tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22294355345244034012024-03-14T11:14:13.877-07:00Fire, Earth and WaterWelcome to life in my sphere!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-32146498669372720262014-10-16T15:07:00.000-07:002014-10-16T15:07:05.159-07:00BAD RAP <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcADckZmmsTZSw3eJigIcYRKBHTS9Cy2ip-hz2fsDANJ3AIi1OsYfVBK_Z5EFi9ZA56vPhcE60FuneFr4rOxGnuz3aZDb29lZyt6Rqe1hkozFgg9_Dj-YO2Q7igUsL7-NHijkEiGyIRn2/s1600/bdb193b4fc6fada1aca160625bb590d3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcADckZmmsTZSw3eJigIcYRKBHTS9Cy2ip-hz2fsDANJ3AIi1OsYfVBK_Z5EFi9ZA56vPhcE60FuneFr4rOxGnuz3aZDb29lZyt6Rqe1hkozFgg9_Dj-YO2Q7igUsL7-NHijkEiGyIRn2/s320/bdb193b4fc6fada1aca160625bb590d3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I just posted this on an adhd support group that I am in and thought I would share it here too and maybe it could help someone out. I was the person against ADHD medication too. But my eyes were open by professionals and scientific facts after gaining more knowledge about adhd and the brain. As well when you actually live with it, you learn the most. <br />
Oh and if you are one of these person who thinks ADHD isn't real then I'll kindly ask you to step off now. I don't have time or patience for sheer ignorance anymore.<br />
People forget how far modern medicine has come and what it has achieved. We sure are thankfful for antibiotics when we have infections and sickness that our bodies can't fight off aren't we? ADHD meds specifically have a bad rap. I am holistic minded and fought the meds for years. A pediatrician finally explained how it is supposed to work where I understood it. He said the medication speeds up the frontal lobe of the brain so that it is in sync with the rest of the brain. He said when you have epilepsy you take medicine. When you have a heart condition you take medicine. When you have difficulty seeing you wear corrective lenses. When you have true ADHD you take medicine. He suggested that we weigh the pros and cons of the medication. So we did and we decided that helping him with his behaviours and being able to think ahead as well as social skills to actually make friends was highly important, so I gave the medication a shot. It worked within a day or two! The improvements for him in school and socially have improved by about 80%. Yes there are small side effects such as depressed appetite and mornings and nights are the most difficult times of the day. Without the medication he wouldn't be able to excel in school nor make friendships which is vital for a childs self esteem. His health is important as well and we have seen very little side effects. It's worth it! Take note though that sometimes it takes trying a few different kinds before finding one that works, much like finding the right corrective lens. Do we hope for a natural way to treat it that is effective? Absolutely, we are always researching. Do we focus on healthy nutrition? Of course, not only is it nourishing his brain and body but it helps manage symptoms. There are many factors in managing adhd and medication is an important part of that equation. <br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-74597812016732146242013-05-25T19:15:00.000-07:002013-05-25T19:20:43.066-07:00Pillars of love and faith<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwH_28WV3rv_cDr5YKFXb3dUTOy1R6fiir0MX99yz-IDjLNxkU0euOPfW_e_NOu20_PwZpOYTD1AlK4MszcRau9Ji6kQcEQR0frYunXT5sU8STAD_wVze8XUtLh2SumtySB5BNjUn2evcj/s1600/opa.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwH_28WV3rv_cDr5YKFXb3dUTOy1R6fiir0MX99yz-IDjLNxkU0euOPfW_e_NOu20_PwZpOYTD1AlK4MszcRau9Ji6kQcEQR0frYunXT5sU8STAD_wVze8XUtLh2SumtySB5BNjUn2evcj/s320/opa.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipx6tmKhZV-dgeYMy9plCIZzzZlvvvnPSG2Ahs5pQYNGC5xgbRk_qEfG0SiNdx0g8wXBaV6Np5MvOvuTqat1w-SPsTeiy8CMYOy1QyTnr994NePMiBEtj22unFmNmbbx84xv9RJbISG_f-/s1600/943316_10152831224215237_1930704005_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipx6tmKhZV-dgeYMy9plCIZzzZlvvvnPSG2Ahs5pQYNGC5xgbRk_qEfG0SiNdx0g8wXBaV6Np5MvOvuTqat1w-SPsTeiy8CMYOy1QyTnr994NePMiBEtj22unFmNmbbx84xv9RJbISG_f-/s320/943316_10152831224215237_1930704005_n.jpg" /></a><br />
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My Opa and Oma VanderVecht were the kind of grandparents that enriched the lives of every one of their grandchildren. They were steadfast, welcoming and loved without conditions. I will always cherish the best gift they have given me- the gift of quality time. Somehow, they seemed to find time for every one of their 26 (I think) grandchildren. I will always cherish the many, many sleepovers at their house, even into teenage hood. I loved their small bedroom at the end of their hallway, even though they had 2 other larger sized bedrooms. I loved spending time in Opa's woodshop or going to the market with Oma. I loved sitting at their table for meals with fond memories of gouda cheese and dutch chocolate sprinkles :-) Oma's soups often looked gross (pea soup for example) but once I tasted them, I realized they were super yummy. I loved spending time with Opa in his backyard with all his birds or with Oma in her gardens. I will miss Oma's hugs that she gave me every single time I entered her door... Oma and Opa always had an open door policy. I will miss Opa's conversations about religion and boys.... he loved to tease :-P He did have a lot of wisdom to impart and I will also miss his "strong" hugs. Opa had a great sense of humour, I will miss his big grin. I will miss watching Oma knit at the speed of light- she even had the patience to teach me how to knit! My Opa was even brave enough to help teach me how to drive.... that stopped short the day I turned a corner in his van at 40 km per hour and Oma, who was sitting in the middle seat, went flying backwards! It wasn't my fault the bench wasn't attached to the floor properly :-P I may have gotten scolded for that! haha! I will forever have fond memories of family gatherings and playing in the front veranda which was a place set apart just for the grandchildren. Even my own kids had a few opportunities to play in there with all the same toys that brought us so much joy. Opa and Oma created a home that screamed "grandchildren welcome here!". To me, they were pillars of love and faith. They have left an incredible legacy and I can only hope to be the caliber of grandparents they were to many of us. <br />
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"Grandparents are a family's greatest treasure, the founders of a loving legacy, The greatest storytellers, the keepers of traditions that linger on in cherished memory. Grandparents are the family's strong foundation. Their very special love sets them apart. Through happiness and sorrow, through their special love and caring, grandparents keep a family close at heart." ~author unknownAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-85349550436613577732013-05-08T20:30:00.000-07:002013-05-08T20:30:44.503-07:00Light and Love<br />
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Vince wrote and sang this to me for 30th bday a few years ago.... it was a little bit of light and love while we were going through some real crappy times and on top of that my Opa died that day..<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4SDGGjfe92YchmTbQ3jvLGuj7EkPsGbXvAEUWuOW-D2cnOA7q63aBvtWS2byq87CedFlzsHC5lUyZoG_DfqjtGo-Sc-EjGiP0kBZAmI2bBRf_WZC0KbLb5kRrSh0X0L_hAPs34DQo5eC/s1600/anniversary.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4SDGGjfe92YchmTbQ3jvLGuj7EkPsGbXvAEUWuOW-D2cnOA7q63aBvtWS2byq87CedFlzsHC5lUyZoG_DfqjtGo-Sc-EjGiP0kBZAmI2bBRf_WZC0KbLb5kRrSh0X0L_hAPs34DQo5eC/s320/anniversary.jpg" /></a><br />
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"Two people standing there, hopes and dreams in their eyes<br />
Oh so young, decisions made....we drew the line<br />
Many said the road is hard, "you'll never make it" what a lie<br />
Hand in hand we journey on...Best Friends.<br />
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I am yours....You are mine<br />
I am yours....You are mine<br />
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Two lovers Journey on, many cares have worn in time<br />
All the forks in the road...do we take the left or the right?<br />
