LA VIE EN SMITHERS

Year in review 2010

2011-01-04T20:50:00.000-08:00

The first notable thing for me in 2010, as far as I remember it now anyways, was receiving my full time position at the Bulkley Lodge in January. It has been such a blessing to have a regular schedule and not have to rely on those early morning calls for shifts, and the uncertainties that came with being casual. Benefits are nice to have, too!
We also took a weekend trip to Terrace as a family, and at the end of the month, Curtis was hired to take photos of the Olympic Torch relay coming through Smithers.

In February my Dad turned 65 and retired from his job. It would have been nice to go down and celebrate his retirement and birthday with him, but it didn't work out. We signed Isaac up for gymnastics on Saturday afternoons, which he seemed to enjoy.

In March Curtis was busy preparing for his photo exhibition at the Smithers Art Gallery in April. Isaac continued with school and gymnastics. On the 31st, our newest nephew was born to Curtis' sister, to be given up for adoption to his brother's family. Welcome to the family, Nathanael!

April 1st brought Curtis' friend Dan for a weekend visit and Curtis' exhibition opening reception. On the 7th, I flew to Alberta to attend my friend Tracey's wedding, which was on the 10th. On the Tuesday evenings in April, I took a stained glass class, which I had won from Heartstrings earlier in the year. It was fun, and my 'masterpiece' now hangs in our bedroom window.

In May, Isaac started outdoor soccer. My parents came up the week of his birthday, and helped with his swimming party. At the end of that week, the 5 of us took a little trip to Prince Rupert, and stayed at a Bed and Breakfast there called T.all Trees. It was fun, and we enjoyed a walk in the park behind the B&B, among other things. That week went by all too fast, as it was so busy, with me working some of the mornings and planning Isaac's party. Next time they come to visit, I'll try to take more time off work!
For my birthday, Curtis and Isaac took me out for dinner the night before, and then Curtis threw me a surprise party the evening of. Thanks Curtis, that was fun! Then on the 26th I got to go out for dinner again, this time with my mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and a friend. Again, thanks!

In June we had fun with end of school activities, like Primary Games Day and a field trip, soccer tournaments, and the end of gymnastics.

July brought Vacation Bible School, swimming lessons, and Curtis' photo exhibition at the Museum of Northern BC in Prince Rupert. The opening reception was on the 16th, so we spent another night at Tall Trees, taking Curtis' Mom with us. Isaac enjoyed a few play dates with cousins and friends as well through the month.

At the beginning of August, Isaac took a little trip with Farmor and Papa (Curtis' parents) to Terrace in their motor home, which he quite enjoyed. The next week, our friends Keith and Cynthia came for a quick visit, on their way to the Queen Charlotte Islands for a camping trip. We took a couple of day trips to visit some local lakes - Doris, and Chapman - while I was on vacation, as well as heading back to Prince Rupert to take down Curtis' exhibition on the 16th. Some other friends who had planned to come for a visit that week were, in the end, unable to come, but we had Mike and Geralyn and their kids over for supper one night. Keith and Cynthia stopped by again on their way home, and showed us photos of their trip. I'd like to go to the Queen Charlottes someday, too.
Towards the end of August was our local Fall Fair, for which Curtis had helped design the prize book and pamphlets, and in which Isaac entered one of his LEGO creations, winning 3rd prize for his category. Curtis also took lots of photos at the fair. That week Isaac was also in a day camp through the town, and got to do lots of fun activities.

September meant back to school for Isaac, the start of Grade 2. We are thankful that he has the same teacher this year, being in a Grade 1/2 split class, and is doing well.

In October we celebrated Curtis' birthday with some friends and family, as well as Thanksgiving later in the month. Isaac didn't show much interest in getting dressed up for Halloween this year, so he and Curtis just hung out at home while I went to work that evening.

In November I went to Prince George on a shopping trip with my Mother-in law Carolyn and sister-in-law Geralyn the first weekend. We had a lot of fun. Isaac had a few playdates throughout the month with various friends, and we as a family enjoyed getting together with a couple of other families for dinner. I also participated in a baking swap again. It's fun to discover what kinds of baking other families do for Christmas time.

In December, there were craft sales to check out, concerts to attend (my favorite being Michael W. Smith's Christmas concert in Abbotsford, which I attended with my sister) and our pre-Christmas trip to the Lower Mainland to spend a few days with my family and a few friends. Great times! We returned home on the 22nd, and celebrated Christmas dinner with Curtis' family (except his sister, who was unable to make it) on the 23rd, as I had to work Christmas weekend. We did go to Mike and Geralyn's Christmas morning for breakfast and to open stockings, as I didn't have to start work until 2:30.

So that pretty much sums up 2010 for our family, although there were other events and blessings scattered throughout the year that we are grateful for. We are thankful for enough work for both Curtis and myself, time spent with those we love, and God's grace to help us through the difficult times that come along from time to time.

I wish you all a blessed year in 2011!

New Family Photo

2011-01-03T19:11:00.000-08:00

My dad called tonight to ask if we could send him a family photo. He had a letter that he wanted to send to a friend back in Alberta along with photos of Michael's family as well as ours. So we got cleaned up and managed to get a few good images. This one's the best.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-02T22:43:00.000-08:00

It's a New Year, and time to be making resolutions, if one is inclined to do so. One resolution I would like to make is to get back to blogging, at least a little more often, about our lives. In the next few days I will try to recap some of the highlights of 2010, since I realized I haven't contributed since August!

For now, let me wish all of our beloved family and friends a very Blessed New Year.

Getting Out in the New Year

2011-01-01T17:16:00.000-08:00

While Bonnie was working today, Isaac and I went out for a walk. We've all been sick with colds since coming back from Langley for Christmas, but we're getting sick of being in the house. So runny noses or not, we got out for half an hour and enjoyed the not-so-cold weather. I can't remember how many times I got hit in the back with Isaac's snowy projectiles.

In between dodging the snow, I was also trying out my birthday gift from Bonnie this past October. She bought me a pair of Urban Walking Poles that are supposed to be quite good for ones health and fitness. Even from a few minutes of walking I can sure see how they'll help make it more of an upper body workout than ever before.

Some much needed R&R

2010-08-13T23:00:00.000-07:00

After a busy day at work on Wednesday, I was quite happy to realize that I was starting my vacation for the next week and a half. I celebrated by taking Isaac out for a burger that evening.

Yesterday found us getting a few things done around home, and I also went for a bike ride with some of the ladies from Curves in the evening.

Today we decided to spend the afternoon at one of the local lakes. We found a very quiet one called Doris lake - we only saw one other couple, who set out in their canoe for a few hours, and other than traffic going by on the road occasionally, the only sounds we heard were a few birds (including a loon or two) and buzzing insects. Oh, and Isaac splashing in the water. I'll try and post a few photos in the next day or two. Unfortunately, I forgot to put on sunscreen, and am now feeling the effects in certain areas. Thankfully it's been a long time since I was this sunburned.

Tomorrow will find us at our local Farmer's Market in the morning, trying to sell some of Curtis' photo cards, and perhaps interest people in booking some portrait photography. Isaac also has some cards to sell of some of his LEGO creations. We were at the Market 2 weeks ago, and 6 of his cards sold, which made him quite happy. In the afternoon, Curtis is booked to do some family portraits.

Sunday will find us at church in the morning, and then heading to Prince Rupert to pick up the exhibit pieces that Curtis had on display for the last month at the Museum of Northern BC.

Crater Lake

2010-07-25T21:12:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I hiked up to Crater Lake by myself. Bonnie still was feeling the effects of the bit of a flu bug she had, and so she decided to stay home with Isaac. It was a glorious day and so the exercise did me good. Except to say that my knees are KILLING me. Anyways, here's some of the photos from my hike.

If you look at the photo above, along the waterfront you'll see two patches of snow. If you go straight up from the left-most one to the top of the snow at the top of the cliff face, that is where I was seated for the next photo.


This is the type of treacherous surface I had to walk on at the top.


Another view from the top.


Panoramic view from the top.

Near the shore of the lake.

Isaac's Swimming Lessons

2010-07-21T11:00:00.000-07:00

Fun in the sun

2010-07-19T22:35:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I went over to my brother's house to help my dad work on the shed for the mill, and after we finished (we only worked for 1/2 an hour or so because of the heat), Isaac had some fun with his cousins in the sprinkler.

Here's a shot of Isaac with his newest cousin.

Photo Exhibit Reception

2010-07-17T22:13:00.000-07:00

Here's a few photos from the reception last night at the Museum of Northern BC for my photography exhibit entitled "Picturesque". It runs until August 14th.

More woodwork

2010-07-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

This morning after I did some errands in town, I went out to my brother's house to help him and my Dad work on a shed for the mill that my brother has bought. I helped my Dad nail up some siding, and watched my brother operate the mill a couple times. It was fun to watch the transformation of a section of tree into usable planks.

Anyways, here's a couple photos of the mill in action.

I think I need a nap!

2010-07-13T21:24:00.000-07:00

These past few months have been pretty busy, since I started working full time - in a temporary line from October to January, and then a full time line since January, complete with benefits. Most days, when I get home from work, I feel like I need a nap, and often I do take one. However, I try not to do it too often, as, unlike my Dad, who perfected the "power nap", my naps can last a couple of hours if no one wakes me, and then I miss out on time with my family. The house work and yard work don't get done then, either. Pretty soon the dust bunnies will have great grandchildren, and I will be growing a weed garden instead of a flower or vegetable garden!

Actually, some of my vegetables are coming along quite well, and we've been enjoying many salads already from the lettuce, spinach, swiss chard and beet greens. The carrots and peas are coming slowly, but the rhubarb and strawberries are the best I've grown since moving here. I also have lots of mint, from which we've recently been enjoying some mint iced tea - very refreshing! I didn't plant any potatoes this year, but have 2 zucchini plants and some decorative gourds in one of the garden boxes.

Isaac, aside from helping his Dad design and build his fort, was involved in Vacation Bible School last week, loves playing sports on our new Wii, and was involved in outdoor soccer, as well as gymnastics this spring. Next week he will start a session of swimming lessons, and at the end of August will be attending a day camp put on by the town. In between, he still finds time to play with Lego.

