement.

Let me know if you decide to do it too! I'd love to read it! And thanks again Lens and Pens for the idea and the questions!

December 6th, 2010

2010-12-12T19:15:00.000-06:00

've had a few conversations with some good friends lately about gift giving and receiving and how it affects our kids. We expect our children to be grateful for each gift, but instead of letting them play with and enjoy and appreciate the gifts they open, we are quickly shoving another gift into their hands for them to unwrap. It can be overwhelming.

I was thinking about this yesterday as Declan unwrapped his gifts. I could tell that he was done opening part way through (he was still being very well behaved and thankful, but he was just done), but everyone was there to give him their gifts and they wanted to see him open them (which I totally understand). When it came to the last gift (which was from us) we told him he could be done, and we saved it for him to open today.

So, when he got home from daycare today, we opened his last present. He was just as excited, if not more so, than he was yesterday, and it was great, because he got to play with it right after he said thank you and gave us hugs!

I don't have a solution for this gift dilemma, though I'd like to find one by Christmas. I don't want to feed this idea that more is better. I want my kids to be just as thankful if they receive one gift, as opposed to 5 or 6. How do you do gift giving in your family? Do you take the time to cherish each gift as they are opened, or is special importance placed on them later?

December 5th, 2010

2010-12-12T18:46:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I forget that "real life" continues on, even during the preparations leading up to Christmas. Yesterday and today, Khai was participating in a hockey tournament in St. Andrews. I forgot my camera, so I don't actually have any photo evidence of this, but trust me: it happened!
Exhaustion happened too. These regular, every day things seem to take so much more energy when we are in the midst of December stuff.

I sometimes worry that with Declan's birthday falling on December 6th, that he will not want to do anything Christmas-y until his birthday is over with. I hope he will always know that his birthday is a BIG deal to all of us. This year, he told me that the Christmas tree was "mine tree. for my birfday." I almost want to decorate it as a birthday tree until his birthday and then redecorate it for Christmas after that next year. Helmut will love that idea.

Today was Declan's family party. That's 21 people in our home for dinner. Declan doesn't like a lot of people around at the same time. (I sometimes wonder if he would do better in a home daycare with less people.) But other than hiding out in his room for a bit, he did remarkably well.

I want to remember that when I told you who a gift was from, you tried to give it back to them.

I want to remember that you were very thankful and gave everyone big hugs when I told you who your gifts were from.

I want to remember that you found the Thomas that came with your cake and carried it around all afternoon.

I want to remember that you were so excited to get pop (wrapped Justin style) and that you had to put all of the quarters in your pocket.

I want to remember and enjoy every moment of you being three.

December 4th, 2010

2010-12-09T15:20:00.001-06:00

One of the reasons I would like to decorate areas of the house before December 1st, is because I would like the time to go through the Christmas bins and decide what we will and won't use this year. I like to make sure we have enough ornaments, and that I want to use the ornaments we do have. I like to feel prepared on the morning we decorate the tree.

I did none of those things this year.

The morning started wonderfully, as we gave each of the kids a Christmas decoration as their advent gift. A couple years ago, the kids started decorating a mini tree of their own to have in their rooms, and we did that again this year. It's always really fun watching the kids choose their ornaments and watching how they decorate. Khai and Declan usually just do what Brett does (this year he put a blinking Rudolph nose around his tree) and it was mostly the same this year. Although, Declan was quite particular about which ornaments he would and would not allow on his tree (this was evidenced by the tossing certain ornaments across the table and saying, "no like that one").

This is Declan's tree.

This is Declan showing me the "race car one". So cute.

I love the image of hands this year. I can't get over this picture of his little hand showing me the ornament. It's so precious.

After Declan had decorated this tree, he went back to the dining room, where the rest of the kids were decorating theirs, and he saw Brett's with the blinking nose on it. He decided his tree needed an addition.

Can you see the nose?

Khai, likewise, wanted his tree to look like Brett's. He also wanted to look like Justin Beiber when I took his picture. Apparently, that means doing the peace sign. I told him no. He snuck it in there anyway.

He was quite proud of his tree, and if you look carefully, there's a nose on it as well.

He wanted the hockey pucks that we had given Brett earlier that morning. But, obviously, those were Brett's for his own tree!

You'll notice the big red nose. On the tree that is.

love love love this picture. So cute.

Magda and Brett actually played a fishing game on iTouch's once they were done their mini-trees. But she worked hard on her tree and it looks super cute.

Justin decided his tree was lonely and needed it's mummy tree. Yeah. This is what passes for wit at our house! (Sadly, I am amused by this and laughed quite hard the first time I spotted it).

Kelsey wouldn't let me take a picture of her with her tree. Something about her non-make-up'd face or some other such nonsense. Instead, I took this one. She doesn't look bad at all to me!

As for the actual decorating of the tree. Well. Suffice it to say, I was frustrated from the get-go. I did NOT like the assortment of Christmas decorations we had this year. I wanted to have it look both traditional and homemade. Homemade in the sense that there were handmade ornaments by the kids (and my Grandma) on it. I guess it takes awhile to amass those sorts of ornaments. We don't actually have any that the kids have made, and only a couple from my Grandma.

But, we made do with what we had and it got decorated.

This is how Declan contributed. His favourite part! And no one else was allowed to help him! Only Justin!

Did I mention Brett liked playing fishing?

I wish this photo wasn't blurry!

The completed tree.

December 3rd, 2010

2010-12-09T12:17:00.000-06:00

Picking a tree is always one of my most favourite things to do. This year was no exception. We got our living room tree from The Home Depot, because that is where Helmut got my tree for me. They are beautiful and reasonably priced.

It's wonderful to hear bits of what the kids remember about previous years. This year, Khai remembered playing hide and seek in the trees. At the place we usually go, they have trees set up outside with a fire in a garbage barrel, and there are lots of hiding places. (They are nowhere near the fire, just for the record.) They also play tag in amongst the trees.

Khai was very upset, initially, when no one would play tag with him. I was about to offer to play tag with him, but Brett saved the day just in time. (Thanks Brett!) Which worked out well, because Helmut and I needed to actually pick out the tree!

Have I mentioned that my husband is the best husband in the world? No? Allow me to mention it then. My husband is the best husband in the world. He moved like 8 trees, just to get to our perfect tree. Which, by the way, looks amazing in our home.

This year was even more special, because we got to help Kelsey pick out her first tree for her an Kyle's new home!

It is lovely, and I was excited to be able to help! I remember the first "on my own" apartment I had. It was great to be able to make it into a home.

I love this picture. Can you tell that Helmut really wanted to get out of there? Or that Declan hadn't let Kelsey put him down for most of the evening?

The kids had each been given a little advent box earlier in the day. Inside was $3.00 in change, which is enough for a hot chocolate and a donut at Tim Horton's. After we'd dropped off, and helped Kelsey set up her tree in the stand, we headed over to Tim Horton's to get a treat!

A great end to a great evening!

Declan Douglas Ludwig Schuster

2010-12-07T21:47:00.000-06:00

I can hardly believe my little (last) baby is three years old. This time has gone by so quickly. I find myself feeling bitter sweet about it all and savouring every moment.

You have grown so much this year Declan! You are speaking much more clearly. You have even more of a stubborn streak (you get that from Daddy) and are certainly strong willed. You think smoke and the exhaust from cars are "snow angels". You make us all duck as we go under bridges. You love boats and trains and trucks and motorcyles. Oh, and bulldozers and cranes.

You need us to repeat everything you've said as confirmation that we've heard you. You love seeing Kelsey and you run and jump into her arms. You still call Justin "Justin Bibo". You are always concerned that Brett and Khai are included in whatever it is anyone is doing. You are our beautiful little boy.

I love you so much. I'm so thankful for you and I pray that as you continue to grow, that you will draw near to the Lord. You are our special little boy and we love you.

Always,

Mum and Dad

December 2nd, 2010

2010-12-07T12:08:00.000-06:00

Tonight was peaceful.

I am overwhelmed this year by feeling. By emotions, by my senses. So many of the things I see, feel, smell, and hear makes me nostalgic. The snow falling makes me think of driving home from Polo Park as a kid, with my parents and sisters, and watching the huge snow flakes fall down past the streetlights. Or sitting at home with all the lights, save the Christmas tree, off, watching the snow fall outside our home. The smell of our Christmas trees makes my heart fill with love for my husband who gave me the tree. It really is such a special gift.

And tonight, watching the kids color these simple snowmen (for this game) I was reminded of how fast time is going by. I was reminded that taking the time to listen to each of their little thoughts and half sentences is important to them, and to me.

I was reminded that even though Declan would rather build a tower with the markers, than color his snowman; and that he would rather smell the markers (even though they are not Mr. Sketch markers) and use them as chapstick; that it's okay. He will only be 2 once.

I was reminded that even though Brett is 13, he is not too old to be included in these little games. It's good for him, and it's good for us to have him participate.

So, yes, tonight was peaceful. And peaceful is a gift.

**a quick note about the snowman game. Because I wanted the kids to be able to customize their own snowmen, I printed off the copies from the link above, cut each piece out and traced them onto a plain white piece of paper. I then photocopied them onto white cardstock, and had the kids color in their own snowmen faces, bodies, scarves etc. I cut them out, wrote their names and the date on the back of each piece and am now having them laminated and then we will have a snowman game evening when they are done; as well as a sturdy game that we can play for a few years to come! **

***also, Kelsey, Kyle, Justin and Magda, I have copies for you as well! Just for fun, if you want them! ***

December 1st, 2010

2010-12-07T11:44:00.000-06:00

December is upon us. The start of what will be a magical season in our home. I am in love with and love deeply, my husband. I love our children. I love Christmas. I love snow. The makings of magic, in my book.

