My Christmas Present...

Might not be sexy or exciting to you, but to ME, it is heaven!! A brand new dishwasher - industrial series. This is a SERIOUS machine!! And NO noise!! Absolutely silent. Love. Pure love. Happy Christmas to me!!

Ciao all.

Christmas time...

My decorations are simple - as always. I don't like clutter in my life at any time. Christmas is no different. So this is my display in my entrance way. And everything you see has been a gift from Marc over the years. I love each piece. And I love that Marc saw these items and thought of me AND kept it all coordinated without it being matchy matchy! He is a keeper!!

Merry Christmas to you all and may you have a wonderful day filled with laughter and new memories with your family and loved ones.

Ciao

On my mind...

I have really gotten out of the habit of blogging... This is embarassing. But lately it has been on my mind to close the blog altogether. I don't think anyone reads this blog, and I don't have anything witty to say... Nor am I inspired to share anymore... Something I will have to think about.

Cranky...

I work full time - out of the house. I also work full time IN the house. Life does not end, even though I am not here for 10 hours a day. How does a house get dirty when no one is home??!!! So I am spending all my weekends cleaning and catching up. I am REALLY starting to resent this time spent cleaning and I don't know what to do about it. Other than hire a cleaning person... But that brings up a whole other set of hang ups I have re: my house and the cleanliness required at all times... I really don't think anyone will want to work for anal me... But something has to be done because I am getting cranky and I don't like cranky. And I don't like spending my Friday nights cleaning either. I think I need some cheese with my whine... ha haa Seriously - I think it is time to look at getting some outside help with my house and taking the burnden off of me. With one thing less to do in life, I won't be so cranky, and THAT is a good thing. My laundry is calling now. It never ends...

Ciao all.

Say Whaaat??

Where has the time gone?? It is November 10th already!! Whaaaaat?? Boy I have been negligent in keeping up my blog...

Not much to say actually. With the wedding over life has gotten back to normal. That is a good thing. I am now turning my focus to Christmas and getting my crafts lined up. I have my first "craft night" this coming Wednesday and we are making Christmas Countdown Blocks, santa hat cake pops and choc dipped marshmallow on candy canes as stir sticks for hot chocolate. I am looking forward to the night to spend with friends and just craft. I am also looking to make a Christmas subway art plaque. It will be cool when I am done with it. I have started my Christmas shopping. That is a good thing. I have to say, though, that my heart is not in it thus far... I have my list and I am sticking to it. Not very exciting actually... Oh well.

Speaking of hot chocolate, I think it is time to make some.

Ciao all

All done...

 

The wedding was a HUGE success!! And it was lovely. Sooo lovely. I am happy that it all came together and we all enjoyed the day together.

Ciao all.

The countdown is on...

Two days. That is all. In two days my sweet Marie will be married. And I am VERY excited for this wedding. We have not had a wedding in our immediate family (here in Canada that is) in FOREVER!! Marie will be the first. Then we only have to wait nine short months before her brother Anthony will be married next summer!! Oh sooo fun!! I love weddings. Especially Italian weddings. Especially Italian weddings for my family!! We have such a good time together. And the food. Ohhh, the food... Happy dance. I will post pics when I can.

Ciao all.

Happy Thanksgiving

There is nothing in this world that I am more thankful for than my family. Every single one of them - immediate and extended. I love you all. Happy Thanksgiving. Ciao

Our new family member...

This is BASIL. He is the newest member of our VW family. And I love him. Ciao all.

I am slowly going crazy...

My month to date has been WAY too crazy! No - my last TWO months to date have been CRAZY!! I am slowly going insane. I am making light of it now, but a few days ago I just wanted to sit down and cry. Full out bawl my eyes out. I am sooo overwhelmed with all that I have going on. And all I can do now is just focus on one day at a time. To look at a week at a time, or a month at a time makes my heart race and my palms sweat and my blood pressure rise. Why you ask?? Well let me share: * I did not take any summer holidays - Marc did not work this summer so I had to... It was a loooong summer... and I am exhausted * I put on a wedding shower for my cousin in August * I stressed over and finally found flower girl dresses for my cousin's wedding for the girls at the end of August * My job has been insanely busy and is not letting up and I am beyond stressed on an HOURLY basis about my files - has been going on since July actually... * I organized a food drive for our Ward and we gathered over 8000 lbs of food and canvassed 5500 + homes - just last week * My son turned 12 and I have a family party to put on this weekend - on Saturday * I have a craft tutorial to teach tomorrow night - Friday * I have a children's Christmas party for my firm to start planning now in order to book the venue - needs to be done either the last week of November or first week of December * I am buying a new car on Saturday - same day as party day... because I have time to do this... NOT * Marc has started teaching night school so starting next week I am a single mom 4 nights a week * Ethan had an endurance test and now his induction is in a few weeks - not even sure if we will be around for it... * Bella started activities every Thurs night - another night I am not home * Ethan's taekwondo schedule now is three nights a week - more nights not home * My cousin's wedding is in three weeks and I have NOT found my outfit or my shoes and I need time to go shopping to find what I want - MAJOR STRESS * I need to book a hair appnt for me to colour my hair before the wedding and then I need another appnt morning of wedding to do my hair and to do Bella's hair * Marc needs a new suit - we need to go and look for one * I got Ethan fitted for his tux but I have to pick it up from downtown Vancouver before the wedding - don't know when... * Oh, did I mention that I am the "go to lady" for the wedding = all problems/concerns/glitches are mine to deal with?? Oh ya. They are. * Oh, and did I mention that I have also been asked to help with the rehersal dinner the night before the wedding - I live in Cloverdale. The rehersal is in the West End of Vancouver. It will take me at least 1.5 hours to get out there for Friday night. And then dinner on top of that??? Insane.. * Oh, and bake cupcakes for the gift opening on the day after the wedding - my aunt asked, how can I say no???? Sigh... * Oh, and make sure all the table centerpieces get put together - I have to take the flowers from the church and bring them to the hotel and put together the pieces... There is more, but I am going to stop. Here comes the crying jag again... I need chocolate. Ciao all.

