Lunatic Fringe

:(

2010-03-11T07:41:00.002-05:00

I miss this place...

I miss my bloggy-friends...

... be back soon!

Hugs!
Loony Laura!

:)

At a Stand Still

2009-11-15T14:28:00.002-05:00

I have not posted in awhile.

No excuses.

Just have not made the time.

Have not really felt motivated enough to post.

Oh, I have lots of ideas - and some great material!

But I am not making the time.

I am too tired.

I am too stretched.

I have so many other areas of my life I want to get into order.

I need to relax, refocus and decide what and why I want to continue this blog.

I am at a stand still, and I need to figure out what to do...

...see you soon....I hope!

Update!

2009-10-26T11:00:00.004-04:00

Rattle Me Bones 10K

PB - 1:01:06

October 25, 2009.

But, apparently

2009-10-24T09:44:00.010-04:00

My mom is battling stage three throat cancer.

She just completed round one of her radiation and chemotherapy.

During the last 7 weeks I have felt a bit inadequate: I am struggling with how best to offer my love, support and help during this challenging, difficult, scary time.

I want to do more than I am doing for her - she means the world to me!

But,

I am not a nurse, caregiver, nutritionist or orderly.

I am not a scientist, pharmacist, or medical engineer.

I am not technician, radiologist, nor am I a doctor, or an oncologist.

But, apparently,

I am beginning to fancy myself a runner.

Tomorrow, I am running in the Ottawa Hospital 10k RATTLE ME BONES race.

(and though it is not much, it makes me feel like I can help in my mother's care.)

Wish me luck!

(Thank you Ottawa Hospital for taking such great care of my mom!)

HEY MOM, Love you - Hate cancer!

A précis of news coverage

2009-10-23T07:41:00.005-04:00

As long-time Fringe readers know, I really do love my job!

But, alas, like many jobs, even dream-jobs, there is usually little recognition for all the hard work we do.

That is, until now!

Last night on The CBC National News there was a call out to my little team of media monitors and analysts. Watch for yourself!!!!

Yep...now, if someone asks what I do for a living I can say, "I deliver a précis of news coverage to the Prime Minister!"

PM Harper is correct, he DOES NOT watch Canadian news broadcasts....I DO...FOR HIM!!!!

Which sounds more impressive than, I watch the news for the Prime Minister!

This morning...

2009-10-21T07:14:00.004-04:00

This morning I am tired, cranky and having "period problems".

This morning I eyed up all the donuts and danishes at the coffee shop.

This morning I did not cave in.

Today, I will stay on program.

This week I will be successful at the scale.

Ringing in my ears and deep in my heart

2009-10-15T13:11:00.004-04:00

This morning, did you hear it???

The bells ringing....

Did you hear it???

It was the sweetest sound ever!!!

At the Ottawa cancer hospital it is customary for patients to ring the bell after their last chemotherapy session.

So, did you hear the bell this morning?

I sure did!

Today my mom rang the bell.

Today was my mom's last chemotherapy session.

That wonderful sound is still ringing in my heart.

Ready! Set! Go Gobble Gobble!

2009-10-14T15:51:00.009-04:00

A few weeks into the school year I got a phone call from DJ's school. Apparently, every second nutrition break he was hanging out with a bunch of grade 3-6 students. DJ would race out of the Grade 1 door and head over to the far corner of the track. The grade 5 teacher called to tell me of DJ's fascination with this crowd.

Apparently, every day, DJ has been leaving his peers and joining in the grade3-6 track team practices.

The coach told me that he does not want to discourage DJr, but that he wanted to make sure my future track star understood he was too young to participate in the upcoming track team competition.

That afternoon, I sat DJ down and asked him about his track aspirations.

He was so cute. At first he thought he was in trouble. Then, I think I figured he was going to be banned from the team practices.

He smiled innocently at me and simply said he liked running with the big kids. It was good exercise and making him strong and healthy.

I congratulated him on his commitment and hard work. Then I gently explained how he could not compete with the school team...not yet.

He smiled. Nodded in agreement. Gave me a big hug and said, " That's ok mommy. I do not run for them. I run for me, cause I like it...and um, I run for you."

"You run for mommy?"

"Well mommy, I like it when you race and I want to race like you. But really, I just want to run with you when I get big and when I get better at running. Mommy, you go to your running class to learn to run - and I go to the running team to learn to run and maybe one day we can run together. I would really like that. Mommy, running makes you happy and running makes me happy and I like being happy with you!"

WOW. WHAM!

It really hit me how my transformation from being overweight, inactive and unhealthy has impacted my children.

My children see how I now take time for myself, and that physical exercise, working out, and taking care of myself makes me happy. Heck, it makes me happy, content, proud and at peace.

They see the benefits to leading an active lifestyle. Both the physical ones, and the emotional ones.

I am committed to keeping up with my new routines of working out, eating properly and taking care of myself. I am committed to being a positive role model for my three children.

So, this past weekend we all ran together. We entered the The Fall Colours Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot race.

And everything about it made me happy.

Pre-race photo!

Ready....Set....Go!

And we are off!!!!

I love this photo of the boys! DJ's facial expression is priceless!

DJ loved the experience. He was awesome!

Click HERE for more photos of DJ giving it his all!

Anderson was excited...and then got a little whiny ...but soon got his second win and finished on a high note!

Click HERE for more photos of Anderson.

Little Madigan ran the ENTIRE 1km on her own. She was so determined. When people cheered for her she would stop and clap! It was hilarious! This photo so captures her race with me loudly cheering her on every step of the race!

Her photos from the race are great! I love the one with her running and a man running behind her with his screaming child! Priceless! Click HERE to see all Madigan`s professional shots!

Here we are after the race. The kids were super proud of their t-shirts, their bibs and especially their medals.

I was just proud of them...and very thankful.

Happy be-lated thanksgiving to all my fellow Canadian bloggers!

The scat master irons his socks

2009-10-09T07:32:00.004-04:00

OH my!

Rex Murphy did not disappoint!!!!

"The scat master"

"No bimbos in Harper land!"

"Harper and the Deficits"

OH my!
I HEART Rex!!!!!

So yesterday!

2009-10-07T07:21:00.005-04:00

Ok... I no longer have PM Harper's Beatle song in my head...that is just sooooo yesterday!!!

(hee hee, I made a funny!)

Today's brain-knocker is this little glee-ful rendition of a popular song!

(hee hee, another funny!)

TOUCH DOWN!!!!!!

Bravo! Bravo!!!!

2009-10-06T17:18:00.005-04:00

OK, our Prime Minister stole the show on Saturday night!

He is NO OBAMA, in fact, many a comedic sketch has payed homage to his robotic nature. But he threw caution to the wind, and took centre stage!

Oh, his handlers have worked hard trying to improve his image - Remember those lovely sweaters?????!!!!

Anyways, thanks to PM Harper I have been humming this song!!!! All. Day. Long.

I cannot get it out of my head!!!

Furthermore, this tune is being hummed all over Parliament Hill!

Every morning I deliver my report to the PM's office in Centre Block. Well, this morning I came across 5 workers humming a certain Beatles tune!

Hilarious!

Genius!

PM Harper's performance is the talk of the town. What a perfect choice of song given our current political landscape. Oh, I cannot wait for Rex Murphy on the Thursday night CBC National program...his commentary will ROCK! (Ya, I am a Canadian Studies major, can you tell?!?!?!)

Now, wonder what PM Harper's encore will be????

At the next G8 meeting, Obama may win the congeniality award, but Harper may be crowned in the talent competition!!!

AH, Canadian politics!!!

2009-10-05T18:11:00.004-04:00

My meals for the week come with pre-made photos!

Each week my parents have been residing at The Grimes Lodge - it is like a dorm for cancer patients while they are getting treatment. There is a little kitchenette where they can warm up foods. Since my mom cannot eat and there is no real cooling facilities, I have been trying to provide as many meals as possible.

So, each weekend I make a few meals for my family is an extra little to pass onto my dad! here is this week's menu:

Monday - Crock-pot steak with mushroom & mushroom sauce and cous cous and squash from our garden!

Tuesday - Tandoori chicken with mixed veggies and cous cous.

Wednesday is pizza night! Mommy has a 5:45 gym class and the boys have Beavers and Daddy has to rush home!

Thursday is yummy salmon loaf with grilled peppers and squash (the last one from our garden!).

Friday is kind of up in the air right now. We might go out for Pho soup?

This weekend is the Canadian Thanksgiving. Gotta finalize my plans...but it will involve turkey and stuffing and a pumpkin pie!!!

As for my other meals, I am tracking religiously. I am keeping within my points the best I can.

My breakfasts are going to include steel cut oats with PB and banana, or eggs with veggies and salsa or toast with apply butter. I am going to try my best to eat the bulk of my breakfast early, and then have a healthy mid-day snack.

My plans for lunch are pretty basic - mainly a salad with some sort of protein - tuna, chicken, tofu...something tasty, a bit of dressing and a fruit with yogurt.

I bought a huge bag of spinach to have afternoon green monsters - and I am loving a low-fat hot chocolate mix I got that is basically a point!

Last week I had a shock at the scales...SEVEN pounds LOST! Crazy, I know...but I think it all had to do with training and running for the half marathon! I am hoping for a loss this week... but if not, I will know that I have eaten healthy and within my points.

Check out more Menu Plan Monday entries at I'm an Organizing Junkie.

I did not get around to posting on Friday, but I cannot wait to tell you all about my new fitness program for October and November!!!!! Stay tuned!

Well, gotta run and get lunches made and kids into bed!

Peace out my dear Bloggy-friend! Sleep well!

To worry a little less...

2009-10-01T16:02:00.009-04:00

Can you believe it is now October? WOW! Time is flying.

I cannot believe that DJ has completed the first month of grade one! Honestly, I had been worried - oh, I wasn't worried he could not do it or that he would struggle - I knew deep down that he would do great! But, just the same, I worried.

I worried he would tire through the long, full day.

- He does come home a little tired, but seems to have adjusted to the full day quite easily.

Still, I worry.

I worried he would not like his teachers.

- Not only does he adore them all, but so do I!!!!

Still, I worry.

I was worried he would join the gang of trouble makers (they were identified in Junior Kindergarten...and well, they sure had an impact on DJ).

- Yes, he still considers one little (trouble-maker) boy his "best friend", but the teacher keeps the "4-Musketeers" separated and DJ is making new friends.

Still, I worry.

I was worried that he would struggle with the work load.

- Yes, DJ is a bit challenged with writing and fine-motor skills, but he is continually improving and not only have we, but also his teachers have seen a huge improvement. He has brought home more work and art in the last 15 school days than he did in ALL of J-K and S-K!!!!

Still, I worry.

I was worried DJ would be alone at recess.

Nope, he tells me wonderful stories of the fun he had during second recess with an ever-growing collection of names. First recess? Well, he has joined the school track team! The grade 3-6 track team practices every day, and well, my little grade 1 is the most eager of them all. The coach contacted me and is very supportive of DJ practicing with the team. In fact, I have registered him into a race in 2 weeks! He loves it!

Still, I worry.

Every Friday DJ comes home with his weekly portfolio. It is filled with work sheets, art work, exercises and notes. Every Friday I carefully examine each piece with great pride.

Still, I worry.

Then, this afternoon, I found this piece of work.

A smile came upon my face, from ear-to-ear.

A tear gathered in my eye and ran down my cheek.

My heart swelled with love, pride and wonder.

And I decided to try and worry a little less...

BINGO! B-I-N-G-O!!!

2009-09-29T22:01:00.001-04:00

We interrupt this blog's new found drive to post for a night of B-I-N-G-O!!!!!

Yep, bingo!

Instead of writing an awesome post, I spent a lovely evening playing bingo!

Yep, bingo!

During the week my mom is residing at Grimes Lodge - or as I call it, The Cancer Dorm - and tonight was bingo night!

Yep, bingo!

Guess, what! I had a great time! With no distractions, my mom and I shared some broth soup for dinner, chatted with other residents, started a puzzle in the games room and then participated in a hot game of bingo!

It was fun... and we each won a round!

I never imagined I would spend a weeknight playing bingo with my mom (emphasis on "My") ...I never imagined my mom would ever have to battle cancer...I never imagined a little game of bingo would be so enjoyable, relaxing, fun and valued...I never thought playing bingo could or would feel so normal, so grounding.

Yep, bingo!

Well, at least it was calming, relaxing and normal until I jumped up and yelled BINGO!

Yep, BINGO! B-I-N-G-O!

Thanks Mom, I had a wonderful time!

Love you so much, hate cancer!

XOXOXOX

Menu Monday - Sept 28

2009-09-28T07:36:00.006-04:00

Ok - I am getting back on track with my blogging...and I am getting back on track with my WW point counting. I have been a little lazy - training for the half marathon really impacted my eating habits. That ends today! Today I am planning, organizing and counting points for the week.

I need to get back on track...just look at my running total on the right sidebar...yep, up 6 pounds in 4 weeks!!! YEEK!

Monday
Breakfast - Greek Salad Tuna (4) and a banana (2)
Snack - Baby apple (1)
Lunch - Wrap with cucumber and tomato with lite cheese and chicken soup with crackers (6)
Snack - Homemade rice cookies (4)
Dinner - Indian style chicken with veggies and pita (8)
Total points - 25

Tuesday
Breakfast - Steel cut oats, PB and a banana (5)
Snack - Baby apple (1)
Lunch - Salad with light dressing, and leftover chicken (4) Ryvita cracker with tomato and cream cheese (2)
Snack - Yogurt and granola (3)
Dinner - Shrimp and veggie stir fry with rice (7)
Snack - Hot Chocolate (2)
Total points - 24

Wednesday
Breakfast - Toast with tomato and cheese (5)
Snack - Green Monster (2)
Lunch - Greek salad with olives and left over shrimp (5)
Snack - Apple and almonds (2)
Dinner - Soft tacos with grilled veggies (7)
Snack - Popcorn (1)
Total points - 22

Thursday
Breakfast - Steel cut oats, PB and a banana (5)
Snack - Green Monster (2)
Lunch - Scrambled egg whites with veggies & taco beef and hot sauce and 2 Ryvita crackers (5)Snack - Apple and almonds (2)
Dinner - Dinner - Pineapple chicken in the crock pot with squash and carrots (7) (Recipe stolen from Chubbie Chica)
Snack - Popcorn (1)
Total points - 22

Friday
Breakfast - Green monster with berries, yogurt and protein(5)
Snack - Wrap with cucumber and lite cream cheese (2)
Lunch - Salad with light dressing, and leftover chicken (4) Ryvita cracker with tomato and cream cheese (2)
Snack - Apple and almonds (2)
Dinner - Seafood pasta(7)
Snack - Green monster (2)
Total points - 24

Saturday
Breakfast - Green monster with berries, protein, and yogurt (5)
Snack - apple and cheese (3)
Lunch - Grilled cheese and salad (6)
Snack - Cranberry scone and tea (4)
Dinner - Beef stir fry and rice (6)
Total points: 24

Sunday
Breakfast - Steel cut oats, PB and a banana (5)
Snack/lunch - Post-race breakfast celebration ! (unknown!)
Snack - Apple picking and LOTS of apples!
Dinner - Apple and walnut stuffed pork with potatoes and corn (9)

Check out more September 28th Menu Plan Monday entries at I'm an Organizing Junkie.

Everything old is new again!

2009-09-27T11:05:00.008-04:00

So, I am chatting with my Mom, and she asks me the address of my "new blog".

My new blog?????

"Ya, your new blog, you know, since you have not been posting on your old blog, I figured you had a new blog."

A new blog? Nope, no new blog. Just a dusty one!

Not posting. Yep. That is the case.

Why not?

I am not sure. I have had lots of stories I have wanted to share...but I have just not made the time.

I did not even summarize our amazing cross-county drive! Oh, I wanted to tell you all about the "sign from above" and our laundry. Or how we drove home through the US and visited Old Faithful - how cool is that?!?!?

Oh, I had a hilarious condemnation of our house sitters. You know, the ones who not only drank copious amounts of alcohol in our backyard, but drank OUR alcohol, leaving all the empties by the pool deck, and whose MOTHER threw a pool party and got busted by my parents! That is a story to share, for sure!

I took lots of photos of the "While-you-were-out-Clean Sweep" my wonderful parents did while we were on vacation - HOLY CRAP did they do a great job...though I still need the sticky notes on some drawers to know what goes where!!!!!

Oh, and I wanted to write about my last few training sessions for the half marathon, and my amazing (and surprising) mental state going into the race. I also wanted to spell out a few race stories and surprises.

I wanted to bitch and complain that my Mom has cancer. I wanted to shout out how proud I am in how she (and my Dad) are handling this challenge. I wanted to update on her condition and how her treatments are going. I wanted to sing the praises of the doctors and entire medical team, and I wanted to tell you all about her "cool-cancer dormitory".

I wanted to tell you about how I have been battling the same 2 or 3 pounds at the scale for WEEKS now. I also wanted to share my funny experiences in finding a new WW meeting. Oh, and I really wanted to post my Monday menus to help me stay accountable and organized. My fitness program, oh, ya, I am changing things up and I wanted to run some ideas past you wonderful readers.

I wanted to update you on the kids and how they are adjusting to the new school year. Heck, I wanted to post about Madigan and her 3, yep, THREE first days of school.

I wanted to complain about how I had to reapply for my own job. My ridiculous hours. My crazy co-worker. Oh ya, lots of good material from the office to share!

I wanted to write about all our extra-curricular activities such as soccer, swimming lessons, Beavers, gymnastics - you know all the regular juicy content of a Mommy-blog!

Oh, there has been so much going on...lots of material...I just have not made the time.

When I mention my blog to friends, it kind of annoys me when they comment about not having time for stuff like that...I usually reply, "Well, it is important to me, so I make the time...it helps me keep sane." And, well, sadly, I have not been following my own words of advise.

Having the time, is not the same as making the time. For whatever reason, I have not made the time. That is sad, especially since I really enjoy blogging. I love the outlet, I thrive on the comments and idea sharing and I enjoy keeping up with all my bloggy-friends.

