First Birthday

Okay, so on December 10 we were celebrating my nephew's First Birthday. I was so excited to be doing this at my house, because the child is just so darn cute! And let's face it, I love throwing parties!

I had this vision of Donovan digging into his slice of cake and thought - wouldn't it be great if he had an entire cake to himself?? So I bought one from the Glamorgan Bakery near my house - they have these perfect Baby Cakes that I just had to get.

There are more photos to come, but here are a couple to get you started:

6 Wonderful Years

Today is my anniversary. The anniversary of when my handsome and I wed. Today marks 6 years we've been married and it feels great. For my companion, this is to you:

You are my steady guide, the one who keeps me honest and true. You put up with my moods and pouts, but you get me out of them when enough is enough. I feel your love everyday, because everyday you tell me that I'm beautiful, even when I don't think so (I imagine you have a photographic file in your mind of the times I do look great, and you think about those when you tell me I'm beautiful on a Saturday morning).

You have a such a great way with words - you can always explain yourself so well and make yourself understood. 

I admire your passion. You are so in love with the game of football, you'll probably continue playing as long as you are able. I love that your interest lies in the challenge and the stategie, not just the tackle.

I love when I see your heart. There are friends that we have with children, and you love to play and hang out with them. You're conscious of giving the parents a break while we visit and you'll give the children all your attention allowing yourself to become a jungle gym.

One day, when we are blessed with our own children, I know you'll be a great father and give them an equal balance of love and disipline.

I love you, and I look forward to spending the rest of my life and eternity with you.

Here's to us!

Love, Shani

I'm So Proud!

Well, as you've already read, my brother got married a month ago. And their reception was just beautiful! They had chair covers, white table clothes with navy and fushia runners, lovely centre pieces, and the most elegant part was the fabric that created a false ceiling and then ran down the walls. Gorgeous! (Chelsea promises me pictures soon)

But that greatest part is that Dennis and Chelsea were supporting my sister, Leia, in the inaugural spread of her new business.

Yes!!

 Leia is now going ahead making all our taste buds water as she creates her cupcakes and cookies for the masses to enjoy. Follow her on her adventures as she warms the hearts and bellies of anyone who has a Sweet Tooth!

Wedding Bliss

 My brother is MARRIED!!! Congrats, Dennis and Chelsea, life will be great!! (don't let the getting sick freak you out...at least it held out for another day!)

Just so you know, I'm a terrrible sister and blogger, and I totally didn't bring my camera. I'm anxiously awaiting for Facebook photos so I can post some here. There are already some uploaded that I can steal.

The day was beautiful. The sealer, Brother Hansen, spoke wonderfully about being married. One of the things he advised was to no longer think about "me" and "I", from now on think in "we" and "us". And isn't that true? When we truly give our lives to someone else, we really want what's best for them before what's best for ourselves.

I know I'm not good at that so much, but someone who is, is my dad. He always puts my mom and us (6!) kids before him. That's why it's so easy to love him! They'll be going on to 35 years of marriage next month. Now that's what I want. I want to be able to say I have always done everything I could to make my marriage strong and amazing.

Here's Dennis and Chelsea - love, life, joy and happiness.  XOXOXO

The Anticipation of an MC

Well, my brother's getting married. IN TWO DAYS!! How exciting! We'll be decorating the church tomorrow, helping Leia with her cupcakes (stay tuned for info on her new blog!) and driving down to my Grandma's in Raymond for a family dinner - which are always so delish at Grams' house.

Then: Saturday 11am - wedding in Cardston, photos, back to Calgary to help Leia with trays and trays and trays of goodies.

Once that's done, I need to get into my new fabulous dress. Because everyone's gunna be looking at me. And no, I'm not just saying that because of my narsicism. Dennis and Chelsea asked if Miles and I would MC. And when I say Miles and I, I mean me. Because I love the spotlight! When people aren't looking at the Bride (and groom) they'll be watching me.

As much as I love the limelight, this is a lot of pressure. The MC sets the tone of the reception as is pretty much the catalyst of whether it's a good time or a bad time. Yikes!! And since I do have a tendency to ramble on about myself....well...that's why they asked Miles - he's good at keeping me in line, you see!

So as I'm getting my dress fitted and revising my notes, I'm feeling all flustery and excited and nervous and happy. But really - the day is all about Chelsea. And Dennis. I'm just there to make it flow. No pressure!

