tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88998069713388681392024-03-12T21:32:47.301-07:00Country Chic MomLiving in the country offers more unique challenges than our city moms. Some of these challenges are better than being in the city (i.e: walking the dog in your pajamas, skiing from the back porch, ... and the list goes on and on...)Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-75150839270874089042012-08-05T13:15:00.001-07:002012-08-05T13:15:56.328-07:00a rainy sundayDD and DH are on the boat for the weekend.... I came home a bit early to finish some painting chores. Unfortunately... most of these are outdoor painting chores and of course there is a thunderstorm right now.
I was able to drag a few items into the barn to paint; but the deck and back step... I cannot move - perhaps another time.
Fortunately though, I was able to paint a bench and hang up new bird boxes as well as tidy and sort the back deck and front porch:
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Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-30212743800528115942012-05-08T06:17:00.000-07:002012-05-08T06:17:08.821-07:00A Faerie Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We love going for meandering walks in the forest.. in the hopes of finding some evidence of Faeries... I am also hoping to encourage faeries to live closer to home.. so we are trying to make our own garden a little more 'faerie-friendly'...Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-36381526397103637052012-04-25T06:09:00.000-07:002012-04-25T06:09:48.971-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Skiing season is over for another year - sigh! But A rocked it.
Putting away the ski equipment until next winter - but here's hoping we have more snow for the 2012-2013 season!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-33851877586330594582012-02-13T12:13:00.000-08:002012-02-13T12:19:06.196-08:00New Winter Sport<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WBg1EA3Getg/TzlwDtqQuYI/AAAAAAAAAI4/ju221hS6R0k/s1600/P1050851.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WBg1EA3Getg/TzlwDtqQuYI/AAAAAAAAAI4/ju221hS6R0k/s320/P1050851.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708717211767585154" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1YJIIs-Ccno/Tzlv9My64-I/AAAAAAAAAIs/cAXwlgvtGUM/s1600/P1050846.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1YJIIs-Ccno/Tzlv9My64-I/AAAAAAAAAIs/cAXwlgvtGUM/s320/P1050846.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708717099866317794" /></a><br />Last week... I took a day to work from home and kept DD home with me -- she needed a quiet day to catch up on rest (yes... we are wayyy too busy) and I needed a quiet office to catch up on work.<br /><br />Grandma came over to look after DD for a bit in the afternoon; and the two devised a great outdoor game - Ice Bowling! Seeing as there is NO snow - which means no tobogganing or skiing or snowshoeing or footprint tracking... a new game was in order!<br /><br />Ice Bowling offered a great way to utilize our abundance of fire wood with our over abundance of ice and voila -- an afternoon of fun and games!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-29194743082288001472011-12-23T05:43:00.000-08:002011-12-23T05:50:54.729-08:00Christmas!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nO9Nzy5QKQc/TvSG_pxUjyI/AAAAAAAAAIg/4Bu6wsnnhhE/s1600/IMG_1863.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 238px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nO9Nzy5QKQc/TvSG_pxUjyI/AAAAAAAAAIg/4Bu6wsnnhhE/s320/IMG_1863.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5689320657378381602" /></a><br />Here I am in my polka dot pajamas, catching up on last minute work, DD is downstairs watching Dolphin Tail, the snow is gently falling outside my office window.... all seems calm and right!<br /><br />I have finished my Christmas shopping, almost everything is wrapped, the Christmas Tree looks amazing and the house is cozy, warm and festive.<br /><br />And again I was able to buy all Christmas presents locally and ethically. It was a great challenge... an easy challenge thankfully... we did do some LLBean orders... although they do source ethically and give back generously...so all is good!<br /><br />Merry Christmas -- here is to a better 2012!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-51041783398971757662011-09-01T08:05:00.000-07:002011-09-01T08:27:35.988-07:00Random Thoughts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UrCKEd24N3M/Tl-kJWRwTHI/AAAAAAAAAIY/XYaGS3ElMUs/s1600/P1050495.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UrCKEd24N3M/Tl-kJWRwTHI/AAAAAAAAAIY/XYaGS3ElMUs/s320/P1050495.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647412938251717746" /></a>
<br />Some Random Thoughts: Why I love Living in the Country
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<br />A local dairy farmer, on a quiet, dusty side road near here leaves the gates open for the cattle to wander across the road in the morning to their main grazing pasture.... and then the cows make their own way across again later in the afternoon toward the barn.. in time for milking. So nice to see!
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<br />Peaceful... it is so very peaceful here this morning. All I can hear is a rooster crowing in the distance
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<br />My daughter loves catching frogs and we seem to have an endless supply and a dizzying array of species to choose from!
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<br />Our apple trees are full to bursting. Trying to keep up with picking before they all rot on the ground
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<br />Went for a run yesterday across the back fields and the sun had turned the recently harvested wheat to a lovely golden shade. Love it!
