tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15238306206920686482024-03-13T23:14:23.150-04:00Bonni'sBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.comBlogger278125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-7017072491620221912009-04-20T13:46:00.000-04:002009-04-20T13:47:07.877-04:00The Waterfront - Spring Pictures<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqFhfr0qHEPmHvQalGQRpjOjWS_Oa-yPc-ctURaCCcw4AfqU6CWICj0IxmQaBkaYlbtn8DIxvWGzjd6dWZdpYug0BOx1rlXzQ-24h-IYSjrKFs7DKbOaZ9f8G5JvLzIbSKDPAE60inYO7/s1600-h/100_0017.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326823951034807730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqFhfr0qHEPmHvQalGQRpjOjWS_Oa-yPc-ctURaCCcw4AfqU6CWICj0IxmQaBkaYlbtn8DIxvWGzjd6dWZdpYug0BOx1rlXzQ-24h-IYSjrKFs7DKbOaZ9f8G5JvLzIbSKDPAE60inYO7/s320/100_0017.jpg" border="0" /></a> <em><span style="font-size:85%;">Hardy Park</span></em></div><br /><div align="left">For a number of reasons I dragged my family to the waterfront this Sunday afternoon. I don't think they were properly impressed. However, I was excited to get there and take some pics.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326822110411615394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_2ZTV5fvuNsSeBNfvksZG-264VMJbwd5tvb49s2tL16vBUSWQlmfWdZEteAi8xuEfFNAble_NH0aDZahgkSF6oBf1iRG2p8-eVE0fCmo0lzmzto4gltDL7rBG1CbMgjCE7TpcRWo08fD/s320/100_0018.jpg" border="0" /> <div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Hardy Park Bandstand</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></em></div><div align="center"></div><br /><em>Why</em>, you ask?? Thank you. I love open-ended questions that make me chatter on.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326822114161441090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_Pk6JzYropXlpjrdhYY4rLG77wcdRB5GE72kP0LcGL85D-Tol15I-UcYtCRE3DsCpbV1y6_GsNUWNSVkj0_5Nh9LDSgt_451w0d_95RkHjxrGbHhL3LfsHdTfUeWrmcWBEZV1A6fTY-E/s320/100_0019.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Tunnel Bay Marina - empty boat slips. The big red building is the Boardwalk Landing. It's kind of a lone, modern pimple on our more traditional waterfront, but not for long. It is soon to be joined by the controversial <a href="http://www.tallshipslanding.com/the_project/maritime_discovery_centre/">Maritime Discovery Centre</a>. </span></em></div><div align="center"></div><br />I have a new camera. It's not fancy. It was a great deal at the local grocery store where they had a tax-free deal over the weekend. Plus, it was already $10 off. So, -$10 + (-13%) = a good deal. My loving husband, trying to spend money for my direct enjoyment and pleasure, dragged <em>me</em>, kicking and screaming to the store for this camera. I told him we would just be <em>looking</em>. I like my old camera. It just doesn't work so well anymore. This means that with increasing frequency, the afore mentioned loving husband could be found at the kitchen table dissecting my mostly-dead camera. He would fiddle with it, shake it, remove a part here and there and then put it back together. Once, he even put back the extra screws he had from a previous tear-down. Good times. Loving Husband made the point that if I bought this camera, I wouldn't need new software, a new dock, a new and expensive rechargeable battery or anything else. This camera was an upgrade of my current model, yet a model the store is selling off to make way for the most current model. So, new camera for pictures.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326822122295418002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG05sMdeeRU9Q68qxm6XBcV_bwVlwuyPXyBRJdVvxGM-F9C8jlOqI-M42sFfFel_xRHXqkKKU_WQfB0oLZm0NWHIFhGVOxlqNrW531QODHny38qIb5_ZCWyo7m_93jaEqel1y8kouxtguY/s320/100_0022.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Tunnel Bay Marina and Blockhouse Island Pier on the right.</span></em> </div><div align="center"></div><br />Matt and Michelle in Korea have just attended a Cherry Blossom Festival in their Korean community. I have to say, I'm a little jealous. I think my favourite part of spring would be when the apple trees blossom, so I can just imagine the cherry blossoms. I needed to get out and collect some evidence for Matt and Michelle about the current spring-like conditions we're enduring in their hometown.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326822127968010610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmL_P7aHBZHUucQP0Omv5bYWzxsWTTGYsVRxxk3rOGqDCDTzymjg_h54eEMhYEOQK1znFStgHB70GoddCObZPyGbQ_G86oyVucWsmTExijhMbdE8Qhf20J5EI_SIhesOW6AfvbU3peIU32/s320/100_0030.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">St. Lawrence River looking West</span></em></div><br />My less-than-enthused family also needed something to do on a lovely Sunday afternoon. Outdoors. because I said so. The Boy Child ran off and found a street hockey game to be part of so I <em>borrowed</em> a different boy child so The Girl Child would not be lonely during our outing. Just kidding. She had a friend over.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326823140448114290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2TaAOFQXpDGRseZ4MJjxRDKWoWCAGWw17PdL6pqVRqhU1SdA9eVqetqI_VBv4GFFg82_0ZF_FYBMU_GE5-w-mfODkZ0O2_pIKdnJf4f-ha3p00ePeHFWI7sGfJC2rqP7x8IvHsOzqxrP/s320/100_0032.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size:85%;">Along the waterfront portion of the Brock Trail and, below, the gazebo at the Yacht Club.</span></em></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5326823140985515682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 239px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlM4NHNdyz0NtcP625ROAvJsweUSQUlAw1mAk_xUTIj8Vcy4gr4HxLTgI_-QExXhK2RmNxEAy_36Bwi4vPb9yvZa64DK0PFRZpTPpIm3VnwlDDlwIXlUt8NAWQphxH_ag7q5QKGYA75hOe/s320/100_0033.jpg" border="0" />And that was our Sunday walk by the river. It was cold. The wind was out in full force. But it was bright and lovely and we all got a good dose of Vitamin D. Much needed after all the hibernation that's been going on around here. </div><p>That's all for now. Now we wait patiently and wait for Matt or Michelle to grace us with an anon Blogger comment. </p><p><br /></p><br /><p>♥Bonni</p>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-68145974637949368512009-04-01T12:55:00.005-04:002009-04-01T13:27:09.610-04:00Book Sale Proceeds<div><div><div>Well, that was fun!<br /><br />At the RVHEA Used Book Sale, my table raked in about $300 in a short three hours. My girlfriend, a fellow homeschooling mom who was sharing the table with me, and I split the proceeds fairly evenly. We did keep a detailed list so we knew exactly what each of us made and exactly which things sold.<br /><br />Now for the <em>what did I learn</em> section.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRt-4PHnDD8gpvvNsnzirMARyZ03vE9IIyHaVJSdSnaqHhs-5kV3wPIqbwY33U76g9RxcIQiFwttyBb-zMkGJQ4uu55gBDtDLWUZNAzPWEihEkEni-FI7YsLOcS2Fs7FyMHl-uGByu6cg/s1600-h/100_7564.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319775299017902210" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRt-4PHnDD8gpvvNsnzirMARyZ03vE9IIyHaVJSdSnaqHhs-5kV3wPIqbwY33U76g9RxcIQiFwttyBb-zMkGJQ4uu55gBDtDLWUZNAzPWEihEkEni-FI7YsLOcS2Fs7FyMHl-uGByu6cg/s320/100_7564.jpg" border="0" /></a>First, vacuum your car, farm your kids out for the day of the sale (after they help with the car) and have everything priced and packed up in the sections you plan to display them in. Set up needs to happen fairly quickly and it was so nice to be able to plunk bins on a table, lift the lid and be pretty much ready.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZ_8VLOMiUWXk1BR5ujjExnoEKrcLIciFA7tAwisZt3i25qLQJwoQezoY1nwi-TBCT5ZL6jDzpfAe3zB16rKbPpDxul69Yv6gpI33BcSovppuFJMV9gBfKDvgE5M4lKstHjZpB2U8LlI/s1600-h/100_7567.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319775307674482562" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZ_8VLOMiUWXk1BR5ujjExnoEKrcLIciFA7tAwisZt3i25qLQJwoQezoY1nwi-TBCT5ZL6jDzpfAe3zB16rKbPpDxul69Yv6gpI33BcSovppuFJMV9gBfKDvgE5M4lKstHjZpB2U8LlI/s320/100_7567.jpg" border="0" /></a>We received a lot of compliments on how organized our table was. That's kind of scary when you look at who you're talking to (me, not Friend).<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LImQzDkVcbuwc6r7DwmFL3Fh5JBQVxV0MpqBvs-aTPCABElVCWIFt-6DFMW_OfvyEVCRvXsFn7pZbIcGtErIGAdeDjNcaGmi1HafrSyJ8621J4LRuJR1MfsLOjK8z66DRH3EvJMzsEg/s1600-h/100_7566.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319775300739086530" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LImQzDkVcbuwc6r7DwmFL3Fh5JBQVxV0MpqBvs-aTPCABElVCWIFt-6DFMW_OfvyEVCRvXsFn7pZbIcGtErIGAdeDjNcaGmi1HafrSyJ8621J4LRuJR1MfsLOjK8z66DRH3EvJMzsEg/s320/100_7566.jpg" border="0" /></a>Second, people begin shopping while their kids - the ones they didn't farm out - set up their table. So there we were, labelling bins by subject, still carting things from the car while elbow wrestling with early bird shoppers. Next time I go, I'll bring a kid to bolster our forces. This time, there was no room in the car. That may have had something to do with letting my husband pack the car...<br /><br />Third, this particular sale seems to be busy for the first hour and a half. Then traffic really tapers off. If I go again, I will be prepared to drop my prices on non-curriculum-y things at this point. I felt really bad for the shoppers who trickled in a half hour before sale end. Most of the tables had been packed up and there was a steady stream of stuff begin packed out to waiting vans in the parking lot. Poor form, me thinks.<br /><br />Weird things I noticed: We arrived at the venue about 20 minutes early. The parking lot was full. Homeschooling moms are all about getting the deal! People were trying to sell really, really old resources in some cases. Or they were trying to sell off hundreds of things (books, VHS) in a large Rubbermaid tote. I wasn't prepared to dig. And if I was, I don't think I'd be paying what they were asking for the dogeared, torn stuff they'd tossed in there in the first place. These people also brought a lot of things home. Toys, story books and other colourful things (K'NEX, etc.) that can be classified as 'manipulatives' or 'learning activities' are kid magnets. I'm not ashamed of the sales I made due to begging children.<br /><br />Sorry for the poor quality pictures. I turned the flash off and was operating one handed as I usually had one hand in the book bins holding up a stack for someone who was flipping through them. As a vendor, I haven't really come up with a solution for the one-arm shopping situation. You see a book you want, you have to hang onto it, leaving you only one hand to pick through the rest of the things you want to look at. OH well, it makes opportunities for pleasant chit-chat. Oh, and I was so busy I didn't even think twice about negotiating prices with people. "Will you take three dollars for this," a lady asked me. I replied without even thinking, "No, but I'll take four." Sold. Easy peasy.<br /><br />So I don't think I'll go back for the next sale in September, or even the one next Spring. But I think I would for sure go in a couple of years once I had a good selection of sale-worthy things saved up.<br /></div><div>Next big project: Kitchener-Waterloo Conference this weekend...</div><br /><div>♥Bonni </div></div></div>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-38375629473376875782009-03-22T13:41:00.006-04:002009-03-22T14:02:02.391-04:00Taking Inventory...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-I9HbkCJT1iu90OXq5QbBbKQlU57B5N6httIuCGt2Sb4Nr8GiX_PD2M4hGUvJYs0dx7PoaG8wkV0C8IGbgvVzNwbbYwkI1kIynPDcO-BDcdBGjdyNGlwxB-J4j_w9d5Va7bPLqo6hXQ/s1600-h/100_7555.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316072613586092706" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp-I9HbkCJT1iu90OXq5QbBbKQlU57B5N6httIuCGt2Sb4Nr8GiX_PD2M4hGUvJYs0dx7PoaG8wkV0C8IGbgvVzNwbbYwkI1kIynPDcO-BDcdBGjdyNGlwxB-J4j_w9d5Va7bPLqo6hXQ/s400/100_7555.