tamzamerica

Birthday Goals 2012

2012-01-31T13:38:00.000-08:00

Today is my 25th birthday. I'm not afraid of getting older but I'm afraid of being old. Does that make sense? One of my life goals is to make sure I use my life wisely. To make sure I am always on track I give myself daily, weekly, yearly goals. Not on paper necessarily but in my mind. Here's the list of things I would like have accomplished before I turn 26.
1. Read 2-3 books a month
2. Finish the boys baby books
3. Set up my etsy/online shop.
4. Get another 2 personal training clients.
5. Receive my Nutrition and Wellness Certification.
6. Aim to Eat clean and balanced.
7. Go on an awesome 6th anniversary trip.
8. Sew pillows for our bedroom.
9. Learn to quilt and make a quilt for Cohen's big boy bed.
10. Run at least one 10k race perhaps even a half marathon!

I'll start with 10 goals and I'll go from there.
I'll get back to my coffee and kitkat cheesecake now:)

writing the truth (a ramble)

2012-01-27T12:44:00.000-08:00

At night, I sit in my bed, pen in hand. My hand trembles with the words it wants to write. The blank page screaming at me. What's so scary about writing something on paper? Terror grips me. I want to write. I want to document my feelings..my thoughts. The truth is raging beneath my skin. I don't think I'm hiding anything big. Sometimes its just frightening to believe that am.
There's the issue of heart, and who has it. Contentment. Perfection. Responsibility. These are things that everyone thinks about.
I'm given one life. Just one. Then I will be judged according to what I did with that life. What if I'm not doing everything I can?
Seeing the words on the screen or on paper..that's forever. What if other people think the way I'm thinking? I hope..I'm not the only one.

And the Christmas Countdown Begins...

2011-11-25T21:06:00.001-08:00

Well...technically I start my offical countdown on December 1st. Two years ago I purchased the advent calendar kit from Red Velvet and use it as a tradition with my family. Every year I plan out twenty four days of fun activities and/or treats. It used to be only for Jason and I, but as Cohen gets older I'm having more fun creating memories with him.

I know as a rule, boys are not into home decor crafts but I'm definetly planning on doing this together:)

Perfect Christmas DIY

This is so Going on my Christmas DIY list!!

So simple! All you need is a wreath form, glue, and some coffee filters!

(Pinterest is so awesome!)

favourite fall accessory

2011-11-13T13:52:00.001-08:00

Cowls.

Warm.

Cozy.

Favourite:)

I absolutely love my cowl. I made it over a year ago now and it is my go to warm accessory. I use it in the fall and all through winter into those cool spring mornings.
Every time I wear it, I'm always asked where I got it. I sold my first one last spring to a lady I met at a meeting and she loves hers too!
I'm selling them through my facebook page. I'm pumped that other people like them too.
They are perfect for breastfeeding too. Scarves and big sweaters are too bulky. The cowl provides a little cozy hider:)

{faith} Psalms

2011-10-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

This fall, in Sunday School, we are working through the pratical application of Praise. The pastor (my dad!) is challenging us to memorize scripture. Honestly, I haven't done this for at least 12 years. As a class we are working through some Psalms.

This class has been personally challenging for me. Its forcing me out of my comfort zone, which is definetly a good thing. I find its so much easier to worship the Lord, then praise Him. Praise is supposed to be loud and clamourous. I would rather listen to some worship music, close my eyes, and be silent.

While reading my Bible this morning, I came across a verse that really woke me up:

With every bone in my body, I will praise Him...

Psalm 35:10A

Every bone? I can hardly comprehend that. That means with everything that I am I praise Him. Giving everything in Praise. So vulnerable.

My toddler has been a major inspiration and example to me of this verse. If I put on a praise cd, he will dance around without any regard for anybody. Purely innocent. He has no insecurities. He will yell at the top of his lungs: "Hallelujah" "Yeah, Jesus!" He always asks me to dance with Him. I do. But I can't do it like him. I always hold back. I don't want to look foolish, but it shouldn't matter. Praise is about giving back to Jesus. He has done so much for me. It shouldn't matter what others think. It should only matter what He thinks.

Its easy to type, easy to say...but extremely difficult to live out. Its a journey. I'm working on it! I want to live with no abandon. Fully free.

National Coffee Day

2011-09-29T12:05:00.000-07:00

The boys are asleep. So this is how I'm enjoying my "me" time. Did you know its national coffee day? This is my excuse for indulging in some java this afternoon...not that I needed one:)

2011-09-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

Source: None via Jenni on Pinterest

As I type, the house is completely silent. I can hear the gentle hum of the fridge, and the bouncing of the clothes in the dryer, and a few squeaks from a sleeping baby. I brewed some chai tea and am enjoying the quiet.

Today marks my third day home alone with both of my boys. My grandparents had been staying with us but made there way back home on Monday morning. Monday went okay. My only goal was to survive until 5 oclock. I managed to get the boys and myself dressed and fed. We watched way too much tv but I'm at peace with that right now. By Monday evening I noticed some stiffness in my breast. And if you know my history with my first child and mastitis, this is very scary. I went to the clinic and they were closed so I thought I would nurse Paxton and then go to emergency to get some antibiotics. While nursing him, the pain went from a one to a one million. My whole breast got tomato red and my nipple turned purple and bruised (yeah I little TMI). I stopped nursing and it took me three minutes to be apple to but my bra back on. I would rather go through labour then feel that pain again. So now I'm on antibiotics and trying my best to stay positive about breastfeeding. Its very tempting to stop to prevent any risk of infection but Paxton is only two weeks old and I feel terrible about stopping so early. The pain is more or less gone and I've started pumping on the left again. I'm waiting until the nipple heals before attempting nursing again.

So I'm enjoying the silence and the fact that I'm in no pain right now. I feel normal. Like a human. Not a milk machine or a bum who doesn't take a shower:)

Slowly but surely I'm healing and adjusting to life as a mother of two. I even did two loads of laundry today! Oh the things mothers become proud of:)

Paxton Lukas

2011-09-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

So here's the newest addition to our little family, Paxton Lukas! He was born on Saturday, September 3, 2011 @ 3:25 AM weighing in at 7lbs 8oz and 20.5" long. I was certain that he was going to be a girl so I was so overwhelmed when he was a boy! I'm already loving the sound of saying "my boys"!

Paxton's journey to the outside world was not without trauma. Cohen (my first born) had a difficult journey too and ended with a c-section.
I woke up with lots of energy and decided I should make a batch of salsa. So my grandma and I chopped up veggies and broke out the canner and got a large batch made. Then we cleaned the house and headed out for lunch.
On Friday afternoon I went to the hospital because I was (TMI) bleeding more than I thought I should be. I was admitted to the maternity ward and they did an internal exam. Turns out I was 8 cm dilated. You have to know I was in ZERO pain and was only feeling light cramping in my lower back. I bounced around on the ball and walked around, listened to my ipod and hung out with Jason. We thought, "Man, this baby is just going to walk right out!"
When my doctor arrived at the hospital, she checked my again and she couldn't feel the baby's head so she broke my water to give her a better idea of where I was. I was actually only 6cm but still no major pain.
By 7:00pm I was 9 cm (still with no pain). My doctor said if nothing happened by ten they were going to induce me to intensify my contractions. I really didn't want any medical intervention so the nurse suggested pumping with the breast pump every hour for ten minutes. I did that for three hours and then my contractions came on strong. By midnight I was trying my best to push that baby out.
After an hour and a half I was done. I hadn't slept the night before and was exhausted. By then they babies head was really far down and trying to get over the pubic bone. After some examinations they realized that yet again the baby was face up. I pushed until 3am and it was decided that they baby was just not coming out.
As the last hope before a c-section we stupidly opted to try the vaccuum. They tried 2-3 times but it didn't work. Two doctors examined me one more time and it was decided that at this point a c-section was the best option. I really didn't want another c-section but I was actually so relieved when I could stop pushing. My pelvis was just not made to deliver naturally.
After getting all stitched back together I was informed that there possibly was something wrong with the baby. They were doing tests and we might be sent to another hospital. I was still foggy from the epidural and exhausted from the labour, that I didn't totally comprehend but I just started crying.
Turns out everything was fine. His blood sugar was a little low but was normal within 24 hours. Apparently that's one of the risks of using the vaccuum.
I was able to nurse with in a few hours of the operation which can be rare after a c-section. He latched on right away and has been a breastfeeding poster child every since.
He is so perfect! And he looks like me when I was a baby:) This makes me happy because my oldest has never ever looked like me.
So we are all glad that is behind us and are just enjoying our new son. My favourite thing so far is his cute gas-induced smiles! He seems to smile at just the right times and its too funny:)

In case you are wondering Paxton means "place of peace" and Lukas means "light, luminous." He is so content and just suits his name perfectly!