It doesn't matter 'cause your always there...always standing at my side<br />
Whatever trials they may come...Best Friends.<br />
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I am yours....You are mine<br />
I am yours....You are mine<br />
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I just needed you to know, this is how my heart cries out<br />
You're the only other one, I choose to stand beside<br />
And if you ever doubt my love, in a time of darkness<br />
At one call I'm there for you<br />
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I am yours....You are mine<br />
I am yours....You are mine"Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-62400192308063299992013-01-06T13:33:00.000-08:002013-01-07T05:54:06.830-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzqwKf3TC6GcGhVGthJmcibvfy8y-EkRU7qvZvKAJOo5JHGA2KcmiKfKpg-4mKmJVPlF333SSVPpBagP9uXTMWNimyRsuE6VXYvGFGbfAXM46rmtNrYVzE1098zUlI4vSnscEZGbihh3T/s1600/kai.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDzqwKf3TC6GcGhVGthJmcibvfy8y-EkRU7qvZvKAJOo5JHGA2KcmiKfKpg-4mKmJVPlF333SSVPpBagP9uXTMWNimyRsuE6VXYvGFGbfAXM46rmtNrYVzE1098zUlI4vSnscEZGbihh3T/s320/kai.jpg" /></a></div><br />
HAPPY 8th BIRTHDAY to my Malachi!!!<br />
I am still in disbelief that my first born son is already 8, even if he doesn't look it.... sorry Malachi you got your mommas short genes! I am so in love with this boy and increasingly proud of him. This year has been another great year in school, his teacher has reported that his social skills have increased tremendously since september and that everyone in the class loves him (this is the first time hearing that!). She said he has proved to be an exciting catalyst for learning and academically he is thriving. To hear such positive things for the second year in a row makes this mommas heart smile. We have seen him really mature at home and his sweet side is growing more and more. He wants to help ALOT more! He loves helping empty the grocery bags, loves to bake and shows initiative (ex making his brother breakfast) :-) His favourite thing to do is still games- board games, video games, sports games.... games, games, games!! His favourite toy is still his starwars lego sets, he loves to build. Strong-willed, high energy, loyal, thoughtful, perceptive, tenacious, bizarre sense of humour, perfectionist, independent, competitive, determined are just a few words the describe Malachi. He has a colourful personality and brings great joy and humour to our family. Love you Kai! xoxo<br />
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-28630968973317087622012-08-27T09:41:00.000-07:002012-08-27T09:49:04.087-07:00A grace-based home oozes freedom I came across this and really liked it, so I personalized it into a vision for my family and posted it on a wall in my home for the reminders I know we will all need from time to time.<br />
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<i>Our Grace-Based Home</i> <br />
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"See to it that no one misses the Grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many" Hebrews 12:15<br />
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1) freedom to be <b>different</b> <br />
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2) freedom to be <b>vunerable</b> (no matter what we will listen and honor each others feelings)<br />
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3) freedom to be <b>candid</b> (we can talk, question, express, share without negative backlash) <br />
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4) freedom to <b>make mistakes</b> (no matter what you do, we will never look down on each other and never turn our backs on one another) Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-18718582810475124322012-01-05T13:28:00.000-08:002012-01-05T14:02:19.353-08:00Birthdays Galore!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_fkIuGtTRvpvrtrOP42NaE8A2fzCF5NeOR0WkQiopjTFg74jNS9XNfo5I8wxkD1sMOdiS7TmafoWoVJW8Zwy3uF1we_o07eebyaBNlbAN1Aq8VMcM20En-ngqVWhgFPZgBDZbOzGWPbj/s1600/2011-08-24+13.17.42.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf_fkIuGtTRvpvrtrOP42NaE8A2fzCF5NeOR0WkQiopjTFg74jNS9XNfo5I8wxkD1sMOdiS7TmafoWoVJW8Zwy3uF1we_o07eebyaBNlbAN1Aq8VMcM20En-ngqVWhgFPZgBDZbOzGWPbj/s320/2011-08-24+13.17.42.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694270481310197202" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjlNNf6bLPn_fORGTO7YqY0xCBJAvvkWowxLyPfZPqFy4JYKEvcGy-RTcwbP8LRYnt0cwvXEFD9hJ47CeJ92Grn6ABKpgACZpCtdE1Jr7o6JXqDOOmad1dgUO9ZGqXvzgBVTXaVHGXef0/s1600/2011-08-24+20.21.28.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjlNNf6bLPn_fORGTO7YqY0xCBJAvvkWowxLyPfZPqFy4JYKEvcGy-RTcwbP8LRYnt0cwvXEFD9hJ47CeJ92Grn6ABKpgACZpCtdE1Jr7o6JXqDOOmad1dgUO9ZGqXvzgBVTXaVHGXef0/s320/2011-08-24+20.21.28.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694269865199495042" /></a><br />Shortly after the hustle and bustle of Christmas and New Years, we celebrate 2 birthdays in our family back to back (after Malachi was born, I informed Vince he was officially cut off for all the months of April). On Friday Malachi is turning 7 years old and on Saturday Kayla is celebrating her first decade/double digits....WOWZERS!! I still can't believe she is turning 10!! We are celebrating as a family tomorrow night making homemade pizzas and then Vince and I will be their servers... any ideas for a restaurant name? We will of course enjoy cake and presents... and maybe a movie night or some sledding depending on if we have enough snow :-) I usually postpone their friend birthday parties until the end of January for obvious reasons.<br /> Kayla will be going to The Art Studios in Waterloo with a bunch of giggly girls and make some kind of clay art, she has been talking about it for months!. <br />This has been a significant year for Malachi since he has developed some great friendships, so we are going to celebrate... just haven't decided what we are doing just yet. Not only that but the kids are going to go on a mini vacation with their cousins to an indoor waterpark in about a week... talk about a pretty awesome month for them!!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-29474466226141724832011-07-31T20:20:00.000-07:002011-08-01T07:26:58.508-07:00Living with hearing loss<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88KK_dydzW6nSsopNSb4N-3e_qUKwSY4AtAE4bOJ6EwcDHa7yADwcQnpkSdFSrTpz33UVhMyxOL9tIiP-2kTSMVOkUL4pSQ1AzFZsL2g6aHXnlZotnMiAJ7yszXKH6btnOTmRGptlEbdL/s1600/cic-hearing-aids.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 152px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg88KK_dydzW6nSsopNSb4N-3e_qUKwSY4AtAE4bOJ6EwcDHa7yADwcQnpkSdFSrTpz33UVhMyxOL9tIiP-2kTSMVOkUL4pSQ1AzFZsL2g6aHXnlZotnMiAJ7yszXKH6btnOTmRGptlEbdL/s320/cic-hearing-aids.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635737573373212626" /></a><br />Talking about my hearing loss is probably one of my least favourite topics to discuss and anyone else who has a hearing loss probably feels the same way but I feel it is time to help others understand what it is like to be me. It was grade 3 when I was diagnosed with a 25% mild bilateral hearing loss,... that explained why I was getting failing marks in school and probably some lack in social development. That is like missing one out of every four words and that makes for some twisted sentences! Lol I do remember speech therapy with a Mr Fox- it was usually cue cards and fun games....I also didnt mind all the hearing tests and I got to miss school :) <br />I started having to wear around the ear hearing aids for grade 4, I was mortified to say the least. When you are the only kid in your school with a hearing loss and at a new school too- it sucks. I envied other kids, running around the playground and screaming with reckless abandon, completely oblivious to what they had.