20 Year Grad Reunion

Well as you can tell I have been away from my regular posting. My time has been consumed with back to school activties and reliving my school days. I was honoured to participate in my 20 year grad reunion planning. I have enjoyed the memories and getting to know school mates that I did not have a chance to know in school. I am exhausted and will post some pictures to my flickr in the next few days. We were very fortunate to have a grad from 91' come and capture some moments for us. Claire has a photo business and took the evening to come out and take some photos of our grads.

Grad 90 Reunion

So for the last few months I have been a part planning our 20 year grad reunion. I have been fortunate to reconnect with some classmates that I actually didn't know very well but now have been enjoying their company reliving a blast from the past.

Well if you were the grad class of NDSS 1990 we would love to see you at our reunion to reconnect, hear all about your adventures, life changing moments and hey just what you have been up to!

If you can believe it or not the size or our grad class was around 714 students! Imagine sitting through the commencements! God love our parents hey!

If you are wondering how to get a hold of us try NDSS1990@gmail.com, or facebook link

Remainder of Summer 2010

The remainder of the summer has crept up on us. One minute we were planning our Oregon trip, the we were actually on the trip and it was over. Enjoy the moments!

When we returned home we were a flurry of activity. Darren was back to work very quickly. His August calendar was extremely busy so we have only seen glimpses of him on his one days off in between. We even managed to do his Birthday on another day. We were fortunate to have our friends Jodi & Taylor here for a few days, they were meeting up with Dan to embark on a boating adventure. During one of those evenings we had my niece Sarah stay with us too!

In addition we managed to sneak away for a couple of days to Deception pass with Grandma & Papa. It was a lovely time even managed to a couple rounds of card in too.

We were invited by one of Sam preschool friends Madison to attend the "Walk with the Dinosaurs". What a fantastic evening, we are truly grateful for the the invitation and to be able to attend such a sensational evening.

I persuaded Darren to head out and pick some blackberries, for which I managed enough for on batch of jam. Delicious, I do wonder if I could manage to get him out one more time. HMMMMM.

And a final note would be that I have finished my first 365 project! Yay me! I am now searching on how to tackle an additional 365 photo project.

Oregon Coast with Friends July 31-August 5,2010

Our summer vacation included a week with our good friends. We planned a vacation down the Oregon coast. Our stay took us to Lincoln City, we booked a vacation house that would hold all seventeen of us. Our house was perfect! We all made it down safe and sounds. Our particular drive ended up being a little later in the evening, as Darren's red eye flight was a little bit late in arriving the Saturday morning that we were leaving. It all worked out as Sam & I stayed at Grandma & Papa's house the night before. We managed to get a walk with Bronwynne in the evening and in the morning before we departed. When Darren arrived we shuffled him from work mode to vacation mode. Placed him in the passenger seat and we were off like a herd of turtles. Our drive went rather smoothly I was hoping Darren would have a chance to rest in the car as he had been up most of the previous night flying. We arrived at the house around nine o'clock everyone was glad to see us and helped us get settled. The following days included wonderful food, conversations and a lot of laughter!

For some of you that don't know, most of our group has been together since grade school, we have married and brought our spouses in our tight knit group, we are very fortunate to have each other. Hopefully there will be more trips like this in our future!

TONS More Pictures

Without my right arm. July 23-26,2010

So I finally took my Nikon in to be cleaned and serviced. I had a lens that was in dire need of repair and my camera was filthy. I have to say as dirty as it was it was a tough decision. But our upcoming vacation was helping me make the correct choice. So Sam & I ventured out one day to do a lot of errands, and one of those was driving to Richmond to Nikon. Well I found the location not problems, the lady I spoke to was friendly and helpful. I explain my situation and said I would leave the camera and if they managed to get to it great if not I would pick up later the next week, as I had left this entire process to the last minute. Well this lady was terrific, within a few days she called to say no problems and I could pick my baby up! Yippeeeeee! So as I had been trying to continue with my 365 project my iphone cam in very handy.