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<br />My neighbour left something for me to pick up.. she just called to say she has left the door open and I can go over anytime
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<br />I love star gazing
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<br />Playing croquet in our big back field
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<br />I love the smell of freshly cut hay
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<br />Our dog Chelsea is outside without being tied up, fenced in or shocked by an invisible fence
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<br />I cut my lawn and field with a big green John Deer Tractor
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<br />I walked the dog this morning in my pajamas
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<br />I always hang my laundry on the line outside and love to hear the crisp sheets flapping in the wind. Nothing smells as good as line dried sheets!
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<br />The cats are free to come and go as they please
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<br />Sitting on the porch at night as a cool breeze freshens the air and our conversation floats across the meadows
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<br />Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-74546056366575776732011-07-26T05:25:00.000-07:002011-07-26T05:46:04.671-07:00The Monarch Butterfly<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GREY8yRGRik/Ti62tVDIJgI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/cZFCEmnYK5o/s1600/Grass_Monarch.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GREY8yRGRik/Ti62tVDIJgI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/cZFCEmnYK5o/s320/Grass_Monarch.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633641073747699202" /></a><br />Two days ago, en route to meet up with friends at the beach, Lu and I came across a poor, crumpled Monarch Butterfly. She was still alive and had one wing that was only slightly damaged... the other wing was a wretched mess.... but we picked her up anyway. Lu begged me to keep her, to try to save her. I knew we probably only had a few hours with the poor insect.. yet I agreed anyway - so hard to say no to those imploring, vivid blue eyes.<br /><br />Luckily for the Monarch - whom Lu had named Mona - we had a lot of fruit in the car for our beach picnic. Lu made a little nest in my upturned straw hat for Mona...while I passed back grapes and some pieces of apple. Lu was awe-struck to watch, up close, the Monarch feeding on the fruit. We also stopped for juice to offer our little patient - Mona gratefully sipped on lemonade and apple juice, as well as from our offerings of fruit, which Lu had scattered on the inside of my once favourite hat - the hat that had become Mona's home.<br /><br />I found a shady spot at the beach to park the car, yet still expected Mona to be "gone" by the time we got back. Lu excitedly exclaimed that Mona had fluttered her wings and was still feeding on the apple pieces upon our return. Once we got back home, Lu brought out her butterfly cage - which previous to now had housed frogs, beetles, worms and a moth for short periods. We quickly went to work to fill the cage with grass and leaves, a milkweed flower, sliced strawberries and a capful of lemonade (Mona's favourite).<br /><br />It is now two days since we found crumpled Mona at the side of the road... and she is still with us. I am amazed at her strength of will and her inherent beauty - regardless of her injury. It is sad to think that Mona will no longer be able to soar through the back fields, to flutter from flower to flower... to rest in a shady spot... but we have at least given her a few more days on this earth with Lu hoping upon hope she will lay an egg. I am sure Mona is too traumatized to grant Lu her one wish, although this has been a wonderful learning experience for my inquisitive five-year-old who has been so gentle and kind to our bruised visitor.<br /><br />I just hope Mona stays around a bit longer to continue showing Lu the wonders of nature and the power of her determination.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-89817362758542156742011-06-24T08:09:00.000-07:002011-06-24T08:50:10.135-07:00Can I Divorce my Parents?My parents have been going through a nasty split for the past year... seems like forever now.. forever because the details are sordid, the reasons are pathetic and it is so tragically sad when one discovers that you are now wiser and more sane than your parents.<br /><br />Sordid because my father left my mom after refusing for years to get her help for mental instability -- yet he is a doctor.. he chose to ignore it which has made the situation worse - oh so undeniably bad. He is also pathetically going through an "old-life" phase... which means he has taken up with his high school girlfriend -- because (wait for it) the two of them have actually been seeing each other the entire time he has been married to my mom. Yup.. the entire time.. throughout my sister's birth..... my birth, toddlerhood, scraped knees, camp drop offs...endless riding lessons, boyfriends, high school angst, marriages, the birth of my daughter.... the whole entire time. It makes me ill to think of. But there you go -- ripped from the headlines sordid (Arnold and Maria anyone!)<br /><br />Pathetic because my parents can't get their shit together. And mostly pathetic because the person who suffers through all this...isn't me because I have become numb to the details.... not my sister because she has (wisely) cut off contact with my dad and is dealing with mom's antics at arm's length -- but most definitely is my daughter. It is my daughter who will lose.. she barely has any contact with either grandparent; my father is too busy trying to reclaim his lost high school years that we rarely see him.. until he makes a five minute stopover on his way from point A to Point B (Gee, thanks.. hope it wasn't too much trouble) and my mom has just been too consumed with her own misery and abandonment that she cannot literally see the forest from the trees. She chooses to stay isolated in her home.... rather than spend time with her granddaughter.<br /><br />For the most part, the husband and I can laugh at it - we can laugh at the absurdity of such painfully selfish people who are my parents. If it weren't for the reminders that there are amazing grandparents out there... I might not notice my parents giant lack of empathy.<br /><br />Those reminders arrive almost daily in the form of all those loving grandparents out there who have an invested interest in their grandkids. And yes.. I am jealous. I am jealous when we run into friends, their cheeks flushed with giddy excitement when they announce -- we've just dropped the kids off at grandma and grandpa's place and now we are off for a weekend of adult fun and bonding. Oh the joy of it all! While I wish my friends much fun during their weekend away sans children, I can't ignore the cloying nausea, the hurt in my heart knowing that will never be me. My husband and I give each other a knowing glance and say our usual "We're in this together - just you and I!"