The Quest for Cadence

Cadence and the Chipettes

2012-01-28T12:13:00.000-08:00

Baking and Skiing

2012-01-28T12:03:00.001-08:00

Cadence suited up on Sunday ... ready to tackle the 'hills':

But not before the banana bread was ready!

My 'cat' rocks!!!

In An Effort to Just 'Catch Up'

2012-01-22T17:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Mary and Ladies of Merritts:

What can I say, I have fallen way behind and I can't seem to catch up. Here are any photos worthy of viewing that take us into 2012. I would like to say I'm going to get back to 'regular programming' but I've been taking some time for myself during the
evenings. I will do my best to provide a few snippets through the week! Hope you aren't working too hard!

Cheers!

Winter Play

Hangin' with the GB Family

Welcome 2012

Taking Down the Tree

Still Catching Up ... with even MORE Family Time

2012-01-10T18:51:00.000-08:00

On one of our final nights of the holidays at home we all went out for wings 'n things! Just a small group of ... 26.
It was a night of family, fun and food, of course!

There were even some games to play:

And there were wings ... lots and lots of wings ... there were even wings this crew had to sign waivers for!

A big THANK YOU was extended to Mark and Donna, for their generosity as well as a wee thanks to our waiter who dealt with our 'party'!

It was a great night! We are very lucky to be able to have this kind of time with our families during the holidays. I will miss them some day, but until then .... BRING.IT.ON!!!!

More Family Time ...

2012-01-07T18:36:00.000-08:00

Some serious poker faces:

But not in here!

Karaoke time:

Snow ... fnally!

Christmas with Family

2012-01-03T18:06:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas celebrations began on Christmas Eve with a traditional Ukrainian mass. It included an annual 'chat' with my childhood neighbour, Carolyn. It is always a pleasure to see her and now to watch her son 'serve' on the alter. From there we headed to Bush Street to meet up with the family, enjoy some food, open presents and this year, to fill up our red Solo cups!

Due to our rather late night, Santa didn't arrive until the wee hours of the morning, but come he did and oh boy, did he have a huge delivery for Cadence at Baba's house!

There was quite a mess when all was said and done.

Despite the turkey in the oven and the freezer full of baked goods Baba had, there was someone who insisted on baking 'RIGHT NOW!'

At least she was willing and keen to clean up!

Later in the day, we met up with the family again for round two of food and drink. This time we threw in a little music and dance!

It was a great start to the holiday festivities ... more to come!

We're Back ...

2012-01-02T05:55:00.000-08:00

and I'm ready (kinda, almost) to give you the updates.

Let's start with this year's Christmas card, which I call fresh, fun and dare I say ... Fabulous!!!

Science 101

2011-12-21T16:39:00.001-08:00

Cadence's uncles sure know what this girl wants!

Our little scientist got to work in her lab, first thing in the morning:

Experiment #1 had two parts: make slime and then add chemicals to create a rubber ball. Cadence takes care to exercise safety in the lab:

After 24 hours, the slime was ready:

And now for the final procedures:

The final product is awaiting us in the basement, I mean chemistry lab!

Experiment #2 involved milk, food colouring and soap:

A minor lab accident, that we didn't cry over:

Observe:

Observe some more ... it got really exciting!

Thanks Uncle Jay and Uncle Chris!!! This was a definite hit!

Alphie

2011-12-19T18:38:00.001-08:00

This little guy has kept me hopping EVERY night!!! I am now running out of places for this little fellow to hide.

It took Cadence about 2 weeks, a great little video and a sleepover at a friend's (who also has an elf) to let go of her 'fear'. She is now excited to look for him every morning, wish him well and say goodnight...a far cry from not going into any room Alphie was in alone!

Alphie has been a welcomed and wonderful tradition in our home again this year ... one we know won't last for too many ... at least not in the sense of truly believing in his 'magic'. Thankfully Christmas has a magic all of its own .....

It's ON!!!!

2011-12-16T04:34:00.000-08:00

Santa issued Cadence a challenge this year (thank you Magic Santa!) and she has been on it every morning!

The girl is making her bed!
It's not perfect ... yet, but mom and dad are happy nonetheless.

She's cracking us up in the process.
I sat on her bed one day after school and was told, "Mom, I made that bed, please get off!".
And last night as she tossed the pillows on the floor, she exclaimed, "Great, all my hard work is wasted!".

Where does she come up with this stuff???????

Who Let the Letters Out?

2011-12-11T16:26:00.000-08:00

This is Cadence's wee 'performance' at school:

Message From Santa

2011-12-05T20:10:00.001-08:00

Cadence was absolutely THRILLED to get a video message from Santa:

She was over the moon when he revealed pictures of her friends and family:

She was even excited when Santa challenged her to make her bed this year!!!

There is just something about the magic of this whole season!!!!

As for Alfie ... that's a whole other story ....

Randomness ....

2011-11-30T20:29:00.000-08:00

I've been having trouble keeping up here (and everywhere if truth be told!), but I am making good ground and expect to be where I want in the next few days. There is nothing like feeling caught up and that you have ev.ry.thing. under control ...
In an effort to get there, I'm just going to share a few random highlights from November ... in no particular or significant order!

Hanging with a good friend, doing hair and some serious sewing:

A fresh winter photo:

Organizing the loot bags:

The tree:

The gingerbread houses;

Phone girl:

The Surprise Birthday Party:
All dressed:

Christmas crafts:

And a guy in red:

Ah ... feeling good here ...

The Birthday PARTY!

2011-11-29T16:38:00.000-08:00

This year Cadence's birthday went off without a glitch ...
We had a slightly smaller guest list, a larger venue and whole lot of physical activity ... oh, and best of all, it was half the price and twice the fun!

There was...