+1

Well, the time is nearing for my brother's wedding. My brother, just younger than I on the sibling chain, will be wed for time and all eternity in the Cardston Temple.

It is a bitter-sweet occasion. He's growing up, but oh so well. Here are all the realizations that have come to me over the last few months as my younger brother creates his new life:

1. I am no longer an innocent. I now have wisdom and knowledge that I have gained through my own experiences. I need to remember to censor myself and let them figure things out on their own.

2. A little sister is so much fun! I love having Chelsea around. She has a great personality and I think we get along well. I'm sure she's tired of all my unsolicited advise by now, but now I have someone to tell it to!

3. Besides usual sibling stuff, Dennis and I never really had a close relationship while we were growing up. There's 4 years difference and we never shared friends. And of course, what older sibling lets their younger one hang out with them? Certainly not I! Now I'm taking the opportunity to cultivate a relationship with him. But to be honest, sometimes I just focus on Chelsea! I still have a lot to learn.

4. The world is changing. Fast. 6 years ago when Miles and I were starting out, cost of living was different, styles were different. What used to be luxuries have now become necessities. I don't want to imagine how much will change in the next 5 years. I like 'the good ol' days'.

5. Family is so important to me. I love to meet with my family every month at games night. Catch up with some light chat and poke fun at each other as we compete in board games, card games or video games. I love that we can all spend time together.

6. I love my brother, I am so proud of him. And I'm glad he chose Chelsea to be his wife and to join our ever growing family.

Good luck, Dennis and Chelsea, only 10 more days left! Thanks for letting me be a part of it.

Taking Control

Alma 38:12

"Use boldness, but not overbearance; and also see that ye bridle all your passions, that ye may be filled with love; see that ye refrain from idleness."

So many little nuggets in this scripture - let's discuss.

"Use boldness, but not overbearance"
How true is that? It's okay to be strong minded and strong willed, but not at the cost of others - don't be overbearing, don't put others down and be condescending when stating your thoughts and convictions.

"bridle all your passions, that ye may be filled with love"
This makes me think of Elder Holland's talk this last April conference, Place No More for the Enemy of My Soul. He gives quite some time to discussing love vs lust, the differences of how it feels and how it looks and how it affects us. He talks about how love and lust can't co-exist, how one is selfless while the other selfish.
When I was a teenager, I had this scripture in my bedroom, to remind me that love is a reward. Love is what you get when you work and put forth effort. It may not always come easy, but pure love is always worth it.

This can be applied to romantic love, as well as love for a friend or family member, love for a job or career, love for a hobby and even love for service.

Bridleing your passions means to not let your desires run away with you. Don't place wants before needs, play before work. Take control and put your life in order. In doing so, you can pick out the activities that you participate in that are timewasters, and find the activities that are fulfilling and rewarding. Don't be 'rid' of your passion, if you truely love it and it truly fulfills you. Just be tempered, take control of it instead of it controling you. Your life will be clean and there will be more room for love.

"see that ye refrain from idleness"
Well, that's just good advise and makes good sense. What good ever came from lazing around?

What are your thoughts?

Prime Directive

Is this term familiar to anyone? If you're a trekkie it will be. The Prime Directive is the foremost law that Star Fleet is governed by. As they explore strange new worlds and encounter other civilizations and life forms, the Prime Directive prevents certain actions, minimizing interference. Although Star Fleet is a peaceful organization, one of science and discovery, they are committed to allowing cultures to develop on their own and will not interfere with the natural course of a civilization, planet or habitat.

This is a very sound law. They seek life and value all of it, but will not interfere with its development or destruction, because the path of learning and growing without outside influence is how civilizations progress.

If we were to apply this to our world in our time (2010, not 2374) do those nations with more technology and understanding have a place to interfere with those who have less? Take for example the US military involving themselves in the civil disputes of Africa and the Middle East. There is genocide and our perception of inappropriate behaviour toward women. They have grown and developed separate from us and have cultivated different values and beliefs.

We cherish the value of a human life and hate to see captivity and injustice. But our interference will change the course of their development, and it may not be in good favour.

Food for thought: should we be where we are not wanted, enforcing the values we've come by on our own onto others, changing the evolutionary course of their learning and development? Or do we allow a seemingly barbaric nation to continue on its path as we stand and watch, waiting for the plea of help where we are welcome and they are ready?

