Day Six: Favourite Song (and no its not Super Freak)

I'm kind of looking forward to getting past the first 3rd of this challenge as so many of the questions are about 'favourites' and I have a hard enough time deciding what I'm going to wear in the morning and although I do have a lot of clothes, I don't have nearly as many clothes as I do choice in music, food, movies or books.

I'm not the only one with more than a few favourite songs.  I think we all have a certain song or two, when upon hearing it will be transported back to a moment in time that we had forgotten all about.  Last year when I was home with mom for her lumpectomy, I introduced Stacy to Florence and the Machine.  One of my all time favourite songs from last year is this amazing band's 'You've Got the Love'.  We listened to that song so much that it reached a point where if I began to belt out the opening line, Stacy would follow with the 2nd verse and before long, Mom was piping in with the verse 'you've go the love I need to see me through...'  The song was meaningful for so many reasons and I will always smile when I hear it.  Always. 

Mr. Jones by Counting Crows always takes me back approximately 17 years ago to a fun night at a friends house, one where my sister had unexpectedly joined us.  Tawny was never a very big party girl (not in my presence anyway) and I can still remember her sitting on the couch, drink in hand chatitng with whomever was next to her; when the opening bars of this song began to play, she started swaying to the music and singing along and from that moment seemed more at ease and began to start enjoying herself. I love that song if for no other reason than it makes me think of her.

You just need mention 'Faith' by George Michael and I feel like calling my friend Cat.  That's a story for just me and her though ;)

As with my sister's favourite choice in song for her challenge over at  Five Days in May, Blue Rodeo is and always has been one of my favourite groups.  I adore Jim Cuddy's voice and can listen to him for hours.  A few of my best loved songs are sung by this guy.  My most favourite though, hands down, is Bad Timing.  I adore this song. For many different reasons.  As soon as I hear the opening bars, the hair on my arms stand up. It's beautiful and special to me for a variety of reasons.

Two other songs that tie for second place are:  Concrete Blonde's 'Joey' and Live's 'Lightening Crashes'.

Day Five: Favourite Food

Ok... I'm going to make this one relatively short. I love food. You put almost anything in front of me and I'm going to eat it, with the exception of a few foods you couldn’t tempt me to eat, not for $1000… like foie gras for instance. No way, uh uh. I feel bad enough at times that I’m an eater of meat but I do have my limitations. Oh, and I won’t eat liver or any other organs. Yuck.

I prefer foods that are healthier for you and don’t leave you feeling stuffed and uncomfortable like salads and grilled vegetables, however sometimes I just love a plate of fish and chips.

Andy and I love to travel and one of the best parts of travelling is trying international foods. I love just about anything Mediterranean, especially Greek food. Slouvaki, Stifado, olives, hummus, feta you name it. I love it and nothing beats sitting in a taverna in Greece sipping on a cold Mythos and eating olives and Greek salad.

I haven’t yet been to Thailand but it ranks high on my list of places to see. And boy will I have myself a good time whilst there, trying out all the cuisine on offer. Oh boy. I’m drooling just thinking of it. Andy and I must seriously consider this amazing country as soon as possible.

Ok… I know as usual I’m supposed to only name one, which is just ridiculous. So, I have to say that my favourite foods are as follows:

Stir Fry (just about any) and Thai Green Curry with Chicken or Shrimp

Of course, you give me a dish of homemade guacamole, made from a recipe my sister Tawny originally shared, (it’s thick and chunky), a bowl of home-made pita chips and a glass of wine and I couldn’t be happier.

My little sister took me to an incredible restaurant when I was last in Nova Scotia, called the Wooden Monkey. We had this and it was absolutely To.Die.For

Spicy stirfry made with vegetables and tofu

Back on Baby Duty

In doing this 30 Day Challenge, I’m being neglectful of other events that have been happening; like the birth of my beautiful niece Daisy, who was born on 7th February and is absolutely beautiful; I have yet to post a photo of our little beauty (on this site anyway) which is tardy of me. I’ve been lucky enough to have spent time with her on three separate occasions, despite being a 1.5 hour drive away. Alison and Scott are coming up again on Sunday and Ali and the baby will spend three nights with us. This is the second time they have come for a few days, and although I have to work everyday this time around, I don’t mind because I pretty much get to be on baby duty after I get home and have fed everyone.
 

Daisy Amber

I love helping out and spending time with this little darling throughout the night, feeding her and seeing her off to sleep. And because it’s not a permanent situation I don’t worry so much about being tired. It’s worth it to spend time with the baby as well as give her tired mama a break.

When Alison announced she was pregnant one of the first things she said to me was that she wanted to ‘share’ this baby with me. I was touched and honoured and understood why she was saying this to me although I didn’t set my heart on it too much as a lot of women expect to be a certain way with their first born, however it doesn’t always turn out that way. So far, Ali has proven true to her word. She and Scott have said that after themselves, they want me to be the most predominant person in Daisy’s life and they know they can count on me to help out in anyway I can. (Both sets of Grandparents live over an hour away; Scott’s parents are in ill health, and Wendy and Dave, although delighted to share in all of Daisy’s experiences, aren’t up to chasing toddlers around.) I’ve already been booked for a weekend in April, and again in November and can’t wait for all the times in between. It’s lovely that Wendy is only up the road and I can take the baby for a walk to Grandma’s in the pram.

I’m blessed enough to have two small nieces and one little nephew, (and of course there is the almost grown up Jake), however because our gorgeous Clara lives nearly 5000 miles away and little Archie is looked after by his mama’s side of the family, I don’t get to have as close a bond with them as I would have liked.

Jake and his little brother Archie

Our beautiful Clara modelling her UK fashion :)

The love will be no more or no less but I’m so pleased and excited to finally have a little child in my life again that I get to help take care of on a regular basis. 