2011-08-31T06:44:00.000-07:00

(source)

This pretty much sums up how I've been feeling the last week or so! My grandma read it in the paper and sent it to me:) If you have every been pregnant you know that the last few weeks you are just DONE.

Today I'm 39 weeks and 2 days. Just 5 days to go until my due date but I'm hoping for an early arrival! I have a doctor's appointment today and am excited to learn if I have made any progress. At my appointment on Friday, I was 3-4 cm dilated and my cervix was quite thin. Hopefully today I'll be a little bit further along! The good thing about labour is that once you are dilated you can't go backwards.

Everything is ready to go. I have my hospital bag and diaper bag packed, the crib is made and the car seat has been cleaned. The pack-n-play is set up in our room and I bought newborn diapers yesterday. I forgot how little and cute they are (pre-poop of course!) Cohen thought they were the coolest thing he had every seen. He kept saying "oh tiny baby diapers!"

I can hardly sleep. Its uncomfortable and my mind is so anxious! I just want to meet the baby. I was up until almost five this morning questioning the names we have picked out and starting to worry if they baby will be healthy, or if it will HUGE! I finally prayed for the baby and asked God for a safe and quick delivery. And then I moved my large self to the couch and finally could get to sleep. (Apparently last night my husband thought I was a body pillow, so I kept having to remove his leg from mine.)

Wednesdays are usually my busiest day of the week, usually teaching 2-3 classes and working a four hour shift. So I don't know what to do with myself today. Having nothing to do is strange for me. I am going to play with Cohen, bounce on my exercise ball, read, drink tea, and finish sewing some burp cloths. Speaking of Cohen, I hear is sweet voice waking up:)

I'll keep you posted on my progress!

Thanks for reading,

tamara

What He Wore: Pinstripes

2011-07-26T15:35:00.002-07:00

Most morning when I get Cohen dressed I tell him how cute he is. Recently when he hears that he has to run to my room to look in the full length mirror and then asks me to take a picture.

Shirt and Shorts: The Children's Place

Hair: in need of a cut

Face: in need of a good washing

Cohen is usually interested in clothing that features a soccer ball, elmo,or a guitar. Sometimes its difficult to get him to where anything else:)

Baby Picks: Diaper Bags.

2011-07-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

Well, countdown is on...only 6 weeks left until my due date. In some ways the last 7.5 months has gone by quickly but that makes this last little bit feel the longest. I'm starting to feel nervously excited. I can not wait to hold this little one (who most people tell me will be a girl! Although I will be happy with either)! We still have a trillion (not exaggerating) things to do before the baby gets here.

We are trying to prepare ourselves with how our lives will change once we had a fourth family member to the mix. Cohen likes the idea of the baby but has no clue how is life will change...mind you...neither to we!

As I prepare for this next one I find myself going back two years and rethinking what I really need and what I didn't use at all.

Today, I'm focusing on diaper bags. I'm kinda stingy when it comes to purchasing a bag that will be filled with soiled clothes and pukky blankets.

With Cohen I purchased the Lug Tuk Tuk bag. It really is a great bag. It has insulated bottle holders and it so so easy to clean.

For me, the only con to this bag was I found it too wide for my body. I was always crashing into things with it. For at least the last year I have downsized to just carrying one of my larger purses around (which results in lots of bags with spilled milk inside), or carrying a separate bag just for him. I still use this bag for weekend trips, camping or when he has sleepovers at his Mama's and Papa's house. I can see myself using this as my gym back when Cohen is big enough to carry his own backpack.

During a baby show this winter I laid my eyes on the most beautiful bag in the world! (at least to me!) Its the Petunia Pickle Bottom Scout Journey diaper bag. It does not have the look of a diaper bag and its long and NOT wide:)

As of yet I do not own this bag, but I would like to! So far my only "con" to this bag is that at around $160..its a little bit out of my price range! But I'm still saving up my pennies in hopes that I can get it before the baby!

What kinda diaper bag do you have? And does it work for more than one child? I would love to get some advice!

weeks 23-25

2011-05-30T11:43:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to get anxious and excited for this baby:) Besides having a cold right now, I feel awesome and the baby is growing and growing!

23 weeks:

up 1 lb; up 1.25"

This week I got some "me" time by booking an appointment to get my hair done with Holly; having a little trouble with my siatic nerve especially when I'm on my feet alot. Had a girls weekend with my mom and sisters! We had a yummy supper, played blacklight mini golf, and watched Bridesmaids. The next day we spent the day shopping and stopping at Starbucks! I tried a Chai Frapp and its my new summer fave!

24 weeks:

up 0.6 lbs; no increase in "

As you can see by the pic above, I sunburned my arms, chest and back. With the heat, I noticed a lot of pressure in my legs which makes me "waddle." With Jason's help I got our veggie garden planted! (Pictures to come) I love our garden because it is so big! On the weekend I rented myself a movie, The King's Speech, and a pepsi slurpee which has been my craving for at least a week or two. Baby kicks are getting stronger and stronger. It was a beautiful week and I got to do a lot of biking.

25 weeks:

up 1.6 lbs; up 0.25"

I tried to run on the treadmill but between my calf muscles trying to spasm and my hips hurting I gave up and jumped on the Arc Trainer. Jason and I got a start on Cohen's big boy room to we can move him in there before the baby arrives. Started getting a sore throat. Convinced Jason to give me a foot rub, during which I feel asleep.

Basically I have the summer to get ready for this baby...and it almost being June I have a lot to do and a lot of camping to do before then!

One Mama's Mumblings

2011-05-20T20:55:00.000-07:00

Being a mother can be a strange thing.
I've never experienced anything more natural in my entire life.
But sometimes I'm filled with fear and overwhelming responsibility.
Then I see this face and it all but disappears.

I only get one chance with this little guy.

Everyday he gets bigger, smarter, and more aware of his surroundings.

I want to make sure I'm doing the right things. Like disciplining. I find it way more difficult than I thought. He just chooses not to listen!!! I know he's not the only one but, wow!, I never thought he would learn so quickly.

At 22 months, he has figured out that when I tell him no and he does it anyways, he uses his puppy dog eyes and tries his best to get me to smile. (I try to resist but that face makes my heart literally melt)

But I also have to say I have so much fun with him! Really I do! Who knew you could have such a fun conversation with a toddler. He makes me laugh and he loves to see me smile:) I love that I have such a cute little buddy to spend my days with.

I know I'm not the only momma with fears but there really isn't anything more fullfilling I could be doing with my life!

belly update

2011-05-09T20:17:00.000-07:00

Here' s what I've been up to:

13 weeks:

no weight gain; up 0.25"

Hips are a little stiff; went through some baby clothes; tired again; First tickly baby flutters (love it)

14 weeks:

up 3.2 lbs; up 0.50"

a very busy week; lots of workouts in; feeling the start of a cold; a time change = a even more tired mama

15 weeks:

up 0.2 lbs; no inches

heart that little heartbeat today; ate Mcdonalds :(; I feel good but any amount of sitting makes my hips/siatic nerve act up

16 weeks:

up 0.3 lbs; up 0.50 "

feel very healthy and active; I felt the first really big kick!

17 weeks:

up 0.1 lb, down 0.25"

full moon = crazy toddler; a week full of peeing alot; lost my appetite (but not my cravings)

18 weeks:

down 2 lbs; up 0.75"

week started with the flu and hints of dehydration; Daddy suprised me with a date night complete with a babysitter (didn't have to plan a thing!); Daddy, Cohen and I went for a 3k jog together

19 weeks:

up 3.4 lbs; no inches

went for a long walk outside; ran a few k's outside; bought a wedge pillow and finally had a good night sleep; busy weekend away at a conference

20 weeks:

up 1 lb; up 0.75 "

Oh sweet baby heartbeats; need some sunshine to increase my energy!

HALF WAY DONE!!!!!!

21weeks:

up 1 lb; no inches

Got to see your cute little face via ultrasound#1

22 weeks:

down 0.6 lbs; up 0.25"

did lots of yoga this week; lots and lots of kicks; been biking alot; playing outside and getting that fresh air is giving me alot more energy; enjoyed Mother's Day with my boys

I feel great! I'm so looking forward to the next few months prepping my body and home for this new baby:)

the first trimester

2011-03-29T21:28:00.000-07:00

Well its been over three months since I found out I am pregnant with baby #2. Since then blogging has had to take a backseat to a growing toddler, a tired mama, a blogger image uploader not working, and an increase in work hours. But hopefully I can keep up a little bit more now. Here is a week by week account of my first trimester:

6 weeks:

up 3 lbs This week we told our families. I already look "chubby" especially in my gym clothes but everyone tells me its not noticeable.

7 weeks:

no weight gain:), up 1"

Released the news in the online world. First doctors appointment but too early to hear the heartbeat. Very tired.