Claiming Territory

So my brother got engaged to his beautiful fiance, Chelsea, in March. Then he left to go to Winnipeg for a school opportunity a few weeks ago and will be home soon. However - while Dennis is there, with his charm and wit, the ladies can't help but flock to him. This is how Chelsea lays down the law from hundreds of kilometers away:

Thank goodness for Facebook - now we can all keep better tabs on our loving wanderers!

Pasta: from scratch!

Okay, so some of you know that I like to be in the kitchen cooking. I like experimenting on new dishes, especially when company comes over. They are my guinea pigs.

I try to make as many of my meals from scratch as possible - I'm not a great fan of pre-packaged food. I've learned to make refried beans from dried pinto beans, and I like to make my own dressings and sauces and salads, etc.

Well, FINALLY, I have my very own Kitchenaid Stand Mixer, and a very gracious friend of mine lent me her pasta attachments to try them out. Try them out I did!! My sister and brother's fiance were there to help.

Then with the leftovers, I made a pasta salad, which went over well with my family. Thanks all for your help, this was so much fun!!

Between Friends

Just between you and me: God makes no mistakes.

The Between Friends Club in Calgary is an organization that plans camps and outings for children of all ages with disabilities, mental or physical, or nothing at all, to hang out, have fun and make friends. My department this week used our Volunteer Day to go hang out with this group and it was so special! I was assigned to Chipmunks - 6-7 year olds. We took a bus ride out to Ghost Lake to ride on a pontoon boat and played in the grass. How marvelous! These children are so special. They have smiles and senses of humor that warm my heart.

It is my belief that before we are born, we are spirits and chose our family and our bodies. Those spirits who chose to live in a body with challenges must be AMAZING! It may seem to us that they live in captivity, but they are willing to do so because the goal is to be mortal and gain a body in order to move into the next phase of immortality and eternal life. They are giving us the wonderful opportunity to learn from them. Learn patience and sacrifice and service. They are all so special and suffer with not only their own handicaps, but also social ridicule.

I've been inspired. I will do what I can to give back to this community, because I can and I have been given gifts that I can share. I will no longer keep them to myself.

Sunny (my camp name!) or Sunsun as Tess called me :)

Shani "Bout Due" Myers

Okay, so my favorite time of year is Stampede. Yeehaw! I love getting dressed up like a cowgirl, I love going down to the grounds. And oh, the pancake breakfasts!! I don't really do much, I just enjoy it. And yes, I can't resist oogling when I see the policemen and firemen in their uniforms and cowboy hats. Yikes!

Other people in Calgary think Stampede is all about getting drunk and hooking up. As a matter of fact, it's urban legend that most pregancies in Calgary are conceived over Stampede Week. I of course, opt out of the drinking, but let me tell you, it is fun to be sober at a work party when everyone else is wasted! That's the only time it's acceptable for me to unleash and act like a total fool. In fact, I've actually been accused of being drunk. Maybe by osmosis??

This is year is going to be awesome, I'm spending all day down at the grounds, riding the rides and eating greasy deep-fried food, then I'm going to see some chuck wagon races for the first time and it will be a blast! I was able to get tickets for me and my family and we'll have a boot-stompin' good time!

Stay tuned for pics over the next few shananigan-filled days!

E-Day

So my company is pretty awesome. Once a year we have Employee Day out in Kananakis and we get to choose from a variety of activities such as: rafting, caving, golfing, ropes course, biking, etc. I did the ropes course this year. Then we end off with a great lunch and drumming.

Go ahead: be jealous!

This was on purpose...

I'm Back!

Okay, so I've met a totally fabulous lady, her name is Kellie. She an account manager for one of my suppliers and such a doll! She sure knows how make someone feel great!

I had a meeting with her today to go over some reports, we chatted for an hour and half and VOILA! My concentration is back! I don't feel quite so bogged down and useless. I can think!

So...to make up for my blank stare at my screen, I've stayed late to work and got 2 major tasks finished and out of the way. Huzzah!

I have 4 more to do, but I may just finish at 2. I have at team meeting tonight at 8:30 for my Kananaskis 100 Mile Relay Race on Saturday. Mustn't be late for that!

Now I just need to prioritize...

Concentration

When did concentration become such a high priced commodity? I can't find it ANYWHERE!
I've been finding it very difficult to concentrate lately. At home, at work. Just off in my own little world. It's a funk, a rut. I need some change, something drastic. Something I can really focus on, sink my teeth into, feel accomplished about. Other than solitare.

I hope this feeling of uselessness goes away soon.

