Testing One, Two, Three

It's raining THEATER!

2012-01-30T10:33:00.000-08:00

Wow - its been a super busy, crazy theater filled life these past few weeks!!

Into The Woods closed last weekend - what a fun show that is! I had a pretty small part in this production - so I had lots of time to help with building the set and once we opened helping other cast mates with their quick changes and makeup. It reminded me how much I enjoy those sorts of creative outlets - arts and crafts, building, painting, makeup etc. I need to find more ways to be creative in my life!

During our second week of production I had the pleasure of directing a Staged Reading for the annual Fertile Ground Festival in Portland. Its a festival of new works of art (visual, dance, theater, musicals etc) that runs 10 days in Jan every year. Its a festival that is gaining momentum and every year it is bigger & better! I am so pleased to have been a part of it!!

I've also had a plethora of auditions in the past couple of weeks. I auditioned for the musical You're A Good Man Charlie Brown. I love this show - I played Snoopy in high school and it remains one of my favorite theater memories. The script was revised and expanded for a Broadway revival in 1999 and has a bunch of new music - its fantastic! I got the part of Sally and even though we just started I am having a BLAST at rehearsals so far!

I also got called in to audition for Imago Theater in Portland. I had sent my resume to this company some time ago - so it was quite a thrill to be chosen for an audition. I felt it went well - but the style of the theater is very avant guard, whimsical, edgy, experimental and alternative. Think - David Mamet meets Cirque de Soliel. (no idea how that is spelled!) Anyway - I didn't get a call back (yet:) for that show - but I hope to have the opportunity to audition for them again!

Yesterday I had the chance to participate in a singing 'Salon' with some of Portland's finest voices. Its quite an honor to be included and once you are 'in' on the salons it becomes a 'soft audition' of sorts. Lots of sharing, feedback and a very relaxed and encouraging atmosphere! What a neat experience!! I sang two pieces and it went very well! The gal 'in charge' made a point of saying how she was looking forward to working with me in the future - that is a very good sign!! This group puts together some pretty fantastic professional Cabaret shows at a very cool venue in Portland. Fingers crossed!!!

And finally! I have started teaching an acting class for adults with one of the local community theaters here in Vancouver. Its the kind of class I have always wanted to teach - and I am having a good time with it! It is so rewarding to pass on the things you have learned and see others grow in their craft! Also, I have a potential job offer from a theater school in West Linn (suburb of Portland) and am waiting to hear back on that - so exciting!! If I get it - I will be teaching weekend seminars for advanced teen actors in the summer - how cool is that?!

So thats all the theater going on right now for me! whew! I'd say that was all - but Hannah is still plugging away with the Junior Symphony of Vancouver and rapidly growing into a find cellist. She is also now first chair in her school orchestra :) And Eric is back in the Pit playing guitar for New Century Players upcoming "Hairspray!". So between the three of us - there is not one day a week without somekind of rehearsal!!

I wouldn't have it any other way :)

Forks over Knives

2012-01-19T18:31:00.000-08:00

We just watched this documentary the other night and I cant stop thinking about it! There was so much information that I had to watch it again - and I even bought the book! Basically its a preventative approach to cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other common killers in North America.

The idea is to focus more (or even entirely) on a Plant-based, Whole foods diet. Thats it. No pills, potions, and moderate exercise and sleep. Basically eat 90% (or more) of your foods from things that are plant-based (fruit, veggies, grains, legumes & nuts) and 10% or less from dairy, fish and meat.

Since I don't eat much, if any red meat and pork anyway - for me this is a pretty simple and enlightening prospect. I've been reading so much about the benefits of organic produce and wanting to incorporate that more into our day to day living anyway so this is a good fit! I highly recommend this documentary - available on Netflicks.

Tonite made a recipe that I have made before (usually using lean ground turkey) but this time subbing in tofu instead. Everyone (except Thaniel) thought the tofu version was even tastier! Give it a try!

