Aspergertopia

Time

2011-01-09T22:30:00.000-06:00

Just popping in with another webby share.

This one involves a great blog post on Time. How so many of us struggle with wanting to do everything and expecting to be able to do it all.

She does a great job putting into words how so many of us probably feel!

Plus she shares a free download as a reminder that we Cannot Do It All :)

Here`s the link...Enjoy!

2011-01-03T22:37:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to share a neat little idea I came across on my webby travels today.

It`s an idea for creating a perpetual calendar/journal. Perfect for documenting everyday life tidbits when you`re short on time.

Here`s the link :)

Connect

2011-01-01T23:56:00.013-06:00

Like I said yesterday, my One Little Word for 2011 is CONNECT.

Such a powerful thing, this one little word idea. Thank you Ali Edwards for the inspiration :)

In 2010 my word was Passion, in 2009 it was Change, and in 2008 it was Mindful. Each of these words have helped me become a better me. They`ve helped me to understand and accept who I am and also focus on what I feel is important to help me grow. And that`s really what it`s all about isn't it?

So, as with every New Year, I approach it with a positive attitude and think long and hard about the one little word I will choose.

All of my thoughts for this upcoming year revolve around connecting in some way. Making a more conscious effort to connect with my family and friends. With myself. My past (family history and documenting stories from before my time). And my present (to pause throughout the day and connect with the here and now).

I`ve made a list of 52 things that relate to my one little word. I know it`s a lot. But when I started writing out why CONNECT was so important to me this year, it`s what I came up with.

Kind of like a Bucket List for this year. 52 little and bigger things that will go to the front of the line in my focus. And Connect just brings them altogether under one roof.

I`m excited!

What`s your One Little Word for 2011? And more importantly WHY and HOW are you going to live your word?

Day 365 of 365

2010-12-31T23:59:00.000-06:00

Wow!

New Years Eve. And the last day of my 365 project for 2010.

Seriously cannot believe it :) It makes me so happy to have 365 little and big everyday stories told for 2010.

I think everyone should embark on this adventure at least once!

I`m about 80% complete. All of my stories have been documented. I just have to fill in a few blanks and print some photos. And tweak a bit here and there.

Definitely a project full of passion. Which is in complete line with my ``one little word`` for 2010 - Passion.

I loved this project so much, I thought I would continue in 2011. But I feel like it needs to stand on it`s own for awhile. Doing it again so soon I think will take away the gratifying feeling I have. But that`s just me :)

I also love the idea of maybe revisiting it again in like 5 years. And maybe this year doing smaller ``similar`` projects, like a week in the life etc.

This year my scrapbooking focus will be on telling deeper stories.

One thing I will implement on a 365 days level is journalling something ``good`` each day. Something I love or discovered. Something that made me smile or made me feel grateful. But most of all, something that makes me feel CONNECTED!

Which leads right into my ``One Little Word`` for 2011...

CONNECT :)

Happy New Year Everyone!

Day 364 of 365

2010-12-30T21:04:00.032-06:00

Finally captured in a picture today...

My BFFB making me spit!

She does this very often you know. And it takes a lot for me to spit so that should tell you something :)

I`d let you in on the joke, but it`s not for the faint of heart. If you know K, then you know what I mean and I think you do!

Lets just keep it between you and me my BFFB!

*love that we captured this the day before the last day of 365!

Day 361 of 365

2010-12-27T13:19:00.019-06:00

A much overdue visit with the KAGS this afternoon!

Good fun as always :)

Not only were we treated to a Turkey dinner, but we were also very well treated to this...

Pure bliss at it`s best :)

Day 360 of 365 - Play

2010-12-26T21:06:00.009-06:00

I love the week between Christmas and New Years.

It`s a time to unwind from the spirit of the holidays. A time to play with all the new stuff. And a time to reflect and prepare for the new year.

Like right now, I sit amongst chaos and a messy house. Christmas decor still in full bloom. And I`m fighting the urge to purge. Because once I start, it`s hard to stop until I am D.O.N.E! And it`s a process that takes days. And I can kinda go nutso!

So, I decided that my word for this last week of 2010, instead of the typical purge is PLAY.

And play we have done :)

We`ve played with everything! We`ve built lego sets, we`ve played hot wheels, we`ve built marble runs, we`ve played games, we`ve gone sledding, we`ve made bubble gum, and we`ve made DQ blizzards.

So much fun!

I won`t deny my urge to purge a little though. Because it would drive me crazy. Like today, I`m updating my anti-virus software and cleaning my computer desktops. Later I`ll purge pictures from June and July on my computer. With a goal of purging all the ``blah`` pictures through December and then saving them to DVD and clearing them off my harddrive. Making way for a fresh start for the New Year.

This week I`ll also take time to really think about my ``One Little Word`` for 2011.

I hope you`re enjoying your week before the New Year and making time to PLAY!

Chronicling Christmas - Day 25 (Day 359 of 365)

2010-12-25T23:06:00.050-06:00

Fabulous merry family memories made today :)

This was the first year my guys ripped through their presents all in one go! Christmas chaos in all it`s glory.

They were so excited when they got up. I was up only minutes before and quickly got the coffee on and crawled back into bed. Listening to them stir and wake and then remember that it was actually Christmas Day and not a typical Saturday morning.

After presents and playtime, we got ready and headed into the city to spend Christmas with my family. Some sledding, gift giving, awesome turkey dinner, a few surprises, and good old-fashioned family fun!

Best Christmas Ever :)

From our house to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas!

Chronicling Christmas - Day 24 (Day 358 of 365)

2010-12-24T23:04:00.021-06:00

Christmas Eve. The most magical night of the year.

After an evening at my sister`s house and the annual Christmas Eve visit from Santa Claus, my boys are snuggly tucked in Monkey Moos room (one on the bed, one on the floor - just like my sister and I use to do).

New jammies (thanks to my Mom and Dad). Twas The Night Before Christmas read by the light of 24 candles. The milk and cookies and carrots are left out. And now, a glass of wine and It`s a Wonderful Life.

Yes, the most magical night of the year. Sweet Dreams!

Chronicling Christmas - Day 23 (Day 357 of 365)

2010-12-23T23:03:00.007-06:00

Merry Christmas Eve Eve!

I am so loving our greeting card wall!

It`s like a piece of Christmas Art. Full of well wishes and Christmas cheer!

Makes me smile all the time :)

Chronicling Christmas - Day 21 (Day 355 of 365)

2010-12-21T22:43:00.000-06:00

What a day :)

I got up early this morning. Before everyone else. I haven`t done that in awhile and was immediately reminded of how happy this makes me feel.

So much less rushed and I can be way more go-with-the-flow! Which is a good and necessary thing with kids! But it`s also a thing that I struggle with. And so - getting up early in one way to address this.

Plus, I got to watch the sun rise and reveal a beautiful frosty winter wonderland in my backyard. I paused, took notice, and felt very thankful at that moment!

