A New Creation

About to open a new blog...

2010-10-22T15:01:00.000-07:00

Just to make things that much more complicated I am permanently moving this blog to another location.

If you like, please add this website to your google reader!

http://web.me.com/heidimarie/ANewCreation/Blog/Blog.html

Thanks,

Heidi

It's the Dad Life.

2010-08-15T20:53:00.000-07:00

Strawberry Goodness

2010-08-10T13:52:00.000-07:00

Lately shopping is pretty much the last thing I have time to do. My usual shopping time is about 2.5 minutes in a store before my kids start to fall apart. So thank goodness for online shopping. But today I had a rare opportunity to shop! After spending part of the morning with a friend at the mall's play area, and then lunch, the boys were in fine form to spend a bit of time shopping. We whipped in and out of Gymboree, Children's Place, Baby Gap and....Janie and Jack. All to look and see what is out there.

This is out there.

Oh my. I almost contemplated the effects that buying this jacket for Noah or Luke would have on them, but I stopped myself before going any further with that thought (mostly because the sales lady was showing me another CUTE dress so I was distracted). From someone who grew up in a rainy province rain coats, gumboots and hats are not just a cute accessory, no they are a necessity! And if only they made sweet strawberry rain jackets in my size, you bet I would be wearing one proudly on the two days that it rains here in Arizona.

Oh and this is the dress that the sales lady was showing me. Sigh, such sweetness.

All found at Janie and Jack.

La Coffee Shop

2010-08-04T14:26:00.000-07:00

It's a really good thing that I don't currently have cable in my house. I am a total Food Network nut. Diners, Drive In's and Dives? Love it. Ace of Cakes? Amazing. But one thing I did discover the last time I watched Food Network (the family cabin does have cable) was Cupcake Wars! Oh boy. I love cupcakes. I was so excited that I may have ignored all of those around me for the hour that it was on.

Even more exciting was the fact a local girl was one of the competitors; she is the owner of that little coffee shop right beside Joe's Farm Grill. They even won! So in all of my excitement I decided that a fun family outing last night would be to head out and try one of these delicious cupcakes.

Now I am so sad to say this but, so disappointing. Tragically so. My cupcake euphoria basically was shattered upon entering the store. They had three. That's right THREE cupcakes left, all of the same kind, and looking oh so sad in the display area. The man who served us must have also been tragically sad because he was very hostile towards us or was it the lack of cupcakes that made him so? And then when he gave us the runt of the litter AND charged us an exorbitant amount of 3.50 for one cupcake (wish I had a photo of hubby's face during that whole exchange). All hope of a yummy cupcake was dashed. How could I even enjoy this? I had no choice, the guy wasn't all that friendly and upon eating the cupcake? It was almond flavored. Oh sad.

The best part of the whole experience (hey have to look on the bright side right?). Was Noah was able to run off all of that sugar (he ended up eating most of the cupcake) and we had some great time as a family.

La Coffee Shop (I know it's not the name, but I don't want for them to google find me) big thumbs down.

Next time? Sprinkles in Scottsdale!

Hangers

2010-08-02T14:57:00.000-07:00

I saw this idea on this blog. I loved the idea of making decorative hangers as well as the closet organizers as gifts. Original, very easy, and too cute for words. I went with a theme for the hangers that has been on my mind lately. I refuse to redecorate the nursery for the sole reason that I don't want to drive my hubby insane but if I could I would redo it into a wood/forest animals theme. Couldn't you just see L surrounded by owls, trees and birdies, (oh my!)?

This is where I got my cute little friends "The Green Stack" by DCWV. I just cut them out one evening (takes a bit of patience and a pair of scissors that can cut small details) and modge podged them onto the hangers!

Photo Jewelry

2010-08-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

Oh I am so in love with photo jewelry. I had no clue whatsoever how to actually put it together but the internet is a beautiful thing for those of us who love to craft! Many bloggers are wonderful enough to post their how to's and I get to learn through them how to make sweet things like a photo pendant.

What inspired me to make this was a project that my mother in law's bead store sent me two packages of Swarovski crystal flatbacks. We were to then create a variety of projects for the store to showcase how crystals can be utilized. Um hello? I would say that is right up my creative alley!

Now it is time to make another with Noah's photo!

A fun, and quick, project.

2010-05-10T15:42:00.000-07:00

I spent this afternoon enjoying two boys napping, some time reading, and a quick decorating project. I have been inspired lately by the lovely Heather to add to my evolving craft room. I sort of got stuck a while back and even though it is a functional room, it wasn't quite decorated the way I would like. So inspiration struck and I had a spare hour and this is what emerged. Now I just need to find time to make the top one! If you are interested I can pass along a short tutorial. And then you can see how easy, easy these are. I may just need to make some for Lukey's room....

Teaching him young...

2010-05-10T15:34:00.000-07:00

The never ending pile of laundry. So I am teaching Luke young. He seems to be catching on. Fold baby fold!

Friends

2010-05-04T21:10:00.000-07:00

We have great friends in Victoria, Janis and Nathan, who actually will be coming to visit this coming Sunday! I just saw on her blog a link to their latest accomplishment. Nathan is a sculpture (and currently my Dad is working for him!) and it is always so amazing for us to see his latest sculpture.

If your interested here is the link:

http://5littlescotts.blogspot.com/2010/05/freedom-of-city.html

And a wonderful picture of him with his daughter, Acacia.

http://www.timescolonist.com/life/Thousands+celebrate+navy+100th+anniversary/2984816/Gallery+Navy+Celebrations+Homecoming+statue/2986407/story.html

Metal Stamping

2010-05-04T15:02:00.000-07:00

This has been something that I have wanted to try out for a while. It took a bit to gather the right tools, and metal stamps, but yesterday I gave it a go. A lot of tries, a lot of whacks (still needs perfecting) and some major mistakes. Thankfully though when it was time to try it for real, not on a piece of practice metal, it worked wonderfully.

More to come on this fun subject. I need some more practice!

A boy and his bear...

2010-05-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

Sweet sleep.

Check out our family blog for more updates.

Tutu Hair Elastic

2010-04-30T18:22:00.000-07:00

I just had to! I was also thinking for those of you that have girlies who love barbies...wouldn't this make a fun tutu for your barbies/dolls? Just use the leftover tulle, cut it the length you like and a smaller width, tie it around some elastic (or ribbon) and voila! A doll tutu!

To make the hair elastic I just grabbed my own hair elastic, cut the length of the tulle down to around 7 or 8 inches, tied the tulle around the elastic (just like the tutu) and there you have it! Easy, inexpensive and super fun.

Hair Clips

2010-04-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

It is a beautiful day here in Arizona. My doors are open, I spent most of the morning outside, and now my wonderful mother-in-law just whisked Noah away for the day. So that means Luke and I get ample time to cuddle and play, but it also means I get many hours to clean, craft and blog! Yay for me, and yay for grandparents, so onto my first project I have been obsessed with.

