A New Decade

I'm Moving!

2011-07-31T13:57:00.000-07:00

After a lot of soul searching, I decided that maybe I needed to look further than my own backyard for a job. So, I was offered a position at the Canadian International School in Tokyo as the school librarian and language support teacher.

If you're still reading and interested, please join me for the adventure and read about it all at my new blog: http://mylifeeast.blogspot.com/

Hope to see you there :)

?!?!

2011-05-25T04:14:00.001-07:00

I'm here!!!!!

Wait, I'm gone again! Blogger sucks!!! We'll see if I come back this time :)

The Old Switcheroo

2010-09-03T09:43:00.000-07:00

Hey it's me--long time no see (or in blog terms, no write!). I've been having a summer with some highs but mostly lows. A lot of it has to do with my continued dry spell in finding a full time position. It also has to do with not being particularly happy with "me".

I'm giving this blog a rest. A change is needed in many areas of my life. When I started my blog, the intent had been for me to get back to writing. It became a healthy lifestyle one and then a gardening one and now just a miscellaneous one. So, I'm going to focus on my other blog and if you're still here, I'd love to have you visit me at: http://manuela-musings.blogspot.com/

Wishing you and me too! all the best :)

Too Long!

2010-08-16T08:42:00.001-07:00

I can't believe how long since I've made a visit to blog world! Life has been busy with its ups and downs. I'm trying to focus on the things that I want from my life and a major hangup in my achieving those things is fear. Fear of applying for that job because I might actually get a call for an interview! Fear of making that trip because something could happen!

So, the one thing that I've always wanted to do is visit the Holy Land. Not only because of my faith but because I love history and it doesn't get too much more historical. I'm thinking of this fall or maybe early next year. Have any of you been or know of someone that's gone? I would love to hear from people who have been on tours and which they would or wouldn't recommend.

Hope that you are all well and enjoying the dog days of summer :)

Let Freedom Ring!

2010-07-01T16:19:00.000-07:00

So proud and thankful that we live in 2 amazing and free countries! Enjoy the first and the fourth and celebrate what we have :)

Thank You!

2010-06-18T05:19:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who left such kind and encouraging comments--you're all awesome! My mother came home yesterday after a rather uncomfortable week at the hospital. She has angina and now knows that she needs to be more watchful for her health. I think so many times, we take it for granted! Don't let it get to such a point that you have to suffer from something as serious as a heart attack.

Thank you all again. It was and is greatly appreciated :)

My Mom

2010-06-11T10:34:00.000-07:00

I know that I don't have too many readers out there but those of you who come and leave comments are so appreciated! My mother was admitted into the hospital yesterday after suffering a mild heart attack. She'll be there for some time while they run tests and decided what needs to be done. It's pretty common now for any number of heart procedures but because of her kidneys there are more risks.

The best reason of all for staying fit and eating healthy--not developing a chronic illness such as diabetes that brings with it a multitude of additional risks!

Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers--they are appreciated so much :)

Quinoa and Rain

2010-06-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

We've had some nasty weather in my part of the world. Not far away from my home, a tornado touched down and caused some terrible damage. I got lucky with just a bit of flooding in my basement.

So, the weather has been kind of yucky and because of that I'm taking care of things indoors. Gardening is unfortunately on hold for a bit. I recently became enamored with Quinoa and have tried a few recipes using it. Anybody out there have a favourite? Allrecipes.com has some good ones that I'll be trying.

Have a great Wednesday :)

Just ate for lunch: Lemony Quinoa-1 cup quinoa cooked in 2 cups of water (let boil then simmer until water is gone); add one stalk chopped celery, 1/4 chopped red onion, chopped bunch parsley, juice of one lemon, salt and pepper to taste. Reminds me of tabouleh but without the mint. Delish!

Roses and Lemon Squares

2010-06-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

I have a very dear friend who is supportive, loving, and kind. She is extremely allergic to dairy products but loves tasty goodies (who doesn't?). So, I took my favourite lemon square recipe and substituted margarine for butter. You know, they turned out awesome! I love baking but DON'T love having that stuff around so it's wonderful to be able to make things for other people and have one piece for myself :) It was a perfect day for baking as it rained for much of the morning and the temps came down quite nicely. I also managed to get a few more pictures in of some of my other roses. The yellow rose is Graham Thomas (David Austin). The red/pink bush I have dubbed Snow White and Rose Red. The pink was what I purchased several years ago not noticing that it had been grafted onto what is probably Don Juan. The pink is extremely fragrant while the red has little or no fragrance at all.

Hope that you're all having a wonderful Wednesday!

A Rose By Any Other Name...

2010-05-27T13:23:00.000-07:00

I love my roses! I wish you could smell them :) I really cut them back last fall and wonder if that might have anything to do with it. I've been so busy with other things that I finally noticed just how overgrown my garden is! Seems it's not just the roses that are out performing past seasons--everything else is too!!! Next week will be an easy week for me as I hope to spend more time just cutting back some things.

For now, I'll just enjoy all the wonderful fragrance and colour that is running riot in my garden. Have a wonderful weekend--I'm off to the U.S.A. More on that later ;)

First Clematis

2010-05-17T06:24:00.001-07:00

We've been lucky enough to get a few sunny days in a row here in Windsor. My tulips and daffodils are finished for the season and next up are the clematis and peonies! The top clematis is Josephine. There's a bit of schmutz on her as this photo was taken after the rain.
This one never fails to deliver on big, beautiful blooms. Only thing is that I can't remember its name! Somewhere, I have all my tags so I'll be sure to look it up. I still have two peonies in that back that need to bloom. Hope you're having a wonderful day (we're up for more rain over the next 2 days!)

At Last!

2010-05-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

After several days of cold, rainy weather we finally got a glorious, sunny day! I decided to hit the trail and went on a long bike ride. Here's hoping that your Friday is every bit as great as mine has been. Cheers!

(this picture makes me feel like I did when I was a kid growing up in the mid 70's!)

I'm Back!!!

2010-05-12T05:57:00.000-07:00

I cannot tell you how depressing it was to find that my blog had been removed! 2 1/2 years of posts, pictures and comments gone!! I left a message with Google and truly did not expect a reply. Well, this morning there was a message from the help desk with an apology for any inconvenience and my blog and gmail reinstated! YAY :)

I hope to be back to blogging and commenting on a regular basis once my schedule slows down. Looking forward to all the reading!

Ah, Wisteria!

2010-05-05T07:21:00.001-07:00

Last year I made a mistake with my wisteria. I managed to end up with about 4 miniature blooms that year. This March I set to hacking at that thing to make it more manageable and low and behold, this is what I ended up with! You see, I had forgotten that if you want to have blooms, chop this sucker to within an inch of it's life ;)

Loving it!

I'm on Blotanist!

