Eton Mess Dessert March 10,2010

As a part of March Madness I had planned on contributing a dessert, but as the day came upon me I decided not to. So I felt obligated to follow through and attempt this dessert for our dinner.

I began by making a pavlova. Once that had cooled I proceeded to whip my cream. I had cut and macerated my strawberries earlier that morning. So all ingredients were ready to go.

I broke up my pavlova and crumbled large pieces into a bowl. I spooned the strawberries and whipped cream a top the mixture and folded it together. Voila!

Recipe for Eton Mess

March Madness March 7,2010

If you haven't tuned in before and have no idea what I am making note of I will fill you in right now. March is a very busy month for our family we celebrate Mom & Dad's anniversary, Dale, Dave, Pauline & Rachel's birthdays.

Our regular custom is to gather everyone for a family meal and enjoy each other company. This year had a few twists. Mom & Dad were celebrating 45 years together in marriage and one of my brother in laws has moved. We were able to get together in his new residence which was a lovely change.

It was unfortunate that Darren was not home to enjoy the evening with us all. We dined on a tasty appetizer, and enjoyed a steak dinner to boot! Of coarse there was cake and ice cream which the kids were delighted to see.

We enjoyed moments to pay tribute to each of our honored guests. Our final presentation included adoration for 45 years of marriage. Mom & Dad reseated themselves and opened a card signed by all of us and our well wishes. And opened our gift that was expressly choosen with them in mind.

We hope and wish everyone health and happiness as they venture into another year of adventure and exploration.

More pics

Pre-spring weather February 25,2010

So with all of this unusually warm weather we got out to enjoy it before it changed it's mind. We loaded up the dog and kid with supplies(ball & chucker & bike). Our destination was the Delta bog, it is always a good walk/bike ride for all of us. We end up leaving refreshed end for Bronwynne tired. Sam has really embraced riding his bike and this is a win/win for us as we can actually cover some distance. The rain had passed by the time we arrived and Bronwynne and Sam exited the car with extreme enthusiasm. The walk was calming and enjoyable and I even managed to get a few shots.

Olympic Fever February 19,2010

Darren finally came home after a long pairing/training session in YYC. So we enjoyed a day together then planned a venture into Vancouver to get caught up in Olympic Fever. From the car ride to the sky train ride Sam was excited. We hopped on the skytrain and you could feel the buzz. Cowbells were resonating everywhere, a sea of red and white were blinding us! It was truly exciting, when we took the new Canada line right into the heart of the city it was great. We shuffled with the crowds here and there. Enjoyed free entertainment on the streets, saw where the news cast were being broadcast from, the sun was beaming everywhere we went. The Olympic cauldren was a sight to see even with the fence. We enjoyed our day milling from a variety of sights, it was truly entertaining and exciting to feel the spirit of the Olympics and how it has touch our city and our people.

When we returned to the car Sam fell right to sleep!

PICS FROM OUR DAY

Patriotic Post February 2010

The 2010 Olympics have commenced and we are all cheering. Sam & I were able to catch the opening ceremonies on Friday night and my heart filled with joy knowing this was all happening in our own backyard. Sam had many questions and I did my best to fill in the blanks. He enjoyed all of the entertainment but really enjoyed the music, dance and loved the different settings and holograms. I like many other Canadians have swelled with pride.

But amongst all of the sports activity going on here is the exposure of our great country. I have been fortunate to travel and live in different provinces and territories. I feel that if you have the chance and opportunity to experience the fresh sea air in Prince Edward Island, have lobster in Nova Scotia, see the sleeping giant in Thunder Bay, get caught up in the Calgary Stampede excitement, paddle a canoe in the light of the evening up north and hike in the lush green forests of British Columbia. Now this will never touch the surface of what our vast and wonderful country has to offer but if you have the chance to experience it get out there and do! Canada won't disappoint.

Hop to YYC! February 5-6,2010

Sam & I had the unique opportunity to hop on a plane to Calgary and check out the new airplane(Boeing 737-800 series) delivered to Westjet. They were holding an open house in the hanger for friends and family. I had been in contact with some friends of ours that reside in Calgary and happen to be fellow Westjetters. They extend and offer for Sam & I to spend the night and do a little catch up and also watch on a soccer game that their little guy was playing in on Saturday.

