My Husband Rocks - 1st Christmas

This is my father-in-law, my stepmother-in-law, and my husband's grandfather with my little boys...last Christmas


Here is my rockin' husband, his dad, and the boys last year.

This week the inspiration for My Husband Rocks Friday is our first Christmas spent together. Obviously the pictures above are NOT of our first Christmas, but in them are the people (minus the babies) that we spent our first Christmas together with.

The first Christmas we shared was 8 years ago (already??!?!). One of the main reasons I fell in love with my husband was his dedication and love for his family. It's hard for him because his parents live in seperate provinces and he rarely sees them together. Christmases we almost always spend with his dad, who loves the holiday and does it up right. This particular Christmas, the first ever with the Surrys, was full of love, family, food and joy. I have since learned that this is how every Christmas is for them.

Jon's dad is married to a wonderful woman who does her best to make everyone feel welcome and loved, accepted. She did that for me that first year, and every year since. Also with us were my husbands grandparents, who he loves very much. I could easily see that when he spent hours playing cards, visiting, and generally enjoying their company. Jon's grandmother has since passed on to a better place, leaving her family to remember her loving spirit and missing her still. I miss her so much.

So there we are, enjoying eachothers company and listening to music of the season, eating endless delicious dishes and treats. The holiday was filled with cards (canasta to be specific), food, and loved ones. It was wonderful. Jonny gave me a huge star-shaped vanilla candle (which I still have to this day, only half-burned up) and some chapstick, of which I am extremely addicted.

I loved our first Christmas together. I have loved every Christmas since. It is a joy to be around my husband and his family!! I am really looking forward to this Christmas, which will find me in the midst of laughter, loving family, and a few extra pounds to shed next year :) .

Youth

I have never really felt my age... I usually feel like I am still in my late-teens, early twenties. This feeling about myself brings on the shock when I see actual teens and young adults; I think to myself "but they are BABIES!!!" and "did I look that young??" . How can it be? How can time do that to us, where inside we feel young, vibrant and as though a day hasn't gone by since the world was at our feet? In another decade or so, will I still feel young, and look at people in their late-twenties, early thirties and think "but they are just BABIES!!" ??????

Giving birth to my boys did a number on my body; I have aches and pains where I didn't before, my joints are incredibly stiff after sitting for any length of time (which is embarrassing while trying to get out of the car after a short trip). I probably look like an old woman affected by arthrytis most of the time!! But in my heart, I am young. I am a fresh, myself-against-the-world, ready-for-anything young adult. Part of me loves that I feel that way!! But the rest of me is, because I feel that way, taken aback when reality comes crashing to a halt in front of me and my body insists on reminding me of all it's been through, for all these years.

I realize I am still young; please don't leave a comment for me saying that I am still young and what am I complaining for? Because if that is what you take from this post, then it wasn't communicated effectively.

Time is a funny thing. When I actually was young, the school year was F O R E V E R!!!!! Summer was short. I remember playing all day outside, to be a touch frustrated when that call came "SUPPER'S READY!!!", reluctant to leave that game of tag, touch-football or hide-and-seek to go in and eat. Then once the food was shovelled in, rushing right back out and playing until dark. Now, the days go by so fast. It is already nearly Christmas, and another year will begin. Where does the time go? I still feel like that young adult and the years are flying by at a rapid rate. "SLOW DOWN!!!" I want to shout at the top of my lungs. Just slow down and let me catch up!!

I don't feel I change, yet I look at loved ones all around me. My parents, my aunts and uncles; time seems to have caught up with them. They don't look how I remember them looking when I was young. Is that how I look to nieces and nephews?? Where does time go?? Where?

Progress

It has been awhile since I last wrote...consequently this will be a catch-up post. I have been busy with the boys lately! They are learning and growing at a rapid rate, and some days (weeks) it seems I can't keep up.

Sometimes I look at my sons and wonder where the time has gone; it seems only yesterday that those two were tiny babies and I was up 4 times a night with them. Now they are big boys. Sort of. Yesterday David used the Big Boy Potty, and it was so exciting! My husband and I just decided to start putting the boys on 15 minutes or so after they eat. Another new thing in their world!

They communicate more, wanting to know the names of objects around them. JD will point to something, and we will say the name of whatever it is, and the function. I will also ask them "where is the light?" and they will look at it or point to it. It is amazing to watch them make progress and communicate; they may not be able to talk yet, but it's easy to see they know what we say and understand certain things. They listen to everything.

David is walking like a pro; he keeps his balance and is now working on speed. JD is walking more every day, and while he still has trouble with balance, he keeps at it and soon will be faster. Some moments I watch them and just feel amazed and overwhelmed at their progress...it's like they want to grow and learn. The will to do and experience new things is so strong in those two. I'm sure it is that way with all kids...but these boys are my frame of reference. It's INCREDIBLE watching them process new and exciting things!!! I can almost see the wheels turning inside their heads. I find it fascinating the differences in them; David started walking before JD, and JD shows an interest in objects around him quicker than David. They are two different little minds and personalities.

When they were tiny babies, often they would hold eachothers little hand. Now that they are bigger they don't hold hands, but hug eachother. Such little sweeties! My days are now spent chasing after them, cleaning up after them, teaching them and enjoying them. When the day seems too much and I am down to taking things minute by minute, getting frustrated and fatigued, I'll see them hug eachother and my heart goes to mush. They remind me to slow down and not sweat the small stuff.

The bottom line of all this: I have been busy and I love my job. More later!!

Pictures

My boys are feeling better, and consequently my kitchen received a makeover. It was pretty tame while the camera was out. Once the camera disappeared, though, I was wading through pots, pans and bowls! So much fun, and soooo cute.


David loves to walk and is getting very good at it; JD prefers to crawl still. I assumed once one walked the other would; I was wrong. My sweet JD is taking his time, once he is ready he will be a walking man.

They like the stove because they can see their reflection. Same with the dishwasher! I was trying to get JD to smile, but no luck.

