Pregnancy Update

Yesterday, I had my very first prenatal appointment. My lovely, doctor has decided to my estimate due date will be July 7, 2012 on paper. So as of today, I'm 11 weeks, 4 days.

The appointment was routine and not overly exciting. He is putting in the referral for my 20 week ultrasound that can be done anytime after February 2nd. At this point, if Chris and I want we will be able to find out the gender. Still undecided.....

At first my doctor wasn't going to try to listen for the heartbeat because he usually doesn't like to listen before 12 weeks BUT because I had an extremely full bladder he decided to try... and of course, it couldn't find the heartbeat. He doesn't seemed worried and said we will definitely hear it next time....but of course, I'm already starting to feel paranoid and uneasy. I almost wish he wouldn't have tried to listen for it. So, now I'll be counting and waiting for January 19th for my next appointment.

Finding Out...

That I was pregnant on October 28th, 2011.... was totally exciting and I couldn't wait for Chris to get home and to tell him!!!! But, immediately after the shock and excitement, all my fears and concerns came flooding back.

Not sure how many people know but this is technically my 4th pregnancy overall but only my second 'viable' pregnancy. I had one miscarriage going into my 12th week (baby stopped growing around 8 weeks) before getting pregnant with Piper. And this pass January I had another miscarriage at 8week (baby stopped growing around 5-6weeks)... both miscarriage started the same way but were completely different. One was harder physically (2months) and the second was done and over with a week and that was harder on me emotionally.

I knew that I wanted to have another baby because I didn't want Piper to be alone but I was hesitant...and Chris was great and patient and my family was a great way of support. As the months, went on I could tell people were just waiting for me to say I was pregnant again but I kept stating that I was taking my time and I wasn't rushing it. That we would start trying or being more 'proactive' starting in the fall around October.

I must say every time I've set my mind and wanted to be pregnant, I've always gotten pregnant within the first 3 months... and voilà I got pregnant in October... I didn't think I was going to get pregnant that fast...so we won't get into how proud Chris is about his super sperm... lol....

I have been sick (back on diclentin) and I've been really tired and I had such a great feeling that this little bean was here to stay, I just never get over that fear, or the feeling of being a failure (which I've felt like twice already)...going the bathroom was stressful...watching as I peed for any chance of blood (how both miscarriages started), extra wiping to make sure, etc.

It was hard not tell anyone... of course, Chris doesn't know it but I did cave and told my sister immediately. I couldn't not tell her. We finally told our families at 8 weeks because I was sick and few people were starting to put two-&-two together. 

But seeing the little baby on Monday at the ultrasound.... just expanded my heart once again. I almost forgot the feeling you have the first time you see the baby. I think it's help me connect with the baby even more. Not that I didn't already love the baby but I was just trying to not get emotionally attached (if it's even possible) just in case the worse would happen to us again. I'm so excited and happy...and lovin' the fact that Piper kind understands but doesn't and the little things she says. I'm happy and not surprises that everyone else is happy for us but I think it's some great news to get right before the Holidays. I don't think it hurts to have an little extra happiness this time of year.

Can't wait for my doctors appointment next Tuesday, and hopefully get to hear the strong heartbeat once again!

and for my sister who is casually bringing up that she wants me to name the the baby after her she can keep wishing because I doubt it will happen. Even though Lane, is on our long list of names, I'm not sure I'm lovin' and if this baby happens to be another girl. I've already said that it will have the middle name Francine after Chris' mom, It's only fair, Pipers middle name is Colleen after my mother....and plus if it is a girl, it will be Francine second and probably last grand-daughter.

Wordless Monday...

Baby Kelly due July 6, 2012

My little gem....

turns 4 yrs old today!!!!! I call Ruby my little gem because I'm born in July and my birthstone is in fact a RUBY....

I know people shouldn't technically have a favorite but Ruby is by far my favorite niece ;)
(and I'm technically in the clear for saying that because Ruby is my one and only niece.... I have a total of 6 nephews, remember! and i'm 99% I won't be having anymore nieces)

Ruby definitely makes me laugh....and sometimes I really have to think about how she comes up with things...but Ruby is a true kid that lets her imagination run wild.

One of my first pictures with my god-daughter! :D





On the last outing Chris and I took her on.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LITTLE MISS RUBY!!!!!

Thursday Thoughts

Hey everyone!!! I know I haven't been around much and I really doubt anyone really notices but I thought I would check-in and post some of my random Thursday Thoughts.

- I must admit that I was a little surprise when I woke-up and realized it was Thursday. For some reason, I've been totally lost when it comes with days. This week as seemed to be lasting forever, so thankfully it will soon be over.

- I'm pretty prone to getting bladder infection, I usually get them every couple of months. So, I'm usually pretty good at telling when I'm getting one and the doctors are usually surprised when I go in because my cultures aren't really high with bacteria yet so they are surprise I can catch them so fast. So, this time I think i'm just going to call my doctors office and ask if I could swing by quickly after work and he can the small urine test at his office... wish me luck, I doubt that he'll agree with me.

-I am soooo excited that me and some good friends will be having our very first Ugly Sweater Party next Friday!!! OMG... i'm so excited...but now I'm on the hunt for an ugly sweater. It will definitely be a good time and i'm sure we'll be laughing about that night for a while.

Looking for something like this?!?

-I'm pretty much done Christmas shopping just need to care my daycare providers a little something. And something for my parents and Chris' parents. My only concern is when will I have find the time to wrap everything!?! I'm not late night person, so I refuse to wrap at night.

Thursday Thoughts

I'm thinking about when I'm going to have a moment to relax this weekend....