Dear Joe

Grandpa Joe, you passed away last week doing what you love: working in your yard. There is so much I don't know about you, and I regret I didn't spend more time with you. I know you saw the service in your honour today, it was marvelous. It was full of your family and friends, and wonderful stories of you. Stories I'm so glad I had the privilege to hear; some for the first time, some repeated.

You were my Grandma's second husband, a step-father to my dad and aunts and uncles. From what I hear, you showed them how to work hard, how to get the job done and how to celebrate your accomplishments. Thank you.

Like the other grandchildren of my generation, my best memories are Christmas dinner. You made it so special for all of us. Your soup is famous in our family, and I was honoured to make it in your memory for the family today. Thank you for all the Christmas cards and the presents over the years, they've helped to create such wonderful memories I hope to pass to the next generation. I will always hear, in your lovely and lively accent "Ho, ho, ho, Merry Christmas!" you always made the best Santa.

Your home and your yard were always so great, you took such care and pride in your work. You were always happy to help others and share your knowledge.

I love you, Grandpa, you will be missed. Your legacy will live on long after you've gone. You've always been the father and grandfather you didn't have to be, you treated us all as your own.

Love always,
Shani.
I will see you again, and I can't wait to see the shine in your eyes and your great smile when that day comes.

Sin of Omission

Sad, sad story and I am ashamed.

This afternoon as I board my bus to go home, I spot a guy talking to the bus driver. This is a guy I see nearly every day (I suspect he actually works in my building, but I don't know for sure). We have the same schedule: catch the bus at 6:40am, take the 4:30 bus home. He's tall, a little rounded, and always wears his orange backpack. Sometime his sister is on the bus with him. She's cute. I imagine her to be quite sporty and athletic, and lucky her, she's getting married! I also suspect they live my same condo complex.

Little bit scary how much you can tell about someone just by seeing them everyday.

Well, for knowing this someone as much as I do, I did him a great disservice. You see, the bus driver stopped him for having an out of date bus pass. They had a discussion as the driver denied his  boarding. I didn't hear everything, I was about 8 people behind him. I could tell he was waiting for the rest of the passengers to get on and I inferred that he would either continue his conversation with the driver once we've passed, or he would get off.

I have 2 books of bus tickets. Almost always do. I can spare one ticket to let this guy I kinda know get home at the time he wants. I've already torn my ticket from the booklet, but I pull it out again, fully intending to pay his fare.

Uh oh, Shani goes one thought too far (it always seems I over-think or don't think enough) "it's kinda weird for a girl to be doing something like this, it's usually gentlemen who do it for ladies"
and I sliently walk by, with my booklet of tickets still in my hand, visibal to this poor guy, like I was rubbing it in his face.

He then vacates the bus and I imagine myself standing and yelling "wait!" but that's all it is, an imagination.

So there I go, the rest of the ride sitting in silent shame for my inaction.

The irony? I just finished writing a speech, you'll see it below in my previous post, about how you shouldn't be afraid to be who you want to be. Don't let society put you in a box.

I let myself be boxed in for a millisecond and it's caused me remorse for the past hour and a half. Sure, it will pass, but wouldn't I prefer be pleased with my action for days, rather than dismayed for my inaction for even a moment?

Speech, speech, speech!

For my assignment last week, I created a speech on something that I feel strongly about. I was a little nervous leading up to the presentation, but then I gave it loud and proud! (this just in, I got an A!)

Gender Equality

Equality has been a topic of discussion and complaint for centuries. In our progressive society, we are letting people be who they are, without fear of repercussion. I understand that not all efforts of equality have yet reached their end goal, but the effort is there, the message is reaching its audience. I fear, however, that as we strive for equality, the lines blur and we try to become someone else.

I can see this happening with feminism in particular - the first real political battle for equality, which began with women’s suffrage, giving us the right to vote, to be heard, to be counted among those who could think for themselves and make their own decisions.

I believe that the feminist movement and women’s rights are an integral part of our heritage and that our society needed it to progress. Women do need to be educated, to be heard, to understand we have a place in the world. Because in centuries past women have been left in the home to care for our children, we were considered lesser than men for our lack of education and worldly experience. (pause)
Times have changed.

We now know we have the ability to study all the same subjects a man can.

We now know we can have a voice to be heard as a man can.

And we now know we are just as valuable as a man is.

We’ve done it, we’ve created ourselves equal. Yes, there are still arguments about salary comparisons in the workforce but…we are entitled to the same treatment, the same education, the same lifestyle as a man. We are no longer expected to stay at home and raise our families, to cook and to clean. We can leave those charges to someone else so we can be out in the world and live as a man lives. In fact, it is expected that we do.