As I type this, I can hear these two up in their crib, NOT taking a nap. They have so much fun together. After these pictures were taken and the pots came out and back in again, David and JD were pushing around a kitchen chair and giggling like crazy. It was so cute, my husband and I just watched and smiled at them and eachother. They discover games with eachother that only they understand. I am sure they both have big imaginations too.

My baby David, always ready with a smile for the camera.

Our New Place!

The livingroom! That is our new sectional, which I love!


My sick little babies managed to crack small smiles for this one.....poor guys are under the weather.



Here's my kitchen...a little messy but not for long... I really like the lighting, and I LOVE having a dishwasher now!!!!! We still need to buy stools for our little breakfast bar.

Obviously the front...this pic was supposed to be first but I haven't figured out yet how to move them around. I love this place!!! Usually I have decorated for Christmas by now...but with the two little explorers I am holding off for a bit longer. Even though it's killing me!! I do have Christmas carols playing though.... can't help it.....

Where is everyone?????

Things have changed in the new house. The computer is no longer in the same room as the kids' toys, which means I don't get to play around on it while keeping an eye on my guys!! I may or may not be going through withdrawls, haven't decided yet. I miss reading the great blogs I have become entranced with, and now have to cram it all in a short sitting during naptime. But that doesn't lessen the magic of them!!

As for my grand goals of befriending every neighbor on the block...I never see any! Strange; it seems as though we are the only ones living in this area, surrounded by empty houses. I notice cars have left or arrived, I hear the happy sounds of children at play but never see anyone. Even though this sounds as if I am peeking out of my curtains stalking neighbors, I promise that is not the case. I have to take my dog out several times a day, since we have no fence.
Where is everyone? I guess in this day and age there are no casseroles to be brought, no "welcome to the neighborhood" to extend. I remember growing up the countless casseroles my mother made, accompanying visits to newcomers, or anyone in need. Not that I expected people to bring us stuff; but I secretly hoped they would stop by so I could make some friends. I just know someone is thinking as they read this, "well why doesn't SHE drop by the neighbors?" . A very good question indeed, my friends. Why don't I? I have no answer other than YIKES!!! That is a much more forward action than I can take.... right now. Maybe after I have seen someone in their yard and could extend a hello first. After the initial greeting, I would feel much more relaxed about ringing a doorbell out of the blue.

But I would have to actually SEE someone outside first.

Possible reason for noone stopping by : a very large, very scary dog seems to bark the daylights out of himself whenever he sees anyone. Or anything. This belies the kind, gentle soul Diesel has; he would never hurt a fly or a person, maybe a cat but that's a given. Cats are his nemesis. He loves people though!! Sure his hello is a tad bit freaky, a little run-for-your-life-he-will-eat-you..... but really he is full of love and affection.

Anyway, it doesn't matter if no one comes over to say hello; I will get them. Someday I will HAVE to see someone outside, and that is when I will make my move. I'm not looking for lifelong friends here, although who ever has enough?

Moving

Well, we are here. Home. I love this place so much!!! What a busy few days we have had. Still unpacking and organizing...my very favorite part! It's so much fun.

Friday afternoon we met our real estate agent at the house and he handed me my key! It felt so wonderful to turn the lock to my new home. We walked in....and WOW I had built the place up in my mind. Thinking about this house over the past few weeks has had the gossip effect; it kept getting bigger. Don't get me wrong; I love the house and it is the perfect size for us. Just funny how small it seemed at that moment.

We then rushed to pick up the UHAUL and load our stuff. With the boys at a friends house, we wanted to hurry. It took us about 4 hours to load all of the big stuff and most of the small stuff; BOY WAS I SORE!!!!!! But we weren't done! We drove to the new place and I took our car to pick up the boys. Then came the unloading....coming up to bedtime for the twins and where were the cribs?? In the front of the truck; we had to unpack nearly everything before we could reach them. YIKES!!! Not smart. With babies crying in the background, in a strange home and scared, we put the cribs together and managed to get them to bed. Thank goodness they were so tired they fell right to sleep! Back to the truck for us weary parents; we still had tons to unload.

Finally, with thoughts of a hot bath in my new tub, I helped my hubby unload the last heavy item. Thank goodness! Done!!! Now time to relax right? That's what I thought...so I took our pillows upstairs. On the way down, my slippery socks took my feet out from under me and I slid down the stairs, my feet smashing into some boxes stacked on the landing. OOOOOOUCHHHH!!!!!! @&*@&$)(@*&@!!!!!!!!
I yelled, then whimpered, and my husband (who was running out the door for takeout) came around the corner and asked if I was ok. I told him what happened and said my foot hurt....then took off my sock and SICK!! My middle toe on my right foot was totally crooked. My heart just sank....thoughts of a hot bath and sleeping babies drifted up and away from me; instead it was a trip to emergency in the local health center.

Four hours later, I was able to join my husband and boys in the car and head for home. David slept in the car the whole time I was told, and JD woke several times but each time was soothed back to sleep by a ride around the block. So, at 5 AM, we finally made it to bed. With a painful toe buddy-taped to the next one.
The next night...I had a hot bath in my new tub. Other than my gimp walk and hurting foot, has been a pretty great experience.
Pictures will come!!!

With only 3 days until we move, I have as much going on inside as I do in our house. So many thoughts!! I heard once that life is what you make it, and boy is that true. I will make our new life in our new home as great as it can be! As for this place....I have some notes for neighbors....

~to the boys who play in the complex: I will not miss how you used to ring our doorbell and run away. Not cool! I will miss the occasional hello you gave me and the few minutes of chatting, sharing your latest game or toy.

~to the nosy lady two doors down: I will NOT miss your 'need' to know all of our business...sorry I never managed to get the pet acceptance form to you. As my Dad used to say, "what difference will it make 100 years from now?" We had our dog for 4 years, I'm sure if the landlord didn't accept him you would notice. I will miss the rare smile and inquiry into how the boys are doing.

~to my next-door neighbor, I will miss you!! I will miss our chats, and I hope you are able to move home soon.