ZUMBA time:

and glow stick accessories:

They were dancing in the dark ... almost:

and eating pizza and cake (not the big tray of veggies I took home!):

There were yoga mats ... perfect for a 'picnic':

and lots of generous presents:

There was even a makeshift 'mosh pit':

and then there was even more!

The Birthday

2011-11-21T18:55:00.000-08:00

Preparing the loot bags the night before and very happy to say goodbye to four:

Good morning FIVE and hello cash:

EXACTLY what I wanted ... get ready to rock ... even more:

Seven A.M concert ... yay!:

A birthday breakfast cinnamon bun:

Ready for a real photographer:

Dinner out with the folks and locking 'horns':

FIVE!!!!!!!

2011-11-18T18:01:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to my beautiful, big, FIVE year old!!!

C the Science Girl

2011-11-15T18:55:00.000-08:00

Cadence totally loves Science. She's seen every episode of Sid the Science Kid multiple times. So, when one of the readers she brought home was 'science' based, we took the opportunity to try the 'experiments' out.

Some things float and some things sink ... who knew???

He Sent the White Stuff ...

2011-11-14T17:11:00.000-08:00

I have no doubt that Winston got up there and took care of sending all of that white stuff our way...maybe he was trying to tell us he was okay.
He sure made someone smile that's for sure...

Those were photos taken first thing in the morning and even though she got lots of recess time outdoors, it wasn't quite enough.
She was back into it right after school ... til Mommy's toes were frozen ...

Winston sure would have loved being out there with us ...

Thanks little buddy!

WINSTON

2011-11-13T16:55:00.000-08:00

July 1, 1997 - November 10, 2011

I write this post with a sad and heavy heart today...

Thursday, we were in shock as we suddenly had to say goodbye to you, our dear Winston.

Although 14 and a half, you still had lots of energy, were able to jump up on the furniture and beds, climb the stairs and walk the block. Your next haircut was booked, we had food and treats stored away at Baba's for the next trip north and plans to include you in Cadence's photos next week.

But, on Sunday, I noticed you were breathing heavy and as I lay petting you, you turned your head and looked at me with those big brown eyes, and I knew in that moment, you weren't right ... you were hurting. We just didn't realize how quickly you would be ready to leave us buddy ... and for that we are so very, very sad. We wish we could have had just a little more time ... to snuggle, to be with you, to comfort you, to get one more little nose kiss. Oh how we will miss you!

How do I begin to write a fitting tribute to our beautiful, brave, loving bichon?

Winston, you truly were one of a kind! You were there from the beginning, creating a family for Sean and I. You were the 'baby' of our family for a long, long time. I remember and treasure those moments you would lay your head in my lap and comfort me as I cried for the other babies that never came. And oh, how after ten years you embraced Cadence into our little family. You NEVER left her side ... right up to those last nights, when you must have been in such pain, you mustered up the strength to jump up into her bed to keep her company. You made us so happy, Winston. We loved the way you had to be right up against us where ever we were sitting, how you were the nosiest neighbour on the block, the little skip you had in your step, the excited noises you would make when we got home, the way you looked after Cadence, always within her reach. Things just won't be the same around here without you, my friend!

Winston, we hope you had a good life with us ... we always said you didn't even know you were a dog ... you really weren't ... you were family!

We love you so much and are going to miss you like crazy ... you will be forever in our hearts!

Rest in peace buddy ......

All Dressed Up and Ready to Roll ....

2011-11-07T17:09:00.001-08:00

There were black and orange days, pumpkin carving, decorations and spooky food, costume wearing at dance and the big day itself! Halloween isn't just a night of trick or treating anymore ....

A Wonderful Wedding!

2011-11-01T19:17:00.001-07:00

There is nothing like a wedding to bring all the family together! I love seeing Cadence enjoy hanging with her cousins, aunts and uncles. It brings me back to wonderful memories ... luckily, I still get to enjoy hanging with MY cousins and aunts and uncles too!

Love this one of the groom ... he really has that, "Do I really want to do this?" look.

And he really did! He and his beautiful bride were simply glowing!

Here's our stunning beauty posing in her party dress...

Here's a few of the cousins:

One of many daughter and daddy dances:

Baba and the dancing queens:

Once again, as this is the second wedding in a few months (same outfits for us all) that we neglected to take any family photos.
Unfortunately that's what happens when I tend to be the one behind the lens! I'm going to have to get better at getting in on the shots!

Congratulations once again Mike and Alayna!!! Hope you 'kids' are enjoying Disney......

Why I Laugh EVERY Day ...

2011-10-30T19:10:00.000-07:00

Friday:

The kid who always wants company EVERYwhere she goes, including the next room, the bathroom ... you name it, out of the blue, runs to the washroom and not only closes the door, she LOCKS it. She then calls for me ....
Cadence: Mom, how long before bedtime?
Me: An hour and a half. Cadence, why did you lock the door?
Cadence: (with absolute attitude) 'Cause I'm going to the bathroom!!!!

Saturday:

I was reviewing her RESP and considering increasing the contributions then I asked the all important question, "Cadence, do you think you will go to university or college someday?". At first she said no, then yes, then she asked, "Mom, will I have to live with boys?" After assuring her she would NOT be living with boys she decided she would go to university or college. Guess I'll be increasing those payments!

Tonight:

After performing a naked dance, the little ham sat on the toilet, raised her arms in the air, shook her fists and began making grunting screamlike noises. I asked what she was doing. Her response, "I'm trying to get all the gunk out!". She thought she was pretty funny and continued her 'performance'. I have to agree!

She really has brought more joy to my life than I ever imagined! It's these simple moments that I treasure and am so thankful for ......

Annual Pumpkin Patch Visit

2011-10-24T18:38:00.001-07:00

We took the girls to the patch for an unbelievably, undeniably, unseasonably fabulous day!