Day Four: Favourite Book

For any of you who know me well you know that I read.  A lot.  Both mom and dad are avid readers;  mom read to all of us children from the very beginning and because of this we are a family of readers. I've been reading novels since I was approximately eight years old.  I think I'd finished nearly every Nancy Drew book by the time I was ten and of course I loved the Beverly Cleary books based on Henry Higgins and Ramona.  Of course as I grew older I moved on to more racy authors like Judy Blume and VC Andrews. It's a rare day when I haven't read at least one chapter out of whatever book I might be reading.   I don't go anywhere without a book in my bag.  Ever.  As seems to be the pattern with this challenge, I don't have just one favourite book but because I have to pick one, I chose this one:

I first read this book because it was a course requirement in grade nine.  I thought it would be on par with every other boring book we used to have to endure at school however I was sorely mistaken.  I was engrossed from the first chapter and remember reading it even when I was over at my best friend's house, hanging out in her room while she was preoccupied with talking to some boy on the phone.  Yup.. I'm serious.  It affected me deeply way back when, and it still does, every time I read it.

Of course, I love just about anything by Ken Follett and a couple of my very favourite books are written by him:

 

Ken has an amazing way of imparting very important historical moments in a fictional story that captivates me throughout the whole book.  Better than any history lesson I've ever sat through.

Oh, and give me any Penny Vincenzi, especially 'The Best of Times'

Here are just a few other of my favourite books:  Are You There God, It's Me Margaret, The Bridges of Madison County, The Time Travellers Wife, Sunshine and The Book of Negroes.

I could go on forever, honestly. But I will spare you the tedium... and only because I'm considerite about these things. 

I don't think I will reach my 52 books in 52 weeks goal this year, but that doesn't mean I won't try. 

Day 3: Favourite Musician

Questions about music are almost on par with favourite movies when it comes to the level of difficulty for answering. I know most people have at least one or two individual artists or bands that they are absolutely nuts about, without doubt. God forbid you ever say a word against these musical geniuses, rock legends or whatever you want to call them, because they are iconic God’s in many a person’s mind. Like Duran Duran used to be for me many years ago. And fair enough. However I don’t have one group that I’m passionate about above all others. I love many different artists for various reasons.

I’m going to break away for a moment to share with you something that annoys the hell out of me when it comes to the music world. Groups such as The Wanted, The Backstreet Boys or Girls Aloud are constantly referred to as Boy/Girl Bands and I don’t get it. You never see these ‘bands’ playing an instrument. Sure they sing, they might sometimes even toss out an interesting dance move or two, but I thought a ‘band’ pertained to musicians who actually play instruments, not just sing and dance… bands such as the Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi or Doughtry. I can only assume that they chose to use the word ‘band’ as Boy Band sounds more catchy than Boy Group.

I have always most admired musicians who can not only play an instrument and sing extremely well but whom also write their own music or lyrics. If you are on stage singing songs that other people wrote and dancing to choreography put together by someone else then you are just a singer/entertainer. Period. And I’m sorry, but some of these so called entertainers can’t even sing overly well… entertainers like Brittany Spears. How she could ever be compared to an actual singer like Christina A is beyond me (I only use this example as I know they have been compared in the past). Sorry if this upsets you and you decide not to come back, but so be it; if this is the case then you have terrible taste in music and it’s just as well that we part ways now ;)

Some of my all time favourite musicians are: Alanis Morrisette, Three Doors Down, Blue Rodeo, Fleetwood Mac, The Guess Who and Jimmy Rankin. More recently, Paolo Nutini and Mumford and Sons have caught my attention in a big way. I absolutely love their albums. Although he got his start from American Idol, I love Chris Doughtry. Jack Johnson, James Blunt, Ingrid Michaelson and yes, Tim McGraw and Brooks & Dunn (I am a country girl at heart after all) are always on my playlists. I’ve come to love a group introduced to me by my sisters, Vampire Weekend – they have a fantastic sound to run to at the gym. Hey Rosetta is quickly winning me over as well.

It should come as no surprise that Pink holds the position as runner up to my most favourite musician at the moment:

Adele.

I honestly don’t think I need to explain my reasons for this. Especially if you have listened to her new album (21), witnessed her performance on the Brit Awards or heard her in the BBC Radio 1 Live Lounge. And I’m proud of the fact that I’ve loved this musician from her first release a few years back, not just since she has sky-rocketed into fame after performing Someone Like You at the Brit Awards. She is one talented lady with a huskily amazing voice to match.

Oh, and I don’t think anyone could No one could ever say my taste in music wasn’t eclectic.

Day Two: Favourite Movie*

These questions are never easy for me.  I mean honestly, how are you supposed to pick just one?  I've been thinking of this answer off and on most of the night.  Would I go with my all time favourite movie from when I was much younger?

The problem is there were two movies I watched at least 10 times over, if not many more:

and

I love both of these for various reasons. 

Stand by Me because its a damn good film and not just because I had a major crush on both Kiefer Sutherland and River Phoenix when I was younger.  It's just a very good film.  The acting was superb especially when you consider the cast consisted of predominately teenagers.

and

The Princess Bride... well I love the quirky spin on this story about true love, princesses and torture.  I can tell you what most of the characters are going to say before they say their lines themselves. I love it that much. 

I have also read both books these movies are based on... again, more than once.  

If it came down to it though, I would have to say the winner for my all time favourite is Stand By Me. 

A few other movies that stand at the top of my list:

Sense & Sensibility

The Shawshank Redemption

Pulp Fiction

The Bridges of Madison County

Reservoir Dogs

Iris

Burn After Reading

The Truman Show

Gladiator

The Usual Suspects

Bruce Almighty

Notting Hill

Seven

Crash

The Lost Boys

Thelma & Louise

The Mexican

Pretty Woman  

What's Eating Gilbert Grape (I forgot to mention Johnny Depp as one of my fav actors in my first post)

and of course more recently:

The King's Speech and 127 Hours

I'll jump on board with this too

My sister over at Five Days in May has decided to do the 30 Day Challenge.   I think its a good idea as it will keep things light, and possibly open up the lines for discussion or even encourage a few of you to do this yourselves.  I wasn't going to proceed at first because some of the questions will be difficult to answer, as will finding the time.  However it wouldn't be called the 30 Day Challenge if it was going to be easy to come up with answers, find pictures, etc.  It would be called the 30 Day Ride in the Park.  So I will give it a go.  I can't promise to commit to 30 days in a row (unlike when I did my 30 Day Shred) as I have a few events coming up that will take me away for a few days at a time, however I will not quit until I've done the whole challenge.  If nothing it will up the number of posts I do this year because I've been sadly negligent so far.