I had hoped, that this year, I would be totally and completely organized. Shockingly, I am not. However, I have decided that this is not the end of the world. I am mostly organized. I am feeling mostly calm and mostly peaceful. Mostly is enough.

My original plans for the evening were thwarted by the postal system. So, decorating boxes to make something like this, was not an option. Luckily, we were able to watch Lanny and Wayne in Disney's Prep and Landing (a new favourite at our house) and it was just as much fun.

So, welcome December. I can't wait to walk with you awhile.

Declan

2010-12-06T22:53:00.000-06:00

My little baby boy is 3 years old today. Time has gone by so quickly! I love you little boy, and I promise you a proper tribute tomorrow. But tonight, Mummy is feeling sick. Don't worry, I'll do you justice then!

And, I will also do a thorough December Daily catch up session.

Happy Birthday Declan. You are my very favourite 3 year old.

Love you always,
Mummy.

December Daily/Journal Your Christmas

2010-12-02T13:25:00.000-06:00

This is the second year that I've done Shimelle's "Journal Your Christmas". I was excited about it last year, and I think I am even more excited about it this year, because I actually feel like I have the Christmas spirit!

I didn't necessarily follow the prompts last year, but I was certainly inspired by them. I didn't create a physical book last year, I just did my posts here on my blog (that is, until my computer crashed and I lost all my photos!) 2 years ago, I created this album,

and wrote exactly zero words and put zero pictures in it. (In truth, that year was one Christmas that was quite miserable for me...I didn't really want to remember it, so I'm okay with that). I don't know what I'll do this year. I had a book picked out, but I'm starting to like the idea of an 8 1/2" x 11 binder with page protectors. We'll see.

I am a person who is so scared of forgetting things that I tend to write down/take pictures of every little moment. I love Ali Edward's idea of telling one story per day in her December Daily, but it's a good thing I do a "rough draft" every day in another notebook, because my stories end up being novels. It's how I tell a story verbally too, I include lots of (too many) details, my Mum stops listening after 30 seconds (seriously) because she wants me to "get to the point already!". And then when I tell her that I've told her that story already, she says, "Yeah, I wasn't listening. You were taking too long."

I am the kind of person who likes to plan things. So, I have a tentative schedule of things that I want to do with the kids each day. Some are very simple, like today's is to make Christmas lists. Others are crafty in nature, and others are just activities we will do together.

I want to remember each day, whether my planned activities work out or not.

Will I care about the details in 10 years? Or will I just like seeing the activities that we do each year, and those that are unique to one year in particular? I don't know.

So, what do I want to do for this year?

Well, the easiest thing for me, and therefore the one that is at first, most appealing, is to simply blog here every day, (the day after) and keep this as my record. However, I am desparately missing the feeling of putting paper, words and pictures together. But, do I have time (or will I make time) to spend every day making a scrapbook page?

I don't know.

There are an awful lot of "I don't know"'s in this post. I'm still figuring things out, but for now, I will post each day here.

Happy December everyone!

Do you have one of those husbands?

2010-12-01T06:33:00.002-06:00

You know. The ones who refuse to let you put up any Christmas decorations until December 1st? And even then, it's begrudgingly? I do. And, while I don't want to put up our tree until December 1st (because we have a real one, and it wouldn't last until Christmas otherwise) there are other area's in our home that I would love to have decorated early. Particularly the areas that I don't want the kids "helping" with. Like our bedroom for example.

I was talking with a friend at church on Sunday, who, during her great house renovation, had to have their Christmas tree in her bedroom (because there was nowhere else for it). I immediately became excited about the idea. It would go in the corner. My little desk would move to the other wall, and it would be lovely. However, I knew that my darling hubby wouldn't go for it. But, I mentioned it anyway. He asked me if I was crazy, and we moved on.

On Monday night, shortly after the kids went to bed, Helmut said he was going on a "secret mission". Normally, I love when he goes on secret missions, because it means he's getting me a birthday, Christmas, Mother's Day etc...present. This time, I was a bit nervous, because I hadn't told him ANYTHING I wanted yet.

An hour later, he came back home, made me go "hide" in the bathroom downstairs with the fan on (so I couldn't hear where he was hiding my gift and go snooping later) until he had hidden it. He came down to get me, and I went back into our room, where I had been tidying up prior to him coming home. There, in the corner of our room was a perfect tree. I was so surprised! It wasn`t even December 1st and he had put up (of his own volition) a Christmas tree, in a room that he said he didn`t want one in anyway!!! Oh, was I happy!!

It was also rather perfect that I had just finished hanging white twinkle lights around our windows.

Our room now smells amazing (without the assistance of Bath and Body Works concentrated room sprays) and all I wanted to do this morning was lay in bed and look at our tree and twinkle lights.

Thank you Helmut. It was a wonderful and special gift. I love it, and I love you!

Eventful.

2010-11-30T15:32:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had one of those days, where you're just sooooo glad to be home and SITTING for the first time that day? Only to have something interrupt that fantastic "I'm finally sitting" feeling?

Friday was one of those days for me. (And, were Helmut actually reading this, I know he would put up his hand, and say, "And for ME!" )

I had spent the majority of the day at our church, doing some photocopying/prep work for our family advent time on Sunday morning. (The kids didn't have school, which is why I didn't have work, but my in-laws took them for the day, they were having a special Christmas day). Then I ran a couple errands, and by the time I got home it was, oh, 5:30 ish.

We decided to give the boys their shower before dinner, and, just after I'd got the water running for them, I heard a little scream. I pulled the shower curtain back, to see a stream of blood coming from Declan's eye. Khai and Declan had decided to switch spots in the shower, and Declan had slipped and hit his eye on the edge of the tub.

Don't you love the Blackberry photo?

You'll notice that he has a bump on his lip (from running into a post at school); a cut by the arm of his glasses, as well as a mark under the bottom edge of the frame (from tripping and falling on the floor at school) and he managed to do that ALL IN THE SAME DAY!

Anyway, so, we go to the hospital (the 4 of us) and 3 hours and 15 minutes, and 5 stitches later, we left for home.

Yes, I know this picture totally sucks. Good old Blackberry again!

My poor little Dekkie! But, he was a trooper. Considering he hadn't eaten since lunch and it was 2 hours past his bedtime when they started doing the stitches, I thought he behaved quite well.

I will never forget, that while they had the sterile cloth over his face, that he kept saying ,"Help me Mummy!" and "See me Mummy!" (because he couldn't see me with the cloth over his face). He also said (repeatedly), "All done now. DONE NOW!". I love that he was able to at least communicate with me during this ordeal. It would have been much worse if he had just been lying there crying, and I hadn't known that he wanted me to peek under the cloth and "see him".

Just for the record, I cried too.

We are so thankful that Declan is okay. And that we didn't have to spend all night in the emergency room. We are also thankful, that once we got home that evening, and the kids were in bed, that we didn't do a thing.

It was lovely.

Tonight.

2010-11-25T22:32:00.000-06:00

Tonight I will be going to bed with my heart over-flowing.

Tonight, I got to have dinner with Kelsey. We need to do that more often. I miss her.

Tonight, I got to play a game with Michelle, Justin, and for the first part, Helmut. And, even though Michelle and Justin do not know the difference between identical and siamese twins, it was a fun game. (More on that game in another post. We used the chalkboard bubbles, so you know right there that it was fun!)

Tonight, I received confirmation that Brett cares whether we're proud of him or not. (Sometimes it's hard to tell with teenagers and it is heartwarming to know that he does care)

Tonight, I played tic-tac-toe with Khai on my iTouch. Gone are the days of pencil and paper, but here to stay are the good times with my son.

Tonight, I had to put Declan back into bed 16 times, change one dirty (and stinky) diaper, get 2 cups of milk, take away one stuffed animal (because he decided that one bear was not required on his bed), and make sure that it was his Zhu Zhu pet, and not Khai's that was going to bed with him. Tonight, I received countless hugs, numerous smiles and a couple of looks that could make even the hardest of hearts melt.

Tonight, my husband made me feel attractive and desired. Tonight, my husband made me laugh. Tonight, my husband made me remember why I fell in love with him in the first place. Tonight, Helmut and I felt loved by our family and by each other.

Tonight, I am grateful for a Lord who has given me so many good things, and who promises to continue to work all things for an eternal good in my life.

Tonight, I will go to bed in the middle of a winter wonderland, with my family around me (or nearby in their condo), with my heart full of laughter and love.

Bedtime

2010-11-24T07:00:00.003-06:00

Bedtime for Khai and Declan, is an adventure.

They sleep in the same room, in a bunkbed.

They make a lot of noise.

Helmut, after especially loud noises, will go into the room, and ask the boys, "Is it NECESSARY to make SO MUCH noise?"

Last night, my sister and I were sitting in the living room, watching TV.
Helmut had gone back to work.
An abnormally loud noise was made in the bedroom.

A few seconds later, Khai yelled, "It was necessary!"

I'm not sure if I mentioned....

2010-11-23T11:54:00.000-06:00

I LOVE the snow!!!

Well, I love the first snowfall of the year, right on up to and including New Year's Week. After that, my excitment wanes, but hey, by then, I'm looking forward to Spring!