Tofu & Mushroom Asian Style Lettuce Wraps

(this is enough for 4 hungry adults - you could half or double depending on your needs)

In an electric skillet or Large non-stick pan dry fry:
1/2 med onion diced
1 pkg (about 2 cups) mushrooms diced (I used baby bellas but white button would be fine too)
2 pkgs extra firm silken tofu drained and rough chopped
2 cans sliced water chestnuts drained and chopped
1/2 cup raw walnuts chopped
1 bunch cilantro rinsed and chopped

1 teas chinese mustard
1 tbs (or to taste) chili sauce
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce

1 teas hot chilli oil with peanut (optional but good - find this in an Asian grocery)

heat over med until tofu breaks up and mushrooms are cooked through (about 10mins) Mix together mustard, chilli sauce, oil (if using) and soy sauce. Pour over tofu mixture and stir to combine.

Serve with large green leaf lettuce or iceburg lettuce leaves. I leave the soy sauce and chilli sauce on the table for anyone who wants it saltier or spicier.

AMAZING. EASY. YUMMY xxxxxx
.

It's beginning to look alot like . . .

2011-12-14T00:29:00.000-08:00

My cell phone takes really crappy pictures. Unfortunately Nathaniel has absconded the real camera as he is really into 'stop motion' recently. Anyway, you will just have to take my word for it that it looks pretty! I just love decorating for Christmas - wish I had more money and time to devote to it. But then again - making do sometimes forces us to be more creative :)

Hope you and yours have a warm, cheerful and peaceful Christmas season. Many blessings!

no-knead bread

2011-12-05T22:57:00.000-08:00

yep, I feel like I am the last person on earth to try this - but try it I did! And it was GOOD!

here's the link - I meant to take my own pictures but it didn't last long enough :) :)

http://www.fitsugar.com/Healthy-Recipe--Knead-Whole-Wheat-Bread-2855780

Candy Chicken?

2011-11-21T12:30:00.000-08:00

this is the BEST crockpot recipe for chicken. ever.

http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/08/crockpot-brown-sugar-chicken-recipe.html

my husband and kids have asked for this again and again. try it!!

Its always something!

2011-11-17T14:14:00.000-08:00

Poor Nathaniel!

Had a steel door go OVER his foot at school on Monday. It went over his shoe and two pair of socks (Thaniel says his feet are always cold :) and still managed to take part of the nail and a bit of the toe. Luckily it wasn't broken but his poor big toe is a puple and black mangled mess!

Today was the first day I sent him back to school. He went in a pair of my slippers cause we still cant get a shoe on that foot - poor kid!

Long haired freaky people

2011-11-09T11:17:00.000-08:00

sorry this last one is so out of focus :(

Crockpot Indian Inspired Chickpea, Potato & Lentil Ragout

2011-11-08T13:08:00.000-08:00

This smells SO good - I cant wait for it to be done!

I haven't tried this one before but it's a variation of a recipe I saw on the Weight Watchers page. If it tastes as good as it smells it will be a winner! I also loved that I had all this on-hand! This would be great with Naan - but since I dont feel like running to the store I will probably serve this with Couscous.

Crockpot Indian Inspired Chickpea, Potato & Lentil Ragout:
1 med onion chopped
2 med potatoes diced
1/2 cup lentils
2 garlic cloves finely diced
1-2 teas fresh ginger shredded or half teas dry
1 small can diced jalapeños (with the juice)
1 14oz can Chickpeas drained
1/2 teas Garam Masala
1 teas Cumin
1 14oz can diced tomates (with the juice)
Salt

Mix all in Crockpot and stir until ingredients are just mixed. Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hrs or on low for 7-8.
Salt to taste in the final hour.

Couscous
1 cup whole wheat couscous (I get mine at Trader Joes)
1 cup veggie broth (or coconut water would be yummy too)
2 teas olive oil
salt and pepper (optional)

Boil broth, turn off heat and stir in couscous. Cover. Let sit for 5 mins. Add olive oil and fluff with a fork.

something super YUMMY

2011-11-01T17:17:00.000-07:00

is on my stove right now. It was EASY but TIME CONSUMING - so dont try it unless you are having a lazy day at home with lots of time to fiddle around.

red beans, rice and sausage Risotto:

2 cups (dry uncooked white rice - I used jasmine)
1 teas veg. oil
2 teas butter
11/2 cups chicken broth
1 sweet onion chopped
2 garlic cloves minced
1 yellow bell pepper diced
1 can tomatoes diced in juice
1/3 cup white wine (any kind)
11/2 cups water (as needed)
1/3 cup tomato juice
salt, pepper and hot sauce to taste
1 teas Italian seasoning
chicken sausage (I used low-fat & spicy)
2 cans kidney beans drained

melt butter in oil in a large pan and add rice. stir to coat. add onion garlic and bell pepper. cont stiring til onion is translucent (this step is important or you will have crunchy onions :( ). add broth, wine and water a little at a time, and stir until rice begins to swell and soften. add tomatoes, beans, sasauge, tomato juice & spices. redux to low and continue to stir occasionally until rice is soft and no liquid remains (about an hour).