I have been a bad Mommy-blogger, a bad weight-loss blogger, basically, a bad blogger, all round. I have neglected the Fringe! But that changes today. Everything old is new again! New attitude. New commitment to the old Fringe.

Oh, ya, baby, Laura from the Lunatic Fringe is back again!

I did it - a PB!!!

2009-09-20T18:46:00.005-04:00

I did it!!!!!
A half marathon!!!!!!
2:19:21.6

My runners!

Left foot: Over 80 lbs gone!

Right foot: Only 21km to go!

Moments before lining up at the start line.

It was amazing. It was the Army Run - so, lots of soldiers, and brave, injured soldiers started the pack. Read THIS amazing story about a double amputee running this race!

I felt strong the entire race. I kept with my plan and never "lost it emotionally".

This wonderful cheering squad met me at 7km, 17km and at the finish line. Each time giving my encouragement and strength. My heart swelled with their yells of, "GO MOMMY GO!"

I finished very strong and felt great!

I had realistically figured I COULD finish in the 2:30s. I had privately hoped to finish in the 2:20s...and was ecstatic to clock 2:19:21.6!!! A Personal Best, you know, since it was the first time I ever ran a half!

We headed off to Chapters - the kids played with Thomas the Train and read books, and I enjoyed a nice coffee, and admired my dog-tag medal!!!!

(Believe it or not, yes, I was able to get up! AND, after running the half, I took the three kids to the local pool for some fun. We then went out for dinner...it was an amazing day!)

Check out my Senior Bunny

2009-09-04T07:15:00.008-04:00

School supplies carefully stored in a new school back pack. Check!

Fancy clothes. Check!
(apparently, a belt, makes it "fancy, fancy!)

Smile on your face. Check!

Quick pose with Mommy. Check!

A big yellow bus. Check!

Ready to tackle senior kindergarten. Double check!!

Anderson,

Today you start senior kindergarten; today you are a senior bunny! How exciting! You are so ready for this new challenge. I cannot wait to see what the new school year brings for you. This year you will be one of the leaders in your split class. I know you will help and coach and befriend many junior and senior bunnies. Your infectious smile, crazy antics and sincere caring nature will help you make many friends. I hope that you continue to love writing, reading and drawing. May your level of confidence grow, and your success be many. I hope you allow your cute, cuddlely personality shine, but that you also pay attention, stay focused and most of all, that you have fun!

Every day at 11:47am I will be anxiously waiting at the bus stop for you - excited to hear about your newest adventure and fun. I cannot wait to see the zoodles and zoodles of art projects and work sheets you bring home. I cannot wait to see you excel and totally enjoy your last year of kindergarten.

Good luck my crazy, funny, Pander-Bear!

Kissies and huggies,
Mommy

Grade One

2009-09-01T10:56:00.005-04:00

Supplies bought, new back pack packed...

First ever school-lunch packed...

A quick pose with Mommy...

Cool dude, ready to take on the world...

A quick wave and glance back...

... and DJ is off to grade one!

DJ,

May you have a wonderful first day, and a brilliant year in grade one. I hope that you make new friends, reconnect with your old pals, and have the time of your life. I hope you enjoy school, step up to all new adventures and challenges like you usually do - with a smile and a sense of determination and pride. May you make peace-maker decisions. May you be true to yourself. May you seek knowledge, fall in love with learning and have fun. May you accept your challenges, tackle any difficulties, take pride in your successes and use each experience to learn and grow into the person you are meant to be.

Best of luck in grade one, Buddy. I love you.

Mommy

(I miss you already!)

Fashion Statements

2009-08-31T10:07:00.001-04:00

For the next 7 weeks, my mom is going to be sporting this lovely fashion accessory:

We, will be wearing our hearts on our sleeves.

Today, as I type this, my mother begins 7 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy as part of her treatment and survival plan against Stage 3 throat cancer.

Prayers are appreciated as my mom begins her battle. May she have the strength and perseverance needed to be victorious. May those of us around her offer the love, support and assistance she needs. May the talents, knowledge and expertise of the medical team successfully treat her. May God know that our faith is strong, our hearts open and our love pure. And may this cancer be GONE, and may our fashion statements go out of fashion VERY SOON.

(Love you Mom!)

Nonchalant, I am not!

2009-08-25T00:11:00.000-04:00

Today I ran into an old friend.

We exchanged pleasantries, and I asked her what was new. Following her heavy sigh and declaration that "not much is new, same old, same old, she asked me the same question.

I joked about my weight loss journey, proudly stated my accomplishments, and with much excitement told her of my upcoming half marathon. I smiled ear to ear while I told her that we drove all the way to BC for a summer vacation, and how the entire experience was super-wonderful. I told her how excited all three kids are for school. Then I told her my big news.

She looked at me - kind of scrunched up her face - wrinkled her nose, looking down at me, she blinked her eyes a few exaggerated times and replied, "You're sure being a bit nonchalant about the whole deal aren't you?"

"Huh?!??!?! Nonchalant?!?!?!?"

"Ya, nonchalant. You know: Hey, I've lost 80-something pounds, I am running a half marathon, we drove to BC, had a camping trip, kids going to school, life is great, and oh, ya, my mom has stage three cancer. Jeez, Laura, that seems a bit nonchalant to me..."

I was awestruck. It felt like I was just sucker-punched.

Oh, the reply I wanted to scream back at her. But I was speechless.

No, I am not being nonchalant. Not at all. Life goes on, life has to go on. But while life is going on, every moment and every second of the day, I am thinking of my mom, the battle ahead of her and I am feeling a million, trillion emotions.

I am not being nonchalant.

I am sad. Scared. Hopeful. Upset. Faithful. Cheerful. Tearful. Supportive. Angry. Positive. Nervous. Numb. Trusting. Spiritual. Foggy. Steady. Fearful. Courageous. Terrified. Confused. Caring. Stunned. Loving. Helpful. Inadequate. Empathetic. Anxious. Sympathetic. Shocked. Concerned. Optimistic.

I am a million emotions all wrapped up.

I pray and hope and know that everything will be fine.

I am anything, but nonchalant.

I am anything and everything I can be and I need to be to help and support my mother, my best friend.

Nonchalant, I am not.

Before...Before...After...After!

2009-08-23T14:15:00.003-04:00

Everyone keeps asking me for a more before and after shots. Well, I call this my

before, before, after, and after shot!

This is me BEFORE I began my weight loss journey. (Dec 2007)

This is me BEFORE my run this morning. (Notice the nice new water bottle holder belt-thingy! - I just may be turning into a serious runner!)

And this is AFTER I finished 21.6km run....notice the smile! I DID IT!

I ran 1.4km to the Running Room, then joined my clinic group and we ran 18.8km, then I walked 1.4km home.

My race day is September 20th, I am getting excited!

And here is another AFTER shot, after my shower and freshen' up! Showing off my new hair colour! (It is a bit darker than I thought it would be - the box said Light brown! I wanted a change!!!!)

I had a follow up with my doctor last week

- my BMI went from 44.6 to 30.1!

- my fat mass went from 115 pounds to 49 pounds!

- too bad his little scale cannot measure how much higher my confidence, pride and desire to live an active, healthy lifestyle really is - cause, it is THROUGH THE ROOF!!!!!!

Let's get this GREAT party started!

2009-08-12T09:53:00.005-04:00

On Sunday we had an anniversary celebration for my in laws, who were celebrating 40 years of marriage.

As the guests were arriving the kids were running around and greeting everyone.

DJ saw that Great Grandma (91) just arrived, with her boyfriend Herald (93).

All excited, DJ yelled out to everyone, " Great Grandma and Great Herald are here, let's get this party started!"

The two love birds (party animals) enjoying the BBQ.

Yep, in all our minds, they both are GREAT!

Private Parts - Priceless

2009-08-09T09:00:00.000-04:00

While driving through Alberta, Canada we stopped at Drumheller - Dinosaur land! No trip to this dinosaur discover meca is complete without visiting the WORLD'S LARGEST DINOSAUR.

After we safely parked our van far enough away from the enormous T-Rex (and Madigan was sure he would not eat our van!), we paid the wallet-gouging, tourist-grab admission price to hike up the stairwell, to look out the observation deck.

As we climbed, and climbed, I pointed out interesting parts of the wall murals. Oh yes, the innards of this giant depicted many dinosaur scenes. I also pointed out all the dinosaur bones embedded into the walls.

"Look guys! There is a T-Rex thigh bone! Oh, look, a brontosaurus foot, and a wing from a archaeopteryx, wow, a skull of a triceratops! Cool!"

Then Anderson suddenly piped up and excitedly exclaimed, " And I see his penis! I see the dinosaur's penis!"

GULP! What did my son just yell out loud enough for everyone within 20 feet to hear?!?!?!?!

"Um, Ander, what do you see?"

"His penis. His penis! Look - right there!"

Do you see it??? Ander could be right! (which might explain why they went extinct) It does LOOK like a penis! But...

... it is actually an emergency light fixture!!!!

Oh, the snorts, laughs, giggles, and snickers that were caused by this observation! I thought the mother ahead of us was going to pee her pants, and the man behind David commented it was too bad that was not caught on video!!!!

My son, Anderson - future paleontologist? Who knows!!!!!

WW - David X 4

2009-08-06T02:14:00.005-04:00

Four generations!

David, David, David and David

My 4 Davids!

For more Wordless Wednesday entries click HERE!
Or if you prefer Wordful Wednesdays, click HERE!

The Great BC Trek 2009

2009-08-01T19:34:00.005-04:00

Having WAY

too much FUN

to blog!

We have DRIVEN over

3500km

and I do not want this

ADVENTURE to end!

Having a BLAST!

Will share lots of

GREAT stories SOON!

XOXOXOX

laura

2009-07-30T08:50:00.000-04:00

I love me a nerd!

Whilst on vacation I am catching up on some reading. I just finished Gargoyle (Loved it!) I started The toss of the Lemon (Very interesting, just started and I am liking it).

I see vacation reading as an extension of my vacation. I like to bring along books I have been meaning to read, wanting to read, or even just a little book-candy, mindless reading. You know, light, fun, enjoyable reading... you know what I mean.

So, as I take over the wheel, David nestles into the co-pilot seat and pulls out his reading material. Within minutes I can tell he is fully engrossed in his book.

I glance over at his book cover, and do not recognize it.

"Whatcha reading?"
"Secrets of anti-gravity propulsion"
"Oh...........is it, um, good?"
"Ya, really good, it's a physics book."
"A physics book? A physics book is your vacation reading?......You're a nerd!"

Yep. I love me a nerd!

WW - Say cheese!

2009-07-29T08:01:00.006-04:00

Today's Wordless Wednesday is actually also a Wordful Wednesday post.

While the photos I am going to post all speak for themselves - a young family, travelling across Canada on summer vacation - having the best time ever - they do not express my gratitude and pride.

So far, we have taken approximately 140 photos and I am in many of them. In fact, I volunteer to be in many and throw the camera at hubby so that he can capture a special moment. This is a HUGE shift in attitude. Before loosing my weight I shied away from the camera. So much so, that there are months, and many special occasions that you would be hard-pressed to find a photo of me.

People always ask me to post before and after photos - and the truth is that I have very few photos of me - especially in the last year or so. I was ashamed of how I looked. I protected myself by being the one taking all the photos. Never posing.

Now, as I upload our adventure vacation photos, I am so very happy. Now, I am part of the memory. I am not just behind the camera. I am in the action!

Now my kids will have photos of me. Photos of mommy smiling. Confident. Joking around. Enjoying life. Playing with them. Goofing off for the camera. Relaxing. Happy.

We will all have fun memories captured of a family trip that we all went on together - that we all enjoyed. Images of their mother are captured forever, not only in photos, but also in their hearts.

For more Wordless Wednesday entries click HERE!

Or if you prefer Wordful Wednesdays, click HERE!

Realistic, Attainable and Measurable

2009-07-26T00:02:00.000-04:00

Yet another frustrating weigh-in last night. I am up a pound...well, actually, not "A" pound, but, "THE" pound. Yep. That pesky little bugger that I have been gaining and loosing for 10 weeks now!

Full stop.

Let's switch up our thinking, and look at this from another angle:

Hmmmm...... how about looking at it from this angle?

OK - that was not very pretty, but it did get me thinking of this whole weight loss journey a bit differently.

Those photos above? Well, those jeans are the same size I wore back in 2000. In fact, they are the smallest size I have worn since getting engaged - forget the whole multiple pregnancy excuse! ENGAGED!!!

(ok, my tummy is bigger, and the pants fit me a bit differently, but these pants were bought at a "normal" store, in a normal size, with no tears of frustration or feelings of just buying something cause it fits!)

So, perhaps I should not focus on the number on the scale, but on how my body is changing. I am leaner, stronger, fitter and I carry myself with a feeling of confidence that has been missing for a long, long time.

On Sunday I ran the furthest I have EVER run (15.8km) AND I purchased size 12 jeans.

Ya, the scale may be bouncing around the 166 mark - but I am not over eating, binge eating and I am trying to choose healthy foods. I am running 3 or 4 times a week, playing soccer, working full time AND being a full time SAHM. And my weight is not ballooning. It is not inching or catapulting up.

On Thursday our running clinic had a nutritionist as a guest speaker. She is a runner, and could easily relate to our running agendas, and she works with obese children. So, I really felt that she could relate to my struggles.

After a brief conversation she gave me a big hug and said, " Look at you! You look great! You are about to go for a 6k run! You have come a long way. But you are at a cross roads. It is very difficult to properly fuel your body to prepare and train for a half marathon while totally focused on losing weight. You need to decide if your goal is to reach your goal weight in the next 2 months or is it to successfully train, and complete a half? Maybe your new short term goal is to eat healthy and properly, and train - and then, after the race you focus on loosing the last little bit of excess weight. You may be pleasantly surprised how flipping your focus to be properly fueling your training and running your race to the best of your ability will allow your to meet your weight loss goals...but it will take more time. The key should be on refueling, repairing muscle and keeping healthy. Cutting calories and sacrificing your ability to train effectively will lead to huge disappointment. You need to set your goals."

Goals. My goals.

Well, for almost 10 months my goal has been to loose weight. Period. PERIOD. Perhaps I am suffering from tunnel vision?

I really want to train and succeed at completing a half marathon. Can you imagine the feeling I will have crossing that finish line - exactly one year from the time I could not run around the soccer pitch or run up two flights of stairs?

I have come a long way. Ten months ago, I could not even fathom running 1km let alone 22.5km!

OK. So, I need to set new goals. They need to be realistic, attainable and measurable.

What a coincidence, the weekly challenge at Amy's 15 Week challenge is all about goal setting and rewarding yourself for short term and long term goals.

Here goes:

Short term goals and associated rewards:
1. Run 3 times a week while on vacation (getting in each of my LSD Sunday runs as per my training program. REWARD - A new, cute running outfit!

2. Journal everything I eat while on vacation - The good, the bad, and the ugly. REWARD - A new sleek black coat I have been eyeing for a few weeks.

3.Enjoy my vacation and get to at least 1 WW meeting in the 3 weeks. REWARD - A pair of AMAZING red shoes I saw at Winners!

Long term goals and associated rewards:
1. Run the half marathon in September - and cross the finish line with a smile, or simply beaming with pride. REWARD - a day at the spa.

2. By Christmas day be 160 pounds. REWARD - Treat myself to a boxing day shopping spree.

Well, I think those are all realistic, attainable and measurable!

Your encouragement, support and well, prayers, are all appreciated.

I am not in a race to lose weight, I am building, defining and reconfirming who I am and what I want out of life, but embarking on a healthy lifestyle and a commitment to me.

WW - You've come a long way!

2009-07-22T09:17:00.009-04:00

I have been asked for another before and after comparison - so, for Wordless Wednesday, here you go!

Me, on July 18, 2008.

The new me on July 21, 2009.

For more Wordless Wednesday entries click HERE!

Or if you prefer Wordful Wednesdays, click HERE!

Making Mom Proud

2009-07-20T11:00:00.000-04:00

Our HUGE family vacation is fast approaching...you know, the one where we put a 5 year old, a 4 year old and a 2 year old into a van and drive clear across the country. Ya, the one that Map Quest indicates takes 51 hours and 12 minutes (one way, not including washroom breaks, sanity checks, false washroom breaks, WW3 diversions, playground stops, middle-of-no-where-stops, traffic jams, bad weather, ferry wait times and whatever other types of stops a young family is forced to take in a 4602.46 KM/ 2860 mile car ride). Ya. That one.

Anyways, my mom (who gives Martha Stewart a run for her money in many areas) is a woman of lists, organization and efficiency. While, in daily life, her mutant gene hardly wears off on me, it does when I am vacation planning. I make lists of lists, I stay organized and well prepared.

So, I am happy to report, that while we are still a week from departure, packing and organizing is coming along.

I have a spread sheet that includes 234 rows and almost half of those have little check marks. COMPLETED. PACKED. READY. (I am not sure if being packed or if having a spread sheet of 234 rows or even having room for 234 items in our van is the more impressive feat!?!??!??!)

Yep, while one can never be fully prepared for a epic, crazy-a$$ trip of this sort, I am doing my very best!

Madigan, or line item 154, packed!

Weekly Challenge Success

2009-07-19T12:22:00.007-04:00

Amy's 15 Week Challenge has been keeping me motivated. After an initial weight gain the first week, I am happy to announce that I am down for the second straight week. At my last WW weigh in I was -0.5 pounds! Yippeeee!!!

The weekly challenges this week were pretty easy.

First, we had to fit in 20 minutes of running. Well, training for my half marathon allowed me to easily meet this requirement. Actually, Wednesday I participated in the 20 minute challenge at The Running Room. It was great fun and I got a cool running hat too!!!

The healthy eating challenge was also easy. Why? Well, just look at the recent shots of my gardens!!!!! The challenge was to eat "clean". As few processed foods as possible.

This is my second year gardening. I have 5 little plot that each measure about 5 feet by 8 feet. I cannot wait till all the plants are ready to harvest.

