In Real Life

Zoo Animals

2012-01-30T11:40:00.000-08:00

I just love going to the zoo!

We spent a fabulous day at the Calgary Zoo with my Bestest Friend and her Little Guy on the weekend.

I brought my big camera with me, and had so much fun snapping pictures of the animals we saw.

Meerkat.

He looks like he's posing.

My Bestest Friend's favourite animal.

Guinea Hen

Such an odd looking creature!

Gorilla

The Gorilla exhibit is amazing! It is my son's favourite.

This male Gorilla is enormous!

Nap time for baby!

This Black Trumpeter Swan objected my my taking his picture - he was hissing at me!

Elephants

Little Guy's favourite zoo animals.

Tiger

What a majestic animal.

Blue Macaw

This is my favourite bird at the zoo - he's so beautiful!

I'm intrigued by parrots.

My daughter couldn't decide on a favourite animal at the zoo, but she enjoyed the piranha tank - unfortunately, the picture of the eerily smiling piranha didn't turn out.

Dear School

2012-01-25T15:40:00.000-08:00

Dear School;

It seems that we are at odds - again. We have been in this position too many times over the last 8 years, and I am feeling very frustrated, fed up, and most importantly so extremely tired of this constant battle. It seems that I am always on the defensive, and I feel myself tense up, every time I pass through your doors. This is not right. This is not how things should be, nor how I expected they would be when I first brought my kindergartener, so full of hope and promise to your brightly decorated and inviting classroom.

What went wrong? How did we end up in this dysfunctional relationship? Year after year bringing with it more problems and disagreements?

School, I really thought that we finally had things figured out, that we were on the right track, but it was yet another delusion.

So, upon evaluating our present circumstances, I am willing to take part of the responsibility for things not going well between you and I. Perhaps, I have not been clear with you about my expectations, hopes, and wants for my child while she is with you.

I will spell them out:

I expect that my child will be safe at school. In a physical sense, but also in an emotional and spiritual sense. I expect her to be safe to learn and grow, explore new ideas, and develop friendships while she is there.

I expect that my child will be treated with respect by teachers, adults, classmates, and other students.

I expect that we as parents will be treated with respect and courtesy. I hope that we can establish an on-going, open dialogue about my child's progress. Please do not wait until there is a problem before bringing up concerns, and please listen to me when I approach you with a concern.

I expect that you will understand that children do not fit into neat little boxes and categories, and that will not change, no matter how many expensive tests you order, or how many fancy labels you might use. Use labels with caution, they are not instruction manuals, nor are they a short-cut for getting to know a child. Every child is a unique human being and will learn and progress at their own rates and on their own time.

I expect that you will make decisions with my child's best interest in mind - not your budget.

I expect that you will try your best to ensure that my child experiences success in your classrooms.

Thank you for listening, School. I hope that we can make amends, and watch together with mutual pride and satisfaction as my child boldly and confidently soars toward her brilliant future.

Sincerely,
Kelly

Walking Holly: Playing With Pictures

2012-01-24T08:47:00.000-08:00

Holly and I headed out for our walk this morning, both of us were feeling relieved that the cold snap has ended and we are now in the midst of a warm spell - it has been kind of a bizarre winter so far this year. The temperature was around -5 degrees, and let me tell you, it felt like a warm spring day to us, compared to the -40's of last week!

I thought it was a particularly pretty morning, with the sun just coming up, the world was a magical shade of clear bright turquoise, so I snapped a few pictures and then had fun playing with different effects when I got home. Camera + is definitely the best app that I have purchased for my iPhone.

The snow really had a purplish tinge to it, I did not add that effect.

Holly was anxious to get going, but waited patiently for me to take a couple of pictures.

A Beautiful January Morning

This was the first picture that I took, it turned out a bit blurry,

but I had fun using some of the more adventurous effects on it,

I thought that it turned out kind of cool, in an artsy kind of way.

Cold Snap

2012-01-19T15:29:00.000-08:00

Temperatures have been in the -40's this week. It makes me feel like hibernating! While it's warm and cozy inside, a certain amount of restlessness, also known as cabin fever, starts to set in. Another problem with hibernation-mode is the tendency to crave comfort foods, while being cooped up inside.

While at the grocery-store, I succumbed to temptation and added these to my cart:

YUM!

My daughter and I made this cute craft to brighten up the cold winter day. This butterfly is made from magazine pages and a pipe cleaner, we added a magnet to the back, and now it brightens up our fridge.

I love this bright and simple Butterfly.

Cuddling with cats, is a great way to stay warm on cold winter days:

"Look Mom, Hailey is letting me hold her!"

Going out for coffee is way to defeat cabin fever, stay warm, and indulge in comfort foods all at the same time:

It is really neat that my daughter enjoys going out for coffee with me!

Blog That Dog: Watching TV

2012-01-17T13:04:00.000-08:00

I just had to share this picture of May watching TV. The kids and I were watching Charlotte's Web last night, and it seems that May was enjoying it as much as we were! It was so cute, she would keep getting up and going to check out what was happening on screen. The kids and I were giggling at her silly antics. May sure keeps us amused!

Silly May

January's Ordinary Moments

2012-01-13T11:17:00.000-08:00

January has been an odd month for me so far. Holidays are over, and we are getting back into the routine of everyday life. It can feel a little bit blah sometimes. However, when I was looking back over the pictures in my photo stream, I realized that there have been a lot of enjoyable Ordinary Moments in January so far. Here they are:

They're Home!

Holly and May just arrived home from their holidays at their wonderful boarding kennel in the country!

I had missed them so much while we were away! I was so happy when they arrived home!

I had picked up this puzzle book when I was in a little bookstore in Wolfville, Nova Scotia.

I'm positively addicted! I work on a puzzle while having my morning tea!

Holly and I were out for a run at the off-leash park!

She's a great running partner! It was a little icy, but we had fun!

A new cookie recipe! Fruit Cocktail Cookies! Yum!

My daughter and I were so excited to find this antique school desk!

The kids and I are going to work on restoring it (sanding and re-finishing it),

as a homeschool wood-shop project!

I think it'll look fabulous!

Our Meadow

2011-12-30T10:02:00.000-08:00

This is my first time visiting Nova Scotia in the winter, and I have to say that I love it as much in the winter as I do in the summer. It is an amazingly beautiful place.

Here are some pictures from my iPhone that I have taken over the last couple of days:

A Rainy Day at the Lake

I could sit by this window all day, drinking in the view.

This is our meadow:

our small acreage that we hope to one day make home.

Our new driveway,

one step closer to building.

Looking into the distance, you can see the tide is in.

In Real Life, it is not that far away, but in the picture the water looks like it is quite far.

Minas Basin, Hantsport, Nova Scotia.

Christmas at the Lake

2011-12-26T10:45:00.000-08:00

We had such a wonderful Christmas! We were so happy to be able to come to Nova Scotia for the holidays. It has been so much fun to be with family for Christmas this year.

I love the quiet time that boxing day brings, everyone content and relaxing, enjoying their gifts and Christmas treats.

The kids built this snowman when it snowed the other day. I love the gorgeous scenery of the lake in the background.

Happy Holidays!

A Beautiful Run

2011-12-18T13:26:00.000-08:00

My husband and I headed out for a run. We didn't have a distance or route in mind, we just got ready and went. Free Running. Sometimes, it's nice to not worry about time or distance, to just run for the sake of running. I enjoyed it so much! It was such a gorgeous morning, the sun was warm and bright, with temperatures around zero degrees. I couldn't help smiling as we were running.

I snapped a couple of pictures with my iPhone while we were out:

There is a nice viewing platform with benches halfway down this trail,

we stopped for a few moments to admire the view.

A sunny, bright winter morning.

The sun streaming on the path, was so beautiful.

A winter wonderland.

Shadows on the hill.

As Anne Shirley would say, "there's so much scope for the imagination"

My New Running Partner and Fun Pictures

2011-12-14T11:22:00.000-08:00

As you saw in my last post, Holly was feeling a little neglected, due to the decrease in trips to the dog park, which was due to a combination of the consequence of a busy December and wintry weather. I was also feeling pressed for time, to fit everything in.