So here goes nothing:

* Day One:  Favourite Actor

Most of you who know me well will probably expect me to say Brad Pitt. I even expect me to say Brad Pitt.  I've been watching this man from the beginning in such films as A River Runs Through It and Thelma and Louise.  (Both excellent movies) 

Brad has been in some amazing films throughout his career and I'm not ashamed to say I've watched most of them.  However, I won't go see a movie just because he is the head-liner.  So I have to pause and think of which actor is most likely to motivate me enough to see a film for the sheer fact that he is in it and the result is:

Oh who the hell am I trying to kid?  

It's still Brad Pitt.

Lame I know.  But I can't lie to you or myself.  There are so many wonderfully talented actors out there; ranking high on my list are Colin Firth (amazing), Bruce Willis (I don't feel any need to explain this one), Ed Norton, Kiefer Sutherland (one of my all time favourites), John Malkovich, and Morgan Freeman (for that voice if nothing else).

Brad isn't even a player in most of my favourite movies.  But there it is...  Brad Pitt.  His acting has been less than stellar in a few movies like Troy (but if he takes off his shirt I tend to lose sight of the acting ability, and yes, I am that shallow). When I think of some of the amazing roles he's excelled at, in films such as Burn After Reading, Fight Club, Ocean's 11, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and there you have my answer.  Plain and simple.  And as mentioned in my Troy blurb... he's pretty.  And we know how I am when it comes to the pretty fellas; especially ones who can act with or without their shirt.

It's probably for the best that I won't have to deal with this at 60 (see, there is always a silver lining)

Last night I got really angry and upset and posted about my frustration with our 18 year old. I took the post off this morning as I didn’t really mean it. Well at the time I did however it wasn’t the proper forum for venting my anger at the stressed out and obnoxious teenager that is currently residing in the bedroom next to mine. I’ve pretty much shied away from posting about the trials of having an 18 year old, very strong willed, coming of age man in the house. One who knows everything so there is no need to try to convince him otherwise; forget about trying to point out alternative avenues to assist him achieve his goals in life and ease some of his burden. However this post isn’t really about him, it’s more about how we try and deal with the emotional luggage. Especially when one moment he is coming to me and spilling his heart out over his angst with a certain girl and the mess that is resulting from said relationship. I listen and advise and cross my fingers that he will make the right decision, however he has to walk his own road and I try not to be too opinionated. I just want him to know we will be waiting for him at the end of the road, no matter what the result. Then on a night like last night after the absolute horrid attitude he gives me, I find it hard to remember a goal I set out for myself during a particularly trying time that was occurring just before Christmas.

I continuously try and remind my husband that he shouldn’t feel so disappointed or let down by the sudden change in his eldest son’s behaviour. Kids go through all kinds of stages. Last July was a real turning point in our relationship with him though and as I mentioned, just before Christmas I’d decided I was done feeling exasperated and annoyed all the time – that was so 2010 and I’ve moved on. I’d decided that if he wants to play in the adult world he has to respect that he will be treated as an adult in all aspects of life, not just the ones he deems appropriate. (Call me hard if you will, I can take it.) However at the same time, it can be very difficult to turn on that 'hard' switch, especially when the 18 year old and I share the odd tender moment that used to be much more commonplace only a year ago. It's even harder to try and live by this motto when his dad and I are trying hard to respect the agreement we arrived at with him a few months ago, yet the lad seems to have forgotten his end of the deal. I’m tired of hearing that I’m ‘moaning’ at him all the time, when all I do is sometimes point out that he isn’t the only one that lives in our house. I’m not about riding kids all the time, however sometimes the boundaries are stretched to the limit and its time to say something. But boy can that kid exaggerate. If one listened to him you’d think I was nagging at him from morning to night, and that is so not the case. However I will spare you the examples as I do have to think of his privacy. See… I’m not that bad. Of course this doesn’t stop me from having a moan to my family, I do need some kind of outlet or one day I might explode. And who wants to clean up that mess?

I know that most parents go through various types of stress during all stages of their children’s lives, especially during the teenage years. You only need ask my mother, who was cursed blessed to have five children, three of whom were all teenagers at once (poor mom). But think about it… at least most parents have had the optimism of planning for and welcoming their children into the world.

A year and a half ago I had the pleasure of sharing in my sister’s joy as she grew ever more pregnant with Clara; I eagerly awaited photos and news of her ever expanding belly and loved chatting with her over how she was taking care of herself, and ultimately her baby. We talked about the impending birth and although it was a bit daunting, it was so exciting because at the end of it all she was going to have a beautiful little baby in her arms that would bring so much light to not only her life, but to all of ours. And how she does.

And now this year the same has happened with my sister-in-law, and once again I have welcomed another beautiful baby niece, Daisy into our family.

I know a lot of new mothers (and fathers) are tired, and that they worry about everything from childcare and sleeping/eating habits to the colour of their child’s poop. (Should it really be that colour green?) Yet this is what children bring – a life time of worry, but a whole world of joy (if you are lucky).

Like my sister(s), I'm sure most of you thought very carefully about and looked forward to the birth of your own child. You got to experience the expectation of a new baby and later of bringing that child home with you. Yes it might have been a shock at first even if you had nine months to get everything ready, but we all know that for most people it is a life changing experience when you first bring a baby home. Yet at the same time you have enjoyed all the little joys and milestones that go with having a new baby and small child. Even though there are plenty of difficult and scary moments, you still get to see that child grow and develop as they smile and toddle around your home. Never mind all the wonderful little cuddles.

Not me... I missed the bus and got morphed into a life with three children who were already past the first grade stage. Luckily for me the youngest was still pudgy with baby fat and so very adorable (for the most part, he still is) although he was only in our home periodically when I first moved here. There are all kinds of benefits to being a step-mom, especially one as hands on as I’ve been. Often the pro’s out weight the cons. But not lately.