8 weeks:

up 0.8 lbs, up 1"

Purged what will be Cohen's room so we can start working on the nursery for baby. Drank lots of water. Worked out 6/7 days. Jason suprised me the A&W Chubby Chicken's:)

9 weeks:

up 1.5 lbs; down .5"

My Birthday:) Exercised every day. Super duper tired. Jason's birthday. Went swimming and ate yummy Mexican. Did I mention I'm tired?

10 weeks:

up 0.4 lbs; no "s

Starting to feel my hips loosen up. Got the flu. So not fun when pregnant and have a toddler at home. Ate taco salad..yum!

11 weeks:

no weight gain; no "s

Celebrated Valentine's Day with my parents (heartshaped pizzas). Unseasonable warm day so took Cohen for a long walk. Second dr's appointment. Got to hear the heartbeat. No better feeling. Cohen lifted up my shirt and said "hi, baby!"

12 weeks:

up 0.4 lbs; up 0.25"

TIRED. Pants are starting to feel tight. Crave watermelon. Drove over 4 hours for a friends wedding. Hips are sore.

a wee bit personal

2011-03-13T06:24:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning feeling slightly sad and lonely. I have a house full of people that love so that shouldn't be a problem..right?

I start to feel overwhelmed with life.
I start re-pondering a lot of the choice that I've made.
Some of those choice have changed my whole life. Without them I wouldn't be who and what I am today. Not that I regret those decisions, but whenever you choose something there's always a sacrifice or something else left behind.

Does anyone else ever get this way?
I need to get out of this funk before its time to face the day...

Today...

2011-02-10T06:24:00.000-08:00

Today is for excitement. In a few hours from now I'm meeting with one of my friends to help her get started on adding fitness in to her lifestyle. I created a program for her to suit her goals and am very excited to show her.

Today, while Cohen is napping, I'm going to have a bath and read a book. You see I usually only have time to shower but a bath is defintely a luxury.

Today I get to spend the evening with my son. We are going to read books and have snacks and play with his tractors. And then he is going to have a bath:)

Today is a good day and I can't wait to get it started.

(I saw a sign somewhere this morning but I can't remember the source but it read: Yesterday the house was clean, Sorry you missed it!) So true!

I hope you have a great day full of excitement:)

birthday wish list...

2011-01-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

My 24th birthday is on Monday...just a few days away. I've picked out my top 5 gift wish list for my husband and I thought I would share it with you. Stella and Dot...wish my friend Holly is selling. I can't decide which one I like better...the gold or the silver.

Dutch Blitz is my all time favourite game:)

These boots are my favourite AND in my size!

This camera has been on my list for a few years now...

I always get bad calluses when weight training. These gloves are the cutest:)

We are hoping to go away next weekend to celebrate our birthdays. (jason's is 4 days after mine). I love getting away...even if its just for a night.

Tonight is for birthday celebration #2. Yay! for not having to make supper:)

tamara

its true its true its baby#2

2011-01-20T07:18:00.000-08:00

(pic is from my last pregnancy taken by the lovely holly)

So on December 30, 2010 I found out I am expecting baby#2! We are very excited:)

Our son, Cohen, is 18 months old and he is as excited as he could be at his age. He says hi and bye to the baby:)

It was a little sooner than we originally planned but we are happy none the less. It felt like it was time! We are surprise people so we are waiting until this baby's birthday to find out the sex. I'm a little scared of the delivery this time but I'm going to go with the flow and hope for a natural, water birth.

I'm really excited about the possibility of having a girl! I wanted a son and he is so great but I really want to dress up a little girl!

My due date is September 5 which just happens to ironically be Labour Day! Maybe that's a good sign:)

Okay now only to get through the next 33 weeks!

tamara

i love yoga

2011-01-17T12:56:00.001-08:00

For the last few weeks I have been getting back into a daily yoga practice. I am definetely not a classic or traditional yogi but I am sure liking the increase in flexiblity and relaxation yoga is giving me.
I bought myself Jillian Michael's Yoga Meltdown DVD and its awesome (despite her voice and the fact that she doesn't actually do any of the poses).
Since last summer I have been ending off all of my fitness classes by walking the class through sun salutations. There are so many different versions of sun salutations but I chose one that looks just like the one I do.
If you are looking to add yoga to your exercise regime, start with this sun salutation. Remember to inhale (through your nose) and exhale (through your mouth) with every pose!

tamara

image

Etsy {Mid Century} Wishes

2011-01-09T14:20:00.000-08:00

I love the high back and the seat looks so comfy.

This two-tiered coffee table is definetly a must for my living room.

I love the length of this table.

I can so picture myself wearing this dress while reading in the park (obvs. in the summer!)

The back of this chair makes my knees weak

Its hard to find dresses that will look good on my short legs...but I think this one might do the trick.

The belt on this fab dress is FANTASTIC.

Oh Enamel...I love you

Look at those colours!

This mixer is the pefect colour!

Again with the enamel and the colours:)

I didn't even know pans like these have ever existed. I'm in love!

Not only do I love this table but the whole living room is spectacular!

Hope you enjoyed my journey in to the 1960's.

tamara

xoxo

Soda Alternative???

2011-01-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

One of my goals for 2011 is to reduce the amount of sugary drinks and pop that I drink. I don't drink that much but I know that even a little bit isnt' good for me.

There are a few alternatives out there.

There's a canned drink called Zevia. Its a soda that is sweetend with stevia and not sugar. Stevia is a plant based sweetener. Its over 100x sweeter than sugar so you don't need much of it all.

Another option is the following:

Take a few bags of green tea (or your favourite tea) and put them in a large bowl. Boil water and fill the bowl with the boiling water. Let your tea steep until reaches desired flavour. Let it cool. Mix in a little bit of stevia. Pour into a large pitcher and place it in fridge. Easy Peasy!

source: google images

source: google images

Fill up your water bottles with it or grab a glass and Enjoy!

Experiment with different types of tea!

Remember small changes have a huge impact on your health:)

tamara

xoxo

great day...

2011-01-03T12:40:00.000-08:00

Today is one of those perfect days. The days I would dream about when I pictured being a stay at home mom. The balance between having nothing to do and doing nothing all while getting stuff done...okay a little confusing. I just love days when I don't have anywhere to be. My schedule is what I make it to be. I can sit on the floor and play with my son without the nagging voice in my head telling me to do the laundry or clean the toilet...those types of things. Today is a day I don't feel guilty for writing this blog post instead of planning choregraphy or doing my yoga. Today is for me and for catching up on some relaxation.

Tonight will be for coffee. This is what I need. I'm trying to limit myself to one cup of coffee/caffeeine per day. It work well for me because I won't drink it in the morning just in case a better cup of coffee will make an entrance into my life later in the day. Some days I don't drink any...mainly because lack of opportunity. Wow! I am wordy today. Here I am rambling on and on about coffee.

I should sign off before I start on another useless topic. My hope is that you can enjoy today as much as I am. Everyday should be like this!!

tamara

xoxo

2010 Recap

2011-01-02T18:42:00.000-08:00

2010 was a great year. Full of great memories and lots of laughter...that sounds so corny but its so true. In no particular order, here's some photos from 2010.

We had to say goodbye to this beautiful puppy, Otis. His face will be missed:(
I got to spend countless hours with my beautiful neice, Kya. She is the funniest little girl I've ever met. We always tell her to "say okay" so that we know she understands what we are telling her. Well I was sitting beside her and she wanted ME to do something and she said "auntie wawa...say otay". Cutest evah!

My sister and brother-in-law, brought this wonderful boy into the world. Addison is one of the happiest babies in the whole world. And Cohen absolutely adores him:)

Jas and I celebrating our 4th anniversary! We had planned to go on a warm, sunny vacation this winter so we had a low key anniversary. (now we can't go on vacation but maybe next year...)

This drawer is full of all my baking utensils (ahem...was full.) He constantly emptied the drawers and carried the contents all throughout the house. I am stil missing some measuring cups. (the utenstils have since been moved to a higher location and this drawer as become "his". Which he fills with oven mitts and alphabet blocks.)

A little train ride that I was obviously way more into than him:)

Cohen and I spend a few days at our church camp with my dad this summer. He spend lots of time in this dolphin swing. We had lots of fun getting away for a few days.

I can't believe it!!! Cohen turned ONE this summer! We had a big, kid-filled party in our backyard. The weather was gorgeous and the sun was out. Cohen would rather more low key events, but he was good sport and let me have my moment.

The three of us spent two nights camping. We live in Manitoba, therefore we know mosquitoes. But I have never seen anything like this in my life. It wasn't even enjoyable. We couldn't sit outside. We stayed in the tent and went for lots of drives. Hopefully we will have better camping trips in the future.