I'm off tomorrow and i'm hitting up the big toy sale with my sister, my mom and her friend. I'm hoping to to get atleast 5 out of 7 kids scratch off my Christmas list including Piper.

Getting my hair done in the afternoon, and hoping that it will stay in place so that I won't have to do anything with on Saturday before heading out to a bacholorette party for a friend that is getting married in January.

I'll definitely blog about what our intended plans are on Monday. I can't wait, it's going to be a great night. We'll probably get home in the weeee hours of the morning...and I'm thinking of what my chances are that Chris might take Piper out for breakfast so that I can sleep in..... slim to known but I will drop some hints from now till I leave on Saturday afternoon.

Thinking that I really need to purchase a laptop so I can download pictures off my camera. Our current computer is ANCIENT and I don't even bother trying downloading pics because it takes to damn long. I really wanted to show people what a cute bumble bee Piper was for Halloween.

Potluck

Today at work is our Halloween (Grossed out) Potluck. I decided to make Mini 'Pumpkin' Cheese balls

Cheese Balls



I find the recipe on Pinterest and thought it was cute and easy recipe. I bought all the ingredients and added up to my moms place where she helped me make them. I think we got about 32 mini cheese balls. I can't wait to see what everyone at work thinks of them!!

This is Piper being funny last night with my mom's wig....

Excited!

You have no idea how excited I am for this work day to be done, so I can take Piper to see Toopy and Binoo in Pembroke at the Festival Hall. We are going with my friend Sheri and her son Walker (who is 6 weeks younger then Piper. Side note: They were totally eachothers first 'french' kiss during swimming lessons right before they turned one!)

This morning Piper woke-up with me at 5am... she came waddling into the bathroom, I told her to go back to bed. She looked at me and said 'no, you go back to bed now!'
Oh man, do I wish I could have called my boss and said 'Sorry, can't come into work today, Piper has ordered me back to bed!' - I WISH!

After I laughed at her back to bed comment, I asked Piper what today was and she of course shrugged her shoulders. I told her that she was going to daycare, having supper with Grand-Maman and then...and her eyes widen she gave me two-thumbs up and exclaimed Binoo, Binoo! She completely remembered me doing that from the night before.

Only a couple more hours until I see the excitement in her eyes. Can't wait to see how Piper and Walker react to eachother, it as been a little while since our last play date....

Quote of the day!

This quote made me giggle and I thought I would share with the rest of you

Quote of the day:

'Whatever you give a woman, she will make greater. If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby. If you give her a house, she'll give you a home. If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal. If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart.
She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her. So, if you give her any crap, be ready to receive a ton of shit.'

Growing like a weed

Piper is just shy of being 2 1/2 years old and the days of her being a baby is starting to get foggy (which is so sad.) She is now talking up a storm, and you can understand 90% of what she is saying. She is more independent, wanting to dress herself, brush her own teeth, feed the dog.

Her biggest milestone is potty training!... she does have the occasional accident but they're mostly our fault and they are sooo far and few between now. And the greatest thing she will now use a public washroom which is a life saver and no more trips to parking lot for her to pee in her potty. Lately, she is refusing to wear a pull-up at night, which I knew wouldn't be far behind because it's rare that she wakes-up with a wet diaper but at least for the last couple of days we've been able to put a pull-up on and put her panties over but not anymore.... this is the final straw, my baby is real a big girl now... so proud but kind of sad all at the same time. (knock on wood that I have not jinx myself)

Pigtails!!! Piper can finally wear pigtails! And she is so proud of them, that she will keep them in now! A mothers dream... I've been waiting 2.5years for this people! Hair accessories = great stocking stuffers.

Oh, my potty mouth Piper was back the other night. We were laying in bed watching TV, Chris started talking but I sshhhh'd him. He started talking again and Piper randomly said 'Fuck off, Daddy!' Omg, we were both shocked...we told her that was a bad word and shouldn't say it. Next time, a timeout will be issued!

Deer Hunting

I shot a buck on Saturday evening (before dark)... I was so excited and so proud. Chris couldn't believe I actually did it. It was the best experience ever! I was standing 40yards away from the deer, standing pretty much in a middle of a field with my crossbow held in my hands...and at the right time, I just pulled the trigger.

I was a little sad at first because I knew that I hadn't missed, there was distinct pouf sound....but the deer had ran away...and of course, as soon as shot and I knew I hit it...I kind of started doing a 'happy dance' until I notice my hubby running in the direction of the deer to make sure he knew which way he had headed... Oops, I'm beginner I forgot to watch which way the deer took off.

It got dark really really really fast, Chris said the deer had run into some long grass and went left, I had a feeling it went right but I was busy doing a dance that I wasn't positive. Our flashlight was useless...but with it being so cold Saturday night, Chris said that it would be fine overnight and that we could come look first thing in the morning. We went first thing in the morning...and Chris went left...and I went right..and there it was...maybe 20ft from where we were looking the night before. I should have went with my gut instinct.

**I did not gut the deer myself nor will I ever do that dirty job, it was the most disgusting/smelling thing ever to see and watch**

Sorry if my picture grosses anyone out (Sorry, Lena!) but I can't blog about it and not sure you a picture of it....

1st deer (buck) ever...October 1, 2011

Diet

You think I would know better then to start a diet on the week that I'm PMS'ng and all I want is things that are sweet and salty.. but I'm holding back on temptation! Wich is really good for me...maybe not so much for Chris (oops, lol)


This is making my mouth water right now!





Even more so...

and of course, I only started my diet yesterday because I refuse to start a diet on a Monday...