Things have started to settle down a little bit.

Yesterday morning, I finished the last assignment for my courses this term (Yay!), and felt like celebrating by going for a run outside. The temperature was warm, around zero degrees! The problem was that Holly hadn't had her walk yet. I only had enough time to do one or the other - run or walk Holly.

Then it hit me - I should take Holly running with me! Now, it 's not the first time this has occurred to me, I've often wished that Holly would run with me, but it seemed that Holly was not on board with this idea. I've often watched other runners out for a run with their beloved pooches, and felt a pang of longing, wishing that my dog would run with me. But, I had accepted the fact that Holly wasn't in to running. We did have one successful run on an off-leash trail together, but it seemed Holly wouldn't cooperate on leash (she's got a mind of her own, that doggie!). However, I thought I would give it another go yesterday. The worst that would happen, would be that she would refuse to run, and at least I would have her walk crossed off my to-do list.

Well, she surprised me! She ran! And she seemed to enjoy it! I was so happy! We developed a compromise: when she was especially interested in a good sniff, I would run on the spot (doing "Happy Feet") for a few moments. It worked great! And I was especially glad to have her with me, when we came around a bend and ran right into a big coyote!

She sure was tuckered out when we got home, but I think she'll agree to go with me again!

My new running partner and I, just home from our first run together!

The Christmas lights at the Legislature are always so beautiful. I keep meaning to get out, and walk around the grounds to take some real pictures, but this is something that I haven't done yet. I do really enjoy driving by, and seeing the stunning display. I snapped these pictures on my iPhone, while I was stopped at a red light, Monday evening. My daughter had a lot of fun, editing them.

I love driving past the colourful Christmas Lights! It's an instant surge of Christmas Spirit!

May was feeling left out that Holly was having her picture taken for my blog. May loves having her picture taken! So, I just had to snap a few of her. She is such a fun, and silly dog, always making us laugh and smile. I hope these pictures cause you to smile too! I had to include them both, because I just couldn't decide which one was cuter!

Sweet, Silly May!

December's Ordinary Moments

2011-12-12T16:01:00.000-08:00

It's all to easy to get caught up in the hectic pace of December, especially in our house, where we also have our daughter's birthday and my husband's birthday, it's a month that can feel like a whirlwind.

I am still enjoying the ability to capture ordinary (and not-so-ordinary) moments with the camera on my iPhone. These are the moments that make special memories, that are all too fleeting, that are such a part of everyday life that they will fade in my memory all too easily.

So, here are some ordinary moments from the last couple of weeks. Looking back, I am glad that I snapped these pictures, because it has been so busy that it has felt like being swept up in a tornado, tossed from one activity to another, without a break in between - falling into bed at night exhausted, and trying to figure out how to fit everything in to the next day!

Hailey found the perfect cozy nest for herself,

curled up in my nice clean laundry pile,

which was hurled onto my bed in hopes that I would have time to deal with it later!

Poor Holly!

What happened to all those lovely fall outings to the dog park?

My son won a silver medal this weekend in a fencing competition.

My daughter turned 12 a couple of days ago!

Here she is writing a story, and listening to her music this morning.

Scooping Hailey up!

Hailey has only recently let the kids pick her up,

the kids are honoured by such a privilege,

she is kind of a grouchy old cat, set in her ways.

My son found a great website that teaches you to play modern pop songs on the keyboard.

He's been working on a couple, and getting quite good.

Thank You, Mel!

2011-12-01T08:46:00.001-08:00

Mel at Mel's Backyard has been having a series of book give-aways, and I was so lucky to win one!

I was so excited to receive a copy of Unplug the Christmas Machine from Mel! She even included the cutest little Christmas notebook in the package that she mailed me! It was such a nice surprise! I can't wait to start reading!

Please check out Mel's fabulous blog, by clicking on the link above, and enter this week's giveaway!

Time to Study

2011-11-27T09:14:00.001-08:00

In September I began a distance learning two year diploma program called, Disability Studies: Community and Leadership. The program is really interesting, and I am really enjoying the courses so far. I feel like I am learning a lot and that this is a field that I am meant to work in.

My main challenge is finding time to study and do my course work.

There are so many distractions:

There is lego to build with.

Final Performances to attend.

My daughter is in the back left, she took an improv drama class, and a dance class this term.

Home School Work to help with and supervise.

Dogs to play with!

The kids had made cat toys out of yarn, but Holly thought they were for her to play tug with.

We all laughed and laughed at her silliness!

Cookies to bake!

Fencing Competitions to attend.

It was my son's first tournament, he did really well.

But now I must sit down and do my course work!

A Winter Morning Run

2011-11-22T11:21:00.001-08:00

I was out for a run this morning, enjoying the scenery, and seeing as how I had my iPhone with me, I decided to snap a few shots on my way back.

When I got home, I had a lot of fun editing the pictures!

The temperature was around 0 degrees, so I thought I would take advantage of the warmer weather and run outside (we've been in the minus teens the last couple of days - treadmill weather).

It was a fun run, I'm glad I decided to go!

The path was not icy or slippery at all, the snow was quite tacky.

I love the view of the city from this spot.

I love running through these trees.

Snowy field.

The river isn't frozen over yet.

Running is fun!

Walking Holly: A Morning at the Dog Park

2011-11-10T13:42:00.001-08:00

Holly and I had a really nice walk at the new dog park this morning, while the kids were at their art class.

We brought her ball and had a really fun game of fetch, before walking through the trails.

The sky was cloudy, but there was a warm air mass that had settled in, and the temperature was around 4 or 5 degrees Celsius. It was a really nice morning.

Holly was really tuckered out by the time we returned to the van.

I love the big, fenced in field for playing fetch, there is so much room for Holly to run.

This curious squirrel watched as we passed by.

(I wish I could have gotten a better photo, but I didn't want to scare him.)

The white birch trees look so pretty.

A beautiful fall morning on the prairies.

Walking Holly: In the Dark

2011-11-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

Since the time change, and with the onset of winter, it has been getting dark a lot earlier, which means that once again, Holly and I are taking most of our walks in the dark.

May definitely knows how to take it easy this time of year:

Silly Maisie!

It was a little eerie walking tonight, this normally busy park was unusually quiet.

The nearly full moon and the lights reflecting on the thin layer of ice on the pond were a pretty effect.

This mural that I admire, looked especially pretty all lit up.

There aren't as many photo opportunities in the dark, but I will keep my eye open. I took these pictures with my iPhone and used Camera + for editing and finishing the photos.

Robots, Zombies, Frogs, and The Mall

2011-11-05T14:37:00.000-07:00

It has been a busy couple of weeks at our house.

Here are some iPhone photos of some things that we've been up to:

We spent a day at the Telus World of Science. We went to see the titanic exhibit, which was amazing. We also watched the Titanic IMAX film, saw a Halloween Science performance, and toured the other exhibits. It was a great day!

The kids could control this interactive robot, using a control screen, it was so neat!

The kids spent a week making these Zombies to decorate our window for Halloween.

SCARY!

Our newest pets!

Meet Jerrod and Travis, the aquatic African Dwarf Frogs.

They're pretty cute and fun to watch!

They also complement the ecosystem unit that we are studying in Science very nicely.

We spent the day at West Edmonton Mall yesterday.

The kids went to the Sea Lion Show, which is a fabulous show!

(I snapped this picture from the level above.)

We thought this bronze statue in the food court was so funny!

(Maybe, we were just getting really tired from a long day at the mall...)

My son really likes the new effects in the water fountains.

(His shirt matches the water colour quite nicely.)

Walking and Running on a Gorgeous Fall Morning

2011-10-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day it is today! The kind of autumn day that is filled with sunshine, crunchy leaves, warm temperatures, and a slight breeze. Just perfect!

I took Holly for her walk this morning and took these three pictures on the sidewalk leading home. I love having my iPhone with me and being able to take pictures whenever the fancy strikes! I used Camera +, then when I got home I had fun playing with the different effects and borders. It is amazing how the same picture can take on such a different look and feel:

It was such a great morning!