For breakfast I used fresh raspberries from my "fruity" garden to make an amazing purple-green monster! YUMMY!

Then I harvested fresh lettuce and spinach and swiss chard from my "greens" garden.

I made simply delish tossed salad. I added a some cottage cheese and left-over ham to make it really yummy good!

For dinner I decided to make a shrimp stir fry. I raided my "climber" garden for snow peas, green peas and a few beans.

Combined with fresh herbs from my "flavour" garden" I made a very tasty dinner!

Yes, it was a very lovely, clean diet all day! For my morning snack I ate an assortment of radishes from the garden and in the afternoon I used spinach from the garden to make another green monster.

This challenge really got me thinking. And I am now committed to decrease my consumption of processed foods and enjoy fresh fruits and veggies.

Thanks Amy!

Skirting the issue

2009-07-17T08:50:00.004-04:00

The last few weeks of my weight loss journey have been a bit disappointing and a bit frustrating. The scale has gone up one, down one, up two, down 2, you get the picture.

I was feeling a bit bummed. I reached a plateau - in my opinion, not the weight loss plateau some people believe in, but in a attitude plateau. When I studied my food journal, I realized that many of my food choices and snack selections were actually sabotaging my success.

So, I have decided to really focus on my attitude and selection process and get back on track. My half pound loss this week takes me that much closer to my 100 pound goal. I need to think positively and I need to keep motivated.

I have to also focus on the positive and on how far I have come so far - I have lost over 80 pounds in 10 months. That is no small feat!

I decided to celebrate this and do a bit of retail therapy.

Last summer I stumbled upon a sale at a favorite store and when I tried their largest size, well, let's just say I did not buy anything, I did not even have the OPTION of buying anything - NOTHING fit.

Well, this past weekend I saw the big sale tent up again. Hmmmm...should I check it out? I know they have some cute jean skirts in their flyer, and that was an item on my wish list.

So, I headed into the dressing room...only to be disappointed. Every item I chose to try on was too BIG! Yep, too big - what I realistically thought was my new size, was too big. Oh what a happy-frustrated feeling that was! So, I went back to the racks, went down a size, and well, see for yourself...... I got myself a cute little jean skirt...

I forgot how much fun shopping can be...now I can browse, compare cuts and styles. I have choices (just like I do in what I chose to eat!) now! Before I began this weight loss journey I had to buy whatever fit. Now, I can be more choosy.

I am so, so, so glad I found a jean skirt, you know....cause the one I did own is now a bit big on me!

I am no longer a size 22!!!!!

OK, now, the next time I think of having a second helping, or sneaking a cookie or a hand full of chips, I need to remember how far I have come.

WW - Good summer eats!

2009-07-15T08:27:00.001-04:00

DJ showing off our first harvest from our garden!

Throwing my hat into the ring...ring of the the alarm clock that is!

2009-07-14T12:12:00.004-04:00

PROS

Cool job - not many people can say they hand deliver a report to the Prime Minister of Canada every day!
Nifty work - I get paid to watch the news! Oh, and write an overview
Do not need childcare
Allows me to be home during the day
Full time pay
Permanent federal government position with all the benefits
Will allow us to save more, faster - you know, to pay off mortgages, van payments and even take a fun vacation or do home renovations
New ability to do some of the work from home

CONS

I will basically be working a full day, BEFORE some people even get up!
I will have to adjust my bed time - getting to work for 3am sucks!
Saturday hours - YUK!
Not having human interaction since most of my team are not in yet, or work form home

So, after much thought and discussion with hubby - WE decided that applying for the new position at work was the right thing to do. Yes, the hours are STUUUUUUPID crazy, and I have to work 6 days a week - but with David's job being so unstable, the economy so rocky, and the possibility this job will open new doors - the right thing to do was to apply.

Here is the lovely scoop: I use to work 4am-8am- then our project started to get a higher profile and we had quality issues - so, to solve the issue they decided to "go to competition". So, I was "invited" to apply for the new full time position. Instead of contract and part time - the new position is full time and permanent - a huge deciding point for us. I know I am going to be tired (who is NOT tired when they have young kids??) and I know the weekend hours will make for a long week. But David and I will work together to make it work.

So, I have entered the competition for my own-old-new job. Wish me luck...with getting it, and with staying awake AFTER I get it! Who knows? There are currently 3 of us on contract and only 2 permanent positions will be staffed...I may not even win the competition...and that would be ok too!

One day left

2009-07-10T02:07:00.003-04:00

11PM - Leave for work
7AM - Deliver media report to the Prime Minister's Office
8AM - Breakfast with hubby and kiddies
9AM - Relax in bed and try to get to sleep
2PM - Wake up, eat lunch, play with kids
5PM - Make dinner
6PM - Exercise
8PM - Put kids to bed
9PM - Threaten kids
10PM - Wink-wink, nudge-nudge (or cuddle-cuddle, or mindless TV, or blog)
11PM - Leave for work

REPEAT for 2 weeks.

Happily, after tonight, only one more night, then my co-worker returns from vacation. THANK GOD! (though, I must say, there have been SOME benefits to this new schedule!)

15 Week Challenge - Week 1 review

2009-07-05T20:38:00.004-04:00

I am always up for a good competition - heck, I never really understand why the guy next to me on the treadmill never realizes that it IS actually a race! So, I really thought I was pumped for Amy's 15 Week Challenge.

Well, let's just say, with one week down, I am doing myself NO favours!

In most competitions, tipping the scales in your favour is a good tactic to win...except when you are TRYING to lighten the scales. Yep, remember my lament about the pesky one pound I keep loosing and gaining - and then finally after 6 weeks, I lost 2 pounds???

Well, today, in my weekly challenge update email, I had to admit to gaining 2 friggin' pounds this week. Oh ya! I sure to win the competition with this great start!

Errrrrrrrrrr!

I am happy to report that I did complete Amy's Wednesday Workout. It was great - sure made me miss my boot camp course. In fact, I ended up doing this great ab workout on Wednesday and Friday and again today!!!!! Yah for me!!!!!

I am also happy to report I successfully completed the weekly challenge. We had to recreate one of our favorite sinful recipes to make it figure friendly.

OK. I started with a family favorite - Salisbury Steak - Without going into too much of the fattening detail, just think TABLESPOONS of BUTTER, and OIL, and a can of CREAM OF MUSHROOM SOUP, WHITE BREAD CRUMBS, and MASHED POTATOES...oh ya, just picture 9 billion comfort food calories on a plate!

So, here is what I did to make it very tasty, and a bit more healthily!

Ingredients:
Ground Turkey
Chopped up spinach, onion, red pepper & garlic
Shredded carrots and zucchini
Ground up mixture of All Bran and Oatmeal
Black pepper, oregano, basil and chili flakes
3 tablespoons no-fat cottage cheese
Ground flax seed

Mix all of this together and form your patties.

Spray your pan and then lightly sear the patties.

In a bowl mix in 1 cup broth, shredded onion and garlic and a little bit of spelt flour. Whisk and then once both sides of the patties are brown, add to pan.

Simmer till sauce thickens and the patties are cooked.

As the side dish, I omitted the regular mountain of butter-rich mashed potatoes and instead had a mountain of long green beans and one half a boiled potato.

Ok....DELISH! I think the secret ingredient was the ground up oatmeal and All Bran mixture - it gave the patty a wonderful texture since not off the pieces were ground up - and the taste with the sauce was very good! I am very pleased with how this old-time family favorite was tweaked to be more figure friendly!

Well, that is it for my week one update! I am looking forward to week 2 - and I am hoping the scale will show my hard work and all my running this week! Today, in fact, I ran 13.8KM...people, that is the longest run I have EVER done!!! I am so proud! In fact, I am even starting to feel confident that with sticking to my training schedule, the half marathon in September will be a very realistic goal!!!

Have a great week!

Did you have a great day too?

2009-07-02T02:36:00.013-04:00

It is always important to start your summer vacation off right. Our first day of summer vacation plans had been in the works for a few days. The boys had decided that to truly celebrate the end of the school year they wanted to take a bus adventure. All year they took yellow school buses to school, passing the red city buses.

So, on Friday, with a huge bag packed we set off on our adventure.

We started at Baseline Station, where we bought Mommy $4 worth of tickets (all three kids were free!). Then we waited for the #95. Oh, the excitement was mounting!

The bus pulled up and our squeals of delight brought smiles and chuckles from even the most hardened public commuter!

It was all so exciting! With transfer in hand, the bus pulled out of the station. You cannot believe the excitement a little boy has when a bus pulls off the main road and goes onto the transit way - Little Anderson was looking out the window and then he started to shake, "Mommy, Mommy, look it, we are going onto the big bussie roads! Only RED BUSSIES can go on these roads Mommy!"

We arrived at Bayview station, and excited the bus. Have you ever tried to get off a crowded bus with a 5,4 and 2.5 year old??? Let's just say, it is a bit challenging, to say the least - especially when you throw in a 20 pound picnic/supply bag!

We walked from the bus stop to the O-Train platform. Here in Ottawa we have a bus system and then a new fast train system - well, I would not call it a system, it is actually one line! None, the less, we were off for stage 2 of our public transportation adventure!

We got onto the train. It was basically empty, but apparently, great care must be taken when choosing the perfect seat!

And then we were off. All three kids LOVED it. When we went through a tunnel, you would have thought we were on a big amusement ride at Disneyland!

About 10 minutes later we pulled into the station. Just for fun we exited the train, then made our way to another train car. We all switched seats, so those who had rode backwards, were now forward and those originally forward, were now seated going backwards! Fair, is fair, you know!

And off we went!

As we pulled back into the Bayview station, I asked the conductor if my transfer was still valid. Yep. I had another 45 minutes. So, I hustled the kids back up to the bus station and we hopped onto the first bus heading downtown.

We arrived downtown. We were making our way towards, what I thought would be an ideal picnic spot. Instead, we stumbled upon a promotional concert for the upcoming Jazz Festival. So, we grabbed chairs, broke out our sandwiches, fishie crackers and apples, and enjoyed a wonderful free concert.

We then hiked (yep, hiked, since I took a wrong turn) to a local establishment. My work was having a summer BBQ lunch and my boss had encouraged me to stop in. So, my plan was to drag all three kids! Little did I know that the excitement, just would not stop!

As we made our way to the restaurant, a fire truck sped past. Then, imagine our surprise when we discovered the fire truck stopped right in front of where we were going. (Apparently the BBQ set off the fire alarms!)

Well, the kids were in heaven! I could not have planned it better. And you know firemen, they are soooooo cute, I mean friendly. They let the kids look at the truck and chatted with them, and even let them stand on the back!

Anderson, came over and hugged my leg and exclaimed, "Mommy, I think this is the best day ever!"

I assured him, it was not over yet!

We joined my work gathering, and the kids were great! They were friendly, well behaved, and kind of cute in the mix with all my co-workers!

After hotdogs, pop and cookies we made our way to Chapters. This is a huge book chain that has a kids section that features a Thomas the Tank Engine play area. The kids played, I read, sipped a coffee and we all had a great time.

Then we walked up to Sparks street. Cannot miss Ottawa Ribfest! We all voted on which vendor smelled the most tastey, had the most trophies and which had the best decorations. We found our winner and waited in line. I bought a full rack of ribs with all the fixings - oh ya! Dinner would be SWEEEET!

We walked to the ice cream store. All chose our favorites, and then headed back to catch a bus home.

We climbed on board a packed train. I looked at all the weary, tired, annoyed commuters - all heading home. I lovingly looked down at my three, exhausted, but very happy (and sticky) children and smiled. This is what summer time is about. Fun and adventure.

These smiling faces sum it all up!

DJ stuck up a conversation with a fellow commuter, and he detailed his day. The love, happiness and excitement in his voice was amazing! My heart swelled when he ended his conversation with, " So, I had a great day, it was the best day ever in my life, how about you? Did you have a great day too?"

The best gifts for the best teachers - eva!

2009-06-29T17:33:00.006-04:00

Well, another school year is done. Another thank you gift for the teachers.

If you have been following The Fringe, you know we do not give ordinary, run-of-the-mill teacher gifts. Nope, we do it a bit out of the box...out of the box of wood, that is!

Our homemade yule logs caused many tears! Sometimes the kids use power tools and let them raid my herb garden!

Once again, the boys worked with Pepe to make some beautiful gifts. Our best yet!

The boys made wooden flower boxes, and even decorated them with a apple of flower!

We then visited the dollar store and bought a bunch of flower seeds and a nice garden ornament.

I used photos of the boys working in Pepe's workroom to make a personalized card for each. Basically, I played up the fact that these wonderful teachers have "planted the seeds of education" and the boys have "blossomed" into wonderful little boys.

I brought them to the class picnic and the boys proudly presented Ms. D and Ms. B with their gifts.

Based on the smiles and hugs shared, I am pretty sure the two best kindergarten teachers appreciated their gifts!

(Thanks Pepe and Nana for helping the boys!)

ME to WIN

2009-06-28T10:20:00.004-04:00

Have you signed up yet for

Amy's 15 week Challenge????

NO???!!!!????

What the heck are you waiting for?????

Crap, if you sign up, then YOU could WIN

some of the awesome PRIZES

she has lined up...and well,

you are not ME, and well, um,

I want ME to WIN!

Know yourself, spelled with a capital T

2009-06-27T16:46:00.005-04:00

"Meeeee want dat!"

"What do you want, Madigan?"

"Dat! Dat DJ's. Meeee want dat!"

"Yep, that is DJ's treat. It is not yours."

"Madie-Meeee want dat!"

"No."

"Yes. Madie-Meeee is a princess. I want dat, now!"

*** Conversation with my 2 year old daughter. I am not sure if the lesson from this encounter is that it is always good to know who you are, and what you want (both wonderfully, perfect characteristics a gal should have) or if the lesson is that we (the parents of the self-confessed princess) are in T-R-O-U-B-L-E when our princess is a teenager!!!! Maybe it is both???

Bunny ears and peacemakers

2009-06-26T00:52:00.000-04:00

I am still recovering from my grad-day car accident. Oh, I am not physically hurt - but a button was pushed, or a lever pulled, or a tear damn broken. Let's just say, I am still very upset about the whole situation - and in my own admission, a bit out of control. I know and realize it, but I cannot help it.

Anyways, let me wipe away my tears and start this post.

Deep breath.

I could not leave the DJ's graduation post the way it was - no. That post was about me. My accident. My wanting to be at the graduation. My frustration and emotional break down. It was not about DJ, his accomplishments, his experiences or successes.

So, let's start over!

Two years ago DJ happily climbed onto a big yellow school bus and with a quick wave and a very brave smile he was off on an educational adventure.

He loved junior kindergarten. He made some great friends. He was exposed to many interesting things, ideas, attitudes - some his parents appreciated, and some, not so much! But hey, that is the nature of school.

He fell in love with his teacher, Ms. B. She is a veteran teacher with years of experience, a heart of gold, and firm, but loving and caring way. DJ excelled!

Ms. B calls her class Kinderbunnies. On the first day of school DJ came home sporting very cute brown bunny ears.

The year flew by.

Last September, DJ came home from his first day of Senior Kindergarten proudly wearing his grey ears. He was older, wiser, more experienced Kinderbunny.

This year was super amazing. DJ started developing reading and math skills. He become more outgoing, more confident and really started to become his own person.

"DJ has enjoyed an excellent kindergarten year;making steady gains in all areas."

"He consistently displays a respectful, kind attitude towards others;congratulating classmates on their successes or gently supporting them through their challenges."

"He can typically be depended upon to practice his best behaviour."

"He routinely applies simple problem solving strategies to address disagreements between friends though they rarely involve him due to his generous nature and innate sense of fairness"

These are only a few of the statements in DJ's end of the year report that had me beaming with pride and bawling like a baby.

I cannot express how proud I am of DJ.

At graduation DJ received his silver bunny ears. These old, wise ears symbolized his retirement from kindergarten.

Do you remember the All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten poem by Robert Fulghum? Well, Ms. B has taken that idea one step further. The main theme or philosophy in her class is centred around peacemakers and peacebreakers.

This terminology has been consistent all year round.

"Johnny, is that a peacemaker decision, or a peacebreaker decision?" "Amy, is hitting a peacemaker solution or a peacebreaker solution?" "Danny, you are being such a peacemaker helping Patty build that tower!" You get the point.

And you know, the whole concept is ingenious. We now use it at home, and heck, let's face it, I have even found myself cautioning myself about making a peacebreaker decision!

Ms. B. is BRILLIANT!

Anyways. Back to graduation.

Every senior bunny received a classroom award. There was the leadership award, the musicality award, the "took good care of the books" award, the tidy award, and even the Tigger award for unbridled enthusiasm!

Every child was called up and was presented their award. At the end, Ms. B. asked if anyone had not received and award. DJ slowly raised his hand. Ms. B. then explained the philosophy of her classroom; then without further adieu, she presented my DJ with the PEACEMAKER AWARD. Tops honours. My DJ.

Can you say proud?!?!?!?!

Today was the last day of school. DJ is now off to grade one. Who knows what is in store for us...but, you know, I cannot wait to find out!

Way to go DJr!!!!!!

10:30 tears

2009-06-22T13:01:00.009-04:00

I woke up Friday morning knowing I was probably going to shed a tear (or two) at 10:30am. I thought I was prepared by stuffing some tissue into my purse when I ran off to work at 2:30am.

All morning the excitement grew.

I finished work shortly before 9am and hustled to my parking garage.

My plan was to head over to Party Planners and pick up a little balloon bouquet and meet my hubby and kids at the school. Today was the BIG day - DJ was graduating from senior kindergarten!

The ceremony was to start at 10:30.

At 9:05 I drove up the parking garage ramp. Stopped to let a few pedestrians walk across. Checked right, checked left, checked right and pulled out.....KABBOOOOOOM!

A garbage truck had been obstructing my view. I thought it was clear...but it wasn't clear.
I hit a Blue Line taxi.

Did I ever feel bad. But, the good thing was that I was just inching out when it happened, and there was very little damage.

The cab driver was upset. Understandably.