Not very long after, my phone rang. It was Karen, thinking the very same thing as me :) Which is often the case with BFFB`s I think.

We took hold of the moment and upon Karen`s suggestion, headed down to the river and embraced the beauty with our cameras.
It was so cold, but our true blue sky, paired with the sparkly frosty trees and a great friend made it so very worth it!

Later our families joined us. And we enjoyed a drive through the Enchanted Forest, as well as a quick visit to the house decorated and choreographed to music.

A perfect way to celebrate Winter Solstice!

Chronicling Christmas - Day 20 (Day 354 of 365)

2010-12-20T20:36:00.049-06:00

I`ve missed my BFFB! We haven`t gotten together nearly as much as I hoped for over the course of the holidays :(

We had a nice afternoon today though. Aside from my scatterbrains. I can`t seem to shake the feeling that I`m missing something. I hope it passes soon! I need my focus back :)

Today we planned a games day for advent...

Joke - What`s impossible to overtake at Christmas...The three wide men!

Activity - Play games with KAGS

But when you haven`t seen your BFFB for a long time, in addition to scatterbrains, we let the kids just hang with eachother doing what they do best.

And Me and the K of the KAGS did what we do best ;)

Very inspiring. And exactly what I needed! Thank you my BFFB :)

And for good measure, after dinner McHubby, Little Bean, Monkey Moo and I played a game of Trouble :)

Chronicling Christmas Day 20 - 2009

Chronicling Christmas Day 20 - 2007

Day 352 of 365 - Happy Birthday Little Bean

2010-12-18T21:02:00.001-06:00

Happy 5th birthday to you Little Bean! I know you're really excited about being 5! There is just something about that number. It's so much more grown up sounding or something. And it suits you. 5 suits you! I'll miss you at 4, but I'll love you at 5 just as much!

Because you are 5 here are 5 things I love about you...

1. You share. I love that you share. If you have something (like a treat) you want to share it. You want everyone else to experience the joy you are getting from whatever it is you are enjoying.

2. The silly faces you pull when I take a picture of you and the way you sing in the tub. Today it was Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.(I realize this is 2 in 1, but I just can`t help myself :)

3. The way you dance. You have rhythm. Of that, there is no doubt! It all began with So You Think You Can Dance. You were watching the breakdancing and hip hop and the rest was history. I especially love it when you perform. I remember when Aunti Betty was here in the fall and we accidentally changed the station to a hip hop dance channel. You just went for it. In the middle of the room. Little Miss joined you and it was like you were having a dance off. I love it when you just let go and enjoy yourself! I am looking forward to many more kitchen and living room dance parties with you :)

4. I love your envelope stuffed notes. Whether they come from school or the craft room downstairs, I love them all. I love how excited you get to show me the things you create. It warms my heart.

5. I love how comfortable you have become with yourself. You are shy, yes. And that is just one of the many great things that makes you, you! I'm shy too. And there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with that. It took me a long time to accept this about myself. What is important is that you are comfortable, secure, and happy in your surroundings. That you can ask questions if you are unsure. That you can go up to and play with friends if you want to, and enjoy quiet moments to yourself as well. When your pre-k teacher asked what I was hoping you'd get out of preschool this year, that it what I said.

I am so very proud of you Little Bean! You are funny, sweet, helpful, caring, stubborn, shy, cool, smart, sporty, and emotional. Your favorite thing to do is play the Wii and Game Cube. You also like to help (with anything) and you enjoy playing games - especially Cat in the Hat and Uno. You love having friends over to play, as well as going to their houses. You have a huge sweet tooth. You enjoy going to school and love dress-up days (mom does too :) Your favorite music is by the Black Eyed Peas and your favorite show right now is Inspector Gadget.

Happy 5th Birthday!

Chronicling Christmas - Day 17 (Day 351 of 365)

2010-12-17T23:27:00.054-06:00

Today`s advent has been greatly anticipated...

Joke - What do you get if you cross Santa Claus with a detective...Santa Clues!

Activity - Visit Santa Claus :)

We decided to visit Santa somewhere different this year.

We usually visit him at Midtown. But I have to say, last year I wasn`t impressed with the resulting picture :(

Don`t get me wrong. I know it`s all about the visit, as it should be. And we love Santa`s little space there.

What I couldn`t stand was the advertising prominently sprawled across the bottom of an awesome memory.

So, we went to Lawson Heights Mall. Where you can take your own pictures (as many as you feel necessary). And it`s free :)

Santa was his usual Jolly self and my guys were able to visit with him and talk about their wishes for 2010. A stack of blank CD`s is my Monkey`s biggest wish. And Little Bean asked for another classic controller for the Wii, so Monkey Moo could play with him, as well as a DSI XL.

Santa gave them each a little bag of Kernels popcorn and a candycane and wished them a very Merry Christmas.

We all left a very happy family and an extremely satisfied Mommy :)

Chronicling Christmas Day 17 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 17 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 15 (Day 349 of 365)

2010-12-15T21:41:00.000-06:00

Finally! Some decent weather for this...

Joke - What do monkey`s sing at Christmas...Jungle Bells, jungle bells!

Activity - Go sledding and come home for candy cane hot chocolate.

Just a little hill in town, but I swear the kids have just as much fun as they would on a big one! Maybe even more so :) Not as much climbing involved!

Hope you enjoyed some time outdoors today!

Chronicling Christmas Day 15 - 2009

Chronicling Christmas Day 15 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 14 (Day 348 of 365)

2010-12-14T23:16:00.001-06:00

We enjoyed our second annual gingerbread house get-together this afternoon at my sister`s house.

My guys were jumping up and down excited for this advent.

As my Monkey put it, I`ve been waiting for this one!

Joke - What did one snowman say to the other snowman...Can you smell carrot!

Activity - Go to Aunti`s to make gingerbread houses and watch a holiday movie on the big screen.

So very Christmassy!

Thanks again ``Aunti`` for starting and continuing this tradition :)

Chronicling Christmas Day 14 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 14 - 2008

Chronicling Christmas - Day 13 (Day 347 of 365)

2010-12-13T23:10:00.000-06:00

Today`s advent...

Joke - What is the best present in the world...A broken drum - you can't beat it!

Activity - Check out the Christmas lights around town and come home for hot chocolate. (Remember your Christmas blankets).

We`ve been enjoying this in our little town for the past few years. I love that so many people decorate and that we don`t have to venture too far from home to enjoy a drive through colorful streets. As always, our favorite was the Grinch house on main street.

If only I could use a saw, I have so many ideas for Christmas displays I would love to make come to life. Too bad I have issues with scissors, never mind a saw, so this dream I fear will never come true :(

I remember when my Dad brought to life our favorite Christmas cartoon (Mickey Mouse Christmas).

From a set of stickers I had nonetheless.

I love that he still sets them up for us (and our kids) to enjoy :)

Chronicling Christmas Day 13 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 13 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 12 (Day 346 of 365)

2010-12-12T23:08:00.003-06:00

Comfort and joy!

