drops of dew...

Cabos San Lucas

2012-01-27T11:22:00.001-08:00

The Sea of Cortez sparkles like diamonds.

Just back from one weeks vacation in Los Cabos Mexico. While it was a nice holiday, I feel like I’ve been run over by a truck. Departure was 8:30 pm, so we ended up losing a whole nights sleep by the time we got home. I guess my sleep deprived body couldn’t fight the cold that now has me in its stranglehold. I know…poor,poor me. Whatever, it sucks when you can’t sleep because every time you lie down you feel like you are going to suffocate. Never mind that I’m all hopped up on Nyquil,and Dayquil and neither one of them has helped a bit.

The sunrise was spectacular!

Los Cabos wasn’t as hot as we thought it would be. If we had checked into the average temperature there for this time of year, we probably would have went some where else. I think the highest it got while we were there was around 26-27. Which sounds heavenly when you are up to your knees in snow. However, I think it was like 5 degrees at home. It didn’t have the humidity that Cancun has, I realized that I like the humidity. Don’t misunderstand me, I’m not complaining, I’m just informing.

These boats are circling whales.

Whale watching was really cool. Although, I felt kind of like we were intruding on newlyweds. Whales come here to mate. As soon as someone spotted a spray of water, boats descended on these poor mammals, like flies on honey. I’d be amazed if there was any intimacy going on.

Yep, nothing like having an audience.

Whale Tail!

He’s waving goodbye, our two hours were up. Now he could get on with his business.

This lovely man was making Baked Alaska. It’s an art. The people that work on this resort, work very hard. They are there when you wake up in the morning and they are still there when you go to bed at night. And they always have a smile on their faces.

Yep, the $100.00 club is here too! And its exactly the same as Costco here. We call it the $100.00 club because you can’t get out of there without spending at least $100.00!!

Ummm, not sure about the safety standards here. It doesn’t look very safe to me, but I think any kind of construction work is unsafe. In fact, I think I will abstain from any kind of physical labour, forever…. just to be cautious.

Outdoor market. You know its bad when they say to you “Come look at my junk” , “I won’t rip you off too bad”! You would never hear that in Canada; we’re not that honest.

View from our room. You can’t see Land’s End but, it was still nice. This kind of reminds me of our hotel room in Delray last year. I still think that was one of the best holidays we ever had…it was so simple, and we didn’t have to fly across the world to do it.

Another beautiful sunrise. You can’t really tell the difference between a sunset and a sunrise, can you?

We left our mark there. It was hard to leave a footprint on this sand. This sand was brutally hard to walk on.

This is Pedro,or Carlos, or Juan, …I’m kidding, I don’t know who it is.

In Mexico, everyone that works in or around the resort is your friend. In general we like to see the best in all people and we are pretty trusting. However, these people are just trying to eke out a living, so if they can sell you a pair of $1.00 earrings for $15.00, they’re going to do it. Not that I would know anything about that….just saying.

And yes, white girls can jump!!! Not sure about white man…but white girl, definitely!!

Adiós Amigo!

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)

“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.”

Christmas Cards

2011-12-01T19:33:00.001-08:00

This year I thought it would be nice to send out our family portrait as a Christmas card. Little did I know how difficult this would turn out to be. Now I know we are a reasonably good looking family,well…we are not the Adams family or anything, but what a challenge this has turned out to be.
We are together every Sunday, so after church when we are all dressed in our Sunday best it is the perfect opportunity for a family picture. Well it sounds easy enough in writing. Try and get 4 boys to not make faces or horse around, and these are 4 grown men even though I still refer to them as boys. Try and get 3 girls to not look at baby to see if he’s smiling ( I’m included in that).
There are soo many other problems, closed eyes, open mouths, turned heads,shirt lifted up, collar turned down, socks showing, shoes at weird angles, sad face, mad face, too happy face…the list goes on and on.
I’m really at a loss as to what to do, time is marching on and its time to get mailing. I think maybe I’ll use a picture from last year, the only person that looks different is baby. Maybe no one will notice. What’s your advice?
Here are a few samplings:

Deuteronomy 30:20 NIV
“That you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the Lord is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.”
Is there someone you might have trouble loving this Christmas season — someone in your family, a friend, or a neighbor? God will help you love that person if you make the choice to do so. That doesn’t mean everything will become perfect; it doesn’t even mean that person will accept your love. But you are the only person who can stop you from loving someone else — because love is a choice you make.

comrade, chum, crony, confidant

2011-11-23T16:35:00.001-08:00

1. a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard.

2. a person who gives assistance; patron; supporter.

3. a person who is on good term with another; a person who is not hostile.

These are the definitions of a "friend".

My friends fall under all of these categories. They all have different gifts and they all are selfless wonderful women. I don't need to see or speak to them every single day but, I know I just have to send out an SOS and they will be by my side in a flash. There is great comfort in that. I feel very privileged to have these ladies be a part of my life. I never had any biological sisters, but God has seen fit to give me these "sisters".

The older I get, the more I realize that I need other people and there is no shame in that. I don't want to be alone, at least not all the time. I want to connect to other people, to share our highs and our lows. Sometimes I need a shoulder to cry on and sometimes I want to be that shoulder. I used to be the person that had a wall built up, I don't want to be that person anymore, its tiring, and no one really wants to be around that person much.

I don't get to see my "sisters" nearly enough and this post is to honor them and let them know that they are loved and appreciated and that I miss them.

A friend is one who strengthens you with prayer, blesses you with love, and encourages you with hope. I pray that I can be that kind of friend.

Ecclesiastes 4:10

For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.

Sabbatical?

2011-11-09T16:45:00.000-08:00

As you may or may not have noticed I haven't posted in over a month. I have been on a sabbatical, I needed some down time. Actually, if you really want the truth, I have had writers block. It sucks, it makes having a blog very difficult. I want what I say to make you laugh, think, smile, or ponder. I do have pictures though:

Our boys first fashion show, he stole the show.

Girls weekend, view from our room at the Residence Inn by Marriott Toronto

View from our room

My Lunch: It was delicious http://www.oliverbonacini.com/

This was Occupy Toronto. We didn't really understand what this was all about...so we asked a kind young man that was part of this and he explained as well as he could as it is very complex. I came away with a better view. I think that they have some very valid points.

1 Timothy 6:18-19
“Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.”

You’ve probably heard the expression “You can’t take it with you,” but the Bible says you can send it on ahead by investing in people who are going there: “By doing this they will be storing up real treasure for themselves in heaven—it is the only safe investment for eternity! And they will be living a fruitful Christian life down here as well.” (1 Timothy 6:19 LB)

Your actions will affirm your faith.

Happy Autumn!!

2011-10-02T12:40:00.000-07:00

Its a rainy, grey day in October. For one, I would like to know, where the heck summer went? It was here and gone so fast I'm not sure if it really happened or if I dreamt it. I know I've said it a million times, that I love summer but you know what, I love Autumn too.

Shuffling through red and orange leaves that crunch when you step on them is something that was fun to do as a child, but when I see them all raked up in nice piles, I still want to run through them. The cool, crispness of the day even though the sun is shining is really lovely. Wearing cute sweaters, scarves and boots that are Fall colors is something that I look forward to in the late summer. The smell of apples, scented candles, turkey roasting in the oven...awww, heavenly.

A few of my favorite Autumn things:

I have this scarf. I love.

Adorable

Sometimes my arms get cold. lol

ahhh, tights, soo comfy

loves me some jewelry...in any season

I love this whole outfit.


seriously??? who wouldn't love these?


gotta have a Fall purse

2 of my favorite things...candies and candles

Care to join me?

mmmm...can't you just smell that roasting....

Looking forward to spending Thanksgiving weekend with the very bestest of friends. I'm sure there will be lots of laughs, special times and many, many great memories made. Hope you enjoyed a few of "My Favorite Things". take that Oprah!

Ephesians 1:4-5
“Even before the world was made, God had already chosen us to be His through our union with Christ, so that we would be holy and without fault before Him. Because of His love God had already decided that through Jesus Christ he would make us His children—this was his pleasure and purpose” (TEV)

Do you realize that when God looks at you, He sees you through Jesus Christ? When Jesus died on the cross, He paid for all of your sins, so you are forgiven and they are forgotten.

The Fountain of Youth

2011-09-07T17:05:00.000-07:00

The state of the mind can either make you feel older or younger depending on where your head is at. When I am around my family and my friends I definitely feel ageless. However, too much time spent on thinking about what if's, how comes, and why me's, makes me feel old fast. That is why I like to surround myself with positive, upbeat people. I don't want to spend time with people that are always complaining, or mad about something.

We all have bad days, there's no denying that, and I think its normal. I just don't think we should always be complaining or bitching about it. I try to give myself a little time to be in a bad mood and then I give it over to God, because ultimately He is the only one that can deal with it.

When the kids come to visit and their in a bad mood about something, I tell them " I'm going to listen to you for 10 minutes about whatever your problem is and if I can't help you solve it, you're going to quit talking about it". It usually works, and most of the time all you want is someone to listen to you and acknowledge your feelings.

That's what makes me think that giving it over to God is the Fountain of Youth, because when I do I feel lighter, happier, safer, and content. Praise God!

Matthew 6:34 LB"So don’t be anxious about tomorrow. God will take care of your tomorrow too. Live one day at a time”.

Under Construction

2011-08-31T13:52:00.000-07:00

Please ignore the mess, I'm playing around trying out some new settings.

He's not a mess though, he's somebody cute to distract you.

I wish….

2011-08-23T18:23:00.001-07:00

It would rain! I have been sporting a headache for almost 2 weeks and I’m sure its because of the barometric pressure. It has been raining all around us all summer but, never where we are.

We have no grass, we have dirt, but no grass. Ken keeps saying it will come back but, I’m not no sure. The weather has been cooling, which is nice after sweltering for so many days.

My gardens don’t look that good anymore, its been too hot and too dry. We can hardly keep up with the watering.

For the next 2 weekends we have company so I sure hope it doesn’t rain then! lol

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36 NIV)

When you realize how much God loves you, you’ll begin to live in true freedom. In fact, you worship God when you recognize that “God is love.” It is an act of worship to agree that he is a loving, caring, generous God and that we can “rely on the love God has for us” (1 John 4:16 NIV).

African Lion Safari

2011-08-22T18:27:00.001-07:00

We like to take the kids to a few different places over the course of the year and on this day it was African Lion Safari because “little man” hadn’t visited there yet. It was a destination agreed upon by all…just thought I would clarify that. We didn’t drag anyone kicking or screaming.

And if they did kick and scream, it wouldn’t be that difficult to open a car door and give a little shove. (just kidding) (maybe).