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />...or "In Which I Address An Irritating Personalty Trait".<br /><br />I really hate certain aspects of social conversation. I suppose they could all be lumped under the category of 'Confrontation'. Or more benignly, I suppose 'Assertiveness' would do. In my personal life, I don't have a history of being terribly assertive and I avoid confrontation at very nearly all cost.<br /><br />However.<br /><br />This weekend is the <a href="http://www.rvhea.org/content/view/34/5/">RVHEA Used Book Sale</a>. This weekend I will step out of my box. This weekend I will ask people for money; a part of social conversation that I think requires a certain amount of 'Assertive'. Wish me luck.<br /><br />Now. If I could just get past 'Procrastination' and stick a price tag on something, I'd be well on my way.Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-60364006790475259632009-03-20T14:24:00.005-04:002009-03-20T14:45:42.753-04:00- J.P. Neufeld - Stepping Up and Speaking Out<img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 100px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://profile.ak.facebook.com/v230/214/26/s528188689_1639.jpg" border="0" />Here's a hat tip to a fellow Canadian.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.montrealgazette.com/School+threat+foiled/1408147/story.html">School Threat Foiled</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090320/school_threat_090320/20090320?hub=TopStories">J.P. Makes The Call</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.cbc.ca/world/story/2009/03/20/concordia-student-forum-norfolk.html">J.P. Sounds Alert</a><br /><br />Thanks, J.P., for stepping up and doing something when many would have done nothing. Who knows how much devestation and heartache you prevented.<br /><br />♥BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-25204464082922222552009-03-17T21:47:00.004-04:002009-03-17T22:20:02.853-04:00Yoga<a href="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000A3XY8M.01.MZZZZZZZ.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 113px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 160px" alt="" src="http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000A3XY8M.01.MZZZZZZZ.jpg" border="0" /></a>Today I sucked it up and did some yoga. A whole 20-minutes of really bad, poor-form, wobbly yoga.<br /><br />Right after K was born (or was it R?) I trekked myself off to my local Y for a session of yoga. I fell asleep at the end of every class. It was very embarrassing. I don't think the class leader was too impressed.<br /><br />Since then little has happened in the way of regular, productive physical activity. Any regular activity has actually been going into the negative amounts, if that is possible, due to nagging little injuries. I've dealt with those little annoyances in the absolute worst way ever. Ignore, ignore, stay still.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.prevention.com/pvnstatic-assets/images/298x232_article_size/fitness/298x232_FT_chris_freytag2.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 181px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 133px" alt="" src="http://www.prevention.com/pvnstatic-assets/images/298x232_article_size/fitness/298x232_FT_chris_freytag2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />So, being utterly fed up with myself, in more ways than one, I signed out this Yoga for Dummies DVD at the library this week. I was drawn to this one because the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">description</span> didn't use words like 'meditation' and 'relaxing'. It used descriptors such as 'moving continuously' and 'dynamic movement increases your <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">heartrate</span>'. The lovely and entirely-too-happy-with-scary-biceps <a href="http://chrisfreytag.com/">Chris <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Freytag</span> </a>in the cover art is actually almost sitting up - there's no hint of meditation anywhere!<br /><br />I limped through the first 20 minutes. R tried it out too. But only <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">because</span> yoga helps those who want to be goalies, and could I please pull the drapes so the neighbours don't notice. All in all, it wasn't too bad. It was depressing, but only <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">because</span> it was so far from what I used to be able to do.<br /><br />It may surprise some to know that I am fairly well qualified (or at least I was) in personal training, weight-lifting, exercise, nutrition and various other healthy living pursuits. I used to teach fitness classes. I trained others to teach. I worked in a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">sports</span> therapy clinic. I was an example. My main transportation was a pair of roller blades and my best accessory was a 75-litre day pack.<br /><br />Although the DVD is supposedly a weight-loss workout, I'm not even going to go there. I just want to be able to move without hurting myself. One step at a time, right? I <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">just</span> never though the steps would be so small.<br /><br />♥ BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-46936553143771069882009-03-17T08:44:00.003-04:002009-03-17T09:24:05.381-04:00No News Is Not Always Good NewsI wish I had some good, exciting news or photos to show off for you.<br /><br />Even my update will be boring. But, here goes.<br /><br />No kayaking on the weekend for me. Kids are still sick. I'm having a hard time getting this neck pain under control. Blog changes are progressing along in the background. Not as quick as I had expected, but I'm working on it. K is now an official 'babysitter'.<br /><br />I had been remarking of late about the 'economic downturn' and questioning whether it would be so apparent in our small town as it seemed to be in the larger centers. Because in my little world, things had been ticking along all happy and regular-like. Leave it to me to open my big mouth. Last week a beloved cafe closed it's doors. This week, it seems the economic downturn will strike closer to home. It will take some time before I learn how the changes on the table will effect my extended family, but change is here and it is not welcomed.<br /><br />We're all feeling a little sad, tired and discouraged. It will pass. One day at a time.Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-68731014391911183882009-03-13T21:51:00.014-04:002009-03-13T22:48:15.675-04:00Notes From Korea #1<div align="left">My brother, Matt, and his intended, Michelle, planned to leave earlier in the Fall for a year of teaching in Korea. Their host employer tried and tried...and tried and tried some more to find them employment in close proximity to each other. </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">This was becoming quite the process. Finally, it seemed things came together all in a rush. My mom put together a big traditional Christmas dinner just before they were about to leave. There were a few gifts exchanged and then they left - it was December 12/08. </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Matt and Michelle travelled to Korea over the course of a weekend - being due to report for work bright and early Monday morning. I think it's purposely planned like that to prevent any culture shock and home-sickness from setting in. From what I hear, the culture shock is pretty near impossible to avoid and homesickness took a couple of weeks to set in. </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Michelle writes of their adventure getting to Korea from Toronto:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTT6JRglcJ7Xe-13mlAIV_QKQGhcKeAQ2k-RoUyl8OOD_z-sxuHbSyHhNGsX0OqLzEH5HC0HDmQKv_s7GOEzmmoY_xRlCUXSzfm05_sB4C647TtEBNb1wxhq00Wl5YI4kbkpWAULEukQ/s1600-h/n187904522_38125709_5605596.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312860742528646482" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTT6JRglcJ7Xe-13mlAIV_QKQGhcKeAQ2k-RoUyl8OOD_z-sxuHbSyHhNGsX0OqLzEH5HC0HDmQKv_s7GOEzmmoY_xRlCUXSzfm05_sB4C647TtEBNb1wxhq00Wl5YI4kbkpWAULEukQ/s400/n187904522_38125709_5605596.jpg" border="0" /></a>"After saying our many goodbyes to family and friends (and shedding a few tears), we were off to the Toronto airport with our fingers crossed that we would not be paying an arm and a leg for overweight/oversize luggage. After watching the guy in front of us get small hand slapping for the amount he packed we were a little nervous that the same was coming to us. Luckily we ended up with a pleasant lady at the ticket counter who let us shuffle our things around to only pay one small fee before printing off our tickets and sending us on our way.<br /><br />The first flight was short and sweet and after pulling an all-nighter in our packing attempts the night before, we were both too tired to keep our eyes open. We landed in Washington D.C which seemed strange considering we would eventually pass over Toronto again on our way to Korea. We managed to grab something to eat and a comfy chair while waiting for our next and much longer flight to depart.<br /><br />I guess things were going a little too smoothly, and about the time we should have been preparing to board our plane an announcement was made saying our flight was delayed due to mechanical problems until further notice. Although we would have preferred the delay as opposed to getting on a faulty plane for a 14 hour trip...this also meant we would miss our connection in Japan. Then came the next announcement telling all passengers to head down to the United Airlines customer service desk to book new flights and in turn, new connecting flights.<br /><br />It was a mad-dash to the desk which seemed to be located across the other side of the airport. Lucky for us we had all of our hand luggage packed up and were wearing our coats so we were at the front of the crowd and trucking along. The line-up at the counter was winding and didn't move very fast. Being near the front it didn't take us too long to work our way up to the desk, and while in line we made friends with several other soon to be English-teachers heading to Korea as well.<br /><br />With a support group in place we all booked our new flights together which would leave Washington almost 5 hours later then our original tickets and land in Japan at 9pm. Our connecting flight was scheduled to leave Japan at 9am the next morning, so due to the inconvenience United Airlines provided us with free lunch in Washington, Free hotel in Japan, free breakfast in the morning and are apparently sending us travel coupons for future flights. It all worked out to be a pretty good deal for us.<br /><br />We spent several more hours in the Washington airport packing in our free lunch, playing cards on the floor and drinking some good 'ol Canadian beer that one of our new friends had purchased at duty free and was getting tired of carrying.<br /><br />Eventually we were on our way for the big 14 hr flight which didn't sound so bad but sure did feel long half-way through. I think we managed to bend our bodies in every and all ways possible to try to get comfortable. We could choose our own movies on the plane from a selection of about 6 different channels and plane food has actually improved since I last remembered it although still not entirely tasty.<br /><br />Upon landing in Japan we took an airport bus to our hotel (the Crowne Plaza) which was very nice and had a large Christmas tree in the front lobby. We found our room which came complete with robes and slippers (which helped us since we hadn't packed for an overnight stay), as well as a kettle and tea bags to brew our own. It took us awhile to figure out how to flush the toilet but we figured it out and had a nice shower to freshen up as much as possible before putting our dirty plane clothes back on.