That`s how I`m describing today :)

The warmth of family, good food, lots of laughs, snuggling babies, and some singing made for a perfect Sunday afternoon.

Oh, and Little Bean enjoyed some special time with his Grandpa at the soccer centre. Grandpa had a game and asked if he`d like to come watch. He was very excited. He even got to sit on the bench with the big guys and cheer. Wish I was there to get some pictures, but I was busy making Merry with the rest of my family!

We enjoyed our advent activity after Little Bean and Grandpa came back...

Joke - What do you call an old snowman...water!
Activity - Go to Grandma and Grandpa`s house for dinner and sing Christmas carols

I printed off a few carols and my monkey passed them out to everyone. Lots of eye rolls from the men in the family, but they eventually complied.

It was a sight for sore eyes and ears I`m sure. But I wouldn`t have had it any other way...Little Bean running up and down the stairs to the tune of the songs, Little Miss running around in circles, Monkey Moo singing the last verse of silent night on his own while Little Bean shouted ``Poo on the Potty``....Priceless :)

Exactly what I needed!

Hope your embracing the warmth of family and savoring the little things leading up to Christmas Day.

Chronicling Christmas Day 12 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 12 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 11 (Day 345 of 365)

2010-12-11T21:29:00.054-06:00

Today`s advent was a Random Act of Christmas...

Joke - What often falls at the north pole but never gets hurt...Snow!

Activity - Leave Christmas Spirit Cd's around town for people to discover.

I found this little idea on Write Click Scrapbook last year and fell in love with it immediately! It was too late then, but I filed it away for this year and couldn`t wait to do it with the kids.

Music plays a big part in our everyday lives. It truly does make everything better...and never more so than during the holidays!

We dropped our little packages around town at night. Being very stealthy and imagining what people might think upon discovering them.

I really enjoyed this. Giving my kids the experience of a random act of kindness. Definitely looking forward to more of these activities!

Chronicling Christmas Day 11 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 11 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 11 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 9 (Day 343 of 365)

2010-12-09T21:15:00.069-06:00

Today`s advent was a very special one!

One that I will hold very near and dear to my heart :)

Joke - What do you sing at a snowman`s birthday...Freeze a jolly good fellow!

Activity - Put up our new/old Christmas tree

The reason that this one is so special to me is because the new/old Christmas tree is the one I grew up decorating.

My Mom and Dad were ready to pass it along and they know how much I cherish family history. I am a total sucker for nostalgia.

I have so many fond memories of my sister and I sorting the branches according to the colored wires and then placing them into the wooden trunk according to size.

Watching my boys enjoy the very same thing my sister and I did was heart tingling :)

Telling them stories of my Christmases past and passing on a cherished tradition. So very special indeed.

This year, we`ll decorate with paper ornaments of the super mario persuasion. And then next year, I`d like to celebrate this tradition with my sister and her family. And add a homemade ornament from each of the kids every year.

Good times!

Chronicling Christmas Day 9 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 9 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 9 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 8 (Day 342 of 365)

2010-12-08T21:14:00.015-06:00

I found the idea to create these little pieces of art from Eighteen25. Their original idea was to use mini canvases, but I didn`t have any, so I used coasters instead.

I love how they turned out :)

Chronicling Christmas - Day 7 (Day 341 of 365)

2010-12-07T21:59:00.000-06:00

Quenching our creative thirst in today`s advent...

Joke - Why are turkeys wiser than chickens...Ever heard of Kentucky Fried Turkey!

Activity - Paint a Christmas Canvas and hang it on the wall for us all to enjoy.

We all really enjoyed this. McHubby and I just watched. But we have plans to create a great big family Christmas canvas for us all to participate in.

The canvases we used are from Dollerama and came with various acrylic paints and a paintbrush. For $2.00.

Oh how I love love love that store :) Seriously...what did people do before it existed!

Both my Monkey Moo and my Little Bean worked very carefully on their paintings. After they dried we hung them up in the kitchen, by the phone.

They make me smile every time I walk by them :)

Chronicling Christmas Day 7 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 7 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 7 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 6 (Day 340 of 365)

2010-12-06T21:25:00.001-06:00

Tonight we`re celebrating a very favorite advent...

Joke - A donkey carried Mary to Bethlehem. What do you call a 3 legged donkey...A wonky!

Activity - Have a family sleepover and watch Christmas movies.

There was much excitement and jumping around upon opening this one :)

But before the festivities began, we had a whole day to fill. Monkey Moo was resting on the couch for the most part though. Just a cold, but enough to wear him out and not want to do much else.

So Little Bean and I spent the afternoon working on ``projects`` as he calls them. After he turned himself into Rudolph (he was only supposed to paint his nose), he found a plaster-of-paris kit in the craft room. So we did that first.

Then he decided he wanted to ``mix`` something more. Flour and water I suggested. He thought this was great. And he kept adding more flour and stirring. I said that it reminded me of glue and wondered out loud if it would stick.

We decided to try it out.

First he drew a star and then painted it with his ``glue``. And finally, the test. Which came in the form of sparkles :) Of course he loved this. How can you not love sparkles!

After a quick shake, he announced...Ta-Da! It worked!

He talked about it for the rest of the day. How he made glue all by himself and how it actually stuck.

This makes me smile. Something so simple turned into huge fun. Not to mention the experience of coming up with an idea and following through.

Ahhhhh. Good times :)

Chronicling Christmas Day 6 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 6 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 6 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 5 (Day 339 of 365)

2010-12-05T22:05:00.001-06:00

So cold out there today.

brrrr!

Needless to say, I was more than happy to switch out what was originally going to be a sledding advent afternoon, to something more comfortable...

Joke - Which Christmas carol do parents like best...Silent Night!

Activity - Enjoy a candlelit bubble bath while listening to your choice of Christmas music.

Yes. This was much better :)

Chronicling Christmas Day 5 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 5 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 5 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 4 (Day 338 of 365)

2010-12-04T09:07:00.001-06:00

Both my guys are feeling stuffy and puffy with colds right now. So I am really glad I planned for some take it easy at home sort of advent activities :)

Like today...

Joke - What do you call Santa Claus when he doesn't move...Santa Pause!

Activity - Make Paper Snowflakes to decorate your room.

The big fluffy snowflakes were falling outside again this morning, so this activity was perfect in keeping spirit with the weather. I was really hoping to get my boys outside to take pictures of them catching snowflakes on their tongues. It would have been the perfect addition! There was no way though. Not today.

So, I will just go ahead and wish for the stuff to fall again. So I can be sneaky and add the picture later :)

Because I can do that tho ;)

Chronicling Christmas Day 4 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 4 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 4 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 3 (Day 337 of 365)

2010-12-03T23:41:00.001-06:00

It`s 11:00 at night and I just went outside to let Cullen out for a pee. It`s beautiful out there...snowflakes on your tongue catching weather.