But if this was the way life is supposed to be, then why are we made different? Women and men are different from one another: in the way we process information, process and express emotion. The things we are interested in and care about are different. Generally speaking, men enjoy electronics and tools while women enjoy presentation and cleanliness.

To be equal does not mean to be the same. Men and women are made different so we can complement one another while staying true to ourselves, not be cloned into what the other is. All we want is equal opportunity.

Too often we think that to be equal and fair is to be doing the exact same thing.

As women, let’s focus on our abilities and our strengths. We know what they are, we complain about men not have these same skills all the time, how they can’t live up to our expectations of organization, cleanliness, planning. “They have a one-track mind” we always say. We are good at these things.
Good at multi-tasking and taking care of others. Women are nurturers by nature. We have compassion and empathy. We have the ability to group together in great force. To make differences. Look at what we have accomplished from the 1800’s until now: voting, education, working.

We even get to wear pants! Heaven knows everything is easier in pants.

The problem is: everything in this world is valued by dollars and cents. What’s your salary? How much is your house worth? What did you pay for that car?

You can’t put a value on a woman. For the mother who still decides, even after all we have accomplished, to stay home to care for her children rather than to work outside the home, there is little value given her, even from her peers. She is viewed as non-progressive and old-fashioned. She doesn’t add to the family income, so she is not contributing. Do you agree?

The woman who decides to return to work to contribute to the family income, is she worth more than the one who stays home?

People say that you are putting your life on hold and not reaching your potential if you ignore your career to focus on mothering. Well, raising children up to be responsible, confident citizens of this world is a career. It’s the only job that is life-long. Not checking in at the office everyday does not mean you’re not contributing to society. All it means is you’re choosing to contribute in a different way.

Don’t let the world dictate who you should be, what you should do and how you should do it. Be who you are. Everyone has a value, whether it is recognized or not.

Those we choose to spend our lives with are termed our Life Partners. In business, you partner with someone who has the same drive and interests as you, but who has different knowledge or skills so you can work together and complement each other to achieve the same goal. A business can’t work when everyone knows and does the same thing. Diversity is necessary.

Let us work the same. Work to strengthen your individual skills, become who you are, then share yourself with someone else. Don’t clone yourself. It is important to be equal, but don’t sacrifice being individual. 

Bogged Down

Wow! So life has been crazy crazy! But really, I have no one to blame but myself. Yuppers, all me :( Well, the part where I had two weeks of Wednesday/Thursday school and all day Saturday. Really, what was I thinking?

On top of that I had to help plan a joint youth activity, but this is where delegation comes in to play. It was the Laurel's turn to plan and conduct, so we had a meeting about the activity: a missionary obstacle course. They planned the stations and what would happen there, then I wasn't even at the actual activity, so they had to execute on their own. Fly, little birdies, fly! And they flew!! I'm so proud of my girls :)

On top of busy evenings, work is busy too. Trying to fit with the vision of a new boss is both exhilarating and frustrating, but we'll get through it!

Can't wait for my holiday in July....Girls Camp!

Easter Dinner

Okay, so I'm very upset that the thought did not cross my mind to take pictures!! But this is my Easter Weekend, hold on tight, you're in for a ride!

Friday:
Breakfast at Leia's at 7:30am (crazy I know, but had to accommodate the brothers going horseback riding)
Went to Home Depot to pick up some more paint for the bedroom (just wait till you see it! I'll post soon, promise!)
Miles went to pick up baseboards from Rona and borrowed a saw
Miles finished painting the walls and painted all the baseboards.
I finished finally unpacking the bookshelf (had to look good, had 16 people coming for dinner!) cleaned up the house (kitchen, bathrooms, basement)
Had pizza for dinner (I just finished cleaning up the kitchen, I wasn't about to mess it up again!)

Saturday:
Woke at 8am to go grocery shopping to turkey dinner the next day (Superstore's even crazy at 8, next time: 7am!)
Miles finished the painting the boards, measured and cut them.
I made rice salad for dinner Sunday cleaned up some more.
Bella (my neice) was coming for a sleepover, so we hung out and she helped me make Carrot Satay Soup
Watched Wizard of Oz
Put together my IKEA wardrobe unit and new bedframe (now that the bedroom's done. Yay!)

