Alaska!

My mom just got back from an Alaskan cruise. She had worked up until very recently, at the Silk Tree Warehouse. After 14 years, the owner decided to sell the business. As a thank-you to his employees for their hard work he took them all on a cruise!!!

I do believe my mom had a wonderful time. She did things she never does at home.....spa treatments, DANCING, eating fancy meals etc. I'm really glad she had this opportunity. She did forgo the helicoptor tour of the glacier which I thought was a shame. Apparently it was really cold the whole time, so she's delighted with our current heatwave.

We went there for supper tonight and she handed out some really fun souveniers.

The boys got some pretty good bear hats, bear poop and salmon eggs. Keith received some bear claws and chocolate. I got some yummy looking salmonberry jelly and chocolate as well.

Thanks Mom!!!

Golf Time

Another year, another staff golf tournament. I didn't let a silly thing like pregnancy prevent me from signing up this year. It's the only time I golf all year and do quite enjoy it! I need to brag that I used the same golf ball the entire course. I think that is a first for me! Keith made up for it and lost at least 10 balls :)

Our ever faithful partners, Kori and Roger joined us for a very very very warm day on the greens.

I was adament that I would walk the course. No need for a cart...I definitely needed the exercise and have previously thought carts were for lazy people. Okay....three holes into the game I was dying and knew that I would never be able to walk 18 holes! The temperature was rising rapidly and I was wilting at the same pace. Roger was a gem and went back to the clubhouse to rent the women a cart. Kori was sweet enough to drive me around all day. I must say it was very adventurous as she sped, swerved and made that little car get 'air' over the hills. Yowzers! If I had been further along I think I would have gone into labour. But totally fun and it sure beat walking!

At the lunch after golf, everyone gets a door prize. Keith got a tool set that he really didn't need so I traded it for these lovely frying pans. One can never have enough actually!

This was my prize and I let Keith take it. He floated in our 'pool' all afternoon. We lowered the temp and I had my feet in there as well. What a lifesaver!

Drip, Drip, Drip

No, we don't have a leaky pipe.

That is my sweat glands from top to bottom protesting this heatwave! I don't want to be a complainer because we did have a wretched, cold, and wet spring but does it really have to be 32 degrees? I think 26 is perfectly lovely.

I have been a sweating ball of humanity all day today. Ugh. It's so sticky.

We spent the morning at Kori's son's final baseball game of the season. It was our first time watching his team and they are really good! Unfortunately, they lost by a very close margin and came second in their league. The field was pretty hot and I didn't have the foresight to bring my beach umbrella. Live and learn.

In the afternoon I lounged on a chair in the shade of our big cherry tree while the kids enjoyed the slip n slide. It was really nice, minus the sounds of the two of them fighting pretty much the whole time. Only second day of summer vacation and they're already cruising for a bruising!

This evening we shipped the kids off to Keith's parents for the night and went for supper with Kori & Roger and Keri and Dave. A rare treat. We sat out on Milestone's patio (which was really hot with very little breeze) and drank lots of Coke and enjoyed a nice dinner. We decided to round off the evening with a little gelato and a walk around Mill Lake. A great evening with great friends.

We came home to find our upstairs at 29 degrees. I am currently in the basement hoping that the upstairs cools down a bit before bedtime. Wishful thinking!

Pet Peeve

I had to get this off my chest!

If you do this, sorry but it's truly irritating to me!

I do not like it when people eat out of their grocery carts at the supermarket.

It's rude, wrong and gross.

Earlier this week there was a couple who were browsing the produce section and munching away on a rotisserie chicken. EATING it with their hands, ripping off pieces of meat, licking their fingers!

There. I feel much better now!

That's a Wrap!

Big sigh of relief. Sighhhhhhhhhhhhh.........

We are done for summer! I get a break from being taxi mom, making lunches, checking homework, reading notices, writing out cheques, and washing uniforms!

Oh, summer is so deserved!

Nathan successfully completed grade four. And to our delight has FINALLY attained honor roll status. I know that back in November I posted about him getting on the honor roll but I was mistaken. He had missed by one lousy credit. The second term report card was dismal. But this term he did really well and to be honest we ALL need to get the credit. Keith and I rode that poor child's butt for every single assignment. It was not pleasant but the results prove it was worth it. Way to go Nathan!

Nate and his buddies. They were all heading off to a birthday party right afterschool. What a great way to start off the summer!

Chad did awesome in grade one and has now been promoted to grade 2. His report card was excellent and he is an absolute genius in the reading department. His teachers say he is way above grade level. With having a book worm for a mother this does not come as a surprise. We'll miss his teachers especially as they were both the most wonderful ladies I have yet to meet at King Traditional.