Keep Doors and Windows Closed and Locked? Baboons can open doors? I think Justin just had a stroke.

If you look closely at this baboon (the baboon, not Ken) you will notice that he has red liquorice hanging out of his mouth. It clearly states on signs EVERYWHERE, Please Do Not Feed The Animals. Someone's minivan (not naming any names) had liquorice hanging out of every window in it.

It was clearly a photo-op for the people on the bus. There were only ten or so baboons in the park and for some unknown reason they were hanging all over our vehicle. Don’t know why…….

Joni told Justin that if he flapped his arms at the Ostrich, they would do it too, and sure enough they did. How does she know that? Animal Planet or Bird Whisperer???

Even though someone was trying to tempt the Giraffes with red liquorice, they all stayed around these beams and licked them. Giraffe lollipop maybe?

These are Emus, and this is what nightmares are made of. They just don’t look good. Sorry to any Emu lovers out there but, they freak me out, it looks like the bottom half of their body is missing and they have long gangly arms.

Ummm he looks suspicious.…..ahhhhh…start the car! start the car!

Time for a little lunch sitting right beside his Daddy.

This little fellow has very loving Uncles.

Well, Cody kind of dropped the ball (or baby,if you will) on that shot. *No babies were hurt during this blog*

Getting ready for a swim.

No other child in this place had as many chaperons as our “little man”. We’re all a little protective of him and we’d think nothing of fighting a 4 yr. old that tried to mess with him. If a 4 yr.old did try anything, which they didn’t….lucky for them. If you mess with the baby, you mess with the whole family. Because that's how we roll.

Could he be any happier? I don’t think so, he was ecstatic.

My, oh my, I have no words…yes i do. Nice purse Justin! haha

Trying to see the elephants.

That's my family right there.

What the heck is that???? This is a monkey with a human face. I swear, I may never sleep again.

These are the super-models of the Safari. Aren't they pretty?

Quit looking at me with that weird looking eye ball.

Chew your shoelace and pee on you at the same time. Ain’t it grand?

Oh, yes, my boys definitely have a way with the ladies. lol

Have we met before? You sure look familiar.

Out like a light, we all felt the same way. That's how you know you had a good day.

Lamentations 3:28-29 MSG

“When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions. Wait for hope to appear.”

This is what it means to wait on God: you sit down and shut up. Find a place to be quiet and sit still in silence. Don’t read anything. Don’t pray. Just take some deep breaths, sit before God and say, “God, I’m just going to wait on you.” It’s amazing what a calming ability this has on your heart and mind. “Those who wait on the Lord will find new strength. … They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31 NLT).

August 15, 2011

2011-08-19T06:32:00.001-07:00

Goderich claims to be the prettiest town in Ontario and I happen to agree. There is so much history in this little town and today we decided to explore it on bicycles.
Entering the Goderich Gaol.(pronounced “jail”) You need a bit of time to check out this prison, but its worth it.





After seeing this jail I can’t help but feel so very sorry for Stephen Truscott. It must have been agonizing for him and his family while he was wrongly imprisoned.
Then we headed to the museum, which was included in our 7.50 admission to the Gaol.



And then it was off for lunch! and the best tasting cream puffs that we have ever had.


If you are ever in Goderich, you must stop at the bakery and try their cream puffs. You won’t regret it.

After the cream puffs, you must push your bike up this huge hill.

You don’t really have to but, you won’t feel so guilty after eating the cream puffs.

My friends enjoying the view.

1 John 5:13 (NASB)
These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, in order that you may know that you have eternal life.
You don't have to be perfect to get to heaven, but you DO have to put your faith in Christ. Thank God you don't have to work your way to heaven; if that were the case, none of us would make it.

August 14, 2011

2011-08-19T06:24:00.001-07:00

This is the day that the Lord has made, we shall rejoice and be glad in it. Glorious Sunday!!!

There is something special about waking up Sunday morning and getting ready for church. I’m sure other campers must wonder what this group of people is so dressed up for, early on Sunday morning.

Its also fun when you have the tradition of having group photos taken yearly.

Psalms 78:5-7 (NLT)

For he issued his laws to Jacob; he gave his instructions to Israel. He commanded our ancestors to teach them to their children, so the next generation might know them— even the children not yet born— and they in turn will teach their own children. So each generation should set its hope anew on God, not forgetting his glorious miracles and obeying his commands.

August 13, 2011

2011-08-19T06:20:00.001-07:00

Pictures of creation never fail to remind me how small we are but how big our God is. It also reminds me what a huge responsibility we have been given to look after these things for the future generations.

Christ has no body now on earth but yours,No hands, no feet but yours,

Yours are the eyes through which is to look out

Christ’s compassion to the world

Yours are the feet with which He is

To go about doing good;

Yours are the hands with which He is to bless us now.

quote from: Saint Teresa of Avila

excerpts from: Ashley Judds book All that is bitter and sweet

Rest and Relaxation

2011-08-01T10:52:00.001-07:00

It is so nice to be at the time in our lives that we can go on a holiday away from home, just the two of us, to get some much needed rest and relaxation. God has blessed us immensely and I am forever thankful for all of the blessings in my life.

With that being said, why when I am away from the kids, is their well being is what pops into my head when they are not in close proximity to me? I wonder what they are doing? If they are travelling on the roads? If they are swimming? If they are eating properly? whew!! It’s exhausting, I tell ya!

I love the fact that we are connected through our phones. What did they do in the days before texting? But, then I worry, why aren’t they texting me back? Are they ok? Did they fall? Have they had an allergic reaction? Have they been arrested?

My, oh my!

Yep, I sure do love to get away for some rest and relaxation.

Luke 19:26 (MSG)

Risk your life and get more than you ever dreamed of. Play it safe and end up holding the bag.

We move forward in faith when we take risks, not just any kind of risk, but ones that are specifically directed by God. These God-nudges push us beyond living life by sight so that we will live life by faith.

Rainy days and Sunshine

2011-08-01T10:49:00.001-07:00

When it comes to camping, you take the good with the bad, the wet with the dry. We knew it was going to rain the first day of our camping holiday and we were ok with that. It also helps that the way that we camp is fit for a king or queen as the case may be…..just kidding!….. a little.

We’ve done our time in tents, tent trailers, soft tops, hard tops, small trailers. Now I want to camp with all the comforts of home. I know, I know, some fanatics claim that is not really camping, but I beg to differ. Its not a relaxing holiday to me, if I’m damp,dirty, tired and don’t have access to my own bathroom. It would defeat the purpose of a holiday if I came home, tired, dirty and miserable as heck. Not too mention, that would be no holiday for Ken either because if Mama ain’t happy………..yea whatever, I know what your thinking.

I’m a Princess, and I can’t help it, and it’s Ken’s fault because he made me this way. Just kidding…..a little.lol

Sibbald Point July

Psalm 100

Make a joyful noise to the Lord,all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come into His presence with singing. Know that the Lord is God. It is He that made us, and we are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.

Things we do for love (or for 200 bucks)

2011-06-27T15:38:00.001-07:00

When hubby asked me how much it would cost him for me to clean and organize his office, I shot high and told him it would be 500 smackers! He laughed at me, but you know what, it’s a huge job! It hasn’t been done in 5 years!!!

I settled for 200 smackers because I’m nice like that. Let me just explain that I very rarely go out into the shop and never into the office because I’m afraid! It’s dirty, it smells funny, there is paperwork laying on every horizontal surface and there’s bugs in there, most of them are dead…but still…”There’s bugs in there”!!!

I walked to the shop with my bucket, mop, arsenal of cleaning supplies, and my rubber gloves. I gently push the door open and I swear it creaked just like in some horror movie, and I’m pretty sure I saw something scurry across the floor out of the corner of my eye. AHH, Crap!!! What did I get myself into???

I was overwhelmed to say the least, so I took a deep breathe and started choking on the dust that was stirred when I opened the door. I joke not. There was dust everywhere, and not just a nice little coating of dust you can wipe up with a paper towel, I was going to need a shovel to carry all of the dirt out. What the heck goes on in here?

I put on the radio, to keep me company and to put me in the cleaning mood. First thing was to sort through all of the paperwork and file it. I got into a groove and was sorting and filing and before you know I got to the bottom of the paper pile. I began putting things away in the cupboards when I spotted a Tupperware container filled with paperwork. What in the world? Where did this come from? I opened it up, and 22 years flew by me and I was looking at Hubby’s T4 from 22 years ago when he left work to start his own business. Isn’t that interesting? There was some old bills in there too and in the very bottom of the container I fished out a little yellow envelope, inside was a little card with a smiley face on it. It was signed “To, Lyn thank you for the best year of my life, Love you always”, Hubby.

And that is why I do the jobs that he doesn’t want to do, because he loves me! Oh, don’t kid yourself I’m still charging the 200 bucks, I’m not crazy you know!!!

(This is not a picture of his office….this one’s cleaner. lol )

Romans 14:7-8 (LB)

We are not our own bosses to live or die as we ourselves might choose. Living or dying we follow the Lord. Either way we are His.

When you surrender to Christ, you fulfill the very purpose He died for - not just to save you from hell, but also to save you from self-centeredness! We Christians do not live for ourselves, but for our Savior.

How would you feel?

2011-06-10T09:56:00.001-07:00

If every time you went to a social gathering of any kind, wedding, funeral, church social, bible study, family reunion etc.. The people played “Dutch Bingo”? Maybe in your neck of the woods its, Chinese Bingo, Italian Bingo, Portuguese Bingo, African Bingo or Australian Bingo.

Its a game of questions. The questions are simple, what's your last name? What's your maiden name? It is preceded with, OH! You must be related to the Van So & So’s, cousin to De So & So’s? ME TOO!!!

Ever since I met my husband, people have been trying to get me to play this game. Recently, at a social gathering amongst a crowd of people I obviously didn’t know, someone decided that now would be a great time to play this game. Inwardly my stomach is a ball of knots because I know what's coming, yep here it is…So Lyn, what's your maiden name?

“I’m not Dutch, my last name is Sayer ”, I say in a rush of embarrassment. “Oh”, says this person. And just like that I’m dismissed!

I have no idea why I’m embarrassed, maybe its because they have no idea what to do with me now. Maybe it’s because for the last 30 years when this game is played, I feel like an outsider. I’ve married in to the “Dutch”.

My husband says that I’ve been around the “Dutch” for so long, that I’m “Dutch” now too. Actually, no I’m not. I was born in Canada, so I’m Canadian. I’m proud to be Canadian.

I’m sure that there is no harm meant from the people asking the questions, but I think that they should know how an “outsider” feels. Its awkward when you’re asked a question and brushed off because they don’t know what else to say.