In our new home I have grand plans to be more open and friendly to the people in our neighborhood. That comment I made about life being what you make it? We've lived here for 4 years and I rarely made a point to visit with people. My excuse is I came from the city where no one makes eye contact. :) But had I been more open with people and let them in, we may have had a more enjoyable few years here filled with more friends and support systems. Instead I took to blaming them, for being so rude to outsiders. (insert shameful chuckle here)

This time, I will be friendly; I will do my best to get to know people and let them in.

I have one more note to a neighbor. To my dear friend a few blocks away.....
I will miss you so very much! I will miss our walks, the playdates; I will never forget how you have been there for me from day 1. The tears and laughter we've shared will not be forgotten. Of course we can still chat on the phone and see eachother once in awhile...but it won't be the same as having such a wonderful friend just down the road. I love you girl!

Now on to new adventures! Home ownership, our VERY FIRST HOME!!!! I am so excited, I can't stand it. I will post pics when I get them, I love the house.
New adventures, new neighborhood, fresh chance to use what I've learned from life so far. LOVE it!!!!

Frogs and Snails

Frogs and snails and puppy dog tails......
What a hot summer day!! Too hot for the boys to wear even a onesie. This was back in the day when crawling wasn't happening yet. They just sat and played with toys!


Growing up with four brothers...no sisters.... gave me a pretty clear picture of how things will be. It will be so great. Forts, snowball fights, sports...here I come! If I'm lucky, I just might be the only girl allowed in a "NO GIRLS ALLOWED" clubhouse! Well, I guess it depends on the clubhouse...I may not be lucky. :)


There are two--and pretty much only two--reasons it gets QUIET during playtime. The #1 reason is that they are into something they shouldn't be. The second is that they fell asleep! Sooo sweet. This is the only time it has happened so far, and I had to get it on camera. I hated to wake him to go to bed. When I did, he had the rug imprint on his cheek!

This one goes with the pics on my sidebar... I love David's smile!! Even though he is the more serious one, we see his smile all the time. I hope we always do! The tickle I gave him plus his big plans to grab the camera sparked this particular smile.

This is one of my very favorite pictures. I think this one will be included in a wedding slideshow!! Haha. I remember JD was starting to get cranky and wanted out of his highchair.

I really hope these pictures capture enough personality. I am the worst for getting prints in the mail to loved ones, and hopefully this blog is a great alternative!

My Husband Rocks! - Friday

Is it Friday already?? Haha, kidding. This week there isn't any amazing incident that stands out, it was just a regular week. My husband does, however, ROCK!! He rocks because he NEVER complains. I'm not kidding. I complain about everything, from a sore back to a busy day. I don't think of it as complaining, of course, but that's what it is. Hubby never does this. The only way I know he has a sore shoulder, for example, is if I catch him rolling it and giving it a quick rub.

My husband plays in a pool league and loves every minute. He tries every week to improve his game, and tracks points and the teammates' accomplishments. This year he is doing quite well, and has a goal to do even better. This past wednesday, his pool night, he had to work late. Very late. He pulled a 20 hr shift! Did he complain about the hours? No. Did he complain about the lack of sleep? No. He didn't even complain about missing his pool night! The only explanation he gave was that he had to let the other teammates catch up to him. What a guy!

This is one area I need much improvement in, and I try to take a page out of his book. He is so easy going, never complains or dwells on disappointments. I love that about him; and it is one of the MANY reasons why I will never let him go!!!!

As for next wednesday...he will be there with bells on, doing his best to win every game. Even though I won't be there, I will be cheering him on.

CHRISTmas Thoughts

With my two little guys upstairs napping, and my husband likewise curled under the blankets, I should be packing. However, I feel like writing so here I sit. The wind is cold and swirling down the chimney, sounding lonely and menacing. A warm throw fresh from the dryer and a cup of white hot chocolate are calling my name repeatedly.

The main thing on my mind is the ever-growing group of people who do not believe in Christ, but celebrate Christmas, and therefore want to change the name of the holiday to accomodate those who don't believe in God. This is utterly ridiculous!! Is there not freedom of religion? Yes. Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Christ, and we can NOT leave Christ out of Christmas!! It is a Christian holiday. The same people who fight for their religions and their own right to respect and worship them, are asking - no, Demanding- that we change the name of our Christian holiday to accomodate them. This gets me more than alittle hot under the collar.

Then I think, can we blame them? For years Christmas has become more and more commercialized; squeezing God out of the celebrations. It is this commercial conglomerate that the world celebrates. In a big way, I think we have brought this conclusion upon ourselves.

The only solution I can come up with, using my small voice, is to have a parallel holiday. Have a holiday season that can be celebrated by these wonderful people who don't celebrate the birth of Christ, but who want to take part in the season of peace and joy. That way, Christians can celebrate the birth of Christ and call it such as is our right, and the rest of the world can celebrate along with us, without forcing us to change the name to make it more comfortable.

Sounds good to me, anyway.

My Surry Boys

My sweeties 9/19/08



JD




David

Life is sure interesting since these two came along. They are characters, both of them. Now, at nearly 14 months, they intrigue me even more. The differences in each and the little things that make them who they are seem to be developing more each day.

David is my little drama king. If I take something away or don't give him his snack fast enough, he becomes a puddle of jelly and slips to the floor. Next comes the fake cry and the fish out of water routine; he flops and throws himself around, letting everyone in the vicinity know just how unfair the world really is. He never stops suprising me...during play I occasionally find him sitting in his little rocking chair, reading a book. That is a joy to me, as he is a go-go-go, rough and tumble, climbing on anything-and-everything type of boy.

JD has started to show a new side to his character...he gets embarrassed. If he copies something or completes a difficult task and we praise him a little too much, he will turn his face away (usually laying his head on the floor). I'm not sure why, but this makes me sad. While I don't want arrogant boys, I sure don't want him to belittle his accomplishments. I don't want him to be embarrassed at praise. I often find him quietly working on things, not wanting to draw attention to himself. An example of this is reading; much like his brother, I will occassionally find JD pretending to read a book. If I bring attention to this in any way and tell him what a good job he is doing, he will stop. And get bashful. As we go along growing and learning together I will have to find a way to uplift him and encourage him without embarrassing him.

