Grace Between the Lines

Come to the Spring Auction! It's Awesome!

2012-02-10T13:03:00.003-05:00

John Lammer

2011-04-30T14:25:00.002-04:00

I'm sad to share that Tom's dad died on Thursday. We met John over 15 years ago when Annette and Tom first started dating. He and Tom's mom Theresa have always been very welcoming and hospitable whenever we saw them. We have enjoyed many dinners over the years at their place and have celebrated many wonderful occasions together, along with some sad ones as well. Just two weeks ago, we were invited to share the occasion of his 70th birthday. While it was difficult to see him not feeling well, it was wonderful to see his friends and family come together to celebrate John and his life. He was a well respected man in his community as we heard about many times that evening. He and Theresa raised two great sons and they are a tribute to his legacy. He will be missed by many!

Happy Birthday, Kurtis!

2011-04-18T21:47:00.004-04:00

April 18 is a special day in our family... the day that Kurtis Thomas came into our lives to bless us all. It's hard to believe how quickly time passes and yet again, that spring day seems quite some time ago. Kurtis is growing into a wonderful young pre-teen (yikes!). Learning about how things work around him have always been a strength of his. He has such an inquisitve mind! I also love to see how is continuing to develop such a caring and kind way about him. We are proud of him, Tom and Katharine are proud of him, his grandparents are proud of him and we know his mom would be proud of him too. So many people love you, Kurtis! Happy Birthday! xoxo

Common Threads

2011-01-16T21:27:00.006-05:00

About a year ago, I posted a link to a birth story of a beautiful little girl who happened to have an extra 21st chromosome (Trisomy 21 otherwise known as Down Syndrome). Her mother wrote such a beautiful tribute about how welcoming her daughter into their family was a journey of initial pain that turned into a love she could never imagine.

Well, Nella is turning one and once again her mother has a beautiful blog post about her, their lives this past year and many beautiful pictures of individuals with Trisomy 21. I love this quote from her: "I can tell you this though. I have changed. My eyes have been opened to the broad spectrum of beauty, the value of uniqueness and the amazement of the common thread that binds us all regardless of the color of our skin or the makeup of our chromosomes."

We all want the same thing...to be valued and loved no matter who we are. I love the words "common thread that binds us together". It reminds me of the Down Syndrome convention that Annette worked tirelessly on. It's theme was "Common Threads". Perfect. We are all bound by common threads.It is definitely worth a read... so heartwarming and a wonderful model of what inclusion in our world could really look like. Check it out!

Happy Birthday, Nella!

Three Years

2010-12-15T22:56:00.005-05:00

Three years. Today marks 3 years since we've seen Annette's sweet face.

Words cannot describe how much we miss her.

Inspiration has left me this late in the evening and writer's block has crept in. However, this day will never be forgotten by us. The journey has become familiar as we have learned to wear our grief cloak. Happiness presents itself into our lives as God continues to bless our family. We continue to live and love, to be a family with new people to love. We are well and we are blessed. We have also been blessed by you, who have prayed for us and have remembered with us. Thank you.

Today especially we remember Annette. Her spirit lives on in those who love and remember her.
xoxo

Happy Birthday, Bella...

2010-11-02T19:38:00.005-04:00

Forty four years ago you were born and the world was a better place for it. We only got to enjoy forty one years but know we will celebrate again someday.

I miss you,

xoxo

The View From Here

2010-08-18T13:31:00.003-04:00

This is the view from my front window for the last 13 days.... is there anything lovelier?

We are enjoying the north, the sun, the sand, friends and family....

Happy Birthday, Bear!!

2010-07-20T09:56:00.002-04:00

Sara is 11 today! We are so excited to share her birthday with her. Each year we celebrate and remember the day she was born. What a wonderful change she has made in our lives. We are proud to be her parents and are happy of the wonderful girl she has grown to be. We pray that God will continue to bless her with the richest of blessings, this year and for many years to come.

We LOVE you bear!!! xoxoxoxox

Whole Lotta Cryin' Going On.....

2010-07-12T09:53:00.004-04:00

(Actually, my mother-in-law is not crying in her hands, but having her hair sprayed at half-time... the crying would come later...)

The stage was set... the excitement palpable.... orange abounded...

but

they

couldn't

overcome....

boo

hoo....

We were on the edge of our seat the WHOLE game... until the satelite went out in the first minute of overtime... then we were on the edge of our seats at the inlaws....

sad

proud

of the

Dutch

boys

going

miss

soccer.

It was so much fun watching over the past month! What a great sport!

These are a few pictures I highjacked off my sister-in-law's blog... looks like they had some Dutch fever as well!! (Did I tell you that Sara is in BC with her grandparents? Looks like they're having a great time! Miss you guys!)

Random Ramblings...

2010-07-07T11:51:00.005-04:00

So many things going on in the day to day living here. So many blog posts. So little time. Life is busy (See below...)

But, we are LOVING summer! School has wrapped up for the kids. Mom still has lots of work to do at school but that will happen over the course of the summer. Soccer continues in full swing for three of us, golf for the fourth.

Sara, however, is having quite the exciting trip. Her grandparents took her on a trip to BC to visit her aunt, uncle and cousins. Lucky girl! She'll be gone for 10 days. I know she'll have a great time, but we sure will miss her!

Connor is busy at soccer camp this week, sweating his little behind off! With 43 humidex, it's a little (OK, a lot) icky here this week. He's staying well hydrated, inside at times, and in the shade other times. Fun but tiring stuff!

Steve is busy back at work, sweating his little behind off! I feel so sorry for him an others working outside in this kind of heat! (in jeans and workboots, nonetheless! YUCK!!). His healing has gone really well. He is now able to work, swim an shower without a problem. He will not get the processor until September as the post takes 3 months to fuse with his skull. Otherwise, he feels great.

And let's just talk a minute about World Cup Soccer. Can you say, "AWESOME????" With four parents born in Holland, you know you we are rooting for! And the Dutch have not let us down! We have thoroughly enjoyed watching all the games and can't wait until the final on Sunday when HOLLAND WINS the World Cup!

Hup, Holland, Hup!!

He's Pegged

2010-06-13T22:12:00.002-04:00

Steve's surgery went really well. Things went as scheduled and surgery was smooth. This time, he had no nausea or vomitting from the anesthesia like he did the first time he had a surgery (20+ years ago...) He also had very little pain and recovery has gone well. Just an extra hole in the head and a big, fat bandage.

Thanks for all your thoughts, prayers and well wishes. This was step one: the insertion of the titanium post (drilled into his skull... just thought I'd add that). So he has no reward of better hearing yet... that will come at the beginning of September. Now he needs to heal for 3 months and the post will become one with his skull. Isn't modern science and medicine amazing?

Going Under the Knife... finally!

2010-06-06T20:55:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow, Monday afternoon, Steve will be going under the knife for his BAHA Implant surgery. This is a two hour surgery. The Doctor is going to make an 'H' cut just above and behind his left ear. I'll save you the gruesome details, but the Doctor will surgically implant a 4mm titanium screw in his skull. According to Steve, "Done...piece of cake!!" (easy for him to say!) The titanium screw will need 12 weeks to heal and completely 'fuse' with the skull. So, twelve weeks from now, September 8 actually, he'll go back to Sunnybrook and get 'fitted' with an audio processor that 'clicks' into the titanium screw. The audio processor will do the 'hearing' for him on my deaf side. He's excited and looking forward to the possibilities in these next few months.

Pray with us that all may go well in the surgery and the healing process is quick and painless, hopefully!!

To read about why this is happening to Steve, read here.

How Does This Happen?

2010-05-27T23:34:00.003-04:00

Seriously, how does this happen?

People warned me when our children were small. It was one of those comments or pieces of advice that you think, "Sure, sure, but you're forgetting what it's like to get up at 6 a.m./dress/feed/clean/cook for/play with/clean up after/shop for/bathe/stimulate/take to the park/(and on and on ad nauseum...)for little children while I work part/full time. How can it possibly get busier?" But they all said, "Oh, you just wait, it only gets crazier!"

I am here today to say "they" were right. We are running in so many different directions, we're not sure who's going where on what day and how they're getting there. Soccer for Sara three times a week. Soccer for Connor three times a week. Golf for Steve once a week. Soccer for Mom once a week. 7 or 8 weekend soccer tournaments for the kids. Selling snowcones to raise money for said soccer tournaments. Dance recitals. Church meetings. Piano lessons. Play dates and parties (these kids have better social lives than we do!). Oh, and full time work, too. I can't imagine trying to factor in another person into that equation. How do parents of more children do it??

Busy we choose to be, but busy we love to be. It may sound like whining, but really we enjoy all of these things. Can't imagine giving any of it up! So, I'll hit the Timmy's drive through again, tank up and hit the road.

Will the older years only get busier? Speak up, "They", I will listen to you this time!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KURTIS!!!

2010-04-18T21:28:00.004-04:00

Eleven years ago, we met our wonderful Kurtis for the first time! Now I know I repeat myself with each birthday, but I just can't believe it's been eleven years!
Kurtis is a tender-hearted, generous and kind boy who has brightened our lives. We are proud of the person he is and love him dearly.

Kurtis' highlight of his birthday is that he is getting a new puppy! We can't wait to meet him! I'm sure he'll do a great job taking care of it.

Happy birthday, Kurtis!

(Kurtis loves hallowe'en and spends several months planning out what he is going to do. The picture above is one part of the display that he and his dad put together last hallowe'en. He sure does have a creative mind!)

I Heart Spring!!!

2010-04-15T21:24:00.006-04:00

I sure do love spring.

More than summer? Not sure, but boy, do I sure love spring. The smells, the green grass and buds, the warm air on your skin. The sun. The sandy gravel on the road that mixes in your bike tires, reminding me of youth. As soon as I feel the slightest warming, I run to my garden centre and get me some flowers. My friend stopped by and said, "Oh, you HAVE to be the first on the block to get flowers out."

Why, yes I do.

However, even I had to stop and reflect on my geekiness when Connor and I had this conversation the other day:

ME: Look at that nice dirt!
CONNOR: Huh?
ME: The dirt! At that house! Look! It's all nice and dark brown and lush and rich looking.
CONNOR: Huh?
ME: Doesn't it look beautiful? It's all mounded up all ready for planting. It's gorgeous!
CONNOR: Huh?
ME: The DIRT! Over there! It's gorgeous!
CONNOR: WHAT are you talking about?

At this point, realizing I was talking about soil like it was art or something. I really loved the sight of that dirt!

Now, I am NOT a master gardener or anything, but I do love planting and flowers and SPRING!

Please don't hate me for my geeky love for beautiful soil!

Dear Monday Morning,

2010-04-11T21:25:00.003-04:00

You're arrival is here like clockwork. You never fail to arrive after a blissful weekend of family, friends, work, fun, and worship.