I apologized. Then went and retrieved my documents and information.

I was shaken and very upset, but worked very hard to keep it together. No one was hurt. There was minimal damage to the two cars.

I asked the cab driver for his information and told him that we would swap information and then go to the reporting centre. We could both be on our way in a matter of minutes.

He refused to give me his information. He claimed we had to call the police.

I did not want to argue - but I adamantly informed him that the procedure, as I understood it, was that since no one was hurt and that both cars were drive-able, that we would exchange info and then go to the reporting centre.

He refused. He got angry.

I called the police.

We waited...and waited...and waited.

I looked at the clock - 9:25...9:45...10:10...10:20... 10:30. Graduation time. Tears.

Of course we were not a priority - there were no injuries and no sizable damage.

The cab driver got impatient. I once again informed him what I thought we should do. He disagreed and we called the police again.

They were on their way.

I had been right - I did shed many tears at 10:30. Unfortunately, it wasn't at my eldest child's graduation. It was in my car, frustrated, upset, mad, angry and terribly shaken.
Finally the police arrived.

First I told my side of the story - explaining the garbage truck and how I thought it was clear, but obviously, it wasn't.

I explained how I asked the other driver at least 4 times for his information and wanted to go sort it out at the reporting office. I was visibly upset.

The officer was very understanding. He asked me to wait in my car while he took the information from the cab driver.

Oh, what a heated exchange that was...yes, I was correct in the proper procedure to deal with a minor fender bender. The cab driver - who drives for his living - was wrong. If he would have followed proper procedure, then I would have been at the school well before the graduation.

In spite of the minor finder bender, that I take sole responsibility for, I could have sat in the front row, clapping and cheering...and shedding tears of joy and pride at my son's graduation. I would have been there when my son was awarded to top class award...and I would have shed another tear. Yep. Top honours! The Peacemaker award!

Instead, I sat in my banged up car and cried.

I was charged with failure to yield from a private road - the least of the charges the police officer charge me. The police had been super nice - explained it all to me - told me he had "educated" the cab driver and told me I could go on my way.

I put on my seat belt, turned my key, and realized I had killed my battery while waiting. So, I shed another tear.

Yep, I knew I would shed a tear that morning - but I never imagined I would miss my little man's graduation. It was heartbreaking.

So, here are some photos of my eldest son's graduation, you know, the one his Momma missed :(

Let's hope I get to attend his middle school, high school, and university graduations!

(I am so proud of you DJ - You make my heart sing, my child!)

Pesky Plateau and 15 weeks

2009-06-20T21:38:00.005-04:00

Ok - have a quick look over to the right side of my blog, the one listing my weekly weigh ins.

Notice anything?

Yep. For the last 6 weeks I have been gaining and loosing the same flippn' pound!

I have been struggling with my food plan and food choices. BLTs are killing me! Cheating, losing motivation and starting to get discouraged was my daily struggle.

After 41 weeks and 80 pounds loss, I was about to throw in the towel and go drown my sorrow in junk food. When, low and behold Amy, over at Amy's Quest to Skinny introduced a 15 week challenge!

(Amy friggn' rocks - you gotta read her story. She is an inspiration to me!)

This 15 week challenge promises to be challenging, motivating, fun and way cool!

Workout Wednesdays, Century Club Workout, Weekend Warrior Challenges, OH MY!

And, each week, there will be a Weekly Challenge. This challenge will vary in what is required but will always be related to healthy living. Participants will receive points for completing the task, and can earn additional points for photographing their challenge!

I could not sign up fast enough! This is sooooo going to help me get back on track!

Hey, how about you? You up for a challenge? Up to getting healthier, fitter and just feeling better? Go sign up today! Seriously - GO!

Come on! Let's join this challenge together and really support and help each other.

OK you pesky little plateau - WATCH OUT! I want you gone, and gone you will be!!!!!!!

WW - Future Olympians!

2009-06-17T16:57:00.003-04:00

For more Wordless Wednesday entries, go HERE.

Or if you prefer Wordful Wednesday, then, go HERE!

Lessons in true love

2009-06-15T12:50:00.004-04:00

Everyday, through your actions and by witnessing your love for each other, I learn and appreciate what having a strong marriage is all about.

Seeing how you love, cherish and respect each other has helped me form my ideals and attitudes towards marriage.

Thank you for being such wonderful role models!

Happy anniversary Mom and Dad!

August 2002 - This photo was taken moments before I walked walked down the aisle to marry the man of my dreams.

WW - True personalities

2009-06-10T09:51:00.005-04:00

DJ and Anderson are in the same kindergarten class. Their teacher is amazing, loving and caring. They are both excelling and flourishing under her wing.

Last week I had the end-of-year parent-teacher conference.

No need to go through all the details and topics covered - this photo perfectly sums up their true personalities.

Anderson (4) on the left, DJ (5) on the right.

Yep. That pretty much sums it all up!

I am tired

2009-06-09T07:09:00.004-04:00

I am tired.

I am tired of of my new hours at work.

I am tired of the being sympathetic to other working parents, who claim to be so tired.

I am tired of not falling asleep in the arms of the man I love.

I am tired of little, coughing, scratchy, kicking, bodies climbing into my bed at 1am and waking me up an hour before I have to get up.

I am tired of my house being a mess. Ok, let's be honest, I am tired of my house being a disaster.

I am tired of washing dishes.

I am tired of doing laundry.

I am tired of stepping over things.

I am tired of three children trying to gravely injure each other by wrestling, hitting, biting, and pushing.

I am tired of listening to three whiny voices at lunch time and then again at dinner time.

I am tired of the toy room looking like a tornado hit it.

I am tired of beating myself up for BLTs (Bites, Licks and Tastes).

I am tired of loosing and gaining the same friggin' pound, over and over again.

I am tired of all junk food in a 7km radius of my location calling my name - screaming my name!

I am tired of feeling like I have no energy to blog or comment on blogs.

I am tired of not being the type of mom I really am, when I am not tired.

I am tired of worrying if my hubby will still have a job at the end of the day.

I am tired of people thinking I have everything under control. I do not.

I am tired of feeling out of control.

I am tired of being tired.

Cursing Bonnie

2009-06-01T09:19:00.004-04:00

Apparently, I have a "thing" for Bonnie! And now, I am cursing Bonnie and her cruel ways!

Sunday morning I met up with my running group. We decided on a nice easy 4km run.

My lovely running partner Lesley read out the route, "Down Merivale to Clyde..blah, blah, blah...turn left onto Bonnie...blah, blah, blah".

About 9 minutes into our route I saw a street sign saying "Bonnie", so we jetted left.

No one else did.

Lesley pulled out the paper and informed me we continue down Clyde, then turn on Bonnie.

Ok. Must be a crescent.

We back track back to Clyde and catch up with the back of the pack.

Down Clyde we go.

I look up and there is a street sign saying "Bonnie". Lesley and I take a left, no one else does.

So, as I am making the turn onto Bonnie, I shout out to the rest of the pack, "This is Bonnie! Turn left!"

No sooner had the words come out of my mouth with there was a painful yelp. I collapsed to the ground. I stepped into a pot hole/crack thingy on the road.

Twisted ankle.

So, apparently, given the fact that I kept trying to turn left onto Bonnie, I have some sort of issue with Bonnie. And now, as I nurse my tender ankle (slight sprain) I am super ticked that I am going to miss my soccer game tomorrow, I am upset I am going to probably miss boot camp and I am royally pissed that I may miss the start of my half marathon clinic that starts on Thursday.

Oh ya, I am mad. So mad that I am cursing Bonnie!

Errrrrrrr!

Ok, back to reality. Another reason I am upset is that I have been struggling with my food plan. I have been snacking, making questionable food choices and worst of all, my BLTs are out of control (Bites, Licks and Tastes).

I am already anticipating a weight gain this week based on my eating patterns and based on my monthly cycle - and now the curse of Bonnie.

It feels like a vicious cycle - I eat when I am upset, I cannot exercise to counter any extra calories and that makes me upset, so, well, I eat. Damn Bonnie!

So, this week my setting my food plan is more important than ever!

Here goes:

Monday

Steel cut oats, banana, PB
Apple slices with Allegro cheese and cracker
Mixed salad with tuna, low fat dressing
Veggies and hummus dip
Grilled chicken and veggies with cous cous

Tuesday

Steel cut oats, apple, cinnamon
1 piece WW bread with tomato and Allegro cheese
Mixed salad with left over chicken and salsa
Hard boiled egg, pickles and baby carrots
WW 5 point frozen dinner

Wednesday

Steel cut oats, blueberries, vanilla yogurt
Pita bread with salsa and cottage cheese
Mixed salad with beef strips and crumbled blue cheese
Beef stir fry with Bulgar

Thursday

Steel cut oats, banana, PB
Crackers with tomato and cucumber with cottage cheese
Carrot and ginger soup with crackers
Apple
Mushroom salmon with rice and green beans
Popcorn

Friday

Toasted tomato sandwich with a touch of mayo and cheese
Kashi Go Lean and vanilla yogurt
Baked tofu stuffed pita with a side salad
Hamburger on BBQ with grilled veggies
Popcorn

Here's hoping I can stick to plan this week...already I have been "eating away my ankle pain". And well, that is not good.

Well, off to ice and elevate my ankle in the slim chance I will be able to play soccer tomorrow night!

Give me a call!

2009-05-29T14:36:00.003-04:00

On Saturday I will be doing my annual stint on the CHEO telethon. From 7pm to 9pm I man the phones, so, give a call!

We are all encouraged to bring photos and memorabilia of our experiences with CHEO. This is the collage I made this year.

CHEO saved my two little babies. Donate today (to CHEO or to your pediatric hospital) because you never know when you will need their help, care, love and support.

Thank you CHEO!

Country Crooner for CHEO

2009-05-28T13:42:00.000-04:00

I am the mother of two beautiful "CHEO" children.

We are very fortunate to have the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario in Ottawa.

This amazing and wonderful hospital saved my eldest and my youngest children's lives. We will forever be grateful for the care and medial attention we got for both our children.

DJ had emergency surgery at 10 days old. We almost lost him. Multiple times. We still have yearly heart tests and specialist appointments.

Madigan was diagnosed with a sizable tumor even before she was born. She had surgery when she was 3 months old.

Today, at 3pm (est) we are participating in a local country station radio-a-thon. You can listen to our story online at http://www.y101.fm/index2.jsp

Even more importantly, please consider donating and helping CHEO help our children.

WW - Put me in coach, I wanna play!

2009-05-27T16:03:00.005-04:00

What is Wordless Wednesday without a few words??!!!?!?!?!?!?

Last night was my first league game of the summer season.

Nothing could wipe the smile off my face!

Last year I almost quit the sport I love - but after an off-season of eating properly, taking care of myself and getting fit - I am ready to have fun again!

Last night was very rewarding, inspiring and motivating.
I have lost 81 pounds so far - only 19 pounds more to go!
I can do this. I will do this. I want to do this.
Yep, I am a contender in this weight loss game - and I am going to win!!!!

Put me in coach, I wanna play!

Oh! Ya, an extra bonus is that we won our soccer game last night!!!

To quote Sigmund Freud...

2009-05-26T09:52:00.006-04:00

Verrrrrrrreeeeeeeeeey Interzessssting!

Below are the cheer posters my little people made me for my big race on Saturday.

Artist: Madigan, 27 months

According to the artist, Mommy is yellow and running fast. DJ is red, Anderson is blue, Daddy is green and Madigan is black. The route is clearly marked!

Artist: DJ, 5 years old

Mommy is wearing her race number. She is very fast. She is using her arm to push everyone out of the way so that she can win. Everyone in the race is kicking her and trying to push her down and make her loose.

Artist: Anderson, 4 years old
Daddy is on the far right. Mommy and Anderson are in the middle holding up the gold trophy for winning the race. Madigan is the tall, second figure from the left. She is saying, "Anderson", because she loves Anderson (note the "A" above her head). Great grandpa is standing on the far left. DJ is the little figure. He is just a baby and his arms and legs are broken. He only has one eye and one ear. He was too small to see Mommy win the race and he could not help Mommy hold the big golden trophy.

Oh, ya, Dr. Freud would have a field day with these drawings!!!!!

Started. Completed. Very Happy.

2009-05-24T16:04:00.004-04:00

Yep, my title says it all!

The race was quite an experience. The number of runners simply CRAZY!

Tracy and I kept mainly to our race plan. The first 4km were slow due to the pack. The run between 4km and 7km flew by. The crowds were amazing!

I did great up to about 7km and then struggled a bit - then regrouped and headed down the back stretch. I seriously think that the distance between the 750m left sign and the 500m left sign was about 4.5km - seriously!!!!!

The home stretch!

My time was very respectable and I am very happy with it, especially with all the weaving and running around people - I really pushed it at the end and sprinted to the finish line!

1:03:27

Now, onto the half marathon!!!!

This week

2009-05-22T19:17:00.003-04:00

This week has been long and tiring.

I started a post detailing my tri last week...but never completed or posted it.

I started a cute story about each of the kiddies...but never completed or posted it.

I started a heartfelt post about my weight loss journey and some of my current struggles...but never completed or posted it.

I started a post about my ambitious gardening adventure...but never completed or posted it.

I started a post about the wonderful wedding of two wonderful friends...but never completed or posted it.

I started a post on my first outdoor soccer game, the one where everyone sees the "new me" for the first time...but never completed or posted it.

I started a post on how much I hate my new work hours (3am-9am)...but never completed or posted it.

I started a post on how I now work a 7 hour shift on Saturdays, which now means by working early hours, six days a week, I am now working FULL time, BEFORE most people wake up - then I am home with the kiddies ALL DAY...but never completed or posted it.

I started a post on how I really need to catch up on the laundry and general household chores...but never completed or posted it.

Let's hope tomorrow, I start a post on how I STARTED and COMPLETED and SURVIVED a brilliant 10k race. Yep. Let's hope.

This week has been long and tiring.

I TRI'd my best!

2009-05-16T13:56:00.005-04:00

Today,

I swam

biked,

and ran

away from old bad habits, emotional eating, over eating, poor lifestyle and

80 extra pounds...

...and I could not be more proud!

More details to follow!

Happy Victoria Day Weekend!

Gunna give it a TRI

2009-05-15T19:52:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow is the BIG day!

My first EVER triathlon!

OK - let's take a moment and think about this!

On August 17, 2009, I went to my doctor and complained that my weight was out of control. I told him I had just had the WORST summer soccer season of my life and just walking up two flights of stairs was starting to become a struggle.

Now, on May 16, 2009, I am going to attempt a triathlon. The course is 100m swim, 11.5km bike and 2km run. It is actually called a "Try a Tri". I am so excited! What a complete turn around! I am now fit, active and ready to celebrate my 82 pound weight loss by pushing myself and proving to myself that I AM WORTH IT! I am nervous, anxious and a bit scared...but hey, that's what it is all about!

Wish me luck!!!

Bra shopping

2009-05-14T16:57:00.002-04:00

Bra shopping ALWAYS goes better when.....

...you allow the little people to wear costumes and promise ice cream!!!!

The second most beautiful dress

2009-05-13T09:27:00.005-04:00

"How about his one, Mommy?"

"No, DJ, Mommy does not like the sleeves on that dress."

"Mommy, this one is orange! That's my favorite colour and you would look beautiful in it!"

"No, Honey, that is a tank top, Mommy wants a nice dress for Beth and Marcel's wedding."

"OK. How about this one? Or this one?"

SILENCE for moment...then the LOUDEST most joy-filled SQUEAL one could imagine...

"Mommy, Mommy, come here, come here, I found the most beeeeeee-U-ti-ful dress ever! (deep breath) Mommy, Mommy, come here, come here right now! I found the most perfect dress for you!"

I walk around the rack of summer cocktail dresses and there is DJ, standing in awe. Eyes wide, he is pointing to a, well, um, how to put this nicely, ummmmmm....an explosion of pink taffeta.

Oh yes! This dress would be any thirteen year old girl's image of the perfect pink princess dress. I could hardly tell where one ruffle ended and the next one started. The dainty spaghetti straps . The plunging neckline. The ruffles, on top of ruffles. The dark pink embroidery on the bubblegum pink taffeta. The puffy little train at the back. Oh! What a dress!

DJ was in awe.

"Mommy, you would look so beeeeeee-U-ti-ful in this dress. You would look like a princess!"

I nervously glance around - every customer and salesperson in the store are looking at us. Snickering. Chuckling. Pointing.

"That sure is a pretty pink dress DJ. I do not think they have my size."

"Oh they do Mommy, they do. They have a one-two, that makes twelve and they have a one-four, at that is fourteen. So, those are both your numbers Mommy." They DOOOOOOO have your size."

Snicker, snicker from the audience.

Please, someone, throw me a line! Please! Where are Stacey and Clinton when you need them?!?!?!

I clear my throat. Bite my lower lip and quickly looked for the nearest emergency exit! How do I get out of this one?!?!?!?!?!

"Umm...DJ, that dress IS very beautiful, maybe it is too beautiful. Remember when you were the ring bearer at Cousin Tara's wedding last summer? Who had the most beautiful dress of anyone?"

"Tegan. Tegan had the most beautiful dress ever!"

"Yes, the flower girl did have a pretty dress, but what lady had the most beeeeeee-U-ti-ful dress of them all?"

"Cousin Tara????"

"That's right. Cousin Tara had the most beutiful dress - the bride always wears the most beautiful dress. So, if Mommy wore that dress to Liam's Mommy's wedding, then, well, everyone would be looking at Mommy, and not at the bride. That is not right! The bride has to wear the most beeeeeee-U-ti-ful dress. I need to find one not so fancy.OK?"

"Oh. Is it a rule you cannot wear the prettiest dress, only the bride?"

"Um, yep, that is a wedding rule."

"Oh.OK."

Suddenly everyone who had froze to see this situation unruffle, was in motion again. Most nodding their heads and smiling.

I picked out a few options. And herded DJ to the fitting room. As I passed a salesperson, she patted me on the back, smiled and whispered, "Well handled, Mommy, well handled!"

