A New Decade

BOO!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:48:00 +0000

I hope to be back to regular posting but for now, let me just start by wishing you all a fun Halloween! Remember, if you don't want to be tempted by the goodies, make sure to buy something that you don't like ;)

October Already?

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 00:37:00 +0000

Can somebody tell me when summer ended? All of a sudden I'm wrapping myself up in a blanket at night and during the days wonder when it might be warm enough to get out in my garden and finish things off!

I've been incredibly busy. I got a part-time job as a latchkey teacher at a school not far from my house. The money isn't great but the experience is priceless. My group vary from 15-20 students ranging from grade 3-grade 5. I think I surprised them by not letting them get away with murder like they've been used to! The day I brought in my whistle was the real proof that here is a teacher who means business :)

I'm continuing with my volunteering and will begin at a school library next week--I'm super excited about that. I am also taking an online course that I've barely scratched the surface on, am still tutoring and I just finished getting my first aid/cpr certification. Whew! And, when there is free time I do the url rating. I finished my first month and am looking forward to a healthy paycheque so, things are going quite well.

Hope that you are all well and enjoying a wonderful autumn season!

Ahhhh!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 22:40:00 +0000

It was a glorious day today and on my bike ride earlier I could see the colours beginning to change on some of the trees. The temps have been much cooler but each day has been bright and sunny. My one regret is knowing that I'll have to pack up my bike soon but I will try to take advantage of each day before the snow gets here :)

What is your favourite outdoor activity?

Back to School!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 15:51:00 +0000

You're probably thinking "that girl sure does love to change her backgrounds!" Well, you're right! I love the choices that are given at Cutest Blog on the Block and with school starting up next Tuesday I was in the mood for this one (don't worry, I'll be going to a fall one again soon enough).

The job search for teaching will be an ongoing process I fear. The jobs just are not there, especially as I am not will to move. So, I'll continue with my private tutoring and will hope to pick up a few more students. I've also started to rate URL's (I'm sure at some point you've come across those work from home ads). It can be a bit tedious but the pay is pretty decent and at times the information is quite interesting.

It's been beautiful here for the past few days and shall continue for the next few. I hope that all is well in your world readers :)

Mmmm, Cinnamon!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:45:00 +0000

Where did summer go? I woke up this morning to a cold and rainy day. After running a few errands I decided that a fall like day like this deserved some warm, spicy goodness. I'd seen this recipe from, you guessed it, Taste of Home a while ago and thought it would be the perfect time to try it out. Yum! So tasty and easy to make--Pumpkin Ginger Scones are perfect with a cup of coffee flavoured with cinnamon. What do you like to curl up with on a cold, rainy day?

Whatever you're doing, I hope that you're enjoying it to it's fullest!

Busy Bee, That's Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 16:54:00 +0000

Well, 3 of my little students are on vacation this week so I haven't had much tutoring. I have, however, kept busy with a lot of baking. We're serving lunch at my church this Sunday and I always like to have homemade goodies on hand. It's the only opportunity where I can try new recipes and not have them sit around the house waiting for me to eat them up! (all my friends are on vacation too so nobody to come over for coffee!)

So, I've been trying my hand at making baked goods using yeast. You know, I think I'm a natural. I LOVE working the dough with my hands, smelling the yeast as I mix up the ingredients, waiting for it to rise and then all the fun of kneading it. I have made Caramel Pecan Rolls (oh, were they good!), Orange Crescents (these are delicious if you like citrus) and I do and awesome pizza dough. I also made Lemon Nut cookies, Maple Vanilla Chip cookies, and tomorrow is a chocolate cake. All these recipes come from Taste of Home, my all time favourite collection for recipes.

What I'm really happy with is that all the baking has not had an effect on my eating. I'm pleased to say I've had one of each item just to see how they taste and have not been tempted to go for more. I don't know if it's just working with it that makes me not want to eat it or what. This is a great hobby for me and another reason for any school board to want me on their staff--think of the great coffee breaks :)

Here's hoping that you're all having a great day and enjoy the coming weekend!

Thanks!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 13:23:00 +0000

My first reaction was to leave the past in the past so I'm sticking with it. It was fun going back to 1987 (OMG I was so young!!!! 19!) but I'm having a good time here in 2009. Thanks for all the comments.

Now, back to the business of finding a job ;)

You Can't Go Back

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 19:14:00 +0000

This is definitely not my usual topic for posting but I felt the need to just get it out, if only for myself.

Recently I've been thinking back to my freshman year--1987. I can't believe 22 years have gone by and I'm sure it's just getting older that has made me think back to that time. I remember sitting in one of my English classes (that was my major). I was much quieter back then and kept to myself for the most part. One day this tall, good looking guy approached me and asked if he could sit with me. "ME?" He totally surprised me with this request. We got to know each other and soon were in other classes together. We went out for drinks to the home of a professor. We went to the symphony (we had a Russian history class together and the Russian Orchestra was in town), studied together and researched our papers together.

I was definitely falling for him but acted cool, not really knowing what his feelings were and confused about my own. I have no idea what happened but we just lost touch (at least that's what I think happened--age will do that to you or, maybe I'm blocking it out). I think that emotionally I was just immature for a serious relationship and I held back. What would have happened if I had stated my feelings?