I must admit, you are my least favourite morning of the week. If I could, I would skip you and go straight to Tuesday. But I know you will continue to show up week after week.

While I dread your arrival, however, you're not so bad after an hour and a good cup of coffee. And I'm working really hard to not let you get the best of me when you creep into my Sunday Night.

Monday Morning, I will find a way to co-exist with you.

Love, Me.

Ode to 1 a.m.

2010-04-09T01:15:00.000-04:00

Two cups of coffee

after 6 p.m.

does not a

sleeping girl

make.

The Empty Tomb

2010-04-04T19:20:00.004-04:00

An empty tomb. The stone rolled away. Huge and heavy, yet rolled away by the earth-quaking appearance of the angel. Guards like dead men. Those Romans sure thought they had planned for everything. But they didn't plan on the power of God.

Do we plan on the power of God? When things are smooth sailing, we sure love to think we do. But when the storms roll in, the stone rolls in, life upside down, the supportive crowds rolling out, do we really plan on the power of God? Earth quaking, guards like dead men, stone rolling belief?

What a sight for the women who went to look at the tomb! They went even though they weren't sure what they were going to do about that stone when they got there. They went at dawn. As soon as was legally acceptable. Eager to do a task for their Lord, even though He had died. Did they plan on the power of God? Imagine their fear and joy at what the angel said to them, "He is not here! He has risen just as He said He would. The power of God. The "piece" that passes all understanding. The piece of God that is beyond our understanding in this life. But, thankfully, we can have the peace that passes all understanding.

the tomb is empty

The tomb is empty.

The Tomb Is Empty!

He is not there. He has risen, just as He said. Come and see. Then go tell!

Happy World Down Syndrome Day

2010-03-21T17:27:00.003-04:00

March 21 (3/21) is World Down Syndrome Day. It was chosen to signify the uniqueness of Down Syndrome in the triplication (trisomy) of the the 21st chromosome and is used synonimously with Down Syndrome.

Commemoration of World Down Syndrome Day began in March, 2006. It has grown manifold globally. The observance is used to promote awareness and understanding of Down syndrome and related issues; and to mobilize support and recognition for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with Down syndrome.

Happy Birthday to our Snowbirds!

2010-03-12T21:37:00.002-05:00

Dad and Menny are so busy having fun somewhere warmer than here for a LONG time. so we can't share hugs and kisses in person. BUT we want to wish them both (yes, one day apart) an awesome birthday and blessings for many more happy and healthy years.

We love you!! Happy birthday!!

With love from all of us!!

Phone Follies

2010-03-07T20:48:00.003-05:00

I generally called Annette or she me at least once a week. Since she lived long distance, I dialed an eighteen digit number (an extra 7 digits to get cheap long distance of course).

My fingers flew over the keypad faster than my mind could think of the numbers. It was just an automatic physical reaction to key in those numbers without even thinking of them. I used 2 thumbs as once. (Maybe I will make a good texter some day...)

I sat down to call Tom the other day. My fingers began their thing without me thinking.

Then I stopped.

My fingers had forgotten.

My mind had forgotten.

I tried 3 times.

Couldn't get it.

Had to look up the number in my phone book.

*sigh*

Happy Birthday, Ryan!!

2010-02-26T16:00:00.004-05:00

Ryan is NINE today!! Ryan has brought much joy and laughter into many lives. We are grateful for his presence in our family. It's hard to believe it's been 9 years since he was born. Look how adorable he looks here:

Ryan, we hope you have a wonderful day and that we can see you soon!

Happy birthday!!

We love you!

xoxo

Missing the Snow!

2010-02-23T01:34:00.001-05:00

I miss the days when winter guaranteed snow in our city!

The Ring

2010-02-21T00:16:00.005-05:00

Have a look at my ring. I love it, although I don't wear it often. I usually wear the ring from my mom that she got on her 25th anniversary. However, occasionally, when I'm wearing silver, I wear this ring:
It came from my mom. I got it out of her jewelery box. I inherited it from her. I love it for sentimental reasons. I love it because it is so unique as it was crafted from a spoon, from Holland. Do you see it? They clip the spoon part off, and make a ring from the handle of the teaspoon. I remember my mom telling me this. Isn't it beautiful?? What clever Dutch people. Always finding a way to do things frugally.

So, a few weeks ago, I am wearing said ring and my dear sister-in-love, Kathy, comments on it's beauty. I presume to tell her the whole lovely story:

"It's my mom's so it's really special to me."
"It came from Mom's jewelery box"
"Well, actually, it's a spoon handle!"
"I know... very cool, eh?"
"Well, you see, they take one of those fancy tea spoons and cut the spoonie part off and bend it around to fit your finger. Very clever, isn't it??"

at this point I am taking said ring off to show her the creative spoon workmanship...
"...and look inside the ring here..."

Now, here is where I had an SLR camera to take a super duper close up of the inside of the ring...
(I know, you're getting goose-bumps here...)
There is something engraved there.... maybe this will help solve the mystery of when the ring was created... was it an heirloomed, passed down from generation to generation? Did Mom buy it on a trip to Holland? I can't remember, but wish I knew...

Exciting...

"Uh....."
"hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm"
"Welll................................................................................................"

thinking" Call me crazy... but...

I'm pretty sure they didn't have AVON in Holland that made spon rings"

Yeah, me too.

Never saw that one coming. I am so sure I remember that I heard that story of the ring coming from a spoon handle. Really. Heard it. Somewhere. But I guess it wasn't from my mom. Must have been in my other life. Or someone else's mom...

And as funny as this was to me, it was twinged with sadness as I can never ask Mom the true story behind the ring. I know Dad won't have a clue where it came from (sorry, Dad, the truth hurts sometimes...) So, it will always and forever now be the Antique Spoon Ring from AVON in Holland...!

Olympic Fever

2010-02-17T19:40:00.003-05:00

Yes, we've got it, too! Olympic fever has decended on our house. There is a certain national pride that comes when your country hosts the Olympics.

Despite what we may think about the billions of dollars spent, infrastructure built at the expense of nature, homeless displaced, and the focus on the glory to be only THE best, we can't help but jump on the Olympic bandwagon.

We love our country and are proud to be Canadians. We are in awe of the beauty of God's land of Canada. We enjoy seeing scenery of the beautiful west. We are excited when we win a medal.

So, these two weeks, we will enjoy history in the making. We will be grateful for the land that we live in. We will be grateful for the opportunities we have here.

Go, Canada, Go!!!!

My New Obsession...

2010-02-13T09:59:00.005-05:00

Want to see my new obsession?

OK... obsession is a strong word. But I am in LOVE with the new scrapbooking digital software from Creative Memories. I've always been a novice scapper, using materials from here and there. I've been scrapping books for each of the kids since they were born. However, unfortunately, I'm about 3 or 4 years behind. You know... you just get a little behind, then a little more, then it's way too overwhelming to even begin. That's where I'm at... (however, I did do a whole book on our Disney trip 2 years ago...)

So when I heard about this digital scrapbooking, I knew it was the answer for me! I have all the pictures from 3 years ago on as digital images. Press, click, save-presto! So I'm planning on working backwards with the pages. Here's what I accomplished during the Superbowl:
You can upload these pages to Costco and slip them into a 12 x 12 album. Super excited!!

I was doing a lot of hard thinking about how to change the year 2009 to 2010 for the Halloween page. Connor then came up with the briliant comment, "Uh, Mom, it WAS 2009." Yes, sometimes I'm not smarter than a second grader...

Got a Few Minutes...?

2010-02-06T19:46:00.004-05:00

Want to read something so touching? A blog friend, Tara Marie, found this beautiful "birth story" and shared the link. It is l-o-n-g, but it is well worth the read when you have a few minutes. You will be touched!

(Click here:) Welcome to the World, Nella Cordelia!

BAHA

2010-02-01T19:53:00.003-05:00

You might be dreaming up images of white sandy beaches when you read that word (OK, so the place in California might be spelled "Baja", but the sound is the same...) That once unknown-to-us word (or, more accurately, acronym) has become the centre of much research in our house.

The story begins last April, when Steve came down with a bad case of flu-like symptoms. Shortly followed severe ear pain which prompted a trip to the clinic, a course of antibiotics, severe dizziness and illness, another trip to the prompt-care, including IV fluids and antibiotics and culminating in a deafness in one ear, which we hoped would dissipate with the resolving of the virus. Unfortunately for Steve, it did not. Unbelievably, the virus attacked his auditory nerve and permanently destroyed it, leaving him 100% deaf in his left ear. Not only can he not hear from that ear, but he has constant, loud, jet-engine tinnitus (TIN-i-tus) ringing that drives him crazy on a good day. After a lead on an option called the BAHA from his ENT, we began to research.

A Bone Anchored Hearing Aid is a remarkable newish assistive device. It relays the sound from his left side (the deaf side) through the BONE in his skull so that he can hear those sounds on his right side. It involves a short operation, during which a titanium post is screwed into his skull. The post fuses with his bone and becomes a part of it after 3 months. Then a processor is worn on the post. The processor picks up the vibrations of sound and relays it through the bone where it the sound is then processed in the good ear. So, in actuality, Steve will be hearing (hopefully) all the sounds a normal person hears, but in one ear! Technology is remarkable!

We are hopeful that this will help him hear more and also hopefully alleviate some of the tinnitus. We are grateful that we live in a place where Steve is able to receive this procedure and device. As it is a fairly new procedure in Canada, it is not covered by OHIP. However, the hospital where we went today covers the procedure because of experimental grant money they receive from the government. Steve is a great candidate and so has been approved for one of the twenty surgeries they are able to do each year. The processor is not covered by any government agency and comes with a hefty price tag. However, we are hopeful that our insurance will cover most, if not all of the processor.

(These are pictures from this website...)

The process is worn on the skull. That will be an adjustment. It can be removed for showering and sleeping.

The sound travels through the processor and through the bone in the skull.

We remain hopeful that this will restore some of the things that Steve has been missing for the last many months. It will take 3-4 months on a waiting list for a surgery spot to come open for him. You can read more about the BAHA here.

New to Me Pictures

2010-01-29T19:41:00.003-05:00

Annette has many people who knew and loved her. She was very happy to be a part of an on-line community of equally dedicated parents to children with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome). She loved to "chat" with them, so much so that she and Tom occasionally traveled to meet some of them IRL (in real life).

I am fortunate enough to have been welcomed in her place in their community. I also like to "chat" with them. I have met 2 IRL (at Annette's funeral). Many of her friends have posted pictures of her on their blogs. Pictures I had never seen before. One day, I got to thinking that I would love to have these pictures for myself. So I asked the girls. And they came through. They emailed me all the pictures they had from meeting Annette IRL. What a gift that is to me. Unfortunately, I really don't have a whole lot of pictures of her, me or us through the years. Something I try to compensate more for now. (Take those pictures!!)