I tried on a few dresses. And other than my own wedding dress selection, this was one of the hardest dress selections I have ever made! You see, I no longer have to buy the one and only, frumpy dress that fits me. When I was heavier I had to settle. I bought what fit - not necessarily what I liked or wanted.

That has changed. In fact, now, I am, at times, overwhelmed by the selection. So much fits me now. Now, I can concentrate on styles, colours and patterns I like, and that sure feels great!

Here is me in the dress I finally decided on. It is black with white flowers. The body of the dress is slightly gathered and fitted. I think my new shoes and old shawl make the outfit.

It may not be the most beeeeeee-U-ti-ful pink princess full length ball gown of ruffles - but it sure makes me feel like a princess...and my son thinks I will be wearing the second most beautiful dress at the wedding! So, I am feeling pretty good about this selection!!!!

Telling time

2009-05-12T08:37:00.004-04:00

I have to be at work at 3AM.

I usually wake up around 2:30AM and make a mad dash to the office.

I usually wake up on my own, before the alarm.

This morning I woke up, glanced at the clock: 2:28AM.

2 minutes before the alarm.

I gently asked David to turn off the alarm.

I got up.

I showered.

I did my hair.

I got dressed.

I grabbed my coat.

I glanced at the clock: 12:42AM.

12:42AM.

Damit! I misread the clock!

Back to bed for less than 2 hours, and then off to work I went.

Yep. It is going to be a long, long, long day!

Just call me LOSER LAURA!!!!

Yawn.

Everyday

2009-05-11T08:50:00.005-04:00

Dear Mom,
For me, everyday is mother's day. Why? Because every single day I am thankful that you are my mother. Everyday I turn to you for support, advise and help: everyday you offer me endless support, advise and help. Not a day goes by that I do not admire, love and respect you. Not a day goes by that I do not hope to make you just a little more proud of me, as a daughter, as a mother and as a person. Every single day I ask myself how you would handle certain parenting challenges, and every day I model my parenting after how you have parented (and are parenting) me. Everyday I appreciate and cherish the wonderful mother-daughter relationship we have together. Yes, everyday is mother's day.

Dear Marlene,
Thank you for being such a great mom. Thank you for being you: caring, empathetic, loving, selfless, supportive and ever-giving. Thank you for raising a wonderful son who shares those qualities. Thank you for your love and support. You welcomed me into your family with open arms. Thank you for your friendship. I hope and pray I can be as good of a mom to my children, as you are to yours.

Dear David,
Happy mother's day to you! Yes, mother's day! It is because of you that I am a mother, so, THANK YOU! I had always wanted to have children, always knew I would have children, but never imagined it could be as wonderful as it is, and I know that is because you are the father of our children. You love, support, comfort and encourage me and it is because of you that I can be the mother that I am to our children. I love and respect you more each and everyday. Not a day goes by that I am not thankful that we met, fell in love, married, and started a family. You are a wonderful father and together, we make an amazing parenting team. Thank you for everything. BEAR!

To all my wonderful readers - I hope you had a wonderful and very special mother's day...I know I sure did!!!!

Wordless Wednesday - Call us crazy!

2009-05-06T15:50:00.005-04:00

You asked, and here it is:

Yep! We are crazy!

Spread your wings and fly!

2009-05-05T13:49:00.007-04:00

Every year a mommy and daddy goose build a nest outside my hubby's window at work. On the roof of the walk way.

The hatching of the eggs becomes a spectator sport of sort! Employees from all over the campus make sure to wonder over to get an update, eat their lunch while nest watching and some even come to take photos.

As soon as hubby sees the little goslings, he always calls and we rush down to watch the little little, fluffy, waddling, toddling goslings take their first steps. It is quite a sight!

Soon after they are born, the goslings start following mommy and daddy around the roof top. It is so cute! This year we were in for a real treat!

This year we saw them fly (or belly flop!) for the first time. You see, within hours of cracking through their little eggshells, these little goslings follow mommy off the edge! Off the roof. The roof! As in two stories high!

First mommy started to pace along the edge of the roof. Squawking and twisting her head. It looked like she was actually giving each gosling instructions. Then after serious consideration, she found a spot on the edge she liked, and then walked to the edge and after a quick glance back at her new babies and hubby, she flew to the ground. Moments later, daddy did the same thing.

The goslings seemed a bit confused. We watched them waddle back and forth, and then start to climb up onto the ledge. Some would move to the edge and look down at their parents, right below them. But would chicken out and return to the group.

One little brave fellow walked to the edge, you could just see him contemplating what to do next - and then a sibling tried to jump onto the ledge, and in doing so, bumped into the first gosling, causing him to go off the edge! With a belly-flop landing, he recovered and joined his parents in encouraging the rest of his family.

One by one they each started to follow. It was amazing to see. These little goslings, just hours old, trusting their parents, following their parents and spreading their wings for the first time.

Every little "chickie" needs to fly the coop one day.

Today, I registered Madigan for a preschool program next September. I sure do feel like that mamma goose...hoovering, worrying, coaching, instructing and encouraging. In September, my little "chickie" will be spreading her wings...I will be happy and excited for her, especially in September, but for now, I am sad! My little girl is growing up and spreading her wings.

I think I need a drink...Madigan, can I have a sip of your wine?

(You are growing up way too fast, my little girl, way to fast!)

Powerful Apple Ducklings

2009-05-02T23:19:00.001-04:00

DJ and Ander have a bake sale this week for school Since it is national peace week and the school is celebrating multiculturalism, each child is asked to bring in a bake good that reflects their heritage or country of origin.

DJ suggested he make "the special apple pie-cake that Pepe's mommy taught him to make".

Translation: "Meme's Apple Dumplings"

DJ called my father to discuss the recipe for "Apple Ducklings" . We needed to confirm if doubling the recipe would be enough to make 6 small flats of this yummy, tasty, French-Canadian treat.

So, after a wonderfully cute conversation between grandson and grandfather, DJ was all set to

start baking.

I pulled out all the needed ingredients and realized I was short 2 items. I told DJ we would pick up the items when w went out for the afternoon.

Daddy walked into the kitchen and asked what we were planning to bake - totally oblivious to the morning recipe hunt.

DJ replied," Daddy, we are making Apple Ducklings, but we need to buy some shorteners and some baking power - to make them strong and good like Pepe makes."

MMMmmmmmmm powerful apple ducklings - YUMMY!

Mug Shots

2009-04-30T03:20:00.001-04:00

Madigan - 2 years old

AKA: Princess Diva

Wanted for elaborate temper tantrums and excessive cuddles

Anderson - 4 years old

AKA - Pander-Bear

Wanted for multiple counts of huggies and kissies

DJ - 5 years old

AKA - Horsie Boy

Wanted for crimes of passion and compassion

Laura - 40 years old

AKA: Mom

Considered mentally unstable - a bit loony - delusional (thinks a road trip of approximately 4600 kilometres, clear across the country, to visit her in laws, with the above mention accomplices "might be fun".

Let the planning begin - our summer trip is only 85 days away!

Total Estimated Driving Time: 51 hours 11 minutes (ONE WAY!)

Total Estimated Distance: 4597.99 kilometers

I was so worried about the kids' passport photos. I took all three on my own to Costco to get them done. I have heard nightmares about kids smiling, blinking, etc. and it taking 10-40 shots to get a presentable and acceptable shot. Well, each of my darlings got the first take right...and then mine turned out so terrible, but I sure wasn't going to be the one having to retake the photo!!!!! Oh well - what can you do?!?!?!?!?!

Reflections

2009-04-29T09:13:00.000-04:00

I ushered them into the small crowded room. Shut the door. Hung up the three dresses I wanted to try on.

They immediately started to make funny faces into the wall of mirrors. Giggling.

SHHHhhhhhhhh!

Giggle. Giggle.

"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of the all?"

I unzip the first dress. Trying to be quick. Slip it over my head thinking, "Oh why did you boys not go with Daddy and Madigan to the pet store? Why did you both insist on staying with me?"

"Mirror, mirror, I ASKED, who is the fairest of them all?....OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!" haa haa haa haa.

Giggle. Giggle.

"Your turn DJ!"

"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's got the best hair in town?.........OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!" haa haa haa haa. "Your turn Anderson!"

Giggle. Giggle.

"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's got the nicest nose in town?.........OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!" haa haa haa haa. "Your turn DJ!"

Giggle. Giggle.

Best mouth? ... OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!
Strongest teeth? ... OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!
Coolest fingers? ... OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!
Nicest arms? ... OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!
Funnest belly button? ... OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!
(you get the point!)

Giggle. Giggle.

Silence.

"Mommy! You look BEAUUUUUU-TI-FULLLLL!"

"Thank DJ!"

"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who's got the prettiest and bestest mommy?.........OH! ME? Well, of course I do!!! "

"Mommy, I was going to say that, but Anderson said it! Me and Anderson have the prettiest, bestest, Mommy in town!"

Sniffle. Sniffle.

"Mirror, mirror on the wall, who has the best two boys in town? Me? Yep. You got that right!"

Hugs. Hugs.

** I so wish I could get an audio clip of their over-exaggerated "OH! ME? You GOTTA be KIDDING ME!" It was so friggin' funny! When we walked out of the dressing room there were lots of smiles from the staff and customers who were treated to this cute little skit!

** I did not buy that dress - it did not fit all that great - but I promise to post about the dress I did buy and how there is no way I will be out-shining the bride at the wedding we are attending next month!

Between

2009-04-27T13:13:00.003-04:00

Between.
Yep.
Me.

I am between a rock and a hard place.

I am struggling.
Trying to find balance.

Balance.
Work.
Family.
Play.
Balance.

I am between a rock and a hard place.

Have you noticed how lame my posts have been? I have been tired. Over worked.

My long time readers know all about my job. It WAS the perfect balance for me. Yes, my 4am to 8am crazy hours made for a long day - but it all boiled down to a fairly interesting job, no childcare costs and most importantly, the ability for me to have a "real" job AND be a stay at home mom.

While I was pregnant with DJ, I was laid off from a company in the hi-tech industry. I never looked back. I could not fathom going back to the daily grind of the hi-tech, stressful, chaotic life I led pre-kids. I was "saved" when I had Anderson while still on maternity leave! And decided that childcare costs for two kids less than a year apart was crazy. So, never went back to work.

Then, when Ander was 2 I started getting the itch...the itch for more disposable income, the itch to exercise my professional skills, you know, the itch.

This amazing job basically fell into my lap. A good friend I met at playgroup found out about a crazy job that was part time from 4am to 8am. Not only did it work in terms of allowing me forgo any need of childcare - but it married my university education with my work experience. I have a degree in Canadian Studies with a focus on inter-governmental affairs - and I have a diploma (and 16 years experience) in marketing-communications. Oh ya baby! It was a great opportunity! I interviewed, landed the job and started almost immediately. That was 3 years ago.

It was a great gig - while it lasted! I basically got paid to watch the national news! Working for the Canadian federal government, I am part of a media team that monitors, analyzes and reports on news coverage. Our main "client" is actually the Prime Minister of Canada and his staff! They have a morning briefing and our media report is the bulk of that meeting.

OK, jump ahead to today. I got a new boss in January. Nice guy. But since he took control, my job has changed. The workload has exploded. For example, in the years past we monitored 8 stations and usually categorized 15-20 daily clips. Now, we have 13 stations and we do over 100 clips

It is completely heads down from 4am to 630am...no, excuse me, 3am to 630am. Yep. I have been asked to work at 3am. Not only that, but I have also been asked to work on the weekend. First, it was a flexible shift - anytime I wanted on the weekend - now, my work needs to be done by 10am Saturday - meaning I have to complete 5 hours of work between 8pm Friday and 10 am Saturday - no longer very flexible, now, is it???!!!!

My new boss cannot seem to say no.

Our workload is crazy.

Then he sends an email asking for a huge change int he report for the Monday morning submission. He indicates in his Sunday evening email that if overtime is needed, that is OK. Hmmmmm...let's think about this - email sent at 8:43pm, I arrive at work at 3am...report due at 630am...ya, um, excuse me...when could I squeeze in some overtime to help get the work load completed? Ya! Doesn't work!

OK - The increased workload, the new boss with no real idea of what and how we do our job, a very demanding "client" and a huge adjustment to my hours all constitute my "rock".

The hard place?

Well, that is Nortel.

My hubby works at Nortel. Nortel is in trouble. No one knows what is happening and no job is secure. This once hi-tech giant has gone into bankruptcy protection and it looks very grim. We have no idea how much longer David will have a job or an income. Since the company is in protection, no severance will be granted.

This is extremely stressful for everyone. But, my heart goes out to hubby - having to go in every day, remain focused, committed and hard working - with all the uncertainty clouding his workplace.

He tries to keep positive. He tries to let things not impact him - h has a healthy outlook that what will happen, will happen. But, I can see the stress eating at him.

Then, I keep getting offered more work hours. I am not ready for full time - I love having my days at home with the kids. I do not want to have to worry about childcare - I want to care for my children. But, if David should loose his job - then I would have a secure full time job. (well, at least secure till my next contract renewal!) Plus, my director has gone to bat for me before - he is loyal to those who demonstrate commitment to the team and good work. He secured me a contract that allowed me a full year maternity leave with benefits. I feel like if I say no to extra hours and longer hours, that he may "loose that faith in me". He is hard-nose like that. People try to never cross him - he can make your life hell!

So, I am struggling. I am struggling because I am getting even less sleep than before. I am struggling because my workload had multiplied, I am worried about my hubby's job, mental state and peace of mind.

I am struggling with where I want to be in 2-5 years in terms of my professional work - and if declining extra hours and responsibilities will negatively impact my desires and future opportnities.

For me, working full time would mean we would need childcare for Madigan every morning - and then when school is out - for all three - just in the morning. I would have the afternoons to spend with them - and sooner than I realize, they will all be in school full days. It would not be that hard to do...and we could find very affordable options that would capitalize on our new income source and that would help us financially. But I would be working fulltime...

I really feel like I am between a rock and hard place right now.

And that explains my lack of quality posts - Ummm, have I ever posted quality posts???!!!!!

OK - whine and b*tchfest is over. Tomorrow we will be back to our regular bloggy-self!

Oh! I have so much to share with you!!!! Funny stories about the kids, fitness news, weight loss journey tidbits - Let me tell you, the Fringe is never boring...just my posts of late!!!!

DO NOT!

2009-04-23T11:08:00.003-04:00

DO NOT go to Amy's Quest to Skinny blog.

DO NOT become inspired by her weight loss journey.

DO NOT fall in love with her cute furry and four-legged companion.

DO NOT rely on her for awesome running pointers, realistic views on Weight Watchers and food tips.

DO NOT marvel at her work out commitment.

DO NOT chuckle at her wonderful sense of humour.

DO NOT cheer her on as she prepares for her next road race.

And whatever you do, DO NOT go and comment on this post.

WHY NOT??

'Cause Amy is MY bloggy friend, she is MY inspiration, she is MY grounding force and she is EXACTLY who I want to be like when I grow skinny.

Commenting on this post is just a BIG waste of time!

WHY?

'Cause I am going to win her awesome give-away. Yep. Me. NOT YOU!

Road Rage

2009-04-20T07:34:00.004-04:00

Oh! I have a mighty case of road rage!

First, I read this post posted on Life is Just so Daily. For those who do not know, Lainey-Painey is a huge advocate for child safety in cars. Sadly, she lost her nephew Riley in September 2005. It was a tragic accident where 2 year old Riley locked himself in the family car and died of heat exposure.

Links and stories on her blog have really opened my eyes to the dangers of unsupervised children in cars. PLEASE - go check out www.kidsincars.org - knowledge and awareness is power and it could save YOUR kids.

Oh...I was fuming after reading that post...and I personally would have used a few harsher names for the "witch" that Lainey-Painey confronted.

Then, as I was walking to work, my temper started to fume again. As you may know Tamil-Canadians are staging a marathon protest. They have been picketing outside my office. Understand that I am not upset that they are staging a protest...it is their right. What I am fuming about is the number of children left sleeping in their cars parked along the route I walk at 3:30am. Sometimes there are entire families sleeping in their cars, sometimes just children. Sometimes the children are in car seats, sometimes not. Sometimes the cars are even running! Sometimes the parents or guardians are also sleeping in the car - sometimes they are congregating a few cars away with other protesters.

The police presence is high - so, within a few metres down the street I stopped two police officers and voiced my concern. They basically said, "Oh, it is not a cold night, and the kids gotta sleep, and the parents cannot be too far away. Don't worry about it."

Don't worry about it?????

Mr. Police officer and Madame Police officer, with all due respect - GO CHECK OUT www.kidsincars.org !

THEN, to top off my morning road rage, here is a news clip I had to review for my media report. YES - two children are in grave condition after a MINOR car accident. Minor...except for the MAJOR error of judgement made by the parental unit to NOT properly secure their children in car seats.

Did you know that it is estimated that 95% of children's car seats are not installed correctly or used correctly? Two of my biggest beefs are infants in the "bucket seats" with the handles upright - CHECK YOUR MANUAL PEOPLE - this is WRONG! And secondly, when children in the harness seats are not tightly secured. CHECK YOUR MANUAL PEOPLE - the straps need to be SNUG. If you have questions contact your local authorities to find out about car seat clinics and checks in your area.

OK. Deep breaths.

I have a serious case of road rage and I only hope and pray this rant of a post gets just one person to rethink leaving children unattended in a car or how their car seats are installed or used.

Children are precious cargo...let's handle them with care.

Where did the time go?

2009-04-19T15:48:00.002-04:00

DJ at kindergarten graduation...my heart swells with pride, my eyes with tears and my being with hope each time I look at these photos!

Fitness Friday - One step at a Time

2009-04-18T09:35:00.007-04:00

Have you heard of the 10 000 step challenge? It is basically the thought that if you take 10k steps in a day then you are leading a relatively healthy/active lifestyle.

I remember before I started my weight loss journey, I placed my new pedometer on and honestly thought I would have no problem hitting the 10k mark. After all, I did not spend my day at a desk - I spent my day running after three little ones! Boy! I was shocked to see such a small number of steps.