Curtis has had a busy spring, too, with an exhibition of some of his photography at the Smithers Art Gallery in April, taking photos of soccer and softball teams and individuals during May and June, as well as various other jobs, including designing the booklet for our local Fall Fair. He currently has an exhibition of some of his photography at the Museum of Northern BC located in Prince Rupert, and we'll be attending the opening reception this Friday evening.

In May, my parents came up for a week to celebrate Isaac's 7th birthday, but the week went by so fast, I wished they could stay another week, at least! We took them to Prince Rupert for a couple of days, and stayed at a bed and breakfast there, which we all enjoyed. Curtis put together a little booklet about out trip for Isaac to take for show and tell the following week, and sent a copy of it to Mom and Dad.

Fort-ly additions

2010-07-13T19:33:00.000-07:00

Today I added a roof, a door in the roof for high-altitude launches and a pulley system for easily bringing up spent ammunition to the launching system.

Fort in progress

2010-07-12T20:03:00.001-07:00

I've been enjoying my time outdoors the past few weeks working on a project for Isaac. It took me quite a while to build up the nerve because the fear of disappointing Isaac was quite strong. But eventually I got tired of him bugging me and got started. Turns out it's been quite a lot of fun.

Today we worked on the trap door, the speaking tube (black PVC pipe in the photos below), and a slingshot.

Anyways, here's a few shots of how it currently looks.

If you look closely in the top right corner (just under the 2x4), you'll see the tennis ball Isaac just launched).

Two Funny Things

2010-04-16T16:04:00.000-07:00

We went for a walk this afternoon to the second-store to buy Isaac some soccer shoes. On the way there I found a little plastic toy soldier on the grass, and gave it to Isaac. Surprisingly, he wasn't that interested. He promptly looked down found something else that excited him to a much greater degree. He said (with joy), "Look, a stone!"

Then on the way back, he had collected so many rocks in the pockets of his sweat pants, that as he ran and then jumped to a stop, the weight in his pockets proved to be too much. It was quite funny to watch as his pants dropped half-way down to his knees.

Is it wrong to laugh at your child?

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

2009-11-20T20:47:00.000-08:00

Over the past couple of weeks, we have been experiencing snowfalls now and again. This week they've happened more often, and so it looks like the snow may be here to stay. It sure makes the trees look pretty, especially the ones that have lost their leaves. The other day I noticed some trees with red berry clusters covered in snow, and stopped to take a few photos. I thought the berry clusters were quite striking against the snow.

Here's one that I took.

Curtis took this one.

I keep hearing people complain about the snow, but I enjoy the look of it (except the dirty stuff on the roads), and don't mind the weather, as long as I'm dressed warm enough. Being chilled to the bone is not much fun, I'll admit. I'm grateful for the fires Curtis usually has going in our fireplace downstairs. I'm also glad we got the snow tires put on the van this week.

I haven't see the moose family around since Curtis took their photos. Do you think they're camera shy? Speaking of families and photos, Curtis took some fun photos of our little family yesterday. Here's one of them:

I haven't started my Christmas baking yet, but I've been thinking about it, and so must the store owners, as I've seen lots of baking items out.

I've done a little bit of Christmas shopping, but today I goofed. I left the gift I'd picked up for Isaac this morning in the van, so he caught a glimpse of it when I went to pick him up from school. I don't suppose there's any chance of him forgetting what he saw between now and Christmas? He made a few comments about it this evening, so at least I know I made a good choice in the gift. I think what I'd like for Christmas is a memory that doesn't forget so often!

I think we're going to start a zoo

2009-11-13T21:48:00.000-08:00

After supper tonight we had some more visitors in our front yard. This time the momma decided to join her babies and have a snack of frozen flowers.

Backyard Visitors

2009-11-11T13:48:00.000-08:00

We had some more uninvited guests in our back yard this afternoon. It's hard to believe these beasts were babies!

Backyard Visitor

2009-11-09T21:14:00.000-08:00

Last week I was awakened at around 3 am one morning by a sound I'd never heard before - something like a cross between a loud quack and a moan. After listening to it a few times and not being able to place it, I finally got up and looked out the bedroom window to see if I could locate the source. To my surprise, it was a young (I think) moose in our back yard, nibbling at my raspberry canes, with another moose on the other side of the fence. I puzzled for a bit as to how it got into the yard (I found out later they do jump), and wondered if we had left the gate open and it had wandered in. I tried to make my way quietly downstairs so as not to disturb my sleeping family, but was unsuccessful in that I woke Curtis. When I explained why I was up, he got his camera to try to capture a photo of our visitor. I had thought to open the gate if it was closed, so it could get out again, but decided against it. By the time I'd made my way upstairs again, it had found its own way out.

A New Photo Blog

2009-10-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a new photo blog to document my excursions outdoors. If you go to seasonsinsmithers.wordpress.com you'll see some of the images I've made. It's been a fun little project to work on and challenge my creativity.

Anyways, I hope you like the images. I hope to update it on a regular basis, so make sure you bookmark the site and check back every once and a while.

Isaac at AWANA

2009-10-21T09:58:00.001-07:00

I caught the tail end of Isaac's AWANA program last night. He quite enjoyed getting some more little awards for his memory work and the different things he has to do in his workbook. The last image is of Isaac and his friend that he's brought the past couple of weeks.

Early morning images

2009-10-17T19:45:00.000-07:00

Frost on leaf

Through the clouds - it was quite misty this morning, and so I waited until the mist/clouds had moved away enough so that I could glimpse at least a bit of the mountain.

Good news

2009-10-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

It's been a good week so far. I got a phone call a couple of days ago, saying that I had a choice of 3 of the 5 positions I had applied for. I made my choice, and now have a temporary full time line! It will be nice knowing ahead of time which shifts I'll be working each week, instead of getting those early morning wake-up calls, like I did yesterday. (My new position starts today with two days off!) Of course, it's hard to know just how long I'll have this position, but I'm thankful for it anyways. God is good!

From summer till fall, a lot to be thankful for

2009-10-12T21:25:00.000-07:00

It seems my posts get more and more sporadic. Thankfully you have Curtis to keep you a little more updated on our lives!

Looking back, I last posted in July, a mere three months ago. So what have I been up to, you ask? Well, besides work, which has taken up most of my weekends, it seems, so that I'm seldom able to get to church, I've managed to keep busy. There were a couple of mornings in July when Curtis and I would drop Isaac off at day camp and then head up to Twin Falls so Curtis could take some photos. It was a good way to spend some time together, get some exercise, and enjoy the beauty of God's creation.

Isaac and I made our (almost) annual trip to Penticton to spend time with my family and some friends for a week or so the second week of August. We had better weather this year than last, and thankfully it was an accident-free trip as far as I and the van were concerned! Isaac enjoyed showing his cousins how he could ride his bigger bike all week, as well as testing out his super soaker on Papa Vern and others. He didn't want to try water skiing this year, but enjoyed a couple of tube rides and boat rides. I was glad to be able to spend some time with Jann and her family the first couple of days we were there, which were their last days. We all rode our bikes along the canal from one lake to the other one morning. I was impressed that Isaac managed it as well as he did, as it was quite a distance for such short legs. Later in the week, Isaac and I took a day trip to Kelowna to visit my friends Ross and Angela and their two boys for supper, and also dropped in to see our friends Katie and Jason's new baby girl Trinity at the hospital on our way out of town.

I tried to keep up with my gardens when I had the time, and was rewarded with better carrots and peas than last year. My spinach didn't do so well, but the lettuce, while not abundant, kept us provided with salad for most of the summer. The strawberries did better, and the raspberries, while very small, did well, too. I also planted quite a few beets, and had some larger ones, but mostly smaller. I planted the zucchini too late to get more than a couple of very small zucchinis before the frost hit. However, my sister-in-law shared from her abundance - a couple of very large largo zucchinis. (I think Curtis may have posted a photo of Isaac with one of them around his neck). The potatoes got planted later too, for some reason, so most of that crop was small, but tasty nonetheless. Apart from my gardens, I also picked some strawberries at a farm, and some saskatoons across the road. Someone from work brought in some apples to give away, and since no one else seemed to be interested, after a few days I took them home. I have made some applesauce, and a couple of apple crisps so far.

A friend of mine introduced me to the Perimeter Trail here in Smithers this summer, so I've had a few occasions to walk or ride along at least part of it. I would like to do that more often, I think. It's a beautiful trail. I'm still trying to keep up my Curves workouts three times a week, but since getting a cold at the end of last month, my workouts have suffered. I think I'm nearly back to full health, though, and should be able to get back on track.

On Tuesday we celebrated Curtis' 40th birthday. We had one couple in for supper - turkey dinner without the stuffing - as well as Curtis' parents, with several others coming by later. On Thursday, my parents arrived for the weekend. Curtis' parents joined us for supper again that evening, and we had a good time. Curtis even took some group photos for us. On Friday morning we woke up to snow on the ground, and very chilly temperatures, but Mom, Dad, Isaac and I braved the weather and walked to Isaac's school so Mom and Dad could see it, then walked by my cousin's house (There was no one at home). From there we decided to warm up at Tim Horton's and check out the new renovations there. Looks nice, although it's not finished yet. We made a couple more stops before heading home for lunch. That evening the four of us went out to visit with Dad's cousins at Mom and Dad C's while Curtis stayed home. Dad and Eunice Penner are cousins, and her brother Abe Zaccharias and his wife Anne were visiting from Saskatchewan, so we had fun catching up with all of them. I had at first thought to leave Isaac at home so he could get to bed on time, but he was so sad to miss any time with Gramma and Papa Vern, that I allowed him to come. Matthew Penner was there too (Ken and Eunice's grandson), so Isaac had someone to play with. It was another late night for him, though.

On Saturday morning, we decided to take a drive to Hazelton (It was my idea, as I'd been wanting to take Curtis there, too. I'd already been a couple of times.) The day was sunny, but not warm, especially not as we walked across the bridge towards Old Hazelton. There we were hit by an icy wind, but the view was spectacular. It was warmer when we walked down by the river, where there were lots of interesting rocks to look at. From there we went down by the paddlewheeler and I took a couple more photos, then headed back to New Hazelton for lunch before returning to Smithers. Mom and I did a bit of shopping in the afternoon, and then spent the rest of the afternoon and evening at home. After Isaac was in bed, Mom, Dad and I started a game of canasta.