2010-05-04T19:53:00.000-07:00

Yay--my blog was accepted. If you love visiting garden blogs, this is a terrific site :)

I'm excited to meet gardeners from around the world and share my love of gardening with them!

Tulips

2010-05-02T13:16:00.000-07:00

Funny how every summer when I'm planting my annuals, I totally forget about where I have tulips! I don't know how many times I've stuck in my shovel only to pull out several bulbs. This year I think I'll be moving them from the front of my bed to the back where the leaves can die down. This fall I'll start fresh and plant in a more organized manner.

Do any of you gardeners leave bulbs where they are or do you move them?

Thank you!

2010-04-30T05:15:00.000-07:00

Really, this award is to all of you who keep coming back and care enough to leave a comment. Karen was so awesome for remembering me and I appreciate it (I need to take a page out of her book--I've fallen off the wagon a bit lately, pesky emotional eating!)

If you haven't visited her blog I highly recommend it, for the pictures and the message. Rock on Karen!

Change for the Season

2010-04-29T08:06:00.001-07:00

So, I've decided that I'll be dedicating many of my future posts to gardening. I came across a cool site where other gardeners have blogs so it should be fun to share!

Please stick around because I'll still post about that other fun stuff (healthy living, exercise, me getting a teaching job!).

Manuela

Thank You!

2010-04-28T17:38:00.001-07:00

Two years ago, I was an avid blogger--commenting on other blogs and having lots of comments on mine (I'm glad that a few of you have stuck around ;) One such commenter was a lovely lady from British Columbia. She had stopped to comment on my garden photos and I visited her blog to see the lovely photos of her flowers and garden. I noticed the lovely peachy/apricot irises and said that I would love to have them in my garden. What do you think she did? She cut off several rhizomes and sent them packed, every so lovingly to me! I planted them and finally after two years they have settled in nicely and are blooming as we speak!

Thank you so much Sabine! People like you are such a blessing to "meet" and I hope that although you don't blog anymore you will stop by and accept my online gratitude. My garden and I both thank you :)

What's Better?

2010-04-17T08:39:00.001-07:00

So, I've been looking at places where there are teaching jobs available in the USA and I've come up with Florida, South and North Carolina, and Arizona. Now, I'm looking for advice from my American blogger friends (especially those few who live in the south). What's better in terms of cost of living and quality of life? I'm not crazy about heat so I wonder if the Carolina's are better?

Thanks for any information :)

Ah!

2010-03-06T13:08:00.000-08:00

Well, today really did feel like spring! Here is a picture of the buds on a magnolia tree. I went for a long run/walk and it smelled so fresh! I just love this time of year and I was so happy to see the tips of my daffodils peeking through the ground.

My friend started going to a personal trainer who only charges 30$ a month! I'm going with her on Monday to check it out. I've had a great week on the exercise front (when will I ever learn that if I just keep at it life is so much better?) But, I really would like to have someone work with me on a weight training program.

How about you? Do you go and work out with someone or do you prefer to do your own thing?

Hoping that you're all having a great weekend and enjoying some spring weather. And yes, I know--we might still get snow :)

It's Back!

2010-02-22T06:15:00.000-08:00

The brief taste of spring was nice and just makes me more excited for the upcoming months!

Spring is in the Air!

2010-02-20T11:04:00.000-08:00

It is beautiful here today! I just came back from a 50 minute walk and it was lovely. I always feel energized when the sun is out and I can get out there for some fresh air. I met up with a friend last night and we were both complaining about the weight we've put on since the summer. Honestly, why is this something I always have to deal with every 2 years? It's a biannual event!!!!

So, we're going to do this together. Journalling what we eat and exercise are all that we need to focus on to get this thing done. I plan on fitting into my things again this summer and finally learn how to keep it off over these long winter months. How about the rest of you? What's your spring fling wish?

Have You Got It?

2010-02-17T10:27:00.000-08:00

Olympic fever that is! I like the summer olympics but am partial to the winter sports. It never ceases to amaze me what these incredible athletes are capable of. Hard work, talent, and practice are what has gotten them all to this point.

It made me think of the things we can all accomplish when we put our minds to the task. Stop with the excuses and just do it!

GO CANADA! (and yes, you guys too, across the way in the USA!)

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-13T06:09:00.000-08:00

I am usually against commercial holidays like this one so obviously is but it's also just so pretty! Hope those of you who have someone to share it with enjoy your day (I'm still looking ;)

Here is one of my favourite love songs by the Beatles, written by Paul for Linda--Enjoy!

I Will (sorry, I couldn't add a video from youtube so that's the link :(

Hello Snow!

2010-02-09T10:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess we had it coming! So far this winter, we had one little snow fall around Christmas (I don't even think I shovelled it because it melted soon after). But, what everyone out east has gotten has now come our way although they say we won't be hit with as much. It started this morning and hasn't stopped since! It should continue throughout the day and into the evening leaving us with approximately 8-10 inches but I think it will be more--at least on my driveway!--because of the drifting.

I've been doing so much better over the last little while. My eating and exercise are back on track and I started an online program that a friend recommended to me. Have any of you tried The Lord's Table? It puts the focus back on more important ways to "fill" yourself as opposed to all the CRAP! that's been going into me over the past few months!!! It's not enough just to lose the weight physically for me this time but rather to lose what's been weighing on my mind.

I feel lighter already! Hope that you're all well and enjoying some pleasant winter weather :)

Slow and Steady...

2010-02-03T09:09:00.000-08:00

WINS THE RACE!

Weathering the Storm

2010-01-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought that you've got everything in control and that your life is going along as planned? Then all of a sudden, something occurs and your whole existence gets turned upside down.

I had that moment Tuesday. A friend called and told me that she was called for an interview to get onto the teaching supply list. I was thrilled for her because I know how hard she's been working. When I got off the phone with her the feelings of anxiety and depression I've been feeling about finding a job just started rising in me and all the months of supposedly positive thinking flew out the window. I had a really good cry for about a half an hour then gave myself a mental shake. I realize that I have been keeping negative thoughts below the supposed positive outlook that I show to everyone. I know that they are what have been keeping me from achieving the goal I thought I had set for myself.

"You need a plan of action" a voice deep inside me said. I am now setting about to set the goals that I want for myself and realize them into reality--does that make sense? Visualize what I want and where I want to be within the next year.

I have opened myself up to the possibility of moving from the only home I've ever known. That brings with it a lot of anxiety because of family responsibilities but I now know it's something that needs to be done.