Zip Treking @ Whistler July 14-15,2010

Darren surprised me by throwing together a last minute get away just the two of us. He came home from work started sending a few emails. Called Grandma & Papa to see if they would take Sam & Bronny for a night. Everything was falling into place. We dropped everyone off, then set off. Of coarse this was a drive Darren had been waiting to do. The weather was fabulous, the road up to Whistler was perfect. We stopped in Squamish at a little bakery/shop had a lovely lunch. When we arrived in the village walked around. It is truly nice to just spend some one on one time with your lover/friend. I am a very lucky lady!

We headed out for a great evening filled with tasty food live entertainment and a lot of laughter. The next morning, we strolled around had a coffee and breakfast at Starbucks. Our appointment was at around eleven. I was very excited, this had been on my wish list for years. We shuffled to our set group, introduced ourselves then got geared up. Took a van ride up towards the bob sled area. Had some education about the forest and animals. Then all the fun began. We did the eagle tour and it was more than I could have imagined and I would highly suggest it for anyone. The youngest in our group was 8 and the oldest was 80.

So if you have the opportunity to go zip treking. DO!

Evening Bubbles July 13,2010

We had enjoyed dinner on our patio and were just hanging around watching Sam in his play fort and Bronwynne was enjoying running around playing fetch! Then Sam wanted to play with bubbles which was fine. Well then the yummy, dreamy light show up. I reached for my camera and voila!

PICS

Canoeing @ Pitt Lake July 13,2010

Darren had a few days off so we were trying to make the best of the wonderful weather. We decided to head out for a couples hours of canoeing. We loaded up with a lunch, extra clothes and towels. Cleaned up the canoe and loaded everybody up in the car.

Sam was very excited to head out for the afternoon. Now Bronwynne would have rather swam for the entire afternoon. We found a compromise for everyone and had a fantastic time.

PICS

Making Snakes July 9,2010

What do you do when it is too hot outside to play all day long. You make snakes! Yes I can't believe I said those words too! The past weeks it has been just lovely and I am very grateful but, one can not be out in the full sun all day long. Sam I have have been doing a variety of things and this craft was one of our latest.

I found this link and knew Sam would enjoy the activity and the results. So we set off to our local thrift store to find some snazzy ties. We had one more stop at the dollar store as I ran out of google eyes. Once we returned we got straight to work. We stuffed, stuffed took a little break, then continued stuffing. We selected the appropriate size eyes and I glued them and the snake tongue. I choose not to put a rattler in the tail for good reasons!

And if I say so myself they turned out fabulously! So welcome home Stefano and Sebastion.

More pics

Two Wheels June 29,2010

We managed another milestone at our house. We have taken off the training wheels of Sam's bike. Darren has been working up to this long awaited moment. Like most kids Sam can be gently nudged into a decision but not shoved. Darren has been mentioning for months that the training wheels were just getting in the way and Sam disagreed. So alas, Darren knew Sam was beyond ready and just removed the wheels. We had a moment of freak out but eventually it pass and now I have a little boy riding on his two wheels.

Funny moments like this make me remember the moment my Dad let go of me riding on my purple bike, riding up the street say I'm doing it!

So yay for Dad's! I hope Sam can treasure this moment like I do.

Couple of videos of the moment!


One more video that Darren compiled (password is Sam)

Sam on two wheels from Lisa Jarvis on Vimeo.

Preschool Grad June 25,2010

As this school year comes to a close it is the first of many for us. We are truly grateful to have been enrolled at Wind & Tide. Sam really found his voice and learned many new and exciting topics. We met and have been surrounded by wonderful new friends and fantastic teacher's. Words cannot express our gratitude for all that has been shared and expressed this year, we will treasure it all.