Thanks for letting me share this year with you and I can't wait for what 2011 will bring. The start of a fresh decade. I already know of a few of exciting things for the coming year and I can't wait to share!!!

Feliz Navidad

2010-12-24T05:18:00.000-08:00

I am super excited for Christmas this year! Cohen is going to have so much fun. Last night we did out little family christmas (just my husband, Cohen and I). Everytime Cohen ripped off a little piece of wrapping paper he said "woah."
I'm starting off my Christmas with a morning yoga class at the gym. We are offering it free to the public and I think its going to be a great way to just relax and get ready for the next few days.

Tonight we head to Jason's parents where I know for sure Cohen will be spoiled! With presents, yes, but with lots of snacks as well! What happens at Grandma's, stays at Grandma's.

Tomorrow morning after opening the gifts and eating breakfast with my side of the family, we are all heading to Grand Forks, North Dakota to spend a few nights in a hotel. We decided to still give gifts for the kids but for the adults, getting a way for a few days is all we wanted (besides cute handmade stocking stuffers!)

My hope is that all of you have an amazing time with family and friends and enjoy this Christmas time. It only comes once a year so take it all in:)

I'll be back in the new year to share some of the gifts that I made this Christmas

oh yeah.....update on all that studying:
I passed my Personal Training exam!!!! 83% on the written and 97% on the practical...that's an average of 90%. WOOHOO!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

tamara
xoxo

MIA Due to the Following...

2010-12-15T06:10:00.000-08:00

source: google images

First of all, as per post below...last week started off a little rough. The same day, I was at work, and I get a call from my dad who is watching Cohen that he just puked all over the office (TMI, I know). I picked him up as soon as I could but by then he had puked again. He slept most of the day and all night. By the next day all was well. I went to work Wednesday evening as per usual. In the middle of my last appointment , the sickness just hit me. I made it home and layed on the couch. Over the course of the night I got sick twice. Spend Thursday laying on the couch again. Thursday night Jason comes home from worship practice sick and he was sick until Friday afternoon. And now that brings us to Monday.

Monday I found out that the Personal Training exam that I had scheduled to take this coming Friday had to be rescheduled. I didn't want to do it next week because I still have a ton of Christmas presents to finish!!!! So that left...TODAY!!!!

I have been scrambling trying to prepare everything and study study stduy. I went to practice my practical exam with a coworker and discovered that I hadn't been given the complete instructions on what was and was not needed for the exam. I way overplanned (which is better than not having enough). Needless to say, I can't wait for today to be over.

As a reward for my exam (fingers crossed that I pass!), I have booked myself a 1 hour massage at the spa on Friday evening. No baby. No making supper. Just me and some tea and spa-goodness! (thank Goodnesss for a MIL who gives me gift cards to the spa)

I'm off for some last minute studying and possibly a shower..if I have time! Brains before beauty today!

tamara

xoxo

O.T.I.S

2010-12-08T06:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had to say GoodBye to our first pet. My sister and brother in law brought home a pug just after they got married. Otis was like a nephew to me. Part of the family. He was a purebred pug and we could not have loved him anymore. He wasn't very old...he was three in August. But his health has not been good for a long time. He had really bad allergies and some kidney and hip problems. The vet said that anything they could do would be short-term and his quality of life would continue to get worse.

My sister, Tynille, was the one who took him to the vet. She was so strong and held his little face the whole time.

Its been a rough few days for my family so please keep us in your prayers as we go through this together. The hardest part will be when the kids ask where he is. They are still very little so they probably won't remember him or this event too well.

I leave you with some pics of Otis Kehler. We love you puppy!

love auntie

xoxo

Christmas*Countdown {18 days}

2010-12-06T06:45:00.000-08:00

Gingerbread Men are probably the cutest cookie to decorate. You can make any shape you want and decorate with all sorts of colours and candies. We were boring this year. I really just liked the brown cookie with the white icing (and more importantly that was Jason's request, he cares about random things like that.)

This recipe (as seen in the photo) was given to me last Christmas and was printed on a Christmas card. How neat!

Here's the recipe:

1 cup butter

1 cup sugar (I've seen them made with both white or brown...I used white)

2 eggs

1 cup molasses

1/3 cup hot water

6 cups flour

pinch of salt

1 tbsp baking soda

1 tbsp ginger

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cream together butter and sugar.

Add eggs, molasses, and hot water. Mix well.

In a separate large bowl, mix together flour, salt, baking soda and ginger. Add to wet ingredients in increments. Turn out onto lightly floured surface and roll out to 1/4" thickness. I did this in steps I grabbed a chunk of dough, rolled it out, cut out the cookies and then grabbed another chunck. Use more flour to get rid of some of the stickiness. Cut into shapes and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake for 9 minutes or until lightly browned. (In my oven 8 minutes was perfection.)

When 100% cooled, decorate with icing and candies if you wish.

My icing recipe was 1 cup of icing sugar, whipping cream until desired thickness. You can add food colouring if you want.

These are really fun cookies to decorate with your kids or nephews and neices. Our son is too young but he did enjoy eating them:)

tamara

xoxo

Christmas*Countdown {20 days}

2010-12-04T06:25:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas! It is full of magical snowfalls and cozy hot-chocolate filled nights. I love the hustle and bustle of baking, making handmade, thoughtful gifts and celebrating with friends and family. This year I'm especially busy because I'm trying to finish my Personal training course before Christmas. That means alot of studying on top of everything else.

For the next few weeks I'm going to share some of the things that I'm keeping busy with during this Christmas season.

Today's recipe is my #1 Holiday treat: Marshmallow Squares or Confetti Square

note: this image is from google as we ate all ours before a photo could be snapped!

What you'll need:

1/2 cup of margarine

1 cup smooth peanut butter

2 cups butterscotch chips (make it a chocolate square by substituting choc. chips.)

1 to 1-1/2 cups of coloured marshmallows (it just looks nicer than plain white ones)

Line a 9x9 pan or 9x13 pan with waxed paper (both the sides and the bottom).
Place margarine and peanut butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir until they are melted together.
Remove from heat.
Stir in butterscotch chips immediately until they are melted.
Set aside and let cool until the bottom of the pan can be touched comfortably.
Stir in marshamllows and pour the mixture in lined pan.
Refrigerate for approx. 1 hour.
ENJOY:):)

I have so many memories of my grandma making this at Christmas time! I plan to make it part of my family traditions for my son.

Even as I'm typing this I get all giddy inside for Christmas. Christ's birth is such a reason to celebrate!!!

tamara

xoxo

First Vintage Purchase

2010-11-26T19:22:00.000-08:00

I just made my first vintage clothing purchase...and it wasn't even for me!!!

I bought this amazing toddler blazer from 3ringcircus.

Thanks holly for leading me to it!

click for more details

I'm so so so excited! I can't wait to put it on Cohen. He will be so stylish for all those Christmas functions.(sshh I told the hubby that I would save it for a Christmas present...but I think I'll have to break it out before!)

I have a busy weekend planned: a grand opening party, movie night with my little family, party on Sunday, and I guess I'll probably watch some football.

Have an awesome weekend:)

tamara

xoxo

2010-11-19T10:48:00.000-08:00

Today we are crossing the border. We are risking our lives on our winter roads..hehe. My husband's boss takes all the staff and their families to Grand Forks for two nights once a year. And that time has come again.

There will be super target...I could spend the whole weekend there.

A yummy mexican place for supper tonight...chips free..dinner extra.

Ice cream.

Starbucks of course.

Its also our first time travelling with a toddler. The longest we have ever gone is an hour and a half. Grand Forks is only a few hours but I'm more worried about us all sleeping in one room. There is a pool at our hotel and I'm so excited because.....I can wear my bikini again. I never thought that day would come. I tried it on yesterday and I actually felt comfortable and confident. Its been a year of very hard work and I've tried so so hard to get back to my pre baby state. My tummy skin is still a little loose but there isn't much that can be done about that.

I need to start/finish packing!

I hope everyone has an awesome weekend..I know I will:)

xoxo

tamara

hair inspiration

2010-11-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

I have an appointment with the talented Holly for Monday afternoon...I googled some images and here's a few styles/cuts that I like.

I remember even in high school, Jessica Alba has been a huge "hairspiration" for me. Its probably we have similar face shapes and colouring. I'm always drawn to her styles.

Any suggestions????

tamara

xoxo

Baked French Toast

2010-11-14T06:07:00.001-08:00

Cohen and I were getting bored of breakfast. We were hungry but were wanting more from that first meal of the day.
He loves pancakes, waffles, etc. so I decided to make french toast. I could remember the basics of french toast making but wanted a reminder of the quantities of ingredients. The only recipe that I could find in my cookbooks was for Baked French toast. Get this...its made with yogurt!!! You will need:
3 eggs
1/4 cup of your favourite yogurt (i did blueberry and pomegranate)
2 tbsp of sugar
dash of salt
1/2 tsp of vanilla
1/2 tsp of cinnamon
4 slices bread of your choice (I used twelve grain..for fiber)

Beat your eggs by hand and then beat in all the rest of the ingredients.

