The Ninja's Wife

Home Again, Home Again, Jiggity Jig

2010-10-29T09:35:00.000-07:00

First things first...my sister is in labor!!!! WAHOO!! It's exciting for me, but probably not so exciting for her. She has had epidurals with her previous three children and this time she is going "au-naturale" with her midwife by her side (and Dave too hopefully). I'm so proud of her. She is so brave and strong and I can't wait to hear all the details. I'll try not to be too sad that I can't be there by her side cheering her on, but I'll be doing it from far away, even if I look like a crazy person! Can't wait to meet you Grayson.

Alberta was Fantabulous! It always feels like I'm going back home in some weird strange way. Probably due to the fact that I lived there for 4 years and it's where I met Mike and some of the bestest friends I have. We thought it was going to be hard to leave but sure enough, in classic Calgary fashion, it snowed the morning we left and so coming back to Ontario's +19C weather was not all that difficult. Mike and I always say that we'll probably end up back there someday..let's just hope that that "someday" isn't all that far away.

Mandi's wedding was BEAUTIFUL and she was a GORGEOUS bride! Try not to get too mad at me when I tell you that I forgot my camera, at home! So alas, I have no pictures to share as of yet. I am in the process of stealing them from family members though so to be continued. The day was sunny and warm (by Alberta standards) and it was so great being able to see family and spend time with everyone. Mike has an AMAZING family and everytime I am with them, I can't help but to feel so blessed to be apart of the Ryan/Miller clan.

Jack was so crabby that weekend. I believe he was teething and his schedule being turned right upside down didn't help either. He was okay on the plane ride there but on the way home OH MY LANTA!!!! I was pretty much ready and willing to sell him to the nearest person who would give me the best offer! He screamed and cried and yelled and pretty much stressed his two parents to high heaven, but then bless his little heart, he fell asleep for the last almost 2 hours and I couldn't have been more grateful. I really don't know how parents do it:
1) by themselves and
2) with more than one child.
I think airlines should hand out awards once the plane has landed and everyone on the plane should give you a standing ovation upon your exit just because you have conquered the feat of traveling with a small child(s) and have been able to remain somewhat sane. Seriously!

All in all it was a great trip and I'm glad we got to get away, even if it was just for a long weekend.

Also, did I mention that ..................................

MIKE GOT THE JOB!!!!

Woo hoo. Thanks for all of those prayers and eye/leg/finger/toe crossing. Your hard work has paid off. We found out Tuesday morning and couldn't have been more thrilled. Being laid off was actually a blessing in disguise because he got a better paying job and will enjoy what he is doing more. Yay us...and thank you all!

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Off to Alberta we Go!

2010-10-20T15:56:00.000-07:00

We're leaving tomorrow for a long weekend in Alberta. What's the occasion you might ask? Well the Calgary Stampede is over, and it's not to eat some delicious Alberta beef, it's for our 3rd family wedding of the year, Mandi & Jordan's.

We leave tomorrow night and are back on Monday. Just a short little stint but long enough to hopefully see some familia and our long lost friends (well, they're not really lost they just live so darn far away). This will be Mr. Jack-a-Loo's first airplane ride so wish us luck. Luckily I'll have Mike there with me so we can take turns pulling each others hair out. How sweet!

Speaking of Mike, I have some horrible terrible no good very bad news to report. He was laid off last week :( There was a shortage of work and unfortunately since he was the lowest man on the totem pole, they parted their ways. Luckily they were so kind as to set him up with a job interview with another company the following day. He has his second interview tomorrow so again, like I always ask, please keep all possible flexible ligaments crossed for us.

Well folks, this is Katie "hopeful, trying to be completely optimistic" Ryan signing off. I need to go find me an outfit to wear to this shindig. Ugh, why couldn't I have been a man!!! Seriously! Throw on a suit and DONE!! No, no, not us women folk. We need a dress, our hair did, matching accessories, new shoes, manicures, nylons, and SPANX!! Oh the joys...and now my tangent has now ended.
;)

P.s. - Jack got his 1st haircut. He was pretty good about it to except for the part where he started head banging back and forth. He's a little peek into his fun time at the hairdresser.

NOW OPEN - Jack & Olive

2010-10-15T11:24:00.000-07:00

The reason as to why I haven't blogged as of late???

RIGHT HERE

My cousin in law, Mandy Fuller, and I have opened up a wee little baby boutique. It has been SO much work...but SO much fun. We have sewn, glued, cut, ironed, and crafted till our little hands have felt like they are going to fall off! We started selling our stuff at Mom to Mom sales here in the area. Speaking of which I have one tomorrow in Mississauga and still have loads of work to do so I must bid you all farewell for the moment.

Have a closer look at our new Website...(that still needs a lot of work but it's a start) or check out our Facebook page.

Catch ya lata gatas!

The Busy Bee that is ME

2010-09-20T12:31:00.000-07:00

A brief sypnosis of the going ons of my life lately and then maybe you'll go easy on me for not posting as of late.

1. Jack is walking...which in turn means I am now RUNNING! He is growing way too fast for my liking. I often catch myself just staring at him in awe of how much he has grown and what a little boy he is turning into. He now says Doggie, Daddy, Mama, Stinky, Puppy and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. Okay obviously not so much the last word but it's so fun to say and type out at the same time I couldn't help myself.

2. I started another Accounting course last week. I'm pretty pumped and excited about that. I'm hoping to finish another one come the winter so that I can start my own "Yes I actually enjoy doing taxes and would love to do yours" business come April.

3. I started a business with my cutie patootie cousin in law Mandy. I am CRAFTING! Yes that is right. Don't wipe your eyes or try to look closer at your computer screen, you read correctly, I am crafting. I never thought that word would EVER be used to describe me but alas, I'm trying my darndest to join the crafty club. I've been a wannabe for years and decided to just jump right in....with the help of Mandy's amazing sewing skills. More details about our venture later but we finally came up with a name...Jack & Olive. (koodos to Liz for that one) I love it! It has such a vintage feel about it.

4. Mike and I are trying to figure out our lives. No big thing really. HAHAHA He has decided to pursue policing. He is preparing right now to take two really big tests come the end of October so keep him in your prayers for us. I'm really hoping that he gets in....and not just because he'll have access to and be wearing a uniform...Rrraaawr ;) He has figured out in the last little while that he is just not a desk job kind of guy. He needs to be out and about, a-movin' and a-shakin' and this career path really interests him. Guess I'll have to start being on my bestest behaviour soon. (uh huh, right, like that's gonna happen ;)

So there you have it. A Busy little bee, that is me! and I'm lovin' every minute of it except the lack of sleep and the fact that my house looks like the same tornado keeps coming by everyday but mess gives it character right? hahaha..at least that is what I keep telling myself.

Here are some pictures to help tell my going ons as of late.

Happy 30th Birthday to me. My darling sister in laws decorated the house for me.

..and yes they used leftover bridal shower balloons and crossed out the wedding bells. I thought it was hilarious!

mmmm banana pancakes for breakfast and I got to eat them off of the Ryan birthday plate.

My birthday present - a Tahitian Pearl Necklace. I LOVED these when I saw them in Hawaii but they were SOOOOO expensive. Mike surprised me. Aw shucks.

We drove into the city (Toronto) for dinner. I LOVE TORONTO!

Peek a boo, here I am Mom!

So innocent right??...think again

Note to self - do not leave package of just bought toilet paper out!

Hawaii! Really I could just post a gzillion pictures but then it might make you fall asleep which might possibly cause a pool of drool to form which would in turn seep into your computer and potentially cause a lot of damage and I don't want to be responsible for that so here are a few teasers.

The BEAUTIFUL couple with Mama and Papa Ryan. Her dress was one of the most beautiful I've ever seen.

Island of Oahu.

Doesn't the bridal bouquet really bring out his eyes?

Oh palm trees, how I love thee!

The Ryan Clan - best in laws EVER!

and that's all folks!

Weddings and Birthdays and Updates Oh My!!!

2010-08-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

SHHHHHHHH! I don't want to hear it. Not one little word about how HORRIBLE I've been at updating my blog lately. Ugh! I know....but I am here at last typing my little thoughts away and that's all that matters right?
Where to begin....ps - ya might wanna get comfy! I'll add some pictures to make it a little more interesting.

I finished my accounting class in the middle of July and wasn't quite sure how I was going to do. I had really felt like I had bombed my final exam but lo and behold, I checked my final mark online last week and I ended up with A! Wahoo. I felt pretty darn pumped about that let me tell ya because I did find the class challenging. So now I need to figure out what the next step is. I know I want to pursue more classes in accounting but we just need to figure out where we're going to be living first before I can decide.

It looks like the University of Guelph won't be changing or improving our life!!!(see pic) Mike unfortuately did not get accepted this year. We found out, from the Dean of the program, that 70 people were trying to squeeze into 9 seats that they had available. I was mad, downright red in the face, steam comin' out of my ears mad. This was our 2nd year attempting to get in and alas it looks like it's just not in the cards. We are now trying to figure out what our next move will be. Mike has to find a completely different career path which is pretty stressful but luckily he has A LOT of interests! He has applied to a job in Calgary doing what he is doing now, so were thinking of possibly making the move back out west. We'll see what happens.

Our little Jack-a-loo is now 1. I can hardly believe it that a year has gone by already. It brings tears to my eyes knowing that his 1st year of life is over and all those little baby moments with it. He is also no longer breastfeeding. I planned on weaning him at a year and it seemed like he was losing interest as well. We had a few different parties for him. One down in Windsor when we were there for my sister's wedding. One back at home here in Burlington with the Ryan's and then another mini one so we could eat the AMAZING cake that Uncle Devon and his girlfriend Mackenzie made for him. I'll have to post pics later as my camera is being a wee bit tempermental. He got spoiled rotten and it was a ton of fun watching him eat cake for the 1st time. I can't wait to see what this next year brings!!!

Emily and Mark tied the knot! It was a beautiful wedding and a oh-so-fun reception. She was a BEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEUTIFUL bride and made her big sister proud. It still hasn't quite set in that my little sister is married. I'm sure it will take a little bit of time. We're so excited to have Mark in our family and we LOVE his family!!! They are so cute! Emily lucked out big time. I got to see my sis Liz, bro in law Dave and there cute family as well for about a week. It was so good to see them. It really makes me miss them though and oh how I long for them not to live so far away FOREVER!!! Maybe one day. Keep your fingers crossed Diz!

Mike's little sister Mandi aka Mandizzle, Mandeep, Mandi Poo Poo(she is actually the same age as my sister Emily and they knew each other before Mike and I did) got engaged a couple of weeks ago! They are planning for an October wedding and we couldn't be more excited. We love Jordan to bits and pieces and can't wait for the big day.

We're off to Hawaii this Saturday for Tyler and Julie's wedding. Mike and I thought about it long and hard and finally came to the conclusion that this might be a once in a lifetime chance to go (although I sure hope not) and that we should just bite the bullet (and close our eyes as our bank account dwindles away) and go! My lovely, wonderful, bestest Mom is going to watch Jack for the week as well so we'll be childless! I haven't been separated from my lil' Jack for more than 8 hours so I'm not quite sure how I'm going to cope. I think I'll be the one having a wee bit of separation anxiety but at least I have blue skies, and sandy beaches to soothe my aching heart (and knowing that it's my own Mom watching him). Mike and I really are so excited and it should be a grrrrrrrrreat time. Post to follow with those details FOR SURE! ;;)

Looks good doesn't it? It's what I'm eating right now. Just in case you were wondering. Well that's about all for now. Buh-bye to all my follow bloggers and ALOHA Hawaii. I'm off to go polish my coconut bra! hee hee

Deep breath In.....Deep Breath Out...Deep Breath In...