Ask me what my hobbies are, where I work, how many kids I have, where I live. We all have these things in common.

There is more to a person then their last name.

Today’s bible quote was very timely for me. Thanks Lord!

1 Thessalonians 5:14 (CEV)

“Encourage anyone who feels left out, help all who are weak, and be patient with everyone.”

A Wonderful Story

2011-06-01T07:40:00.001-07:00

A woman came out of her house and saw 3 old men with long white beards sitting in her front yard. She did not recognize them. She said "I don't think I know you, but you must be hungry. Please come in and have something to eat."

"Is the man of the house home?", they asked.

"No", she replied. "He's out."

"Then we cannot come in", they replied.

In the evening when her husband came home, she told him what had happened.

"Go tell them I am home and invite them in!"

The woman went out and invited the men in"

"We do not go into a House together," they replied.

"Why is that?" she asked.

One of the old men explained: "His name is Wealth," he said pointing to one of his friends, and said pointing to another one, "He is Success, and I am Love." Then he added, "Now go in and discuss with your husband which one of us you want in your home."

The woman went in and told her husband what was said. Her husband was overjoyed.

"How nice!!", he said. "Since that is the case, let us invite Wealth. Let him come and fill our home with wealth!"

His wife disagreed. "My dear, why don't we invite Success?"

Their daughter-in-law was listening from the other corner of the house. She jumped in with her own suggestion: "Would it not be better to invite Love? Our home will then be filled with love!"

"Let us heed our daughter-in-law's advice," said the husband to his wife.

"Go out and invite Love to be our guest."

The woman went out and asked the 3 old men, "Which one of you is Love? Please come in and be our guest." Love got up and started walking toward the house. The other 2 also got up and followed him. Surprised, the lady asked Wealth and Success: "I only invited Love, Why are you coming in?"

The old men replied together: "If you had invited Wealth or Success, the other two of us would've stayed out, but since you invited Love, wherever He goes, we go with him.

Wherever there is Love, there is also Wealth and Success!!!!!!"

- Author Unknown

John 17:9 (NIV)

“I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours”.

Jesus reflected God’s own heart when he prayed for the disciples, and we reflect God’s heart when we pray for our children.

Mrs. Nat's Famous Banana Bread

2011-05-29T18:55:00.001-07:00

So, Saturday morning as I was scanning through Face book,I saw that my dear friend JN had posted the recipe for Mrs. Nat’s Famous Banana Bread. I decided that because it was another drab and dreary day that I would put on my apron and do some baking.

Well, anyone that knows me, knows that my idea of baking is…baking a potato…..in the microwave. My Gramma and my Mom would be so embarrassed to hear me say that I hate baking, or cooking, or doing anything that involves being in the kitchen, but they know me and they love me anyway (I think).

So I got my dry ingredients together and mixed.

2 1/2 C. flour
1 2/3 C. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 1/4 tsp each of baking soda and powder

Next, wet ingredients:

Beat 3 eggs (keep separate)
mash 3 bananas (keep separate)
mix together 2/3 C. oil and 2/3 C. milk

I beat my eggs, mashed my bananas, and………

wouldn’t you know it, after all that, all I had was 1/2 c. of oil!!! I’ve already done all this work, I’m pretty sure I’ve dirtied every piece of Tupperware that I own. What the heck am I supposed to do now??? Then I remember that this is 2011 and I could look up substitutions on the internet. Google is one of my very, very best friends.

Ok, here we go, I can use applesauce….nope, no applesauce here. I can use fruit puree….nope, no puree here. I can use butter…nope, no butter here..But I do have margarine! It’s Celeb margarine from the Blue Menu. That’ll work,right???

So, I remember from my Grade 7 Home Ec. class, that to measure margarine or butter you fill up your measuring cup with cold water to the 1 cup mark and add your margarine until it reaches the required amount. Well, I already had my 1/2 c. of oil in there so, I thought I would just add my margarine until it reached the 2/3 c. mark. That works right??? Look out Martha Stewart, I’m a baking genius!!

On with the last of the recipe:

To the flour mixture add:
beaten eggs
1/2 of the bananas
1/2 of the milk and oil mixture
(may be tough to mix)~ it was tough to mix, margarine didn’t mix in well. Adding remaining ingredients and mix well. Pour into 2 loaf pans bake at 350F for 55 minutes to 1 hr.

Ta Da!!!!!

Aren’t they lovely??

It was difficult to let them cool before digging in. But I waited 1/2 hour.

They smelled fantastic, they looked fantastic, however upon a closer inspection I’m sure I could see margarine oozing out of the side of the bread…Is that even possible??

Oh, well I love butter on my banana bread…this is going to be delicious. I bit into it and it tasted wonderful…..until my second bite…when I bit into an egg shell. Ewwwww, as you probably do or don’t know, I have a very weak stomach when it comes to egg shells, hairs, or any foreign objects in my food.

That was the end of the Banana Bread for me… Today, however, I invited all the kids over for lunch and for Banana Bread…they ate it all, and loved it.

Sorry kids.

Oh, by the way my version of the recipe, will be called Dew’s Diet Banana Bread and you don’t even have to worry about the egg shells…you just bake them right in..blech!

Happy Sunday!!

2 Corinthians 1:8-9 (PH)

"At that time we were completely overwhelmed, the burden was more than we could bear, in fact we told ourselves that this was the end. Yet we believe now that we had this experience of coming to the end of our tether that we might learn to trust, not in ourselves, but in God who can raise the dead."

When you face a dead end, you may start asking, "What's going on, God? Did I miss your will? Your plan? Have I missed your vision?" Keep in mind that dead ends are part of God's plan for you.

My new BFF

2011-05-27T18:25:00.001-07:00

Good bye iron, good bye ironing board.

There's a new guy in town….”The Steamer”

Why did it take me sooo long to buy one of these? Oh, yea someone named *** didn’t think I needed it!

Lets just say that he had a change of heart after wearing wrinkled clothing for awhile. Chris (who always did his own ironing) broke the ironing board…For shame!! hahaha

Thanks Chris.

I love you.

That is all!

Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.
by Mark Twain ( I thought it was an appropriate quote.)

Oprah…

2011-05-26T18:09:00.001-07:00

Whoa!!! Hold the phone! Back up a minute…

I’m probably the most surprised out of everyone that I got teary-eyed when Oprah walked through her audience, kissed Stedman, hugged and high-fived her staff. And that was the end of that. Paul Simon singing doesn’t help keep the tears at bay.

Even though I don’t agree with everything Oprah says or does, I have watched her show on and off for 25 years. My boys were babies and now they are grown. I laughed with Oprah and I’ve cried with Oprah. It is the end of something. It is sad in a way and in another way, it doesn’t matter at all.

I do take away something important that I learned from Oprah:

Everyone wants to be validated!

You need to let them know that:

You see them
You hear them
What they say matters to you

This is a very important life lesson.
Thank you Oprah.

MarineLand: The Day (lots of pictures)

2011-05-21T20:23:00.001-07:00

Pretty excited to have a whole day at Marineland! Too bad the newlyweds weren’t with us. If you notice, Atticus has the remote for the dvd player, so it’s obvious who controls what we watch…The Brave Little Toaster it was!

Ken & I are pretty happy to have the kids distracted while we focus all of our attention on our Little Man.

Hanging around with KiKi (his monkey).

He was telling this little girl,”my Mom & Dad are on that ride!”

It makes my happy to see my boys laugh! I’m sure I don’t want to know what their laughing about, but it still makes me happy.

Quite time with Mommy. Justin: stealing the show. lol

Yep, their crazy!

So excited to see the belugas.

Strange alien hand.

Did he suddenly grow up at Marineland? That’s it we won’t be going back there.

James 5:16b NLT

The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.”

We can ask God to hedge our children in so they will find the right kind of friends but be protected from the wrong kind of influences.

Daughters are a lovely gift.

2011-05-18T12:55:00.001-07:00

Two people that we love, got married this weekend. It seemed long awaited, even though in reality it was only a year ago that they got engaged. In our experience, when our sons fall in love…they don’t fall alone. The whole family falls, hook, line and sinker.

We are truly blessed to have 2 of the most wonderful human beings as “daughters-in-law”. We have to give their parents and God all the credit for the amazing young women that they are. They are strong, faithful, beautiful, compassionate, patient, and loving. Who could want anything more for their sons? Not us.

Just a few of our thoughts for them:

May they always know, that we are family, no matter what.

May they always in all circumstances, Celebrate God.

May they always dream. Dream big, my loves.

May they always have faith, especially when things get tough.

May they experience all the Joy that life has to offer.

May they always remember what Jesus did for them.

May they live a peaceful life.

May they have these words in their hearts.

May they always be, Kindred Spirits.

May they say: Always kiss me goodnight.

Our wish for you is to have, Love always and forever.

Love Always, Mom & Dad

Ephesians 1:11 (MSG)

“It is in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for … part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.”

Our children need to know that the person they become is more important than what they do. We spend so many years preparing our children for their future careers when we should be preparing their character. Why? Because they won’t take their career into heaven, but they will take their character.

Love a man that comes bearing flowers…

2011-05-16T18:36:00.001-07:00

He picked these lovely flowers and carried them around until his little hands were yellow and the flowers had wilted,

He carried them with purpose,

He was on a mission,

And then he noticed that his hands were yellow and his flowers had wilted…

Puzzled, he threw them on the floor.

I loved them and I cherished them. Thank you baby!

Matthew 25:23 (NLT)

Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!

Faithful servants never retire. They serve faithfully as long as they’re alive. You can retire from your career, but you will never retire from serving God.

Is this mid-life or am I losing it?

2011-05-06T12:49:00.001-07:00

How do you suppose it feels when you think you have some sort of weird short term memory loss? I’ll tell you how it feels…it feels WEIRD!!

I’d say in the last 2 years I began forgetting, if I paid bills, if I filed paperwork, where I put the deposit book….I thought it was great at first, because I really hate any sort of paperwork and the less I had to remember it, the better. But then I started to pay bills that I have already paid, and the worst thing imaginable to woman kind happened on Tuesday.

I was in an office meeting and I rolled up my sleeve to check the time, and lo and behold I’m wearing 2 watches…ON THE SAME ARM!!!!!!

What the heck! Are you kidding me? It’s one thing to forget if you paid the hydro bill but to commit a huge fashion faux pas like wearing a sport watch and a dress watch? I ought to be committed….

Psalm 5:11(AV)

But let all those who take refuge and put their trust in You rejoice; let them ever sing and shout for joy, because You make a covering over them and defend them; let those also who love Your name be joyful in You and be in high spirits.

We have a WALKER!