<br />I hated my hearing aids so much I believe I purposely sabotaged a couple pairs (aka sticking them in front of the school bus wheels just before hopping on). I didn't like how they felt or how they made my ears stick out. I used to go to the "hear together" conferences in London every year and I really felt out of place because most kids there had much worse hearing losses then I did and they all talked like they had a bunch of teeth all over the roof of their mouth. I didn't connect well with anyone (far as I remember) because I just felt like I could hear just fine. I always had a difficult time just accepting it, it took years before I began to advocate for my needs on my own. I call a mild hearing loss an invisible disability because people don't see it when they look at me even if they've been told, they often forget. I am sure some think I am rude or pushy because I often interrupt conversations but it is just because I don't hear that someone else is talking... I try to read body language and lips but that isn't always successful. I keep a closer reign on my children then most parents probably do but think about what the first sense that we use to gage whether our kids are in trouble? HEARING... so because I can't always hear, and that can be worse depending on the environment, I keep my kids close. I have a much harder time hearing someone who is soft spoken, in fact I pretty much can't hear them at all if I am not aware they are speaking to me. Same with someone who speaks with little voice inflection. Yelling at me is unnecessary, usually I need people to speak with more clarity then anything, or go to a quieter area. My biggest pet peeve has to be when people accuse me of not listening to them- HELLO?!!! and no I don't have selective hearing (well mostly bhahaaha) but seriously- that joke is old. The biggest word of advice for people when they would like to speak to me, is make sure you have my attention and that means I am looking at you :-) The picture above shows how far technology has come and the kind of aid I want to buy next... they run thousands of dollars!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-61941410627365689732011-07-26T07:19:00.000-07:002011-07-26T07:57:41.700-07:00reflection<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK8DQZBdnWClv1uYUP9iWC3nKyV64Z-qU-e7IcThyphenhyphenjMLJA0ctJ1tbZ6Z6F-w3guPbWXlc6VlHhkFR5sKLbp_AeOnN0q2WKI04AFHmDJecSR6_DWoJ-mzi2Ys0iT1TTN-yNnHdPtBCi5jWR/s1600/port+stanley.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK8DQZBdnWClv1uYUP9iWC3nKyV64Z-qU-e7IcThyphenhyphenjMLJA0ctJ1tbZ6Z6F-w3guPbWXlc6VlHhkFR5sKLbp_AeOnN0q2WKI04AFHmDJecSR6_DWoJ-mzi2Ys0iT1TTN-yNnHdPtBCi5jWR/s320/port+stanley.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633675300246067202" /></a><br />I enjoyed a really sweet, sweet time with my Vince yesterday in Port Stanley. We desperately needed uninterrupted, one on one time with each other and with no expectations to be some where by a certain time :-) If you haven't had a time like this with your other half in a long time, I highly recommend it. We soaked up the sun, collected beach glass/stones for the kids, hiked, swam (the water was icy cold water btw!), and not only that but we were able to have uninterrupted conversation- say WHAT!?- a very rare occurence with 3 young kids vying for our time and attention. We talked about how things have changed (always inevitable) but not all change is good, some has affected our lives negatively and it is healthy to talk those things through so that we can move on and focus on all the positive and wonderful things that have happened in our lives. We shared lots about where we are headed with our family- dreams, priorities, goals and plans for our future. Most of all we had lots of fun!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-82291892642344881832011-06-11T17:04:00.000-07:002011-06-11T20:15:28.963-07:00He loves me inspite of....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyiGKFTd5pctW94GPoVuHSsweweG4iemSF5PkOMKMcheneqi6U_b0LEi3aGRd4nshK241dhjwM7OOI2y9FLIKNAubjHYlk9y7JiuCQ3u5IqiPllbjb5xfqWbjXc2KvCI8LKGhFkp-m6SQb/s1600/sale+items+021.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyiGKFTd5pctW94GPoVuHSsweweG4iemSF5PkOMKMcheneqi6U_b0LEi3aGRd4nshK241dhjwM7OOI2y9FLIKNAubjHYlk9y7JiuCQ3u5IqiPllbjb5xfqWbjXc2KvCI8LKGhFkp-m6SQb/s320/sale+items+021.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617133828980421266" /></a><br />I am possibly the WORST choice for a housewife, and thankfully Vince married me anyways with that knowledge :-P ( I believe Vince was warned by multiple members of my family about my slobbishness) I'll find ANYTHING to distract me from cleaning and cooking. Organization is probably my biggest weakness or could it be that procrastinating is my biggest strength?! Whatever the case, I know these are things that drive my husband bonkers!! It's a good thing I am a hotshot wife and mother to make up for it :-) It isn't that I sit on my arse all day.... I am actively involved with my kids school, homework, reading, extracurriculars, healthy nutrition/grocery shopping etc.. plus I don't mind mowing the lawn or running errands but I'll have to agree that I lack greatly in time management skills. I am blessed to have an amazing husband who loves me inspite of my inadequacies and yet I am not a fool I know he desires and prays for me to become more domesticated since I am the stay at home parent. I do believe I am S L O W L Y improving on this front, especially because my desire for healthy eating is inspiring me to cook more often- one word= EPICURE... seriously makes it eAsy baby! Vince cannot comprehend how I can function in the midst of chaos but I'll let ya all on a little secret.... I LOVE when the house is organized, clean and smelling fresh *GASP!*... it is just an area that I see the need to improve in (everyone has shortcomings) and anyone who says they prefer chaos is probably lying :-p <br />Cheers to my Vince for his grace and patience for me!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-37376574448288058692011-04-05T07:30:00.000-07:002011-04-05T10:58:40.233-07:00She is like a tenacious bulldog<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qrsDFtyqHwjzRfV3RAhv0xE3xfKdyfPQxsHgiw-5_Sc3yH-INVF6fluz0b-gY9ZsErV-SFgCXivb-2X3OJTVCly_aDzOMmszm4eSU4o7ZLyqpby55J89T5YRlrLuyzz_0u2_7uk52bha/s1600/motherbearandcub.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qrsDFtyqHwjzRfV3RAhv0xE3xfKdyfPQxsHgiw-5_Sc3yH-INVF6fluz0b-gY9ZsErV-SFgCXivb-2X3OJTVCly_aDzOMmszm4eSU4o7ZLyqpby55J89T5YRlrLuyzz_0u2_7uk52bha/s320/motherbearandcub.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592127162642139826" /></a><br />Do you freely give trust or does it have to be earned? <br /> When it comes to entrusting (to give over to another for care, protection) my children, trust absolutely has to be earned. My children are the most important people in the world to me (including my Vince :). Trusting another person with my children takes consistent, quality time to get to a place where that deep trust is formed. I will be the first to admit that I am overprotective alot of the time, but I would rather ehrr on the side of caution. I personally know too many people, cousins, friends and relatives who have been either physically or sexually abused as children and most by close friends or family. It might not even be that I am concerned about abuse, it may simply be I just don't know someone enough to give them that level of trust. It might be that my gut instincts keep my from ever trusting someone- and I have learned to ALWAYS trust those instincts (not to be confused with fear). I have been described as mother bear or a tenacious bulldog and I agree that they are pretty bang on! I will say this; I come with different history, different experiences, different perception of life, different family etc. that have brought me to this place where I am so highly protective and I won't be manipulated or forced into trusting someone where that trust isn't present. Some people are able to freely give trust and I say good for them :-) <br />Part of my calling as a parent is to protect these little blessings as I see fit and the level of protection will depend on age, temperment, maturity, environment, etc. K is 9 years old and I have only just started to allow her to walk to school with a friend a couple times per week. I have neighbours who allow their girls 7 and 6 years old to walk to school regularily and I find that waayyyy to young- the walk to school here takes about 20 minutes. I have 4 year old and 6 year old active and curious boys and I believe they still require constant supervision when they are outdoors. Kayla is at an age and maturity level where I trust her to go over to a friends house for a playdate, I don't have to worry so much about her and that is freeing but I don't let her go into a friends home where I haven't gotten to know the parents. The bigger issue for Vince and I are sleepovers and those will be a rare occurence in the lives of our children outside of trusted family members and close friends. Around water is another story, I go into this mode of almost panic,... a totally ridiculous fear, I know but it is defintely there and I am trying to learn how to relax more.... the funny thing is, is that I am an incredibly strong swimmer and if my boys fell in, I'd be in the pool faster then they'd hit the water! Definetely falls in the realm of irrational fears lol... however it is very real and came upon me sometime after I became a mother.