2010-05-20T08:13:00.000-07:00

So I am trying to remain somewhat calm but we just found out that there are 70 people applying to Mike's program at the University of Guelph and only 9 seats available. EGAT! Last year there were only 13 applicants and 6 seats available. Man alive! This is me from now on trying to have an optimistic point of view and saying to myself, if it's meant to be it will be (Although we sure could use all of the faith, hope and prayers we can get).

In other more exciting news, I had my first Accounting test this past Monday and got 96/100! WOO HOO! I really couldn't believe it. I am pretty proud of myself because it's not easy stuff. I'm quite enjoying this class so far so we'll see how the next 8 weeks go.

My 1st official mother's day was wonderful. Like I have previously mentioned, I had the opportunity to attend Time out for Women. It was exactly what this woman needed. Sunday morning I woke up to 2 dozen white and red stemmed roses along with a pancake breakfast. It was delish. I also received a great present...a new camcorder! I've been wanting one for quite sometime. I also got the most darling card from "Jack" that said "I'm just a pup, but i'll grow up and as I do, my love will too, especially for a mom like you" and then Mike wrote a little blurp on the bottom from Jack saying Sorry for all the poo! I died laughing and then started bawling like a baby. I have loved being a mother and watching my "little pup" grow up. I can't believe that he is 10 months already, almost a year old. Time has flow by and it's been amazing. I love my lil' Jack-a-loo and cherish everyday we get to spend together.

Only a couple of months left before my lil sis's wedding/when I get to see my sis Liz and her family. I can't wait. It should be an exciting summer..and the weather has been absolutely GORGEOUS this week. Bring on the summa, I'm a-ready! Here's some pics/video taken lately.

He loves staring at his reflection. He often kisses and talks to it.

Here I am Mom

I love his "sleepy" face.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

He's going to kill me one day for this. Mike was changing his diaper and he just all of a sudden sat up.

It's time I took a TIME OUT

2010-05-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

...for women that is. THIS is where I'll be spending the majority of my weekend with my wee Mum and lil' sis Deeb (aka Emily). It will be the first time I've been separated from my little Jack-a-loo for more than a couple of hours in almost 10 months. KEEEERRRRAZY! I know! I don't doubt that he'll be fine, it's me I'm worried about. hee hee Think of it, to be able to sit and actually listen to inspirational speakers without having to playing sit-still-on-my-lap-tug-o'war. To be able to dress cute and not have to worry about bodily secretions staining my clothes. To not have to watch the clock to see if it's nap time, feed time, play time, pull my hair out time. To be able to replace my sou sou(soother) searching with some much needed soul searching. To be able to sing songs other than my daily repetoire of Old McDonald and the Wheels on the Bus. Yes, it's me I'm a little worried about. Will I be able to function normally around other adults? Will I be able to carry on a meaningful conversation without all of a sudden covering my eyes and yelling Peek-a-boo? Or will I randomly make faces that look similar to this:

Oh I think I'll manage just fine cause it's darn tootin' time this girl took a much needed Time Out. ;)

My New Life

2010-05-04T12:02:00.000-07:00

I stole this from my sister's blog and just had to share it. She truly is one of the most inspiring, remarkable women I have ever come to know.

Stephanie Nielson's blog can be found in my list of blogs I read. Although I have never met her, she has truly touched my life with her story.

Duh, Duh, Duh, Another one Bites the Dust!

2010-04-27T06:29:00.000-07:00

Well looks like I will get the privilege of attending TWO weddings this summer! woo hoo! Mike's brother Tyler (same age as me) FINALLY proposed to his girlfriend of three long years this past Friday night. We are soooo ecstatic and love Julie to death. Of course my own proposal was by far the best ever...but this one is definitely a close second! Julie is a phenomenal artist (check out her website HERE) and was asked to do the artwork for a huge concert in Hawaii called the Kokua festival by none other than Jack Johnson. See she was Jack Johnson's nanny for quite a few years so she knows him pretty well. Anywho, Tyler saw this as the perfect opportunity and he jumped on it. It went down like this. They asked Julie to come up on stage to recognize her for her outstanding artwork and Jack Johnson's wife Kim, said they had a special surprise for her. Out comes Tyler on stage and asks her to marry him. How cute eh? Apparently there were 10,000 people or so there so good on him that couldn't have been easy. Luckily they had quite a few people filming the whole thing and we got to see the entire thing go down when we skyped with them on Saturday. It's the best! Maybe they'll let me post it on here...we'll see. So looks like we'll be heading to Hawaii in August. Saweet!

Congratulations Tyler and Julie. We sure do love ya!

How cute are they right?

Back to School, Back to School to prove to myself that I am no Fool

2010-04-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

Can you name the movie from my blog title? (I did change the words a tad)

So I am sort of, kind of, not really going back to school. I signed up to take an Accounting course that starts this Monday at a local college. I am pretty excited though. I just wanted to see if it would be something I would like. I had originally gone to school for Human Resources Managment but have since decided I don't think its for me. I've decided to just start taking courses to see what I'm interested in. A little ol' game of process of elimination. I'm just hoping I'm not the oldest person in the class. Wish me luck!

I've also started Weight Watchers again. This girl needs to get her bootay into shape, ship shape. I was successful on it before and I like that there is freedom in the plan. There really isn't anything I can't eat. It's all about moderation (so instead of inhaling 4 chocolate bars I can devour 3 1/2..hahaha) Today was Day 1 and I stuck to it. WAHOO. One day down, 9,999,999 to go. ;) Some of my motivation is that I've told myself if I want to start thinking about bambino numero 2, I need to loose some of the weight that bambino numero 1 left behind.

Jack-a-loo and I have started swimming lessons. It's so much fun to take him in the pool. He was the only boy in the first class we went to and he sure let it be known! He sure strutted his stuff in that pool. It must have been that sweet swimsuit I purchased for him. He was babbling and sort of screaming for the majority of the class. It was probably just baby talk for "Hello Ladies, come here often?"
hee hee Toodles for now.

Forget Oysters, The World is his Lollipop!

2010-04-12T07:35:00.000-07:00

I just had to post this. Here is how I found Jack this morning:

Really? Does EVERYTHING need to go in his mouth? Including our dresser knobs?

;)

Here Comes the Bride! (Well not until July)

2010-04-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

One of my little sisters is getting married. Emily Shannon Rose will be tying the knot on July 17th. I'm so excited for her. I can't believe that she is old enough to be married. Time really does fly. Why I remember it like yesterday when she as wearing her Little Mermaid attire 24/7 complete with her 101 Dalmatian headband. Emily has had a love for animals her entire life. She wasn't very into dolls or barbies, she was all about the animals. She can even impersonate some of them to a tee hence the reason why when I was a teenager and talking to my friends on the phone they would hear barking in the background, ask me if we got a dog and I would respond with the typical, "Nope, that's just Emily". I actually don't call her by her first name I call her by her nickname of Deeber. How did this come about you might ask? Well when I was in grade 6 or 7, I was over at my friend Krystal's house and we were playing with her little brother Daniel. Although they didn't call him Daniel, they called him Deeber. I thought that this was a phenomenal nickame so I brought it home and gave it to Emily and it stuck. I know she will be forever grateful to me for giving her this blessed nickname. hee hee

Congratuations Deeber Deeb and Mark. Can't wait till the big day. Love you lil' sis.

Jack Be Nimble, Jack be Quick

2010-04-07T16:03:00.000-07:00

Well gone are the days when I could just sit my wee Jack-a-Loo on the ground, surround him with some toys and be on my merry way. He has moved on to bigger and better things. He is officially crawling. It is the cutest thing ever. It's more like a shimmy than a crawl but I'm sure he'll get the hang of it. We were at my parents house this weekend for Easter and he made his grand debut. Here is a little blurp that Mike caught on video with his phone camera (sorry about the poor quality)

Mike and I think Jack's crawling reminds us of one of THESE Click on the word THESE and have a look and let me know if you see any similarities.

Of course I found it absolutely and utterly adorable until I realized that I have to keep a MAJOR eye on him and start baby proofing. Just yesterday he managed to get into the dog's food dish twice, picked up random little pieces of paper he found somewhere on the carpet and immediately put them into his mouth, and of course headed straight towards all electrical outlets and pretty much anything else dangerous. I had to resort to putting him in his playpen so that I could at least go to the "loo" without having to worry about him. This is how I found him when I came back...

He wasn't very happy with his Mom for throwing him in baby jail. Poor guy. Incarcerated at the tender age of 8 1/2 months. At least we don't make him wear the hideous orange jumpsuit. He also has uttered his first word. Can you guess what it is? GIFTED! I know! Crazy eh? hahah ok, I might be telling a little fib. It was more along the lines of Mama. YAY! Nevermind the fact that it came after ba ba and it sounds more like mla mla, but a woman can dream right? He says dada now too but let's just make a note that mama came first. All my hard work has finally paid off. He truly is a joy and he makes us laugh all the day long.

My exercising is getting off to a slow start but it's starting nonetheless. I just signed up to run a 5K this June with my sister in law Shari so that gives me something to work towards. I started a running program called Couch to 5K It's great because it literally takes you from not running to being able to fun a 5k in 9 weeks. There are some exciting events taking place in mine and Mike's family this summer (details coming soon) so I need to get my butt in gear...like 5th gear!

Mike and I are still playing the waiting game for school which is always loads of fun. We actually applied to the University of Idaho as well (which will be quite a long shot) just as a backup.

Three friends of mine had babies on or around April Fools. Congrats again Robyn, Dayna and Ethney. Love you girlies.

Anywho, that's it for now.

This is Katie-Running-Around-Like-A-Chicken-with-its-head-cut-off Ryan signing off.

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2010-03-03T11:42:00.000-08:00

You might be a little perplexed by the title of this post as it is March 2nd and not anywhere near Christmas. What, might you ask, could possibly be the runner up for most wonderful time of the year? Why tax season of course! Now that you have picked your jaw up from off the floor, let me explain. I do not have an accounting degree but I love love love doing my own taxes. This is a newly discovered passion of mine that came from tackling them for the first time last year. I think part of the reason why I like doing them so much is because I get to fill out TONS of forms. My first love in life is my husband, Second comes Jack, Third chocolate and Fourth FILLING OUT FORMS!!! Yes it's true I love love love filling out forms. It's one of my many little qwirks. It's so bad that if I start filling out a form and think it doesn't look perfect, I'll redo it. If I could get a job filling out forms all day, I would be in paperwork heaven..although I'm pretty sure it would lead to some severe carpal tunnel, but well worth the pain. I've actually have thought about taking an accounting course lately and am researching some schools. I've never really taken one and I'm curious to see if I would like it. I'll keep you posted on that one.

