Halsted Family Blog

Kaitlyns thoughts....

2010-11-05T18:43:00.002-04:00

Yesterday at school the girls had a veteran's assembly. As an extra Kaitlyn's 6th period teacher invited 2 veterans to come talk to the class. It was "enlightening" listen to Kaitlyn talk about these two gentlemen who served our country overseas.

Matt asked the girls many questions from "What do you think of the military?" to "Do you think you would want to join the military someday?".

After, Kaitlyn told us her stories and we talked about different aspects of military. Kaitlyn says "You know there's wars going on in the world, and we all live on the same planet....why can't we just all get along and not fight? "

It was a comment that we all ask ourselves from time to time. Matt did a great job answering her question and helping her understand that there really is no answer to that question and many people in the world wonder the same thing.

I just love the age that our girls are getting to and the conversations we have around our dinner table. Both girls are growing up so fast and they are realizing the world is much bigger than their backyard. I pray that Matt and I will guide them in the right direction in this crazy world....

The last few weeks

2010-10-20T23:27:00.003-04:00

It's been a few weeks so I thought I'd better update this blog a bit.

On October 12 Matt and I celebrated 19 years of marriage. Matt took me up to Spokane for the night and we had a great day of hanging around the town, having dinner at one restaurant and dessert at another. ( Fondue at The Melting Pot-YUM! )

Dad and Debbie came to visit this last weekend. We had good time visiting the pumpkin patch. Got lost in the corn maze, shot some ears of corn out of air guns and of course got pumpkins!

Today Matt got his deer. Him and his buddy Randy walked all over the area up near Wilbur and finally came across this guy.

Fall Camping 2010

2010-10-06T23:23:00.004-04:00

Last weekend we decided to go camping. Matt is heading hunting soon and he wanted to scope out some of the area where he'll be hunting. The girls and I tagged along to enjoy one last hooray before winter comes. We camped in Wilbur which is a little town about 2 hours northwest of us.

On Saturday we drove out to Jones Bay on Lake Roosevelt and did a little fishing and rock hunting. Matt and the girls didn't catch anything but it was nice just to enjoy the scenery and quiet.

For lunch we decided to drive to Keller and have a picnic lunch at the campground. The road going to Keller is steep and windy and had an awesome view of Lake Roosevelt at the top.

Matt and the girls enjoyed goofing around on the playground equipment....

Grace and Kaitlyn had fun just goof around...

That afternoon Matt, Grace and I set out on some public land to see if we could see any deer. Matt had bought Grace her own binoculars and she was VERY into looking for deer. Matt spent some time teaching Grace were to look and what to look for. She is excited to do her hunter education and get her hunting license next year and get herself a deer. ( Right now as I post this they are sitting next to me going through some questions that she will be tested on. )

We went through a little town called Govan and this was their school house. I thought it was pretty cool and had to take a picture.

We saw these 5 little yearling bucks on the way out of town on Sunday. All together Matt and Grace saw about 50 deer both does and bucks over the weekend. Praying that they will be out in a couple weeks when Matt goes hunting.

Brad Paisley Concert

2010-09-18T19:22:00.003-04:00

Last weekend Matt and I headed up to the Gorge to see Brad Paisley.

We left early and took the trailer to Vantage and parked it at a campground there. Then headed up to Crescent Bar for some lunch at the golf course.

We got to the amphitheater at 4:00 when the "doors" opened. We spent the next 3 hours listening to bands, walking around checking out the sights and just enjoying our time together.

Both Matt and I had never been to the gorge before and it was quite amazing! What a place it was. We headed to our seats and we sat next to a couple from Port Orchard. The husband had just retired from the Navy. He was a HOOT to sit next too. The first thing he said to Matt was "Dude I love the hat". Matt was thinking either this was going to be fun or really annoying. The next thing out of the guys mouth was "cool goatee". Then we knew OK this guy was just having fun and trying to make small talk. They ended up being pretty cool people to sit next to.

Justin Moore and Darius Rucker opened for Brad. Darius is "Hootie" as in Hootie and the Blowfish. He played a few of their songs. Brad came out and I tell you what an AMAZING performance he put on. About halfway through the concert he made his was through the crowd and ended up on a ledge and sang to the people in the "cheap seats". Just him and his guitar. Then he paused and had a moment of remembrance for the 9/11 victims. Being Sept 11 it was pretty darn cool. Hearing him play our nations "songs" then he started playing How Great Thou Art and hearing all those thousands of people sing along...that was very emotional. What a great moment to pay honor to those whose lives were lost.

I have to say it had been about 15 years since Matt and I had been to concert together. ( I got to see Tim McGraw a few years ago) We really enjoyed our time together and Brad was amazing to see. He had 7 guitar changes and what an amazing guitar player he is.

Matt and I are looking forward to taking the girls here next year to experience "The Gorge".

Things

2010-09-02T21:39:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it's been a few weeks since I've been on here to update how things are going. Life has gotten very busy. First, I got offered a part time temp job working through Babcock out at Hanford. I am filling in for a gal on maternity leave. And of all things I know her! It's been good. I work 3 days a week for 9 hours a day. The days get long at times but I am enjoying it and it's great experience for me. We'll see where it leads me.

Matt, Jeff and Drew took off last week on their annual Salmon fishing trip. They had a great time and came home with a TON of fish. The biggest salmon was 26 pounds. Matt got one batch of smoked salmon done. YUM!

While the boys were out playing Teresa and Haley came for a visit. We LOVED having them here. We took in the fair and of course had some yummy Mexican food.

It was time for haircuts for school. Both girls got a good trim and were ready for Day 1.

Monday was the first day of school. There was some nervousness with it but both did well. Kaitlyn had a little bit of a hard time. Change isn't something she does well but as we come to the end of the week things are going much better and she is finding her way around her new school. I'm SO proud of them and how well they are doing.

Today I found out the girls needed their instruments and music books tomorrow. So off we went to rent Grace her clarinet. I tell you that girl is SO excited. She can already get some notes out and I'm having a hard time getting her to put it down! I'm excited for her to learn her first song.

Matt took off yesterday for Georgia. He found out Tuesday about this trip for work. He is flying home late tonight. But then leaving again in the morning for the weekend. He is meeting his dad, John, Zach, his uncle and cousins son for a weekend filled of grouse and bear hunting. Jackie and the girls are headed this way to hang with us for the weekend. We are SO looking forward to them being here.

All in all things are going well and of course we seem to come to the end of each day and wonder where the time went. Stay tuned for more adventures ahead!

Leavenworth!!

2010-08-15T18:49:00.003-04:00

Yesterday Matt and I got a bunch of chores done in the morning and decided we needed to take a road trip to Leavenworth. It is one of our favorite towns to visit. So we got there about mid afternoon and we went into all our favorite shops....The Hat shop, The Taffy shop and the Christmas shop just to name a few.

We went to our favorite restaurant for dinner~ Adreas Keller. Gracie has very tired from her sleepover the night before and VERY hungry. So to stop the grumpies Matt made a bet with her. If she ate one piece of pickled herring he would buy her a webkinz. Now if you know Matt he is VERY against webkinz so Grace knew this is a BIG deal. She rose to the challenge and get this....she LIKE it! She even had another piece. And yes she did get her webkinz~ a brown bear!

So Matt feeling good about getting one child to try something new and her liking it to boot! So he tells Kaitlyn he will give her $10 to try some red cabbage kraut. The funny thing is she didn't want any of us to watch her but Matt said NO WAY how would he know she actually ate it. So he fed it to her! She did not like it but we are SO proud of her for trying it. She even tried a little piece of pickled herring too!!

We had such a great time visiting our favorite town. It was fun to be spontaneous and just enjoy and day together as a family.

Cousins

2010-08-15T18:26:00.003-04:00

After a week in the Puget Sound we headed back to the Tri Cities. Grace got to stay and hang out with Ryleigh and Zach while I took Sierra back with us. It was a blast having Sierra and I think the girls enjoyed just hanging out without their little siblings.

We took the girls ice skating. Sierra had not been in a long time but she did VERY well. It was fun watching the girls and just hanging out with them!

After 3 days it was time to switch kids. We met Jackie, Zach, Ryleigh and Grace in Cle Elum at a park to make the switch. We enjoyed just visiting and letting the kids play and have some time being all together.

Cousins are the best gift from God!

Trying to get settled

2010-08-07T11:53:00.005-04:00

We have been home for 2 weeks now and we are slowly settling in. Matt was home for 5 days then headed back to Canada to finish his job there. While he was gone the girls and I headed to the westside to visit family and friends.

We met my friend Jo at Bellevue Square for lunch and little shopping.

Our first stop on our trip was Thom and Christines. We had a great time celebrating Grace and Thom's birthdays. On Friday we got to have Sophie hang with us for the day. The cousins had a blast just hanging out together.

Our next stop found us at Point Defiance Zoo. We met Jackie and the kids there along with Jackies sister, nephew, mom and Jackie's sisters in-laws. We had a great time seeing all the animals and watching all the cousins have a great time just hanging out and being silly.

Finally, we made it to Grandma's house. Janet and the girls along with Matt's mom Marcia come over for dinner and visit. We finally got to meet Sharlet and I got my baby fix!! The girls and I enjoyed 2 days of visiting with Grandma and doing our special Dairy Queen treat.

Last on our stop was Dad and Debbies. Kaitlyn have fun taking care of the horses with Debbie and decided she wanted to try riding Sunny again. She did a great job and was feeling very confident. But she decided to canter and Sunny got excited and took off. Kaitlyn panicked for a moment, lost her sturps and got bucked off. She was OK and is ready to get back on a horse at her next lesson.

Later in the day, Dad and Grace went on a 6 mile bike ride. Grace is quite the bike rider and kept up with dad. She was tired when she got back but really enjoyed just getting out there and spending time with Grandpa.

The next day Dad and Debbie took us out the Bloedel Reserve. It is a 150 acre "plantation". It has a few different gardens and a beautiful mansion. We all enjoyed walking around and just enjoying the different plants and sights.

Our trip ended with Janet and the girls coming over for dinner and one last visit. It was fun to get all our girls together.

It was so wonderful to go home and see everyone. It was a fairly quick visit moving from place to place but I am thankful that we are only a few hours away and we can come back for a longer visit and have our family and friends over to our house.

Gracie is 11!!!

2010-07-29T08:59:00.002-04:00

11 years ago today God blessed us with our second daughter.