YUM!

In the Crockpot - Mondays

2011-10-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

Mondays are usually a crockpot day for me. Its just after the weekend, I haven't done my shopping for the week and it tends to be a freezer and pantry kind of meal. Today's meal is inspired by a picture of an Indian recipe I saw while on the internet this morning.

I did not follow the recipe (having only a handful of the ingredients and also as it was a stove-top kind of thing) but the three basic ingredients were the same: Chicken, Chickpeas and Cauliflower.

Heres what I did:

8 chicken tenders (four full chicken breasts would also work fine)
2 cans (drained) chickpeas
1 (1lb) bag frozen cauliflower (fresh would also be lovely)
1/2 a very large sweet onion, chopped

1 teas yellow curry powder
2 teas Red curry powder
1/2 teas ginger
1/2 teas corriander
1 teas cumin
1/2 teas garam masala
(I love Indian spices and had these all to hand - use what you like)

1 cup Fat-free half and half
1/2 teas coconut extract
(If I had had a can of lite coconut milk - I would have used that instead )

I will cook this on low all day (about 8-10hrs) and then will add salt and/or sugar to taste depending on how the spices develop. I plan to serve it over Jasmine Rice which I will cook in my rice cooker using Coconut Water.

Smells AMAZING already :) Happy Monday!

Catching up!

2011-09-29T17:41:00.000-07:00

So many things have gone by since my last post. But I am determined to pick up my blogging again!

May: Nathaniel turned 11! I can hardly believe how time flies! After his serious illness last year Nathaniel returned to school to repeat the fourth grade and made it through with flying colors! Now, no longer the smallest and youngest in his class he has made more friends and turned into a bit of a mr. cool. (just ask the girls in his class :)

June: Both kids finished up school and I had a successful audition for the Oregon Children's theater. Always rewarding to get a call back for a big professional company!!!! Unfortunately, I was out of town for the call back weekend - but I will continue to put myself out there!

July and August: somewhat on a spur of the moment the kids and I decided to take the whole summer for a Cross Canada road trip. Hannah kept a blog up about it - you can catch up here: tonersontheroad.blogspot.com

Sept. The kids are back in school - Hannah is in grade Eight and Thaniel is in the Fifth Grade. Its crazy for me to believe that they have grown so much and so quickly!

Eric is back at work and I am back to theater and Crazy busy! More on all my current and upcoming projects soon! For now - enjoy a picture from our summer adventure!

I am here I am here I am here!

2011-05-22T22:48:00.000-07:00

Its been forever and there is a ton of stuff going on - cant believe I have not visited my blog in so long!

please know I do check in and read about you all and love hearing about your lives :)

more to come .. .

p.s. bonus points if you can name the Sondheim musical that the title of this blog is from lol

happy birthday TEENAGER!

2011-02-22T18:02:00.000-08:00

Holy cow! I have a teenager! Happy 13th Hannah!!

January happenings

2011-01-19T10:42:00.000-08:00

Its been a crazy busy month. After the whirlwind of She Loves Me (the musical that Eric, Hannah and I were all involved in), Christmas with my Mum and Dad and having a new room-mate move in - it was a really busy December! Somehow I though January would smooth out, slow down and get back into a natural, relaxed groove.

Instead its been non-stop activity! I've been actively pursuing my interests in the arts - even though I am not directing anything this year I have been focusing on getting my resume updated, new head-shots taken, I've had two auditions, started working with a vocal coach and even had a private lesson with an acting coach! (More on that when there is more to report).