Life has been going great here in Burlington. The weather has been AWESOME!! Ugh, I sooooooo don't miss Edmonton for just that fact alone. Today is a gorgeous sunny day and it feels like Spring to me, even if this morning it was -1C. Don't you find when the warmer weather comes that it is so motivating? Whether it is to start exercising, eating better, cleaning more, etc. It just feels like a fresh start on whatever goal you're trying to work on. I'm feeling pumped and rearing to go!
Nothing to new to report on the homefront. Jack is growing like a little weed. He has his two bottom teeth in and they are so cute. I love his little "toofies", except when I'm breastfeeding of course. Yowsers! He'll be turning 8 months old already in a couple of weeks. I really can't believe it. Time really has flown by and I'm trying to cherish this time with him. Whenever I'm out shopping or at church, etc, people are always mistaking him for a girl. For instance, today at the store the cutest russian old couple came up to me and start talking to Jack. The lady says "Oh what a beautiful princess, She is beautiful" and kept going on and on. At this point, I didn't have the heart to tell her that the princess is really a prince so I just played along. I had to laugh to myself because she kept calling him princess over and over. There was also this woman at church who told me that Jack really looks like a girl even though he is a boy. She would keep saying, no really, he looks like a girl. I dont' think I would ever say something like that to someone, but hey, I guess she just had to get it off of her chest. It must be his big blue eyes.

Mike started a new job this past January and is loving it. We've applied to the University of Guelph again this year and are keeping our fingers crossed that this year will be the year, and he'll be accepted. Keep us in your prayers. We won't find out until like June or July.

Mike has also been contemplating about joining the reserves. I was pretty hesitant in him doing so, but after finding out that they only go abroad if they choose to, I was on board. It will help pay for school and be additional income so that will be good. He goes in this month for a sort of orientation and will make the decision then.

Well there's a wee update for you for now. My tax forms are calling my name and Jack is sleeping so it's the perfect time. Here's some recent pics of our Jack-a-Loo (nickname courtesy of Auntie Katie)

In the Doghouse!

2010-02-01T08:23:00.000-08:00

I know I am way overdue for a post and it's coming soon, real soon, I promise. Cross my heart, hope to die, stick a needle in my eye promise. ;) I just had to post this video we took of Jack recently. He absolutely LOVES our dog Zan. Everytime he sees her, he gets all giggly and has the biggest smile on his face. He also does this thing lately when he gets really excited where he covers his eyes with his hands. It'll be interesting to see if he keeps doing that as he gets older. Here is a recently video we took of his reaction to Mike playing catch with Zan. That laugh melts my wee heart.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

1095

2009-12-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

Are you perplexed yet as to the title of this post? What could that number possibly mean? No it is not the number of hairs on my head, or how many chocolate bars I have eaten this year. It's official. I've been married for 1095 days! (Don't worry, I wasn't really keeping track, I just did a simple calculation of 365 x 3 ;) Mike and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary yesterday. I woke up to flowers by my bedside and a cute little gift bag with Harry Connick Jr's new CD (old love songs, a couple of books and a sweet little card. I was about to proceed upstairs to cook up Mike a mean breakfast before he headed off to work, but apparently Jack wanted to be fed before his Daddy. Jack's timing really does amaze me. It is impeccable. It's almost like he has a sixth sense and can tell when I'm about to take my first bite of dinner, or hop in the shower. Amazing! He truly is gifted. ha ha. After feeding him I luckily had enough time make him a lil' sumthin' sumthin'. When Mike got home from work he surprised me by taking me to this amazing restaurant in Hamtilton (approx 20 mins away) called the Old Mill. It was gorgeous and definitely more pricier than we're used to but hey, it's nice to splurge once a year! ;) We had a fantastic day and set some new goals for us for the upcoming year. I find anniversaries are the perfect time to reflect on my marriage and discuss things that we need to improve on and work harder at. I definitely believe that marriage is something that needs to be worked at. I'm finding, especially after having Jack, that you really do need to make sure you set aside time for just the two of you because it's so easy to get caught up in the daily grind and for routine to set in.
We both really couldn't believe that is has been three years already and reflected back on the time we have been able to share together. Like our wedding day for instance...oh the memories! As a little girl, I had always envisioned it as a picture perfect day but let me tell you...ours was the complete opposite. Here's just a glimpse of all of the things that went wrong:

1. I was almost late for the ceremony. The temple is two hours away from where I was living at the time so it made it a little tricky.

2. Threw up all over my wedding dress

3. Bailed on my rear end in my dress due to a patch of ice. ( I guess that is what I get for having a wedding in Dec)

4. Wedding planner was STILL decorating the room as guests were arriving

5. The table cloths were FAR from the colour I had ordered

6. Chicken entree more like chicken mashed potatoes than chicken. Everyone at the reception was perplexed as to what they were really eating. Darn Caterer!

7. Forgot about the flowers in the car up until the reception. Now that was a waste of money!

8. Wedding planner and crew didn't end up cleaning the room and we got a phone call at 8 a.m the next day saying we needed to figure it out.

Oh, just to name a few! But honestly, our ceremony, which was the most important part, was flawless and was able to be given by Mike's grandpa. All of the other things really are just small details and are now able to be the family joke! ;) Move over Aunt Chris! but oh...If i could do it all over again. I'd ELOPE! hee hee

I love you Mite and thank you for three amazing, wonderful, fun three years. You truly are my bestest friend and I couldn't ask for a more perfect husband. Love you Sugar Booger.

Here was an engagement video that my sis had put together when we had our engagement pics taken.

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

24 Days till Christmas!

2009-12-01T07:59:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that it is already December 1st? Where did this year go? Honestly! It really is amazing to me that as you get older time really does fly by. Before I know it I'll be sending Jack off to school...ok, maybe I'm getting a wee bit ahead of myself.

So a very sad thing happened yesterday and I'm not quite sure if it was more traumatizing for Jack or for me. Jack has learned how to roll. It is so funny to see how much these little milestones in his life get me so excited. Anywho, we have a brown ottoman in front of our couch which has turned into the changing station. It's just so much more convenient than his changing table. Not exactly sure why we even bought one in the first place because I think I can count on one hand the number of times we've used it. Well yesterday after cleaning a doozy of a diaper, I got up to walk not even 5 steps away to throw it out and just as I was turning around I see Jack tumbling over the side of the ottoman. Luckily the floor is carpeted and pretty cushy but he was sooooo upset. He even made a little smacking sound as he hit the ground. I quickly rushed over to him, cradled him in my arms and commenced trying to soothe and calm my very hysterical baby. I then searched his little body for any signs of bumps or bruises but none were to be found. I apologized profusely in the hopes that he would forgive his reckless mother. You can tell were new parents because when Mike came home he thought maybe we should take him to the doctor just to be sure he's ok. Grammmy Ryan assured us that he was just fine.

Later on that evening as Mike was changing Jack into his jammies he was zipping up his sleeper and caught a little bit of his skin in the zipper. Well thus commenced the second traumatizing event of the day. Poor little Jack. Mike felt so awful and tried to console him but he just wouldn't stop crying. I asked him if I could try and he refused saying he wanted to console him. Well he continued crying and it didn't seem like it was letting up anytime son so I asked again if I could have him and Mike unwillingly handed him over. As soon as I held him he stopped crying. It about melted my heart right there on the spot. Could just knowing he is in his mothers arms be enough to calm him? I was sad that he was hurt, but so happy that yet again, I could console my little baby. I have come to realize that it is one of the simple blessings of being a mother. The ability we have to nurture and soothe our little ones. I can't wait for the day when he is upset and calls out for me by name because all he wants his Mommy.

Well here's keeping my fingers crossed that nothing tragic happens today. Wish me luck! and Happy December.

Here is another little video of Jack talking. I just can't get over how funny it is when he talks to me. He has started to move his little lips as you'll see and it's like he is trying to get the words out but all that comes out is babble.

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Also, I chopped my hair last week. I just took a quick pic with my web cam. it's not a very good shot but you can at least tell how short it is.

2009-11-11T09:40:00.000-08:00

So I am determined to shed some pounds and in my quest to do so, I have joined a gym and now have a personal trainer. My gym had a really good deal that I couldn't pass up and with Mike and I having house/baby sat this past weekend, we took that money and put it towards Operation "Juggly - Jiggles Be Gone". I have never worked with a personal trainer before and I had my very first session yesterday hence the reason why I am now updating my blog. I swear I have pulled every muscle imaginable and now I can't move or even get out of bed! (Ok, I might be exaggerating a little) Our supposed to be hour session only lasted half an hour as I almost passed out, and that is NO exaggeration. Apparently I was starting to sway and he called it quits for the day. I wish I could say, it was the best experiences of my life. I felt so energized, invigorated, ready to take on the world...but really, I just wanted to die, right there in the middle of the gym at the tender age of 29! My lungs burned, my legs throbbed and arms felt like mush. What could be more pleasurable really? ;)
I think it is the type of motivation I need though and after watching the Biggest Loser last night, I'm counting my blessings that he isn't ANYTHING like Jillian! Now there is one tough cookie!

A wee taste of the Wrath of Jillian

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovfW59st9xc&feature=related

In other news, Jack is growing like a weed. He has his 4 month appt coming up with the doctor next week and I can't wait to see what she tells me how he is doing as far as height and weight. He's also talkig up a storm. Here's a little tidbit for you. He's most talkative in the morning and at night right before he goes to bed. He also does this really funny buggy eyed thing when you turn out the lights and we tried to capture it on camera but I'm not sure how it turned out.

Enjoy!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Hallowinner!

2009-11-02T17:37:00.000-08:00

Well Hallow's Eve has come and gone and Jack got to experience his very first one. We were going to just put him in a box and put a paper that read "Jack In The Box" but we had to use the cute little pirate costume we had so here he is...

CAPTAIN JACK SPARROW

Pay no attention to his frontal wedgie. Lucky for him he's wearing a diaper!

We had a pretty quiet evening. We spent time with the inlaws eating homemade cinnamon buns and watching Harry Potter. Shari (Mike's sister) and I handed out candy and had a blast. We kept thinking of all of these funny/mean things we should do to the kids that came to the door, but decided it would probably be best not to. I can't even remember that last time I handed out candy for Halloween. Actually, I don't think I've ever done it. It made me excited for when Jack gets a little older and were able to take him out. I debated about taking him out this year, but really, he has no teeth!! I would have felt kind of silly going door to door with my wee little pirate. There's always next year.

Seriously Dad...that's the best mustache you could do with a brown eyeliner?

"FALL"ing in Love

2009-10-19T08:15:00.001-07:00

Reasons why I love the Fall Season:

1. Putting away summer clothes and bringing out wool sweaters. And being the Canuck that I am...I have A LOT of wool sweaters. I don't know about you, but there is something fun about getting out the new seasons clothes. Do you ever find that when you start pulling them out you come across clothes you forgot you had and you get excited to wear them again? ..Maybe it's just me.

2. Drinking hot apple cider

3. Watching the leaves change colours. (Not literally...as if i have that kind of time ;)

Tree in our backyard

4. Halloween. Just realized I can go trick or treating again for the 1st time in like 15 years. So what if my son has no teeth...I'll save it for when he does..Promise!!! (and no my fingers are not crossed)

5. The crisp cool air

Mike and I decided to do someting "fally" (and yes that is a real word) this weekend so we went up to a cute little place called Springridge Farm. They had all kinds of fall festivities and we had fun. There were sooooo many people and it was entirely made up of kids, kids and more kids. There were kids running around and screaming like wild banchees, kids throwing temper tantrums when parents refused to buy them a certain sugary delicacy, kids passed out probably from too much sugar in strollers and wagons, kids shreaking with delight while going through the haunted house, kids with sticky faces from candy apples and kids jumping off hay bales...and then it hit me! I turned to Mike while we were sitting at a picnic bench observing all of the chaos and said:

"Welcome to our new life"!