I used Sun Kiss'd Effect and the Dark Grit Border on this one.

I love the effect of the sunshine on the golden leaves.

I think I used HDR Effect and the Thin Black Border on this one.

I think this one really brings back nostalgia for our neighbourhood's era, it was built in the 1950's.

I used the Antique Effect and Vintage Border on this one.

I have so much fun playing with my photos with Camera +.

These photos are from our run this morning:

My husband.

We are training for a half-marathon next month. We ran 11.5 miles this morning.

This is such a pretty trail.

I used the Magic Hour Effect and the Light Grit Border on this one.

This is on the same trail.

I adjusted the Clarity, used the Ansel Effect, and the Thin Black Border on this one.

I took this one when we reached the top of the last big hill on our run.

I was so happy to make it to the top!

I didn't use Camera + for this one, I just used the plain iPhone camera.

Our Shadow People on the side-walk home.

Sometimes, when I am getting tired out running, I watch our shadows running and giggle!

This one is also just with the regular iPhone camera.

Ekiden Relay Race

2011-10-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to Banff for the HI Banff Ekiden Relay Race.

The Banff Ekiden is a race that is marathon distance, which is broken into 5 legs, and is run as a relay by 5 team members.

Our team consisted of my husband, myself, my best friend, her husband, and their friend. My husband ran the first leg, which was 7.0 Km; I ran the second leg, which was 13.8 Km; their friend ran the third leg, 4.3 Km; my best friend ran the fourth leg, 5.4 km; and her husband ran the last leg 11 Km.

Our team finished in 4 hours 1 minute and 29 seconds - which I think is outstanding!

My husband and I just before he lined up to begin his leg!

It was a chilly morning!

And they're off! It was so exciting!

This is a pretty spot that I noticed when I was running my leg of the race,

I came back the next day to take some photos.

Gorgeous!

Walking Holly: New Dog Park

2011-10-13T16:07:00.000-07:00

This morning, I took Holly back to the new dog park that we went to a couple of weeks ago. The morning started out gray and I thought it was going to drizzle, but decided to go anyways. On our way, and while we were dropping the kids off at their art class, the sun came out and burnt off those ugly clouds! It turned out to be a gorgeous morning! We had a really nice walk. Although, I did have a few scary moments, when I was lost on the trails, and couldn't find my way back out. I did make my way out fairly quickly, but I came out on the opposite side of where I thought I was!

I took these photos with my iPhone, using a new app that I purchased, called Camera + :

The sun made the woods glow a warm orange colour.

Holly exploring a new trail.

The ground was still damp from last night's rain, making it a little misty as the sun warmed the earth.

Running.

We took her ball and were playing fetch on the big field before walking on the paths, Holly was all tuckered out by the time we got home! It was fun!

My new favourite picture of Holly!

Walking Holly: October Instagrams

2011-10-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

*Rest In Peace, Mr. Steve Jobs.*

It seems that Fall Splendour has turned into October Gloom. I hope that this is temporary, and that we will have some more warm and sunny afternoons, before the snow flies.

However, I did get some pretty cool photos, while out walking Holly, over the last couple of days:

I can't believe how massive this wasp's nest is.

The photo didn't turn out very clearly, there wasn't much light, which is a little disappointing, but I had to include it anyway. When I saw it, I stopped and marvelled at it's beauty and structure. What an amazing creation.

A lot of the leaves have already fallen, leaving the trees mostly bare.

It was exciting to see a bit of red, it's fairly unusual here, we mostly see yellows and oranges in fall. Notice the gray, heavy sky; it has been like that for several days now.

I like how this picture turned out.

Hailey doesn't find it gloomy, she finds it cozy.

It's all a matter of perspective.

I took this picture walking Holly this morning.

I just love my iPhone. Being able to stop and snap a picture, whenever the urge strikes is such a gift! I seem to appreciate those everyday moments, and scenes of beauty so much more. When I first decided to take this picture, I thought I was capturing quite an ugly view of one of my favourite places, because the weather was so gray and dismal; but, when I look at this picture now, I think that it actually is rather pretty afterall.

Walking Holly: Fall Colours

2011-09-30T10:52:00.000-07:00

Fall colours are in full splendour.

I have taken these photos during the last couple of weeks on walks with Holly with my iPhone using Instagram:

This tree at the playground is stunning, displaying it's yellowy-gold foilage.

Just the beginnings of yellows and golds.

The sun is setting much earlier now.

Leaves litter the path.

This is my favourite picture.

I took it on a walk during our camping trip last weekend.

I took Holly to a new off-leash path yesterday.

The ground was covered in a carpet of yellow leaves.

The warm sun shining through the trees.

I snapped this right before Holly rushed off to meet a new friend at the top of the hill.

A Beautiful Camping Weekend

2011-09-26T11:15:00.000-07:00

We went camping with my Bestest Friend and her family on the weekend. We met halfway between our two cities, in the beautiful foothills of the Rocky Mountains, a place called Crimson Lake. The weather was phenomenal! We are having the most beautiful fall here in Alberta this year!

We had so much fun! The kids just loved it, especially roasting marshmallows and swimming in the freezing cold lake.

I got up early-ish Sunday morning and took Holly for a lovely walk:

This is our old motorhome that we bought in the spring, affectionately called "the Beast" by my husband. It is a 1979 Apollo (designed by John Wayne), it is pretty neat! It took us until the end of August to get it on the road and ready for camping, so we are getting in these last few weekends before winter arrives. (I plan to write a post all about the motorhome soon, it's been our project to get it going, we hope to use it for family road trips.)

The campgrounds had beautiful trails.

The fall yellows were lit up by the rising sun.

There was nobody at the lake;

Holly and I had a few quiet moments by the glassy smooth water.

Picture Perfect

I love this spot. The yellowy-green of this tree is so pretty!

I thought this bench would be a nice place to sit quietly for a few minutes.

An amazing fall morning.

Holly and I enjoyed exploring these trails, but the signs warning about bears and cougars in the area, did un-nerve me a little bit.

May came for a shorter walk with us too, but because of her hip-dysplacia, and the fact that she is not very tolerant of other dogs, I brought her back to the campsite, and took Holly out for longer.

The weekend was too short! I hope that we can get another camping trip in this season!

Blog Those Dogs: Holly's Haircut

2011-09-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

I finally stopped procrastinating and took Holly to the groomers. I had kept putting it off, because she doesn't like to go, and I feel like a big meanie to take her, but I couldn't put it off any longer. Her coat was long and tangled, and because she spends so much time swimming in the river, she was dirty and a bit stinky too. We had her shaved right down, and she looks more like a black lab now. She is half lab and half poodle; it's her poodle heritage that makes her coat get so unruly! She is so soft, and clean, and pretty! She did really well at the groomers this time too! I think that I might keep her fur shorter from now on!

Out for a walk one sunny evening last week.

Posing for me on a park bench.

Holly and May

I was so excited to capture this picture of them together, it's quite tricky to get a shot of them both looking at me!

Whistler's Mountain, Jasper National Park, Albera

2011-09-14T18:17:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from our ride on the Jasper Tramway and our hike to the peak of Whistler's Mountain. The view was spectacular. The trail was steep, and a lot of fun to climb! We were literally on top of the world! This was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Jasper. I had forgotten my real camera, but I think that the photos from my iPhone turned out pretty good, and the iPhone is a lot easier to carry while hiking!

I could have stood here all day!

We were above the tree-line, the terrain was rocky, with a few hardy low-lying shrubs.

You can see the Jasper townsite in the valley below.

This is the Gondola Station, there is also a gift-shop and restaurant inside.

I love this view!

A couple of big rocks, probably dolomite, that were not eroded away as quickly as the surrounding sedimentary rocks.

My son

This is a view of the Gondola Station from on top the peak!

My daughter

We had such a fun day! After taking our return gondola ride down the mountain, we headed back into town for some shopping. Jasper is a great shopping destination! We were all a bit sad to leave Sunday morning, but we brought lots of happy memories home with us!

Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park, Alberta

2011-09-12T20:01:00.000-07:00

We went on a mini-vacation in Jasper National Park last weekend. We left home Thursday evening and enjoyed a beautiful, four hour drive. The kids love road trips and are amazing in the car. We were so excited when we arrived in Jasper and discovered how cute our hotel suite was, it was tiny, but we thought the loft bedroom was so neat! The kids kept saying that they couldn't believe that we were staying in a hotel room with stairs! (It was the Best Western Jasper Inn - in case you're curious, it was really family centred and affordably priced.) It was late, so we just settled in for the night.

We had decided before we left to plan activities that we wouldn't normally do, which turned out to be a lot of fun!

Friday, we had booked a 90 minute boat tour on Maligne Lake, which is about an hour's drive from Jasper. It was an amazing trip! The lake is so spectacularly gorgeous!

Just look at the colour of the water!

I learnt on the tour that it is this "Caribbean" blue, because of the glacial silt (also called rock flower) suspended in the water.

Spirit Island

Our interpreter told us that Spirit Island is the second most photographed spot in Canada, the first being Lake Louise. We had gotten off the boat here to explore a little hiking trail and take photographs.

This is my favourite picture.

That is Spirit Island, which is actually a peninsula, on the right.

Nobody is sure why it is called Spirit Island, but it has been named that dating back to the earliest history of the region.

Taken from the back of the boat.

This spot is called a box canyon because there are mountains all around.

My husband took this picture of me.

Look - A Moose!

I am not sure if you can really see it or not, but if you look really closely between the red and green canoes, on the grass, there is a moose, there really is, believe me!

Saturday, we reserved a spot on the Jasper Tramway, which is a gondola that goes up Whistler's Mountain, about a 20 minute drive outside of Jasper townsite. I will post those pictures, which are really cool, next time!

The Cutest Hot Dog Thief Ever!

2011-09-09T20:50:00.000-07:00

My daughter and I enjoyed watching the antics of these adorable, uninvited picnic guests this afternoon.

They were quick to seize an opportunity to help themselves to her hotdog.

Such bold, cheeky birds!

Luckily, she wasn't really hungry anymore.

We giggled all afternoon thinking about them.

Capturing Ordinary Moments with Instagram

2011-08-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned before that my favourite thing about my iPhone is the ability to record everyday happenings. I just love that in a few years time, I will be able to scroll through my photos and really be taken back to what life is like for our family right now, in August 2011. I like using Instagram's filters to really capture the mood of a picture.

Here are some pictures from this weekend:

My son took this picture of me, when we spontaneously stopped at a downtown park for some fresh air. He chose the effect to use too. I am wearing my Sugarland t-shrit, which is currently my favourite shirt, my bestest friend bought it for me when we went the their amazing concert a couple of weeks ago. We had a blast!

I took this picture Saturday morning, walking Holly in the ravine. We walk there almost everyday. Sometimes, it is easy to forget how nice it is there, and how lucky I am to have such a great spot, so close to home to go walking with Holly.

Another Ravine Picture.

I love how the clouds turned out in this one.

I always admire this stand of trees.

Somehow, this view reminds me of what it would have been like for pioneers travelling west.

This is a great trail to walk through.

I love the sunlight and the young trees in this picture.

My husband ran a half marathon this weekend, it was also the Edmonton Derby, when we went to Northlands to pick up his race package, we caught a few horse races too, it was very exciting!

My fabulous Husband.

Just hanging out!

Gosh! She's growing up so fast!

Having fun at the park!

My son demonstrating how to leap across the little stream!

Walking Holly: Sunny August Days

2011-08-12T21:15:00.000-07:00

Holly and I have been enjoying some beautiful walks this past week. The weather has been sunny and hot, just as it should be in August!

Holly has her own version of playing fetch:

"If you want the ball back, come and get it!"

I love this picture of her!

I snapped it on our walk this afternoon.

Walking Holly: Wild Flowers

2011-08-05T19:23:00.000-07:00

Holly and I went for a quick a walk down in the ravine this morning. When we got down to the bottom of the steps and were coming up the little path, I stopped and gasped...the wild flowers were in bloom, transforming our ravine from a green field to a sea of colour - yellow, white, and purple flowers everywhere.

Holly happily bounding through the long grass.

I love it when the wild flowers are in bloom.

Colourful flowers swaying in the breeze, crickets chirping, birds singing; A perfect moment.

I was so thankful to be able to enjoy the beauty around me.

Fun With Photos

2011-07-28T19:09:00.000-07:00

I've had a lot of fun taking pictures this week, so I thought I would share some of my favourites.

Silly Holly!

She was taking tips on how to relax from May!

I spent quite awhile outside trying to get a photo of a dragonfly,

I was so happy to see a whole swarm of them gobbling up mosquitos, but I was not too successful - they are speedy!

The Train Station at Fort Edmonton Park.

The river looked so pretty yesterday evening when I took Holly for her walk.

Hailey-Cat

The view from our front window on a summer afternoon.

Lunch with my son today.

Blog That Dog: Relaxing

2011-07-25T20:46:00.000-07:00

May is always making me smile.

She was laying on the floor looking so happy, that I just had to snap her picture.

Just home from a walk, she was so happy and content.

Returning to the livingroom a few minutes later, I found her like this:

May sure knows how to relax!

An Ordinary Day

2011-07-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

Sometimes just plain ordinary days turn out to be great days.

Today was one of those days where the kids and I had no plans. Nothing scheduled, no where we had to be, nothing really to do. It was awesome.

It was a rainy, gray summer day.

My daughter suggested that we go to the bookstore. We decided that that was a good idea. We all love the bookstore. I thought a stop at Starbucks would also be in order.

So we hopped in the van and off we went:

Behind the wheel of my mini-van,

I'm chauffeur and cruise-director.

All Aboard:

My daughter in the passenger seat.

My son in the way back.

Totally engrossed in her new book.

Studying. He wants to be a video game designer.

Driving Home.

Everyone is happy and content.

One of the neat things about my iPhone and the Instagram App. is the ability to easily document an ordinary day in our lives right now. I know that looking back I will appreciate being able to see and remember what everyday life was like for us when the kids were 11 and 9. They are growing up so quickly, that I know I will blink and they will be adults.

Half-Marathon

2011-07-17T16:54:00.000-07:00

This morning was my half-marathon. It was a trail run and I really enjoyed it. Today was one of those runs, where I felt good, found a groove right away, and felt like I could run forever. Instead of run/walk intervals, I ran the whole 21.1 KMS (13 miles) - well mostly, I walked up two really steep hills near the end, and walked for a couple of moments at the 20 KM mark (I had sped up a little too quickly and needed to take a moment to catch my breath and re-find my pace). I finished in 2 hours and 14 minutes.

A huge Thank You to my husband who chauffeured me to the race, took pictures, and cheered me on! Also, a special thanks to my son, who got up at 6:30 in the morning to come with us, so that he could be there to cheer for me!

The Start and Finish Line.

The weather was perfect, sunny with a slight breeze.

Unfortunately, the mosquito population is thriving and they were out in full-force!

My son and I walking to the Start.

My number is pinned on and I'm ready to go!

Just finished!

Running in Calgary

2011-07-15T08:47:00.000-07:00

I am visiting my bestest friend for a couple of days, which is so much fun.

I needed to fit a run in because it is my half-marathon this weekend, so she drew me a map (she's very talented) and I headed out.

It was such a beautiful route, I just had to pause and snap a few pictures with my iPhone.

What a view! It was such a gorgeous morning!

Such a pretty spot!

I wish that I had Holly with me, she would absolutely love it here!

This bald eagle was perched majestically overlooking the river.

A rare sight in the prairies.

Walking Holly: A Cloudy Gray Summer Morning

2011-07-13T19:14:00.000-07:00

Honestly, it was a bit tricky convincing myself to take Holly down to the off-leash trail by the river this morning.

The weather was gross, it's been gross all week.