Sunday:
Bella came and woke us up at 8am because "it's sunny out!"
Had breakfast
Played with Lego
Vacuumed
Made dough for buns (Bella loved getting her hands messy)
Made stuffing
Prepped the Turkey (Bella liked the "Turkey Dance")
Stuck it in the oven for 11am
Watched Wizard of Oz (yes, again)
Set up for feeding 16 people, but only 14 came
Got all the fixins and everything ready for dinner
Welcomed people to my house
Miles played host and introduced everyone, also showed off his fabulous workmanship :)
Ate, cleaned, visited, vacuumed.
Sleep.

What a weekend! But it was so great. I love entertaining and I'm so glad I was able to serve Easter Dinner at my place. Thanks everyone for coming!

And The Winner Is...

Youth Olympics, what a wonderful activity idea for our joint youth night on Feb 24!
We had Hockey, 2 man Bobsleigh, Biathlon, Snowboard Slolam, it was grand. Here are some pics to commemorate the event.

Snowboard Slolam:

2 Man Bobsleigh

Champions!

Little Jesse, couldn't resist :)

So we never actually found out if Canada or USA won, but we all had a great time and showed our amazing athletic abilities!

Hunger

So in my effort to gain weight, I've started to eat more, thinking more calories = more body fat, but I think it back fired. The more I eat, hungrier I get! I already have a fast-paced metabolism, and eating more just made it faster.
It's a good thing I don't take smoke or coffee breaks. Instead, I have Eating Breaks!

Note to self: Hurry up and find a gym so I can convert my calories in muscle before they disappear.

Sister

Sisters are great! I love mine. L.O.V.E.

We are the best of friends! Miles is out of town again this week, and her husband is in Edmonton, so what's the only solution? A sleepover!! We stayed up late talking and looking at pictures and enjoying each other's company.

Love you, Leia!

King Me!

On our vacation this past Christmas, Miles and I enjoyed the spaciousness of a king sized bed. No fighting for covers, there's plenty of space to run and hide if it gets too hot, or you can still snuggle if it gets too cold. Needless to say, we moved into our new place, where a king will fit, and voila!! Happiness the rest of our lives!

So the Mammoth arrived Saturday, and after Miles and I pushed and pulled and shoved, we finally got it up the stairs and in the room where it belongs. Everytime I walk by the room and see the bed, and I am overcome by its magnificance.

Saturday was one of the best days of my life.

Curse Facebook

Funny Story:
So Miles is out of town, as you know, and I'm partying it up. Well, I had the YW over last night for a chick-flick...Party On!
But usually when Miles goes away we opt for no phone calls. To save $$$. But I get a very nice posting on my wall from him on Tuedsay, and oh isn't that sweet? But then nothing Tuesday night, nothing Wednesday. No phone call (although I wasn't really expecting one), and no more postings on FB. That's okay. We can catch up when he gets home.

But wait! FB changed their layout, and the Messages notification is how hidden in a far off place. Today I see it, to find TWO message from my sweetheart. He does love me! He writes me Tuesday AND Wednesday. The latter message indicated fear that he caused me censure. It's not true! I love you, I'm not mad! It's all Facebook's fault, I couldn't find your messages! 

Thank goodness I could write him back and tell him so.

The End.

All Alone

So my beloved husband is off and away this week, working out in Drumheller. That means I have the whole house to myself...no sharing the TV, no hot water running out, it's great :)

Last night for dinner, I made the best steak, if I do say so myself. There I was, sitting at my kitchen table, all alone, just munching on this delicious steak as it melted in my mouth. My garlic mashed potatos were divine, and of course, some broccoli. We all need our greens! After that, with the flavour still sitting on my tastebuds, I went and soaked in a steaming hot tub. Paradise!

And the Research Begins...

Okay, so in amongst my having to work overtime, I have looked into the following:

-Personal Trainers
-World Health
-MRU facilities

And my conclusion is this: personal trainers are EXPENSIVE!! If I had the cash flow, then maybe I would, but I don't. Remember the house I just bought not too long ago? Ya, along with that are utility bills. Yikes!
So I'm living my reality: bills, bills, bills. Yes, Shani is now a proud member of the real world. Thanks for letting me join! (sense the sarcasm?)

But I was also looking at different facilities, and although World Health is literally right outside my door, MRU offers more for less. What more can you ask for? Oh ya, a personal trainer - $$$. Well since we've already determined that's out of the question, next step: BUDDY!