<br /><br />The worst reminders are the times, too many to note, where we are at our boat for the weekend and we see someone's grandparents parading down the dock -- matching Tilly hats and pressed khaki shorts with two apple-cheeked kids in tow. "We are off for a sail this morning and going to take the grandkids to a drive-in this evening -- we are so happy to have them this weekend!"<br /><br />Again, I fight back the tears, I fight back the hurt.... the husband and I give each other our all-too-familiar knowing glance. It sucks. Many times we have joked -- let's put an ad in the paper to hire grandparents. There must be some sort of grandparent foster program out there ... or maybe I have stumbled upon something! But first I often wonder if I can just divorce my parents. They certainly have not added anything to my life for many, many years and certainly are not going out of their way to make up for it.<br /><br />Indeed, we are in this together dear husband and for the most part, I wouldn't have it any other way... yet sometimes it would be nice to have caring and invested grandparents who can laugh when Lu tells her endless knock-knock jokes, or when she earnestly tries to peddle her bike - pigtails flying, grinning ear to ear, or when she asks me to draw yet another unicorn for her growing collection. Or most importantly, when we watch her on stage at her kindergarten concert - the husband and I are beaming as we glance around the sweltering gymnasium at all the families with grandparents -- cameras flashing to capture the fleeting moment... I grab the husband's hand, look toward the stage at the gorgeous children singing their hearts out and think to myself.... "We're in this together... you and I!"Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-73295511467874408072011-03-28T05:26:00.000-07:002011-03-28T06:00:12.367-07:00Leaving the Past BehindMy parents recently split up. It's shitty, it really is. My mom is not doing well - it's just a mess.<br /><br />My sister and I are gently nudging her in the direction to sell the farm. She doesn't want to. I get it though.. I really do. As much as we would like her to start somewhere new.... without reminders of the painful last year... I 'get' why she doesn't want to sell her lovely, sprawling Ontario farmhouse. At least not just yet.<br /><br />My daughter and I spent the weekend with my mom. I wanted to see if she needed anything done around the house, if she needed a shoulder to cry on, if she needed to vent, or all of the above. My first thought has been for her to move -- just get out of this place, it is too big for you on your own and contains too many painful memories. <br /><br />But after I put my daughter to bed... and then grandma followed suit... I wandered through the house and looked at the pictures on the walls, I ran my hand over the woodwork and furniture, I leafed through books and peered into cupboard doors. And I got nostalgic and sad; we have so many memories in this place and it might very well be gone soon - and with it all those lovely memories of why we moved to this rambling farmhouse in the first place. <br /><br />We moved when my sister and I were in our teen years; both were competitive equestriennes and the move to a bigger place with space to ride, train and build a small barn to house our show horses was the perfect excuse to leave small town living behind. My mom had admired this house for years; she could see the potential under the dull, grey siding, the unfinished rooms inside, the unused property out back. Once this place went on the market - we jumped at the opportunity. <br /><br />Over the years, the house was transformed to mom's vision... and the barn was built to my specifications.<br /><br />Once complete we enjoyed this place so thoroughly. We held family gatherings here; hosted neighborhood parties and apres-horse get togethers. It was a warm, friendly and inviting spot. But like anything in life, you eventually move on.<br /><br />Fast forward years later; I have been busy transforming my own old farmhouse and building a family, opportunities and business - during these times you tend to forget the past because you are so busy planning the future. But I took time that Saturday night to remember the past. And at that moment I "get" why mom isn't in too much of a hurry to move. I get it now.<br /><br />I had one last chance to savour cherished memories. Just before heading to bed myself... I started turning out all the lights downstairs. Once I got to the porch light, I stopped to admire the scene outside. That scene has always been one of my favourites. Our house is set on top of a hill and I always loved looking out over the moonlit paddocks, across the road to the neighbour's house and beyond. I stood there, motionless for what seemed an eternity, just staring at my favourite view and felt such deep regret that this all might soon be gone. It is easy to get bitter at times like this; you wonder, if dad hadn't left mom, they would still be living at the farmhouse without any impending need to sell; that I wouldn't worry so incessantly about mom living here on her own; and I wouldn't be mourning the potential sale of our cherished, once happy family home. Does life have to be like this; is this how memories end? I guess we all have a lot of healing to do; and perhaps mom's healing starts at the house she loved so much.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-80005968854206470922011-02-04T09:30:00.000-08:002011-02-04T09:38:21.796-08:00Planning our Euro Getaway<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TUw5EPenzjI/AAAAAAAAAIE/ublQ0B9ND_w/s1600/prague-castle-2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TUw5EPenzjI/AAAAAAAAAIE/ublQ0B9ND_w/s320/prague-castle-2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569889584187690546" /></a>
<br />So excited about our upcoming Euro Trip... will def. be here:
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TUw39RNrOuI/AAAAAAAAAH0/68L4Zlh3cPw/s1600/kosice.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 206px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TUw39RNrOuI/AAAAAAAAAH0/68L4Zlh3cPw/s320/kosice.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5569888364882770658" /></a>
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<br />and here:
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<br />http://www.kidsinprague.com/post/botanicus-medieval-village-ostra/
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<br />and here:
<br />http://www.kidsinprague.com/post/vysehrad-historical-site-with-playground-prague-2/
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<br />Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-17969656708731448882011-01-05T12:47:00.001-08:002011-01-05T13:02:32.456-08:00Some Random Thoughts for the New YearBeautiful winter day... just strapped the x-country skiis on and went for a lovely glide. Not much snow cover so wasn't optimum.... but was lovely to get out in the peace of nature!