<br /><br />In the morning we got a complimentary breakfast at the hotel buffet (provided by United...I would fly with them again!) which included bacon, eggs, cereal, toast and fruit along with various other Japanese treats. We completed the morning with some massage chairs at the airport while waiting for our flight to leave. All in all it was a really nice stay in Japan.<br /><br />Our flight to Korea was only 2 hours and they even provided us with a meal although we were too stuffed from our morning buffet to eat...and we weren't quite sure what we were eating so we opted to play it safe. Our luggage was waiting for us at the airport which had been a previous concern since we had changed our flights since originally checking our luggage.<br /><br />A driver was waiting for us outside the arrival doors with a sign saying "Matt and Michelle" no last names, so we hope we didn't steal someone else's ride.<br />We're finally in Korea and ready to start our BIG adventure... </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"></div><div align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00pUGHlBjrkRRtaYs0-Tdl5HJ3tngbRgAPwiFMZDgYYJsfnD-wEsXirHh3soW2A-1-0-qfzJrXiuiKGjBC7a5Td3CpymVADP0f3Lg3yxz1ligXKo0RrmEu9q05PQksDzO-ihT665dk0s/s1600-h/subway2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312868815583494546" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00pUGHlBjrkRRtaYs0-Tdl5HJ3tngbRgAPwiFMZDgYYJsfnD-wEsXirHh3soW2A-1-0-qfzJrXiuiKGjBC7a5Td3CpymVADP0f3Lg3yxz1ligXKo0RrmEu9q05PQksDzO-ihT665dk0s/s320/subway2.jpg" border="0" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4vYkSHwvlWbL8JnQQKkdsQ7N-wvM8sP2Iertdl5di_F8oePsvbxYG4KBs0qpRyZnn9SgJRez1RLAgxbXkAj2dSHc1zhM-LGGGTRyg_3TkORI14wumJofhtusNpvIGBL8j3L8RBpP7C8/s1600-h/subway1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312868809047937586" style="WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4vYkSHwvlWbL8JnQQKkdsQ7N-wvM8sP2Iertdl5di_F8oePsvbxYG4KBs0qpRyZnn9SgJRez1RLAgxbXkAj2dSHc1zhM-LGGGTRyg_3TkORI14wumJofhtusNpvIGBL8j3L8RBpP7C8/s320/subway1.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div align="left"><em>Michelle's view from her subway station</em> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">I'm glad they made it - together, with all the hurriedly packed possessions they could fit in that would have to last them through four seasons. They were happy to find their apartment was located in a very convenient place. It is right next to the subway station, plenty of food places and a Zellers-ish store which would prove to be very useful. They quickly discovered that Michelle's school doesn't turn the heat on. They also discovered some friends living not too far away. Friends who dropped by within a few days bearing a housewarming gift - toilet paper - and much knowledge about those baffling Korean appliances.</div><div align="left"></div>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-55275301127888744352009-03-12T09:50:00.004-04:002009-03-12T10:59:51.925-04:00An Update, A Rant, News and Some WhiningHello. Some Random thoughts for you all today.<br /><br /><u>First Thought</u> Not only did R have food poisoning then a fever, he now has a cold virus to rival all colds. If it's not enough to have one male in the house who is ill, the <em>other</em> male in the house is close to death. I'm not exaggerating, he said it himself. I think he might becoming down with whatever it is that is 'killing' R.<br /><br /><u>Second Thought</u> The city has made a decision to not hire beach patrol lifeguards this summer. Who cares, you say? I care. It seems I care a lot. More than I should? Last week I read an article that mentioned the Recreation Director employed by our lovely city thought it might be a good idea to get rid of the summer lifeguards, a savings of $18,000. Then, in the next breath, she wants to hire a full-time arbourist at a measly cost of something like $6,000. Of course, it's only $6,000 if we get rid of the lifeguards... I never thought council would actually vote in favour of ditching our only supervised waterfront. But they did. And I'm angry for a number of reasons. Perhaps I'll blog about it when I can collect my thoughts somewhat intelligently.<br /><br /><u>Third Thought</u> I have whiplash. At least it feels like whiplash. Can one get whiplash from skating 13K? Goodness, I am so out of shape, every time I move I hurt myself. I'm not sleeping because my back and neck hurt. I even stepped out of my box and bought some muscle relaxants. Man, a dose of those can make one very dizzy! And it says to drug up with 2 pills 4 times a day. <em>4 times</em>! Not very likely.<br /><br /><u>Fourth Thought</u> Being so frustrated with hurting myself every other stair climb, I have decided to soldier though and take advantage of exercising opportunities. My dad has a couple of kayaks. He was thinking about going for a quick paddle this weekend so I signed right up for an early morning paddle on Saturday. Dad is not too keen on the idea. He's worried about me flipping the boat and succumbing to hypothermia in the icy river before reaching the shore, leaving the children motherless. A bit alarmist of him, don't you think? Just for the record, flipping a kayak usually takes some effort. I don't think I have the range of motion or the muscle strength to accomplish that at this particular time. At any rate, I will paddle close to the shore. Hopefully, I'll have some pics up Saturday afternoon for you.<br /><u></u><br /><u>Fifth Thought</u> Once final upcoming blog change for me. I'm tired of trying to tweak things in html unsuccessfully. SO I have been prowling about for a template that I like. A template that I can put my own header into, or not. A free template that I will be happy with so that I can spend time on actual blogs and links, labels and archives. I'm so looking forward to it. I'm sharing this thought with you so that if you happen to pop by in the next couple of days and my blog is inaccessible, you'll know why. I don't want to do a live change. I want to surprise everyone with the new wallpaper all at once. It will be so exciting. So if you're reading this and you'd like your link in my new sidebar, leave a comment and let me know sooner than later.<br /><u></u><br /><u>Sixth and Final Thought of the Day</u> On the homeschooling front, K, the girl child, will be participating in a Red Cross Babysitter and First Aid Training tomorrow. She will be joining a number of other homeschoolers and their siblings for the day. This will necessitate a trip to the store to procure brown-bag lunch trimmings. I think I will leave the dying males at home and K and I will head out shortly <em>before</em> I take any drugs. I think we will also pick up some ColdFx (even if it is too late) and other throat soothing remedies. I wish these males would drink tea. It would be so much easier. Oh yes, homeschooling: not much has happened here this week. K is keeping up with her math all on her own. Pleasant to see such mature independence on her part. The kids are keeping up with their book club reading - many of the selections they are asking me to read aloud to them. I'm glad they're not too old for that yet. I was going to say that we're taking an early March Break, but a little more likely is that the February blahs are occurring. That's be about right on schedule for me - I'm a notorious procrastinator.<br /><br />♥BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-18021696659562673772009-03-10T21:52:00.019-04:002009-03-10T23:15:04.604-04:00Missing M & M<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCGMJ-ucCKH6tdVgijc-6QS59Og94CPYP5Cq_Ve52Q912OPPzmfNK6Fm-5t1YzVt4nD3Ver8R4yC5U7r7K6ssfXITFdNopJ3vXMLy1s4vop_3v3HA0Pm924D0UyvZrUc5K0t_vDb2Ec8/s1600-h/100_6990.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311748629177213026" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZCGMJ-ucCKH6tdVgijc-6QS59Og94CPYP5Cq_Ve52Q912OPPzmfNK6Fm-5t1YzVt4nD3Ver8R4yC5U7r7K6ssfXITFdNopJ3vXMLy1s4vop_3v3HA0Pm924D0UyvZrUc5K0t_vDb2Ec8/s400/100_6990.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Mr.M, my brother, and Ms.M, his fiancee are off on a year-long adventure. They are living it up as millionaires in South Korea.<br /><br />Of course, I think most people are millionaires if they are earning a paycheque in South Korean <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/South_Korean_won">won</a>. But I digress.<br /><br />Mr.M & Ms.M are teaching English to students for a year. They're also taking advantage of any and every travel/adventure opportunity that pops up.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqX8tCxvnhn17iqTF-7J_8lrMoN4vlDcgj4JaL76XMEBeXgq9TW0BLQDnS1LZMW6i76hP3wJtqC1lGs1T0UpypVdpS5JEhraQHr441e_L4ZeWv6QMutK6t0ZE0IYmZw8Ly2KmHcVlJNQ/s1600-h/100_6986.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311748647606384898" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfqX8tCxvnhn17iqTF-7J_8lrMoN4vlDcgj4JaL76XMEBeXgq9TW0BLQDnS1LZMW6i76hP3wJtqC1lGs1T0UpypVdpS5JEhraQHr441e_L4ZeWv6QMutK6t0ZE0IYmZw8Ly2KmHcVlJNQ/s400/100_6986.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The kids and I have been in regular contact with Mr.M and Ms.M (a fact I directly attribute to Ms.M as Mr.M has been known to be...well...we'll just say he focuses on the task at hand to fully immerse himself in the pleasure and experience of the moment). I am especially enjoying Mr.M's very colourful play-by-play descriptions of his Korean adventures to date. I'm sure he's showing his best betrothed behaviour for Ms.M.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9MMOW_Lx-fr0AtNo3scGyal897tvfNHseFO6PyrqcvOf7s9kU3XR6JlmJZhFmUBh8WSQnAk438YQVani7-8vHa2a5W9g-T0yjriRxmoU0dkTt7-NXEk81z9MXz0IO3J-HQkQ_-1U-Ims/s1600-h/100_6989.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311751487761251234" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9MMOW_Lx-fr0AtNo3scGyal897tvfNHseFO6PyrqcvOf7s9kU3XR6JlmJZhFmUBh8WSQnAk438YQVani7-8vHa2a5W9g-T0yjriRxmoU0dkTt7-NXEk81z9MXz0IO3J-HQkQ_-1U-Ims/s400/100_6989.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />M & M left just before Christmas, due to return in time for Christmas 2009.<br /><br />Most recently, they've been able to post some pictures for us to see. Tiny Korean apartments are a good substitute for marriage counselling, me thinks. They'll know <em>everything</em> about each other well before they're due to fly home, I'm sure.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMzO_v4t70nmD6vsgSdzuL03h8zKMTN0v3-GmbRGlzjvOdZYy9uvEPDvLRFrnDOeC7MA-UXQsHm0UHvfB42blimMdiRR6qoXi2IfZUOQ_133Rdw4kordys9f2nNpXwtgZGhShn4qUTOag/s1600-h/100_6987.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311751794530942434" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMzO_v4t70nmD6vsgSdzuL03h8zKMTN0v3-GmbRGlzjvOdZYy9uvEPDvLRFrnDOeC7MA-UXQsHm0UHvfB42blimMdiRR6qoXi2IfZUOQ_133Rdw4kordys9f2nNpXwtgZGhShn4qUTOag/s400/100_6987.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />We are missing M and M very much.<br /><br />We miss seeing them around town.<br /><br />We miss having them coach R's soccer team.<br /><br />R and I miss our Friday morning dates at the rink with Mr.M watching my other brother play hockey.<br /><br />K is missing Ms. M's girly, trendy influence.<br /><br />We miss seeing what sort of crazy local adventures they participate in.<br /><br />We miss watching Mr. M at football and basketball.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILCnd_v3K3IBDLQAHNJsfkSSeEvXNHKvocncNCJA_FMzxIKeOMAk7OR0y3KZ08hyphenhyphen42Y5G6QgaMLOBrDGziYNE2onO0Rapy0M016Gg4fF3EvvLB8TA5OeRve0KDY1EEgxiu-TbJ6bwxz4/s1600-h/100_6988.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5311748643732521282" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILCnd_v3K3IBDLQAHNJsfkSSeEvXNHKvocncNCJA_FMzxIKeOMAk7OR0y3KZ08hyphenhyphen42Y5G6QgaMLOBrDGziYNE2onO0Rapy0M016Gg4fF3EvvLB8TA5OeRve0KDY1EEgxiu-TbJ6bwxz4/s400/100_6988.