<br /><br />In a perfect world trust would be freely given but just look at the local and world news and you see that it is far from perfect. So I do believe that I need to be tenacious with protecting my children and it is something I won't apologize for.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-37726476516492763632011-03-16T20:54:00.000-07:002011-03-16T22:02:55.251-07:00Ignorance is not always bliss<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMwfnlwDNaLlZxLhqXS0U-4kpRWKOKgpw_m8GEvOQG21Epl33zt1UL-GLz_s51jlGIKL67ZjX7aVyfZ-8krNwTyukvrcMK5KdRFb7FjiMkLSD1yC1CllGoLF1vHWw12wXfu8Vy8VzFGUG/s1600/malachi%2521.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 271px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyMwfnlwDNaLlZxLhqXS0U-4kpRWKOKgpw_m8GEvOQG21Epl33zt1UL-GLz_s51jlGIKL67ZjX7aVyfZ-8krNwTyukvrcMK5KdRFb7FjiMkLSD1yC1CllGoLF1vHWw12wXfu8Vy8VzFGUG/s320/malachi%2521.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584908147000824818" /></a><br />Bringing up boys is definetely an adventure and if you've had the privilege and challenge of raising boys, you'll be able to understand alot of what I say in this post. Over the last few years, and especially the last few months my eyes of really been opened to the amount of ignorance and judgement floating around out there in relation to the world of boys. I have 2 boys and they are 4 and 6 years old. They are bundles of energy and can often be found lapping the main floor of my house. They can be found jumping on my furniture seconds after they have been told to get off. The wrestle and physically fight from a young age. Fifteen minutes after they eat a large supper they are asking for more food... as if they haven't eaten a single morsel all day. I call them machines somedays. I have to physically touch them to get their attention and to ensure they are listening to me. They have an extremely hard time sitting still and maintaining eye contact when being talked to. They are loud and sound effects are common to our ears around here while my boys play..... Sound like anyone you know?... the greatest challenge may be just keeping them alive through childhood and adolescence. I say all this to say that all I have talked about are natural tendencies for boys and certainly not related to being undisciplined or unruly. Boys are designed to be more assertive, audacious and excitable than girls are. Now I'd like to talk about my son M. He is a strong willed boy and yet extremely well disciplined. He was taught about manners and respect and about using his hands to help not to hurt. He has been taught not to use potty humour. He has been taught to share and help others... etc. etc. do you understand what I am getting at? And yet we have been exhausted over the last couple years with behavioural issues and social situations. Alot of all this is normal in the world of boys and yet over the last 6 months we have sensed something more was at play. Actually we have sensed something was off for a couple years with his behaviour. Over time consistent teaching and discipline should start to correct behaviours but with M things were getting worse,specifically at school in the morning. Lots of phone calls from the principals office. Well to make a long story short, we finally got into see a pediatrician. And to our surprise, he suggested Malachi may be struggling with a mild form of autism (lots of testing to be done before he has an official diagnosis). As a parent you know that if you suspect something you are the first to start researching and gathering as much information as you can.... and people many well meaning people will always have an opinion or say something really stupid and ignorant.... but you have to get past that and equip yourself with reliable sources for knowledge. I have to tell you since it has been suggested that autism may be the issue, light bulbs have been going on everywhere. But for a time I find myself angry. Angry at the things that have been said about M and to M by children and adults alike, even in my own family and church family. Angry at the judgement towards our parenting because of such great ignorance. I digress to go any furthur. M is an incredibly sweet boy and he is full of reckless abandon and he will do great things! He is extremely intelligent for his age. He feels emotion with great intensity and is majorly misunderstood in social circles. He desires to be included with friends just like everyone else but finds social situations difficult. He is highly energetic and loves sports. He is surprisingly gentle towards animals.... I could go on. At the moment we mostly relieved that we are getting explanations and answers in order to get M the help he needs, especially in the public school system. I am tired and may continue this post at a later date :-)Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-69095878258139911342010-12-13T17:47:00.000-08:002010-12-13T19:05:35.863-08:00Giving!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcH7pJCYieCQHCXpCyiluXhcWe9pSvU0I3XLjLAq4GjFng4clqNawhgmv2aXCOoWum23nLFec6OSocN6GfZTP-wBf3yNNx7TmYTdljoVw1edV3xbWojwV5D7wYboxUPM8-IoqpJGGf7qSU/s1600/IMG_2376.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcH7pJCYieCQHCXpCyiluXhcWe9pSvU0I3XLjLAq4GjFng4clqNawhgmv2aXCOoWum23nLFec6OSocN6GfZTP-wBf3yNNx7TmYTdljoVw1edV3xbWojwV5D7wYboxUPM8-IoqpJGGf7qSU/s320/IMG_2376.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5550361007370212066" /></a><br />ONE of my higher love languages is called gifts- I enjoy both giving them and recieving them :-) But don’t mistake this love language for materialism; I thrive on love, thoughtfullness and effort behind a gift- it is simply a tangible way for me to show and recieve love. For me the perfect gift/gesture shows that I am known, cared for, and cherished- it's all about the thought behind it. Now that being said, I'd like to talk a bit about Christmas giving. Presents don't need to be expensive to send a powerful message of love- they can be created! Now if I am being brutally honest I would have to admit that I have some pretty expensive (I prefer to call it "fine") taste.... I know, I know it's shocking! lol... yet my favourite gifts from my husband and kids have been songs, poems, jewellery and pictures they have created for me from the heart and cost very little to no money. <br />Please do not put gifts you cannot afford on credit cards- I am confident that most people would feel awful knowing they were given something that wasn't even payed for yet. For some giving gifts at Christmas becomes almost mechanical,a chore or even a feeling of obligation....if this happens, it is worth stepping aside for a few moments to consider why exactly you give gifts at Christmas. It shouldn't be a stressful and miserable thing. <br />The art of giving is really knowing the love language of your loved one and giving based on that. Happy hunting and creating!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-66846073237413586282010-10-21T20:47:00.000-07:002010-10-21T21:27:25.603-07:00So not everything in my life is happy and fuzzy...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfP0QB9b4eshMHh-4W_Am281ag83t6ClY6oruuqRkZqJ4PB4q_RPZSO6FlNM-mh9YboU6VEytX8FzfN7H1xezGGYqazc297u1xxq_IF87-KNJu2UogCzGkmvBK8tYOwACP9Fl4iy_B4wJX/s1600/IMG_8715.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfP0QB9b4eshMHh-4W_Am281ag83t6ClY6oruuqRkZqJ4PB4q_RPZSO6FlNM-mh9YboU6VEytX8FzfN7H1xezGGYqazc297u1xxq_IF87-KNJu2UogCzGkmvBK8tYOwACP9Fl4iy_B4wJX/s320/IMG_8715.