I am fascinated with similarities. Because I am adopted I didn't have many similarities in looks or personality with my parents. But I see things in my boys that clearly come from my husband and I, and it thrills me!! Examples of this... David looks like my hubby. His skin tone, eyebrows and hair are all Jon!! JD looks like me, I see my skin tone and my hair in him. (I had white-blonde hair for the first 7 yrs or so of my life). JD has a goofy sense of humor like his daddy, and he loves to be amused. Getting embarrassed at praise--that's Jon too. David has the skills like Jon, good at anything he tries and climbs all over the place. David gets his dramatics from me; I am guilty of that overdramatic role. JD gets frustrated when he tries things and fails the first few times...that's me in a heartbeat.

While I know they are individuals I see these traits that clearly hail from us, and it gives me that warm, fuzzy feeling. They are my boys!!!

Remember Me

I love Rememberance Day. I love to see people wear poppies and know what it represents.

It used to be just another day, with a short trip to the cenetaph and a quick ceremony remembering the fallen. But understanding who the fallen are and what they gave for us and why makes this day much more.

I can't imagine what it must have taken for those young soldiers to get off that boat and creep onto a beach that very well could be that last sight they see. I can't fathom the courage it must have taken to crawl through a tunnel, hearing and feeling the vibrations of shells and bombs all around them, not knowing if that second will be their last breath. Those on the front lines must have endured a plethera of emotions; relief that buddies made it alive and likewise incredible grief at not only finding a commrade fallen but the very scenes around them, the macabre that invaded their every senses. It is no wonder that so many veterans wish to leave the battlefield in the past and not share their experiences. What is so incredible to me is that they went. They fought. They gave life and limb for freedom that we enjoy today without a second thought.

I am very patriotic; I love Canada and the freedoms we enjoy. When I read stories of the great wars or watch documentaries on those and other conflicts, I am filled with pride and love for our soldiers. The brave ones who fought. The strong ones who gave so much not only for themselves and their families, but for the generations ahead. The love, selflessness, courage, strength and very attitude of those souls should never be forgotten. I am so thankful for that great sacrifice.

Now, so much more than the school years past, the words "Lest We Forget" are hitting home for me.

My Husband Rocks! -Friday

I couldn't focus this week on just one reason my husband rocks, because I missed the past 2 fridays! So I will list a few things about him I think are simply wonderful.

~he always, ALWAYS lets me cry and rant when I need to, gives me the appropriate amount of humor to lighten my mood, then calmly reasons with me and helps me to understand whatever situation is at the base of my emotion. When we are finished, I feel usually 100% better and see a bigger picture than the narrow filtered one I previously envisioned.

~there is a tenderness about him. He hides it, and for some reason I love that he hides it; I see it though in his dealings with me, the boys, and the occasional underdog that crosses his path.

~when I am frustrated, and I don't mean the usual frustrations...when I am extremely frustrated to the point I can't continue the task or function I am attempting to perform...he will take over. He knows when I am getting in my own way or when it is something real that I need to step back from; if it is the former he lets me figure it out. If it happens to be the latter, he takes my place and does it for me. I love him for it!!! It brings tears to my eyes the intuition, compassion and love that it takes to do that.

There are so many reasons why my husband rocks. Of course our marriage is real, and some days it's harder to remember those reasons; but usually the inconsequential things don't matter. The socks on the floor. The toilet seat. Well, he can't leave his socks on the floor, the dog will inevitably take them and shred them, and do it quietly and quickly. The toilet seat? Well, I figure women can put it down just as easily as men could put it up. I am blessed to have a wonderful, good man who gives me lots of reasons why he is great.

No Fear

This post is dedicated to my little monkey. He climbs on anything and everything! There is no fear in this little boy. My sweet David.

I am told when my hubby was young he was a great tree climber, and climbed on everything in sight too. I remember myself climbing on trees and fences, not to mention the jungle gym. Basically, normal kids. David is almost 14 months, and already I see in him the climber.

I can't count the number of times Dave has needed help getting off furniture, or released from some tight place he has wedged himself into. I know, I just KNOW in the core of me he will be trouble. David will be the source of many calls from school, plunging me into panic mode as I am told he has broken a leg, arm, or collar bone. Twisted ankle. Broken nose. Take your pick.

On the up side, I love his fearlessness. I love that there are no boundaries he lets hold him back. There are safety issues of course, and obedience issues; however I can't help but think that freedom from fear will benefit him in the most amazing ways in life. He won't let walls keep him from achieving his dreams. He won't let obsticles get in his way. There is no "I can't" with David right now. (except with WALKING!!! hahaha)

I sincerely hope as he grows and learns, that curiosity and weightlessness will grow with him. That he will learn limits for safety, be smart about the consequences of his actions, but not let himself get bogged down by the world. I hope he will keep exploring, keep climbing, and keep that ease in doing so. As he breaks barriers and surpasses limits, I wish the most wonderful and incredible experiences in life for him. The kind we take with us forever, no matter where life leads us.

Into November

I have never really liked November. Except for my moms birthday, November holds no attraction for me. Halloween is over, and it's still a long way till Christmas. Add the snow to that, and you have a major boring month. November is second only to January. Can't stand January.

This year is different though; we don't have snow yet, which is fantastic. I can still take the boys for walks and not have to trudge through a foot of snow! Also the moving; that adds quite a bit of excitement to an otherwise dull month. I already have Christmas on the brain; thinking about decorations and humming carols, I look forward to this coming Christmas season. Now that we are older Christmas does seem to come faster. Time rolls right by and if you blink, you will for sure miss something.

Thinking of Christmas has me inevitably thinking of the new year. This will be a big year, I can feel it. With the boys no longer infants, this coming year will be exciting and fun. I have the biggest list of intentions for them over the coming winter, following spring and summer. I sincerely hope that they don't go the usual way of good intentions and slip by.

