I'm taking a little break from my supper making to write my blog (or do I just say, to blog?). Tonight we're having Mulligatawny Soup and bread. I first tried this soup when I worked at earls many years ago, and it was a feature on the menu. The dominant flavors are curry (although it's not really spicy) and cumin, and chicken, rice, carrots, celery, and apple. It's a very unusual combination, but one of my favorite soups ever, and I love soup. In addition, I toss in some zucchini, some squash, and/or pumpkin (pureed of course), garlic and chili powder. It has a chicken broth base, with some cream, although I use milk, which makes for a very tasty, healthy and not-too-fattening soup! I find the pureed squash and pumpkin give the soup a very nice thick consistency and color, but no one knows they're in there, except me, of course!
The last few weeks have been crazily busy, but mostly fun. Oma's funeral was a really nice celebration of her life, and it was so good to see so much family. I spent 4 days in Vancouver and Langley, visiting friends and family and hanging out with my brand new niece and my nephew. I enjoyed a great run along the ocean and in the forest with my cousin, an evening visit with relatives and a good friend I hadn't seen in almost 9 years, a delicious and hilarious dinner at Milestones with another friend who I hadn't seen for almost 2 years, then lunch at an Irish pub with yet another dear friend. It was really good to reconnect with some wonderful people. I spent an enjoyable afternoon at Stanley Park with my sister and her family and was reminded just how beautiful the ocean, mountains and huge BC trees are! I don't miss the rain, but Vancouver has some scenery that just can't be beat!
Once back home, I was in full birthday party mode. Taya's 5th birthday party was Saturday, the day after mine (my birthday, not my party - I didn't have a party). I'm still trying to figure out what 35 is all about (or half 70, as I like to call it). Here's hoping for a great year, now that I'm no longer in my early 30s. I'm hoping for a girlfriend trip to Vegas in the fall to celebrate. Another weekend away without my family? I have to say that I can appreciate the family even more fully after having a little break, I'm sure you moms understand. Taya's birthday was a lot of fun, and she soaked up every minute of it. We had a perfect day for a backyard party - it really was wonderful. (Other than the snake we saw SWIMMING in the pond. Yes, swimming. Horrid. The girls weren't bothered at all, but I was VERY bothered). The party was very girly and fun. I'll post pictures soon. We bought Taya her first dollhouse and she received some Barbies, so she is one happy little girl!
I have lots more to share about some of our backyard adventures, but that will have to wait, as it is now time to go get Connor and Taya from school. Thanks for stopping by!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Mother's Day
My Mother's Day started early, with the arrival of my mother-in-law last night. It's so special for our whole family that she gets to be with us , especially on Mother's Day. She's been my mom for more than 15 years already, and it just occurred to me that this is longer than I had my mom for. She passed away before I turned 14, over 21 years ago. I am grateful and beyond blessed that I married into this family, and I've often joked to Stefan that I married him for his family. Good thing he's a good catch!
This morning I was treated to a stack of cards and crafts from the kids, including a book of original poetry by Connor and a paper teapot from Taya. The poem in Taya's gift had the line - And if you get upset with me, stop and have a pot of tea. I had to laugh at that one. I guess the assumption is that Mommy is going to get upset! My gift from Stefan is a pedicure, which will be a bit treat. We had lunch out, which was also a treat.
I've been thinking a bit today about the 3 people who allow me to have the title Mommy. I could not imagine my life without these three, and I want to hold on to each special moment, because the moments are flying past at great speed. The quote, "The days are long but the years are short" is so incredibly true. The days are long with a baby that doesn't sleep and a mommy that is exhausted, and the days feel long when the kids aren't getting along, but when I look back on those days, they have suddenly turned into years that have evaporated. How does that happen, anyway? It's bittersweet saying goodbye to diapers and soothers and naps and bottles and highchairs and babyfood and cribs and naps. I don't wish those things back, but those phases of life were so short in the big picture. I'm thankful for all there is to look forward to.
I'm thankful for my 8 year old Connor, who is already so grown up. His mind works in such mysterious ways (much like his Daddy!). It's not enough for Connor to know that it's about 7:30 - he needs to know that it's only 7:29, or already 7:31. He is the rule-follower (especially when it applies to his siblings) and the planner and the thinker. He would much rather answer 5 pages of math questions than a few short English comprehension questions. He's trustworthy and truthful and generally a very sweet boy. He's always been a Mommy's boy and happily lets me give him hugs and kisses. His life ambition is to be an author, and he gets plenty of practice. He is known to make workbooks, just for fun for his siblings, or to do computer research about animals, just for fun. He daily makes me proud to be his Mommy!