I was feeling resentful toward Mother Nature.

I was ranting to myself.

I declared that seeing as how we put up with LONG, COLD winters; we are entitled to enjoy warm sunny days during our short summertime. Right?

Am I not right?

It does not usually rain here, we are not a rainy climate, so what on earth is going on?

A whole week of rain is just not cool, Mother Nature, not cool at all.

But then I got dressed and took her anyways. And the rain gave us a bit of a break.

I am so glad that we went. We had a wonderful walk, and we had the park to ourselves.

So many interesting smells!

The river is so high and silty with all this rain.

(You can just see it through the bushes)

Playing with Instagram on my iPhone.

It was a beautiful morning after all,

even if the sky was full of dark, juicy clouds.

Little Purple Daisies.

Wildflowers and shrubs are thriving in this wet weather.

"Isn't this fun? Aren't you glad we came?"

Trail Running

2011-07-10T20:17:00.001-07:00

Now that the marathon is done, I have been wondering what to do next.

I enjoy running so much that I want to continue. I have been keeping up with my training since we got back, but I felt like I wanted a goal. I found a run that I want to do next year, which I am excited about, it is a 25 km run in the mountains; however, I wanted a more immediate goal, so I have signed up for a half marathon this month.

I enjoyed the marathon, but most of it was on the shoulder of the highway, and I didn't care for that; safety-wise there was still traffic on the road to watch out for, but also it got to be a bit boring. I then discovered some runs were trail runs versus road races, and I think I found my running niche! Trail Running! Now why didn't I think of that before? I love running and I love walking on trails with Holly, so why not combine two of my favourite things? Running + Trails!

I am super excited!

Now, if Holly would only run with me, it would be perfect! But alas, she has decided that running is not for her. She just jumps all over me in wound up excitement if I try to get her to run, then she sits down and refuses to move. Silly girl!

My half marathon is also a trail run, so it will be good practise for my mountain run!

Trail Running!

I took this photo walking with Holly this evening, it is one of our favourite trails.

Walking Holly: A Swim in the River

2011-07-04T19:13:00.000-07:00

After dinner, Holly and I went down to the river. It's a gorgeous evening, and we both really enjoyed our stroll through the woods on the off-leash trail. Holly's best part was going for a swim in the river. Life is good.

This is one of my favourite spots.

Happy Holly

Under the bridge.

"Bark, Bark...what's that? Bark!"

Blog That Dog: May

2011-07-03T17:36:00.000-07:00

I took this picture of May (or Maisie as she is most often called), the other day. I was trying to sneakily take a picture of her snoozing on the hot summer afternoon, but she caught me, and as she loves to have her picture taken, she just couldn't help posing for the camera!

I had lots of fun testing out all kinds of Instagram effects.

Sweet Maisie

Walking Holly: A Sunny Summer Morning

2011-06-29T17:29:00.001-07:00

What a great start to the day!

Holly loves running off leash in the ravine.

(This photo was taken with my new iPhone that my fabulous husband surprised me with last week! Playing around with Instagram is so much fun!)

The Magic of Old Growth Forests

2011-06-26T19:12:00.000-07:00

Time is irrelevant here:

A gateway to another world.

The circle of life...this fallen log nurtures the young trees as it decomposes.

A log spans the gorge.

One can listen in on the conference of the crows,

pay attention to their wise counsel.

One might catch a glimpse of fairy-folk.

The boardwalk winds through the forest.

Look how big this tree is, it's hundreds of years old!

A glimmer of sunlight breaks through the dense canopy.

The forest floor is bursting with life,

ferns, shrubs, foliage, and moss grow in abundance.

Hanging moss can have quite an eerie effect.

A new friend!

Perfection

Fabulous Family Getaway

2011-06-20T20:15:00.001-07:00

I absolutely fell in love with Tofino, BC!

I loved every moment that we spent there.

We found the perfect family vacation spot

(Crystal Cove Beach Resort):

This is our cozy cabin, nestled in the trees and shrubbery,

just steps from the beach.

The kids loved it!

We would head down to the beach several times a day.

Walking, running, exploring, wading, beach combing, kite flying, frisbee, skim boarding.

Just a little way down the beach.

The view seemed to be ever-changing.

The sand was incredible.

Taken from in the water in the early evening.

They couldn't wait to get changed,

they had to get right in as soon as we arrived!

Ocean Remembrances

2011-06-19T17:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Kelly,

Please remember how you felt standing on the rocks at the beach outside your cabin.

Remember how it felt to be fully present in the moment, all of your senses fully engaged.

Remember the sense of peace, calm, serenity, contentment, and satisfaction that enveloped you.

Remember how it felt to have the wind brush through your hair, the spray from the waves tingle on your face, the roar of the surf thunder in your ears, the tang of salt in the air.

Remember how free you felt, and how the joy of living bubbled up from deep within your soul.

Remember how you turned to look and saw your son running toward you on the beach, and you felt a rush of motherly love and pride, and then returning to the cabin to see your daughter curled up by the fire with her favourite book, and you were swept away once again with maternal bliss.

Remember the song of the waves when you awoke at night, curled up next to your husband, and how the awe of being in love with such a wonderful man filled your heart.

Remember all of this and keep these feelings close in your heart as you get caught up in day to day life, recall the serenity and incorporate it into your life as much as you can, be the person that you are meant to be.

Sincerely,

Kelly

Marathon: I Did It!

2011-06-12T20:34:00.000-07:00

Today was the big day! I ran my first marathon!

It was hard, but I did it!

It was so great to run alongside my husband.

We enjoyed the first 2/3 of the course, the last 1/3 was a bit of a struggle.

We finished 26.2 miles (42.2 km), in 5 hours and 28 minutes!

A very special thank you to my bestest friend for giving up her spot and taking care of my children and her little guy, when our childcare plans fell through, so that I could run!

She's Awesome!

What a day!

Pre-Marathon Photo

Just Crossed the Finish Line! Hurray!

Stepping Back in Time: An Afternoon at Fort Edmonton

2011-06-07T18:28:00.000-07:00

The kids rushing ahead in excitement down the old-fashioned boardwalk, eager to see the sights.

My-oh-my how they're growing!

I love this scene: wagon-wheels propped up beside the log cabin.

Stage-coach for hire!

It's easy to overlook the beauty of this small stream as you cross the wooden bridge.

I love this beautiful, friendly work horse, he's a charmer!

Pink Cherry Blossoms

2011-05-26T14:41:00.001-07:00

We took Holly for a walk at our favourite off leash park this morning. It was gray and overcast after a couple days of rain, but we really enjoyed our walk.

A bit of pink caught my eye as we were walking by:

The blossoms looked especially gorgeous off-set by the dark green of the fir trees.

I love pink trees!

Simply Beautiful

Pink Perfection

Marathon Training: Week Eighteen

2011-05-23T11:15:00.000-07:00

Hello!

How are you? It's nice to see you!

Thank you for stopping by!

Week 18 was a pretty good week.

Monday was 48 minutes of 5 minutes running 1 minute walking on the treadmill.

Tuesday was 45 minutes of 4 minutes running 1 minute walking on the treadmill.

Wednesday my son and I took Holly for a hike in the ravine, the hill/cliff through the woods that we climbed was steep! I don't know if that officially counts for cross-training, but it was a lot of fun! My son was patiently guiding me up the difficult parts, what a great teacher he is!

Thursday was a bit of a tricky day for me, I was trying to convince myself that it was ok to play "hookie" and skip this run...afterall, we had had a busy day, and I was tired, and wasn't in the mood, and I had to save my energy for the big run on Saturday. Fortunately for me, my husband didn't let me get away with that, and we set out to run outside together. It was a beautiful evening, and we had a great run! Even racing each other during a couple of the intervals! It was another 48 minutes of 5 and 1's!

Friday and Sunday were rest days.

SATURDAY was the big day! 20 miles! I was nervously anticipating this run all week! It was our longest run so far, and the last really long one before the marathon! Now our training schedule is going to taper off in preparation for the marathon.