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TSTZitySJPI/AAAAAAAAAHg/4p5bhZjjwlw/s1600/P1040944.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TSTZitySJPI/AAAAAAAAAHg/4p5bhZjjwlw/s320/P1040944.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558807030511314162" /></a>
<br />Am loving this cute retro dress by Tiny Modernist (http://tinymodernist.bigcartel.com/). Wonder when she might design a mommy-version!
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<br />Piled on too many pounds over Christmas... so am following Martha Stewart's Whole Living 4-Week Action Plan. Lots of great advice, support, recipes and detox strategies.... (http://www.wholeliving.com/photogallery/4-week-makeover)
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<br />Must run.. time to put a fire on and make chicken soup from our weekend chicken stock making endeavour!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-6291564070037816382010-12-19T19:42:00.001-08:002010-12-19T19:42:59.490-08:00Merry Christmas and Happy New Year<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TQ7QvSz1oTI/AAAAAAAAAHU/UAqCrl9qLCI/s1600/P1040855_2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TQ7QvSz1oTI/AAAAAAAAAHU/UAqCrl9qLCI/s320/P1040855_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552604901516091698" /></a>Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-55741966964959883842010-11-29T05:38:00.000-08:002010-11-29T05:45:24.450-08:00December is almost hereWith our first, light snowfall upon us... Lu keeps asking.. "is it Christmas already?"<br /><br />It is difficult trying to explain to a four year old that Christmas is still many sleeps away! But she is excited, oh so excited and Christmas day this year will be pretty exciting.<br /><br />Even though December first is right around the corner... I still have yet to start my christmas shopping. I hope to get away to Toronto's One of a Kind show tomorrow... but that is still up in the air. Last year I was able to get a huge bulk of my christmas shopping complete at the one of a kind show... but I am not sure if I'll be able to do the same this year (can't give everyone a similar gift to last year).<br /><br />We did order presents for all the husband's clients, as well as finalizing ideas for Lu's ECE teachers at preschool and her Kindergarten teacher. <br /><br />I still have to decorate the house and get the wreaths and swag outside... and start baking... and why oh why am I so behind this year.... December has just crept up on me without warning.<br /><br />But it will get done -- well.... it has to get done!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-80758674057671391292010-10-13T11:06:00.000-07:002010-10-13T11:10:15.809-07:00The Painful Reminder<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TLX1RcGntsI/AAAAAAAAAHM/V2lsdXFgMN4/s1600/Sept16006+052.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TLX1RcGntsI/AAAAAAAAAHM/V2lsdXFgMN4/s320/Sept16006+052.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527593797617694402" /></a><br /><br />I knew the day would come. I knew it would be brutally hard; and truth be told... it is still brutally hard two years later.<br /><br />It has been two years.. two painful years. We miss you Little Buddy. I miss your soft, silky fur and your expressive eyes. I miss how you loved to chase squirrels, frisbees, sticks, ducks and wheelbarrow wheels. I miss your slightly intense nature but loved the fact that in your eyes -- I was the best and only person alive on the planet.<br /><br />How you loved when we went biking and hiking, or roller blading at midnight when we all lived in Kingston. You loved to snuggle in bed with us and you always positioned yourself close by -- whichever room we were in -- you were there to protect us.<br /><br />Even though you were part Border Collie - you were deathly afraid of sheep (but that is our little secret). You loved your neck massaged, your belly rubbed and you just loved being with us; it made you feel secure and loved.<br /><br />We spent virtually every single day together from when you were a mere 8 weeks old. You were by far the cutest puppy, the best companion and most loving senior dog in the world.<br /><br />A part of me died with you. I will always remember you and love you.<br /><br />Say hello to Tiamo for us.<br /><br />We miss you dear Angus. Life is not the same....Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-55596091744738244922010-09-14T10:55:00.001-07:002010-09-14T11:10:51.021-07:00KindergartenI am sure there are a million blogs right now devoted to a child's first day of school. So of course I thought I would add mine.<br /><br />I have to say... this first day of kindergarten was pretty ordinary - -there were no tears, no clinging, no anxiety..... she just walked into the classroom like she'd been there for years and years. <br /><br />Now mind you, we had been preparing for this day for years and years! We started her at preschool about 2 years ago with the hopes that a structured, educational and fun preschool would be a great warm up to "real" school. We also sent Lu off to day camp for two weeks this year... so another first... another new thing to try.... another learning activity. She has taken it all in stride.<br /><br />We also went to the junior kindergarten orientation which was held earlier in the summer at her new school. So Lu and I went through the classrooms and visited the library and gym and met the teachers. So again this was a great opportunity for Lu to see her new school and know that it isn't a scary place. She was also very lucky to have her friend Lizzie as a classmate -- I know this helped ease her transition from preschool to JK.