Phoenix Project: Day 42

Today was a work day but I was able to get to the gym first...which, because it was Tuesday, was KILLER! I packed up my make up and shampoo so I could just shower at the gym and then go straight to work. But...I forgot to put mascara in my bag!! Yikes! Seriously, mascara is a MUST have. Luckily, I was getting low anyway so I stopped by Shoppers and picked up a new one...my favorite:Yep--I love what it does for my lashes ;)

Phoenix Project: Day 41

Today it's all about:

SLEEP.

That's it--I am so very happy at the end of the day

to go to sleep.

Phoenix Project: Day 40

There were 3 big things that stood out to me today:

1. Our sacrament meeting (which is where the WHOLE congregation meets together) had 2 amazing talks about modesty. One of the standards we try to teach our youth is modesty and it's very challenging especially with many of today's fashion trends. We avoid short skirts and shorts and we try to find clothing that covers our shoulders, backs and navels. In addition, we also avoid clothing that is too tight or revealing. Both talks discussed the purpose of modesty and the challenges we face in trying to keep this standard.
2. KC and Lukas were getting ready for bed and Lukas, being REALLY over tired and grouchy was whining about EVERYTHING. I hugged him and sent him to bed and then went to put on my pjs. A few minutes later I heard KC singing lullabies to Lukas to help him fall asleep. AAAAWWWWEEEE! So amazing!
3. I chatted on the phone with my sister and she relayed the funniest story to me. Apparently, her daughter Zoe was playing with our best friends kids, Jaxon and Rylee. The three of them were playing house when my best friend Allyson overheard them--they were pretending to be Hot Bob (which is what we call Bob), me and KC! I laughed out loud!! Kids are so funny!

The more I stop and look for positive things, the harder it is to see the challenges. I've seen a huge difference in my outlook since the commencement of this project and I'm excited to see more progress.

Phoenix Project: Day 39

Saturdays seem to be a chaotic day at our house--a catch up on everything that didn't get done during the week. Cleaning, groceries, gardening, organizing, ballet class for KC, blah, blah and more blah. There is rarely relaxing on Saturdays. Today, after a workout at the gym and a shower, KC and I went to Costco to grab a few groceries and some free samples...Saturday is a great day for samples! KC is learning all about grocery shopping and cooking; she's really excited to be involved in the whole process. After a successful trip to Costco the two of us went for lunch!

That was the BEST part of the day!

We went to Boston Pizza and spent time chatting about school, birthday plans, favorite things and enjoyed a delicious lunch! It was fun to go out, just the two of us and talk. I can't believe how mature she is...most of the time ;) It seems like the last 10 years have raced by.

I am definitely blessed to have a daughter as wonderful as she is!

Phoenix Project: Day 38

The kids were on Spring Break this week and it's been a little tough because I still have to work so I feel more guilty about not being home and getting a sitter for them (even though I have a GREAT sitter). Having them home during the day also messes with my schedule a bit too. Usually I go to the gym on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday mornings to workout and catch a class or two. This morning our sitter came over to watch the kids while I went to the gym but just as I was walking out the door our neighbour called to invite us to a maple sugar farm. I told her I wouldn't be able to go because I was leaving for the gym so she offered to take the kids with her.

I went to the gym and the kids went out for a day trip with all their neighbourhood friends. I was able to meet up with them all after and spent the rest of the day/evening hanging out. It was wonderful to just spend time together and let the kids run around and play. It was a great way to spend a Friday afternoon!

Phoenix Project: Day 37

Random funny story...this actually happened the other day but I forgot to post it. I'm having dinner with the kids and we're talking about how their day, you know, just chatting. We starting talking about Jesus and how He loves children and Lukas was really surprised. He thought that Jesus didn't really like kids. As I'm trying to explain it to him, Kailyn interrupts and says, "Seriously Lukas, Jesus loves kids...if He was our babysitter I bet He'd take us BOWLING!" Truly, the most random statement EVER!!