Last week Thursday, here in Winnipeg, marked our first real snowfall of the season. It started slowly...

(can you see the snowflakes in this one?? They sort of shine because I used a flash.)

and picked up speed! By Friday morning, my part of the world looked like this.

I stopped on the way to work to take this picture. The world felt peaceful and lovely.

So, on Friday afternoon, I was UBER excited (yes, I'm allowed to use that word.) that the snow was continuing to fall, and fall hard.

People were laughing at me at work, (even more than they usually do) because I was like a child. I would hop and skip over to the window to watch the snow fall and I was just plain giddy. It felt like a winter wonderland to me. Perfect and beautiful.

Nothing could ruin my excitement. Not even the fact that, on the way to get Declan from daycare, I locked my keys in the van, while it was running. Yup. I'm THAT good. Nor the fact that it took CAA an hour to come to me (and I was a priority, because the vehicle was running!). Nor the fact that I was going to be late to pick up a friend with whom I was having dessert later on in the evening. Nope, I was still happy as a school girl whose hair is FINALLY long enough for pigtails. (Just go with me on that one).

I don't know why I love the first snowfall so much. I remember being excited as a kid, the first time a snow flake fell. My sisters and I would get all bundled up in our ski pants and jackets (because one flake CLEARLY warrants ski pants) and we would go out in the "snow" and play. This year, on Remembrance Day, our 3 youngest did the same. Brett, Khai and Declan all got into their snowpants (granted, they needed them, because they were soaking wet when they came in) and went outside and slid around on the deck.

I love that my kids are experiencing some of the same things I did. I hope they the magic in the air and I hope they remember these things, when they are old, like me.

SO! Happy first snowfall to all of you Winnipeggers out there. I hope you enjoy this magical season, and that your happy and peaceful memories will keep you warm while you are scraping the snow off your cars.

2010-11-21T23:45:00.000-06:00

I was recently told that I was not being very entertaining here is blogland. I thoroughly agree. However, seeing as I have an ulcer (yes, really) I am going to excuse myself for not being my usual exciting self!

However, I am feeling inspired by the snow, Christmas coming soon, and the return of my creativity. So, I promise at least 3 posts this week. One of those posts will only be funny to 4 people. We'll see about the other two.

In the meantime, if you're in the Winnipeg area, enjoy this snow, and if you aren't, I'll be enjoying it for you!

Sweet dreams!

Halloween

2010-11-03T09:57:00.001-05:00

Halloween seems to be down to a 2 kid event in our home!

Spiderman made 2 appearances. Once at the school party on Friday, and once on Sunday for trick-or-treating.

Lightning McQueen's number one pit crew guy made only one appearance. He decided he didn't want to go to daycare, but on Halloween, he was ready to go!

Well, maybe not just 2 kids. There's a crazy aunt who likes to dress up too. This was the conservative costume. Brett does an amazing impression of a tired teenager, doesn't he??

Oops, and how could I forget about the mimes? Oh, right, because for the first time (possibly ever?) they were SILENT!!!

Declan's choice

Khai's choice

Brett's own creation!

I have to say though, I think our pumpkins turned out really well!

The youngest two scooped out the icky stuff in their pumpkins (can you tell they didn't particularly enjoy it?)and picked their designs, and I cut them out. Brett, went online, picked his picture himself, and scooped and carved his own. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the gotee! That was all him, it wasn't on the design!

Sadly, I don't have a close up of Brett for this post. Khai and Declan hijacked my camera...so this is the best I've got!

It was a really good Halloween overall. I hope the kids look back on it with fondness, I know I will!

And just because this is too funny not to write about, this is Declan's scooping tool of choice. A whisk. You can imagine how well that worked!

I'm planning....

2010-11-02T20:14:00.002-05:00

something special! Shhhh. Don't tell.

The beginning of an era...

2010-10-31T12:00:00.000-05:00

There are few things in life more exciting than watching your son's first hockey game. And I promise you, the experience did not disappoint.

Khai was fantastic! He scored 2 goals (one of which he scored while sliding directly into the net himself). And, they don't keep score at this age, so it's all about having fun and learning the skills. And that kid has SKILLZ (yes, I just used a Z at the end of that word. I'm cool like that. ) He is such a quick skater and is fairly steady on his feet. I was so proud of him! He played a few different positions, including goal during the hour long game, and though my behind was cold the majority of the time, I was thoroughly entertained. Especially during Khai's turn in net. He decided that the best thing to do, while his team was at the other end of the ice, was to skate circles around the net. So funny.

Michelle kept making references to figure skating. Khai turns himself in circles to stop. The best triple sow cows I've ever seen!

And, as we were walking out to the car, he was drinking his water from his water bottle, and he spit it out on the ground. Helmut told him not to do that (spit that is, we have no problem with drinking water) and Khai said, "Dad, that's just what hockey players do!"

Well then. You learn something new every day!

The Perfect Marriage Tool

2010-10-22T11:39:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, I am completely enamoured with the chalkboard thought bubble. I decided, after using it for our photo session, to take it over to our friend's place for the evening. We get together every once in awhile to watch Nascar (well, Brad and Helmut watch Nascar, Nichole and I chat and eat!) and, as it turns out, the bubble was even more fun when:

1) you use it indoors and don't freeze your fingers off trying to write something and

2) when you use it as a communication tool!

Helmut started it all with this:

because I asked him to get the chalk bubble from the van! And that kicked it off for the evening!

We decided that the chalkboard would be the best marriage tool ever! You could write whatever you wanted, without fear of repercussion and it was HILARIOUS! I really think we could have entire conversations with these things!

Helmut and Nichole are behind that statement.

Brad and I disagree.

It can be used to convey promises. (By the way, Brad is THE MAN, because he delivered on this promise...on his BIRTHDAY no less!)

It can be used like Twitter when your Wi-Fi signal drops.

It can be used over and over to emphasize your message.

or to keep a running tally on your drinks for the evening.

Thanks for the great evening guys and for helping to perfect the use of the greatest marriage tool ever!

It's all in your perspective....

2010-10-21T09:30:00.001-05:00

Do you ever have conversations with your little ones and realize that they've seen an event a bit differently than you did? Or that they have their own spin on what actually happened?

Khai was playing around with the thought bubbles last Sunday (the day after our family photo shoot) and he decided to draw us getting our picture taken.

Now, let me break it down for you, as he broke it down for me...

The bottom row, from left to right are supposed to be Justin, Declan, Brett, Khai and Kelsey. Two notes here:

1) Declan is the only person with a frown, because he was sad most of the photo shoot....

2) Kelsey is on the end, and was too short, so he erased her and re-drew her, which is why she sort of looks like a blurry stick.

Then, on the top right, are Kyle and Magda...that part is fairly straight forward.

But, I noticed that there is another person in the photo, so I asked who that was (top left). He said, (and I quote) "That's your friend Mum, the one who took our pictures. Oh, I guess I should give her arms, or else she can't hold the camera."

Those are arms coming out the side of her head.

Perspective is a wonderful thing.

Boo at the Zoo 2010

2010-10-20T07:14:00.002-05:00

So, after freezing our behinds off during family photos Saturday morning; we decided we hadn't had quite enough punishment, so we went to Boo at the Zoo in the evening. For those of you who don't live in the Winnipeg area, this is a Halloween event that the Zoo puts on every year. They have different vingnettes of scary stuff, rides, mini donuts and it's lots of fun for the kids.

My sisster was kind enought to procure VIP tickets again this year, so we were able to get in early and be first in line for most of the rides.

First up - PONIES! ***I should probably clarify here that pony rides are supposed to be fun and that Declan rode a pony, no more than 3 weeks ago AND LOVED IT - because you won't be able to tell from the pictures of him here. ***

Khai had a blast, and wanted to know his pony's name (Silver, I think?)

You can see my arm in this photo, because I had to walk beside him the entire time.

Pose much???

Next up were the fake ponies on the carousel. Funnily enough, Declan LOVED this ride and we had only one moment of concern when he got disoriented and couldn't figure out where Daddy was!

Finally one of him looking at the camera!!!

These two are my favourite shots from the evening. I love the light at dusk and these three are just adorable.

Aliens!

Declan giggled the entire time he was on this ride! We actually got a short video clip of them going around, it's so cute! I showed it to Dekkie and he laughed again!

Loved this truck ride! The kids had a hard time deciding whether to sit in the back of the truck, or the front!!

Now, I guess I should preface these next couple pictures by asking that you read my post about my 6 guilty pleasures (notice the date on it, by the way). My number one guilty pleasure was Star Trek. This first photo is of a character named Seven, from Star Trek Voyager. I was so excited to have my picture taken in front of this cardboard cut out, that I actually couldn't stop smiling. I wanted to come home right away and see how the photo turned out! YES! I AM A GEEK! I almost even did the pose she was doing, but I thought that would be taking it too far.

Captain Jack Sparrow. Man, we make a gooooooood looking couple. HA! At least he would be the good looking HALF of the couple.

Khai wanted his picture taken in front of this guy (I know his name, but I don't know how to spell it, so at the risk of offending another Star Wars fan, I will refrain from even attempting!) There was someone dressed up like him, but Khai was too scared to have his photo taken with him. Cute!

These birds were right at the exit. I think they are both such magnificent creatures. I love owls in particular, but they were both pretty amazing. I actually had asked the guy to take a photo of us together (as in the four of us Schuster's who went), and he said sure, you can take their pictures...so then I kind of had to!