Putting it out here helps it to be more real for me so to begin, within the next year I want:
1. To get a teaching contract in a high school for senior English. I'm taking a course right now that I just LOVE and I have vocalized to myself that this is what I want to do.
2. Get my house in order. Another blogger has been decluttering her life and that is exactly what I need to do--just start throwing out all the physical baggage along with the mental stuff.
3. Work at my spiritual and physical fulfillment. I've gained some weight back and I can now accept that it's because of the negative energy I've been holding within myself. I also need to spend more time in quiet contemplation, away from the noisy stresses of life.
4. Meet someone to share my life with. That is something I've avoided for quite some time and I'm not sure why. I have so much love that I want to share. I've kept it for my family and friends but I want to have that special someone there to hold my hand, give me a hug, let me give him one back--all the good and the bad. I'm really ready.

I know that I can fulfill all this and more and thank you all for reading this and sharing my new decade with me. I can't wait to start living!

BBC Book List--How Many Have You Read?

2010-01-26T20:30:00.001-08:00

Thanks for sharing this MB!

1 Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen X
2 The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien
3 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte X
4 Harry Potter series - JK Rowling X
5 To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee X
6 The Bible
7 Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte X
8 Nineteen Eighty Four - George Orwell X
9 His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10 Great Expectations - Charles Dickens X
11 Little Women - Louisa M Alcott X
12 Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy X
13 Catch 22 - Joseph Heller X
14 Complete Works of Shakespeare X
15 Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier X
16 The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien
17 Birdsong - Sebastian Faulk
18 Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger X
19 The Time Traveller’s Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
20 Middlemarch - George Eliot X
21 Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell
22 The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald X
23 Bleak House - Charles Dickens
24 War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy (I tried--I really, really tried!)
25 The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams
26 Brideshead Revisited - Evelyn Waugh
27 Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28 Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck X
29 Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll
30 The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31 Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy X
32 David Copperfield - Charles Dickens X
33 Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis
34 Emma - Jane Austen X
35 Persuasion - Jane Austen X (a favourite!)
36 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - CS Lewis
37 The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
38 Captain Corelli’s Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres X (read for a book club--hated it!)
39 Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden
40 Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne
41 Animal Farm - George Orwell X
42 The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown X
43 One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
44 A Prayer for Owen Meany - John Irving
45 The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46 Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery
47 Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy X
48 The Handmaid’s Tale - Margaret Atwood
49 Lord of the Flies - William Golding X
50 Atonement - Ian McEwan
51 Life of Pi - Yann Martel
52 Dune - Frank Herbert X
53 Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons
54 Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen X
55 A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56 The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zifon
57 A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens X ("It is a far, far better thing...)
58 Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
59 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time - Mark Haddon
60 Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
61 Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck X
62 Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63 The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64 The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold
65 Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas X
66 On The Road - Jack Kerouac
67 Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy X
68 Bridget Jones’s Diary - Helen Fielding
69 Midnight’s Children - Salman Rushdie
70 Moby Dick - Herman Melville
71 Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens
72 Dracula - Bram Stoker X
73 The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett X
74 Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson X (love Bill Bryson's travel books)
75 Ulysses - James Joyce
76 The Inferno - Dante
77 Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78 Germinal - Emile Zola
79 Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray X
80 Possession - AS Byatt X
81 A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens X
82 Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83 The Color Purple - Alice Walker
84 The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85 Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86 A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87 Charlotte’s Web - EB White X
88 The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom
89 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
90 The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton
91 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad X
92 The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery
93 The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94 Watership Down - Richard Adams
95 A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96 A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97 The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
98 Hamlet - William Shakespeare (they already have the complete works of Shakespeare above! 99 Charlie and the Chocolate Factoy - Roald Dahl X
100 Les Miserables - Victor Hugo X (LOVE THIS BOOK!)

I would also add "Dr. Zhivago" as a huge favourite of mine. So, I've read 42 out of 100. This was a list compiled of readers, by the way.

My Birthday Already?

2010-01-16T13:19:00.000-08:00

It's been a crazy few weeks. I came down with strep throat for the second time this winter (even though my doctor said that shouldn't happen after you've taken antibiotics!) and have been trying to kick this sore throat for over 2 weeks now. The strep is gone but the pain lives on!

I've been busy with my tutoring and those boys have made it hard for me NOT to raise my poor voice--such is life. I also started taking a course which will allow me to teach senior English at the highschool level. It is proving to be exhausting.

Tomorrow is my birthday, 42! and I'll be celebrating with friends over the next few days. I realize how fortunate I am to have them in my life and look forward to the new year to celebrate them too :)

Hoping that you're all well in your own worlds and that I can visit with you all soon at your blogs!

All The Best for 2010!

2009-12-29T07:23:00.000-08:00

All the best for a successful new year and decade!

Merry Christmas 2009

2009-12-19T21:14:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all a peaceful holiday season.

Queen of Procrastination Does it Again!

2009-12-11T21:01:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm finished all the work that was needed to conclude my online course. WHEW!!Will I ever learn that it is less stressful to get the work finished ahead of time? Why do I wait?

Anybody have any answers?

Best Laid Plans

2009-12-10T19:07:00.000-08:00

Despite my best intentions I'm behind. My online course finishes up tomorrow at 11:59 p.m. and I still have work to do! I'm not sure why I always do this. I always plan to get finished ahead of time and then have a clear plate but inevitably procrastination rears its ugly head. Ah, something to work on for the next course I take in January :)

I've been busy working at an after-school tutoring program. The students are usually those who need to be motivated or just pick up their grades. Funny how what works with one group totally flops with another. My biggest challenge has been with a group of 5th grade boys. All I will say is "WOW"! I think that working with them however, will be my most rewarding and exasperating teaching experience to date.

My sister is coming for a surprise visit tonight. It will be nice to go shopping with her (vicariously as the funds are not available for much frivolous shopping). We'll celebrate an early Christmas with them as they spend the weekend with us.

It's been so long since I've visited many of your blogs--I hope to catch up soon :) and learn that you are all well.

To A Friend

2009-12-07T20:50:00.000-08:00

"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." Anais Nin

BOO!

2009-10-25T17:48:00.001-07:00

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?

2009-10-03T17:37:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-09-19T15:40:00.001-07:00

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!

2009-09-05T08:51:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-08-28T13:45:00.001-07:00

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!

2009-08-21T09:54:00.001-07:00

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!

2009-08-14T06:23:00.000-07:00

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

2009-08-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-08-09T08:33:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-21T13:50:00.000-07:00

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

2009-07-15T05:49:00.001-07:00

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!

2009-07-04T07:56:00.000-07:00

Wishing a wonderful weekend to all my American friends!

Happy Canada Day!

2009-07-01T04:55:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-06-25T05:19:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-24T06:54:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-06-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

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

2009-06-13T11:43:00.001-07:00

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!

2009-05-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

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

Great Start!

2009-05-25T05:51:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-05-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-05-15T05:35:00.000-07:00

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!!!

2009-05-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-05-11T14:00:00.001-07:00

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

2009-05-09T07:56:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-05-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

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 :)

I Did It!