In recently becoming parents we have now entered the world of dragging Jack to any local event that is kid friendly even if the only exciting thing is getting to pet a goat! We have started our monetary contributions to Duracell and Energizer. Our movie selections have changed from Bourne Identity to Baby Einstein. Our late Friday and Saturday nights have turned into "is it really only 8:00 cause it feels like midnight!". Shopping excursions used to include Banana Republic..now it's the Dollar Store. Yes, it is true, our life as we knew it is now gone, and we couldn't be HaPpiER!! ;)

Some pics from our weekend

Oh the Joys of a Handy Husband

2009-10-16T06:52:00.000-07:00

So as you know Mike and I are currently living in his parents basement and we've been trying really hard to make it more "homey"(no that doesn't mean more gansta). There is one rather large room and then a separate bedroom and bathroom. We decided to give Jack the bedroom and then we divided up the larger room into the family room/office and made the other half our bedroom. We were trying to come up with ways to divide the space when Mike said he would build some doors. I'm thinking...Mmm...not that I doubt your capentry skills honey because you have told me you can build things...but the last thing I saw you build was this:

Mike built me a jewellery box for our 1st Christmas together. He had fibbed to me for weeks saying he was working late, all the meanwhile he was building the box. What a cutie patootie! I remember opening it and thinking that it was so pretty but then when he told me he built it, well I started bawling like a baby. I totally thought he had bought it from a store.

So anywho, not that I doubted his carpentry skills but doors seemed a lot more complicated to me than a jewellery box... don't ya think? I had gone down to Windsor with Jack to visit my family for about a week and while I was there Mike told me he had finished the doors. So home again home again home again I go jiggity jig half expecting to see some makeshift cardboard doors but lo and behold look what I found...THESE:

Mike made the ENTIRE thing from scratch. We're talking door frames, the square thingys in the middle (sorry for my lack of door lingo), the rice type paper background, EVERYTHING!!! I think I fell even more in love with him that day. The japanese sliding doors were beeeeeutiful! I don't know about you, but there is just something sexy about a handy man. Knowing that my hunk of a hubby can build things with his bare hands gives me the warm fuzzies. Mike, I will never doubt you again!

You have for once, proven me wrong. hahaha

Move over Ty Pennington

Cuz Michael Ryan is in the Hizzouse!!!

Yup that's right ladies and gents, he cooks too!
(well...at least on holidays and special occasions ;)

So Thankful for Thanksgiving!

2009-10-14T08:34:00.000-07:00

What a weekend it has been. It was Canadian Thanksgiving this past Monday and Mike and I had the opportunity to head down to Windsor for a few days to celebrate with my familia. It has been over 7 years since I have been able to have Thanksgiving with my family...and it was well worth the wait! I so look forward to my Mother's creamed carrots, sweet potato souffle, butter tarts and apple crisp. My little Mamooshka worked so hard for almost 2 days just so the 12 of us could enjoy one scrumdiddilyumpcious meal! Aren't Moms just the best! We headed down Friday night and left on Monday only to be able to come back here to Mike's parents and have yet again, another turkey dinner. Two Thanksgiving Dinners in two days = one happy and a little rounder girl! Mom Ryan sure had a lovely spread as well and I am one thankful daughter in law.

Fall is definitely here in Burlington! It's so beautiful here. I forgot how much I love the fall season. It sees like in Alberta it goes from Summer to Winter and Fall might last a total of a week or so. (I believe they already have had snow! mmmm...don't miss that part). The leaves on the trees here are so gorgeous. I'll have to take some pics. There is a tree that is completely red right outside in our backyard.

Living with the In Laws has been awesome so far. We truly do feel blessed that they have let us crash here for a year. Our original plan was that once Mike graduated from NAIT in Edmonton, we would move to Guelph Ontario so he could continue on to get his degree. Well unfortunately that just wasn't in the cards for us yet as he wasn't accepted into the program. The thing that stinks about it is this school is pretty much the only school in all of Canada that has his program (Landscape Architecture) and they only had 6 seats available this year. Come to find out that 13 people applied which doesn't make our odds very good. Mike was so disappointed and so was I as this threw our plans way off. Luckily he spoke to one of the Deans of the program who told him to contact him when he reapplies next year and he'll help him put forward the best application he can. Acceptance into this program is based on three things:

1. Grades
2. Creative Portfolio
3. An essay on the Landscape Architect job.

It's pretty tough to get in so we're hoping that next year it will work out. In the meantime, we decided that we would spend this next year saving as much moola as we can and my in laws were gracious enough to let us stay here for the year. It's been so nice being close to family. My family is only a 3 1/2 hour drive which is nice as well. We really have missed out on the little things like Sunday dinners, being able to celebrate holidays/special occasions, just hanging out playing a game or watching a movie, etc. and now with having Jack, we want them to be able to enjoy him just as much as we do. Anywho, so that is what we've been up to. Mike got a job in his field so that was a huge blessing. He's liking it so far, just not used to the commuters traffic. We live only about 40 mins from Toronto so the traffic here around rush hour is CRAZY!!!

Jack is cuter than ever. I swear he gets bigger by the day and is constantly changing. He has started the beginnings of what I believe is a laugh and it melts my heart everytime he smiles. I've told him that the only thing I ask of him is that he has to smile at me at least once a day and then I'm good to go. He's sleeping for longer stints at a time which i am soooo grateful for! I remember the first night he slept for 7 hours I about jumped out of my bed for joy! I think I had to do a triple take at the alarm clock to make sure that it really had been 7 hours. I could have kissed his cute little face off!!! He's also so happy and talkative in the morning. I can sit there and make baby talk with him for at least a good 1/2 hour. It's adorable!!

Our Wee Little Ninja in Training

2009-09-19T21:18:00.000-07:00

I bet you're all wondering if I'm still pregnant and if I'm now eligible to make it into The Guinness Book of World Records for the world's longest lasting pregnacy! Well fortunately for me, it wasn't even a possibility as I gave birth to Jack Michael James on July 19, 2009. He tipped the scales at a whopping 8 lbs 13 ozs! I'm a tad concerned as this is my first baby and I'm assuming the weight goes up with every child??? Maybe my dream won't be shattered after all and I can still make it into the book by having the World's largest baby???

Everything went relatively smooth and I feel extremely blessed. My contractions started around 5:30 in the morning and by 10:30 or so they were about 3 to 5 minutes apart so we decided to head on over to the hospital. I was going into this with an open mind. I wasn't totally ruling out natural childbirth but I also wasn't going to call the hospital ahead of time and tell them to get my epidural ready and waiting. I was going to play it by ear and see what I could handle. Well by about 1:00 and after having a contraction that almost made me throw up, I threw in the towel and asked for some "sweet relief". Let me tell ya, other than saying yes to Mike's marriage proposal, it was the best decision I've ever made. I was so much happier and relaxed and I'm sure I was much more pleasant to be around for Mike as well. My hours of rest and relaxation came to an abrupt end though as my epidural started to wear off. The nurse topped me off and that seemed to last for another hour or so but then I could start to feel the contractions coming on yet again. Sure enough this is the moment that baby Jack decides its his time to shine and he starts to make his great descent. When Mike and I were taking our prenatal classes we always had to snicker at the plethora of sounds that women in labour made and I vowed that I would never sound like that! Well sure enough, when the time was just right, I definitely could have auditioned for those videos. It was rather painful and it seemed like my OB was making me count to 100 through my contractions instead of 10. It was funny because Mike told me afterward that he couldn't make direct eye contact with me. He said my face was so red, bulging and contorted in such a way that he never thought was possible. He felt so bad for me everytime he looked at me so he found it easier to avert his eyes. It was so surreal to finally be able to hold that little baby that I had been carrying all those months. To finally be able to see what he looks like, and to take in his sweet baby smell. Mike and I couldn't have been happier to have such a happy and healthy baby.

So here I am now with my sweet little Jack-a-loo (nickname courtesy of Auntie Katie) two months later. I swear he is growing by the hour or at least it seems. He is constantly changing and its so exciting to see him reach his little milestones already. He's been such a good baby so far (knock on wood) and I am truly counting my blessings. I still have a lot to update (moving across the country, living with in laws, Mike's new job, etc) but I'll save those for another day. Here are some pics that Jack's wonderfully amazingly taleted Auntie Liz took a couple of weeks ago. It's our first little family photo shoot. There were way too many cute ones to choose from so brace yourselves, I've posted quite a few! What can I say..I'm one proud mama!

Update - The "turkey" is sooooooooooo done!

2009-07-17T14:09:00.000-07:00

No this picture does not give any explanation as to my whereabouts for the past three months. I did not run off to Japan and pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a sumo wrestler, (although with how big I feel right now, i'm sure i could give some of those big boys a run for their money) I've just been a big ol' proctastinator. I know I am wayyyyyyyyyyyyy overdue in updating my blog so I thought I would at least give you a wee lil' update and punish myself for taking so long by posting the above pic. No makeup + no hair done + one goofy expression = one hot tamale of a pregnant chick!

Baby Ryan has not made his appearance yet. My due date was yesterday but I'm thinking he's a wee bit too comfy in his "condo" to want to come out yet. I mean, who can blame him, a balmy 98.6 degrees, constant cushioning, the soft soothing sounds of amniotic fluid and being able to relax and not have to be on a schedule. Although he might be getting a wee tired of the little lectures I've been giving him as of late about "summer vacation" being over and him needing to show us how his 10 months of hard work has really paid off. I had a doctor's appointment yesterday and I was a whopping 2 cm dialated. Whoop-dee-doo right? I was up a whole 0.5cm from the week before. My OB then "stretched my cervix" which I guess is what we Canuckians call stripping your membranes. Whatever it is called it should be called "gouging my own eyeballs out with a spoon would be a breeze compared to this" because it was no picnic. He's hoping that this will get things rolling but alas, if they don't, I have another appointment on Monday to discuss the big "I" (induction). So if you could please keep your fingers, arms, toes and any possible flexible ligament that you have crossed for me it would be greatly appreciated. Wish me luck. ;)

Okay, for real this time. We're having a....

2009-04-17T07:52:00.000-07:00

NOT SO STUBBORN BABY AFTER ALL!!! ;) Oh wait, I guess that didn't really tell you did it. (hee hee )A boy! we're having a baby boy! Can't you tell from this pic?

hahaha totally joking because I sure can't! It looks like we're having a merman to me!! Not the clearest pic but it'll do. I did get to see a close up of his "man" parts and there was no denying it, it's a boy. I went in for a doctor's apointment yesterday and my ob said I needed to schedule my next ultrasound so I called after the appointment and my options were today or June 23rd. (Love the Canadian Health Care system, note the sarcasm). So OBVIOUSLY I chose today and not three weeks before my baby is due). The bad news was Mike couldn't come with me as he was writing a final at the same time :( He phoned me after his final and I had to tell just a wee little white lie saying they STILL couldn't find out and how disappointed I was. Then I ran over to a store, bought a cute baby BOY outfit and went to pick him up from school. He got in the car and my academy award worthy performance continued. I told him that I went ahead and bought a baby outfit anyway to make myself feel better and then he took a look. He pulled the "NAVY BLUE sleeper with bugs on it" outfit out of the bag and was said "Oh this is cute". The whole time thinking, how is this outfit meant for a girl! So I say "A cute outfit for what?"....he says " a baby boy" (the gerbil hadn't started running on the wheel yet) so I scream "we're having a baby boy"! Well he looked like a little boy on Christmas morning. I loved it. He was so excited. Said it made him feel more like a man knowing he was having a son! (not sure what that means exactly but I'm assuming it's due to my lack of testosterone that doesn't quite allow me to understand that statement). He was so excited the entire way home.