So we packed our bags, dropped off Bronwynne at Grandma & Papa's house and headed to the airport. Sam was just giddy and well so was I. We boarded the plane got comfortable and waited while the crew did their thing. While were were waiting I noticed what I thought was a familiar face. I questioned the flight attendant closest to me and she confirmed my thoughts. It was our friend Dan whom we were going to visit. She made a quick call to let him know we were on board. While he was making the welcome aboard announcement he went the extra mile and mentioned Sam & I. We were smiling from ear to ear in our seats.

Once we arrived we had time for a quick photo op with Dan in the flight deck then off to meet his family(Jodi & Taylor) at arrivals. And the way it all worked out Dan was able to head to the Westjet hanger to check out the new airplane with us as he had a few hours in between his next flight. I have to say not only were the kids in awe of this new plane so were us adults it was a wonderful opportunity for all of us to participate in this occasion.

After all the flurry of activity we headed back to their home and had a wonderful home cooked meal and enjoyed catching up.

The next morning we hung out had a lovely breakfast, then got ready to watch T's soccer game. Which they managed to win 29-2. We headed to the airport to catch our late afternoon flight and barely managed to squeeze on but all was well.

We picked up Bronwynne and had a lovely roast beef dinner with everyone. (Sorry Darren you missed out).

This was one of the best 24 trips! We are lucky!

Overdue post... still here... February 1,2010

Hello

Yes I am still here I apologize for not being more regular on the posting. I have been in a photography slump and it is easing it's way through. January has been mostly gray and cloudy with rain here and it begins to eat away at you every once and awhile.I feel like I could tackle many projects but can't get excited to start any of them. I am sure that something will give way and jump start my creative juices.

I have been considering many topics to discuss but one that seems to keep coming to a fore fronts is a cleansing of the mind if you will. I thought about this post at the beginning of the year, starting fresh and all but here we go. Throughout my days I often wonder how and what people are doing that I have crossed pathes with. Throughout our lives I am sure that there are many growing moments and moments you would like to take back if you could. I have a few that replay in my head every so often. And so at this time I wish to apologize to a few people whom I think I have offended over the years. Carole O'Connell,Laura Vanin, Leiko Ejima and Cindy Rukavina. I don't expect anything to come of this little post except to say that I was incorrect in situations and I hope that they will forgive me for that.

On to what I have not been blogging about and well you know it is Sam. This month at school they have been talking about space and we had a space day which I did manage to mention. Friday was party day at school where they get to share what they have learned about and sing a few songs. Sam did well, I do however wish he could continue to stand on the line that the rest of the kids manage to stay on. He has a few day dreamy moments but carries on.

Sunday found Sam heading out with Auntie Karen & Sarah for a movie at the theater. Rumor has it that he did well except for one moment of and out loud scream of concern for the character. Later that afternoon Sarah stayed and hung out with Sam for a few hours, he had a blast pretending to look for hammy the hamster(pretend) which he got for xmas(by the way if and when we find him we must throw him out as he contains lead and there has been a recall on them Zhu Zhu).

Well I hope this finds you and your families doing well and keeping busy. I promise to post more often and hope that you will stick around too.

Space Day January 20,2010

Space day had finally arrived all the kids in preschool were elated as the conditions of the day were that they were all to wear their pajamas to school, bring a blanket and a flashlight. I had offered to help with a couple of the other Mom's we were in charge of making the pancakes while the kids learned about space and the planets. By the time the pancakes were served the kids were in fine form. They all enjoyed their pancakes and juice and after the clean up I grab a delightful coffee and scone at a local coffee shop with Mary one of the other Moms. A day well spent!

Of coarse more snaps in my flickr

Cute website January 16,2010

My Stick Family from WiddlyTinks.com

Birthday Dinner for Grandpa J January 10,2010

We hosted a birthday dinner in honor of Dad/Grandpa J. We were missing a few kids last night but overall had a great turn out. Once everyone had arrived we were able to sit down and enjoy our lovely dinner. I made Michelle's Dijon Chicken, with a recipe of Roasted potatoes, accompanied by a new recipe Easy Bake Vegetable Twist. Plates were cleaned translating to the dinner has turn out serve desert! I served two cakes one was a Cinnamon pull apart bread and the second was a Gram's Best Brown Sugar Cake, both items were well received and I would make them again.