Today I was driving the kids to piano and they're chatting in the back seat. Lukas gets suddenly really excited and says, "Hey guys!! You know what?! One day, I was at school looking at CLOUDS and do you know what they looked like? One of them looked like a FLYING HIPPOPOTAMUS and the other looked like a MUSTACHE!"

Apparently my children are experts in the art of random tidbits of crazy information!! Ha ha! At least it keeps things interesting!

Phoenix Project: Day 36

It was a beautiful day today! The sun was shining...my sun roof was open...I even brought out my sandals and Capri's. I am ready for Spring! Bring on the BBQ and the parks; I can't wait for the flowers to pop open and the grass to turn green. I tried really hard to be positive all day today but there was one sign of Spring that grossed me out...

ROAD KILL!

Yep, they're back! Everywhere I look is a squished animal on the road--skunks, raccoons, squirrels and other unidentifiable critters. It looks like pet cemetery out there! I guess the plus in all this gross-ness is the instant loss of appetite. It's hard to think about snacking with that image in your mind--or, if you've driven by a skunk, that smell stuck to you!

So HAPPY SPRING!

Phoenix Project: Day 35

Best part of my day...thank you Jayden for coming and taking AMAZING pictures of the kids. Unfortunately, Lukas didn't really want to cooperate but Jayden is talented and got some really great shots anyway. Need pictures? Call Jayden!

Phoenix Project: Day 34

I'm still feeling a bit of an energy drain leftover from the weekend but my day was good and productive. I've been looking for another part time job in addition to the one I already have and today I had a interview! Work is hard to find and good work is almost impossible but I think the interview went well though.

I also got a new phone! Hooray!! We've had the old one for almost 3 years and it's been acting really weird. We use it as a home phone so if it isn't working, we really have a problem. Hopefully the new one will work well for us.

Stay tuned...tomorrow is KILLER gym day!

Phoenix Project: Day 33

This weekend has been long but good. Sunday wrapped up the weekend with a early morning ward conference and then home to take a well deserved nap. Before crashing, I treated myself to a chick movie and just relaxed on the couch until Bob got home with the kids. What a weekend!

Phoenix Project: Day 32

What an exhausting, but inspiring, day! Today I'm grateful that:

1. Best of EFY was so amazing. We had huge numbers (400+ kids), a wonderful speaker and everything went relatively smooth.
2. IT'S OVER (for another year ;)

Phoenix Project: Day 31

Wow--I'm not sure what was the best part of my day. It could have been shopping at Costco with Kelly; we used to go shopping for groceries together all the time and it was really nice to spend a few minutes sampling and looking for deals! It could have been preparing for our Best of Especially for Youth Conference and finishing up last minute details...I loved seeing all the youth having a great time. It makes me feel like all the work was worth it! We have so many amazing youth in this region and it is a privilege to get to know them. I'm also grateful for a wonderful babysitter who came to stay with Lukas while Bob and I were helping with the conference and for Pilling who stepped in at the last moment to help me ;)

How lucky am I?

Phoenix Project: Day 30

I was waiting to do an audio/visual check for a conference this weekend and I got a phone call from my Mom. She said "I love your blog! It makes me feel so connected to you guys!" I am grateful for technology that brings us closer together...and for my Mom, who thinks I'm AMAZING!!

Phoenix Project: Day 29

I have to admit that I was little concerned about how I'd be feeling today. Last week, after hitting the gym for an INTENSIVE workout, I could barely move the next day...at all. I couldn't raise my arms; it hurt to shift gears in my car or use my mouse at work. It hurt to sit down or stand up (especially since I didn't have full use of my arms). My abs hurt so bad to move in any direction...and then I sneezed and I thought I was going to die! Do you have any idea how much your abs contract when you sneeze?? I had no clue until last week. So, what did I do about it? Went back to the class again this week!

To my pleasant surprise, I was slightly sore but could get myself out of bed and dressed all by myself! Hooray! Yep, I didn't have to fight back tears at all ;)

I was also able to attend another New Beginnings tonight. It's interesting because every unit is a little different but they're all working towards common goals and themes. Plus, I really LOVE these girls!! They are so amazing and talented and FUNNY and cute! It is such a joy to get to know them!