I'm thankful for my 4 (almost 5) year old Taya, a princess through and through. She has a personality that lights up a room and has no problem making friends with anyone and everyone. She's a drama queen and a girly girl, and I love her to pieces! The kids had a sleepover last night and when they were told it was too late to read, Taya, immediately concerned, asked, "Can we still talk?" She also mentioned a few months ago that she didn't ever want to die. Not because she's afraid to die, but because then she won't be able to talk! She will talk to anyone about anything, and often does, loudly. (Must get all this from her Daddy...). She already loves to have her hair, make-up and nails done, so things will be interesting as she gets older! She has a sparkly, bubbly personality that adds so much to our family.
I'm thankful for my 3 year old Logan, our surprise boy, with whom there is never a dull moment! He keeps us guessing and keeps us laughing. Although he really doesn't like attention from people he doesn't know, he knows how to be the life of the party. He is incredibly kissable and smoochable and I'm not ready for him to be growing up so fast. He tries to keep up with his big brother and sister, but can be content to just hang back with Mommy. He does everything with great passion, whether it's sleeping, playing cars or enjoying his food. He has an amazing memory, and lately references many memories about Calgary. He's smart just like his siblings. Our family feels so complete with him in it!
This morning I was treated to a stack of cards and crafts from the kids, including a book of original poetry by Connor and a paper teapot from Taya. The poem in Taya's gift had the line - And if you get upset with me, stop and have a pot of tea. I had to laugh at that one. I guess the assumption is that Mommy is going to get upset! My gift from Stefan is a pedicure, which will be a bit treat. We had lunch out, which was also a treat.
I've been thinking a bit today about the 3 people who allow me to have the title Mommy. I could not imagine my life without these three, and I want to hold on to each special moment, because the moments are flying past at great speed. The quote, "The days are long but the years are short" is so incredibly true. The days are long with a baby that doesn't sleep and a mommy that is exhausted, and the days feel long when the kids aren't getting along, but when I look back on those days, they have suddenly turned into years that have evaporated. How does that happen, anyway? It's bittersweet saying goodbye to diapers and soothers and naps and bottles and highchairs and babyfood and cribs and naps. I don't wish those things back, but those phases of life were so short in the big picture. I'm thankful for all there is to look forward to.
I'm thankful for my 8 year old Connor, who is already so grown up. His mind works in such mysterious ways (much like his Daddy!). It's not enough for Connor to know that it's about 7:30 - he needs to know that it's only 7:29, or already 7:31. He is the rule-follower (especially when it applies to his siblings) and the planner and the thinker. He would much rather answer 5 pages of math questions than a few short English comprehension questions. He's trustworthy and truthful and generally a very sweet boy. He's always been a Mommy's boy and happily lets me give him hugs and kisses. His life ambition is to be an author, and he gets plenty of practice. He is known to make workbooks, just for fun for his siblings, or to do computer research about animals, just for fun. He daily makes me proud to be his Mommy!
I'm thankful for my 4 (almost 5) year old Taya, a princess through and through. She has a personality that lights up a room and has no problem making friends with anyone and everyone. She's a drama queen and a girly girl, and I love her to pieces! The kids had a sleepover last night and when they were told it was too late to read, Taya, immediately concerned, asked, "Can we still talk?" She also mentioned a few months ago that she didn't ever want to die. Not because she's afraid to die, but because then she won't be able to talk! She will talk to anyone about anything, and often does, loudly. (Must get all this from her Daddy...). She already loves to have her hair, make-up and nails done, so things will be interesting as she gets older! She has a sparkly, bubbly personality that adds so much to our family.
I'm thankful for my 3 year old Logan, our surprise boy, with whom there is never a dull moment! He keeps us guessing and keeps us laughing. Although he really doesn't like attention from people he doesn't know, he knows how to be the life of the party. He is incredibly kissable and smoochable and I'm not ready for him to be growing up so fast. He tries to keep up with his big brother and sister, but can be content to just hang back with Mommy. He does everything with great passion, whether it's sleeping, playing cars or enjoying his food. He has an amazing memory, and lately references many memories about Calgary. He's smart just like his siblings. Our family feels so complete with him in it!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Oma
Agatha Barkovsky, March 7, 1911 - May 7, 2009.