I'm also back on Weight Watchers, tracking what I eat and working out (sporadically) on my new Wii Active II. I am doing well and feeling better about myself. I kinda hope I settle into the domestics around the house a little more - get myself more on a schedule - but in truth I've never really been good at that :)

So thats the not very exciting updates. Not to much to share but also not wanting to neglect this blog for quite so long as I have been :)

HSP - the finale (part 6)

2011-01-11T17:14:00.000-08:00

It took me a long time to get this all down - here is what you might have missed:

http://www.theateragogirl.blogspot.com/2010/05/hsp-overview.html

http://theateragogirl.blogspot.com/2010/05/what-are-complictions-of-hsp.html

http://theateragogirl.blogspot.com/2010/05/our-hsp-story-part-one.html

http://theateragogirl.blogspot.com/2010/05/our-hsp-story-part-two.html

http://theateragogirl.blogspot.com/2010/09/our-hsp-story-part-three.html

http://theateragogirl.blogspot.com/2010/09/our-hsp-story-part-four.html

http://theateragogirl.blogspot.com/2011/01/our-hsp-story-part-5.html

Once home from the hospital for the second time - Nathaniel followed a rigorous schedule of sleep, take copious amounts of meds (mostly steroids and stomach pills). Eat soft foods, sleep some more, go see the doctor, pee in a cup, get his blood drawn and repeat. And repeat. And repeat. And repeat for the next 4months.

It was a drain emotionally and physically on all of us in the family. At night Thaniels joints ached constantly so Eric and I took turns rubbing them for him. The Prednizone caused his face to 'moon' up and he was puffy and bruised for a good 6weeks or so. He lost his energy very quickly but was bored and frustrated lying on the couch and in bed week after week.

But there was gradual improvement. Eventually new Purpura stopped emerging under his skin. Eventually his urine started to come back 'clean' in the lab. Eventually, his blood work looked strong and healthy.

During this long recovery - Nathaniels immune system was very compromised so school was out of the question. We had a FANTASTIC home health tutor who came over and helped him at least keep up with some of his school skills. In the end though - he ended up missing almost a full 5mths of school. So he is now repeating the fourth grade.

Our doctors do not know if Nathaniel's HSP will come back. Some kids never experience full-blown symptoms again - some will have many recurrences. For now, we try to keep him healthy, keep his immune system strong and pay very close attention if he gets a cold or flu.

Nathaniel was weaned from the steroids and to look at him today - you would not recognize the kid he was 11 mths ago. He has grown a couple inches and has thinned out once again. He is back to Tae kwan do, school, church, riding his bike, playing with friends and all the rest of the things he enjoys. I am grateful everyday for his restored health.
Finally - thank you to those of you who asked about him, came over, gave gifts, and prayed for Nathaniel over the past year - it is deeply appreciated!

Our HSP story (part 5)

2011-01-05T09:30:00.000-08:00

Its been a while since I was on here but I wanted to get this all down while it is still 'fresh' in my mind. Where I last left off Thaniel was being unloaded via ambulance to the emergency unit at the Dorenbecher Childrens Hospital in Portland, OR . . .

As he was wheeled in on his gurney the admissions nurse recognized him from just the week before and said "what!? not you again! what have you done this time my boy?" Thaniel thought that was pretty funny but only managed a smile as everything in his 'tummy' was hurting.

The doctors and nurses flooded into his room and quickly assessed that his bleeding has stabilized and that he should be sent for an ultrasound immediately. It was eerie to me because we had to wait on an escort (instead of just wheeling him ourselves) the doctors wanted him supervised by a medical staff at every moment in case the bleeding restarted.

The ultrasound tech was great - she keep Thaniel calm even though it hurt to have the sensor on his belly. She left us to get a supervisor and came back with two more doctors. They spent quite a bit of time going over all the images. Finally, we were escorted back up to the emergency room.

We were there for just a few minutes when the nurse got an urgent message to send Nathaniel back to ultrasound. When we got back the ultrasound tech and the two doctors were waiting for us. They had indeed seen what they thought was a bowel intussusception and one of the doctors even sat down and re-did some of the ultrasound for himself. After several tense moments they determined that his bowels must have been MIRACULOUSLY un-telescoping themselves (likely during the two hours he was writhing in pain, vomiting and bleeding out while we waited for the doctors office to call us back) What the doctors had seen on the scan must have been the last of the bowel un-telescoping itself not 20mins before.

Thaniel was sent back to the emergency room the immediate danger over. However he had lost an awful lot of blood. We were told that his hemoglobin levels were dangerously low and that he may need to be admitted to the ICU for a blood transfusion. The ER doctor on staff though recommended waiting an hour to re-test as he was finally stable. She reminded us that children's bodies are very strong and heal quickly. She said that if his level was 8 or under (normal is 24) he would have to go to ICU. An hour later - his hemoglobin came back at 8.4 - Praise God!!