I enter the hospital on July 28 @ midnight. She was taking her sweet time so I spent the day just laying around waiting. Of course my favorite story to tell is come the afternoon and having nothing to eat all day I was SO hungry. I had this thing for Milky Way bars so I convinced Matt to go get one and let me have just one bite. When I did finally get that bite who walks in just then~ yep my doctor. I was caught red handed!!

At 10:00pm things were still going slowly so my Dr decided she was going home. The nurse had me turn over and I fell asleep for a bit. I woke up, which felt like just minutes later, with some BAD pains. Sure enough she was coming and there was no waiting. The nurse kept telling me to hold on and wait but OH MY this little girl was NOT waiting for anyone! My Dr arrive just and Grace entered the world.

She was SO little with this dark curly hair and these big blue eyes. The moment Matt looked at her she had him wrapped around her finger. She was so calm and peaceful. But when she wanted to eat, watch out!!!

Fast forward 11 years, here we are with this young lady who has a mind of her own. Who knows what she wants and is full of life. Grace has taught me so much over these last 11 years. I have watched her be a friend who just loves a person for who they are and never tries to change them. She works hard and does the best job she can. Hockey has become a big part of her life. She loves to watch and play it. One of her dreams is the play hockey in college.

These last 11 years has been a great adventure and it's been fun to see what God has created her to be. I can't wait to see what lays in store the next 11 years!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRACE!

Our trip home to Washington

2010-07-25T12:28:00.004-04:00

On July 16 we left Tiverton, ON on our journey west to our home in Kennewick. It was an emotional morning for us. Our friends who live along the highway out of town were out with signs to wish a good-bye. We had a great day of travel. No wait at the boarder, thanks to our Nexus cards, and no hassle about coming back into the US with all our "goods". We went as far as St. Joesph, MI. We stayed in a KOA that had a large jumping pillow. The girls and I had a blast playing on it.

Our second day of driving was a LONG day. We went from St. Joseph, MI to Jackson, MN. It was a 13 hour day but we will did well.

Our third day we went from Jackson, MN to Rapid City, SD. We took a little time and stopped at a neat rest area that had this HUGE buffalo. Grace thought it was the coolest. And of course there was a horse for Kaitlyn.

Day four was Mt Rushmore day. I had been waiting since I was 14 to visit and I finally made it. It was everything I could have imagined and more! The best part of it was the evening program. I learned so much more about Lewis and Clark and why the sculptor picked these 4 presidents for his monument. It all ended with the lighting of the faces and all past and present veterans being called down the stage for the lowering of the flag. A boy scout troop from Minnesota lowered the flag. It was quite emotional to watch.

Our fifth day took us from Grand Rapids, SD to Butte, MT. It was another LONG day but we took some time and went to Cabelas and had a nice sit down lunch and dinner.

Day six we finally made it home to Kennwick!! It was so great to be back and there was a peace that we felt.

We have been busy unpacking and organizing. Matt heads out Monday morning to go back to Canada for a couple weeks to finish his job there. Then he will be back and start his new job at Hanford. We are so thankful for the blessings God has given us during this time and can't wait to see what He has planned for us next.

Grace's Birthday/ Goodbye Party

2010-07-14T09:33:00.004-04:00

We had an early Bday party for Grace with her Canada friends. She invited 4 of her besties and they had a ball down and the beach, at the park and just hanging out at the house.

Grace and her pink hockey cake.

Close up of the cake ( no I did not make it )

Gracie doing her jump off the dunes.

All the girls having a ball in lake.

The whole gang...

Grace and Danika

Grace and Rylee

Grace and Annika

Grace and Lauren

A good shot of all of them.

Hanging at the park.

Getting close....

2010-07-13T21:21:00.000-04:00

Uhaul loaded.....

Kaitlyn's goodbye/sleepover party

2010-07-11T19:59:00.005-04:00

Kaitlyn had 4 of her best friends over for a goodbye/sleepover. These girls were so much fun to watch and listen to. They got along SO well and I can tell there are some life long friendships there. Kaitlyn has been blessed with meeting these girls and my prayers are that they can keep in touch over the years and one day they will cross paths again.

Lori, Kaitlyn and Olivia

Delaney and Kaitlyn

Kaitlyn and Kerri

Kaitlyn and Olivia

Kaitlyn and Lori

Beach time!

The girls had a ball jumping the dunes!

It started to rain so they decided to paint nails.

Gift time!

Then they did each others make up.

Olivia..

Hanging out in the trees at the park.

Grandpa Lookabaugh and Barbara's Visit

2010-07-06T14:25:00.004-04:00

Matt's Grandfather and Barbara came to visit for a few days this past weekend. It was fun having them here and showing them around the area. Kincardine was holding their annual Scottish Festival so we took in the parade and some of the heavy competitions.

The girls with Great Grandpa and Barbara waiting for the parade to start.

Kincardine's Pipe Band

The Women's Sheaf Toss. These ladies were quite amazing! The winner was the smallest lady and she tossed the bag which is about 26 pound over the pole that was sitting 20 feet high.

The Caber Toss was my favorite!

The men threw this medal ball that weighs around 26-28 pounds.

We took a drive up to Collingwood, our favorite spot, and had lunch and walked a round a bit. Got a nice picture of Matt and the girls with Grandpa and Barbara.

Tobermory/Cyprus Lake

2010-06-29T16:18:00.004-04:00

We took our final camping trip in Canada last weekend. We headed up to Tobermory and camped at Cyprus Lake. On Saturday we went into town and decided to take the 2 hour boat ride around a couple smaller islands then around Flower Pot Island. It was a bit of a foggy day but we had some nice sun breaks along the way.

The girls and I waiting to board the boat for our ride.

Matt and Grace on the top deck enjoying the sights.

Back when my dad was here in the spring of 'o9 we hiked out to this light house and the whole harbor was frozen over. It was neat to see it from the water unfrozen.

I sneaked a picture of Matt while he was enjoying being a boat again. He was getting excited for his fishing trip.

The girls hanging out on the bow of the boat.

The girls "stole" my camera and took this picture of themselves.

The large "flower pot" on Flower Pot Island.

After dinner we went on a hike around the lake.

And of course stopped for some pictures....

Kaitlyn and Brody

2010-06-25T14:14:00.003-04:00

Kaitlyn and Brody

Looking down on her from the hay loft

Rounding the corner getting ready to jump. (This is my favorite picture)

Beginning jump.....

Mid jump...

Rachel on Ben and Kaitlyn on Brody

At the end of lessons Kaitlyn was feeling pretty good on Brody and started doing some funny things with her arms. I really enjoy watching Kaitlyn each week as she grows in her abilities as a horse girl. It really is her love!

Dancing Horses

2010-06-25T13:45:00.002-04:00

This is what's called "Pas de Duex". Which means dancing with two. It's a ballet term but this is on horses. This is one of many routines used for Pony Club that you test for to get to different levels in horse riding. Kaitlyn and Rachel had a blast doing this and it was so cool to see. I wish my camera would have been able to show the whole arena!

Coming Home

2010-06-23T12:53:00.002-04:00

If you haven't heard already we are coming home! Yep we are moving back to Kennewick. We thought we would be around for another year but for many different reasons we have decided it is time to come back.

After almost 20 months of living in Canada I sit and look back at the adventure God had us on. It gave the girls the opportunity to live in another country, one that really isn't a whole lot different from the US. It gave each of us a new appreciation for culture differences. We learned a lot from our friends here and look at these differences in a way I think Jesus Himself would see them.

We got to see some parts of the world that we most likely would not have seen. Like~ a great lake, Toronto, New York City, the girls getting to meet my cousins and aunt and uncle in New Jersey, DisneyWorld and many different parts of Ontario.

We met many people who have influenced our lives in many different ways. The friendships the girls made. The career experience Matt got working at a Nuclear Power Plant. And so much more....

But the time has come. God has showed us in such amazing ways that it is time. I know He has something big and wonderful for us in our future. Each place He brings us to He prunes and grows us in a way only He can.

So, to our Canadain friends thank you for letting us be apart of your lives for a short time. We will miss you dearly but I know through email and facebook we will keep a connection.

To our friends and family back home. We can't wait to see you and spend more time being with you on a regular basis.

Canada's Wonderland

2010-06-18T15:22:00.004-04:00

Last Friday I went with Kaitlyn and the school band to Canada's Wonderland. I have been trying all week to get these pictures and a video loaded but when I get to the video it freezes. So 3rd times a charm but without the video on this post, I'll put it on a separate one.

Like I said, Kaitlyn and I went to Canada's Wonderland. This is an annual trip the band takes each year. It's sort of like a reward for such a great year. They do play for an adjudicator and get critiqued but do not receive any awards. It's more for fun and to learn.

We started off our day on the Pshyclone. It swings like a pendulum and where you sit turns also. It gets all the way up to a 90 degree angle. My daredevil daughter went on it 3 times. I could barley handle once!

The swings were more my speed after that scary ride. I remember riding the swings at the Kitsap County Fair. Loved them!

Delaney and Kaitlyn are off on one of the old wooden roller coasters. It was quite a ride. Very rough but cool to say I rode a wooden coaster.

We ended our morning with an epic ( as Kaitlyn would say ) merry go round ride. Here is Don ( Delaney's dad ) with our group. Lance, Claire, McKenzie, Delaney, Kaitlyn and Lori. ( Lori's dad was with us also but not in the picture )

Lunch time! That's the cool bus we got to ride in to Toronto where the park is located. I tell you this is the way to travel!

All the kids getting ready to go play.

Not the best picture of the whole band but you get the idea. Mrs. VanVeghal is THE BEST music teacher! She does some amazing things with these kids and the band just loves her!

Then it was back at it. We went on a bunch more rides. We ended the day on the Behemoth roller coaster. This is the longest, tallest roller coaster in North America. I almost didn't go on it because I was getting SO freaked out looking at it all day. But then I figured I better because if I don't I'll regret it. You have to check this thing out. If you want to YOU TUBE it and there is a video that someone took from the front seat. That first drop is 320 feet straight down!

It was a very fun day and I'm so glad I got the chance to go.

Peter Pan Play

2010-06-13T08:04:00.002-04:00

The girls and I went with the drama club and choir to Stratford to see Peter Pan and tour the warehouse. I learned alot and have a new appreciation to what goes into making a play. Peter Pan was great and my favorite part what the Jolly Roger ship. That was amazing!

There were rows and rows of costumes like this. The warehouse have 55,000 costumes!

Lots of racks with head dresses and hats.

Kaitlyn trying on a costume.

Gracie and Rylee being silly with their costumes.

Of course I had to try something one too!