We came home and phoned our familias and basked in their excitement as well. This is such a fun time. One of those great milestones in life. I'm cherishing every moment (except for the leg cramps, growing ligaments and lack of sleep) ;) I can't wait to meet our little man.

As for my trip out to Utah it was WONDERFUL! I had so much fun visiting my sis. She threw me the bestest cutest baby shower while I was there and I got to see some WONDERFUL friends. My sister is pretty much Martha Stewart's long lost twin. She has so much creativity and talent. I think she pretty much sucked it all up and didn't leave any for lil' ol me. I've stolen some pics that she took of the shower and then included some of my own of my cute little niece and nephews.

A Taste of Liz's Creative Abilities

Baby Shoe Cake- too cute to eat!

Cake o' Diapers - cutest centerpiece

Gift Table

Food Spread - the watermelon fruit salad being my favourite idea

Staci Me and Jenny poo poo getting the last minute shtuff together

Just some of the many wonderful friends who came to the shower.
My sis, Beth, Me, Andrea and Staci. A big ol' thanks to Kara, Carol, Christin, Lauren, Virginia, Krissy, and Jen who were there as well.

Could baby Grant be any cuter? I think Not.

Silly Faces - Sydney

Blake

And the countdown begins...only 12 weeks to go!

Extreme Blog Makeover

2009-03-31T15:20:00.000-07:00

My blog got a rather over due facelift. I figure since it's spring I need to lighten up the place!

Only 4 more sleeps until I see my seestor, my brotha from anotha motha and my cutie patootie niece and nephews. I can't wait!

Also, the digital camera has finally been purchased!! Ain't it purdy?

I'm hoping to have belly pics up soon, well, as soon as I can figure out how to use the thing. I've never had such a nice camera before and it's a little intimdating to tell you the truth. My "oh-so-with-it-photographic-sister" will have to help me out.

Our weekend in Calgary was a blast and parting really was such sweet sorrow as we miss our friends dearly! I think baby Elle put on one of the best "first year olds eating their very first piece of cake for the first time" peformance I've ever seen. I'll have to let you know when her Mum puts up the video. I think I may have peed my pants a little from laughing so hard. She sure is cute and makes for some stiff competition! ;)

Heigh Ho! Heigh Ho! It's off to Utah I go!

2009-03-20T12:17:00.000-07:00

All my bags aren't packed
and I'm not ready to go
but soon I'll be standin outside the Weekley door
I'll wake my hubby up to say goodbye
(cause I'll be leaving at the buttcrack of dawn)

Blake, Sissy and Grant better...

Kiss me and smile for me
Better be waiting at the door for me
and hold me like they'll never let me go
Cause I'm leavin in a car (not a jet plane)
and I do know when I'll be back again
Oh babe I hate to go...(only because the fifteen hour car ride isn't going to be what I would call oodles of fun and this will be the longest we've ever been separated)

You heard right folks, I'm heading out to the land of milk and honey in a couple of weeks to go visit this cute little family.

This has been the longest I have EVER gone without seeing my older sis Liz (almost 2 years) and I just can't stand it any longer. It saddens me to think that I have a new nephew that I haven't even met. Living far away really is the pits! I'll be making the 15 hour or so trek down by myself as well so that should be fun! Mike would love to come but alas, finals will be upon him, and there will be no time to spare. So it's just me, some great tunes and the open road. I've made the trek before and it really isn't too bad. I hope I get the chance to see some great friends of mine as well. I lived in P-Town (aka Provo, Utah) for almost three years and had a blast. I met some amazing friends and I know we'll be bosom buddies forever!

Here's how far I'll be driving (in case your curiosity is getting the best of you)

Before I make the long trek, Mike and I are heading down to Calgary next weekend to celebrate this little cutie patootie's 1st birthday. I can't believe she is already one. Man how times flies! (with the exception of being pregnant cuz time seems to be dragging)

As far as baby updates, my next doctor's appointment is on Monday so hopefully he'll be able to let me know when my next ultrasound will be. Mark my words: I will wait on that ultrasound table as long as it takes to discover the sex of this little bambino! ;) (unless I am escorted out by security guards of course but let's hope it doesn't have to come to that). We hope to buy a good digital camera soon (thanks to tax returns) so hopefully I'll have some pics up soon. Brace yourselves!! ;)

T.G.G.I.F - Thank Goodness Gracious It's Friday!

2009-03-06T12:53:00.001-08:00

GUESS WHAT?????.........................................................nothing! Had to keep you in suspense didn't I? I wish I had some exciting great excuse as to why I haven't posted lately but alas, I don't. All I know is that it is Friday and it couldn't have come any slower. I'm not sure about anybody else but this week has dragged on and on and on for me. Only 2 and a half more hours to go and I'm a free woman...in more ways than one. I will be a "Wilderness Widow" this weekend as my oober adventurous hubby goes Winter camping with a buddy of his. Yes, it was not a typo, you read it correctly W-I-N-T-E-R-C-A-M-P-I-N-G! Sounds like an oxymoron doesn't it? Mike loves to challenge himself so his newest endeavour will be to go camping in the snow, without a tent, without a sleeping bag, without any food and most definitely without HIS WIFE! He is only going for one night so that eases my worries a little bit. It has just been sooo cold here lately and tonight it's supposed to go down to -20C...which for you Americans is -4F!!! I know he'll be okay cause he is one smart, strong, wildnerness saavy guy.
I really do admire that about him though, that he finds opportunities to challenge himself all the time. You know what, I think he's inspired me, maybe I'll challenge myself tonight as well? Ya! Mmmm...what shall I do? I know! I, Katie Allison Ryan, challenge myself not to eat the entire bag of lower fat Oreo's we currently have in our cupboard. Ooohh I like it and what a challenge it will be. The stories I'll have to tell. The near death experiences!! Death defying acts of courage!!! The perseverance it will take!!! hahaha yes it's true, Mike and I are VERY different in a lot of ways. That's what I love about our marriage though, is we bring different strengths/interests/hobbies to the table and get to share them with each other. Except for winter camping. The reason why I am not going this weekend is because in our marriage license there is a small clause that reads:

"I, Katie Ryan, take you Michael, to be my lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, but will never be obligated to go camping with you in the cold wet snow in minus 20 degree weather, Amen".

See, so he knew about this from the get go! I haven't pulled any wool over his eyes! ;)

Anywho, I wish you all a happy and WARM weekend!...I'll keep you posted on how my challenge went!

A preview of what Mike will be doing:

Insert Mike here....

....but minus the tent!

The Results are In! We're having a.....

2009-02-17T09:28:00.000-08:00

.....very stubborn baby who does not wish to disclose his or her identity at this time. I was soo excited and could hardly sleep a wink last night. I tossed, turned, tossed some more, tried reading, tried sleeping at the other end of the bed, but to no avail nothing worked. Finally around 6:45am it was time to get up. The time couldn't have passed any slower. I pictured myself finding out the news and then running to the store to buy his/her very first gender specific outfit. No more white, green or yellow! I had hope as well because while I was at my dentist last week, he informed me that his ultrasound technician was doing her very own study and so far it was right 80% of the time. If the babies hands were by its head it was a girl, if the heads were down by its side...boy. Well when Mike and I looked at our baby on the big screen, one hand was up, one hand was down and its legs were crossed! For the love! I mean, I am definitely one to play practical jokes, and now I feel like I am getting my just desserts. Oh well...guess we'll just have to wait until the next one to find out. Here's the pic we got. You can see the one arm up and one arm down for yourself. I have a doctor's appointment next Monday so hopefully from the pics, he'll be able to tell me all is well.

The Better Half has been Tagged!

2009-02-14T07:52:00.000-08:00

In honour of Valentine's Day and because I want Kyrsten to know that I love her and read her blog ALL THE TIME, and because I was tagged, I decided to fill you in on my better half..aka My Hunkalicious Hubby! (I think I just created a new word)

1. Were you High School Sweethearts? That would be a negative...unless I was still in high school at the tender age of 26!!

2. How did you meet? I first noticed him at a huge rock concert put on by "Less Accountable" but he was with a girl, and I was in a relationship. Ran into him a few more times due to mutual friends. When my relationship ended, I pretty much had his friend make him ask me out! Who says girls can't make the first move!

3. What did you do on your first date? We got kicked out of two different restaurants because we were the last people and then we sat in his driveway and talked for over 3 hours about EVERTHING! and I mean EVERYTHING. Definitely had never been on a first date like that before.

4. Was he your first love? No, but True Love DEFINITELY!

5. Were you his first love? No. I can't even keep track of all his girlfriends/crushes. I think we tried to count once but to no avail, we lost count.

6. How long did you date? 7 whole months.

7. Did you break up at all? Nada

8. Who said I love you first? He did and my response was "Mmmmmm, I'm not ready to say that yet, but Thanks!"

9. Who proposed and how? He did, on my birthday. Really it was the only way he could get away with it without me catching on. It was a whole day AMAZING event. I'll have to tell you sometime. Great story! Basically, scavenger hunt, time at the spa, blindfolded and dinner under a canopy in the woods.

10. Who drives when you are together? He does. I always offer because I feel bad that he is always the driver but he insists.

11.Who's smarter? I would have to say we're about equal. Although with my pregnancy brain, he's definitely in the run!

12. Worst temper? Hands down me.

13. Who watches more TV? I do. He does homework all night every night so other than keeping our dog company, it's what i do.

14. Who's funnier? I think I am, although when he is in a goofy mood, I may have peed my pants from laughing on the odd occasion.

15. Who takes longer to get ready? Three words...I'm a woman!

16. More stubborn? Good question. We both can be pretty stubborn but on the stubborn scale I would probably have the higher number.

17. Who is more adventureous? MIKE by a long shot! Do you think I ever in my right mind would go camping in the winter? Do a survival trip to see how long I can last in the wilderness? Mmm.. nope. but mike did and does and LOVES IT!

18. How long have you been married? 2 years, 2 months and 12 twelve days.

19. Who cooks? Call me Rachel Ray!..ok not really but I love to cook. He wanted to try it for a week not that long ago and enjoyed it, but, well, let's just say it didn't last the whole week.

20. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? That's Katie territory!

21. Who has more friends? I think I do but i've also lived in a lot more places than he has.

I tag whoever wants to divulge about their hubby.

Rest In Peace Dave I!

2009-02-10T07:18:00.000-08:00

Upon arriving home from work yesterday I was hit with two major blows. First, that one of my sister's best friends brother died. It is so sad and he was her only sibling. They were very close and I know this time has got to be very hard for her. Liz is actually on her way home as we speak so she can go and be with her friend. It was so sudden and he was so young (I believe 31). I guess you just never know. Secondly, that my Dad received some scary news but that after he undergoes a pretty major surgery, he'll be okay. If he isn't worried, than I shouldn't be either. It was such a wake up call for me. One, that has hard as it is for me to come to grips with, my parents really aren't getting any younger. Don't get me wrong, they still have PLENTY of years ahead of them, it's just scary when you get reality checks like I did yesterday. Secondly, that I am so grateful for the gospel and to have the knowledge that I do. That this life isn't the end and that there is hope. I can't imagine what it would feel like to lose a close family member or friend and think that that was it, that I'd never see them again. Instead, we can celebrate their life, miss not having them around, but know we will see them again. It's given me a new motivation, to be a little better and try a little harder because again, in the end...you just never know.