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530720616939586370" /></a><br /><br />It's just past the middle of October and up until a few days ago both Vince and I were under the belief that Malachi's social skills and behaviour had improved from last year. We had recently talked about how he seems to have matured and we were happy that all our hard work, discipline and advocating for his needs had payed off.... BUT I finally got a long message on my answering machine a couple days ago from Malachi's SK teacher saying that he had been pushing and hitting increasingly and that he is incredibly smart but is almost entirely lacking in social skills and seemingly is unaware of how to act appropriately with his peers. I was deeply disappointed when I heard the message but I booked a meeting with Malachi's teacher this coming Monday. I thought we'll beat this and find out what his triggers are and how we can help Malachi to get past this. Then today I dropped Malachi off at speech and took the teacher aside to ask if she was experiencing any behaviour or social issues and she immediately responded yes! She went on to tell me about some things that were happening and my heart sunk entirely! I got in the van and cried. Of course I did what was natural, I started blaming myself- trying to figure out where I have gone wrong. Vince came home today and told me that Malachi's teacher had called him on his cell phone- she mentioned that they had concerns from a couple parents and even the bus driver is having issues with him. She said things had gotten worse since she last talked to me a couple days ago. We are exhausted with everything we are doing to advocate for his needs, for his speech therapy and finding solutions. <br />This is just the short version about what is on my mind today and what I am dealing with. I am going to sit in and observe Malachi in the classroom tomorrow and probably a few days next week to get a glimpse of what is going on with him.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-49218074812265761592010-09-27T18:04:00.000-07:002010-09-28T06:05:06.573-07:00Marriage is No Ordinary Relationship!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMaKzXLvyp9mEU1PDB9i7OLm3Zjq81It9Leqlooh881mFZRMmwGncTBCTFx9WuPj4LsXT2a6juREkMLfMHDXjxoupJXx1S86X4clRDVIyQKbeiTeJ71jB2vlJlOdKmmLq52kB9Tw6lQuT/s1600/sale+items+021.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFMaKzXLvyp9mEU1PDB9i7OLm3Zjq81It9Leqlooh881mFZRMmwGncTBCTFx9WuPj4LsXT2a6juREkMLfMHDXjxoupJXx1S86X4clRDVIyQKbeiTeJ71jB2vlJlOdKmmLq52kB9Tw6lQuT/s320/sale+items+021.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5521784348573616354" /></a><br />Often we think of marriage as a romantic fantasy where we will live happily ever after and life will be easy all because we are in loooovvvveee.....*smiling and batting eyes* :-) Well if your bubble hasn't burst yet- let me be the one to burst it for you! lol<br /><br />Vince and I are coming up to our 11th year of marriage this November, so we aren't newly weds but we aren't veterans either in this adventure called marriage, we know that we haven't arrived :-) Having said this, I do believe this is an area where we are ahead of our time- I'm not saying everything is perfect but that we understand the marriage covenant and we understood early on that love isn't based on feelings but it is a choice. We married very young- we were both 21 but we knew we were best friends no matter what. We became best friends BEFORE we started dating and I believe that was vital to the strength of our relationship. I'll share a few other reasons why I believe our marriage is still going strong.<br /><br />1) God is the head of our marriage- "By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; and by knowledge the rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." (Proverbs 24:3-4) <br /><br />2) We never go to bed angry- we work through our problems with intentionality and determination and perseverance- confront them head on! Divorce is not an option! <br /><br />3) We forgive each other- it is human nature to make mistakes and there will be many times when we need to forgive- forgiveness is ACTIVE! it will leave you with peace and joy in your marriage life<br /><br />4) Communicate!! we talk clearly and listen well, it results in knowing and being known <br />Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”<br /><br />5) LOVE!! -in our society love is so fleeting, the word has been warped and greatly misused over time- but the true meaning of love encompasses so many things!<br />"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love Never Fails." 1 Corinthians 13:4-8<br /><br />6) sexual intimacy- let me just say we are healthy in this area :-) but let me say this;<br />Pornography- the devil comes to kill, steal and destroy your marriage in the form of seduction. This is one of the most insidious attacks upon the sanctity of marriage. I don't believe it strengthens marriages but destroys it through perversion- your spouse then becomes not good enough. That isn't love. (I have tons more to say on this subject but I'll digress....)<br /><br />7)FUN! Without it comes boredom- make it happen! I love spending time with Vince :-)<br /><br />I have lots more to share but I'll leave it here for today :-)<br /><br />What is the strongest area of your marriage??Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-65638049146716558612010-07-22T19:15:00.000-07:002010-07-22T20:10:06.241-07:00Unstoppable<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhIYWyVpJcvk7v82UHVzvLKZC7ZAegJaH-iRdwDC3IdxWwHtk46n2zR928HteuftWWVhWPxaoyRDXx2hB_BOJLaESJMKgWT8VNmjvaeq1_-k6s4_G5GmTs8_10SkZ7tFJIzHO5tulTJJY/s1600/0511-1006-1802-2054_Cartoon_of_an_Exhausted_Woman_Sweating_on_a_Treadmill_clipart_image.jpg.png"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 304px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBhIYWyVpJcvk7v82UHVzvLKZC7ZAegJaH-iRdwDC3IdxWwHtk46n2zR928HteuftWWVhWPxaoyRDXx2hB_BOJLaESJMKgWT8VNmjvaeq1_-k6s4_G5GmTs8_10SkZ7tFJIzHO5tulTJJY/s320/0511-1006-1802-2054_Cartoon_of_an_Exhausted_Woman_Sweating_on_a_Treadmill_clipart_image.jpg.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496928297773248066" /></a><br /> So before becoming a baby machine and spending the last 8 1/2 years as a stay at home mother, I was a personal fitness trainer. Everyone has something that they have the potential to be incredible at doing- and personal training/fitness is that for me- I call it "in my zone". It is the one area that I was the professional and a leader in the making. I led the learn to run clinic and developed and implemented personal fitness programming for women- it was very fullfilling. Children change everything don't they? Once I had Kayla- I quickly realized I wanted to be at home with her full time. So I gave up my career for a season. Along came Malachi and then Colin and here I am.... after 3 pregnancies and quite a few years later and I am 55 Ibs heavier <br />and very much out of shape. All my certifications are null- you have to keep them up on a yearly basis to maintain your credentials. So it may seem depressing at times when I think about it, one thing I do know is my determination is rising up again. It's time to take care of myself and get back into shape. With my youngest going to kindergarten in September, I am actually going to have some free time on a daily basis and I am extremely excited to get back to the gym. I'd like to record my journey on here and maybe some pictures if I'm brave to show my progress. I'll try to be candid about my feelings because I think it's important to be aware of how emotions play a part- I'll blog about that can of worms sometime in the near future as well. Keep an eye out for my first workout related post in September :-) What do you consider is your zone?Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-65635301632578793712010-04-21T08:22:00.000-07:002010-04-21T09:25:41.531-07:00Thursday Thirteen!13 everyday little happenings that colour me happy!<br /><br /><br /><br />1) a hot shower finally at 3 in the afternoon<br /><br />2) a clean pair of underwear!<br /><br />3) first coffee of the day<br /><br />4) a good teethbrushin'<br /><br />5) smooth shaven legs and pits!!