Thanks, ladies, for such special pictures!

A New Year

2010-01-21T17:39:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year! I know, only 20 days late. Where does the time go?
We had a wonderful holiday and are now (somewhat reluctantly) settling back into our regular routine.

So many times I think, "I need to comment about this on the blog". But it never seems to get done. Life is busy.

Admist all our busyness, we feel great sorrow for our global neighbours in Haiti. The death and destruction seems unfathomable. We hear the cry of anguish. We see the images. We imagine the pain (or we can't imagine). We raise money and awareness with our children. We try to teach our children compassion. We are helpless. But we are not hopeless.

Fire Safety for Snowmen...

2009-12-26T22:00:00.002-05:00

Christmas Wishes

2009-12-24T21:44:00.003-05:00

"for to you is born this day in the city of Davids a Savior, who is Christ the Lord..." Luke 2:11

We have had a wonderful week preparing for Christmas. As usual, we spend much time with friends and family to celebrate Jesus' birth. It's been wonderful to have some "down time" from our regular routines and being able to spend more time together. We are truly blessed.

I came across this poem again tonight and found it appropriate to post it here. We are so grateful for all the blessings and joy we continue to receive. We do, however, continue to miss our Annette and Mom, at Christmas as we do each day. What beautiful words to remind us of the true joy they now live.... as someday we will, too!

Wishing you and yours all the peace and joy of the season. Blessed Christmas!!

I see the countless CHRISTMAS TREES around the world below

with tiny lights like HEAVEN’S STARS reflecting on the snow.
The sight is so SPECTACULAR please wipe away that tear

for I am spending CHRISTMAS WITH JESUS CHRIST this year.

I hear the many CHRISTMAS SONGS that people hold so dear

but the SOUND OF MUSIC can't compare with the CHRISTMAS CHOIR up here
I see the countless CHRISTMAS TREES around the world below

with tiny lights like HEAVEN’S STARS reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so SPECTACULAR please wipe away that tear

for I am spending CHRISTMAS WITH JESUS CHRIST this year.
I hear the many CHRISTMAS SONGS that people hold so dear

but the SOUND OF MUSIC can't compare with the CHRISTMAS CHOIR up here.

I have no words to tell you of the JOY their voices bring

for it is beyond description to HEAR THE ANGELS SING.
I know HOW MUCH YOU MISS ME, I see the pain inside your heart

for I am spending CHRISTMAS WITH JESUS CHRIST this year.

I can't tell you of the SPLENDOR or the PEACE here in this place

Can you just imagine CHRISTMAS WITH OUR SAVIOR face to face
I'll ask him to LIFT YOUR SPIRIT as I tell him of your love

so then PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER as you lift your eyes above.

Please let your HEARTS BE JOYFUL and let your SPIRIT SING

for I am spending CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN and I’m walking WITH THE KING.

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow!

2009-12-23T13:20:00.003-05:00

Sara has been growing her hair out for the last two years. About a year ago, she decided to continue growing it until she had enough to cut it to donate it for cancer.

We researched the various places and discovered that she needed 10 inches in order to donate. She finally had enough! So on Monday, she took the plunge and had it cut! For many places you can mail the hair in an envelope. However, we found a place right in our city that makes wigs for kids right here! It is called Wigs For Kids They provide wigs for children who have hair loss from illness, burn or other issues.

Sara decided to "cut my hair for Aunt Annette because she had cancer." We think she looks beautiful with short hair, and even more so for the reason behind the short hair.

We love you, Sara, and are proud of you!

November 2, 1966 - December 16 2007

2009-12-15T21:30:00.003-05:00

Gone are the days we used to share

But in our hearts you are always there.

The gates of memory never close,

We miss you more than anyone knows,

With tender love and deep regret,

We who love you will never forget.

My Little Cadet

2009-11-26T20:52:00.005-05:00

Here's my little cadet. I can't believe he is old enough to be going to cadets at church. He is so snapping cute in his little shirt and kerchief. He earned the kerchief by being able to recite his landmarks (don't ask me... ;) I especially love the part about promising to obey his parents. Can I get that in writing for him in ten years?

Sonnor

2009-11-17T18:31:00.006-05:00

Sara and Connor were busy after school... creating! Sara came up with an idea for making her own boardgame on some paper. They made Ya! cards. These were the challenges that had to be completed. There were music and dancing challenges, mad libs, carnival cards to buy things with (kisses and hugs), and acting challenges. They made a BIN which was a grab bin that contained many little mini prizes. After supper, we had to play it all together. It was quite a fun game!

Trying it out for the first time...

A "Mad Lib" Ya! card...

The inventive creators...

The board...

Thanks, Sara and Connor for entertaining us again this evening! Maybe we should contact Hasbro and see if they're looking for a new game for their line-up!

PS: They named it "Sonnor". Can you figure out why?

For the Beauty of the Earth...

2009-11-15T16:25:00.003-05:00

Don't you love fall??

Don't you love fall even more when the kids are old enough to help with the job of leaves??

Ahhh... this is what we've been waiting for!!

November 2

2009-11-02T00:00:00.000-05:00

November 2 will always be a special day for our family. 43 years ago Annette Grace was joyfully welcomed by her parents after a long wait. Each year thereafter, the second of November was met with great celebration and joy. While this family only got to celebrate 41 of these milestones with her here on this earth, we will continue to mark this special day. Our celebrations will be much more quiet, if not silent. But we will celebrate with joy. Joy for the years we had. Joy for the person she was. Joy because she helped make the people we are today. Joy because she now celebrates her new life eternally. Joy because we have the hope of being together again. Our joy may be shadowed with a longing and missing, and yes, even sadness. But we will have joy.

Mom ~ In Loving Memory ~ October 31, 2006

2009-10-31T22:45:00.002-04:00

The message is the same as last year, and missing her is the same, too.

A MOTHER'S LOVE

A Mother's love is something that no one can explain,
It is made of deep devotion and of sacrifice and pain,
It is endless and unselfish and enduring come what may
For nothing can destroy it or take that love away . . .
It is patient and forgiving when all others are forsaking,
And it never fails or falters even though the heart is breaking . . .
It believes beyond believing when the world around condemns,
And it glows with all the beauty of the rarest, brightest gems . . .
It is far beyond defining, it defies all explanation,
And it still remains a secret like the mysteries of creation . . .
A many splendoured miracle we cannot understand
And another wondrous evidenceof God's tender guiding hand.
~Helen Steiner Rice~

Three years ago we said our "good-bye for now's.

Missing Mom today, as every day.

Fantastic Day at Fantasy Island!

2009-09-12T22:47:00.004-04:00

Where have we been for the last month and a half, you ask?

Well, we've been a little, ummmm, tied up...

...doing all kinds of fun summer stuff. We've had a great summer together at the cottage, playing soccer, resting and relaxing.

Now, it's back to reality. However, today we took another day to play!

We've been very busy this summer! But we'd promised the kids that if they wanted to use their birthday money for some day trips, we could go places they'd like to go. (We're trying to teach them that we're not the bottomless pit of denaro that they like to think we are. Ha!) So, today was the first chance we had to get to a theme park. We'd never been to this particular park and we had so much fun! There was no one there, which made it that much more fun (don't take that the wrong way, that almost sounds anti-social! What I meant was no crowds, no lines etc.) We could ride the rides over and over and over again. And we did. Sara and I did the roller coaster 5 times in a row without getting off. Whew!

It was great to steal another day with our family "while the gettin' is good". What a gorgeous day of weather we were blessed with today!

We did a round of mini-golf (Connor's favourite...)

Another of Connor's favourite... driving the antique cars! Maybe when Opa gets his '32 Chrysler finished, Connor can take it out for a spin!

I made Sara pose with me as I am in NO pictures for the last, oh, 7 years.

Sara and Connor on the slide...

Racing down together:

Bumper Cars!

Hey, Guess what????

2009-07-24T15:46:00.004-04:00

What??

Really, what??

It's raining!

No, I'm not kidding.

Rain.

Here.

Now.

Again.

I think we might start building an ark.

The kids decided that if you can't have sun to play in, rain isn't so bad either.

Huh. (anyone watch Canadian TV?)

Oh, and here is what happens when they find some washable markers to entertain themselves in the rain.
Except that is stopped raining. Har-dee-har-har.
Now they're waiting for Daddy to get home to turn on the sprinkler.
Ah, youth.

We're Hitting Double Digits Today!

2009-07-20T17:13:00.006-04:00

Ten years ago today, Sara Justine graced us with her presence at 8:25 am. It was a Tuesday morning (ten days later than expected, but hey, who's keeping track of that now anymore??).

It's been such a blessing to watch her grow from baby to toddler to oung girl to *gulp* pre-teen. Sara has a wonderful, caring, fun-loving, compassionate personality. She keeps our lives spicy. We like that. We pray for many more birthdays to celebrate together.

Happy birthday, Bear!

We love you to the moon and back!!

Love, Mommy, Daddy and Connor

Look Who's Got Glasses!

2009-07-12T21:01:00.003-04:00

Isn't he cute??

The Blogging World

2009-07-11T11:49:00.002-04:00

I'll admit that I've become addicted to the blogging world. I have several "bookmarked" blogs that I follow regularly. These are people I have never met, nor do I know them. But I read about their lives. Everyday.

Most of the blogs I became aware of by another blog I follow. People put links on their blogs to other blogs and ask you to think of or pray for this family because of the needs they have. So I click and follow the link and before you know it, I am involved in the stories that make up their lives. People I have never met and don't know.

Why are we so interested in those we don't know? Why such voyeuristic intentions? Do we love drama? Maybe. Like a real-life soap opera of sorts? Perhaps. But for me, I think it's just seeing how we are all the same, no matter where in Canada or the US you may live. We laugh, live, love, lose. No one is exempt from joy and pain, life and death, good times and stuggles. It really brings into perspective that in everyone's life "a little rain must fall". Sometimes it's more than rain. More like monsoons.

So I continue to be a voyeur into the lives of others. And, I feel for these people I don't know.

One family I have been reading about had a son name Ryan. He had cancer for the last 5 years. Then, saddly, his mother developed breast cancer about a year and a half ago. She passed away on Wednesday. And sadly, their son died yesterday at the age of 9, 2 days after his mom. Can you even imagine? Say a prayer for this broken family and one of thanks for the blessings you do have in your life. You can read from his blog here.

So I'm sure I will continue to peek into the lives of others. I will be encouraged by their expressions of faith through struggles, the cute photos and the day to day ramblings.

Because we are all the same.

Annette and Michael

2009-07-07T21:53:00.007-04:00

The death and subsequent media frenzy of Michael Jackson has left me with feelings of melancholy.

Sara and I had this conversation today:

"Mom, was Michael Jackson a Christian?"

"I don't know, honey. I know his family was Christian when he was younger, but I'm not sure if he still was now."