<br /><br />So what do we do now? She is growing up so quickly, right before our eyes. Lu dresses herself in the morning without prompting or pressure, she gets her shoes on and a warm sweater and launches herself out the door to the car. It has all been pretty darned easy. <br /><br />But of course I think about her all day. I count the seconds until she and daddy pull up in the driveway and I can snuggle her warm and drowsy body into my arms and ask her a million questions about her day: How was your teacher today? what did you learn? Who did you play with outside today? How was your lunch? Did you get a new book from the library today? Did you make a new friend? What new thing did you learn today? and the list goes on....<br /><br />Yes.. I miss her terribly. I know she is having fun, but I also know at school she will have sad days and meet some not-so-nice kids and maybe not feel well and wish she were home with me, and I know she is going to get tired... oh so tired.... So really all I can do is love her and be there for her and make sure she gets lots of sleep and washes her hands and helps me pick out lunches and snacks to make for her school meal... and, and and!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-9802190596138759992010-08-23T09:32:00.000-07:002010-08-23T09:48:03.449-07:00First riding lesson<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/THKlzZppWLI/AAAAAAAAAGc/wdr778QnCkI/s1600/P1040640.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/THKlzZppWLI/AAAAAAAAAGc/wdr778QnCkI/s320/P1040640.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508647596705011890" /></a><br />Lu has always loved ponies -- as most little girls do. But surprisingly up until recently, she has been intimidated by the "real" thing; even though she loves playing with her "my little ponies" and other various horse-like dolls... she just did not appreciate the grandeur of a real, live pony.<br /><br />She's had plenty of access to ponies... at grandma's house, at our neighbour's place, at the farm across the road from grandma,.... and the list goes on and on. But it wasn't until my dear friend Sian offered a pony ride at the stable she frequents. I happened to have a free Saturday morning, so Lu and I donned our best rubber boots and headed to the stable.<br /><br />We arrived a bit early and Annabel was immediately drawn to the small, black pony - 'Beauty' - who was being groomed and polished by two young girls. Then... the pink saddle pad arrived... Lu was smitten... not only was this tiny, gentle pony nibbling her hands... but... she had a pink saddle pad. That pink saddle pad made everything in life perfect... and at that moment.. life was perfect.. perfect for a smitten four year old girl, with long, blond curly hair, held back in a french braid; a Vancouver Olympic t-shirt and grey leggings tucked into flowery pink rubber boots and a toothy grin that stretched from ear to ear.<br /><br />Unfortunately, Beauty was being used in a lesson. But, Lu got to ride Sino the Palomino... and she just loved every single moment of life on top of that round palomino. She even walked over a few poles on the ground (yeah. her first jump) and trotted, each side, down the length of one wall (yeah, her first dressage test). <br /><br />Soon her ride was over... but the euphoria of that special "first" still lives on - two days later - as Lu proudly tells anyone within ear shot of her first horse ride!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-44920167860737911662010-08-09T10:18:00.001-07:002010-08-09T10:43:20.705-07:00Anaphylactic ShockI cannot get the image out of my head. The image of your tiny, frail body lying in a hospital bed, surrounded by wires and beeping machines and giant scratchy blankets under the grey-green glow of the fluorescent ceiling light.<br /><br />I cannot get the image out of my head of your limp body in my arms while you vomited uncontrollably - your body trying to rid itself of the toxins within. I thought, at that instant, that we were going to lose you. It almost seemed as if your life was flowing out of you along with the sick. I thought at that instant I would collapse, overwhelmed by the uncertainty, the blind panic and unforgivable unknowns. <br /><br />I cannot get the image of your swollen eyes, your hive covered body, of you clawing at your neck and screaming how it hurts. I was so helpless. What do you do? I had no idea. And for that I am sorry. I am supposed to save you from hurt, from pain and from everything bad. I didn't do my job very well. <br /><br /> Why. Why did your body react so severely. Why did this attack come on so suddenly. We had no history of allergies. Up until now, you had been the picture of perfect health in all your four year old glory. Yet this awful reaction almost felled you instantly. Instantly in my arms while I held you on the side of the road. Screaming at daddy to call an ambulance. To will an ambulance here. NOW.<br /><br />I knew we couldn't waste anymore time. I urged daddy to get back in the car and drive. Drive like you've never driven before. We took a big risk rushing you to the hospital on our own. Driving like a maniac. Passing cars. Swearing at the oblivious drivers who had no idea the hell that was taking place in our car. <br /><br />When I first saw the flashing lights of the ambulance, my heart lifted... ever. so. slightly. We pulled to the side of the road as the ambulance swung around to meet us. I was out of the car, instantly, with your shaking, in shock, limp body in my arms. The site of the angelic paramedics sent me to my knees. I was scared. I was crying. I was angry.