Dogs Just Know

I am constantly amazed at how "tuned in" my dogs are. This morning was nice and sunny (a rarity during northern winters) so I had decided that I would take my dogs on a nice walk. I am generally lazy in walking them but now that they need to lose some weight and it was good weather, I began thinking about the idea...but I hadn't mentioned anything out loud. As I finished getting dressed and putting my makeup on, both dogs were sitting at the bathroom door, which they usually don't do. It was as if they knew something was up. As I walked toward the door, both of them got supercharged and excited. They just knew we were going to do their favourite activity...a nice long walk. Sniff, trot, explore the country smells. So how did my dogs know that I was planning to take them out? Did they read my mind or sense my intentions via mental telepathy? Some people think dogs and animals aren't too bright, but I know full well just how amazing they are and how incredibly intuitive their natures are. I love my animals.

Organizing Me

It's a beautiful sunny day but still pretty chilly out. I have been trying to get myself better organized - my new year's goal, with tackling some project each day. Most days it's just something small, but I have to accomplish something each day. I have been realizing just how much time I have been wasting for some time now and it's not a good thing. So, filing many, many papers is my goal for the week - along with tidying up my desk area. It's frustrating because every time I get it looking just so, others come in (mainly my young son) and destroy my efforts in a minute amount of time. Oh well, c'est la vie. It's only paper and it'll get cleaned up one way or another.

Back in the Game

I've taken a long rest from blogging, but now feel motivated enough to "get back into the game." My initial thoughts this morning are about how messed up our North American society has become. I saw a clip on the news regarding the recent American Music Awards which had to do with some very controversial on-stage behaviours. I'm not going to mention the specific "acts" or the performers who did them, as I don't want to give them credit for annoying and offending me.

I just wonder why our society feels it is necessary to continue with such vulgar displays of lewdness. How much shock value do we need exposure to(especially our kids)? When a performer feels a need to use shocking behaviours to enhance their on-stage performances, perhaps they are not as talented as they believe. Here's an old-fashioned concept and suggestion to today's actors, singers and performers: try using real talent in lieu of pervasive vulgarity. You might actually find that people will like your "talents" and not just watch you because you made the latest headlines due to controversial actions.

Back to School

School is back in motion and it's been an adjustment getting everyone back into their routine. Fall seems to be coming early as there are a lot of red leaves and coolness to the mornings. In fact, this morning was only 8 C! It's way too soon for seeing your breath in the air. So it's back to making lunches, spending lots of time driving around and getting back into gear. September always seems to be a blur with lots of activity. Now, if only I could come up with some new and exciting lunchbox ideas!!

Happy Birthday

Dear Alessandro,

When you made your early arrival eight years ago today, you changed my life in ways I could not even imagine. When I think back over the time I've been lucky enough to share life with you so many memories come to mind. As an infant, I could not have imagined the number of sleepless nights or days of agonizing colicky cries. But all exhaustion aside, you filled my heart with your sweet sounds, blissful smiles and warm cuddles. I never knew that my heart could feel so full of love for you. My life before you had now become nothing more than a two-dimensional selfish universe so full of trivialities.

You've taught me how to be patient with life in general, how to laugh more and just enjoy the beauty of simple silliness. You continue to amaze me at how articulate you are and aware of your world. Your imagination is captivating and ever-changing with all your ideas. Your smile is still as beautiful as ever and the twinkle in your eyes is purely enchanting.

After a difficult pregnancy and your early arrival I remember this night eight years ago vividly in hospital, gazing at you in your bassinet wrapped up in your blanket and cap snoozing calmly while the food channel played in the background. I could not have imagined the journey that stood before me or the challenges that parenthood would bring me. But I would not have changed a minute of it because now I have learned the real meaning of life because of you. You continue to surprise me, make me laugh and fill my heart with pure love. For that I will be eternally grateful. I only hope that I can make you as proud of me as I am of you mi amore.

Love always,

Mommy xoxo

Lots of Worries

This summer has put me on an emotional roller coaster. I'm in the process of trying to sell a home which brings on an entirely new set of worries, challenges, expenses and heartaches and have been dealing with my husband's unsteady health for the past 3 weeks. Doctors think he has had a severe bout of vertigo, but it is still unconfirmed. Have I ever got some serious griping to do about the Canadian health care system! To see someone you love in an incapacitated manner just draws clear how thankful we must be to have each day of health. Simple things such as just being able to walk, talk and have a laugh are all gifts to be cherished. I'm looking forward to getting some "normalcy" stabilized in my life once again.

Watermelon

With summer here, it's time to enjoy some nice juicy watermelon. But how do you choose a good one? First, check to make sure the fruit is nice and symmetrical, free from bruises and dents. Take a look at the skin to see that is nice and waxy to the touch. Make sure the melon feels heavy for its size. It is after all, 92% water. When looking at the melon, there should also be a lighter patch somewhere on it where the fruit lay to ripen on the ground. Some people think you need to thump a melon to test its ripeness. If you are one of those folks, the flick the melon with your middle finger and listen to hear a deep thudding sound. That should tell you if your watermelon is ripe or not.

Want to make watermelon ice cubes to refresh your summer drink? Try this recipe:

6 cups cubed, seeded watermelon

4 tbsp. sugar (or to taste)

30-40 fresh raspberries

Bunch of fresh rough chopped mint leaves

Puree the melon in a blender. Add the sugar one tablespoon at a time, to taste. Place one raspberry in each section of 2-3 ice cube trays. Pour in the melon puree and top with a pinch of the chopped mint in each section. Cover and freeze until frozen solid.