I don’t want you to think that this post is about the fact that I don’t have a baby of my own, or is a whinge about having teenage step-children. It’s not. I'm ok now with not having my own baby. I just want those of you with babies and young children to cherish the moments you have with them because when they are older and being very hard on your head, it might help to save your sanity by being able to look back and remember the cherished moments you’ve had with your child; a time when they were grateful for what you could give them and didn’t have expectations of you that far exceed every boundary ever written. It might help during the moments when you would be very happy to vacate the premises permanently. Or worse, when you are up in the middle of the night wondering where they are because they couldn't be bothered to send you a text letting you know they weren't coming home. It’s so exhausting for parents to be kept awake all night by babies who need to be fed, or children who are ill, but at least those children are safe with you at home and look at you like you are the most important person to them in the whole world (because you are). I’ve never experienced this, yet I know it happens; I’ve seen it and have heard most of you talk about it. So cherish it because how the situation changes when they are almost grown and are out at all hours of the night, speak to you like you are dirt, assume the world revolves around them and that your only purpose is be their personal maid, cook and bank machine while not being allowed to have any expectations of them. And when they do show you a glimpse of the kid they used to be and want to open up about their life, you grab on like a starving man drinking water from a dirty puddle of water.

I didn’t get the pleasure of having a baby of my own but I got all the ‘joys’ that come with raising kids and today I wish I had a photo of my chubby baby boy to look back on and ask ‘what the hell happened to my sweet little child?’ . I’m not so cocky or naive enough to think I wouldn’t be going through this if he was born of my own flesh… most kids go through this stage no matter who births/raises them. I know this will pass, I just hope it’s before my husband and I decide to move and forget to tell him where we are going.

Did You Miss Me?

Looking back I'm surprised that I've been away for nearly a month; in some ways it feels like only yesterday that I was celebrating my birthday.  In other ways it seems an eon ago as so much has happened in between then and now.  I had got to thinking when I was visiting home that I should probably do a post or two to let you all know what I'd been getting up to and show off some of the  photos I'd been taking.  However, I was too busy going to the gym nearly every day, either with my sister or mom, and in between we just had lots of down time hanging out at the house watching Private Practice, playing cards or Yatzee and basically just soaking up every moment we could with my mom, sister and brother.  Stacy and I had a fantastic time one evening just trying on dresses and prancing around in high heels to the great amusement of our mother.  She said it was music to her heart to see and hear us having so much fun 'being girls'.  I won't mention the fun we had messing around with one of mom's wigs... I'm sure they must have heard our shrieks of laughter back here in England.  We rocked that wig and I promise you photos in another post (even though many of you who are my friends on Facebook will already have been privy to these). 

Because I was only home for two weeks, the time passed way to quickly.  Then again, doesn't it always when you are having fun? My brother had some time off which was great as always, Dad managed a few days at home.  Of course I saw lots of my aunts and uncle;  I didn't see Dawn nearly enough, but enjoyed the few times we did meet up and shared a good, hard laugh as we often do when together:

Stace and I with our sister from another mister :)

I managed to take in four films whilst away  and enjoyed them all;  I won't forget the night we took in a   double feature during a blizzard with my brother, sister and dear friend Jeff.  But why not have an adventure when you are in a location that is equipped to handle so much snow and its only once every few years that I'm even home in winter?

Nova Scotia had plenty of snow during my stay and on my last day Stacy and I went out to play. And play we did... like a couple of kids.  It wasn't long before we were joined by my cousin Wayne and his twin boys, Lucas and Brendan.   The snow was thigh high in places which made the maneuvering hard for the twins seven year old legs, however they showed no fear or hesitation when it came to jumping off the deck into the drifts.  Seems like I was the only one who was slightly nervous.  At least I jumped though, Wayne didn't :)

I have loads of other stuff to share with you and promise to do so in the coming days.  I don't want to put it all in one post as a) I often struggle to find something interesting to tell you and for once have some posts 'stored' up and b) it would take you an hour to read if I spilled it all tonight (providing it even kept your interest).

So I leave you with a few of my favourite photos from that last 'snow' day and promise to be back soon... unless one post is enough for you that is :)

My beautiful, amazing baby sister

Jumpers!  Stace and the Twin Tornadoes!

Sisters!

Altogether now! I did jump, really :)

Happiness :)

I can't believe how long these horses have been around :) It wouldn't be home withouth looking out the back window and seeing them.

On turning 30-Old... (38)

Last night I went out with Beryl, my mum-in-law and another friend for a pre-birthday dinner to one of my favourite wine bars. I indulged in scallops a chocolate dessert and glass of wine – and why not?


The last couple of weeks haven’t been the easiest, in terms of what’s been going on in the lives of those I care about. As well, many of my friends/family have been suffering from the bout of flu that has been making the rounds and everybody has been more or less laying low. Andy spent most of the weekend lounging on the couch or bed, too poorly to do much else.

Tonight I think it’s more than just me who is looking forward to heading up to the local pub to enjoy a meal and have a few drinks. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate my birthday really, low key and unassuming.

So far today I have already been spoiled. I won’t lie and say that I don’t enjoy this day that I was born, a long time ago in the post era of free-love (even if it means I’m getting older). I like the extra attention: all the lovely cards and good wishes. Although I don’t expect any, the little gifts I receive are a great treat especially so soon after Christmas. Each year I’m truly surprised over how many people make a fuss over me. I’m really a very lucky girl. I know this without a doubt.

And on Saturday I fly home where I get to enjoy an extended birthday with my family (I always seem to be able to drag my birthday out over more than one day – it’s so much better that way). My family and I aren’t only going to be celebrating my birthday but the fact that my mother has made it through this year and is healthy, when it could have turned out so differently. (And we can’t forget my baby sister’s awesome achievement – I’m not sure if I will even recognize her after such a major weight loss!) I have so many people to give big hugs to on this trip home… I can’t wait. But I think I’ve said that already.

Most of my birthdays are good ones, but this year is gearing up to be a great one – I have so much to be grateful for.

So yes, I’m 30-Old today but that’s ok. I’m not forty yet.

Elaine

She was clever and quirky;  you would want her on your team in a pub quiz, hands down;  I don't know anyone who could unscramble a puzzle faster than she.

If a good looking man came within radius, boy did we know about it.  Her dog never listened to her but loved her without doubt.  You never knew what was going to come out of her mouth next.

I'm going to miss our summer afternoons in her back garden drinking diet coke and watching the dogs play while we talked about the simple things in life.

Today we said goodbye.

\

I'll miss you dear friend, more than you would have known. 