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />As I'm sure you've surmised, M & M are great fun. I'm sure those Korean kids are having a blast learning copious amounts of English. Goodness knows, lessons would be fun if not informative.<br /><br />Perhaps they'll be feeling altruistic and they'll let me share some of their travel notes with the blogosphere. Hopefully I'll have more to tell you about M & M in the days to come.<br /><br />♥BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-90122047959883978882009-03-08T11:41:00.011-04:002009-03-08T13:44:37.344-04:00Rideau Canal Skating<div align="center">Thursday was remarkably Spring like. With very little planning, the kids and I, with my mom, jumped in the car and drove the hour and a bit to <a href="http://www.dowslake.com/">Dow's Lake Pavilion</a> in Ottawa to do a little skating on the <a href="http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/bins/ncc_web_content_page.asp?cid=16297-16299-10080&lang=1&bhcp=1">Rideau Canal</a>. It's great the way they make skating on the canal so convenient. It lessens the blow of a $12 parking lot. </div><br /><div align="center">We stashed our boots in the white dome everyone is headed to in the pic below and we started out.</div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310843806631766882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbXVgF4e83BQPXBA8hgNg7kJBHFaApI4FnPbr6E7B8wnEab3Plr3_RG6wzXJQFhLbZh32qJrQ3euNxRveyMsyy-2y9j0lqPxshuExclf69eQpbTaijlI2rBTkZHFjfQzkMob-FDDbw2A/s320/100_7434.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310843809213635698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhft3vb6MR8Aea_iwGDBCN67cizlJL-EGP3zSn6pvNP2F53Au-YEhlU980uA64IyA2urvS73HjlIjisd5HvxBRj4Dk2os-ZCyp4OeNHK3qd9iAvU4yxyVexy5G90997TYsbme8fGWuJUUk/s320/100_7441.jpg" border="0" /><br />For those of you who have been so kind as to post pics of your adventures (<a href="http://www.dowslake.com/">Cristina and Marina</a>) and your wonderful countryside (<a href="http://romany-youdidwhat.blogspot.com/">Dorothy</a>) I figured I'd throw in some stark contrast. Having a scant 400 years of history in this country, there's little in the way of 'ancient architecture'. But, the canal itself is a marvel and the other bits are interesting.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310843814481042002" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikWafvgaBssNnTPREMdybTvrpwGOwE6SVVK_t3g_PUb9K367T4UjNy1qLUoKBFMqdp1L_LI_UzWXzcbLSiUT1bXbN3CGWpE-cA7EZ3HyFEOIoMTJkUC8n6I-Sqhl0P-o1Kffjl7nWQ7Fc/s320/100_7452.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">Here we have the football stadium and below that, <a href="http://www.lansdownepark.ca/index_en.html">Lansdowne Park</a>. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310847686725462642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaHMKWjcV9loIS3ZbS8WNEmI-kS_2clfF3AMDeq6ewA81ZM3scuq28Ua1UTcnGRqmxw8o-Qa6j7MkUlt-oUMXp19IlfQzfUZHz0UruCwLm-HD25Kqmr0MBV3Olqg8-Rnr8Cw1MKTrMvxE/s320/100_7503.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310849038152117394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUu_pq_4_L4F_za9wz2G0VKHJSFD-NzZfQ04TRZoRFL-Y44ohIHEeAX4qoopCDurZc9UUG6dCjET7qPDwOQ5USy92fkdNc5kh2nGKM3E7tl4hGLt0VONxTPGsiwcy96NV_NEYM_3hYXNI/s320/100_7457.jpg" border="0" /> A bit closer to downtown you can see the YMCA tower to the left of the old Museum of Civilization 'castle' behind the bridge. There's another canal access point as well. They are all over the place. There's little to no official parking for the canal, but there's a lot of steps and seats and 'you are here' maps. </p><div align="center"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsA40CXGXfxzfVGx51SqV0mjwpaZnagvcy4q1tV1DairwJ8lfqlYf9_iQenL2S1Q_wdVzNI8WQQSmV87j-2j4Aq586DbNfHhRxX3pZW-Xk4o9I5gO1uzBPRGydncsBRW3odR0b4gIbAOs/s1600-h/100_7464.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310849662422197938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsA40CXGXfxzfVGx51SqV0mjwpaZnagvcy4q1tV1DairwJ8lfqlYf9_iQenL2S1Q_wdVzNI8WQQSmV87j-2j4Aq586DbNfHhRxX3pZW-Xk4o9I5gO1uzBPRGydncsBRW3odR0b4gIbAOs/s320/100_7464.jpg" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310843819933824338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPcNUUhgRve-BRSBstMJ7eIF3TvxNco3bfUP7RrsUGeUf4dMRSfZzEbgtWuL7749if8imBSjRE1eo-2vxiWKwGshUczich7JmsEgkiI4Jm9x4wy5zYuuZM0gxbqGi1Yjp5YiB8oO7JsI8/s320/100_7471.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310844898379623170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDBlfWmYcTqSwD8Q3hfirWBZX8jIDGkGGFcEZh7OJmXmBnXPRv8VQOcGee3AkQK_BwpZcsGGI4suRf18fGzSUY5FKXNzXSOCQE_UYQhWZEnfM9P-ynLbRWyauhHTvi9q9g2XnTFTR-dRo/s320/100_7465.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">There's K skating by the University of Ottawa building. There's a big, lit up greenhouse on the top of the high rise.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310847705719642818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOLxZUKmsc0qYdUaf7Qbo7mlk__nXt24yu6e47uvnqhUamhDz4KO2C3Y9bUAawdpf_9wbhQEBfjWET7WA4eFaCjmiAQNAcX3QM9Ey509y9n3q6lagcYYf9_pMvmqnoRnsCRulufLY8ifY/s320/100_7474.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">I think anyone who has seen any advertising at all for the Rideau Canal Skating Rink has seen a picture like this. The roof line of the <a href="http://www.fairmont.com/laurier/">Chateau Laurier</a> can be seen on the horizon.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310844910891620034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxyO5AWnKUOjkQf1GY6KclPTwjZxd4Hij2gyweHmSzIlN36CN-NyeVJhgCtPlny_JZraDfBCXB2WEd_DVVzsRcTbrQgFNFtXg1IyqPUKZUrI2-CNq701iKx2J6E4xRx_jRpJqcnNiO7E/s320/100_7472.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310844915515942018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1cib92Oz6iI5-qeHYegqsPNMLx2MsuUcd_W5EILhvvUYwvjY7SWQKBf_n792_r5MG5hGzBHlb5pCQkKbP3aatT_VhroAvOwgMNSkPGiagSd_dVuJweNRFwN5hYILj_Wo5fGu8RhA4Mz8/s320/100_7476.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div align="center">Here we are in the heart of Ottawa. The Parliament buildings to the left and the old train station on the right. How I ever got to the ripe old age of 34 without ever eating a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beaver_tail_(pastry)">Beaver Tail</a>, I don't know. But I couldn't let the same unfortunate thing happen to my kids. R's not a fan of sticky-sugary-sweet, so he held out for fries. I tell you, one Maple Beaver Tail is about as much stick-sugary-sweet as any one person can take. And that's saying something coming from this professional sweet tooth.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310844923411301394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgovElICTHStb0fLduBnLnlEosNrxo4jiVYYqBjOsLZGoCxdsnRl6x21fgW1Ls8pH_a8ixSrKB9YPFGKJN94exYyTmVHp2Mais_I-93sTW3N6YfWMoleKVU37AJIc00O7RCW1ZuNAEuZaQ/s320/100_7480.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310844926647686210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7EGiUvQJx3smloKD55ikCegUU8UHGxySs6DOByEjbmuMyCte7jpvoEFFTrhq3GEeLnfIdKjTlGHHt__vWC_9iDkO2wkMU4oQ0o7IrqwIXrE53JJUZRJVpzh_Y5jAdJwjio15V3oRVvjg/s320/100_7484.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div align="center">R eventually got his fries. <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310847680919809570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeckYhTT3vWVFgpY0Ot5kXS1VpgM8w92dwtGu3LQ418wA70i0UIiz5TwR5-L9eq_o-5taWAFH3koRFhZcaShxOggh2gNCtZ6dMHhsqWflKTvRakvmtt79d0h5sWaCIpKNFxHgJxWa8Y94/s320/100_7498.jpg" border="0" /> Most of which were eaten on the go.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310863693616797234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOeNpF0wPrLNY7ZWOt4mq0WqOUKqDOwwbwsVvrouPjCw76WxPsGQox-wCEdK-ehlSrMrDQn2iTI_Ge7qvTyd9gxOP31-E64cUgD3sypEXgnZWAvl03H-Qz5fRsiHHuINCHX2TJWmbXjv8/s320/100_7501.jpg" border="0" /><br />A kilometre from the end of our skate, all 13km of it, the kids took a brief break. The temperature had started to drop noticeably and we were definitely done. It was a great afternoon. Really, so easy to do. Living so close to Ottawa, it's really something we should do more. But, it's not to be this year. It was the last day of the season to skate. I'm glad we were able to fit it in.<br /><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310847691121240402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPLMdZRbd35qza-fR8vIqX1O7DFepg7_kk6uQKCHUwy6fnT_uRmnnHHqC8zFPZTHcRd7Op8MTIdQ1zHDe_cxyYjvLAPltHUnTV6bJu9TI0Bd7CPWQIHODPJGSiB2pc-36juDUhFGkdXZk/s320/100_7507.jpg" border="0" /><br /></div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310867151803727314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipFcfPpA5WUfC6l4PCjrlMcUKGgEmbQqs3Ibh4m8Sl4lm7uef8TeTiOCa0RjsCe1vzscuVhzUKNFhRNHF9us3qRwJqVDsGvo4o6S1FNay5-SXMvtQyeGennyhNkkKt0wjKaobbeqWN02Y/s320/100_7509.jpg" border="0" />Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-56595349776869354002009-03-07T12:26:00.006-05:002009-03-07T13:16:27.118-05:00SickiesAfter our skating adventure on the <a href="http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/bins/ncc_web_content_page.asp?cid=16297-16299-10080&lang=1&bhcp=1">Rideau Canal</a> on Thursday (<em>pics and blog to follow</em>) we came home with an additional house guest. At least R did.<br /><br />For 12 hours, he hosted the wonderful effects of food poisoning.<br /><br />This was especially disappointing as R had a Friday night boys' night with friends planned - dinner and a <a href="http://www.ottawa67s.com/">'67s</a> game in Ottawa. I called and cancelled for R on Friday morning. I wasn't very popular with anyone. I'm glad I did, though, as R certainly wasn't bouncing back very quickly.<br /><br />R slept most of Friday away with a curious little fever. K made plans to get picked up by my mom and spend the night with her. They do girl stuff together like watch old episodes of Full House for hours on end. R and I hung out reading <a href="http://www.wimpykid.com/">Diary of a Wimpy Kid</a>. He thought he might like some gelato so we took a short car trip. He only had two small bites, but it stayed down. We were making progress!<br /><br />K arrived home this morning, pale as death. She flopped on the couch and hasn't moved. No fever (yet?) but no appetite, energy or joie de vivre. Interesting.<br /><br />I'd just like to note that when they were babies, the kids never got sick together. Any cold or other ailment was always spared the other until the first was mostly recovered. Most recently, this was experienced last Spring with the Chicken Spox. A lovely month-long affair.<br /><br />R didn't appreciate being left alone in his bed while I was taking care of things around the house. K didn't feel up to moving over on the couch to make room for her brother. I was getting frustrated running up and down with pillows and water and the dog underfoot and can you get the curtains now mom and maybe I would like a straw now that I think about it and <em>arrgh</em>!<br /><br />The cot! Years ago I bought a cot when the family bed was shrinking. It's come in handy over the years. Today I employed it in the living room.<br /><br />So here we are on a lovely Spring-link Saturday afternoon. Cooped up in the darkened living room feeling very run down. R is perking up and is keeping down a generous helping (for a sick person) of soup. K just feels like dozing. Everyone is much more content now that they are lying down - separate but together. The dog is happier - and less underfoot - as well.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310508676052979090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHz4zmbhBDdgN1x8hHIAJVIqZLCw4hmGKI1NevaiBTlurhYMWqAmOc-DtKajIy8Ht9YSRIbNMnV0a9DzVRg6sQlRdKSSnSZN5C_jwTWWwVTOSQLzCtf6XAelHZcMEH_6Vi8Jpl58uV-Yw/s400/100_7511.jpg" border="0" /><br />♥BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-24671752368356316272009-03-03T20:29:00.003-05:002009-03-03T20:40:45.361-05:00Testing...Testing...