Also, I joined the gym here at work yesterday also. I have my 'consultation' tomorrow so I'm looking forward to learning how to learn to use those scary/big machines. I to have them help me with a fitness plan. I must say the gym is pretty affordable $24/month ... definitely don't mind paying.

But I think I'm going to splurge and join one the specialty programs, I believe it's $41 for 8 weeks. I wanna try out the Kettlebell... registration is Oct 17th - I must not forget.

A quick fix?

DeeDee (my parents dog) has some issues going on with her ear. I believe, that she somehow got a scratch in her ear... but it's not healing well because she keeps scratching at it(everyone knows how itchy a healing wound can be.) My mom brought DeeDee to the vet and all the vet told my mom was to keep it clean and put cream on it. Okay, good luck...this dog will not lay down all nice and quietly to let someone clean (poke around in there). On Saturday night, it took myself, both my parents and our little helper Piper to get DeeDee's ear well cleaned.

My mom had tried all week to make a homemade cone (i wish I would have taken a picture) to put on DeeDee but then my mom was worried that she couldn't eat or drink so off came the cone! So our quick fix... maybe put socks on the dog, that way if she scratched alt east she would  feel some type of relief but her nails won't do any more damage to the wound.

We'll putting socks on a dog isn't an easy tasks! And then we all had a blond moment and couldn't remember if dogs used their front paws or back paws to scratch so all four paws got some socks.

For the life of me, I'm trying to get the picture of DeeDee off my phone onto here! But of course, I'm not having any such luck :(

Bad, bad blogger...

I'm such a bad blogger..I haven't blogged since the beginning of August. Shame on me!

Since the last time I posted... I had my girls weekend in Tremblant! Absolutely a gorgeous place, I would love to see it in the fall or winter. I had such a great time, with a bunch of great ladies, so many laughs! Can't wait to decide what we are doing next year.

Had a great summer overall... the weather was nice. I loved watching Piper float around our pool looking like this:

I also really like this picture of Piper and her daddy:

Chris baseball team won  3 our of the 4 tournaments this year. I love watching the beer buddies play... well, I actually like the socializing out at the ball park more then watching the game.



Beer Buddies - Champs of 2011

Also, I can finally scratch #1 of my 1001 list.... I finally donated blood. Yay Me! I went last Thursday, September 15th. I was a bit nervous from hearing from several other people that the needles was big or that they felt sick afterwards. I managed really well, I didn't think that needle was much bigger then usual, and it took about 10 15mins for them to take all the blood they needed. The man in front of me and the lady beside me weren't as fortunate as me. I was sitting down reading my book and out of nowhere all I see if the men's legs go up, a cold cloth go to his face, the needle come out of his arm; 2 minutes later the girls legs go up, she gets a juice and the needles comes out. I did kind of giggle at them when we all meet up at the cookie and juice station later on.



From one great weekend to the next....

I know this might be a little late BUT last weekend was one of the best weekend I've had in a long time. I love when our little town as their baseball tournament. There's nothing better then watching my hubby's team come in first place in the ball tournament AGAIN and having great laughs with some awesome people!!!!

Friday night, was a great night of ball and I got to participate in a great game of Flip Cup. Even, though I was on the losing team I still had a great time, and I didn't feel that bad in the morning either...just had a big craving for a pound of bacon!
Saturday, was a great family day at the ball field, between watching Chris' ball games, playing in the park with Piper and taking her on a wagon ride and petting the horses. By time Chris and I were ready to leave at 9pm, we had to wait for our little social butterfly to say good-bye to everyone, which took an extra 30mins.
Sunday, happened to be my 25th birthday! and a busy day at the park... Chris had to play in 3 games. I am very fortunate that my mother in-law was able to get Piper down for a nap and watched over her while I was keeping track of the score sheets.... Sunday also happened to be a busy day for drinking for me anyways. My mother in law, took Piper home so that Chris and I could stay back and enjoy the victory with the rest of team. The night ended with several of us pool hopping around town. It was a very priceless moment, and I'm still laughing about how we must have looked.

Even though, last weekend was a great weekend... I'm 100% positive that this weekend will be able to top it. This weekend is our Girls Gone Wild weekend. This is the 4th year, and this is the first time that I will be participating all weekend. We have decided to go the Mont-Tremblant, we are 14 girls staying at a 5 bedroom condo. There's a hot tub, a pool with a water slide! We've decided that Saturday night, we are going to dress-up and paint the town red! Thankfully, I have a sister that loves clothes, shoes and accessories because I just went shopping at her place and found the perfect little combination for Saturday.

I'm soooo looking forward to the weekend away but not looking forward to the mess that I might return home too. Not sure if Chris can handle taking care of Piper and staying on-top of the house chores as well.... sigh...

101 List Updated...

Yay, I have a few more items that I can finally scratch off my 101 things to do in 1001 days.

#3: Take Piper to the Toronto Zoo: mission accomplished the weekend of Piper's 2nd birthday.

#32: Get my wedding ring resize: Only took me two years...which is so sad! But, they are resized and in their appropriate spot.

#37: Bring Romy to the groomers: I'm a little upset that I forget to take a before and after picture. But I did this at the end of May, just before the summer heat kicked in. She was so cute, the lady even put two little clips in her hair.. it was the cutest thing.

#78: Plant 2 apple trees: 1 apple tree has been planted in our yard. Chris as always wanted an apple to tree (which is just for hunting purposes) so Piper and I bought the 5-different types of apple tree for him for Father's Day. I thought I was going to need to buy 2 apple tress to help with cross-pollination but it turns out that you don't need too if you buy the apple tree that has 5 different kind of apples... who would have thought!

749 days left and only 16% complete .... starting to get a little nervous!

We Want to Know Wednesday!