My tree fascination

Has been fed again thanks to Pinterest. These trees are FABULOUS!! Fabric covered cones. Come on. I sooo can do this. And I will for Christmas. I see my collection growing again this year. Ciao all.

12 Today...

E turns 12 today. I am continuously amazed with all the things this child can do. At 12: 1. He is 5'7" 2. He weighs 115 lbs 3. He is a 2nd Degree Black Belt 4. He has graduated from Primary in Church and completed his Faith In God 5. He is about to be ordained a Deacon and begin Young Mens 6. He is in his last year of Elementary School 7. He has received "Gifted Status" = he is too smart for his own good, and everyone else's... 8. He loves computer games 9. He reads books that are meant for youths in Grades 11-12 (too smart...) 10. He still plays with Lego and is fascinated by the designs he comes up with 11. He intends to become a Mechanical Engineer (which he soooo can do!!) 12. He is quick witted and quick tongued (I blame his father for that!) 13. He is kind and gentle with his sister (who ADORES him!!) 14. He is a loyal friend 15. He is happy 16. He has an almost photographic memory for things 17. He is opinionated 18. He is task oriented (hmm, wonder where that comes from?? ha ha) 19. He still goes to bed at 9 pm (LOVE that!!) 20. He reads his scriptures and prays every night (LOVE that too!!) He is my pride and my joy Happy Birthday baby!! I am going to bake a cake for him. Ciao all.

Here we go again...

 

So this is where we are - Grade 7 and Grade 3. I don't know how we got here actually. I swear if I close my eyes, Ethan was just starting Montessori... And Bella wasn't even born yet. HOW did I get here?? And HOW am I going to cope with the fact that my baby is entering his last year of elementary school. It is on to high school next year!! Oh, I think I just threw up a little in my mouth... To my wonderfully intelligent children. Enjoy this school year. Learn. Grow. Be educated. Have fun. Make friends. Keep friends. Be helpful. Be respectful. Be athletic. Be musical. Be YOU!!

Ciao all.

Field of Dreams...

Lavender fields, France. Gorgeous. Have a lovely day. Ciao

Fall trend...

For Fall 2011 the trend is to dress head to toe in one shade/pattern etc. I am crazy for houndstooth. These shoes are to die for! So my cousin's wedding is in October and I have been killing myself trying to find a dress for it. Well, I am not going to look any more. I am going out and buying a fantastic houndstooth suit and then getting the shoes to match and the clutch to match. It will be fabulous!! And for a pop of colour I will look for a blouse for under the suit jacket that will wow. Maybe orange! Or chartreuse!! Ohhh, that would be fantastic! Or aubergine... See, the possibilities are limitless!

Ciao all.

My true confession...

I am obsessed with this man. Dave Gahan. Lead singer of Depeche Mode. I have listed to him sing since I was 12 years old - 1983. If I close my eyes, I can remember the first time I heard "Just Can't Get Enough" on the radio. My heart was lost forever to a voice and to a new wave of music. Techno Pop. And then when I saw Dave for first time, I fell in love. Yes - LOVE. I have every album Depeche Mode has created. I know every song. By heart. I have seen them perform in concert many many times. Now, I have indoctrinated my children to recognize their songs and gleefully sings along. Gotta keep it going into the next generation!! Dave Gahan embodies the very essence of what I think a "rock star" should be. He has battled heroin addiction and won. He has made suicide attempts and thankfully lost. He has been clean and sober for over ten years now. He has had two failed marriages and is on his third - but happy. He has three children. He is human in every way and he is humble. And I adore him. Utterly and completely. I listen to "World In My Eyes" and I imagine he is singing to me. Crazy?? Probably. But it is my fantasy, so stay out. :) I admit that I have always had a thing for the Brits (Paul Young, Simon LeBon, Larry Mullen Jr. - although he is Irish - sorry, but he fits in this category near the top as well! Hellooo beautiful!!) and I could spend all day just listening to them speak. It adds to the mystique. Another characteristic for me to swoon over. I believe in my heart that one day I will meet Dave Gahan and I will be able to profess my everlasting love to him and he will smile at me and walk away. Quickly. But I will know in my heart he feels the same way!! ;) Did I mention that I was a bit obsessive about him?? hee hee

Ciao all.

Yummy...

Cinnamon Roll cake. Delicious. Google the recipe and try.

Ciao all.

Fun....

I saw these when I was in Vegas back in March. I had every intention of going back to the kiosk but never got around to it before I left. Fast forward to today - I am in Shoppers Drug Mart with Bella looking for a crackle base polish and low and behold, I found these. But we bought "Booty Camp"- pink camouflage nail strips. Too cute!! Bella has them on now. Looks amazing. And sooo easy to use. No mess. No fuss. It is awesome. Go and find some. They come in a range of colours and cool patterns. Ah technology. What will they think of next??

Ciao all.

Dream...

My version of heaven. Look at it. Majestic. Wonderful. Dream becomes reality.

Ciao all.

Fun...