Dip each slice of bread in the mixture getting it all soggy.

Pick it up and let the excess drip for a few seconds.

Place your slices on a well greased baking sheet or baking mat. Pour the extra egg mixture over top of your slices. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes PER SIDE:)

These were so yummy and will taste different depending on the flavour of yogurt you used. We just put a little syrup on ours and gobbled them up. But you could do icing sugar, syrup, or even berries and whipped cream.

Enjoy

tamara

xoxo

Whew...what a long day...

2010-11-07T12:42:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was at our local craft show!
It was a long day but I did have a lot of fun.
Traffic was a bit slower than anticipated.

upcycled tank tops = cute crochet embellished tote bags

fruit cozies...i personally love the owl on the right hand side.

Can't wait for more shows. Its so scary to put yourself out there like that. All the prep work, the late nights, and putting your work out there for everyone to see and critique....scary stuff.

I guess it will be a process to gain some confidence in what I'm trying to do. Our local craft scene needs some young, fresh blood so I'm happy to be involved:)

tamara

xoxo

Yabba Dabba Good Time

2010-11-01T06:53:00.000-07:00

Growing up we never participated in trick or treating, but always dressed up and went to fun carnivals at our church.

Its not different for our son. We dressed up and visited grandparents and then spent the evening playing games and collecting candy at church. Here are a few shots of our evening...

Here's Cohen (aka Bam Bam)
Here he is hunting and gathering for supper..hehe

My niece, Pebbles

Cohen and I (Betty and BamBam)

Wilma & Pebbles

Betty & BamBam

We had lots of fun. Jason didn't want to dress up as Barney...I call him the party pooper. But he was a trooper taking pictures and lugging around Bam Bam. Thanks honey!

53 days until Christmas

woohoo!

tamara

the journey

2010-10-30T06:30:00.001-07:00

Sometimes when I sit down to prepare a post...I have nothing to say. I'm so busy that I must have something to share right???

Well, I have realized that I'm so busy doing stuff that I don't have time to think. Not about how I feel, what I'm doing, what's important in life. I think it's okay to be busy. If I'm not busy I get lazy..so at least for me it's a good thing.

What I'm striving for is BALANCE. I want to work towards giving the right amount of time with my family, working, being active & healthy eating, and my relationship with God.

I'm going to start to be more reflective so I don't feel like I'm running around for no reason. I have signed up for Kristin's Journalling Saves Journal Prompts. I'm hoping it will give me the push towards writing down how I'm feeling or at least force me to think about it.

I need to get back into doing yoga more regularly. My mind, body, and spirit will be working as one and that will definetly help with the whole balance issue.

Does anyone else feel like this world is spinning so fast? How do you deal?

tamara

xoxo

image via seeds-of-intention-blog.com

If you like ice cream...

2010-10-24T06:38:00.000-07:00

Do you often have an ice cream cone as your night time snack? Any type of snacking can be a hard habit to break. Knowing that there are alternatives out there can help you curb those cravings.

I got the following idea from by employer at the gym, Deanna.
Take one ice cream cone which, depending on the brand, only contain about 10-17 calories.
And take some yogurt. I like Yoplaits Source yogurt. There is no sugar added and they have a dessert selection line that is so so yummy.

If you eat these two at the same time you hit that craving for the crunch with the cone and yogurts the next best thing in terms if ice cream.

You can also but your yogurt into your cone and freeze it so its nice and crispy and then you have a fro-yo cone without the extra calories.

Try this out tonight!!!

tamara

(images via google)

My First Ever Craft Show

2010-10-18T13:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I participated in my first ever craft show! It made for a really long weekend but fun nonetheless. I did fairly well. My goal for this craft show was to get my name out there. The next craft show I'm doing is on November 6 so it gives me some more time to add to my inventory and create a few more items:) Here are some pics of my table!

My prized possession: I had one kid tell me that he was sure it was for a playstation. I couldn't believe that kids don't know what typewriters are these days. It makes me feel really really old:)

A few people wanted to but it..but I'll never let it go!

I had to sacrifice the weekend with Cohen to attend. But he forgives me...Look at that face:)

love,

tamara

Recipe Wednesday

2010-10-13T09:00:00.000-07:00

The biggest difficulty I find being a wife/mom is meal ideas. I have several goals when meal planning:

save money

enough prepared food for leftovers

quick prep

healthy as possible

My boss told me of an idea that I think is the most genius thing ever! Slow cooker chicken! I know, I know..you are thinking what's so ingenious about slow cooker chicken, right?

Easy peasy...take at least three FROZEN chicken breasts and put them in your slow cooker. Sprinkle some sort of seasoning over top. I used some poultry seasoning but you can use whatever you want. Turn you slow cooker on. And that's it. I had my on low for at least 6 hours. Or overnight and then keep it warm until you are ready to eat.

Your house will smell of roast chicken..yum! Take the leftover juice and add some cornstarch and you have a perfect gravy.

The possibilities are endless with this chicken. Use it for any meal that you need cooked chicken for. For example, soups, pizzas...etc!

Super easy! Enjoy!

Momma Fit

2010-10-06T06:15:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know, I'm a certified fitness instructor. Healthy living is a passion of mine. I'm not perfect at it all the time but I try.

Long before we were even thinking of starting a family, I started to get myself in really great shape. I wanted to have the healthiest pregnancy. So what started as a desire for pregnancy is now my life.

I notice all the time that once women have children, they kinda forget who they are. The focus is on the children (which is a good thing). But there has to be : BALANCE. That's my word of the year. Balancing: kids, husbands, food, laundry, cleaning, finances, friends, family, church, school..etc.

People ask me all the time, "where do you have the time to work out?" Simple, I make time. Now sometimes it means that I have to stay up later than I would like because I'm at the gym. Or sacrificing an hour with my son or husband in order to work out. Think about it this way, if you make the goal to go to the gym or do somesort of workout 3x a week for 1 hour. That's only 3 hours out of your whole week!

Here are some tips on making that time possible for you:

Include your kids in your workout. Most children thinks its so much fun to see mom work out. Cohen's favourite is burpees. He giggles and giggles. There are so many exercises out there that include your baby in some way. It can be a great time for you and your kids. You are being an example to your kids that exercise is important.

Put your kids in the stroller or have them run with you or ride their bikes along side you. Again this can be a great way to bond with your kids.

If you expecting, exercise is hugely important. Research shows that expectant mothers who exercise regularly througout their pregnancy have smaller weight babies which can reduce their risk of obesity later in life.

Make sure one of your workouts a week is without your kids. Its important for moms to take that time for themselves. You will feel happier and have a boost of energy. And moms everywhere know how important energy!

Exercise isn't the only thing necessary to be a healthy mamma! Nutrition is usually 50% of it too!

That's another post:)

Most communities have mom and baby programs. Research some in your area. Its a great way to meet other moms in your neighbourhood, interact with your baby, and do something great for yourself.

If you have any questions or want some specific exercises, let me know:)

A beautiful Time of Year

2010-10-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

I'm back at it. I took a haitus from blogging this summer. One of my goals for this year was to create a blog that I love. Its still a work in progress but here I am.

Fall is my favourite time of year. I love the cool weather and the gorgeous colours. This year my son is old enough to love playing outside in the leaves and at the park. Today we went for a walk around town. I got to enjoy all the beautiful colours and he was rewarded with some swing time!

(source: google images)

He is such a cutie!

You will be seeing more of me around these parts:)

tamara

I should be washing my windows..but I'm doing this instead

2010-04-17T06:30:00.000-07:00

(source)

I saw this originally on Rachel's blog and thought I would play along.

1. When do you feel happiest? Sitting outside in the sun on a blanket reading or crafting while my son plays beside me.

2. How do you take care of yourself? I try to go to the gym three times a week. I participate in two bootcamp classes. I shower regularly. I brush everyday (and floss when I remember). I try to put somewhat of an effort into my wardrobe even when I'm just staying at home.

3. Are you internally (by yourself) or externally (by others) motivated? I would say..some of both. I motivate myself to not sit around all day and do something useful. Most of my creative motivation comes from others though. I'm still discovering who I am creatively.

4. What do you do for fun? I love to go out for appetizers. If my husband ever asks me what I want to do that's what I'll say. I also like going thrifting. The thrill of what I might find makes me giddy!

5. What intimidates you? Starting something new. Like Rachel and Elsie's Journal Class. I'm a little nervous about expressing my self in that way.