She's Chinese

2011-10-20T18:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a little excerpt from tonight's conversation ....

Me: Oh, I better get my glasses.
Cadence: Why mom?
Me: Well, I'm going to see a movie and I might have to read words.
Cadence: Why mom?
Me: Well, the movie is in Chinese, so the english words will be on the screen.
Cadence: Mom, I should come. I would probably know the words 'cause I'm Chinese!

You ARE, and you are amazing!!!!

By the way, Snowflower and the Secret Fan ... book ... much better than the movie, FYI!

A Domestic Diva ...

2011-10-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

and MORE!

She bakes:

She sews:

Cadence's new little obsession is sewing. Her first project was the teddy bear peaking out of her backpack. She's made 'Stripey' a sleeping bag and a dress in the last week. I can't take credit ... thank you Roberta from daycare!!!

AND she reads, reads, reads:

All this talent AND she's awfully cute too!!! Love you peanut butter!

Giving Thanks ... Finally!

2011-10-17T17:52:00.001-07:00

What an unbelievably balmy Thanksgiving we had this year!!!! Since the pool was closed just days earlier, we improvised:

Although we were missing our head 'chef', dinner turned out to still be spectacular:

Forget 'pass the salt', the name of this game was pass the leg:

The partaking of the pie:

We gave thanks this year, for the wonderful weather and the opportunity to get together.
We give thanks every day, for our health, our families, and the abundance of joy we have in our lives ....
We are very lucky indeed!!!!!

Unplanned and Undeniable Fun!

2011-10-11T18:43:00.000-07:00

Fridays have become a bit of a free for all ...
Our door is open, the wine and KoolAid Jammers are chillin and ready and dinner ... well, we'll decide that while you're here!

On this Friday's menu ... spaghetti:

Cheers y'all:

Some serious 'apple' enthusiasts:

Mom always said, "Don't play ball in the house!":

Dancin', gymin' and zumbaing ... we did it all:

You were great company! Do come again ....

It's Over Now ...

2011-10-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe a week ago we were doing this:

And this:

Today we turned the furnace on.
Yep ... summer's officially over!
:-(

Visitors

2011-09-28T19:38:00.000-07:00

Cadence was very excited to have visitors this past weekend ... so were mom and dad for that matter!
Didi came for a few days and Uncle Mark, Auntie Donna and Evan and Aidan came up for dinner and ......

Drama:

Mallow roasting:

Hot tubbing:

Thanks for coming up guys ... we enjoyed your company immensely!

Hanging on ...

2011-09-20T18:57:00.001-07:00

to summer!
Despite the slightly chilly temperatures on the weekend, we still managed an evening swim ... fireside!

So much for 'mom time' in the hot tub:

There was some cozying up to the fire:

And getting comfy in our fleece:

We sipped on hot cups of cocoa...

And savoured the sweetness of jumbo mallows:

We are NOT done with summer yet ...... no sireeeee! We are hanging on for dear life ...

Back to Ballet

2011-09-19T18:47:00.000-07:00

I put forth some great efforts to try and convince Cadence to stick with gymnastics ... they were wasted!
My girl wants to dance so dance it is! After all, it's not about me is it????

She has 'graduated' from the local community programs to a proper dance studio ... and moms are NOT allowed.
Here's my big, beautiful girl dressed and ready to move it:

The Olympics are a ways off ... there's still time if she changes her mind!!!! LOL!

Adoption: A 6 Year Old's Definition

2011-09-15T18:06:00.000-07:00

One of the teachers at our school made a proposal to the grade one class to "adopt a tree".
A little girl asked, "What's adoption?".
A young student, who happened to be in Cadence's class last year, and who is a friend of our family, took it upon himself to to provide this answer:

"Adoption is when you go to China and you get a baby and you bring it home and love it and you become a family".

I think this six year old is pretty AWESOME!!!
He's also totally cute!

Back to School!

2011-09-07T17:17:00.001-07:00

Here she is ... ready for her first day of SENIOR Kindergarten:

She chose another BIG, HUGE Hannah Montana backpack:

A 'cheeky' photo on the rocks:

Her 'current' coat hook in the big hall:

Waiting on a friend ... or two:

Skipping once again ... I LOVE that she is so full of joy:

And she is off:

Cadence had a GREAT first day of school! She likes her class, her teachers and seems pretty excited. I'm hoping there are no changes on the horizon, but in this climate one can never be sure. We'll just take it a day at a time for the next week or two.

I'm very proud of you peanut! Work hard and have fun ....

Best Line of the Summer ...

2011-09-06T19:13:00.000-07:00

It is 9:00pm in Mexico. The internal aircraft lights have been turned off in preparation for landing. We are minutes from touching down. Cadence is completely excited and yells out:
"WE'RE GOING DOWN!!!!!!"
The plane erupts in laughter. Cadence becomes very angry ... she's embarrassed!
It was dang cute!

Back To School 'Treat'

2011-09-05T05:18:00.000-07:00

Cadence got a special 'treat' for going back to school!

Here she is getting psyched up in the big chair ... the teddy is a back up ... just in case:

She got the special treatment ... a tag team! I love the face in this one:

They got out the 'big guns' and ...:

TaDa! She's ready to go with her new bling:

We had a celebratory brave cone:

She never cried or flinched once:

Well done my darling! I'm so proud of you! Happy Back to School!

Shirts and Shoes and Dresses and Tights and ... OH MY!

2011-09-04T05:10:00.000-07:00

We pecked away at it, little by little, but I think we are ready ...

for Septemer anyway!!! LOL!
Although Cadence is looking pretty excited in this photo, it is still mom who was excited to do the back to school shopping (no surprise there!). She'll catch on eventually ...