I'll choose a book everytime

I started my 50th book, 'Last Night In Twisted River' by John Irving, the week leading up to Christmas.  Because it was such a busy holiday season full of last minute Christmas shopping, meal planning and gift wrapping, I didn't have a whole lot of extra time to read.   Also, during Christmas I like to spend my spare time watching Christmas movies and drinking a lot of wine.  I will not deny it.

Last Night in Twisted River was a well written and captivating book, like most by Irving. I had so wanted to finish it by the end of the year though, which would have closed my 'So Far So Shelved 2010' list at an even 50 rather than 49.  Seriously, how unimpressive is that number? (Unless of course it has a one in front of it and is the weight my dream scales tell me I am).  I was hoping that my list would have topped out at a whopping and much more impressive 80, however I won't dwell on it, as my realistic goal at the beginning of 2010 was 52. My reasoning behind this was that early on in the year I was averaging about one book per week (even though some weeks I was reading more).  When you do the math, I should have completed 52 in total. 

This year, I may be able to do it, however I've started 2011 with this whopper of a beauty:

At approximately 1000 pages it might take me a little longer than a week;  however Ken has  away of pulling me so deeply into his narrative that I often end up reading his epic novels faster than a bog standard 400 pager.

The only trouble with this ginormous, hard-backed beauty is that it doesn't make bathtub reading easy, and that my dears, is my most favourite place to indulge in a book. 

Which brings me to this:  I-Pads. 

What a clever invention.  They are handy, convenient and user friendly. I wouldn't mind having one but when you have an I-phone, home computer and numerous laptops in the home, they would be an extravagant toy we really don't need.  Especially when it comes to reading books.  

Here are a few reasons why I've reached the conclusion that a good old fashioned book can never be replaced with an I-pad: 

1.  Books do not have to be 'charged' because they aren't battery operated

2.  You have to make sure the I-pad is transported in a protective case; they can't be thrown willy-nilly into your handbag;  

3.  It's much more enjoyable to read an actual book to a small child, enabling them to interact with you and turn the pages while looking at any pictures;

4. If you knock your wine over while reading a book, the pages only get wet.  An I-pad wouldn't react well to getting soaked in wine, no matter what vintage it is.

And lastly, but most importantly:

5.  You can't read your I-pad in the bath (while sipping an ice-cold glass of Pinot Grigio)

Low

I haven't been sleeping much in the last week.  I'm either restless and can't get off to sleep, or I wake up from bad dreams.  These dreams however are more than just dreams, they are reality.  Last week I received the news that a friend of mine had died very abruptly and for reasons that are unclear.  It took a day or two to kick in that she was really gone;  It's hard for me to still believe it. 

A good family friend, someone who is like another mom to me has had to say goodbye to her only brother - the last of her immediate family.  I feel sad for her, yet she is strong and I know she will be ok.  She has the love and support of a wonderful daughter, a good husband and many friends and extended family who will look out for her. 

And today I've received word that a friend who has been struggling with her emotional health for some time  has reached another low point and has needed medical attention for the 2nd time in three months.   This friend is a fighter and has survived events that some people would never have recovered from.  I will offer my support and pray that she works through this and finds peace again.

I think all this disconcerting news would make the strongest of us feel low;  because I tend to worry about matters out of my control, I can only surmise that this is why I'm not sleeping well and have been suffering from headaches over the last few days.  I can bear the headaches, in comparison its nothing really.

Yesterday mom saw her oncologist and received word that her treatment has been very successful and that she is doing really well.  The medication she is currently being given every three weeks (intravenously) is strictly preventative;  although she is experiencing some bizarre symptoms that the oncologist was able to explain, putting her mind at rest.  Either way she is feeling much more bright about the future and for this I am relieved. 

I can't wait to go home in a few weeks to see her and spend time with her and my sister and brother.  Of course I will see a few friends, however as I'm only staying two weeks this time I will be focusing predominately on family this time around.  I know it will distract me from all the sadness that has been weighing me down.

Also, I'm really looking forward to all the time I will get to spend at the gym;  between my mother and my sister I will have no excuse not to get in lots of workouts.  I've been exercising long enough to know that working out makes a body feel so much better.  Tonight a brief run on the treadmill helped to clear my head and was better for me than the big glass of wine I really wanted.

I could have told this with a more light-hearted twist, but I'm in a serious mood today...

I woke up with a tequila hang-over on New Year’s Day which put the lid on preparing the roast dinner I had thought about making. No one seemed bothered about it, including Andy as we were all having a rather lazy day. While Connor slept most of the day upstairs and Andy pottered about in his office, I slummed it on the couch watching re-runs of How to Look Good Naked and Come Dine with Me. (I could watch this show all day every day – the commentator is hilarious). I simultaneously tried to drink a ton of water and avoid shovelling more rubbish food in my mouth. I woke up the next morning and went to the gym, so not all was lost. I have been eating healthy foods so far this week and can report that I could have had a worse start to 2011.

Yesterday morning I was taking my time driving off of our estate as the roads were covered in a film of ice. As I approached a junction that always plays havoc with my breaks in slippery conditions, I switched to a lower gear in anticipation of stopping. Nothing happened. Although I didn’t gain speed (I didn’t slip on the ice), I sure didn’t slow down and it was clear I wasn’t going to stop. This has happened once or twice before at this spot, however I usually manage to stop in time and if not, the way is usually clear so no harm done.

Not this time. There was a mini-van approaching from the right. Everything seemed to happen in slow motion as my car slid through the junction just as the van was about to pass directly in front of me. I braced myself for impact, praying that there wasn’t a child strapped into a back seat; and although I wasn’t moving quickly, I knew the result wasn’t going to be good for either car. Damn. And we had just paid off the 4x4. Just as I had resigned myself to a crash, the minivan picked up speed and managed to creep past and we didn’t collide. It took me a moment to process this fact as I finally came to a stop in the middle of the junction. I noticed straightaway that the van driver had pulled over. We rolled our windows down, me not even thinking of what the reaction of the other driver was going to be, and a woman with dark hair stuck her head out the window and asked me if I was ok.