"Oh.
'Cause I was just thinking that maybe Aunt Annette got to meet him finally in heaven".

"You know, I had the exact same thoughts the day that he died. I wondered, too, if they met up in heaven".

Then we proceded to talk about ALL the people in heaven. Quite a mix. Abraham. Noah. Aunt Annette. Oma. Maybe Elvis and Michael? One day we'll find out I guess.

Annette really liked Michael Jackson when she was a teenager. (She would probably not like me sharing this-ha!) She had the posters (I think) and the Thriller album. (I need to dig that out album from Dad's house!). We even went to see the Jackson 5 in Toronto when they were on tour. Michael was just breaking out on his own, but still touring with his brothers (hmm... I wonder if there's still a concert souvenir guide somewhere in her or Dad's stuff...).

He was a talented artist, entertainer, and dancer, no matter what you thought of him. But his death this week leaves me feeling melancholic because it brings back so many great memories of us dancing in the living room. Listening to the music. Seeing the concert. Teasing Annette for her love of Michael. Good and happy memories. Memories now tinged with sadness for a longing to share those memories with Annette first hand.

And this is exactly why there is such a communal interest and mourning when a young celebrity dies. We care so much because these people are intertwined with our lives, for better or worse. They are connected to our memories. They are a bridge to our past. We all know the phrase, "Where were you when...?". For that reason, I have felt sadness this week.

And I don't know if Michael was a Christian, but I still can't help but wonder if they met up in heaven.

An Afternoon at the Petting Zoo...

2009-07-07T15:07:00.005-04:00

"Show Us Where You Live Friday"

2009-07-03T09:54:00.011-04:00

One of the blogs I frequent has a feature called "Show Us Where You Live Friday" because, let's face it, we're all ~~nosy~~ interested in everyone's decorating ideas. Today we are looking at yards.

We love our yard. It was one of the things that we fell in love with when looking at our house last summer. We can't take much credit for it because it was all here and already done last year when we moved in. But we're doing our best to keep it up!

The front yard.
The garden is full of interesting greenery and perennials that bloom at different times. I use baskets for "pops" of colour.

Our backyard. Look at that mulch! Steve spent most of Tuesday and all day Wednesday adding mulch to the back gardens. (He still has to finish the small garden in the foreground). We love mulch. It keeps the weeds in check and helps retain the moisture in the ground. Plus, it looks nice!

Another backyard view.

The pergola came with the house and we are loving spending time outside this year. This is our first summer year, so it's nice to see what's coming up in the garden and being able to enjoy it. The weather has also been a ~~little~~ lot cooler so far this summer, but it makes for easy sitting outside.

Why don't you show us where you live? You know, because we're ~~nosy~~ interested in your decorating flair!

2009-07-01T23:56:00.002-04:00

Happy 142nd Birthday, Canada!

I, for one, am so happy and thankful for our wonderful country and all the priveliges we enjoy here.

Stop and give thanks for the great country we share!

Have a great holiday!

2009-06-28T17:00:00.001-04:00

imshp59rcf

Let's Play Ball!

2009-06-27T20:33:00.003-04:00

The idea of going to the Roger's Centre to see the Bluejays play baseball was a very exciting idea!

Watching them loose 10-0 without many hits at all was a great big bummer (quoting Steve).

BUT, the day was gorgeous, the atmosphere fun (mostly :) ), the traffic horrible, the junk food great and the experience wonderful! Overall, a very successful day!

Maybe we'll go again and hope for a more successful game (and Haladay pitching??)

Mish-Mash weekend.

2009-06-21T22:30:00.003-04:00

We had a mish-mash of a Saturday...literally!
Although it rained, we had a lot of fun doing things like...

Swimming at Uncle Rick and Aunt Deb's pool for Father's Day...

The weather was gorgeous!

Sara had the joy of pulling ~~teeth~~ weeds in the garden. The pulling of the teeth was getting her to do it!

Connor's birthday lunch at the Mandarin. Someone introduced these kids to the Mandarin and now it is their restaurant of choice for their birthday dinners out. I wonder why they love it there so much?? (Hello, can you say All you can eat dessert? These are my children, afterall!)

Fresh strawberries for our homemade strawberry jam.

A good, restful, yet productive weekend!

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T09:11:00.007-04:00

He didn't tell me how to live;

he lived,

and let me watch him do it.

~Clarence Budington Kelland

Just as I have been blessed with many mothers in my life, I have been blessed with many awesome fathers, too. Today we pause and thank God for the men who have shaped our lives.

Dad is currently on a wonderful cross Canada trek in his home on wheels. Steve, the kids and I are going to spend Father's day at his uncle and aunt's pool celebrating the gift of all the V family fathers. We also send our love out to Tom on Father's day and wish him a wonderful day, too!

Thank you to all the fathers who have blessed us and continue to do so each and every day! We are glad God has place you in our lives. Hoping you all have a wonderful day! Here are some of the fathers we love so very much, last year at the cottage:

Tom and Ryan, enjoying a good "toss Ryan in the air" session. Tom has the great ability to encourage his boys to explore and learn. He works very hard to do what is best for his boys and is doing a great job with them!

Opa, Ryan and Connor at the campfire. Opa is a selfless giver and loves to spend time spoiling and playing with his grandkids. Dad would give anyone the shirt off his back if he needed it. He is generous in spirit and nature. Have a great day, Dad! We miss you!

Pake will do anything to get a laugh from his grandkids (or kids). He also has a generous and giving nature and does so much for all of his family. He also loves to keep things fun with his ~~wildly embellished~~ interesting stories. We love you!

Steve is a hard working dad who has the best interests of his kids always in mind. He loves to do fun things with his kids and will sacrifice to make things happen. Have a great day! We love you!

Happy Birthday, Connor!

2009-06-15T00:00:00.001-04:00

It's hard to believe that our little guy is turning 7 today!

(However, whenever we say that out loud, Sara always chimes in, "Yah, but I'm going to be 10 in a few weeks!" Let's not go there, yet...)

Connor is such a joy to know. He has such a sweet personality. He loves all things sports and academics. He is the Wii MarioKart champion of Niagara, if not the world. He is a kind and sensitive soul. Our lives are so much richer because he is our son, grandson, brother, cousin and friend.

We love you, Connor! Happy SEVENTH birthday, big guy!

Connor with his favourite present, SuperMario Galaxy.

He loves to play any kind of sports. Here are some new Jumbo tennis rackets.

What a cutie!

A Sunday morning early birthday cake from Uncle Tom.

Connor on track and field day a few weeks ago at school. Would it be bragging to include that he broke some track records that day? He now holds the record for the 800m run, triple jump and sack race (is that an Olympic Event?)

PS: Don't forget to read our post below to see what else we've been up to this weekend!

Bad Blogger

2009-06-14T20:22:00.004-04:00

I've been a bad blogger lately. We have been so busy with first illness and then day to day spring/summer busyness, that I feel that I haven't had enough time to sit and write a proper post. Before you know it, a month has gone by, and then there is too much to say. *Sigh* The vicious cycle.

However, I will leave you a snapshot of the highlight of my weekend, with a promise to return and update soon.

Anyone recognize these two?

Happy Mothers' Day

2009-05-10T17:01:00.005-04:00

I have been blessed by many mothers in my life. Today can't go by without many warm thoughts about them all. Thank the Lord there is enough room for all the love in my life.

While I miss my mom dearly, I am more and more grateful for her as the years go by. I am so thankful for a God-fearing, loving Mom who shaped and molded my life to help me be the person I am today. She taught me to be strong and independent. She told me when I was young that I could do whatever I wanted to do and be anything I wanted to be. She saved all our baby bonuses into a university account which gave us the message that we could and would go onto higher education. That wasn't always the case for other girls Annette and my age. She always had a parttime job because she wanted more interests in her life than her kids. Not that she didn't love us dearly, but she knew we would grow up and move on and that she'd need her own interests to keep her going. Mom modeled a strong, quiet faith, caring for her children with selfless love, including a critically ill child when Annette was 17 and first had cancer. The list goes on of the things I admire and miss about her.

Annette was also a God-fearing loving mom who gave of herself selflessly to her children. She modeled patience, gave much energy to her young boys, and became an enthusiastic advocate for people with special needs. She was strong and gentle and very smart. In quietness was her strength. She modeled faith and wisdom beyond her years. I miss chatting with her on a weekly basis.

My mother-in-love has been my "mom" for over 20 years (wow-that's hard to believe!) God has blessed me with her loving and gentle nature and her generous spirit. I love her as much as if she were my own and am forever grateful for how she has helped shape my life. I love you!

Menny is my newest "mother-in-love". I have enjoyed getting to know her better in the last year and am glad she is present in our lives. I am grateful for the joy she brings Dad and all of us and for her fun-loving ways. My children have loved getting a new Nana and we are all blessed by her presence. I love you!

I have been nurtured by my dear close friends. They mother me and love me when I need it. That take care of me and spoil me when I've needed it. They have laughed and cried with me, danced and mourned with me. I love you all!

May you all be blessed by the mothers in your life, whether here or in heaven, your genetic or adopted mothers. Happy Mother's Day!

38 Claps

2009-05-02T16:15:00.002-04:00

Today is my birthday. My 38th birthday.

It's either my age or my life situations that have made me more of an introspective person over the last few years. Little things now often remind me of bigger thoughts. Could be the additional grey hairs and wrinkles. Could be those bumps on the road. Could be more of life's experiences under my belt.

Yesterday, the students in my class (with the help of their parents) planned a wonderful "surprise" party for me (is it ever a surprise where 7 year olds are involved?) It was so sweet: They had decorations and home-made cards (which I love! Especially when they include sweet, heartfelt sentiments like "I love you" or "You are a really, really great teacher" and "Thank you for being my teacher and teaching us really well (notice she didn't say "good?" ) I like math and penmanship. I like you a lot, too. You are cool!!!" (Good to know I'm still "cool" to a 7 year old!). They got me some really great presents as a class. You gotta love the things kids think of! I got 3 pairs of socks, a fish for the classroom which we named "Rainbow", earrings, necklace and bracelet and a beautiful angel that sits on my shelf. They were so excited to share their cards, gifts, cake and joy with me!

But the thing that struck me was when they sang "Happy Birthday" to me. Very cute and off key. And then, true to 7 year old form, they concluded with the clapping count: Are you 1? Are you 2? Are you 3? I was going to encourage them to count by twos to speed things up a bit, then thought better of it as they were having so much fun.

By around clap 5, I got to thinking of when I was 5. And then each clap became a little snapshot of myself at that age.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
and on and on (and on and on and on... I am getting up there you know).

And I just felt so blessed for each number they clapped off. Each year was a really good one. Full of great blessings of love with friends and family. Blessings from God.

A few claps (maybe 3) were hard to hear. Yes, we have had some hard years. But 35 out of 38 great claps is a wonderful percentage. It gives me great perspective. I have been blessed. I am blessed.