On Sunday morning we went to church, then came home for lunch and a relaxing afternoon. My cousin Elaine came by for awhile mid-afternoon, and we had a good visit. Mom and Dad, Isaac and I went out for supper at Curtis' suggestion (he wasn't feeling well himself, so he just stayed home). We went to the Aspen, and were all pleased with our meals. When we returned, Isaac did a little reading for Gramma and Papa, and showed them his yearbook from last year before going to bed. He was quite sad to realize this was their last evening here, and made us promise that we'd wake him in the morning to give them hugs and kisses before they left. When Mom returned from putting Isaac to bed, she and I and Dad finished our canasta game, and started but didn't finish a new one. It was a great long weekend, but too short, if you know what I mean.

Mom and Dad left early this morning, and had a great trip home, Mom called to tell me. Curtis' parents left yesterday for Alberta, and arrived safely at Morfar's, we heard, so prayers were answered. Today we had a somewhat quiet, somewhat lazy day at home together, just the three of us, and my heart is thankful for it all. Happy Thanksgiving, and God bless you all!

Visit from Gramma and Papa

2009-10-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

Bonnie's parents were up for the long weekend (having just left this morning at 6), and so Isaac had quite an enjoyable time playing, laughing and tickling with them for a few days. He was pretty sad after they left, but he's busy with Lego now, so I don't think he's doing too bad.

This is the family photo we took on Thursday night when my mom and dad were over for dinner.

Saturday we took a drive out to Old Hazelton and found our way out to the river by the Ksan campground. We enjoyed the interesting beach for a while and then eventually made our way back home.

Here's a shot of us on the beach.

Last night Isaac was happy to show Gramma and Papa his yearbook from school last year. This was right after he read some from his AWANA book to them.

What do you think this is?

2009-10-11T19:03:00.000-07:00

Comment with your guesses.

Awana

2009-10-10T21:23:00.001-07:00

Last week at Awana, Isaac, along with one other girl in grade 2, were recognized for being the first ones to memorize the first verse the entire group of AWANA kids were working on. He also received the workbook that all kids will eventually get. Bonnie and I were pretty proud parents that night.

Upcoming 2010 exhibitions

2009-10-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

Within the past two weeks I have received confirmation of two solo exhibitions of my fine art photography. The first exhibition will be here in Smithers in April at the Smithers Art Gallery.

The second one will be at the Museum of Northern BC in Prince Rupert. The curator there still has to confirm the exact dates for this show, but it should be sometime around July. There sounds like there's a lot of potential for this show as the time of year when it's going to be on is right in the middle of the tourist season there. There are large tour boats that bring in thousands of tourists each week from all around the world to the port in Prince Rupert. So at the very least I'm hoping to get some great international exposure out of it.

I'm planning on focusing my exhibition on scenic images of the North in and around Smithers.

Family-A-Fair

2009-10-03T23:10:00.000-07:00

I spent the day in the banquet room at the Hudson Bay Lodge for the Smithers Genealogical Society's Family-A-Fair. I was approached to have a table and feature the portrait side of my business along with a new venture, Photo Restoration.

Bonnie helped me finish my display this morning and then I spent from 9-5 talking with quite a few different people about a variety of possible work opportunities. I have several good leads to follow up with next week.

At one of the times when Bonnie and Isaac came to visit, Isaac asked for $0.25 to go spend at the candy store they had set up at one end of the banquet room. It brought back memories of my childhood when I did the very same sort of thing.

From Isaac's day at school

2009-10-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

Isaac's class went skating this afternoon and I went a little early as I was unsure exactly what time the bus came to pick them up at school for the trip over to the rink. But it was fun for me to sit in the class for 20 minutes or so just observing Isaac as he interacted with classmates during playtime, lunch time, and then free time before they left.

Isaac engrossed in a book. I could see him mouthing out the words that he was reading.

Here's a couple of Isaac out on the ice.

He did pretty good for not having been on skates for several months. He tried his skates on last night and it was immediately apparent to me how much stronger his ankles were from earlier in the year. No apparent wobbling at all.
_____________

Then after school was over, Isaac's friend Jesse came over and played for a couple of hours. It was nice to hear the two of them laughing and playing together. That is, when they weren't telling me they were either bored or hungry!

Spelling

2009-09-30T18:42:00.000-07:00

pest
tap
pin
is
pit
snap
in
man
red
dip

words that Isaac has to spell for his Grade 1 spelling test on Friday.

us
sad
flag
this
with
that
thank
me
we
thinking

words that Isaac's fellow Grade 2 classmembers have to spell on Friday.
words that Isaac also spelled to Bonnie and me tonight as we practiced for Friday's test.

More photos from this morning

2009-09-27T15:50:00.001-07:00

Early Morning Photos

2009-09-27T14:08:00.000-07:00

I went for a drive this morning and captured these images as the sun slowly burned off the early morning mist.

New Stairs

2009-09-21T17:30:00.001-07:00

Over the past couple of days we've had a contractor come and replace the old, creaky stairs we've been walking up and down since we moved in 2 1/2 years ago. This morning he finished putting the stain on the treads and touching up the paint on the risers. It's nice have it finally done as we've been wanting this for quite some time now.

Here's a progression of shots from before he started until after he finished.

Isaac's joy

2009-09-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

Isaac went to his first night of AWANA at our church last night. I don't know very much about it, but from what I briefly saw last night as I picked him up at 8, it certainly seemed like an excellent program for Isaac to be involved in. He had expressed some hesitation about going prior to Bonnie taking him, but he came home all excited about all the things he's involved in. So each Tuesday night from 6:30-8 Isaac will be playing games, interacting, singing songs, learning bible verses and participating with other kids in a variety of other activities. He's got a booklet that Bonnie and I can help him work through to help memorize scripture as well. I think it will be a good supplement to the environment here in our home that we're trying to raise Isaac in.

Then last night after Bonnie put him to bed, she came out and told me something else Isaac had said. Apparently he asked her to put her ear to his chest to see if she could hear his heart beating. Then he said something to the effect of, "that's my heart beating with love for you". That certainly made Bonnie smile!

Today's excitement

2009-09-15T20:34:00.000-07:00

This afternoon we had the contractor come who is going to be replacing our front staircase this week. He wanted to confirm the measurements before he starts cutting etc. So anyways, when I showed Isaac the motorbike, he got all excited, and Jason, the contractor asked if he wanted a ride. So after Jason was finished, he took Isaac for a little ride. It obviously made an impression as Isaac talked about it quite a bit after it was over.

The difference a week makes

2009-09-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

Last week I wrote about Isaac's hesitancy with colouring. Well tonight after supper I suggested that he try to colour the sheet that his teacher sent home with him after school today. This past weekend, and tonight as well, I asked him in such a way as to try and make it a fun activity rather than something he would dread. I guess it worked.

They've been reading about Curious George at school, and the teacher sent home a full-page cartoon of the monkey for him to colour, and I was quite pleasantly surprised when he finished the whole thing in less than 1/2 an hour. I was especially impressed at how well he stayed within the lines. Then as he was finishing, he told me that he was glad that I had encouraged him to practice colouring, because now he really enjoyed it. The fact that he acknowledged this was tremendously satisfying.

I think this whole experience thus far was a small taste of the feeling I had tried to describe to myself earlier, even before Isaac was in school. Somehow, eventhough I knew that things wouldn't always go easy, I was always looking forward to helping Isaac with his schoolwork. A lot of it I believe was because I enjoyed school. There's also that natural parental pride in seeing your child achieve something after working hard to get there. Like other parents I'm sure, I want my child to do well. I hope that Isaac finds the environment in which Bonnie and I are trying to help him, an encouraging one.

Anyways, here's the result of his work tonight.

A fun perspective

2009-09-13T07:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon as we were relaxing in our front yard, Isaac wanted me to take some photos of him jumping off a ramp that we had painted earlier in the day. I got right down on the ground with my camera mere inches off the grass and tried to time my exposure for the instant that he was in frame (it was tricky to guess as I wasn't able to watch him run up).

Anyways the whole point of this exercise (apart from having fun with Isaac), was to see what a different perspective from the normal profile shot would result it.

This is the best image I captured. I like how the perspective gives the illusion that he is much higher off the ground than he actually is.

Our day today

2009-09-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

The rain went away for the day which was nice. To see the sun again, and some blue sky was a welcome change from the cold and dampness of the past few days.

And my fatigue wasn't so bad today so I managed to finish painting the front deck railing this afternoon. I'm glad to get it done, considering I put the first brush to wood back in May! It's interesting how life just takes over and a variety of things prevent you from getting things done. The back deck needs to get done now, but I haven't decided if I'll attempt to paint those railings this year or not.

Isaac and I rode Bonnie to work this afternoon and then continued on around town for about an hour or so. Seeing as it was such a nice day, it was a pleasant escape from being cooped up in the house. We stopped at Kokopelli's (a local coffee-shop) and sat outside in the sun enjoying a cool drink. Isaac wanted to show me a full-face racing helmet he wanted me to buy for bike riding, but I assured him that I didn't need such an expensive piece of protection.

After riding back home we played basketball for a while and then laid on the grass for a while looking up at the clouds. I asked Isaac what he saw in the clouds, and he talked about space ships! Which wasn't really that surprising considering that's all he talks about when he's playing and building with Lego these days.

After supper I suggested we do some colouring (really to practice his school work, but I tried to make it sound like a fun activity for Isaac). Something must have worked because he did really well, and stayed at it for about an hour. THAT made me really happy.

We also played some video games on the computer and then read a couple of stories from some of the library books we picked up this afternoon as well.

Bedtime was around 8 and then I worked on some things in the office for an hour and a half or so.

All in all it was a very good day.

First Week at School Summary

2009-09-11T23:44:00.001-07:00

Well Isaac's first week went by without any major incidents. Surprisingly it hasn't been difficult (at least so far) getting him out of bed in the morning either. I think there were only a couple times that he said that he didn't want to go to school after breakfast, but regardless, once he got to school, he went running out to the playground to play with his friends, so I think he's adjusting alright.

The only hesitation I've experienced with him is in the "work" he has to finish at home. He tends to get distracted really easily and so doesn't finish his colouring exercises while he's at school. We're trying to let him play a little while once he gets home from school, and then ask him to finish what he started during the day. One day this week, it took him till 6:30 to finish colouring. So I hope that with practice he'll be able to develop a bit more sticktoitiveness.