Brody the new Fjord

2010-06-03T14:15:00.002-04:00

Kaitlyn riding on Brody for
the first time.

Getting ready to jump...

and they are up.....

and over!!!

It was fun watching Kaitlyn on another new horse last night. Brody was a great horse who knew what to do and had a lot of energy. He kept on wanting to go into a trot while Kaitlyn was warming him up. Another great night at lessons!

Our first backyard pit fire of 2010

2010-05-30T09:07:00.003-04:00

Starbuck loved having us outside all evening hanging out

with him.

Of course there was smores to be made.

Nothing like a warm evening, a camp fire, and smores!

More reflections about Mom

2010-05-29T13:00:00.002-04:00

I have been spending most of my day thinking back on my childhood remembering little things about mom. She was an amazing person who I never really appreciated in my younger years. I wonder if that sometimes is just the way it is. As we are children we think our parents boss us around and tell us what to do for no good. Just to have "power" over us. You get rules that don't make sense and pushed to excel for reasons you're not sure why. Then you become a parent and as your children grow a light all of a sudden comes on and your realize "OH this is why". I never got the chance to tell my mom thanks once my light came on. Yes both her and dad had some strict rules for me and make me do chores that I hated but I look at myself today. I am a very hard working, organized person. I love helping others and feel such a sense of joy when job is done well. This is because of who my mom and dad taught me to be when I didn't even realize what they were doing. They were growing and training me to become the best adult I could be. One that would have a sense of value and would give respect. Thank You Mom and Dad!!

Now those of you who knew my mom you know she loved to party. I remember my cousin Lorrie saying about our whole family " If someone sneezed we had a get together". Mom LOVED having people over and making her yummy food. And of course bring on the margaritas! Some of my most favorite memories are when Mom put together a Christmas party. We ate and visited then near the end of the evening Mom gave everyone a song book she had put together and we all sang Christmas Carols as Mom played the piano. OH and we can't forget and Halloween parties! Those were so much fun. Everyone dressed up in costumes, playing ping pong and getting scared by Thom's Halloween creations. Mom just loved being around people and just enjoying life.

I love hearing stories about my mom. So if you read this and have a story to share I'd love to hear it. Or even just a memories. It helps me feel close to her and remember who she was. Not that I'm forgetting it's just that not being able to have her in my life on a daily basis makes me what to have a little part of her in some way.

Honoring My Mom

2010-05-29T07:05:00.003-04:00

As I sit here I can't believe 10 years has gone by since I learned mom had passed away. It was kind of an odd day. I had decided I wasn't going to go to Seattle and see her over the long holiday weekend. We "talked" on Friday night and I explained that Matt, I and the girls were going to just be home for the weekend. I would come back first thing Tuesday morning. Since she couldn't speak I saw a look in her eyes that was very different. One of I give up, I can't do this anymore. I hugged mom tightly and said Goodbye mom, do what you need to do. At that moment there was this weird peace. I really didn't think anything of it at the time. To tell you the truth, I just wanted to get to the ferry and get back home. I hated feeling that way but after 4 1/2 years of off and on surgeries, doctors appts and trying take care of two babies, along with caring for mom. I was tired and looking forward to a break.

Come Monday morning, Memorial Day, I called the hospital like I did every day to "talk" to mom. The nurses were acting very weird. They knew me and it was a normal routine but something just wasn't right. They said the Dr was in with Mom and can I call back in a little while. That was not normal, even when the Dr was there I'd talk him then mom. While I was waiting I had many thoughts run through my mind. One being Mom was dying. So I called back I talked to the nurse in charge and found out mom had gone into cardiac arrest and they were "working" on her. The words that came out of my mouth next still amaze me to this day. I said" She has a Do Not Resuscitate order". Immediately they stopped and as I was on the phone they pronounced mom gone.

The next few hours were surreal to me. I remember feeling that sense of loss and relief all mixed together. Mom was finally whole again. She could talk and walk and do all those things she couldn't do and finally be out of pain. But then my mom was gone.......I would not see her again. The rest of the day we just made a few phone calls to family and hung out with our neighbors, Jeff and Teresa. They took such good care of us that day. Just sat and listened and loved us.

Now here I am, 10 years later. As a little girl I never pictured my life without my mom. She was suppose to be here, playing with my girls, teaching me about being a mom and joking with Matt like they always did. But God knows best and I have accepted what He has chosen. I know one day I will meet her in heaven and we will have ALOT to talk about. Until that day....

I love you MOM!!!!

Playing Cards

2010-05-28T12:45:00.002-04:00

Last night Grace wanted to play a game of Skipbo. Matt and Kaitlyn were busy doing other things so Grace and I sat down and broke out the cards. We only had about 30 minutes before bed so, if you know how to play Skipbo, I only had 10 cards in our pile. I was thinking it would most likely take us longer than 30 minutes. In less than 10 minutes Grace had gone through all her cards and I still had 9 left!! So we dealt her 9 more and continued playing. Less than 10 minutes later her pile was gone again and I still had 7 left. SO....we dealt her 7 more. OK now you must me thinking I was letting her win. NO WAY! She was holding her own from the start! So before our 30 minutes were up Grace had gone through her 3rd pile of cards and I STILL had 6 cards left!!! Sitting there I looked at her and told her~ Great Grandpa must be sitting right next to you giving you all his skill. She got a BIG smile on her face turned to her right and said "Thanks Grandpa". It was such an amazing moment. So sweet and innocent. Grandpa Kalmbach's spirit came to visit it us last night. I truly believe that.

First Camping trip of 2010

2010-05-25T15:48:00.006-04:00

Our first camping trip of 2010 found us at Sauble Beach. We camped at Carson's Camp. It is a great family camp with an indoor pool, splash park, playgrounds and much more! We camped with 4 other families. A total of 10 adults and 10 kids. It was SO much fun!

The pool and splash park were the highlight of the weekend. Even the adults got into the fun!

A scavenger hunt was made for the kids. We divided them into 3 teams and each team had 10 clues that lead them to the final clue and an item they needed to bring back. Their prize for completing it was a trip to Dairy Queen!

Of course there was bike rides on the beach ( Grace and Olivia ), nail painting ( Laurie painting Kaitlyn's nails ), and LOTS of eating good food. Thanks Jamie for bring us yummy baked goods from Southampton Bakery!!!

It was a great first trip in our new 5th wheel. I have to say even though I fought it a little bit, I am SO thankful we bought it. We really have out grown our old trailer. I'll miss the ol' girl, we made some great memories in her over the last 13 years. But I'm looking forward to the next 13 years of memories to be made in our new one!

More of Kaitlyn riding Ben

2010-05-06T15:37:00.005-04:00

I thought this was a cool picture of Kaitlyn on Ben. I love being up in the loft watching lessons. You get a good view of what is going on.

Here's the girls on their horses. Rachel on Frodo and Kaitlyn on Ben. They were waiting for the next girls to be ready to come out riding and were just hanging out chatting on their horse. Thought it would make a great picture.

Kaitlyn rode Ben all last summer and tried her hardest to get him to canter. He was a bit stubborn but would eventually with alot of extra help from Tara, Kaitlyn's instructor, he would finally go. It had been a while since Kaitlyn had rode Ben but was able to last week and had a great time jumping. This week they were working on cantering. Tara worked hard with Kaitlyn on getting his trot to a certain point so that Kaitlyn could get Ben into a canter. So the first time going for it.......he took off! It was such an amazing night! The last 2 weeks have been incredible for Kaitlyn and I think she has grown in her abilities and confidence. We are SO proud of her!

Horse Jumping

2010-04-29T07:32:00.002-04:00

Kaitlyn jumping Ben

Kaitlyn jumping Ben then Rachel jumping Frodo. Just love watching these girls!

Kaitlyn was so excited about jumping last night. Ben had a bit of a rough start then the last jump of the night he really took off. He came around the corner and moved into a canter and just sailed over the jump! Kaitlyn was on cloud 9. Her teacher, Tara, was so proud of her and I'm going crazy wanting more!

Kristin's Bday dinner

2010-04-18T02:24:00.004-04:00

Matt took me out to the Harbor Street Brassiere last night for my birthday dinner. Our friends Brooke, Jim, Kris and Zach helped us celebrate. What an amazing dinner we had. It is a house that a local guy turned into a quaint restaurant. Not many tables and not a lot of choices but excellent food that is organic and fresh. Matt had the steak and I had the stuffed chicken leg. OH MY it was to die for!

Then along came my cake! OK that was AMAZING! What a wonderful surprise.

This was a wonderful end to a 4 day birthday celebration. I do have to say turning 39 is pretty great! I may have to turn 39 again next year......NAH I can't wait to see what 40 has in store for me!

WHAT????? 39!!!!

2010-04-16T16:33:00.002-04:00

Yep 39! Hard to believe I am 39. I SO remember my moms 40th Bday party and thinking I won't be there until forever. And look where I am my last year of my 30's. Amazing how time flies!

I spent my birthday celebrating big. It started on Wednesday....my girlfriends here had a wonderful lunch for me followed my the most amazing dessert ever! Yesterday I got to travel with Kaitlyn and the band to a competition then got many surprises when I got home. I was spoiled by my family last night with a wonderful dinner of scallops, shrimp, asparagus, sweet potatoes and of course angel food cake ~ my favorite! Saturday Matt is taking me out to a very nice restaurant in town with our friends. I get to dress up! I even bought myself a new dress!

So...I have to say it has been one of the best birthday's I've had in a long time! I think I can get used to this week long celebration!

Kaitlyn~ Horses and Band

2010-04-16T16:06:00.004-04:00

Kaitlyn, Delaney and Olivia

It's Kaitlyn's turn to be talked about and pictures posted. I've spent all winter talking about Grace and hockey so now I need to spend a little time on Kaitlyn....

This past Wednesday Kaitlyn was able to ride a new horse at lessons. His name is Rocky and is such a sweet gentle horse. And tall!!! He really isn't that much bigger than Ben ( who Kailtyn still loves the most ) but Rocky is longer legged and much thinner. Kaitlyn did a great job getting Rocky to trot and I know she was itching to be able to canter but Tara, her instructor, is very cautious-which I like- so maybe next week!

Thursday found Kaitlyn and the band heading up to Owen Sound for one of many competitions they participate in. I was able to go along and I have to say the KTTPS band if AWESOME! I wish I could have videoed them but it was against the rules and I'm such a rule follower! There are 3 levels you can be awarded. Bronze, Silver or Gold. They got a silver. The judges were tough because we found out out of all the 20 or so groups that were there they only awarded 1 gold, 3-4 silver and the rest were bronze. Next month will be the spring performace and I will be able to video them so then I will post it so you all can hear them!