17 Weeks down, 23 to Go!

2009-02-09T12:23:00.000-08:00

Well things are moving along quite nicely. We have our very first ultrasound next week so hopeully "the palm" (that's his/her size now) will be a good little palm and let us see if it is a palmude or a palmette! I know I have to post a picture but our darn camera is brokedidid and the cell phone just doesn't do my belly justice. I wouldn't want to have to post a disclaimer at the bottom of my picture saying "objects in this picture are larger than they appear!" I'm getting some energy back so that's always a good thing. To commemorate it being my seventeenth week, I thought I would see what interesting things the number seventeen has accomplished in the world. Here goes:

1. It was used in a famous 80's song that I used to LOVE back in the day. My sister Liz used to have the tape. Name this tune:
"Well he was just SEVENTEEN,
and you know what I mean
and the way he loooked was way beyond compare.

I'll never dance with another
Woooooo
When I _______ ________ _________ _________!

(Liz if you don't get this, I don't think we can be sisters anymore)

2. Now who didn't love this magazine when they were a teenager. It was a step up from the teenie bob magazines but not as crude as Cosmo.

3. 17th Ave was one of my favourite streets to visit when I lived in Calgary. It's filled with great boutiques and amazing restaurants. It was on this street that I had my very first taste of Nepalese cuisine. Delish!

4. Being from Canuckada (aka Canada) means that I'm supposed to have an inbred love for hockey right??? Well I don't really, except during playoffs...but for those of you who are fans, last week was week 17 in the NHL and here are the team rankings Looks like the Sharks and Bruins are still in the lead.

5. In the 17th episode of the last season on one of my guilty pleasures, the Hills, here is what happened: Still annoyed with Audrina's accusations about hooking up with Justin, Lauren asks Lo for advice. Lo tells Lauren that if Audrina had to question her so many times, it's clear that Audrina does not trust her. Since Lauren sees trust as a top priority in relationships, she says the only way she will forgive Audrina is if she sincerely apologizes. I'm not shallow, I promise ;)

6. And last but not least - some words that rhyme with seventeen. Caffeine, between, blue jean, canteen, and obscene.

Happy Monday!

H.A. Day

2009-01-31T18:34:00.001-08:00

As I was driving home from having dropped off Mike at work today, I became overwhelmed with feelings of gratitude for my better half. He's been so great since I've been pregnant (ok, just realized that sounded bad, he's ALWAYS been great). Giving me foot massages, going to the store to get food "the baby" is craving, etc. I thought that I needed to do something nice for him so when I got home, I called him on his cell and shouted "HAPPY HUSBAND APPRECIATION DAY!!!" He laughed and then I proceeded to ask him if he could have anything for dinner what would that be. He decided on vegetable lasagna and for dessert, a homemade apple pie. My response "As you wish" (name that movie). Sure I could have gone and bought him a present, etc but let's face it, we all know that a way to man's heart is through his stomach!! I hopped on my mostest favoritest recipe site and found two great recipes. Thus began my afternoon of gratefully slaving away in the kitchen.
I ended up making a ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA

and

HOMEMADE CARAMEL APPLE PIE

They both turned out great and I highly recommend the recipes. I did my first ever lattice pie crust as well. It looked so pretty. Sorry if the pictures aren't the best. Our digital camera is broken so I had to use my cell phone camera.

Anywho, the night could basically be summed up by:

One Vegetable Lasagna $20

One Homemade Apple Pie $10

Expression on hubby's face after eating all the yummy food...

PRICELESS!!!!!!!!!!!

Pregnancy Joke of the Week

2009-01-23T10:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!

A woman, pregnant with her first child, was paying a visit to her obstetrician's office. When the exam was over, she shyly began, "My husband wants me to ask you if its still okay..."

"I know, I know." the doctor said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder, "I get asked that all the time. Sex is fine until late in the pregnancy."

"No, that's not it at all," Brenda confessed. "He wants to know if I can still mow the lawn."

This weekend should be fun. We get to go to Mike's Winter work party on Saturday. Because there are approx 1200 people who work for his company, they don't have a Christmas party, they have a party in January. It sounds like it's going to be a good time. Now I just need to figure out what I'm going to wear. I'm in the "I promise I'm not fat, just pregnant" stage. All of my normal clothes are starting to get a wee bit tight but yet I just don't want to wear maternity clothes because I feel like I'm to "large and in charge" when I wear them. Do you think a formal moo moo and crocs would be acceptable to wear??? I could be-dazzle the shoes?? ;) (so tempting).

S to the L to the A-C-K-E-R!!!

2009-01-13T15:16:00.000-08:00

Well I guess it's about time I fill you in on my "Spill the Beans Christmas Adventures". Mike and I had a fantabulous time in good ol'Ontario. Our trip was too short and parting really was such sweet sorrow, but as the saying goes "all good things must come to an end" (ok, sorry, that was kind of depressing). We started out the first portion of our trip with Mike's fam in Burlington (suburb of Toronto). We ended up wearing out homemade t shirts to the aiport so we could just take off our sweaters when we got to Mike's parents house and tell of our great news. When we arrived at their house not every family member was home so we decided that we had to wait until everyone was together (not an easy task try to round up 2 parents and 6 siblings between the ages of 28-16). We were so impatient and kept giving each other little looks throughout the day trying to contain our excitement. Finally around dinnertime, everyone was finally together (even if it was for only 10 mins or so). So Mike and I proceeded to take off our sweaters and see who would notice first. Mike's brother Tyler was the first to notice and he says "cool shirt, bun in the oven". I found this rather humorous because he obviously didn't catch on and really, what shirt with an oven range displayed on the front is really that "cool". So I had to do a "yes...and...." then the eruption began. They screamed, cried, ran at us all at once to have a huge family hug. Mike and I of course being smooshed in the middle. It was great though and we definitely soaked up the attention. Their reaction was priceless but ya can't blame them with Mike being the only child who is married and this being the 1st grandchitlin.
Now onto the Osmer clan. This reaction was quite different. Same kind of scenario...wore our shirts to the house, waited till all the familia was gathered, took off our sweaters and my mother's response "oh, is that one of those shirts that changes colours?" Of course my so-on-the-ball sister in law Katie got it right away, but she didn't want to spoil it for everyone else, so patiently she waited until their wheels started to turn as well. Time passed and still nobody got it so I had to say to my Mom:
"No Mom, it is not one of those shirts....what is on my shirt?
"an oven"
"and what is in the oven?"
"a bun"
"yes...and.... (commence crickets chirpring)
"OH, Bun in the Oven!!!" and then of course the excitement erupted. Hugs we're given all around and shouts of Congratulations.
We had soooo much fun telling them. It was well worth the two and a half month wait and all the lies, well let's call them fibs, I had to tell my parents!! ;)
Mike's shirt was kind of the after-shock-comic-relief. Everyone got a good kick out of that one.
The rest of our trip was great. Games were played, childhood memories were recalled, amazing food was pigged out on but there was one more thing that did make it an oh so eventful trip...............WICKED!!!!
Oh my goodnes..I LOVED IT, LOVED IT, LOVED IT! It was everything I had hoped for and then some! I was in heaven and sang along pretty much the entire time! Let's just say I have been singing the songs for the past 17 days since I have been home. I CANNOT get them out of my head. My Mom actually ended up buying my brother Isaac and his wife Katie tickets as well so we went out to dinner to good ol' Mexican Village before the show (if you're ever in Detroit, it's a hole but a must see/eat). I'm so glad we got to go with them, it made it all that much more fun.
Anywho, there is a small update for ya. Sorry for keeping you in suspense.
ps - the "fist" (Mike and I keep changing the name of our baby by what our book compares its size to, hence the fist. First it was the raisin, then prune, then peach and now fist. I'm glad we're out of the produce section) is now 14 weeks old and doing well. My belly is starting to grow and of course "the girls" are well on their way. I'm a little nervous as I have a little less than 6 months left. Dolly Parton might have some stiff competition! ;) jk We've scheduled our first ultrasound for Feb 17th and hopefully they'll be able to tell us whether or not "the fist" is a boy or girl. We're not waiting. I'm not that patient. It's amazing to me how disappointed people are when you tell them you're finding out. I can't help it...I just need to know to plan, etc. Call me a party popper but maybe we'll wait with one of our others. Actually who am I kidding, I probably won't be able to do it then either. ;) Patience is a virtue, patience is a virtue.

Guess What??????

2008-12-30T13:43:00.001-08:00

A closer view....

More details to come but this is what we wore home to our parents house to break the news.

P.S. - I'm 11 weeks!!

"I'll Be Home For Christmas"

2008-12-12T08:07:00.001-08:00

Only 8 more sleeps until Mike and I make the trek back to Ontario for the holidays. We can't wait. This has been the longest I've ever gone without seeing my dear familia (almost a year and a half) and I can't wait to kiss their wee little faces. We'll be splitting up the two weeks that we're home between both of our families (who live 3 hours apart)so it should be an action packed, thrilling 14 days!..plus I GET TO GO SEE WICKED! (and NO mom, I'm not more excited to see the play than to see you, it might be a close tie hahaha!) You have to understand, I have been DYING to see this play for like the last 3 years. I have the soundtrack, know all the songs by heart, and can't wait to belt them out with the rest of the cast. I am going to be the biggest nerd and don't even care. Mike might seriously contemplate if he wants to remain being married to me during this whole event, but I won't be able to contain myself. I'll be singing along and envying the conductor, wishing I was in his/her place. I've composed a little poem to commemorate this exciting event. Here goes:

'Twas the night before "Wicked", when all through the house
Only one creature was stirring, a girl named Katie, who lay next to her spouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
In the hopes that within them lay two tickets, hopefully a pair!

Katie was nestled all snug in her bed,
While visions of wicked witches danced in her head;
Forget the kerchief and the warm little cap,
She wished she could make the next day come with one little snap.

She knew in the morning there would be quite a clatter,
when she opened those tickets her heart would surely pitter patter;
She would smother her thoughtful Mum and Dad with kisses galore,
that they would know right then and there that their present had scored.

For she has been dying to see this world renowned play,
She has wished and hoped and dreamed and most definitely prayed;
And now that dream is becoming a reality,
here's hoping that she doesn't lose all of her "mentality"

If I don't post before I leave next week, here's wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year's! xoxo

Four words....

2008-12-05T14:59:00.000-08:00

....THANK GOODNESS IT'S FRIDAY!!!!

YAHOOOO!

Have a good one ;)

Today is the Day we Said I DO...(well 2 yrs ago)

2008-12-02T20:49:00.000-08:00

It all started when I noticed you from across the room looking all fine in your famous leather jacket (Linda, you know the one). I commented to Linda that I thought you were cute but let the thought pass as I was dating somebody else. Little did I know that a year and a half later I would be lucky enough to call you my husband. These past two years have really flown by and it really is only the beginning. I can't wait for the rest of our lives to happen and I'm so lucky that I get to mine with you.

Who would have guessed that this boy:

Would one day meet this girl:

and live Happily Ever After!

I love you Cute Boy!

Carrie, How do I Love thee? Let me count the ways!

2008-11-26T18:14:00.000-08:00

Don't be concerned! I haven't "switched over to the other side" but I do have to admit, if a woman crush were possible, I would definitnely have one! The concert was Ah-MaZiNg! I couldn't believe how close she was. Not close enough to get a high five or a quick handshake, but pretty darn close. I've been to many o'concerts in my 28 years of life (Ricki Martin, Barenaked Ladies, Chantal Kreviazuk, Sarah McLachlan, Christina Aguilera, Nelly and Destiny's Child, Norah Jones, Dave Matthews Band, Enrique Iglesias, just to name a few)and have never had such great seats. I felt that she was much more Beeutiful in person and that voice...so powerful. My favourite part of the concert was the encore where she belted out Before he Cheats. My least favourite part...watching the sloshed couple a few rows ahead of me swap spit the entire time. Gee-rose! If only Carrie didn't have to stand directly in front of them which forced me to share in their moment time and time and time again. Although I must admit, the sloshed girl was pretty entertaining when she tried to dance....escpecially to the slow heartfelt songs. Her timing was way off. I am however impressed that she didn't smack anyone beside her in the process of flailing her arms to the music. Oh well, at least I can say that I'll remember the concert in the morning. It was a great time and I sure was pooped when I got home. Nothing like waking up with a good ol' concert hangover. Love ya Shmeg!