In the palm of my hand!! A few weeks ago Marc's dad called and said he could get us a few of these. I am not even going to tell you the price of what we got it for. Steal does not even describe it!! And we got 2 - so Ethan has the other one camping this weekend with my sister. They are a hoot!! Sooooo fun to capture little snippets and share with family on the other side of the world. I love technology!!

Marc and I are headed to the Richmond Night Market. I think I will take Flip along and capture our adventures.

Ciao all.

ME...

This kitchen screams ME. Look at it. What do you see? Organization. Efficiency. Style. Simplicity. Class. Timeless. Reality. Gourmet. ME.

Ciao all.

I admit...

I HATE exercise. There, I said it. Out loud. Don't tisk me either. I HATE exercise. And I hate my Italian genes that hold on to every single morsel that I eat... BUT I exercise everyday. I have to say, though, that I am feeling discouraged as the weight is not coming off as quickly this time around as it did a few years ago when I decided that enough was enough and the weight had to go. I lost 30 pounds doing the same exercise regime that I do now. Then, of course, I went to Italy last summer and put on 10 pounds that did not go away when I came home. Those 10 pounds now are being very stubborn and are not leaving willingly. Hence the hate for exercise. Extra hate. Sigh.

Ciao all.

How time flies...

One year ago today I was up here in Harrison wondering what I was doing holidaying when I should have been at home packing and getting ready to leave for Italy. Now here I am one year later back up in Harrison and feeling sad as I am not preparing to leave for Italy in a week's time... How time flies. Harrison is nice and all, but it ain't Rome. Sigh.

Ciao all.

Bard on the Beach...

This is what I saw yesterday - The Merchant of Venice

Young Bassanio, who has lived lavishly and racked up considerable debt, suddenly has the opportunity to woo a wealthy heiress, Portia. His older friend, a merchant named Antonio, wants to give him money to support his suit, however, he has invested all of his funds in ventures overseas, and his ships have not yet come in. To help Bassanio, Antonio borrows money from Shylock, signing a bond to repay the
money within three months. Antonio and Shylock are not friends, and each expresses resentment of the other. However, Shylock agrees to lend the money, with the proviso that if Antonio fail to repay the loan on time, he will owe Shylock a pound of his “fair flesh”.

At her home in Belmont, Portia entertains a variety of suitors. However, she is constrained to marry the suitor who succeeds in a task set by her deceased father: the suitors are presented with three caskets, one each of gold, silver and lead and each with a riddling inscription. The suitor who chooses the right casket
will win Portia’s hand; however, those who choose incorrectly agree never to marry. We watch two of Portia’s suitors make wrong choices before Bassanio arrives and chooses the correct casket. Portia, who had expressed a hope that Bassanio would choose correctly, gives herself and her love to her newly betrothed husband. She also gives Bassanio a ring, with the warning that his parting from it would signal
the ruin of his love. Conveniently, Bassanio’s friend, Gratiano, and Portia’s attendant, Nerissa have also fallen in love and decided to marry. Nerissa has also given Gratiano a ring with a similar warning.

Another friend of Bassanio, Lorenzo, arrives with his new wife, Jessica, who happens to be Shylock’s daughter. Jessica has run away from home, having stolen money and jewels from Shylock, abandoning not only her father but also her Jewish faith to marry the Christian Lorenzo. Lorenzo and Jessica arrive at Belmont along with another friend, Salerio, who brings news from Antonio: his ships have all been lost,
and since he cannot repay Shylock, he will have to forfeit a pound of his flesh, and hence, die. Bassanio,Gratiano and Salerio depart immediately for Venice, with Portia’s blessing and her offer to pay the bond ‘twenty times over’. Portia leaves Jessica and Lorenzo in charge of her house while she and Nerissa leave
to pursue the following plan: dressed as a young lawyer and his clerk, Portia and Nerissa will attend Antonio’s trial as he faces Shylock’s demand.

In the courtroom, Shylock is inflexible. He knows that according to the law, Antonio must forfeit his pound of flesh, and he insists on the law. Dressed as a lawyer named Balthasar, Portia tries to persuade Shylock to be merciful, however, he is resolved. With strict adherence to the law, Balthasar/Portia points
out that although the bond entitles Shylock to a pound of flesh, it says nothing about blood, so he may not shed even one drop. A strict interpretation of the law further reveals that because Shylock, an ‘alien’, has threatened the life of Antonio, ‘a citizen’, he must forfeit half his possessions to the Antonio and the other half to the state. Further, the Duke alone will decide whether or not he dies for this crime. The Duke immediately shows mercy, sparing Shylock’s life and reducing the state’s financial claim to a simple fine.

Antonio agrees to let Shylock keep the other half of his possessions, but on two conditions: 1) that he become a Christian and 2) that he sign a deed of gift that upon his death, leaving all of his possessions to Jessica and Lorenzo. Shylock agrees, but leaves immediately, saying ‘I am not well’. After considerable
persuasion, Portia and Nerissa accept as payment for their services the rings they had given their new husbands.

Portia and Nerissa return to Belmont moments before the men do. Bassanio and Gratiano must explain the absence of the rings their new wives had given them, but Portia and Nerissa reveal that they were, in fact, the lawyer and the clerk. Portia shares the news of Shylock’s deed of gift with Lorenzo and Jessica, and shares further news that Antonio’s ships have come in after all.

Two down, one more to go...

 

My dad is home from Italy. Two weddings down, one more to go - for this year.

Ciao all.

Weddings...

These two are getting married in October - my sweet baby cousin Marie and her wonderful fiance Craig.




These two are getting married tomorrow in Italy - my handsome cousin Francesco and his lovely bride Serena.



These two got married yesterday in Italy - my sweet cousin Alessandra and her new husband Italo.