I`m trying to convince McHubby to bundle up the kids and go for walk with me. But it`s not working :( I guess I`ll just have to try harder ;)

As for our Advent...

Joke - How does a snowman lose weight...He waits for the weather to get warmer!

Activity - Take Mom`s Christmas quiz and then she`ll have a special treat for you

The Geekson Family Christmas Quiz

1. When people say Christmas, what do you think of...

Monkey Moo - Santa Claus, presents, birth of Christ, good feelings
Little Bean - Merry Christmas, Santa, Stacks of presents delivered to little people sleeping
McHubby - National Lampoons Christmas Vacation
Me - family and friend get-togethers, snow falling, candles, games, laughter, nostalgia, appetizers, gifts given and received, carols, well wishes, traditions, lights etc...

2. What is your favorite Christmas memory...

Monkey Moo - When Santa left the Beethoven box set in 2008 and the Mozart box set in 2009
Little Bean - if I get a Wii game :)
Me - too many to begin to list
McHubby - waking up to actual snow on Christmas morning

3. What is your most favorite Christmas song...

Monkey Moo - I have lots of ones - but probably Carol of the Bells - instrumental.
Little Bean - Rudolph
Me - Christmas to Remember by Kenny and Dolly
McHubby - Merry Christmas Everyone by Shakin Stevens

4. What is your favorite Christmas movie...

Monkey Moo - I have lots, but probably the Sonic Christmas one you (Mom) found on Fanpop
Little Bean - Rudolph
Me - I like them all :) for different reasons! My top 3 are Miracle on 34th Street, Scrooge, and It`s a Wonderful Life
McHubby - Christmas Vacation

5. Who is your favorite Christmas character...

Monkey Moo - Rudolph and Frosty
Little Bean - Rudolph
Me - Noel the little Christmas tree ornament
McHubby - Don`t know...is cousin Eddy from Christmas Vacation a character :)

6. What is your favorite Christmas ornament..

Monkey Moo - The Elmo one building an ice fort
Little Bean - Rudolph
Me - the 4 peas in a pod one
McHubby - The Irish cow with no legs

7. Is Christmas your favorite holiday...

Monkey Moo - Ya! But it`s kind of tied with Halloween
Little Bean - Yes!
Me - duh!
McHubby - ya, of course it is!

8. What do you want most of all this year...

Monkey Moo - Box set of Bach`s Cantatas
Little Bean - DSI XL
Me - to fully enjoy all of the little things that make Christmas Christmas :)
McHubby - winning the loto max (but Little Bean says I really want Just Dance 2 ;)

9. What is Christmas all about...

Monkey Moo - Birth of Christ
Little Bean - getting presents
Me - enjoying all the little things with family and friends that make Christmas Christmas for us
McHubby -family

10. If you could get anything in the world for someone, what would you get and for who...

Monkey Moo - a train set for Spencer, 100 scrapbook things for you (Mom) and a Buddy the Elf ornament for Dad
Little Bean - A DSI XL for Axl at my school, 1000 canvases for Dad and 1000 scrapbook things for you (Mom)
Me - no comment (it`s a secret)
Paul - no comment (it`s a secret)

Your turn...

Chronicling Christmas Day 3 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 3 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 3 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 2 (Day 336 of 365)

2010-12-02T20:47:00.009-06:00

Today`s been a very slow day of sorts.

My poor Little Bean isn`t feeling well. Again! So we`ve been taking it easy.

Feeling very grateful for Santa`s Village on Norad and our free month of Neflix today.

Advent box No. 2 revealed...

Joke - How did the snowman get to school...on his icicle!

Activity - Pick 5 countries from http://www.santas.net/aroundtheworld.htm and learn about how they celebrate Christmas.

When I came up with this idea, I had my Monkey Moo in mind. He smiled immediately upon opening, like I knew he would. Little Bean was like Meh! He was happy when I gave him a chocolate Santa :)

I really love how my Monkey opened up the webpage right away and then ran to get his globe. Meanwhile, I crossed Social Studies off of our list :)

The 5 places he picked to study were...Alaska, the Czech Republic, Greenland, Latin America, and Sicily.

I asked him why he made the choices he did. But there was no rhyme or reason. His answer was simply, ``why not`` and ``just cause``.

23 more sleeps until Christmas!

Chronicling Christmas Day 2 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 2 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 2 - 2007

Chronicling Christmas - Day 1 (Day 335 of 365)

2010-12-01T22:15:00.002-06:00

Happy 1st day of December 2010!

Thus beginning our annual countdown to Christmas :) The most wonderful time of the year!

I think this calls for a bit of Christmas cheer. Don`t you think...

Excuse me while I pour myself a glass or 2 or 3...it`s early yet, so the jury`s still out on that one.

Ahhhhhhhhhh! That`s better. Now where was I...

Oh yes. December 1st. It really does feel like December 1st doesn`t it...

Quite nippy outside, but all warm and toasty inside :) I`m snuggled on the couch with only the lights of the tree and the glow of candles. The scent of cranberries in the air (my favorite this time of year).

LOVE!

I`m about to watch a Christmas movie on the W channel. They play 2 a night up until Christmas. Usually cheesy and not so great acting, but full of heart warming holiday stories.

My perfect end to a great day!

My guys were really excited to finally open one of the elusive boxes that have been taunting them for the past few days...

Joke - What`s white and goes up...A confused snowflake!
Activity - Make your own paper chain countdown to Christmas and hang it in your room.

Hope your day was Merry and Bright!

Chronicling Christmas Day 1 - 2009
Chronicling Christmas Day 1 - 2008
Chronicling Christmas Day 1 - 2007

Day 334 of 365

2010-11-30T23:56:00.000-06:00

Dear Monkey Moo,

I really love listening to you read! And I especially loved today`s selection :)

Love Mommy.

xoxo

Day 333 of 365

2010-11-29T23:48:00.000-06:00

Do you feel silly when you eat Fusilli :)

Day 332 of 365

2010-11-28T23:35:00.018-06:00

An afternoon out with my BFFB and a trip to the Village makes me so very happy!

We left loaded with good laughs and an armful of goodies :)

This game was one of them. Karen spotted it and immediately picked it up for me!

My guys are very grateful!

The Cat in the Hat Game (all pieces included). Not bad for $3.99!

Day 331 of 365

2010-11-27T23:20:00.016-06:00

I cheated here...because I can! It`s my 365 project after all and I can do what I want to :)

This picture is actually from last night. After the Festival of trees we headed to my Mom and Dad`s house for a family get-together. Getting together with friends and family you haven`t seen for awhile does the spirit good!

This was my favorite picture of the night :)

Day 330 of 365

2010-11-26T23:02:00.024-06:00

I haven`t been to the Festival of Trees for years. And this was the first time for my boys. I had no idea you could use your WDM membership and get in for free. Thanks to Saskmom for the heads-up :)

We unanimously fell in love with Peace in Whoville! And the Whoville Gingerbread village!