Phoenix Project: Day 28

Sometimes I am pleasantly surprised at what the day holds. I had an awesome (yet killer) workout followed by SUBWAY with Kelly. Today was a house cleaning day...I hate cleaning but it's what has to be done right now. I spent the afternoon working with Kelly--it's much easier than doing it myself and way more fun! I also got a surprise visit from Jess which was AMAZING! I totally love that girl and I've missed her since she's gone away to school...but lucky me! It's spring break for her and she's back for a visit!

Phoenix Project: Day 27

Today felt like I was constantly rushing. I left for work a few minutes early (which rarely happens) and got almost half way there and realized I left my cell phone and wallet on the coffee table...back home and then slightly late for work. After work on Mondays I always drive over and pick Kailyn up from school because she has ballet and her bus doesn't get her home until 5:20. Traffic was unusually busy BUT it was so beautiful out that I opened the sunroof, blasted the radio and sang as loud as possible!

Rushed from the school home and rushed from home to the ballet studio and was about to rush home to start dinner before rushing back to ballet studio when Kailyn said, "Umm, I think it's parent's day and you can come in and watch my class." I parked the car and Lukas and I went in to view the class.

There's something relaxing about watching ballet--they are so graceful and the music is soothing--I could almost fall asleep. It was really great to stop in the middle of a busy day and watch Kailyn's class; it helped me to slow down and enjoy the really important things.

Phoenix Project: Day 26

There was a special Stake (regional) Conference held today that we were able to attend. Elder M. Russell Ballard, one of the Apostles of our church, came and spoke to us; it was an uplifting experience to hear what he had to say.



There was a focus on family, faith and missionary work which kind of goes along with my personal goals. I spent the afternoon reflecting on his counsel and became more dedicated to continue and magnify the goals that I've set for myself. It was a great way to finish up the weekend and get ready for another week!

Phoenix Project: Day 25

Saturday! Bob and the kids helped me to get the house all clean and Lukas was so cute!

Lukas: Mom, I made your bed for you!
Mom: Thanks Lukas...did you make your bed too?
Lukas: Nope! Just yours.

Kids are great!

Phoenix Project: Day 24

Today I finally had a day off! Hooray! It's Friday, there's no work...does it get any better? After going to the gym, I spent the rest of the day working on our family budget. Yep--I've been doing so research and I found a spreadsheet to help track our income and expenses and hopefully, pay down our debt. I've been watching 'Til Debt do us Part to get some ideas and motivation to finally work through a budget. If anyone is interested in an excel spreadsheet, let me know and I'll email it to you.

I am grateful to be working on our debt and actually knowing where our money is going.

Phoenix Project: Day 23

I'm going to dedicate today's post to a very special someone:


It's my brother James! Today is his birthday (and this is probably the only photo in existence in which I am taller than him--older brother, Shawn on the left, me on the right and James front and centre) and I am grateful for him. We're only 15 1/2 months apart so growing up, we had a lot of the same friends. James LOVES rugby and I have spent many hours watching him play and cheering him on. He also loves to sing and has performed in many groups and choirs. My favorite story about James:

One night, James and a friend were driving home and James noticed the car in front of them. He said, "Hey, I know those guys--when we stop at a red light, I'm going to jump out and scare them!" At the next red light he jumped out and ran up to the car. He threw open the door and let out a Shrek-like ROAR then closed the door and walked back. As he climbed back in the vehicle he turned and said, "Wrong car--I didn't know them!" The light turned green and the car in front of them squealed off as fast as possible.

James is very kind and loves kids. When he was on his mission, he made a doll version of himself, complete with clothes and a missionary tag, and mailed back to Kailyn. It was so adorable--actually, she still has it.

I have been so blessed to have him in my life--he's been a wonderful little brother and a trusted friend. Happy Birthday!