So how did it go, you ask? I wish I could say that the whole thing was fabulous, and I enjoyed every minute of it...but that would not be the truth. Overall we did well, we finished in 3 hours and 45 minutes running time (plus, a 10 minute washroom, and re-filling water bottle break for a total time of 3 hours and 55 minutes); which is pretty good! It was 4 minute running and 1 minute walking intervals. 45 intervals in total! We started with two 4.5 mile loops; had our pitstop at home, and then headed out for an 11 mile out and back route. I found the first two loops to be pretty good, when we stopped at home I felt a little overwhelmed that we still had 11 miles to go. The 5.5 miles out were actually pretty good. It was the 5.5 back that were really hard. We were both tired, and it was difficult to switch from walking back into running again, and it was hot outside! But we pushed through it and finished our 20 miles! I feel really, really proud that we accomplished such a long run! It was awesome to run alongside my husband! I am so happy that we are able to run together and that we are both enjoying it!

I am a little nervous that on marathon day, we have to run an additional six miles, after we were so tired after 20, but we'll just keep going...one foot in front of the other at a time!

3 weeks to go until the marathon!

Flowers

2011-05-20T21:22:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how much joy a simple pot of flowers can give.

Each time I walk by this little flower pot sitting on my front steps, I am reminded how thankful I am that spring is here and that the weather is warm and sunny. I am appreciative of the moment, and take time to enjoy the smile that these pretty pink begonias instigate. Life is good.

Marathon Training: Weeks Sixteen and Seventeen

2011-05-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

Hi! How are you?

It's nice to see you!

Thank you for stopping by!

It is one month until the marathon! I am so excited! In addition to the race, it will also be a nice family vacation for us! It's doubly exciting because our friends are coming too!

The training has been going much better now that my back is all fixed up, thanks to my wonderful new chiropractor!

Mondays, we run 48 minutes at 5 minute run 1 minute walk intervals.

Tuesdays, we run 45 minutes at 4 minute run 1 minute walk intervals.

I have a confession about Wednesdays, they are supposed to be cross training days, but I have not really been doing them. I usually take Holly for a really good walk and call it even. I should be doing some strength training, but my schedule has been tight, and also yuck! I don't find weight training fun or appealing at all!

Thursdays, we run 48 minutes at 5 minute run 1 minute walk intervals again.

Fridays and Sundays are rest days.

Saturdays are our long run days. Week Sixteen was a big one, 18 miles! I really enjoyed it! Due to childcare considerations, my husband and I weren't able to run all of it together, so we compromised. I ran 9 miles on the treadmill, and he ran the first 9 miles outside, then he looped back home and picked me up and we ran the last 9 miles together. It worked out really well. It was 4 minute run and 1 minute walk intervals. We finished in 3 and 1/2 hours, and felt really good!

Week Seventeen Saturday run was a short one at 8 miles, again at 4 minute run, 1 minute walk intervals. We finished in 1 and 1/2 hours. It was a good one too! But, wow - 8 miles is far!

See you next week!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-08T17:34:00.000-07:00

Today, I celebrate my 12th Mother's Day as a Mom!

I remember how astounding it was to be referred to as Mom, when they placed my new baby daughter in my arms 11.5 years ago. I was amazed as my heart swelled with love and pride and joy!

21 months later, my new baby son was placed in my arms, and my heart swelled even more. I was now a mom to both a daughter and a son!

When I realized that it was already my 12th Mother's Day, I started thinking not only about how much my children have grown and changed, but also how much I have grown and changed!

My children have taught me so much, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be their mom!

After a lot of sentimental musings, I took a stroll down memory lane, looking through old photos.

Here are some that popped out at me. I thought it would be fun to share, and also to put together as a memory for me!

My daughter, one day old, December 1999

(It is not very clear, because it was actually taken with film, and copied onto a CD, then saved onto the computer. Cameras have also changed alot in 12 years!)

My son, 2 days old, September 2001.

Oh my gosh, they were so little! Spring 2003!

My daughter is 7 and my son is 5.

Spring Break 2009. They look so grown up!

Mother's Day 2011!

My daughter is 11 and my son is 9.

Fun Dog Pictures and Marathon Training Update

2011-05-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

May is so much fun to play fetch with! She understands the game, and loves it! She can also catch mid-air, then she runs back and tosses the ball/tug/toy back to you to throw again! She totally makes me laugh, with her silly antics and doggy grin!

What a catch!

Fetch is not Holly's game of choice, her favourite game is a round of tug-of-war! She even turns my attempts to play fetch with her into a game of tug! She is such a cheeky girl! I just love playing tug with her! Often, I can play tug with her at the same time as playing fetch with May - that is my favourite game!

She will not give up that toy! She usually wins!

While playing with the dogs, the lilac bush caught my eye:

Buds! It must be Spring!

Oh Yes, how is the marathon training going, you ask. It is still going well. I have just completed weeks fourteen and fifteen. I hit a bit of a bump in the road, with my back going out again, but the good news is that I found an amazing chiropractor - and she's right in our neighbourhood! I missed a couple of short runs during week fifteen, but I am right back on track now! Our long run for week fourteen was 16 miles! I was nervous, but it went really well, I actually enjoyed it! Our long run last Saturday, was a shorter one, 8 miles, but it is usually those short runs that get me, and this one was no exception! It was a hard one for me, but I finished it!

6 weeks to go until the marathon!

Trampoline Fun!

2011-04-26T14:21:00.001-07:00

We were trying to decide what to give the children for an Easter/Spring present this year (we had somehow gotten into the habit of giving them a gift in addition to the Easter Bunny bringing them a basket. I am not quite sure how this begun, but it has caught on as a tradition in our house.)

My husband, thought we should give them something that would encourage them to play outside. I agreed with him. We thought maybe a basket ball net, but my daughter was not interested in this idea. They both have bikes already, and we have a really great swing set.

We decided on a trampoline. My super-clever husband did some research and discovered the Springfree brand of trampolines. They are a little more expensive than a regular trampoline, but their design features make it "the world's safest trampoline."

Building it was not as fun as bouncing on it, but not too bad either.

The frame went together relatively easily.

I was excited by how big it is!

Good thing we had May on duty to supervise,

because Holly was clearly lounging on the job!

Testing it out before we built the safety enclosure!

I don't know if I want to share with the kids afterall.

(Notice how there are no springs or hard metal frame on the jumping surface!)

Ta Da! All built and ready for fun!

My son was wild with excitement when we told him it was ready!

My daughter was just as enthusiastic!

They have been outside bouncing all day! I've been getting a turn in whenever I get a chance too! The kids are teaching me some neat tricks! I am so glad that we decided to get this for them!

(This is not a paid endorsement, I am just sharing information about a brand that we like.)

Walking Holly: Signs of Spring

2011-04-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

We took Holly for a walk at her favourite off-leash dog park this morning. It was such a beautiful day! Temperatures were about 9 degrees Celsius, and mostly all of the snow has melted! I brought my camera with me, and caught some signs of spring!

A tree that was recently fallen by a beaver.

The sky is so clear and blue.

A pretty little bird.

A neat fungus growing on the tree - my son pointed it out to me.

My son also pointed out the face growing out of this tree.

Another neat marking on a tree.

Whew - hoooo!

Happy Holly

Sometimes...

2011-04-21T18:55:00.000-07:00

My Bestest Friend brought me this mug back from her trip to Disneyland:

I just love it!

On the first side it says, "Sometimes I'm a Total Princess",

On the other side it says, "Sometimes I'm an Evil Queen"

How awesome is that?

Marathon Training: Weeks Twelve and Thirteen

2011-04-14T09:50:00.001-07:00

Hello!

How are you?

It's nice to see you.

My runners are getting a work out, running through spring mud and puddles, they look awful, but I also think they are symbolic of becoming a dedicated athlete.

Marathon training has continued to go really well. It has been such an incredible experience for me.