I could have cried. Obviously she had taken in the look of horror that must have been on my face. (I can look back now and see how comical this must have been). But we were both ok, no damage done.  It still took me awhile to let go of the shock of what nearly happened, which has really surprised me. I must be getting old.  I still don’t know if she had a child in that car; if she did she was still able to process that our near miss was a result of the ice, not speed. Her reaction has re-affirmed to me that there are still reasonable and good people around. Not everyone would have reacted in such a manner; quite the opposite. Road rage is a ‘virus' I can’t understand. Yes we all have moments of annoyance with other drivers, but people who constantly tail-gate, yell obscenities, flash their lights etc. are in my opinion just pathetic.

Strangely, what seems to have taken an eternity to play out actually only took a matter of seconds. That’s how time has a bad habit of playing games with us. It only takes a moment for life to change, however big or small. Sure, no one might have been hurt but two damaged cars is not the way I would have wanted to start 2011.

The world would be a better place if more people were like this woman and would step back and stop being so re-active in negative ways (especially when driving). It doesn’t help matters and making everyone feel awful resolves nothing. It’s not the way I have ever aspired to be and I try hard to ensure this doesn’t happen (other than the odd time when I’m really provoked i.e. when someone drinks my last diet coke, now that's a different story altogether!)

For Auld Lang Syne

I can't believe how quickly this year has flown by.  With most years, there has been good and there has been the not so good.  With one very big exception, 2010 has been a very good year for us.

The Best Bits of 2010:

The arrival of our beautiful Clara in February and our subsequent visit to meet her in October:

• Although it was a very difficult time, being able to be with my mother and family during her surgery and recovery was probably the best thing I've done this year. 
• Alex getting his driving license in July, and subsequently a car (although in some ways this has been a catch 22 - worry and fear, need I say more?) 
• Alex also began the first stage of his education/apprenticeship in his quest to become an Electrical Engineer.
• Andy and I managed two short breaks away this year, to Sheffield last January for my birthday (a great surprise) and a road trip to Northumberland and the Scottish borders with Molly last spring.
• The safe arrival of another beautiful daughter for my dear friend Catherine in September.
• Andy and I being in such a good place as a couple - it's probably been one of our best years yet.
• We finally paid off our car in September. No car payments - yay! 
• Andy and the mother of his children have managed to reach an armistice and can now communicate with each other, a  big relief to all of us, especially the children.
• I completed the 30 Day Shred in November and although I didn't lose a lot of weight, I lost inches, toned up and feel much healthier for it.
• Andy woke up with his children in the house on Christmas morning - the first time this has happened in nine years.  It was truly a wonderful Christmas.
• This year I learned to accept a personal situation I cannot change and have actually made peace with it.  For that I am probably the most thankful of all as it has been the hardest reality I have had to accept in my 30-something years. 
• My beautiful baby sister has managed to lose 38 lbs.  I cannot wait to see how fabulous she looks and kick some ass with her at the gym when we are next together.
• All those I love have survived to see out another Christmas and ring in 2011.  For some of you I know it's been a different story and I hope you have the strength, peace and support to see you through.

Here's to a great New Year!

Well naturally, I'm hoping that by this time next year my mother will be cancer free and we will have many more years to look forward to.  

To celebrate how well she has done and how far she has come, I will be boarding a plane to spend two weeks with her at the end of January.  When your mother comes down with such a scary illness it's not a time to delay visits, even if she is doing amazingly well.  Its time to go home and be with her and my family; to re-affirm how grateful I am to have them in my life.   I think a celebration with mom and my sister is well in order. 10 months is a long time to wait for a hug. 

I had to time my visit home carefully, as my sister in law is due to have her baby around the middle of February and they have already asked me to be on standby to help with the baby after its arrival.. I cannot thank them enough for how involved they have already made me feel with this unborn niece/nephew of ours.

Because my husband has been so stellar this year with family visits, etc. I've told him its his pick this spring and we are in the process of planning a week's holiday to somewhere sunny and hot. 

There are a multitude of momentous birthday's this year - my niece turns one, my brother turns 30, two dear friends turn 40 and 50 respectively, both of my in-law's turn seventy and my dad turns 60.    And that's only getting started.  Hmmmm I'm realising that in saluting these milestones, it will prove to be an expensive year.  But what price can you put on celebrating the lives of loved ones?

Tonight I will raise my glass, hug the ones I'm with and welcome the start of another year;  I hope 2011 brings us all good tidings, however if there are to be bad times ahead, that we (this includes all of you) at least have the comfort of loved ones to bring us peace and help us through the hard times.

Happy New Year Everyone. 

Falling on my knees (and not in my typical fashion)

I know I’ve already made a wish list this year however that one was more of a guideline to help my husband out and make his shopping experience as pain-free as possible. And there would be critics out there who might say I’m a selfish and demanding wife.

I have a much more serious ‘wish list’ though that I would like to publish. I hope more than anything that a few of these wishes come to pass; I’m not someone that reads horoscopes or has a whole lot of faith, but I do believe in karma and a very small part of me believes in angels. So in keeping with my tradition of staying off Santa’s Naughty List (thankfully, I haven’t been on that list in a very long time), here is my authentic Christmas Wish List:

My mother is a good mother. No, let me re-phrase that. My mother is a wonderful mother. Full of goodness and sacrifice; she hasn’t led an easy life and despite this remains remarkably upbeat. My biggest wish this year is that she continues to thrive on her current treatment and makes a complete recovery. This is the time in my mom’s life when she needs to be surrounded by loving, caring family and friends, and although I can’t be with her to celebrate this very important Christmas, she knows how much I love her and that early in the New Year, I will be making plans to personally hug her again.

That the doctors, nurses and every other person who have cared for my mom in such a remarkable way, continue to receive the support they need to do such brilliant work. Cancer treatment has moved mountains over the last decade and if we didn’t have such a dedicated medical community, or people willing to donate towards such a worthy cause (be it monetary or time) we might not have had mom with us this Christmas, a possibility I could not bear to contemplate.

That those of you who don’t spend enough time with your loved ones wise up and do something about it. Life can be too short and we shouldn’t be seeing those who matter to us only during the holidays.

Christmas can be tough on a lot of people for various reasons. Many of you or your loved ones may be experiencing hard times, be they emotional, physical or financial. I hope your burden eases and that you have somebody with you to help you through these not so easy days.