More pictures in the FLICKR

Michelle's Dijon Chicken

Mix:
1 jar course grain mustard
juice of three lemons
2 cups of water
4 tbsps of garlic powder (not salt)

Put chicken pieces( bone in ) in the baking dish and pour sauce over

Bake at 375 degrees for approx 1-2 hours. If too dry add more water part way through.

Enjoy!

Steak & Guinness Pie January 2,2010r

Our day was full of busy activity. One of our stops was by Grandma & Papa's place to return the truck which we had borrowed. Well one thing let to another, we were asked to stay for dinner. Darren had loosely mentioned that he was going to make a Steak & Guinness pie this week for dinner. We had a few more errands to do and when we returned we came to discover Grandma making Steak & Guinness Pie! YUMMY! We helped do some of the prep and then enjoyed a very delicious meal. This is a must try.

(ps click on link for recipe used)

Happy New Year

If you make it through this I owe a drink.

Happy New Year, all the best to you and your familes.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Scooter Boy November 27,2009

IMG_0033
Originally uploaded by planejayne72

Sam received a new scooter from Auntie Karen & Sarah for Christmas, which came in handy as he also received a new helmet from Daddy. We tried both items out today and they are a hit!

Merry Christmas and much more... December 24-25,2009

Sending Merry Christmas wishes to each and everyone. It has been a busy few days around here. Darren, Sam & I have not been well so we have been moving at half speed we are on the mend slowly but surely. We spent Christmas eve at Darren's family's house it was tons of fun and when we were surrounded with family it was a little easier to feel a bit better. We had a lovely evening and everyone was blessed with laughter and too many gifts.

Christmas morning had us slowly making our way down stairs to see if Santa had come to visit us and he had indeed. Sam was fortunate to have a new hockey net and hockey sticks for him and Darren to play with we had a leisurely morning and enjoyed a overnight french toast once we had completed our gift sharing. After breakfast we go to work stuffing our turkey, prepping our food. We had time to get dressed in our play clothes and head out for a quick match of hockey to try out the new supplies. Auntie Karen was kind enough to stop in and pass the ball around too!

The evening brought my side of the family minus Papa as he was not feeling too well. So we proceeded with our turkey dinner and many deserts.Karen & Darren ate their traditional one brussel sprout moment. We also shared more lovely gifts. Overall a special first Christmas in our new home was had!

We are very blessed and hope that you had your own special moments too!

You will find and assortment of pictures in my Flickr if you wish to check them out.

Sleep over @ Auntie Karen's December 19-20,2009

While Darren & I enjoyed an evening up at Grouse Mountain. Sam spent the evening with Auntie Karen & Sarah. I am assuming fun was had by all as Sam didn't even want to come home the next day. While Sam was with Auntie Karen & Sarah they all went to visit Santa. I have to say with such shock not only did Sam visit with Santa he sat with Sarah and had his picture taken. I say shock because earlier in the month he was telling me it is Daddy's Christmas and that was that. Well I guess fresh people to a situation and all is well. He had a nice chat and spoke of a hockey net that he might be wanting. Now we wait and see whether he had been bad or good?

Thanks again to Auntie Karen & Sarah!

In addition to picking Sam up on Sunday I asked to be a part of Karen's bake exchange as goodies from my exchange were already eaten up. So I baked my five dozen cookies printed out my recipe and headed over for a lovely time. Thanks ladies for letting me participate and a big thank you for more yummy baking! Delicious!

Wedding of Greg & Bev December 19,2009

On Saturday we had the honor of attending at wedding at Grouse Mountain. An evening event was planned and all went well. The lights of the city shone in the distance, snow fell and Greg & Bev exchanged vow in the beautiful Timber Room at the lodge. The bride was adorned a platinum gown as the groom was sporting his dapper military suit. We had the chance to meet many new people who had flown from around North America to attend the nuptials. We dinned on fondue both for our main coarse and desert. A lovely evening was had by all. All the best to Mr. & Mrs. Zweng!