OOPPPSSS!!! Forgot about the Hockey Champs!!!

2010-04-07T19:01:00.003-04:00

So I was looking back through all the posts and realized I TOTALLY missed posting about Grace and Matt's big hockey win!!

So a couple weeks ago was the year end tournament for Grace's hockey team. Going into it Matt kept saying "They can win this" and so he set out to keep the girls focused on playing as a team and having fun. Saturday morning was game one and we tied the game. It was a good match up and we were pretty excited to start off on a good foot. Game two was that evening. It was a very close game and the team was pretty aggressive but our girls played their hearts out and won!!! This meant we would go on to play for the #1 spot!

Now I have to tell you, all but 3 girls are in the school play and Sunday at the same time as the game was the first dress rehearsal for the play. Needless to say we had some girls who were pretty worried about this. Our wonderful directors for drama knew this could be a possibility and told those girls to out there and win it!

Sunday we woke up and headed to the arena. The girls weren't as pumped up as normal so us mom's came in and got them all pumped up best we could. One girl, she is pretty quiet and doesn't say a whole lot, said to me "You moms better bring your game and cheer us on". Well, I took that as a challenge.

The team the girls played was our other local team and the girls new many of the other players. The coach goes to our church also. So we knew this was going to be a great match up and a very close game. It was pretty even playing but our girls came out of nowhere and took hold of game and blasted them. What an awesome feeling!! These girls have never gotten very far in this tournament and most have been playing since they were very little. So here they were BUILDERS DIVISION CHAMPIONS!!! They were awarded medals and a trophy. We are so proud of our Pee Wee hockey girls. They didn't have the best regular season and had some hard games but they came out of nowhere post season as a team. Encouraging each other, supporting each other and being one unit playing for the same goal! What a wonderful end to the season!!

Matt's Bday and Easter

2010-04-05T15:38:00.004-04:00

This past weekend was a long 4 day weekend. So we headed up to Collingwood to stay in the house that is available to us through Matt's company. We went up with the Berkman and Dunhan families. We had the Dunham boys for a couple nights so Kris and Zach could celebrate their anniversary in Toronto.

Friday night Kaitlyn, Grace, Brooke and I along with another friend who's family was there, Kimberly, went to see "The Last Song" while Jim and Matt held down the fort with all the boys.

Saturday was Matt's Bday and I sent the guys off to play 18 holes of golf for Matt's Bday. Brooke and I took the kids over to "The Plunge" for a fun few hours of swimming. It's a great place right in the heart of the Blue Mountain village. The weather was amazing and we all wore ourselves out!

That night Kris and Zach showed up and we all ate a wonderful dinner that the guys made then the adults went out for drinks in the village to celebrate Matt making it to another year. (This is how Matt likes to put it.) I had a special cake made for Matt which turned out amazing!!

Sunday being Easter we put on a great egg hunt and fabulous ham dinner that everyone pitched in to make. It was a very relaxing day of taking walks, sitting in the sun reading and taking naps. We ended the night playing a card game I remember playing as kid at our lake cabin. Kris and Zach call it Pirates rummy ( I think that was it ) but we called it Shanghai ( I don't think I spelled it right ). It was such a blast. After all the adults watch "The Blind Side" it was so good to see it again. So much I missed the first time I watched it.

Today is our last day on our long weekend. It's been a relaxing day of laundry and getting ready for hit the ground running with a busy short week ahead of us.

I am so thankful for such a wonderful friends here in Canada to spend these holidays with. It truly was a great weekend one we will remember for a long time!

March Break

2010-03-24T15:17:00.005-04:00

Last week was the girls March break. It all started on Friday night with a 2 day hockey tournament. The girls played awesome but didn't get far in the standings. Monday was a play day for the girls with friends and Tuesday was the dentist and haircuts. Then came Wednesday!

We headed up to Collingwood ( 2 hours north of us ) to stay in the company house that is rented for the winter season. Thursday we had an awesome day of skiing. The girls had skied once last year and Kaitlyn and I skied a few weeks ago. I can't believe how great they did. Grace wants to try snowboarding next year. The snow wasn't the greatest because our temps have been going up and the snow is melting. Our friends Sean, Claire, their daughter Coco and good friend John Paul showed up on Friday night and stayed with us the remaining of the weekend. Sean took us all out the a Swiss restaurant for dinner on Saturday night. What fun that was!

We just love the Blue Mountains and Collingwood area! We are excited to be heading back for Easter weekend. Up here the Friday before Easter and Monday after Easter are holidays so we will be spending the weekend back at the Collingwood house with the Berkman and Dunham families! Can't wait!

An evening walk in the beach

2010-03-20T10:36:00.005-04:00

On Tuesday we decided to take a little walk down by the lake. The weather was wonderful and it is amazing to think a year ago this time there was snow on the beach and huge ice banks lining the lake. This year has been such a mellow year weather wise. We can't wait to see what spring and summer has in store for us this year.

Hockey Tournament

2010-03-14T14:59:00.003-04:00

This weekend was the 61st annual Young Canada Pee Wee tournament. Our girls played Friday night, they lost 6-4 but played a great game. They were goal for goal right up to the end of the game. The other team found some sweet spots and got a couple goals on us. The girls had a blast and were very excited because the team they played is one of the best in our league.

Saturday we were back down at the tournament at noon for our 2nd game. The girls played another great game against a team that was VERY physical! We stayed ahead right up to the very end of the game where we got 2 bad calls against us and had 2 girls in the box. That left the other team with the opportunity to tie up the game. The score was 2-2.

After the game the majority of the team went 5 pin bowling. Matt, Kaitlyn and myself had never been before. Grace got to bowl last weekend. I have to say it is ALOT harder than 10 pin bowling that we are used to but it was SO much fun! It was a great way to kill the 4 hours between the two games on Saturday and lots of fun to see the team having fun together outside of hockey.

We were all back to the arena for our 5:50 game. The girls were a bit tired but ready to get out there and getter done! They played a great game but just couldn't get the puck in the net. They lost 3-0.

In the end it was a great 3 games and they did much better than last year, they didn't score at all last year. We are so proud of our girls and what they brought to the ice this weekend. Today we are giving them all a break from hockey but will be back at it on Wednesday. We only have 2 weeks left and hockey season is over. Matt and I are having mixed emotions over this. We love hockey and being apart of this wonderful team of awesome girls. But we are also ready to be done.

Band Picture

2010-03-04T19:27:00.002-05:00

Here is the band picture. Not a good picture of the picture but you get the just of it all.

Band and Hockey Updates!

2010-03-04T19:07:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was game 2 of the second round for hockey. Game 1 we lost but game 2 was a different story!!! What an awesome game. Matt was home sick so I sent Kaitlyn off to horse riding lessons with a friend and I stayed to watch the game. The girl scored within the first 3 minutes of the game!!! What an awesome match up between the two teams. They were very evenly matched and fought the whole way through. It was very intense especially the 3rd period. The score was still 1-0 in our favor. We ended up getting a penalty against us with less than 2 minutes left in the game. So it was 4 on 5. Then with 1 minute to go the other team pulled their goalie so it was 4 on 6. The puck stayed in our end the whole time and our girls were able to keep it out of the net and WON THE GAME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Man I was almost sitting in the mom's lap next to me it was so exciting!!!!!!! The girls did so great and they were so proud of themselves. Our last game in this round is on Sunday. I know they can WIN this next game.

Today Kaitlyn and the school band traveled to Collingwood ( 2 hours away ) for the spring Music Fest competition. They have been practicing hard for the last few weeks on 4 songs that they performed today in front of judges. They rode up to Collingwood on a coach bus which in itself is exciting for Kaitlyn who has never rode on a bus like that. The group performed their 4 songs then were able to participate in a "workshop" put on by professional musicians. In the end KTTSP band won SILVER!!!!!!!! YEAH KTTSP!! Last year they go bronze. So I say next year it's GOLD. Kaitlyn really enjoyed herself and got alot out of the experience. They had a wonderful picture take of the group but for some reason I am not able to post it. I got it scanned but there is something wrong with the way it scanned and I can't figure it out. I think I may just take a picture of the picture so you can see what wonderful kids are in this awesome group!!

Matt and I are SO proud of our girls and the accomplishments that they have living here in Canada. It's been a wonderful experience, one that I think will live with our girls forever.

Ski Trip

2010-02-26T20:36:00.003-05:00

Today I went with the grade 6, 7, and 8's on a ski trip to Blue Mt up at Collingwood 2 hours north of where we live. We had TONS of snow last night so the ride up was a bit slow but they had 8 inces of new fresh powder to ski on. It was AWESOME!! Kaitlyn did very well after only skiing 3 times last year. Took her about 1 1/2 runs to get the mojo working again and she was off. I even go to leave her for half the day and go skiing with a couple other moms on the harder runs! In two weeks we have our March break for school and we will be heading back up skiing for a few days. I can't wait to go again!! What a wonderful day! These kids are the best and so much fun to be around!

Hockey News!!

2010-02-22T16:07:00.003-05:00

We are excited to say that Gracie's hockey team placed 1st in their division in the play downs. Now they get to move onto round 2. What an exciting day. We found out right before an exhibition game that we were playing yesterday afternoon. We all went out for dinner to celebrate. The restaurant welcomed us so wonderfully and they even had a drawing for the girls. Kaitlyn good friend Olivia won an official 2010 Olympic hockey jersey. Too cool!!!

These girls had a bit of a rough start in the beginning but they have come a LONG way and have worked SO hard to get where they are at. Each and every one of them has improved in one way or another on the ice this season and it is showing big time. We are SO proud of them and know they are going to do well in this next round. We'll keep you posted as the games get played.

Family Day

2010-02-16T15:31:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was Family Day here in Ontario. There was no school and no work but Matt had to go in for most of the day. The girls had a sister swap with some friends. Kaitlyn went to the older sisters house while the younger sister came here. Grace had a blast with Riley playing in the snow, on the Wii and even doing some painting. I hardly saw them all day. Kaitlyn had lots of fun hanging with her friend Delaney and her cousin. Playing in the snow and just being teenage girls.

When Matt and Kaitlyn came back home we decided to check out a new sledding hill that Grace found in the park. We all had fun taking turns sledding down the hill and doing tricks. Matt and I decided to take a walk out to the beach. I hadn't been out there since before Christmas and it's had been a while for Matt also. It was a pretty walking through the trees and snow. The beach had a good layer of built up ice/snow.