<br /><br />We were whisked to the hospital. You were taken care of so expertly, so thoroughly, so professionally and for that I am ever so grateful.<br /><br />Now you must carry an epi pen everywhere. Now I must investigate every and all morsels to pass your lips. I will also wonder what else you might be allergic to? How can I protect you from all these unknowns. <br /><br />I am scared. I am overwhelmed with sadness. I have tons of questions and I cannot stop thinking about all the unbelievably unthinkable 'what if' scenarios which could have easily played out Saturday night. I cannot even imagine what would have happened. What easily could have happened.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-68183742813208243602010-07-27T01:39:00.000-07:002010-07-27T01:48:03.913-07:00When your parents divorceWhen your parents divorce it hurts at any age.<br /><br />I just recently found out that my father is going to leave my mom. I am overwrought with emotion. What do you do? What do you say? How do I control my anger, my sadness, my disbelief?<br /><br />It is sad.. I am sad and angry.. hell no I am pissed beyond belief. It is a really long story..one that actually started years and years ago... My father was seeing his high school sweet heart before he met my mother... the high school sweet heart ended up marrying someone else... My father (obviously) married my mother... but I guess my father and this woman never stopped seeing each other.. yup.. after all these years...<br /><br />Fast forward to today... her husband is gone.. she is a fu**ed up, manipulative alcoholic.. dying in some halfway house.... none of her family will have anything to do with her (hmm.. can you say red flag?).. so she is languishing by herself in some home.... dying of the ravages of alcoholism and she has decided to keep her hook into my father during her final, dying days.<br /><br />My father has chosen to turn his back on his family. And you know.. if it were a "simple" (not that anything like this is simple)... two people growing apart... moving on... you know.. I can get my head around that. But he has carried on this affair,.... carrying on this double life all the while anything I have known of growing up and who I thought my father was... that has all been thrown out the window.<br /><br />But what really gets me is my daughter.. she doesn't understand. She was asking just yesterday where grandpa was. What was I supposed to tell her? That is what hurt the most... that my father is willing to walk away.. walk away from my mother... from my sister and I... and from his lovely granddaughter.<br /><br />How am I supposed to deal with all of this?<br /><br />And I am so sad for my mother. She doesn't deserve this. All I can do is tell her that I love her and that I am here for her... and I hope she can come out of this a stronger person... one with battle scars for sure. But there really is nothing else she can do but be strong. Be the bigger person.<br /><br /> I guess life is never simple... something always comes along to kick you in the teeth.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-10763592943871211212010-07-12T07:24:00.000-07:002010-07-12T07:29:11.663-07:00Home from Holidays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TDsmgaqI6tI/AAAAAAAAAGU/a7Np_3_Y9_4/s1600/P1040518.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TDsmgaqI6tI/AAAAAAAAAGU/a7Np_3_Y9_4/s320/P1040518.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493026508862188242" /></a><br />We just spent a lovely week in Nova Scotia. We visited friends... drove around the countryside... shopped... slept... ate... spent lots of time at the beach and generally just enjoyed life.<br />The weather was perfect -- no rain in sight.<br />It was the perfect getaway!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-89870793036256484202010-06-21T06:11:00.000-07:002010-06-21T06:23:36.002-07:00Sailing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TB9nbgnZ1GI/AAAAAAAAAGM/abyGTgDLJRs/s1600/sail"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TB9nbgnZ1GI/AAAAAAAAAGM/abyGTgDLJRs/s320/sail" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485216593469887586" /></a><br />Despite the call for thunderstorms and loads of rain, this weekend turned out to be quite lovely -- stinking hot... but lovely!<br /><br />We headed to Falcon... our sailboat on Friday night for a lovely dinner onboard with a walk to the ice cream store after. We had a quick trip to the Farmer's market for Lu's favourite home made doughnuts on Saturday morning and a play at the playground. Back to the boat to watch the unsettled sky and decide whether it was safe to head out for a sail.<br /><br />Sunday was Father's Day! After presents and a quick breakfast onboard.. .we took Lu and a friend to the beach to make sand castles, play tag and frolic in the slightly bone-chilling water. We made it back to Falcon by 10:30 -- just in time to tidy up before grandpa arrived... and out we set for a picture-perfect sail on Sunday. What a great way to spend Father's Day!<br /><br />Grandpa arrived in his blue TR-7, but found the slow drive over was hot, sticky and a bit uncomfortable. So as much fun as convertibles look... I prefer my air conditioning.. esp. after a day like Sunday!