6. What is something you're proud of? My boys..my husband for working so hard for our family. And my 9 month old son Cohen. I love to watch him grow up and learn new things. Words can't describe how proud I am of him. I could talk about him all day:) (but don't worry I won't)

7. Finish this sentence. I never... want to be a "mom". I want to try to always stay young and not let life take over me. I want to always feel like I'm someone my children and husband will be proud of.

8. Favourite vacation spot? Seriously..I've never really went anywhere exciting. So my dream vacation would be to California. Or really anywhere I can see an ocean (except the Artic, I'm talking somewhere warm).

9. Today is a (rate from 1-10). Its only 9 am, but I would say so far a 7. My husband has to work today and I'm on the outer edge of a sinus cold. But I'm optimistic that the day will be fabulous anyways.

10. Finish this sentence: If you knew me really well you'd know... being a stay at home mom/wife is my dream. And I'm so fortunate that I'm able to do that.

That was fun...If you do this too, leave me the link in the comments section.

Bye bye,

tamara

xoxo

a beautiful day in this neighbourhood

2010-03-30T14:35:00.000-07:00

(excuse the lack of makeup and attention at all to what I look like)

Jason was home sick today. The flu has been hitting our family hard. Cohen was sick on and off all last week and I am just thankful for ginger ale and crackers.

It was such a beautiful day so we decided it would be good for our ailing bodies to head outdoors. We spread out a blanket and enjoyed the weather. Cohen was very content and loved the wind across his face.

My attempt at a family portrait.

my boys *heart*

caught mid sneeze

current project..embroidered tote for my baby sister

eating leaves..but what else can you expect from an 8 month old

Cohen was very upset that the ginger ale was gone and that this bottle does not have a nipple!

How did you sepnd your day?

tamara

xoxo

Dear Baby Cohen

2010-03-26T06:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Baby Cohen,

You are 8 1/2 months old today. We have given you countless baths. Some in the sink until you got too big. Now you bath in the tub like a big boy. We have used the same shampoo since you were born. It never really lathered that well, but it was a gift so I figured we would just use it until its gone. Last night, Daddy was gone so I decided I would give you a bath to pass the time. I sat down beside the tub and reached for the shampoo. For the first time, I read the bottle. The label says, "Baby Bedtime Bubble Bath". I found the actual shampoo in the cupboard. Sorry Baby Cohen for your lack of clean hair. The next 8 1/2 months will be different.

love,

momma

2010-03-22T06:43:00.000-07:00

I've been really MIA lately..sorry. My grandparents have been visiting for the past few weeks and so I've been spending alot of time with them. We go out for lunch almost every day..to Tim Horton's. They spoil me by watching Cohen when I go to the gym. I don't mind taking him but its nice to have that time to myself.

Last weekend we went to Regina to visit one of our friends who is doing his RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) training. He graduates April 6 and then him and his family are moving 9 hours away:( So we spend a couples only weekend shopping, swimming and eating. We haven't been kid free as a group for almost 4 years.

I have to tell you that I am so excited for Rachel and Elsie's Art Journal class. I am excited to learn how to journal effectively. I'm not much of a scrapbooker but I think this will be a lot of fun.

A day of babysitting, exercising, cleaning, laundry awaits...

Ode to Spring and Dresses

2010-03-08T13:59:00.000-08:00

I don't know if its the warming Spring air or the fact that I'm so close to losing my post baby flub, but lately I've had an obession with cute spring dresses. I love how a cute and simple dress can make you feel so beautiful.

I think Forever 21 and I need to have a date...

tamara

xoxo

Canadian Pride:)

2010-03-01T06:15:00.000-08:00

WE WON GOLD!!!!

source: google

Yesterday morning, in anticipation for the big game, I painted my nails red, white, and gold. I knew there was a good chance that they would win. But man, that would have sucked if they had lost! It was a super tight game, but how great for us Canadians to win on home soil!

Have a great Monday:)

xoxo

vintage books

2010-02-19T06:01:00.000-08:00

I love to read. Somedays all I want to do is cuddle up on the couch with a warm blanket, some hot tea and a great book. *dream*
My favourite books are vintage ones. I love the way the smell and the way the paper feels. Its interesting to read all the different words and sayings of the times they were written in. I'm reading a book right now about the revolution in Nova Scotia and there are a lot of "thy's" and "thou's".

I'm going to try hard to get Cohen to love to read. I read to him while I was pregnant and I read to him now. Its getting hard right now because he wants to hold the books and eat the pages! I'm looking right now for vintage children's books.

Classic

The illustrations on these books were so simple and so beautiful!

I love this suitcase inspiried by illustrations

Oh Dick and Jane! How you taught me to read...

How great would these lamps look in a children's room..love it!

Its going to be a long day. We are having company for supper...which we hardly ever do...meaning I don't remember the last time. I'm not too confident in my cooking abilities but I guess I have to get over it:)

I'm going to do a lot of prep this morning so I won't be so stressed this afternoon.

have a great day!

tamara

xoxo

a step towards a healthy valentine's day

2010-02-12T06:24:00.000-08:00

As a fitness professional I'm always trying to find a balance of what we all need to do and what we can get away with so that we are happy!

What's Valentine's Day without sweets? My favourite is anything chocolate. But I have found a healthier version of mousse brownies that are so delicious! There is a secret ingredient that takes the place of flour. Can you guess what it is?

There are people out there who can not have flour. (Celiac's) So this is a great alternative for them or for anyone who wants to reduce the amount of flour they are eating.

Mousse brownies:

You will need:
-1 can or 1 1/2 cups of black beans, drained and rinsed (secret ingredient)
- 3 eggs
- 1/3 cup of oil
- 2 tbsp of vanilla
-1/2 cup of cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cup sugar
- 1-2 tsp of baking powder

Preheat your oven for 350 degrees.

In a blender, mix together beans, eggs, oil and vanilla until smooth.
Mix together the rest of the ingredients in a large bowl.
Pour bean mixture overtop of the dry ingredients and blend until smooth.
Pour in to a greased pan.

Excuse the UGLY pan. I baked this one for 35 minutes.

This recipe is so versatile. You can bake it for less time and it will more of a mousse.

You can but a graham cracker crust and have a yummy chocolate square.

Replace the black beans for white kidney beans and add white chocolate and you've got a white mousse brownie.

If your boyfriend or husband is taking protein powder...you can replace have the sugar with protein powder.

The list is really endless of all the ways you can make it!

My husband is addicted to sweets. So I made this for him without telling him what's in it. He almost ate the whole pan by himself!

cold cold winter

2010-02-07T13:08:00.000-08:00

The wind is howling...the cold goes right to your bones.
A perfect Sunday afternoon to stay indoors ALL day without guilt.
Superbowl...what is that? I'm going to craft all afternoon and cuddle with my husband and baby on the couch, in our toasty warm house.

Check out this photo art by Raceytay

i want a suit like this.. hehe

I could eat this baby he's sooo cute!

This is my pic of one of my Style School projects that I'm in the middle of...I'm sure "does it give unicorns?" doesn't make sense so most people.

Here's the story...my husband and I were sitting on the living room floor watching tv. There was a commercial that had a unicorn on it. Once it was over my husband turns to me, very seriously I might add, and asks "does it give unicorns?" I said "Pardon me?" To which he repeated the question. We both ended up laughing so hard. He was trying to ask me a serious question and I thought he was going crazy. He wasn't making any sense. Finally I asked him if he meant "do unicorns exist?" And he said yes. I went on to tell him that he wasn't speaking english properly and he insisted that he was correct in his grammar.

My brother in law is from Germany and he said that "does it give" is a direct translation from German. Well that may be true but English it just doesn't make sense.

I'm cross stitching this onto a pillow for Jason for Valentine's Day. He knows I"m making something but he doesn't know what it says.

Its time to retire to the sitting room..hehe

tamara

xoxo

February is Heart Month

2010-02-05T09:32:00.000-08:00

February is Valentines and love but its also heart month for The Heart and Stroke Foundation. I volunteered to be a canvasser for one street in our town. I was really excited about it until I started today. As I was walking up the driveway of the first house, I became so nervous and remember how much I dislike having someone come to my house. I believe in the cause and so want to help. I finished one sectio of my route but I came home feeling pretty bummed. I don't really want to quit...I don't want to be a quitter. But I don't know if I'm cut out for this.

What would you do?

If you would like to donate to the Heart and Stroke Foundation click here. (canada)

or in the US American Heart Association.