I asked another gentleman to take this photo...he understood what I meant! Too bad Khai's eyes are closed and Declan isn't even looking at the camera! A fun night overall! Thanks Michelle!

Objects in the rear view mirror...

2010-10-19T06:45:00.001-05:00

...are closer than they appear.

For just a moment, instead of fighting, they were laughing with each other and playing nicely together.

**captured on the way to Boo at the Zoo, October 16, 2010

A Birthday Party and A Photo Shoot.

2010-10-18T08:50:00.004-05:00

This past weekend was one of the busiest we've had in a long time! Friday night was our co-worker (and good friend's) 50th birthday party. I had SUCH a good time. It was a much needed adult evening with my husband and some good friends.

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Saturday was COMPLETELY insane! At 10 am we had family photos in the exchange district of downtown Winnipeg. The lovely Erin of Erin Keown Photography took our family pictures this year and I'm so excited to see the peeks (they are up already on her blog!!) The kids were real troopers (despite it being the coldest day of October so far, and the fact that the wind was so strong that my feather earrings would not stay in place) and I think we got some good pictures of everyone, (even Declan, who decided that having his hand in front of his face for each picture was his best pose), and I think we got some great family shots as well. I was so pleased with how great Erin was with the kids and with me (I needed to be relaxed, several times). It was a wonderful experience overall.

Of course, my creative busrts came on both Thursday and Friday, so I had some ideas about what I wanted the kids to bring/do for the photoshoot. I got them to make some self portraits and bring some props that they felt described them. Kelsey brought a Tinkerbell mug, Justin, Kyle and Brett pretended to play XBOX with their controllers, while Khai looked over their shoulders, Brett, Khai, Declan and Kyle all had pictures taken with their skateboards, Magda held her dance beads while wearing a dance scarf and I had pictures of myself taken with a book. Helmut, naturally, didn't have a prop. I thought it would be hilarious to have pictures of him taken with a power drill or something like that (you know, reminiscent of Debbie Dunning in Home Improvement?)

But, we just got some of him standing. It's okay. He's sexy any way you look at him.

I have been eyeing these over at Red Velvet Art for quite some time. But, they are NEVER in stock when I try to buy one. And while I give full credit for the idea to Rachel Denbow, a girl can only wait so long! So, seeing as I work a a cabinetry company, I asked one of our guys to cut me the shape out of whatever sized scrap he had and he cut me three! I quickly painted them with chalkboard paint (on Friday night before the party), and I took them on our photo shoot. It was SO COLD that we really didn't use them as much as I thought we would, but they sure came in handy later on in the evening... more on that to come!

I'll be back with Boo at the Zoo fun and the best marriage tool ever.

Happy Monday!

and, just a side note, I think the Lego camera is just about the coolest thing ever! It actually is a digital camera!!

Bright Lights.

2010-10-15T10:52:00.000-05:00

Not bad for a Blackberry photo!

As we sat and got ready to watch Khai play soccer at half time of the Bomber game Friday, September 24th, I was struck by how excited he was. How excited everyone was. It was infectious.

I realized how much I like actually attending sporting events. I realized how much I was enjoying having that experience with both Helmut and Khai. I realized how much I liked that Helmut and Khai were having that experience together (Helmut was his coach for soccer this past season, so he got to go down on the field with him...he even got to wear a lanyard that said "Coach Helmut")

In between cheering our Bombers on (and helping Khai to cheer for the correct team) and keeping Khai occupied (with the camera...some of the pictures/video he took were h-i-l-a-r-i-o-u-s) and taking pictures with my good camera and experimenting with my blackberry's camera capabilities, I actually managed to thoroughly enjoy the entire experience.

If boots could talk...

2010-10-14T14:18:00.000-05:00

Where am I? My camo rubber boots have made me invisible!

Rubber boots? We're too cool for rubber boots. Or we just forgot to bring them, after being reminded. Twice.

Not those rubber boots. These ones Mummy. I won't wear those ones. But, I don't want these ones to get muddy, so Daddy will have to carry me the whole time.

What's that? I'm supposed to put my pants INSIDE my boots so they don't get muddy?

I'm pretty. And I kept the mud and water out. Mission accomplished.

**all photos taken on Saturday, September 25th as part of Helmut's mom's birthday celebration...more posts on that to come!**

6 Guilty Pleasures

2010-10-07T09:55:00.000-05:00

1. Star Trek. The original, The Next Generation and Voyager. I would love to get into Enterprise, but I just don't have time for yet another series! Perhaps I should buy the DVD's.

2. Starbucks Grande Non-Fat White Mocha (with whip). Yes, it's 470 calories (even fat free) but I LOVE them. In winter, I also love the Creme Brulee Latte.

3. Say No To Joe? I read this book at least 3 times a year. Often more. It's a "fluff" book that I can get lost in. I feel a special connection to the heroine, and I love the relationship (once it gets real) between the hero and heroine. *sigh* If I could live in a book for a summer I'd live in this one.

4. Helmut and I aren't big drinkers. But, when I do have a drink, this is my drink of choice. 1 oz. mixed with Diet Coke and a cherry. I *heart* amaretto.

5. Fabric. I LOVE pretty fabric. I have to stop myself from going into fabric stores, because I could literally spend hundreds of dollars there.

6. Cashews. A completely underrated nut. By far my second favourite.

What are your guilty pleasures?

....and they're off!

2010-10-01T14:12:00.000-05:00

I'll be offline for a few days while 4 of us Schusters head to Grand Forks for the weekend.

I'll be back on Monday....Happy Weekend everyone!

They say.

2010-09-29T16:47:00.000-05:00

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There have been lots of posts recently, in the blogs I read, that talk about not giving too much personal information on your blog. About not being negative. About not sharing too much of who you really are.

While I agree with the idea that no one wants to read a perpetually negative blog, sometimes things happen. Real life things. And they aren't always good.

Yesterday, I said my heart was sad. There are 2 reasons for that. One of the reasons, is because my Grandpa is dying. I haven't mentioned it in great depth here, because I don't want to discourage people, but, the time has come. Yesterday, my Grandpa found out there is more cancer inside him. And the stuff that's in his "stomach" is growing.

It's sad. I'm sad. And that is something that I should be able to share with my readers (all 5 of you :) )

I grew up with my grandparents living in Winnipeg. They moved to Toronto when I was a teenager, but I had them here all of my childhood.

One Halloween, we dressed up in costumes, and went up to the door to Trick-or-Treat; while my parents stood around the side of the house, to see if they would recognize us. Grandpa answered the door, gave us candy, and said bye. He was in the middle of closing the door, when my Grandma yelled, "Ralph! That's the children!!!!" He re-opened the door and let us in.

We used to go over to their house almost every week, at least once, for dinner. We had 2 tables, the kids table and the grown-ups table. It was a HUGE deal to be able to sit at the grown up's table.

Their Christmas tree had electronic ornaments. A carousel that spun around was my favourite.

They had mustard colored throw pillows on their couch, that had butterflies on them.

My Grandma always had at least 3 shades of red nail polish on her dresser and high heeled shoes in the entrance from the garage.

I can still remember the smell in their house.

These are memories that I will have of them forever. It makes me sad to think I will lose him.

When we went to Toronto to visit them in June, Grandpa made a little speech one night. He dedicated the evening to Grandma, gave each of his children his favourite photo of her, and then he took out pieces of paper, and passed them around. He had saved every card we'd ever given him. The ones from when we were kids, and we cut up other cards to make new ones. The ones when we couldn't spell properly. All. Of. Them. I will remember that forever.

I love my Grandpa. He is a strong, stubborn, beautiful man of God, and I will miss him when he is gone.

So, forgive me, if I am too real for you. Pardon me, if this is too much information. But, this is me. And from now on, this blog will be a truly Open Book.

2010-09-28T22:18:00.000-05:00

My heart is sad today.

tattoos.

2010-09-27T06:23:00.000-05:00

Helmut and I have a "Bucket List", you know, things we want to do before we die. One of the items on the list, is to get tattoos together. Not necessarily matching tattoos, but tattoos that are linked in some way, and that have meaning to each of us.

I've been wanting a tattoo for quite awhile now, but I don't know what to get, and I have no idea where on my body I'd like it to go.

My sister-in-law suggested that we get anchors, because of our boat, and I really like that idea. I LOVE Kate Moss' anchor tattoo:

It's delicate, feminine and totally understated. I love it.

I'm also into feathers and birds lately. Don't know if I'll still like it in 10 years though. And that is probably why it will take me another 10 years to decide what to get.

And, where it should go.

Any suggestions?

2010-09-24T05:28:00.001-05:00

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"...I would send you a bouquet of newly sharpened pencils if I knew your name and address..."

Granted, that is NOT what Tom Hanks is saying to Meg Ryan in this particular still of the movie "You've Got Mail", but that sentiment is one I remember each and every September 22nd. The first day (or is it the second?) of my favourite season. Fall. And though my mis-guided sister recently dissed this beautiful season, my heart remains unchanged.

I love the falling leaves. I love the "bite" in the air. I love sipping tea on my couch while blogging, with the window open just enough to keep me comfortable under a blanket or in a cozy sweater. I love sweaters. I love writing letters. Somehow, letter writing and fall seem to go hand in hand, in my head. Maybe it's the idea of new school supplies that makes that correlation for me. (And, just for the record, I write my Grandma letters...real letters...as often as I can.) I love being able to have soup for supper. I. Love. Fall.

10 books I want to write.