<br /><br />The lake was choppy and the wind was strong... so we were buffeted about ... but Lu is quickly learning her sea legs and she quite enjoyed the heel of the boat, the chop of the waves and the fast pace of a usually leisurely sail. I believe the best Father's Day present for the husband was the look of joy and confidence on Lu's face as we navigated the rough and slightly unpredictable lake.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-51045575318274066612010-06-07T16:04:00.000-07:002010-06-07T16:24:53.637-07:00She's Four!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TA1_VNgLCyI/AAAAAAAAAGE/b_9AGcIKoTQ/s1600/gift-1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/TA1_VNgLCyI/AAAAAAAAAGE/b_9AGcIKoTQ/s320/gift-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480176323958344482" /></a><br />Lu just turned four! I can barely believe it. They say time goes by so quickly when you have children. This statement is so true - you witness each day as your child grows and learns and matures and changes right before your eyes. It is truly amazing.<br /><br />And four is an incredible age. This is the age when your child first starts to act more like a 'person' and not so much like the whiny, challenging, tantrum-y, tired, cranky, baffling toddler you're used to. For some reason when they hit the age of four they kind of turn into these mini comedians. They can be so funny that they leave you slapping your knees in wonder and awe and you ponder where they heck they came up with that. These amazing little life observers. So wise at this young age. And so cuddly. And so, well, agreeable. They just start to become a little more agreeable each day... and sometimes it's a shock as you brace yourself for the usual foot stomping rebellion only to be met by an angelic "ok mommy." And you think to yourself.. yeah.. ok mommy.. it <span style="font-style:italic;">IS</span> ok!<br /><br />Four. She is four. I struggled in the past with being a new mom. I struggled with finding me. I struggled re-establishing my business. I did it, though. I persevered, I faltered....often. But because of you I picked myself up more times than I wish to count and dusted myself off and started again. I cried. I was frustrated. And in the end I knew it would be ok... it would be <span style="font-style:italic;">ok mommy.</span><br /><br />Here we are. You are four and wonderful and beautiful and smart and amazing and I have found myself again, just slightly ragged around the edges but I'm back.<br /><br />Happy Birthday Lu! You have made me a stronger person.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-73408131168057320302010-05-10T11:44:00.000-07:002010-05-10T12:08:50.538-07:00A Proud Mom of One<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/S-hZE37VEFI/AAAAAAAAAFc/ESslv6IdgLs/s1600/unknown.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 299px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/S-hZE37VEFI/AAAAAAAAAFc/ESslv6IdgLs/s320/unknown.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5469719687708610642" /></a><br />I am proud to be the mother of one.<br /><br />I have one, beautiful, smart, funny, compassionate daughter and I wouldn't trade this experience for the world! Oh sure.. there were times when I have second guessed myself. There were times when I wondered if two would make things better. There have been times when I've been shamed by mothers of many that I am doing a grave disservice to my daughter for not providing her with siblings. <br /><br />Sure it's a tough choice but it is a personal choice and one that I feel was chosen as it best suits myself, my daughter and my husband. It's our little family of three and we can pretty well do what we want, when we want and how we want. I have heard the endless concerns from larger families that our daughter must be bored, she must be lonely, she must be spoiled, she must be odd. And I scratch my head in wonder as to what gives others the right to be so bold, so cruel and so opinionated?<br /><br />It hurts sometimes, but I can assure you my daughter is not lonely, nor is she bored, spoiled and she certainly is not odd. But because we have one, I can give my daughter the attention she deserves, the attention she needs and she knows that she is loved unequivocally. I have grand dreams for her - to grow up as a skilled and proud athlete and a kind and caring citizen of the earth and maybe, just maybe she will become a doctor... but alas these are my dreams for her. She must find her own way in the world and whatever path she chooses... I will love her all the same and support her and be there for her when she needs me.<br /><br />And sure I know large families where the children all love each other and support each other. But I also know families that don't speak to one another... that haven't seen each other for years or been in contact for decades. I don't think there is a perfect size of family. It is based on your experience and your own personal choices. It should not be open for discussion or debate or wonder. This is the path I have chosen; perhaps chosen for medical reasons, perhaps chosen for financial reasons or perhaps just chosen because this is what we want. But it is our choice.. it is our family and we love our family of three.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-41192163973976258962010-04-26T11:11:00.000-07:002010-04-26T11:29:55.538-07:00Adventures of Earth Week<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/S9XbKR8-iBI/AAAAAAAAAEw/qJDpKCsyPdM/s1600/2009+YIR+CPC+Accomplishments+DRAFT.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/S9XbKR8-iBI/AAAAAAAAAEw/qJDpKCsyPdM/s320/2009+YIR+CPC+Accomplishments+DRAFT.