23 things to do before 24

2010-01-30T20:39:00.000-08:00

1. Develop an idea I have, and open an etsy shop

2. Crochet a granny square blanket

3. Create a blog I'm proud of (and a name!)

4. Dedicate more time for my relationship with Jesus.

5. Write a letter to at least one person a month.

6. Take the Handmade pledge..YAY!!!

7. Find some friends to craft with

8. Create a schedule for housework.

9. Sew a dress or skirt for myself.

10. Journal my pregnancy from last year.

11. Sew curtains for master bedroom and stain my dresser.

12. Learn how to use my camera...not using Auto all the time

13. Work hard to lose my "babyskin" by going to the gym 3x a week.

14. Complete my pre/post natal fitness instructor certification.

15. Go on an awesome road trip.

16. Bake and decorate an amazing cake for Cohen's first birthday

17. Buy some original art for my home.

18. Give blood

19. Keep Flickr updated (take more pics)

20. Write love letters to my husband.

21. Plant a wicked awesome garden.

22. Take Cohen for a walk (when its nice outside)

23. Write a children's book with Jason

Today is my 23rd birthday...and those are my goals.

I love my little family!

xoxo

i guess its my birthday soon

2010-01-27T14:47:00.000-08:00

My birthday is on Sunday. My feelings toward it are neutral. I don't have a problem with the age (23). I have always love birthdays and was always super excited for mine. But this year is different and I don't know why.

In an effort to increase my own personal excitement I put together a wish list:

an sweet Team Lovely Painting by Elsie
awesome plaid ipod touch skin

Chariot jogging stoller with bike attachment

fujimax instax (I would even take one without hello kitty on it)

amazing hoodie by Replicca

toms (love this pair)

my own sewing machine (again hello kitty version not required)

all images not sourced are from google images

tamara

xoxo

a little thrown together

2010-01-25T13:24:00.000-08:00

this is the kind of day its been here (the view from my kitchen window)

I had a great crafting day on Saturday. Cohen was sleeping and Jason was working. It was so awesome to have some time to work on my Style School projects!

My little son is super adorable. This week he learned how to sit on his own. Sometimes he falls i.e the pic above. It makes him so much happier (if that was possible). He just hates his exersaucer now. He also started to babble a whole lot more. Cohen just brings me so much joy. If I'm ever tired or cranky he just smile at me and my mood instantly changes.

I love being a mommy!

I can't wait until he says cute things like Holly's boy Simon! (mommy I ate a candle..hilarious)

all for now,

tamara

xoxo

mommy post

2010-01-20T06:42:00.000-08:00

Well..today is the day..Cohen is just over 6 months old..and I've decided to stop giving him any breastmilk. I am feeling so guilty about this but I think its time.
When he was almost two months old I was admitted to the hospital with a staff infection and mestitis. The end result was that my left breast had to lanced and drained due to a severe infection and my milk never returned. My right breast was still producing but hardly anything at all. I was nursing and feeding him formula for every feeding. When he cut two teeth and learned how to bite and I stopped nursing him altogether..I figured he wasn't getting much anyways and I didn't want to be a chew toy.
SO..up until today I've been pumping every few hours and then topping up his bottles of formula with breastmilk. I know its good for them but I don't think the amount that he gets is really going to help him.
It will be nice not to have to worry about pumping and everything...but I loved being able to supply my baby with "nature's food", whatever little bit it was. I know I probably could have seen myself pumping for another year but I know the longer I do the harder it will be for me to stop.
Nothing about my post natal recovery was good. I had planned to breastfeed until 9 months for sure so all this is just hard to swallow. I feel like I'm letting myself down. Wish me luck!

2010-01-14T12:00:00.000-08:00

While I feeding Cohen is breakfast my mind started to wonder to his first birthday party. I want it to be so special. I love summer parties. Jason and I's birthdays are both in the dead of winter so it will be nice to celebrate in some warmer weather.

We have super tree in our backyard for a tire swing and that's what I want to get Cohen for his birthday.
I started to search for some pictures and became really inspired by the glorious trees with tire swings on them....

all pics found on flickr

love lune

2010-01-13T13:54:00.000-08:00

I won Studio Lune's Holiday Giftaway. Today I received my loot and this is some of what I won:

Thank you so much Jill and Mel!

tamara

xoxo

a dream

2010-01-11T06:27:00.000-08:00

I always thought that as soon as I was a stay at home wife/mother I would have all the time in the world to further my relationship with Jesus. I would always say "Ok God, just let me stay at home and then I will have time for you" But I realized that's not the case. It doesn't matter whether you work or not, you will always have an excuse..you have to make time.

I had a dream the other night that was very bizarre in some of the details. (like all dogs DO go to heaven but they have to be given a shot for pain, because on the journey to heaven their paw nails melt!) I know .... crazy. In my dream, we all new Jesus was coming back and we were just sitting outside waiting..like we knew it was for sure going to happen in a matter of minutes. But I had a sudden panic that I didn't know if I was going to heaven or not. And I was looking for Jason and he was asleep on the couch watching tv. (which is something we argue about often) And I told him..How can you sleep on a day like this???? Anyways, for me this dream was a wake up call..if I want to have peace about my eternal future..I have to make time for a relationship with Jesus. I want to be secure about my future and the future of my family. I have son to raise now and I want to be an example for him. After my dream I woke up Jason and we had a good talk at 6:30 in the morning, and Jason was suprisingly alert..If you knew Jas then you would know that he loves his sleep and almost nothing interuppts it. We made a decision to shut the tv off in the evening and do our personal and couple devotions. We don't even have cable so all that's on is usually just those lame entertainment news shows.

I think this will really help us make time for Jesus and eachother.
This was kinda personal but it feels good to have a place to vent and just "talk" it out!

xoxo

A year in pictures

2010-01-08T17:21:00.000-08:00

Maybe its because I have a baby now..but I'm becoming really obsessed with taking as many pictures I can. I'm not really into "photography" but I love having pictures of things and people that I love.

So one of my goals for 2010 is to take a picture everyday. Here is what I have so far:

Also I entered Janel's Peace..Pass it on giveaway with this photo: I tried to hold up Cohen's fingers but he just wouldn't cooperate.

have a great weekend!

xoxo

HAPPY 2010!

2009-12-31T17:32:00.001-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR:)

owl ipod

2009-12-31T07:54:00.000-08:00

I got an Ipod Touch from my husband for christmas. I made this owl cozy for it last night using Elsie's tutorial.

It was super easy. I made it a little too big but just sewed a button on the back to keep the ipod from falling out.

I hope everyone has a super night as we say goodbye to 2009 and a big HELLO to 2010! Its going to be an awesome year:)

wardrobe wednesday

2009-12-30T06:24:00.000-08:00

As I sit here on this Wednesday morning, in my hello kitty pjs, I was brought back to thinking about the first day of school. I remember it was always the best day of the year. Getting to know everyone again, sharing your summer stories. But, more importantly, it was the best day for new outfits. If you were like me, you shopped for hours trying to compile the greatest new outift. That perfect outfit would set the tone for the entire year. These are a few pics that remind me of that day.

(source)

This photo is from a friend of mine on facebook. She's only 15 or 16. Her and her friends are always snapping photos of eachother. They are very creative and theses are some of my most recent favourites.

I entered this sweet giveaway! Kaelah is so real and I read her blog everyday:)

xoxo

i had a wonderful christmas.

2009-12-28T07:33:00.000-08:00

This was Cohen's first Christmas. Although at five and half months, he wasn't as into it as I was.
This is a pastel drawing of Cohen that my brother in law, Jeff, made for us for Christmas. Words cannot describe what this means to me!

Its been a couple of busy weeks but I'm excited about what's to come in 2010. I have yet to set out some goals...but I will start with revealing my some of my handmade gifts.

I used Elsie's moustaches to the envelopes on my christmas cards.

My dad is insanely difficult to find gifts for. When you ask him what he wants he just says: "time with the family." Sweet? yes...but I can't just not get him anything. So I used to Style School tutorial and made him this shadow box of things that remind me of him:

For my little "sister" Steph, who is in university, I made her this laptop sleeve:

We took Cohen to see Santa..he wasn't scared at all but he did flirt alot with the little girl elf.

For my neice and son and all of our friends kids...I made them each a sock monkey. I started them in November and they were really the first thing I have ever really sewed. So the craftsmanship leaves something to be desired. But I think they are kinda cute.

I guess I forgot to take pictures of the rest of the gifts that I made. I made my mom some cup cozies, my sister a bag out of a tank top...I think that's it!

I hope everyone had a great christmas...I'll leave you with some pics of some of the gifts I received for Christmas:

cupcake lip gloss

Cohen's face is priceless here.
my hubby got me a ipod touch ! I've wanted one for so long. And I already purchased the Owl city album!

Check out this sweet chick from Germany. She has great tutorials. Thanks to her I learned how to make a granny square!

what was your christmas/holidays like?

xoxo

christmas love

2009-12-16T09:27:00.000-08:00

Christmas...leaves me feeling so inspiried. Everyone is so giving during the holidays.

Check out my latest discovery, Violet Bella.