38 claps worth.

Some More Pictures of the Party...

2009-04-19T21:22:00.004-04:00

Kurtis and his cake and the number ~~10~~ in candles!

Kurtis took his friends to play Laser Tag. They had sooooo much fun!

Here the attendant at Laser Quest made everyone sing happy birthday to Kurtis on their knees. Quite funny! Unfortunately the batteries died before I could snap a picture of the crowd.

It was so funny to walk in and find Kurtis had decorated the living room after what I had posted below. This boy has a fascination for moving things!

It was a fun day! Thanks for inviting us, Kurtis!

Happy Birthday, Kurtis

2009-04-17T23:40:00.005-04:00

Kurtis is hitting the double digits today. That's hard for us "older folk" to believe.

Birthdays are a time for joy and reflection. Of course we can't celebrate the gift of Kurtis without remembering Annette on this special day.

Here is a part of Annette's note to Kurtis 2 years ago, on his 8th birthday.

"Happy birthday my love! You are an amazing kid and we'll always remember your birth day as one of the two most special days in our lives! Love your Mom and Dad"

And here is a beautiful picture of Mother's Day, almost 2 years ago:

Your mom LOVED your creative, mechanical mind. She loved to brag to anyone about all the creative things you thought up. Here's another post she wrote about you:

Life with Creative Kurtis
This kid continues to amaze me with his creativity. This is a "device" he made the other day. The base is a motor that spins around. This is from his K'nex sets. He then attached a K'nex straw to it. At the very end, he had wire attached to a butterfly (fake, obviously) that he found. He secured the whole thing to the ceiling with tape. Once turned on, the butterfly spun around and around. He made it especially for me.

Happy Birthday, buddy! We hope your day will be filled with fun memories, good times and friends and family. We'll post some pictures after we come back from your party.

We love you!

A Blessed Easter

2009-04-12T17:20:00.007-04:00

Today we mark and remember the day that our Savior conquered death and sin. We sang this song in church today and I thought the words were so perfect.

He Lives

I serve a risen Savior, He's in the world today;
I know that He is living, whatever people say;
I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer,
And just the time I need Him, He's always near.

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today!
He walks with me and talks with me Along life's narrow way.
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart!
You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.

In all the world around me I see His loving care,
And tho my heart grows weary, I never will despair;
I know that He is leading through all the stormy blast,
The day of His appearing will come at last.

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today!
He walks with me and talks with me Along lifes narrow way.
He lives, He lives, salvation to impart!
You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.

We stood at Annette's grave on Friday. We rejoice that she is not there, but in Heaven, celebrating the full reward of Easter. We know we will join her and Mom again someday.
But even more, we rejoice in the full joy of Easter. I pray you will also be blessed this Easter with God's grace and salvation.

What's This?

2009-04-02T08:00:00.000-04:00

Well, you might remember my hopes for having tulips and daffodils in my garden this spring.

You might also remember that I could not find 4 minutes to dig them into the ground last fall.

Well, I decided to try planting them a few weeks ago in my urns. I figured they were a lost cause anyway.

And, what's this?? I am quite ecstatic about my sprouts! And you thought they wouldn't grow!

I don't, however, see the daffodils coming up yet. They might just be a lost cause this year. We'll see! Hoping for blooms!

The Pole Won

2009-03-31T21:48:00.004-04:00

Connor and Sara went to a waterpark last Friday on their day off from school. When I saw him later on that evening, this is what I saw:

Can you see it? At first I thought it was makeup. Here's a better picture (although it reminds me of a bad police mug shot...)

His first shiner! What a proud mama moment! (kidding!) I asked him what happened and he said,

"I got in a fight with a pole, and the pole won!"

P.S. That is most definitely NOT ketchup on his face! That would be a rotten reflection on his mama! My kids are always neat and tidy!

Boy Wonder

2009-03-27T17:09:00.002-04:00

He is a boy wonder. He wonders about everything! Last week we went to the movies. Afterwards, we went to the washroom. Depending on where we are, I either let him go by himself into the mens or, more often, take him with me into the ladies.

So as we wait in line, he notices the dispenser and asks, "Mommy, why do the napkins cost 25 cents in here? Why aren't they free like they are at all the other restaurants and stuff?"

I gave him a smile that I couldn't contain and gave him my wisest answer... "Go ask your father."

World Down Syndrome Day

2009-03-21T22:09:00.006-04:00

Today is World Down Syndrome Day. Fifty years ago, Professor Jerome Lejeune published his discovery of the extra copy of chromosome 21 which causes Down Syndrome. Hence, the date chosen (March 21 = 3/21= 3 copies of the 21st chromosome). And it is a day to be celebrated!

Click here to learn some more about Trisomy 21.

Let's celebrate all of our diversities!

Spring Break... Here We Come!

2009-03-15T23:58:00.002-04:00

Yes, Monday we will be sleeping in! To say we are excited would be an understatement. The kids have asked for a special breakfast of cinnamon buns, and I think I will indulge them.

We have no major plans. Monday will be errands and jobs around the house. Tuesday, I have some work to do with some colleagues on upcoming workshops we are giving (we're going on an Ontario tour! Should be fun! More about that another time). I also promised the kids a trip to the movies to see the Jonas Brothers 3-D. Wahoo. (insert the slightly sarcastic tone there...)

Nothing major, and that's the way I like it!

Have a great week!

Taxes - Done!

2009-03-05T22:07:00.002-05:00

Last year, February brought me a hard decision.

Annette, being a chartered accountant, had done my taxes for as long as I've needed to file an income tax return. It was great: Give her the papers and it comes back done. Last February, I felt much melancholy about what to do. Hire an accountant? (definitely didn't feel like doing that last year) Go to a little tax booth that pop up all over that malls this time of year? Or, as the dutch in me prefers: Try it myself.

So I jumped in with 2 feet and bought the little box of software that lets you do it yourself (that's what Annette used too, so I figured I was safe... sorta). And... I was quite successful, thank you very much!

So again this year I did my own taxes. It wasn't a hard decision to do it myself. But it did make me miss Annette just a little more that day.

Guess Who's Birthday??

2009-02-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

Why...Ryan's of course! Today he turns 8 years old!! Every year we say it, but it's hard to believe he is 8 already!!

Blowing out his 8 candles.

Getting ready for lunch.

Being the ham that he always is!

Who doesn't love presents on their birthday?

Sara and Kurtis (don't they look so old??) Those 2 are going to be 10 this year. We won't even talk about that now...

Happy Birthday, Ryan!! We love you! Thanks for all the joy and laughter you bring to our lives! Have a great day, big guy!

Yes, it really is!

2009-02-23T17:00:00.001-05:00

We went to visit Ryan for his birthday on Sunday (his birthday is coming up on Thursday, more about that then). Tom works with the neighbours to make and maintain an icerink at their local park. If you know and love Tom, then you know that he doesn't do some things like the other 95% of us do!

Shovelling the rink is way to much work for a busy dad so a few years ago Tom got a (drumroll please...)

Of course, what else but his very own Zamboni! Now, Tom has become quite famous because of this, even having his picture published in the Toronto Sun a few years back. He even McGuyvered a seat (complete with seatbelt) for a co-pilot. I think sometime soon he will be featured on Pimp My Ride!

So the kids received a ride on Sunday. What more could a kid ask for!

Thanks, Tom, for always keeping our life interesting!

Look Up

2009-02-21T23:03:00.003-05:00

It's true. I wasn't sure I'd ever be saying that. But it's true.

Time does make wounds easier to wear. The intense ever-present pain slowly becomes replaced with a New Kind of Normal (this is the title of a good book that I read last year at this time that left me with many thoughts and appreciations). It is the perfect way to explain things. We are not back to normal. We will never again be that normal. But we have evolved into a new normal. The cloak is still present. But we are also warmed with blessings, happiness and joy. God is good. Always has been . Always will be.

But yet, there are times. My new kind of normal includes moments of difficult times. And I have discovered that the "times" that I am struggling with my heavy cloak are often because I'm not looking up.

It makes me think of the disciple Peter. When he stepped out of the boat, he was walking just fine. And then he thought twice about what he was doing. And then he looked down. He looked into himself and saw the hopelessnes of his situation. He got scared, and fast! And he began to sink. Panic. Fear. He must not have been that good of a swimmer! I used to wonder why he didn't just swim back to the boat and get back in. He couldn't have been that far away. But, I now understand: There is no turning back once you've started the journey.

So Peter is panicking and sinking and fearing and feeling hopeless. And Jesus is standing there offering his hand, a personal floatation device. And Peter is just fine. Restored. Forgiven and forgotten. Until the next time he forgets to look up. Hey, don't we all.

And indeed, sometimes I admit, I get sucked into the vortex of missing and longing. Of wishing the old normal back. Of just wanting to chat with Annette and Mom. And I start to sink. I've taken my eyes off the horizon and looked down at the water I am treading.

Thankfully, I have become quicker at noticing I'm sinking and am better able to re-focus my sightline up. Things are so much easier to bear when we have the perspective of His-tory. Our story is not over. Our connection is not severed. They are not gone forever. We will be together again. Of that, I am sure. In the meantime, I have a life full of people who love me. We are all enjoying health and happiness. We are blessed. We have much true happiness and joy. We love and are loved. And in the big picture, we are more than OK.

Peter learned this, too, although he was not a quick study either. I've never heard of Paula White before, but I like what she has to say about this story. And I will continue to remind my self to keep looking up.

One Up... Another Down

2009-02-06T19:00:00.003-05:00

Well, Connor recovered enough to make it back to school today...but then Sara was not feeling well this morning.

After much convincing (she really wanted to go to school as she had a fun sleepover planned and really wanted to go) she agreed to stay at Opa's ("..even though I'm not sick, just tired...). She is really feeling it tonight. Poor thing.

And Connor put himself to bed at 6:30 with his clothes on. He was asleep at 6:45 with all the lights on.

I think it's going to be a long weekend... *sigh*

PS: I won't tell on Opa that he took Sara to McDonald's for lunch because she was feeling significantly better at the time. Oh, the things Opas can get away with!!

PPS:I jokingly asked Sara if I could put a picture of her being sick on the blog. She said, "OK". Never one to miss the spotlight, that girl!

Is there an echo in here?

2009-02-04T22:43:00.008-05:00

Boy, it seems if I'm not telling you about our ice rink (I know-enough already!) then I don't have much to share with you.

You certainly don't want to hear that Connor has been sick this week with a fever and aches and pains. You definitely don't want to see any pictures of him either... that would be a rotten thing for a mom to do.

I could tell you about how rotten I feel when I have to work and one of my babies is sick and how this is the one time I wish I wasn't a working mom. But neither of us wants to hear about that (again!)

We certainly don't want to chat about the weather as I seem to be one of the few people around still enjoying the snow falling.