I LOVE being the oldest in the family. I LOVE that I have three cousins on my mother's side who I have been with since the moment they were born, and nine cousins on my father's side whom I love more than they will ever know! I LOVE being able to watch each one begin new chapters in their lives. My daddy is in Italy celebrating (on behalf of all of us) with Alessandra and Francesco. I am grateful he was able to do that. Come October we will all celebrate Marie's wedding - and we are REALLY excited for that. Bella is a flower girl and Ethan is an usher. Weddings weddings!! And there is one more on the horizon for next year... But I will save that pic for another post. :)

Ciao all

After 40 years...

I am still NOT good with going with the flow. I don't like it when my plans get delayed. And I don't like the unknown. And I can't seem to let it be... Wow. Some lessons in life really are hard to learn...

Snack time...

I am in love with the site Pinterest. Found this recipe on it. Gonna go and make it for now for snack later on.

Ciao all.

Success...

Watch out - my kids are gonna rule the world some day. Seriously. Ethan was granted "gifted" status this year and operates 3-5 years ahead. Bella is quick as a whip and picks up everything thrown at her. These two amaze me. And they both had a phenomenal school year. I am grateful to their teachers who understood my kids and let them blossom. Here's to a restful summer well deserved.

Ciao all.

Sad...

My daddy left for Italy this morning, without me... Life got in the way. I am very sad...

What would I do...

Without crafty people to inspire me!! Go check out 36th Avenue blog. That is where the pillows above came from. Cute stuff. I have come to the realization, though, that the easier a project is, the more difficult it is for me. The harder, the easier. Do you see the problem here?? I can't even make paper tissue pompoms!! Stupid. Really. So I am ever grateful for blogs to inspire me to continue on!

Ciao all.

Bella's Baptism

Beautiful day, enjoyed by all. And she looked like an angel.

Ciao all.

Camera...

Don't know if you have noticed that my posts of late (really late - like the last two months...) have been devoid of photos. If you have not, well, I guess I won't be too offended... :) But if you have, it is because I lost our camera. Yup. Lost it. The last time I remember having it was in Seattle - that was in March. Ya. I have never lost anything - ever. I am not that type of person. My OCD does not allow me to be careless with my belongings. Not boasting. Just the way it is. I always know where my phone is. My keys. My sunglasses. My rings. etc. etc. So I really did not believe the camera was lost. I thought it probably was still sitting in the suitcase. Or maybe at the bottom of one of my bags that I had brought along. NO. Gone. So this past week I turned to Marc is a bit of a panic and told him that we needed a new camera and quick - Bella's baptism was coming up. So off Marc went to do some research and then came home with our new camera. I like things that are small and easy to use. Point and shoot. No fuss, no muss. This camera fits the bill. So I am breaking it in at Bella's baptism tonight. Wish me luck.

Ciao all

One more week...

Bella turned 8 on Friday.

Next weekend she will be baptized. We are so excited and we have been busy preparing - cakes to bake, decorations to make, a menu to plan... So exciting.

Thinking ahead...

I am trying to see the bright side of this...

On Monday I splurged and bought new furniture for our front porch. We have lived in this house coming on 6 years. I have never purchased anything of this magnitude before, nor have I really ever had the desire to. I have always just left the front of the house alone. I have always hated the front of our house - it has always looked so bare - so dull. So the opposite of what I am!! We have huge wrap around porch and it just screams for decoration. So I finally found a set I liked - really liked - and so I bought it. I brought it home Monday and Marc got it all set up for me. Bella and I spent the rest of the afternoon and evening enjoying our new lounge furniture. And then this morning I woke up to a nasty surprise - we had been robbed. These morons decided it would be good to steal the cushions of my set. All my cushions. And all my other accent cushions which I bought extra to give the set a bit more flare and make it a bit more me. What am I supposed to do with this?? I was so angry this morning. And I felt so violated. I still do... I called the company where I bought the furniture and they referred me to the manufacturer. The manufacturer has opened a file for me and they will "try" and help me, but could not promise anything and even said that if they could get replacement cushions for me from the factory, it would probably take many many months... Sigh. WHY?? I am trying really hard to see the bright side of this situation, but right now, I can't...

My kids...

They are insane. So while preparing dinner I overhear them in the great room chatting.

Ethan: Belle, we need some more exciting yoga moves.

Bella: Ya, like upwards cat...

Ethan: Ya! And sideways parrot or upside down hamster...

Bella: Ohhh, how about rabid mongoose! Ya...

Ethan: Perfect! Tell mama we have new moves for her to practice!

WHAT?? My kids are crazy.

Ciao all.

Use it or lose it...

Soooo true. I have not scrapped ANYTHING in over six months. Yup. Nothing. And, here is the real kicker, I don't have the desire to scrap anymore. Don't know what happened. I just don't feel that need... And it is killing me, a little, inside. The guilt is what is eating me up. I have the most precious archive of my children's lives from the day they were born to now. Priceless. But I just don't have the desire to continue on... The last layout I produced was when we came home from Italy, and I think I only did a layout for Ethan's books... Not even Bella's books... I did not do anything at Halloween, or Christmas... I forgot all about Easter... So ya. Here we are, mid May, and nothing. And, to top it off, I had to create 10 cards for a Relief Society project and what once would have taken me maybe half an hour, took me 2 hours last night to do!! I was so flustered by the end of the card making, it was ridiculous. And I looked like I had fought some kind of bloody battle - my hands were black from stamping; my hair was sticking up from me pulling at it; my finger tips were raw from trying to make flowers and putting bling on them... Ridiculous!! I have lost it - the mojo is gone. Use it or lose it. So true.