Yes, this is a good November. Last year at this time I was getting next to NO sleep, up every 2 & 1/2 to 3 hours all night to feed the babies and feeling shut in by the snow. At least I think we had snow; I didn't get into the real world much. But that is all in the past... the boys are bigger and much more energetic; we will have a ton of fun. This winter we will start crafts!! I am so excited. I'm sure they will like the finger painting, coloring, glueing and decorating. Along with the crafts we will have some major tent-building, hide-and-seek playing, cookie-baking fun. I can't wait to get started! Just as soon as we get settled in the house.

Now that we are into November, it's really not that bad. We'll see about January!

Halloween

A friend of ours gave the boys Halloween cupcakes, which they devoured pretty fast. Actually, I was a mean mom and only allowed them to eat half of the cupcake before I sneakily took them away. But they sure loved the icing and the chocolate cake! David wouldn't let go of his cracker though, which I find somewhat strange...

JD loved the icing!

I said I wasn't going to take them trick-or-treating, and I didn't really. But I did dress them up and take them next door for a photo op. The pictures didn't upload to the computer though and I have to work the problem before you can see them. David wore a black costume with a green glow-in-the-dark skeleton on it, SOOO cute. JD wore a pumpkin costume...adorable!!! So we went next door and they got some candy, which I am enjoying immensely, and we all took pics. This was their first experience with Halloween! Next year though, we will take them around the block...and it will be so fun. Having kids to enjoy these times with allows me to be a kid again myself!!

Slow as Molasses

I can't seem to get moving today. I have so much to do, and just can't get started. Maybe it's the size of my list; overwhelming and keeping me stuck in one place. My plan was to have the majority of our packing done by a few days before we move, leaving only a few things out that we need, in order to eliminate stress. Well, looking over my list is sure STRESSFUL, and I can't get going on it!

It is hard first of all to pack with small children; OK let me backtrack ~ first of all it is hard to PACK. Then throw in small children that demand time, energy and care, and it's difficult to pack. Usually I try to rush and pack as much as I can while they are napping, therefore eliminating the many MANY halts in the process to check on whatever the boys have gotten into. Today however, I just can't move my feet. I can see some late nights on the horizon, after the boys go to bed instead of relaxing with a book (one of my very favorite pastimes) I will be packing and preparing for the move.

As for today, I might just stay stuck in this cement and pay more attention to my boys. They are a pretty cute distraction!

Blocked!

It has been about a week since I've written anything... it's busy here at the Surry home. I have managed to pack quite a bit, though more awaits me. Much more. We have 21 days to go, then Moving Day! I am so very excited, I can't believe I am sitting still as I write this. What a whirlwind this has been; but a great, fantastic whirlwind. I don't mind packing...but un-packing is WAY more fun.
Aside from the packing, I have writers block...can't think of anything to write about. A week now, and haven't found an exciting topic, or any topic that would be of mild interest to anyone. Nothing new on the homefront; the boys are still only taking a few steps on their own. Most of me feels anxious...I want them to start walking already!! Walking, running, jumping...I am excited for it. But of course there is that smaller part of me that thinks "just ENJOY the fact they are still crawling!!! You nutty woman!!!" The only thing new really is the mimicking. They love to mimic Dad, and that can be trouble. The boys have this toy hammer, and Daddy used it to bop them on the head (NOT hard or anything, so don't think we beat them...) and now they use toys and anything else to bop themselves on the head! That is only one example of the copy-cat tricks.

Halloween is tomorrow!! I LOVE Halloween. I remember eating a rushed supper so we could take off trick-or-treating immediately after! I remember watching the Disney Halloween Special, with clips from spooky shows like the Headless Horseman, the witch from Snow White, etc. etc. My fave!! I enjoy carving pumpkins, roasting the seeds, and watching scary movies late into the night.

This year we are not taking our boys trick-or-treating, which means I'll be missing out on a lot of candy. Might have to just buy some for myself. But the boys are too small; I just know if we went everyone who opened the door to us would be thinking "what is she doing? those kids are too small to eat candy, obviously it's for HER!" Anyway, it's not as though the boys will understand what's going on; maybe next year.

Hard to believe we don't have snow yet...although the air is COLD today, so snow may be imminent.

Can you tell I'm blocked? I can't think of a thing to write. This small update will have to do for today's post, cuz it's all I got.

I was tagged by Chantal...so here it goes!! By the way, I really like these. They are fun and it's always nice to read about friends....

5 Years Ago ~
1. I was planning my wedding
2. I worked the deli counter at Sobeys!
3. Only dependants were 2 ferrets, Manson & Ginger
4. enjoyed carefree days!
5. Did some all-niter road trips to Abbotsford


Things on my list for Today ~
1. have a SHOWER!!!
2. get a few more boxes packed
3. give the boys a bath
4. fold laundry
5. go visit some friends


5 Snacks I Enjoy ~
1. Popcorn Twists
2. Caramilk Bar
3. All-Dressed Chips
4. Origional or Vanilla Frosted Mini-Wheats
5. Oatmeal Crispies


5 Things I would do if I was a Millionaire ~
1. pay off mortgage
2. put money away for boys
3. help special needs' children and their families
4. pay off car
5. buy some clothes


5 Places I have lived ~
1. Raymond, AB
2. Medicine Hat, AB
3. Calgary, AB
4. Edmonton, AB
5. Redwater, AB


5 Jobs I have had ~
1. housekeeping in a nursing home
2. A & W - cook
3. Money Mart - customer service rep
4. cucumber picker in a greenhouse
5. Second Cup giftshop - gift basket creator


Tag 5 people ~
1. Holly
2. Songbirdmama
3. Michelle
4. Anonymous #1
5. Anonymous #2

Just Monday

I can't think of anything great and inspiring to write, so this post falls back on my favorite little men.

David and JD are the greatest joy and biggest challenge of my life! Constantly I am re-evaluating myself and the way I handle situations.
I have my goals as a mother, and I have my goals as a wife. There are things I know I need to improve on, and other things I need to eliminate in my parenting style. This is such a big job! I am sure mothers everywhere have days where they feel inadequate and unprepared for the responsibility; I know I sure do. Then there are times when the happiness is so overwhelming that tears come to my eyes. These two extremes aren't always seperate from eachother; sometimes I feel those emotions moments apart.