2009-05-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday was my last day of student teaching and I have to say that it went extremely well. My final evaluation from both my advisor and associate were glowing to say the least.

I have enjoyed teaching so much and am so excited about my future, despite the lack of jobs, etc. I am so thrilled to have had the opportunity of going back and doing what I want to do! My advice is to not hold back from anything and don't let excuses stop you from going for your dreams.

It's a beautiful sunny spring day. I'm going to be spending my free time looking for a job, volunteering, and gardening. Oh, and I almost forgot, I'll be getting back to my fitness regimen. Too long between workouts and exercise! Hope that you all can do what you need and/or want to do also.

Convocation is in June so I'll be posting some pics of myself then. Maybe even a new profile photo ;) I'll be visiting you all soon!

I Love Spring!

2009-04-24T16:13:00.000-07:00

Spring Cleaning Me!

2009-04-18T17:54:00.000-07:00

Yep, here I am. Another spring and my summer loss is back! I'm so tired of putting weight back on over the winter. I AM NOT A BEAR--I SHOULD NOT HIBERNATE IN THE WINTER! I look at all my cute spring/summer outfits and know that they won't be fitting if I don't get my act together.

I really don't want to write another blog post about how I'm starting over and then don't follow through because of all the usual excuses--too busy, too stressed, don't want to get sweaty! Give me a break!

So, after an intense couple of hours in my garden, I pumped up my tires and went for the first bike ride of the year! It was awesome! A gorgeous, sunny and warm day. Everybody was outside and it felt good to be working out again.

But, OUCH! My "blank" and "blank"s are killing me!

You're all my inspiration and I hope that you're all doing great with "spring cleaning"!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-10T05:22:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a happy, blessed Easter season if you celebrate as I do or just a beautiful spring weekend!

I'm Done!!!!

2009-03-26T15:14:00.000-07:00

As of 12:45 today I am FINISHED with classes at the Faculty, YIPPEE! It was a lot of work but I made some wonderful friends and learned an awful lot about how hard the business of teaching is! My final placement begins on Monday and on April 30 the difficult job of finding a job begins. I shall try to stay positive and hope that the economy starts to turn just like the weather has :)

I found this picture on photobucket and just loved it--makes me think about spring and journeys all in one go! Have a fantastic day and I'll be reporting from grade one for the next month.

Much Better!

2009-03-24T19:50:00.001-07:00

Thanks so much for all the well wishes! What a brutal bout of sickness that was. 5 days later--today was the first day I had real food and didn't feel ill afterwards.

Definitely not the way to lose weight but if you have to be sick for that long, something good should surely come from it, right?

I've learned that my final practice teaching block will be in a grade one class at an awesome new school less than 15 minutes from my home! It's ultra technological, has awesome programs, etc. Can't wait!

And, I know that I'm a bit early but I'm starting with Easter and spring pics. Love this time of year!

Read All About It! Weight Loss Secret Right Here!

2009-03-21T06:05:00.000-07:00

Surprised to see a headline like this from me? Well, don't be surprised any longer! I lost 10 pounds in two days and you can too. What's my secret? Well, here it is but you may not be brave enough to try it.

For me, it started with a slight sense of nausea on Wednesday night which quickly turned into an evening with my head in the toilet. You really get a workout jumping from your bed to the toilet 4 times in one night.

Then, spend Thursday doing the same thing with only liquids for nourishment (best thing is even they won't stay down for long). Friday is a little bit like Thursday but now you've managed to eat a piece of dry toast with tea. Saturday morning you have toast and ginger ale for breakfast but now you've taken a chance and eaten a piece of cheese with it--Good Luck! Maybe it will stay down this time!

I joke only because I do feel a bit more human. Getting a NASTY case of the stomach flu is definitely not the way to lose 10 pounds and it wasn't easy. I'm just glad that it hit me after class and before my final placement.

Here's hoping that everyone else is having a better weekend!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2009-03-17T10:24:00.000-07:00

Top o' the afternoon to ya all! I'm loving the green theme today not just because it's the 17th but because it's another gorgeous day and it smells green outside! I just came in from my second run of the year and have decided to do a post everytime I'm physical until I get back into last year's routine. I think it might keep me honest and motivated ;)

One hour today--I love it!

Awesome Day!

2009-03-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah, I feel awesome! It is gorgeous today--sunny, warm, the birds are singing and I went for my first run of 2009 in the great outdoors. It was so good to feel the sun on my face and the fresh smell of the earth awakening from what seemed like a really long sleep.

I can't WAIT to get my fingers dirty and start doing yard work. It's the only house chore that I enjoy doing :)

Have a beautiful day! (I had a smile on my face--don't let the image fool you)

Here Goes!

2009-03-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

Oh it's been a crazy few weeks! I have so much to get done and not enough time but I'm sure I'm not telling you anything you haven't heard me say already. In two weeks I'll be starting my final round of practice teaching. Then it will be time to start applying for jobs that probably don't exist :(

I'm actually sending off an application for a private school today. I feel confident in my abilities but it's dog eat dog out there and to quote Norm from Cheers "I'm wearing Milk-Bone underwear"! I'm staying positive though and will always try to stay on the sunny side of the road.

Weight is still holding at my Micky Mouse loss. The weather gets nicer each day and I just can't wait to get out there and start running and biking again. What are you looking forward to doing again now that winter is (almost) behind us?

I'm Finished and I Survived!

2009-02-27T17:11:00.000-08:00

I finished my second school placement. It was rough going there and for a short time I thought "There is no way I can do this!" But you know what? I stuck to my guns, did my best and in the end the kids enjoyed me as much as I enjoyed them!

I still have so MUCH to learn and realize that teaching is a constant state of learning and fine tuning. I need to be nicer to myself and accept that I will not get it right away. I just needed to chill out and accept that it will take a while to get the hang of this artform called teaching!

Hope you all have a fantastic weekend. I'll be enjoying it getting ready to return to the Faculty and a butt-load of assignments :)

Happy Family Day!

2009-02-16T06:17:00.000-08:00

I finally feel as though I'm caught up in my school life and personal life! Today is a holiday that our government put in mainly to kiss up to voters (my cynical take on it) and it is the first time I actually get to celebrate it as it means a day off from school. I'll be working ahead on some lesson plans and laundry--don't you wish you were me ;)

So, without planning to, I lost 6 pounds! My last post was originally intended to be tongue in cheek but surprise! there was more to Mousercise than meets the eye! Actually, my associate teacher uses it to warm up her second and third grade P.E. classes. It's a series of stretching and cardio exercises that really work up a sweat--not just for the kids but for this teacher (me!) who does each warmup sometimes 4 times a day! My point is that what I had been missing was my exercise. It's not only about what we put into our mouths but what we do for ourselves on the outside. I've been letting the cold weather and busy schedule take me away from it. NO MORE EXCUSES!