Our final day included enjoying three plays by all the children. Sam was a part of The Three Little Pigs, he was the big bad wolf! And did a great job! All the children participated in a few songs, we watched a video of all the years accomplishments and achievements. And finally all the children were called one by one and handed a preschool diploma, which was also a book of each of the months teachings.

A big thank you to Teacher Anne and Teach Bev for all that they have given.

More pics

Dad's 70th Birthday June 19,2010

We had the honour of celebrating my Dad's 70th birthday on Saturday. My Mom hosted a BBQ surrounded by friends and family to mark Dad's 70 years of youth. It was lovely to see everyone and do a little catch up in between the large amounts of food. The weather even decided to keep on keepin' on which was a blessing.

Happy Birthday and Happy Father's Day Dad! ENJOY!

More PICS

Girlz Weekend Whoo Whoo June 10-13,2010

I had the opportunity to head out with the girlz for a weekend away. We headed up to Osoyoos to stay at Spirit Ridge and enjoy relaxation and a few wine tours. I was picked up on Thursday evening and joined a van that was filling up quickly. Our friend Shannon was a final pick up and we were on our way. We arrived at our destination very late in the evening, some munching on some junk food and at little chat was had before we retired to bed.

I was schedualed to sleep in but awoke at 7:30am ready for the day. The girlz had some spa appointments throughout the morning. Leiko & I enjoyed a quick workout before the commencing of eating began. We chatted hung around, did our nails then headed in to town to a few boutiques. On the way back we pick up dinner at a local greek restaurant. In addition we swung by DQ for and ice cream cake to celebrate a year of birthdays between all of us. No sooner were we back in our room was the blender put to the test with a few batches of Margaritas. Laura was kind enough to supply a lovely bottle of champagne to ring in all of our well wishes and bless our group.

Laughter, tears and a wonderful evening followed. We even enjoyed the pool and hot tub in the later half of the evening.

The following morning we enjoyed some relaxing by the pool. Then we headed up to get ready for our late afternoon wine tour with our driver and tour guide Kent. We enjoyed a wide variety of wines and information about each winery. More laughter and fun followed the afternoon and early evening. When Kent returned us safe and sound, we made a quick change and refresh. We had reservations at the restaurant on site,delicious food was enjoyed by all of us. Then back to our room to get our yoga pants on as fast as possible!

Our final morning was spent lounging by the poolside prolonging our time to head back to reality.

MORE PICS

Overnight @ Ft. Casey May 20-21,2010

With the dollar being as good as has been we took the opportunity to head across the boarder to replenish Darren's wardrobe. We had a lovely time headed to Trader Joe's which I am in love with. Then did a bit of shopping at the Seattle Premium Outlet mall. Found a few items. As were we're heading home we remembered Mom & Dad were camping at Fort Casey. In a last minute decision we went to join them for the evening. Sam was pleased as couldn't wait to do an overnight of camping. We had a lovely time and the next day we managed to get in a little kite flying, rock searching and walking the grounds. Bronwynne was pleased as punch being able to go swimming and savoured every moment. On the way home yesterday evening the back seat was extremely quite.

Pond Field Trip May 19,2010

The weather was kind enough to hold off so Sam's preschool could venture out on a long awaited field trip. We were scheduled for a field trip last month but the weather was uncooperative. We were fortunate as the pond field trip was to be a public park. But one of the parents offered her property. The kids had a great time running, exploring and learning about all the living creatures amongst us. As usual the brilliant teachers were organized with multiple stations for the kids to try a variety of tasks and get their wheels turning. A lovely time was had by all and best of all Sam did not end up in the pond! YAY!

A little link for the pics

This and that!.... May 16,2010

Since we have returned to reality. It has been a slow process. Back to school, back to laundry and all of my other hobbies(cooking, cleaning etc. LOL).

We have been enjoying wonderful weather here so there has been no excuse not to get up and go. With gardening, organizing, hikes and walks. So that is exactly what we have been up to.

We have enjoyed dinners of Fondue, trying new recipes from The Pioneer Woman's cookbook, Ina Garten's cookbook Back to Basics .