2011-04-22T20:19:00.001-07:00

There he goes…

getting into cupboards…

touching everything he shouldn’t…

but, always coming back to me.

How did I do this everyday, 20+ years ago?

It’s exhausting. lol

busy, busy, busy…..

Did I mention that he hates wearing socks.

He will not quit until he has both socks off, and it seems like he is angry at them.

I’m telling him that he needs socks on because our floors are COLD!

He tries to distract me…

while he throws them in the GARBAGE!!!

For 15 months I have waited with bated breathe for every milestone, celebrating and yet feeling sorry that like sand, time is slipping through my fingers. No matter how tight I close my hand…I can feel him slipping. Slow down my love your going too fast.

Genesis 2:18

“It is not good for the man to be alone”(NIV). God hates loneliness, and community is God’s answer to loneliness. When we walk alongside other people, we find a community where we learn how to love.

Wind and BBQ’s don’t mix

2011-04-17T19:46:00.001-07:00

What a huge disappointment it was to wake up this morning to SNOW on the ground. The poor little crocus’s and daffodil’s that had eagerly poked their little heads out of the ground must have been in shock. It’s not good for a sun loving gal like myself to get her hopes up with a little taste of spring a few days ago.

The weather has been bizarre the last couple of days, we’ve had it all, sun, rain, sleet, snow, warm, cold, damp, dry. Well, maybe not dry but it sounds good.

It was so windy on Friday night that I swore it sounded like a freight train comin’…. it wasn’t a freight train, but a Broil King BBQ! I could hear it slowly building steam as it gathered speed coming down the porch. I’ve heard enough stories about tornados that I know that they sound like trains coming through your house. I was so sure it was a tornado that I was heading for the underground bunker, actually it was the basement. And then the train crashed with a mighty commotion ( more like a loco-motion. tee hee hee)

I didn’t know whether to run for cover or dare to stick my head outside to see if Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz had landed in the backyard. Obviously, curiosity got the better of me and I looked to see our brand new BBQ in a jumbled mess, pieces of it scattered everywhere.

Ken said a few choice words…that will not be repeated because I’m keeping my blog PG,(I’m kidding, no I’m not….yes I am, he would never use choice words) He went to pick up all the pieces,It looked a little worse for wear but he assured me it would still work. So we brought the BBQ back up on the deck and put it safely out of the direction of the wind.

We were enjoying the day inside today because it was snowing, and a downright miserable day, I was looking out the window at the snow falling when out of nowhere we had a wind gust that right before my very eyes, blew the Broil King BBQ past the sliding glass doors and off of the deck and into my garden! You’ve got to be freaking kidding me? What has the Broil King ever done wrong? I can’t believe it…Ken can’t believe it! We need to use the bbq this Friday for a family dinner…I think we should play it on the safe side and order in Chinese. Hmmmm, maybe wind is not such a bad thing after all.

Anyone know the number for a good take out place?

Romans 14:19

So then, we must pursue what promotes peace and what builds up one another.

“Encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 11:25, NIV). God does this for us. He “supports us in every hardship, so that we are able to come to the support of others, in every hardship of theirs because of the encouragement that we ourselves receive from God” (2 Corinthians 1:14). We’re created to stand along side one another.

redecorating my blog

2011-04-14T19:46:00.000-07:00

I'm working on expanding and changing up the blog. Just to give it a fresh new look. So check back often, you never know what you'll see.

Heads up

2011-04-12T18:06:00.001-07:00

I heard from some expert that when you are walking you are always to keep your head up and eyes forward. So when I was walking with my friend (whom we shall call ummm, Benri, because I didn’t get her to sign a release form and I want to respect her privacy) Yea, so I was out walking with Benri and I told her with a lot of authority, put your head up when you’re walking, you will get a much better work out. “Really?” said Benri, “oh yea” said I, (suddenly I’m an expert in all things walking) You can breathe so much better, it’s good for your posture,it prevents problems with your back, neck and shoulders. I no sooner got the words out of my mouth, and I tripped on a crack in the sidewalk. I’m not kidding I think I gave myself whiplash.

I know that Benri thought that was hilarious because she said in between laughing “That's why I walk looking down”. Yea, Benri, thanks for that, I might have a broken vertebrae but laugh it up!

So, being the trooper that I am, I shake it off and keep walking. I did notice periodically, that I was walking with my head down. I’m not sure if it was because I was subconsciously afraid of tripping again or maybe it just felt more comfortable. We were almost finished our marathon walk when Benri said “ Hold on for a sec’ I think I have gravel in my shoe” Ok, No problem. As she was ready to empty her shoe, she noticed a little something on the bottom that she had picked up along the way…..

So, when you are out walking or running, make sure to keep your head down, you will have a much better work out and it prevents problems with your back, neck, and shoulders. And you can avoid land mines that inconsiderate dog owners leave in the middle of the sidewalk…

Right Benri?

Romans 12:1 (NIV)

I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship.

Keeping your body in shape is a spiritual discipline. It’s not just about losing a few pounds, wanting to live longer, or trying to look nicer. God created your body, Jesus died for it, the Holy Spirit lives in it, your body is connected to Christ, and it’s going to be resurrected one day. When it is, God’s going to hold you accountable for how you managed what he gave you

Dress hunting…I mean shopping.

2011-04-08T08:26:00.001-07:00

Its only 5 weeks 1 day until Joni and Chris get married, so it was coming down to the crunch. Why did I wait so long? you might ask? There's always that chance that I can lose that pesky 5 pounds before then…yea ok. And also I get a bit freaked out shopping for such an important event. I needed help and as much as I love my girlfriends, I’m pretty sure that they would tell me I look fantastic in a potato sack.

So I ~~dragged~~ took Ken with me, after all he picked out the dress that I wore for Mallory & Justin's wedding. We head to the mall, my hearts palpitating, palms sweating, I forget how to breath…..ok, Lyn..get a grip, in.. out .. in.. out.. in.. out.

I know, I’m not the Bride but I have to represent my family, and I also know the rules about the Mother-of-the-Groom: show up, shut up, and wear beige. I know that I can show up, and shut up, but I wore beige for the other sons wedding.

Walking around the store, saleswoman trailing us, Ken answering all her questions because suddenly I’m mute. I spot a dress that I would like to try on, and another, and another, and another. Wow, this is going great. Ken holds up a slinky, strapless number…yea ok, buddy, in your dreams. I know, he jokes, but I think he really would like me to try it on…ummm…no.

In the dressing room surrounded by beautiful dresses, I think, what the heck, this could be fun.

Dress number #1, I picked this one because its classic and I could wear it again, and I just wanted to see how it would fit me.

I put it on, and with some difficulty because obviously I’m not a contortionist , zip it up, and say to Ken are you ready? I dread this part because usually, the saleswoman is standing there and customers are looking at you and you definitely feel like your on display. Here goes nothing…..you know those cartoons where the male cartoon sees the female cartoon and his eyes pop out and his tongue rolls out, I swear that is exactly what Kens reaction was and I knew right then, yep, I’m buying this dress.

Dress #2, I picked because it was different and it had some sparkle, I’m a sucker for sparkle. I loved it, however Kens reaction was indifferent, he says..”it seems a little tight across the… ahem..chest area!” The helpful saleswoman standing over his shoulder, runs, no kidding, runs, and says “I have it in a bigger size.” Great! That alone puts a damper on this dress. I’m now starting to hate this dress. I’m not waiting, onto dress #3.

(this is not really the dress, but it is sparkly)

Dress #3, Kens pick. It’s satiny, its shiny, it has sparkle. Its a flattering color for me, its comes with a little bolero jacket. This is the typical, classic Mother dress….I hate it, I refuse to be typical, but I try it on for him. His eyes don’t pop out, his tongue is not rolling on the floor, but I can tell he really likes it. “You look classy” he says. Why does classy now sound soooo old? I said “I look like the Mother!” Ken and the saleswoman stare at me with blank expressions. I know, I know, I am the Mother, but a little part of me wants to be the Princess.

Dress #4, Its lavender with sparkles. Well, it hides a lot of imperfections. But no, I’m not 18, I’m not a bridesmaid, and lavender?…can anyone pull off that color?

Back to Dress #2 in a bigger size. Whatever, I take the bigger dress from the saleswoman, who then says “I also have it in a size up from that one”. Really lady? Are you kidding me? I already hate this dress with a passion, now I want to say to her “why don’t you try on the bigger size?” Which never would have worked because I’m sure she was a petite size 0. Anyway I figure I’m here, I’ll try it on. Well, I didn’t need help zipping it, and I don’t have a flattened chest area. I stepped out of the dressing room and looked in the mirror and fell in love with it. “This is the dress” I say to Ken and the little saleswoman.

Ken wasn’t drooling and his eyes weren’t rolling back in his head, but he knew I loved this dress, and I felt comfortable, and I was happy. He said “That's her dress” and she’ll need some sparkly jewellery, and a sparkly pocket book, and some sparkly shoes. Ok, he didn’t really say all that stuff about sparkly accessories but, he knows me and he knows I loves sparkly things.

It turned out to be a great shopping experience. I walked out of the store with a dress, that alone is very unusual for me. I said to Ken earlier, “I’m not coming back dress shopping, so we have to find something today!” Job accomplished.

ps. I went back the next day, and picked up Dress #1. How could I leave it there? It would have been a huge disappointment to Ken.

Habakkuk 2:3 (LB)

"But these things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, do not despair, for these things will surely come to pass. Just be patient! They will not be overdue a single day!"

We all have to go through these waiting periods. Even Jesus waited for thirty years in the carpenter's shop before setting out on his public ministry.Why do we wait? It teaches us to trust in God. We learn that his timing is perfect. One of the facts we have to learn is this: God's delay never destroys his purpose. A delay is not a denial. Children must learn the difference between "no" and "not yet," and so must we. Many times we think God is saying, "No," but he is saying, "Not yet."

What era is this?

2011-04-06T17:21:00.001-07:00

**I feel like I have to add this disclaimer.** This is my experience with a few people, not a whole religion, not a whole denomination, but one church, one town, a few people. These are my feelings, therefore I don't believe I'm judging because these things really happened to us. Also some people within this church couldn't be closer to us if they were blood related and we love them, and they know who they are.

I’m hurt, angry,betrayed…so mad that if i could spit nails I would. How dare certain people cast their judgments on our family! We’ve been through this, and became better Christians because of it. We never dreamed that any of our children would have to endure this abuse. Honestly, it should be a crime for the hatred that they spew. Please Lord, forgive them for they know not what they do.