I went on a mission to increase my steps.

I started taking the stairs. I started parking further from the door. I started walking errands instead of driving short distances. I started to "do" the front steps while waiting for the boys' bus each morning. I started to take two trips with grocery bags or with laundry - doubling my steps for specific tasks.

All of these "step inserters" worked. Very quickly the number of steps I was taking skyrocketed past 10 000! After about a month of consistently hitting between 13K and 16K (without including my daily exercise activity) I stopped wearing my counter.

Mission complete! Now, even without the counter I can basically tell when I have not taken my 10k steps - and I work hard to fit them in or push harder at my workout. I am addicted to steps!

At my WW meeting on Wednesday many of the Losers (I mean that in the best way!!!! Hee Hee) were talking about how morning exercise motivates them to eat right and stay on plan all day.

I started to analyse my situation. I can ONLY work out in the evening. If I did follow the suggestion of just getting up 30 minutes earlier each morning, then I would be going to bed at 9pm and waking up at 2:30am! Um....NO!

I started to curse my 4am to 8am dream job with the federal government - you know, that job where I get to interact with the real world, but I also get to be a full time stay at home mom. You know, the great job that I get to brag that I get paid to watch the news broadcasts and tell the Prime Minister of Canada and his staff what was reported by the media outlets each night. You know, THAT job.

When the leader mentioned that early morning exercise jump starts your metabolism and helps you burn more calories and have more energy, I was really fuming.

Then, I thought of my step mission.

On Thursday and Friday I dusted off my pedometer and securely fastened it to my dress pants and headed off to work - AND FOLLOWED MY REGULAR MORNING ROUTINE.

Parked my car in the normal spot.
Took the 2 flights of stairs to the exit.
Walked the 3 blocks to my office.
Take the elevator to my office - too nervous to do the dark stairs at 3:45am!
Worked to get my reports done.
Delivered my multi-media reports to the Prime Minister's office.
Delivered the reports to the West Block of Parliament Hill - this is a 3 block walk - but best of all for the last 4 months I have not used the elevators - I run up and down the 4 flights of stairs.
Walk back to the office, walk up my 4 flights of stairs.
Finish my daily work.
Walk down 4 flights of stairs to the main door.
Walk the 3 blocks to my parking lot.
Take the stairs to the parking garage.
Arrive at home at 8:30am.

So, between 3am and 9am each work day I am walking approximately 4789 steps.

HELLO! Did you see the number of stairs my new active lifestyle has incorporated in it each morning? HELLO LOSER LAURA, there is your MORNING WORKOUT!

Do you try to incorporate activity into your work day? Do you subscribe to the 10k step challenge? If so, how do you work in more steps?

Like our leader Marilyn said at our WW meeting - Even the longest journey starts with a few small steps.

Each day, I feel like I am taking those little steps to incorporate more activity into my day and leading a healthier, better lifestyle - in hopes of it all being a life-long commitment.

And with that, I leave you with two photos that show that each little step towards a healthier lifestyle work.

April 9, 2009

April 9, 2008.

I sure have come a long way!

Thanks for your support everyone!

One step at a time!

WW - Hitting the jack pot!

2009-04-15T07:43:00.009-04:00

Remember my (incomplete) list of 40 gifts for my 40th birthday?

Well, I hit the jackpot!

My new Garmin - now, if I could only figure out how to set it for 10 and 1's!!!!

My new Bryce Courtenay book!

My BEAUTIFUL pendent from Star Creations!

My new gardening stuff and wonderful garden tool box made by my Mom and Dad!

Me, looking all refreshed after my after noon at the spa with my Mom.

Oh! Did I mention this photo is taken in Toronto? As part of my birthday celebration David and I escaped to TO for a wonderful kidless adventure! We saw "The Sound of Music".

OH Ya! It was an amazing birthday!

But, I was not the only person to hit the jack pot!

Madigan made the BIG draw for the Star Creations give-away.

Drum roll, please....

...and the winner is AMY from Amy's Quest to Skinny.

Congrats Amy!

And thank you everyone for entering the draw!

What a wonderful birthday!!!!!!

The hills are alive! ENTER TO WIN!

2009-04-09T22:06:00.005-04:00

Oh! I have had a WONDERFUL day! I cannot wait to tell you all about it...but no time, gotta get a good night's sleep! We are off to Toronto tomorrow morning!

Remember this post??? Well, part of my 40th birthday celebrations include a weekend get-away to Toronto, one night accommodations at a swanky hotel, and awesome tickets to see The Sound of Music!

So, while the hills may be alive to the sound of music, the Fringe is alive with chances to win a wonderful piece of jewelry from Star Creations.

Everyone who leaves a comment (wishing me a happy 40th birthday) will be entered to win!

Want a better chance to win????

Simply click through to Star Creations and find your favorite piece and let me know what it is, and you will be entered into the contest again!

Want even more chances of winning???

Post on your blog about this contest and add a little linky back to The Fringe and you will be entered an additional 5 times into the draw!

Suzy over at Star Creations will be giving the winner a choice of gifts- you could win a Hammered Silver Tree on Ball Chain, or a pretty locket like the Chocolate and Roses Ball Locket.

Entries will be collected all Easter weekend - I am going to be way too busy having a wonderful time celebrating my birthday weekend and Easter to post - so, leave your comment, check out Star Creations and tell all your bloggy friends!

The draw will happen on Tuesday April 14th. Good luck!

You could be the next proud owner of a unique, beautiful, hand crafted piece by Star Creations! (I know I will be soon!!! Yep, David placed an order for the beautiful Enchanted Russian Amazonite Tree on Copper Pendent. I squealed with delight!!! I cannot wait to get it!!!!)

WW - Snowy Spring and Chocolate smiles!

2009-04-08T09:26:00.005-04:00

Remember this garden shot from last Wednesday's Wordless Wednesday?

Well, here is this week's "Garden Cam" shot.
Yep, Mother Nature has played a cruel joke on us here in Ottawa, Canada!

My poor spring flowers!

So, as to not leave you depressed and snow-weary

(like we are here on The Fringe),

here is chocolaty smile to cheer you up!!!

Tomorrow is the BIG day!

Tomorrow I turn the BIG 4-0!!!!!!

Remember to stop by tomorrow, and enter for a chance to win a GREAT prize/present from

Star Creations!

Happy Easter!

Top 10 Reasons

2009-04-07T11:02:00.005-04:00

Barfing 4 year old
Cold rainy weather and 3 kids at home
PD school day
Barfing Mommy
Barfing 2 year old
Winter storm watches and SNOW!
Toddler diarrhea
Endless Internet searches on Scarlet Fever
Unrealistic work load increase resulting in starting work at 3AM instead of 4AM!
Too many loads of laundry to count!

Just the top 10 reasons why I have been neglecting my blog!

One cool reason to keep visiting The Fringe?

MY BIRTHDAY!!!!!! (on Thursday!)

No, seriously, what is so what is the best part of birthdays?

PRESENTS!

And well, thanks to Suzy (my new BFF, not sure if she knows that yet!!!) over at Star Creations on Etsy you will have a chance to win a present! Yep! Something from her wonderful Etsy Shop. Oh! Her stuff is beautiful! I have been lurking on her site, you know, browsing all her wonderful jewelry pieces and basically checking the inventory count on this item...since it is on my birthday wish list!

You could have chance at winning a wonderfully hand-crafted piece of art from Suzy. Yep!

How cool is that? The first ever give-away on The Fringe.

Stay tuned!!!!!!

Details will be posted soon, you know, as soon as I get back from the pediatrician's office, finish mopping the floor for the four-zillionth time and throw in another load of the endless pukey-poo poo laundry. OH JOY!!!!!!

Symbolic Bling

2009-04-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

I am not a fancy girlie-girl. I am not into diamonds or expensive jewelry. My track record with NOT loosing jewelry is NOT good! Remember THIS story????

Just the same, I love fun, creative, interesting necklaces and bracelets. Costume jewelry is really my style!

Here are a few little trinkets I found on Etsy that I would like to add to my birthday list:

I LOVE this pendent. It is beautiful! I would love to have it made with forty little gem stones and three little "eggs" in the nest. It certainly would be a true symbolic representation of my life at age forty. Symbolic bling at it's best - LOVE IT!!!! You (David), can click HERE for more details!

Here is another take on the same idea - I am really drawn to this design.

While I REALLY like the copper one above, this silver option is great since I wear silver quite often. David, or any of you, my loyal readers can click HERE for more details!

For my 30th birthday I got a really funky bracelet and love it to this day. I LOVE funky, cool, conversation piece bracelets! So, a bracelet option would be something like this:

If one wanted more details, they could click HERE, and place an order for this lovely spoon bracelet that features my FAVORITE flowers!

Or, if you think I would appreciate a neat hand crafted ring (and I would!) and you only want to spend $12.50 (cause, you know, I 'm worth at least that!) then this would be a great option:

To me, the four Swarovski Crystals represent each of the 4 decades I have been around - and the two side beads could represent David and I with the main pearl symbolizing becoming a family unit - meeting David, falling in love, getting married and having three wonderful children are the key highlights and wonders on my life thus far - so, yep, this ring would ROCK as a gift! Click HERE quick to order!

All of these wonderful gift ideas are from Etsy.com - this site ROCKS!!!! It is a GEM! The finds are purely PRICELESS and wonderful. If you have never checked it out - go - browse, ohhh and ahhh! If you are a Etsy customer, what has been your cool find thus far???

Less than a week till my 40th birthday....so, um, what are your doing hanging out at The Fringe???? Go! Get shopping for my gift already! Time is running out!

Wordless Wednesday - Spring time

2009-04-01T14:29:00.004-04:00

At long last the snow has melted (for the most part) and the regular, cold, rainy weather has started.

I noticed a few of my spring flowers coming up in the garden this morning and I thought that would be a perfect WW entry.

Can you see the little green stems peaking out?

Hey, maybe I will take another snap shot next week and we can see the difference????

Ya for Spring Time!

A Sissy Fuddle Duddle!

2009-03-31T10:13:00.009-04:00

You know you had a great weekend when you need a day to recover!!!!

Tuesday is the new Monday, don't cha know!

OK - Let's get Monday Menu Plan out of the way!

Monday - Yummy spicy shrimp stir fry with quinoa

Tuesday - broccoli and chicken casserole

Wednesday - Family Pizza Night

Thursday - Three Bean and Pork Slow Cooker Chili - recipe from Weight Watchers - sounds yummy good, easy, kid friendly and only 5 points per serving. Then I will have to factor in my homemade cheesy whole wheat garlic bread for dunking!

Friday - A wonderful friend and I are embarking on a regular Friday exercise date. Our families will eat together first and then head off to swimming laps in prep for our "Try-a-tri-athon" in May. I was thinking maybe I would do a pasta dish with a nice salad.

Saturday - Fire up the grill! Nicely aged steaks and lots of veggies cooked on the bbq...summer cooking is just around the corner!!!

Sunday - Pot roast with carrots, potatoes and onions - nothing too fancy.

Ok - so now for the weekend recap!

The smile on my face in this photo, sums it all up!!!

Friday I drove the kiddies to my parents' place. If you are a frequent visitor to The Fringe, you know how much they LOVE going to Nana and Pépé's house. But, here is yet another cute story that shows the very special bond my parents have with my kiddies.

Mid-way through our 40 minute drive little Madigan, all strapped in her car seat yells out:

Bye-bye Dadda!

Bye-bye house!

Bye-bye Keymew (our cat Cleo)

Helllllllllloooooooooo Nana!

Helllllllllloooooooooo Pépé!

Ok. Seriously, I almost burst a gut! Here is a little 2 year old, in a squeaky, high pitch voice bidding goodbye to one world and welcoming the new! Her HELLO was hilarious - all drawn out and a bit deeper than her regular voice. It was priceless!

Anyways - Friday night friends came over - the plan was for the gals to go swim lanes (prep for "Try-a-tri-athon" and then meet the boys for Pho soup. Comedy of errors, we misread the lane times...so quick change of plans - we went for dinner first and then swimming.

Side note - I need to work on my breathing technique in the front crawl. I am sure I could shave some time off if I got a bit more rhythm in my breathing and stroke.

We had a great Friday evening. We always have a great time with Stephen (the best-man at our wedding) and his wonderful girlfriend Danielle (Hello Danielle, since I now know you visit The Fringe! Yep. Friday sounds great - check your email!)

Saturday AM we woke up early and took off for Mont Tremblant, Quebec. It is about 2 hours away. It was an enjoyable drive. Spring is in the air!

The mountain was very busy - perfect spring ski conditions bring lots of people out! If you ever get a chance to visit this first-class resort - I highly recommend it!

We skied all day. I will not lie - I had a rough time. I really only started to ski when I met David - back in 2000. Then since all my babes are winter babies, my ability, desire and time for skiing dropped in priority. So, I was getting a bit frustrated. I could not seem to get my old rhythm back. I was really fighting my skies and forcing the tails of my skies instead of carving with my edges. On top of that, my middle toe on my right foot was SUPER sore. (I would later discover that when my soccer opponent stepped on my foot last week she cracked my nail and it swelled up) And my feet hurt in my boots. My boots are from the before kids era and my feet are bigger, flatter and more sensitive now. And finally, I was having a fear thing - totally mental! I am not sure what it was, but I was so nervous of falling. Maybe it had to do with Natasha Richardson succumbing to injuries suffered on this very hill? Or maybe I was just nervous? I was having trouble finding my centre of gravity and therefore did not feel stable...could it be from my rapid weight loss? My body has definitely changed! Whatever the case, the first two runs were terrible.

In fact, I almost gave up. But my wonderful hubby talked me out of it. We stuck to fairly easy hills. David got to do a few bump-runs since Windigo and Upper Fuddle Duddle were mainly moguls. I stuck with Sissy Schuss and Fuddle Duddle...oh ya! I do see the irony of the run names and my state of mind - but, hey! thanks for pointing that out!!!!!!!!

After lunch, I calmed down a bit and was able to find some of my skiing mojo. So, our afternoon was a bit more enjoyable. Besides, it was sunny, warm and I was with the man of my dreams!

A good friend of ours offered us her chalet for the evening (Thanks Jo!). It was great. We went and got cleaned up and headed back to the mountain for dinner and to enjoy the night life. It was great. We had a great dinner - I had yummy trout with veggies, and even was successful at NOT having any of the fresh dinner rolls that kept appearing at our table!

After dinner we strolled around the cute shops and then took in the aerial competitions. Man, they were amazing! Friggin' dare devils to the highest degree!

We returned to the chalet and well, "enjoyed each others company"....wink wink nudge nudge.

It was a wonderful weekend for sure.

We drove back to Ottawa. Picked up the kiddies - one of them very ill with the stomach flu (sorry Mom, but thank you for looking after the barfy-sick kid!). So, it was right back to the grind!!!!

So, how was your weekend?????

PS - I am cheating and keeping the Tuesday date stamp...even though it is now Wednesday morning...now I have the barfy tummy and Madigan is crabby...oh joy! This is going to be a l--o--n--g week...or maybe I am just being a big sissy fuddle duddle?!?!?!?!?!?!?

2009-03-29T21:05:00.003-04:00

Dear Kettle BBQ Chips,

I friggin' HATE you...well, actually, you are yummy good...and, well, there in lays the problem.

Well, at least you are all gone - and so are my Weight Watchers points for the next four days!

It is now after 9PM, I have to get up at early and be at work by 3AM...the Junos are on and I would like to watch them...but, well, my bed calls. I had a FABULOUS weekend and cannot wait to share it all with you.

Nighty-night!

WW - before and after (kind of!)

2009-03-25T09:16:00.006-04:00

Oh! Oh! This wordless Wednesday has lots of words!!!!

I have been asked to post before and after photos. But I have 3 major problems with doing this:

I am not done my weight loss journey - I have come to realize that this is a life time journey and I am far from done yet!
There are so few photos of me - I think I have posed for more family photos in the last 3 months than I had in the last 5 years!
I have hit a bit of a plateau - perhaps posting some photos will help me break through it - my main "problem" is that I have really increased the amount and intensity of my workouts and that is leaving me hungry, craving food and grazing...but I will get it all under control. One good decision at a time!

So, here is the best I can do!

BEFORE

(yep, that is me in the far left corner, hiding from the camera!)

After

(yep, that is me, proudly posing while my son snaps a few shots!)

A few friends have also asked me about some of the weight/foody blogs that I have started to follow, so, in no particular order, here they are:

Amy's Quest to Skinny

Healthy can taste good too!

Loosing to find Myself

Our Blubher Over Haul

DESPERATE for some AMAZING sleep

2009-03-24T20:56:00.000-04:00

Dear Programming Executives at CTV,

As you are probably aware of - how could you not be - my fortieth birthday is in sixteen days. It is guaranteed to be a huge celebration.

I am a huge fan of Desperate Housewives, The Amazing race and Dancing with the Stars. They are my escape from reality. My escape from the chaos of having three young children, an odd-hour work schedule, a new hard-core focus on getting into shape and well, life in general.

But here lies my problem. I am addicted to these show, on real-time. No, I cannot grasp the idea of pvr-ing or taping the airing of each and then watching after their original showing. I have tried, but I lay in bed thinking, wondering, pondering what could be happening? Nope. No can do...so, instead, I stay up late to watch these shows. Yep. I do...and then Monday morning and Tuesday morning and Wednesday morning come WAY too early. Heck, raising at 3AM is too friggin' early no matter what way you look at it. But, after staying up till 10PM mornings are crazy-hard!

Anyways, I was thinking, you know, since my birthday is coming up, and I am sure you are all trying to decide on the perfect gift for me...well, how about putting Desperate Housewives, The Amazing Race and Dancing with the Stars all at 7PM...that way I could be in bed and asleep way before 9PM. This would mean more than my regular 4-6 hours of sleep. Oh, that would be SWEEEEET!!!!

Ya. I knew you would understand. And, heck, no need to thank me for the great birthday gift suggestion!

Thanks in advance!