Phoenix Project: Day 22

There are a couple of things that I didn't really expect when I started this project:

1. That people actually read my blog ;)
2. The overwhelming number of uplifting comments and emails

I have received a large number of wonderful notes from friends and family (and other people I don't know at all) cheering me on. I am so grateful for those acts of kindness--it really means so much to me. I got a card in the mail today from Mary--one of my amazing friends who lives about 10 minutes away...yep, it probably took more time to buy the card, write in the card, find a stamp and mail it than it would have taken to drive over...which is why I LOVE it! Mary is one of those people that can have fun anywhere: a cafe, the movies or browsing through the latest collection of Joe clothes at Superstore.

Today I am grateful for good friends...

Ladies Get Blessed!

We issued a challenge to all the Young Women in southwestern Ontario to write and produce a video promoting "Personal Progress." As a Stake Young Women's Presidency, we got together and produced this parody of an old rap classic...yes, I'm aware that I look ridiculous and that people will probably never take me seriously again!

Enjoy!

Phoenix Project: Day 21

This was waiting for me when I got home from work today: My wonderful mother in-law decide that she would celebrate my "unbirthday" and surprised me with this amazing gift. She made me these beautiful aprons. I had to enlist the help of my trusty photographer, Jayden, to capture these fantastic works of art! They are so beautiful that I'm scared to use them for cooking in case they get dirty so Bob said that I could use them to cover up my dirty clothes after I finish dinner! If anyone is interested is getting their own amazing apron, contact Peggy White at peggyscove@shaw.ca!

Phoenix Project: Day 20

Mondays...I wonder if it realizes that nobody really likes it?? Today was a great Monday for me--I got to relax and hang out with my friends. We made dinner, then caramel popcorn and settled in to watch some tv. I had so much fun--Monday couldn't have been any better!!

Phoenix Project: Day 19

Sundays are usually a pretty busy day for us; we have church meetings which take up much of the day. Today I was able to drive down to visit one of my units and see their New Beginnings program. Basically, it's an opportunity for the girls (12-18) to be acknowledged for their achievements and accomplishments. I LOVE these girls! They are truly amazing and they have wonderful, dedicated leaders and are supported by great parents. It was such an uplifting evening to hear the girls talk about their spiritual growth. I am very blessed to been able to be there with them!

Phoenix Project: Day 18

I think anyone who has boys has probably stumbled upon something like this:

Of course, it could also be a room full of cars or lego or trains. It's amazing to see how creative they can be and what they can come up with...this particular scene was not created from the mind of my 6 year old though...this scene was the creative genius of Bob, my 33 year old husband! Bob is the BEST dad EVER! Bob gets the kids ready for bed every night and as part of that routine he reads to each of the for at least 30 minutes. I usually play the role of the bad guy and come in to break up the fun because it's WAY past the kids bedtime. He is the FUN parent! He's the one that riding the cart through the grocery store and weaving in and around other patrons. He is a caring and devoted dad and today, that's what I'm grateful for!

Phoenix Project: Day 17

The fact that it's Friday automatically makes it a good day! As per Friday routine, gym in the morning (hooray!!) to workout all that jiggles. My day ended at 1:20 am with 2 good friends, a couple bowls of Cheetos and the Olympics...I don't think it gets much better than that!

Phoenix Project: Day 16

Tonight I put myself in time out. For me stress = irrational behavior so rather than inflict my family with more of my grouchiness I am sentenced to my room (where I will watch tv online until I fall asleep). I am grateful for a family that can endure my bad days and for the power of chocolate. TV online...amazing! I never miss a thing! If you haven't already, check out:

• www.globaltv.com
• www.ctv.ca
• www.citytv.com

Phoenix Project: Day 15

Today I am grateful for:

• family
• friends
• jolly ranchers
• and, it's one day closer to the weekend

Phoenix Project: Day 14

Hooray! TWO WEEKS! I'm pretty proud of myself; I have more posts in the last 2 weeks than I had in 2009 (yes, that means that blogging in 2009 was...non existent). I'm grateful for a few things today:

1. Skating with Lukas--I even laced up to hit the ice with him today. I did not fall down which is surprising because I haven't wore skates in 10 years!
2. Kelly and I went to work for a while; we make money and share great conversation.
3. Tasha was able to pick up Lukas for me because I was late getting back from work ;)
4. I spent some time with Mary and her crew making preparations for an activity tomorrow and Mary makes me laugh.
5. Bob and I got a chance to talk and watch a movie before turning in for the night.