Day 329 of 365

2010-11-25T22:50:00.014-06:00

Wow! Santa was very quick this year in responding to our letters.

Less than a week!

I especially love the little P.S. handwritten notes he left at the bottom :)

Day 328 of 365

2010-11-24T22:27:00.000-06:00

Nerd day at school today.

I think my Little Bean pulled it off nicely :)

He did the Geeksons proud!

Day 327 of 365

2010-11-23T21:11:00.010-06:00

My Monkey playing the piano by the lights of the Christmas tree :)

Advent Ideas for 2010

2010-11-22T22:30:00.002-06:00

Only 8 more days until we countdown to Christmas!

Insert cheesy snap n` clap :)

And, just like last year, I'm filling up our family Advent calender with jokes and activities that will take us right through to Christmas.

Just so you know, I didn`t spend a lot of time coming up with new ideas for this year. Because when it comes right down to it, Christmastime for us is all in the traditions. Plus it`s just easier!

So, many activities will be the same and some will be new.

I also decided not to included a book for each day this year and instead will just gather all of our Christmas stories in a big basket and have the boys choose a few every night for family story.

Oh, and I almost forgot to tell you about this website. It`s where I found all of my jokes in a neat little 2 page pdf. This made me incredibly happy! I just printed, cut, and wrote out our activities on the backs of each one.

Super easy peasy!

So, without further adieu, I give you the Geekson Family Advent for 2010 (in no particular order)...

~~Joke - What`s white and goes up...A confused snowflake!~~
~~Activity - Make your own paper chain countdown to Christmas and hang it in your room.~~

Joke - What do you get if you cross Santa Claus with a detective...Santa Clues!
Activity - Visit Santa Claus and have supper at the mall.

Joke - How long should an elf`s legs be...Just long enough to reach the ground!
Activity - Make special treats for the dogs in our life.

Joke - What`s impossible to overtake at Christmas...The three wide men!
Activity - Celebrate Winter Solstice and go for a walk at night (make lanterns).

~~Joke - What goes: now you see me, now you don`t...A snowman on a zebra crossing!~~
~~Activity - Go for a family swim. (*changed to setting up the Christmas train)~~

~~Joke - What do you sing at a snowman`s birthday...Freeze a jolly good fellow!~~
~~Activity - Make some peppermint and gingerbread playdoh. (*we ended up doing this before the start of advent so we changed this one to setting up your new/old Christmas tree)~~

Joke - Who hides in the bakery at Christmas...A mince spy.
Activity - Drive through the Enchanted Forrest.

~~Joke - How does a snowman lose weight...He waits for the weather to get warmer!~~
~~Activity - Take Mom`s Christmas quiz and then she`ll have a special treat for you ;)~~

Joke - What do monkey`s sing at Christmas...Jungle Bells, jungle bells!
Activity - Go sledding and come home for candy cane hot chocolate.

Joke - Knock knock! Who`s there...Snow. Snow who...Snow use, I`ve forgotten my name again!
Activity - Bring a donation to the post office for the Christmas Hamper collection.

~~Joke - What do you have in December that you don`t have in any other month...The letter D!~~
~~Activity - Make an ornament for the tree.~~

Joke - What did one snowman say to the other snowman...Can you smell carrot!
Activity - Go to Aunti`s to make gingerbread houses and watch a holiday movie on the big screen.

Joke - What goes ho-ho whoosh, ho-ho whoosh...Santa caught in a revolving door!
Activity - Make some Christmas treats for the birds.

Joke -What is Santa's dog called...Santa Paws!
Activity - Write and illustrate a homemade Christmas story.

~~Joke - What do you call Santa Claus when he doesn't move...Santa Pause!~~
~~Activity - Make Paper Snowflakes to decorate your room.~~

~~Joke - What is the best present in the world...A broken drum - you can't beat it!~~
~~Activity - Check out the Christmas lights around town and come home for hot chocolate. (Remember your Christmas blankets).~~

~~Joke - Which Christmas carol do parents like best...Silent Night!~~
~~Activity - Enjoy a candlelit bubble bath while listening to your choice of Christmas music.~~

~~Joke - A donkey carried Mary to Bethlehem. What do you call a 3 legged donkey...A wonky!~~
~~Activity - Have a family sleepover and watch Christmas movies.~~

~~Joke - How did the snowman get to school...on his icicle!~~
~~Activity - Pick 5 countries from http://www.santas.net/aroundtheworld.htm and learn about how they celebrate Christmas.~~

~~Joke - Why are turkeys wiser than chickens...Ever heard of Kentucky Fried Turkey!~~
~~Activity - Paint a Christmas Canvas and hang it on the wall for us all to enjoy.~~

~~Joke - What often falls at the north pole but never gets hurt...Snow!~~
~~Activity - Leave Christmas Spirit Cd's around town for people to discover.~~

Joke - Knock Knock! Who's there...Hannah...Hannah Who? Hannah partridge in a pear tree!
Activity - Phone our Grandmas and Grandpas and sing Jingle Bells.

Joke - What goes "Oh, Oh, Oh"...Santa walking backwards!
Activity - Open a Christmas Eve gift and don't forget to leave the cookies and milk for Santa and the carrots for the reindeer. Read Twas the Night before Christmas.

~~Joke - What do you call an old snowman...water!~~
Activity - Go to the WDM for a walk through Christmas Boomtown. If the weather is nice go for a sleigh ride.(*We enjoyed this before the start of advent, when we went to the Festival of Trees, so we changed it to Go to Grandma and Grandpa`s for dinner and sing Christmas carols)

Merry Christmas!

Day 326 of 365

2010-11-22T21:24:00.000-06:00

Dear Monkey Moo,

Thank you for this little surprise this morning :)

It made my morning coffee all the sweeter!

Love Momma Momma

xox

Day 325 of 365

2010-11-21T22:15:00.000-06:00

I think it`s safe to say that life is as good as you make it!

And we made it so very good today :)

Feeling full! Not from food, but from spirit!

What a fabulously Merry Geekymas day with friends and family!

Embrace your inner geek...cause geeks have more fun...and we is cool tho!

Tis the season to be Geeky :)

Day 324 of 365

2010-11-20T20:59:00.003-06:00

Dear Santa,

We hope you are very well and keeping warm! We can`t wait to see you tomorrow!

Love the Geeksons.

xox

Day 323 of 365

2010-11-19T23:27:00.001-06:00

Dear McHubby,

Thank you so much for shoveling the driveway that I didn`t even attempt to touch.

Love Me :)

xoxo

Day 322 of 365

2010-11-18T23:52:00.001-06:00

My view on the way to pick up Little Bean at 11:30am from preschool :)

It was cold too, with that wind whipping around and blowing snow in your face. I wanted to pick him up in the van. But as I stepped outside to start it, I realized very quickly that that was not going to happen, unless I spent forever shoveling. Which I wasn`t about to do!