Flowers! This craft project is so simple and has gorgeous results! I had found, at Michaels, a small packed of these flowers for over 4 dollars. They were meant for hair clips (and had feathers attached) but were no where near as pretty as the ones I saw on this blog. And so I thought I can accomplish that. She suggests on her blog to make them with certain fabrics (I believe tulle, satin and organza) and I would agree. Since I did try other fabrics and well they curled up and died on me (you must see the blog to understand why!) I have dabbled a bit in the world of beading so I had these Swarovski pearls already on hand for the flowers middle. I think they make them elegant, next try crystals!

So there you have it. The day is now almost over, I got to have a wonderful afternoon cuddling Luke who, by the way, burst out laughing today. So fun!

Tutu

2010-04-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

Oh I am in love with this tutu! Which comes as a surprise because the other day when I finished it I sort of was ho hum about the whole thing. It took me no time to complete, so it wasn't the time factor, it was fun to do (all except cutting the tulle), and I loved the outcome. But honestly I wasn't about to make anymore until I saw this picture! Oh my it is cute. Can you not just see it on a sweet little girl?

And no I did not make my son try it on (I was tempted). But I do have a fun little girl in mind, who lives in Canada, that will love it. And it happened to just be her birthday this month.

Here is where I found the instructions to make it.

Here is the cost of the tutu!

A lazy Sunday afternoon...

2010-04-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

I have been planning on making a ribbon holder for a friend who just had a little girl but could not decide on which ribbon to use. Well I fell in love with this strawberry ribbon when I saw it the other day! I love all berry themed craft items, must be from my obsession with Strawberry Shortcake as a child, so I knew that I had found my theme once I saw it! And voila! A lazy Sunday afternoon and it is made...

ps: I am also hoping to add some rhinestones to the berry seeds.

New Project

2010-04-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

I am not sure why I ended up with pink tulle in my shopping basket? We shall see what comes of it!!

Birthday Party

2010-04-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

My hubby's birthday happened to land on easter Sunday this year. We had a wonderful day celebrating Resurrection Day as well as K. 39 (!!!!) Birthday.

So the big question was what I should make for his birthday cake? He is a chocolate man so I knew that I would make chocolate cake but what else? Well in the end I combined a few of his favourites (okay really there is one dessert he LOVES; coconut chocolate cheesecake from Cheesecake Factory) and voila a chocolate, cream cheese frosted, coconut cupcake. Oh and some little eggs on top! Yummy.

Here is where the inspiration came from.

Happy Birthday Love!

One more thing, if you are a fan of cupcakes this blog is wonderful. They just posted an idea for cupcakes in a jar. Would love to try it-any birthday's coming up?

Long Absences

2010-04-12T15:05:00.000-07:00

There are reasons why you have to sometimes put the crafts away and focus on other things. I would say having a little baby is one of those! Sweet little boy.

But as we celebrate L. being three months old this week I think the time has come that I might, just might, have some extra time to craft again. I can't wait.

H.C.

The latest Cassaday happenings...

2009-10-22T16:07:00.000-07:00

Pinetop

Our fun day and

Prescott

Happy Anniversary

2009-10-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

Our third anniversary....

Pics are here.

We have something to share!

2009-07-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

It is someone we have never met.

It takes about nine or ten months to finish.

It has now happened twice to us.

What is it? Click here.

Blog of the Week

2009-05-31T19:17:00.000-07:00

I guess that I have lost some of you, since moving to a new blog and the long, long absences in between posts. But I do promise that I will be more faithful to blog so check my new site out

here. I have recently posted some pictures of Noah through his first year AND some birthday shots!

Take care!

Noah's Hair cut

2009-04-30T14:13:00.000-07:00

Just added some new pics on my new blog! We finally got Noah a hair cut.....

Click here.

New Blog

2009-04-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Hello! I have recently made the switch to another blog so please add my new blog address to your list if you would like!

Here it is!

Tucson

2009-04-09T16:09:00.001-07:00

Does anybody know of a good place to stay in Tucson? I am trying to find a neat but reasonable place (hotel, resort or b&b) but seem to be coming up with nothing! Any tips? I would love them.

Another one!

2009-04-07T22:28:00.000-07:00

For Nana and Papa

2009-04-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

Nap Time!

2009-03-30T10:20:00.000-07:00

Noah is a great sleeper. I can not complain, whine or even suggest that he is not. The boy sleeps through the night and I am VERY thankful for that. But lately our daytime naps have been, shall we say, non existent. Yesterday he spent one hour in his crib playing, singing, calling out and throwing his paci's overboard. Finally I looked at Kelly and said maybe he isn't tired (what gave you that idea?). So we got him up, took him to church and gave him to the wonderful nursery workers to handle him. They said he did great (??).

On Saturday I had such fun going yard sale shopping (that is for another post) but again no nap for Dad. I think Kelly even resorted to laying down with him. Which I can see as being disastrous since Noah thinks that if you are cuddling with him that gives him ample opportunity to hit your face, pull your hair and then squirm and grunt to get over the side of the bed. Fun!!

So I do believe that our little man is heading to the one nap a day scenario. Even though I have been told he is too young. I guess we shall just wait and see. Until then I am glad he does not cry while in his crib. Rather he finds many things to entertain himself; primarily the bumper (which I did eventually put back into the crib-good thing eh?!).

Curling Championships

2009-03-18T09:25:00.001-07:00

My sister and I, along with Noah, were able to see the final game of the Tournament of Scott's in Women's Curling. It was not normally something that we would do (hello? curling?) but my grandparent's are avid fans (do not even try to talk to my Grandma when someone is throwing a rock) and they had the tickets which they could not use, so off we went! I was so excited and you can imagine my double excitement when I entered the arena to see scads of people wearing foam shaped curling rocks on their heads. Oh the joy's of sports! It makes normally modest people dress up like crazy, rock wearing fans! I wanted one.

Curling may not be a sport many people watch (I had a lot of people say to me, did you know curling was even in the Olympics!? I think that makes it more acceptable)but it does have a certain fun, shuffle board like drama to it. And boy those ladies can make plays I did not even think were possible.

I must admit that taking a baby to a curling game may not have been the brightest idea since it seems that when they are in play people generally get quiet. And Noah, well he is NOT quiet, especially when he has people sitting all around him. He seems to need to yell at those around him to get there attention....gulp. We started to feel the stares of unhappy seat mates. So we moved. And still felt the stares of unhappy people. So then we walked around with him (my excuse to try and find a hat). Unfortunately we had to leave early but it was a pretty 'exciting' game (according to my family) I would not know since I have no idea about the rules or what a good play is in the game of curling. I just know that the lady on one team yelled 'Hard, REALLLY HARD" a lot.