2010-09-23T06:14:00.004-05:00

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1. I am, by no Means, an Expert on Anything, but...
2. Things My Six Year Old Says
3. Things You Shouldn't Say or Do (because your 2 year old will copy you)
4. Translating Teenager Talk (A Mother's Guide to Deciphering it All)
5. They Can't Jump Out of a Moving Car (so take the long way and have the sex talk with them)
6. If I had a Million Dollars.
7. Healthy Recipes for Picky Eaters
8. How I Want You To Be My Friend.
9. What To Do When Your Kids Do ALL of Your Pet Peeves.
10. The Art Of Domesticity (and finding the time to practice it)

oh, and just for fun...

11. I Can't Find My Keys - A Husband's Guide to Actually Being Helpful in a Crisis.
12. My Sister Is Grouchy and Lives With Me - An Early Morning Guide to Communication Before Coffee.

The Great Pie Shortage of 2010

2010-09-22T07:00:00.001-05:00

photo has been POLADROIDed

I love being domestic. Yes, perhaps I was born into the wrong generation. Or, perhaps I was born in the right generation, and I'm just odd. Either way, I love being domestic.
The problem, is that I work full time, we have 5 kids, I have a husband and somehow, the hours in the day just seem to disappear, leaving little time for domestic pursuits.

I recently decided to put an end to what I have affectionately named, "The Great Pie Shortage of 2010". For those of you who have never heard of this particular disaster, allow me to elaborate. I used to bake pies ALL. THE. TIME. They are one of my favourite things to bake and a favourite in my family...particularly with my husband. (I have often gone to sleep with a WHOLE freshly baked pie sitting on the counter, only to wake up to half a pie. Yes. He ate half a pie in the middle of the night.) Suffice it to say, this crisis was greatly affecting not only our dessert budget, but I was also missing this particular domestic activity.

So, I had a pie baking party. I invited a few friends (and my friends' daughter Kailyn) over, and we baked pies for 6 hours straight (with a mini break for chips and dip and ice cream cake) and made a grand total of 21 pies. I made the pastry, my friends chopped/peeled apples, and brought any other fillings they wanted and we had sort of an assembly line going. We made apple pie, cherry pie, raspberry pie, blueberry pie, apple-blueberry pie and pumpkin pie. Kailyn took the scraps of crust left over, and little bits of filling and made her own little pie creations. She said her dad tried to eat them all. (And, may I add, they were completely adorable and entirely her idea!)

We have already scheduled a day to do our Christmas baking and I'm hoping to do this every couple of months. We've also talked about making meals together to stick in our freezers. It's a fantastic way to make sure home baked/cooked goods get on our tables, and in our children's tummies.

Anyone want to join us next time?

Happy Birthday Noah.

2010-09-21T11:51:00.000-05:00

You are dearly missed.

Kelsey Rae

2010-09-20T10:30:00.000-05:00

***I've tried to post this three times now! Hopefully it works this time!***

Kelsey Rae Marie Schuster turned 21 on September18th, 2010. I have celebrated 4 birthdays with Kelsey now, and each year, I find myself more and more amazed. Amazed that I have got to spend four years of my life with this beautiful (inside and out) young woman. Amazed that we have been able to have *real* conversations, about life and love and everything inbetween. Amazed that I have had the privilege of being her step mother, and *quite* jealous that I don't get to be more.

Kelsey, you have been a joy to get to know and to continue to know. I love you so much, and I couldn't ask for a better daughter. You have become an independent woman, who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to go for it. You care how other people feel and you do your best to not hurt others with both your actions and your words. You have matured, from a sweet young lady to a lovely, strong woman. I am proud of you.

I hope that today, on your 21st birthday, you will remember how much you are loved, and that in the year to come, you will be reminded of that every day.

Always,
Nicole

Edit.

2010-09-15T21:47:00.000-05:00

source

My day got considerably better after a visit from my sister and her husband. They recently went on a trip to NY city and came by with gifts for the kids!

Thanks guys, for making my day end on a good note!

Today Sucked.

2010-09-15T16:38:00.000-05:00

photo by Marcy Penner

Okay Wednesday. You win. But just so you know, I plan on kicking Thursday's ass.

Huh.

2010-09-10T19:24:00.002-05:00

My two year old walked out of his bedroom this morning, looked at me dressed for work, pointed to my dress and said, (and I quote) " no yike dat mummy".

First day.

2010-09-09T22:33:00.000-05:00

We had a lot of "firsts" at our house today.

Brett had his first day of Grade 8. It was also his first day of his last year at this school. It was the first time I've seen him NOT dreading his first day. It was *NOT* the first time I've wanted to hug him and tell him I love him.

Khai had his first day of Grade 1. It was also his first day of full days at school. It was the first time he went through the front doors at school. It was *NOT* the first time my heart strings were tugged as I watched him walk through the door.

Today was Justin and Magda's first day of second year of University. It was *NOT* the first time I've been terribly proud of both of them.

Today was my first day back at work.
I still don't know how I feel about that.

2010-09-09T13:42:00.000-05:00

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This, is what it felt like on my drive to work today. I'm not kidding. The leaves were falling like they were in a Mazda "zoom zoom" commercial and the car had just driven by quickly enough to just leave falling leaves behind. It was surreal.

I love fall.

Life.

2010-09-08T22:52:00.000-05:00

It all seems to happen at once, doesn't it?

Tomorrow, I head back to work. Tomorrow, the kids go back to school. Tomorrow is Justin's first day back at university. Last Thursday, our basement flooded. Last weekend, Helmut was so sick, he actually stayed in bed for most of 2 days. Last week was VBS at church. The weather has changed. The leaves are falling. Declan is in daycare. We've taken down our pool.

It's been a crazy last couple of week since I posted. Things haven't stopped moving and happening around here. I feel as though I've had no time to prepare for going back to work. There were so many things I wanted to do before then.

But, tomorrow is upon me, and I feel excited, nervous and sad all at the same time.
I don't think I even really shared how this whole going back to work thing is going to work, did I?

Well, this is how it will work. Helmut will leave to get Declan to daycare by 7:30. I will stay at home and walk/drive Khai and Brett to school. When they go into the school, I will go to work. In the afternoon, depending on who is busier or whether Helmut is needed at the office, one of us will leave at 2:30 (most likely Helmut) to go get the boys from school, and I will stay til 4:30 and pick up Declan and head home.

It works out so nicely in theory...the true test will be tomorrow when we actually try it!

I promise to blog first day of school pictures tomorrow and a first day back at work report!

Camping Saga...continued

2010-08-25T07:33:00.001-05:00

There are two things I remember about the day I affectionately call "camping Monday". The first, was taking the boat out, again for a short time (I think less than one hour this time), and getting a combination of wind burn and what I think was frost bite, on my toes. I took a VERY short tube ride with Declan, and was more than happy to let Brett have a turn by himself on the tube after that.
Mind you, yet again, the kids had fun.

I, on the other hand, used their body heat to warm me while we were sitting on the beach, in blankets and towels.

Please ignore my camping hair. Camping has to exist outside of normal life, as Hilda once said, and that is how I explain my appearance during that week.

The second thing, is that Brett caught a gopher! I named him "Gerald the Gopher" and he got into our dining tent and nibbled at Hilda's plums. So, we used the rest of the plums as bait, seeing as we knew he liked those already, and Brett set up the trap.

A large bucket with a stick to prop it up, attached to a rope that Brett was holding.

We set it up in the dining tent.

After waiting for about an hour (I think), Gerald entered the dining tent, unaware of his impending capture, and scampered up to the bait...and then BAM! Brett pulled the string and Gerald was caught!

Here is a video of his release...

And please no comments about animal cruelty, the gopher was not harmed, and was released immediately.

Tuesday through Thursday, the rest of our Bible study group came out to join us. For those adventures, please come back tomorrow!

There are things I remember...

2010-08-24T07:27:00.001-05:00

and things I forget. I miss you. I guess that I should. Three thousand five hundred miles away, but what would you change if you could?

Sorry, a little Counting Crows flashback. August and Everything After was my favourite CD for a LONG time.

And now, to the point of this post.

We were camping last week. Yes, you read it right, I, Nicole Schuster, went camping for one WHOLE week. I'm not sure if you remember what the weather was like last week, but allow me to enlighten you. It was cold. And windy. And rainy. But, there were some wonderful memories that were made while we were out there.

I saw my first shooting star. Hard work (seriously) for me. Apparently my eyes have a "shooting star blind spot", but it was awesome when I finally saw it.

We managed to take the boat out on Saturday (the day after we got there) for exactly one hour.
During that hour, Elijah had his first tube ride

and Hilda and I had our first tube ride together.

and our first little dip in the lake!

Sunday, was freezing. Seriously cold. But, after we had a rousing game of soccer to warm ourselves, we managed to head to the beach for a little (and I do mean little) fun.

Sadly, I only had the camera for part of that little excursion, but trust me when I say it was hilarious. Brett, Khai, Declan and Elijah had their bathing suits on. Hilda, Chris, Helmut and I were in long pants and sleeves. The wind would blow the sand into our faces. Well, at least the kids had fun.

(P.S. this is my absolute most favourite photo as of this moment)

During our little trip to the beach, Justin and Magda came by. Thank goodness they did. If they hadn't, we may not have realized that one of our tarps was on fire back at the campsite. It was so windy that our overhead tarp had fallen into the fire. NOT GOOD.

Anyway, after the rain and the wind, we decided to head in to Kenora for supper. With the exception of Abby throwing up in her car seat, it was a wonderful break from the "camping" part of our week. Ha ha.

