Lately.

School's out.
I'm slowly transitioning.
Switching from high gear into holiday mode.
And just lovin' it.

We finally found the time to book a grooming appointment, and take the puppy for a haircut. All this puppy stuff is very unfamiliar to me, and I'm completely green when it comes to doggie terminology. So I went full hog, requesting that the groomer do a complete "summer trim".

So fluffy and scruffy Miss Bella went from looking like this...

...to looking like yours truly, Miss Skinnamarinkydinkydink.

 

Oops. We still love her, but we're just not sure we're all about the poodle face. Next time, I guess, I'll err on the side of caution with the trimming. Live and learn, live and learn.

She still provides plenty of entertainment. Has become a bit of a hobo though, when it comes to food. Apparently she thinks she likes Lays. Clearly we need to eliminate those begging moves.

First day out of school, we went strawberry picking.
We were out and the sun was out. For once.

Good crop this year. Gathered over 10lbs in about 20 minutes.

Thursday we celebrated Miss Lannie's birthday. Where does time go? Seems like just yesterday we brought that tiny little bundle of joy home from the hospital. Now she's 5'1". Whoa. Stop the ride!!

Today we were hoping to go to the local Canada Day Fair. But gazing out at the rain falling in our back yard makes the idea of traipsing through an outdoor fair a whole lot less enticing.

Instead, I sit. And look out at the drizzle, dreaming of how I'd much rather be enjoying this view.

Sitting on a certain deck. In the sunshine. Drinking coffee with my besties, sharing in some good conversation. And chowing down on fresh-baked banana chocolate chip muffins.

Dreaming.

Grand Mother Hood.

Stand back. I'm embarking on a whole new journey in life. Otherwise known as the Gran, the Grammie or the Nana. With this status, maybe now I'll be able to command some respect!

Beautiful, tiny baby Annalise joined our ranks on June 15th, 2012. Born to Kyle and Allison in the lovely country of Nicaragua. We're really expanding our family culture, aren't we?

And another female. We're up by 3 now. Uh-oh. The opposite sex is being challenged. I wonder just what August will bring!!??

Two Months with Miss Bella.

We brought her home at 8 weeks on March 29th, 2012. Been two months since then, and already she seems like so much a part of the family, we're trying to remember just what life was like without her.

                                              Initially, she'd stay within view, curl up at the base of the stairs and calmly drift off to sleep, as all good little puppies should.

But it wasn't long before she realized that, just a few steps away, there existed the vast expanse of a second floor.

Soon, at every opportunity, she was scampering off to explore.


Which meant an el pronto trip to Petsmart by the People-In-Charge. To acquire a pen, a cage, or whatever you want to call it. No free-roaming four-legged friends for me.

Restraint in the confines of a pen hasn't gone over too well with Miss Bella. She relentlessly examines every nook and cranny for an escape route. And has, on occasion, fled to freedom. Hence the treats are kept readily accessible in the event of a breakout. And you should see the break-neck speed at which she returns to the kitchen, as soon as she hears those yummies rattling in the bag.

She is loved. Gets in trouble with these two from time to time, but worms her way back into their hearts, and knows she is loved unconditionally.

She seeks out slippers. And shoes. And socks.

And delights in sniffing and licking those ten lower digits.

A pastime regarded with a great deal of disdain by two of my daughters-in-law.

But I say it's just another perspective of feet-washing.

Just kidding.

We're working on her manners in that department.

Little Miss Bella's current weight is just shy of 5 lbs. When the girls bathe her, she sure looks like a scrawny little thing! Her thick, fluffy coat is deceiving. You can see she's in dire need of a trip to the groomer for an all-over puppy-cut. Will have to schedule that soon.

She knows how to sit, stay and lie down.
Good puppy.
Good, scruffy puppy.

However, I think we've gone through a whole bag of treats to merely accomplish those few feats. The girls seem to think that since she only speaks Dog, her immediate compliance to any one of these commands in English means she is beyond brilliant. And that, in itself, warrants five doggie treats at a time. Not just one.

Time for some food restrictions around here.

Story of my life, story of my life.

Overdue. Update.

Do you ever feel so overwhelmed with what needs to be done that you have no clue where to begin?

Feeling that way about updating this here Blog.

So I'll just start rambling. And you feel free to quit reading whenever you want.

Did you notice the compound words in the title of this post? Hah. They've been part of the Grade 5 Language Arts homework several times in the last few weeks. And relearning the concept of word blending has been so recently hammered into my head that I seem to be shouting out compound words left, right and centre. Sorry. Just all part of the RAM cram.

The gospel meetings concluded after three weeks. Months of anticipation, planning, praying... then it seemed just a blink, and they were done. Lots of folks came to hear the gospel preaching, and one that we know of trusted Christ. Hearing again, night after night, of Jesus' punishment for my sins, renewed my self-unworthiness but humble gratefulness to Him for saving a sinner like me.