How about these clogs!!!! I couldn't resist. They take me back ....

FOUR Years ....

2011-09-02T05:05:00.000-07:00

This is the first moment I held Cadence four years ago. It was a long awaited dream come true! She was and is more than I could ever have imagined and more. She is the light of our lives and has brought more joy than I thought possible.
We continue to be grateful to China for giving us one of their beautiful daughters ... she is the greatest gift!

Making Memories in Mexico!

2011-08-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

We just returned from a glorious 7 days in the Mayan! We ate, we drank, we swam, we spent time together as a BIG group ... 48!
Cadence got to spend time with her cousins as did the moms and dads. It was another trip of a lifetime.

Thank you to this AMAZING couple for making it all happen ... with style and grace (and a few extra perks).

Congratulations Donna and Mark on your 25th! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of this wonderful celebration!

Move Over Mozart!

2011-08-20T04:13:00.001-07:00

So far the lessons are going well. We'll see ....

Brilliant Answer!

2011-08-17T17:14:00.000-07:00

While on a little road trip to visit some family an hour away Sean asked Cadence a question.

Sean: Cadence, do you know where you are?
Cadence: Daddy, I'm right where I'm supposed to be!

Simply brilliant ...

The New Ride

2011-08-15T18:06:00.001-07:00

She's NOT Drowning!

2011-08-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

It took me a while to figure out how to capture video, but I did manage to capture a bit worth 'publishing' ...

She's such a little ham!
And quite the fish I might add!

Playing Around ...

2011-08-12T19:34:00.001-07:00

Backing Up ...

2011-08-12T11:05:00.001-07:00

As I sit and await the return of my darling little family, I find myself with some time on my hands to catch up on some of our summertime fun!

One of our afternoons with the F family was spent down at the waterfront. The kids enjoyed the fountains ... the adults took shelter the shade ... what a HOT one it was!

We explored the ponds and even hit the beach for a bit:

It was the beginning of another great day for our little gang!

Everyone Into the Pool...

2011-08-02T06:17:00.000-07:00

That has certainly been the phrase of the summer so far! The weather has been stellar to say the least. We have had tonnes of guests and have been busy in and out of the pool (someone's got to fix the snacks and drinks!). There hasn't been much time to snap photos or post here either ... hence the sparse summer posts.

Cadence mastered swimming within the first couple of weeks and has shed the water wings once and for all ... AMAZING!

We are now getting ready for renos and Mexico and then .... it is back to work! Wow how time flies ...

CBC Days

2011-07-28T03:32:00.001-07:00

Cadence pays attention ...
During her morning programs she came to realize that CBC was hosting a kid's day in Toronto. She knows it's not far and that her uncle Jay lives there. She asked if she could go. Of course, we indulged her!

The bus and subway ride were actually part of the highlight of the day:

She got to see all of her favourite characters live:

Cadence was fortunate to meet up with her favourite morning artist, Jeremy. This alone was worth the trip!:

There were many hands on activities to do, including planting a seed and arts and crafts:

We had a great day!
Thanks Jay and Chris for your hospitality as well!

Girl Time!

2011-07-25T17:59:00.000-07:00

Cadence and I spent an afternoon with our 'Good' friends.
We started off the day seeing a theatre production of Treasure Island. These two little ladies were pretty excited about their front row seats:

We took the opportunity to take some pictues on stage afterwards:

Then we had photos taken with some of the cast ... AAARRRRR matie!

Madison, our friend and sitter, was our favourite character by far:

Following the production we headed to Shirley's for some fine dining on the patio:

Later in the evening, the girls had some play time, park time, ice cream and a swim. It was a really "GOOD" day!
Thanks girls ......

Summer is in Full Swing!

2011-07-17T03:20:00.001-07:00

It took some time to get into 'summer mode', but after winding down we were full on!

Summer started with a fabulous wedding in London for my BFF and Cadence's godmother:

There have been sleepovers ... these party girls had a 'rough' night it appears:

There has been a LOT of pool time .... we have been LOVING this weather:

We have even made sure to include some reading time whenever we can:

There have been fires and sparklers:

And there has been a heck of a lot of play time! Burger anyone?:

Sometimes I wonder who has been having more fun this summer...:

As for myself, I've gotten a few 'jobs' done (I am WAY behind due to the incredible weather), read 2 novels, shopped a bit and for the most part ... you will find me here:

Ahhhhh ... summer ... it doesn't get much better than this!

How Time Flies ....

2011-07-15T17:50:00.001-07:00

Cadence on the first day of school:

Cadence on the last day of school:

Wow ... how time really does fly!
Sometimes I can look back on 'the wait' and feel like it was just yesterday and then I see my 4 and a half year old daughter and realize just how unbelievably fast the time passes. I wish I could bottle up each and every hug, kiss, funny and frustrating moment, the hilarious AND not so hilarious conversations, the beautiful smile and hearty laughter ... all of it! Each and every single moment! I suppose that is partly what brings me here. I can capture some of that and revisit it as often as I want.

I am so utterly blessed and thankful to have Cadence as my daughter and to have built this wonderful little family with my husband ... a dream fulfilled in a way I hadn't even imagined ... a miracle really!

This first year of school was awesome! Cadence skipped in and never looked back. She excelled and is more than ready for the next grade. I am sooooo very proud of you peanut! You're amazing ... just the way you are and I love you more than you can ever imagine!!!!!

Play Day

2011-07-12T18:15:00.000-07:00

In the last week of school, Cadence took part in the school's Play Day.
Here she is ready for action:

Carson, her team mate and class mate, took extra good care of her:

Playing a mini soccer game:

Ready for the 3 legged race;

Afterwards, I treated Cadence and her friend to lunch at the golden arches:

Complete with dessert:

Soon ... I will catch up to summer here soon ...