I hope that everyone had a great weekend and that we're all ready to face a new week!

*Just a note to a friend who may or may not be reading--thanks for meeting up on Thursday. I'm glad I didn't make an excuse and back out. I really needed a few hours that weren't school related!

POOPED!

2009-02-10T18:10:00.000-08:00

No cute pictures--too tired to look!

I'm teaching P.E. in my latest placement along with library which is my true passion. If you had told me a few years ago that I would be teaching K-Gr. 3 gym I would have laughed for ever!! So, rather than Pilates I'm doing Mousercise :)

Wow, One Year!

2009-02-04T07:47:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe that a year has gone by since I joined the HYC and what a year it's been! I've gone from a life of leisure to a life where free time is very precious and rare. From posting 18 times last year to less than 5 times is something I wish I could change but there are times when there is just too much to say!

I hope to do a catch up post soon but for now, thanks to all for the fun this past year has been for me getting to know so many cool people! For those of us who are still in a state of flux, I thought the above photo was a good one :) And, if you weren't there for my garden party, here is the link to that post--makes me remember that summer isn't that far away.
http://manuela-anewdecade.blogspot.com/2008/06/take-walk-in-my-garden.html

Today is my Birthday!

2009-01-17T05:03:00.000-08:00

This message goes out to you all. I hope that wherever you are, whatever you do, you have a fantastic time doing it. Stay warm and enjoy!

Time Flies!

2009-01-09T16:41:00.000-08:00

I was just browsing through some of my old posts and noticed that on February 5, it will be one year since I joined the HYC. I had a fantastic 2008 but did slip a bit towards the end. I'm working very hard to make sure that by February 5, 2009 I can do a bit of celebrating!

Hope to see you then and until then, I'll just keep on trucking :)

AACK!

2009-01-05T19:22:00.000-08:00

Back in classes this week at the Faculty of Education and I already feel as if my head will explode! I wish I could be back with my grade four's but I have to be an adult and suck it up. It will be a very, very hectic month for me before my next placement so it's quite likely that I'll be MIA for the next little while.

That being said, I'm back on track for my workouts. I've worked out a schedule to fit in trips to the gym with breaks between classes. Have you ever ZUMBA'D? I will be this week and I'll try to let you know how that goes.

Take care until next time!

2009-01-02T06:05:00.000-08:00

What Is Beauty?

It is not a dress size.
It cannot be bottled and sold.
Beauty is not a label.
It is not a word reserved for the perfect.
It is not flawless skin.
It is not perfect coiffures and perky breasts.
Beauty is not grace.
It is not lengthy legs
Or hourglass figures.
Beauty is not full, pouty lips.
It is not what you see in glamour magazines.
Beauty is not something to be achieved.
It is not something to be coveted.
It is not at all what you think it is.
Beauty is not in the eye of the beholder.

Beauty is weathered hands from doing laundry.
It is the uneven proportions of the common woman.
It is ivory, ebony and every color in between.
Beauty is the sweat beaded brow from childbirth.
It is the tears of pain and joy that fall from loving eyes.
It is the lines etched from a mother's worry.

Beauty is truth.
Beauty is courage.
Beauty is compassion and generosity.
It is plump, it is thin.
It is tall, it is short.
It is what stares back at us in the mirror,
Longing to be recognized.
Beauty is real.
Beauty is you.
Beauty is in the eye of she who chooses to see it in herself.

May you see the beauty that is in you throughout the new year.

Thank you Patty~you are beautiful!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T13:01:00.000-08:00

A new day and a new year--and I'm excited! I found this great little "poster" and it's totally got me revved up. How many of these are you or would you like to be? I know that there are a few I need to work on ;)

Cammy did a little year in review and I thought it would be fun to do one too. There were some changes in my life and most were positive, some need to be tweaked just a bit.

1. Sent off my application to the Faculty of Education and was accepted!
2. Quit a part-time job that I thought would be fun but wasnt'!--no more wasting time doing things I don't enjoy.
3. Started blogging and joined the HYC leading me to meet some of the most amazing, incredible people in the world!
4. Began the Couch to 5K training program and before I knew it I could run 7 miles by the summer!
5. Finally dropped those pesky pounds by working out--a lot!
6. Back to school in the fall and did my first round of practice teaching--I LOVED IT!!!!

Yes, I feel that I had a successful 2008 even though there were rough times (the economy, my investments, will there be a job for me?, gaining a little of the weight back during the faculty strike).

But, I am so ready for 2009 and am excited by the new possibilities and challenges that await. I hope that all of you are too!

I'll post soon about some of the new things I'm planning on fitting into my back-to-school schedule.

Countdown Begins!

2008-12-30T20:56:00.001-08:00

Well, 12 more hours and 2008 will be a memory. I can say that it was a very good year with many new opportunities and experiences. I'm especially glad to have "met" so many of you and I look forward to a fresh new year filled with possibilities.

Enjoy your celebrations--quiet or noisy--and let's raise a glass to 2009!

My Blog It Is A Changin'

2008-12-27T07:41:00.000-08:00

It's a warm day here in Windsor--already 50 degrees! It's nice because it's melting the piles of snow but, it's just a tease because winter is just starting!

I loved my Christmas blog background but I'm a person who likes change and in anticipation of my upcoming birthday I opted for a softer look (does it look alright? anything I should change perhaps?) I'll be 41 on January 17 and am simply amazed at all the changes that have come into my life since last January. School, teaching, starting to run--you name it! I'm still working on my birthday challenge and feel that I'm right on track even though I don't post about it as much as I used to. I'll try to get that to change ;)

I am glad that, although I haven't reached my goal, I am down 25 pounds from February when I started blogging on the Healthy You Challenge. I know a lot of you have had terrific success in 2008 with a few bumps in the road (who hasn't?)

I hate resolutions because they seem to set a lot of us up for failure but, there are still some things that I want to work on improving. I'll do a January post about that soon.

How about you? What are your feelings on resolutions? Is it a positive thing or not so much? I'll be interested in reading your thoughts on this subject.

Until next time, have a great weekend!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-22T21:28:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a joyous and blessed holiday season!

"Oh The Weather Outside is Frightful"

2008-12-19T03:49:00.000-08:00

Boy, I sure do hate when the weatherperson gets it right! There's a blizzard going on RIGHT NOW! Today is the last day of school and we were hoping to have some fun. I took a few pictures of my kiddies making gingerbread houses yesterday but I was hoping for a fun group picture today. The problem is that the majority of them get bused in and it's looking like a great day for a cancellation.

Oh well, such is life!