<br /><br />6) homemade love letters/art from my kids (with a kid like Kayla, I get something almost everyday <3)<br /><br />7) trimmed toenails and fingernails<br /><br />8) sitting on the back porch soaking up the sunshine<br /><br />9) smooches and bear hugs from my boys!<br /><br />10) reading and cuddling with all 3 of my kiddoes for bedtime<br /><br />11) smell of fresh clean laundry (I use shaklee detergent and it smells sooooo good!)<br /><br />12) fruit/yogurt/granola parfait for breakfast<br /><br />13) last but not least- a phone call or mail from family and friends (few and far between!)Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-24152006736584610832010-04-05T19:12:00.000-07:002010-04-09T09:13:44.050-07:00It's Time for a Party!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9Rqk_xQf4CBQijl-_rIL8nRcBaxgYtpPIYXQ6yImL40cyIq8OAv1NVyd7Dg3qxy9H8f68IkEnevMKa2ik2bb-oYaJus-FuhrcugGGvzWqZwsny99IcJpkGPsE3b9kURYi-qEXp2rnaW5/s1600/scan0001.jpg"></a><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><a href="http://www.5minutesformom.com/16471/ultimate-blog-party-2010-is-coming/"><img title="Ultimate Blog Party 2010" alt="Ultimate Blog Party 2010" src="http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k210/5m4m/buttons/events/blog_party_banner_horiz.png" /></a></div><br /><p><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Hey everyone, this will be my first time participating in the </span><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><a href="http://www.5minutesformom.com/16471/ultimate-blog-party-2010-is-coming/">Ultimate Blog Party</a>!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">! It is being put on by the lovely ladies at </span><a href="http://www.5minutesformom.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">5 Minutes for Mom</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">. My friends at </span><a href="http://shasherslife.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Shasher's Life</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> and </span><a href="http://pattonfamilymusings.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Mom's Musings</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"> talked about it so much, that I wanted to join in!! </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I'll be serving chocolate and strawberry dacquiri's! Cheers!<br /><br /></span><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">Tidbits about me.....</span></span></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">-Love sports and outdoors- running, swimming, biking, white water kayaking and many more :-)</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">-I am a stay at home mom, so blogging is like a lifeline!! lol</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-size:100%;"></span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">-a serious chocolate addict. I've thought about giving up chocolate, but I'm not a quitter.</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">-don't consider myself to be a crafty women- but I do enjoy cardmaking and scrapbooking, as well I am am quite the shutterbug</span></strong> </p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">-I am highly relational, hence the blog (and facebook too!)</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">- actually considering homeschooling- something I said I'd "never" do!</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">-happily married to my best friend, Vince, for 10 years! and we've been blessed with 3 beautiful children- Kayla (earth) 8, Malachi (fire) 5 and Colin (water) 3</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">-all about living an organic and chemical free lifestyle</span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;">My Zone -I have a passion to empower women to love their bodies through all the stages (mind and body)- I am a personal trainer- I've just been on a looooooooong vacation (9 years!)</span></strong></p><br /><p><span style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;">I'm looking forward to meeting all sorts of new bloggers!! </span></span></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;"></span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;"><em>There are lots of prizes and here are a few of my choices</em></span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;"><em>USC#13 $100 gift certificate to Kay Jewellers by</em></span></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;"><em>USC#17 $200 apple gift certificate (iphone)</em></span></strong></p><p><strong><em><span style="font-size:100%;">USC#48 $25 gift certifciate (just jewellery by Jessica)</span></em></strong></p><p><strong><em><span style="font-size:100%;">USC#10 "lilac" pendant</span></em></strong></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:100%;"><em><a href="http://www.stompermom.com/" target="_blank"></a></em></span></strong></p>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-74610304441708687742010-04-03T10:09:00.000-07:002010-04-03T13:42:03.951-07:00Barefoot Love<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1fng6D1nrkIv-bJV1hB3GC1A7IGpx-TwFV8blz7p3WvZMBWG696kEsQ8q0pKlhR8Uqy1Rz1uX6rIdK8pFHBicr-PrGcWymkOG81pgKxfOmcmuzNGHZCrAcwvUyZ3rUVOX9kaR8IrPZyr/s1600/26barefoot_xlarge1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1fng6D1nrkIv-bJV1hB3GC1A7IGpx-TwFV8blz7p3WvZMBWG696kEsQ8q0pKlhR8Uqy1Rz1uX6rIdK8pFHBicr-PrGcWymkOG81pgKxfOmcmuzNGHZCrAcwvUyZ3rUVOX9kaR8IrPZyr/s320/26barefoot_xlarge1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456010467096996418" /></a><br />Anyone who knows me well, knows I love all things natural... after all I am the poster girl for barefoot and pregnant :-) My latest interest is in all natural body care products. A few months ago, I was visiting St Jacobs and stumbled upon the Olivier Soapery in St Jacobs (www.oliviersoaps.com) I was immediately drawn in by all the delicious smells and pretty impressed that they actually make a soap that smells like chocolate! Their soaps are olive oil based (rich in vitamins and minerals) and you can actually eat them!! I don't recommend it but they are completely chemical free and safe. Their philosophy is simple- if you can't ingest it, you shouldn't be putting it on your skin. I couldn't agree more- skin is the largest organ in the human body and skin cells are quite permeable, which means substances can seep through easily into the bloodstream. Think about it- scientists designed the nicotine patch because they learned that the skin would absorb it right through the skin to the core of the body. When you use products that contain chemicals in them, your body eventually begins to store the toxins in your body because it can't break them down and that is when illnesses start occuring. Don't agree with me?- check out what is in your shampoos and cleaning products- then do some research to see if the ingredients contain cancer causing carcinogens- let me know what you find!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-32724227484161934992010-03-28T19:27:00.001-07:002010-03-29T06:28:09.089-07:00A fire in my heart<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2OfNVhU8rvuiQU91To9RtGX8JP4XVchOO9729cMPTXKhn3WFmOHfh9CjbuXxoxbPlPueGByJixWkQYaWaS3cH7JmgigpzJ6GGZKxHj_maDDI2lguH7up-9gu9M1gYVCDc0oe-6y3nti5W/s1600/scan0001.