So I picked him up in good ol` small town Saskatchewan style. In the sled. He was beyond excited - obviously! Which was good. Because it softened the blow of a cancelled playdate due to the weather.

We pretty much spent the rest of our day inside. Playing games, drinking hot chocolate and eating popcorn.

McHubby was at work all day and is then off to see Billy Connolly with 1/4 of the KAGS tonight.

My thoughts, when I got up this morning was that he best just stay in the city tonight. But he had already left for work before I had a chance to suggest it. Not very long after the thought went through my head, Karen of the KAGS phoned to see if McHubby would be booking a room...this makes me happy and so very grateful for BFFB`s :)

Day 321 of 365

2010-11-17T18:36:00.025-06:00

I have so many pictures of Little Bean ``helping``. What can I say, he`s a kid who loves to help! Typically when making a snack or lunch or whatever, he likes to overindulge. Like an overflowing glass of milk or water, or a box of cereal etc.

Here he is buttering up some bread for grill cheese sandwiches. You use half a tub of margarine while making grill cheese too don`t you...

Getting Ready for Christmas Part 1

2010-11-16T20:44:00.001-06:00

If you`re like me, you`ve begun getting ready for Christmas :) I started decorating on Sunday! But that`s besides the point. My point today is about organizing.

One of the first things I do in this process is to gather up all of my wrapping and gift giving supplies and finding a spot to keep them together...typically my closet.

Remember I`m kinda geeky like that.

Maybe you already do this and maybe you don`t. Maybe you don`t see the point and maybe you don`t care.

Whatever the case, I gotta tell you, having my Christmas wrapping paper, gift bags, ribbon and bows, tissue paper, cards and envelopes, scissors, tape, pens and tags all in the same spot makes for a much more enjoyable time when it comes to the actual wrapping...which I don`t particularly like to do.

No matter what, it saves time. I don`t have to hunt for things. And this way, I know what I need before I need it. Like tape. I need more tape. So I`ve added it to my Christmas TO GET list (but I`ll save that topic for another day).

Now, go gather up all of your Christmas stuff. Your leftover paper, the new cards you got on boxing day etc.

Do it. Do it now!

Then go grab your bevy of choice like hot chocolate or a box of wine and relax. You deserve it!

Oh, and by the way, there`s only 38 days until Christmas.

Just thought you should know :)

Day 319 of 365

2010-11-15T21:37:00.000-06:00

Go Elf Yourself :)

Day 318 of 365

2010-11-14T20:19:00.005-06:00

It`s beginning to look a lot like Christmas :)

Day 317 of 365

2010-11-13T20:17:00.004-06:00

One of my guilty pleasures!

Day 315 of 365

2010-11-11T20:55:00.000-06:00

Family Movie night = Elf = one of our very most favorite Christmas movies!

Remember...

The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!

And yes, I am a Cotton-headed-ninny-muggins :)

Day 314 of 365

2010-11-10T20:47:00.009-06:00

Reminder to get the winter mat out in the entry way ASAP!

Day 313 of 365

2010-11-09T20:44:00.005-06:00

I must admit, waking up to this sight made me happy :)

Day 312 of 365

2010-11-08T20:40:00.008-06:00

Perfect lunch for a cold day :)

Day 311 of 365

2010-11-07T19:50:00.000-06:00

Felt a ``twinge`` of the Christmas spirit this morning, so the boys and I headed downstairs on a mission to find the Christmas music, movies, and books. Every year this is always the first box brought upstairs. And my guys were very happy to discover their Christmas lego pieces were also tucked in this box :)

You might say too early. And you might be right, it might be too early for you. But not for us. No. Today is just right. The spirit hits us all at different times and that`s a-ok. We start early. Slowly adding things here and there. We`re usually finished decorating by December 1st. Just in time to start Advent and enjoy the season without the hustle and bustle.

I don`t see any reason whatsoever to deny the spirit of the season once it hits. Just embrace it and be Merry!

There`s no right or wrong!

Plus, with the season comes Christmas cheer...and by Christmas cheer I mean Christmas drinks...

Cheers to you and yours :)

Day 309 of 365

2010-11-05T19:26:00.005-06:00

I can still see you Mr. Bean!

*note to self...I love the little twitch of a smile happening in this picture :) Very characteristic of you...especially when you`re trying to be mad!

Day 308 of 365

2010-11-04T19:26:00.010-06:00

Love watching my boys enjoy books together.

Day 306 of 365

2010-11-02T21:38:00.000-06:00

Little Bean has discovered very recently, how much he loves to ride his bike.

Up and down and back around our street. Sometimes alone and sometimes with friends.

Unfortunately it won`t be very long until Mother Nature puts an end to his fun.

But we`ll take what we can get for as long as we can :)

Day 305 of 365

2010-11-01T21:28:00.001-06:00

The day after Halloween just wouldn`t be the same without the annual ``dump and sort.``

Day 304 of 365

2010-10-31T21:22:00.001-06:00

Awesome day/evening of tricks and treats :)

Best part by far was when Monkey Moo (Mario) and Little Bean (Luigi) ran into ``Bowser`` at the mall.

And then to discover that ``Bowser`` was actually a friend that ``Mario`` gets together with every other week.

Their faces when making this discovery were Priceless :)

Day 303 of 365

2010-10-30T20:59:00.008-06:00

I`m sure you can imagine my delight upon finding out that I won this yummy prize pack from Girls Glitter `n Giggles. I mean seriously! Trick or Cheesy was totally made for me. And instead of cupcakes, we made sandwich cookies :)

I wonder if they make a Christmas version of these....hmmmmmmmm!

Day 302 of 365

2010-10-29T20:34:00.044-06:00

Boo Town :)

Crazy...busy...chaotic...fun.

The last time we went to Boo Town, Monkey Moo was 5 1/2 and Little Bean was 22 months old. It was a very hard experience for Monkey Moo. At the time, he had difficulty with change. The WDM was a place we visited often. Like once every few weeks often. So when we told him we were going to the WDM for a Halloween party he was excited. Until we got there and he realized it was very different. He experienced big time anxiety and had difficulty regulating. Needless to say, we didn`t stay long and we never went back.

Until this year.

He has grown and developed so much over the last few years, and we knew he would enjoy the experience. Not to mention, Little Bean really wanted to go.

Like I said before. It was crazy...busy...and chaotic...But it was also fun :) Monkey Moo really enjoyed solving the Boo Town Mystery by following clues and asking questions of various mystery characters. He was literally shaking once he solved it. And Little Bean enjoyed playing all the different games best.

We will surely be going again next year!

Day 301 of 365

2010-10-28T21:15:00.005-06:00

Making up Halloween goody bags to hand out :)

Day 300 of 365

2010-10-27T20:16:00.001-06:00

This is Monkey Moo`s favorite book at the minute. He thinks it`s hilarious! Particularly the audio version he got from the library.

This makes me happy, because I love Dr. Seuss! He has such a way with words and some of my very favorite quotes come from his stories. Not to mention the messages and morals portrayed.