My Oma passed away today, at the ripe old age (literally) of 98. What a woman! I'm sure Oma never would have imagined that she'd live to such an age, especially growing up with such hardship and struggles. She was an amazingly hard worker her whole life - such an inspiration! Going to Oma's house was always a treat, for, among many reasons, there was always an abundant supply of baking. Breads, pies, cookies, buns, you name it. Her raisin bread, which has some German name I can barely pronounce, let alone spell, has always been one of my favorites. Which is weird, because I don't even really like raisins that much. Any meal was a veritable feast at Oma's house. There would be a roast chicken, mashed potatoes, homemade gravy, garden carrots, pickles (homemade, of course), jello salad, two kinds of bread, zwiebach (German double decker buns-mmmm), and a plate with several varieties of cookies for the meal. No one ever left Oma's hungry.
I have an abundance of warm memories from spending time with Oma over the years. From our occasional visits when I was young, to my more regular visits while living in Ontario, I am so grateful to have had such a wonderful Oma. She was always so full of love and generosity and even though her hearing deteriorated significantly as she got older, she still loved to have people around her. She was a talented knitter, and up until recently when her fingers and vision weren't quite what they used to be, she could be found sitting in her favorite chair knitting away. I treasure the stuffed elephant that she knitted for Connor for his first birthday and the stuffed doll she made for me.
Oma was so old for so long, that there seemed to come a point when it felt she'd be with us forever! She had several health crises over the last years, including a fall down a steep flight of stairs, pneumonia and a burst vein in her leg, all of which were scary at the time, but she managed to pull through. She seemed to be able to withstand anything, when really, she was probably so ready to get to Heaven to see Opa (who passed away in 2000). I hope they're having a wonderful reunion. And I hope my Mom gets to join in on this reunion. Still, those of us left behind will miss Oma and her comforting, loving presence in our lives. I kept wishing today for one more chance to see her, just one more chance to hug her and let my kids get to know her. But I feel so blessed for the opportunities we had to see her once we moved back to Ontario. My kids will certainly remember her. I have some great photos taken over the last couple of months. In one she is blowing out the candles on her cake for her 98th birthday, and in another she is playing Uno with Taya. What a blessing that her mind was strong enough to enjoy playing games with her great-grandkids!
Rest peacefully, Oma. You deserve it after working so hard for so long. You will always be missed and always be loved.
My Oma passed away today, at the ripe old age (literally) of 98. What a woman! I'm sure Oma never would have imagined that she'd live to such an age, especially growing up with such hardship and struggles. She was an amazingly hard worker her whole life - such an inspiration! Going to Oma's house was always a treat, for, among many reasons, there was always an abundant supply of baking. Breads, pies, cookies, buns, you name it. Her raisin bread, which has some German name I can barely pronounce, let alone spell, has always been one of my favorites. Which is weird, because I don't even really like raisins that much. Any meal was a veritable feast at Oma's house. There would be a roast chicken, mashed potatoes, homemade gravy, garden carrots, pickles (homemade, of course), jello salad, two kinds of bread, zwiebach (German double decker buns-mmmm), and a plate with several varieties of cookies for the meal. No one ever left Oma's hungry.
I have an abundance of warm memories from spending time with Oma over the years. From our occasional visits when I was young, to my more regular visits while living in Ontario, I am so grateful to have had such a wonderful Oma. She was always so full of love and generosity and even though her hearing deteriorated significantly as she got older, she still loved to have people around her. She was a talented knitter, and up until recently when her fingers and vision weren't quite what they used to be, she could be found sitting in her favorite chair knitting away. I treasure the stuffed elephant that she knitted for Connor for his first birthday and the stuffed doll she made for me.
Oma was so old for so long, that there seemed to come a point when it felt she'd be with us forever! She had several health crises over the last years, including a fall down a steep flight of stairs, pneumonia and a burst vein in her leg, all of which were scary at the time, but she managed to pull through. She seemed to be able to withstand anything, when really, she was probably so ready to get to Heaven to see Opa (who passed away in 2000). I hope they're having a wonderful reunion. And I hope my Mom gets to join in on this reunion. Still, those of us left behind will miss Oma and her comforting, loving presence in our lives. I kept wishing today for one more chance to see her, just one more chance to hug her and let my kids get to know her. But I feel so blessed for the opportunities we had to see her once we moved back to Ontario. My kids will certainly remember her. I have some great photos taken over the last couple of months. In one she is blowing out the candles on her cake for her 98th birthday, and in another she is playing Uno with Taya. What a blessing that her mind was strong enough to enjoy playing games with her great-grandkids!