This is my favourite from her recent giveaway. The owl necklace is killer..

cookies are burning...gotta go

xoxo

late night

2009-12-12T21:58:00.000-08:00

I'm so focused on finishing my christmas gifts this year, I've been neglecting some of my household "wifely" duties. I sat on the couch and was stitching a few presents while my dear sweet husband cleaned up the house. He swept the floor, cleaned the kitchen, and even did a few loads of laundry. I'm not going to complain.

Last night we had a Christmas banquet for a company I do some bookkeeping for. I had purchsed a nice dress in Grand Forks last month but up until now had no where to wear it:

the dress debut:

I love Christmas but I'm going to be so glad when I have all my christmas crafts complete...then I can focus on style school.

night night

xoxo

baby, baby, baby teeth

2009-12-06T17:47:00.001-08:00

souce: flickr

swollen gums,

heat rash all over,

rosy red cheeks

I'm discovering the world of teething. So far its not so bad..at least for me. He hasn't been cranky at all but I just feel so bad for him. Up until now, he has not had to experience any pain and now a sharp hard object his pushing through his soft tender gums. I would get some morphine if that happened to me. Poor little guy.

After getting home from a baby shower this afternoon, I discovered an awesome giveaway. Check it out.

This one is my favourite:

got a lot do to...night night

xoxo

his first noel...

2009-12-04T22:09:00.000-08:00

I have always loved Christmas. But now that I have my son I want to make sure that Christmas is super special for him. Yes I know he's only 4 1/2 months and won't remember but I'm still going to make the effort.

One of the things I did was make an advent calendar that is full of fun family "things to do." It will not only be good for

us as a family but it will also help Jason and I spend some time together. (there is a few "couple only" activities;)) I purchased my advent calendar from Red Velvet Art.

It was super easy to make and the instructions were super easy to follow.

I am spent..long day...

tomorrow:

work on xmas gifts

clean house

wedding and reception

laundry

xoxo

2009-12-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

(source)
xoxo

Get Festive...just in time for snow

2009-12-01T06:37:00.000-08:00

My mom and I drove into Winnipeg last night to go to Studio Lune's Get Festive Workshop. We created four holiday goodies....pom pom garland, two vintage button wreaths, holiday gnome and felt bluebirds which we didn't have time to finish.

Finger knitting is awesome and it might be a new addiction for me! Its so easy and somewhat relaxing.

Off to get started on some projects and finish some others.

xoxo

Countdown to Christmas: 24 days

I woke up to this in the morning. Its weird when you look outside and its much different then what you usually see.

Snow on December 1st and on Holly's Gala evening at the salon. You can't get much better than that.

monday morning=relaxation

2009-11-30T07:09:00.000-08:00

While "working" people despise Monday mornings...I quite enjoy mine. Especially when lil Cohen is still sleeping. Saturday night he woke up 4 times. Needless to say I was not a happy camper. (sigh) Tis the life of a baby I guess.

On Saturday my mom and I went to MCC (the local thrift shop). I was looking for some old fabric but I ended up being drawn to the book section. I love all books but especially old ones. The one book I found ended up being just the cover ...no pages inside. They gave it to me for free. Its like a mystery...I'll never know what was supposed to be inside. I also found a special book for a special boy for Christmas.

Another of one of my finds was a hot iron transfer for embrodiery that has never been opened. There is no year on it. The package was printed with a price of 15 cents...I paid 50:)

We tried to take a family portrait with the webcam last night...this is the best one:

happy monday xoxo

lovely sunday afternoons

2009-11-22T13:06:00.000-08:00

I love Sunday afternoons. I have so much to do but Sundays are a great day for relaxing. I finally finished my Christmas gift for my mom. (I can't say what it is because its a surprise!)

Now I just have to finish all the kiddies gifts.

First I'm going to finish the felt garland that I started last week.

I love the garland here

On Friday it was so beautiful so I packed Cohen up in his penguin hat and we went for a walk. He is so adorable. I just love him so much:)

Off to the Pizza Hut in Steinbach for supper..supposedly its the best one

have a lovely sunday

xoxo

37 Days 'til Christmas

2009-11-17T21:53:00.000-08:00

It's November 17 and its 3 degrees outside right now. This is Manitoba, right? Not that I'm complaining but its harder to get into the Christmas spirit when its so beautiful outside.

This Christmas I'm making a committment to try as hard as I can to handmade gifts. Or at least I will buy homemade gifts. It sounds so easy but it actually is so hard. Sometimes its easier to just buy the people we love something useless and expensive. I'm not doing this to save money necessarily but I wanted to embrace the true meaning of Christmas by showing my loved ones how much I care.

I'm learning to crochet as part of this endeavour. I rented some books from the library and it looked easy. I'm finding it pretty difficult. I keep trying buy I can't seem to hold my hook tight. Just practice, practice, practice.

Tomorrow I believe I'm going to start decorating my home for Christmas. Then perhaps start some yummy Christmas baking..yum, yum

Maybe I'll start with this scrumptious Cranberry Pear Crumble.

Cranberries are a great festive fruit:)

after midnight...(yawn) time for bed before Cohen awakens...

xoxoxo

three years:)

2009-08-19T12:05:00.000-07:00

Last night Jason and I went to Winnipeg on the Red River Cruise for our anniversary. We left Cohen with my parents so we had the night to ourselves. The night was full of interesting people. Lots of drunk people. Some drugs were being smoked as well. So we were probably the only two people..including the crew...who were in their right minds. Oh well..it makes for an entertaining evening.

2009-08-12T12:23:00.000-07:00

When he looks at me, he looks right into my eyes. He's changing so much everyday. A month goes by so fast. I love watching him learn and take in this outside world. When he looks at me, my heart melts and I forget that he kept me up for hours last night. Or that he won't nap for more than twenty minutes at a time today..making it impossible for me to nap or do much of anything else. Well I hear my little Cohen waking up from his ten minute nap...

Cohen Samuel

2009-07-26T17:15:00.000-07:00

Well...I'm officially in love. Little Cohen was born on July 15 after 26 hours of labour..and then a c-section. Defintely not the way I thought it was going to happen. Its a little hard sometimes knowing I can't do everything I want for him because my body needs to heal. He is super adorable. Even though he has his days and nights mixed up and he doesn't like to sleep in his bassinett..he's so worth it!

2008-10-02T21:04:00.000-07:00

I'm home. Its been a long day. Working two jobs makes me tired. I enjoy working at the gym but wow working from 7:30am - 8ish pm, makes me very thankful for sleep.

So right now I am in love with rain boots. I found some cheap ones at Giant Tiger that would do

I know the pic isn't very clear but you get the idea.

I've been trying to unlock my creative side. I know its in me somewhere but I've pushed it down for so many years that I'm having a hard time unlocking it. With my current job there is not much creativity I can unleash. I have ideas and plans in my head it is going to take a little bit of work to put them into action.

I want to say congratulations to Lauren and Clint and Aleksa on the arrival of Mikayla Elie Wiebe! She's a beautiful little angel!

all for now,

tamara

chai tea latte

2008-09-04T18:43:00.001-07:00

Two post all on my first day as a "blogger." Crazy!
Maybe I've just been out of the loop but I made the most amazing discovery tonight.
I was on my way home from writing my exam and I decided I should treat myself to a cafe mocha or something. Starbucks being an hour away is just not an option so I decide to cheap out and go to Tim's. Craving a starbucks chai tea latte, I ask them what kind of lattes they have. First one out of her mouth was a chai tea latte! You have no idea how much this pumps me up. I have gone in their so many times craving one and no I can get one. Ok ok its not nearly as good or as flavourful as starbucks(h). But it will help fill in the cravings. Gas is too expensive to justify a starbucks run.
Fall is spectacular. Cool weather. Chai tea lattes. Wearing my red trench. Oh love it! No I only need a pair of those gorgeous crocheted hand warmers from holly...still have to ask her about those.

tamara...xoxo

So I'm blogging

2008-09-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

I finally did it..started a blog i mean. I've always wanted to. I guess I just thought it would be too much. But its cold and rainy today and I have to day off so I decided this was as good of time as any. If I could have anything today it would be a chai tea latte. In order to make one I need a espresso maker..which i don't have. So until I invest in one I'm just going to have to drink my tea with out the frothy velvety steamed milk.
I'm supposed to be studying as I have an exam tonight. But I believe a better option on this cold day is to take a long, hot bubble bath..haven't had time to do that in a while.
Jason was home for lunch. It was nice to see him during the day. What's this world coming too. I wouldn't say I'm totally old-fashioned but I do like the idea of being a housewife. Sometimes I don't have time for all that I have to do. With work, school, a house to clean. Its overwhelming sometimes. I'm very blessed that Jason helps me but still it would be nice to have the evenings just to spend time doing things together. Our culture and economy makes that almost impossible. A one income home is pretty much something of the past. My goal? To change that. To be creative and come up with ways that I will be able to stay at home and make enough money that a full time job won't be necessary. I can dream can't I.