I think alot of women in the world, because of their own choices, are greatly missing out on the beautiful role we have in life. Women are wonderful, powerful, and necessary in the traditional family; we have everything it takes to fill the role. I believe this about women: women have the necessary gentleness, peacefulness and strength required to mother children; women have the kindness, loving nature, and support to provide to our husbands; women have the intelligence, practicality and power to influence the world. I have learned this from my mother and the example she is to me. I grew up watching a mother who loved and supported and stood beside her husband through whatever the world threw at them, a mother who was tender and loving, teaching, creative, and disciplinary to her children, and a mother who helped and cared for others in need.

Do we have all it takes to be powerful women, wives and mothers? Yes we do. Do we improve and use these skills every opportunity we get? Probably not. I know I don't. I look at my sons and know it is my duty to do the best I can, using the resources I have been given. Sometimes the stress from that alone can cause me to want to curl up in a ball and cry myself to sleep!! But I know we are women because we can handle that mantle of responsibility. I am going to try harder! If we women try harder to fulfill our responsibility in this life, imagine what wonderful things could happen!!!

(oh, look at that...I guess I did have something to say after all. I never really know until I start typing.)

Terrorizing Leons

Yesterday we checked out a couple of furniture stores. It was a tiring escapade to the Brick; we didn't grab a cart and were carrying the boys around the store! These two get HEAVY after about 5 minutes, and we were there for about 45. As we drove to Leons, we both said "lets get a cart this time!!".
Walking into the store we didn't see carts, but we found a better solution waiting for us. They have these things that I can only describe as a tiny wheelbarrow; a large handle like a wheelbarrow and the 'bucket' part is a little seat for a toddler! The strangest thing I have ever seen as far as strollers go. We snagged two and put the boys in. They LOVED it!! We didn't make it 10 steps before the first loud ~ and I mean LOUD ~ squeal erupted! In such a massive cavernous building, the echoes were embarrassing. David and JD laughed, hooted and hollered, and jabbered back and forth. They were L*O*U*D !!!
Part of me was thrilled at the blatant joy my boys were expressing, and the other part of me wanted to hide amongst the sofas. Actually, it was quite hilarious and my husband and I occassionally found ourselves racing to make the boys squeal louder! Most of the time, though, we apologized to the few patrons and staff for the incredibly audible chatter between our little men.
It was so much fun though; and I loved that my boys enjoyed themselves that much during what would otherwise be a dreadfully dull experience for them. When we return to purchase things for our home, I know we will have tons of fun! Though the staff might dread our return, I look forward to it. I will bring the camera too!

My Husband Rocks! Fridays

I saw this on another blog, and love the idea. It's fantastic!! It's all about focusing on the little, great things our spouse does instead of keeping track of the things they don't do. I believe in the greatness of marriage, and I love being married. It may not always be easy, or perfect, or the stuff dreams are made of, but concentrating on the good stuff and building up our spouses can make marriage wonderful.

Today my husband rocks because he plays with our boys. While getting bottles ready for bedtime, I could hear laughter coming from the livingroom! The boys were in peals of laughter and my husband was smack in the middle of it. That warms my heart, hearing the three of them play together, and it makes my day. Even though my hubby might be tired from a long day at work, he always makes time at the end of it to play with the boys. I love him for it.

It never fails if I need a moment to myself after a long day, my husband is there and steps in to take care of the boys. When those moments come where I need to back off and cool it, he is right there to carry on where I left off. He really is my partner, my friend, my confidant; he is my right hand. I really don't think I could've made it through the past year without him by my side!! Thus: my husband ROCKS!!!!

If you want to see where I got this from, check out Webbmania in my bloglist...it's great!!

Recap

The past 5 days have been interesting for us...and I thought I would share some of the happenings with all of you bloggers out there.
On Saturday our boys each took their first unassisted steps! Such an amazing sight to see; the hesitant first steps accompanied by the excited smile on their faces... not much can top that. We've been working with them ever since to branch out more than a few steps and will keep working at it. They love to walk and it won't be long until they get the hang of it.
Sunday found me cooking Thanksgiving dinner for our little family. Since we usually visit relatives for holidays, I don't have much practice at cooking the full meal on my own. This time around everything actually worked out (miracle), even the turkey gravy. It was awesome!! Only one thing didn't turn out - the Yorkshire puddings. But as they were still edible, I count the whole meal as a success. We had a turkey breast & thigh roast, potatoes & gravy, cauliflower & cheese sauce, mixed vegetables, Yorkshire puddings and 2 kinds of pie - lemon and chocolate mousse. I realize I have written more content on this dinner than on my boys' first steps, but this was quite a feat for me and I am proud of the meal I was able to give my husband. (He comes from a family of cooks - the food they serve is always amazing)
On Tuesday we saw 3 more houses, making the total of homes we have viewed 8. We found one! Tuesday was a very tense day with placing an offer, counter-offers, negotiations and all of that exciting stuff. At the end of the day, we had signed papers stating that subject to financing and an inspection, the house would be ours on Nov. 21st. Hurray!!!! It is a beautiful 2 storey home and my husband and I love it. We finally have some roots, a home of our own. The feeling is incredible!! One I won't forget ever.
Today I find myself drained of emotional energy after such an exhilerating few days; I have much to do now, and am simply sitting back, soaking it all in, and preparing myself for the next step : packing and moving with toddler twins and a dog underfoot!!!!!!!