That every one of us keeps an open mind and accepts people for who they are. We may not understand the reasons why people make the choices they do, however it is up to ourselves how we choose to react.

Lastly, I wish you all a very happy, healthy and peaceful Christmas.

Charlie Brown, you'd be proud...

I don't know if you are aware but in three days it will be Christmas Eve. 

I will openly admit that the week before last found me struggling to find anything close to a festive feeling.  I wanted to be able to share rosy, cheerful thoughts with you all about the upcoming holiday but as those thoughts weren't forthcoming, I'm afraid I had nothing to share.  And one whiny blog a month is more than enough. So I spared you, and for that, you are welcome. 

Unless of course you wanted to hear the story of my husband and I falling out over what colour lights he's put on the house or what size Christmas Tree we should get when we always get the same size...

On second thought I will share the story of our tree with you and my reason for this should be clear once you have read it: 

Andy opened our visit to the farm where we always get our tree with his usual 'we'll be wanting a 7 ft tree'.  (Nice try, Andy, but we always get a six foot tree).  Every year I have to remind him that a seven foot Christmas tree is too big for our living room.  I will give him full points for his annual attempt to get a bigger, more expensive tree. This year however, there were no decent 6ft trees to be had so I gave in and we picked out an enormous, but oh-so-glorious 7ft tree.  When you walk into our living room it not only smells like evergreen, it looks like our couch has been stuck in the middle of a forest. If we still lived in Canada I'd be worried that a passing bear might become confused and decide our couch would be the ideal place to crash for the winter months;  good thing that we don't have wild bears in England, and if we did they would be hibernating long before Christmas.  Although it is massive, I cannot lie:  It's the most f**king amazing tree we have had to date.  It's so big we had to find a new corner for it and buy a few more decorations and next year we will definitely revert back to a realistic 6 footer, but for now we are rocking this Christmas Tree.

And not only is the tree beautiful it has proven once again that my husband really should know that 99.9% of the time I am right.  Maybe on Christmas morning I will let him be right about one or two things as my gift to him, because I love him that much. 

I took Monday off this week in order to get some extra Christmas shopping done and can now say that I'm 95% finished.  We just have to do the last food shop and grab a few stocking stuffers. I took advantage of a quiet house late yesterday afternoon and managed to get quite a bit of baking done.  I'm dismayed that my caramel-chocolate shortbread squares didn't turn out though and will blame it on the neighbour (whom I'd never met) that came looking for help in getting his car started just at the crucial stirring point for the caramel.  It hasn't set right and because its a time consuming and calorie-ridden treat I will not attempt to make it again; there are enough calorie ridden goodies in my fridge at the moment and I haven't decided yet if I will attempt anymore baking. 

Last week we had a Christmas party for the clients of our service and this combined with a couple of festive evenings with friends enables me to report that I've found my Christmas spirit and am even hoping that the sprinkling of snow we have stays on the ground in order for us to have a white Christmas.  (This could be a very real possibility as we are experiencing record breaking lows in the temperature).  A lot of people are complaining about the cold but I don't mind it as it's what winter is for me.  I'd rather have the cold crisp air accompanied by lots of sunshine than the usual damp and dismal weather with matching grey sky England is known for.

 As much as I would have liked loved to have celebrated Christmas with my Canadian contingent, I'm relieved that we aren't facing the hassle and stress of trying to catch flights in all the turmoil that has been caused by the weather.  If we were going home to Nova Scotia I'd probably present to my family in a very drunken state due to all the stress and as my mom has already been exposed to drunk Jody once this season, I'm pleased I can spare her the hassle of that at least.

I know we have to take the bad with the good, but I'm so over it now

As you know, last Wednesday we woke up to this:

Beautiful, isn't it?

I couldn’t be more ecstatic. Exactly one week later I’m not feeling so joyful about the snow that has hit Britain with a vengeance.

This country is not prepared for it; I try not to get annoyed and make comparisons to my native land as we always get weather like this, often much worse. Whole areas don’t grind to a halt for a week and all roads and sidewalks are normally ploughed within a few days. Salt/grit is adequately laid before and after the snow and walkways to shops, businesses, etc. are often shovelled.

The sense of community & camaraderie has been has been great for the most part, yet I wish the powers that be in this country would spend the money that would ensure it was better prepared for this weather. It’s time to face facts: the climate in Britain has changed and after two years running, no more excuses.

A few issues that have been occurring that I’m struggling to comprehend:

Why someone would struggle to ride a bike in this weather, and lots of people have. No one in Canada would actually be moronic enough to ride a bicycle with this much snow on the ground.

Why we have to pay a council tax in this country for services that are less than adequate, especially never more so than now. Essential services such as the bin and recycling trucks haven’t been around in well over a week. When my husband rang our council office to ask if they would be gritting the roads on our estate due to the massive amount of thick ice, he was told that they were waiting for the thaw. I think they will see Santa on his sled being guided by Rudolph before this happens. I’m happy to take our own rubbish to the tip if necessary yet I still don’t think we will receive a rebate from the council for the period of disruption.

I don’t remember the last time our post was delivered. Apparently our side roads are too treacherous for the post deliverers. Oh. Yet we are all supposed to drive/walk around our estate. I get it. Postal workers are in league of their own. (I think that is the situation in whatever country you reside in.)

Why people don’t heed advice when told not to drive past a certain point in the car park. Yesterday I spent more time going out and sorting out the car situation because apparently word spread that I was an expert on getting cars unstuck and off ice. I suppose I will begrudgingly concede to this – it is true after all. Besides, I do like playing the hero and it was kind of fun to be outside in the bright, cold fresh air. Although I think it did annoy the men to have a woman come to the rescue. However these situations would not have occurred if people had listened in the first place.

Taxi Drivers. Why do they think its ok to stop wherever they like to do a pick up, yet when one can plainly see me helping an elderly person down the walkway to my waiting vehicle its perfectly fine to yell at me for stopping on the side of the road. That was asking for trouble and the driver did well enough to hop out of his car and leave. Even my passenger (Beryl) was ready to yell obscenities at the obnoxious ass.

Teenagers that think they know everything:  I think this one is self explanatory.  It has  been a tough week of answering 'why not's' when it comes to safe/unsafe driving conditions.