Rest peacefully, Oma. You deserve it after working so hard for so long. You will always be missed and always be loved.
Monday, May 4, 2009
'Bout Time, Isn't It?
An unusual situation keeps presenting itself at our house. If you have any great suggestions or ideas after you're done reading, please let me know!
A bit of background. Our new neighborhood here in Burlington is great - very friendly, lots of kids, not much traffic and very safe. There are always kids out in the street playing hockey, riding bikes, etc. In fact, our yard used to be an extension of the neighborhood, almost like a playground for anyone and everyone. We have a big yard with a trampoline, play structure, and lots of fun stuff to do, so it was quite an attraction. The people who we bought the house from were sadly going through a divorce, which I'm sure has been hard on their 3 kids (aged 10, 12 and 14). The mom and kids moved just a few blocks away, into something much smaller, and left their trampoline behind. Well, the 12 year old still spends a lot of time in our neighborhood, with the people who live across the street. Every so often, the doorbell rings, and it's this boy, asking to come and jump on the trampoline and play in the yard. Several months ago, we had let him and some other (older) kids come over, but of course they don't want to play with our kids, they want to play with our stuff. This boy still seems to see our place as his, and no wonder, as he grew up here. I always now tell him that no, he can't come and play here, because I feel like that is completely inappropriate, and I don't want a bunch of older kids running through my yard as though it's a public playground. I can imagine how intimidating that would be for our kids. But he doesn't seem to be getting the hint.
I don't have the heart to tell him to please not ask anymore, because the reality is, I probably won't ever say yes. But that probably means he'll just keep asking. I think he's old enough to understand what's going on, and that this is no longer his house. I feel sad for him and his family situation. But does that mean I need to let him come play in the yard? Am I being mean and selfish? We love having people over, and regularly have a slew of kids in the backyard that our kids play with. In that sense, we are not private people. But a part of me does want to keep something for just us, and not open up our yard for anyone who happens to go by. A final note on that subject - once, as a group of boys was leaving our yard, one of them had the nerve to ask if they could go in the hot tub! Should be an interesting summer...
I'd love some input on how to handle this tactfully and kindly! Thanks for reading!
A bit of background. Our new neighborhood here in Burlington is great - very friendly, lots of kids, not much traffic and very safe. There are always kids out in the street playing hockey, riding bikes, etc. In fact, our yard used to be an extension of the neighborhood, almost like a playground for anyone and everyone. We have a big yard with a trampoline, play structure, and lots of fun stuff to do, so it was quite an attraction. The people who we bought the house from were sadly going through a divorce, which I'm sure has been hard on their 3 kids (aged 10, 12 and 14). The mom and kids moved just a few blocks away, into something much smaller, and left their trampoline behind. Well, the 12 year old still spends a lot of time in our neighborhood, with the people who live across the street. Every so often, the doorbell rings, and it's this boy, asking to come and jump on the trampoline and play in the yard. Several months ago, we had let him and some other (older) kids come over, but of course they don't want to play with our kids, they want to play with our stuff. This boy still seems to see our place as his, and no wonder, as he grew up here. I always now tell him that no, he can't come and play here, because I feel like that is completely inappropriate, and I don't want a bunch of older kids running through my yard as though it's a public playground. I can imagine how intimidating that would be for our kids. But he doesn't seem to be getting the hint.
I don't have the heart to tell him to please not ask anymore, because the reality is, I probably won't ever say yes. But that probably means he'll just keep asking. I think he's old enough to understand what's going on, and that this is no longer his house. I feel sad for him and his family situation. But does that mean I need to let him come play in the yard? Am I being mean and selfish? We love having people over, and regularly have a slew of kids in the backyard that our kids play with. In that sense, we are not private people. But a part of me does want to keep something for just us, and not open up our yard for anyone who happens to go by. A final note on that subject - once, as a group of boys was leaving our yard, one of them had the nerve to ask if they could go in the hot tub! Should be an interesting summer...
I'd love some input on how to handle this tactfully and kindly! Thanks for reading!
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