Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Five Things

Two of my favorite blogs have both recently added this post to their delicious line up of good reads, so seeing as how I have MAJAH diffculty coming up with my own creative ideas, I'm just going to pull another copycat.

Five things you may not know about me:

1. I have pictures of my family everywhere in my home. To me, a portrait of someone I love is the most beautiful piece of art I could own. We do have a few landscape photos (2 to be exact) but give me a choice and I will ALWAYS go for the picture of a live person.

2. I am one of those moms who sit on the floor and really get into playing. Even when Rhyan was a baby I always loved to really get in there and get down to business. Whether it be reading books over and over and over, building wobbly towers just to have them knocked over in a squeal of laughter or giving funny, exagerrated voices to barbies, thats just how I roll.

3. I have never, ever tried smoking cigarettes. Ever. Ask all of those boys I hung out with during "those years" of experimenting.

4. I have over 100 cousins on my mother's side of the family. This includes 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th,etc. Some of these people I havent even met or wouldn't recognize, but that doesn't stop my great great nanny from giving us updates everytime we visit her. We are thankful to have Nanny Pearl as our connection.

5. There is a VERY disturbing video out there of me. Doing the "Running Man". To Ice, Ice Baby. For 3 loooonnnngggg minutes. During my mushroom cut years. I thought you loved me, dad?

Five things I'm knowledgeable about:

1. Micheal Jackson. I know too much about this man. Go ahead. Test me.

2. Music. Well, I should clarify. Not all music. I don't like rap, angry screaming boys music, classical or jazz. But if it doesn't fall into those categories, theres a pretty good frickin chance that I know the lyrics or have at least heard it a few times and can hum along.

3. Math. I'm good with numbers. I wish I had the same ability with words!!

4. Children. Not just talking about my children, I work with kids, most of whom have some sort of disability. I love using techniques and appraoches that I've learned and picked up from my experiences. I've been lucky enough to be trained by some of the best in our area. I'm so thankful.

5. Volleyball. OK truth be told, if this category was entitled "Somewhat knowledgable" about, Volleyball would be at the top of this list. I always try to involve myself in whatever Rhyan is interested in, and for the past 3 years, this sport has been her number one!

Five things I know nothing about:

1. Chemistry. Totally skipped this in High School. Most of you know that I was a very young mom, and when it was time for my sweet girl to be born, this class was one of the sacrifices I had to make. Although I'm not too broken up about missing out on this, it would be nice to have a basic understanding since Hubster has a Science Degree and speaks in riddles regarding this subject. Don't fret though! This chick STILL managed to graduate ON TIME and a pretty good average ifidosaysomyself.

2. Physics. Read above.

3. Fashion. I wear what is comfy and as long as I think it looks decent, I'm happy.

4. History. Now,I WAS present in History class in HS but I'm ashamed to admit I didn't retain much. Sorry, Mr. Moore.

5. Little boys. My family is grossly over populated with females. I've never really spent a whole lot of time with little boys, besides working within the CBVRSB, my experiences are VERY limited.

Five things I believe:


1. I believe in treating others how you want to be treated.

2. I believe in giving someone the benefit of the doubt and I try not to jump to conclusions. HOWEVER, there are some people who might as well have EXCEPTION TO THIS RULE tattooed on their face.

3. I believe in Karma.

4. I believe in the power of laughter.

5. I believe in myself.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

one1one1one1one1

Aedhyn-Ann is one year old today!! How time flies.

Miss A:
Thank you for the past year. You gave us plenty of happy memories to look back upon and we are already looking forward to all that are yet to come. You and your sister are the best gifts anyone could ever recieve. We are thankful for all the snuggles, messy kisses, belly laughs, mickey mouse episodes, and even the sleepless nights.

We love you more and more each and every day.
XOXO

Here are some pictures of the Birthday Girl <3



Friday, September 23, 2011

Where I'm From

When I read Lindsey's beautiful entry on her awesome blog, I couldn't wait to start mine. She has a way with words, so simple yet very descriptive. Read hers here:
www.newlyb.blogspot.com


I am from an oversized chair that rocks precious babies to sleep, from Heinz ketchup and reality TV shows.