Sam & had a chance to hang out at with the family at Uncle Dale's garage sale. We had lots of fun and feel blessed to be included in such activities.

We have been out on evening walks and hikes up to the Golden Ears Park. It is amazing that we have all of the many wonders at our finger tips. We underestimate what is right around the corner from us.

Since our return from Maui, Sam has enjoyed sporting googles in the tub as he can now hold his breath and place his face in the water.

Darren's toy headed to the garage for some much needed work and now Sam is safely able to ride in the back. We headed up the valley in search of a local dairy for some tasty ice cream. And the ride was lovely too!

Hope you have had a chance to enjoy some of our lovely weather too!

Maui Vacation April 22-30,2010

We had a chance to escape to paradise and we did. Darren called me from Toronto one day I was shopping at the Superstore mentioned a deal and the next thing we were packing. I feel so grateful to be able to take advantage of something like this.

Sam was more that pleased to be heading out on a vacation. He would see the items being piled up in the spare room ready for packing and eagerly try to assist. We purchased new swim trunks & swim shirt and he was pleased as punch.

We flew in during the day so we were able to see the beautiful blue, green waters, a true sight to see. During our search to find a place to stay we made many inquiries but one caught our attention so we made a reservation and that was that. And boy and I am glad we did. The location was wonderful, there were many pools to choose from and the room was gorgeous. I wouldn't hesitate to stay again, heck I found it hard to leave! The place was called the Honua Kai Resort.

When travelling with a four year old you never know what is going to happen or what they are truly going to enjoy. Well our vacation landed us at the Doctors, just to make sure Sam's nagging cough was not turning into anything we should be concerned about. And well the lovely pools were a hit, considering Sam didn't want to get his feet dirty with all that lovely sand! KIDS!

We of coarse made the best of all situations. We ate like kings. Relaxed and enjoyed the surroundings. Our travelling companions included my in laws who were kind enough to tolerate us. Sam was glad to have them swimming right along side of him especially when he put his face in the water, jumped in the water and just plain old floated in the water.

As usual more on the flickr

Working on a updated post. May 5,2010

Hello all,

Just wanted to let you know that I am working on a post and will be back in the next day.

In our part of the world...April 15,2010

In between Darren's crazy busy April schedule, he has been assembling a fort/play area for Sam. I give Darren credit as the weather has not been too agreeable for such activities. Especially since his days off have been very limited. But alas, the project is done and now we just need to work on getting gravel and the rest of the area complete. Sam is beyond excited. I think even the dog is excited knowing that we will all be out there together.

Playing catch up April 4,2010

I have to admit I have been getting a bit lazy here. Sorry if you have been checking in. I have been struggling to keep up with my photo a day in 365, but I forge on. Now that the weather seems to want to get better I am sure that I will be more inspired.

What we have been up to....

Well the regular stuff work, school, dog walks etc. Funny how I mention that I have been in a photography slump but it is the first reference I go to see what I have been doing! LOL!

Darren had this idea to create a play area for Sam and was planning and drawing ideas, but the play area in Costco grab our attention so in between work and this crazy weather he has been assembling. Sam is over the moon and can't wait for it all to be constructed. He is having a lot of fun being Daddy's helper though!

Sam had his end of the month party day. This month was music month and the artist was Kandinsky . I have to say all was well until they were almost finished their presentation and Sam fell apart crocodile tears were streaming down his cheeks. Still don't know what triggered it but after a few hugs from us and alot of coaxing he stayed for the rest of school which included an easter egg hunt!

We enjoyed an Easter dinner with my parents last night. A lovely turkey and all the tasty sides were there to be savoured!

Sam woke up to a trail of eggs and boy was he elated. He came bounding into our room with glee and excitement. After an extensive search to collect every last egg we sat down to a nice bowl of oatmeal! Something has to balance out all that sugar.

We hope you are enjoy your families! Happy Easter!