My craziest moment of this curling 'experience' was when a volunteer security ( I use this term loosely) guy came up to me, put his death grip on my shoulder and started to talk to me about not using the flash on my camera during the tournament. I was okay with 'please don't use your flash' but he seemed to think that possibly I was the most rebelious person in the arena and I needed the five minute lecture on flash usage. He even went into a long story of "the other day so and so on such and such team stopped in the middle of their play to ask that people please (those curlers are polite, other athletes may have inserted profanities into this part) stop using their flash". I kept saying to him, okay thank you I will turn it off, but no that did not seem to deter him. He then went on to say that "you know in this arena you don't even need flash because the pictures turn out fine without it." Finally he felt like he had done his duty and left. I turned in my seat, very embarrassed by this time, to look out into the audience to see dozens of flashes go off. Boy that poor 'security' guy has a big job ahead of him.

More of our Trip....

2009-03-18T09:20:00.001-07:00

My mom's version of a pack and play. He was happy as a clam sitting in this box...

Auntie Tash and Noah at the curling game...this was before the 'flash' incident.
B.C. Curling team!
Mom and Noah eating lunch together.
Great Grandpa giving Noah a thrill of a lifetime. Riding on a scooter!

Noah and his Papa

2009-03-16T14:57:00.000-07:00

Some fun pictures....

2009-03-16T14:40:00.001-07:00

We had a lot of fun visiting my parent's so I decided to show some of my favourite pics....

Visiting with the Scotts: with five children that house is super busy! Noah would often just sit and watch while they ran, talked, and whirled around him. I had a wonderful time holding their newest baby, Charis, and visiting with Janis. I think this picture is so much fun because I know what Noah is doing, screaming at the top of his lungs, while Eden is probably feeling the pain of an ear piercing shreek!

My lovely friend Heidi! ( I love that we have the same name) She, her husband Steinar and sweet Annabelle came from Norway to visit their family and friends. We were lucky enough to see them! Again I was able to cuddle with their sweet little one (oh she is cute) while catching up with their lives. Noah had fun trying to lunge at Annabelle...notice I had to hold his hand.
Noah with his Grandpa.
Let is snow?????
Here he is all bundled up! I knew that our son is a desert boy after he would scream anytime we tried to put a coat, mitts or hat on.

Highlight: in Canada

2009-03-15T15:15:00.000-07:00

We had a lot of fun in Canada but I must admit that my number one highlight was discovering that Noah can crawl (a version of the army crawl). After months of wondering, agonizing and a variety of ploys to get him moving forward- he did it! I was pretty excited because Kelly and I were the first one's to witness it...he is starting to perfect his crawl this week because I have been baiting him with various objects that he loves, mainly the phone. Oh what fun do we have in store for us!

Bad 'Post'er

2009-03-12T08:46:00.000-07:00

My last post was on February 20? Shame on me. But now I get to update, update and update!

Noah's 9 Month Well Visit

2009-02-20T13:07:00.000-08:00

My it has been a long time since I have posted anything! I guess there has not been anything that is 'post' worthy happening in our lives. Though if I really think about it there has been much going on!!

Anyways, today was Noah's 9 month visit with our pediatrician and I was a bit nervous about it because well, he is still not moving!! I think as a new mom I still have these moments of sheer panic when my child is not meeting those milestones in the time that books or websites say they should be. Plus I have other children (cough cough) to compare him too. All that to say that during our visit I voiced my concern. She was very sweet about it, and by sweet I mean no lecture about his lack of tummy time, and said for me to call back in a month to see where he is at. Then they will look into it. He is strong all other places, but not his trunk. Personally I think he is on the verge of being overly content that even if a toy lays just out of reach he is not too concerned about getting it. He will just lay on his back and talk, babble, and scream. What a boy!!

Here are his stats (I find babies stats fascinating!)

Weight: 22.7 pounds (but it feel like 25 pounds)/75%

Head: No idea but it is the 50% (which I think can't be right because then that means 50% of children can not fit into the one size fits all hats?)

Height:28.5 inches/75%

We are so thankful that Noah is a growing, happy, and healthy little boy.

This explains everything.

2009-02-11T09:42:00.000-08:00

Advice

2009-02-10T08:19:00.000-08:00

So I am having a few problems with Noah's sleeping arrangement. I have this constant back and forth feeling on the whole crib bumper issue. I get concerned that he may roll into it and not be able to breathe (yes I am that type of person!!), so my answer to that dilemma was to put the crib bumper on the outside of the crib. Which worked beautifully! It caught all of the paci's that were about to fall out (with a little help from two chubby little hands), it was a wonderful 'view' blocker for my curious son's eyes, and well it just seemed to work. Until he woke up the other day with a slate indented face. I guess he had fallen asleep with his face up against the slates and when he woke up it had a nice red slate mark from the tip of his chin to his forehead. I cringed. Then put the bumper in the crib. Then late last night (midnight to be exact) I lay there wondering if it should be in the crib, maybe he would get all scrunched up against it (I am sure you can tell where my thoughts were going..) So I took it out, okay Kelly took it out, and I slept better for it.

Now some of you may be thinking I am one crazy, and overly concerned, parent but I guess that is the way I am! So if any of you have advice, think I should just leave the bumper in, or anything at all please let me know! I would appreciate it....

This is usually how I find Noah at the end of his nap...

2009-02-05T22:25:00.001-08:00

This is how I get our laundry done...

2009-02-05T22:10:00.000-08:00

Extreme Decorating

2009-02-02T21:10:00.000-08:00

Who knew it could lead to this? Last week I poked my finger on a piece of wire from the garland I was hanging; it was so small that I had to take it out with tweezers. Then two days later, many trips to the drugstore, two nights on the couch and two doctors visits later I have an infection (which was caused by this wire). I guess the lovely infection decided to make itself at home in my tendon and joint (painful!!) but I am thankfully on the mend. I just like to wear this now for the sympathy. Oh and the fact that my son always has some body part flailing around me at all times.

That's right. I bet no one ever thought of decorating as extreme or dangerous.

Elianna, Taylor and Noah Hanging Out

2009-01-29T10:37:00.000-08:00

Confessions of New Mom

2009-01-29T07:47:00.000-08:00

Okay so there are times that I let Noah play with my gum package while I am on the computer. It keeps him happy while I check on my emails. I realize that there are gobs of toys sitting out in the other room for him to play with but somehow he always ends up with the gum package. Today while he was sitting, happily shaking the package, I all of a sudden heard a very happy, very loud sucking noise. Yep that's right somehow he managed to get the package opened and a piece of strawberry gum into his mouth. Needless to say a bit of a scary moment later and his first, and last piece for a long time, of gum was out of his mouth. You should have seen the look of dismay cross his face when he realized I had taken it. I guess his taste buds will never be the same...how will sweet potatoes taste any good after fake sweet strawberry?