WAHOO!

2008-11-25T13:53:00.001-08:00

Just found out our seats for Carrie Underwood are on the floor...13th row!!!! AYE YEY YEY!!! Looks like I'LL be the one looking UP to you Suz!! hee hee ;)

Siskel and Katie give it Two Thumbs Up!

2008-11-24T08:00:00.001-08:00

So on Friday I went to see Twilight with some great girls! My review would be 8/10. At first, I wasn't quite sure about this Edward character..he just wasn't what I had expected him to look like, but by the end of the movie I was hooked. I thought he was grrrrrrrreat and really quite nice to look at as well. I won't go into too much detail as I don't want to spoil it for those of you who haven't seen it yet (even though technically you know what happens!! ;) I loved the bunch of 16 year olds who were behind us while walking out of the movie theatre. Their thoughts.."like oh my gosh, that was the best movie ever"! "I know, I totally cried". "I'm totally going to go see it like ten times, I loved it". You know, sometimes I wish I was that age again...then I could get away with putting Twilight posters in my room ;) Although I don't miss the part where I then have to wait for my Mom to come pick my up from the movies.

Tomorrow night my friend Megan and I are going to see CARRIE UNDERWOOD!!! I can't wait. I wish my old roomies Callie and Christin could be there too. We used to watch her faithfully when she was on American Idol and she was our fav from the getgo that season. I'll be thinking of you ladies when I'm singing my heart out.

You're a Sneaky One Miss Cree!!!

2008-11-19T08:28:00.000-08:00

So alas, I've been tagged again. When I was younger, I could never pass up a fun game of tag (especially when it was boys kiss the girls...oh la la!!) so why would I start now??

Where is your cell phone? In my desk drawer on silent so I don't get in trouble it if rings.

Where is your significant other? Getting Edumacated at School

Your hair color? Dark Brown

Your mother? is the best!!! Her name is Shannon Elizabeth Osmer but I call her Mamooshka

Your father? is the best too!! His name is James Philip Osmer (goes by Jim) but I call him Papooshka

Your favorite thing? Right now.... SLEEP!!

Your dream last night? Can't remember last night but the night before...well..four words "Thunder from Down Under"...don't ask!

Your dream/goal? To be happy, truly happy with my life and they way I've lived it.

The room you’re in? Office cubicle

Your hobby? Cooking

Your fear? Snakes

Where do you want to be in 6 years? Anywhere but Edmonton and not in "student" status (How's that for a positive attitude ;)

Where were you last night? at a Ford dealership getting an oil change

What you’re not? A Contortionist

One of your wish-list items? a House to call my very own. As much as I love living in a "hamster cage" I wish I could just have enough room to have a dining room table and chairs.

Where you grew up? Windsor, Ontario

Last thing you did? I was on a conference call...BORING!

What are you wearing? a purple sweater because it's FREEZING outside!

Your TV? is too addicting sometimes.

Your pet? Zan. A half husky/half german sheppard I inherited when I said "I do"

Your computer? Dell Desktop that makes louds buzzing sounds. I swear it's going to blow up one day. Wait, does that mean I'll get workers comp???? ;)

Your mood? Neutral

Missing someone? My Familia. Only 5 more weeks!

Something you’re NOT wearing? a Thong!

Favorite store? since the extent of my shopping privileges right now is grocery stores..it would have to be Save-On-Foods.

Your summer? too short.

Love someone? Heck yes and too many to list.

Your favorite color? at the moment, chocolate brown

When is the last time you laughed? on Sunday, almost piddled my pants! Can't tell you why though or Le Husband wouldn't be happy with me.

Last time you cried? This morning when I had to get up for work. jk Honestly..last night while watching the Biggest Loser. Gets me every time.

TAG...YOU'RE IT!!! (If you've lasted this long and made it to the end of this post, now it's your turn)

Need a Good Chuckle?

2008-11-11T09:40:00.000-08:00

Click Here!

~Thanks Tahnus ;)

I PEED MY PANTS!!!

2008-11-07T13:15:00.000-08:00

Okay, not really but I was so surprised/excited today I really could have! Plus now I have your attention!!! hee hee I just got back from the best surprise ever!!! (other than being proposed too) ;) Mike asked me last night if I wanted to go out for lunch with him today. With his hectic school schedule and my lunch hour being at a different time than his, this is a very rare occurance. I phoned him around 12:10 today, asking him where he was (as he was 10 mins late) and he said he was almost here and that he would be here in two minutes. Two minutes later my receptionist phones to let me know "Mike" is here so off I go into the elevator down to the main reception to go greet my hubby for our lunch date. When I get there it wasn't Mike, it was two of my bestest friends, Linda (www.thescottishlass.blogspot.com)and Laura!!!

They had driven up from Calgary (3 hour drive) to come to Edmonton for the day and thought that they would surprise me at work...and let me tell you, I was so super dee duper surprised! (again, not enough to pee my pants though, you'll have to work harder next time girls) It took me awhile to process that it was actually THEM standing there with their wee little babies (Elle 8 months belonging to Laura and Laurie 3 1/2 months belonging to Linda). I was so ecstatic. You see, when I moved to Edmonton a little over a year ago, Mike and I had to leave a group of wonderful friends behind. We make trips down to Calgary every so often, but it just isn't the same as living in the same city. It was a really hard adjustment for me at first becuase I was so close to these friends (the firehouse gang is what we called ourselves)and we used to hang out practically every weekend. Now moving here, I had to start over, start fresh and make new friends. I cherish our friendship and know that we will all be friends for life. Thanks for making the trek Laura, Linda, Elle and Laurie. You made my day. I'm walking on sunshine! Love you to Reeses Pieces!....and good one honey, I'm not sure if I should be happy that you're such a good fibber ;)

Not so Much Canada's Next Top Model

2008-11-06T10:11:00.001-08:00

I work in downtown Edmonton

and the building I work in is right above a pretty big mall. So a couple of months ago as I was leaving work, a gentleman approached me and said that he's seen me around (I've seen him around as well as he actually works on the same floor as I do)and that he "liked my look", and was wondering if I would be interested in being in the mall's Christmas campaign. He said that it would be a two hour committment and that it would pay $200 in mall gift certifcates. He handed me his business card and said to get ahold of him if I would be interested. All the while, Mike is watching this "encounter" go down from the car and was starting to get a wee bit antsy thinking that this guy was hitting on me. So I proceeded to the car and filled him in on what really went down. He was so excited for me, I think he even shouted "that's my wife"! I, on the other hand, didn't initially share his enthusiasm. My first reaction was, I can't do this! I've never done anything like this in my life! and Why exactly would I want my face to be all over the mall...where I WORK to say the least!...although $200 to spend all on myself did sound rather appealing. That them there is a heck of alotta money for us starvin' students! So I decided I would do it. It might turn out to be a fun experience right?? Until...I received the email that said I would have to send him all of my measurements and weight! EGAT! It took me almost being married a YEAR to tell my HUSBAND that info let alone a complete stranger, but alas, I would have to tell them so they could pick out clothes that actually fit me! I think I cringed the entire time I had to type out THAT email.
The day of the photoshoot came and I wasn't allowed to put any product in my hair or put on any makeup (all keeping in mind, the photo shoot was happening during my lunch hour and I had to work beforehand). I did sneak in a little foundation and mascara. I didn't want to completely scare off my new co-workers! I got to work only to find out that that afternoon (directly after my photo shoot) there was a huge department meeting for like 3 hours that I had forgotten about. You might be saying..so, what's the big deal? The big deal is that my co workers would have seen me in the morning with no make up on, no hair did and then for the meeting I would be ALL dolled up with fake lashes and bright red lipstick and my hair would now have oodles amounts of volume and be curly! I can just hear what they are saying "look at the new girl, trying so hard, geesh, it's just a meeting". Ahhhh!!
Well off I went to the photoshoot. Getting my make up and hair done was a lot of fun. The acutal photoshoot was really awkward. I had to "be friends with my sweater", "love my sweater" etc. He made me jump around to losen up, sing "doo, doo, doo" while he took pictures. I couldn't wait for it to be over. They gave me my moola and off I went to my meeting. Needless to say I made a quick stop to the bathroom, tamed my hair, wiped off my eye shadow and bright red lips and changed my clothes. I actually only had one person come up to me and ask me why I was all dolled up so it wasn't as bad as I thought. Spending the money was the best part!
Here's how the photo shoot turned out:

It was fun but don't think I'll be trying out for Canada's Next Top Model anytime soon!

C'est L'Halloween!

2008-11-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

Well I must say, my Halloween wasn't very extravagant this year. There were no lavish parties to attend, creative costumes to be made or tempting candy to hand out. Mike didn't get home from school on Friday till about 8, so we headed out after that. We went downtown and ate at the Old Spaghetti Factory (you would think after working there, I wouldn't want to eat there ever again, but I really like it) and then drove around downtown checking out all the costumes people were wearing. We then headed to Whyte Ave (basically a very popular street in Edmonton where most of its bars/clubs are located) to check out the scene. It was CRAZY!!!! There were people EVERYWHERE! We had to drive really carefully because people would just dash out in front of the car and there was tons o'traffic. It was rather entertaining I must say. We had one guy, dressed as Hitler, run out in the middle of the street to our car and demand that we do a "Hie Hitler" to him...Ummm "I DON'T THINK SO". He looked pretty serious about it but luckily the light turned green. He must of had one too many beverages that night if you know what I mean. On our way home, Mike commented "I'm so glad we live the life we do"...I thought it was cute.
Saturday wasn't too eventful. It included a trip to the grocery store, a trip to Costco and then a stint of baking. I tried to make my very first pie crust. See Mike is a HUGE PIE LOVER!!! He would eat pie for breakfast, lunch and dinner if it were possible. So I told him that I would bake him a pie...his face lit up like a Christmas tree, and I then proceeded to ask him what kind he would like. Well, you would have thought I'd asked him how to solve world peace because this decision probably took just as long. He then said he wanted banana cream...soo off I went to the kitchen. The crust went ok, but the filling and meringue top took FOREVER!! I swore I would never make a pie again!!....in my little temper tantrum of a moment. With that news I'm sure Mike questioned whether or not he should stay married to me or not!! jk ;)
It turned out ok, don't think it was the best recipe (that's right, I'm blaming it on the recipe). Sunday, we went to church, and yet again refrained from pulling all of our hair out from our time spent in the nursery. Mike and I were called as Nursery leaders a little over a month ago. My initial reaction "What did I do to deserve this?!?! I go from early morning seminary teacher to nursery?" (just being honest) and Mike's attitude, was "No biggie, how hard can it be"? Well let's just say after our first Sunday in our new calling, he was POOPED!!!!! I believe he took a 2 hour nap to recooperate! The kids are actually a lot of fun though and we do now enjoy our calling. I actually look forward to seeing them every Sunday. This past Sunday we had 11 kiddies between the two of us so it wasn't too bad. We had a compulsive "pants pull downer" this week. He just didn't want to keep his pants on..and can you blame him? Who doesn't enjoy a little fresh air now and again? It was rather funny. Anywho, so this was our Halloween weekend in a nutshell. and thus commences a new week of work. HAPPY HAPPY JOY JOY (note the sarcasm) ;)

EGAT! I've been Tagged!!!