<div align="left">Hey all,</div><div align="left"> </div><div align="left"></div><div align="left">Sorry to be playing with things. Sometimes it's fun to clean things up and freshen up the wall paper. Of course, the procrastinator in me much prefers to play with blog colours than the hall closet shelf that's been a catch-all for years. </div><div align="left"> </div><div align="right"></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309140512663181234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJiBTINY_5nvQ04dcjh9loK6WxGSE7_FZ2raV3BfQOIYJAznZD6vtLDu3wX6XXPv9Unasl5AbhEsiU7tilRcDz_m48RUxoTYvvsGF0xqKyoOgQj9EqTEV-Ok7CEsKAcHYoDF6Qsm7zi0/s320/PICT0015.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="right"> *<span style="font-size:78%;">photo courtesy of K and her new camera</span> </p><p align="left">♥Bonni </p>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-2500106931442256152009-03-02T20:57:00.003-05:002009-03-02T21:37:51.275-05:00Fundraising For Me<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLm0bm990mhq7Aad-HLspTlxiLScocKffFdbbYCCgJOVdWj1a8cLIo6WK7xXSU-2yxU79PHRm4a1HpYdf9oXRaKQjL6pgIZZaASA_2nUXAAYQFr7SkqVBOI1UJ6WJ4J5TAbIxJizHROgU/s1600-h/100_7390.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308775014771600098" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLm0bm990mhq7Aad-HLspTlxiLScocKffFdbbYCCgJOVdWj1a8cLIo6WK7xXSU-2yxU79PHRm4a1HpYdf9oXRaKQjL6pgIZZaASA_2nUXAAYQFr7SkqVBOI1UJ6WJ4J5TAbIxJizHROgU/s320/100_7390.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />All year I have been fundraising by throwing my spare change into this biscotti container. Sometimes, I've even had a $5 or $10 in my wallet for a week or so...or I washed a bill in the laundry and claimed it...and into the container it went.<br /><br />B and I sat one evening and rolled. We rolled until we hit $309 and ran out of nickel rollers. I'm using the money to attend the <a href="http://www.kwchea.ca/html/conference.html">Kitchener-Waterloo Home School Conference</a>.<br /><br />I know not everyone is a conference person, but I am. I leave the conference feeling motivated. I like bringing home hurriedly scrawled notes of good ideas. I like hearing the authors of a program/curriculum/method talk about how to implement a subject into your homeschool. I know it's a sales pitch. But don't knock it until you've heard <a href="https://www.donnaward.net/">Donna Ward</a> talk about Canadian History.<br /><br />This conference will be a special trip for me. I'm making a weekend of it. I'm carpooling with a fellow-homeschooling-girlfriend. I'm staying in a hotel. There might be evening entertainment or a yarn shop or a cafe visit or who knows what!? I'm taking suggestions. (<em>Please keep in mind it's totally possible that I will ignore all advice and choose to hole up in the hotel all weekend reading stuff I've gleaned from seminars and new books I bought at the vendor fair.</em>)<br /><br />My fundraising has been particularly successful since we gave up Tim Horton's coffee. There are definitely greater amounts of change present when one doesn't make an almost daily trip there.<br /><br />Further fundraising happened at my birthday party a couple of weekends ago when my family contributed a few bills to my efforts. They don't get the whole homeschooling thing, however, they understand being excited to go weekend adventuring. Remind me to blog about my siblings' weekend stopover in Paris, France to be at the Tour de France finish line one year.<br /><br />The fundraising will continue the weekend before my conference at the annual <a href="http://www.rvhea.org/">RVHEA Used Book Sale</a>. I've totally stepped out of my box and I've booked a table at which I will attempt to sell the books and things I'm done with. I need to make more than $20 to cover gas. However, to this event I am also carpooling!<br /><br />I just had to share. Thanks for listening.<br />♥BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-51504187280590618052009-03-01T19:13:00.009-05:002009-03-01T19:56:14.440-05:00Christmas...Finally Packed Away<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmOrfru0kGABRE3j1ZW_q_jtLtVghJQEK0vb25_kB_dyj-pXB6a6YT-L1Vd4sfCgvJtY77CviC05vtBFcmo6ZYtNjPEMXUjPQ4KUz8b2_No2HNPamgtHN_5_mqZPLcSFfYvgyE6tz51c/s1600-h/100_7415.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308378372242967858" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPmOrfru0kGABRE3j1ZW_q_jtLtVghJQEK0vb25_kB_dyj-pXB6a6YT-L1Vd4sfCgvJtY77CviC05vtBFcmo6ZYtNjPEMXUjPQ4KUz8b2_No2HNPamgtHN_5_mqZPLcSFfYvgyE6tz51c/s320/100_7415.jpg" border="0" /></a>I'm embarrassed to admit that Christmas has been hanging over my head. Hopefully my procrastination will make someone feel accomplished...on the ball...or at least seasonally aligned.<br /><br />It's March 1 and I still have garland on the stairwell. I've been telling myself...and anyone who asks...that it's 'Winter-y', not necessarily 'Christmas-y'. Then I nonchalantly move my hand to cover up the <em>Season's Greetings - From Our Family To Yours!</em> on the hanging ornament.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWb5H46nbJvBfqdSnxu3dWBInW87zr-t49VWVYpKy3XqEL_C4DwJHgljXjsRygvQz2nnjqTHRK-LsM5n2u_1tSGmW3ezosXc0qdyyRueaY_wdPfO4jYP4Zf_Yr5G1pUlxNS-aBrCM39so/s1600-h/100_7421.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308378379598302322" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWb5H46nbJvBfqdSnxu3dWBInW87zr-t49VWVYpKy3XqEL_C4DwJHgljXjsRygvQz2nnjqTHRK-LsM5n2u_1tSGmW3ezosXc0qdyyRueaY_wdPfO4jYP4Zf_Yr5G1pUlxNS-aBrCM39so/s320/100_7421.jpg" border="0" /></a><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br />And here on the hall shelf, I still have 'Winter' things going on. Snowmen...that's not Christmas-y, right?<br /><div></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPltYBeVz-5k2T_A0HqyTeLoyTs8S80KSSzAQeCrBSalmklh7DxZycr9ukmvAGiVgbnB_7CorPGGhx_r3vw15Ebghf2tqPjoHGRA5y0XkbXfFYs3qSrDVe-QqU1IAwWKgByv06NQxiIM/s1600-h/100_7422.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308378379682854290" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPltYBeVz-5k2T_A0HqyTeLoyTs8S80KSSzAQeCrBSalmklh7DxZycr9ukmvAGiVgbnB_7CorPGGhx_r3vw15Ebghf2tqPjoHGRA5y0XkbXfFYs3qSrDVe-QqU1IAwWKgByv06NQxiIM/s320/100_7422.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><--- This is why things have been languishing upstairs. This is the overflowing Christmas bin...and basket...and bag. It's all clogging up my laundry area. Which is causing the ironing to get behind...<div></div><div></div><br /><br />See how one too-small-bin can throw a wrench in the works?<div></div><br />So today I finally got to it. I emptied a larger bin whose contents could be streamlined to fit in the smaller bin....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wHxzdymQIpYowaRwKfrIsjG1M9UZUaaDf355T4_SBygVpcJslu8Bir2RvWt3QcwEPwwJ3QiYG6fk_aICQNRV2vhGLevIRZwOjXukwt8A7bT84U46zyHhM2ZUQobtN__sm6fnR9Q0eFg/s1600-h/100_7426.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308378387568869554" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3wHxzdymQIpYowaRwKfrIsjG1M9UZUaaDf355T4_SBygVpcJslu8Bir2RvWt3QcwEPwwJ3QiYG6fk_aICQNRV2vhGLevIRZwOjXukwt8A7bT84U46zyHhM2ZUQobtN__sm6fnR9Q0eFg/s320/100_7426.jpg" border="0" /></a><div></div><br />...and made a bigger mess. <div></div><div></div><em><sigh></em><br /><br /><div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GWZG8HYV4MiPCcZbeE7uY9BNMNxe6IpdJcsc0ReToKdIg7dC3sLcJUU7_qCtUSBZlVaSFRkEjjHippROsklwLsypoRvutqcHqY33MwplE0Ia7AiZvbukIdRM_RKRN776ip-7AOC4dIY/s1600-h/100_7428.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308378391028413442" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GWZG8HYV4MiPCcZbeE7uY9BNMNxe6IpdJcsc0ReToKdIg7dC3sLcJUU7_qCtUSBZlVaSFRkEjjHippROsklwLsypoRvutqcHqY33MwplE0Ia7AiZvbukIdRM_RKRN776ip-7AOC4dIY/s320/100_7428.jpg" border="0" /></a><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />But in the end, all is well. Christmas is packed away in the larger bin. I feel better. <div></div><br /><br /><div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GWZG8HYV4MiPCcZbeE7uY9BNMNxe6IpdJcsc0ReToKdIg7dC3sLcJUU7_qCtUSBZlVaSFRkEjjHippROsklwLsypoRvutqcHqY33MwplE0Ia7AiZvbukIdRM_RKRN776ip-7AOC4dIY/s1600-h/100_7428.jpg"></a><div></div>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-10346767913324225802009-02-23T20:06:00.004-05:002009-02-23T20:59:48.489-05:00DITL - February 23Monday came early today. I lay in bed, waiting for the alarm and when it went off, proceeded to lie in for another half hour. When B got up to shower, I got up as well.<br /><br />I got my winter things on and with the dog, went out for a 20 minute walk. Sometime between last night and this morning, I managed to strain a hip flexor. I figured my walk would loosen it up. Not the case however, and I've been trying to ignore it all day.<br /><br />Once home, I went about getting ready for my day. I spent half an hour pulling schoolwork while having my morning coffee. At 8:30 I made R his breakfast and checked that K was getting out of bed. I got the laundry well under way, cleaned the bathroom and vacuumed. <br /><br />At 10:30 I was ready to begin our schoolish stuff. K was using an Usborne Art book and making some really nice watercolour paintings and R was creating with Lego. I felt bad about interrupting them for boring school stuff, but I am flexible! I am adaptable! Ok, I would <em>like</em> to be those things. In reality, I feel the pressure (self-induced, but no matter) to accomplish some bookish, schoolish things. It makes married life that much better. R was happy to leave his Lego in favour of some read aloud. We're reading through some of this year's <a href="http://www.accessola.com/forest2009/SilverBirch/">Silver Birch</a> selections. After his reading, we tackled his math.<br /><br />At 11:30, I took to the kitchen to get lunch ready. Lunches are bigger, family affairs since B has been working from home. We enjoyed lunch together while B filled me in on his day so far. We cleaned up and rebooted the laundry, again, before getting to our books. K and I did her math lesson. Really, she's fairly independently working through her second Saxon level this year, but I like to read the lessons. Her math is at the point where my math developed gaps. It's a weird feeling to be learning alongside one's 11-year-old. I went to R's room with his French book. He practiced some work from L'Art de Lire 2 while I scribed and he built with Lego. I was thinking how fortunate I was to be able to teach and learn with the kids. Not many teachers can say they have the luxury of teaching while lying in bed and watching their students keep their kinesthetic selves busy creating with Lego.<br /><br />On Mondays, we have a standing skating date at the local rink with other homeschooelrs. R packed the hockey bag and we were off. An hour of skating made it a little more difficult to ignore my nagging hip flexor, but it was a nice time with friends. R plays hockey - although a less vigorous version than he would like - while the rest of us skate around. It's a nice time of chatting and exercise for us moms and the kids certainly get their share of networking in.<br /><br />After skating, we headed to the local cafe for a treat. My espresso based treat - White Mocha Latte - might explain why I yammered B's ear off when we got home an hour later. After we were in and settled, the kids and I did the last half hour of today's school work (K's L'Art de Lire, history cards, symbols of Quebec/geography page). R and I sat down to get into his book, Gordon Korman's 'Swindled', before I had to make dinner. It's a very exciting book, so we put dinner off as long as possible. The kids had leftovers and B and I worked together to try out a sloppy joe recipe. I'd never had and B had been a good 15 years since his last sloppy joe. I cleaned dinner up while everyone else ran off to get into their own activities. R needed to re-tape his hockey stick and K went to recharge her introverted batteries with some alone time in her room.