Ciao all.

To my husband

Thank you for being my best friend; my confidant; my rock; my comedian; my sounding board; my guinea pig; my knight in shining armour; my maid and chauffeur many times over; my handyman/fix it guy; my clear mind; my rational thought; my calm; my compassionate side; my real and eternal love.

Happy 17th Anniversary!!
Love you.

Looking in the mirror...

I see myself in my daughter. Not in the way she looks. She looks like her father, and not me. But in the way she acts. Bella is me. When I am faced with a decision that I do not like, I don't answer. Instead, I come up with other options that are better suited to what I want. Bella does the same thing. Example - this morning we were getting ready for church. I asked Bella to put her dress on and to put on her little cardigan with the dress. She did not answer me. Instead, she came back and asked if she could put on anohter dress and put on a white t-shirt underneath. I said she could put the dress on but not the t-shirt. It woudl NOT look right. She would have to wear the sweater. She did NOT like this and did not answer me again. Five minutes later I wondered where she had gone. She was sitting in her room pouting, staring at the two dresses and trying to figue out which one would pain her least. It was a valuabel lesson learned for me. Answer up when asked what I want. It is better than being stuck with the less of two evils...

Ciao all.

I do believe I am British...

Deep down inside, I think I am a Brit. I was absolutely glued to the tele during the royal wedding. I LOVED every aspect of it. I love the formality and I love the pomp and circumstance. I adore the hats and the fascinators. I REALLY adore the fascinators - even Princess Eugenie's! I think I am going to have one designed for my cousin's wedding in the Fall... I remember watching Diana and Prince Charles' wedding back in 1981 and wanting to be a princess. I am fascinated by the monarchy. I envy them. I even cried when I saw Prince William in his royal reds... I did not cry when I saw the bride - she is not near or dear to my heart yet. She will have to work her way in. But Wills and Harry - well, I LOVE them!! You know, if the Brits could cook, then I would consider switching! hee hee

Ciao all

The acid is churning...

Game 7 Vancouver Canucks. My house is glued to the TV... The acid in my stomach is just churning. These Canuckleheads HAVE to win. Otherwise it is going to be a very long and sad night in the O household...

40

I am officially 40. I have nothing else to say.

My talent...

Put it to music and I can memorize it - forever!

Case in point - EVERY song that has been created from 1980 to date. I know them all. Whether I want to or not. Sometimes annoying, but mostly amusing. I am forever singing lyrics with the radio and freakin' my kids out (and my husband, and my sister, and my parents, and anyone who is unfortunate enough to ride in the car with me...). They always ask, "HOW do you know this song?". I just do. Put it to music and the words are there in my brain.

It works with everything. I can sing all the books of the Old and New Testament because I have them memorized to a tune. I remember my Rules of Court because I put them to music.

If you have never checked this out, go to You Tube and search "Music for History Lovers". These two teachers have taken pop songs and re-written them with history facts. BRILLIANT!! I wish I had thought of that... But watching the videos (I am a history major) I can sing along - the facts just pop up in my head because of the tune.

My great talent. ha ha

Ciao all.

Vegas...

Marc and I were in Vegas this week. We just came home last night. Our first time. I found it very, well, interesting - to say the least. What I liked about Vegas:

the weather - gorgeous!!
the swanky hotels - especially the Bellagio and the Venetian
Blue Man Group - outstanding!
shopping
shopping
shopping - clear enough??
all the food - so much to choose from
the handy transit system
the movators - sometimes it is nice to just let them take you where you want to go
the cool walkways and connecting paths
the palm trees - I want a palm tree in my yard
time away - time to be just with Marc
no work
no cooking
king size bed and housekeeping - I LOVE housekeeping
ginormous jacuzzi tub
pool deck and cabanas
the lights
the fountain show at the Bellagio
Serendipity 3 Frozen Hot Chocoate - MUST have!!!

What I did not like:

the casinos
the noise
the smoke - everywhere!!
the drinking - everywhere and at all times of the day
the street buskers - hocking "girls girls girls" at all hours of the day - GROSS
the time share people - NO is NOOOOO
the people trying to sell you shows - again NOOOOO

Overall, I would go again.

Ciao all.

More things about me - inspired by the basement reno mess...

Because I have already spent the last two days constantly sweeping and mopping sawdust, I thought I would share some of my more "unique" quirks re: cleaning:

1. I clean something everyday.
2. I hate cleaning the toilets. They make me dry heave. I make the kids clean the toilets while I stand over them and direct.
3. After I sweep up, I get down on my hands and knees and literally pick up individual grains of sand/dirt/dust that get left behind. I hate grit on the floors.
4. I scrub the sink after each and every use.
5. I cannot stand dishes or cups in the sink. Dishes must be done after each snack/meal and put away.
6. I will clean the counters 3 or 4 times a day - and I am not home all day... So I clean them all night long basically...
7. I hate fingerprints on anything - fridge, stove, counters, mirrors, doors, etc. etc. I am forever going around with a cloth and spray cleaner to take care of fingerprints.
8. I use white vinegar and hot water as my all purpose cleaner. I love the smell of vinegar - just smells CLEAN.
9. I dust the blinds every day. I hate dirty blinds.
10. In my house there is a place for everything and everything must be in its place. If not, I WILL throw it out. Whatever it is. I don't care.
11. I scrub the shower with an old toothbrush to get in between the tiles. I hate grit and grime.
12. I have a squeegee in the shower and whomever uses the shower last must squeegee the doors and walls and get rid of all excess water. Helps prevent gross water build up and mold.
13. Having said that, I HATE cleaning the shower almost as much as the toilet. I can't stand the hair build up in the drain... To touch it makes me gag. Never ending circle...
14. When we have company in the house, I am forever going around to make sure there are no glasses on the floor, or on the tables without coasters under them. Rings - you see.
15. Continuing with #14 - I will clean the house AFTER my company leaves. Within an hour of having company, you would never know that anyone was in my house. I sweep, dust, vacuum - whatever it takes to erase all evidence of company. And I can't go to bed unless this is all done. I NEVER would sleep knowing there is a mess in my house!
16. After the beds are made in the morning, no one is allowed on them until bed time again. I hate wrinkled sheets/duvet covers. They drive me crazy. The kids have learned to love the floor. Deal.
17. Crumbs on the couch make me crazy. I will pick them up with my fingers if necessary.
18. Crumbs on the area rug also drive me around the bend. You will often find me on my hands and knees picking up "boogies" off the area rug.
19. I use a q-tip to clean around the base of the toilet and on the hinges of the toilet seat. My kids don't clean these areas good enough. And I can't use the toilet unless I know these areas are clean. Hence my fear and loathing of public toilets - I KNOW these other people don't do this level of cleaning!! Oh, the germs... GAG.
20. I throw away all the bed pillows each month and buy new ones. Dead skin cells, sweat, drool... Ick.
21. I vacuum the mattresses every week.
22. I wash all the quilts every week.
23. I change the sheets on all the beds every five days.
24. I wash the inside of the dishwasher with vinegar and hot water. It is filthy in there. Take a look in yours!
25. I also wash the inside of the washing machine. Again, dirty. Take a look in the corners of your machine and you will be grossed out with the dirt and grime that has built up. Go ahead!

Okay, now that I have frightened you away, I think I will stop.

Ciao all.

Why oh why....

Did I agree to finishing our basement?? I now remember why I vowed the last time around (we did our basement in our last house and then promptly sold it...) to NEVER do this again... We are only at the framing stage and already the dust that is on the main floor is unbelievable. I can't even imagine what horrors will await when we start to dry wall and sand... And the noise. Oy. Driving spikes into concrete to secure the frames is deafening... And I work out of the house all day. I feel bad for Marc and the kids who are home while this is going on. Trying to keep my eyes on the prize - more room in the house. Very hard right now to do... All I see is mess and dust and mess... Why oh why...

Some things about me...

Here are a few fun facts about me -

1. I always have fresh fruits and fresh vegetables in the house.
2. I always have some kind of dessert or treat in the house.
3. I never wear socks. Ever. Not even in winter.
4. I do laundry every single day.
5. My feet are never still. Even if I am watching TV, my feet will be moving.
6. I don't dream. Or if I do, I never remember my dreams.
7. I can speak/understand 5 languages.
8. I don't like to read instructions. I don't have the patience for them.
9. I can't be bothered to organize my Tupperware cupboard. Really, just can't.
10. I never pay full price for anything. If I can't get a bargain, I won't buy it.
11. My toes are always pedicured/painted (see #3 above).
12. I can't stand long finger nails and always keep mine cut short.
13. I have to learn something new each day, otherwise I feel the day has been wasted.
14. I can't leave the house unless all the beds are made, and made MY way.
15. I have a terrible fear of being homeless and/or poor. Completely irrational.
16. I hate Rod Stewart songs because they all seem to be about teenagers running away and getting pregnant... Why?? They cause me to panic...
17. I hate all country music. Just don't even bother.
18. I am not friendly by nature. But when I get to know you, then I open up to you.
19. I don't like candy.
20. I don't really like chocolate on its own. Baking with it is fine.

That is enough craziness for now.

Ciao all.

Diamonds are a girl's best friend...

My hint to my hubby... Coming up on our 17th wedding anniversary. Just saying...

The Big FOUR-OH

 

Happy birthday to my wonderful husband.

Do you like my sense of humour?? hee hee

Love you Marc!

The past...

I have had people in my life that are no longer in my life. Not because they are deceased, but because they have made choices that have taken them away. I want them to know that I think about them almost everyday. And that I still keep tabs on them, any way I can. And now I am wondering if it is time to reach out again and ask them to come back into my life... Scary decision for me. I don't like to be out of my comfort zone. And this takes me WAY out of my comfort zone... Now I know I am sounding mysterious about this, but I don't want to mention names or circumstances. And the choices made had nothing to do with anything illegal or out of sorts. Just life choices/perceptions/beliefs that drew us apart. Now that I am about to turn 40 (gag!!) I am feeling that it is time to mend bridges. I don't know. Maybe the past should remain there - in the past... Or maybe I should take a leap of faith and reach out... Much to think about.

Ciao all.

Gifts of Gratitude

Time for another list of things I am grateful for:

*spring break
*travelling
*baked goods
*dinner out
*my anal/obsessive need to organize
*my sense of style
*my sense of humour (needed when you are developing a sense of style!)
*fresh fruits and vegetables
*my ability to cook
*my desire to learn new things all the time
*good books
*steamed milk with hazelnut syrup and choc cookies from Italy - best night time treat
*losing weight (but not when I am drinking milk and eating choc cookies!)
*my quiet neighbourhood
*my safe neighbourhood
*my car - it is a good car - it is a safe car - it is a pretty car
*my degrees (yes, plural - I would not be me without them)
*my husband's degrees (again - plural - going on his 5th one)
*my baby sister - she is just so awesome
*my niece and nephew - they are jewels and I adore them

That is about it for now.

Ciao all.

I have decided...