2009-01-28T20:19:00.000-08:00

My many attempts to get a good 7 month shot of Noah...

2009-01-28T19:52:00.000-08:00

Number 1

Number 2
Number 3
Number 4
Number 5
Number 6
Number 7...the keeper!

Kiki's Korner

2009-01-25T21:45:00.000-08:00

Hey have you checked out Kiki's blog? She is having a free giveaway for one lucky winner. I love the necklace's and I have seen some of you ladies with one's similar! You are one fun lady Kiki and you have an exceptionally cute daughter.

www.hantla.com/kiki/

Fortune Cookie

2009-01-25T19:17:00.001-08:00

I am not a firm believer in the fortune's you find in fortune cookies. Except for tonight it got me a bit scared. While out at PeiWei Kelly and I both had a cookie, his said 'a small gift can bring joy to the whole family." Okay. Then mine said, "you will move into your dream home this year". Great so now I am moving and pregnant (I took the small gift to mean baby). Well I didn't like what mine said so I went back for another (hey if one fortune won't work?), and guess what one I grabbed? That's right, a small gift can bring joy to the whole family. Pregnant, with twins, and moving. I am never eating a fortune cookie again.

A little rhyme

2009-01-23T21:23:00.000-08:00

First Came Love...

and a very long journey, Kelly can truly say he went to the ends of the earth for this girl!
Then came a proposal (a bit fake, notice Kelly's wedding band, poor guy forgot to get down on one knee the first time around. So a year later he 'proposed' properly, I said yes, again?!)

Then Came Marriage....

Then Came Noah in a Baby Carriage...

Not the end but merely a snapshot of our life together so far.

The many do's of Noah Cassaday

2009-01-16T09:13:00.000-08:00

When it comes to Noah hands down the number the one thing that strangers comment on is his hair. Is it natural? Do I put mousse, gel, hairspray (honestly?) or hair products in his hair? It is so cool!!

His hair is one of those features that I can and do have a lot of fun with...check out the pictures below!!

The natural look.
The handsome, comb over, look.
If only I owned a skateboard look.
I could have been in that movie, playing Alfalfa, look.
Hello, I am Jack Nicholson, look. Minus the cigars, booze and girls, of course.

Guess what I found??

2009-01-11T14:19:00.001-08:00

Pictures from our Arizona Reception (last year!). Can you believe it has already been a year?My favourite shot is of Tonya with the Canadian flag in the back, too bad Mike wasn't standing with her:)

Hello Amy!!
The McCoy's, lovely flowers by the way.
I love this shot of the Caruso clan.
Herbrandson's, look how little Alyssa and Emily are!! Wow.
Thanks for coming!!

Last Night

2009-01-08T07:59:00.000-08:00

I do believe that our little one has entered the official teething stage. He has been gumming at his hands for months now but last night he woke up crying, twice, and could not be consoled. If you know Noah you can agree that this was not like him at all. Poor thing. But one good thing about it all was he finally cuddled with me. Usually he is too busy trying to look at anything that moves to even think of cuddling but last night he did. Too bad it was at midnight but I will take what I can get.

2009-01-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

"Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind?"

This line in the ever popular song, Auld Lang Syne, has been stuck in my head recently. I read through the lyrics and wondered, is this really a song that I sing with such energy and vigor each year (especially the Boney M version)? Should old acquaintance's really be forgot? I could not think of anyone I would want to sing that line to...until a small flashback suddenly appeared. Oh yes there are a few. And here they are. Please know that you are truly safe to read this because none of you, at least I am not naming names, have made my old acquaintance forgot list.

1) The lady who, while only in my seventh month of pregnancy, came up to me and announced rather loudly, wow you are HUGE.

Thank you. I had not noticed.

2) To that man who decides that is alright to run around our neighborhood in tight spandex shorts. Not a flattering look. Please invest in some LOOSE jogging pants.

3) To the man that sat next to me on an airplane. Even after you reassured me, a few times, that it was fine that he was sitting next to me and a crying baby, because he had noise reduction earphones, you still took the first chance handed to you to sit as far away from us as possible.

4) To the nurse that tended to us while I was in my 30 some hour of induced labor. I did not appreciate your tough love approach to the my situation/problem. I would rather of had the candy coated talk about things like, drugs, c-sections and goodness girl get some reality in that head of yours. (Seriously if I had my wits about me I would have fired her, pointed at her just like Trump, and say your FIRED get me a nicer nurse). PS, I did take the drugs and they were fun!!

5) To the security lady who took away my bath and body works soaps that I was taking to Canada, for my mom. I know you were nice about it and all but I was still pretty sad. And a little frantic since I was about to miss my flight. Oh well. I hope you are enjoying your lovely smelling soaps!!

6) (Seriously I am running out of people, must have been a great year!!) Last, but not least, to the man who kept telling me, only two more weeks of home renovations and were done. Okay so this is my husband, and I do not want to forget him but I would like to leave the nightmarish memories of home renovations behind in the year 2008!

Happy New Year, may it be filled with people you do not wish to forget:0)

Mom's Visit

2009-01-02T19:06:00.000-08:00

As some of you know my Mom decided to surprise us with a visit the week before Christmas. If you know my Mom this is a highly uncharacteristic of her to do, especially since she bought a ticket Monday and flew the next day to Phoenix. We were very grateful for her visit, and the fact that she even braved winter travel! Noah loved spending time with his Grandma. Thanks for the visit Mom!!

We had an early Christmas celebration with my Mom. Here Noah is opening his first stocking gift: pacifiers!! Notice how excited he is to get into them.
A safari shirt. My mom loves to find cool shirts for Noah.

Another fun adventure we went on. Zoo lights, on a Saturday night. Brave woman my Mom is.

Hiking

2009-01-02T18:57:00.000-08:00

Renee and I made the trek up Lost Dog Trail on Monday. I had bought myself, for Christmas, a hiking backpack for 40 dollars at the kids consignment store. I am so proud of that purchase that whenever I walk by someone who comments on the backpack, I have to use all restraint to not proclaim, 40 dollars!! That is all I paid!! And it even comes with a sun shield (which I forgot on Monday).

Anyways. I would just like to say that I am completely out of shape. Poor Renee had to suffer through my wheezing and slowness. But we did make it. And I do not believe what the map says, our trail should not be classified as 'easy'. They should try hiking that trail with a 20 pound child ( I am rounding up) and backpack (40 bucks!!) and see if they still think it's 'easy'.

Pacifiers

2008-12-28T15:05:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my husband told me a story. Before he began he said to me, I think this should go on the blog. Since he never says that I felt that I should honor his interest in my small obsession by writing this story.