They are stumbling blocks…not to us or our kids thankfully, we have wise council that we can go to. But, to others that might seek out the Lord in their church. Unless, you are born into it, you are never good enough. Even then, if you are unfortunate enough to be born into the wrong family, you are never fully accepted.
I know that they don’t all feel this way, but a little piece of me wonders…maybe they do. It breaks my heart that there is no one to stand up for the injustice, it can't be us because we are on the outside now and our words are nonsense to them. There is no one within this church that is brave enough to speak out or stand up, because it’s a hard road when the people you thought were your “brothers & sisters” turn their backs on you.

And if you don’t follow the “rules” they will in the end shun you. Yep, can you believe it, it’s 2011 and I said shunned. It’s real, it lives, and it sucks. And no matter how hard you try to convince me that this is done in love, I don’t believe it because we survived it and there is nothing loving about it.

People have to have their eyes opened, after all Jesus isn’t a denomination and Jesus isn’t a church building, and Jesus didn’t wear a 3 pc. suit on Sundays. If Jesus were alive today, I wonder what they would think of Him.

Today = another day that the walk with my Lord and Saviour gets better, gets deeper and definitely gets stronger.

Maybe thanks are in order.

Breakfast of champions?

2011-03-31T19:59:00.001-07:00

These are the ingredients…

Thrown in a blender…

and aaahhhhhh, drink it all down.

All I know is: this better be good for me. It doesn’t taste bad, it just looks disgusting! I try to change my eating habits every once in awhile because it is easy to get into a rut, get bored, and throw all the hard work out the window.

But I always make sure to treat myself…just a little. Because otherwise, what's the sense?

The Bible says, "Being cheerful keeps you healthy." (Proverbs 17:22 GN) Studies prove that when you laugh, it raises your immunity to illness. Laughter is good for your health. Humor is God's gift to us. Remember, God has a sense of humor -- he made you and me!

To be emotionally balanced, take God very seriously but don't take yourself seriously. Learn to laugh at your limitations. If you only laugh and enjoy life when your problems are all solved, you'll never enjoy life.

Homeward bound…2 days later.

2011-03-27T13:29:00.001-07:00

We left our condo at 4:00 am to beat the traffic. It was very difficult to stay awake until the sun came up at 7:20 am. Good thing traffic was light.

Even at the crack of dawn, he’s still a beauty!

Exactly what I was thinking.

Going to get me a pair of those.NOT.

Good morning sunshine.

This guy was packed!

This ones for the boys.

This guys packed too.

Ken wanted to be this guys friend.

Well, hello beautiful. Blowing kisses to you too.

They passed us…for a minute.

Say “Cheese”.

3 crosses, you see these a lot across the southern states. We were wondering who puts these up, anyone know?
answer ( thanks Jackie): http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/100270

Stopped for the night. 6:30 pm.

Hit the road at 7:00 am., there's a little man calling my name.

CANADA!!!!

He learned how to climb stairs while I was away. These pictures are for Mallory, so that she can see how well he climbs without help.

(nice face, Justin) lol

Isn’t that amazing? He does it all on his own, without help, and he’s quite proud of himself! We sure are proud of Justin. and Atticus did pretty good too. hahaha. just kiddin’
We are glad to be home again reunited with the ones we love. Now, we got a wedding to get ready for, the countdown is on.
Matthew 5:41
If someone demands that you go one mile, go with him two miles.
Exceed what’s expected of you and watch God bless it.

All good things must come to an end

2011-03-24T19:28:00.001-07:00

We have had one of the most wonderful vacations ever. It started off just the two of us, enjoying each others company, contemplating life, discussing our children and our little man, praying together, doing devotions together…just really enjoying our time alone.

The second week was equally enjoyable, just different than the first week. Time with friends, that are more like family is so special that it’s hard to put words to. They really are amazing people,who we can totally be ourselves with and they still love us.

And now its ending for another year, more memories to cherish, new friends to embrace, thank you Lord for all that we have been blessed with.

And now for your viewing pleasure:

The guys went on a fishing charter and brought home supper.

Goodbye Sebastian…until next year!

And look what happened, Its a miracle! no sock balls!

We are on a long journey home, we covet your prayers.

Luke 6:27-28

“But to you who are willing to listen, I say,love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those that hurt you.”

A quest for the unrolled sock

2011-03-23T12:29:00.001-07:00

As a years long struggle within our house I finally had to go outside my comfort zone to air my dirty laundry…so to speak. I need to find out if my “men” were the only ones that peel their socks off into a nicely formed ball.

I refuse to stick my hand into a smelly, damp, dirty sock to turn it right side out. I don’t think its too much to ask for them to please do this themselves. I’m sure they wouldn’t do it for each other…so I ask why do they expect me to do it? And NO it’s not my job as some misguided soul seems to think it is.

The socks go in the washer, as a nice round ball ( one that I feel like aiming nicely at the back of ones head). It goes in the dryer a nice round ball, and it goes in the sock drawer as a nice, round slightly damp ball. We now have a communal sock drawer, full of sock balls!

I refuse to be a slave to the sock ball. And don’t complain to me about having damp socks, that may even be a little dirty…but, mine are completely dry and clean.

What say you?

Happy 1st Day of Spring

2011-03-21T20:00:00.001-07:00

Day 9…Sebastian

It felt more like the 1st day of summer then the 1st day of spring, and that made it extra delicious. And it was also Sunday so, that's always nice.

That's not fake at all.

View from our room.

For $50.00 a week including gas, we get full use of a boat.

Derek posing.

Ken and Derek climbing a dead tree. These trees were knocked down during a hurricane 4 years ago.

Island man.

Yep, I had to drive the boat and the guys all had to sit on the front of it to keep it in the water because it was very windy and wavy. Doesn’t Henri look thrilled, I look pretty confident…I thought.

I won’t be posting daily after this as I don’t always have my camera with me especially by the pool.

Blog at ya soon!

Proverbs 11:22

A beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in a pig’s snout.

Super! Moon.

2011-03-20T20:14:00.001-07:00

Day 8…Sebastian

Hang Ten, that's what I came here for. The weather is absolutely blistering, and we are loving every moment of it. Besides the fact that I have developed allergies to something that is pollinating here, I can’t complain about anything. It was worth the drive.

Here is Ken instructing the younger kids on how to be the biggest pain in the neck in the pool. I think right after this picture he got a stern talking to from a lady.

that just fuels the fire…

and they all join in,

and the pool usually clears out.

but they are having fun.

The crazier, the better. They all try to outdo each other, regardless of age.

How is that possible? crazy kid!

ok, thats enough…put the ball down. phew, who said my kids were grown and I could relax?

waitin’ for a snack

No towels allowed on the railings!

Super Moon…

and again…

my personal favourite.

The three amigos.

nightly ritual.

total km for the day= 0

Psalm 63: 2-3

I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you!

heading to meet our family

2011-03-19T19:58:00.001-07:00

Day 7…Delray to Sebastian.

We slept with the sliding glass doors open all night so that we could listen to the oceans roar.

We woke to a beautiful, majestic sunrise.

God is Great!

Man of War, there were quite a few of these on the beach. If you step on one it will “light you up” as the southerners say.

Our room was the one with the towels on the chair.

Ken says that this is what we need when we travel, for my luggage. :o)

For our girl!

Turtles.

Getting close now.

We made it.

Don’t they look happy?

BBQ

View from the condo.

Home Sweet Home for the week.

A nice little surprise

2011-03-19T04:58:00.001-07:00

Day 6…Kendall to Delray

Well, I fell in love with this place. We found a little hidden gem in the middle of Delray. I could have stayed there for a week, or two…or forever. We could just move the kids down here and I’d be set. please???

Bad guys live here too.

There were many, many homes here which I felt I could easily move into. That along with my staff of 20.

Our room before we totally ransacked it. it was a beautiful ocean side room. one of the nicest locations we have ever stayed.

Couldn’t beat the view.

Ken would like a house with a boat parked outside.

Talking to the kiddies, I miss them.

Oh, I couldn’t go to the beach without a little pink.

Did I mention i would like to stay here….forever?

Total Km for day: 136….nice easy day.

Check off the Bucket List

2011-03-18T20:18:00.001-07:00

Day 5…Kendall to Key West to Kendall

I’ve always wanted to go the Florida Keys…so here it is. It was worth the drive, but it’s somewhere I never have to go again.

Isn’t he pretty?

This was a stop along the way at Captain Dougie’s. It only cost us a dollar and we could see people feed the Tarpon ( I think that's what the fish were called, I’m not 100% sure…I’ll check into it)

They were huge fish. and pelicans too.

Friends?

Boondocks: We stopped here for lunch and we highly recommend it. Great food.

This is what I came for, just for my girl. this is for you,love.

This guy is made from sea sponges…disgusting.

Aren’t these giant statutes? There were other ones too but they were nude, and I’m tying to keep this PG. :o)

Chickens are protected here, so they roam freely.

Banyan Tree, very cool.

Cruise ship.

Interesting trinkets.

end of the line.

There are performances every night in Mallory Square.

Ken got himself job while we were there. Next thing ya know he’ll be joining the circus. yep, still got my accent.

Big Buoy. :o)

Sorry, I'm keeping it brief, its the middle of the night (11:14 pm) and everyone's sleeping.

I’ll update again hopefully in the am, its hard typing in the dark.

Losing track

2011-03-17T19:35:00.001-07:00

Day 4…

I’m forget where I am or where I was. So many hotels,cities,and sights to see. I couldn’t blog for a night so that really messed me up because one day runs into the next. So I’ll recollect the best I can.

We woke to another beautiful sunny day. It was the first good nights sleep that I have had so far. Charlotte Harbour looks like a nice place to stay. We went to Captain Doug’s in Everglade City and went on a Airboat , tour. Captain Tom was our tour guide, he was very knowledgeable, but Ken thought that he didn’t drive fast enough. It’s not a race my dear.

Scary business.

These guys were crazy. They were passing everyone.

of course Ken had to pick him up…

and stick him in my face!

a hitchhiker.

Posing pretty.

I felt like one of the swamp people going to catch us some gators.

Mangrove, very cool.

We drove all this way to see A RACOON!

yep! Ken was jealous, we had the old guy.

Day 4 total km=500

Proverbs 11:12-13

It is foolish to belittle one’s neighbour, a sensible person keeps quite. A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence.

When long drives lead to disappointments.

2011-03-15T19:44:00.001-07:00

Day 3…

I have always looked forward to going to St. Petersburg, I have no idea why. I had it in my mind that it was a beautiful,relaxing place to sit on the beach and watch the sunset. I was very wrong and I was very disappointed.

St. Petersburg is definitely NOT worth the drive.

A few pictures for you, because I know you love them. lol

Sign,sign everywhere a sign, breaking up the scenery…

This ones for you pig!

Forestry tower, to watch for fires.

Yay! for Florida!!!