We ended our day watching the Candian girls hockey team play in the Olympics. We have really been enjoying watching the games. Our TV is on almost all day with the Olympics playing. We recorded the opening ceremonies and it took us all weekend to watch it all. What an awesome thing to see. What has been fun is we have been watching on the Canadian station. It has been a neat experience watching them from another countries point of view. I have found myself not so focused on my own country I am from. I am just enjoying the games for what they are. I got excited and cried watching Canada get thier first gold medal on thier own soil. What an awesome experience! I'm not a competitive person so I don't really get into all the my country is better than yours. I am SO proud of our US Olypians who have won a medal and those who have poured thier heart and souls into thier game. But I am also just enjoying watching the different sports and cheering on who ever.

Disney 2010

2010-02-07T15:49:00.005-05:00

Our trip to Disney World 2010~ we went the the Berkman and Dunham families. We all staying in a wonderful house 20 mintues from the park. We had a wonderful 7 days in the parks. Here are just a few pictures from our week.....

The girls with the Dunham boys
out side Test Track in Epcot.

Matt and the girls after the
safari ride in Animal Kingdom.

Me and the girls in front of the

tree of life in Animal Kingdom

Matt and I on the steam boat

in Magic Kingdom

Where our trip began in Magic Kingdom

Have a beer with Matt ( not

really) in Germany at Epcot

The girls got to harvest a pearl.

Kaitlyn got a rare one!

We got to see Cirque Du Soleil.

It was AWESOME!!!

The kids waiting for the parade

in Magic Kingdom. Yummy

ice cream cones!

Everyone did Thunder Mt 3

times in a row!!!!

Meeting Mickey and Minnie!

Celebrating Jamies Bday

at the Liberty Tree Tavern

for breakfast.

Good Bye Grandpa

2010-01-31T06:24:00.003-05:00

On January 23 we said Good Bye to the worlds GREATEST Grandpa. My grandpa Kalmbach lost his battle with lung cancer on January 18. He had not been diagnosed long before but fought as hard as he could.

As I sat at his funeral listening to my aunt and cousins talk about Grandpa I wanted to also stand up and say a few words too. I just couldn't get my feet moving. Everything they were saying I wanted to say too then add a few of my memories of Grandpa. I don't regret not getting up and speaking, but I want to use this to put my thoughts to words.

I have spent many days and nights thinking about my grandpa and what he meant to me and my whole family. Grandma and Grandpa were the role models that everyone should have. They never turned anyone away and ALWAYS had enough food for anyone who showed up at the door and loved like none other. Grandpa was soft spoken but when he spoke everyone listened. Like my cousin said there could be a loud "discussion" going on and all Grandpa had to do was say "poof poof" and everyone's voices would calm. Grandpa wasn't cross and never had a bad word to say about anyone or anything. But you knew what he expected of you and you never talked back or questioned. I want to model myself after Grandpa with raising my girls this way. I got a ways to go.

Grandpa LOVED all his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His eyes would light up every time he would see them. You would always find him out playing ball, or pushing them on the swing or even joining them in a game of some sort. As grandpa got weaker he would sit back and just smile and enjoy their playing as if he was right there with them.

Grandpa also LOVED his yard. It was the best yard in town in my book. His roses were his pride and joy and every year I looked forward to seeing how big they would get this year. It definitely was a labor of love for him.

I think one of my favorite memories of my grandpa was the year I got my drivers licence. He let me drive his sweet camero to Dairy Queen for our treats. That was the BEST!!! I think Grandpa was just as excited as I was. That was the thing with Grandpa, his joy always came from seeing others happy.

I am so thankful that I got to know my grandpa and have 38 years to be apart of his life. They say what kind of legacy to you want to leave. Well, my grandpa left a legacy of love, devotion, happiness, joy....Grandpa lived the fruits of the spirit~ love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness and self-control.

Thank you Grandpa for all that you taught me, all that you showed me and giving me unconditional love like none other! I will miss you lots and will feel a void in my life here on earth but one day I will see you again in heaven and on that day I will run into your arms for the kind of hug only a grandpa can give.

Been too long

2010-01-12T13:26:00.006-05:00

I just realized that it's been a month since I posted anything here. Needless to say we've been very busy. On Dec 16 Kaitlyn and Grace had their school Christmas concert. Kaitlyn played flute with the band and Grace's class played the hand bells. That night we left for Detroit to fly back home to WA the next morning.

We spent 18 days in Bremerton visiting family and friends. We had a wonderful Christmas Eve where most of my cousins came into town to celebrate. It was wonderful seeing them after so many years. All the great grandkids had a blast playing together and getting to know each other again. I find it such joy that these cousins who see each other not very often can pick up right where they left off and get right back into the swing of playing and friendship.

Matt was able to take in some fishing with his good buddy Jeff. They caught one 14 pound salmon that Matt and I cooked ( or should I say Matt cooked ) for Grandma and Grandpa.

The girls got LOTS of play time with cousins, cousins, cousins and of course good friends.

It also was a time of medical issues. My grandfather had been diagnosed with lung cancer and has been receiving chemo treatments. It has really taken a toll on him and I am VERY thankful to have been able to go home to see him and spend some time with both him and my grandma. Matt's mom, Marcia, ended up needing to go in for a biopsy. They found a lump on her breast. They were able to remove the majority of the lump but she had some complications from the surgery and had to back for another one. I am SO happy to say that the results came back non-cancerous and she is recovering well. I am also very thankful Matt was there for her during this time. The last day we were in town we found out my dad's wife Debbie's cancer had moved to her stomach. She is a tough lady who won't go down without a fight. Please pray for her during this time as she goes through more chemo. I believe God has great plans for her and her job isn't done here. Needless to say in the joy of going home and seeing all our loved one we had some hard things that came our way also.

Again I say, I feel SO blessed to have had the opportunity to go home and see everyone and be there for them. It is a time I will treasure greatly and thank God that we were able to be apart of this wonderful time of year.

Kaitlyn is 13!!!!!!

2009-12-11T15:05:00.004-05:00

Yesterday marked a big day for Kaitlyn. She finally can say she's a teenager. Matt and I find it hard to believe she's 13 already. Seems just like yesterday where we waiting 20+ hours for her to arrive. Spending all night in the hospital just praying she would just make her arrival quickly. Now look at her, she's 5'1" and a beautiful young lady. We are so proud of the person she is turning into!

To celebrate her special day, last weekend she has 2 friends spend the night. They had fun watching movies and doing crafts. The next day they went to the movies. It was a simple but very fun "party". Yesterday was a snow day so she spent the day just hanging out at home playing on her new Facebook page. One of her girls friends came over in the afternoon to hang out for a bit, which was a great surprise for Kaitlyn. We couldn't go out for her Bday dinner so we made tacos and Matt made a special Daddy dessert for her.

Today since the weather is better and the roads are open we are taking her out for her birthday dinner that we missed out on last night. She is taking after her "Auntie" Brooke and turning her Bday into a month long event!

SNOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-12-08T13:42:00.004-05:00

It has arrived!!! I think Matt is even more excited than the girls about snow finally arriving here in Inverhuron. Friday morning we woke up to about 2 inches of white fluffy stuff. It was so beauitful and fun to watch it falling. It didn't last long on the roads, which I was thankful for. Kaitlyn had friends over and we needed to drive them half an hour away to the movies!

It lighty snowed over the weekend and then Monday morning we woke to about an inch then this morning about another 2 inches. Today has been partly sunny and bare, wet roads. I took advantage of the weather and drove up to WalMart to do a little shopping before the major wind/snow storm they are predicting starts tonight.

The girls had a blast last night playing in the snow and sledding down our little side hill. I have to say I'm glad that this year isn't as bad as last year and I pray the BIG snow fall holds off another week so we can drive to Detroit next Wednesday night for our flight on Thursday morning!!

Our trip to Texas

2009-11-29T16:10:00.010-05:00

We had a wonderful time visiting Dave and Linda for Thanksgiving week. We flew down on Saturday and enjoyed an evening of catching up and swimming in the pool. The weather was nice during the day but the nights get cold. I am surprised how cold they do get.

Sunday~ we took off to Houston to see an Aero's hockey game. It was alot of fun and we enjoyed seeing the fast paced game. We ended the night eating our first of many BBQ dinners!

Monday~ Dave took us out on the sail boat. He has it at a marina near Galveston Bay. Took about an hour and a half to get there but OH what a day it was out there on the water. The wind was blowing enough that we were able to sail almost across the bay and back. Kaitlyn even got a lesson on "driving" the boat and took over for a while. It was SO peaceful out there laying on the front of the boat being rocked by the waves and letting the sun shine down on me.

Tuesday~ we took the drive up to Austin to see Brian, Karyn and Mia. It was SO good to see them and we were able to spend 4 short hours with them. We also got to be apart of Mia's first meal out at a restaurant. She did very well! The visit was way too fast but we are so thankful we were able to go!

Wednesday~ was a shopping day! The girls made a pumpkin pie with Grandpa for Thanksgiving then we headed out to the mall for a little retail therapy. That evening we did family pictures at the Mill that is right in their development. They turned out SO wonderful. Go to http://www.momentsintimefotos.com/ and you can see a sample of them.

Thursday~ was Thanksgiving and we had a nice lazy day of watch the Macy's Thanksgiving day parade and of course eating LOTS of turkey day food. We all ended the day playing in the pool and lounging in the hot tub.

Friday~ found us on the road again. We headed up to Waco to the Homestead Craft and Children's fair. What an awesome experience!!! It was very interesting to see how they made, grew and process everything themselves. We listened to their "band" and choirs which were some of the most inspiring and talented people I've every seen! And our last fun treat was that Anna Elhers, who is living in Waco now, came over to visit us at the fair. She is the daughter of good friends of ours from WA. What a treat it was to spend a little bit of time with her. We ended our evening eating Mexican, my favorite, and drinking too many margaritas. It was a wonderful way to end a great week.

Saturday morning found us up early and off to the airport. It was a full day getting back home, once in Detroit we had to make a few stops before we crossed the boarder.

All in all it was a wonderful time, one with many memories. Now we have 18 days before we head back to Detroit to fly out to Bremerton for our 2 weeks home for Christmas.

One Year Anniversary

2009-11-16T15:03:00.002-05:00

Last Wednesday, Nov 11 marked our 1 year anniversary of moving to Canada. It was such a busy day and I find my days, weeks and months all molding into one another. I forgot to take a moment and reflect on this past year. Amazing how one year ago we had a foot of snow by now. Kaitlyn was upset with us for moving her away from her friends. Matt was busy trying to figure out his new job. Grace was just being Grace, the one we can plop anywhere and she would make a million friends and be totally content. And then there was me, trying to find my place in this new world of mine. I had some lonely days back then. Being the new kid on the block in a community where everyone knows EVERYONE was a bit hard.