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 233px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2OfNVhU8rvuiQU91To9RtGX8JP4XVchOO9729cMPTXKhn3WFmOHfh9CjbuXxoxbPlPueGByJixWkQYaWaS3cH7JmgigpzJ6GGZKxHj_maDDI2lguH7up-9gu9M1gYVCDc0oe-6y3nti5W/s320/scan0001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454046934153326578" /></a><br />Adoption is a very big part of my life as well as Vince's. I was legally adopted when I was just over one years old and Vince gave up his first daughter, Alyssa, for adoption when he was just 17 years old. Yes, we come from very different sides of the adoption experience but I think it has really helped to open both of our eyes. I think it has already been about 5 years since I discovered my birth family (met most of them about 4 years ago)and Vince was able to share in the experience and emotions with me in a way that no one else could. We have 3 children of our own right now who are 8,5 and 3 and they keep us hopping! I knew after my third caesarean section delivery that I didn't want to do that again, so I had my tubes tied during Colin's c-section. I was easily able to make that decision because I knew that adoption was an option. I don't know if it is because my last child is off to JK in September but my desire to adopt is getting much stronger... unfortunately Vince doesn't feel the same at this point in our lives... so I am continuing to pray that his heart will change. I would never push him into something like this, I want his heart on fire for it 100%. So for the time being, I'll continue to pray and focus on my 3 beautiful children that God has already entrusted me with. I've had a few people ask me why I wouldn't be happy with 3- my answer to that is simple, it has nothing to do with me not being happy, it has everything to do with my desire to place a lonely child into a loving family and I know that I (we) can give that and more! It is a gigantic sized decision as most children who need to be adopted have special needs visible or invisible that need to be taken care of over and above the basic needs of every child. Since we have 3 children already in our family, I would want all of them to be ALL IN on the decision as well and old enough to understand it. Someday I'll post my whole adoption story but for now here is a snapshot of me in August of 1979 at 9 1/2 months old. At this point I am not adopted yet, I was fostered for a few months by my adoptive parents first.Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-34465689139026868562010-03-17T14:53:00.000-07:002010-03-17T15:01:48.046-07:00Growing Up at the Speed of furious!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhnjwtRatJ0J-GOHoxDhARNhbkivrHnItaUwlXN4hrx8OSyBasBiw06PcgWGS7207jpTwNZiHjw7xVD7Uw4hT_sAdQOodUGrMMeIhlwVnZZxF7aOE0cSDpleP5bNP9u9K8fj1_4Wu3FWz/s1600-h/IMG_7495.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMhnjwtRatJ0J-GOHoxDhARNhbkivrHnItaUwlXN4hrx8OSyBasBiw06PcgWGS7207jpTwNZiHjw7xVD7Uw4hT_sAdQOodUGrMMeIhlwVnZZxF7aOE0cSDpleP5bNP9u9K8fj1_4Wu3FWz/s320/IMG_7495.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449725640090578162" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-xKgnJjyF5OgFNBEoGFigjY8J5CKUYZD7VKZwoOesa4ZKy9cW034AVJ5NWF15jlT-T-xCvZUdZAbbGhOpyawGMj_NLtXNmwFjs9B4XD7MA4RSErLgifQPnqBLy7pMEqgrgZx_FyTnXlD/s1600-h/IMG_7494.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM-xKgnJjyF5OgFNBEoGFigjY8J5CKUYZD7VKZwoOesa4ZKy9cW034AVJ5NWF15jlT-T-xCvZUdZAbbGhOpyawGMj_NLtXNmwFjs9B4XD7MA4RSErLgifQPnqBLy7pMEqgrgZx_FyTnXlD/s320/IMG_7494.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449725625115340914" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwQdEL0eiqI2Ucq6XZSkRXtfrgQ161qzbjnCqmrBGjuUWwMo1tA35Qj3WcbYc2Lmn51sFuttr4NvRShTC2bE5YwWpwirDOHZ4UG4jVoXjp4jdnx-38uzk-MUW1wenwfu8jWARRH5kkZ-8/s1600-h/IMG_7493.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwQdEL0eiqI2Ucq6XZSkRXtfrgQ161qzbjnCqmrBGjuUWwMo1tA35Qj3WcbYc2Lmn51sFuttr4NvRShTC2bE5YwWpwirDOHZ4UG4jVoXjp4jdnx-38uzk-MUW1wenwfu8jWARRH5kkZ-8/s320/IMG_7493.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449725608651822994" /></a><br />I was able to spoil Kayla a little bit this week with a new dress and a haircut and yes, even flipflops!!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-31547195996485108532010-03-15T12:53:00.001-07:002010-03-15T13:09:48.533-07:00Spring Flingaling!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABlouZfWwWV4_h1KcZ7_81VFs4GFs4p-qzCyK_MiygmKBGICAeFxW349Kwg7xSy4GmQVugF6k30iSUjejiK2jZ7NxHFaDhbSInXtQjCWZ7TpGXBhdF-b4gI8nQQrF1Z9KbcDBa-Kv9UCg/s1600-h/IMG_7412.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABlouZfWwWV4_h1KcZ7_81VFs4GFs4p-qzCyK_MiygmKBGICAeFxW349Kwg7xSy4GmQVugF6k30iSUjejiK2jZ7NxHFaDhbSInXtQjCWZ7TpGXBhdF-b4gI8nQQrF1Z9KbcDBa-Kv9UCg/s320/IMG_7412.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448954145685545650" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldf1ERn_MZJpXa7HAHZNpX-5J4qmiDCT0RhqAC-02uHI9AyZyZS6eoglZeYNGRNMFJ2VsmdtNwKwhjXWgJ10szoCuRGkX8ndIAKh4vpAnici1GR225cjIto-UIpuoO9cR2tnjRWtIo2gQ/s1600-h/IMG_7428.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldf1ERn_MZJpXa7HAHZNpX-5J4qmiDCT0RhqAC-02uHI9AyZyZS6eoglZeYNGRNMFJ2VsmdtNwKwhjXWgJ10szoCuRGkX8ndIAKh4vpAnici1GR225cjIto-UIpuoO9cR2tnjRWtIo2gQ/s320/IMG_7428.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448953660388363058" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6C-BDZrHt0vqLMeK59l-nnWmFkvce1LyusK8Bwr2hrJOzk7S54yok1dT08EyyUPp0LujH9V9Z3OpLCVnXXyLIm0pVSQqTycJvhOm_YiHbkrV6RQVWfahsHAGktg7Q_VV1xtxC_lEYTDPj/s1600-h/IMG_7425.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6C-BDZrHt0vqLMeK59l-nnWmFkvce1LyusK8Bwr2hrJOzk7S54yok1dT08EyyUPp0LujH9V9Z3OpLCVnXXyLIm0pVSQqTycJvhOm_YiHbkrV6RQVWfahsHAGktg7Q_VV1xtxC_lEYTDPj/s320/IMG_7425.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448953648781392322" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAh_8FA4s56_bHqDvXyzQ0jx-FXY2RUBtepn-rXr9fVgqjJ8U0471AZZpQKn4zx5pKJ_w39g6ibB6wlL32Rao2QQTl5SDw7N97jtTb2kFytDq6Q9YvzWf0R1wK-z6wcr3rK4jzQ9uHQ-Gn/s1600-h/IMG_7424.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAh_8FA4s56_bHqDvXyzQ0jx-FXY2RUBtepn-rXr9fVgqjJ8U0471AZZpQKn4zx5pKJ_w39g6ibB6wlL32Rao2QQTl5SDw7N97jtTb2kFytDq6Q9YvzWf0R1wK-z6wcr3rK4jzQ9uHQ-Gn/s320/IMG_7424.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448953640280808914" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPMhF1XCcsU_4wH93EURofRyWs9tSVtdODrVKVCb-R9D28MyftQCOPDOQBPVV6Uw-lEQbV_lI4J1xhyphenhyphenkrNwQAX02z4L5hOxloel4hEg5i3_pScRh5lqezX6uZPIPgmNjNZiWrJ0eR6ODg/s1600-h/IMG_7406.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHPMhF1XCcsU_4wH93EURofRyWs9tSVtdODrVKVCb-R9D28MyftQCOPDOQBPVV6Uw-lEQbV_lI4J1xhyphenhyphenkrNwQAX02z4L5hOxloel4hEg5i3_pScRh5lqezX6uZPIPgmNjNZiWrJ0eR6ODg/s320/IMG_7406.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448953633997473970" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUAnLZYY07II2zRCKqvEb6ITsb_zH-SQ8bZEpJoJxR6vcRK63yC3MX1cShrnPcmdWg3TiOSgQTh02TMX2sFMtkqLtOl58db8uiP2ILXqt50lfjlkg7X3O6hNRJ78to3orPVL6DspAn4Pq/s1600-h/IMG_7398.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdUAnLZYY07II2zRCKqvEb6ITsb_zH-SQ8bZEpJoJxR6vcRK63yC3MX1cShrnPcmdWg3TiOSgQTh02TMX2sFMtkqLtOl58db8uiP2ILXqt50lfjlkg7X3O6hNRJ78to3orPVL6DspAn4Pq/s320/IMG_7398.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448952402299748626" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjB2ViK3qLaHD-taKpuqcgiVUm-5qBVY2Y04FhljUXsSMqOUSvXhXSlOSnmwxdtzJ5LX1CBzPcAADf6tl3F-fiaZowBT1n1vACVz9dwORrMA4FIAZ9z4LLY68ZwgPTOzIFbyqKUqjvrPro/s1600-h/IMG_7373.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjB2ViK3qLaHD-taKpuqcgiVUm-5qBVY2Y04FhljUXsSMqOUSvXhXSlOSnmwxdtzJ5LX1CBzPcAADf6tl3F-fiaZowBT1n1vACVz9dwORrMA4FIAZ9z4LLY68ZwgPTOzIFbyqKUqjvrPro/s320/IMG_7373.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448952394859370594" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLyrrYHZ1e5sNBvB47E_QzLIq1aQ2ICCMP0POfVyaPD1MzIs6lsJdUMpfJ4Y8mIcn4NNgcrUHnOpjL4efRuI3wWUtZYCPg_8qUwKlcAMGycttj6DUQGj9E0u03r37r1TiJEOqiKqLDGTcE/s1600-h/IMG_7372.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLyrrYHZ1e5sNBvB47E_QzLIq1aQ2ICCMP0POfVyaPD1MzIs6lsJdUMpfJ4Y8mIcn4NNgcrUHnOpjL4efRuI3wWUtZYCPg_8qUwKlcAMGycttj6DUQGj9E0u03r37r1TiJEOqiKqLDGTcE/s320/IMG_7372.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448952383267147922" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4PSDeiB_uWjsoHtH2OrCkaOSMwD4lb-eFaNMFY2M_Y-VHpd4yv378aeLFIkCC_19EZsS47amqizMx3eAHdyPRfdJde85MlLyczgL0aUc8gJvuqMHLaktwDWDawVy8EZjijjFjSLuj7ws/s1600-h/IMG_7371.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4PSDeiB_uWjsoHtH2OrCkaOSMwD4lb-eFaNMFY2M_Y-VHpd4yv378aeLFIkCC_19EZsS47amqizMx3eAHdyPRfdJde85MlLyczgL0aUc8gJvuqMHLaktwDWDawVy8EZjijjFjSLuj7ws/s320/IMG_7371.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448952376766884994" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLXoUU1XeB53JUYgiKjW3kXHVHHUty6FbWt1iRsHgGdKw-yjtifCE_5GJkC8-PBcRuTdVBgRu8rB1J09bh4wIlwnFHIIqSaOjPk0i3EIQCo0PXG41AhqZGu-YfRRJnE0-2sAgx7y9iAHU/s1600-h/IMG_7377.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOLXoUU1XeB53JUYgiKjW3kXHVHHUty6FbWt1iRsHgGdKw-yjtifCE_5GJkC8-PBcRuTdVBgRu8rB1J09bh4wIlwnFHIIqSaOjPk0i3EIQCo0PXG41AhqZGu-YfRRJnE0-2sAgx7y9iAHU/s320/IMG_7377.