Splish Splash ...

2011-07-08T01:35:00.001-07:00

I still love shots in the bath:

Celebration Time!

2011-07-05T16:53:00.001-07:00

In the last weeks of school the kindergarten students at Cadence's school put on a Celebrate Me show for the parents:

She led the classes onto the stage where they performed a few songs and a poem.

She was not as 'animated' on stage as she is at home, but she was doubly cute!

Afterwards we were invited back to the class for refreshments and to share Cadence's Memory Book:

She enjoyed a fantastic first year of school, learning from an amazing teacher, colleague and friend. There was an awesome report card to celebrate last week as well. We are VERY proud of our polite, well mannered, thoughtful, considerate, caring, reliable, helpful solid reader! Cadence is disappointed that she will not have the same teacher next year. Fingers are crossed that their paths will cross again in a couple of years!

Cadence was also excited to celebrate a classmate's birthday in those last weeks as well:

The girl who was afraid to go and see the 'animals' is rumoured to have apparently interacted with them ... atta girl!

End of the Season

2011-06-28T20:01:00.001-07:00

Cadence has finished her ball hockey sessions. I am soooooo proud!

My dress wearing princess outlasted ALL of the other girls in this male dominated sport ... Go Cadence!

Enjoying a celebratory breakfast at the home of the golden arches:

Didn't Know Whether to Laugh ... or CRY!!!

2011-06-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

Conversations with Cadence...

I picked Cadence up from school today and noticed her lovely little white sweater was filthy!

Me: Cadence, what happened to your sweater?

Cadence: I actually dropped it in the mud.

Yeah ... no kidding!

Last weekend Cadence was giving me a poolside massage ... in the back upper thigh area.

Cadence: Wow! Mom ... you sure have a lot of designs back here!

I have no words ......

Dad's Days

2011-06-23T17:13:00.001-07:00

Last week held two special days for Sean: his birthday AND Father's Day.
On Tuesday morning, Cadence could hardly contain herself. The moment her eyes opened she set off to get daddy's present from her special hiding spot. I'm impressed that she was actually able to keep his 'prize' a secret for 3 days. We are hoping to make Sean a 'MacDaddy':

Sean had an early ball game so we scarfed down a meager dinner and had a quick song complete with a cupcake and candle. Sean opted for the keylime cheesecake, making his daughter quite happy and green! In honour of his day, his two girls cheered him on from the bleachers (no photos!).

On Saturday, we went to one of our favourite dining spots for our annual birthday/father's day dinner. Beforehand there were cocktails and some photo ops (notice mommy finally got her mother's day present ... I finally found something that I liked!):

On Sunday, we all got some enjoyment in the pool and daddy got to enjoy his favourite 4 o'clock beverage. He cooked us his favourite dinner and we bought his favourite dessert and added our own touch.

We love you VERY much daddy and appreciate all the things that you do for us! You definitely deserved a week in your honor!!!

K ... the week's over now ... LOL!!!

Doing Laps!

2011-06-20T16:27:00.000-07:00

This is almost the first time Cadence did full laps in the pool ... without water wings!

School BBQ

2011-06-14T19:27:00.000-07:00

Cadence's school (and mine!) held their annual 'Fun Fair' in the yard.
She was VERY excited to go:

Posing for a famly photo proved to be difficult ... Cadence couldn't get her mind off the "moose" ... she has a thing about mascots:

She hooked up with her reading buddy for a bit:

She even tried her hand at a few of the games:

After grabbing a bite to eat, checking out all the action and listening to the school band, we HAD to hang at the playground:

If my memory serves me right, getting to sleep was a breeze that night!

This and That

2011-06-09T19:35:00.000-07:00

I know my blogging skills have been lacking lately ... I'll rectify that soon! In the meantime, here are some photos to keep some of you (particularly you Baba) happy.

FINAL SWIMMING LESSONS

FIRST SWIM OF THE SEASON

MONKEYING AROUND

ROCKING OUT TO HANNAH ... IT'S ELECTRIC!

"Freaked Out"

2011-06-06T19:38:00.000-07:00

Today's conversation at dinner went something like this:

Sean: Cadence, Amy from my school saw you at the pool store on Friday.
Cadence: She did? Was she in the car or in the store?
Sean: She was getting into her car.
Me: Oh, Cadence one of my students said he saw you in the petting zoo at the festival.
Cadence: Okay, you're freaking me out now!

Why are all of these different people seeing me?

She's a hoot!

Tool and Play Time

2011-06-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

TOOL TIME

Cadence had a little problem:

Not to worry ... daddy had just the right tool!

Getting the job done:

And now ... what's the verdict?

Pictures speak louder than words:

PLAY TIME

It was a relief to get some decent weather ... finally! Getting out is good for all of us. Keep it coming!

Apparently It's Spring...

2011-05-25T19:06:00.000-07:00

Even though, I am currently toying with the thought of turning the furnace back on and still wearing a lot of black ... spring is apparently here ... hiding somewhere!
There ARE signs!

Someone got dressed up for 'Spring Photos' last week:

Since this certain someone was not dressed in the Halloween themed colours this time around, I am hoping for some cute pics to order!

We even 'opened' the pool:

You'll notice it's a bit cloudy and empty ... not ready to turn the heater on ....$$$$

BUT ... it did warm up a bit over the weekend, and someone decided she was ready to brave the water ... sort of:

We hear spring may truly arrive this weekend ... we are ready!!!!
Fingers crossed!

Not Just a Movie ...

2011-05-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

When the spring clothes started arriving in the stores, I started picking up a few 'items' for Cadence. Over the weekend, I put away the fall stuff and took out her spring clothes. I had forgotten about the purchases I made at the end of the season:

27 dresses .... and counting!