I'm linking up with Impulsive Addict , Janette , Mamarazzi and Seriously Shawn



This weeks questions are:
1. Which activities make you lose track of time?
2. Is there such a thing as perfect?
3. When do you feel most like yourself?
4. Describe your life in a 6 word sentence.
5. Share one of your most beloved childhood memories.

1. Chit-chatting with people. It never fails. I leave my desk to go the bathroom and end up being gone for 20mins because I stop to chit-chat with people. I tell Chris I'll be right back, I'm just going to the mail, 30mins later I get home and tell him that I was chit-chatting with this person and then this person.

2. Perfect person, no way. Maybe a perfect dessert, or perfect present, perfect outfit, perfect birthday card, for sure!

3. At home, hanging around the house in my pj's.

4. A great wife, mother, sister, friend

5. The childhood memories that I always remember and Cherish, is spending a week or two every summer at my Grandma Mary's cottage at lawless lake. I don't really remember my grandpa a whole lot but my Grandma Mary was one of kind. Every kid wanted her as a their grandma!!
 It  was great, we would stay up late watching scary movies, we would live in our bathing suits - be in the lake by 7am every morning. If we wanted chips for breakfast we would. I remember going home with a purple finger because we were allowed to eat 'freshy' (powder juice mix) with our fingers. It was the greatest summer vacation ever for any child!

Potty Mouth Piper #2

Piper and I were cuddling on the couch, watching a new toddler show eating some delicious blueberries when Piper accidentally dropped one.With the annoyance in her voice, all I hear as she turns to pick it up is... HoLy F*ck (with the emphasis on the holy)

Of course, I don't react to it. I don't want her to think it's funny, so I just casually said that's not a nice word and let it be. But of course, Piper looks at me and says 'What?' with a confused look. I just ignored her.

I'm a big time potty mouth, I'm at the point where I don't even notice that I'm saying it.... and holy f*ck is one a use ....

I....

I...

I am... Amanda, an almost 25 yrs old, married mother

 

I want... to go on vacation

I have...  baby fever

 

I wish... it was already my date night :D

I hate... the sound of people chewing

 

I fear... something horrible will happen to Piper or any other future children :(

 

I hear... the sound of me typing

 

I search... for new fun baby names all the time

 

I wonder... why life can be so unfair to great people

I regret... nothing

 

I love... my family

 

I never... start working before checking all my social media centres

 

I ache... for world domination ....just joking, not sure what I ache for

I sign... my full name Amanda Baird...and I try to finish my last name off like my dad...not sure why but it never looks the same..

 

I dance... like there is no tomorrow

I lose... my mail/house keys all the time!!! and always find them in the same place days later, at the post office... lol

I need... more patience

I always... laugh at jokes, even though I might not get them right away...

 

I am confused... by football!?

I am not always... prim and proper

I cry... easily

 

I sometimes... talk on the phone when i'm in the bathroom (get two things done at once!)

I am not... great at spelling at all! :(

I usually... forget to put on underwear

 

I should... really get back to work!

 

Already 4 years....

I'm still in a little bit of awwww, that today is Chris and I's 4th year wedding anniversary! Technically, we've been together for 6 years but a wedding anniversary is so much more official.

Wedding Day - July 7, 2007

I still remember the big day like it was yesterday, and I hope I never stop forgetting all the small things.

Wedding Day - July 7, 2007. On my parents property

I'm so great to have found a great man. He still makes me laugh everyday, but he knows how to be serious when the time calls for it. He knows what I need and want when I'm sad. He does have a bit of a temper and short fuse, but it doesn't come out very often usually only when I'm being a royal bitch and start pressing the wrong buttons....but those fights are usually short lived.

Our greatest accomplishment, if of course is a no brainer: Piper Colleen Kelly. She is definitely the healthiest/beautifulest child a mommy could have ask for. It still melts my heart watching Chris play with her, and cuddle with her. He's an exceptional father!

Holding Piper for the very first time.... awww (then he passed her back full of poop)

So, here we our on 4 years and counting......

Which Movie?

Chris and I are going out for supper, movie and some shopping on Friday after work... but I can't decide which movie I want to see... any suggestions?

The movies that are on our potential list is:

Transformers 3 - this movie is over 2 hours long...

The hangover - it's been in theatres so long now that we could probably download it soon enough....

Larry Crowne - looks like a cute/romantic, but do we really want to pay to see that movie in theatres

Bad Teacher - I haven't heard alot about it, but it could be funny?

Friday Confessional

Linking up with Mamarazzi for the first time for Friday Confessional:

I confess that my boss gave me two chocolate chip cookies to take home for Piper - and I just secretly ate both of them while she was in a meeting.

I confess that I haven't spent much time doing actual work but playing with my new blackberry.

I confess that I'm really looking forward to having a week off and spending it with Piper - but I'm a little nervous that she is going to get bored with me by Tuesday.

I confess that I haven't paid my dentist bill from last month yet, and I have to go back next week to get a cavity filled.

Now it's your turn... Link up with Mamarazzi and let me know what your confessions are this week?

Blackberry!

I finally have my very own blackberry, thanks to the greatest husband, ever!

This is what my new phone looks like.

Not sure how much work, I'll actually get done today. I'm to pre-occupied learning about my new toy!

Knitted Tank Top

Finally! A picture of Piper wearing her tank top. She has worn it out a few places, and I'm the first to brag that I made it. I've been getting alot of compliments.

Knitted Tank top by ME!

I've been kind of slacking on the whole knitting thing - but I refuse to let it go. It's a hobby I like... I'm currently in the mist of making Ruby a cute headband...hopefully, I'll get my ass in gear and get it finished shortly.