We`re going to go on a Dr. Seuss walk and explore each and every one of his books. There are actually quite a few that we`ve never read together.

:)

Day 299 of 365

2010-10-26T22:14:00.013-06:00

The first snow always brings out the best in us.

And it's definitely not manners!

I even gave the kids a couple of bowls and spoons to enjoy their banquet of snow. My only rule was to stay away from yellow stuff, otherwise dig in :)

Day 298 of 365

2010-10-25T22:12:00.008-06:00

My Jack-O-Cullen.

Not quite the same as my Rob-O-Lantern from last year, but I'll keep him :)

Speaking of Rob, I mean pumpkins...any suggestions for carving this year? I am at a loss.

Day 297 of 365

2010-10-24T22:10:00.026-06:00

Boo-lanterns :)

I've been saving my milk containers for this craft. I just wish I could remember where I came across the idea so I could give credit. Oh well. I thought I'd share anyway.

All you need is a milk container, a black marker, a pair of scissors, and a flameless candle.

Draw a face, cut a little hole in the back of the container, turn on the candle and stick it in. Simple enough for the youngest of crafters!

My kids love theirs. And the fact that they can carry them around in the dark is apparently reeeeeealy cool!

Day 296 of 365

2010-10-23T22:07:00.032-06:00

Yummy!

Breadmaker Cinnamon Buns :)

These are so easy to make and fun to do with kids...rolling the dough, brushing with melted butter, and sprinkling with the cinnamon/sugar mixture. You can't really go wrong. Except if you add nuts (in our house anyways) We don't like nutty cinnamon buns, so we don't use nuts.

Today the kids Halloweenified our buns with sprinkles of orange and black sugar over the cream cheese icing.

Double Yum!

Day 295 of 365

2010-10-22T22:02:00.015-06:00

I have a number of different photogroupings around my house. And I love changing them out with the seasons. Using pictures that are current, as well as ones from years past. It keeps things fresh. And it's neat to see the kids pause and reflect or reminisce.

This makes me happy!

Day 294 of 365

2010-10-21T22:00:00.007-06:00

These little masks were a Dollerama best buy of the season in our house. Under $2 and you get the mask, the elastic to hold it in place, and the paint!

Fun :)

Day 293 of 365

2010-10-20T21:59:00.041-06:00

Can you guess what my boys are being for Halloween?

They had their little hearts set on being their 2 favorite guys. And we couldn't find costumes to fit :(

So what's a Mama who doesn't even know what a sewing machine is do?

She turns to what she does know...Scrapbooking and Photoshop, and her Mama :)

What are your kids being for Halloween?

Day 292 of 365

2010-10-19T21:52:00.024-06:00

Our cauldron of Halloween books that only come out on the 1st through the 31st of October :)

I love how the kids look forward to them and remember their favorites. On top is our very most favorite of all!

The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid Of Anything.

Have you read it?

Day 291 of 365

2010-10-18T21:25:00.001-06:00

Thanks to Karen of the KAGS, artist extraordinaire, I have not had to use an ounce of energy coming up with art ideas and projects to do with the kids this year :)

She is my go-to BFFB for all things way above my creative talent!

Tonight we worked on one of the projects she did with her Art group a few weeks ago. Super fun name stacking design, using color and patterns.

I wasn`t sure how it would all play out. Monkey Moo, in the past, has had trouble with coming up with his own ideas. Preferring to use something as a reference and basically reproducing it. Tonight though, he just went for it. Coming up with most of his own patterns. Commenting on the patterns we were using and offering suggestions.

This is a big development in more ways than one!

Day 289 of 365

2010-10-16T23:39:00.011-06:00

I inherited this little device today. I think it`s called a sewing machine or something like that. It`s very foreign to me. Actually, if I`m being honest, a needle and thread are foreign to me. Any ideas on where to begin :)

Day 288 of 365

2010-10-15T23:35:00.008-06:00

Little Bean started gymnastics tonight :)

And it seriously suits him to a T! He had so much fun.

Can`t wait until next Friday!

Day 287 of 365

2010-10-14T23:31:00.021-06:00

This afternoon we went into the city for a little visit with my sister and her family.

The kids were treated to one of their Halloween holiday favorites on the big screen :)

In the meantime, I snapped a few more pics of my baby nephews...because how could I resist!

Day 286 of 365

2010-10-13T23:28:00.022-06:00

Monkey Moo started piano lessons today :)

We decided together that he might like to experience a more ``hands on`` side of his favorite genre of music. And it was no surprise to me that he chose piano. It`t his favorite instrument to listen to.

So far he loves it!

Day 285 of 365

2010-10-12T23:15:00.007-06:00

That wind out there today was chilly willy on the nillys!

Good excuse to stir up our first hot chocolates of the season though :)

Day 284 of 365

2010-10-11T23:13:00.028-06:00

Getting ready for a good ol`fashioned Gib-Welch family Thanksgiving :)

On the menu...

Turkey, roast beef, mashed potatoes and roasties, stuffing (the Epicure kind - yummy), glazed carrots, and green bean casserole. And for desert...apple pie, coconut cream pie, sex in a pan, and caramel squares!

Add good friends into the mix and you have a happy Thanksgiving indeed!

Day 283 of 365

2010-10-10T23:11:00.006-06:00

And the Halloween decorating has officially begun :)

Day 282 of 365

2010-10-09T23:10:00.058-06:00

Unfortunately I didn`t get any pictures tonight :( I just didn`t think it was appropriate to bring a big heavy camera to the symphony. And I don`t have a little purse camera. I would have brought it if I had one.

Inappropriate shmopriate :).

Monkey Moo was beyond excited for this night to come! Like Christmas Eve excited (which by the way is only 67 days away). Me on the other hand...not so much. Well I guess that`s not entirely true, I was excited for Monkey Moo and excited to experience with him, something that he is so passionate about. But I was not excited to hear the symphony itself. It`s just not my thing.

It was worth it though. Seeing it through the eyes and emotion of the little man next to me made it all worth while, as predicted. Best part hands down was when Monkey Moo got so into it, he started waving his hands around like the conductor. Oh, and when someone behind us asked in a whisper to the person next to them, whether they knew if it was the 2nd or 3rd movement; and Monkey looked behind him and answered 3rd :)

We have plans to attend again soon.

Day 280 of 365

2010-10-07T20:32:00.041-06:00

McHubby and I went to visit our two new nephews at the hospital tonight :)
They are soooooo delicious. As babies always are! But seeing the two of them snuggled together in their little bassinet was priceless.
Like the sweetest thing ever.