A Week Behind ...

2011-05-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day

First and foremost, I must share that I am eternally grateful that I am able to participate in this day as both daughter and mother. For many it can be a dark day ... I do know that!

My dear sweet beauty (in cooperation with her awesome dad) treated me to breakfast in bed ... my one and only request for the day (well ... not quite!). She prepared coffee, hot cinnamon buns and fresh blueberries ... all served with a smile!

Beautiful fresh cut flowers, along with another gorgeous smile awaited me in the kitchen:

The plan for the rest of the day: mom was to have the day to leisurely shop for her real present ... some new furniture for the porch. Mom ended up with 'company' in tow! How can you say no to, "Mom, can I come with you? Pretty please? I really want to!" After all, she is the reason I get to enjoy this, of all calendar days!
We ended up having a great afternoon and we got to go to McDonald's (it's where she wanted to take me for Mother's Day dinner!). And as could only be truly fitting, we enjoyed Chinese dinner ordered in!
It was a fabulous day! Thank you Cadence (and Sean!). I love you guys more than words can express .....

The Arrival of Spring

Spring has FINALLY arrived here ... it was a long wait! It is so nice to be able to wear some bright, cheerful colours. Speaking of cheerful .... NOT:

Just kidding!:

Spring, unfortunately also means work ... here's a job we weren't planning on:

A company quoted us $500 to restake the tree....
Tree is gone ... 'nuff said!

Go the * to Sleep!

2011-05-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

There is a great 'storybook' out there for parents who are experiencing difficulty getting their children to bed and can handle the f word! It won't provide any suggestions or strategies but it will make you laugh...out loud! I'm beginning to wonder how I didn't come up with this story myself .... our princess continues to make bed time somewhat less than desirable than it should be ... and some nights, well ... I'd darn well like to pull my hair out!

She sure has a way of rationalizing ... ANYthing! I wish I could remember half of the stuff she comes up with to post and preserve here, which reminds me, is really what drives today's post...

Last night's 'reason' not to go to sleep:
Cadence expressed, quite clearly, once again, that she HATES her room (she wants to sleep in ours!). What did she hate about it last night? She hates "how it's organized!". She wants the table "over there" and the book shelf over there". Nice try sweetheart! How old are you? It will be a little while before you're making decorating decisions around here!
And tonight:
After taking the 40th sip of water I announced that I was getting angry. Cadence explained that she didn't know what she was doing because she had her eyes closed. A good effort my dear but really ....

She sure is one smart little cookie! I will make sure I don't threaten to have her sleep in here:

My guess is, she would absolutely take me up on it!

Easter Weekend

2011-05-10T18:37:00.001-07:00

With Easter being a four day weekend, we were able to make the trek north to visit family. We packed in a lot over our stay, including two 6+ hour drives! There was shopping, movies, dinner out, a bridal shower for mom, mass and of course Easter preparations and festivities.
Cadence spent her afternoon bonding with Baba by making lemon and blueberry tarts:

They also coloured eggs,

and added a bit of sparkle!

Tattoos were a quick fix for some of the plain white ones and oh ... you should have seen the girls all decked out in their tattoos:

On Easter morning, the bunny left a trail of notes for Cadence:

She searched under beds, in cupboards, closets and even in the shower:

There were many exciting finds: jelly beans, games, chocolate, bubbles, pjs, a dress and a new big girl scooter:

Following an awesome 'lupper' and trip to the park, the cousins chilled and chocolated:

Before packing it up and calling it a day, Cadence and Baba headed outside to try out the new scooter:

It was a great weekend! We enjoyed catching up with everyone, especially Baba, Chachi and Nonno!
Guess we'll see ya all in Mexico ....

The Almost Winning Poem

2011-05-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

Finally!!!!!!

2011-05-03T16:16:00.000-07:00

I have been without my beloved computer for a few weeks.

The darn thing crashed 2 weeks past the warranty.

It did not look good. I ended up with a new hard drive.

A year and a half of photos and videos, and other, not so important stuff, GONE!!!!

Tomorrow that may change ... it looks like the data has been found and it may be

back on my computer before the day's end.

Tonight I purchase an external hard drive.

Tomorrow I learn how to back up and use Time Machine.

Updates to come ......

A 'Royal' Interview

2011-05-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

Hmmmmm

2011-04-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

Well ... I am having computer issues!
An issue really ... my computer crashed. I am awaiting word to find out if my photos and videos
from the last year have been saved ... you will find out when I do!
In the meantime ... my kid has rocked the poetry world.

She presented her Elephant poem in class and was chosen to go on .... to the 'stage' production
to recite it in front of the school. She quickly and without hesitation DECLINED!
I will discuss that in a future post. For now...I'm just unbelievably proud!

Way to go Cadence ....

Belated Birthdays

2011-04-12T19:34:00.000-07:00

Better late than never ...
Some of the family gathered this weekend to 'celebrate' a couple of birthdays gone by. At this point, and our ages, it really is just an excuse to get together!

We started off with some cocktails and hors d'oeuvres ... OUTSIDE!!!

Cadence developed a 'love' for her uncle Jay ... she wants to know when Sean and I are going to an overnight meeting (so she can have a sleepover at her current favourite uncle's house). Soon Cadence ... SOON!!!!

The adventurous one left the rest of us oogling his dinner and wondering if we'd ordered the right thing!

An enjoyable evening ... long overdue!

Our Chick with her Stick ...

2011-04-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

Here she is ... all suited up and ready to play:

Warming up with Dad (yep ... the stick is pink!):

Drill time (check out the game face!):

#51 takes a shot on net:

And it's game time:

That's our girl's stick on the ball ... oh yeah!:

Lookin' good girl:

Move over Sharks!:

Kickin' and Splashin' with the Cousins

2011-04-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

We had a SUPER weekend!
We took a break from the cold and headed to the indoor waterpark.