So Kelly went out last night to pick up some dinner. He took Noah along with him to give me time to ?? I don't remember what I was doing, but anyways I always encourage little outings together. Gives Kelly perspective. So off they went to the restaurant. He said that once the food came he realized that he would have his hands full with the bag of food, Noah and opening the door to the vehicle. This would take all of his multi tasking talents. (I can totally relate) I could just picture him struggling to get the door open while trying not to drop child or food, when all of a sudden Noah takes the pacifier out of his mouth and pops it into Kelly's. Too funny...and he had no way to take this bright orange pacifier out of his mouth before someone sees him. I love it. Noah is starting to share early.

Oh and he says that they taste terrible and has no clue why Noah is in love with them.

Housekeeper

2008-12-18T14:32:00.000-08:00

I just hired myself a new housekeeper. She is cute, efficient and comes very cheaply; I only need to pay with hugs and animal crackers.

Surprise!

2008-12-17T21:47:00.000-08:00

My mom phoned me on Monday night to say that she would like to come and visit us, in Phoenix, tomorrow. WHAT?? Seriously!! I booked her a ticket that night for the following day and she is here now. Talk about completely out of the blue. And I would just like to mention (especially since she will read this) that I realize now why I sometimes go on crazy and random adventures. I once drove all the way to Nanaimo to get ice cream. That's right a full three hour drive to get the same ice cream I could have gotten in town. That was a random adventure; I also learnt all of the words to the veggie tales song 'The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything'. That was one long car ride to be able to get those song's lyrics under my belt.

Monday Night

2008-12-11T17:51:00.001-08:00

I was super excited when they announced that our Bible Study would be having an ornament exchange during our annual Christmas dinner. The guidelines were to be creative and bring an ornament that said something about yourself and we would give them to one another. So last family night Kelly and I went ornament shopping (that is another long tale) but we only came away with an ornament for Kelly. So I made one, a Canadian flag, out of beads. I thought, hey pretty creative Heidi, but I had no idea there were better more creative ornaments to be had.

So off we went on Monday to the ornament/dinner party. We ate, we talked and then we opened ornaments. I loved mine. Heather made it, it was so beautiful and creative. But, sadly, someone stole it (ahem Theresa) and I ended up with this.

That's right. It's a star with a lovely picture of Mike Caruso, the Filleman's three boys and a Bible. Oh and don't miss the gun and Diamondbacks Logo. (?????) And yes it actually sits on my tree (in the back) but it's on there! I look at it quite frequently and have a good laugh. I am pretty sure that I was not supposed to be the one who ended up with the Mike Star but that is the fun, and scariness of ornament exchanges. By the way Filleman's, I voted for you.

Celine Dion

2008-12-11T17:31:00.000-08:00

Yes, we went to the Celine Dion concert last Saturday! Kelly had bought the tickets last year as a Christmas present, he thought of doing this all on his own without any hints from me (actually I had no idea she was coming to town) and voila we were going. So last Saturday the big night finally came. We left Noah with his grandparent's and, sigh, had an evening to ourselves. I must admit she is a fun concert to go too; the only thing I was really, really disappointed about was that no one wanted to stand up. I must be used to going to concert's with a bit of a different demographic because I was itching to stand up, dance, and sing at the top of my lungs the whole time. But I sat, nicely, with the rest of them. I should have been a rebel and stood up, I so wanted to pound my chest while she sang the Titanic song.

This girl likes her shoes, and tiny dresses! I was impressed that she didn't trip walking around in those things!! She did show her undies though on the mega-screen; you would think someone would tell her??!!

My favourite Christmas shot...so far.

2008-12-05T08:25:00.000-08:00

Two cuties under the Christmas tree.

Bah Humbug

2008-12-03T22:32:00.000-08:00

So the Christmas season has officially begun in our household. The tree is up, the lights are lit, and I have just experienced my first frustrating shopping trip...

I decided to head over to Michael's to score on some of their deals. They were advertising Christmas decorations for 50 to 60 percent off and I wanted to check them out. Being the smart person that I am, I decide to go at the best possible time: right when Noah is his grumpiest, I have to pick Kelly up from work in 40 minutes, and I can't find any of the coupons I religiously save. So all ready circumstances are sketchy. But we were doing fine for all of five minutes and then boom, it's all over. Noah is done shopping and to let me know he keeps arching his back so he can slide out of his stroller (his new trick that I lOVE). So to give myself more time I hold him and try the pacifier trick. By this time I have long stemmed flowers on top of my stroller which makes it somewhat difficult to maneuver around people and merchandise yet I am still doing fine and I continue shopping.

I guess it all went downhill when I thought that buy a garland (have you ever tried to get one of those things off the rack with a baby in hand??) And by the time I made it to the garland's I had picked up Noah's paci for the hundredth time and (yes I do this) wiped it off so I could make him less noisy. I was sweating profusely from carting my son around, doing squats (involuntarily) and trying to avoid rather aggressive shoppers. I mean come on, do people not notice that I should obviously have exclusive shopping rights to the aisle that I am in?? And that pushing past me could result in serious injury?? Well the garland did me in; I couldn't move with garland in front and flowers in back and I was so blinking hot, so I chucked the garland on the floor (I am so sorry to those working in retail) and put the flowers in some bucket on the other side of the store and left. Yes Christmas has begun.

7 Random Things...and some are just embarrassing.

2008-12-01T11:51:00.000-08:00

1) I still have all four of my wisdom teeth! I had dental surgery, braces and retainers which made room for them. Yeah for me! And by the way it is true; having wisdom teeth does mean you have more wisdom. (Read following fact)

2) I once had a wardrobe malfunction, fell off a chair, and ran head first into a lady videotaping a high school dance performance. Which all happened in about an one minute time frame. I am still scared that I may see that fiasco on America's Funniest Home Video.

3) I was kissed by two different guy's on my 16 Birthday. Oh don't you want to know!!

4) I have caught a 27 pound spring salmon. And he tasted soooo good.

5) I have traveled to Disneyland with 9 children and a coworker from the Boys and Girls Club of Nanaimo, Canada. Believe me it is not the place where dreams come true when you have 9 children.

6) I once had a customer strip down to his briefs in a clothing store because he wanted me to see which pair of pants that I liked more. I was like a deer caught in the headlights. Where do you look and what do you say??

7) I dressed up as Posh Spice for a Millennium Party. You had to dress up as someone influential and I chose a Spice Girl?? I wore a black dress and a blue, furry bath coat that I had found at Value Village. Oh and we sang Spice Girl songs all night. I know what your thinking-invite that girl to a party!!