Day 278 of 365 - I`m an Aunti Again :)

2010-10-05T21:41:00.001-06:00

This digital greeting made with Smilebox

Day 277 of 365

2010-10-04T20:30:00.011-06:00

So proud of my Monkey Moo and everything he`s accomplished this year...so far :)

Day 276 of 365

2010-10-03T22:32:00.009-06:00

So very proud of you K of the KAGS! And everyone who ran for a cure today :)

Day 273 of 365

2010-09-30T12:12:00.017-06:00

There`s nothing like a good leaf fight to burn off some energy :)

Day 272 of 365

2010-09-29T12:11:00.011-06:00

Love it when the Sears Wishbook arrives!

We`ve had it for awhile now. And not a day goes by when someone hasn`t looked through it at least once.

Day 271 of 365

2010-09-28T20:40:00.001-06:00

Just as we were clearing the dishes away from supper, we were treated to this sight through our back window.

The way the sun was hitting just this tree, was stunning. It was literally glowing.

Gorgeous :)

Day 270 of 365

2010-09-27T23:02:00.010-06:00

Gorgeous day today!

And it was even better because McHubby didn`t have to work :)

So we decided to take take advantage of both, and headed out to explore new territory.

Saskatchewan`s very own Crooked Bush...

It was very surreal. Not as big as I thought it would be though.

Just a small area of crazy crooked growing aspens in the middle of nowhere.

And right beside it, a bunch of normal growing aspens.

Definitely a Wonder to see! You should put it on your list if you haven`t been.

One of the first things I thought of, was how cool an Alice in Wonderland style photoshoot would be. Can`t you just picture it...

My boys pretty much just ran and ran and ran around the little wooden path winding through the trees.

And when they were done, we went hunting for treasure.

Thanks to my handy dandy blackberry GPS program, we found a Cache.

And to top the afternoon off, on our way home we stopped at a little park.

Funny enough, this was their favorite part :)

Day 269 of 365

2010-09-26T23:46:00.008-06:00

Look who`s butt I was checking out today :)

Day 268 of 365

2010-09-25T21:56:00.013-06:00

Sooooo taking advantage of these sunny days :)

With the pool packed away for the winter, the kids have a huge sandpit to play in.

It`s where they found this little guy...

Day 267 of 365

2010-09-24T21:48:00.009-06:00

It`s not very often we get a photo like this. One of my whole family. Together. At the same time.

Thanks Aunti Betty!

:)

Day 266 of 365

2010-09-23T21:44:00.017-06:00

Every morning it`s the same. Monkey Moo is never alone. He`s always accompanied by his blanket.

Actually, it`s my old blanket from when I was a teenager :)

He likes to be cozy, just like his Mommy!

Day 265 of 365

2010-09-22T21:36:00.000-06:00

This makes me happy :)

My Aunti Betty is here visiting from Ireland.

I haven`t seen her since 2005. And this is the first time she`s met Little Bean and Little Miss.

We`re enjoying every minute of it!

Day 264 of 365

2010-09-21T22:09:00.000-06:00

First sick day of the school year for both my boys = chicken soup and a few batches of playdoh :)

Lime, orange, and apple pie scented. Yum :)

Fall Crafting

2010-09-21T21:46:00.001-06:00

Fun little fall project I found on eighteen25...

It took all of five minutes and cost $2.00 to make thanks to Dollerama :)

Day 263 of 365

2010-09-20T23:24:00.004-06:00

Won`t be long now until I`m an auntie again!

Of twins.

Two boys :)

I got to feel them move around tonight. Monkey Moo did too, which was cool!

But it always amazes me when you can actually see them moving.

And twins. Have you ever seen twins moving around in a belly at 36 weeks...

It`s crazy. Like non-stop moving. Like a rollercoaster.

They actually moved that little plate on top of her belly. Like a lot!

I actually started thinking about piling things on top to see what would happen.

But I didn`t :)

Feeling very happy!

Day 262 of 365

2010-09-19T20:09:00.005-06:00

If Monkey Moo could pick anything to do in the whole wide world, I have no doubt it would have something to do with Classical Music.

You can imagine his delight when he discovered the fine arts section of the main library.

Up until recently, we`d never been.

I have no idea why. I guess it just wasn`t on my radar. And to tell you the truth, I`d never been in it.

It was like walking into the unknown. And I kinda felt out of place. Like not in my element at all.

But this was quite the opposite for Monkey Moo.

For him it was like finding a long lost friend.

He was totally at home. He was amazed at the selection and found it hard to choose just 5 (I had to establish limits before we walked in).

Seeing something make his eyes light up like this was amazing. Seriously. Amazing.

He`s never been one to show extreme happiness (like a kid on Christmas morning).

But here.

In the Fine Arts section of the Library.

He did.

And I am so happy I got to experience this first time with him.

Since our first visit, I think we`ve been at least once a week. And I am pretty sure he`ll make his way though the entire library by years end :)

Day 259 of 365

2010-09-16T20:08:00.004-06:00

There`s a first time for everything!

Including custard :)

I think it`s one of those you love it or you hate it things. There`s no in-between.

I personally love it. I have fond childhood memories of warm custard over cold ice-cream.

Funny thing is though, I`ve never made it for my kids.

Until tonight.

Monkey Moo tried it. Which was a big deal! First a dip of his finger, then a spoonful, and then another. That`s where it ended for him. But like I said...he tried it :)

Little Bean ate his whole bowl and then Monkey Moo`s. Obviously he loved it!

I wonder how they`ll feel about tapioca.

Day 258 of 365

2010-09-15T20:07:00.006-06:00

Little Bean helping Grandpa paint the kitchen :)

Now, I`m just trying very hard to decide if I am going to be happy with the color.

I`ll keep you posted.

Day 257 of 365

2010-09-14T20:51:00.007-06:00

Is a gopher a squirrel?

Is a squirrel a gopher?

Why do I really care ?!@#

Because this is supposed to be a non-fiction book about squirrels. And that cute little guy on the left is not a squirrel.

Or is he?

Or do squirrels turn into gophers in the winter ? :)

In all my dorkiness, I googled of course. Because I couldn't let it go. I had to know... Is a gopher a squirrel?

And apparently a gopher is also known as a ground squirrel.

Huh! Go figure.

Ya learn something new everyday :)

Day 256 of 365

2010-09-13T21:27:00.006-06:00

Happy first day of school Little Bean.

And you too Monkey Moo! But you said I took enough pictures yesterday and that there was no need for more today.

Can`t argue with that logic :)

Playing with my Scraps :)

2010-09-13T20:32:00.006-06:00

I haven`t shared a layout in a long long time, so here goes three...

And that`s it :)

Actually, there`s lots more - but these were the ones I photographed before I was being pulled away by one of my boys.

I hesitated before posting these too. There`s just something about putting my layouts out there that makes me cringe.

I`m a very simple and minimalistic scrapbooker. Maybe that`s why.
Oh, and I really have no idea what is in. Quite honestly I could never keep up. I`m just not a shopper. Having too much stuff makes me cringe. It makes me feel like I am drowning.

So, with that said, I shop my own stash. And I`ll do it until I get bored and then I`ll move on. I think the last time I shopped was at SaskScraps :)

Can`t wait for November!!!