The girls are dressed and ready to roll:

We took a break from the water and headed for a 'wild' dinner, complete with elephants and gorillas:

Although our accommodations fell a little short of our expected plans, we managed to snuggle in for some rest:

Already planning the next family getaway ....
It will be bigger and better in Mexico!

Cultural Diversity

2011-03-31T19:40:00.001-07:00

Cuban music:

and

Spaghetti with chopsticks:

Cooooool

2011-03-29T18:50:00.000-07:00

Cadence and I were playing PlayDoh. She was creating shapes and animals; I was making words and sentences for her to read.
She read: Mom is cool.
Cadence: Mom, do you mean cool like the temperature or cool like a rock star?
Me: Like a rock star!

Yes! And it's BEAUTIFUL!

2011-03-28T17:56:00.000-07:00

This morning while Cadence was preparing to brush her teeth, she looked at herself intently in the mirror and asked:
"Mom, do I have a China face?"

"Yes, Cadence, you do. And it is beautiful!"

Fancy Footwear

2011-03-27T08:50:00.000-07:00

My Prima Ballerina

2011-03-23T19:44:00.000-07:00

Just before the 'break' Cadence completed her final ballet class.
She was a joy to watch ...

She enjoyed ballet, but I think she may have enjoyed the final 'treat' a little more ...

Well done Miss Cadence!

Almost X-Rated!

2011-03-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

Back!

2011-03-20T19:03:00.000-07:00

MOMMY's been on vacation ... a whole week ... in Cuba ... on a beach!

I will have to spend some time hangin' with my girl to make up for lost time and then I'll get back to posting ........

Despite the guilt ..... I had a GREAT time! Thankfully, so did my future ball hockey star!

Thanks Daddy ... best birthday gift EVER!

The 'B' Word .... Not What It Seems!

2011-03-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

So ... my little 4 year old, I repeat, FOUR year old, came home from daycare yesterday with some 'information'.

"Mom, this is your bagina" she says, pointing to her behind as we are preparing to head to her final dance class.
No, Cadence actually the word is vagina and that's not your vagina.
"Yes it is, it's a bagina ... AVA told me."
Well Cadence, Ava is wrong. It's a vagina and we'll talk about it after dance class. It's a private word. You only talk about that with your mom and dad.

Today, I asked the daycare 2 questions: 1) Who is Ava? and 2) Why is she talking about vaginas?

Apparently a few of the children were discussing moms and dads and babies and that babies come from their mother's bagina. Cadence was quick to correct her friends: "I didn't come from my mom's bagina, I came from China!"

ATTA GIRL!!!!!

Now to figure out where to go with all of this and how far .......

I'm not ready!!!!!

An 'Emotional' Day

2011-03-08T16:28:00.000-08:00

Cadence wanted me to take photos of her looking 'different ways'.

SAD:

ANGRY:

LONELY:

FRUSTRATED (I can almost hear the growl in this one!):

HAPPY:

From time to time, she can actually experience a few of these emotions all in a 5 minute span .... lucky me!

There's Just Something...

2011-03-07T18:58:00.000-08:00

...I absolutely LOVE about this photo! Except for the fact that she looks soooo grown up!

I love it so much, I duplicated and cropped it ... I think I may even do a little more.

Cadence ... beautiful inside and out!

She Shoots ...

2011-03-06T19:44:00.000-08:00

and scores!

Cadence and her dad spend a fair bit of time in the basement playing hockey:

The 'uniform' is a bit unconventional, but it works for her:

She wins every single game ... so there can be peace in the home:

Today she told us she wants to play ball hockey:

I think dad's going to sign her up next week ... for the 8:00 am slot on Saturdays:

Have fun you two!!!!!!

Final Ski Lesson ...

2011-03-03T18:42:00.000-08:00

This weekend Cadence finished up her ski lessons.

She's ready and waiting ...

Mom skied with the camera dangling, just in case we met up on the hill ... chair lift line was the closest we got ... little monkey lapped us a couple of times!

All done! Now it's time to hang with the folks on the family hill and try out these poles:

'Skatin' to the car...

Well done Cadence ... you met all your goals and developed some great skills!

See ya on the hill next year ... or ... next week ... me thinks it's going to be a l o n g winter ... time for more skiing!

Up, DOWN and ... Turn Arounds!

2011-03-01T18:56:00.000-08:00

Cadence insisted I post this one ...

Friends, Fun and Fashion?

2011-02-28T18:59:00.000-08:00

We anticipated a quiet, low key weekend. It was what we had planned after last weekend.
Plans change ... and change IS good!

After a morning of shopping, followed by skating, we headed to the movies with some of our friends.
We used up all of our coupons, but thanks to Nicole, we scored some more!
We followed up the movie (and popcorn and Kindersurprizes) with pizza (and ice cream!).
Cadence also met a new little friend ... too bad mommy is 'allergic'!

The kids entertained themselves for quite some time and then Emma entertained us with her fashion show:

Thanks so much J family!!!!

Blades of Glory!

2011-02-27T18:00:00.000-08:00

The skates had been sitting in a box in the back of the truck for well over a month. Someone decided it was time to at least bring them in the house!

Someone also decided she needed to practise walking around in them.

Her mother realized that little someone was onto something ....

The very next day, someone went to the ice rink ... for the first time!
Someone proved to be a natural ....

Well done Cadence!
Your drive and positive attitude are to be commended!

We Interupt This Blog ...

2011-02-24T19:45:00.000-08:00

for a special 'report'!

Cadence received a glowing report a couple of weeks ago. She is doing well in most areas of her kindergarten program so far and exceptionally well in a couple of others ...
We are SO proud!!!!!!!