But all in all, it's been a good experience for everyone. It's actually helped me spend more focused time with Isaac once he gets home from school. I'm able to get more of my work done during the day, and look forward to the time he's back so we can play together.

Isaac's First Day in Grade One

2009-09-08T21:32:00.000-07:00

Isaac is in a class with grade's 1 and 2 together.

After getting settled in their class, the whole school marched off to the gymnasium for...

...a pancake breakfast!

Father-Son Time

2009-09-08T14:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Isaac and I spent a couple hours together up at Twin Falls. It was intentional on my part to spend as much quality time together with him before he got into the activities and busyness of Grade 1. So we went hiking up the trail and over the rock at the end of the trail that allows one to get right up to the base of the falls. We had lunch up there and then thankfully someone came along with a camera. Unfortunately I had left my memory card at home so I was unable to use my own camera. But we knew the people that we met from church and so last night they emailed the photos they took. I'm posting the best of the photos here.

It was a special time and my legs are still feeling the effects of all the climbing today.

Giant Produce

2009-09-07T15:52:00.001-07:00

We were quite impressed with the size of the Zucchini that we received from my brother's garden a couple days ago.

Last Picnic

2009-09-07T15:50:00.000-07:00

Last week it was nice enough outside for us to enjoy a family picnic together. I don't think that it will happen again this year as the weather is definitely on the cold side of summer now.

Basketball Isaac

2009-09-07T15:46:00.000-07:00

Here's some images of Isaac out practicing his shot-making skills.

The day

2009-08-06T22:35:00.000-07:00

I found myself busy this morning helping Bonnie and Isaac get ready to leave for Penticton. Lots of little things to get ready and pack up. They ended up leaving just before noon and were going to pick up lunch along the way. After doing some work on the next issue of the community newsletter I'm working on my new computer for the office arrived and so the rest of my day was spent downloading, installing and configuring things. It was satisfying to get things to a point where I can work again, but tiring nonetheless.

Bonnie called around 8, and said they made it to a provincial park in Lac La Hache. It turned out Isaac was pretty hyped the last hour or so of driving, saying "let's stop here, let's camp here." They had brought out tent along and so he was quite excited to sleep outside. Hopefully Bonnie can sleep as well!

A fun afternoon

2009-08-04T22:12:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I had the opportunity to do another family portrait session. My sister-in-law's mom, dad, grandma, brother (and fiancee), and sister (with husband and son) were all up for a visit. And so with my brother's family there were 15 in total that I had the pleasure of photographing. Bonnie was at work and so Isaac came along for the ride.

We got to the place where the session was going to be about an hour early (since I'd only been there once 3 years ago) to scout the location, and so Isaac and I had some time to play before everyone got there.

Here's some of the fun that Isaac had.

Then the whole crew arrived. This is one of the first group images I made. We ended up shooting for about an hour or so.

After which we visited for a while until the caterers came. The whole group plus a few other friends who came later were all staying for a meal. So Isaac had some fun playing croquet until the two of us came home for our own dinner.

We got home and had our meal and then Isaac watched Ice Age 2 followed by a much needed bath!

I spent the rest of the evening preparing for a busy day tomorrow. Bonnie and Isaac and I are going to my parents for breakfast after which I'm dropping Isaac off at my brother's place for a couple hours. Bonnie will come back to town with my mom, and I'm off to Houston for a meeting with the manager of the Houston Chamber of Commerce to discuss membership and the possibility of me doing some design work for them. Then I come back and have lunch with Isaac and and his cousins. Then I'll show my sister-in-law's parents the images from today and take their orders, and then Isaac and I will come home. Bonnie has to work tomorrow afternoon, and so with she and Isaac leaving on Thursday for Penticton, I imagine there'll be lots to do to get ready.

So all in all it was a good day today and lots to look forward to tomorrow.

Waking Up Mommy

2009-07-31T08:47:00.000-07:00

This morning when Isaac and I went in to wake up Bonnie, I asked Isaac to tell her the three favourite words she liked to hear from him. I'm thinking it's pretty obvious that he'll say, "I Love You."

But no.

Instead he says, "Hugs, Kisses, and Rasberries".

I don't think he meant the fruit either!

Early morning flowers

2009-07-22T21:32:00.001-07:00

I made a few images of some of the flowers in our front lawn this morning.

Isaac at Camp

2009-07-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

Here's some shots of Isaac during his first week of Summer Camp experience. Yesterday he went to Tyhee Lake swimming, today he went to the pool swimming, tomorrow he's going back to the lake I think for Kayaking! He's having quite a time.

The shots here were just before I started a little activity with the whole group of kids where I came and made some candid portraits of each camper. It was a little diversion from the water-themed activities they've been doing all week. It was fun to see Isaac interacting with other kids and really making some good friendships.

For this one, the kids were painting with their feet.

A Little Adventure

2009-07-20T22:20:00.001-07:00

This morning after Bonnie and I dropped Isaac of at camp, we took another drive up to Twin Falls and went for a little hike. We went further than we'd ever gone before and were rewarded with an amazing experience directly at the base of the left-most of the Twin Falls. It was loud from the pounding of the water on the rocks and wet from the mist that was everywhere. It makes me want to go back with my camera cover that Bonnie got me for Father's Day (perhaps tomorrow?).

In any case here's a self-timed shot that we got together.

Supper...Sesame Street Style

2009-07-19T18:56:00.000-07:00

This evening's meal was brought to you by the letter "P".

Pork Chops
Pickles
Potatoes
Peas
Pineapple

Dessert in the movie theater (for Bonnie and Isaac)

Popcorn
Pop

Our afternoon adventure

2009-07-18T15:20:00.000-07:00

This morning I suggested that we take a little trip and explore our surroundings. Basically, I wanted to see something new. There's so much beauty around here, and we so seldom have a chance to check it out together. The guys wanted to know where I wanted to go (specifically), but I couldn't tell them, as I didn't have a particular destination in mind. I just wanted to explore.

Thankfully, they decided to humour me, and so we packed a picnic lunch and headed out. Just before we left, the sky opened up and let go a deluge of rain, which set a pattern for the afternoon's weather. The rain would come down for a bit, then the sun would come out, to be followed by more rain, then some sun again. I decided not to let that dampen my spirits, though. Well, maybe a little.

As it was my idea for the adventure, I got to drive. I admit there were a couple of times I wondered if we should turn back - who wants to eat their picnic lunch in the pouring rain? But we persevered. I drove as far as Moricetown Canyon, where Curtis had been earlier to take some photos, then crossed the bridge. We ended up eating our lunch in the van a few kilometers later, having pulled off the road, then continued our journey down the Telkwa High Road. Our next stop was next to another bridge, as Curtis wanted to take some photos of the creek underneath it. While he was busy, Isaac and I walked along the road a bit, and discovered some wild strawberries. We went back to the van for a Tupperware container to put them in, then proceeded to pick some more. We even discovered some wild raspberries. Yum. They were bigger than the ones in my garden! After exploring a little more, we decided we were wet enough, and headed for home.

Below are some photos of our 'adventure'.

Isaac enjoying his pizza and chicken.

One shot of the creek.

Here we are among the wild strawberries.

Some of our 'harvest'

A mushroom we found (and left) along the trail.

A view from the Telkwa High Road towards the mountains behind Smithers. We thought we could see Twin Falls, one of the places we like to take visitors to.

Recent Photos

2009-07-14T22:24:00.000-07:00

My mom and Bonnie checking out some flowers in our back yard.

Isaac playing ball with my dad. Yes, the little white dot in the middle of the photo was actually the ball IN THE AIR as opposed to on the ground.

We put up a hummingbird feeder and Bonnie got this image the other day.

We took a trip up to Twin Falls the other day (see our July 2nd post for more details), and I was busy taking photos of the water and snow (that hasn't melted yet).

Isaac climbed up on the snow with me and had quite a fun time posing!

Supper time up at the base of the falls.

Isaac has quite taken to reading by himself lately. This shot is him reading his Word & Song Bible. Bonnie and I are amazed at how quickly he can read the stories. I think the fact that he has listened to the stories on the CD so many times helps him. Actually we quite often find him reading ahead from memory and not from the actual words on the page. But still it's quite an accomplishment for him. He often wants to read stories from this Bible after supper for our devotions.

Bonnie's Birthday Present

2009-07-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

We had a bit of excitement earlier this evening as Bonnie's birthday present finally arrived. There was a new store (<- click the link to visit their website) that opened here in Smithers a few months ago that allows one to buy custom, handmade beds. So I figured since I was blessed to have done enough photography lately, the business could buy her a new bed (head, side and footboards). So all she got on her birthday was a piece of paper with a representation of what would arrive in a couple months. Well today was delivery day!

Other than it being solid oak which will mean we'll never have to buy another bed, the coolest thing about it like I mentioned earlier, is that it's completely made by hand. Once the store gets the order, they deliver the specs to a craftsman who is part of a network of artists that create these masterpieces. So once the builder got our specs, he was then working on "The Cunningham Bed". Like the photo below shows, he even signs it once he's done. So you can see that my calling him an artist was on purpose.

Anyways the bed got set up quite easily, and now Bonnie can rest in peace (in a good way of course).

The signature of the artistan who made our bed.

Dusting the headboard.

Installing the sideboards.

Voila!

Recent business activities

2009-07-10T22:22:00.000-07:00

The past months have been busy. The latter part of May and all of June saw me doing the photography for the Smithers Minor League Soccer and Softball leagues. Doing the photography was the easy part. The time consuming part was processing the orders and making sure every child/family got their orders in good standing. There's only a handful of families that haven't come by to pick up their photos, but I imagine that's due to family vacations and the busy-ness of summer.

I've also written and delivered several proposals for new photography ventures:

Newborn photography at the hospital here in Smithers
Minor league hockey for both Smithers and Houston
Photography for two local schools

I've done some family portraits and a few people have come by for passport photography. At the beginning of June I did a one-day session for my church to get some more families for our photo directory which I produced last year.

Lately I've been working with the Smithers Recreation Department to help provide some alternatives for kids during the summer. I lead one workshop this past Monday and then just yesterday I photographed the same kids I taught on Monday. They had some time where they dressed up and did some charades. So the Rec Dept. thought it would be a good idea to photograph them so the kids could have a record of some of the things they did this summer.