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448952363736365426" /></a>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-44314414708215432692010-01-31T16:19:00.000-08:002010-01-31T18:57:38.592-08:00bold and bright<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LuMABijPQQoNNZ1D8AyWk8yf8Jk6DJaNUQnTR_Ws9301k4Gl0jELu0rIwKBz1tPz8pC4A2F1JK_7L3J7jacXgEdc4Uxw8z8gVvhXGpGBKyTyfXh9c8FW9PwR9rcaieXqa9fZEi-YOrHJ/s1600-h/IMG_2455.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LuMABijPQQoNNZ1D8AyWk8yf8Jk6DJaNUQnTR_Ws9301k4Gl0jELu0rIwKBz1tPz8pC4A2F1JK_7L3J7jacXgEdc4Uxw8z8gVvhXGpGBKyTyfXh9c8FW9PwR9rcaieXqa9fZEi-YOrHJ/s320/IMG_2455.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433103788757895762" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46curiG-xxWFNBeFVPrTkCrRoWCi0lVdI2pIMfVeBTefmFtbyCMVYBEF8QPPwt9JtDOpdVD8Pm9bYg-0ZGuJY3Bol46OOsAX1MeTRSOjAcbiDJiaBvguWKk0qgdqx500XmlkHJ__f1li8/s1600-h/IMG_2440.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46curiG-xxWFNBeFVPrTkCrRoWCi0lVdI2pIMfVeBTefmFtbyCMVYBEF8QPPwt9JtDOpdVD8Pm9bYg-0ZGuJY3Bol46OOsAX1MeTRSOjAcbiDJiaBvguWKk0qgdqx500XmlkHJ__f1li8/s320/IMG_2440.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433103174697813010" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYMDRTMyyx03C5zmpNrp9L1qVkN2FGuRWeDvd0kvCSdD7tyFaxfW9q78PtwSk_0QARNPxo_BRNdiyTi_hMpq6aVl9Dv-l09oU1nqX3gS1FSZOC6r4k8cgFFlO7igRPdJfQpnyChvaYuiA/s1600-h/100_1161.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYMDRTMyyx03C5zmpNrp9L1qVkN2FGuRWeDvd0kvCSdD7tyFaxfW9q78PtwSk_0QARNPxo_BRNdiyTi_hMpq6aVl9Dv-l09oU1nqX3gS1FSZOC6r4k8cgFFlO7igRPdJfQpnyChvaYuiA/s320/100_1161.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433102218356382962" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis8OdvX9CeGaGUvi6KmUT7U37jQIfSe3UEWcpQeaNUaZxrhhaktxjcYwBe0vLZ75yTnFzqXvn_sqhbZWL4mnr3kCZiW-JGql8ZCFIHrQ0c18byLvk6jI89s7E_Tqhf_RfJ_rUwtP5hHeDF/s1600-h/000_1367.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 242px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis8OdvX9CeGaGUvi6KmUT7U37jQIfSe3UEWcpQeaNUaZxrhhaktxjcYwBe0vLZ75yTnFzqXvn_sqhbZWL4mnr3kCZiW-JGql8ZCFIHrQ0c18byLvk6jI89s7E_Tqhf_RfJ_rUwtP5hHeDF/s320/000_1367.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433101421072558210" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I have discovered a love for photography since I've had children and I can't wait to register for a digital SLR photography course at Conestoga just for recreational purposes (hoping for September- cross my fingers).... better start saving for that canon rebel I want!<br /><br />Here are a couple links to my favourite photographer's blogs<br /><br />I love Kelly's approach because it is so clear, bold and bright! Her style is contemporary with a twist- she doesn't just do expected posing. <br /><br />www.kellymacdonaldphoto.blogspot.com<br /><br /><br />I love Trish's photography because it is just amazing! She has done some work for us and exceeded our expectations both times. She is award winning and I think you'll see why!<br /><br />http:/customconcept.ca/blogAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-30821953021873545902010-01-20T08:56:00.001-08:002010-01-20T09:38:33.325-08:00What about you?I for one am a much better writer than I am speaker- no contest! I need time to internalize what people say to me and more importantly I need to make sure I've heard properly before I respond. So "quick thinker" definetely isn't on my list of strengths- which doesn't mean I am not smart, it just means my thought process needs time :-) I have a mild bilateral hearing loss- which means both ears are affected and a loss of around 26 to 45 decibels. It also means that my speech and language development was affected as a child and may be on a small level even now. <br />My husband even told me I write better than I speak :-) Of course I do- ever heard of the delete button? LOL It is also much easier for me to express my thoughts on paper because I have time to organize and articulate my thoughts. Anything that involves spontaneity (debating or impromptu) is more difficult for me.<br /><br /><strong>Humourous aspects of a hearing loss</strong><br /><br /><em>You find you don’t hear what you used to pretend you didn’t hear.<br /><br />Your friends will trust you with a secret. But, you probably didn’t hear it in the first place. <br /><br />People appreciate that they don’t have to talk about you behind your back; as long as they keep smiling while they face you.<br /><br />You can't hear your partner snoring anymore.<br /><br />If your home is under the flight path of a major airport</em><br /><br /> <br /><br /><br />So how about you? What are you better at, writing or speaking?Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-26824228739109338052010-01-14T07:59:00.000-08:002010-01-14T08:42:57.924-08:00Thursday Thirteen!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHSB0eR9Q9UEIdTVmA4wpGOGJXuNdoguOzWGFgsI4EjBzf_njZqvFg3BMEnKt1UUR7QnZnzO7nPbsrvUbff7Dw4Utg_y1M21UmLjsUQDnl2umZwNxobrq3imKOtuTGo-bNZOc-uiQv_IIo/s1600-h/IMG_6548.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHSB0eR9Q9UEIdTVmA4wpGOGJXuNdoguOzWGFgsI4EjBzf_njZqvFg3BMEnKt1UUR7QnZnzO7nPbsrvUbff7Dw4Utg_y1M21UmLjsUQDnl2umZwNxobrq3imKOtuTGo-bNZOc-uiQv_IIo/s320/IMG_6548.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426636694056638002" /></a><br />THIRTEEN AMAZING REASONS TO HAVE CHILDREN!<br /><br />1)The experience of delivering a new life to the world is exhilirating. If you are afraid of the pain in childbirth, there is this lovely thing called an epidural! <br /><br />2)The world doesn't revolve around me and my desires- having children teaches you to recognize and nuture the needs in someone outside yourself.<br /><br />3)You get to experience the innocence of being a child again- reading your favourite books, watching favourite movies, ice skating, tobaggoning..... fun!<br /><br />4)baby feet! what is cuter than that!<br /><br />5)there is nothing more desirable than the father of your children- you will fall in love with him all over again.<br /><br />6)children will ignite a love on the inside of you that you couldn't imagine existed<br /><br />7)ever watch a baby sleep? they are angels fresh from God<br /><br />8)children will inspire you to be a better person- they will help soften your hard edges <br /><br />9)spontaneous laugh attacks- comical relief when life gets to serious!<br /><br />10)learn patience and the art of negotiation and persuasion LOL<br /><br />11)unconditional love and lots of hugs and kisses- your kids see the best in you<br /><br />12)your kids are not only a reflection of you, but they make you examine who you are and what you say and do<br /><br />13)create family- fulfilling, rewarding and a little bit of heaven on earth<br /><br /><br />The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others’ comments. It’s easy, and fun! <br /><br /><br />http://thursday-13.com/Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2229435534524403401.post-79807693764027861002009-12-18T07:44:00.000-08:002009-12-18T08:44:36.833-08:00Changing DirectionSo I am in a much different place in life at the moment and thinking alot about the next steps I want to take. After having children it is almost like I have this superwoman complex where I feel like I can do anything! The options available as well as my interests/values have changed or been added to. I have been looking into homeschooling quite extensively and it definetely has it's positives and negatives, as well I am looking into going back to college- looking into a couple different programs (physiotherapy, photography, educational assistant, personal training etc.). Vince told me last year that I am in a unique position and I can go to school for anything I want and he will support me- reality hits though when I start talking about ideas because whatever I choose to do has to work around, with and for the family and that narrows down alot of choices. As well we have to consider the cost- if I choose a college program it has to be worth it financially in more ways then one. Although undecided at the moment, I am excited for challenge and change in my near future!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13310849568657464753noreply@blogger.com1