Cadence 'reports' that she 'can paint'.

Her teacher reports that she "is a bright, enthusiastic learner. She is sensitive, caring and kind. She is polite, well mannered, friendly and reliable." Is anything else more important than that??????

Well done Cadence ... well done!!!!!

Lovin' the Long Weekends!

2011-02-21T18:08:00.000-08:00

We had a GREAT Family Day weekend up north!
We enjoyed dinners out (and in!), games (including adult porketta bingo!), the great outdoors, sleepovers and just hanging with friends!
There were a lot of smiles and laughter ....

Many thanks to ALL of our hosts ... especially the fabulous Di!!!!
Looking forward to having y'all here soon!

Techno Fun

2011-02-15T19:16:00.000-08:00

We've been having fun exploring a few apps. This one had us giggling.

Not sure who was having more fun ...

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

2011-02-14T19:11:00.001-08:00

The roses were red,

The cash was blue,

We had a happy Valentine's Day,

How about you????

Getting Ready for V Day ...

2011-02-13T18:59:00.000-08:00

For some reason, I don't quite understand, our school had pink and red day in honour of Valentine's Day, on Friday.
Valentine's Day is on Monday ... a school day ... ?????????
Regardless, we were prepared!

And in keeping with the whole idea of preparation, my little cupid was hard at work sorting her goodie bags ...

Another post likely coming tomorrow ... Valentine's Day!

Parents Welcome Today

2011-02-13T18:43:00.001-08:00

This week was the 1/2 way point of Cadence's ballet classes. As such parents and guests were welcome to sit in, view and of course, take photos!

Unfortunately my camera ran out of battery power 1/2 way through the class! I did manage to squeak one last picture at the end, but I totally missed the 'pose'.

Cadence really seems to enjoy the art of dance ... when asked, "Dance or gymnastics?" she consistently chooses dance ... not what I was hoping for, but ... it's not about me now is it?????!!!

Curling Up With ...

2011-02-08T18:26:00.000-08:00

a good ebook, ibook .... whatever!

This girl LOVES her technology. I had a feeling this would become HER new toy.
Gotta admit ... I love it too!

School Stuff ...

2011-02-05T17:24:00.000-08:00

Last week Cadence's class completed their 'study' of penguins. They wrapped things up with the march of the 'penguins':

What a sight to see! 20 little kiddies, dressed in black and white, wobbling through the hallways and classrooms ... precious!

Later in the day, it was time for 'hip hop' class.

The poor young instructor ... I don't think he had ANY clue! I stuck around for a few photos ... I even have a video clip! But in the interest of protecting the NOT so innocent, it will remain in my private collection.

I should say, "Kung Fu Fighting" ... not a great song choice for a class of 4 & 5 years old, especially if 14 of the 20 are boys!

While making the rounds, I also discovered some of Cadence's work displayed in the hallway.

We are ever so proud!

This week we will receive Cadence's first official Report Card. We know what it will say .......

We say, KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!!!!

We Got Hit ... HARD!

2011-02-02T19:17:00.000-08:00

The big Texas storm DID make it all the way to us as predicted.
It was a full fledged 'Snow Day'. Buses were cancelled and much of
our student population remained safe at home. And it gave Cadence
the chance to wear this shirt!

It snowed ALL day! The snow in the front yard now measures double Cadence's height.

Despite the fact that the weather presented problems and extra work for many ... my 'guys' seemed to enjoy every minute of it!

I think that was number 4 this school year. Can we go for 5?????
I'm game!

Conquering the Quad!

2011-02-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

This weekend, I caught up with Cadence at her ski lessons to find she had 'graduated' to the bigger hill with the 'carrot' rope.

As expected, I was the proud mama at the bottom of the hill continuosly cheering her on.
I was so thrilled to see her master the rope AND make it to the bottom of the hill without 'wiping out'.

I THOUGHT that was the goal of the day. I was wrong. Cadence went up on the rope once again, but ... she never came down.
We waited and waited and wondered ... and then went to 'chill' in the chalet, expecting to see her little group make the trudge back to their wee village. Again, we waited and waited. Much to our surprize, it turns out, our little peanut, our precious wee darling, went up the quad lift to the top of the hill!

WAY TO GO!!!!!!!!!
We are so excited and proud ....

Not Her Injury

2011-01-30T05:30:00.000-08:00

Cadence has a teacher who has been using a crutch all week.
Guess who else has been using a crutch?

She didn't add in the ski boot until about Thursday...

She cracks us up!

The big FIVE!

2011-01-29T05:51:00.000-08:00

Cousin Olivia turned 5 this January ... where does the time go?

We all enjoyed a great dinner, the girls had fun running all over the house and playing, the 'boys' watched the big game and of course there was cake!

Bring on the chocolate ...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY OLIVIA!!!!!!!!!!!

The Chester Project

2011-01-27T18:48:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, Cadence came home with a 'project' of sorts.
Meet Chester:

He came in a bag with three picture books, a scrap book and a pencil case. Cadence's task was to 'read' the three books, take good care of Chester and write about our 'adventures' and/or the stories in the span of a week.
Cadence enjoyed having a new 'stuffy' to drag around and cuddle with (mom was not too thrilled about that part ... he has been around the block after all!).
He helped us out with some chores:

And was treated to a fabulous puppet show starring the bee and the fly:

Chester came to a birthday party, but was sadly forgotten in the bag.
He did get to enjoy an evening out at a 'fancy' restaurant.
Cadence fed him pizza:

And a special dessert with marshmallows.

At the end of the week, Cadence wrote her own 'journal' and drew a picture of us reading the books in bed with Chester.
This teacher gives her an A++! Way to go .....