Anyway, I was having coffee with a friend last night and for some reason I mentioned how I wondered what happened to this guy, was he married, etc. I tried looking him up before but couldn't exactly remember his last name. I just happened to be checking up on a name at the university for a job when I saw his name (I had it totally wrong, btw). Just for the sake of my curiosity I typed his name into facebook and there he was, 22 years older but still as attractive as ever. I scrolled down, no comment on status until I saw the picture of the wife and child, of course.

I would totally have contacted him if he was single but wouldn't do it now. Or should I? I should just let the past stay in the past but I can't help wondering what happened all those years ago. Was it something I said? I believe now that it was what I didn't say. At the ripe old age of 41 I would no longer hold back on how I feel. I wouldn't worry about whether he like me, blah, blah, blah. Life is too short for regrets and I definitely don't want any more than I have now.

What would you do? Is there someone that you have wondered about over the years?

Ah love--it hurts sometimes but I wouldn't want to live without it.

I Want To Go Back!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 15:33:00 +0000

Summer is just flying by!

I've been seeing adds for flights to various places in the world and it brought to mind one of my favourite vacations ever. I went to Italy 3 years ago with my cousin and LOVED it! The above picture was taken on the Amalfi Coast and if you ever have the opportunity to go there, take it--you'll love it too. Maybe I should do a grand trip somewhere and forget that I need to find a job, ha ha.

Two questions: What was your favourite vacation and if you could go anywhere where would that be? I would love to see the Holy Land and maybe one day I shall.

Have a beautiful day.

Graduation Revisited

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 20:50:00 +0000

It's a bit fuzzy but, one of these sweet girls sent me this picture from our graduation day. I'm the old broad in the middle ;)

Thanks for all the awesome and uplifting comments on my last post. I'm feeling far more positive and shall just wait until that day when the phone rings without stressing about when that day may come! I now have 4 young students for my private tutoring service and feel that if all else fails, I may go for more students this fall. Gotta keep busy 'cause, idle hands are the devil's workshop--or something!

Have an awesome day whatever you're doing.

Feeling Down

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:49:00 +0000

I've been letting myself get down about my job prospects. I know this is wrong but sometimes it's hard to stay upbeat! I'm trying to get myself back to my positive mindset by keeping up with exercise and having fun with my private tutoring.

All good things come to those who wait, right? At least I'm back to last summer's weight and I'm hoping to hit my goal weight by the end of this summer. That will definitely put the smile back on my face :)

Hope you are all well and enjoying some beautiful summer weather as we are here in Essex County!

Happy 4th of July!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 14:56:00 +0000

Wishing a wonderful weekend to all my American friends!

Happy Canada Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:55:00 +0000

July 1st is Canada Day. Today I'm going to celebrate living in a beautiful country where citizens can live in freedom and relative peace. I'm always especially thankful when I watch the news of unrest in other countries. Those of you who might be Canadian--have an awesome day! To my American friends--I love you all and am so glad that you're my neighbours :)

Enjoy freedom and see you all on the 4th!

Hot and Humid!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:19:00 +0000

Instead of the fireworks show, I met a friend for a walk followed by a drink. It was too warm and humid and even though I love fireworks the thought of the drive and crowds turned me off. I'm debating about going for a run this morning (already yucky outside!) How many of you will go and do an outdoor activity even though the weather is bad? One good thing--a few pounds of liquid will melt off of me ;)

Sharing with you another rose from my garden. Graham Thomas is a beautiful yellow rose and it just makes me think cool thoughts. Enjoy your day! (btw, my jam from yesterday is the best ever!)

Freedom Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 13:54:00 +0000

It has been crazy around here! I went strawberry picking again yesterday morning--it was so hot outside!!! Today I'll be spending the afternoon with my grade 1 class, tomorrow is their last day. It's been such a fun year. Here's hoping that I can get called in for an interview so that I can start teaching and get paid!

I've taken the opportunity of making some money by tutoring privately. So far I have 2 young clients. Here's to a few more over the summer to keep me busy :)

The Freedom Festival Firework show takes place tonight. In case you didn't know, they are the biggest display put on in North America. If you're in the area, swing on by!

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Sunshine and Strawberries!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 16:07:00 +0000

Oh what a beautiful morning,
Oh what a beautiful day,

I've got a wonderful feeling,

Everything's going my way.

If you don't recognize that, it's the chorus from the song of the same title from the musical "Oklahoma".

'Tis the season for strawberries in Essex County and they are divine! Smaller than last year but more intense in flavour and sweetness.

Enjoy the fruits of the season and I hope that everything is going "your way" wherever you are and whatever you're doing :)

Roses

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 18:43:00 +0000

I've been too busy to post (and didn't feel as though I had much to say!) but, this morning thought I'd take some pictures of my beautiful roses. Today's photo is of the newest addition to my garden, Pat Austin. I tried to capture the intensity of the colour :)

Have a beautiful weekend!