Are you ready for Christmas? I must say that it's passed me by this year because of my teaching and then add my own assignments to the mix and poof--time has totally fast forwarded! I'm looking forward to cleaning my house (it's a mess!) and finally focusing on getting back into working out. I've still got time for my birthday challenge and I'm glad to say I've maintained my summer loss.

Look for me this week 'cause I'm making time for blogging no matter what! Talk to you all soon--I'm off to shovel because there wasn't a single snowblower anywhere!!!!

Spare Time? What's That?

2008-12-11T18:17:00.000-08:00

I'm finishing up my first practicum with my Grade 4's. I've grown so fond of them--they are a great group of kids and it has been so fun to learn with them. I've still got a long way to go (classroom management is EVERYTHING!!!!) but, the assessments I've received from both my associate and advisor were very good so I'm extremely pleased with how things are going.

I have to say that I've not given any thought to Christmas. It has come upon me so quickly. I'm very thankful that my mother's cousin has invited everyone over to their house once again so all we need to do is bring the food. I'm busy grading books, writing a unit test (I've been teaching "Habitat"), preparing for a field trip tomorrow (going to see "The Christmas Attic") and just living life one day at a time.

Next week is the last week of school for this student teacher and her class. After that, 2 weeks of doing assignments for University and then another placement in February. I'm really hoping that those 2 weeks will catch me up with my life. I must say that I haven't been paying much attention to my birthday challenge but feel positive that the 17th of January will be a great day for me!!

I hope to catch up with you all in the coming days--thanks for the comments and as always the positive vibes. Take care :)

Thursday Already?

2008-12-04T14:42:00.000-08:00

Does anyone have some time they can spare? I'm swamped with lesson plans and activities and have no time to just sit and think about exercise! All the best intentions have just been swept away with lack of time and some not so great health. My left ear (same side as the sinus that needs to be drained) has been plugged up since Saturday and has been popping constantly all day--it's like being inside a bubble!

Along with the spare time, does anyone have tips for taking care of popping ears? Chewing gum irritates my jaw and I doubt that it would work anyway. I just don't want to bust an eardrum by doing the old hold your nose and breathe with the mouth closed (I've tried--it doesn't work!)

By the way, thanks for sharing some of your goals with me. It always gets me more motivated :)

Tuesday Ha Ha!

2008-12-01T19:57:00.000-08:00

Here's a joke for you:

Two little boys, ages 8 and 10, are excessively mischievous. They are always getting into trouble and their parents know all about it. If any mischief occurs in their town, the two boys are probably involved.

The boys' mother heard that a preacher in town had been successful in disciplining children, so she asked if he would speak with her boys.
The preacher agreed, but he asked to see them individually. So the mother sent the 8 year old first, in the morning, with the older boy to see the preacher in the afternoon.

The preacher, a huge man with a booming voice, sat the younger boy down and asked him sternly, 'Do you know where God is, son?

The boy's mouth dropped open, but he made no response, sitting there wide-eyed with his mouth hanging open.

So the preacher repeated the question in an even sterner tone, 'Where is God?!'

Again, the boy made no attempt to answer. The preacher raised his voice even more and shook his finger in the boy's face and bellowed, 'Where is God?!'

The boy screamed & bolted from the room, ran directly home & dove into his closet, slamming the door behind him.

When his older brother found him in the closet, he asked, 'What happened?' The younger brother, gasping for breath, replied, 'We are in BIG trouble this time.
'GOD is missing, and they think we did it!'

So, who's ready to end the year in style? What sorts of things do you have in mind for the final month of 2008? Any goals that still need to be reached? Something you haven't tried but said you would? Whatever it is, I wish you luck in achieving it. I do hope that the New Year will bring many more opportunities for better ourselves!

(*24 more days to post lots of pretty Christmas photos :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T19:21:00.001-08:00

My first week of student teaching has been crazy but a lot of fun. I hope to have more time for catching up with you all next week but until then, I'd just like to wish a Happy Thanksgiving to all my American friends!

Enjoy!

Soup for Thursday

2008-11-20T13:55:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone! I hope that you're all having a great day today. It's a cold November day here, just the kind of day where a nice bowl of homemade soup hits the spot.

I was at Diana's blog yesterday (or was it the day before?) and saw a recipe for Loaded Baked Fauxtato Soup that sounded really tasty. It made me think of one of my favourite soup recipes from Martha Stewart. It's Curried Roast Cauliflower Soup and is delicious! Roasting it first along with the curry gives it a nice sweet/spicy taste. I actually take about half of the cauliflower out then blend the rest with a handblender. It comes out creamy and adding the pieces back makes it chunky.

I totally recommend a nice bowl of comfort with no guilt--enjoy!

Here I Go!

2008-11-17T19:50:00.000-08:00

Alright, I finally got my butt in gear and did 37 minutes on the treadmill. It's gotten too cold to run outside and as boring as it is I know that it's the best way to work out and sweat. 2 1/2 miles--not bad considering the long break I've had since my last run!

Tomorrow I want to do my Pilates with weights workout. I always feel better after I've done those and usually notice a difference pretty quickly. So, I'm off to a decent start on my birthday challenge. I should be able to schedule more workouts because I'm finished classes and begin my first practicum this Thursday.

I'll be teaching Grade 4 at an elementary school not far from my house and I'm very excited! I think it will be a good grade to start out with and hope that I won't be too nervous. I've got lots of ideas and am excited to learn from my associate teacher. She has been teaching for approximately 30 years and I'm sure has so much to share!

Wish me luck and I'll let you all know how it goes. BTW, the picture today is one from my fall garden. The daisies have been gone awhile and the sedum isn't that colour anymore! I'll have to take some pics of the grasses because they always look good with the onset of winter.

Have a great Tuesday :)

November the What?

2008-11-14T08:14:00.000-08:00

Okay, can anyone tell me how it got to be the middle of November? Yes, the malls are decorated for Christmas, some people have not only got their lights up but ON! and Christmas songs are being played.

Where did this year go? It started out slow and started building in spring building to a wonderful summer of me running, biking-- exercising every day. Now I can barely find time to have dinner with my family never mind exercise! But, I've been stuck with just 2 pounds extra and I need to get back into the workout cycle.

I realized that this Monday is the 17th--exactly 2 months from my birthday in January. So, I decided to make a little birthday challenge for myself. My birthday challenge is to finally lose the 15 pounds and get back to a maximum of 5 days of formal sweat time to a minimum of 3 days. January is also when schoolboards across our province interview potential teachers. I want that little extra chub to be GONE by then!

So, here is my snowman looking round and happy now but by January he needs 15 pounds less around the middle :)

Anyone who's fallen off the horse (a few of you have left comments ;) and wants to celebrate my 41st birthday with a loss of their own is free to join me. If not, your support and feedback in the shape of comments is always appreciated.

The leaves are slowly falling...