To take Marc to Vegas for his upcoming 40th birthday. Now, I have never been to Vegas. I have been doing much research over these past few weeks. I am not so sure doing research is always a good thing. For the most part, it has left me a little hesitant and weary of the hotels... So if you have been to Vegas, where did you stay and why? Did you see any shows? What? Did you do any shopping? Where? Did you eat somewhere spectacular? Let me know. I am on Internet information overload. Now I want a first hand account. Help me out.

Ciao all.

Is it strange...

That I have 8 pairs of black dress pants, and each one is "different"? I mean, some are mid length, some straight, some wider, some longer... Each one is used to create a different style - paired with long sweaters, or crop jackets; suit jackets or blouses. I can easily justify it. Is that strange?

Gifts of Gratitude

I have had a rough week at work. Very rough. And I am feeling very ungrateful right now. Actually, I am feeling quite overwhelmed and put upon. And I don't know how to get around this. I have always known I would not "retire" in my work field. But right now I am at a bit of a cross road and I don't know where to go... So I am scared on top of feeling overwhelmed and put upon. My lovely blogger friends have inspired and uplifted me with their lists of the things they are grateful for in their lives. I have decided that I must do the same and share my lists - as silly as they may or may not be - and I am praying that this will help me fell less overwhelmed and less put upon and more balanced and I see what Heavenly Father has given me in so much abundance.

My gifts of gratidue today are:

* My husband - I can go on forever about him - he is everything
* My children - so unique and so special and so mine
* My home - for it being a true refuge from the storms of life
* My parents - they are supportive and always only a phone call away
* My in laws - ditto
* My cousins - they are lights in my life and joys to be around
* My bed - I love it - it is my happy place
* Teal nail polish - it has given my toes an early spring lift - much needed
* My new calling in the church - I get to work with the sisters again and feel of their love and friendship - I have missed them as my last calling took me away from them
* Apple crumble muffins - first time I made this receipe and they taste like apple pie - delicious
* My flat iron - vain, yes - but I would not leave the house without it
* Black pants - you can never go wrong with a pair of black pants and they make everything look good

That is where I will begin.

Ciao all.

Hi yáll...

Things have been busy around here lately. Lots on the go. Another one of my cousins is getting married (my sweet A who was born when I was 12 yrs old - I remember when my aunt told me she was expecting. I was so happy to finally have a cousin that I could truly baby - and then there he was... He was my little shadow and now he is getting married! I digress...) I am soooo happy for him. And his wife to be is lovely. A's sister is getting married this year in the Fall and I have been doing research on table centerpieces. This one has really struck my fancy, so to speak. I think it is out of the ordinary and I think it can really be personalized. I am going to have to work on this idea and see what I can come up with. In the end, whatever we decide on, I am going to have to be able to duplicate it for 25 tables... One or two is one thing, 25 is another. We will see.

Have a happy week all.
Ciao.

Nothing to say.

Really. I am exhausted. Life is just too fast - too much right now.

Going to take a break.

Ciao all.

Proud...

Of a certain young man who has returned home from his mission and served honorably for our church. Now, this young man holds a very special place in our hearts. He was one of Marc's very first deacons and I clearly remember that Sunday all those years ago when Marc was called as the 2nd Counsellor in the Young Men's presidency and he met his class. Marc had never served in the Young Men's program before. We came home and he turned to me and said, "Those boys are a bunch of reprobates!". Well, those "reprobates" became the core of our Young Men program and Marc became President and he made sure each and every one of those boys understood what was expected of them. They all rose to the challenge and accepted mission calls. And now they are all coming home. In a time where 19-21 yr old "boys" are a burden on society, our young men are working hard all over the world. I am proud of them. All of them. And I am very proud of S who is home now! We missed him terribly (did I happen to mention that our kids LOVE him and he is just so patient with them...), but he was where he was supposed to be. Well done.

Ciao all.

Justice has been served

Former B.C. teacher guilty in wife's slaying
Last Updated: Friday, February 4, 2011 | 5:45 PM PT
CBC News

Former teacher Mukhtiar Panghali has been found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of his pregnant wife in Surrey, B.C., four years ago.

Panghali, 30, was also found guilty of interfering with a dead body by Justice Heather Holmes, who delivered the verdict in B.C. Supreme Court in New Westminster on Friday morning.

As the verdict was read out, friends and family gathered in the courtroom cried and sobbed. One woman even shouted, "Yes!" when the guilty verdict was announced.

Manjit Panghali, 30, was four-months pregnant with her second child when she was reported missing in October 2006. Five days later, her burned body was found on a beach near the Delta port.

Panghali reported his wife missing 26 hours after she disappeared, a piece of evidence Holmes said contributed to him being found guilty.

Holmes told the court no direct evidence linked Panghali with his wife's killing but said there was some powerful evidence indicating he was responsible for her death, including his behaviour after the crime and photo stills from a video showing Panghali buying a lighter and a newspaper the night his wife disappeared.

Family responds
The verdict brings some sense of justice for the victim's family, but cannot make up for what happened, her older sister Jasmine Bhambra said.

"Although it's been difficult for us, it doesn't compare to the pain and horror Manjit must have felt in her final moments, having her life being taken away from her by the one person who was supposed to love and protect her," Bhambra said. "She died a brutal and senseless death at the hands of a sick and twisted and evil monster."

Delta Police Sgt. Sharlene Brooks said investigators are satisfied with the outcome, but share the family's ongoing grief.

"Today [we] have a sense of relief for the family, in particular, Manjit's daughter, and all who knew Manjit. However, the Delta police are mindful that today also reignites a sense of tragedy."