Cheerios

2008-12-01T08:33:00.001-08:00

Noah Update

2008-12-01T08:17:00.000-08:00

It is always fun for me to head off to the Doctor's for Noah's monthly appointments. I mean watching him get his shot's is torturous but the rest of it I love. I eagerly anticipate finding out how much he weighs, how tall he is and what percentile his head is in (85%, thank goodness for c-sections). Well this time he did not disappoint. Our little guy is growing up! He is now a record 18 pounds 11 ounces, measures at 26.5 inches and has one very big head!! No wonder all of those one size fits all hats never fit.

You realize how much they are changing when you head back to the doctor's office because things they never bothered with before (paper on the examining table) was not a problem. All objects within his reach or view was fair game: the doctor's stethoscope, the paper, his diaper, the paper (I know I keep mentioning this but they need to do something about that paper). I kept grabbing things out of his death grip and apologizing; like this doesn't happen all day for her. Next she mentioned that we probably should start thinking about baby proofing because he could be active the next time we see her!! AAHH. That is all I will say on that subject.

0 to 6 Months

2008-11-19T18:26:00.000-08:00

Noah turned 6 months old this week. We can't believe that our little one is now a half a year old!! We loved looking at his newborn pictures to now; he sure has changed.

Noah getting ready to leave the hospital.
This last Sunday at the park. Our big boy now likes to sit up in his stroller.

Formula Gut

2008-11-17T13:25:00.001-08:00

Who says that you can only have a beer gut?? It's still cute on a baby though.

Sunday: Fun in the Sun!

2008-11-17T13:08:00.001-08:00

Sunny days in the stroller. Who knew it could happen in the middle of November??
His new thing: sitting up in his stroller.
It seems that all children love finding and emptying diaper bags.
Not so happy about being in their car seat's.

Visitor's!

2008-11-17T13:04:00.000-08:00

Our friend Ellisha arrived on Saturday with her sweet boy, Malcolm. We are looking forward to spending the week together exploring the zoo, many kid's parks and even baby story time at the library. I think that I did not prepare Ellisha quite well enough because the last few days have been very warm and she keeps commenting that she would have brought SHORTS if she knew. Oops.

2008-11-14T11:40:00.000-08:00

Thanks Grandma for my cute pj's.

Organized or Crazy?

2008-11-12T11:34:00.000-08:00

I am not sure why I think doing big house projects before company comes is a smart thing to do but it seems to be a pretty common event in our household. Here was my latest project that I started on Friday and completed on Sunday afternoon: organizing our office and my craft closet...I am thankful for plastic bins, label maker's and my husband!

Before:

After:

Friends

2008-11-11T14:08:00.000-08:00

Kelly and I had some company for the past two days; our friends Darlene and Jeremy flew to Las Vegas, spent three days there, and then drove down to see us in Arizona. We were thrilled that they came and had a wonderful time together.

I took them for a rather adventurous hike at South Mountain (I had no idea that those hills have no trails off of them and once you are on them you are stuck!!) So we may have veered off the path after about three climbs (see picture above); I know the area said closed but I was fine with disobeying the park rules until a helicopter flew right over us. I was pretty scared that it was the park rangers coming to yell at us (you know like in the movies with megaphones) and then I realized, park rangers have helicopters? Maybe not.

I had Noah on my back for the first hill, my goodness he is heavy, eventually I had to pawn him off onto Jeremy. I am so out of shape.

Thanks for the visit Omstead's! I am so glad you came. And sorry Dar for not explaining the Ticket to Ride game very well; maybe that's why I won??

I know, you get it. I am Canadian.

2008-11-08T22:18:00.000-08:00

A little article I saw today and swelled with pride. Had to share it.

Cut and paste the link:

http://finance.sympatico.msn.ca/SavingsDebt/Canadian-products-we're-proud-of.aspx

Halloween!!

2008-11-03T20:57:00.001-08:00

Noah's first Halloween...

The Martin Boys! Such great costume ideas Sarah.

Emma: born to be Annie for Halloween.

Cool Harley Dude. Not sure if true Harley driver's suck on pacifiers and have monkey toys??

Such a sweet picture with Vanessa.

The Watne's!!
Noah in his motorcycle. I now know that my drawing skills are lacking; he was called Mickey Mouse and a hockey player by stranger's.
The mini Halloweener's (that can not be a word??) They are all so cute. Notice two are asleep and two just want to get down!!

Any Ideas??

2008-11-03T10:41:00.000-08:00

To my fellow Arizonians. I have a quick question for all of you. I have two sets of company coming to visit in the next two weeks and I have been trying to think of fun ways to spend our time together. Our first visitor's are a married couple (no kids) and will only be here two days. Any ideas as to what would be the best to see in that short amount of time? Our next visitor's are a Mommy with her eighth month old son. I have a few more ideas of what we can do but I am wondering if any of you know of an indoor aquatic center or something fun that would appeal to that age?! Thanks!!

Arizona State Fair

2008-10-30T21:18:00.000-07:00

Yeah for State Fairs!!
Noah chilling with his Daddy. I love that he is asleep with one hand on his pumpkin hat and his other arm is cradling his soother.
Another crazy ride...I am starting to think that all of the photos I posted on Facebook I am posting here. Sorry for the repeats.
Noah's first ride!!
Oh yes she looks calm folks but inside she was screaming, get me off this thing!! The worst is when they stop the Ferris Wheel to let people off and you are just hanging way up high.
On the Ferris Wheel.
The James's on the crazy-make-you-lose-your-dinner ride. For some reason there was this grungy looking tarp that covered you. All I can say is what if someone had just barfed?? Gross.
Emma: I am going to post the video that I took right after this shot on Facebook. She can sure get down and boogie:)

The crazy Mega Drop ride. I finally got up my nerve to go on this ride with Kelly. I was so scared. It was actually a lot of fun going up and seeing out onto the fair but the drop? I don't think I breathed, blinked, or screamed but quite possibly could have (but didn't) pee my pant's. It was petrifying and thrilling all at once.

A Noah First

2008-10-28T22:24:00.001-07:00

Guess what!? Noah officially rolled over last night!! And Kelly and I missed it!! Our son rolls over for the first time and we didn't see it (FYI: I can't get him to recreate the momentous event no matter how hard I try). So I guess that our little one decided that rewarding the James's with his new skills was payment for having three little ones all crying at the same time last night, while his parent's were at Bible Study. And so we missed it. Not the crying, certainly wouldn't miss that, but his first officially roll. Sigh. I am actually super excited that he is rolling because I was starting to wonder if maybe his, um, chubbiness may be cause for the delays.

New Food Alert: Squash

2008-10-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

Hmm...is Mom really going to try to stuff squash into my mouth?? Really she needs to stop trying to feed me all these healthy veggies-bring on the fruit!! (Don't you love people who think they are speaking thoughts for their baby??)