Nathaniel spent the next two days and nights on the regular ward of the Children's hospital. Many of the staff from the previous week recognized him and came in to say hello. He was in good humor through it all and joked with his nurses and doctors often.

He was however still very, very weak. He could not walk without assistance as his joints were still very swollen. He could only seem to keep down popcicles and jello for the first 24hrs - but eventually moved on to soup and mashed potatoes :) His body was still covered in purple spots from the broken blood vessels and he was still bruising very easily. He continued to pass blood in his stools for many days (though we were very quickly assured that this was because there was still so much old blood in his GI system - not any new bleeding) Nathaniel's input and output continued to be measured to ensure that his kidneys were still functioning.

It soon became apparent though that he was out of danger and would recover better at home. So on the third day - we wrapped him up and again brought him home - this time however with STRICT instructions to bypass our doctors office and bring him immediately to an emergency room if any vomiting or bleeding resumed.

The MOST amazing soup ever!!!

2010-10-10T17:53:00.000-07:00

I got this recipe for Kale and Lentil soup from Diana Dryer's website. She is a three time cancer survivor and her recipes are CHOCK full of cancer fighting ingredients - but more than that her food is good - dang good!!

I have adapted this recipe slightly from the original. Many, many skeptics have loved this soup! If you have not tried Kale yet - this is the PERFECT introduction.

Turkey, Kale and Lentil Soup
1 teas olive oil
1 cup onions chopped
1 teas garlic minced
1 pkg. Italian style turkey sausage (hot or mild, casings removed)
2 cups potatoes, diced
3-4 carrots coined
1 cup lentils
10 cups veggie broth
I Large bunch Kale rinsed and rough torn
1 teas sea salt
red pepper flakes (if desired)

Saute the onion, turkey sausages and garlic in olive oil. Add the carrots, potatoes, lentils and broth and bring to a boil. Once at a full boil turn heat down to low and simmer 1-2hrs. 20mins before serving bring heat up to med and place torn Kale on top of soup. Cover and steam. When Kale is wilted stir into soup and return heat to low. Add sea salt and red pepper flakes to taste.

OR try the original recipe here:
http://www.cancerrd.com/Recipes/lentilkalesoup1.htm

Happy Turkey Day!

2010-10-10T17:32:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Canadian Thanksgiving. I will be making an amazing Turkey breast in the crock-pot. Here is my favourite reprice taken from a fellow blogger. Enjoy!

http://www.potsandpins.com/blog/2008/09/crock-pot-turke.html

Murder in Green Meadows!

2010-10-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

Masks for Halloween

Performance | Thu, 10/07/2010 - 9:29 pm | Read 187 | Commented 0 | Emailed 0

By Adam Stewart

Last October, Magenta staged a superb production of Frederick Knott’s classic, Wait Until Dark. This year they’re producing something in a similar vein: an intense thriller of sex, deceit and murder set in the cozy suburbs, Douglas Post’s Murder in Green Meadows, directed by Jaynie Roberts. But whereas Dark depicted the horror of external intrusion, Meadows reflects the terror under everyday facades.
For the cast, Roberts turns to reliable stalwarts of Magenta and Vancouver theater. Dave Roberts and Lynn Greene play Thomas and Joan Devereaux, something of a typical suburban couple. Thomas is a home designer and has, in effect, created the neighborhood they’ve just moved into. They are welcomed by a pair of neighbors, Carolyn and Jeff Symons (Dorinda Toner and Glenn Chipman). But when Thomas finds out Joan has been having an affair with Jeff, he suggests a dramatic course to save their marriage.
Like any good thriller, Green Meadows takes what should be our comfort zone (in this case, a loving partner in a suburban home) and turns it into something to be terrified of. Roberts plays a social misfit, someone who is uncomfortable around other people and who likes complete control of his life, up to and especially Joan. Dressed in khakis and a polo shirt, and sporting short hair and thick-framed glasses, he looks like a prototypical nerd: something that doesn’t exactly strike terror into the heart. It’s all the more shocking, then, when he shows his true self in bursts of rage and brutality.
The rest of the cast is routinely strong. Chipman stutters and stumbles as the hapless sucker caught in the middle of everything, but, in this story, it’s the women who really make up the meat. There’s a theme about the directions that women can take, and Greene is especially good as the tragic Joan, who probably had been a dreamer but ended up taking the wrong path somewhere along the way. When confronted by her overbearing husband, her good housewife front crumbles to soft speech, glazed eyes and quivering lips. Ultimately, her loyal and sultry masks are stripped away and she’s reduced to being something she probably always was: a woman dependent on someone to tell her what to do.
Both Greene and Toner are adorned in bright make-up that are like masks over their discontent. Toner is smarmy and jovial as Carolyn, who’s not so subtle about her boredom. After the turning point in the middle of the play, she shows herself to be as self-reliant and sneaky – in almost a villainous sort of way – as her neighbors.
The story of Murder in Green Meadows isn’t terribly complicated, nor especially clever, but the underlying theme (what lies behind the mask, if you will) is what makes it fascinating and an often disturbing suburban thriller. Magenta and its bevy of fine actors flesh it out and leave us this Halloween season to consider what lurks within our beloveds’ closets . . . or our own.
Murder in Green Meadows runs through October 16, and for those looking for more supernatural thrills, fear not: there will be zombies on Main Street this Halloween. For more information, visit www.magentatheater.com.