I'm currently scheduled to do a few more events like this between now and the end of August, so it's a good opportunity to make some more contacts.

There's Still Snow

2009-07-02T21:58:00.001-07:00

This afternoon we all took a drive to Twin Falls to have a little hike, enjoy some scenery and have a picnic up by the water for supper. It was an absolutely gorgeous afternoon. Like the title of the post says, we even found some snow that still hasn't melted into the streams. Isaac and I climbed up and walked around on it for a little while which was fun. Thankfully when I was taking some of these pictures, the only thing that fell into the stream was my sunglasses (which I recovered).

Enjoy the photos.

Lego Car Races

2009-06-20T20:59:00.000-07:00

Today at 10am we all went downtown for the Lego Racer's competition Isaac signed up for. Isaac had to build a little Lego race car, that he would then have to race in competition with whomever else had signed up for the event. I think there were somewhere between 24 and 30 kids that had signed up to race.

The kids were split up into groups of two, and then proceeded to race in a single-elimination style tournament. Isaac won his first two heats, but eventually lost in the quarter finals. I was proud of how he didn't get upset when he didn't win. I remember him saying to Bonnie and me, "I can't believe I won two races!"

Here's some shots of before and during the event.

pre-race "track testing"

enjoying some practice races

a group shot before the races began of all the participants

that's Isaac's car out in front

Another Milestone for Isaac

2009-06-20T20:10:00.000-07:00

click to enlarge

This past Thursday afternoon, we gathered in Isaac's kindergarten classroom with the other parents and kids for a little graduation ceremony. It was a fun hour or so of songs, stories and ceremonies (with snacks and fellowship to follow). But more than that, it gave me pause to reflect on all that's happened in the past year and what Isaac and Bonnie and I have experienced together. Perhaps Bonnie will write more later, but I wanted to take some time tonight to remember a few of the highlights.

One of the most enjoyable things was for Isaac and me to ride our bikes together to school in the morning (weather permitting of course). It was fun to spend a few minutes together pretending to be any number of rockets, speeders, lego racers etc. as we made our way along Alfred Avenue and up Queen Street to the school. We progressed from his smaller-sized bike at the beginning of the year, to a more full-sized child bike at the end. I enjoyed watching the joy Isaac exuded as he pedaled along the roads. There were only a few scary times on the bike, usually when Isaac would forget to look both ways when we crossed a main road. But thankfully both he and his father survived all the scares. It was also a lot of fun to every once and a while to catch the smiling faces of people in cars and trucks as they watched the two of us ride alongside them. For whatever reason, these times were characterized by a strong sense of pride and joy on my part.

I found myself as the year went along spending less and less time "hovering" once we got to the school. We usually got there about 10 minutes or so before the bell rang for kids to come inside. I wanted to get there early for his sake, so Isaac would have some social, fun time with other kids (apart from his kindergarten classmates). At the beginning of the year I was a bit more protective, but I slowly felt it was appropriate to let him develop on his own, and let his own personality guide him as he interacted with older kids. As the year went on, I also gradually let him to do more of the "getting ready inside the classroom" on his own as well; things like hanging up his coat, changing shoes, emptying his backpack etc. which I figured he was old enough to do anyways.

I took advantage as often as I was able of Isaac's school days to spend some focused time on developing my business. The 6 1/2 hours on Tuesday's and Thursday's were a previously unopened window of opportunity to spend on the necessary things needed to grow my photographic endeavors here in Smithers.

When Isaac got home, it was usually off to his Lego room to play.As the year progressed and we slowly accumulated a new set here and there, Isaac's skills in developing new and amazing creations really progressed. I can't tell you how many times, quite literally my jaw would drop at what he'd come up with. His imagination is astounding. I tried my best to photograph each new creation he came up with. Someday I'm going to make a book of these images.

All the hard work Isaac's teacher put into developing the classes' reading skills has really paid off. From the beginning of the year, to today when Isaac is reading books on his own (either out loud to himself or to Bonnie or me), it's quite a miracle to witness this transformation. Just the other night as Isaac finished reading a Bible story to me, he told me that he wanted to read the Bible stories in the mornings when "mommy is asleep" so that he can keep quiet for her.

That's about it for now, as I'm sure I'll have more to say down the road. But I'll leave you with a few photos from Isaac's Graduation Day to put a neat bookmark at the end of this chapter in his life.

Isaac standing up during the "Hallelu-Hallelu-Hallelu-Hallelujah-Praise-Ye-The Lord" song.

This time Isaac was one of the loudest boys singing the songs. I remember from the Christmas program they did last year that Isaac didn't sing very much or loud for that matter. What a difference a few months make.

Isaac receiving his certificate with the Elementary Principal, Mr. Klaas Kort.

Isaac and a few of his classmates inspecting their expensive pieces of paper!

Isaac and his teacher, Mrs. E.

Isaac with Farmor and Papa and me looking at a scrapbook that Isaac's teacher made for him of some of the memories from this past year (she made one such book for each of Isaac's classmates). I realized what a treasure this is, and will be for all of Isaac's life. I can think 30 years into the future when Isaac hopefully is a daddy himself, showing this to his kids.

Kindergarten Field Trip

2009-06-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

Today Isaac and I went with his class, as well as some parents and siblings, on the school bus to Hazelton, BC. After a couple of stops to play at parks, and a lunch break, we returned to Smithers on the train! It was a beautiful day, weather wise, and I believe everyone had a fun time. Here are just a few of the many photos I took to commemorate the day.

Here is Isaac on the school bus. It took about an hour to drive to Hazelton from Smithers. We also stopped en route so that most of us could walk across a very high bridge over a river.

Here Isaac was 'monkeying around' with his friend Josh at the K'san Campground in Old Hazelton.

The train was arriving, and someone commented that I was setting a bad example being too close to the tracks, so the photo ended up a bit blurry as I started to move away.

Here we are on the train. Isaac was sooo excited! He especially liked going through the tunnels, as did some of the other kids.

A few of the kids took turns playing "Go Fish".

Here is the whole class, with their teacher in the middle, and including one of the younger siblings and a Mom. From this point we were free to walk home or back to the school, as the school bus wasn't scheduled to pick us up for another half an hour. Curtis had come to the station and met us, so he walked back to the school with us so Isaac and I could collect our bikes (as he and I rode together to school this morning). As we walked up Main Street, the local deli was barbecuing burgers outside their store, so Isaac and I shared one, as well as a bottle of root beer. Nice ending to our afternoon! That, and the nap I had when I got home.

Fun in the sun and other places

2009-06-09T22:24:00.000-07:00

It's been a warm couple of weeks, and we're changing colour on various body parts, like arms, legs, backs and necks. Tonight we had a bit of a thunder storm (unfortunately preventing Curtis from taking some of the photos he was supposed to do tonight), followed by a double rainbow. How beautiful! We needed the rain, too, but it would have been nice if it had been delayed about half an hour.

Last Tuesday, I had the pleasure of spending some one on one time with my oldest Cunningham niece, Abigail. For Christmas we had given each of the kids a certificate for some one on one time with their aunt (or uncle, in Josiah's case), and amazingly, this was the first one to be redeemed. Life sure does have a way of slipping by, amongst all of the busyness. Anyways, we had a lovely time reading books, having lunch,then riding bikes to the library, followed by an ice cream cone before picking Isaac up from school. Isaac wanted to show her one of the nearby parks, so we rode over there before her Mom came to pick her up. Isaac was sure sorry to see her go. He would have liked more time to play with her.

On Saturday ( I think), when I came home from work, Isaac informed me that he wanted to go to the pool. I had just got out my gardening gloves and was ready to do some weeding and enjoy the outdoors for awhile, so I said I'd think about it, which I did. After about an hour, I went in and told him we could go, and he was so excited! He could hardly contain his excitement, and it made us smile at his exuberance. I felt a bit sorry then that I'd kept him waiting. We had a good time at the pool, and as we left, Isaac was already wondering when we could go back. I guess we should go more often, and/or sign him up for some lessons.

The other day Curtis and Isaac biked to the Lodge to escort me home (I usually ride mine in the morning these days), and I suggested to Isaac that he might be ready to ride the bigger bike that Curtis had bought him last year. Then it was too big for him, but he's grown a few inches since then. He told me he was too scared, and we talked about it for a bit, and then I enticed him with a treat if he would at least try to ride it. Well, it was all the incentive he needed! He came home and got out the bike, and we were all amazed at how much more easily he could touch the ground on it now. It didn't take long before he was riding it out on the road, and was proud to tell my parents on the phone that night (even asking if we could take that bike when we go camping with them this summer) .When we went to Curtis' parents' place for supper on Sunday, he wanted to take it along to show them, too. He keeps telling me that he's glad he overcame his fear, and even thanked God during one of his prayers that he can ride his big bike now.

Speaking of big bikes, have any of you ever seen the "Big Bike" that the Heart and Stroke Foundation uses for fundraising events? It's quite a sight! My local Curves had decided to participate, and was looking for 29 ladies to agree to fundraise and get a chance to ride this 30 seat bike, so I said I would. (The 30th seat is for the trained "driver"). The ride itself didn't take very long - less than half an hour - but was a fun way to get some exercise and surprise a lot of people along the way. Apparently the group of us raised $3,912 for the foundation. I rode because both of my grandfathers died of heart related illnesses, my Dad had heart surgery last year, and my brother's oldest daughter had surgery on a hole in her heart a few years ago. My sister's husband also has a heart murmer, which apparently isn't serious, but still, it's not as it should be. The name of our group was "Curves Has Heart".

something for the tech-geeks

2009-05-26T22:30:00.000-07:00

It was a big day yesterday. I bought my first external hard drive that's measured in Terabytes (1.5 to be precise).

Birthday fun

2009-05-24T21:34:00.000-07:00

Before I describe the fun I had today, I want to mention something that made me proud last evening. Isaac wanted me to read him a story, so I brought out "Green Eggs and Ham", which had been a favorite when he was younger. When I opened to the first page, he read it easily, so I turned the pages and let him continue to read the words to me. This went on for several pages before he stopped and said, "No Mommy, turn back to the first page and you read it to me." I told him I was quite enjoying having him read to me, and after much persuasion, he continued, right to the end of the book, with only one or two words that he needed help with. Then I read it to him, and he told me I read it so much faster, to which I responded that I've had years of practice.