<br /><br />As soon as the dishes were done and the final load of laundry drying, R and I finished his book. K got back into her painting. Hopefully I'll be able to snag these latest creations and get them displayed. They're quite engaging.<br /><br />So here I am at the end of the day, taking some time to get to email, messages and phone calls. I've sent R off to shower and K is packing up her art supplies. The kids will be in bed around 9 and I will putter around before turning in; maybe some knitting or a movie with B. So, there you have it. Not a very exciting day, but somewhat typical of a Monday of late. I feel as though I accomplished quite a bit on my mental list.<br /><br />♥BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-90975892821842577762009-02-04T20:12:00.010-05:002009-02-04T20:23:37.766-05:00Out Vacuuming. Be Back...Later<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSinu8DmWxu5JZpkdvpgHPjYkiyxY1QrWgdhhQygzH0sGWl7r9jjuBiTakwzQXWhyphenhyphenCzZR5fj1Wur5iSF9zx3ctGH7Xnykgl61w9wDlgtgr8TFDDrdVCPXWWcB3hR3w9prrotOWN1GnugA/s1600-h/100_7375.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299115864397815778" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSinu8DmWxu5JZpkdvpgHPjYkiyxY1QrWgdhhQygzH0sGWl7r9jjuBiTakwzQXWhyphenhyphenCzZR5fj1Wur5iSF9zx3ctGH7Xnykgl61w9wDlgtgr8TFDDrdVCPXWWcB3hR3w9prrotOWN1GnugA/s200/100_7375.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div>The Dyson has landed.<br /></div><div>It's light. It's powerful. It's quieter than my last vacuum. Its hose reaches a full flight of stairs without having to lift the main unit off the floor. It sucks up things <em>in the general vicinity</em> of the powerbar. Amazing.<br /></div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHISMScYaBhweVFQEJbR9zFHdMhZ6mz5Qhor2cVf01NcbgVwYanXdjkMi8bkWA93H7us-q60RzYLclq1qsSlczcJBDoxW_Sr0ZtseUy_LjICb76OvrNQKeKxuTM5pCMAbZxt7lyQ69kY8/s1600-h/100_7377.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299115867480908818" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHISMScYaBhweVFQEJbR9zFHdMhZ6mz5Qhor2cVf01NcbgVwYanXdjkMi8bkWA93H7us-q60RzYLclq1qsSlczcJBDoxW_Sr0ZtseUy_LjICb76OvrNQKeKxuTM5pCMAbZxt7lyQ69kY8/s200/100_7377.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>I'm busy vacuuming. When I can wrestle the silly thing away from others. I'll be back to blog once the novelty has worn off. </div><div><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu9nDmvuWa7gc1KkbZtO8fnCI-V5La6UQABJOPDH94nYCCr-HzMoGIbUp-UWhU8Ax7HCAftM6rNbB1U4j8f9looCPvUR8TmenFLodzRRs4iTj093GgJ-RJ5pzZXm60iDV7Qpc_6bHY1E/s1600-h/100_7379.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299115869470105714" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu9nDmvuWa7gc1KkbZtO8fnCI-V5La6UQABJOPDH94nYCCr-HzMoGIbUp-UWhU8Ax7HCAftM6rNbB1U4j8f9looCPvUR8TmenFLodzRRs4iTj093GgJ-RJ5pzZXm60iDV7Qpc_6bHY1E/s200/100_7379.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPu9nDmvuWa7gc1KkbZtO8fnCI-V5La6UQABJOPDH94nYCCr-HzMoGIbUp-UWhU8Ax7HCAftM6rNbB1U4j8f9looCPvUR8TmenFLodzRRs4iTj093GgJ-RJ5pzZXm60iDV7Qpc_6bHY1E/s1600-h/100_7379.jpg"></a></div><div>And, of course, I must post the requsite picture of the nasty bits we've been living with for who knows how long. There's less of these now. </div><div></div><div><br />♥Bonni</div></div>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-58198812586221817752009-02-01T21:05:00.001-05:002009-02-01T21:13:48.515-05:00The Vacuum Is Dead. Again.The vacuum is dead.<br /><br />Again.<br /><br />This is the third one in ten-years-minus-three-weeks. And I was trying to be oh-so careful with this latest model. Especially after B told me - in the gentlest terms possible - that I was a teensy bit hard on things, that I wasn't the most graceful housekeeper and that it would make his life complete if I could please, <em>please</em> be careful with the newest member of our appliance family. But that was a little more than two years ago.<br /><br />I felt a little sick when the vacuum just sort of droned to a stop three quarters of the way across the rug. I felt a little sick when it wouldn't turn on even after I emptied out all the filters and spoke gently to it and gave it a time out and plugged it into a different outlet. I felt a little sick when B took it apart, right there in the living room and began stripping it of parts and wires. I felt downright nauseous when, two and a half hours later, B announced the vacuum was no more.<br /><br />Not only can I be clumsy and graceless when cavorting around the house with a vacuum in tow, but I can curse myself. The day before this wretched event I was visiting with my sister. We were talking about house-y things when I told her that me next vacuum was going to be a Dyson. And that I was sure I'd get another two or three years out of my current model giving me ample time to save up my pocket change in anticipation of the big event.<br /><p><a href="http://mynetimages.com/245b98bb.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 165px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 517px" alt="" src="http://mynetimages.com/245b98bb.jpg" border="0" /></a>Sure enough, 12 hours later, the Universe decided to have a big laugh at my expense. </p><p>So, after both B and I came to terms with the fact that the vacuum could not be economically resuscitated, we sat down to have another little chat. In all seriousness, it was a two sided discussion about investing in something that was going to do a good job for us for a number of years. Hopefully enough years so that when K flies the nest, she can load it up in the back of the car when departing for her post-childhood adventures.</p><p>Given our daily use of a vacuum due to our copiously shedding dog, we decided on the Dyson DC25. Works well on all floors, lots of power, large receptacle for dust and dog hair, not too heavy and a good long reach. I'm excited to try out the ball it rides on. I'm hoping it's manoeuvrability will mask some of my clunking around.</p><p>The vacuum delivery man, Mr. Purolator, is supposed to arrive with this precious package sometime this coming week. I'm very excited. B is excited that I am excited. I'm even <em>more </em>excited since I used the shop-vac on the living room area rug this evening. <em>That</em> was an exercise in patience if there ever was one. Why must the husky shed in the winter?? And why must each hair weave itself into the fibers of the rug? Is it necessary, really?? I digress.</p><p>I know you're all as excited as I am for the arrival of our investment, my birthday present, K's future housewarming gift, the dog-shed-containment-system. I'll keep you posted. </p><p>♥Bonni</p>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-33034643104109799372009-01-28T21:10:00.005-05:002009-01-28T22:05:08.589-05:00Cooperation<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfhRUiQBDYqPgAolMu-QqaRBQlbC1Ns3497KfJTQR9UwQTQasawrLUSAT7xiDZe_bcNDHeFUfxaa2CDSgHD82TLIqDGSkrjBLVN7GQZMBPm269eNPrXVcjXQ9MrMMPxMEdd3KpylnZgwg/s1600-h/100_7368.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296545061330132434" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfhRUiQBDYqPgAolMu-QqaRBQlbC1Ns3497KfJTQR9UwQTQasawrLUSAT7xiDZe_bcNDHeFUfxaa2CDSgHD82TLIqDGSkrjBLVN7GQZMBPm269eNPrXVcjXQ9MrMMPxMEdd3KpylnZgwg/s320/100_7368.jpg" border="0" /></a>I have great kids. Really. They're smart and creative, entertaining and introspective, thoughtful and loving.<br /><br />However.<br /><br />Sometimes they cause me to be speechless. Sometimes they pull a stunt that is particularly ridiculous. More than once I've called my mother-in-law to ask such things as: 'Is the child supposed to be able to scale such heights at this young age?' and 'But <em>why</em> does the child insist on <em>surfing</em> toys down the stairs...repeatedly?' and 'At what age <em>exactly</em> did your son stop talking without pause?' Because surely, such behaviour must be intrinsic to my In-Law's side of the family. Because otherwise, I'd be tempted to call in a professional. Mostly for my sanity as such things make absolutely no sense to me. And I had a couple of brothers and a testosterone-heavy set of older cousins.<br /><br />It's been quite a while since any stunt-like implausible behaviour has happened. Sure enough, as soon as I let down my guard, R shows me the lump on his head.<br /><br />A half hour after said lump was inflicted on his person. By a snow shovel. Wielded by his sister. Because they were 'play fighting' in the snow. What does a mother say to that??!<br /><br />Who swings a <em>snowshovel</em> at <em>anyone's</em> head?!!?!?? No wonder he was <em>lying down</em> in the driveway he that he had supposedly gone out to shovel!<br /><br />Anyway, as they say, 'all's well that ends well'. I found my words. K apologized and R was forgiving. It was cold enough out that any swelling had been kept to a minimum. Perhaps the bruise will be unnoticeable...there, on the middle of his forehead. <<em>sigh</em>><br /><br />The driveway did get shoveled and soon enough the two of them were holed up at the computer working on a project together. R dictates and organizes while K types.<br /><br />So what is it? A small lapse in common sense due to burgeoning hormones? Were they stunned by the cold? Perhaps there is something to the 'violent video games = violent children' argument. Whatever it is, it's fleeting. As most of the time, it is just the two of them, holed up somewhere working on something, helping each other, putting up with the other. I think they would be lost without the other around.Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-1731853250302722222009-01-14T21:59:00.005-05:002009-01-14T23:07:27.690-05:00Motivating, Happy, Colourful StuffBaby, it's cold outside! As much as I want to hibernate every winter, I really was motivated today to see all the wonderful things going on around me. Even if it is 20-below (or zero degrees for you Fahrenheit people). And even if I had a headache and fell asleep during 'Geography'. <em>(We were watching Planet Earth: Caves. It's dark and quiet in those things...not a whole lot moving around to keep you alert. I recommend the following episode: The Desert. I have to say, the squat-and-rhythmic-tail-flapping-accompanied-by-loud-honking mating dance of the wild bactrian camel will perk anyone up.)</em><br /><br />So, happy, colourful things to get excited about:<br /><br /><a href="http://images-cdn01.associatedcontent.com/image/A1736/173661/300_173661.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 225px" alt="" src="http://images-cdn01.associatedcontent.com/image/A1736/173661/300_173661.jpg" border="0" /></a>Harry's Christmas Blend Butterscotch & Caramel <strong>Coffee</strong>. <strong>A good book</strong>. Sitting in the car watching the kids skate on <strong>freshly flooded ice</strong>. I'm reminded that even on frigid <strong>Canadian winter days</strong>, if you dress properly and keep moving, it's still a great day.<br /><br /><a href="http://twistcollective.com/collection/cart_images/win_08/harika_z_500.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 145px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 205px" alt="" src="http://twistcollective.com/collection/cart_images/win_08/harika_z_500.jpg" border="0" /></a><strong>Cool, colourful knitted stuff</strong> at <a href="http://twistcollective.com/2008/winter/magazinepage_01.php">Twist Collective</a>. Check out the patterns and colours. What great energy and contrast. As much as I loved my world today: white, crisp, icy and blue; you can't help getting great ideas when you click through this online magazine.<br /><br /><a href="http://twistcollective.com/collection/cart_images/win_08/sylvi_z_500.