2008-10-22T08:11:00.000-07:00

I am: not wanting to be at work right now...and I am also not being very productive since I am completing this while at work!

I have: 3 sisters and 2 brothers (Liz, Emily, Hannah, Adam and Isaac)

I Think: about my crazy Lady Grandma who passed away over a year ago quite a bit. She wasn't really crazy.....we just called her that because, well, she definitely was not your typical grandmother. I'll have to fill you in another time.

I Know: that it is going to be one FLIPPIN cold winter here in Edmonton.

I Want: a new wardrobe!

I Dislike: peas. Apparently as a baby, it was one of the few solid foods that I LOVED...must've ate a bit too much.

I Miss: my niece Sydney and nephew Blake. I haven't seen them in what feels like forever...and now there is a new nephew, Grant, that I haven't even met.

I Fear: snakes! Hate em! Loathe them! Not too sure what I would do if I ever came into contact with one.

I Feel: tired. I even got 8 hours of sleep.

I Smell: Office air. Mmmmm... pretty neutral smell actually.

I Crave: right now?? Considering it's 9:30 in the morning I could go for a Pumpkin Spice Creme Frappucino from Starbucks. It's my new temptation.

I Cry: quite a bit when it's that "time of the month". I remember that once a commerical for Kitty Litter made me teary eyed...and I hate cats!! Go figure.

I Usually: bite my nails...but quit it cold turkey a little over a month ago and they're so long!! I so proud.

I Search: for my passions/talents. I think something is wrong with me because I honestly don't have any hobbies or things I just absolutely love to do. Who would have known that at the tender age of 28, I'm still trying to figure out who I am.

I Wonder: When I'll get pregnant! WHAT?? HUH?...you heard correctly...we're trying!

I Regret: not having a better self esteem when I was younger. I stayed in relationships that were no good, and going nowhere, for too long. I wish I would have realized what I deserved a lot sooner...but at least I got it right eventually.

I Love: how Mike plays with my hair every night right before we fall asleep. I found out that he used to do that with his Mom when he was little, so I guess he's just used to it.

I Care: about my family. I always wonder how they're doing....REALLY doing!

I Always: watch the Biggest Loser on Tuesday nights. I find it to be such an inspirational and motivating show. Much to Mike's dismay, I also am a faithful "The Hills" watcher. I don't know why I like it..but I do.

I Worry: about the most random things. My mom was a worrier, my sister is a worrier, and it looks like I am too.

I Am Not: very patient. It is definitely something I need to work on.

I Remember: when I got into the wrong car one day after school and there was a frightened old man staring back at me. I swear, it looked like my Grandma's car...just a different coloured interior.

I Believe: that people can change.

I Dance: when I'm home alone. I'll turn up my music and dance all over the house. Let me tell ya, I can cut a mean rug!

I Sing: in the car. I don't care if it looks like I am talking to myself, I love to sing.

I Don't Always: floss my teeth.

I Argue: with myself a lot. I have a knack for always thinkig negatively about myself. I'm trying to be better...but it's hard. No it's not. Yes it is..oh geesh, see there I go again. ;)

I Write: in my journal less ofen than I should. I'll be so good for awhile...and then months will go by with no updates. It's so bad right now that I haven't even finished telling my whole engagement/wedding story and I've almost been married for 2 years!!!

I Win: at Rummikub most of the time.

I Lose: my patience for people too quickly.

I Wish: that i was a conductor. Now that you've stopped laughing, it's true. I pretend I am all the time (when I'm by myself of course). I would love to be a conductor for a large orchestra. I would have a sweet conductor's stick too!

I Listen: to my Ipod every morning on my way to work. I just love music so much, I would listen to it 24/7 if I could.

I Don't Understand: why people bully. I hate this more than anything. I even contemplated breaking up a fight I witnessed while walking on my lunch break awhile ago. Three guys were beating up on one...and it made me so upset. I tried to get someone to break it up but nobody would. Eventually they stopped and I pretty much cried for the duration of my walk.

I Can Usually Be Found: at least once a night, sleeping in a really weird position. I sit indian style and then just put my head down so I'm basically in a ball. I've been doing it ever since I was a little kid. If you ask, I'll demonstrate! ;) Mike was pretty weirded out when we were first married.

I Need: to be better at doing the little things I know I should be doing. I need to be better at remembering the important things in life.

I Forget: conversations. I'm the worst when it comes to relaying information.

p.s. YOuR TURN!!!!! a tee-hee-hee

Update!

2008-10-09T21:13:00.001-07:00

Welcome Grant David Weekley!!! Weighing in at a hefty 9 lbs, 7oz! Mom is doing great but I won't say much more so she can tell you all about it. I've seen a pic...he sure is CUTE!!!

Bundles of Joy

2008-10-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

Well tomorrow is the big day, my seestor (Liz)is being induced and we will welcome a new nephew into our familia. I'm so excited but yet a little sad. This will be the first labor that I will not be attending. Yes you've read it right, I watched my sister give birth to both my nephew, Blake and niece, Sydney (or Sissy as we like to call her). I have to admit, I was quite skeptical and "iffy" about the whole thing at first but in the end was so glad I did it. It was an amazing experience, both times! One of my bestest friends in the whole wide world Kyrsten, or as I call her KK, is also due in the next day or two. What are the odds!! Please know that you both will be in my prayers and Diz....I better be at least #2 on the phone list!

P.S. KK, This pic is for you. Oh remember the BA days? How can you not, it's where it all began. ;)

Show ME, or I should say, show US the Money!!!

2008-10-03T12:35:00.001-07:00

So I just had to boast and brag a little bit here. Mike just found out yesterday that he was awarded a scholarship that he applied for. He got such great marks last year (3.8 GPA) that they felt he deserved it...and I'm glad because I think so too. I'm just so proud of him. He was so hesitant in going back to school last year as the last time was over 10 years ago, and he always thought he just wasn't a "school" person. Little did he know. He is studying to be a Landscape Architect and has completed 1 year so far (1 down, three to go). He absolutely LOVES it and has definitely found his passion. Unfortunately he can't finish his degree at his current school so we'll either be moving to Guelph Ontario, Idaho or Utah next summmer. These are our only options as there is only 1 school in all of Canada that has his program and then the universities in Utah and Idaho will accept his full two years of credits so he won't have to retake any classes. It is kind of exciting not knowing where we'll be a year from now. Can you believe that it will be my 6th time moving to a new place? Shoot...and I'm not even an army wife!!! I have lived in Connecticut, Toronto, Provo Utah, Calgary, and now Edmonton. As weird as it sounds, I have loved moving and living in different places. I have met some amazing people in the process (you know who you are) and wouldn't trade it for anything. If I had stayed in my home town of Windsor Ontario, I wouldn't have met my hubby and for that I'll be eternally grateful.

Let me Explain

2008-09-28T17:06:00.000-07:00

So if any of you are wondering why my blog is entitled "The Ninja's Wife" let me explain. Growing up, Mike was heavily into martial arts. He even attended a special school in Ohio where he trained in ninjitsu. I like to think of him as my own personal, but younger and way hotter version of, Mr Miagi (you know, "Danielson!", "Wax on, wax off"). There is a great comfort in knowing your hubby can kill people with his pinky finger (ok, I might be exaggerating just a bit) but it definitely doesn't come in handy when we try to wrestle. I am usually on the ground in some sort of choke hold, swallowing my own arm and am not able to breathe in about 15 seconds, but that never stops me from trying. Our friends once coined him as the Ninja, and...well... it stuck. I remember when we were dating and he decided to put his ninja skills to use. I was sitting in my living room, watching tv, by myself watiing for him to come over. I wasn't quite sure what was taking him so long. Mike took this opportunity to scare me...which he tends to do a lot because he always gets such a great reaction out of me. I am quite the screamer! While I was waiting for him, Mike scaled the wall of the house I was living in up to the second floor, where he found an open door. He crept downstairs and hid in a closet by my basement suite door. In the meantime, I had text him asking him what was taking him so long and asked him where he was. This was his text back..."I'm aleady here, come find me". So off I go into the dark house to attempt to find him. My pulse was racing as I knew I was going to be scared...and then he jumps out of the closet and scares the CRAP out of me. I screamed, of course, and then proceeded to punch him. hahaha. I think he may have been the one who wet his pants because he was laughing so hard. He was so proud of himself (although I must admit, pride aside, he got me pretty good). So thus commences my life of "walking on egg shells" and always having to look over my shoulder. It does keep things pretty interesting around here though, I must admit!

Guess Who's Back?!?!?!?

2008-09-25T19:52:00.001-07:00

Guess who's back? Back again? Katie's back...tell a friend! Guess who's back, guess who's back...(Name that tune and don't be ashamed, you know we all used to listen to that song!) So I'm doing it. I'm updating my blog. So what if it's been like over a year and a half since I've updated! Really not that much has changed...well, other than the fact that Mike went back to school at the tender age of 29, we no longer live in Calgary but live in Edmonton, I was an early morning seminary teacher last year, I started a new job this week, Liz (my sis) is having a baby in a few weeks, Mike turned thirty, I chopped off my hair, etc See, nothing much to report ;) As I was reading other friends/families blogs today (KK's, Liz, Christin, Tara, Cousin Amy, and Becky's...just to name a few), I became overwhelmed with an incredible feeling of guilt for not updating my own. I decided, enough is enough, I need to be a more diligent blog writer..(plus all the threats I received were pretty good motivation as well)..so here is me, attempting to be just a little bit better.

Love is CERTAINLY in the Air!

2007-02-15T16:17:00.000-08:00

Ok so I didn't think this would ever happen....but I've joined Blogspot! Inform the media! Call the Press!....don't faint Liz!
I just enjoy reading my sister and friend Kyrsten's so much that I decided to jump on the bandwagon. Yup, it's true, I'm a follower.
I've thought about starting one before but I just feel like you have to be this amazingly clever and witty person who has great stories to tell and amazing things happen to them all the time. Well, I sure don't but here ya go anyway!
I had the most wonderful Valentine's Day. I think it's so funny how we always tell ourselves, "well I'm not really a big Valentine's Day person" but let's face it...we love the attention and thoughtfulness, and let me tell you my husband is great when it comes to that sort of thing. I think I lucked out and married one of the most romantic men out there. I must be livin' right! I had a bunch of errands to run so I was out for a good part of the afternoon and when I came home I found a note on the door that read: "Please text to enter". So I text him telling him I was home and waiting at the door for him to come let me in. He opens the door to our little apartment and the entire living room/kitchen ceiling is covered in red, pink and white streamers. He had also set up the table with red candles, flowers, little clear pebbles, and chocolates! I read my cute little "wife" valentine's day card (I've only been married for 2 months so I get a kick out of little things like that) and opened my new Norah Jones CD that I've been desperately wanting. Then we moved into the living room where Mike had set up a little work station. He had bought little glass wooden boxes that we were supposed to paint/decorate. Oh wait, I also can't forget about the Valentine's Day tattoos as well. I thought it was sooo cute. So we painted our boxes, I made dinner and then we commenced our weekly LOST ritual. Can't miss an episode!
So there you have it. My V-Day in a nutshell. What a wonderful day....especially for someone who considers herself not to be so much into the holiday!