Thanksgiving Thoughts

~~~ Happy Thanksgiving everyone!! I am thankful for many things in my life, and would like to share them with you. First and foremost, I am thankful for God and the presence He has in my life. It is wonderful to know that He knows who I am and shares my trials and joys with me. ~ I am thankful for my husband and for the partner that he is. He accepts me for who I am, loves me, and takes on the world with me. I love him so much! ~ I am so thankful for my little boys, for who they are and all they teach me. I am grateful to have them in our family. ~ I am thankful for our extended families; I love each and every one of them and this journey wouldn't be the same or as complete if any one of them weren't in our family. Every member brings a uniqueness and is an essential part of this unit. I love them all. ~ I am also very grateful for my dog, Diesel; he may just be a dog but I love him so much. He reminds me to slow down and take a moment to play; he loves me unconditionally even when I don't have time for him; he is ALWAYS here for me. He is a great family pet, good to my boys, and I couldn't picture our little family without him. ~ I am thankful that my husband works hard for us and provides a roof over our heads, food and clothes, and comforts that we take for granted. ~ I am thankful to live in Canada; I love this nation of ours and love the freedoms we enjoy every day. This is indeed a beautiful country and I love it all, mountains and prairies. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else. ~ I am thankful for my friends; near and far, you enrich my life and I love you all. You are all amazing and individual, I love you for who you are and everything you are.

I wish everyone (even you State-side Canadians) a very happy Thanksgiving and hope you can get the warm fuzzies too as you think of all you are thankful for! :)

Pet Names

I know my posts are always about my babies, but what can I say; the boys are my favorite topic of conversation these days. Also I started this blog so the people in our lives who can't see the boys on a regular basis can keep up to date on their progress and see a few pictures at the same time.
It's also a place to record my thoughts, no matter how silly they may seem. Take the other day for example; I said something to David and suddenly realized how many pet names I have for the boys and for the objects and happenings around us. When did I get this bad? Was it gradual, or was I an instant freakshow mama? I have so many names for the babies and use all of them. Here are some of the names on my list:
*Sweet Pea
*Baby-Boo
*Boo
*Snuggle-Bunny-Boo
*Snuggleupagus
*Honey-Pie
*Sweetie-Pie
*Baby-bye
*Boo-Ba-Loo
*Sugar-Plum and Sugar-Plummy-Plum

If that wasn't bad enough, I have pet names for other stuff, such as:

*juice is Juicy, never just juice
*bedtime is Beddy-bye
*crib is Cribbie
*nap is Nappy-pie
*snack is Snack-a-roo

I don't know where I got this from; I'm pretty sure my mom never used pet names like this. My husband occasionally shakes his head when I utter some of these, and smiles to himself. On the inside I know he is thinking "you're such a freak!"
haha
Now that the boys are a year, I am going to try and wean myself off this silly talk. They have known and responded to their names for a long time now, so I don't think the silly names confuze them; I just think it's time for me to STOP. :D

Shopping

Today I packed up the boys and set off for a shopping trip at Safeway. For an hour before leaving the boys cried nonstop!! I don't know if they were tired, feeling yucky, or just didn't feel like facing the women today. Yup, my little men are woman magnets!! Usually older women, but women just the same. When the boys were tiny infants, we would get stopped about 10 - 15 times in one store by people. There were inquisitive types, who asked a million questions about twins. There were also comment droppers, who tell us everything from "I hope you realize how lucky you are to have twins," to "two for the price of one, hey?" (to which I reply "nope, it's definately the price of two") .

Now that the boys are older, it's the sweet old ladies that stop us and coo and talk to the boys. They are a mix of the inquisitives and the droppers, and all tell me what beautiful boys these two are. Today the majority comment was "my goodness your boys are patient shoppers!!" I, myself, was suprised at how calm and happy they were. When these ladies told me that I would think 'you should have seen them BEFORE the trip!'

It's funny how babies attract attention, and the ladies love my little men!

A day in the life..

My Little David...2 weeks old and 1 yr old

My baby JD at 2 weeks and 1 yr
I alway post about my boys and how they've changed over the year. It's because I am in such shock!! I remember what it felt like to snuggle both tiny babies at once and just being so in love with them. I cannot believe how wonderful they are and how big they are getting! I'm sure it's only days away from their first unassisted steps... and I don't know if I'm ready, but it will happen whether I am ready or not. They have grown so much!! So fast!! I find myself wondering what they will be like, how their personalities will develop, and just how it will be once they can talk and walk.
We have new neighbors beside us; there are two little boys, 3 & almost 2, and I get dizzy watching them. The oldest talks nonstop, and it's hilarious! I can't even imagine my boys talking nonstop, or running around everywhere!! I still remember the pre-crawling days, when they just sat there. How things change. These two are amazing little guys and constantly suprise me with all they know. I used to keep thinking.."oh the next step will be so much easier..." It would be easier if they could hold their own bottles, it would be easier if they could crawl... well those days are gone. I know it won't be easier when they can walk and talk!! Actually, I am pretty scared. How will I keep track of them while shopping? They won't be content to sit in the cart like they are now. How will I stop them from saying alarming things in front of/to strangers at Walmart?? They are sponges and absorb everything. I just know they will say something eventually...you experienced mothers know all about it...when they say something really loud that causes you to turn beet red and want to hide amongst the clothes rack, or stand back and ask "where is this child's mother?" . I used to tell myself "I won't be embarrassed of my kids..." "My kids will be well behaved in public places because I'll teach them to be that way.."
Well now I am pretty sure I was naive in thinking those things. More than naive, ridiculous!! I always have been a dreamer.
Folks, very VERY soon my guys will be walking and talking and I am SCARED OUT OF MY MIND!!!! How on earth do you do it? Any tips? I feel like it's been a cake walk until now, and I fear the days to come!

Insert Screw Here

Until yesterday, my husband has put together all of the assembly-required toys for the kids. Until yesterday, I had no idea how lucky I was that he took upon himself the role of toy-assembly-super-hero.