I know you're not interested in the fact that I just spent 2 hours on the computer playing with the settings on this blog when I could've/should've been doing any number of other things.

We definitely don't want to rehash the Superbowl, unless we're talking about the halftime show.

Hmmm... I'll have to ponder a little harder on this one...

Canadian, eh!

2009-01-28T19:06:00.002-05:00

The hour is late. The snow has flown ALL day today. The snowblower went for 2 hours to clear the driveway and the rink. The kids are dying to go back on the ice tonight. The kids' parents are trying to talk them out of it until tomorrow, saying "It's too late." " Dad will have to shovel again".

To which Sara replies,

"Come on, Dad, you're Canadian, eh?"

We laughed.

And they skated.

Success!

2009-01-16T16:42:00.003-05:00

Well, it's cold enough to freeze spit before it hits the ground around here. Frostbite city! But perfect for making an ice-rink. The kids got to hit the ice today and were quite thrilled with their dear old dad and all his GREAT effort in getting this going. An ice rink in their own front yard! What more could a kid ask for?? (except maybe a few friends to drop by to join them and/or play some hockey with). Time to get out the hot chocolate and marshmallows!

PS_This was their first steps onto the ice while Steve was adjusting their helmets to accomodate toques (did I mention it was cold enough to freeze your nose hairs?). Don't worry, I wouldn't send my kids onto the ice without proper hockey helmets! (Face mask and all, we love their teeth the way the are!)

The Ice Rink Part Deux

2009-01-11T16:32:00.003-05:00

Watching Daddy work outside...
The ice rink in progress...

Steve is bound and determined to make his own ice rink in the yard for the kids. We have talked about it for a few years. Now that we have moved, we have a nice, flat(ish) level front yard.

Over the Christmas holidays, he laid out the plastic and watered and watered. Countless hours outside over several days. Gallons of water (and that ain't cheap no more these days!).

Then a warming trend that lasted well over a week. So much for that.

The forecast now calls for cold weather for over a week.

Out come the hoses again. But first the plumbing had to be fixed after an elbow broke (you know, you have to move the outside taps AND add a hot water line to the outside taps because that's what you need to make an ice-rink). THEN out came the hoses, after the snow was leveled and a good base made.

Water.

More Water.

Please cross your fingers for dear Steve. I'll let you know what happens...

Winter Wonderland

2009-01-07T14:29:00.004-05:00

Mother Nature gave us an unexpected day home today.So we hit the slopes armed with toboggans and all the winter gear we could find! We followed up with hot chocolate by the fire. Wonderful!

Fun at the Lodge!

2009-01-03T09:38:00.006-05:00

Tom and the boys surprised us with an overnight stay at the Great Wolf Lodge... one of our favourite places to be (and definitely one of Kurtis's all time favourites!) We went last weekend and had a blast!

Kurtis loved the arcade. He hit the jackpot on this machine. Check out all the tickets on the floor. Over 1000!

Ryan in the wave pool.

Playing the games with great concentration!

The kids got to make their own T-shirts (Connor made a pillowcase). They all worked SO hard and carefully and did a great job!

Tom and Ryan after a slide ride.

Checking out the animals in the lobby.

Thanks, guys, for the great surprise! We had so much fun!

2009

2009-01-01T11:54:00.004-05:00

Another year has dawned. It brings freshness and hope with it.

We have had a good holiday this year, definitely better than last year and the year before that. We have two new homes and new traditions, which has made it easier. We have been busy spending time with family and our kids. It has been good to be busy.

We have made it through a very difficult year. We are in a better place than we were last year. We have grown, grieved, healed and progressed. This year we will continue to grow, grieve, heal and, Lord Willing, progress. We are journeying, and our journey will never be done.

I've shared before the analogy of grief as a cloak. This was shared with me by a very special person who has grieved before me. The cloak some days is heavy and overbearing, almost impossible to move forward under the weight. Other days, it is a light spring cloak, easier to carry, although ever present. I have felt the cloak lightening and becoming more manageable to carry. It will always be there, though. Make no mistake, we will never be the same. We may look OK, we are OK, but we are not the same. We grieve even though we may appear not to be.

We have been blessed through our year. God has carried us through. Your prayers, thoughts and tokens of love have carried us through. We have been blessed with good health, laughter and love this year. We have been blessed by you, our family and friends, from far and near.

Thank you.

We are filled with HOPE. May your year also be blessed with HOPE and peace.

Pass the Lysol, Please...

2008-12-23T11:09:00.004-05:00

The sickies have descended into our house. First Connor, then me, then Connor again, now Sara. Steve has spent the majority of his days outside making an outdoor skating rink, so perhaps he hopefully has avoided our germs.

So far, Connor and I have missed one big party and left the people dining at the restaurant last night a little more than they bargained for and Connor and I making a real quick exit. Hopefully, this is the end of it!

Welcome to "Grace Between the Lines"

2008-12-16T00:00:00.005-05:00

"Bump on the Road” was Annette’s attitude toward her cancer being one more bump in her life to get over in her journey of life here on earth. It was this journey that led her to her eternal home where she no longer must bump along but mount up on wings like an eagle. It is time for this blog to metamorphose, just as Annette’s journey led her to trade in her weary body for a beautiful new one. Like a butterfly.

I am happy to share my “new” blog called ‘Grace Between the Lines” . Grace refers to God’s gifts to humankind, especially the biggest gift of all, Salvation. This Grace left Annette confident in her journey home. Grace is between all the lines that weave together our lives. It is in everything. Grace Between the Lines.

Annette’s middle name is Grace. That is why I have chosen the title. Annette is woven in the fabric of my, her family and friends’ lives. Although not physically with us anymore, her grace-ful presence is always with all of us who loved her. Woven in the fabric of who we are and who we have become. Grace Between the Lines.

The tulips on the header are in honour of Annette’s favourite flower, the tulip. It symbolizes where she came from and where she went. I hope to continue to advocate and educate for people with disabilites. In her honour. Grace Between the Lines.

Welcome. I hope you will be blessed with Grace.

The Year That Was...

2008-12-14T19:39:00.004-05:00

It's so hard to believe that one year has gone by. 364 days since we've talked to, hugged, held, prayed with, cried over and laughed with (yes, even on her last day we shared smiles) her.

It seems like an eternity.

It seems like just a few weeks ago.

So much has happened in one year. Much grieving, growing, sorrowing. Many good and important things. Many hard and agonzing moments. We have been carried through. Not only has God carried us through, but you, our friends and family have as well. We have been blessed by so many of you.

I am anticpating Tuesday with much angst and anxiety. I am wishing those days away, while knowing that won't happen. We will face the day as we have faced the last three years: Arm in arm, together, for strength, for comfort, for hope, for peace.

Better Than Santa

2008-12-11T23:24:00.002-05:00

I found this in my "inbox" earlier this week. Enjoy.

With 3 weeks before Christmas REMEMBER: Jesus is Better than Santa

Santa lives at the North Pole. JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited JESUS stands at your door and knocks.. and then enters your heart.

You have to stand in line to see Santa JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn't know your name, all he can say is "Hi little boy or girl,What's your name?" JESUS knew our name before we did. Not only does He know our name, He knowsour address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how manyhairs are on our heads.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly JESUS has a heart full of love.

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says "You better not cry" JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you.

Santa's little helpers make toys JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and buildsmansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree JESUS became our gift and died on the tree.

It's obvious there is really no comparison. We need to remember WHO Christmas is all about. We need to put Christ back in Christmas. Jesus is still the reason for the season.May the Lord Bless and Watch over you and your loved ones this Christmas 2008And may He prosper and bless the work of your hands in the New Year.May God Bless You All !

The Best Laid Plans

2008-12-10T17:47:00.004-05:00

OK, I'll admit it. I did not get around to planting my tulip and daffodil bulbs. Boy, it sounded so good on paper. It seemed easy enough:

Buy bulbs - check
Dig hole.
Stick bulbs in (point side down?).
Cover bulbs with dirt.

Didn't happen. I know, it takes all of 3 minutes. You'd think I could find 3 minutes some evening or weekend. But I didn't.

So my question, gardeners of the north, can I still plant those bulbs on a warmer day, or will I be bloomless in the spring?

Not Me Monday!

2008-12-08T19:23:00.003-05:00

I have become a bit of a blog junkie, jumping from one blog to another and becoming a follower of many people I have never met. One site I have started reading (who knows where I made the connection...) is called My Charming Kids. MckMama started the "Not Me Mondays" which is a fun way to admit we are not perfect and laugh about our funny mistakes. Here is my first "Not Me Monday" list.

I did not wear my high heeled shoes with socks and my pajamas to drive Sara to church tonight because they were the fasted things I could find to put on my feet. Not me. That would be embarassing!

I am NOT becoming obsessed with this blog thing. Who cares about widgets? I don't want to waste time trying to figure out headers. I'm not spending far to much time online trying to self teach myself these things. Nope. Not me.

I would never pinch my kids bottoms because they are the cutest bottoms in the world. Yummy, almost. Nope, that would be wrong.

I could care less about learning how to make words with a strikethrough through them. Who cares? I am NOT going to have a least ~~six~~ one word in each post with a strikethrough through it, just because I think it's cool. Nope. Not here.

"Tell Me About Your Annette Ornaments"

2008-12-05T20:15:00.009-05:00

One of Annette's web friends posted this on the blog. I have asked their permission (and hope they say yes!-I just had to share and couldn't wait for their answers...)to share their stories and pictures here. Annette loved them all so much!