I am from the the loud music from Dad's stereo that makes up our own special soundtrack. I am from Mom's many books that I've browsed through many times.

I am from my beautiful girls and my love filled marriage.

I am from the roses as red as my lipstick on our wedding day.

I am from year round BBQ's and inside jokes, from Hardy and Burns and now Dickie.

I am from the friendly, fair and good natured.

I am from the support I've had and the lessons I've learned.

I am from karma and believing everything happens for a reason.

I’m from Cape Breton, fish chowder and too-strong cups of tea.

I am from photos on the walls, in albums and keepsake boxes that help me remember who and what is important.

Thursday, September 22, 2011

ABC's of Moi

*Stolen from
http://thegrownupdiaries.blogspot.com/

A. Age: 29 eeep

B. Bed size: Queen. I could easily go with a King but Hubster is a cuddle junky.

C. Chore that you hate: All of them? Anything Garbage related. Except recycling. I'm talking about changing the poopy-diaper garbage and emptying the green bin. yak.

D. Dogs: We had a few dogs growing up but the most memorable would have to be a lovable little Terrier mix named Jinx. Or Binker. Or the Binks. She answered to many names. Also we had a sweet half pug half weiner dog who met got sick and passed away at only 7 months. Poor little boy. His name was Jaxon. Or Jax. Or Jaxtopher. Or Baxter. I have a problem with giving too many nicknames. You should hear what my girls answer to.

E. Essential start to your day: Smiles from my girls and hugs from my boy.

F. Favorite color: Green.

G. Gold or Silver: White gold.

H. Height: 5'2-ish.

I. Instruments you play: Nil :(

J. Job title: Teacher's Assistant. I heart my job.

K. Kids: Rhyan, 12 years going on 21. Aedhyn-Ann, 11.5 months.

L. Live: Cape Breton. B'y

M. Mother’s name: Christina

N. Nicknames: I don't have a nickname, but I always wanted one! Suggestions?

O. Overnight hospital stays: All pregnancy related.

P. Pet peeves: Rude, ignorant, mean, negative people. People who think the world owes them something. Ungrateful kids who treat their parents like crap. People who tail gate. People who constantly take pictures of themselves and post them all in the SAME album on Facebook. Come on people.

Q. Quote from a movie: I have WAY too many. None of them are deep or sentimental. I will leave you with one of my faves: "I'm no lady. I'm a duck" FYI I say this (or try to) at least once a week. No joke.

R. Right or left handed: Right handed.

S. Siblings: Lil Sis. Shes pretty wicked.

U. Underwear: Yes, daily.

V. Vegetable you hate: Corn. Double yak.

W. What makes you run late: Husband and children.

X. X-Rays you’ve had: wrist and ankle

Y. Yummy food that you make: I have mad BBQ skills

Z. Zoo animal: That I like? The bears at the local wildlife park seem to captivate my interest the most while there.

3 months later.

I am hands down the WORST blogger in the history of the world. 3 Months? What's my problem? I know what your thinking...."Sheena, don't be so hard on yourself. Afterall, you do work 2 jobs (presently 3 up until 2 months ago), have an 11.5 month old monster who doesn't sleep, a teenager who is involved in every sport possible, have a major renovation happening in your home, preparing for a trip across the country,etc." Ahem. Ok, I feel much better! Thanks!! :)

In all seriousness, I had every intention to keep writing here and there. Well, we can all see how that worked out!

Maybe to ease back into it I will use this post as a plea for help:
Someone, anyone PLEASE tell me how to make my baby sleep longer than 3 hour stretches.....I BEG you! And, let me stop you right there, if you suggest "Let her cry it out" I won't. We tried that. And failed. Miserably. We barely let her whimper. I CAN'T HELP IT! So, if you have any other ideas........