crock-pot apple-sauce

2010-09-27T15:47:00.000-07:00

Oooohhh yum . . . I LOVE this time of year - when Joe's Farm brings in its APPLES from the orchards. I stopped and picked up some MacIntosh apples a few days ago. These (imho) are the BEST baking and cooking apples. Not mealy, not too sweet.

Here is what I threw in the crockpot this morning:

12 MacIntosh apples, peeled and cored
3 Tbsps lemon juice
1 dash allspice
2 teas cinnamon
1/2 cup packed brown sugar (I dont like my apple-sauce too sweet but if you want more sugar by all means!)

Cook on low 6-8 hrs. Use a potato masher to mush to desired consistency. YUM!!!

Our HSP Story (part Four)

2010-09-27T09:30:00.000-07:00

So we were home from the hospital full of optimism, prescription meds and lots of 'you'll be fine' assurances. Thaniel was a on a pretty strict regimen of rest, meds, rest, meds, sleep, meds, rest . . . you get the idea!

At this point Nathaniel could still not put weight on any of his joints and the Prednisone was making him giddy, hungry and cranky. I spent a lot of my time distracting him, feeding him and carrying him about. We had been home just 3-4 days when one night as I was tucking him into bed and noticed he felt quite warm. 'Don't worry about (from the sage husband) his body is just fighting this thing.' Little did we know the fight was far from over!

The next morning I got Hannah off to school and carried the boy down to the couch as had been our pattern for the past few days. He was hungry but almost immediately after eating brought everything right back up. Now being from the school of 'non-panicking' parenting I carried him back upstairs cleaned him up and put him in the bathroom. He vomited a few more times and I could see he was thoroughly wiped out. I tucked him into bed and re-viewed the HSP information. Call the doctor it warned. So I put in a call to Kaiser.

The advise nurse had NO IDEA what HSP was. And since a majority of the kids who have it manage to escape complications - she really had no idea how to help. "Its on the list of 'call the doctor for advise immediately' symptoms", I re-explained. She promised to send a message to our doctor and marked it urgent. I called Eric and told him "I dont like this - I don't feel good about this at all. Come home".

About this time I heard a feeble 'Mom!?' from upstairs. I went back to check on the boy-child and he was vomiting again. "I need the bathroom 'he told me, pale and shaky. A'nd Mom - I really messed the bed". "Not to worry" I replied, thinking he meant the vomit. I gathered him up and carried him to the bathroom - where I placed one end on the toilet and gave the other end a big bowl. He was now 'emitting' from both ends. It was violent and scary. Poor baby! Not wanting to stand there and watch I headed back to his bedroom to clean up the mess.

And here is where is went downhill very quickly. I pulled back the blanket on his bed to find his sheets soaked in blood. I ran back to check on him and his violent diarrhoea was blood!

I dialed the doctors office again - 'PLEASE HELP - I really, really need the doctor to call me back right now - I am scared'. About this time Eric came home so up stairs I went again. Thaniel was in a LOT of pain, complaining about his 'tummy' and begging to be allowed back into bed.