Then we fast forward to a year later. Kaitlyn isn't mad at us any more, but she still does talk about her friends back in WA. She has made lots of good friends here who I know she will be mad at us again for having to leave them when ever we move again. She keeps herself busy with band, student council, horse back riding and drama club. Grace is still fun loving Grace who has sprouted into quite the hockey player. Her life evolves around hockey. She also is busy with her friends and drama club. Matt has "found his feet" out at the Bruce and is making a name for himself. He has accomplished SO much this past year and continues to set goals for himself and his team. Ones that they are exceeding on a weekly basis. It definitely has been a wonderful move career wise for Matt. And then there's me. I went from too much time on my hands to WAY too busy!!! I started a children's program at church that takes up a TON of my time organizing but it is SO worth it each week just seeing those kids excited about coming to church and learning what we have to teach them. I am also working part time for Babcock Service Inc ( the same company Matt works for ). I have been doing some administrative work for the guys up here. I am also involved in a weekly bible study that I really enjoy. Along with all the running around of kids that I do I find myself falling into bed exhausted each night.

Looking back this past year really did go by quickly. We are excited to see what God has in store for us this next year. Hopefully not as much snow! HA! Thanks to all our family and friends who have supported us in this adventure. It's hard being so far away but I am trulythankful that we get to come home like we are and share some special time with each of you.

See all you Western Washington family and friends in a month!!!

Halloween

2009-11-01T18:27:00.002-05:00

Kaitlyn our gypsy and Gracie our 80's rocker went out trick or treating last night. Both of them had friends invite them over to trick or treat with them. Which was so good because we don't live where there are many people plus we don't know our neighbors that we do have very well. Gracie came back with 2 shopping bags full and Kaitlyn had one shopping bag. So now we have WAY too much candy, about 30 bags of chips and 9 cans of pop. Think I am going to freeze some of this candy for later.

With both kids gone last night Matt took me out to dinner. I had Tandori Salmon and Matt had a Lamb shank. Oh it was SO good! I was a very different night not having the kids around and it being Halloween. I guess this is the beginning of our kids growing up.

Anyway, it's hard to believe November is on us and in just 3 short weeks will be heading to Texas to visit Dave and Linda for Thanksgiving. I do have to say my holidays are all mixed up and those usual "feelings" you get around this time of year are just not there. I think this has to do with Canada celebrating Thanksgiving in October and then having Halloween. Just a bit backwards. Our trip to Texas is one we are looking VERY forward to. It's been about 6 or 7 years since we were down there last. Plus I think we are also looking forward to some warmer weather!

Well, over the next few months we have a lot planned and lots going on so stay tuned to all our adventures! And to our family and friends in WA~ we will be home for Christmas and can't wait to see you all. We miss you all very much and look forward to seeing you when we get there!

And she canters......

2009-10-29T15:35:00.002-04:00

Here is a video of Kaitlyn cantering on Twinkie!! It is so cool to see her sprout into a wonderful horse person. She really has a passion for it and loves learning all that she can. Matt and Grace were even able to come see. Kaitlyn rides later now and so after hockey they were able to come over and got there just in time to see her ride.

A canter and an assist

2009-10-24T15:32:00.002-04:00

Well it's been a fun week here in the Halsted household. Wednesday Kaitlyn had her horse back lessons. She has been riding a different horse ( Twinkie ) because Ben, her usual horse, is hard to get into a canter. Last week she rode Twinkie, it had been since last winter that she rode him. They were getting used to each other. This week they were both more comfortable with each other and Kaitlyn was able to get Twinkie into a canter. My baby was smiling from ear to ear! She has been wanting to canter for months. She did a few circles around the arena and of course mom forgot the camera! I'm so proud of her. She really is becoming a wonderful rider and I am beginning to realize that her comfortableness on a horse comes from the interaction she has with that horse and spending time with it. I see a friendship growing between these horses and her.

On Thursday Grace had a hockey game. It was a great game. One that was very evenly matched. Grace is starting to find her place out there on the ice and getting after the puck. At one point she stopped the puck, looked up to see where her team mates were, passed it to another girl and that girl scored. It was SO exciting to see!! The funny thing was when the game was over and I went to the locker room I told Grace "Congrats on getting an assist" and she didn't even realize it!!

What a fun week!! Our girls are the BEST!!!

Horse back and Hockey

2009-10-18T18:03:00.005-04:00

Our days have been filled with horse back lessons and hockey practices/games. Kaitlyns horse instructor moved all her horses for the winter to another barn with an indoor arena. This is a different one from last year and I have to say a much better one! The barn is attached to the arena so we don't have to walk in the blowing snow any more! All the horses are making the adjustment very well and everyone seems to like the new place. Kaitlyn has moved from riding our beloved Benny to Twinkie. Twinkie is the first horse Kaitlyn rode when she got here. She is preparing to learn how to canter on Twinkie along with getting used to riding a different horse. Something her instructor and I felt Kaitlyn needed to do. It's important to try out different horses and learn how to adjust yourself to their "quirks". We are hoping this next coming week Kaitlyn will be able to try a canter.

We have also begun our hockey season with Grace. She has had a few practices and this weekend had two games. It was so fun to see her back out on the ice and I have to say she looks GREAT out there. Her confidence this year is so high and she really is getting to understand the game. Another added bonus is Matt is helping coach her team. She is loving having her Papa on the beach next to her. Her game yesterday they got stomped. That team has been on the ice a month longer than us so they had a better "feel" then us who have only had a few practices. Today's game was SO awesome!!! The girls played so great and it was more evenly matched. Very fast paced and everyone come out with their game on! Grace played so well and is getting more aggressive out there going after the puck. We are so proud of our Pee Wee Tiverton Thunder girls!!!

Here are a few pictures and videos from this past week. As time goes on I will keep you posted on how the girls are doing. It's a busy time of year but it is also a very fun one. Who knows, you may hear about Matt and I out there playing a little pick up hockey. We are going out tonight to check it out and see if it is something I would like to do or not. Just not sure but who knows!!

18 years!

2009-10-12T18:05:00.002-04:00

I can't believe 18 years have pasted SO quickly. I feels just like yesterday I was standing there in my grandparents church, in the dress my grandma made, getting married by the man who helped organize "Turkey Fest" ( the event where Matt and I met ) surrounded by all our friends and family.

Looking back on this journey Matt and I have been on....we have moved 10 times, had 2 beautiful girls, cared for my mom til her death, bought a trailer and took many fun camping trips, spent 10 months with Matt gone for 3+ weeks home for 4 days while he was in New Orleans, went back to work part time, then moved to another country. There are so many more adventures we have been on and many more to come.

I am so thankful to have met Matt and have him as my best friend. 23 years ago November we met at an all night church event the day after Thanksgiving. I still wonder why my parents allowed me to date a guy who was 3 years older than me and out of high school. But I am SO thankful they did. Matt has been the best thing, after Christ, that has ever happened to me.

I love you Matt with all my heart! Thank you for choosing me as your wife!

I am excited and ready to see what the next 18 years will hold for us!

Blue Jays/ Mariner Game

2009-09-28T13:52:00.005-04:00

Matt was able to get these awesome tickets from work for the Toronto Blue Jays against the Seattle Mariners. So we headed to Toronto! We picked up the girls at lunchtime on Friday and got to Toronto about 4:00. We did a little shopping, got those winter coats, pants and gloves for the girls. Now all they need are boots-why do feet grow SO fast!?! Matt got all his gear for hockey. Yep he needs gear and nope he's not playing-yet. He is going to be the assistant coach for Grace's team this year. After dinner we headed to the pool for some fun. The hotel had one water slide and the girls had a blast.

Saturday morning we headed into Toronto ( we stayed in Brampton which is about 30 minutes outside of Toronto ). We took the girls up in the CN tower. It is the tallest building in the world right now. We went to the VERY top which is called "The Bubble". It's glass all around. We were up over a million stories. After it was time to head to the game. Our seats were in the second row behind and to the left of home plate! It was SO cool!!! The girls got to get their jerseys signed by the General Manager and Mike Sweeny. It was pretty cool sitting in those VIP seats. You got hot dogs, popcorn, peanuts, and pop. Then in the 5th inning they passed out ice cream!!!

We ended our day at Costco. Anytime we can go to a Costco is pure joy for us. We sure miss shopping there. Plus Matt scored on a chest freezer so now we can buy in bulk and freeze it! YEAH!

It was another memorable weekend for us and we continue to thank God that He has provided this wonderful adventure for us to be on. We do miss our family and friends and before we know it we will be headed back but for now we are really enjoying what lies ahead for us!

School Update

2009-09-28T03:53:00.002-04:00

I know I said I would update you all about the first day of school weeks ago but life happens and boy it sure has been happening around here. The girls have been in school for 3 weeks now and they both are just loving it.

Kaitlyn's teachers name is Mrs. Blackwell. She just loves her. There is a lot of order and the expectations are laid out very well. Something Kaitlyn thrives on. She has joined band this year and is still playing the flute. She also decided to put in an application for Student Council. She had to write and "essay" on why she wants to be apart of it and what she could bring to the Council. There were 22 kids who applied and only 12 were chosen. Kaitlyn is one of them. They had their first meeting last week and she is SO excited about it. We are SO proud of her and are just loving how she is growing up and maturing. These are wonderful experiences that will take her far in her life.

Grace's teachers name is Mrs. Smegal. We had heard she is pretty tough, something we think Grace really needs. She will be challenged this year. But I have realized her teacher is not tough, she just sets the bar a little bit higher to help the kids achieve at a larger standard. Something Grace has not encountered yet. Kaitlyn had a teacher like this in 4th grade and it really set the standard for her and so we are very excited to see what this year holds for Grace. Grace has joined Choir for the 2nd year and is VERY excited about hockey starting in the next week or so.

I have to say the girls are doing very well so far in school. They both come home and usually sit down to do homework. Something they decided on their own. It quite amazes me but hey I'm not complaining!

So that is our update on school. Lots more has happened in the last few weeks so I will update as time allows me to. So keep watching!

Kailtyn's Horse Show

2009-09-20T15:32:00.004-04:00

Here is a video of Kaitlyn's routine from her show. She did SO well. We are VERY proud of her. This being her first time in a show ever. It was not an actual show it was at her instructors house but the judge was a professional dressage rider. There were 21 riders all the way from brand new to years of experience. It was fun with a bunch of excitement. Kaitlyn is already talking about next years show.