Friday, June 24, 2011

My Beautiful Babies

I recently posted about a photo shoot that my daughters tookpart in. A local photographer, a friend, a very talented man, took these photos. I knew they would turn out amazing, and I was not dissapointed. He did a wonderful job catching their natural beauty and distinct personalities. They are too gorgeous not to show off.....

Here is one Rhyan and Aedhyn-Ann together



This one lets you see one of Rhyan's many talents...Isn't she stunning?



Look at my precious baby...



The next few let you see Rhyan in her true element....





They are just a few of the images that will be making an appearance on my walls VERY shortly. They are beautiful and make me happy to look at, just like Rhyan and Aedhyn. :)

If your running to the phone book or getting ready to google Ratchford Photographic, I will save you the trouble and post it here: 902 794 8880. Or visit his website, ratchfordphotograhic.com!

Monday, May 9, 2011

Picture Perfect

If you've been to my home, you can quickly see how much pride I take in my family and their ability to be as beautiful in photographs as they are in real life. Pictures are everywhere in my house. 99% of the photos on my wall were taken by one photographer in particular. John Ratchford of Ratchford Photographic is the mastermind behind them all! I have been to his studio a total of 6 times over the last 7 years. He isn't just a photographer. He is an artist. He has the wonderful ability to not only make you look beautiful, but make you feel beautiful too. I often speak about the "Ratchford Experience" to many people. I'm not only referring to the time he takes to get the pictures, but also the time he spends editing them, showing them to you and patiently taking your order, all the while making you feel like you are sitting in his living room having a chat with an old friend.

Our most recent photo-shoot took place just 8 days ago. I had both my girls done in many different poses and exactly a week later we were back reviewing the pictures and trying so hard to choose which ones to purchase. (And also thinking where the heck am I going to hang these?)

The results were breathtaking. I was in awe of how stunning they were. My girls are my world, my whole heart. To see them up on that big viewing screen brought tears to my eyes. I cannot wait to have the prints in my hand and on my wall. I will display them, along with all the others, proudly and look at them everyday to remind myself how blessed I am to have such wonderful creatures to call my daughters.

Thank you John once again. You are beyond talented, a wonderful, genuine human being and I am already looking forward to the next time we meet! You have once again provided me with such perfect souvenirs that I will treasure forever.

Check out the website, you won't be disappointed!

ratchfordphotographic.com

Word to your Mutha

Happy Mother's Day!

This year I celebrated with two babies instead of one! Double the l-o-v-e.
Sending out x's and o's to all the beauitful moms in my life.
Love you all!

Saturday, April 23, 2011

29 and holding....

Well, actually not yet. I won't be GASP 29 until Monday, the 25th, but I've been thinking of it a lot the last few days. I'm very confident that I will not be the type to hide my age, or be upset at the number that is quickly increasing. I KNOW and hope I will always want to celebrate my special day with others and reflect back upon the year that got me to my birthday! This past year has been full of changes, excitement, sleepless nights, poopy diapers, round the clock "morning sickness" and much more. It's going to be a tough year to beat, but here's a little list I have had going in my funny little brain about the upcoming events that are going to make my LAST YEAR in my twenties a memorable one:

Rhyan will be starting Junior High. Crap. Well, that flew by. I remember her at Aedhyn's age like it was yesterday. I'm not (that) worried about her starting this next chapter. I know she is a smart, kind and special girl who will make the right decisions that will help carve her into the person she will become. But I'm also not naive enough to think she won't make a few bad decisions.....that's what teenagers do.....don't you remember?

Aedhyn-Ann will be turning one in 5 short months. Everyday she is growing and learning more and more. She is just as special as her big sissa, it's easy to see. She is funny and happy and devilish already.

Trip to Red Deer for one of my most favorite girl's wedding. Not only do I have the pleasure of being there for her and her Hubster-to-be, but I'm so honored to be the MOH. I CANNOT wait to see them and spend some much needed girl time with some of my besties. Three of the bridesmaids are from CB.....look out Alberta! It's going to be a beautiful wedding. 4 months and 25 days until I arrive!! XO

Rhyan's soccer season
will be starting up very shortly. Lemme tell you, that girl brings it to the field. She is an excellent athlete anyways, but Soccer really is her strongest. Her team brought home SILVER medals last year in the Under 12 Cape Breton Cup and this year they are hungry for the GOLD!!