The birthday girl,

laura

Feeling tired, looking good and eating well!

2009-03-23T14:03:00.003-04:00

Check out more Menu Plan Monday entries at I'm an Organizing Junkie.

I'm tired. I had a great March Break with the kids. I had a fabulous weekend. And I have been lacking in the sleep department! In addition, I am full swing into my training for a 10K race and for a "try-a-thon", each a week apart in May! Top that off with working extra hours and the fact that Madigan's 2 year old molars seem to be taking the friggin' scenic route...late nights, lots of crying and early mornings are a combination for disaster!

When you are dog-tired and have three youngsters at home, how do you cope?

Does Dora or Barney seem to take over babysitting duties? Do you read 4 million books - or, one book 4 million times? Do you make popcorn and pull out the sofa bed and play snuggle-bed movie? Do you make an enormous fort in the front room and claim to be resting? Do you play hide and seek and can always be found under the covers in the bed? Do you bake fool-amounts (especially when considering you are on Weight Watchers) of cookies and goodies? Do you have day-time bath time where all three kids slash and soak the bathroom while you sit in the corner and read a novel? Do you guarantee a long bath by declaring that by exiting the tub fun, each child is agreeing to a haircut? Do you allow wrestling attacks while you "do some blog-work"? Do you try to post a Monday Menu list while three kids are asking for their 15th cookie?

You don't???

Oh...

Um, I do! (and that was just today!)

Is that wrong????

Well, at least I have a cool fort in the front room, the downstairs sofa bed has fresh sheets, there are lots of yummy cookies, the kids are clean and the boys are sporting cute crew cuts!!!! But, alas, my Monday Menu is not done, and I'm tired. (I seriously think I am expelling ALL my energy trying to generate enough motivation to get dressed and out the door to my running clinic!)

So, without further delay, here are the dinners I am planning for this week:

Monday - Tuna casserole with long green beans

Tuesday - Chickpea curry and chicken - I stole this recipe from Feebeez, a Monday Menu participant. I hope it is as good and as easy as it seems!

Wednesday - Daddy and kids pizza night since I have boot camp followed by Weight Watchers

Thursday - Pork tenderloin with baby carrots and wilted spinach

Friday - Not sure as we are dropping the kids off at my parents and taking off to Mont Tremblant for a wonderful Saturday of skiing and fun!

Saturday and Sunday - well, honestly, Saturday and Sunday just seem way too far away to even think about...

OK - off to pull the casserole out of the oven, throw on my running gear and walk 1.7km to the running clinic, do my run, walk home, and collapse into bed!

Green Thumb Gifts

2009-03-21T15:05:00.004-04:00

Last summer I started a veggie garden. I fell in love with planting, tending to and harvesting my little crop. Oh, some items did not grow, while others basically took over prime real estate! But it was great fun - and hard work...and very rewarding. All summer we had fresh tomatoes (still have 3 frozen bags in the freezer) tons of green & yellow beans, zucchinis and peas. Oh! I cannot forget the enormous squash. The fresh veggies were amazing!

This winter has been long...and finally we are having almost spring-like weather. That got me thinking of my summer gardening plans. My big plan is to almost triple the size of the veggie garden and move my herb garden and then double it in size.

But to do this, I will need the appropriate tools. Thank goodness I have a birthday coming up!!!!

Gift suggestion: New gardening gloves

Gift suggestion: Shiny new wheelbarrow

Gift suggestion: Cool set of gardening tools (with a lock so little hands cannot get hold of them!)

Gift suggestion: Raised bed kit

Do you like to garden? What is your favorite gardening tool? What should I add to my wish list?

Boy! I cannot wait for the snow to go and planting weather to come...well, I guess I can wait another week since we are heading to Mont Tremblant for a day of spring skiing!

Friday Fitness & Birthday Gift Suggestions

2009-03-20T06:55:00.000-04:00

Friday? YIPPPPEEEE!

For me, this week has been one of those, "Dear Lord, will this week EVER end?" coupled with, "Holy crow, Friday, already!" A strange combination!

It was an exciting fitness week! I started new activities, had a little break and most importantly, completed my first road race.

Saturday I completed my 5k race. I am happy with my time - 33.06 though there were at least 3 times I slowed right down and one time I walked - so, lots of room for improvement!

Sunday I played soccer for my new indoor team. It was AMAZING! They are so much better than my former teammates. I ran around, played hard, and had a GREAT time! I even made what can only be described as "the pass of my career" - too bad Joanne could not capitalize on it! We lost, but I had a good work out!

Monday I had my first Running Room clinic. It is a huge group with a huge spectrum of fitness, running ability and commitment. I ran with a really nice gal - we hit it off and I am looking forward to running with her again!

Tuesday I tried an aqua fit class. It was in the deep water - it was challenging, fun, and I am looking forward to trying it again. I am taking the class with a great friend and I am looking forward to chatting, laughing and aqua-fitting with her!!!!

Wednesday - no boot camp this week. I missed it! My friend Dawn and I walked to our Weight Watchers meeting. As was expected, I gained this week - lots of factors contributing (bad choices, snacking, lack of journal keeping and my "time of the month about to start!")

Thursday - I planned on doing a workout - but never got around to it. David had a boys' night out so I had all three kids all day and night...so, no real time to work out.

Friday - I am hoping to go for a run this evening.

Saturday - I am hoping to find a pool and swim some laps in prep for my try-a-thon in May!

Sunday - Running Room Long Run at 8:30am and then I have a soccer game.

Next week I have a busy fitness schedule:

Monday - Running Room Clinic

Tuesday - Aqua Fit Class

Wednesday - Boot camp

Thursday - walk/run

Friday - Run

Saturday - Downhill skiing (Same resort where Natasha Richardson had her accident)

Sunday - Running Room Long run in the AM and soccer game in the afternoon.

Now, since I have lots of training to do before my try-a-thon on May 16 and my 10K race on May 23 I have been exploring tracking gadgets. Roni introduced me to an amazing little application for a iPod. You can read all about it here. It looks super cool and I love the fact you can chart out your runs and workouts and set goals and milestones. WAY COOL!

So, for my 40th birthday I would love this:

Nike + iPod Sport Kit for iPod nano 1G, 2G, 3G

...and since I do not have a iPod Nano, I would need one of these:

Oh! and one of these:

Hee hee...this birthday wish list stuff is fun!!!!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Gift of Life

2009-03-19T06:56:00.006-04:00

If you are a regular visitor to The Fringe, you undoubtedly have been monitoring my birthday gift list. (I'm still waiting for the packages to start arriving...still waiting...)

Today, in all seriousness I am asking for one gift from each of you. The gift of life. I am encouraging each and everyone of you to sign your organ donor cards, register on appropriate data bases and inform your family that if, heaven forbid, anything should happen to you, that you would like to donate your internal organs to someone who desperately needs the gift of life.

By now you have probably heard of the tragic death of Natasha Richardson. This is so very sad. My heart goes out to her family - especially her loving husband and young sons.

Yesterday the media had so many conflicting stories and rumors. It was very confusing. Being a head-injury survivor I was very interested in the story and started looking for news on the internet.

I read an article that indicated that Ms. Richardson had been air-transported from a hospital in Montreal to a hospital in New York. I thought perhaps that Lenox Hill hospital was a medical facility hat specialized in brain-injuries. But the information I found basically classified the hospital as having a speciality in cardiac care.

That got me thinking.

Perhaps they moved her to NY so that she could be closer to family. I began to wonder why that hospital. And here is what I am hoping: I hope that she had made the decision to be an organ donor and that she had communicated her wishes to her family. If her head injury was severe then, perhaps, she was being transported closer to home, and that if she did pass away, she would be closer to family and also able to give the gift of life to someone else.

I have no idea of what Natasha Richmond's wishes were in terms of organ donation. Yes, I am sad for her and her family - a tragic loss for certain - but by all accounts she was a healthy, generous, caring being. I hope and pray that the most selfless decision was communicated and acted upon. Based on my personal knowledge and experience of a closed-head trauma - Ms. Richardson would have made an idea organ transplant donor. My heart aches that she suffered this injury. But the lives she could save...oh what a precious gift that would be...

Sadly, perhaps through her death, we can all become a bit more educated in brain-injuries, the importance of wearing helmets and protective gear, and that the gift of life is the ultimate gift we can give, once we are gone from this earth.

The fluke accident that happened to Natasha Richardson, could happen at any time to any of us. You just never know...that is the scary part.

I hope that none of us have to face the painstaking decision that Ms. Richardson's family had to make to turn off the respirator. I hope none of us ever need face such a terrible hardship. But I also pray that Ms. Richardson's family, and any of us who may one day face this unspeakable burden, that we all consider, and hopefully commit to helping to save someone else, when we, or someone we love are in a similar position.

Here are a few additional resources and information sources on organ donation:

The Organ Donation and Transplant Association of Canada
Organ and Tissue Donation (USA)
Gift of Life

For my birthday, I would like my gift to be informing my family and friends of my intentions. I would like to be an organ donor. I want to give the gift of life, when mine has ended. Do you?

WW - Going to the birds!

2009-03-18T08:53:00.005-04:00

March Break Fun!

March 16, 2009.

Stony Swamp Conservation Area

Sarsaparilla Trail

(Look carefully on Madigan's head!!!! I put seeds on her hat since she was not staying still enough for the chickadees to land on her hand!)

Luck of the Irish

2009-03-17T11:16:00.005-04:00

Apparently, when my great-great grandparents came to Canada they left the luck of the Irish in their home country!

On Saturday I ran in the St. Paddy's Day Road Race. While it was fun, there was no green luck on my side leading up to or post race!

On Friday I drove downtown to pick up my race kit. It was just after 5pm. You can only imagine how busy the downtown core was at this time. Obviously, I could not find parking, so I had the brilliant idea of parking in my parking spot for work. It would mean only a 3 block hike to The Running Room. I parked my car int he underground parking space designated to me and headed off. I picked up my kit, stopped at the sports store to look for new soccer boots, browsed through a few trendy shops and then headed back to my car. I almost dislocated my shoulder when I tried to throw open the front office door. LOCKED. Yep. My car was in the building, the building you need your work pass to access after normal business hours. It was 6:13pm!!!

I waited and waited till I saw a member of the cleaning crew. I banged on the door. She shook her head and walked away. I waited and waited, finally saw another member of the cleaning crew and got her attention. She must have thought me crazy! I was going on like a mad-woman. I think totally out of fear for her own life, this non-English, non-French speaking, older woman finally let me after I kept making the universal hand gesture for car and pointing down. WHEW!!!

Well, maybe I was lucky??? I did in fact get let into the locked building and I did get back to my car!!!!

The race went well and I finished it in one piece - so, that could be considered lucky.

After the race I hurried back to my office to pick up my weekend assignment. I was jazzed. I was sweaty. I was catching a chill. I remembered I had a warm fleece sweater in the trunk. I parked in my underground spot and grabbed my security pass (!!!) and popped the trunk and grabbed my sweater. Threw on my sweater and slammed the trunk closed. Yep. You figure out what I quickly discovered? Yep. I know you would figure out where this story of luck was leading. Car keys. Trunk. Yep. Inside.

CRAP! I race over to the door and thankfully it is unlocked...but in my car there is no trunk release. So, I am sure the security guard upstairs was having a great laugh at the show I was putting on the closed circuit camera! I had to remove the kids' car seats, pile all the junk onto the backseat floor, tug the seat down. Then I had to climb back into the trunk. Which I do, but not without kicking my rear view mirror off it's holdings and almost putting my foot through my sun roof. Oh ya! I could just imagine the security guard upstairs laughing his butt off at me!!! I was a sight for sore eyes!!!!

Yep. Even in lieu of me completing the race, finishing almost a minute faster than I ever-hoped to finish, the St. Paddy's Day Road Race is not that lucky for me! Though I am sure the the security guards would get a kick out of either episodes on the security tapes!!! While not lucky, I am good for a few laughs!

Wishing you all a very happy St. Paddy's Day!

In keeping with an Irish theme - Birthday gift suggestion # 25 would have to be one of these lovely creatures:

Unfortunately, since I am allergic to long-haired dogs, I would basically die! Put, I would like a dog. All growing up we has miniature poodles or cock-a-poos. I would love to have BIG dog! So how about a standard poodle????

How could you say no to on of these little cuties?!?!?!?!?!

Hee Hee!!!

Menu plan Monday - rabbit stew

2009-03-16T10:10:00.004-04:00

I am not really in the mood to write much.

I had an AMAZING weekend. But, then it came crashing to a halt when a friend brought it to my attention that I really hurt her feelings...during the course of our scrapbooking weekend I offended her. I am glad she said something, I truly did not realize my comments upset her...and I feel badly about that...but now, I am upset. So, I did not sleep very well last night (couple that with staying up to watch Desperate Housewives, and then getting up for work at 3am) and my Monday did not start off too well. While driving to work at 3:30am, I hit and killed a little bunny...oh ya! I did, and I am a wreck about it...what a great start to the week!

So, without whining anymore, here is my dinner menu for this week. And, um, no, we are not having any rabbit dishes! You can find lots of other meal ideas at Menu Plan Monday entries at I'm an Organizing Junkie.

Monday - Chicken drumsticks with corn peas and rice

Tuesday - Green Curry Shrimp with mixed veggies and couscous

Wednesday - Crockpot Mexican Pork - Recipe below

Thursday - Spaghetti and meatballs

Friday - Vegetable Quinoa with Tilapia

Crockpot Mexican Pork

1 pound pork boneless loin roast – cut into 1" pieces
1 20 oz jar salsa
1 4oz can chopped green chiles -- drained
1 15oz can black beans -- rinsed and drained
1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese -- if desired

Mix pork, salsa and chiles in 3 1/2 to 4 quart slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat setting 6 to 8 hour or until pork is tender. Stir in beans. Cover and cook about 5 minutes or until hot. Sprinkle with cheese.

1 serving = 345 calories/Fat 10g/Cholesterol 75mg/Sodium 900 mg/Carbohydrate
37g/Fiber 10g/Protein 37g
Weight Watcher's Points = 6

Warm Temps & appropriate gift ideas

2009-03-15T21:22:00.004-04:00

The weather here in Ottawa is sensational!

Today it was 7 degrees above zero...GOR-GEEEEEE-OUS!!!!

So, as I drove around town today with my sun roof opened, my thoughts shifted to summer soccer. The season starts after the May 24 weekend. Oh! I am sooooo excited. Only one of my summer soccer pals has even known about my weight loss journey - let alone seen me!!!! They will be shocked with my 70+ pound loss! I am so excited to play to my potential again!

So, gift suggestion # 28 for my 40th birthday would definitely be shiny, new soccer boots. These ones would be perfect!

There I was driving to soccer this evening, all excited about new soccer boots, and the warm setting sun was glaring into my eyes. Yep. That got me thinking. I have never owned a nice, designer pair of sunglasses. So, for gift idea # 26 I would like to suggest a new styling pair of specs!

The weather is suppose to stay warm for the next few days - the boys start March Break tomorrow...we have a super fun week planned...cannot wait to share our adventures!

Have a great week!

Training Hoping Running Smiling

2009-03-14T23:22:00.001-04:00

I figured 38 minutes.

I hoped for 34 minutes.

I ran for 33.06 minutes.

I am still smiling.

Monday I start my training for a 10KM race in May...let's hope I am still smiling!

Thank you everyone for all your support. LOVE IT! LOVE YOU!

Fitness Friday - Prep for fun!

2009-03-13T11:05:00.003-04:00

OK! My race is tomorrow morning at 9:15am. It is a nice route along Colonel By Drive (and Rideau Canal) from Pretoria Bridge to the Bronson Bridge and back. It is calling for a nice 3 degrees Celsius with cloudy skies. I think it will be nice running conditions.

Here are a few photos of the area where the race is being held:

I am taking it easy today. I have had a long, tiring week and need to rest up for what is for sure going to be a great weekend.

Here is a list of things I need to get organized for tomorrow morning:

- Pick up race kit

- Attach shamrocks to my running pants and coat as part of my costume (!?!?!)

- Drink lots of water

- Place out all my running gear

- Bake my shamrock cheesecake and chocolate chip cookies (2 batches of each!)

- Buy a new blade for my straight cutter

- Organize and pack all my photos

- Pack up all the ingredients to make the most fabulous scrambled egg breakfast ever!

- Get all my scrapbooking materials packed up and into the car

- Place my parent's house key on my key ring

- Pack my over night bag

- Pack my soccer gear for my game on Sunday afternoon

It is incredible all the things you need to do before running a 5k race!!!

Oh! Did I mention that, after my big race, 4 of the most wonderful ladies are meeting me at my parent's house about 45km away (away from work, hubby and the kids) for a girls' scrapbooking weekend! The funny part is growing up I NEVER disobeyed my parents and hosted a party in their absence!!! No, I think I did it right....no teenage party will ever out do a kidless, free, scrapbooking weekend away!!!!

Oh ya! No matter how I feel during or after my race, no matter my finishing time, no matter the weather, no matter what, this is going to be a great weekend!!!! (If I survive it!!!)

In honour of this bound-to-be-great weekend, I present to you birthday gift ideas # 29 and # 28:

29) I would soooo love a long sleeve running shirt that would be perfect for Ottawa spring weather. Something like this:

28) And as I move forward with my transition from strictly traditional scrapbooking to a hybrid form of mixing traditional and digital scrapbooking, I would totally appreciate a year membership to Heritage Makers. The extremely lovely Kristen from Mighty Morphin' Mama is a consultant and introduced me to her product line - it totally rocks and I think it would be a super cool addition to my scrapbooking tool set. Not only does the Heritage Makers' annual membership make my list of 40 gifts for my 40th birthday, but Oprah named it one of her favorite things too!!!! (Go check it out! Then, after you fall in love with it you can order one membership for me, and then treat yourself too!)

Wish me luck for my big debut race...Irish luck that is!!!!

Have a wonderful and great weekend...I know I will for sure!!!!

Five Exotic Foods to Try!