I miss judge the amount of yarn I needed for Piper tank top, so I'm thinking my next few projects will be in all the same color... so don't be surprised when you see Ruby's headband

Potty Mouth Piper

While eating pizza Sunday night, Piper dropped her slice of pizza on the floor.

She looked down at it, looked up at Chris and said 'f*ck' and then she looked down again at her pizza on the floor and repeated the word 'f*ck' while picking it up.

Chris and I didn't say anything because we didn't want her to think it was funny or anything but man oh man, she's swearing and she is using in it the right context. Just keeping my fingers crossed that she doesn't start saying it at daycare.

My favorite Girls

A daughter grows up to be a friend - author unknown

A sister is like having a best friend that you can't get rid of. You know whatever you do, they'll always be there - Amy Li

Piper is of course is my pride and joy. I love the little person she is becoming. I can't believe how funny and sweet she already is and she is only 2 years old. The greatest decision I've ever made was the decision to become a Mom!

Lena is by far my best friend and always will be. She is the person, I can laugh and cry with. She was by my side on the happiest days of my life and she was there on some tough days! It's not always peaches and creams but it always makes us closer.

Piper and her god-mother :D

Ruby is my little gem (literally, my birth stone is a Ruby) and she knows it. I love that as soon as I walk into the room, I hear her little Muppet voice and a big 'Auntie Amanda, I love you'. Ruby is definitely my favorite niece! (which I can say without offending anyone because she is technically my only niece)

My god-daughter Ruby

My Mom - I love my mom - I might not say it or show it like I should. We have an unusual relationship. We like to hang out together but can only take each other in small doses - maybe it's because we are so much alike. She is definitely a great mom. This is going to sound so sappy BUT if I can be half the mom she has been to Lena, Doug and I, will be pleased with myself.

My Mommy and I



Lastnight, Piper asked to watch her Dora movie and while she was watching the episode I was doing a few things around the house. The episode she was watching was the one where Dora becomes a big sister. From the other room I could hear Piper singing along to the song, 'i'm going to be a big sister'.

Out of complete curiosity, I sat down and had the following conversation with Piper:

Me: Piper do you want mommy to have a baby
Piper: Piper not baby, me big guurl.
Me: I know that! Does Piper want to be a Big Sister
Piper: Ummm *while tapping her chin*, nope! My mommy! and gives me a big hug.

I guess I don't have to worry about her asking for any baby anytime soon.

What I'm Loving Wednesday!

- That today is hump day - which means the week is almost over.
- That is nice and hot out!
-I'm lovin' that Piper doesn't have to wear a diaper in this heat

But, most of all I'm thrilled that Chris will be going straight to the CLSC tonight to have his nasty cough checked out. He's had man cold for the last 3 weeks, and if I have to listen to him cough non-stop for 30mins at 2am once more, I predict divorce in our future (completely joking) - and of course, I'm hoping it's nothing serious!

Relay For Life 2011

This year I took on the responsibility as Team Captain and put together a great team. I'm so proud and happy about the great work my team 'The Chest Club' did! For our first year, we brought in with our pledge money and luminaries money $1980.00!! Hopefully, next year we will be able to top that!!!

From the time the relay started at 7pm until 7am, two members from our team were constantly on the path walking!!! A few our team members took a well deserve nap but we did (incl myself) have some real troopers that stayed up the entire 12 hours. Afterall, cancer never sleeps!

The Chest Club - 2011

During the check presentation, not sure if it was the lack of sleep or the generosity of the people from our community but the Pontiac Relay for Life was able to raise a grand total of 102, 127.00 for the Canadian Cancer Society. We surpass our goal that was placed of $90,000.00. I was definitely getting choked up and my eyes started to fill with tears!

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly: 100 things about me!! Part II

Linking up with Joni from six cherries on top for other around of the good, the bad and the Ugly.

Part II: Old Habits die hard

11. Nail biting - I've always bitten my nails, I can't remember a time where I didn't bite my nails

12. Chip licking - might sound gross... but it's something that I always remember doing. Any flavoured chip must be licked on both sides before putting in my mouth to chew  (90% of the time in public I will eat normally, but it's not the same) - also, I've noticed Piper has picked up on my habit.

13. Never go the bed angry! I don't like going to bed angry at anyone. I always like to start the next day off fresh.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly: 100 things about me!! Part I

Following Joni's lead from Six Cherries on Top to come up with 100 things about me. She is doing it in a great way by doing several posts with specific topics. This weeks topic is: The physical side of me!

1. I must get my engagement & wedding ring resized; I can't get my rings passed my knuckles since having my daughter.
2. I can't believe how bad my memory is and it makes me a little nervous about the future.

3. I mistakenly once said in front of my brother in-law that my butt looks like hot-dog buns, it's been atleast a few years and I'm still hearing about it.

4. Every time, I go the hairdressers (who is also a great friend of mine) we always end up saying that my hair as a mine of it's own. It always wants to flip out in one spot, flip under the other spot and I have major baby hairs!!

5. My ears are pierced but I do not and don't like wearing earrings.

6. I have a skin condition that I've had for a few years now, and the only thing that will help is taking reactine. Which I usually have to take every 2nd day or so. When I was pregnant with Piper, my skin condition did not bother me at all.

7. I'm pretty fertile, pretty much as soon as I decide I want to be pregnant I am (which my mom says Lena and I get that from her) downside, I didn't get the great genes that they both have to stay pregnant; 2 miscarriages, but 1 happy/healthy beautiful girl.

8. I have an odd scar on my left knee from falling into some barbwire and putting a butterfly type band-aid on it to tightly - I have it since I was about 7 yrs old.