And, on the way back to the campsite, we saw the most beautiful sight!

Clear sky on the horizon! Absolutely breathtaking!

But, it didn't last long! Come back tomorrow to find out the rest of our little story...

2010-08-23T08:37:00.000-05:00

My little Declan started daycare today. I don't actually start work till the boys go back to school, but you take daycare spots when you can get them!!

I'm not sure how I feel about it.

So far, I've experienced sadness, excitement and trepidation.

He's my little baby, and I'm not sure I'm ready for him to be away from me yet.

My news.

2010-08-13T15:33:00.000-05:00

source

I am going back to work.

This is all I have time for today! We're off camping...I will explain more when I get back!

Have a great week everyone!

News coming tomorrow.

2010-08-12T22:43:00.001-05:00

Going to sleep now.

Sweet dreams.

2010-08-11T22:33:00.000-05:00

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This, is how I feel. Like I could fall asleep at any given moment, doing any given task. I'm in the middle of trying to organize a few things for our churches VBS program; running children around to various activities; trying to pack for camping (we leave on Friday); working (I'm doing a LOT more of that lately) and trying to keep the house in order.

All of this would even be doable, if I was getting to sleep before 2 a.m. Unfortunately, seeing as I only start working most nights at 9:30 (either just as, or just before Brett is heading to bed), that isn't happening.

I'm exhausted.

However, I do have some pretty big news to share and I'm hoping to post that tomorrow.

Sweet dreams!

Little Men

2010-08-09T22:42:00.000-05:00

In the pool with all their clothes on. Need I say more?

Tales of the tube.

2010-08-08T22:41:00.000-05:00

Last week, Khai INSISTED that he was brave enough to be flipped on the tube. However, whenever Helmut started going fast, he would always ask to slow down or get back in the boat. On one such occasion, Helmut was pulling Khai and Michelle in...

...and he flipped them!

Khai LOVED it. He thought it was hilarious.

Michelle was not so impressed.

But I think she had fun anyway.

Ever since then, Khai has wanted to jump off the tube and swim back to the boat (but he's still too afraid to go fast!)

*****

Normally, when we go boating, Declan and I take a couple short trips on the tube, going VERY VERY slowly. He laughs and says its "bumpy" and then he decides he's "all done".

The last two times we've gone out, he's learned that giving a "thumbs up" (not Michelle's version) means to speed up or "go faster Daddy! Faster!". He loves it. Helmut only goes a tiny bit faster, but he giggles and shrieks with joy.

Today, Helmut kept telling Brett he was going to "dump him" off of the tube. Declan joined in the chant saying "dump, dump, dump 'im in!"

Well, Declan and I went on a ride together, as usual. He said his "all done" and we readied ourselves to be pulled back to the boat.

Brett pulled us back and as we reached the boat, Brett accidentally pulled the wrong way on the rope, and Declan and I got "dumped" in the lake.

Declan was NOT happy. It's actually quite a drop from the tube to the water, and he was mad when we got back into the boat. I tried to get him to go back on the tube right away, you know, the old "get back on the horse" theory, but he had no desire. I was a bit worried that he wouldn't want to go back on at all, but, all it took was Khai and Brett going on together to make him want to get right in between them.

He even went on to kneel up on the tube with Khai and myself.

*****

Brett has become quite the skilled tuber (is that a word? what I mean is that he is getting really good at tubing) and has been asking me to take video recordings of him tubing. He has already posted one to YouTube, which you can view here. That one is of Brett and Kelsey's boyfriend, Kyle, tubing.

Today, I took this one. He and I each had to go by ourselves today because it was just the 5 of us, and there has to be an adult on board to watch the tuber (there's that word again), not to mention the two little ones on board. ** warning: the water was very choppy today. You may experience motion sickness while watching this video. I did. **

Did you see how excited he was that he was still on the tube after it flipped?? AWESOME.

We have discovered that you can do more tricks when you're on by yourself (and when I say tricks, normally, I mean making little jumps. That thing from the video was NOT intentional) and you have a bit more control. Not to mention, when you go flying, you're not bumping into the person next to you (ahem. Michelle).

A fantastic day all-in-all!

*****

Each day we have like this, reminds me of how glad I am that Helmut has finally realized his dream of owning a boat. And that his dream wasn't simply about owning a piece of machinery. It ~~was~~ - is - about creating memories together like this as a family. It is about learning more about each other; spending time together and just being a family. I love you Helmut.

I think the costumes really made the performances.

2010-08-07T06:11:00.000-05:00

Thursday night, this one and I visited the Warsaw-Polish Pavillion where Magda was dancing. It was wonderful!

I love watching Magda dance, and though the food (perogies, kielbasa, pork cutlet, barley - my personal fave- and veggies) was good, the dancing was AMAZING.

I apologize for the crappy pictures, but the ambassador table was right in front of us and it was difficult to get good pictures :( But that's Magda, second from the left (above).

My favourite detail of this dance was that some of them wore shoes, while others were barefoot. It was beautiful and reminded me of an ATM that has a surcharge, when it was previously surcharge free...oh, sorry, that's a different story altogether...it reminded me of spontenaity, carefree days and a joy for living. It also reminded me of Italians smushing the grapes for wine with their feet, for some reason I think that's beautiful. Little details like that touch me. This one certainly did.

Because I couldn't get a decent picture of her during the performance, I took this one after. Justin looks impressed, doesn't he??

Oh, I love you guys!! I love that you know how to have fun together. I love that you are maturing together. You are a pleasure to be around.

And lastly, I purchased a BEAUTIFUL necklace from the cultural centre upstairs.

The Warsaw-Polish Pavillion gets 5 stars from me, (the costumes get 10).

The best kind of party...

2010-08-06T09:06:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, after picking up a parcel, sending out a parcel and dropping off a teacher's gift (because I ordered them from Etsy and they didn't get here in time for the last day of school...totally my fault!) Brett, Khai, Declan and myself met Shannon and her three kids at Dairy Queen for lunch. Then we headed over to Ruckers for some arcade fun (even I like some of the games there) and then back to Dairy Queen for a mini birthday party for me!

Shannon bought me a cake (a chocolate chip cookie dough blizzard cake) ; they all sang me happy birthday and we cut it up right there (well, we tried to cut it up!). It had just come out of the freezer, so it took her about 20 minutes to cut the first piece (I couldn't even get the knife into the cake). But, eventually we all had pieces and it was DELICIOUS!

Brett ate his like this. That way he could at least bite into it!

Khai didn't seem to have too much trouble with his. As long as it's ice cream, he's eating it!

Declan wouldn't let me take his picture. He was being stubborn. SHOCKING. I know.

Shannon and Brooklyn enjoying their cake.

Tyler. I love you kid.

It was a fantastic birthday party and I really enjoyed spending that time with you all. Thank you!

Days like these...

2010-08-05T23:26:00.000-05:00

the sleeping giant, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada

We've had 2 days filled with attempted golfing, actual golfing, a VBS meeting, rain, Ruckers, Dairy Queen (and NO, I did not write the review about this location. I actually had quite a pleasant experience there), a visit with friends, some work, the Polish Pavillion, a part of Folklorama, Dollarama, Purolator and some Scrabble with my man.

I will be back tomorrow with a few fun pictures, but now, as it has been a LOOOONG last couple days, I will hit the sack and likely fall into a deep sleep before my 30th birthday begins. In 34 minutes.

Sweet dreams.

I wish it would have rained today. I love the rain.

2010-08-03T21:46:00.000-05:00

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Today was a rough day. I suppose it's to be expected after so many good ones, I suppose I'm due for a bad one, and today was it.

To summarize:

Bad dreams set you up for a bad day.
Common courtesy apparently no longer exists.
Children will be children. Especially when you don't want them to be.
Men don't get it. Ever.
Occasionally I will take something someone said the wrong way. Other times I'm exactly right and I'm allowed to be offended.
Bathing suit shopping should only be done when you're too drunk to care that you don't look good in ANY OF THEM.
It's ironic that I hate clutter. Because my house is full of it.
When the province estimates a bill, they should not estimate it at almost $100 more than last month. Really, that's just ridiculous.
My bluetooth sucks.

And now, in my grouchy state, I will attempt to play a semi-competitive game of Scrabble on the iTouch with my hubby. I fully expect to clobber him.

Three.

2010-08-03T00:22:00.000-05:00

I love them.

I wonder if I could crochet something similar to this??

2010-08-02T08:11:00.001-05:00

for sale here at Forever 21.

Love this! Cute cute cute!

Anyone have a translator handy?

2010-08-01T22:15:00.000-05:00

I have discovered that 13 year old boys speak another language. On the way to the Golf Dome on Friday, with Brett, his friend Chris and Declan, it was as though I had entered a foreign country. They talked about golf clubs, dirt bikes and boats and those are just the things I understood! They talked about brands, motors, clubs, and all kinds of other things that sounded like Greek to me.

But, even though I hardly understood a word, it was great to see Brett hanging out with a friend and having fun. The older boys did some *driving* at the driving range, while Declan and I played a round of mini golf. Although using the word "playing" might be overstating things a bit. Most of the time, I followed Declan around, holding his putter and mine, while he attempted to throw his ball in/at the obstacles. He especially loved the little ramps. They looked like skateboarding ramps to him apparently!

After our game, we headed up to the second level to watch the boys drive. Declan busied himself by filling up the boys buckets with golf balls.