2008-11-08T10:33:00.000-08:00

How is everyone today? I don't usually post on weekends but it's a little break after my lunch and before some cleaning and lots of assignments to finish and begin!

We've had some wonderfully warm days but today is a little windy and chilly--feels like November. I've had a pretty good week but still didn't manage to find time for a run or pilates. Between classes, meetings and volunteering at a school library I've only managed to find time for a few walks down by the river. I think that when I start my placement in 2 weeks I'll be able to find a little more time for those things.

Some of you may remember that in August I suffered from a nasty sinus infection that had me going to the ER after 3 days of nonstop pain. I went to see a specialist who then ordered a CT scan of the area. I got to see the results yesterday and it showed that my left sinuses are completely blocked which means that I'll be needing surgery. I hate going under but I hate the pain from my sinuses more (I had the same pain but not to so bad a degree this last Saturday). Fortunately for me, I can have it done during my spring break week and I should be better for my second placement which begins the following Monday.

From a summer of just kicking back and relaxing to being on the go almost all the time! WOW!

"Bring Back that Losin' Feelin'"

2008-11-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, before you say "that's not how it goes" I'll say I know, I know. But, substitute "losin'" for "lovin'" in the classic by the Righteous Brothers and that's how I feel. Did anyone else have a terrific summer but as soon as the weather got a little colder the energy from working out and eating healthy started to go by the wayside?

I've been stuck in this rut since I went back to school and need to shake the Hallowe'en cobwebs off! Starting today I have a new month to get back on my exercise routine. I can't remember the last time I had a salad!!!!

So, my goal from now until Christmas is to lose the original 11 pounds I had to lose (along with the 5 pesky new ones :( No more fooling around! My birthday is January 17 and I want to wear something new that isn't double digits anymore.

How about you? Most of my blogger friends continue to amaze me with their continued successes but I miss the ones I don't see as often anymore. Let's kick it up a notch and do this thing already. Are you with me?

Today's exercise: Gardening, Pilates with weights

*BTW, don't you just love this picture? I've been wanting to use it for some time now and think it fits the mood!

BOO!

2008-10-25T07:37:00.000-07:00

Five Little Pumpkins

Five little pumpkins sitting on a gate

The first one said "Oh my, it's getting late!"

The second one said "There are witches in the air",

The third one said "But we don't care",

The fourth one said "Let's run and run and run",

The fifth one said "I'm ready for some fun!"

OOOOOOH went the wind

And out went the light,

And the five little pumpkins rolled out of sight!

Have fun this week--remember, not too much candy! (this song was brought to you compliments of my childhood :)

*This is a long time coming but I wanted to send a special "thank you" Bonnie's way for the beautiful gift that will remind me of her thoughtfulness for years to come!

It's Random but, is it Interesting?

2008-10-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful Saturday we've had here in Windsor--tomorrow promises to bring more of the same. I washed the windows, did some gardening, went for a run and now am delaying some studying for a quiz and exam this week! I've been tagged by Sherre to share some random and possibly interesting things about myself so,

1. I'm a notorious procrastinator! I let things go to the very end and scramble around like a chicken with it's head cut off (you can thank my mother for that image !) trying to get things done on time. Although, I have to say that since I've been back in school this year I've been much better about it.

2. I'm frugal (my sister calls me a cheapskate). I've always been careful not to spend my money on frivolous things but am a sucker for expensive perfumes. The only products I use that don't cost an arm and a leg are Bath and BodyWorks Cherry Blossom.

3. Lately I've been reading a lot of nonfiction. I can't even remember the title of the book I finished this summer because it's too long! That will change as I work on creating a library of picture books and young adult fiction. Any suggestions?

4. One of my funniest memories is a trip to Europe with my family. We always rented cars so, on one trip we arrive at the Frankfurt airport in Germany and get onto the elevator to pick up our car. Even though it explicitly states that only so many people with their luggage can get on, my mother shoves us all in insisting that it will be fine. Needless to say, the elevator got stuck and we had to wait until someone came to open it up. He pointed at the sign. My mother simply shrugged and pushed us all out!

5. I'm a nerd in case you haven't figured it out. My favourite shows are Britcoms, Jeopardy and documentaries. I LOVE the NYTimes crossword puzzle and have an oline subscription.

6. I love to sing along with anything I hear on the radio, driving my brother insane any time that he's with me because I invariably mess up some of the lyrics!

Enjoy the rest of the weekend and hopefully you found this a little bit interesting and perhaps insightful into the fascinating person that is me :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-10-12T15:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I just can't believe it's Thanksgiving weekend here in Canada. This is the longest I've gone without blogging and I knew that I had to make time today for a short update. I really do miss my posts and visiting all of you! Thanks for the kind comments and support so many of you have proffered during these few weeks--it was much appreciated.

The strike finally ended and classes resumed last Monday. The worst thing that happened was the cancellation of my 3 week practicum that was to begin this Tuesday. It has been added to the December practicum and we'll now have 6 weeks beginning November 20. I was looking forward to Halloween with the kiddies! Ah well, next year if I'm fortunate I'll have my very own class to have some fall fun with.

The week was crazy getting caught up. Most of you know just how much is packed into a semester--even moreso in my education program. So, while 2.5 weeks may not seem much to some it made quite an impact on all of us. The important thing is that we're back so, onwards and upwards.

I've been trying to get back to running. The weather has been absolutely gorgeous so I'm glad to be outdoors as much as possible. I'm just not keeping track as I was before. I hope to be able to start posting on my little calendar again. My summer garden is pretty cleaned up. I dug out tomatoes and peppers yesterday and hope to plant some tulip bulbs when the weather cools a bit--it hit around 80 today! I want to take some pictures and will hopefully be able to post some pictures.

There's a lot more I can say but I'll end now with wishes that you are all well and with the best intentions of visiting as many of you as I can throughout the week. I'll also express my thankfulness for good friends, opportunities, the love of family and too many other blessings.

'Til the next post!

I Should Be In Class Right Now!

2008-09-22T05:48:00.000-07:00

I'm not happy. As you know, one week after classes started, the faculty went on strike over a variety of issues. While I support that right I'll now admit to getting antsy about this semester. There are only so many classes scheduled and in 2 weeks I start my student teaching. I am now beginning to wonder if that will even take place! I'm trying to keep a positive attitude but it's getting tougher--especially when I'm not hearing about them even being back to the table! Okay, breathe in/breathe out :)

On another topic, I went to Stratford with my mom and brother this Saturday. It was a gorgeous day and there was lots going on. We walked around, did some shopping and just enjoyed the scenery. In case you don't know, Stratford, ON is world-renowned for it's Shakespeare theatre festival. I'll never forget being in Stratford, England and having someone from there tell me that they thought the Canadian one was nicer! I haven't been to a play in some years but they are incredible productions. If you're ever looking for a weekend trip GO!