9. I bite my nails, they look horribly but I just can't stop the habit

10. I'm constantly looking in the mirror and finding new beauty marks!

On a roll!

I've already purchased a Christmas gift - actually this is gift number two. I bought Piper a cute pair of pj's from the Gap that were on sale in January and they only had them in a size 4, so I bought them put them away for Christmas!

The gift I bought today, I can't go into very much detail because the gift is for my lovely sister Lena. (Lena reads my blog)

Here at work it's Aboriginal Week, so I went out to the tent and poked around and came across something my sister is going to love and it's a little different unique so I just couldn't leave it behind.

Lena's birthday is in November but I'm keeping today's purchase for Christmas time because I've already bought part of her birthday present weeks ago.

I have to say that I also put a small birthday present my niece Ruby at the beginning on May and her birthday isn't until the beginning of December.

The only bad thing about starting to buy gifts early, is that I might end up spending more money on the long run. So, to help me start on track, I've been keeping a list of the things I bought and for how much, hopefully, that will help me stay in control.

What a mother doesn't want to hear....

when taking a shower at the same time that their child is bathing...... 'me pooped!'

and those are the exact words I heard Saturday afternoon!

** this blog contains the word poop alot**

I was about to jump in the shower when my lovely dear husband opened the bathroom door to tell me Piper wanted to take a bath too. Not a big deal, i've taken shower while she played in the bath before.

I was finished washing and I was about to get out but then I remembered that I should really shave my legs, so I started shaving (bad idea) and then I hear 'me pooped!' I turned to ask if she had to poop and she 'no, piper poop bath' and I look behind her and yup, there it was... the most disgusting brown piece of poop.

I can't not explain how quickly I jumped out of the shower and grabbed Piper... it's not the first time she has done this in the bathtub but it just seems so much worse/gross/dirty when it happens your actually in the bath with 'it'...

but the worse part of it all, is that I had just scrubbed the bathtub clean in the morning and then I had to redo it all again... a mother never gets a break!

Supper

Just wanted to share the lovely meal I made last night.  My sister & her family came over, so I thought I'd try something new.

I'm not the greatest cook (nor do I even really like to cook) but I had all the ingredients and had plenty of chicken !  I think it was a great success!

Chicken Stir-Fry and Garlic Bread = Yum!

What I'm Loving Wednesday!

That today is my Friday! and I don't come back to work until Tuesday, May 24th! Sweeet!

Waking-up and reading my sister's facebook and blog saying that I'm the best sister ever and that i'm awesome.

That my mom and Piper are spending the day together and getting to have some quality alone time.

and did I mention that today is my Friday!

2

Piper turned 2 years old on Saturday, May 14th. It was great day spent at the Zoo, and you'll be able to read about all of our adventures over here at my sister's blog.

I know it's totally cliché to say but I really have no idea where the time as went. I really have no idea what we did before we had Piper. I can't picture a time when she wasn't around.

I thought I'd try sum up all the new and cute things that Piper has learned or done in the past year since her 1st b-day.

- A year ago, Piper only had one little tooth in her mouth, now she has a mouth full, all of her teeth have come in (the last two came in just weeks ago), now we sit and wait for the molars to come in - which I'm really not looking forward to.

-Piper's vocabulary is very impressive - yes - she still mumbles at times, and when she really gets talking you have no idea what the heck she is talking about but she does know alot of words and she is able to speak in sentences. Some of my favorites our:

'Love you, Mommy'

'No more, stores'

'Thank you, Mommy' or 'No, please'

'Hello, baby' - when talking to dog

'toilet' - i just love the way she says it

-Facial Expression and ATTITUDE - You can definitely tell what kind of mood Piper is in by just looking at her face. At times, her facial expression and overall body language can be so dramatic that you can't help but laugh at her.

I can't believe how much attitude one little girl could have at the age of 2. She is very independent, wants to do everything herself and very hard-headed (no idea where she gets it) - Piper is a Taurus and most often then not I usually do not get along with Taurus' so i'm already scared/nervous about the teenage years.

- Hide and Seek - Piper has learnt to play hide and seek. She much rather be the one hiding but she's very good at finding. It's so funny to see her hide in the exact same spot over and over or she'll stand near a wall and close her eyes.

- 9 out of 10 times, Piper will count to 15 but most of the time it's 1 - 7 in English and 8-15 in French. The same with her alphabet it's very bilingual when she sings it.

I can go on and on with this list but I think i'll stop for now, before I bore to many people.

Being a mother is the best thing that I have ever done in my entire life. I definitely won the lottery by having Piper has my daughter. It's not always the easiest job in the world but just seeing one smile or hearing a giggle, definitely makes all the bad days worth wild.

Coupons!

Gotta Love Coupons!!!! I've finally starting to enjoy looking and using coupons!

Nothing like seeing something on sale and then using a coupon to get an even better deal. (Which I first I didn't think you were allowed to use coupons on sale items, but you totally are!!)

I saved money today. I had pick up some robax platinum for Chris' sore back. I went to the pharmacy near work and walked in to see that Robax's regular price is $17.99, but it was on sale for $14.99, plus I had $2 off coupon. Cha-ching!

After weeks of searching for a good Canadian Website that gives Canadian Coupons, I came across Mrs. January ... check her out... it's worth it. She has it set-up really well and in different section. You can even follow her on facebook or twitter.

We Want to Know Wednesday!

Today I'm linking up for "We Want to Know Wednesday", hosted by Janette, Mamarazzi, Shawn, & Impulsive Addict.


{1} What game show have you always thought you could be on and totally WIN!
I know this show isn't on TV anymore but I use to love watching it and I always thought I would be pretty good it. It's called Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego.
'Contestants pursue the international thief as junior detectives who must answer questions about geography.'