Beautiful As You Feel!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Sun, 31 May 2009 16:32:00 +0000

Heard this song on the radio today (a beautiful Sunday!) and thought I'd share. Enjoy!

Great Start!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Mon, 25 May 2009 12:51:00 +0000

The weather has been beautiful around here. A lot of my early summer garden has burst into colour this past week. Irises, peonies, lilac and clematis are blooming beautifully! I'm just disappointed in my wisteria. Only one bloom this year as last fall a bit of a chopping frenzy took place to get it into some sort of shape :)

I've got some of my baskets done and today is all about getting those annuals into the ground. I also bought another David Austin rose. It's one that I had at my first place called Abraham Darby. It's an apricot colour with an intense aroma. I think I'll plant it near my kitchen window. I also managed to get in all my tomatoes and peppers so this week will be pretty lazy.

I've also managed to get in a lot of bike rides--not any runs. I hope to try for one today depending on the knees. How are you all doing with challenges and goals? Hope it's going great and that I hear from some of you :)

Happy Victoria Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Mon, 18 May 2009 00:11:00 +0000

It's a holiday here in Canada. It commemorates the birthday of Queen Victoria of England (hence the name) but has for years meant the offical start of the garden season! I've been visiting a few of my favourite places for plants but haven't seen as much variety--especially for annuals--that I did last year. I hope it's just early and that these next few days will bring more to the garden centres!

I did manage to snag a new David Austin rose called Pat Austin (named for his wife). If you love roses you'll know who David Austin is. I just wish I had more room! I will do a post in the future about him and some of the roses for my wish list :)

Enjoy the day!

Happy Friday!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Fri, 15 May 2009 12:35:00 +0000

Well, here we are in the middle of the month. I'm glad that I've been working out more but I still think that I need to ramp up my cardio. I think I need to get back on the boring treadmill!

My eating has improved but I still get those moments--you know what I'm talking about!

I've also been trying to finish up my resume. It is so frustrating trying to find the right words! I know that it takes about 35 seconds for a recruiter to pass or skip on you. Any tips out there? I REALLY, REALLY want an interview this July!!!

Well, I'm off for an attempted run outside--it looks nice and not too windy. I hope that everyone has an awesome weekend :)

APPLAUSE!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Tue, 12 May 2009 16:42:00 +0000

What an honour to get this award from MB at Finally Figuring it Out!

I've been seeing it on other blogs and always think how very kind and supportive so many of you bloggers are! I've had so much fun with this blogging thing and am glad to have met you all over the past year or so.

I need to choose 5 people so, drumroll please:

Tas at On My Way may not always have time to post but is always kind enough to stop by and leave an inspirational "way to go" for me.

Sherre is a lady I hope to be able to meet this July at BlogHer in Chicago. I love her active California lifestyle and wish her all the best in her pursuit of good health.

My friend Susie hasn't posted in ages and I HOPE she comes back again soon. What an awesome woman and mother she is. She took time to send me a lovely gift package with my favourite Bath and Body Works products. Love ya!

Bonnie at Thinking Thin has been super busy with a new job. I hope that you can find a place in your life to relax and get back to letting us know what you're up to!

Last but not least, Pattie. I have no idea where she's been but I know that she's one busy lady. She has had some super posts and is another person I hope to see back in bloggerland! Miss you and your super Patti-tude!

So, there is my list and MB, if you didn't already get one I'd be sending one your way too!

Does it Work?

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Mon, 11 May 2009 21:00:00 +0000

I came across this on my MSN home page and thought I'd give you all the link if you're interested in checking it out. After all, a headline that screams Melt Away Calories in Half the Time is bound to catch my attention, that's for sure!

I think I'll incorporate these into my weight workouts. I do know that weights certainly help to get you leaner. And, after my run--or should I say "attempted" run this afternoon, I'll need to get leaner really fast! It was quite naive of me to assume that after so many months of non-running, I would be able to just tie on some shoes and run 8 miles!!!

Ah well, I've said it before and I know I have to believe that slow and steady wins the race!

'Tis the Season for a New Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Sat, 09 May 2009 14:56:00 +0000

I just loved joining challenges when I first started blogging and found that they really kept me motivated. I had a visit from Chubby Chick and saw that she's started a "Lose 30 Lbs. by July 4" challenge.

If you like challenges too and following the trials and tribulations of others, check it out and let's have some fun! Along with the weight loss I want to focus on making exercise part of everyday life--got my new shoes so no excuses on that front!

BTW: It can be any number you like, not specifically 30!

Exercise Hurts!

noreply@blogger.com (Manuela) — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:00:00 +0000

Oh boy, I forgot how sore things get when they aren't used! I tried for a run yesterday but just barely managed 25 minutes--I ended up walking for the most part. I think part of the problem is that I need new shoes. I just hate getting new shoes! I did notice in a flyer today, that Adidas are on sale at a sports store so I'll check them out later.

So, I'm sore but don't want to lose my momentum. It's a bit overcast but warm so, back on my bike and then weights in the afternoon. Do you find as you get older it gets harder to bounce back? You'd think I would learn that I shouldn't stop!!!

Hope you all have a wonderful Wednesday :)