Anyone pulling out your holiday decorations and thinking about Annette? I know I am thinking of all of us so far in distance from each other but so connected as we display our memorials to Annette. Share your stories please..... Shannon

I met Annette only 1 time in Indy. I remember her smile. Annette's face glowed love. Also she was thankful to her husband for taking her on the trip to see her friends. Karol

One year Annette sent me a Pewter Angel and throughout the year it hangs on the rod iron of my dresser and it was bittersweet to carry it to the tree, here she hangs on my tree.... Belen

Yes, yes, yes,I have the angel that B made last year that is my connection to Annette. I was thinking I might ask him to make me one to symbolize my FIL, too. It is so beautiful and special. I will always cherish it. Chris

My secret Santa last year sent me a beautiful pottery angel!! She's on my tree and she's my Annette Angel! I can't believe it's been a year! Lisa I am thinking of you and your family as this difficult anniversary nears. Rhonda and Alex (8 yrs)

The ornament that reminds me of Annette is one I gave to her. I'm not a particularly religious person but I knew her faith was important to her so one day I saw a little ornament that was a little nativity scene in a hand and I thought, reaching into my brain for my bible teachings "The palm of his hand. It's perfect for Annette right now." So I wrapped it up and mailed it to her. I hope it's still somewhere with the family, but if not I hope someone else is getting peace from it. Clare

Mine isn't a treee ornament but it's a beautiful angel that I got from my secret santa last year. I keep it on my desk right by my computer and think of Annette each time I look at it, which is daily. I never had the pleasure of meeting her in person, but she was always such a wealth of information on any questions I had. Some people don't understand how you can feel so close to someone you've never met in person - to that I say you never had the pleasure of "knowing" Annette. I sure do miss her. Penny

This has been such a reflective week........as we approach the Dec. 16th anniversary of our friend, and sister, Annette's passing. I so want to memorialize this date in a special way..... My Annette Angel hangs above me right now, in my home office, and it will go back on the tree when we decorate this weekend. It says "An Angel Gets Her Wings" and has the inscription...Annette, you will always be remembered on the inside. Jeff purchased the angel after our road trip to Annette's funeral. I think I will reprint your wonderful ulogy on my blog and here..........and again think of our good friend and sister who I miss every day. And can't yet delete from my cell, but will do this on her one year anniversary and be brave as Lisa was. Jan

She's still on my cell, too, Jan......and her email is still in my address book. I don't know if I'll ever be able to let that go. My Annette Angel is on my refrigerator and I look at it every day - their Christmas card from last year, at Disney. In that picture, Annette is my living, breathing angel, and I am so thankful to have called her my friend.Amy

I have everyone's Christmas cards throughout the years and after Annette passed away, I knew I wanted to do something with them, other than store them away, so I put them in a scrapbook. Annette's family has their own pages, along with everyone else. It's a nice way to store them and have access to them, I can get them out and look thru at any time!! I can also see how everyone has grown!!! Rhonda

I have two, one from Annette and one for Annette... When I found out I had cancer, Annette sent me the angel of hope. She sits on my dresser and I see her everyday. The other angel I bought for our tree. I will post a picture of both when I have a chance. I miss her wisdom and her being. Kris

I met Annette and Kerri at Kei's house it seems like so long ago. We had the best time, drinking wine And Ryan had a blast with Bill...they were wrestling. Looking at those pictures is just so hard. Annette's Christmas card is hanging on my fridge. This is such a tough couple of weeks. Melissa

Many times a day I stop and smile back at Annette's sweet smile that radiates from her Christmas card from last year that is hanging on my fridge. I do believe that that card will always be hanging there, as it is such a huge part of my everyday life. Tara Marie

add me to those who have Annette's card from Disney on the fridge... i never had the chance to meet annette, but we did speak on the phone...it is really amazing how her presence is still so strongly felt, here and everywhere that she touched. Debbie

I actually have 2 ornaments that I purchased in Annette's memory. One is simple and beautiful and I wrote her name of the back of it. The other I HAD to get because it says, "Twas her thinking of others that made you think of her" Elizabeth B Browning. And that IS Annette's spirit that lives on in my memories of her. I cherish the times I was able to hug her and be with her, I miss her!

You ladies are all so special! Thanks for contributing these touching memories. Lisa

Saving Lives

2008-12-03T20:16:00.006-05:00

I helped save 3 lives yesterday.

I donated blood.

I have been donating for over 2 years. I had donated previously (about 15 years ago) but hadn't done it since. About 2 1/2 years ago, Mom was in the ER. The lady beside her was receiving blood and I thought, "I should do that." Annette was also sick at the time and I knew that at some point down the road, she might need blood products and I knew I'd want them to be available for her. (Mom did end up needing blood products during her last stay in the hospital. Thank you, strangers!)

The very next day, I was kidless and running errands. I had some extra time, and pulled into a plaza. There on the corner was a sign saying "Blood Donor Clinic Today". If that's wasn't a sign for me to donate...!So I went right in and donated. And have been back every 56 days since. I also ~~coerced~~ invited a friend to come with me about a year ago. We then ~~coerced~~ invited another friend. We make it a night out. I do it for Annette. I do it for Mom. I do it because I hope there will be blood products available when I need them. But I really do it because it's the right thing to do. And you get free cookies and juice

Consider this your little nudge or sign. If you are eligible, roll up your sleeves and give, because it's the right thing to do.

Some Good Advice

2008-12-01T21:10:00.002-05:00

I have a great friend and we have great discussions about many mindless, useless, deep and provocative, soul-searching, trivial, supportive, chastising, honest and very religious topics. We are often on the same wavelength and radar screen of what is important to us. From this was born a small discussion group. Someone chooses a topic (often a video from a favourite speaker who has made the person think (our first was from Joyce Meyer, another was a pastor from Florida they had heard while on their trip, my next choice will be Tony Campolo). We watch and discuss. It's also always interesting to hear what other people heard from a message, and often it's not something you heard at all!

Our last session led us down the road of volunteering. I have decided to take a one year break from all volunteering (OK, I am on one committee at church). I was sharing how I felt I needed a break from all outside things this year, but that I still felt guilty, as many ministries still need volunteers and I think everyone needs to do their part. My one friend then said, "Don't you think that if you have a goal for yourself that God will bless what you do and be happy with your choices?" She shared how her goals were to be great at her job and be there for her husband (who has a very time consuming, travel involved, job) and her children. Once she set that goal, she realized other commitments weren't compatible with those goals.

That statement has made me think for the last 2 weeks. My goals are to be the best wife, mother and teacher I can be while giving myself time to rest, grieve, heal and grow. And right now, this year, other outside commitments are not compatible these goals. And those words of advice have lifted some weight (and guilt) from my shoulders. Thank God for great and wise friends.

No wonder she is a great counsellor/social worker. And I didn't even have to pay her $75!

2008-11-25T21:34:00.005-05:00

Today, I deleted Annette's cell phone number from my cell phone. It's the first number I see (Annette starts with "A") when I scroll down through my numbers. I've been debating about doing that for almost a year. This week, I felt it was time and I felt ready to do it.

Ouch.

A New Direction

2008-11-22T09:33:00.002-05:00

Thank you for your comments. A new plan is formulating in my head after some inspiration at a meeting yesterday. Stay tuned for more details! But for now, my priority is report cards and house cleaning-my 2 favourite ways to spend the weekend!
Peace and Love,
Lisa

Ah... the things I can find to do when I should be working on report cards!

2008-11-20T23:46:00.004-05:00

We had our first snowfall this week. It was very pretty and a stark reminder that winter is upon us! It also made me miss the warm days of summer... swimming, outings, fun! I hadn't posted any pictures yet, because of my camera issues, but I managed to get them onto my computer for sharing.

My new blog title will be revealed sometime soon, perhaps this week! Keep watching...

Where do I go from here?

2008-11-16T20:41:00.002-05:00

I've wondered lately what to do with this blog. Many of you started reading to keep up with what was happening with Annette and her treatments. Many of you enjoyed hearing stories of things that she was passionate about: her children, Down Syndrome, respectful treatment for all people. Now she is gone. It is not my blog. I have been posting and many of you have commented that you like hearing from our family. I am happy to post. But it begs the question of where do I go from here? Do I make this my blog? Do I keep this blog for updates on Annette and Tom's kids and family and start my own new blog? Do I share only stories from the past? Do I share stories about myself even though many of you only know me through this blog? Should I change the name? I tumble these ideas around in my mind, but don't know the answer to these questions. I will continue to ponder...

News Clip

2008-11-04T18:55:00.001-05:00

We are so very proud of Annette's work in bringing the Buddy Walk to southern Ontario. Click here to see the news clip from our walk on Sunday. The spokesperson reporting on the attendance and amount raised is Annette's dear friend, Susan.

PS: While the clip was well done, they missed the boat in saying that it is a disease, while in fact it is a syndrome.

Cake, flowers and sneakers.

2008-11-02T19:26:00.006-05:00

Today was another bittersweet day. Today is Annette's birthday. Forty-two years ago, she was born. (Here we are at Annette's 40th birthday, two years ago, the day after Mom's funeral) We all headed to Tom's to spend the day together. First, was a memorial service at church for all the people who have died in the last year. This is the church associated with the boys' school. It is not the church that Tom, Annette and the boys go to, but it was nice to go nonetheless. Tom carried a candle in to church and put it at the front with all the others.

We then went to the cemetary to place flowers on her gravesite. I hadn't seen her headstone yet. It was difficult to see her name and dates carved in marble. It is a beautiful stone that Annette picked out herself. It brought so many memories and feelings to surface again and we had a good cry.

After a quick lunch (including a birthday cake with candles to blow out), we laced up our sneakers and headed to the Buddy Walk. This is an annual event that raises awareness and money for those with Down Syndrome and the Down Syndrome Society. We have attended every walk since it began in their area. This was the 7th walk. What made is especially bittersweet was that Annette was responsible for bringing the walk to this area (and possibly Canada?). She has many internet friends, and through them, she learned about National Buddy Walks that happen in cities all over America. She worked hard to bring the Buddy Walk to her area. It started as a somewhat small event in 2002. This year, there were over 450 people and they raised over $28 000. Wow. It was wonderful to be there again and see the fruit of Annette's (and many others along the way, of course) labour. Annette's good friend, who spoke for the board, remembered her in her comments. They had photo albums of all the Buddy Walks thus far. Annette was in so many of them because of her primary involvement. It was hard to look at her so healthy and vibrant. It was great to see her looking so healthy and vibrant.

The walk has grown immensely from it's modest beginning 6 years ago. Ever modest Annette didn't take any credit for her hard work. Many people there today probably didn't know Annette. At first, that made me a little sad. But then I realized that Annette would have loved just that. The awareness and the event has become so large that it has taken on a life of its own. It has had to change venues 4 times to hold the ever increasing crowd. She would be smiling ear to ear. Through my tears, I tried to smile for that, too.

Mom ~ In Loving Memory ~ October 31, 2006

2008-10-30T22:25:00.003-04:00

A MOTHER'S LOVE

A Mother's love is something that no one can explain,

It is made of deep devotion and of sacrifice and pain,

It is endless and unselfish and enduring come what may

For nothing can destroy it or take that love away . . .

It is patient and forgiving when all others are forsaking,

And it never fails or falters even though the heart is breaking . . .

It believes beyond believing when the world around condemns,

And it glows with all the beauty of the rarest, brightest gems . . .

It is far beyond defining, it defies all explanation,

And it still remains a secret like the mysteries of creation . . .

A many splendoured miracle we cannot understand

And another wondrous evidenceof God's tender guiding hand.

~Helen Steiner Rice~

Two years ago we said our "good-bye for now"s. Missing Mom today, as every day.

Pink Tulips and Yellow Daffodils

2008-10-28T20:15:00.009-04:00

This fall I am planting some pink tulip bulbs. Annette's favourite flower was the tulip. It became her favourite after Ryan was born (click here and scroll down for the reason why). It is such an appropriate flower. It comes back year after year. It pushes through the hard soil after a long, cold winter. It brings new life to the garden, year after year. It brings hope for nicer weather, beautiful gardens and good things to come. I can't wait to see them in my garden year after year.