{2} Do you have a tattoo(s)? What are they and what made you chose them? If not, would you get one, yes/no/why?

My very first tattoo is on my right upper arm and it's my zodiac sign. The pretty version of the Leo sign.
My second  tattoo was a nautical star on the inside of my left wrist. A little over a year ago, I added to my left wrist another nautical star and banner with Piper's name on it.

{3} What is your favorite piece of jewelry that you own?
I do not wear jewelry at all... my favorite piece is actually my engagement & wedding ring - but I haven't be able to wear mine since I was pregnant with Piper - my knuckles actually grew a whole size. I need to be proactive and get both rings re sized.

{4} What is your driving pet peeve(s)?
I hate when people cut in front of you...just turn off again 20 feet down the road. OMG...grrr!

{5} What was your favorite sitcom growing up that you wish was still on?
I was a big huge Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan! I miss all the characters and I wish it was still on...or even for them to have a reunion show.... I actually watched the series finale last Saturday.

Finish Product

After 2 months of working on my very first 'real' knitting project, i'm finally finished.


It's obviously not made without any mistakes but I'm so totally excited and pumped to go home and take a picture of Piper wearing it!!!

My Little Animal Lover

I know that pretty much all kids love animals, but I've never seen a child to be obsess with animals. Piper is a big dog freak - the bigger the dog the happier she is. She gets upset if a dog doesn't stand still long enough for her to give them a hug and yes, she loves the big open-mouth kisses. Which is really disgusting but Piper as only been sick once with the flu (back in February) and she'll be 2 this weekend...so maybe all the dog silivia is helping build her immune system. Wishful thinking on my part, I'm sure.

Piper is 98% of the time very gentle and kind to our little dog Romy, but lastnight as I was finishing the minor knitting on her tank top (pictures to come soon)...Piper was happily playing with her playfood and dishes on her pillow pet. Romy went over looking for a little love and maybe some play time. And, i'm pretty sure that I heard my soon-to-be 2 year old little girl say 'F*ck off, Romy!' and pushed the dog to the side.
I'm 99% sure this happened because those are the exact words that both Chris and I have used (frequently) when Romy starts barking for no apparent reason....

Piper and Ringo - a horse from my grandparents farm

Piper riding DeeDee (my parents dog) - when I say we are going to vist Poppa Ross and Grandma Colleen, Piper looks at me all seriously and says 'DeeDee too'

Slowly but surely

My 101 list is coming along very slowly but I have new items to be scratched off.

#54 - Organize my kitchen cupboards:
I did this on our last snow day of the year in April (which was my only snow day I took off from work) - I brought Piper to daycare - which is literally 3 mins from my house - and cleaned my kitchen and re-organized some cupboards. I moved all my baking goods to one area. Took out a few items that I never used (Juice, rice cooker, and 1 person coffee maker). It was a long process but it was such accomplish to have it finished.

#70 - Put in a team for the Relay for Life:
I'm very proud of myself for stepping up to the plate and getting this done. With the help of a few others, I set-up a team meeting in March and handed out the paperwork, I was chosen to be team captain. I have no doubt that our team 'The Chest Club' will bring in alot of money to help out a great cause. http://convio.cancer.ca/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFL_QC_odd_?fr_id=9379&pg=entry

#77 - Save my loonie and twonnies:
I decided to start this task back in February or March when we decided to take Piper to the Toronto Zoo for her 2nd birthday *which is this weekend*. I must say that I've been doing pretty good, maybe not as well as I should but I have to admit that I've been putting my loonie and twonnies in Piper's piggy bank so I wouldn't have to huge to take a couple bucks out here and there. I'm definitely going to try to keep this up so I'll have some money for Shawville fair.

12%completed - 814 days to go.

On a side note: I haven't done #95 Jump in a puddle yet... but I must say that Chris and I were very close to failing off our four-wheeler into a the biggest puddle ever this weekend. If we would have stood in the puddle it would have went to our hips...Chris tried to drive through it, we got stuck, my dad came to save us (along with their family dog DeeDee who brought us a rope) and has my dad was pulling us out... the bike started leaning forwards until the back end was straight in the air with Chris and I still on it. I was sure I was taking a dive into the dirtiest grosses water. I'm surprised that my sister didn't bring her camera and get all of this on video.

Concert

Going to see Bon Jovi tonight with my sister in-law......

 Hot! Enough said!

10 Things I love

There are always rules...
1. State who tagged you.  Ashley from The Johnstons. Check her out she's a pretty cool cat ;) 2. State 10 things you love.

- No brainer - of course my family. Chris and Piper are definitely the center of my universe. I love having a older sister that is through and through my best friend. I definitely can never get enough of all my nephews and my adorable niece. Kids do say the darndest things!

- I love chocolate milk more specifically I love Powder Nesquik ... I must have one glass of chocolate milk per day, preferably in the morning! If not, my day always ends up horribly. This must have been my very first habit introduced to me by my daddy!

- I love to sleep... I've always been a sleeper. Give me 10mins and I can be in a corner napping. Thankfully, Piper was a good baby and still is that I've never been sleeped deprived, but I'm anxiously waiting for her to constantly sleep-in till atleast 8am. Only about 12 more years to go....