I need a work-out buddy. Someone I tell what's going on, and someone who needs to rely on me as much as I need to rely on them. I have some people in mind, now I just need to approach them, hopefully with not-so-needy plea. No one likes a needy person.

So my while my campaign for companionship is flourishing, remember that I haven't officially started tracking yet. I'm still on step one!

And thank you to those who have offered your support thus far, it makes me feel motivated knowing others are rooting for me!

The BIG ONE for 2010

Okay, so I've come with a goal for 2010, one that I will have to think of EVERY day in order to be successful. Now I feel I need to defend myself on this one and preface it with an explaination:

My goal is to gain 10lbs this year.

Now do you understand why this could be a bit awkward? I know most people's goals are to lose weight, and everyone assumes that I don't need to exercise, and sometimes ridicule me for talking about it, but I'm gunna get personal here. Although exercise is not necessary for me to maintain my weight, it's always good to be healthy.

I'm not saying I'm not happy with my current state. I've considered it a blessing (since being an adult) that I don't have to worry about or count what I eat in order to look or feel good.

But I can look and feel better, on the inside. And shouldn't we all be striving for healthy lifestyles? This wonderful body we've been given is able to do so many amazing things, if only we train it and allow it. We can make our bodies whatever we want, as long our strength of mind is present.
Plus: when all the good endorphines are going, they help out on the home front, if you know what I mean (wink, wink). Miles and I are just in better moods when we're being active, and to be honest, a good mood leads to productivity which leads to a clean house and organization, which leads to happiness in several other areas. And hey, what I if I need to run after a child someday? Good cardio would come in handy!

So now that all your judgement is effaced, I'm going to need your support! Call me on something if I haven't followed through, or offer suggestions - I'll take anything! My life is about to become an open book, and all of you are co-authors.

So here's my plan:

Step 1: find a facility (there's one literally across the street from me) to use for a gym (but I hate membership fees on top of monthly fees. Just one fee, people!)
Step 2: find a buddy or personal trainer. I canNOT do this alone.
Step 3: make sure I'm eating the foods that will help me maintain any muscle I happen to build, it doesn't come easy.
Step 4: make sure I don't look like a body builder. Just some nice toning, that's all I want!
Step 5: be consistent.

Now, to help you understand my predicament, I need to explain my body type:

Ectomorphs

Ectomorphs have an extremely fast metabolism, which makes it very difficult for them to gain weight, and they tend to have a small bone-structure. Many of today's top models, male and female, are ectomorphs and display a thin physique with muscle definition.
At first having a high metabolism would seem preferable, but many ectomorphs want nothing more than to get bigger. They probably won't get fat, this is true, but they also cannot gain muscle very easily.
The primary goal of ectomorphs is to pack on muscle, and for this they must work out less often than endomorphs and mesomorphs while training very intensely. Their workouts must produce maximum muscle-fatigue, and then they must allow for rest in order for their muscles to heal larger. Resting also conserves calories, which are a valuable commodity to ectomorphs.
The diet of an ectomorph wishing to gain muscle must be calorie- and protein-rich. The extra calories keep the body from burning of muscle while the protein is absorbed.

So by now I hope you understand me a little bit better, and will support me in this quest. I'll keep a log of my progress so we can share in my successes together.

Practicing Parenthood

Last week I was helping out a friend in need: Miles' boss. No, I'm not trying to score brownie points for him! But if they come, we won't turn them away ;)

The short of it is they needed a hand in the daytime childcare department for a week as momma's out of town. Me, I'm happy to oblige. So for 5 days I was able to care for 3 kids (now two of them are in school during the day, so I was only tasked with entertaining a 4 year old. Which really means "follow me around and do what I tell you")

It is interesting stepping into a somewhat parenting role. The tricky part is you're not only there to entertain, but if you can find teaching moments to exploit, that's good too, even better.

I count it as a blessing to be reminded of the simpler things in life, to view things from the simplicity of a child's perspective. I think any parent would agree with me when I say it is our duty to teach children, but they are always teaching us, without even trying.

Thanks, Mark and Jenny, for the opportunity to learn from your children!

Preparation

I learned a great lesson from Grams, not too long ago, about preparation. While Miles and I were staying at her place, I found that she had everything she needed to cook dinner, ready to go at a moment's notice, sitting there on her counter. At like, 2pm. All the way down to the pots and pans being on the stovetop. Well I was finally smart enough to put this example into practice in my own life (one day) yesterday as I was preparing for her to come to dinner tonight. Quesedillas is the menu and 1.5 hrs is the time frame in which to cook, eat and visit.