Pumpkin's

2008-10-25T08:52:00.001-07:00

Thanks Jenna for opening your home and organizing this fun, creative craft~ I had a great time making my pumpkin and it looks pretty darn cute sitting on my mantel.

To bead or not to bead....

2008-10-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

I love to bead jewelry and I have been beading for a few years now. Lately a cute little bundle has been consuming much of my time so if I do get free time I am either on the computer or trying to clean the house, quietly! But I have this great website that I have always loved going to for ideas. I thought I would post it on my 'sites to see' for any of you who also love to make jewelry. Who knows maybe this will inspire me to start again...

PS> Check out the inspiration area!

Blankie Boy

2008-10-23T12:31:00.001-07:00

My son loves(!!) to hide his face while sleeping. I usually try to check on him through out his nap to uncover his face but inevitably he will have covered it again by the end of his nap. Here's a good example.

Noah's New Hair Do!

2008-10-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

Please disregard the yummy carrot dinner on his shirt...

Noah is our little swinger. Thanks Tonya!

2008-10-22T09:15:00.001-07:00

2008-10-16T21:16:00.001-07:00

Back From Canada...I know that was over a week ago

2008-10-16T13:39:00.000-07:00

Okay I realize that I have let my blogging lapse but I have this idea that no one truly reads my blog except myself and maybe my Mom. So I sometimes let things slip; like writing about our trip home to Victoria or the fact that Noah has started to eat real food (is rice cereal classified as real? If I only ate it could I survive?). There is much to tell.

Our trip to Victoria was a one week long adventure! As I mentioned before I wanted to be with my parent's after my Dad had his operation. Our flight down was pretty uneventful (thank goodness for empty seats) and we arrived to see that fall had begun if any of you from Arizona were wondering! I could not believe that the trees were changing colour and their leaves were beginning to fall. I love fall, I love crisp cool weather, I love pumpkins and turkey. I was thrilled to be surrounded by that reminder.

My Dad did very well after his surgery; he truly is the best patient. Our first few days were spent visiting him in the hospital, me trying to see my friend, Cindy, who works on the labour and delivery floor, and Noah getting to spend time with his Nana and Papa. Before I knew it we were bringing Dad home (he is a much better patient in the hospital than out we soon discovered) and trying to keep him on the couch and NOT going outside to get the paper, or taking a walk, or getting Noah's stroller out of the vehicle. I think two women in his life nagging him was a bit more painful than anything he had just experienced...and no morphine to take the pain away:) We sure missed Kelly during that week and those very early mornings spent just with Noah, though wonderful, would have been that much sweeter with someone to trade off the early wake up calls (I won't put the time here because I know some of you will say, that's early???).

Our flight home was a bit more eventful. We had to switch planes after we had all boarded because the back door wouldn't shut. Yikes. It's not good when you see maintenance men come onto your plane only moments before you were about to leave the terminal. It was good news for me because up until this time Noah had been crying, fussing and then full out screaming (the man beside me reassured me he didn't mind sitting beside us because he had noise reduction earphones). I don't really believe him though because once we boarded the next plane he had switched seats with someone else. Thankfully Noah slept the whole way (ha ha to you funny man with the crazy earphones) and I had a great conversation with the lady beside me.

Update!!

2008-09-30T11:07:00.000-07:00

I just heard from my sister that my Dad is out of surgery! All went very well which is such great news; the cancer was successfully removed and there is no sign that it has spread. Praise the Lord!! He is in recovery right now and they will see him later this afternoon.

Tag your It!

2008-09-30T09:26:00.001-07:00

Before I go I must tag the following people....if you don't know what that means check out my 'tagged' blog entry. Can't wait to read them!

Tag your it!!

Janis Scott (seriously Janis you need to start a blog!)

Katie Lloyd (what is your new last name??)

Heather Mellstrom (because I would love to hear about your life; the snippets I have heard are fascinating!)

Heidi Vage (she was to be my blog of next week, if I think I had it tough moving to Arizona she moved from the US to Norway! Learning a new language just puts a whole new spin on things)

AND Renee Gleason (lovely lady!!)

Going away...

2008-09-30T09:06:00.000-07:00

Noah and I are heading up to Canada early tomorrow morning! Our flight leaves at 6:30 in the morning and I have been practicing for the big day. For example today I woke up at 4:45 am because my son uncharacteristically decided to wake up at that time and scream for food. Not a cute little cry but full on, top of your lungs, scream. Thankfully my husband quickly got up, made him some food and then decided to turn on the TV on at the loudest setting and watch a program on Japan. I believe sometime during this I stumbled out into the living room and gave him a look of death, for the TV volume went down, and I went back to sleep. I know most of you are probably saying, Heidi your husband actually got up and fed the baby!? I am thankful for that! I just have problems with early mornings. Hence the need to practice getting up...

That is my silly story but now for the reason I am going home. My Dad, right now actually, is having surgery. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer pretty shortly after Noah was born and today, after months of waiting, is the surgery. I felt God leading me last week to book a last minute ticket and be with my family. We are planning on being there for one week and should be back into Phoenix on the 8.

We are praying for my Dad as he will be facing a lot of down time (especially hard for someone who can't stand sitting still), my Mom as she will now have a different role as care giver and my sister who does much in helping and caring for our parent's.

I will be away from a working computer for the week but would love your prayers during this time!

Love the Cassadays

Blog of the Week

2008-09-24T09:56:00.000-07:00

So I sort of like highlighting certain people's blogspot that maybe most of us haven't seen or heard of. I don't actually tell the person that I am doing this, but I think hey it's a blog they expect people to check it out!! Here is my blog of the week. It is done by Heather Mellstrom; not only was this lady a princess for many years (seriously) but looks to me like she is one talented lady.

I Was Tagged!!

2008-09-17T15:10:00.001-07:00

Thanks Melissa....

20 Years ago...I was 11 years old, still attending a French Immersion School and living on Prospect Lake in Victoria, BC. This year was huge for me; I started attending a youth group which meant the beginning of a social life AND the beginning of noticing that other sex: boys. I may have been a late bloomer but there was no stopping me now! The only other thing I can remember was I loved taking dance classes and went on a Band Trip to the USA!!

10 Years ago...A lot changes in ten years; the most drastic change? I had become a Christian in my early teens... I had it all planned out I was to be married, on the way to having my first child and probably solving world peace by the time I hit 21. Well I hit it and I was not married, not with child and definitely not solving world peace. I was however figuring out lessons that God obviously had for me. I had spent my last two summers living on a native reserve running youth and children's programs. I got a job as a Special Needs assistant for a preschool and worked in an after school children's program. I had to learn how to drive one of those mini school buses for that job and it terrified me. My major mishap was one day I forgot to put the bus in park, got out of the vehicle (thankfully no kids were with me at the time) and then watched as it gained momentum rolling down the hill. I ran like I have never run before, jumped into the vehicle and stopped it right before it was about to hit a building. I guess I wouldn't have had that job for long...