On the home front, we miss our company. It was such a privelege to host two of God's humble warriors of the gospel. And they spoiled us for three weeks being our live-in puppy-sitters, gardeners and laundry helpers. It was wonderful, seriously. The house sure seemed empty and boring the day they left. The Keurig machine has since shifted into low gear. The puppy has been scouting the place out, sniffing everywhere for her best friend Pete. Or maybe it's his socks she's searching for. And Marvin's laugh is missing. So hale and hearty and dreadfully infectious. And we still miss the daily dose of amazing piano entertainment. Never knew our piano could sound that good.

Although, to be honest, I'd be lying to say that I'm not enjoying the respite of routine again.

We were honoured guests at a very special wedding on April 20th. The sweet little girl,
...who embraced me with open arms when I first moved to Vancouver,
...who helped me bake copious amounts of cookies for the multitudes of men in our households,
...who fed and rocked my newborn babies for hours on end,
has married the love of her life.

She was a beautiful and stunning bride. Just the same as she is on the inside too. Her boyo ain't too shabby, either. Take good care of her, Emile. She's a real gem. Congratulations.

Here's a few guests from the Up-And-Coming category. All of which are just around the tender age Taryna was when I first met her. Little Miss T was very quiet and shy. None of these locals pictured are quiet. Or shy. Just hope they grow up sweet and mature like the Bride of the Day.

A couple of Toronto friends were also invited to the wedding, and we were delighted to house them for the weekend. We easily picked up where we left off from our last visit, catching up on conversation and consuming way too much food. Funny how, despite the course of time, some things just seem to stay the same. Love old friends for that. Especially these two. Irv and Sheryl. Simply the best. Next time we'll have to get a picture of us foursome!

We were pleasantly surprised to have Kyle and Ally fly into town for a quick visit enroute to Toronto. So wonderful to see them again. Of course, my gorgeous daughter-in-law simply looks adorable with her darling little baby bump. The perfect pregnant lady. Right out of Vogue.

But, for once in my life, Ally's belly is actually bigger than mine. Just sayin'.

The puppy.

Well, she certainly appears to be adjusting to her new life as Bella Wilson. We, the family, are slowly adjusting too.

Her cuteness has us all tightly wrapped around her fluffy little paw.

But I'll take some pictures. And journal all the drama and details on that in a future blog post.

Stay tuned.

Preaching the Gospel.

Was a booklet like this delivered to your mailbox? Have you come out to one of the services yet?

For the last two weeks, these special meetings have been hosted to herald the message of God's salvation.

What, you might say, is that?

It is a simple, clear presentation of Bible truth. Showing how a sinner can have their sins forgiven, through the death of the Lord Jesus Christ.

If you haven't been out yet, then here's your invitation to come. Tonight.


Although the date on the booklet indicates that the concluding meeting is April 29th, the services are continuing through until May 6th, dv.  An extended opportunity for you to come.

Your response to the message of the gospel is the most important decision you will ever make in life. Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.

To save YOU.

Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
(2 Corinthians 6:2)

Previous gospel messages can be viewed here.

Friends. With Chocolate.

It was such a pleasant surprise to see him again. Our Scottish friend. We first met him several years ago when he came to visit in our neck of the woods. We made an immediate connection. Perhaps it was the fact that we shared our origination on British turf. Or just that we enjoyed listening to his rhythmic Scottish brogue. I know we were definitely entertained by his dry sense of humour!

Apparently, we made one memorable impression on him. And that was the fact that we all have a particular fondess for British chocolate. This trip, he packed some in his luggage. Just for us.

Kind friend. No doubt about it. Chocolate-bearing friends are, by far, the best.

And Cadburys Cream Eggs, to boot. Just how did he know that those are MY all-time favorite!!??

Women of the Bible.

I've been enjoying Bible Gateway's short character studies on Bible Women. Today's devotional was on Bernice, from Acts 25 and 26.

Although there are only a total of six verses in the scriptures that actually refer to Bernice, there is plenty said in a few words about the life of this ungodly woman.

The name "Bernice" is expressive of "a good and happy victory". Left me wondering if this Bernice was aptly named, at all.

She was the oldest daughter of King Herod Agrippa, described in Acts 12 as one "who vexed the church". Clearly in her childhood, a strong hatred of the first christians must have been instilled by her father.

She had several marriages, one of which was to her Uncle Herod. When he passed away, she became her brother Agrippa's constant consort. Tiring of him, she married Polemon, King of Cilicia and was mistress to many, before ultimately returning to intimacy with Agrippa.

Ugh. Not exactly the girl-next-door type of figure. In fact, if I ever met someone like Bernice in my life, I would most certainly cast her aside with disdain. (Shame on me.)

But not Paul. What did he do?