This trucks whole windshield was smashed from a bird…a BIG fricken bird. Not the “Big” Bird from Sesame Street, but a big bird nonetheless.

I like clean potties, they are few and far between on this trip.

I felt bad after taking this picture, they were putting a lady on a stretcher so, I prayed for her.

Bridge to disappointment….err, I mean, St. Petersburg.

My darling at sunset.

Sunshine Skyway…away from disappointment :o)

Day 3 total km = 850

Psalm 37:27

Depart from evil,and do good; and dwell forevermore.

Smokey Mountain high….

2011-03-14T19:28:00.001-07:00

Day 2…

Lovely driving weather.

We didn’t stop to find out….I’ll take the signs word for it.

ya know…..

Scenes like this make you say a prayer and slow right down.

Very scary.

It doesn’t take long for traffic to come to a stand still.

Here we are,

This is a cool building, upside-down.

The mountains are majestic. Speaking of mountains, Dollywood was around here somewhere too. I’m thinking that is why its so commercialized. It was so congested there, I wouldn’t recommend going there…ever.

That's my man. Isn’t he hawt? For some reason as soon as we crossed over into Tennessee I picked up this accent. I’m sure y’all would love to hear it.

Yep, a traffic jam in the mountains. hmmmph!

See, proof that I’m really here too!

snow…..blech…

Cold and snowy, get me outta here.

Our home for the night. zzzzzzzzzz

This is for the boys! and by boys, I mean men…sorta.

Day 2 total km: 701

Psalm 57: 9-11

I will thank you, Lord, among all the people. I will sing your praises among the nations. For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens. May your glory shine over all the earth.

get set,go!!!

2011-03-13T19:28:00.001-07:00

Doesn’t he look excited? Bright and early, setting out on our big adventure. We have never gone away for 2 whole weeks before…all alone…with no kids…with no friends (for the 1st week)…pray for me :o)

Who knew these giant windmills where so close to home? not me apparently.

Ohhhhh, we’re in Windsor….eeeek!

Border crossing, arrived at 10:32 and were through by 10:47…thats awesome, we were worried about that. we forgot its March Break.

Any Fireworks signs from here on in are for my boys. love you guys. I told you I would keep my eye open for Fireworks.

I knew it…….I AM A WINNER!

He’s looking longingly out the window and thinking about our friend Ed.

You don’t expect to see familiar vehicles in another country. :o)

So True.

This one is for you Anna!

Don’t we all need a little more road? sorry about the dirty windshield…it’s Ken’s fault.

KENTUCKY, where fried chicken was invented. mmmm, I love chicken.

Thats for y’all….y’all!

What a cute, young, couple..Must be honeymooners. yea, ok.

Our home for the first night.

I can’t believe that I stayed in the same hotel as the person who would do this to Rudolph.

Total Km for day 1= 905.

Proverbs 11:8

The godly are rescued from trouble, and it falls on the wicked instead.

On your mark…

2011-03-09T12:25:00.001-08:00

Tracking the map…

Can’t stop looking….

To see where our adventure leads us…

mountains…

swamps…

keys…

meeting friends…

lots of paperwork…

speed traps….

more speed traps….

Disney?????

to be continued……

Turtle Power

2011-03-07T19:19:00.000-08:00

Just because he can...he chooses to do his stretches by the sliding glass doors. Like any true yoga master his moves are slow and deliberate. Or.... he's sees Grampa outside and thinks "hey, Grampa, look I got a foot". Oh, how I wish I had his flexibility. I like to think I'm pretty flexible, but he puts me to shame, he's like Gumby.

I'm soaking in all his lovliness this week because I'm leaving the country for 2 weeks. I'm hoping that I'll be able to see him on Skype, but I think their computer is broken :(. Maybe, some year he'll be able to come south with us. That would be perfect, the sunshine and the grandson shine. Both make me extremely happy.

love you, monkey xo

Luke 8:8 (NIV)

"He who has ears to hear, let him hear."

"The longer you grow in your relationship with the Lord, the easier it is to know when He's talking to you."

He put a spell on me.

2011-02-20T12:25:00.000-08:00

Who wouldn't want to wake up to this sight every day?


2 little monkeys

I can't imagine being this excited the moment that I wake up and find a camera stuck in my face. He's a patient loving boy, and he lets his gramma get away with taking a lot of liberties. I'm sure there will come a day when he won't want me to take his picture...but until then...he's my captive audience...so to speak ;o) Smile baby :o)

I can't get enough of looking at this little creature, he just captivates and amazes me. If he's in a crowded room, or if it's just him and I, he has my undivided attention. I can't focus on anything else if he's around me. He's totally got me, I'm under his spell and I don't want that spell to be broken. I'm sure he's going to be thrilled someday when I'm spotted lurking in the playground, or when he's rocking out with the band. People are going to say "Is that your Gramma"?

I'm sorry baby, we all have our crosses to bear. xo

2 Corinthians 3:18b (MSG) Our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him.

Tuckered out….

2011-02-07T18:08:00.001-08:00

Have you ever had days where you can barely keep your eyes open,when you feel like you can just crash out right where you are sitting? I’ve had my fair share of days like that and this picture depicts exactly how I feel.

My sweet,sleepy, baby. Love ya monkey! Gramma was tuckered out by the end of the day too. In fact Grampa found me in this exact position face down in my mashed potatoes.

Romans 12:2 (NIV)

“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

God wants a new you who not only looks different, but who lives and thinks and speaks and acts differently. He wants a new you who has taken a 180-degree turn and is headed in a new direction, no longer pursuing an old way of life, no longer trying to conform and fit in and be like everybody else. He wants a new you who is being transformed by the renewing of your mind – a new you who is being transformed into the likeness of Christ.

Trade places

2010-12-16T19:00:00.001-08:00

A cough that sounds painful combined with a low grade fever renders a limp and lethargic baby who could barely lift his head, to make eyes with me and plead with icy baby blues to make it better. This is who I would trade places with if I could.

We have spent the last few days comforting, whispering,rocking, kissing and doing a whole lot of thinking about how grateful we are that this is not the norm because, for some people, it is. And for these people that have to watch their “littles” go through illness, we say a special prayer, because they need us to.

Psalm 56:3

“Even when I am afraid, I keep trusting you"

What is important?

2010-11-11T10:26:00.001-08:00

Life is busy and crazy, but its amazing how amidst the chaos and the frustrations of not being able to keep up with it all, I can hear Gods voice telling me to "decide what's important". What's important is meditating on His word, or sometimes it's painting my toenails, or taking pictures of the world He has given me, or sitting with the sun beating on my face, or simply saying "No".

It's important that I take that time for myself, no matter how selfish that sounds. If I don't, my family suffers and so do I, and I definitely don't want to hurt the ones that I love the most.

I'm rejuvenated, relaxed, and can enjoy life when I know what's important. God walks with me everyday and guides my thoughts, my motives, and my intentions. I'm thankful for Him because I couldn't possibly do all of this on my own, and I wouldn't want to.

Since pleasing God is the first purpose of your life, your most important task is to discover how to do that. The Bible says, "Figure out what will please Christ, and then do it" (Ephesians 5:10 MSG).

Numbers 6:25 (NLT)

May the Lord smile on you.

Orange is definitely his color.

2010-10-31T11:19:00.001-07:00

This is our lil' pumpkin, isn't he adorable. Mind you I think that because he is ours, because he has our blood flowing through his veins, and most of all because he IS pretty darn adorable.

Just looking at the world through his eyes is amazing. He has such a unbiased view on life, I'm discovering new things about life and the world when I see it through him.

I'm realizing what's important...what's not. And he is very important. It's important that when he's scooting backwards along the floor and gets stuck up against a wall, he needs me to help him. It's important that when he's had enough tummy time and he see's me and our eyes lock, his legs are a'kickin, his arms are a'wavin' and my hearts a'racin, he needs me to pick him up. Its important to realize that this precious time isn't going to last forever and to soak it all in because in the blink of an eye he will be a grown man, and he won't need me anymore. But that day is not today.

Philippians 1:3 (NIV)

"I thank my God every time I remember you."

Surge Protection

2010-10-23T05:12:00.001-07:00

We have to go out and buy surge protection this weekend and it got me to thinking about what is my surge protection? What protects me from the storms of life? Jesus is like a surge protector, He took the brunt of all of our sins for us, so we wouldn't have to. The Bible is like a surge protector because I can open it and read it and know that the words within it are true . God is my surge protector, I know He is there for me when the clouds roll in, the thunder rumbles, and the lightening strikes. I am safe because He is with me....always.

(I'm right here baby, don't worry. I love you. xo)

Philippians 4:6 (NLT)

Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done

Say what you mean and mean what you say

2010-10-16T18:10:00.001-07:00

The fact that my words can have an impact on someone, totally amazes me. I want my words to be sweet, encouraging, uplifting surges of love. I want to portray that I am hand painted by God, in His image.I want to thank a very special girl, who left me a message this morning. Without even knowing it, your words were exactly what I needed to hear today-much love to you<3

"Anytime you use your God-given abilities to help others, you are fulfilling your calling. "

Romans 7:4 (TEV)

Now you belong to him ... in order that you might be useful in the service of God.

Be still

2010-09-26T19:15:00.001-07:00

I know how to be still, I love to be still...for about 5 minutes. After that my mind wanders. I should be doing the laundry, making supper or dusting something I think to myself. But we need to quiet ourselves to get the peace and comfort that we so desperately long for.

It doesn't feel like we are being productive when we still ourselves, why is that?

Maybe I'll become more productive . Hopefully, the span of time gets longer then 5 minutes so that I can have a deeper connection to God. Each day I know He is waiting for me...waiting to speak to me, waiting for me to become quiet.

Mark 1:35 (NIV)

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. )

The leaves are a-changing.

2010-09-21T12:58:00.001-07:00

And love for this little man grows by leaps and bounds. He played in the leaves, unleashing his curiosity and wonder. And we sat,watched, and drank it in...we drank in the amazingness of him. Who could possibly tire of looking at him? Not us. I breathe these moments in for what they are...Blessings...beautiful, big, undeserved Blessings. And we thank God for them every day.

1 Corinthians 13:7-8 (NIV)

"Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails."

Tell me, what is it you plan to do?

2010-08-05T09:17:00.001-07:00

This poem got me to thinking...

The Summer Day by, Mary Oliver

Who made the world? Who made the swan, and the black bear? Who made the grasshopper? This grasshopper, I mean-- the one who has flung herself out of the grass, the one who is eating sugar out of my hand, who is moving her jaws back and forth instead of up and down-- who is gazing around with her enormous and complicated eyes. Now she lifts her pale forearms and thoroughly washes her face. Now she snaps her wings open, and floats away. I don't know exactly what a prayer is. I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down into the grass, how to kneel in the grass, how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through the fields, which is what I have been doing all day. Tell me, what else should I have done? Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon? Tell me, what is it you plan to do With your one wild and precious life?