Firsts Day of School 2009

2009-09-08T08:40:00.003-04:00

Well here we are at the beginning of another school year. Our 2 month summer went by WAY too fast but it sure was a good one. I woke the girls up this morning and both groaned at me and really had no desire to get up. But as they gradually woke up Gracie was bounding around the house VERY excited about being a 5th grader. Kaitlyn on the other hand was not too thrilled. She doesn't like the unknown and so she was not too excited, plus she's not a morning person. As you can see by the pictures their faces tell the story. I guess I should have taken by camera down to the bus stop because by the time the bus arrived Kaitlyn was chatting non-stop about how cool the grade 7 desks are and if it's the same teacher as last year how cool she is. So, I guess she needed that hour to really wake up and get her bearings on the day. So here I sit getting ready to head out to work and have a day of no kids. Some of you may think it will be a lazy day for me, no way! I have been making lists this last week of things I want to get done now that the kids are back in school and I have the whole day to myself. Granted today is suppose to be a nice day, Starbuck and I may have to hit the beach for a bit. I will post another update once the girls are home from school so you all can hear how the first day went.

Weekend update

2009-09-06T19:25:00.004-04:00

Yesterday ( Saturday ) we headed to London, 2 1/2 hours away to finish our school shopping. It was a full day but a very productive day. We left before 7 am and got to London just before the stores open. We hit Staples, the Mall, Best Buy and Costco. We totally filled up the car, with help from our friends who had lists for us too. We made it back home in time to join the Berkman's and Dunham's at the Berkman's house for dinner. Brooke's folks were in town for a few days and Marilyn made her ribs, potato salad, coleslaw and apple pie. It was a great visit with everyone and wonderful to see Al and Marilyn.

Today was a bit of a lazy day. A friend of ours had their first baby on Friday evening so we called them and asked if we could come over and bring them dinner and see little Coco Lyna ( said Leena ). So Matt and I did some shopping for food. I made a pasta dish while Matt made a yummy fruit salad with fresh fruit from a berry farm. We all went over for our visit. OH how I LOVED holding that little girl. She is so sweet and her mom is AMAZING!! Coco was born at home!!

After, we took Kaitlyn to her friend Olivia's house for a sleepover. Matt, Grace and I decided to hit the beach and take a long walk. It was such a beautiful day today and a great evening walk. Later on we will be making a campfire and roasting marshmallows.

Tomorrow is officially the girls last day of summer. School starts on Tuesday and they are all ready to go. Grace is more excited than Kaitlyn but I know they are both ready to go back. As I too am ready for them to go!

Kaitlyn and Ben

2009-09-03T08:27:00.003-04:00

Last night as lessons Kaitlyn started practicing for her horse show in a couple weeks. They do some trotting and walking around the area to music. I have to say we were so proud of her watching her do her routine. She looks so comfortable and at ease on Ben. They really are a great combination!! Here is a short video of what she will be doing. Her show is on the 19th and I will post the whole thing at that time.

A short Beach Day

2009-09-03T08:08:00.003-04:00

Matt and I took the girls down to the beach the other day. We have only a few days left of summer vacation and the weather was sunny but not overly warm. We have not had many day to enjoy the beach so here was our chance for a short visit to the beach.

Our trip home to Washington

2009-08-27T15:31:00.007-04:00

It had been a year since we have seen our family and friends so we headed home for 2 weeks. It was such a wonderful time of making memories, catching up with family and friends and just enjoying the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

Our trip started out on a Tuesday in Bremerton. We all stayed at Grandma and Grandpa Kalmbach's house for a few days. We were able to see our good friends Bill, Janet and Eleeyse. The girls went ice skating and of course LOTS of shopping with Great Grandma! Matt left on Friday to go on his annual salmon fishing trip with his buddy Jeff for a week.

On Saturday we headed to John and Jackies to see the Halsted cousins. It was such an wonderful time seeing all them together again. It was a fun filled day of swimming, making pizzas and having a sleepover.

Sunday we headed to Dash Point to meet Thom, Christine and Sophie along with Dad and Debbie for the day. The weather was wonderful and it was fun to see the girls playing with their cousin Sophie, Meagan was greatly missed that day!

Sunday also found us at my dad and Debbie's house for the next leg of our trip. They had finished building their new home after we left so it was our first time seeing it. What a beautiful house they have and it was so warm and cozy there. The girls and I really enjoyed hanging out with them, going to the zoo, the beach and of course playing games after dinner.

Thursday found us heading to the east side of the Puget Sound. The girls and I met up with my high school friend Jo, whom I had not seen in 3 years. We have a wonderful lunch and she helped the girls shop for school clothes. Afterward, we headed to Conway ( north of Everett ) to Jeff and Teresa's. This is where we would meet Matt on Friday after his fishing trip. Jeff and Teresa were our neighbors in Port Ludlow all those years ago when the kids were babies. We are so thankful to still be close to them and we all pray one day God will bring us back as neighbors again. The guys returned from fishing on Friday with 3 salmon all 22-18 pounds!! We went to Haley's horse show Friday evening then out to some yummy Mexican. ( I was able to get my fill of Mexican on our trip )

Saturday found us heading to Everett for Matt's family reunion. We toured the Boeing plant and watch the war birds fly. Later we met at Lombardi's for lunch and then headed back to Grandpa Lookabuagh and Barbara's for dessert and visiting. The evening ended with a swim in the pool with all 8 cousins. A tradition that is never missed!!

Sunday we all met at a park in Everett and Barbara's daughters put on a wonderful lunch for us all. It was just a wonderful day of visiting and relaxing. Even the kids were so fun to watch and see them interact with each other. Even though they only get to see each other once a year it makes no difference they pick up right where the left off.

Sunday evening we headed to Thom and Christines. They took us to a wonderful Italian restaurant in Seattle for dinner. OH SO good food!! We finally got to see Meagan and visit with her for too short of a time. I wish we had had more time to spend with them but I am just thankful for the time we did have together. They say they will come visit us next summer so I will be holding them to that!!

Monday morning found us at the airport flying home. It was a long day but God blessed us the whole way. On time flight, baggage waiting for us when we got to baggage claim, shuttle bus waiting for us, car safe and sound, very little traffic ( and it was during rush hour ), no wait at the boarder and finally arriving at home.

Looking back I have to say it was THE best visit home EVER. Both Matt and I really had a hard time leaving. I think it really hit us how far away we are and how little we get to see of family. I know for now God has us right where we need to be and will make the best of each moment. Each trip home will be a cherished moment for us. We thank everyone for coming to see us while in the Pacific Northwest, for putting us up in your homes and for loving and caring for us from afar.

The pictures I have posted are only a small sample of what I have. I wish I could have posted more but I don't know how to do the slide show yet.

Tiverton 130th Birthday Parade

2009-08-06T07:50:00.005-04:00

On Saturday, August 1 we went to our towns parade celebrating 130 years. It was a great parade!

Grace's Birthday Party

2009-08-06T07:40:00.003-04:00

Ok so I'm a bit behind in updating the blog so here goes...........

Grace's birthday party was on Friday, July 31. She have over some friends and we went down to the beach to play. It turned out to be a nice day, finally. She had 3 friend spend the night and Kaitlyn had her best bud, Olivia spend the night also. It was a fun day.

Grace's Birthday

2009-07-30T07:23:00.005-04:00

Grace had a fun birthday day. We she woke up to chocolate chip pancakes and strawberries. We shopped for her birthday party, had chicken kabobs for dinner and ended the day with daddy special ice cream sundaes. I am still having a hard time believing she is 10. Oh where has the time gone. Friday is her big birthday bash. I'm praying for sunny weather because I have 10 girls coming over to play at the beach for the afternoon, then 4 girls will spend the night. I'm looking forward to it. And so is Grace!

Gracie is 10!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-29T06:20:00.003-04:00

How did it happen!?! 10 years old today. I remember going to hospital to have her like it was yesterday. That sweet little baby with the chubby cheeks. She really has turned into a beautiful young lady. Grace is part sporty, part fashion diva. She loves playing hockey, riding her bike, shooting hoops and just being crazy like her poppa. But the other side she loves to dress up and be very fashionable and girly. I'm in a bit of denial over my baby being 10. This is a hard one for me to accept. Isn't she still that little girl with the curly hair in pigtails??? Nope she is a young lady with ideas and opinions of her own, and she's not afraid to share them. I love watching her grow and learn and become the person God made her to be.

Happy Birthday Gracie!!! We LOVE you!!!!

Blue Jays Game

2009-07-28T16:27:00.003-04:00

Matt and Kaitlyn headed out to Toronto on Saturday with Kaitlyn's friend Olivia's church group to watch a Toronto Blue Jays game. Grace and I were suppose to go but Grace was one sick little girl. She was bummed not to go but had no desire to even try going. So Matt and Kaitlyn left at 7:00am, got on a school bus with a bunch of other people and rode 3 1/2 hours to Toronto. It was an awesome game. If I remember right it went 11 or 12 innings the score was 9 to 9 and the Blue Jays ended up loosing. They got home about 10:00 that night. All in all it was a wonderful Daddy/ Daughter day!

Dad and Debbies Visit

2009-07-19T07:13:00.006-04:00

Dad and Debbie came out for a week for a wonderful visit. We took a trip to Niagara Falls and got to see all the sights there. It was busy but so much fun. The Maid of the Mist was a hit with everyone. It was amazing how close you can get to the falls and how wet we all got. We saw the pipe band in town and watched them put on a little show for us. We took a tour of the Bruce Power visitors center and just hung out playing games and visiting.

Scottish Festival

2009-07-05T08:09:00.008-04:00

We got to experience our first Scottish Festival this weekend. Matt had been to one when he lived in Scotland and was very excited for the girls and I to see one here. We got to see the pipe bands come down main street, see some dancing and pipe band competitions and then we went up to the heavy events. We saw the ball toss both 56 pound and 28 pound and the hammer throw. It was very neat to see and amazing how far those guys can throw those things. I really wanted to see the caber toss but that was the last event and we were all getting tired and hot being in the sun. I'm really glad we went and got to experience this and can't wait to for next years to see even more!

Canada Day!!

2009-07-03T16:37:00.008-04:00

We got to celebrate our first Canada Day. I have to say it was such a wonderful day. Our little town of Kincardine sure puts on a great celebration for all. We started our day downtown with a small parade that consisted of the pipe band, which was just incredible!! Then the VFW and scouts. Once they passed by us we joined in and followed them down the street to the flag pole where we sang O Canada while the flag was raised. There was a very small "carnival" that they girls passed on. It was geared more for younger kids.