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 126px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 206px" alt="" src="http://twistcollective.com/collection/cart_images/win_08/sylvi_z_500.jpg" border="0" /></a>Like this sweater coat. And the socks, above. Wouldn't it be great to knit socks like that??! Don't you wonder how many little strings there are hanging out inside them and how do you get them on your feet without snagging at least one of the little piggies and messing up the pattern? <a href="http://www.twistcollective.com/collection/cart_images/win_08/postwar_b_500.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 229px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 134px" alt="" src="http://www.twistcollective.com/collection/cart_images/win_08/postwar_b_500.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Or these mitts. Gorgeous. How insane would I get just attempting the cuff. These almost scream 'I dare you to try!' at me. I mean, they can't be impossible, can they? Think I could get a pair done in time for next winter? Or how about a pair that would match my coat! Then I'd have to plan a colour scheme on top of <strong>learning to strand colours</strong>. <a href="http://twistcollective.com/collection/cart_images/win_08/gytha_z_500.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 156px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 192px" alt="" src="http://twistcollective.com/collection/cart_images/win_08/gytha_z_500.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Maybe I'd be safer with this little A-line sweater. I love it, but don't the fashion people say something about having horizontal stripes running the width of the widest part of your body? Hmm...might have to <strong>search Ravelry</strong> for a comparably inspiring afghan or something.<br /><br />What else did I come across today...<strong>a new baby born at home </strong>to <a href="http://yofed.blogspot.com/">a HSing mama</a>. If that's not inspiring, I don't know what is. Planning a trip to IKEA. Our clock broke (as in shattered, destroyed, in pieces; not 'it just stopped ticking...') and it's a good excuse to go to <strong>IKEA</strong> to get a new one. I would love to get one of <a href="http://www.ikea.com/ca/en/catalog/products/80044199">these</a> for my dining room while I'm there, but I think B. might notice a box that big in the car. <a href="http://asksistermarymartha.blogspot.com/">Blogs like this</a>, <strong>making me laugh</strong> and reminding me that it's ok to be uncertain and questioning at times on your individual spiritual path. That we all question things from time to time and stressing about it doesn't really help. That looking at situations as learning opportunities and finding the humour in daily life makes for a pretty good day. And the day wrapped up with a nice <strong>'coffee & chat</strong>' at the local hot spot with a few local homeschooling moms. It's nice to connect every once in a while with like-minded people. Affirming. Interesting. I always come away with list of things to look into, read, try. Tonight my list said <strong>astronomy</strong>, <strong>The Importance of Being Earnest, Jane Austen</strong> and <strong>The Rideau Canal</strong>.<br /><br />So there you have it. Some colourful bits. A few things to look forward to. Warm fuzzies from enjoying the day.<br />♥BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-75662244218091599892009-01-08T08:41:00.007-05:002009-01-08T09:51:19.401-05:00A Little Knitting<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2a_iaW0y46DfQkR_MJXTGrzrjcUzLzNp6wqRA78_pF6UxykA_kpaI6UJEE6ctqiuPB0IWNXu5cxuMAW27HNj8VyqK6i6VjJOqJ4H-pgnSuKgEkRBCnhjcDdBjUGu569fkOiPWuh3sIw/s1600-h/HPIM1241.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288931123829521586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 303px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii2a_iaW0y46DfQkR_MJXTGrzrjcUzLzNp6wqRA78_pF6UxykA_kpaI6UJEE6ctqiuPB0IWNXu5cxuMAW27HNj8VyqK6i6VjJOqJ4H-pgnSuKgEkRBCnhjcDdBjUGu569fkOiPWuh3sIw/s400/HPIM1241.JPG" border="0" /></a>As the holidays approached, I let go of all my knitting plans. I realized what a stressful holiday I was setting myself up for. That's silly, since the holidays are supposed to be about enjoying the time you're spending with those you've chosen to spend the time with.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtNVQu1xLPquAjYkObstPSiSfmF4AKFVpY5ED835k4t43o9dMj3b38pY0889rrQg3jP6ypMPOEUU6MJ3sqGmTB_rq6CWMCvIcvXFYEFckmhNUPXJpvTdhyAOjAWvmvSRJqJMW3oZoFbM/s1600-h/HPIM1237.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288920521360396290" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 242px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtNVQu1xLPquAjYkObstPSiSfmF4AKFVpY5ED835k4t43o9dMj3b38pY0889rrQg3jP6ypMPOEUU6MJ3sqGmTB_rq6CWMCvIcvXFYEFckmhNUPXJpvTdhyAOjAWvmvSRJqJMW3oZoFbM/s320/HPIM1237.JPG" border="0" /></a>I did knit up this little guy, dubbed Petty Officer. Actually, I've crocheted him. He's <a href="http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/81012AD.html?noImages=">Lion's Brand's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Amigurumi</span> Penguin</a>. He's a cute little thing that just sits about the house in different places. (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Bonni/amigurumi-penguin"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Ravelry</span> Link</a>)<br /><br />Last year while out of town, I picked up some Lang <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Mille</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Colori</span>. It's been sitting, waiting patiently, for me to get over myself. I finally took the plunge and cast on a pair of <a href="http://elann.com/ShowFreePattern.asp?Id=249024">Marquise Gauntlets</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTCacjJpaLxt-_G_NfVJUC8yRWJABfGOuEuYXgd63xZQSy5hWnVepO-pkhftDptdDYUfwv45b4L9gvXpeZC5DHzbzNoUxDy5R73mFcv1XjZDAfGsMvjvzMkNVln3Nr5huBVY1jvtthk9Q/s1600-h/HPIM1231.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288928544395784354" style="FLOAT: right" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTCacjJpaLxt-_G_NfVJUC8yRWJABfGOuEuYXgd63xZQSy5hWnVepO-pkhftDptdDYUfwv45b4L9gvXpeZC5DHzbzNoUxDy5R73mFcv1XjZDAfGsMvjvzMkNVln3Nr5huBVY1jvtthk9Q/s320/HPIM1231.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />It was a good project for me to have to use cables. I've done cables before, but was not really a very confident <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">cable-er</span>. The first gauntlet, I stressed, took notes, flipped papers around and took about four times longer than needed to complete it.<br /><br />The second gauntlet was a much faster knit since suddenly, the little slashes and shaded boxes of the pattern chart started making sense. If you look closely at both gauntlets, you can see that the first row of cables are twisted in opposite directions. But it really makes no difference. I like the colour of the yarn and I mastered some new things (like the two by two front cable slip-slip-knit decrease cross <em><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">gak</span>!). </em>(<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/Bonni/marquise-gauntlets"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ravelry</span> Link</a>)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAWtadaFDv41afWrvMQ3fhyphenhyphenjxZ0i21Yw0vWU34rWW4FtOWneznhrf1pahqnX0h7_U8l2yEM2hkOiHX7HahzQoHnqUeLSbjCyM_Dgrldrryq5dau_m7D6AUU9kOaGsXrB1VwB4FlVif64/s1600-h/HPIM1245.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288929677802852834" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 242px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAWtadaFDv41afWrvMQ3fhyphenhyphenjxZ0i21Yw0vWU34rWW4FtOWneznhrf1pahqnX0h7_U8l2yEM2hkOiHX7HahzQoHnqUeLSbjCyM_Dgrldrryq5dau_m7D6AUU9kOaGsXrB1VwB4FlVif64/s320/HPIM1245.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Next up on the docket are a pair of socks. I've knit a pair of socks for B before. I had knit them because I'd wanted to make him a homemade gift and I wanted to see if I could knit socks. They worked out fairly well. He even wears them sometimes. They were socks of a worsted weight yarn. Cotton. Work-sock-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">ish</span>. These queued socks will be made of sock yarn and I'm going to try using a trickier sock pattern from Sensational Knitted Socks. It's a book I've had for quite some time. It'll be nice to break it in. <a href="http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/RESOURCE/MEDIA/IMAGES/bookcovers/Original/BookCovers13/978/1/5/6/4/9781564775702.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 147px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 181px" alt="" src="http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/RESOURCE/MEDIA/IMAGES/bookcovers/Original/BookCovers13/978/1/5/6/4/9781564775702.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><p>On the needles currently, to be finished before the socks are started, is the twice-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">frogged</span> <a href="http://www.knitty.com/ISSUEsummer08/PATTbyob.html">BYOB shopping bag from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Knitty</span></a>. This is the second of a set of two. I think I have the colour pattern planned properly so knitting it up this third time should be the charm. </p><p>At the Christmas dinner table, I stated in front of witnesses that this year I'd like to do more knitting. Hopefully, this is a good start to a year of projects on the needles. </p><p>♥Bonni</p>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-18121866687272043182009-01-04T14:45:00.003-05:002009-01-04T14:59:22.903-05:00Note To Self:<div><div><div><div><div><div>Hello Self. Wonderful Christmas we had this year. And that bit we did sticking to a school schedule really paid off as the kids and I have really appreciated these last two weeks of 'school holiday'.</div><br /><div></div><div>Just a thought, Self. When planning your Science curriculum, peek ahead and see exactly what the required elements of each unit are. It may have been prudent to discover back in September that the Biology unit we've been planning on starting in January (<em>tomorrow!!)</em> requires a number of natural elements found in the warmer months here in this corner of Canada. </div><div></div><br /><div>The beetles, ants, worm and pond water teeming with microscopic life are currently in short supply. The chapter on 'Releasing Your Butterfly' is not likely to turn out well anytime in the next ten weeks. </div><div></div><br /><div>Self, may I suggest we do the Physics unit and then tackle the Biology unit in the Spring?</div><div></div><br /><div>Now, don't we have some things to print? Gather? Prepare?</div><br /><a href="http://www.clipartof.com/images/emoticons/xsmall2/1892_mad_smiley_banging_head_against_a_brick_wall.gif"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 30px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 23px" alt="" src="http://www.clipartof.com/images/emoticons/xsmall2/1892_mad_smiley_banging_head_against_a_brick_wall.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div></div><div> </div></div></div></div></div></div>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-59607145042922671622009-01-01T21:31:00.004-05:002009-01-01T21:59:03.005-05:00K's 11th Birthday<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijc0n9rVwh3APvbi_OQGCrTnMlOk3HucVaFRvg90r-DLPy0dhWw6hJuRvyamy8jabfyXiRWmJvSs5qbN9KzvfOn8rVaSvJGVRwk_-xUQKbOl5uF-KwSseEnfGMovRBl43cIxtQbHGyURU/s1600-h/100_7156.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286520627342790450" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijc0n9rVwh3APvbi_OQGCrTnMlOk3HucVaFRvg90r-DLPy0dhWw6hJuRvyamy8jabfyXiRWmJvSs5qbN9KzvfOn8rVaSvJGVRwk_-xUQKbOl5uF-KwSseEnfGMovRBl43cIxtQbHGyURU/s320/100_7156.jpg" border="0" /></a> On birthdays we have gifts as soon as the birthday person wakes up. 'Why not celebrate the whole day?' was our reasoning.