It was a long day but full of good things!

Phoenix Project: Day 13

Wow! Lucky number 13! The snow is falling--not quite enough for the kids to have a snow day (which they are so disappointed by) but enough to making driving...interesting. My day was pretty uneventful...smooth sailing...until Bob got home from work. He's supposed to take Lukas skating tomorrow but he had a last minute conflict with work, again. I've been really, really trying to get to the gym a few times a week (work out a bit of that frustration) and because Bob can't go tomorrow, I'm going to miss my gym day, again. I knew there was no way I'd be able to get back to the gym again until Friday, so I did the completely logical thing--I totally lost it. Yep, super mature of me. I checked the class schedule for the gym and saw that there was a class starting tonight in 15 minutes but I knew, because of the crappy roads, there was no way I would get there on time. But, I changed my clothes and raced out of the house to the gym anyway.

I booked it into the gym and to the class, knowing I was late and...it hadn't started yet. In fact, people were still waiting outside the studio and the instructor hadn't arrived yet. I had enough time to change my shoes and get ready and the instructor appear apologizing because she thought the class was supposed to start at 7:40 instead of 7:30. Lucky for me (and the rest of my family) because I was able to get a really good workout, calm down and return to reality.

I'd also like to take the opportunity to clarify one of the comments I got yesterday. Right after I got my new (to me) car, I was driving the kids home and Kailyn said she didn't feel good. She then proceeded to vomit all over the back of the car--I mean ALL OVER the back of the car. It was down the door, on the seat, all down the back of the front passenger seat including the handy pocket and all over her. I definitely felt bad for her that she was sick BUT I felt more bad that our car could, potentially, smell like vomit FOREVER! So, I implemented a new rule (which may seem mean but I think it totally makes sense). If you're going to barf, open the collar of your shirt and puke all you want! I can throw clothes in the washing machine and a kid in the tub and in a few minutes they'll be good as new. Or if the clothes are to nasty, I can burn them. But the car, the carpet, the couch, the walls and all the other things in vomit radius will take me SO much longer to clean. In the shirt = contained nastiness. I think it's BRILLIANT! Soon everyone will be puking in their shirt...then they'll be buying shirts made specially for puke...ok, maybe I've taken it a little far but still...BRILLIANT!

Phoenix Project: Day 12

Usually Sunday mornings are a little...insane in our household. It doesn't matter what time we have to leave for church, we're always late. I was a bit nervous because Bob was gone this morning so I knew I'd have to do it all myself. I was really tired this morning but when I woke up, Lukas was sitting next to me quietly reading a book. He's so adorable! He woke up early but didn't want to wake me and didn't want to go downstairs by himself. It was a really wonderful way to start the day...and for the first time in a long time, we weren't late!

I really enjoyed the day. I was asked to substitute in a Primary class (the children's Sunday school) today and it was so refreshing to listen to kids sing and participate in the activities. I had a few minutes to spend with my little class and they were so well behaved! I have a serious appreciation for the Primary leaders and teachers. They have been so wonderful to my children and express great love, care and concern for them. I believe that it takes a village to raise a child and I am so glad that I have the support of this church to help me as I raise my family.

**On a side note: Bob made it home safe from his winter camp and with all limbs still attached!**

Phoenix Project: Day 11

What an awesome day! It was, from start to finish, wonderful! I slept really well last night, which is surprising as I HATE sleeping alone (Bob's still camping). I was early enough to get to the gym and get an intensive workout, came home and mixed up some cookies (yes, this might have defeated the purpose of the gym) and headed out with friends to an Indian buffet for lunch (YUM!). I spent the day surrounded by great friends, good food and LOTS of laughing! I iced sugar cookies a stunning shade of green which, when consumed, tinted my tongue and teeth an unflattering hue!