Isaac told me yesterday afternoon that since he and Daddy have things to do on Monday, that they would have to do my birthday today. So, when I woke up this morning, they sang "Happy Birthday" to me, and had set up a treasure hunt in the living room. My treasure included a necklace, fridge magnets, hair bands, picture frames, bouncy balls, a cheese slicer, and an Aero bar. After breakfast and a shower, I found an outfit to match my new necklace, so I could wear it to church.

After church, we came home and had lunch, then did some cleaning and preparation for my potluck dinner party. After that, we played a bit with the baseball equipment, talked to a neighbour, then played SORRY on the back deck in the beautiful warm sunshine. I did a bit more preparation of veggies and stuff before our guests started to arrive. It was a fun evening with Curtis' brother's family and a few friends, to celebrate another year that God has blessed me with. Curtis had helped me make some hamburgers, and he barbecued them to perfection, along with some farmer sausage. One friend brought a shepherd's pie, and another brought veggies and dip, and Geralyn made a beautiful cake. Another friend brought over some chocolate treats as well, so we had lots to enjoy. The kids spent most of the time outdoors, and the adults enjoyed visiting around the table.

Oh, and I found out from Curtis that my gift from him is a new bed frame! He and Isaac had gone to a furniture store here in town and ordered one, which should be here in about 8 weeks. I'm so excited!

Isaac's T-Ball Photos

2009-05-24T07:15:00.000-07:00

Here's a few of the shots of Isaac practicing with his new ball equipment.

I especially like the way he attacks the ball in the last photo. He seriously jumps on the ball like a lion/tiger attacking its prey.

Spring happenings

2009-05-23T21:21:00.001-07:00

Here I am once again. I am noticing that my blogging has been going the way of my journaling. I once was pretty consistent, but over time have let it slide. I can't remember the last time I wrote in my journal, but am thinking I should start up again, so that I'll have something to refer back to when my memory deteriorates even more.

I won't try to recall what happened during the rest of April, other than Isaac's school's performance of the story "The Emperor's New Clothes" at the end of the month. His Kindergarten class formed part of the choir. I must say that I was surprised at first that a Christian school would choose that particular story (for those of you who have never read it, it's about an emperor who is very proud of how he dresses, and a young peasant who pretends to be a tailor who can weave "magic" cloth that is invisible to anyone who is "not fit for office", or "brainless". The emperor hires the "tailor" to make him a special garment which he will wear during his royal parade through town, paying his exorbitant fees. When the emperor asks to see the cloth in the process, he is unwilling to admit he can't see it, and, like everyone else who has asked to see it, pretends that he sees what the "tailor" describes. The day of the parade arrives and the emperor pretends to don the garments, and parades though town in his undergarments, since the peasant, who was only pretending to be a tailor, only pretended to make the garments. It took one villager to point out what others were beginning to realize before the emperor realized that he had been made a fool of, and set off chasing the peasant responsible.) The children did very well in their various parts, and it was an entertaining evening (well, two, since I went both nights.)

The beginning of May found me and Isaac preparing for our flight south to visit my family and various friends. We arrived in Vancouver late in the evening of May 3rd, my Mom's birthday, and stayed with my parents until the early morning hours of May 10th, when they returned us to the airport. I was thankful for all of those I/we were able to visit with, but sorry for those we missed seeing. Thanks to all of you who made the effort to come see us - you know who you are - and to those who were unable to, we hope we might see you next visit. We had some fun adventures, and I had fun spending some of my (early) birthday money while I was down there, too, as well as joining my family in our May birthday celebration dinner. We went to The Old Spaghetti Factory in Langley for that.

This month both Isaac and I are celebrating birthdays. He turned 6 on the 12th, and I will be (dare I say it?) 43 on Monday. Wow! Isaac had 6 of his friends come bowling at the alley down our street on the 14th after school, and then I walked with them back to our place for cake and goodies and general play time. Afterward Mike and Geralyn and the girls came for supper (Josiah was one of the party guests). It was a fun day of celebrating. On his actual birthday I had been called in to work in the morning, so I was glad I'd made the cupcakes for his school class the night before. Curtis gave him part of our gift (clothes) in the morning, which Isaac called and thanked me for, and I had left him a note. After school we gave him the rest of our gift (LEGO), which he and Curtis put together before we took him out for dinner.

Isaac played some indoor soccer during the winter months, and wanted to try outdoor soccer, but also wanted to try t-ball. Unfortunately the practice times were too close together, so we opted for t-ball. Curtis and I have struggled to teach Isaac to throw properly and learn to catch, and thought maybe someone else would have better success. Not that we've given up trying, since it's a sport we have both enjoyed in the past. Yesterday we went to our local sports store and invested in our own t-ball set up, including a bat, balls, stand, and new (bigger) glove for Isaac. Curtis took some photos of Isaac trying it all out. I'm looking forward to watching Isaac's skills (and my own) improve.

Curtis has been getting busier lately, with the kids soccer season starting for him to take photos of; a new local paper that he has been involved in starting, using his graphic design skills; some family photos, passport photos, and even some grad photos, which he did today. He has also been putting together proposals for other sports and/or school photos, and preparing for an exhibit of some of his art photos next year in Prince Rupert. I find it quite exciting to see his work paying off, and his skills and talents being recognized.

I have been trying to get the gardens in order, weather permitting, when I'm not busy indoors, or at work, or playing with Isaac indoors or out. I've been enjoying the sunny days for another reason, too, and that's being able to hang the laundry out on the line for that fresh air scent. There's nothing like it! I've been enjoying watching the new growth everywhere, too. Yay for spring flowers!

The other night I was biking home from work and stopped at the gas station to pick up something for Curtis, when I noticed the wooden bed frame in the back of a truck parked by my bike. It was covered in stickers, which reminded me of Isaac, as he has stickers stuck on some of his bedroom furniture, too. When the truck owner came out, I commented that I had been looking at the bed frame and thinking that I need to get one for my son some day. His response was "Do you want it?" It turns out he had bought it for his son, who didn't want it, and he was willing to sell it to me. He gave me his name and phone number as I said I needed to check with my husband first, and the next day he agreed to bring it over. It needed a good cleaning, and we plan to paint it, but for now Isaac finally has a bed that isn't on rollers! When he first saw it he said he didn't want it, but we think that was just because he needs time to adjust to change. By the next day we had him convinced to give it a try, and then he didn't even want me to clean it! I insisted. Now if only we could get our bed off of rollers...

Well, speaking of bed, this spring chicken needs to turn in. Good night!

What an eventful day

2009-04-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was an eventful day, as I prepared some focaccia bread and a turkey for dinner for our extended local family to celebrate Mom C's birthday; took Isaac out for lunch at our local meat shop (they've started barbecuing hamburgers and smokies every Thursday and Friday from 11:30 until 2); got my hair cut the shortest ever, I think, and received lots of positive comments; prepared the house and table for the dinner, as well as the guests joining us later for dessert; then enjoyed fellowshipping with everyone. As someone commented later, it was a successful party, with 14 kids and 18 adults!

Today was much more low key. I went to Curves this morning, then later the three of us went for a walk. On the way back, Isaac and I collected some trash as well as beverage cans and bottles along our street. We got two grocery bags full! I wish people were more careful with their trash. In the afternoon, Isaac and I went to Telkwa to buy some local meat, then went to have tea with Mom C, while Curtis watched basketball on the computer. After supper we played games with Isaac until it was time for him to go to bed, and I did some laundry as well.

Well, I should go, as I have to get up early for work tomorrow. Unfortunately that means I'll be missing church again this week. God bless you all!

My beautiful wife

2009-04-04T20:54:00.000-07:00

My only comment to Bonnie before she went to get her ears lowered was that short would be nice.

And indeed it was...both short and very nice.

I thought this was supposed to be spring...

2009-04-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

Yet another snowfall arrived overnight, and the patches of grass that were finally showing through were temporarily hidden again (I just looked out, and saw that the size of the uncovered patch of grass in our back yard has grown quite a bit since last week. Last night's snowfall has already melted, hooray!) Everywhere I go I find other people wondering when spring will finally be here - green grass, buds on the trees, flowers pushing up through the dirt...After all, it is April already. I know winters are longer up here, and I accept that, to a point, but even Isaac has been wondering when the snow will be gone.

That said, I must say I've been thankful that the weather is warming up somewhat. As Curtis said, we went for our first family bike ride of the year this week, and look forward to many more. I've been trying to walk more these past weeks, partly because my Curves club has a walking challenge on, and partly because it's great to get out for the fresh air and exercise.

Tomorrow night we're having some people in to help celebrate Curtis' Mom's birthday (she was in Alberta on the actual day), so that should be fun, if a bit loud with all of the kids that may be coming.

Family First

2009-03-30T16:43:00.000-07:00

Our first family bike ride of the year. It was a little windy and cold, and so we came home earlier than I'd thought. But it was fun nonetheless.

New Images

2009-03-22T16:45:00.001-07:00

As the weather has been warming up of late, I got on my bike with my camera bag and went for a ride this afternoon. Here are a few of the more interesting results.

The second one from the left is what the road that goes past the front of our house looks like.

Another gem

2009-03-20T22:55:00.000-07:00

Isaac had us laughing and shaking our heads in disbelief once again at the supper table tonight. We were having quinoa and salmon for supper and Isaac was messing around with his spoon, literally dropping the quinoa into his mouth. Needless to say, not every bit of quinoa got into his mouth. A little later we learned exactly where else it got to when I caught him digging around his right nostril with his finger. I told him to please take it out of his nose, when he politely told me, "It's OK Daddy, I had to get the quinoa out."

It doesn't seem so funny right now, 5 hours after dinner, but at the moment it certainly was cause for a laugh.

Teaching Humility...I Think Not

2009-03-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

Isaac and I were playing the game SORRY this morning, and after one of his moves, he tells me, "This is awesome. I think you're going to lose."

But then right after that, on his own initiative, he goes over to Bonnie and tells her that he wants to help her do the laundry.

So I guess things aren't all that bad.

????

2009-03-15T12:25:00.000-07:00

The following was announced with much enthusiasm by Isaac upon arriving home after church this morning: "Awesome sitting in church today Mr. Dude, the daddy of your son!"