He usually just put 6 or 8 balls in each bucket, and then carried them back to the boys, but it kept him busy, and happy until their hour was up.

Then a quick trip to Golf Town (where I felt as though I was again privy to another language).

I never thought I'd be old enough to say that I didn't understand what the young kids were talking about, but I'm sure they'll be pleased to know that I don't.

ryan the waiter and the adventures of geisha girl

2010-07-31T21:08:00.000-05:00

oh. my. goodness. I have had one of the best days ever. A huge thank you to my friends Hilda, Nichole, Heather and Kim who made this day possible! (and of course to my hubby for watching the kidlets while I galavanted!)

I complied with the kidnappers request and I was waiting outside my house at 11:50 on the dot. Brett kept trying to convince me that the unmarked vehichle I was waiting for, was actually the bus. Ha. Ha. Ha.

Hilda pulled up at around noon, with some astonishing news! The kidnappers had contacted her. They had instructed her to have me blindfolded and driven to a secret location immediately. I couldn't stop laughing.

Once in the vehicle, Hilda and I chatted like the old friends that we are. When all of a sudden, she burst out laughing. Apparently, people were staring at me. And laughing. I was blindfolded, remember?

She described several things to me along the way, a car which had crashed into a tree on the boulevard, some girls with shiny pom poms and a sign for a car wash and a bunch of naked people (were you serious about this one???) .

We arrived and she came around to my side of the vehicle to help me out.

Then she said (and remember I'm still blindfolded - that's the blue scarf over my head), when I tell you to run, we're going to run across the road! Seriously? Run across the road? Blindfolded? (I found out later it was Corydon Ave...those of you who live in Winnipeg know how CRAZY that is) But, yes. That is exactly whaat we did.

After making it safely across the road, I was led, in what felt like circles, to our destination.

Some guy said, "Whatever you're doing, have fun doing it!" as we walked by.

We were at Fresh Cafe. And I was standing in front of 4 of my closest friends.

What a great surprise!! Plus, Geisha Girl was unharmed.

I love love love love surprises. And this one was one of the best ones I've ever had.

We had a great meal together, complete with *Ryan* the waiter who kept my glass full.

Thanks you guys for such a great surprise!

But, my day wasn't over yet!! All of the ladies had cards for me. Heather had hand made hers (LOVELY work!), Hilda's said on the front , "Warning: Contents may settle over time" and had a picture of two old ladies in bathing suits, and Kim and Nichole's had a little note inside saying that they had purchased me the earrings from my *dream* etsy birthday list!

Thank you so much ladies! I appreciate each and every one of you!

So, after being treated to lunch, we then wandered down Corydon to browse at couple shops. I tried on 2 dresses and a pair of boots. I bought the boots, and I think they are SO much fun!!!

We continued our walk about 2 meters to the left, and entered Posh Nails, where we all got pedicures (or manicures). They had these WONDERFUL massage chairs and I seriously almost fell asleep.

Then we all went for gelati.

Ladies, I can't thank you enough for today. I had so much fun!

Uh Oh!

2010-07-30T18:39:00.000-05:00

An hour ago, I received the following email:

Nicole. As you can see, I have kidnapped your geisha. She was spreading horrible rumors that it is your 30th birthday and I had to silence her. So far she is unharmed. If you wish to have her returned to you that way, follow these directions precisely. An unmarked vehicle will arrive at your house tomorrow morning at 11:50 am. Enter the vehicle. You will be blindfolded to protect your own safety. You will be driven to an outside location where geisha is being held. You must be dressed to be outside but you will not be required to be at all physically active. If you comply with all these directions, your geisha will be returned to you safely and the vehicle will return you to your place of residence at approximately 4:00pm. Failure to comply will end poorly for little geisha and her nasty rumors. Think carefully before you make your choice!!!

See you tomorrow.

From The Kidnapper

It was accompanied by this photo:

You may remember my geisha girl from this post. I don't know what I'd do without her, so I will comply.

Please, kidnapper, if you're reading this, please don't harm my little geisha girl! I'll do what you want!

To the rest of you, I'll keep you updated, (don't tell, but I'm going to sneak my camera aboard tomorrow and try to get pictures, even while blindfolded. Shhhh.)

Check back here tomorrow to find out the fate of my geisha girl!

a dream birthday list from etsy

2010-07-30T05:19:00.002-05:00

on sale here at TreadLightGear

on sale here at timeforteame

on sale here at cottonpurr

on sale here at cozyblue

on sale here at 4EyesAndEars

(actually, I think my hubby would like this one more than me)

on sale here at 4EyesAndEars

on sale here at slaintebags

on sale here at GlitzGlitter

on sale here at Camille Star

on sale here at orangethyme

on sale here (with CUSTOM LABELS!) at orangethyme

on sale here at dustylorraine

(I would LOVE to have this collection for my deck dishes)

these

and these from MARIESCOSYCUSHIONS

Now and Then.

2010-07-29T09:45:00.001-05:00

One year ago today, we said, "Until we meet again" to Noah Grant John Loewen, as he left his earth to join Jesus. One year ago, I cried uncontrollable tears, not only for Noah, but for Nichole and Brad, Kailyn and Joshua, who lost a son and a brother.

Today, as I read and watched this, I cried again as I continued to grieve for my friends.

Throughout this year, I have prayed and wondered how to be there for them as they travel this pathway of grief. I feel as though I have fallen short many times, but I know that the Lord has been faithful to them, and that it's not about me in the least.

Today, my prayer for them is for peace, even if only for a moment. My prayer is for continued hope. My prayer is for faith. My prayer is that they will be carried today and everyday, by the Lord who comforts.

We love you guys. You are dear friends.

You can find Noah's story here.

Did I mention???

2010-07-28T20:07:00.002-05:00

1. Shannon had her baby! His name is Trevin John Hiebert and he weighed 8 lbs 11 oz. Yup. He was big! He was 21" long and is a beautiful, healthy baby boy.

2. Khai lost his first tooth 2 weeks ago. He called everyone we know to tell them.

3. The tooth right next to the one that fell out, is now wiggly.

4. I'm turning 30 in 10 days.

5. We tried potty training Declan yesterday. 15 minutes, 2 accidents and lots of screaming later, he asked (cried) to be put back into a diaper. I obliged. We will try again. Someday.

6. I love hooking my camera up to my computer and finding pictures the kids have taken of themselves. I especially love this one!

7. I love it when my father-in-law does it too!

8. Shannon broke this picnic table at Cartown because she was 9 months pregnant and she sat on it. Best story of the year.

9. Justin got a vuvuzela for his birthday. Thank you Magda. No, really. Thank you.

10. Second best story of the year? Michelle and I on a tube. And then falling off of it.

Happy Wednesday!

Always,

nicole

is there a coconut tree around?

2010-07-28T07:15:00.000-05:00

Khai's new favourite activity.

the house next door is for sale...

2010-07-27T11:06:00.000-05:00

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On my way home from dropping Khai off at camp, I was struck by a sudden desire to live within walking distance of a lovely little cafe.

I would love to walk there every morning, with my reusable coffee sleeve; get a white mocha or a chai tea latte; spend some time with my journal (while my perfectly well-behaved 2 1/2 year old sat quietly in his chair beside me, drinking his apple juice) and write my lists for the day. Then, after a relaxing 45 minutes, (or an hour and a half), I would walk leisurely back home and get on with my day.

In the evening, Helmut and I would walk together to get an evening coffee, probably with some kind of cake on the side. We'd talk late into the evening and return home relaxed and blissfully content.

source

Maybe someone will buy the house next door and turn it into a cafe!

Someday.

The SK8 park.

2010-07-27T07:00:00.001-05:00

We spent 2 days last week at the skate park at the Forks. So much fun! I love watching the kids skate (even Declan!) and sitting in the nice sun is never a bad thing for me.

Khai tries to do all the tricks that Brett does!

I know this photo is blurry, but it captures his expression perfectly! This is what he looks like lately when I try to take his picture!

He concentrates so hard!

This big bowl makes me nervous, but he makes it look so easy!

This is Declan's idea of grinding. Too cute.

The skate park is a great FREE activity to do in the summer if you have kids who love to skateboard. The older kids are really careful of the little ones and even if it's only for an hour, it uses up a lot of their energy. I love it!

And luckily, so do they.

Fantasy

2010-07-26T19:53:00.000-05:00

I've always been in love with the Anne of Green Gables stories. My sisters and I used to watch both Anne of Green Gables, and Anne of Green Gables - the sequel, at least once every couple months. They were taped off TV (CBC) on a VHS tape and so we the commercials were tapes as well. Sometimes we watched them (instead of fast forwarding), and eventually knew which ones were coming up.
I've read all the books MANY times, and though I prefer the ones that Anne is featured prominently in, I loved them all.
There are so many scenes in the movies/books that I loved and I often wished I'd grown up in that age. My big mouth would have seen me no end of trouble I'm sure, but none the less, I wished it.

I also fell in love with the clothes. In particular a shawl that she wore in Anne of Green Gables - the sequel. I think she wore it in two scenes. The first when she goes to Diana's engagement party (possibly? it's been a few years since I've seen it) and again when she finds out that Gilbert is dying. I LOVE that shawl. I used to drape sweaters, sheets etc. over my shoulders and pretend it was my "Anne shawl".

While I was searching Google images today for a photo of Anne in the shawl to include in this post (with no avail) , I came across this pattern. It is EXACTLY what I want! Except in a cross between

this color

and this one (sorry, I don't know where this pic came from).