I also am moving on. My doctor has passed me off to the 'maternity' doctor now. Now I get to see Dr Shaw who is amazing, wonderful and hilarious! She was my maternity doctor for both the boys and I enjoyed her very much. When I spoke to the receptionist at her office, she pulled up my records and said: Oh my! You've not seen us for a long time. We've put you in storage!

I told her that I had planned to stay in storage but....well....y'know!

Lesson Learned

Keith's office often has potlucks. It seems someone is always retiring, moving on, etc and then they have potluck lunch. Keith always makes the same thing.....probably because I won't make something for him. I do have my limitations you know! Ever eaten or made the 'Land of Nod' buns from the Best of the Best of Bridge cookbook? Easy enough for any man to make!

Usually he makes a batch and brings them to work and comes home with an empty plate. The boys and I never get a taste. The last potluck I complained a bit how it makes the house smell so good yet none are left for us! I woke up this morning to find he had made two full batches of them...one for his office and one for home. Atta boy!

This and That

Hello everyone.

We had a great weekend revelling in our 'knowing' about the baby's gender. Somehow for me anyhow, just knowing brings me a sense of calmness. It gives this little one an identity and has really erased any final disappointments about this surprise in our lives.

The boys have been over the moon with plans for their 'little brother'. Nathan has done all the calculations in his head and told me: "Mom, I will be an adult when my brother is nine years old! I will take him to my house and make him pancakes."

It warms my heart to hear the excitement of Nathan and Chad. I know they will be grand at this 'older brother' business. I suspect this new sibling will look to his brothers for guidance much more than his parents.

Another thought occured to me....I have never had a baby and a car at the same time! When I had both of our boys we were a one car family. Keith commuted so there wasn't even the possibility of me dropping him at work so I could have the car for the day. I will enjoy taking myself shopping and to doctor's appts etc and not have to call my mom for a ride. Just had to share that :)

We have started to discuss names. For some reason we had oodles of girls names that were possibilities but are having a heck of a time coming up with boy names. Ack! Beyond just trying to find a decent name that isn't too trendy but not too boring is matching it up with our ever-so-lovely last name. This poses another dimension to the process! Well....a few more months to work on this.

Next week I enter my final trimester! I can't believe it. I am starting to feel a bit uncomfortable. I sense a slight waddle when I walk and I have occasional heartburn too. Whine, whine whine.

And that people is your Monday update!

Drum Roll Please....

God must like the way we handle our boys because he's giving us ANOTHER!!!

This is the little one hugging my placenta real tight. He knows where the good food comes from!

He had his hand or arm over his face most the time. A little shy perhaps? I think a favorite sleeping position because even though I slurped back an ice-cap before my appt he was very lazy!

Just look at that fine leg!

Keith and I only seem to make boys. This is good....because we know all about 'em!!!!

Losing My Mind

Pregnant moment #587

I showed up at work today.
Kori said: What are you doing here?
Yeah, it was my day off.
Oh dear.


***UPDATE***

I decided to stay at work and take Wednesday off in lieu. Turned out to be a great decision as we were all treated to Caramilk Cheesecake and I got to hear the announcement of my co-worker winning a trip to VEGAS through a staff promotion!

All About Dads

Yesterday I had a spur of the moment idea to have my parents over tonight for dinner as a Father's Day celebration. I like impromtou get togethers as there is not as much time to stress over details.

I asked my dad for any special requests in the dessert department. He wasn't too slow in answering: CHOCOLATE. He doesn't get too much at home since my mom doesn't care for it. Specifically he wanted brownies with frosting. Easy! I also got some cinnamon buns from Cobbs because I know those would go down a treat.

For supper we had chicken and prawns on skewers, rice, salad, fruit and naan bread. Very yummy.

After supper the gang hit the hot tub. I refrained for two reasons. Daylight. I do not want to get into a bathing suit unless it's dark! And it was FULL, very full and the water was already overflowing. Besides I could come down here and blog to my heart's content!

Obviously this was before all six people were in the tub!

Oh, I had to post a picture of the FIRST baby thing Keith and I have purchased. We got in while we were away last weekend in Seattle.

Oh Happy Day

Three ducks (I mean Dycks) in a row. Happy Father's Day!!!

Never Thought It Would Happen To Me

When I was a teen, thinking about my future, I had always hoped that a new hospital would be built in Abbotsford before I started having babies. Our old MSA Hospital has been a nasty place for a long time now. Well, that didn't happen and I had both of our boys at MSA...without incident I might add. It was old but we all survived and weren't really worse for wear over it.