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464514692548298770" /></a><br />Another year, another earth week. I never go out of my way to do anything "earth-friendly" during this much-hyped day and week. I usually do these anyway, without much thought or motivation -- I just do it. I always have and always will.<br /><br />Lu and I walked in the woods and marveled at the wonder of the arrival of spring; from the tiny, green buds on the trees to the honking geese overhead and the colourful varieties of flowers making their way through the newly warmed earth.<br /><br />We gardened and raked and cleaned and organized. We lay on the grass and watched the clouds roll past us. We silently crept through the fields and down by the creek to spy on the animal families with the hope of catching a glimpse of any brand new arrivals. We inhaled the sweet, fragrant smells from apple blossoms and squished newly formed tent caterpillars between our gloved fingers. We ran as fast as we could and laughed out loud. We bundled ourselves against the strong yet chilly winds and stretched toward the warmth of the sun. We looked for faeries and pixies and other mystical creatures. We studied the difference between pine needles and cedar leaves. We happily said goodbye to the lady bugs who had called our window sills home. We ate our first popsicle. We dug in the earth and made sand castles in the sand. <br /><br />And as per usual we planted 50 or so tree seedlings on the back hill, just as we have been doing for years. We found neat little homes for their far reaching roots, supplied the first watering and wished them much luck for decades and decades of successful growth!<br /><br />And as usual we walked the road and peered into ditches; we pulled out Tim Horton's coffee cups, beer cans and whiskey bottles and a variety of garbage discarded from passing vehicles. <br /><br />"Why is there garbage on the side of the road," asked Lu... Good question I thought.. why do people throw garbage out their windows? Is it convenience. Is it ignorance? Is it habit? Whatever the reason it still happens. It still happens after all the awareness, after all the pleading and after all the Earth Day celebrations - the garbage still piles up at the side of the road.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-9885909167309548202010-04-12T10:16:00.000-07:002010-04-12T10:28:53.982-07:00First Hair Cut<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/S8NYPH-GIaI/AAAAAAAAAEo/VTG927IOxyc/s1600/P1040261.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/S8NYPH-GIaI/AAAAAAAAAEo/VTG927IOxyc/s320/P1040261.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459304190163952034" /></a><br />Well.. finally had to do it. Lu had to have her first hair cut. I was kind of hoping to let it grow just a teeny bit more... but brushing her hair of late was like sticking your arm into a viper pit. Not fun. <br /><br />So here she is in all her blonde, curly glory... I was so traumatized! In the end, we all survived. And for now, brushing her hair is slightly less painful, slightly less vocal and just a little bit quicker.Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8899806971338868139.post-60463984292498659472010-03-29T11:56:00.000-07:002010-03-29T12:20:18.878-07:00Happy Easter = Chocolate Overload<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/S7D7C0xz0kI/AAAAAAAAAEY/VAi80Q-xDHc/s1600/chocs00006.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_dxUNZFK78EU/S7D7C0xz0kI/AAAAAAAAAEY/VAi80Q-xDHc/s320/chocs00006.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454135174691541570" /></a><br />I really meant well. I didn't want to buy a lot of chocolate for Lu on Easter... and well that lasted for all of 2 minutes by the time I entered a certain box store and was overwhelmed by loads of brightly coloured foil, expertly packaged cream eggs and oh so sweet, oh so delicious Lindor Easter egg parcels.<br /><br />What was I to do? I grabbed as many goodies as my arms could hold and dashed to the check out before my PMS-laden psyche overruled whatever sense of responsible snacking I could justify for a few small, measly even, chocolate treats. Indulgently I scarfed down a silky smooth Cadbury caramel egg before reaching the car. I, of course, was able to justify that indulgence because we had gone skiing on Saturday. Ok... a bit of a stretch... but it is all I could think of while dashing to the car in the hopes no one would see me or recognize me inhaling a large, chocolate and sickly sweet caramel-injected confection. It was all done before I reached the car; not one amber coloured morsel left on my fingers to savour, not a speck of sinfully sweet chocolate to melt on my tongue - all I had to show for it was a fistful of foil and a guilty conscience.<br /><br />But the good thing is ... I didn't buy ALL chocolate goodies.... I did make it to a Craft store and purchased a few small items for Lu. And I did all this because I love the thrill of a good scavenger hunt. I have already mapped out, in my mind, where the Easter Bunny is hiding the goodies on the property. I have the Easter Bunny hiding items inside the barn, under a few trees, at the entrance to the forest, beside our wood pile, up a few trees close to the house and perhaps a few other spots I haven't thought of yet. So in the end it will all work out. And most importantly, I will monitor what and when and how much of the sugar Lu will ingest at one sitting. I also have some great craft ideas to finish both before and during this weekend festivity.<br /><br />Happy Easter!Country Chic Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07645926173850266929noreply@blogger.com0