What's been happening

2009-03-13T19:47:00.000-07:00

It's been a nice change to say that things have been actually busy with my business of late. I was blessed to have been asked to photograph the local figure skating club's carnival this week. On Wednesday I photographed the different groups and individuals (7 groups with about 100 or so different skaters) during their dress rehearsal, and then last night I did some live action shots of the skaters during the actual carnival itself. It was a Wizard of Oz theme and so the costumes were quite varied, quite colourful and quite cute, especially the Lions, Tigers and Bears...Oh My group.

Yesterday morning I also had an enjoyable time doing an in-home family portrait session. The family are just considering the proofs now and might have a decision next week sometime as to which prints they will order.

I'm also helping out with a new venture. A lady who used to work at the newspaper is starting up a new community newsletter and she asked me to help with the design of the paper, and the ad layout. So I'm getting to do a few different things which is good. I've got 4 new ads to layout this weekend, and hopefully if things go well, we'll take the paper to press on Wednesday. We're starting small and have hopes to grow this idea into something bigger as more people catch the vision of what we're trying to do.

Isaac has been enjoying school and his soccer classes. He continues to amaze me with his ingenuity and creativity with Lego. Maybe a career in engineering is in the works??? Whatever it is, this father is pleased with his son and the ease with which he creates.

Bonnie just finished a week's worth of shifts and is enjoying her days off. Right now she and Isaac are playing the game "Sequence" before Isaac heads off to bed.

Later tonight I'm going to work on the orders that people made for their figure skating pictures.

A busy day

2009-03-02T19:52:00.000-08:00

We had an eventful day. I had some errands to run this morning (delivering photos to customers from Valentines Day) and as a result of that, found out a couple of the people I talked to needed some passport photos taken so that was nice. It is encouraging to see the fruits of the labour involved in getting out and talking to people. I've been trying to get out of the house more, get my face out there as it were, and try and raise my profile in the community. Hopefully through that, more business will come.

Then I came home and Bonnie went out to Curves to get some exercise. While she was gone I prepared for this afternoon when I would be going to the skating rink to do some more tests for a job I have coming up next week. I'm doing some photography of individuals and groups for the local figure skating club on the 11th, and I needed to actually get my lights out on the ice to approximate conditions as much as possible.

Then mom brought Isaac back from Telkwa as last night we went to Mom and Dad's for supper and ended up staying overnight.

Bonnie went to work at 2, and shortly thereafter (about 2:45) I headed out the door with Isaac. I had some other errands to run (delivering more photos, checking the mail) before I had to drop Isaac off at a classmate from kindergarten's house. I left him there so I could focus on the ice and be as quick as possible. I finished at about 4:15 or so, and then picked Isaac up at Riley's house.

We went home, dropped my lighting equipment and camera gear off and then took Isaac to his soccer class. I left him there, went and got some groceries for supper, went back, played a game with him and the other kids and their parents and then came home for supper.

After dinner which was a little later than normal, we watched a little bit of a concert DVD from a band we like, played a bit with his toy monster trucks, had a bedtime snack and then Isaac got into bed. He seemed pretty tired from his exertion in the gym, so hopefully he'll have a good sleep and be ready for school tomorrow.

Isaac was missing Bonnie quite a bit, and so we phoned her at work and Isaac got to say goodnight, and that he missed her. It's quite sweet when Isaac gets wistful like that.

No note needed

2009-02-24T22:02:00.000-08:00

I had to laugh when I saw the photo Curtis posted earlier. As he said, he didn't get a note from his wife first, but that's okay. I was very pleasantly surprised to find my bedroom colour changed from a dark tan colour to a cheery royal blue. I've always been partial to blues and greens anyways.

Well, aside from Isaac's continued drippy nose and occasional cough, and Curtis' continuing fatigue and occasional headaches, things are looking a bit better, health wise. On the work front, I've been getting a lot fewer shifts than I'm used to, although I've been told that is normal for this time of year. I pray it picks up soon. (Could you pray, too, please? ) I believe it will. Curtis continues to seek opportunities for his photographic skills, and has a couple of things lined up in the next couple of weeks, but would like more steady work.

Remembering an old picture

2009-02-24T18:28:00.000-08:00

I've been sorting through some pictures on my computer today, and came across this one I took last summer when Bonnie and Isaac were in Penticton. I took it in the store where I bought the paint for our Master Bedroom that I was repainting as a surprise for Bonnie.

No, I obviously did not have a note from Bonnie!

Health challenges

2009-02-15T20:51:00.000-08:00

Our family has succumbed to the cold (and possibly flu) bugs. I have been struggling with a sore throat and occasional cough for over a week now; Isaac started a couple of days ago, with a bit of fever at first, runny nose and cough; and now Curtis seems to be fighting a flu bug. At times like this, when I'm feeling mostly okay, it's hard to know whether to go to work or other places and risk passing it on. I've been trying to get lots of rest, and take vitamins and other things to fight off the illness, and, as I said, I feel mostly okay, energywise. Curtis, on the other hand, still struggles with fatigue on any given day, so illness just magnifies it, poor guy!

On a brighter note, Curtis and I spent yesterday evening at the Hudson Bay Lodge, taking photos of couples who had come to dine at one of the restaurants there. We had a good time, and photographed over 30 couples, I think. We did this last Valentine's day, too, but this year Curtis had his studio lights, which made things better. The restaurants provided each couple with a certificate for one free 4x6 photo, to be brought to us in the lobby. There Curtis would take some photos and then allow them to choose one, with the option of buying more if they wanted to. Some did. It's a good way to advertise, we think, and it also provided us with a night out together.

My gift for Valentine's this year actually came a couple of weeks early. Curtis surprised me one day with a beautiful silver and diamond cross on a fine chain. He had heard me comment how I missed the cross I used to wear on my favorite necklace, which had fallen off one day two or three years ago. (Try as I did, I wasn't able to find it, and I had purchased it on a trip to Scotland, so it had sentimental value.)One day while he was out doing errands, he bought the necklace on impulse. I thought Curtis' gift was very sweet, and extravagant. Isaac gave me a "Happy Valentine's Day" balloon and some chocolate (which he was hoping I'd share, and I did). Do I feel blessed? Oh, yes!

More of the Wisdom of Isaac

2009-02-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

I think Isaac has said this before, but it bears repeating. The other day Isaac told Bonnie and me that, "as big as God is, that is how much I love you".

Then today at lunch, Isaac was praying before the meal and he thanked God for the food and for His creation and then said Amen. But before he started eating he said he forgot something, and proceeded to pray, "and thank you God for creating the people that make Lego".

Bonnie and I both smiled.

Speaking of Lego, last night after we watched Wall-E for the umpteenth time, I tried my hand at creating the titular character. Here's the results.

Isaac was quite happy with it when he woke up this morning. He's already made his own modifications to it (which I fully expected).

Soccer Classes

2009-01-17T17:21:00.000-08:00

We've recently signed up Isaac for a few weeks of soccer classes. It's been fun to watch him develop new skills doing something he's not done too much of before.

A Call For Recipes

2009-01-10T19:50:00.000-08:00

As some may know I've had health issues for the past couple of years, dealing with stomach cramps and fatigue. To make a long story short, I've recently started going to the local Naturopath here in Smithers. Last month I gave some blood for some allergy tests and the results I got last week were informative to say the least. Many of the things I've been eating over the last 1 1/2 years (since my last Abbotsford Naturopath appointment) I found out I'm significantly allergic to.

So now I'm trying to find recipes for the food that I can eat. Which leads me to this post. I'd like to list the major things I'm allergic to and then ask you for your help. If you have any recipes that use foods I can eat (mostly for baking items but not necessarily limited to them), please let me know. Thanks. Now on to the main items on the list:

Significantly Allergic To:

Dairy: cheese, milk, butter, ice-cream, sherbet, sour cream, buttermilk etc.
Beef
Eggs (whites or yolks)
Gluten (I can only have kamut, oats, barley, buckwheat, 100% rye at most once every 4 days, but apart from these, no gluten)
Wheat
Almonds
Peanuts

Alternatives/Substitutes to the above list that I can have:

Some of the dairy substitutes I'm able to have are: rice milk, coconut milk juice, So-Nice Soy Beverage)
Some of the grain substitutes for wheat I'm able to have are: rice, rice flour, rice pasta, rice noodles, millet, amaranth, teff, quinoa, quinoa pasta.
For Baking: rice flour with non-aluminum baking powder or baking soda added to it. Thickening Agents: potato flour, arrowroot
Corn Products: corn flour, corn germ, cornmeal, corn tortillas, cornstarch, corn syrup, popcorn, corn pasta

This is not easy at all for me to deal with, so for those who've had to deal with these things, whatever advice you have as far as coping strategies, and of course, recipes, I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks.

So how was your Christmas?

2009-01-05T20:43:00.000-08:00

When we booked our flight a couple of months before Christmas, we certainly weren't expecting the Fraser Valley to have as much (or more?) snow than we'd be leaving behind in Smithers! I must admit, though, it was very, very beautiful! I am so thankful that our flight was not cancelled or delayed like so many hundreds or thousands of other peoples. My heart went out to them, especially those I saw in the Vancouver airport as we made our way to our luggage. They looked so forlorn! I'm thankful that my aunts and uncles made it safely, too.

I really enjoyed our time at Mom and Dad's over Christmas - eating, playing games, eating, doing puzzles, eating...I felt really bad for Curtis, though, since he couldn't eat a lot of the goodies that were around, not even the special ones I had made for him, as even they seemed to trouble his stomach. Poor guy!

Unfortunately we weren't able to get together with some of the friends we had hoped to see, because of the weather, but we did manage to see a few. So to those we did see - thanks so much for the memories! For those we didn't see, we're sorry we missed you, but maybe next trip?

I wish you all a very blessed New Year, and look forward to sharing emails, talks and visits with you, hopefully soon!

More Fun In The Snow

2009-01-04T16:18:00.000-08:00

Isaac and I spent the day at my mom and dad's while Bonnie slept (she worked a late shift--11pm to 7am this morning). After lunch, Isaac and I went with Dad to one of his neighbours to shovel some snow off the room of a shed. As you can see by the pictures below, there was a lot of snow indeed. Isaac worked a little, but most of all he just played and managed not to fall off the roof by accident.

The only time he went off the roof was on purpose. (That's actually him jumping off below.)