Later that night we all ended up at the Dunhams for a BBQ and just hung out until sunset. We went back down to town and went to a co-workers house and parked in his parking lot which looked right over where they were going to shoot off the fireworks. The kids got to light giant sparklers while they waited. The show was SO awesome, so much better than we expected. It was such a great end to a wonderful day.

Father's Day Weekend!!

2009-06-22T12:12:00.005-04:00

After working 128 hours in 12 days Matt decided he needed to get away. So we loaded up the girls and headed to Collingwood about 2 hours north of here. We went there this past winter to ski and now it was time to check out the spring/summer up there. We stayed right inside the village and enjoyed seeing all there was to do.

Saturday was a bit rainy so we got some lunch and walked around the shops. Once the rain slowed down the girls did some swimming. Always so much fun! Later we made the girls some dinner and Matt and I went out for a small dinner. It was nice just to get away and talk. It had been a busy week.

Sunday was SO much nicer. Sunny and hot. We headed up to the caves to check them out. We hiked all around and there was one that was 14 inches wide and 20 feet long. Matt was the only one to brave going through that one. It was pretty funny!!!

After we hiked over the suspension bridge and fed the fish in the pond. There were some HUGE trout in there. Our last stop was mini golf. Both girls got hole in ones, they were pretty excited! It was such a great time just hanging out together as a family and enjoying the day.

It was a mellow and relaxing Father's Day and I think Matt recharged his "batteries" pretty well and is ready to hit it hard this week. Hopefully not working so many hours!

Now it's back to reality. The girls have 3 more days of school and are SO ready for summer vacation to start. I think I am also. Only 9 weeks of summer break here so we are going to make the best of it!

Friday.....Port Huron

2009-06-22T12:04:00.003-04:00

After being on the field trip all day Thursday I got back into the car and headed down to Port Huron, MI. My friend Brooke was taking her boys down for check ups and I ended up taking Kaitlyn to to the Doctor also. She had been fighting a head cold and a bad cough for over 3 weeks. At 1 1/2 weeks to took her to a local Dr, I was thankful to be able to get in. There are not many doctors here and it's hard to be seen by one. We were told it was a virus and to just take it easy. Well, I left feeling some what ok about it but skeptical. As the week went on I realized there is something more going on, she was NOT getting any better. I was able to get into our doctor in Port Huron on the same day I was going down with Brooke. The doctor saw her and not to much of my amazement, she had a sinus infection. But we also had another surprise, she had beginning bronchitis. I was pretty upset but also thankful for my mommy intuition to get her to a US doctor. She has been on antibiotics and another med for her bronchitis for 4 days now and is already doing much better. I feel so bad that she had to go through all this but glad we know what is going on and she is on the mend!!

Grace's Field Trip to Toronto

2009-06-22T11:03:00.006-04:00

Grace's class took a field trip to Toronto last Thursday. They went to Casa Loma which was owned and build by Sir Henry. He came over from England and started Hydro power at Niagara. He wanted to have a castle built and so this was his castle. It was quite amazing and we had so much fun touring it. We even climbed the highest tower. Six flights of stairs and the last 3 were those tight round ones. The view was amazing once we got there and the group of kids I had were very excited to get to the top!

After we went to a Medieval dinner. We ate chicken, potatoes, corn on the cob, bread and apple tarts with our hands while we watch a medieval fight. Grace just loved it!! The jousting was her favorite. I have to say we really got into it and it felt like they were really fighting.

It was a long day, we left at 7 am and got back at 9pm. But it was SO worth it!! What a fun thing to do and great memories were made!!

Iron Chef Battle Coconut

2009-06-14T12:33:00.003-04:00

Last night we had our second Iron Chef battle. Our secret ingredient was Coconut. It was held at Kris and Zach's house. They had the main dish and made Thai coconut pork with peanut sauce on rice and along with it coconut squash soup. Brooke and Jim had side dish, they made Thai coconut chicken soup served in a coconut. It was SO yummy and my favorite! Lois and Dave had appetizer and they made chicken and shrimp with a coconut mango salsa. Matt and I had dessert, Matt made a coconut white chocolate mousse with strawberries and a chocolate coconut biscotti. And the winning dish came from Sean and Claire, they also had an appetizer. They made coconut chicken balls, coconut shrimp and bell peppers on a skewer.

It was such a fun night. WE laughed so hard and just enjoyed being out with good friends. Kaitlyn and Grace were watching all the boys at Brooke and Jim's house. Kaitlyn is becoming quite the babysitter. I think she is taking after her momma. I loved babysitting and so does she. There's that teacher in her!

Girls New Hair Cut

2009-06-12T14:37:00.003-04:00

So the girls got new cuts yesterday. For a while now we have been trying to get Kaitlyn to agree to a shorter cut just to try it out. Yesterday she finally agreed. She loves it and so do we! She looks so much more mature and you can see that sweet dainty face of hers. As Brooke said "Her eyes pop now". It's so fun to see them be a little adventurous. But I will say I was a bit worried as I watch Kaitlyn's hair get cut yesterday. I kept saying to Matt "She's going to be SO mad at me". She has such thick beautiful hair and it looks so great in this style. And of course once Grace saw how cute her sisters hair is she had to do the same. Grace looks cute in any style and I have to say this is my favorite so far!

A fun and busy week

2009-06-08T14:31:00.003-04:00

So last Monday Matt flew down to Memphis for a conference for the week. While he was down there is play tourist one afternoon and saw Graceland. He said it was pretty cool and took a ton of pictures. These are just a few of them. Back home the girls and I had a busy week of work, school and activities. The week went by quick for us and we were so glad to see Matt home by dinner time on Friday.

Friday also we welcomed the Dunham boys, Cody and Jamie, to our house for the weekend. Their parents went down to Detroit for a concert and we were blessed to have them here for the weekend. They are such great boys and it was fun to have some little boys in the house for a change. I have to say boys have LOTS of energy, very different from the emotional girls we have. Friday we went down to the beach for a bit to play, Saturday was Aidan Berkman's birthday party and Sunday was church and we went out to the frog pond to spy on some frogs. We got to see a pretty green one with spots.

Things have been busy with just under 3 weeks of school left for the girls. Kaitlyn has a french play this week that she has a part in plus she has 2 weeks of testing, kind of like the WASL. Grace will be going on a fun field trip to Toronto to a Mid-Evil Castle. I'm hoping I get chosen to go along. They are only taking 3 parents from each class. I'm sure this is a trip a lot of parents will want to go on. I have been busy with work and trying out some new cooking recipes. I am finding living here I have come out of my comfort zone and have been experimenting with different things. I have learned to like avocados and shitake mushrooms. I guess my taste buds are "maturing". Matt started his new job today, he is now working on a different project. He's excited for the challenge and all that will come with it.

Toronto

2009-06-01T22:33:00.005-04:00

Matt and I decided to take a weekend trip just the two of us to Toronto. The girls stayed with the Dunhams for the weekend.

Friday we left as soon as we put the girls on the bus. We got to Toronto about 1:00. Got some lunch and did some shopping. After we decided to take the subway to the Hockey Hall of Fame and took in a Blue Jay's game. I have to say there is nothing like Safco Field. I was disappointed in the Roger's Stadium. I think we are spoiled in Seattle with our great ball field. Needless to say it was neat to see the game and it was a good game. Blue Jays won.

Saturday we went to Vaughn Mills Outlet shopping. It is just like the one we went to in Katy, TX with Matt's dad and Linda. After to went to IKEA and got Grace her new bed and Kaitlyn a bookshelf. That night Matt took me up in the CN Tower for dinner. It's a lot like the Space Needle. The view was beautiful. We got the watch a storm come in at the end of dinner and it lasted about 15 minutes. When it was done the sky cleared and we got to see a rainbow that was a full circle. It was pretty neat.

On Sunday we stopped at Costco to get a few things and then headed back home. Matt needed to get ready to fly to Memphis Monday morning for the week. He's at a conference for a few days down there and will also "play tourist" as he likes to say. Of course he will go check out Graceland.

Field Day

2009-06-01T22:30:00.002-04:00

On Friday both girls had field day. Kaitlyn participated in the 100 meter dash, long jump, ball throw and another kind of jump. She won a bronze for the 100 meter dash. Grace did 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash, long jump and ball throw. She won bronze for 100 meter and long jump and a silver for 200 meter.

Both girls had lots of fun and we proud of what they won. So are we!!

Kaitlyn's Horseback Riding

2009-05-27T20:15:00.004-04:00

Kaitlyn had a great lesson tonight! She has been riding Ben for 2 weeks now and her confidence has grown 100%. It is so amazing how changing horses has made such a huge difference. Not sure what it is but I think she is really learning that she CAN control a horse and he will listen. Ben is a Norwegian Fjord. He's a sweet horse but does like to get a bit pushy when she is tacking him up. Kaitlyn wanted to trot tonight and her instructor Tara said ok. It took a little bit to get Ben going but once he did she did very well for a first time. Kaitlyn is on cloud nine now. It's so great to see each of girls doing something they really love and how happy they are when they get to do it. I think I horse may be in our future one day. Better start saving my pennies and Kaitlyn too!!!

Sunday Picnic

2009-05-26T13:56:00.002-04:00

On Sunday we had a wonderful picnic with our friends that we made here in Canada. The Convay's and McBride's. The Convay's daughter is good friends with Kaitlyn and both her and the McBride's daughter played on Grace's hockey team.

We all met at a park in Kincardine. The kids all had a blast playing at the playground, throwing footballs and Frisbees. The guys BBQed hamburgers and hot dogs. After we walked down to the "rock garden". Which is where all the pictures were taken.

It was a great end to a great day. We are so thankful to have met such wonderful families that have welcomed us into their lives.

Beach Day!!

2009-05-21T19:47:00.006-04:00

Today it was 85!!! Man was it such a beautiful day. The sun was shining , a light warm breeze was blowing and I was excited for the girls to come home so we could go down to the beach and have some fun.

We loaded up the buckets and shovels, grabbed Starbuck and went down and played. The girls had fun because the river had changed so much that it was shallow enough for them to cross. Starbuck spent the whole time chasing his stick and I just enjoyed the laughter and fun around me. We were the only ones down there the whole time. Near the end Matt was able to join us after work for a bit.

Afterward, we BBQed hamburgers, the girls and I washed the car and Matt mowed the lawn.

What a great day!!