David and JD's auntie sent them a birthday present a few days ago; after a few days of my husband being too tired after a long day of work to assemble it, I decided to give it a try. How hard can it be, right? Well I will tell you. I opened the box and the first thing I see is a bag of screws. SCREWS!! It's a kids toy! So I pull out the screws and hunt down a screwdriver, which turned out to be very handy from the last time a toy had to be assembled, and set to work. Out came piece after piece of plastic parts, which when completed should somehow resemble a Little Tykes Garage. After a gazillion pieces I finally found the bottom of the box, and there to my DELIGHT (after realizing how many pieces there actually were) was a booklet containing the assembly directions! Horray! For someone mechanically challanged as I am, that is a very good item to find. One might say a necessary item. I sure would. Alright, so I have my screws, screwdriver, pieces and directions...I'm set. And pumped. I feel so super-hero-ish, and ready to put together my first EVER toy. I open the directions and immediately furrow my brow. The step-by-step directions are in 12 - I repeat, 12 - languages!! Even though English is at the top, I challange ANYONE to look at an 11-page instruction manual where every step is written in 12 languages, and see if they don't get confuzed!!
I will spare you the gory details, suffice it to say I felt more on top of the world with each step completed. I was stuck here and there, but every time I figured it out and plugged along to the next one. I snapped pieces together, inserted screws and drove them home, I was a MACHINE!! Two and a half hours later, I was sitting in the middle of the livingroom floor, exhaused (yes, EXHAUSTED!) and triumphant. Though I don't see myself applying for a job in Santa's workshop, I am very proud of the job I did. When completed, it actually looked like a parking garage! And I didn't even have any pieces left over, causing me to have to take it all apart to see where I went wrong. It looks good! I showed the boys how to work it; car in elevator-goes up-then races down spiral ramp. They loved it!!
My husband arrived home from work and seemed suprised that I had assembled the toy. I don't blame him; I am still suprised myself!! Then he gets on the floor to try it out...and when the elevator won't work right, he says to me..."Did you put this together right??"
:) :) :) :) :) Uh, seriously?? WHO KNOWS!!! But I did it!

By the way, they love the garage Auntie!!!

Seven

This is 7 random facts or secrets about me, as seen on Just Because. Now let's see if I can recall any...

1. I have no idea what a tag is, or how to do it. I don't know much about computers at all, and the fact I am able to create a blog is a small victory for me.

2. I really love Doo-Wop music...always have. I don't think anyone knows that about me...it's not that I am embarrassed or anything, it just doesn't come up in everyday conversation. "hey, heard any good doo-wop lately?"

3. I only feel old when my body is sore. Other than that, I still feel like I'm in my early 20's. Is that wierd? I know time is passing, but I don't feel it passing for me...

4. I hate the circus. When I was small I learned about shame at the circus. We went with my aunt and uncle, and I overheard them arguing about money and the fact my parents didn't send us along with enough. I felt total and complete shame for the very first time in my life. Now that I am an adult with kids of my own, I can imagine how frustrating it would have been to take 3 extra kids along to the circus (or any expensive kid attraction) with not enough money. Especially when kids want what all the other kids have. But back then it was horrible to hear them fighting and knowing the cause.
This may or may not also have been the start of my fear of clowns; I don't remember what happened that gave me this phobia, but it surely could have been a circus-related experience.

5. One of my most favorite memories ever is of my parents whenever we would go camping. Late at night, all of us tucked in to our blankets or sleeping bags in the trailer or camper, I would lie awake and hear my parents quietly whispering...my dad would whisper something and my mom would giggle like crazy. My dad would whisper something else, and they would both giggle. I have no idea what they were talking about, but I loved hearing those sounds.

6. I have a love affair- with caramel. I love it. Can't get enough of it. Yummy.

7. I let fear hold me back from so many things. There is me, with dreams and passions to pursue, and there is a giant black ball shackled to my ankle with the letters F E A R plastered to it. And I don't understand people who say they want to go for something and then actually go for it. It's foreign to me.

Well that's it-7. You might have already known those things about me, or not... hope it was good reading anyway.

Success!

Today I went to the mom & tot playgroup! Okay, so I kind of cheated and went with my neighbor, but still...I left my comfort zone and actually initiated conversation with other moms. I can see myself becoming friends with a couple of the mothers because I opened my mouth and left my shy side at home. It was great! I had fun, was able to get out of the house for a few hours, and the boys were around alot of other kids. David and JD kept to themselves for the most part...which tells me I really need to do this more and on a regular basis. They did interact with other children at times though and it was so sweet to see! JD at one point was completely taken with this one boy; I don't know what it was that interested him but he stayed with this tot for a few minutes. At first it was just staring, then he put his little arms around for a hug; I started to get worried when JD began patting the boys head...gentle at first, then harder. Finally I broke it up when JD put his hands on the little guys shoulders and started shaking him! Now should this worry me? I have no idea. But if I get out and socialize the boys then they will learn how to behave around other kids. There were about...oh maybe 15 kids there, maybe 20. It was loud! David started to cry when a few of the kids were running around screaming. Poor baby! He cries at loud noises, and with the kids zipping around him he must have been so overwhelmed! He will get used to it though. I am confident that after a few more visits to the playgroup my boys will start to enjoy it and want to go every week.
Now I feel great; I feel like Superwoman! A feeling of accomplishment, like I overcame obsticles and did what was best for my boys, not what was easiest for me. Now I can take on ANYTHING!!

Heart Strings

Kids grow so fast! If I had a nickle for every time in my life I have heard that, my husband could immediately retire and my boys could go to ivy league schools. Now I am getting first-hand knowledge of just how fast they do grow. JD crawls on all the furniture now. I have probably had 10 mini-panic attacks in the past week because of this. David poses for pictures now! You can't tell in the pic above, it was taken pre-posing days; but now if a camera is pointed his way he will beam and show off his cutest expressions. It's adorable. They seem like such big boys to me; no longer the babies they were a few months ago. Yet they are only 1; I figure I've got at least 24 more years of hard parenting, then another 25 years of passive parenting. With all this growing up they have done, I sometimes feel I need to slow down and catch my breath. I mean, kids change whether you are ready for it or not! Then there are moments where they tug at my heart strings, still needing close comfort. Today these two had their 1 yr immunizations. It was aweful! They cried hard and shed big tears. Each in his turn tried to twist around and put his little arms around my neck, all heaving sobs and broken trust. My poor little guys! It's worse now than when they were tiny getting those needles. I ached for them, suddenly my little babies again, and wished I didn't have to put them through such a painful but necessary step in childhood. Right now to see them you wouldn't know they had such a traumatic experience a few hours ago; they are playing and fighting just like usual. Big boys. Happy and content to explore their world.