Kelly came over for the "ol' kid switch-a-roo" and, lucky for me, she stayed for a movie. It was so nice to have a girls night. It was 2 years ago that, after a series of unfortunate events, we moved in the Kelly, Richard and the kids. It was 1 year ago that we were able to move out on our own again. While moving out here has been a very difficult experience for both our families, and I would never wish this kind of learning and growth on anyone, I have appreciated having Kelly be there with me. If there is truly someone who understands what I've been through and what I'm going through now, it's her. She has given me strength, support, charity, love and hope.

Yep, today has been a good, good day!

Phoenix Project: Day 10

I've known all week that today was going to really busy. I work with the youth of church on a regional level and a few months ago we issued a challenge for each unit to come up with a video advertising values and morals. Today we all got together to view the video submissions and vote on a winner. Everyone came dressed in their pajamas and brought their pillows and blankets; we ate junk food and watched each video. I have been so blessed to work with these amazing teenage girls! They have had a huge impact on my life and I am continually learning from them.

Bob left this morning to go on a winter camp with his young men and won't be back until Sunday. I know that he'll have a wonderful time--he loves this kind of stuff and he doesn't really mind the cold (after living in Winnipeg, I don't think anything feels cold to him anymore!) Kailyn and Lukas are off having a sleepover with two of their best friends, Tia and Reece (thanks so much Kelly!)

I am the luckiest!

Phoenix Project: Day 9

Bob volunteered to accompany Lukas and his class on their first day of skating today. Unfortunately, he was sent off to do a job in Barrie and couldn't make it. I felt bad that he had to back out at the last minute but I usually work on Thursdays and couldn't help either. Yesterday as I was getting ready to leave work, I found out that there wasn't anything for me to do for the rest of the week so I didn't have to come in until Monday. It's been a really busy week and I had a lot of stuff I wanted to get done today. I was really hoping to get to the gym this morning and if I did, I wouldn't be able to help with skating.

The memory of my first day at skating came back to me. My family was financially challenged when I was young and I didn't own a pair of skates. The school had a rack of old skates that could be borrowed. I pulled out the first pair I saw (I was 6 so sizes didn't really mean much to me) and they were 4 sizes too big. I took them with me to the rink and tried to put them on--they were huge! I remember starting to cry a little--I felt really stupid that the skates didn't fit and I didn't know how to tie the laces. I was sitting on the bench by myself and out of the corner of my eye I saw my parents walk in to the arena. I was so relieved to see them! I showed them the skates I borrowed from the school and asked them for help. They pulled out a brand new pair of skates and they fit me perfectly.

That was one of the most memorable moments of my life and I decided that I didn't want to miss Lukas' first skating day. Lukas has never really been on the ice before and he was moving VERY slowly along the edge. His very best friend, Jonathan (who is a seasoned skater) was right by his side. I watched from the side as Jonathan cheered him on, encouraging him to keep going. Lukas fell. I watched as Jonathan dropped to ice beside him and taught him how to get up again. This was the highlight of my day--these two amazing little boys! Jonathan has been such a good friend for Lukas and I am filled with gratitude for their unique bond.

Phoenix Project: Day 8

I had a thought last night that I've been mulling over all day. I know, at times, I can be a little slow, so maybe everyone else gets this already. I was was thinking about faith. Maybe faith isn't just a leap into the unknown. Maybe faith is a leap into the unknown without a parachute or back up plan. Maybe, I've been thinking, "Yeah, I can trust you, God but if it doesn't work out I'll...(insert genius idea here)..." I don't think this means I'm supposed to sit around and wait for something miraculous to happen but perhaps I need to let go--really, what do I have to lose?

Thoughts?

Phoenix Project: Day 7

Today had a bit of crazy start...we all slept in!! It's kinda funny that sleeping in, on a day off, is the MOST WONDERFUL THING! But, sleeping in on a work/school day = CRAZINESS! Kailyn had 7 minutes to get up, dressed, eat and race out the door to catch the bus. Lukas also had to rush to get ready and get to school. Bob and I were both late for work. Today was a Tuesday that felt like a Monday. BUT...