-I love girl's night with friends. We don't have very many girls night and/or days. But when we do... it's always a blast. Every summer we have a girls weekend at a cottage (I still have yet to participate the entire weekend) and last year we started an all-girls bike run. OMG - it was such a great day! Can't wait to do it again this year. I even enjoy the simplest girls night - diner/movie/shopping with no time limits - PERFECT

-Shopping for the kids. I'm not usually a great shopper or even enjoy shopping (which I know is odd for being a girl) but I can always seem to find a great deals and great things for Piper or other people. I guess I like the gift of giving :)

-Pizza Sunday - Almost every Sunday. Chris and I spend the day at our home with Piper...and laze around. Chris usually wakes-up all happy and announces it's Pizza Sunday...We usually order pizza, make wings and watch movies. It's rare that Piper and I will get out of PJ's

-That Piper is absolutely in love with animals, most specifically dogs. The bigger the dog..the happier she is. I love the way she'll bend over and say 'hi, baby' all lovey-dovey and let them kiss her. Also, very happy that she loves bugs and doesn't seem afraid of them

- The way Chris will surprise me with a little gesture or flowers for no apparent reason.

-That I still feel young at heart and get excited over the littlest things like I did when I was kid.

-Nothing makes me happier or melts my heart the way Piper says 'I love you, Mommy' - it's words that I can never get enough of hearing!

Wake-Up Call

Day #2 of potty training went extremely well. Piper went the potty atleast 4 times. She didn't poop, which makes me a little nervous but most of the time she only goes every 2nd day. So, hopefully my little girl goes #2 today.

This morning at 4:30AM, I hear a little voice and a tap on my face... 'Mommy, Piper too wet' - cute - yes! but I will admit I was annoyed, I have to wake-up at 5am so the extra 30mins count for alot.

After the pull-up change, my early bird was wide-awake, she was asking for TV. I told no, it wasn't time for TV. Then the tears started. I really don't want her to get use to waking-up at 4:30am so I told her the TV was broken. Of course, as soon as her and I start falling back to sleep the damn alarm clock goes off. Sigh!

I was in the bathroom getting dressed, Piper walks in and ask 'What you doing, Mommy?' I told her I was getting dress but I really needed a kleenex, I kindly ask Piper to get mommy a kleenex. Her response 'No, kleenex broken!' - She's not even two and she is using my own words against me. I can just imagine what the next year is going to be like.

What I'm Loving Wednesday

I'm loving that today is payday! I (heart) paydays, even though it goes out as quickly as it comes in.

Day #2 of potty training Piper! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it continues to go as smoothly as yesterday did. Only 2 accidents - which is great considering she isn't 2 years old!

Today is Administrative Professional day for all admin personnel. I've already got a few Happy Admin Day's for several people in my office. My Director gave me a cute little Excellence pin that I will proudly display in my cubicle. And one of the greatest Unit heads / acting Managers / my knitting teacher will be providing all admin staff in our unit with a pizza lunch!!! A girl can't ask to work in a better place to Office of Regulatory Affairs!!!!

Potty Training...

I sent Piper to daycare today with 9 pairs of panties all from Old Navy. Here's sample of three of them;
http://oldnavy.gapcanada.ca/browse/product.do?cid=44500&vid=1&pid=810498&scid=810498063
and an extra 5 pairs of pants.

Piper has pee'd a few times on the potty. And she most definitely understands the concept. Thankfully, her daycare providers are awesome and pretty much do all the dirty work. They set a timer for 5mins and once she pee or poops they up the timer  to 10mins, etc.

I was to curious to wait until I get home to see how my little baby girl was doing so I called her daycare at 11am. Piper had pee'd on the potty once and had no accidents (KNOCK ON WOOD).

I know there will be accidents and i'm prepared for them but I'm one proud Mama at the moment. I can't wait to go home and find out how the rest of her day went.

In a way I'm hoping she gets the hang of this and we are out of diapers, ASAP, but in away it really makes me miss the baby days. I can't believe my little girl will be 2 years old in 18 sleeps!

UPDATE: Had no accidents at daycare today. Woohoo! She pee'd twice at daycare. She had one accident at her grandma's she said pee, and started pee'ng before g-ma got her to the toilet. And she had one poop accident at home when I was cooking supper. Accidents, are bound to happen! But i'm very proud that she went 8hours accident! I've already learnt to be more vigilant!

PS. I'm almost finished the tank top I started knitting for Piper. I'm really hoping to buckle down and have it finished by Friday. If not, I'll definitely have it down by May 5th.

ABC's of ME!

A. Soon to be 25!!

B. Bed size: Queen

C. Chore you dislike: Dishes!

D. Dogs: One little mutt named Romy. 

E. Essential start to your day: Getting dress, and having something to drink!

F. Favorite color: Pink

G. Gold or silver: Silver or white gold

H. Height: About 5'7"

I. Instruments you play(ed): I'm alright at Guitar Hero and that's about it. I played the triangle once in a school play.

J. Job title: Administrative Assistant with Health Canada

K. Kids: My little Piper will be 2 yrs old on May 14th.

L. Live: In our own home, in Bryson

M. Mom’s name: Colleen

N. Nicknames: I sometimes get called Baird

O. Overnight hospital stays: Several – really bad kidney infections, miscarriage, and then when I had Piper

P. Pet peeves: The sound of people chewing! Omg, drives me nuts!!

Q. Quote from a movie: I'm horrible with quotes ... n/a

R. Right or left-handed? Righty

S. Siblings: Lena and Doug (both older)

T. Time you wake up: Alarm goes off at 5:00am

U. Underwear: 50% of the time. 

V. Vegetables you don’t like: LOVE veggies!

W. What makes you run late: Other people!

X. X-rays you’ve had: Regular dental checkups, my knee and kidneys

Y. Yummy food you make: Lasagna, and banana bread!

Z. Zoo animal favorites: Going to the Toronto Zoo in May, can't wait to see the Giraffes and Polar Bears