Panghali will be sentenced March 17.

Changing style...

I am nearing my 40th b-day... GAG!! I am not handling this very well (in case you have not noticed...). And I still have over two months to go before it actually happens. Along with the change in age is coming a change in style. I am okay with this part. I have really developed an appreciation of good quality clothing and timeless pieces - but this has been happening over the past many years. These shoes, for example, are inspired by Coco Chanel. How gorgeous are they!! I am searching for a pair just like them now. I have been doing a lot of online browsing re: Chanel inspired clothing. I like the grace of the clothing and the true beauty of the clothing. So as I begin a new decade, my wardrobe will as well. The change in age I am not looking forward to. But the change in style, well, that excites me.

Ciao all.

Plotting and planning....

Marc and I turn the big four-oh in a few months. Him before me though. And I NEVER let him forget that! Instead of throwing a party/buying gifts, I am going to take him away at Spring Break. So here is the problem - I don't know where yet to take him! And although he has two weeks off at Spring Break, I do not. And I am leaving for Italy for two weeks in July, so really I only have 3-4 days to play with here. Sooo, do we stay on the continent OR do we go over seas? So far, I have researched the following places:

Las Vegas
London, England
New York
San Francisco

I am leaning towards London, England. I am a HUGE history buff and quite a travel snob. If I am holidaying somewhere, I have to get cultural and historical value out of it (really NONE of that in Vegas...) Plus I just really prefer Europe over, well, everywhere. Honestly, I should be living there... But that is another story for another time. But when we only have 4 days, traveling for 9 hours is not ideal. And before any of you mention it, I am NOT a sun person, so I won't go to Mexico (nor do I want to - health hazards and personal safety!) or Cuba or anywhere like that. I would go to Hawaii, but not right now. Again, I think I would want more time...

So I will continue to plot and plan and see what I come up with. Good thing I still have 6 weeks to get this all organized.

Ciao all.

I could not take it anymore...

My son's sock drawer. Abominable! I could not get the drawer shut and after E pilfering hubby's socks for yet another day, I could not take it anymore. I KNOW the kid has socks. Lots of socks. WHY is he taking his father's? Because none of E's socks are matched and he does not want to take the time in the morning to match them... So after 10 minutes of pulling socks and making matches, I got his drawer under control. So help me if he messes it up - well, give me at least 24 hours with an organized sock drawer!! Oy.

Ciao.

Flower pins...

 

I was blog surfing and came across this cool tutorial on Tater Tots and Jello. I was looking for a fun, EASY project to do today and this fit the bill. I made these fun floral pins - can be worn on clothing, in the hair, on a purse, on a head band, etc. etc. Super cute. And I especially love how the chic flower blends so well into Bella's jammies! ha ha But what I did not enjoy was the 3rd degree burn I got on my middle fingers and thumbs as I worked the cursed glue gun. Now I remember why I don't like using one... Small price to pay for cuteness, I guess.

Ciao all.

Sid Dickens...

I have been collecting his tiles for years. I don't have quite as large a collection like in the pic above (I wish...), but I did come home a few days ago to two new tiles sitting nicely on my table! Marc had found the King and Queen tiles for me and bought them (at a killer deal!). I was so excited when I came home. My hubby truly is so sweet. He does these things so spontaneously - always letting me know in so many ways that he loves me and he GETS me! That is what touches me the most. He understands what I like and he does not question it. He's the best. And my tiles ROCK on my wall with their mates!

Ciao all.

Two for one...

 

I am quite proud of myself. I have already completed ONE project that I wanted to do for 2011 for the house. My new lamp shade for the formal living room. You may think that the pic is a "before and after" thing. NOOOOO. This is one lamp shade. When the light is off, it is a lovely cream linen. When the light is on, the black shadow flowers shine through. Brilliant! I found this shade in HomeSense yesterday by fluke. I went in on a whim and there it was - at 50% off. So I could not have reconfigured my old shade for the price I paid for my new shade. And, the dork that I am, I was so excited in the store that I actually yelled (out loud) "this is perfect!" and freaked the nice lady who was looking at pillows behind me. Sorry nice lady. hee hee One project down, how many more to go?? Too many - but hey, if I attack them with the same enthusiasm I have with my lamp shade, they will all be done in no time at all!

Ciao all.

2011...

You know, I have never been excited about the years changing. They pass by so quickly. Just reminds me further of my mortality. BUT I a beyond excited that 2011 has arrived. Let me tell you why - 3 weddings in my family this year!! Yeehaw!! AND 2 of those weddings are in Italy, so guess where I am headed? Where? Yes - back to Italy in 6 months!! Can't wait. I am trying to get my sister to come with me. If that happens, then my dad's side of our family will be together - all of us!! That has not happened since 1981!! My grandfather would be over the moon to have all his children and all of his grandchildren together. What a wonderful gift that would be for him. So we are trying hard to make this happen. If my sister cannot come, then just my dad and I will head back for the weddings and be away for 2 weeks. Sacrifice I am willing to make. And the 3rd wedding is of my sweet Marie. I was there when she was born. I have watched her grow and mature. She followed me into my profession. I LOVE this girl as if she was my child. I am 14 years her senior and yet she is like a best friend to me. My children are attached to her like she is a second mother to them and we are all sooooooooooo very excited for her wedding. And we are all very hands on. I am in charge of flowers, colour scheme, place settings, table scapes and favours. You know - just the run of the mill things! he hee And I LOVE the idea of it all. We are well on our way with the planning already. This wedding will go off without a hitch. 2011 will be a wonderful year. Happy to ring it in.

Ciao all.