Actually, this is pretty much perfect.

Now if only I could find someone to make it for me...

2010-07-25T22:43:00.000-05:00

source

my husband made me watch "P.S. I love you" the other night. apparently he doesn't realize that my biggest fear in life is having him die before I do.

i can't stop thinking about it. about him not being here.

i really don't know what i would do.

J-Shoe

2010-07-24T23:06:00.000-05:00

Justin Carl Peter Schuster turned 19 years old today.
There is so much that I could say about Justin, but it can mostly be summed up in one phrase : I hope that all my boys grow up to be like you.

You have brought so much to my life, and I am blessed by you every day. I am (we are) so incredibly proud of you. You work hard, you play hard. Your sense of humor is a breath of fresh air and your genuine -ness (yes, that is a word) makes my heart happy.

I appreciate you. Not only as my son, but as a man. You've grown up to be a good man Justin. And even though I have only been here for the last 4 years, I can't help but feel a motherly pride when I look at you.

It is a pleasure to be around you and I (we) love you very much. I love that you come into our room when you get home from Magda's, just to chat, I love that you genuinely care for your siblings, I love that you are honest and real, I love that you try your best at everything you do, I love that you are passionate about the things and people you care about. I love that you love the cat (dog).

Thank you for everything you bring to our lives.

We love you. Always.
Love,
Us

2010-07-24T11:11:00.000-05:00

source

I bought a skirt yesterday. (it sort of looked like this one) It was marked as a size 3. I just about fainted when it fit (it was on the sale rack and the only other size was 15. I figured I'd try the 3, just in case). I'm sure it is mismarked.

But it made me feel good about my body for the first time this year.

Perfect Day for a Mama.

2010-07-22T23:35:00.000-05:00

Fill up 100 water balloons (minus the 12 that were broken by little hands)

Put them all in a central place.

On your marks...get set...

GO!!!

Water balloon fight!

Declan's favourite post. Perfect for throwing water balloons at his unsuspecting brother in the pool. I don't think you hit him once, but, Brett is a pretty good dodger :)

A snack on the tube.

Declan's own little waterslide.

Happy boys make for a happy Mama. I love them. I love days like this.

July 21, 2010

An eventful long weekend!

2010-07-20T21:15:00.000-05:00

The long weekend was incredibly eventful! We've had something to do each and every day, and I'm loving summer vacation so far! Warning...photo heavy post!

Canada Day was interesting. I woke up, cleaned a bit, and then sat down on my freshly laundered bed to check my email on my laptop. Khai and Declan came and sat with me, Declan on my lap, Khai beside me. 30 seconds later, Declan puked INTO my laptop, he's crying, I'm gagging (I do that when I smell puke) and I'm trying to get him into the tub. And that was all before 9:30!

So, needless to say, I have not been using my laptop since. It works, but it smells like puke, so Helmut is going to take it in to clean it. ICK.

On July 2nd, we went boating in the afternoon. Brett is Helmut's new boat helper. He did a great job getting everything unhooked and ready to go, and then getting the boat out of the water and covered again. Dad loves it that you're his new helper Brett!!!

We spent the entire time on (or in) the water. It was such a relaxing afternoon, I'm looking forward to many many more this summer!

We are cat sitting for my sister, and the kids are LOVING having the cat around.

(Declan attempting communication with the cat)

(this is where we found the cat when we came home one day)

(Magda gave Declan this dog mat. Khai brought it out for the cat to sleep on, and she does! adorable!)

Even Justin loves the cat (although, he calls her "Dog"). He came into our room one night after he got home from Magda's place, and took the cat, saying, "I'm taking her now. You don't need her." It was quite cute.

(Can I just say, it's so nice that the kids are comfortable coming into our room when they need something, or just want to chat. I love it.)

Saturday brought Khai's first visit to CarTown. with a good friend of his, Elijah. For those of you who have never heard of it, it's a place where kids get to drive! The city has chosen an arena, painted roads on the concrete and set up a city complete with a McDonald's Drive Thru, a drive thru ATM, a playground, a railway crossing (with real lights), a carwash (with real bubbles) a drive in theatre and real stop lights and stop signs. The kids drive around in Power Wheels and have to obey the traffic signals. Khai went with his friend and we had a wonderful hour. One of the best parts? Younger siblings were allowed to ride along with them!

(I apologize for the quality of these pictures...arena's do NOT lend themselves well to photo taking!)

(this fire engine was my favourite! My cute little boys!)

(some impatient people waiting for the bus)

Sunday brought yet another trip out to the lake! But, that will have to wait for another post. Too many pictures!

Happy Tuesday!

This is beautiful...

2010-07-14T21:49:00.000-05:00

...and it has just been added to the top of my wish list.

Lisa Leonard Designs

Isn't it just lovely?

I'm working on posts from last week still (insert rolling eyes emoticon here) and I'm almost done the one from the long weekend. Hopefully it'll be up before we go camping on Friday!

Sweet dreams.

This is the type of thing...

2010-06-30T21:03:00.002-05:00

that happens when I go do the laundry...

I come up to this one standing on top of the buffet. Would you like a closer look at those cupcakes?

Now, not all of them had icing on top, but those that did...well, you see the result.

I left Declan in the capable hands of his Daddy and big brother. Daddy fell asleep, and Khai was too engrossed in his DS to do anything except say ,"Mum, look at Declan!", as I came up the stairs.

I was only downstairs for 5 minutes.

***Edited***

As I was showing this to Khai and Declan this morning, Khai informed me that not only did Declan lick most of the icing off of the cupcakes, but Khai also helped. He pointed to the cupcake that he removed the icing from. Apparently he was not as engrossed in his DS as I thought.

Brett.

2010-06-29T21:18:00.001-05:00

On June 29th, 1997, Brett Gordon Helmut Schuster was born.
I was not there. I did not give birth to him. I am not his mother. But he has my heart as though I were there. As though I did give birth to him. As though I were his mother.

I am in the interesting position of being his step-mother. I care about his welfare, I want the best for him, I laugh with him, I discipline him when necessary and I do his laundry. I pick up after him, I make him meals, I help him with homework (when he has it) and I pray for him. But, I'm not his mother.

So, today, I am writing about a 13 year old boy (young man) who I have no biological claim over. But, my heart doesn't know that.

Brett, you are amazing. You make me laugh and you can bring me to tears with your thoughtfulness. You make my heart swell with pride and hurt when you say something mean. You are a funny, easy to like kid, and my life is blessed because I have you in it. You have made my days brighter and I love you.

I love coming to watch you play hockey or lacrosse or volleyball or basketball. I love playing Killer Bunnies with you. I love taking you to the Winkler Water Park (actually, I like taking you anywhere that you enjoy!). I love talking to you and hearing your ideas on things. I love answering your questions, and I love that you ask me questions even more. I love everything about you.

Here, in my heart, you will always be my son. And you will always be loved.

Love,
Nicole

Khai.

2010-06-26T21:23:00.001-05:00

Today, Khai Landon John Schuster, turned 6 years old.

I can hardly believe you are 6 already. It seems like only yesterday that I was in the hospital, scared and lonely, giving birth to you. You, Khai, changed my life. You are the one who I "grew up" with. You are the reason I realized I needed more in my life than what I had.

I love you. I love playing SkipBo with you. I love watching you play soccer, skate and swim. I love talking to you, listening to you tell me about your dreams (as odd as they are sometimes!!) . I love helping you with piano. I love everything about you.

Me and Daddy are both so proud of you. We hope you had a great day!

Love Always,

Mummy and Daddy

(P.S. we celebrated Brett's birthday today too, but as today is not his birthday, I will do a birthday post for him on Tuesday!)

Open Book

Whopper Wednesday

Date Night

This year...

pretty pretty!

A Memorable Occasion

2011

December 10th, 2010

December 9th, 2010

December 8th, 2010

December 7th, 2010

20 Questions

December 6th, 2010

December 5th, 2010

December 4th, 2010

December 3rd, 2010

Declan Douglas Ludwig Schuster

December 2nd, 2010

December 1st, 2010

Declan

December Daily/Journal Your Christmas

Do you have one of those husbands?

Eventful.

Tonight.

Bedtime

I'm not sure if I mentioned....

Halloween

I'm planning....

The beginning of an era...

The Perfect Marriage Tool

It's all in your perspective....

Boo at the Zoo 2010

Objects in the rear view mirror...

A Birthday Party and A Photo Shoot.

Bright Lights.

If boots could talk...

6 Guilty Pleasures

....and they're off!

They say.

tattoos.

10 books I want to write.

The Great Pie Shortage of 2010

Happy Birthday Noah.

Kelsey Rae

Edit.

Today Sucked.

Huh.

First day.

Life.

Camping Saga...continued

There are things I remember...

My news.

News coming tomorrow.

Little Men

Tales of the tube.

I think the costumes really made the performances.

The best kind of party...

Days like these...

I wish it would have rained today. I love the rain.

Three.

I wonder if I could crochet something similar to this??

Anyone have a translator handy?

*ryan* the waiter and the adventures of geisha girl

Uh Oh!

a *dream* birthday list from etsy

Now and Then.

Did I mention???

is there a coconut tree around?

the house next door is for sale...

The SK8 park.

Fantasy

J-Shoe

Perfect Day for a Mama.

An eventful long weekend!

This is beautiful...

This is the type of thing...

Brett.

Khai.

ryan the waiter and the adventures of geisha girl

a dream birthday list from etsy