As for the healthy me, YUCK! I've been slacking off the last few days and it's mostly because I'm not in school. So, today it's back to my schedule without the snacking!!!!!

And finally, HAPPY FIRST DAY OF AUTUMN! I hope you all had a great weekend and are able to enjoy some fine fall weather as I plan on doing :)

No Classes For Me

2008-09-17T05:37:00.000-07:00

Well, my classes were cancelled today due to a strike by faculty. It's very unfortunate because of the effect it has on students, particularly those of us who are in a demanding program like the Bachelor of Education. However, I support the faculty in exercising their right to strike. I just hope that there is a quick resolution because my practice teaching begins mid October! Fingers crossed.

On a positive note, I have finally managed to work in an exercise routine. I've started running again, albeit at short distances, and I'm trying to get in as many bike rides as I can while this beautiful weather holds. I've put on a few pounds--nothing drastic as my clothing fits the same--just a number I don't care for when I look down at that scale! So, now that I'm in a routine I expect (you hear me?) those pounds to go away and put me on track to losing the last few to get me to my goal.

Having had a few beautiful Indian summer days (I'll be going out this afternoon and taking some pictures of my garden) and cool nights put me in the mood for my favourite pumpkin bread. I can't remember where I got the recipe but I love it! It's moist, spicy and absolutely yummy with a nice cup of coffee. I'll include the recipe for anyone who'd like to try it out. I bake mine in the longer, narrower loaf pans because it bakes evenly without overdoing it (you know how the middle can stay raw for a long time?)

Anyhow, hope that you're all having a great week so far and that I'll be hearing from you! (P.S. How do you like the new background? I was playing with the colours and am never sure about how it comes across to readers--let me know what you think!)

PUMPKIN PATCH BREAD
1 ½ c. sugar
1 c. canned pumpkin
½ c. vegetable oil
½ c. water
2 eggs
1 2/3 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
¾ tsp. salt
½ tsp. each ground cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon
½ tsp. baking powder
½ c. chopped pecans (optional)

In a large mixing bowl, combine the first five ingredients. Combine the flour, baking soda, salt, spices and baking powder; gradually add to pumpkin mixture and mix well.
Pour into a greased loaf pan. Bake at 350° for 70-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Yield: 1 loaf. (I have a convection oven and it's usually 1 hour baking time :)

School Daze!

2008-09-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

Wow, first day of classes and I must say I'm pooped! There is a lot to do in a relatively short time so I'll see how my Library skills come into play when it comes to organization and time management. Today's classes were Science, Education Foundations, and Music. Last Thursday and Friday I had the opportunity to visit a local public school and sit in on the first week of classes for 5th grade and a 3/4 split. What a great experience that was as it's been, ahem, 30+ years since I've been in a public school setting. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to learning a lot!

I must say that I've been lax in the exercise department and when I manage to fit it in, I'm not getting it down on my workout calendar. I'll have to look at my calendar carefully and make sure to schedule the time for it, especially while the nice weather is still here. It was great to get responses for goals you'd like to set for yourself this month. I hope that we can all manage to keep up the pace no matter what else is going on in our lives.

So, I have no interesting numbers to report as the end of August was a bit of a downer. I'm hoping that with a busy schedule I can have good figures to share with you all at the end of this month! I hope that you all have a great week and I look forward to catching up with your blogs over the coming days :)

Happy September!

2008-09-01T16:54:00.000-07:00

I hope that you all had a wonderful Labour Day weekend. The day was perfect here and I got in a bike ride and some gardening. My sister was visiting and left late this morning. She's been living in Illinois for over 8 years and has quite the drive home. We had a lot of fun shopping. Believe it or not, that's something that I hate doing more and more as I get older--at least when it comes to browsing. I like to go in, get what I want and leave.

Well, she insisted that we visit the MAC counter (she LOVES the stuff!) and got me set up with a few starting essentials. I've never been one who enjoyed playing with makeup and apart from some foundation, lipgloss and maybe blush, I've never bothered with doing my eyes. Well, the older I get I realize that I could use a lift in that area so my dear sister gave me some tips. I think that with some time I could look quite polished and professional!

So, tomorrow I go back to school and I'm quite excited and just a little bit nervous. Classes don't start until next week so the few days this week are mostly about meetings, some panel discussions, etc. I'll fill you all in on my experiences while in the program.

Some of you know that I usually do a wrap-up of how my month went. Well, because of my nasty bout with sinusitis I'm not going to tally up the numbers. It started out well but the exercise was missing for 2 weeks even though I managed to get some in the last few days. I'm down a few pounds (haven't looked yet--sorry Bonnie!) but I don't think I'm down by many inches.

My goals for September are to do well in school, first and foremost, then try to fit my exercise routine into my new schedule. It shouldn't be too hard judging by what I've seen so far. I would love to lose a minimum of 6 pounds but I'll be overly optimistic and shoot for 10. Any little inches can join those pounds too!

What are your goals for September? Anything new or just to keep on keeping on? I'd love to hear from you all.

I'm Happy! How About You?

2008-08-28T06:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, I think I'm better now!

Wow, it's been a tough couple of weeks. I went to my doctor yesterday and while I'm not 100% I'll get there soon. Sinuses are a tough thing to get over and I hope that the infection is gone. I finished my antibiotics and will continue to use my nasal spray and start on cleaning out the allergens in my house that I can control. Unfortunately, Windsor has a terrible air quality thanks to being neighbour to Detroit. We get all the bad air from the coal burners that are there plus all the other nasty chemicals and pollutants that come from big cities. Oh well, I can't move so I just have to make the best of it.

Yesterday I went to the University to get my student card. Next week I have an orientation meeting followed by a few other meetings and the following week classes start. I have to say that it felt strange going back for that card 20 years later. Funny but I didn't feel 20 years older until I realized that the girl who took my photo could be my daughter! I'm really looking forward to seeing the makeup of the people in my class. I know most will be in their 20's so it should be fun. When I went for my master's a few years ago I was actually at the bottom of the age range because you tend to see a lot of professionals who are going back or just looking for a career change. In any case, if you ever have an opportunity to go back to school or take a couple of courses DO IT!

It's hard to believe that August is coming to an end and I'm a bit sorry that I think my monthly wrap-up won't be as successful as the last few. My exercise has been non-exisitent since I got sick so while I've lost a few pounds, I'm not sure about the inches. I hope that the rest of you have enjoyed your summer and that a few goals may have been met. Best wishes for September!

*Look at what just came in the mail! Thank you Pattie, it's lovely. The colours are vibrant, the patterns are fantastic and I'm so proud to have been given such proof of your handiwork. The card and bookmark were just as sweet and you've brought some sunshine into an overcast day!
"A Single Dream Can Launch the Journey of a Lifetime"