What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? What is it I plan to do with my one wild and precious life?

I plan on grabbing a hold of life and going for the ride. I will not sit idly by and watch it pass. I plan on letting the people that matter know how much they mean to me, as for the others, I will pray for them. I plan on exploring this world and all its exciting possibilities. I will overcome my fears. I will hold my grandchildren close and never let them forget how much they are loved, wanted, and above all blessed. I will treat right this body that God gave me. I will learn to love it. I will always tell my husband how much I love, need, and appreciate him. I will never forget to kiss goodnight. I plan on finding out what my purpose is and using it to my full potential. I plan on reading a lot more books and watching a lot less TV. I plan on taking some amazing pictures. This is just the beginning, I'm sure more things will be added to my list every day. How about you?

1 Timothy 6:6-7 (NRSV)

There is great gain in godliness combined with contentment; for we brought nothing into the world and we can take nothing out of it."

Rainy days and sunshine

2010-07-28T14:37:00.001-07:00

After an extremely humid day, the heavens opened up and washed away the ugliness that only a heat wave can leave behind. The smell of the rain was refreshing , cleansing, and renewing. You can feel the humidity being chased away by the breeze left in the rains wake. It is wonderful,magical, powerful, it is awesome. New life has arrived it seems and it is fresh and clean.

There is something to be said for summer thunderstorms. You either love them or you hate them. I love them. It reminds me of sitting on the front porch as a child with my Momma and watching the storms roll in and roll out. I never feared them I guess because Momma never did. I felt safe and loved and some days I want to relive those memories with my Momma.

When the storms are over and the sun peaks out above the black clouds, it is something marvellous. It is a reawakening. The sun burning the puddles off of the asphalt, the asphalt steaming. The birds are singing, the storm is over and all is well and sparkling clean.

Galatians 6:9 (NLT)

So don’t get tired of doing what is good. Don’t get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.

All because two people fell in love!

2010-07-21T11:31:00.001-07:00

This week is our 26th wedding anniversary. Amazing how time flies. Why is it that sometimes the days drag on but the years fly by? We've had good and bad times just like everyone else, but the Lord has blessed us with more good then bad.

I was always in a rush for the kids to grow up, to get to the next stage of their lives and now I want to slow the clock down and enjoy every moment. How awesome it is to spend time with the ones we love...family and friends.

But more importantly, I give thanks to God for getting us through these last 26 years. We never could have done it without Him, walking with us every step of the way. When we thought we were on our own, we weren't. He was there gently prodding, quietly comforting, and always loving. Thankfully, He never gave up on us when others did. Thanking Him every moment of the day for this beautiful family of mine. We sure are blessed!

Psalm 19

May the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart, be pleasing to you, my God.

Heat wave!!!

2010-07-06T07:40:00.000-07:00

It's a smile, it's a kiss

It's a sip of wine, it's summertime
Sweet summertime

We are in the middle of a heat wave, and I'm loving it! I have waited all winter for this weather. I'm pretty sure that I was supposed to be born in Africa.lol. I do feel sorry for my guys though, 2 work outside in the heat and 2 work in a factory welding. I'm not sure which is worse. I am enjoying swimming in our backyard pool and the little visitor that comes over for a dip.

If you could see under his little floating device you would see 2 little chubby legs just paddling away like crazy. It really is the cutest thing I have ever seen. I think babies really do know how to swim. Oh, my darling boy, I could just eat you up, you are that sweet.

Jeremiah 29:11

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'

Not all sunshine and rainbows

2010-06-28T11:07:00.001-07:00

i always try to be a positive, upbeat, happy person. but sometimes, and it doesn't take much to be knocked down and feeling pretty sorry for myself. i expect too much sometimes i think. i just want to be treated how i treat people...i don't think it's too much to ask. i know a few people...ok a couple of people who for reasons beyond my understanding, don't like me.
i don't get it! how could they not like me??? me???? some of these people are my Christian "brothers" or "sisters"(an oxymoron for sure). as far as i know i have treated them no differently than i have treated anyone else. and i would never intentionally hurt someone. i'm sure they don't think i realize it, but sometimes saying nothing or doing nothing, speaks volumes. and also i'm very intuitive.
i know its not possible for everyone to like me but, why does it hurt me so if someone doesn't?
OK....that's the end of that, I'm giving it over to God! and girlfriends, i think we need to get together so you can listen to me rant in person!!!
there is one little person that can brighten my day no matter what. when i'm with him, nothing else matters. love you, cubby.

July 23, 2010
ok,ok so i haven't given it over 100% yet. it's so hard when i have to face these people...i just want them to like me...hmmp! this sucks. i know it's not my problem, but really it is because it BOTHERS me! i can't really talk to these people because it would just blow up into a huge "thing" and i don't want to hurt people, so i suffer in silence...well, it's not really silence because i'm writing it here. hoping someone hears me, gives me advice, praying that God lifts this burden.

Colossians 3:13
Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has (freely) forgiven you, so must you also forgive. (Amplified Bible)

Family of mine

2010-06-18T11:06:00.001-07:00

This family of mine has the ability to make me crazy or happy. Either way I wouldn't change them for anything, and I love them more each day. When we can all come together and share a meal, when no one is in a hurry to get away, and we laugh until we cry...these are the moments I will cherish always.

And look who has joined us at the dinner table!!!! Welcome Atticus, we've been waiting for you. Our table is getting fuller and it is awesome, Thank you Lord for all we've been blessed with.
I can't wait for little baby feet to be following me around and demanding my attention... you already have it all my love.
That's right..he's our prince charming. Sitting like royalty in his very own chair, right where he belongs ...with all of us, who love him dearly!
You, little man make my heart sing, and yes, you really do crack me up.

Psalms 18:2

The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

…Days like these…

2010-06-04T06:09:00.001-07:00

I’m thankful that I am able to wake up in the morning and feel well enough to work out. I am thankful I can sit on my porch in the warm morning sunshine and enjoy a cup of tea.I have been so blessed. I never want to stop giving thanks to my Lord and Saviour.

Please turn off music at bottom of blog before watching

Thats my King!

When I watched this video years ago, it changed my life. It made me realize who knit me in my mothers womb, who knows me better then I know myself, that no matter how many mistakes I have made, I am forgiven,I want to bring whoever I can with me…it made me realize that I am a child of Gods and NO ONE can take that away from me.

Days like these, I could weep from sheer joy.

Random thoughts, random life.

2010-05-31T07:43:00.001-07:00

This waterfall is basically in our back yard…not really but it’s very close. Why do we always think that we have to travel to exotic countries to find God’s beauty? I’m starting to realize and to appreciate all the beauty around me. I don’t have to go anywhere to see the gifts in my life, they’re amazing!

This den of fox IS in our back yard, so awesome!

My heart overflows with happiness….Praise the Lord!

A New Breakfast

2010-04-10T18:57:00.001-07:00

I have been eating the same thing for breakfast for al long time. 1/2 bowl of All Bran with 1% milk. Boring and it doesn’t really hold me over for long. Well, this morning I decided to try something new.

I found the recipe on one of my favourite blogs . Oh She Glows

It is called Vegan Overnight Oats .

I was very leery to try this as I did not think I would like cold oats. The ingredients are very interesting and I was glad that I had everything in the house already. So I put it all together last night before I went to bed. I was excited to get my run done this morning so that I could try my new found breakfast.

The looks of it had me a little scared. After I mixed in some almond butter and drizzled maple syrup on top, I decided to dig in…

Let me just say, that I won’t be giving up my All Bran altogether but, now it has some serious competition.:) I ate this huge bowl and I wasn’t really hungry for the rest of the day. I just snacked on apples, celery, and cucumbers until supper time.

PM Ingredients:

1/3 cup regular oats
3/4 cup almond milk
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1 tiny ripe banana, peeled and smashed
1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions: Mix together the above ingredients in a bowl and place in fridge overnight.

AM Ingredients:

1 tablespoon nut butter
Pure Maple Syrup

Thanks Angela for inspiring me.

Question

#1 What do you have for breakfast?

Hope everyone has an on track weekend!

~Lyn~

The Tuesday after Easter Monday

2010-04-06T07:32:00.000-07:00

I have been running my 3 miles a day faithfully but, my weight does not want to budge. I'm trying to get rid of a pesky 3 pounds. I track what I eat, I drink my water, and I exercise...what am I doing wrong. Maybe my body likes this weight, but I don't :(

Last night for supper I made Quinoa, it was delicious. I made it with chicken broth, red onion and green pepper ( I added chickpeas to mine.) I was going to put feta cheese in it too but, I forgot. Even C & J liked it.

After dinner last night, K and I went for a nice 35 minute walk. We are going to try and do that every day, weather permitting. My feet are sore today so, on the weekend I think I better go running shoe shopping...boo. I always have a hard time buying running shoes. The only ones I have any luck with are Mizuno's and they are hard to find around here and expensive.

Questions:

#1 How do you kick start your weight loss?

#2 What is your favorite Quinoa recipe?

Hope everyone has an awesome on track day!

~Lyn~

Spring is here!

2010-04-05T10:50:00.001-07:00

Well, I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter weekend. The weather here was beautiful. I don’t remember this nice of an Easter weekend since I was a kid….a couple of years ago ;)
The family was together yesterday for Easter Dinner, it was a beautiful day. It was bABE VL’s first Easter, so that made it even more special.

Today I ran an easy 3 miles, and then upper body weights. I think weight lifting makes a huge difference in weight loss and re-shaping my body. I also bought a peach coloured workout top because every thing I own is black. Its a nice spring color and I think it looks pretty. That makes me look forward to my workout.

On days that I don’t work outside the home, I pass the time working out on the treadmill by watching Regis & Kelly.

Kelly sure is a fit looking mamma! I’m sure she works hard at it. I wonder if she is careful about what she eats.
I think I need new runners, they still look like brand new but I noticed that my right foot was sore the other day after running.

Questions:
#1. What is your favourite Easter tradition?
#2. What do watch or listen to, to pass the time when working out?
#3. How often do you buy new runners and what brand?

Hope you have an awesome on track day!! ~Lyn~

The Average Woman

2010-03-30T12:51:00.001-07:00

tips from the magazine: Women’s Health

What really goes on behind gym doors;

4…the number of days the average woman goes to the gym

63…percent who prefer to exercise alone

1 in 3 forget to clean the machine after using it…..eeewwwww

75…percent won’t enter the showers barefoot

Body part she’s most interested in toning…abs….and legs,arms,butt,back,shoulders………

What intimidates her most at the gym…other people watching her exercise

Monthly fee she pays to go there…$20.00…I’d like to know what gym that was!