So: yesterday morning (while I was awaiting the arrival of my new television) I cooked the chicken, diced tomatoes and sliced peppers. All I had to do when I got home today was make the guacamole, throw everything into a pan on a tortilla and get it cooking. Marvelous! She is also a great example of cleaning up right away, so while Miles was telling Grampa Wayne all about Apple and how easy it is to use "I can't learn something new" "sure you can, it's this simple, watch" " Look honey, this is what it can do!" at which I point I turn around, only to realize it's Grampa Wayne addressing his wife, not Miles me. (What can you do? I'm not used to hearing "honey" in my house except to address me.)

So after a quick, but successful, dinner the kitchen was cleaned up, and the appropriate "yay, look at my new house" tour has ended. They're on their way, as punctual as ever (another lesson I must learn from my well practiced grandmother).

So here's to preparation. Why put it off, why? JUST DO IT!

Just Do It

That's all you gotta do. To get things done, you gotta do them. I think I'm a person with pretty good ideas, for the most part. Ideas on what to do and how to do them, but when it comes to actually getting them done, I'm the master procrastinator. The irony is that when I do accomplish a task I've set out to do, I think to myself "wow, that didn't take long at all, and aren't I glad I did it?" Yes, those exact words every time...

So, once again, I'm full of ideas and things I'd like to get done. Well Shani, you just gotta get your butt out of bed, off the couch, your nose out the book, and do it. Who really cares if you're in the mood or not? I'm sure anyone who's successful didn't just do things when they were 'in the mood'.

Part 1 - come up with a new routine
Part 2 - JUST DO IT!

Routine

Okay, so anyone who knows me knows that routine is not my friend. In fact, sometimes I go out of my way to not repeat myself (unless it comes to a steak dinner, that's always the same!)

Well, this morning, routine was my friend! I've been waking up at 5am since Monday this week to get ready for the day and such. Well last night I went to bed later than I wanted, and since today is not hair-wash-day, I could stand to sleep in a little bit.

I find myself waking to the realities of the world (the slight chill in the air of night-time temperatures, my husband has all the blankets, the faint street lights coming through the window) and gaze at the clock to find it's 5am ON THE DOT! Amazing! So I just lay there a little and enjoy not having the hear the irritating buzz of the alarm. Then I look at the alarm and find that I had set it for 5:25PM rather than AM.

So, friend Routine, you have come to my rescue and I will not argue with you anymore. If it's good and it works, why change it?

My Inspiration

Okay, so let's begin. Why did I decide to start a blog? I have several friends who keep blogs and never once did I feel the desire to do one of my own. Well, the seed was planted with Julie & Julia, the heartwarming story of a woman trying to feel accomplished and important.
I watched the movie on my plane ride home from St. Lucia and absolutly loved it all! (made me very sad I didn't end up reading the book before I returned it to the library a couple years ago). I can connect with Julie on so many levels, but the two main ones are: I love cooking and I rarely finish anything I set out to do. Hence, blogging about goals!

So here's to you, Julie Powell, you've been my personal lighthouse showing me the path to success. The rest is up to me.

Recent Us

Okay, so before I go on about my future goals, I'd like to talk about some great stuff that happened last year that makes me believe I can accomplish my goals this year:

LASER EYE SURGERY: Yikes! What a decision that was, but to be honest, the best in my entire life. No more contacts, no more itchy eyes. That was an exciting day!

BACK TO SCHOOL: Yup, enrolled in a Mount Royal University Continuing Education class, and it's been great. I've done well on my assignments and I'm learning lots. I had forgotten much I like to learn and feel smart :)

OUR FIRST HOUSE: and our first mortgage! Exciting and scary at the same time, but I love that I have a place of my own to call home. I'm in charge here!

5 YEAR WEDDING ANNIVERSARY: Wow! Now that's a big one! Miles and I were officially wedded for 5 glorious years as of December 17, 2009, and to celebrate making it this far (I'm sure there were those with doubts) we went to St. Lucia, which was my dream vacation since being in travel school. My husband is so good to me! Here are a few pictures to commemorate the blessed event.

 

 

New Year, New Goals

Okay, so they say that when you set goals, they need to be shared. I've decided to use a blog to keep an account of my life and to feel the pressures of millions of people counting on me to finish what I say I will do! (a bit narcistic, perhaps, but if that's what helps, why not?)

So stay tuned for my goals and dreams I hope to accomplish this year!