He appealed to Bernice's heart in the presence of Agrippa, declaring what God had done for his soul. Her brother listened, and his conclusion to Paul, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” I wonder what thoughts entertained Bernice's mind as she heard her brother's response to the message of salvation? Was she silently convicted of her evil and shame? Did she consider the One who had died for her wicked acts?

The scriptures are silent on Bernice's end, but I'm pretty certain, despite the meaning of her name, she met with a sad and unhappy defeat.

If you wish to receive these devotionals, click here for more information.

Thursday. March 29th.

And... off we go.
Embarking on our journey.

The 10:30 Ferry. Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo.

Supposed to be Spring Break here.

But it felt like the dead of Winter out on the ferry's open deck.

Brrrrr.

Back inside. Warm and cozy. And flashing happy smiles of anticipation.

Food certainly helps pass the time.

She's her mother's daughter, for sure.

Me and hubster. Love him.

Finally, finally, finally.

We meet our little puppy.

I'd say two somebodys are pretty thrilled.

Must admit, she is kinda cute. Very soft and fluffy. And cuddly.

Woof. My name is Bella.

What's not to love?

Well, I could tell ya a few things a'ready.

Um, yeah.

But she is kinda cute. And like I said, fluffy.

And cuddly.

Second part of the trek.
Back on the ferry.

This puppy ain't gonna lack in the Attention Department.

For now, anyways.

Home.

Brand new surroundings for her. Brand new adventure for us.

Let the games begin. Aargh. Did I just say that??!!

Food Favorites.

Been a while since I blogged about food. For those of you who really know me, this is unusual. I, the Lady of the Larder, who gallantly lives by the golden rule, "Open mouth, insert food." Food is my life.

This week of Spring Break seems to be delivering lots of free time. Free time to clean out closets and bring about the demise of dustmites regaling in the hidden corners of my domain. Um, nope. Not me. Instead, I'm using the free time to dig out recipes, fill my kitchen with the aroma of home-baked goodness, and load up my freezer with delightful little treats.

Here's a little of the deliciousness that has emerged from my oven so far. Recipes included. Just in case you be askin'.


VANILLA BEAN SCONES

3 cups flour
2/3 cups sugar
5 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup butter
1 egg
1 1/4 cups whipping cream
3 whole vanilla beans
3 cups icing sugar
1/4 cup milk


To make the scones, split two vanilla beans, scrape out the seeds and stir into cream. Mix flour, sugar and baking powder. Cut butter into pats and blend into flour mixutre until it resembles fine crumbs. Add egg and vanilla cream to crumbs and blend until just mixed. Knead gently on floured surface, and roll into rectangle, about 1/2-inch thick. Cut into 12 squares, then cut each square in half, to form small triangles. Bake at 350F for 18-20 minutes. Allow to cool. For the icing, blend milk and seeds from one vanilla bean. Add to icing sugar, and dip scones to coat.

TIPS: Use cold butter. I sometimes even set the crumb mix into the fridge for an hour, so it's good and chilled. And don't overmix the dough. The heat from your hands will soften the butter crumbs too much. Guaranteed... flakiness and fatness, all in the one bite.

 M&M COOKIES

(just for the kiddies)

1 cup salted butter

1 cup white sugar

3/4 cup dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 eggs

2 and 1/2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 cups M&Ms (minis are best)

Beat butter with sugars until well blended. Add vanilla and eggs. Gradually beat in flour and baking soda. Stir in M&Ms. Using a mini scoop, place dough on stoneware approximately two inches apart. Bake at 375F for 9-10 minutes, until lightly golden.

TIPS: Stoneware produces perfectly crispy cookies with soft, chewy insides. They won't look done when you remove them from the oven, but don't overbake them. And you'll need to sample at least six.

Well, then, I'm off to do some more baking this afternoon. As much as I can cram into a couple of days. Because, later this week, it seems I'm doomed to forfeit my personal freedom. This Thursday brings a surprising event. That will, no doubt, change my life forever.

If you know me at all, you just won't believe what I'll be blogging about then. You really won't.

Life Lately.

It's official. Spring Break has begun. Finally.

And to celebrate, Miss Kayleigh cooked up some crepes for breakfast on Saturday morning.

Cutest little chef ever. And her crepes were delicious, too.

Then we were off and running.

Helping some recent newlyweds move.

Into their brand, spanking new condo.

Sunday, some out-of-town guests arrived.

We crammed three days.

Metrotown. Train ride. Ikea. Coqo Centre. Aquarium. Metrotown again.

All the little monkeys survived.

I think they were just thrilled to be together.

Me?

I was delighted to spend time with one of my favorite people.

Wish she lived closer.

We even managed to squeeze in a Science Experiment.

Rendering squeals of delight.

And a big mess on the deck.

Which was promptly cleaned up by the man of the house. Thanks, Dad.