<br /><br />So, here is K, fresh out of bed on the 23rd of December. B took the day off work so we dragged him out of bed as well - to witness the beginnings of birthday celebrations: a couple of gifts.<br /><br />K had been saving for a few months and was hoping to have enough saved for 1/2 an <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">iPod</span> touch. We had agreed to split the cost with her. As a bit of a surprise, we bought it early.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijc0n9rVwh3APvbi_OQGCrTnMlOk3HucVaFRvg90r-DLPy0dhWw6hJuRvyamy8jabfyXiRWmJvSs5qbN9KzvfOn8rVaSvJGVRwk_-xUQKbOl5uF-KwSseEnfGMovRBl43cIxtQbHGyURU/s1600-h/100_7156.jpg"></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr6Jd7CfljxRZMNT70Qs-nrNYvVjnMBa9xi_kDg_GsI5ske-TSCZBNlOhLDlK5DIjVGCITJAzUGTp_o8rEN0kK8WKQAEgQMS-OI1ztJZPrDMYNm_GsVGXGgBaHCgnfGh-cTTvXr69myOc/s1600-h/100_7158.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286520630817101634" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr6Jd7CfljxRZMNT70Qs-nrNYvVjnMBa9xi_kDg_GsI5ske-TSCZBNlOhLDlK5DIjVGCITJAzUGTp_o8rEN0kK8WKQAEgQMS-OI1ztJZPrDMYNm_GsVGXGgBaHCgnfGh-cTTvXr69myOc/s320/100_7158.jpg" border="0" /></a>Amid the Christmas decorations, there are the traditional <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">balloons</span> and birthday banner.<br /><br />K is modelling her birthday <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">toque</span>. It was a good find as she loves wearing hats and it matches her coat. She's a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">pre</span>-teen now, she tells me, fashion is becoming fairly important, mom.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4Aa2rDjOqt0y9ONkxotfNbjvVvczB1iOZaH9ZkexlknZDBZ7DV8HTHECTOWW9z6tv_SCklVVfAkzSy-Hr-B0ja9Uim0alGtJsHCeD5-PBQOyUmf-ccgJ6scUOYV_pYO0tPHQ10KkIOw/s1600-h/100_7165.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286520642096461186" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN4Aa2rDjOqt0y9ONkxotfNbjvVvczB1iOZaH9ZkexlknZDBZ7DV8HTHECTOWW9z6tv_SCklVVfAkzSy-Hr-B0ja9Uim0alGtJsHCeD5-PBQOyUmf-ccgJ6scUOYV_pYO0tPHQ10KkIOw/s320/100_7165.jpg" border="0" /></a>When asked what she wanted to do to celebrate her birthday, she wanted to have lunch out with B's mom and her husband. Here are her and I at East Side Mario's. K ordered the pasta off the 'big' menu. No more of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">rinky</span>-dink kid's menu for her...or so she says.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeyopZq7qB_Ti9SZSWReUgJbu269wav_585vnN96OCBDTSdvjMNZYPL1-uAhNn2zLHII2t19UYn1K44mR27XY0-ULRfYy7xK6pO0yQ_1oxNq2hqI2JUcja-wdTpmInJUuvADng2FXdRug/s1600-h/100_7166.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286520644644478578" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeyopZq7qB_Ti9SZSWReUgJbu269wav_585vnN96OCBDTSdvjMNZYPL1-uAhNn2zLHII2t19UYn1K44mR27XY0-ULRfYy7xK6pO0yQ_1oxNq2hqI2JUcja-wdTpmInJUuvADng2FXdRug/s320/100_7166.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeyopZq7qB_Ti9SZSWReUgJbu269wav_585vnN96OCBDTSdvjMNZYPL1-uAhNn2zLHII2t19UYn1K44mR27XY0-ULRfYy7xK6pO0yQ_1oxNq2hqI2JUcja-wdTpmInJUuvADng2FXdRug/s1600-h/100_7166.jpg"></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtv8Fvgm9A436q_Rcjm0wQ88OfEGxmjMZUsNdzJnyER8vtBGVPyekC7ZWKVXy-LCjo5zQT2mDnU7a_zOvKTWA-PiIYVOR2nJJiNsSPUGHNdaPric8AHcONS9lgGOt08LcoAyKsU8jv6JY/s1600-h/100_7168.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286520647351450658" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtv8Fvgm9A436q_Rcjm0wQ88OfEGxmjMZUsNdzJnyER8vtBGVPyekC7ZWKVXy-LCjo5zQT2mDnU7a_zOvKTWA-PiIYVOR2nJJiNsSPUGHNdaPric8AHcONS9lgGOt08LcoAyKsU8jv6JY/s320/100_7168.jpg" border="0" /></a>After lunch, we picked up the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">pre</span>-ordered birthday cake. The kids like to go to the bakery to pick out a sugar rush on their birthdays. A couple of years ago, K only had Christmas cakes to pick from. That was <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ok</span> with her at the time, but she later confessed to secretly preferring a more <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">celebratory</span> theme. Therefore, we now <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">pre</span>-order. Actually, with K's newly diagnosed peanut allergy, I ask for the cake to be baked first thing in the morning when all the equipment has been freshly cleaned and before it's had the chance to be graced with any peanut particles for the day.<br /><br />Happy 11th, K. Here's to many more.Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-11650391804876453302008-12-31T15:47:00.004-05:002008-12-31T16:06:26.061-05:00Christmas 2008 PicturesI promised I would put up some pictures for Uncle M. and Almost-Aunt M. who decided to go gallivanting off to Korea for a year or so. They managed to miss Christmas by about 10 days. Of course, we had a full-fledged Christmas dinner for them before they left. I hear that Christmas in Korea is a lover's holiday rather than a commercial gift-grab/religious celebration ala North American standards.<br /><br />Without further ado, here's some of our Christmas pictures: full flash, no photoshop, taken on the fly.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrXZb_4BP2NWTX2ee5M4LGc-ojfcpwVuCsqNDnwmHsiMBwKuhMpCUPpL27k65j6ZrxewtqYq9e2tjQ05tYhWhm1B-Ot2PoUMQXbQu7LQpuDYQHLeo2CeD1lr05UqwyacrQ7u-YjwjlBMw/s1600-h/100_7109.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286060993704454418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrXZb_4BP2NWTX2ee5M4LGc-ojfcpwVuCsqNDnwmHsiMBwKuhMpCUPpL27k65j6ZrxewtqYq9e2tjQ05tYhWhm1B-Ot2PoUMQXbQu7LQpuDYQHLeo2CeD1lr05UqwyacrQ7u-YjwjlBMw/s320/100_7109.jpg" border="0" /></a> This is a pic of the kids' first 'Christmas Pageant' (Dec.19/08). Together with a couple of HSing friends they learned a French carol and played out the Nativity. K got to be Mary as she was the only person able to provide a doll to be used as baby Jesus. We have a very male dominated HSing community!<br /><br /><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-SrFhW7RxPpUvyVPmyfPq8wVVG6xzQqVmksvoqKte1LZWe3s_Q-jw_VDRfxE4Uj6iwc5ASOSAlI0wqBg-lXGXri8d-eBCgFAIOy3E8LcmsVpboMQ7ekVi_hTo3aDvBHuRwTC5jU8n3I/s1600-h/100_7101.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286060984499552226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-SrFhW7RxPpUvyVPmyfPq8wVVG6xzQqVmksvoqKte1LZWe3s_Q-jw_VDRfxE4Uj6iwc5ASOSAlI0wqBg-lXGXri8d-eBCgFAIOy3E8LcmsVpboMQ7ekVi_hTo3aDvBHuRwTC5jU8n3I/s320/100_7101.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286060978287543650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifIR6rBCdpplqBnjP8ZQABTRjDfDqv43B2727MobdVdx9cGlsQTubaY-pXtVVTzJJ98iNoPe31n7mKdONz4T-65buyKJq8xMgTiekeZpYeojKdv2C7BPkwkfafV7JK1PsuQ5x4GjnoKic/s320/100_7134.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>Here's a pic of K in snow past her knees on the 21st. We got quite the blanket of snow just in time for Christmas. Of course, in the last week it has rained and warmed so much that most of it is gone. </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286060969899816658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGsa7TaJ93GqXdnSGiZVifgD687Dr3Hjr0-Gv4idBScLc0_54iuKGS0PCIhhSzDlKPdIJM19EJ4bHsuVmMhFqTVgbRLv9QFr8envL4ORTqPcASHCfwQltViqeXN37LCsDR39X_xqrl9s/s320/100_7127.jpg" border="0" />A lovely pic of the kids in front of the freshly decorated tree. They're so co-operative.<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7oP_HrjeNPuwHZbMGqmoBx_pc67mhVTbuGxRl9aZH5E00Z0oYFjZp-NAMYPY-ob7OqHIiCwNz1AmbOwQgNTDpLzPNp8Cx3rJejI1cT3zm4ip1_g48DAAMHATOquqK7bVZUlu3Wct1ZwI/s1600-h/100_7114.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286060966820756370" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7oP_HrjeNPuwHZbMGqmoBx_pc67mhVTbuGxRl9aZH5E00Z0oYFjZp-NAMYPY-ob7OqHIiCwNz1AmbOwQgNTDpLzPNp8Cx3rJejI1cT3zm4ip1_g48DAAMHATOquqK7bVZUlu3Wct1ZwI/s320/100_7114.jpg" border="0" /></a> Here they are receiving a lesson from B. in how to properly hang candy canes on the tree. Apparently there is a particularly successful technique that should be utilized. </div><div> </div><div>More to follow...maybe tomorrow...</div><div> </div><div>♥Bonni<br /></div></div></div></div>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-53610736860450277452008-12-30T16:55:00.003-05:002008-12-30T17:26:39.363-05:00Project Korknisse!! 2009<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-bW7Ue_VnqfIzhD3DbngowmDNLaxi2V2h18kJa-fr-3BqhcsBeECYP6odD18KSswe5MMO00K3vJqEsCxv74oOSlU5y1hlzgjsiBs3oJ8T1giGKCy9F9CIRd_pagdr6VsLAskL4HcAEE/s1600-h/row_of_nisse-thumb.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285706165050193570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 182px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-bW7Ue_VnqfIzhD3DbngowmDNLaxi2V2h18kJa-fr-3BqhcsBeECYP6odD18KSswe5MMO00K3vJqEsCxv74oOSlU5y1hlzgjsiBs3oJ8T1giGKCy9F9CIRd_pagdr6VsLAskL4HcAEE/s320/row_of_nisse-thumb.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I thought I would put the word out now, while we're all full of great ideas and intentions for <em>next</em> Christmas. If you have any extra corks kicking around, or if you feel like saving some and putting them to good use, I'd be happy to arrange to take them off your hands. </div><div> </div><div>I'm hoping to knit up a load of these cutie little Korknisse guys as ornaments and gift toppers for Christmass 2009. </div><div> </div><div>I didn't make ornaments this year. Now that Christmas 2008 is all wrapped up (<em>ouch...punny, no?</em>) I have discovered that I missed making ornaments for everyone. So I'm planning ahead. </div><div> </div><div>Let me know if you can help me out. There might even be a 'Thank-You Korknisse' in it for you!</div><div> </div><div>♥Bonni</div><div> </div>Bonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1523830620692068648.post-45467100677106041852008-12-16T21:26:00.004-05:002008-12-16T21:46:49.362-05:00Our First Real TreeOh, Fer Cryin' Out Loud.<br /><br />Had a lovely visit last week with <a href="http://jenzart.blogspot.com/">Jennifer</a>. Had prepared a little crafty thing for her - just becasue she's always preparing little crafty treasures for someone else - yet the photos somehow disappeared between the camera dock and the PC.<br /><br /><em>Then</em> we had a lovely whirlwind of a trip to see my extended family in Barrie, Ont. Took lots of pictures. Had a dress-up Christmas party. Spent 10ish hours in the car with my own little family. Took some more pictures. And the camera won't turn on. At least it waited until I had taken the party pics before becoming tempermental. I'm sure my tech support guru will work his magic, but <em>geez</em>.<br /><br />Tonight we went out and bought our first real Christmas tree. Sorry, no photos. It's really beautiful. Really. Although the trunk seems to list to starboard. We're leaving it to settle tonight and tomorrow evening we'll decorate. Perhaps my camera will come out of it's tempermental little snit by then. We can only hope.<br /><br />Holiday preparations are happening in enjoyable little chunks. You'd think I would be entrenched in some holiday gift knitting, but not so much. I'm knitting myself something and I'm considering knitting a penguin. R likes penguins.<br /><br />K would like to remind us (mostly me) that her birthday is coming up. One week today. She'll be 11. When I was pregnant I remember thinking about how old I would be when she was ten. I thought that sounded old. I couldn't imagine being that old. Now, I can't believe how silly and young and immature and I was when I was preparing to parent. Thank goodness kids are resilient and forgiving.<br /><br />I'm off to knit. Or maybe make some paper stars. Of which I would love to show you a photo. But I won't. Not yet.<br /><br />♥BonniBonnihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12823321141183113841noreply@blogger.com2