We were done our family and I told Keith it was too bad that I didn't get to have one of our babies in a new hospital. Oh well. Then the plans for the new hospital came out a few years ago and I said.....it would be almost worth having another just to experience having a baby in modern surroundings! Careful what you wish for.

We took the open house tour of the new hospital today. I am so impressed!

It's gorgeous and I'm really glad we planned (ha ha ha ha ha) the timing of this baby to coincide with it being open and ready for patients!!! It would have been tragic to miss it even by a few days or weeks. It opens for patients on Aug 24th so that's plenty of time for me to bake this babe one more month until delivery. One of the best aspects of the maternity ward....actually there are several wonderful features is that all rooms are private. All rooms have their own bathroom and shower! Another thing I am so happy about is that after my c-section I will be taken to recovery (as per normal) but instead of being there alone, Keith and the baby will be with me!!! I'm so psyched. With both the boys I hated laying in recovery thinking about my sweet baby after only seeing him for one quick minute. They would whisk the baby away and Keith as well and I would be left behind. This system is much more family friendly and they are aware that the family needs to be kept together as a unit as much as possible.

Did anyone else go on the tour today?

Lots of Buns

I feel very much like a Mennonite woman today. I made buns!!! Not just plain buns mind you, but Meat Piroshky! Despite my fear of working with yeast and large amounts of flour they turned out even better than I had hoped.

I also made half a batch of monster cookies. Phew! Lots of baking today. I was about to go out and mow the lawn but Keith says 'NO WAY!'. I guess I deserve to put my feet up now.

Step by step instructions taped to my cupboards.

My Oma would be so proud if she knew. But she won't know....I don't want to blow my cover.

I am STILL Smiling

The doorbell rang tonight.
I answered it (fully expecting the neighborhood brats....errr, I mean children) but found a man in his mid sixties or so.

Man: Are your parents home?

Me: I AM the parent.

Oh, does he know he completely made my day?!?!?
Anyhow he was from a local church and wanted to make sure we have a church home....etc etc.

Our Last Get Away For a While!

Keith and I took off to Seattle this past weekend. My parents graciously took the kids for us so we could really and truly get a break. Interestingly enough, when we are gone and having fun we often say....'Wouldn't the kids enjoy this!'.

I have a lot of photos for this post. A photo journal of sorts.....so enjoy our trip from the comfort of your computer chair, couch or where ever you catch up on blogs!

We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn in Mukilteo. This was a beautiful hotel with lovely grounds. We were not disappointed! We had never stayed here before but Kori had suggested it as they had passed it a few weeks ago on the way to the 'Silver Cloud Inn' on the water. We were right beside Boeing Fields and the Mueseum of Flight. It was very cool so see all those enormous planes!

The room was clean and modern. The bathroom immaculate. These are things I really appreciate. The one major let down was the bed itself. They claimed to have this 'revolutionary' sleep system mattress with air baffles inside that you could adjust with dials on each side of the bed. The first night we left them on the 'optimum sleep' setting. We woke up after tossing and turning all night with very sore muscles. The next night we adjusted the bed to the 'soft' setting and after again tossing and turning all night woke up feeling like we had been run over by a large semi. ACK! Quite a bummer when you want to get away to feel rested. I have come to the conclusion that our bed at home is the comfiest bed in the whole world.

For our first dinner out we ate at 'Ivars' which was right on the water. The sun was setting and the view out the window was beautiful. Keith got a seafood platter which he could not finish. I told him not to start off with a cup of clam chowder! I usually do not like clam chowder but I had a taste and it was delicious. I had the traditional fish and chips. They were tasty but the batter was a tad on the salty side. Oh well! The service was wonderful and we did enjoy our dinner overall.

After supper we took a walk around the little seaside area. It was very cold but pretty. The sun was just setting and it made everything very golden.

Our dessert that night was a caramel apple we picked up at the Rocky Mountain Fudge Factory. I could eat one of these everyday. Actually, we ate one the next day too!

We spent Saturday at the outlets. We found some great deals. A few of my best deals were Vans shoes for Chad for $9.99 and jeans for Nathan for $7.99, uniform pants for Nathan for $4.99 and board swim shorts for Keith from Aeropostale for $9.99! I love good deal!

We ate at PF Changs on Saturday for dinner. It was as good as I remembered! The only sort of sad thing was that there was not enough time in the day or room in our stomachs for a fish taco from McGrath's. Next time!

Keith and I enjoyed Starbucks a few times.....when in Seattle......