2009-03-12T10:59:00.005-04:00

When visiting foreign or exotic locations, I recommend trying some of the local fare. This has always been my philosophy when traveling.

I remember back in 1999 I was travelling through Africa. What a wonderful trip! (yesterday's post got me thinking of that life-altering adventure!)

Usually we were camping, and would go to the local market and get our food items and our cook would help us cook traditional or regional dishes over the camp fire. When we did go into restaurants, I was amazed at how often the other in my group would order "familiar" foods. Locals knew this and would usually offer a few options that they tried to pass off as British fare, North American inspired, or whatever.

When I ate in a restaurant, I would usually review the menu and then ask the server/cook/guy at the table next to me what they would suggest. I would strike up a conversation and find out what the locals usually ate. I would ask them to make me something - anything - they would make and eat. Well, let me tell you - very rarely was I ever disappointed. Plus, amazing conversations were initiated and I had the time of my life. And while my co-travellers paid top dollar ($3-$5) for their dish, I usually got a huge ethnic meal for $1.00!

One day on Prison Island - just off the coast of Zanzibar - a small group I was with stopped for lunch. It was pouring rain and there was but one building on the island - and it offered a few plates. The three gals with me immediately decided to have the chips and eggs. All three were from the UK and all three were so happy to have some "home-style" food.

I scanned the menu. Then asked the waiter for item # 2 - nope, he had no meat and the water was too rough to go to the main land. I then thought maybe item #4 - nope, all out. He suggested the Chips and Eggs!!!!

I then told the server to have the cook surprise me. He left, a bit confused. I heard him chatting in the kitchen, then he returned, he asked me if I liked fish. I replied yes. So he disappeared again. A very heated discussion went on for a few moments behind the closed door.

The door swung open.

Out came a little boy - no older than 7 or 8. He was carrying a spear and was dressed in a pair of "gauchies". He growled at me and then stomped off into the pouring rain towards the shore line.

Five minutes later he stomped back - waved his spear at me in an angry gester. Three very colourful fish wiggled by my face. The boy huffed off, dripping wet.

About 10 minutes later the server/owner/cook/father came out. My friends had very greasy, soggy potatoes with a scrambled egg on top. They were not impressed with the look, taste or smell.

I, in comparison, had one of the best meals of my life. Oh, my plate was piled high with some sort of rice/grain and vegetables and fruit - and three lovey seared fish. I thanked the man and then invited him and his son to come share my feast.

We all became fast friends - even the little guy warmed up to me! (perhaps my peace off of my baseball cap coaed him a bit!) Through broken English, gestures, grunts and pointing, we had a wonderful conversation. And the food was amazing!

Anyways - I just thought today's topic would be the joys of trying new food!

So, that said, if you ever come to The Fringe, be sure to ask to have our own domestic fare.

Here are a few Fringe domestic favorites:

1) Anway Ice Ilk

Translation: Anderson's Rice Milk

This is a new favorite for Madigan and she seems to prefer it to regular cow's milk an can tell the difference when you try to fool her!

2) Long S'getti

Translation: Spaghetti
DJ would eat this dish every day if he could. He especially likes it when meat balls form happy faces or if there is about a pound of shrimp mixed into the sauce!

3) Crappy Dinner

Translation: Kraft Dinner
All three kids love this staple. To get fancy we sometimes add cut up hot dogs or chopped up spinach and frozen veggies or even a can of tuna or a can of baked beans. It is best received when a huge happy face made out of ketchup is present!

4) Naked Bagels
Translation: Blueberry bagel with nothing on it
This is Anderson's breakfast food of choice. Some mornings, he does ask to have it "cooked". Other mornings he wants a "Daddy Bagel" which is a blueberry bagel toasted with Strawberry Lite Cream Cheese or a "Kid's bagel" which is a raisin and cinnamon bagel toasted with regular cream cheese.

5) Raisin Brown

Translation: Raisin Bran Cereal
Every morning DJ and Daddy sit down to a heaping bowl of Raisin Brown - there are two scoops of raisins in every box, don't cha know!

So, what foods do you eat in your neck of the woods??????

Quick Weight Update: At my weigh in last night I was down another 2.5 pounds. So, on Weight Watchers I have lost 5.5 pounds - bringing my total loss to 72.5 pounds. YIPPEEE!

I am really enjoying WW. The short, informative meetings are so much better than the Weight Management Program meetings. And what is more, I find the program easier to follow - and a lot more "guilt-free".

With my old program there was no where to indulge - and as an emotional eater, I would feel guilty when I did not follow the calorie count exactly and that would lead to emotional eating which would lead to more emotional eating. Now, I seem to be having a few more treats, but I am careful to work them into my eating pattern and there is no long-lingering guilt. What's more, is that I continue to loose weight. And in the end, feeling good physically, emotionally and mentally while loosing weight is the best way to keep committed and focused.

OK - enough talk of food, yummy, sinful or exotic...it is now lunch time and I have three hungry little people to feed!!!

Bryce, Bryce Baby!

2009-03-11T07:50:00.004-04:00

Ok... are you now humming that annoying MC Hammer song from like a neon ago?!?!?!?

For 40th birthday gift suggestions # 32, 31 and 30 I am asking for some wonderful reading material.

I absolutely LOVE Bryce Courtenay. He is an amazing author - my favorite of all time.

If you have never read one of his wonderful works of fiction and non-fiction, then I HIGHLY encourage you to run, not walk, to your local book store or library and dive into a wonderful journey of discovery.

I started with The Power of One - and in 1999 I took a trip of a lifetime to 6 countries in Africa - all because this book touched me so much.

I have enjoyed all of his works - and recommend each and every one.

For my birthday, I would like to receive the following works:

Oh ya! These would definitely be a welcomed gift! (though 2/3 are not yet available in Canada - so, if you are in Australia or the UK - this could be an excellent option for your participation in the Great 40 Gifts for 40 years meme I have started in my own name!)

Bryce, Bryce Baby - I LOVE YOU!

Monday Menu Planning and Video Options

2009-03-09T17:47:00.005-04:00

Check out more Menu Plan Monday entries at I'm an Organizing Junkie.

I cannot seem to get my head around my menu plan for this week. On top of this struggle, I am not having a very good Weight Watchers day. I probably have eaten over my daily points...I have done the biggest no-no - I ate off the kids plates. But actually, my issues started way before lunch. Today I did not bring my pre-made steel cut oats to work - therefore no breakfast in the early hours. I got home from work at 8:30am and just started grazing. I even made rice crispy squares...though to by credit, I used 1/2 the butter and marshmallows and then used a mix of rice crispies and Kashi Go Lean and All-Bran. They are yummy!

So, even though I am sore tonight, I am going to go for a light jog. I figured I would job up to The Running Room and talk to someone about my up coming 10k clinic and then buy the socks I want for my birthday - and then jog down the road to the electronics store and look for the head set I want. No, do not roll your eyes or snicker at me. I must of checked the mail box a million times and these items have not yet arrived! So, yes, I am taking matters into my own hands!

OK - let's put an end to this food-failure day and come up with some yummy, good meals for the week:

Monday - Salmon Pin Wheels with noodles and long beans

Tuesday - Grilled Steaks with Chile, Cumin, Lime, and Scallions - a good site for diabetic food plan options

Wednesday - Daddy and Kids Pizza night as I have boot camp then Weight Watchers

Thursday - Broccoli-casserole - Love this site!

Friday - Baby romaine salad with assorted peppers, cherry tomatoes and grilled garlic-pepper shrimp

That's what is cooking on the Fringe....whatcha cookin' dis week???

Ok. Back to my 40 gifts in 40 days for my 40th birthday!

Gift Idea # 33

If I am going to eat over my Weight Watchers points, then I will have to up-the exercise options! Therefore, today's gift suggestion is the deluxe Turbo Jam video. I have the first one that includes a 20 minute cardio and a 40 minute sculpt program - but I have heard awesome things about this new offering:

Anyone try it yet? Any other suggestions? I usually rotate doing Turbo Jam, Tae Bo, and 30 Day Shed. Looking for something new and challenging!

House Calls

2009-03-09T08:52:00.005-04:00

On Friday DJ had his 5 year old check up and Anderson got a prescription!

DJ does not have the same family doctor as the rest of he family due to his complicated health concerns. His pediatrician, Dr. V-S, is currently on maternity leave and has a rotation of doctors taking her appointments.

Friday I took all three kids to DJ's afternoon appointment. The doctor was a very nice lady by the name of Dr. M. While Dr. M was checking out DJ she seemed a little preoccupied. Finally, she exclaimed, "How long has your other son had that cough? Does he has asthma? Is he in a doctor's care? Is he a patient us Dr. V-S?"

I told her Anderson had pneumonia this past summer and has never really gotten over it. His cough comes and goes - but usually comes and lingers. His energy level is extremely low and that for months I have brought his condition to the attention of our family doctor on three separate appointments. (our doctor is very hands off, that is why I originally started to go to him...but I was starting to get a bit concerned regarding his lack of intervention in the situation.)

Anyways, long story short, we went in for DJ's physical and left with Anderson being partially diagnosed with asthma and possibly pneumonia. Poor Ander is now on two different puffers. The good thing is that we noticed an immediate positive reaction to the meds, and I think Ander got his first cough-free night in a long, long time.

I was impressed on how the doctor took control and identified the problem (I would latter find out she is a principle at the lung clinic at the children's hospital). But was even more impressive was that she called us the next day to check how Anderson was doing on the medications. Not many doctors take the time to make "house calls" any more.

So, we are moving ahead with this treatment, and hoping Anderson's cough totally disappears, his energy returns and his sparkle shines again soon.

Writing about house calls of sorts - I went to a great birthday-slash-house warming party on Saturday night. It was great fun! The Veg Next Door has a fab-uuuuu-lous new home. There are two things I HATE - order envy and house envy - and well, I had house envy after seeing the large, spacious rooms! It really was a lovely family home.

My house-envy was subsided by friendly batter and conversation. I really only knew the hostess and one other dear friend - but met a ton a great people. Many of the attendees are runners and it was great fun to swap stories, ideas and training routines. The party was in a small town a little bit of a hike outside of Ottawa, and the weather was not the greatest - but my girlfriend and I car pooled and we had a great drive. I am one lucky gal to have such great friends.

Well, off to make lunch....oh! darn - forgot to do Menu Plan Monday....ok - will get to it soon!

Have a great Monday my dear bloggy friends!

Gift Wish # 34 and 33

2009-03-09T07:28:00.003-04:00

These two items are also on my 40 gift wish list.

Early bird packages are welcomed, since well, I would like both items for my run on Saturday!!!

Please do not all volunteer at once! There are still 32 more gift suggestions to come - everyone will have an opportunity to shower me with gifts for my upcoming 40th birthday!

Friday Fitness & Gift Idea # 35

2009-03-06T10:02:00.004-05:00

Fitness wise, I was doing great until Thursday morning...my Wednesday night Boot Camp did me it!

I can always count on Boot Camp to be a GREAT work out - but this week it was really tough and I am sure feeling it! The instructor's philosophy is that simple, hard work will work. Most classes we use one free weight and a mat - that is it. He is a great fan of the basics like push ups, squats and jumping jacks.

This week he was a bit peeved that the maintenance people buffed the floors. In fact, he was fearful that if we did our regular running circuit, someone would slip and fall. So, we all cheered when he informed us that running between circuits was a no-go! Little did we know that running would be replaced with, oh, about one million lunges!

The work out was pretty simple: I worked very hard...and now I hurt! Besides having that nice bad feeling in my legs, core and arms, my old (serious) hip injury flared up. The Advil and Tylenol are helping and I hope to do a light jog this evening. I am going to save my race practice run for Sunday.

I am getting excited about my road race on March 14. I am also getting a bit nervous. I do not feel as prepared as when I did a race - way back in 2001.

I am trying to focus on the reason I am doing this race. I am NOT doing it to get my best time ever. I am doing it just to say I did it! I am doing it to prove that I am on the right track in terms of combining healthy eating and exercise to create a positive, sustainable lifestyle.

I am working hard at mentally accepting where I am at in my fitness journey and taking time to enjoy this time as a success. It will not be a great finish time - I know that - I am slower, and still much bigger than I was last race day. I am trying to focus on the journey and not just each step.

I have 8 training days remaining. Taking all the wonderful advise I got from all of you, I made up the following training plan:

Saturday - Ski day with family (will be waling up and down the hill about a million times!)Sunday - 6km run at a 10 min run/1 minute walk interval pattern.
Monday - 4.5km run with one walk break

Tuesday - walk to local coffee shop to meet a dear friend!

Wednesday - Boot camp

Thursday - Lane swim (gotta start training for my "Try-a-Thon" in May!)

Friday - REST!

Saturday - St Paddy's Day Road Race - 5KM!

Sunday - Soccer game! (so excited, I am playing for a new team!)

So, based on how sore I a right now and how I anticipate I will feel when I finish my first 5k race, I happily present birthday gift suggestion # 35:

I would LOVE a nice big, jet tub to escape into and unwind. (Un)Fortunately, based on our current bathroom set up, redecorating and redesigning would have to be part of the gift!!!

Now, if a new bath with a jet tub is not doable, then I would make due with this outdoor set up. Yep. I could make due with that!!!!

Oh, baby either of those would ROCK!!!!

PS. I have never been one to write gift lists, and you know, I am having fun doing this one...maybe every year I will repeat my 40th and create a new list! It is fun to wish, hope, dream and hint!

Yawn! Gift Wish # 36

2009-03-05T17:17:00.009-05:00

Yawn...a co-worker took this week off for bereavement reasons. So, instead of working my regular 4am to 8am shift, I am working 3am to 9am. Not only are my hours longer, but due to the fact that I am getting up at 2:30 in the morning and I am doing the work of two people - and hitting all my daily deadlines I am stinky-tired! Stinky-tired, I tell you!

My days are long, but for the most part, daily life with the kids has been going well. I am proud that my lack of sleep, work-overload mode, and busy evening workout schedule has not caused me to loose my temper, be short with the kids or slack in my parenting.

Yes, I am tired - but for the most part, mornings with Madigan have been going well and afternoons with all three kiddies have been fun, active and good humoured.

I really think that my weight loss and improved fitness level have improved my coping mechanisms. I am stronger, healthier and more agile. All positive aspects in coping with daily life, and with parenting.

Yet, another reason why I am proud of my weight loss journey so far.

So, this brings me to the next item on my 40th birthday gift wish: I would simply LOVE a new, romantic bedroom.

Currently, we have mismatched, hand-me-down furniture - my dresser is in rough shape. There is no style or decor in the room...unless you count the piles of clothes, discarded toys and books and cat posts. A sexy, relaxing, wonderful bedroom, I do not have! No welcoming bedding, no colour on the walls, only a black out blind on the window and a disheveled, unorganized closet.

I would simply love to redo our bedroom to look like this:

...or something like this:

...oh, ya!

Either of these sweet rooms would make for a

sweet birthday gift, and even sweeter dreams!

Weight Loss Milestone and Gift Wish # 37

2009-03-04T09:24:00.008-05:00

My Journey thus far:

September 5, 2008 = 245.5 pounds

March 4, 2008 = 175.6 pounds

70 pound weight loss!!!!!

Last night I hit a huge milestone in my weight loss journey. I had originally set the goal of loosing 70 pounds in 52 weeks...and I did it in 27 weeks!

My new goal is to loose the final 30 pounds and then maintain my weight between 145 and 150.

When I started this journey I was addicted to junk food, fatty foods and huge helpings...now, I am addicted to exercise magazines and healthy cooking magazines.

So, for gift wish number 37 I would love a subscription to one, or all of the following:

Do you know any great magazines I should add to my list???? Let me know!!!

Tipping the Scales - and T Minus 38 days

2009-03-03T13:49:00.004-05:00

This evening is my last "regular" Weight Management meeting. No more weekly hospital meetings. I now go into "self preservation mode". Instead of weekly group meetings and weekly doctor meetings, I will monthly doctor meetings and get to choose 6 sessions to attend in the next 6 months. 27 weeks have flown by! I still remember the apprehension I felt applying, committing and starting the program.

Initially, I thought the 12 weeks of of "no food" was going to be the hard part - but really, it was the transition and now, daily living. I NEVER want to go back to where I was - and I am so afraid of that happening. I do not want to be "that girl". You know, that poor girl who worked so hard to take off all the weight, only to put it all back on...and then some.

I have the potential to be that girl - and that scares me. But may, just maybe I can capitalize on that fear and keep focused and committed.

I have seen the results of weight loss. I feel great - I have so much more energy - I am see the benefits in all aspects of my life.

I am super proud of my commitment and hard work - and I still see areas I need to improve. I want to eat healthy. I want to live healthy. And, I think that desire will help me realize my ultimate weight loss goals and it will help me stay committed to this entire lifestyle change.

I hope it does...

I am sure there will be a strange feel in the meeting tonight. Most of us are not done our weight loss journey - and I think we all feel a bit nervous, anxious and tentative to be "on our own".

At the same time, I know that I am looking to define, follow and keep to a new lifestyle. I am confident that Weight Watchers will help me to get there and stay there.

My Weight Management Program with the liquid diet component taught m so much. I am walking out of the program with invaluable knowledge, acceptance and know-how. I am grateful to the program, and more specifically to the leaders - but my journey does not end, just because my program ends.

Thank you to everyone who has been following my journey. Thank you for your support. I hope that you will keep reading, commenting, inspiring, encouraging and cheering me on - I will never be able to properly express my gratitude.

OK - now, back to our Birthday Gift Count Down.

Drum Roll......at Number 38, my wish would be to get a little wave runner...a nice leisure and recreational vehicle.

This is the model I fell in love with at the Ottawa Boat Show this past weekend.

Anderson appreciated the fine steering and power of this fun-machine...

DJ could picture himself catching some rays and hitting some waves...

Madigan and Mommy were envisioning all the fun our entire family could have

enjoying this wonderful gift!!!

(and Daddy was salivating and drooling all over the place!!!)

Hee hee... no where in the rules does it say all 40 gifts have to be realistic...they can be the stuff dreams are made of!!!!