More Pictures

First Christmas Concert December 18,2009

We attended Sam's first Christmas concert. It was truly a sight to see. I am sure all of you parents can identify with all the feelings I was having as they commenced the concert. In my head I was chanting do what you practiced, stay still and enjoy! Well he did what he practiced to a degree, stayed still for most of it, and he surely enjoyed himself and so did we.

Sam's role was a shepherd and his duties included sharing the messaged that Jesus was born and blowing his horn, and his final task was to clean the barn where he was born. These little moments were great well until he was jumping around while they sang Jingle Bells. All ended well and I am grateful that Darren & I could both attend together.

Hope all of your concerts and pageants have gone as planned.

Smile December 15,2009

This post just made me SMILE(click on link then look for handbells improv).

Busy, busy and fun, fun! December 6,2009

So here I sit with a glass of wine wrapping up our busy but very fun weekend. Friday was Sam's actual birthday. Four years ago I gave birth to my miracle baby at 12:15pm, all nine pounds of him(yes it was a blessing he was breach). Darren & I are very grateful for every moment Sam is in our world even the not so good ones.

So Fridays activities included making gingerbread house at school, which I was fortunate to volunteer to assist that day. It was wonderful to see all the children take something very cookie cutter and place their own personal, creative touches on.

Saturday became slightly more hectic as I had offered my services to host our annual bake exchange. Our day began with a regular trip to my favourite place COSTCO, to pick up the remaining didn't know I would needed items. Then back to prepare for the Delta girls gathering. Darren was kind enough to take Sam and a couple buddies to the Santa Claus parade, to give us ladies a few hours alone. You know to giggle and talk about our husbands(come on you know it happens LOL). I can speak for myself that I was honored to have this group of friends in for a evening I feel very blessed to have each and everyone of them in my life!

Sunday also began with a jump start as I invited our buddies, family and more friends in for an 11:00 am open house/4th birthday party. Again we are privileged to have surrounded ourselves with such fabulous people to make such an event go very smoothly and enjoyably.

Thank you to all who send birthday wishes to Sam and to all whom attended this weekend activities!

SMOOCHES!

A walk in the crisp morning air December 3,2009

This morning after our coffee & breakfast and a few items on our to do list we all headed out for a lovely walk. I love days like this crisp air, tons of sunshine what more could someone ask for on a fall day. We headed out to our new regular haunt Derby Reach.

Bronwynne ran, fetched and swam in the very cool waters. Sam wanted to play tag and well I got to take some pictures because the sun was shining! Yay. It is always nice when Darren is home we all smile just a little more.

Hockey on the street! November 26,2009

Sam has recently been bitten by the hockey bug. He was intrigued at our last house as I purchased some hockey sticks his size but cannot wait for Darren to come home from work so they can head outside and pass the ball around. Our dilema seems to be that the dog ball is the same as the hockey ball and the numbers are running low a trip to Canadian Tire to stock up is in order for sure.

MORE PICTURES

A ride to school November 23,2009

On another rainy day here we found ourselves on the way to school.I turned around to answer a quick question to find this cute kid in the back seat! Some days I wonder could it get any better!

Sam has had a touque fetish since our kind nieghbour has knitted yet another set for Sam. I find him at all times of the day and night sporting such accessory.

Here's hoping the sun finally comes out to visit us!

Girlz night November 14,2009

The girls got together last night for the evening. Words can not express how much fun we had. We were missing one of our friends due to the flu but hope that she is on the mend. Laughter and more laughter was on the agenda for the evening. It is always lovely to see each other and catch up on our lives. I feel so grateful knowing I have these ladies on my side!

New Hat November 10,2009

Well not only have we moved into a safe & wonderful house, we apparently gain more great neighbours. Our new neighbour not only confided that she enjoys knitting but she whipped up a hat in one evening and delivered it tonight for Sam. How lucky are we?

A few more pics

Fall Wreath November 9,2009

So in between painting and unpacking a few stray boxes we gathered some fall leave and made a wreath. Isn't that what you do on a Friday night? LOL!

So Darren, Sam & I sat on the kitchen floor gather leaves in small bunches to form this nice full wreath. I am pleased with the outcome and next year I would try and do two. If you are wondering where I borrowed this fantastic idea.