...I came home for work to this on my front door:

It's amazing how a few paper hearts can completely change someones day! Our house was "heart attacked" on Valentine's Day (by an "unknown" party") and I saw the lovely hearts on Monday morning but I didn't really leave the house on Monday.

You can't really get the full effect of a "heart attack" until you come home after a long crazy day...it's cold...it's yucky outside and you just want to pull on your pj's and call it a day. Then WHAM! Instant pick-me-up, waiting for me...not only are there cute messages but there's also some really funny inside jokes that make me laugh out loud! Some examples are:

"Love you Long Time!"

"You are a FOX!"

"You are a terrible friend. I hate you!" from Flash Forward (awesome, addictive show)

Yep, gotta say that was definitely the BEST part of my day! And to my "anonymous" heart attackers, thank you!

Phoenix Project: Day 6

Day 6! Where to start...it's been a really great day and it started before I woke up!

I SLEPT IN!!

Hooray for holidays! Then I awoke to the smell of bacon cooking in the kitchen (there's no calories on holidays, right?). Bob was up making a breakfast wonderful breakfast which included: German pancakes, homemade syrup, bacon and eggs!

Bob and I watched ET with the kids--it's so different watching it as an adult! We squished up on the couch and laughed (and almost cried) through the movie.

Bob took the kids sledding.

I watched Parks and Rec online.

We had dinner and then watched a movie with friends. Just as I sat down to post tonight, I got an encouraging email from one of my oldest friends. She's amazing! She's one of those friends that knows EVERYTHING about me and STILL loves me anyway!

Today's been a good, good day!

Phoenix Project: Day 5

After church today I came home and started dinner. I'm working away in the kitchen and I can hear KC in the other room playing the piano. At first I thought she was playing the demo button but then I realized she was playing the demo song. KC doesn't have any music for this. She plays the majority of the time by ear. Actually, her piano teacher had to completely stop playing anything for her because she would listen to the teacher play it and then play it back instead of reading the music. She's a talent, but sneaky kid! One of my favorite things to do is listen to her play.

So, here she is...

Phoenix Project: Day 4

Today has been full of good things! My house is clean (hooray!), my kids spent time with friends, Bob played laser tag with his scouts and to top it all off, we had a date night tonight! It's amazing that after 11 1/2 years it's still so fun to hang out with my best friend! I love when we take the time to just be together; it doesn't matter what we're doing! I am really looking forward to the long weekend and the time we can spend together as a couple and a family...

Phoenix Project: Day 3

I realize that yesterday was Day 3 but I didn't get a chance to post. Yesterday morning I sent the kids off to school and, because it was my day off, I went to the gym to catch a couple of classes. I rushed into Physique 57, a killer class that leaves me sore for a few days and as I walking out of that one, decided to sneak into Anti Gravity Yoga. The class has large silk hammocks that hang from the ceiling that we use to implement different poses and stretches. It was really refreshing to take some time to clear my head, relax and unwind. The pose below is one of my favorites!

Phoenix Project: Day 2

I didn't have to look very far to find some good today: I love these little faces! Actually, I can't believe how big they're getting--or how old! I know, Lukas is in desperate need of a haircut...it's actually curling around his ears but it doesn't seem to matter how crazy his hair is, he makes it look cute! And what about KC? Cute, smart, sassy & talented...she's got it all!

And, what can I say about this one? I love that Lukas' feet are right under Kailyn's nose and that he's literally falling off the bed! Then there's the little pink hippo on the floor and it almost looks like it's thinking, "Please don't fall on me!" Ha!

Phoenix Project: Day 1

I have come up with a name for this new positive direction: Phoenix Project. The phoenix is a mythical creature that, at the end of its life, is burnt to ashes and out of those ashes rises a new, young (ha ha--don't I wish!) phoenix. I certainly feel like I've crashed and burned but it's time to rise up, better than before!