More from our trip

2009-01-02T11:10:00.000-08:00

Our last stop in Abbotsford was visiting some friends of Bonnies. While I went out to do some shopping (board games and a David Gilmour CD/DVD set), Bonnie and Isaac stayed and visited/played. Bonnie thought she'd get some good visiting time in with her friend Jann, but when I got back, they said most of their time was spent laughing hard at all the antics of Isaac and his friend Sammy.

I heard stories of science experiments, and blowing milk bubbles with a straw. But most of their fun was in throwing/rolling water balloons down the stairs.

Christmas in Langley

2009-01-01T21:46:00.000-08:00

We managed to leave in between snowstorms (both here and in Vancouver) on the 23rd and spent a week with Bonnie's family in Langley. Here are a few of the highlights.

on the plane down to Vancouver

the scene in the Vancouver airport (luggage from people stuck in the airport for days)

Bonnie and her dad shaking snow from the heavy-laden branches.

the Abbotsford airport on the morning of the 24th (we went to pick up Bonnie's Aunt and Uncle who unbeknownst to us were actually diverted to the Vancouver airport)

Isaac playing with Lego with Alaysia and Shaelyn

more snow from another flurry

the whole crew around the dinner table

Isaac goofing around with "Uncle Pete"

...and Aunt Olga

Bonnie with her mom and Aunts puzzling over a puzzle

Isaac and Papa playing Go Fish

Isaac and Bonnie the night before we left for home

Isaac in the airport waiting for our flight.

Cunningham Christmas

2008-12-23T13:38:00.000-08:00

We had the Cunningham-side-of-the-family Christmas celebration on Sunday evening. It was a LOUD evening to be sure. Lots of little people running around the house.

This is Dad outside preparing a large candle holder. It looked quite pretty later in the evening with the candle in its proper place.

Here's the crew around the table.

A new word?

2008-12-20T19:16:00.000-08:00

We were playing a game tonight as a family and Isaac came up with another saying that made us laugh. We've been trying to teach Isaac that he doesn't have to win every game or be first in every endeavour. And so tonight when Bonnie won both games, I told Isaac how proud I was of him in not getting upset. Then he proceeded to tell us how important it was to have good sportsgirlship.

I can only assume he was, in his own way, trying to instruct Bonnie on how to properly behave when she won a game.

Counting our blessings

2008-12-18T12:22:00.000-08:00

At the end of the year, it has been a tradition in my family to look back over the year and recall some of the many blessings God has bestowed on us. I'll start with some recent blessings.

On Sunday morning, as we were waking up and preparing to attend Isaac's Sunday School performance of "Angels Aware", Curtis informed me that our hot water taps were frozen. After a couple of phone calls and acting out some good advice, they were soon thawed and the water was flowing once again. We went to church and were blessed by the childrens' performance, glad to see all their hard work over the past months turn out so well. We told Isaac how proud of him we were, and were glad to hear the positive comments of others, too.

After church, we made a brief stop on our way home to pick up a couple of things, only to return to our van and find out it wouldn't start! (The temperature, by the way, was about -20 or lower). Thankfully another couple from our church had also stopped there, and graciously gave us a ride home - another blessing! When Curtis returned to meet the man from BCAA (having been told it would be about 45 minutes, and that he would get a phone call when the repairman was on his way), the man was starting to pull away, and told Curtis he'd been waiting about 20 minutes already, though Curtis had not received the promised phone call. He did get the van running again, though, for which we were thankful!

That afternoon, Isaac had a second performance, and the van started without a problem, going and returning. It was another lovely performance, and this time his paternal grandparents, his uncle Michael, and the 4 oldest Cunningham cousins were in attendance, too.

Afterward, we had the grandparents, uncle and cousins over for supper, as well as some friends who came to help celebrate Curtis' parents' 40th anniversary - more blessings!

We truly have so much to be thankful for: enough work provided for me and Curtis over the course of the year to provide for our needs; new friendships to develop through work, church and Bible Study groups; a wonderful school and teacher for Isaac's kindergarten year; visits with family and friends over the year; the ability for one of us to stay home with Isaac while the other works; a beautiful place to live; Curtis' ability to persevere despite disappointments concerning his health and developing his business; new opportunities that are presented... I could go on and on.

Thanks to all of you who have kept us in your thoughts and prayers. We appreciate them very much! May God be with each and every one of you this Christmas season, and bless you with good health and happy memories!

After the snow: PM

2008-11-07T20:03:00.000-08:00

Of course, Isaac wanted to go outside...

After the snow: AM

2008-11-07T20:01:00.002-08:00

Here's what it looked like the morning after...

First MAJOR Snowfall

2008-11-07T20:01:00.001-08:00

November 4, 9:41pm

After dinner delight

2008-11-03T20:47:00.000-08:00

After supper tonight, Isaac and I had a little fun. We were having dessert, and, having finished his, Isaac decided to come over and try to steal some of mine. Curtis had his camera handy, and took a few photos of us. I liked this one the best. (By the way, I did let Isaac 'steal' a little.)

Isaac and his monster trucks

2008-10-30T09:42:00.000-07:00

Here'san example of the fun that Isaac has with his monster trucks. Just yesterday he earned enough (through doing jobs around the house) to get another one. But these photos were taken a week or so ago, and so the new one didn't make it in.

Our amazing son

2008-10-26T21:13:00.000-07:00

At the risk of sounding like I'm bragging, I wanted to share something that made Curtis and I very proud. Tonight I got out Isaac's Leapfrog "Word Whammer" game because I'd mentioned it to his teacher at the parent/teacher interview on Thursday night as one of the reasons he knows his letters and the sounds they make. She had commented on how smart he is, that he can already read and sound out a bunch of words in class. (There are some areas that he needs to work on, but this is one he does very well in). I told his teacher that I'd send it with Isaac to his next class, so we got it out - he hadn't played with it in quite awhile, so I had to put new batteries in it - and then we started making words. The game helps kids make three letter words, either by giving them words to spell, or allowing them to put letters together to make their own words. After awhile, I decided to write down the different words we were making. I don't know if I remembered them all, but there were about 40 words that he spelled, either completely on his own, or by my suggesting different letters to substitute for the ones he had, or asking "how do you spell...?". It was so fun to see the excitement of learning and accomplishment on his face! He even had fun telling me (or asking me) what the different words meant, and made a couple of four letter words beside the game.

The last couple of days I took it very easy, having worked 6 shifts in the previous 5 days. I could have worked more overtime, but decided to exercise my right to say no, and spend time with Curtis and Isaac. While I feel bad for the staff who had to work short-handed or do overtime shifts themselves, I realized that if I didn't make time to rest (which is biblical), I would get run down and sick and not be good for anyone. I'm glad I did. Hopefully they will hire more staff soon, and there won't be such a shortage of able-bodied workers!

Wet

2008-10-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

Well the snow from a few days ago was just a teaser I guess. It came and went in a matter of hours. And here, six days hence, it hasn't returned. Although it has been raining quite a lot, and we can see the snow level slowly come down the mountain, especially on the ski runs. So I'm thinking that it, meaning REAL SNOW, will come sooner rather than later. But who knows. Only being here one winter season thus far doesn't really give us much to go on as far as what's typical.

New Signage

2008-10-16T22:32:00.001-07:00

A couple days ago, I finished putting up a new sign for my business in front of the house. I also have some decals on the van (one on each of the back windows) with my name and contact details etc. With these new advertising efforts I'm hoping my phone starts ringing with a little bit more frequency soon.

...beat last year's first by 6 days

2008-10-16T22:27:00.001-07:00

What you may ask did the beating? The first snow of the season that is. Last year it was October 22. This year's first snow here in Smithers was today.

The photo included here in this post was taken at 5:54pm this afternoon. BIG flakes that melted as soon as they hit the ground.

Isaac was really excited. He kept saying how much he liked winter a lot and was looking forward to shoveling snow.

bumps and bruises

2008-10-11T21:22:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, I got to join Isaac and his class, along with the grade 1 class, at the skating rink. I was quite impressed with how well Isaac stayed up, most of the time, considering it was only his 3rd time on the ice with his new skates. I was also amazed with how many of the kids were able to skate on their own already. They even played a couple of games, like "British Bulldog" , and another tagging game. Isaac was quite determined not to get caught, until he realized that he could then be a tagger! He did have one mishap, though, near the end of our time there. He'd been pushing a wooden chair for balance, and had stopped to find out how the next game was to be played, when he lost his footing and fell to the ice, bringing the chair down with him . The curved part of the seat (fortunately, I think) hit him at the top of his nose, and resulted in tears and a goose egg right between his eyes. I managed to make a small snowball from off the ice to try to bring the swelling down, but he didn't want to keep it on long enough to do much good. Once he got over the initial shock and pain, he started pointing his goose egg out to anyone who would listen. What is it with boys and battle scars?

Yesterday morning I received a few wounds (bruises) of my own. As usual when I am biking to work, I had hooked my lunch bag handle over the right bike handle, only this time, I had forgotten to hook the strap as well. I hadn't gone very far when my right foot caught in the strap, and down I went, bike and all. My legs have a few bruises as a result, as does my pride. I was wishing I'd stayed in bed!

Since it is Thanksgiving weekend, I will start by saying I'm thankful that Isaac's injury was a minor one, and that mine was, too. I am thankful for the city and country we live in, where we have the opportunity vote and try to make a positive difference in the lives of others. I am thankful for our families and friends near and far, and for the ability to keep in touch through various means. I am thankful for God's amazing love and for all his blessings each and every day, whether we acknowledge them or not. I am thankful that you are taking the time to read this, and that you care about what happens in our lives. May God bless you and yours this holiday weekend, giving you many reasons to be thankful.

Isaac & His Bike

2008-10-06T05:48:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned previously about Isaac enjoying his bike and doing the "tricks" as he likes to call them. Here's a short slideshow (about a minute long) of him in action. (p.s. If you have any pop-up blockers turned on, the slideshow will not show up. Please disable them if you want to see what I've posted).

View from house

2008-10-05T08:30:00.000-07:00

On October 3rd at 8:11 am, here is what the view from the front of our house looked like.

Kindergarten Activity

2008-10-01T15:59:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I accompanied Isaac as he and his classmates went to the ice rink to go skating. All things considered, Isaac did pretty well. As they plan on going once every month or so, perhaps Isaac will develop a keen excitement for wanting to do more...