This picture was taken in the FREEZING cold evening right before catching a movie. We saw 'Prince Caspian'. We really wanted to see it to preview it before the kids did. Yeah....it might be a few years before they are ready for that one.

We were sitting in the theatre waiting for the show to start when one of the theatre employees who was about 17 yrs old or so came in to tell people to move to the centre of the rows so there would be enough room for everyone. It was not the message but in the way it was relayed. She was incredibly rude and when people did not move fast enough she took out her walkie talkie and loudly said into it to whom I presume was a fellow employee: Why don't you come here and do this because NO ONE is listening to me! Then she started pointing at people and telling them to move. Nevermind people were saving seats, or sitting where they wanted (which is their right) and there were tons of empty seats near the front. Finally after not having much success with this crowd she yelled: 'Thanks a lot you guys' and stormed out of the theatre! It was quite entertaining.

Fortunately, Sunday morning showed promise of a dry day. We headed to Seattle Centre to catch the monorail to downtown. It's a cheap ride at $2 each way and saves the headache of trying to find parking in the heart of the city. When we went to the station to get our ride back we found out that the monorail was BROKEN! There were signs telling us what bus route we could take back to the other station but we decided to walk back. It took only 25 minutes or so and was good to get the blood pumping before our drive home.

We wandered through the market. Well, actually we were sort of pushed along with the sea of people that were also visiting. It was horribly crowded.

We had a very light breakfast because we knew that we were heading to this restaurant we had heard so much about. There was a very long wait but we were patient. We knew it was going to be good!

There was a small disappointment. Our server told us that the restaurant had NO tomatoes whatsoever. He told us there had been a samonella scare and so they chucked them all. Total bummer as I love them and so many items on the menu just wouldn't have been the same without tomatoes. I ended up ordering a chicken pesto pizza with a small garden salad. It was very fresh and tasty. Even if it begged for a tomato!

Keith ordered some sort of Mexican breakfast dish that was very good. He only managed half of that plate of food. I told him NOT to load up on the fresh bread they brought us before our meal. That man just doesn't listen!

Even though we were stuffed to the gills we HAD to have a piece of cheesecake for dessert. We shared a piece of the Dutch Apple Caramel Cheesecake. It was very very good!

After our late lunch we wandered around downtown a bit and found some more good deals. We finally hit the road at 5 pm and were back in our native land at shortly after 7 pm. The border had a small line up but it moved quickly and we actually had a pleasant customs agent. The boys were happy to see us and very happy to see we had brought them some Krispy Kremes to eat!

And that was our trip!

Grad 1991!

Lovella has encouraged her readers to post a picture of themselves in their grad dresses....then and now! I will be not participating in the 'now' version as my 6 month pregnant body would rip the seams. Here is my pretty white brocade dress. My mom took me to Bellingham to chose it. I got it from a bridal shop and it was $130.00 US. BIG money in those days. This was a huge treat for me as my Mom usually sewed all my dresses. A store bought item was really special. I also got my first (and so far only) strapless bra. Truth be told I'm sure I didn't even really need a bra!!! I loved my dress and got to wear it three times. Our grad banquet, grad night and then the next summer to Keith's grad. Ahhhhh...memories.

Staying Home

I decided that on my day off this week I would stay home for a change (and my gas tank will thank me). There was nothing in town I desperately needed and figured what was desperately needed was a good ole house-cleaning. I tend to neglect my house in summer. I don't want to be indoors when the sun shines so today's purge is meant to last a long while!

I started in the far east corner and worked my way to the basement. As usual, the thoroughness and motivation started to wane about half way through, but I did accomplish a lot. My bathrooms drawers and cupboards are vacuumed out, the bathroom rug and kitchen mat have been laundered, the various heaps and piles that accumulate have been dealt with, the kitchen cupboards have been wiped down, the floors have been swept and vacuumed, and the linen closet was sorted and now I have a big bag for charity. Phew! It feels great.

I also swapped our winter duvet out for a lighter colored summery one. I found it in my linen closet purge! It might be the last season for it though...it's a bit thin in spots.

My tidy kitchen eating area with the flowers Keith gave me yesterday for a tiny spat we had. It's all water under the bridge now :)

Also, we are off on a little romantic get-away to Seattle this weekend and I do love coming home to a clean house.

The bonus for me today is that I will be rewarded with a delicious dinner out at Greek Islands. It's Keith's dad's birthday and his mom is taking us all out. Perfect!!!

With a Little Food & Water....

Colton, Chad, Brennan (sadly lives on the Island now), Justin

2001

Chad, Colton, Justin

2008