A fab family wedding. Mark's cousin is getting married in June here is Cape Breton and we are already anticipating a great time with lots of relatives and dancing!

Mark and I's three year wedding anniversary....Time sure does fly when your having fun!

That's just a few of the events fast approaching us. So, how the heck would I even have time to worry about how old I'm going to be? :P

Friday, April 8, 2011

Check This Out

I came across this video a few days ago. Its amazing, touching, a bit sad but filled with hope.

A lot of you know that I have always carried a torch for children, and adults, who have Autism. Even though nobody within my family has been diagnosed I still feel an overwhelming connection with these special people. I always look past the tendencies and see the real personality inside, and let me tell you, there hasn't been a time that I haven't found it. My career has led me to learn so much more about this puzzling condition. I have been trained by the best in the field within our school board here in Cape Breton, and I feel that I will forever carry the knowledge they have trusted me with and put it to good use.

Please watch this, it will bring tears to your eyes. The courage and ambition you will see within this young girl AND her mom and dad is inspiring.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4XMlhCfp3Q

All About Me

listening to 90's music to educate my Daughter on "good" dance-y type music unlike the crap that's played now
eating nothing since supper
drinking a big glass of water with lots of ice, as always
wearing comfy pj pants and my fave t-shirt from old navy that says "Save Nature"
feeling loved
weather crisp, cold but refreshing
wanting a day of major retail therapy
needing someone to do my laundry
thinking about who would work for monopoly money
enjoying a night in with Rhyan
creating this blog post
pondering lots
loving my little family
anticipating next weekend :P

Inspiration:
www.newlyb.blogspot.com

I Heart

My Blackberry



Thought this was gonna be a mushy post didn't you? Nope, not this time :P

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Bucket List - Concert Edition

This post was inspired by a concert hubby and I, along with my parents and another couple went to see last night. Anyone familiar with "Classic Album's Live"? If not....check it out here:

http://classicalbumslive.com/calwordpress/

I'll give you the rundown. It's a group of extremely talented musicians who recreate, word for word, note for note entire albums. Last night was my second experience with the band, which covered "Back in Black" by AC/DC. The first concert I attended by them was "Thriller" by MJ, which was also fantastic! Last night, it was AMAZING, they sounded EXACTLY like the band, which, if you've ever listened to this album, you know is no easy task. It was a great night with good music and even better company. Already we are left wondering which album they will be covering next!

So, I decided to ask all of you a question.....what are some of your concert wishes? Just for fun, lets say you can wsh for bands who are no longer playing, or artists who are no longer with us.

I could write pages and pagesm but just to name a few:

*Michael Jackson
*The Eagles
*Zac Brown Band
*INXS
*April Wine (Again)
*Lady Antebellum
*Nirvana
*Rod Stewart (Again)
*Madonna (Just to say I did!)
*Beyonce
*Dixie Chicks

I'm sure everyone has their own list, name a few for me!

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

I'm back!

Wow! My last entry was December! It's been awhile, that's for sure. I have to admit that I just don't have as much spare time as I would've thought at this point. I started back to work when Aedhyn was 10 weeks old, and I've been lucky enough to have lots and lots of substitute days rolling in which is wonderful. I also do some private intervention work with a darling little boy 3 nights a week, so needless to say, I'm just trying to stay awake during the day and get all our housework done when I can! :)

Both our girls are doing wonderful! Rhyan, or Rockstar Daughter, turned 12 yesterday....crazy, and Aedhyn-Ann turned 6 months on the same day! Our girls are exactly 11 years 6 months apart!

Things are great here in our happy little home :)

C'mon, deep down yo knew that (insert Arnold voice here...) I'd be back