Aside from all of this, getting to work has been a nightmare. Once I’m eventually off our estate (there is always a car spinning out and some point during the journey, whatever direction I take) traffic is clogged up and what is normally a fifteen minute drive is often trebled, or worse.

The heating has gone down in our offices and although we have small electric heaters plugged in it takes an eternity for our office to warm up. I don’t think I wore this many layers when I used to go sledding or skating back in Nova Scotia.

These, however have been my saving grace:

When I’m out walking Molly, or digging people out of snow drifts, I couldn’t ask for better insulation.

I’ve decided today that I need to tell myself that It Is What It Is. Complaining or losing my cool won’t help anything.

I do need to get back to the gym though and burn off some of this frustration.

Sometimes, wishes do come true

I don't know what's happening here in North East England but I'm sure not going to complain.  I thought the snow we got last Sunday was pretty much going to be it for us, however Mother Nature decided to bless us with her bounty and we received quite a snow storm late in the day on Tuesday that carried on throughout most of the night.  Wednesday morning we woke to a blanket of snow that would impress any Nova Scotian.  

Unlike hardy Nova Scotians the whole county came to a standstill.   We aren't equipped for this kind of snow.  At all. 

Me, unlike any other adult am ecstatic about it.  I've been waiting seven years for this and pretty much had given up hope.  I thought an inch or so is all I would ever see.  After all, it has been over 20 years since England has seen this kind of snow.

Hardly anyone ventured out and many services and offices shut down for the day due to the fact that no one could drive as the roads weren't ploughed.  Many people have only dug themselves out yesterday and today.  Some people have taken it way too far in terms of using it as an excuse not to get to work after Wednesday, however Andy and I managed as we are lucky enough to have a 4x4.  The estate we live on is pretty much an ice rink and the 4 wheel drive makes it that bit easier to maneuver the streets.  Of course up until yesterday we only ventured out to work and back.  Essential trips only - a lesson we are trying to teach our obnoxious 18 year old that doesn't really seem to be sinking in.

Bah what can you do?   18 year olds know everything, sorry for not understanding that in the first instance.

Back to the snow. Molly absolutely adores it.  She constantly stands by the back door asking to be let out in it and luckily enough for her, because we love the snow so much and have been working reduced hours, she has never had so many walks.

This afternoon we took advantage of last night's dusting to spend a few hours outside and captured our activities with the following photos:

Meet Jeffery

Molly had fun helping, but almost dug a whole in his side

The boys decided to build a snow fort...

I pitched in eventually

The finished product - cozy

Plenty of room inside

We had a reindog in the back yard :)

So close to the finish line... dammit.

'I Didn’t Phone It In'

I really wanted this to be the title of my post at the end of the 30 Day Shred. ‘Don’t phone it in’ is a phrase Jillian often uses when she is encouraging you not to quit.

Unfortunately, I have to report that I’ve been a bad girl and I’ve let myself down something terrible. The rational side of me is telling me to be reasonable, that 27 days in a row is not ‘phoning it in’; that I have been more committed to this program than a lot of other people ever could be, and that I have worked so hard. Up until yesterday.

Some of you who are friends with me on FaceBook may be aware that it snowed in our local area yesterday. Yes people, for the first time in many years North East Lincolnshire has received a fair amount of snowfall in November. Most people are complaining about the snow, the cold and especially the driving conditions including traffic, however yours truly was ecstatic and couldn’t wait to go out and romp around in it. My husband cheerfully joined me and Molly, saying the only thing that would have made it more fun for him was if I had been wearing only my boots and scarf whilst I made snow-angels for him. God knows I was so excited by the snow that I entertained the thought momentarily; I probably wouldn’t have noticed my nakedness, at least not for the first 20 seconds. However I’m veering off topic here, the wild and erratic path my husband’s brain leads him down is not what I set out to tell you about.

My point is this: if you put a boy and a girl out in the snow it can only lead to trouble; and it did. Andy and I couldn’t resists throwing the odd snowball or two, and naturally he couldn’t help himself and had to rub the cold stuff in my face (not that I get overly wound up about this – you don’t grow up walking to and from school in rural Nova Scotia a virgin to having your face rubbed in copious amounts of snow by stupid boys). It was during one of these moments that we lost our footing and went down. I had the misfortune to land on the bottom, taking the full weight of my beloved who happens to outweigh me by at least 50 lbs.

Ouch.

Let’s jump ahead five hours; I’d had a wee nap and had taken a few ibuprofens but was still sore with back, knee and head-ache. On top of that, it felt like I’d slightly sprained my ankle. Let’s face it readers I’m not 15 anymore. Hell I’m not even 25 anymore. My body was suffering the effects of the afternoon and because I’d stupidly not done my exercise that morning I was now facing it at 8:00 at night. We all know that I’ve done my work-out much later than 8:00 pm, I’ve been that devoted. However last night I just couldn’t do it. And for that I’m so disappointed. I desperately wanted to get the 30 days in without missing one shred. But alas, it is not to be. I thought about doing it, but modifying the moves significantly, or doing level 1, however I really couldn’t bring myself to do it, I worried that I would hurt myself even more. So there you have it, I’m a quitter. Well sort of. Rational Jody says that I am NOT a quitter. My body was strained and sore and if I had pushed it I wouldn’t have been able to jump back on the band wagon tonight. Because I will. I’m seeing this through (I’ve read about people who have completed this shred by doing it five days a week and taking a break at the weekend – and I've done even better than that). I will just work out one day extra at the end. And just so you know, once I’ve completed the 30 days I’m not giving it up completely. It will form part of my regular work-out regime, because trust me, I am seeing results – my legs have never been firmer.

It’s just so disappointing because I was almosts there. When I finished on Saturday I knew I only had three more days to go and I would have made it through and could boast to you all about completing the 30 Day Shred in 30 Days! I mean, I had finished 27 days, what’s another three? Mentally I had already crossed the finish line and drafted my final post. And now I won’t be able to publish that post.

Yet at the same time I realistically have to be proud of what I’ve accomplished so far and not berate myself for missing one day, or eating a chocolate bar or having the odd glass of wine over a 30 day stretch of time.

But its really hard not to.