5 Years Ago...By this time in my life I had moved to Nanaimo (a small town still on Vancouver Island) finished my schooling and was working at a High School as an Education Assistant. I was living with a friend in a lovely apartment building with a fire hazard tenant on one side (seriously one day my roomate came home, saw smoke billowing out our neighbors door and when he came to the door he acted like nothing was wrong, smoke what smoke?) and some super noisy (not in a good way) neighbors on the other side. I was not doing well in my job; my student had a history of violence which would cause the school to go into lockdown mode. Yes they would all lock their classroom doors so she couldn't get in and then they would call the police. I remember one day, after one of her blowups, she was outside trying to 'run' away and I thought to myself why am I alone outside with her? Well I quickly left that job and did something completely uncharacteristic, I became a Missionary. I traded my secure life for adventure. I loved it; I lived in a remote coastal town, learned how to drive a boat (our only mode of transportation) and wore purple gumboots every day.

3 Years Ago...I met my wonderful man, Kelly. Need I say more? Plus that is a super long story.

1 Year Ago...I was just pregnant, we had finally received my immigration papers allowing us to move to Arizona, we drove down to Arizona, with a crazy cat, along the I5, I felt ill the whole time (in denial that I could possibly be pregnant) and we arrived to our house that was completely torn apart. Oh and I need to mention it had been a bachelor house for over three years. YIKES. This was the time to panic. New place, new town, new church, newly pregnant, somewhat new marriage, and new country. Let's just say that I went through some tough times.

Today...I just put down our four month old (Noah) down for his afternoon nap and I will eventually make dessert for tonight's Bible study (probably once I am done writing this post). Noah and I spent the morning at our local library checking out books and music. We (I) eventually picked out an african children's CD which we spent a wonderful time dancing to this afternoon. I am in love with being a Mom and we are so thankful that we have been given this gift.

Tomorrow...I will try to brave the post office. Spend the evening with our little family and try, try, try to get outside for a walk.

One year...Funny or crazy as this might sound? Hopefully we will be well on our way to having baby number two!! As for the rest of us? Noah could be one active boy, Kelly will be the same wonderful parent he has been from Noah's birth, and I will be emotional, fat and loving it!! And maybe we should throw in a dog, a few more fish and of course Enzo into the mix.

Heidi

Noah's a Star!!

2008-09-14T22:06:00.001-07:00

I have to do the Mommy thing and show my sonny boy off. We were so grateful to have a friend, Zak, come over and take professional pics of Noah. Here is the website to check out our little boy's photos!

I have now posted it on the side bar. Living Creation Photography.

Cuteness

2008-09-12T23:53:00.000-07:00

Funny Stuff

2008-09-12T15:42:00.001-07:00

I tried posting this before but it wouldn't work so I will try again. Kelly and I discovered one of my favourite TV specials on YouTube; I made him watch all four episodes because well I think it's hilarious. A few years ago a Canadian comedian thought it would be fun to head down to the states and ask all different types ( Ivy League Professors to Tourists) questions about Canada. He had them sign fake petitions and make comments like: Congratulations Canada on legalizing staplers. Huh??!! If you want a good laugh here is what to do:

Go to Youtube, Enter in Rick Mercer Talking to Americans, and enjoy.

Highlighting: Katie's Blog

2008-09-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

I didn't tell my friend Katie that I was going to do this so I hope she doesn't mind! But if you want to read a hilarious blog about what happens when a cute American marries a Canadian, and has to move to Alberta while waiting for immigration papers, read the following blog ( on the side under my blog list) called In the Grip of Grace. She is keeping me in stitches. I have no hard feelings toward her when she complains about Canadian ways that she finds annoying (postal codes and such) because I know that soon she won't want to move away from the Great White North...eh!!

Lime Green Pod

2008-09-02T16:18:00.000-07:00

Here's Noah's new bebepod. We just got it for him because we thought he might like to join us for our meals rather than sit over in the family room by himself. He usually lasts about ten minutes in it and lately he seems to choose this time to, well, poop his pants!! Very unappetizing for his poor parent's...

Labour Day Weekend

2008-09-02T16:10:00.001-07:00

Noah met his cousin Mike for the first time! Mike has been away at Basic Training (Air Force); Noah had many admirers and spent a lot of his time being cared for by his other cousin Emily! Needless to say we were all a bit overwhelmed by the time we left.

Labour Day Weekend

2008-09-02T15:52:00.000-07:00

Noah went to his second baseball game! I forgot my camera for the first game so I will just pretend that he had not been before! Diamondbacks won, the game was exciting, and Noah slept for a good amount of it; except when the lady in front of us started screaming for her team, the Cardinals. They lost much to Kelly's excitement; I was just thankful that they have air conditioning at the ball field. I have to ask, if our house costs as much as it does each month to keep it cool what would a ball field cost???

Knitting

2008-08-29T15:24:00.000-07:00

I have a small addiction to knitting. Since Noah has come no knitting has gotten done and really how many sweaters will one boy need in Arizona? I did finish these two projects thanks to my Grandma!!

Mom and Baby Adventure

2008-08-22T08:11:00.000-07:00

Noah and I are off on a grand adventure today! We are heading up to Kelly's parent's cabin for the weekend, his Mom is having her annual bead retreat, and we have been invited to come. It will be interesting to see how our road trip turns out!? I will make a huge effort to take pictures this weekend; I am terrible at even remembering our camera!

Yesterday was Noah's first baseball game and I only realized that I had forgotten our camera as we entered the stadium. But I also realized that I had forgot a whole bunch of stuff: diaper wipes, baby sling...which seemed unreal because his diaper bag was overflowing!! Oh the joys of a mushy brain. Can I blame that on motherhood??

I had to post this picture of Noah and his cool bandaid. Pretty flashy for a three month old:)

Smiling Noah

2008-08-14T19:40:00.001-07:00

We love this picture!

Baby, Mother and More

2008-08-05T17:14:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!

This store was suggested to me by some Mom's at our church. If you have not heard of it or checked it out I suggest that you do! You can weigh your baby in the store; there is a scale right up front that the owner says is free to use. If you want you can do a feeding/weight check to see how much your baby has eaten during a feed (supposedly going in the morning is better than afternoon)! Noah and I did that today (it's also free). I was concerned about his weight and thankfully he has gained since our last doctor's appointment...yeah!
Here is the link to the store: www.milksmile.com

Noah the Tourist

2008-08-05T17:07:00.000-07:00

He's 'Empress'ed!

Noah's at the inner harbour Poor boy.
The Parliament Buildings...
and that is downtown Victoria...in a nutshell. Our camera was low on batteries so we just were able to get a few shots:)