As for my positive moment of the day...Lukas and his ninjitsu class decided to raise money for Haiti by doing as many push ups as they could in 10 minutes. Lukas, being 6, had some difficulty understanding the tragedy in Haiti but really wanted to participate. He's been practicing over the last week and today he completed 167 push ups!! We are so proud of him for his effort! His practice total before today was about 90 so he really worked very hard tonight!

Kailyn also contributed to fundraising for Haiti. She sold Valentine cookie grams and thanks to donations from Grandma and Aunt Sherry, we have a TON of cookies to give away!

I am really pleased with the efforts both kids have made to help others who are suffering.

The Truth

I've had a few comments here and there (not mentioning any names...Starr) about the lack of posts on my blog. I've been thinking about this for a while now and I think it's time to tell the truth--just put it all out there. So, here goes...

The last few years have been...challenging (which is an understatement). It was 3 years ago that we decided to move 3000 km away from our home, our family and our friends. Why? Most of you know that we are very religious and, even though it may sound crazy (especially given all we been through), we moved away because we felt like it was the right decision for our family. So, with no job, no place to live and no idea what we getting into, we jumped with complete faith into the unknown.

The last 3 years have included 4 different homes, 3 different schools for our kids, 6 jobs (between Bob and I), 1 broken leg and unbelievable debt. This has been discouraging, frustrating, aggravating and at times I wonder if we made the right decision. BUT, in these last 3 years we have also experienced a plethora of blessings: financial help from family and friends, new friendships, strengthened seasoned friendships, spiritual growth, leadership opportunities, and many miracles that have happened on a regular basis.

Sometimes, my dark and twisty soul likes to focus on the negative things...the difficult things and unfortunately, sometimes has become too often. I've allowed myself to become cynical and pessimistic instead of focusing on all the good things that this experience has brought me. I'm not the person I want to be. I’ve found it really difficult to blog because I have nothing to say—nothing that I really want anyone to know. I felt that people (family and friends) would judge me for making such a crazy decision to move out here, beg me to move back (which I don’t feel good about doing), pity me for our run of bad luck (I don't want to be looked at with pity or like I'm broken) or perhaps would be disappointed in negative person I’ve turned into.

So in an effort to purge the negative and re-adjust my focus, I will be starting my own challenge. I will be actively seeking the good things, God's tender mercies, and chronicling them here (which means hopefully there will be a lot more updates). I'm hoping that through this adjustment I can become the person I want to be!

Makeover

Here's a picture of me this summer at Heather's "wedding" with the Condron Ladies...I'm the blonde one!

Today I went for a makeover! A friend of mine works for a magazine and she was looking for people to go and have makeovers. I went for the before shot this morning and then it was off the salon for hair colour and cut and makeup. I went straight from back to the photo studio for the after shot. On the way home I stopped by my friend, Jayden Cartwright's house for few more photos...

Girls Camp

Last week I was able to attend girls camp as a leader. For anyone that knows me at all, you know that I really don't like camping...unless it's in a hotel, with room service. But, I went and had lots of fun with the girls and the other leaders. Here's a few pics of the "camping experience":

me and "Opa" trying to keep the bugs away me working on my emergency shelter. Opa and I had to teach a class to some of the girls on how to make an emergency shelter. With a little help from google, we were able to create a masterpiece!
Opa posing for a pic

me inside the poncho shelter

Opa

both of us in the shelter

we were so proud of our shelter that we gave it a name "Chateau Poncheau" for all your emergency needs! here's me, taking advantage of the hood window!

I wouldn't do it unless Opa did it too!

Here's one of our girls getting right into it!

Here's our wonderful students and their version of Chateau Poncheau.

On our last day, the leaders organized a mock disaster and the girls had to quickly adapt and respond to the scenarios presented to them. Here's JP looking a little injured.

Group shot on our final campfire. The girls were amazing and the leaders were exhausted by the end of the week.

Kailyn's Ballet Photo

Here's Kailyn's 2009 ballet photo. This is her second year of ballet but her first year at the new ballet studio. She has done really well this year thanks to her wonderful teacher. This year they preformed a version of Alice in Wonderland. Kailyn's class were cards (obviously).