I also bought some yellow daffodils in memory of Mom. Many years ago I bought Mom and Dad some yellow daffodil bulbs to mark their 35th anniversary. Year after year they bloomed in the front yard. When Dad moved, I really wanted to dig up those bulbs and take them with me. I resisted that temptation and left them there. I will probably continue to see them year after year as I walk by (don't forget, I moved into my old neighbourhood). The next best thing to taking them with me was to buy some new ones.

And the best thing was the name of the variety of daffodil: Dutch treat.

'Nuff said.

Happy Birthday,Tom!

2008-10-19T22:26:00.002-04:00

Not only do we measure in applesauce, we measure in years, too. Tom's big day is today.

Happy birthday, Tom! We're so glad you're a part of our family. We're proud of all you've done for your family this year. We love you bunches!

Come on out and say happy birthday to Tom!

Another Year of Applesauce.

2008-10-12T18:45:00.005-04:00

People measure their years. Most measure from January 1 to December 31. As a teacher, I also measure my years from September to August. Or in seasons. Dance season. Soccer season. This weekend, I measure it in applesauce.

Every fall, we make homemade applesauce. Mom has done it for as long as I can remember. When Dad got home from work, he would jump in and help. Then, for a few years, while we were young adults, the applesauce stopped because it was't eaten all that often. But it began again once we were married. I started helping Mom and Dad on a Saturday so we coud do it together. Then the kids came around and all the grandchildren LOVED homemade applesauce. Wouldn't eat anything else. So it became a tradition that every fall, Dad would get the apples, Mom, Dad and I would make the applesauce and we would enjoy it all year. Several years ago, Annette came down to help too, and took several containers home each time she visited.

Yesterday was applesauce day once again. Dad got the apples and we made buckets full of sauce. It is a great tradition. We drink coffee and cook apples, get take-out lunch and grind apples. Add the sugar and cinnamon and taste-test it. Try to find all the matching lids for the multitude of weird shaped containers. It's a fun and productive day.

As I rinsed the containers, I thought of all the years of applesauce those containers have seen. Mom probably cooked a wonderful meal and opened some of those containers herself. Annette helped fill some of those containers in years gone by. Those containers saw many holidays and special occasions over the years. We've opened a container each and every week over the last two years when we shared a meal with Dad. Those meals have comforted us in our two years of grief.

We are now in a new chapter of applesauce making, new houses, new faces to enjoy it with us. We are missing a part of the tradition. I felt some sadness while rinsing those containers. Missing the times of years gone by. Missing the company of Annette and Mom. But, we have also added new parts to our tradition. Sara helped wash apples. Menny ran for sugar and helped clean up and did the dreaded job of washing the floor after (thanks, Menny!) That is the great thing about traditions. They can change and blend, but they are still traditions.

I know that we will be blessed this year by our hard work yesterday. I know we will enjoy our applesauce in the company of family. It is good.

Leaping into the Present...

2008-09-28T16:38:00.002-04:00

Yes, I have had dial up forever (9 years). Yes, I have been happy with it. Yes, I am one of the four people left on the face of this earth with dial up. Yes, I had been happy to only spend $10 per month on the internet. Yes, the whole world made fun of me. Yes, I was OK with that.

Then my internet provider (my previous employer) said they were no longer offerering dial-up (what??? why not???). I'd have to find a new provider, they said. Huh??

So here I am with high(er) speed internet from Sympatico. You can actually now call our house and not get a busy signal while we are on the computer. Our kids can now play webkinz at home.

OK, I'll admit that I had been thinking of getting high speed even before we moved. Breaking down and paying the higher fees. Secretly planning my switch. And I am loving my new wireless high(er) speed internet.

Yesterday morning I spent 45 minutes on Facebook. Time I should have spent unpacking those last boxes. Now tell me again what's so great about high speed? :)

PS: Now that I have high speed, I was all set to post some great pics. Guess what??? Now our digital camera is BROKEN. *sigh*

September 13, 1997.

2008-09-13T13:34:00.003-04:00

11 years ago today a very beautiful bride married a handsome groom on a gorgeous, warm, sunny day. They promised to love, honour and cherish, for richer and poorer, in sickness and in health.
We're glad God gave them 10 years and 2 children together. We wish it had been longer.

Remembering today...

What a whirlwind!!

2008-09-05T21:43:00.002-04:00

Haven't had much time to blog lately as our lives have been a virtual whirlwind of activity. I can't believe what we packed into a few weeks (and a million boxes!)

The wedding went very well and Dad and Menny are very happy.

Dad and Menny both moved out successfully.

We managed to pack all of our stuff and move successfully. We even unpacked most of our stuff already.

I finished my first week of school.

Now hopefully we settle into routine. I am really looking forward to a boring, routine-filled fall and winter!

Words from the Heart

2008-08-19T22:21:00.002-04:00

Advocating for people with intellectual disabilities was such a passion for Annette. It is also something Tom, I and so many others care passionately about. The following letter was written by an online friend of Annette's, Amy, mother of Emma. I have copied it here with her permission. I know Annette would have been appalled by this movie and would speak loud and clear about it. Thanks, Amy, for letting me use your voice here ~Lisa

Wednesday, August 13 is the release date of the movie “Tropic Thunder.” The film is expected to be a summer blockbuster, and features Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., and Jack Black as self-absorbed actors filming a big budget war movie on location. Through a series of freak occurrences, they are forced to become the soldiers they are playing. Stiller’s character is a fading action star who failed in his bid for an Oscar as “Simple Jack,” a man with an intellectual disability. “Simple Jack” is featured as a film-within-a-film, with Stiller sporting a classic institutional bowl cut and bad teeth.

This film is meant to be a satire about actors and the entertainment industry, but the result is far more sobering. The damage the film will do to people with intellectual disabilities and their families is immeasurable. The word “retard,” considered hate speech by disability rights advocates, is used frequently in the film. “Simple Jack” is described as a “retard,” and until recent objections, marketing materials and a website featured the tagline, “Once upon a time…There was a retard.” Scenes include Robert Downey Jr.’s character advising Stiller’s character to “never go full retard.” This phrase is already available on a t-shirt on the Internet.

A coalition of advocacy organizations has met with DreamWorks and Paramount executives in an effort to educate them about how extremely offensive this word is. Although the companies removed offensive marketing materials, they fail to understand the impact of their decisions. Advocates have been told they are overreacting, that the intention is not to make fun of people with intellectual disabilities, that other groups are made fun of as well. As usual, they’ve been told that it’s just a word, and words have no power.

Nothing could be farther from the truth. The words we say define who we are, and define how others see us. Words that denigrate and dehumanize an entire segment of the population have far-reaching effects. People with intellectual disabilities are routinely targeted for ridicule, abuse and violence, all because of how a word defines them. What starts with hateful words ends with hateful violence, and that should not be accepted in our society.

Films like “Tropic Thunder” not only foster a negative stereotype, they tell young people that it’s okay to belittle others, especially those who can’t defend themselves. I have a child with an intellectual disability, and in a few weeks, I will be sending her back to school, along with millions of other parents of children with disabilities. The hallways have never been exactly welcoming of those with differences, and many of us are already cringing at the thought of our kids enduring “full retard” remarks.

I call on parents, schools and teachers to make sure this doesn’t happen. Avoid “Tropic Thunder”. Banish the word “retard” as hate speech in your homes and schools. Educate people about why this word is so offensive. Don’t allow my charming, funny, and yes – smart – child, and others like her, to be targeted.

And We're Back...

2008-08-17T15:13:00.003-04:00

We have returned from our two weeks at the cottage. Sun, sand, rain, friends. Good for the heart and soul.
The first week we spent with our friends. We had seven cottages filled with friends. The 17 kids had a great time together playing, boating, tubing, swimming and making s'mores.

The second week Tom and the boys, Dad and Menny and another couple that are longtime friends of theirs came up. Steve's parents also came for 3 days.
I have to admit I have been dreading this week since the registration form came in January. I would have liked to skip this week if I could. Last year was difficult as we adjusted to Mom not being there. This year, I knew it would be even more difficult to experience that again, plus the huge hole of Annette's absence. It was a week full of difficult moments of missing and remembering, thinking back on past years both wonderful (when the kids were younger and everyone was healthy) to harder summers (last year and the year before, when health issues were paramount for Mom and Annette). I think we all had our own moments this week.

BUT we move on. It is especially important for the kids I think, to have this very fun and special part of their childhood continue. Kurtis said at one point, "I just love, love, love the cottage!" And that made it all worth it.

We also had a lot of fun the second week, tubing, fishing, playing, building sandcastles, reading, eating s'mores. The kids learned the game of (Spongebob) Monopoly and became obsessed by it (the game lasted most of the week!) It was good to be together as a family and enjoy each other and God's wonderful creation!

Grace Between the Lines

Come to the Spring Auction! It's Awesome!

John Lammer

Happy Birthday, Kurtis!

Common Threads

Three Years

Happy Birthday, Bella...

The View From Here

Happy Birthday, Bear!!

Whole Lotta Cryin' Going On.....

Random Ramblings...

He's Pegged

Going Under the Knife... finally!

How Does This Happen?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KURTIS!!!

I Heart Spring!!!

Dear Monday Morning,

Ode to 1 a.m.

The Empty Tomb

Happy World Down Syndrome Day

Happy Birthday to our Snowbirds!

Phone Follies

Happy Birthday, Ryan!!

Missing the Snow!

The Ring

Olympic Fever

My New Obsession...

Got a Few Minutes...?

BAHA

New to Me Pictures

A New Year

Fire Safety for Snowmen...

Christmas Wishes

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow!

November 2, 1966 - December 16 2007

My Little Cadet

Sonnor

For the Beauty of the Earth...

November 2

Mom ~ In Loving Memory ~ October 31, 2006

Fantastic Day at Fantasy Island!

Hey, Guess what????

We're Hitting Double Digits Today!

Look Who's Got Glasses!

The Blogging World

Annette and Michael

An Afternoon at the Petting Zoo...

"Show Us Where You Live Friday"

Let's Play Ball!

Mish-Mash weekend.

Happy Father's Day!

Happy Birthday, Connor!

Bad Blogger

Happy Mothers' Day

38 Claps

Some More Pictures of the Party...

~~Happy Birthday, Kurtis~~

A Blessed Easter

What's This?

The Pole Won

Boy Wonder

World Down Syndrome Day

Spring Break... Here We Come!

Taxes - Done!

Guess Who's Birthday??

Yes, it really is!

Look Up

One Up... Another Down

Is there an echo in here?

Canadian, eh!

Success!

The Ice Rink Part Deux

Winter Wonderland

Fun at the Lodge!

2009

Pass the Lysol, Please...

Welcome to "Grace Between the Lines"

The Year That Was...

Better Than Santa

The Best Laid Plans

Happy Birthday, Kurtis