8 in 10 prefer the gym to exercising outdoors

55 percent of women have worked out with a trainer

Excuse she usually uses to skip a workout…I’m too tired…I’ve used that excuse

1% walk around the locker room naked….come on, have some modesty

63% have been “hit on” while working out

15% have “picked up” a guy at the gym

Top 3 favourite Activities

1.Lift weights

2.Take a class

3.Run on the treadmill….my favourite

Top 3 gym pet peeves

1.Not wiping down a machine after using it

2.Hogging a piece of Equipment

3.Grunting loudly while lifting weights….LOL

See, even Marilyn had to work out :)

It’s Monday…

2010-03-22T16:10:00.001-07:00

It’s always a shock when the alarm goes off on Monday mornings. Today, I promised myself that I would get my housework done and the laundry going before I sat down to Blog.

Workout: Treadmill: 5 min. warm up, Ran 3 miles @ 5.7 mph, 5 min. cool down.

Breakfast: Tea with milk & sugar, All Bran with milk, water.

Lunch: Amy’s Organic Split Pea Soup ( 100 cal. 0 Fat, 6 fibre) I will definitely be having this again, carrots with 1 tbsp. hummus, and a lovely Gala apple. :)

Snack: 2-Ryvita Sunflower Seeds & Oats Crackers with 1 tbsp Almond butter,

and a nice cup of Green Ginger Tea.

Dinner: Speed it up Spinach & Chickpeas

This recipe I got from one of my favorite blogs: Oh She Glows

It was a keeper, filling and delicious.

Turning over a new "leaf"

2010-03-17T17:53:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patty's Day!

I like to think that I have a little bit of Irish in me. Afterall where would my red hair and freckles come from? Well...my natural hair color was reddish :) Doesn't everyone have a bit of Irish in them on March 17th? I took a name generator quiz today and my leprechaun name was "Tight Fisted O'Callaghan". Funny stuff!

Well enough about that.

I've kind of fallen off the fitness/healthy eating wagon since Christmas. So here I am again recommitting myself to looking out for what is best for me.

When I lost my 30 lbs., it was thanks to Weight Watchers. The program worked wonderfully for me as long as I stuck to my points, drank my water and did my 30 minutes of exercise daily. However, I became bored with it and slowly started putting the weight back on. Believe me, it's a lot easier to put the weight on then to take it off.

I decided last year that I would exercise and eat 90% clean. This really worked for me and I lost weight and was maintaining it up until Christmas when all of the sudden...I lost my mojo...my motivation...all gone. I have no idea what happened, and now I find my pants are a little snug, I'm tired, and I have no energy. So now I'm going to get back at it, I've already started this week. I've worked out everyday and I've been planning my meals. The rest of my family is not really into the "clean eating" menu so, I have to basically make 2 meals, one for them and one for me. It's not easy but I can't force my way of life on them, I can just hope that eventually I'm influencing their choices.

I will be posting tips and hints that I come across and recipes that I try.

Tip #1
Eat 5 to 6 times a day
3 meals and 2 to 3 small snacks. Include a lean protein, plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, and a complete carbohydrate with each meal. This keeps your body energized and burning calories all day long.

Lean protein = Fish, Chicken, Turkey, lean cuts of Beef, Eggs, low fat Dairy, Beans, Peas and Lentils.
Complete Carbohydrate= include fiber and starches. They can be found in vegetables, bread, rice, oatmeal, whole grains, peas and beans. Complex carbohydrates take longer to be digested, so your body needs more time to release these carbs into your blood as glucose.

Food Inc...my opinions and some healthy options!

2010-01-28T18:27:00.000-08:00

Food, Inc. is a documentary that delves deep into America's food industry to reveal what we're really eating and how it's produced. Some food industry organizations claim the film is misleading, while documentary supports say it is thought-provoking. "You can decide that for yourself. Isn't that wonderful?

Journalist Michael Pollan-We spend less on our food than any people who have ever lived, than any people anywhere on earth....9.5 percent of our income."

Why is it that junk food is soooo much cheaper than healthy food?

In his personal life, Michael says he eats just about anything—as long as it's real food.

I too am changing the way I eat, only eating "real" food.

Michael says his own approch to eating is simple. "I've boiled it down to seven words: Eat food. Mostly plants. Not too much."

This too shall be my approach! (boy,oh,boy,....I'm on a kick today..lol)
With the very best intentions, I am trying very hard to change my lifestyle and hopefully impact my families lifestyle too.

Here are 7 of Michael Pollans Food rules:

1. Don't eat anything your great grandmother wouldn't recognize as food. "When you pick up that box of portable yogurt tubes, or eat something with 15 ingredients you can't pronounce, ask yourself, "What are those things doing there?" Pollan says. (I sometimes wonder what the heck we are doing putting chemicals in our and our families bodies. I figure if its an ingredient I can't pronounce, it must be a chemical)

2. Don’t eat anything with more than five ingredients, or ingredients you can't pronounce.

3. Stay out of the middle of the supermarket; shop on the perimeter of the store. Real food tends to be on the outer edge of the store near the loading docks, where it can be replaced with fresh foods when it goes bad. (except the health aisle or the organic aisle)

4. Don't eat anything that won't eventually rot. "There are exceptions -- honey -- but as a rule, things like Twinkies that never go bad aren't food," Pollan says. (I once had an angel food cake get lost in the back of my kitchen cupboard, it was there for a year, and it looked like it did the day I bought it!!!)

5. It is not just what you eat but how you eat. "Always leave the table a little hungry," Pollan says. "Many cultures have rules that you stop eating before you are full. In Japan, they say eat until you are four-fifths full. Islamic culture has a similar rule, and in German culture they say, 'Tie off the sack before it's full.'" (this is pretty good advice I think, but for me it will be difficult...I like feeling full.)

6. Families traditionally ate together, around a table and not a TV, at regular meal times. It's a good tradition. Enjoy meals with the people you love. "Remember when eating between meals felt wrong?" Pollan asks.(This is a tradition that we do 3 times a day. The most interesting things get talked about around the dinner table)

7. Don't buy food where you buy your gasoline. In the U.S., 20% of food is eaten in the car.(I have seen people do this, and I wonder how common it is in Canada.)

Now......what the heck CAN we eat??????

The World's Healthiest Foods are common "everyday" foods. These include the fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, lean meats, fish, olive oil, herbs and spices that are familiar to most people:
Vegetables
Asparagus
Avocados
Beets
Bell peppers
Broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Cabbage
Carrots
Cauliflower
Celery
Collard greens
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Fennel
Garlic
Green beans
Green peas
Kale
Leeks
Mushrooms, crimini
Mushrooms, shiitake
Mustard greens
Olives
Onions
Potatoes
Romaine lettuce
Sea vegetables
Spinach
Squash, summer
Squash, winter
Sweet potatoes
Swiss chard
Tomatoes
Turnip greens
Yams

Seafood
Cod
Halibut
Salmon
Scallops
Shrimp
Tuna

Fruits
Apples
Apricots
Bananas
Blueberries
Cantaloupe
Cranberries
Figs
Grapefruit
Grapes
Kiwifruit
Lemon/Limes
Oranges
Papaya
Pears
Pineapple
Plums
Prunes
Raisins
Raspberries
Strawberries
Watermelon

Eggs & Low-Fat Dairy
Cheese, low-fat
Eggs
Milk, 2%, cow's
Milk, goat
Yogurt

Beans & Legumes
Black beans
Dried peas
Garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
Kidney beans
Lentils
Lima beans
Miso
Navy beans
Pinto beans
Soybeans
Tempeh
Tofu

Poultry & Lean Meats
Beef, lean organic
Calf's liver
Chicken
Lamb
Turkey
Venison

Nuts & Seeds
Almonds
Cashews
Flaxseeds
Olive oil, extra virgin
Peanuts
Pumpkin seeds
Sesame seeds
Sunflower seeds
Walnuts

Grains
Barley
Brown rice
Buckwheat
Corn
Millet
Oats
Quinoa
Rye
Spelt
Whole wheat

Spices & Herbs
Basil
Black pepper
Cayenne pepper
Chili pepper, dried
Cilantro/Coriander seeds
Cinnamon, ground
Cloves
Cumin seeds
Dill
Ginger
Mustard seeds
Oregano
Parsley
Peppermint
Rosemary
Sage
Thyme
Turmeric

Natural Sweeteners
Blackstrap molasses
Cane juice
Honey
Maple syrup

Other
Green tea
Soy sauce (tamari)
Water

I'm kinda sad that "Skittles" aren't on that list. :)

I had an awesome run this morning...3 miles, it felt great to get myself back into routine. After my run it was time for breakfast, so I thought I would have a smoothie. I like to call it the "Green Monster" because of the ingredients:

spinach,almond milk,blueberries,lemon,protein powder-Greens+,Chia, and Flax, Usually it's a nice green color but today I added a few extra blueberries so...

it was purple! And it tasted fantastic.

My breakfast was really more of a lunch, so for an afternoon snack I had a lovely Gala apple with almond butter, it was delicious. And it makes a pretty picture too.

For supper I made curry vegetables and quinoa, filling and tasty. I love all the different colors of the vegetables and its a flavour explosion.

Now it's late and I really am craving something BAD, chocolate,candy,chips...I think I'll just go to bed before I cave in and do something I will definetly regret.

bABEs and Birthdays

2010-01-14T11:50:00.000-08:00

On January 3, 2010 I received my Christmas/Birthday present! The best present ever, it will never be topped! It was.........
bABE vl

A whole 10 minutes old in this picture. When I laid eyes on him I knew that I was in trouble....head over heels in love. I think being a Grandma is one of the best things to ever happen to me so far in my life. God has given me this precious gift and I will never stop giving thanks to Him for that. How is it that someone this small can dominate almost every thought you have?

Wrapped around his little finger, is what I am.

And who wouldn't be? So beautiful!

Now onto my newest electronic fixation that K bought me for my birthday:

If I figure out how to use this, it will be a miracle. I have wanted one for a long time and I'm sure once I have it progammed I will love it. This makes me excited to run again. I have kind of lost my interest in running for some reason. It's like I look for excuses to avoid it. Which really sucks because there is nothing like the feeling you have after you have had a good run. Once I figure it out I will posting a review. I also got this beautiful bouquet of flowers:

My favorite flowers of course! The best part of my birthday was having everybody home for supper, I sure do love this family of mine!

Welcome bABE vl, to a family that already loves you more then words can say. <3