Week Twelve, I had some great runs. Our long run that week, was a shorter one, only 6 miles. The weather was a bit warmer, and alot of the ice had melted off the path, which was a relief. Although, because it was a shorter run, I had a bit of a delusion that it would be easier; however, that wasn't necessarily the case, my husband had a different idea, because it was shorter distance, he set the pace faster, I could barely keep up (but, I did!), it was hard in parts, but I really enjoyed it.

Week Thirteen was also a really good week. We even ran outside together, for our Thursday run, which was fabulous! Our Saturday run, was our longest one so far, Fourteen Miles (22 km). I was a bit nervous about it all week. It turned out great! The weather was co-operative, and it actually felt like it might be spring. It took us 3 hours and 16 minutes. I remember when we started the program, I couldn't imagine running for that long! It was a great feeling to accomplish it! I feel really proud.

The best part of that run for me, was running with my husband. Sometimes side by side, sometimes he was a little ahead, sometimes I was a little ahead...but still together. Enjoying the quiet of the spring morning, enjoying each other's company, enjoying the run. I already can't wait until next Saturday.

Thanks for stopping by! See you next week! :)

PMS: In Real Life

2011-04-04T20:49:00.000-07:00

Hello...It's me again...I think...

It's nice to see you!

Thank you for stopping by.

Let's talk about PMS, shall we?

It seems every couple of months, I experience some type of over-surge of hormones, and I am possessed for a couple of days, or even a week or so, by the awful, horrible, nasty PMS monster.

It gets so bad that I can't even stand myself.

I really don't understand it at all. It really is as though I have been taken over by this monster. I am not in control of my emotions, it is like I have been forced onto a roller-coster ride.

I'm ok one minute, but it's a false sense of security, because before I know it, I am plunging full speed down the hill of nasty, bitter, irritation and anger. Please understand, that nothing has happened, nothing has upset me, I am not stressed, I am just along for the ride, against my will.

Then, I begin to climb out of it, and start to think that I have a handle on things, when the tears begin. I don't know where these come from either, they don't make sense, and they have no rationality to them at all, but they will not stop. There is some sense of relief if I can actually cry though, because sometimes I spend hours or days with the sensation of fighting back tears, but they don't actually come, and I don't know why I have that feeling.

Then for a little while I will be happy and excited, but overly so, and again for no apparent reason.

Without warning the roller coaster curves sharply around a bend and I am in the midst of a horrible, bone-chilling loop-de-loop, and I am nervous and anxious, and afraid of everything in general.

I think we are pulling into the station, and start to exhale, but no, no I was wrong, here we go again, apparently we're going for another round.

I've spoken to my doctor about this, but she said there wasn't really much that could be done for irritability.

It breaks my heart, because, I don't feel like myself. I snap at my children, husband, and dogs & cats; without wanting to, without warning, and without meaning it. I see the surprise and hurt on their face when I make a nasty remark, and truthfully, I am as surprised as they are, I don't know where it came from.

I want to be my usual self.

I want to laugh along with my family's silly jokes, not scowl and snap; I want reassure my children as they are struggling to learn something new, not be impatient and critical; I want to be supportive and understanding of my husband, not a snappy bag or a weepy sue; I want to enjoy playing with my dogs & cats, not constantly scolding them.

I try to tell myself that it will be over soon, and I do try to overcome the irritabiltiy. I feel trapped inside, wanting desperately to get out, and return to normal. And I will, in a couple of days.

Then I will worry that it will happen all over again next month, but thankfully, I am usually granted a reprieve from the worst of it for a couple of months anyways.

Books, Thoughts, and Asperger's School Project Update

2011-03-27T18:34:00.000-07:00

Hello. Thank you for stopping by. There are a few things that I wanted to write about today, so that is why there is a very long title to this post.

First of all, you may remember, several months ago, I wrote a post about Asperger's and School, my daughter's experiences, and our goal of creating a school program designed specifically for students with Asperger's and High-functioning Autism. I have been very anxious to post an update; however, due to several contributing factors, I have not been able to write a post about it yet, I have not forgotten though, and I apologize for the delay.

A lot has happened in the last little while. My friend and I put together a proposal for a program, and presented it to our local school board's home education centre. We met with the assistant principal and the department head of student's at risk, and were later joined by the principal. We presented our idea for a blended home education and school program, where students would attend on-site classes with a teacher two days per week, where core subjects (math, language arts, social studies, and science) would be taught. The optional subjects (music, art, drama, health, second language, and physical education) would be taught at home.

Our general idea was that the on-site classes would be taught in a modified classroom environment to reduce sensory challenges; such as, neutral walls, tables instead of desks, carpet on the floor, exercise balls and t-stools as alternatives to chairs, no bells, fidget toys available, etc. Class size would be kept to a minimum of 8 students per class. Individualized education plans would be implemented and curriculum will be modified to meet each students unique strengths and interests, and supports provided for areas of challenge. Technology will be used to enhance learning, and help to overcome difficulties with executive functioning skills, or fine motor delays, etc.. A social curriculum would be a part of the program, where teachers were able to take advantage of natural, teachable moments as they arise. We also discussed the importance of building positive relationships between parents, students, and school staff. We want to build an atmosphere where students are respected and celebrated for the unique individuals that they are, where they are set-up for success, and able to reach their true potential.

We brought in some documents that we had put together to support our idea, and we were extremely please with how positively our idea was accepted. We left the meeting happy, that at least the school seemed to understand that there was a need for such a program. It seemed to us that for awhile nothing was happening, and we were starting to get discouraged, as we had not heard back from the school. Then all at once, the ball started rolling. We were in a whirlwind of excitement as the school called us in for another meeting. I tell you, as I left that meeting I felt like a child on Christmas Morning who had gotten everything on her wishlist!

The school had taken our ideas, and wrote them up into a formal proposal to present to the school board, to have a pilot program approved for September 2011. Wow! A pilot program receives funding to run for a year, and then is evaluated at the end of that year by school trustees and they vote to either continue the program or decide that it is not a viable option. This is a huge step forward!

The hard part has been waiting to see if the pilot will be approved or not. We are still waiting, but we have heard that it is being very well received, and the need for such a program is being acknowledged. Wow!

We hope to have an answer within the next couple of weeks. I will update you when we hear the news!

Books that I am reading right now.

The Way I See It, by Temple Grandin is a great book. I finished it a couple of weeks ago. As you may know, I am a huge fan of Temple Grandin. I love her practical views, and common sense ideas about parenting children on the autism spectrum. This book is a collection of articles that she has written about various topics related to autism/asperger's. I really recommend it.

The Horse Boy: A Father's Quest to Heal His Son, by Rupert Isaacson is an amazing story, that was also made into a documentary. Rupert brought his family to Mongolia for his son who is autistic to take part in healing ceremonies by several Mongolian Shaamans. It is an incredible story, and really interesting to read. I am about half way through it and just love this story. I had watched the documentary with my husband about a year or so ago, and he brought me home the book as a surprise a couple of weeks ago, because he knew I enjoyed watching the documentary.

I found, An Accidental Advocate, by Kathryn Burke at a locally owned bookstore the other day. It is such a treasure. I am about half way through it already. It is very emotional for me to read, because the author lives in the same city as I do, and has had many similar experiences with her child regarding the school system that we have had. I can't wait to read more. It is somewhat validating to realize that we are not the only ones who have found ourselves in the position of being an "Accidental Advocate" for our child with exceptional learning needs.

Please share with me your thoughts, ideas, experiences, or books you love in the comment section below!

Practising With My Camera

2011-03-25T18:36:00.000-07:00

Things have been pretty busy at our house, and it seems that I haven't had much time to do things that I enjoy, such as blogging, or playing with my camera. I've decided that I need to spend the few free minutes that I find here and there pursuing those hobbies. With the gloomy, wintry weather, my camera has sat on the shelf, waiting to capture spring buds, blossoms, and birds. I realized that just because there isn't much "scope for the imagination" outside right now, I could still practise some skills by taking pictures inside. Here are a couple that I have taken over the last few days.

A self-portrait: taken in the mirror, just wanted to see if it would work.

May is so photogenic! She loves it when she sees the camera out!

Hailey: Winter Hibernation.

Marathon Training: Weeks Ten and Eleven

2011-03-21T20:34:00.001-07:00

Hello!

How are you?

Thank you for stopping by, it's nice to see you!

The last couple of weeks have been a whirlwind of running and meetings for the Asperger's School Project that I've been working on (but that is a whole separate post).

Week ten was a great week for me running-wise. I felt that I was starting to get much more comfortable running, that I wasn't counting down until the running interval was over and I could walk again, which was a great feeling.

The 48 minute run/walk on Monday was great! Tuesday's 41 minute run/walk was also great. Wednesdays 30 minutes on the stationary bike was a little boring, but not bad. Thursday's 48 minute run/walk was awesome! Saturday's 6 mile run was fantastic!

Week Eleven was a rougher week for me. Monday's 48 minute run/walk was really good, but then Monday evening and Tuesday morning my back was really bothering me. I opted to take a recovery day Tuesday, instead of trying to push through my run and possibly really injuring my back. Wednesday, my back was a little better, but still a little off, so I took another recovery day. Thursday, I felt better, but started out cautiously on my 48 minute run/walk, just to make sure that I wasn't going to hurt myself. It turns out that taking those couple of days off was a good thing, and I was back on track and had a really a good workout. I ran 4.74 miles in 48 minutes.

Saturday was my longest run yet, 10 miles. I was able to run it outside with my husband, which was a nice treat. The path was still quite icy, so that slowed us down a bit, but it was really awesome to be running outside together! It was my favourite run so far!

See you next week! :)

Marathon Training: Week Nine

2011-03-09T10:38:00.000-08:00

Hello!

How are you?

It's nice to see you!

What can I say about week nine, except that I am sure glad that it's over. It was an up and down kind of week. BUT, I am proud of the fact that I did not give up, I kept going. So far, this week has been much, much better.

Monday was a 45 minute workout. I am continuing to run 5 minutes, walk 1 minute. It was tough, and I was not sure why. I just could not get into the rhythm of it. It was a long 45 minutes.

Tuesday was a 40 minute workout and it was a really good one. I even included some hills, and felt just great.

Wednesday was my 30 minutes on the stationary bike, and it was my best one so far.

Thursday was an awful 45 minutes on the treadmill. My back felt like it was starting to hurt, and I got worried that I would put it out and then have to stop training for a couple of weeks. I wasn't sure if I should stop, or keep going, it didn't really hurt that bad, I was just worried about injuring it. At one point, I hopped of the treadmill, determined to quit, that it would be better to stop now, than to risk injury, but I just couldn't walk away, so I decided to get back on, and even if I had to walk for the rest I would finish it. It was kind of amazing, but as soon as I decided to finish it, I felt better and the rest of the run was fairly good. In the end, it was a bit of an empowering moment.

Friday was rest day.

Saturday was a 9 mile run - my longest so far, and I was a bit nervous about it, but it went really, really well. I felt really good for the whole thing, and finished in 90 minutes (which is a LONG time for my short attention span to do any one activity!).

Sunday was rest day!

Thank you for stopping by! And Thank you for all of your supportive comments, they really help me to get through some of the more difficult moments in my workouts, I appreciate it!

See you next week!

I Wish I could Spend A Day Like A Cat

2011-03-06T17:15:00.000-08:00

Winter will not release his hold on our city,

Spring is not yet able to resume her reign....sigh...

Not only have we had a lot of snow this week,

but temperatures have also been frigid.

It has been a dreary couple of weeks.

That is not unusual for this time of year,

while Winter and Spring battle for the throne.

One can't help but to feel slightly weary, nonetheless.

I long for golden sunshine, green grass, buds and blossoms,

warmer temperatures, gentle breezes, and birdsong once again.

Soon enough Spring will arrive, in the meantime,

I wish I could spend my days like the cats,

curled up warm and cozy inside.

This is how Hailey and Abigail spend most of their day.

Don't mind my camera strap, but this is what it looks like outside right now.

Snow, snow go away,

don't come back until November,

I say!

Marathon Training: Week Eight

2011-03-01T15:21:00.000-08:00

Hello! How are you?

It's nice to see you!

I've completed week eight of my training program, 14 more weeks to go until the marathon.

With temperatures in the mid minus twenties last week, I was sure thankful for my treadmill.

It was another good week. The weeks are just flying by, as I am engrossed in the rhythm of my training schedule. I am still really enjoying running.

Monday was a holiday here, so I did my run later in the afternoon, which did throw me off a little bit, and it was a bit harder than I usually find it. I ran for 45 minutes.

Tuesday was a 40 minute one, I added some incline/hill work into it. I felt great afterwards.

Wednesday was cross-training day. I am finding Wednesdays a bit tricky, because I start off thinking how easy it is going to be, and how short it is, and how because I am not running it is almost like a day off. This is a mistake! 30 minutes on the stationary bike is indeed a real workout, and can be quite difficult!

Thursday was a super 45 minute run!

Friday was rest day.

Saturday was an 8 mile (12.8 Km) long run. The miles are increasing as the weeks go by! I really enjoyed this run, and felt great afterwards. The only problem that I am encountering is that the ends of my toes are bruised, which is slightly uncomfortable, but not a major problem. I am think that I may need to invest is some new shoes to solve this problem.

That's another week wrapped up! Thanks for stopping by! See you next week!

A Winter Evening

2011-02-27T17:41:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favourite trees in our neighbourhood.

It is located on a green space, a couple of blocks over from our house.

It is actually the cutest little park.

I think it's enchanted and that fairies dwell there.

I love the colour of the sky on a winter's evening.

Walking Holly: A Cold Winter Afternoon

2011-02-23T14:00:00.000-08:00

Both children currently have classes Wednesday afternoons, which means that I have two free hours, once a week. Yay!

I should probably use that time practically, to clean the house, and run errands, but...I am not usually prone to being practical.

Holly and I have created a routine of using this as our time for a walk at the off-leash park.

I just love taking off with Holly and walking on the off-leash paths by the river.

It is so energizing. I love the time to just wander and daydream, listen to the birds and ducks, and see Holly scampering and sniffing excitedly.

It was COLD today! It is -18 degrees with a windchill making it feel like -28 degrees Celsius, but I was bundled up, and the cold never bothers Holly! Our walk was very enjoyable. Plus, we almost had the path to ourselves.

I actually remembered my camera (my old, small one) today!

Here are some photos from our walk:

I was trying to capture the sunlight on the path, but after fumbling to get my camera out with gloved hands, the sun had hidden behind a cloud.

I love this part of the path. I like the red wood of the shrubs along the side.

Holly doesn't mind the cold at all, she is perfectly suited to this climate.

When it is as cold as it is today, I keep a close eye on her, to make sure she is comfortable, and keep our walks shorter. If she shows any signs of being cold, we head straight back to the car. If it was much colder we would have stayed home - she refuses to wear booties.

We brought along her new toy. It wasn't too cold to play.

It is a little yellow rubber stick. Perfect for a game of fetch and tug. It is great for bringing on walks, because it fits easily in my coat pocket, and because it isn't a ball, I don't have to worry about it rolling down the cliff and into the river.

Holly loves Wednesday afternoons!

Once again, the sun was playing hide and seek...but I just love taking pictures of the paths.

Marathon Training: Week Seven

2011-02-22T18:22:00.000-08:00

Hello...how are you?

It's good to see you!

It's Week Seven already!

Week Seven was a good week. I happily settled back into the routine of training on my treadmill. It's a good thing too, because it was a cold week, in the -20's.

I am actually starting to feel like a runner. It's neat. I have even started daydreaming about locations where I could do second or third marathons.

I am still using the run/walk program and loving it. I run for 5 minutes and walk for 1 minute.

Monday was a 40 minute run, Tuesday was 35 minutes, Wednesday was cross-training on the stationary bike for 30 minutes, Thursday was a 40 minute run, Friday was rest day, and Saturday was a 6 mile run, with Sunday being a rest day. It was a great week, and I enjoyed all of my workouts!

See you next week!