About then, the doctor's office finally called (2 full hours after my initial call). "Mrs. Toner? This is Dr. M's nurse - she told me to call you and tell you exactly this - hang up the phone, dial 911 and ask them to take him to Dorenbecher. It sounds like a bowel intussusception and it can be fatal." THAT IS WHAT I WAITED TWO HOURS TO HEAR!!!???

Eric took the phone from me and dialed 911. He quickly explained the situation and our doctors instructions. They refused to take us to Dorenbecher. 'You live a mile from SWMC, we can take you there if you like' - they told him. Forget that! Eric hung up. We wrapped Thaniel up in a blanket, grabbed a bowl and raced him up the street to SWMC.

The staff very quickly assessed him and the doctor let us know that if he needed emergency surgery he should be a Dorenbecher (grrrr) He ordered the ambulance, and they got an IV started. It was challenging because with the HSP all his blood vessels were breaking down and he bled out quite a bit just trying to get the line in. The doctors and nurses were quick efficient and calm. They also made no bones about how serious the situation was. We were sent via ambulance from SWMC to Dorenbecher at a code 3 (lights and sirens all the way)

Here are some photos of him being loaded up into the ambulance, smiling at the lights and sirens and being unloaded on the other end.

making your own Tortillas

2010-09-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

When we first moved to the States I had a nice mexican neighbor who taught me how to do these. they are EASY but take time. And you need to be prepared to have flour all over the place - because making these can be MESSY. I have altered the original recipe to suit my family's tastes and to include healthier whole wheat flour. This recipe makes a lot of tortillas - so you can HALF this if you choose - though I find they keep well in the fridge for a couple of days.

Simple Flour Tortillas
2 cups white flour
2 cups wheat flour
1&1/2 teas salt
2 teas baking powder
1/3 cup vegetable shortening

1-1&1/4 cup Hot water
(extra flour for rolling)

Mix all dry ingredients and then crumble in shortening with a fork. Add hot water a little at a time until dough becomes soft and pliable. Knead a couple of times and then break into 1-2 inch balls (depending on how large you want your tortillas). Dust tops and bottoms with flour and then roll out as thin as you can make them with your rolling pin.

Heat skillet or cast iron pan on med-high. Cook tortillas 1-2min per side (I flip mine when I see bubbles start to form) Be careful not to over-cook these as they can quickly become cracker-like when overdone. Place them immediately into a clean kitchen towel if eating right away or into a large freezer bag for storage. TIP - Placing these into a large freezer bag while still hot will keep them steamy and pliable!!

August 19th, 2010

2010-09-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

15 years of marriage!

We got a PUPPY!!

2010-09-15T23:51:00.000-07:00

I know, it seems random and odd - lol!

And he is actually a 14mth old ENORMOUS 60+lb Treeing Walker Coon-hound. Not much of a puppy to the naked eye . . .

he is a poorly behaved, full of mischief, chew on ANYTHING, get in trouble the minute you turn your back, steal food off the counter, bark UNENDINGLY at the kitties, steal your dirty socks, follow his nose rather than your comands, PUPPY.

BUT he is also loving, sweet, protective, kiss you when he wakes up, greets you at the door as if you set the moon, hide his nose when you are mad at him, lean on you for love, roll over to have his belly rubbed - big BABY.

oh, and his breed is approved for Autism spectrum kids. And he LOVES Nathaniel and Hannah. Is eager to please, smart and a big sweetheart.

Even Eric loves him . . . .

meet Sherlock!

Our HSP Story (part three)

2010-09-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

So when we last left off . . .

Nathaniel was a swollen, bruised and bloodied mess but resting on, antibiotics (for the Strep), anti-nauseates (to stop the vomiting) and Prednisone (to combat the bleeding in his stomach).

Slowly over the next several hours the doctors and nurses kept close watch on him. They weaned him from the anti-nauseates and low and behold the vomiting had stopped. Now to test it with food. "HALF a popcicle", the Doctor said and we'll see what happens. It stayed down! A couple hours later - some jello. That stayed down too!

The last vestige was for him to be able to "eliminate" on his own. On his own was funny to me because his joints were so swollen and painful he need assistance getting from the bed to the toilet and because he was hooked up to an IV he also needed assistance moving that into the bathroom too. But eventually we managed.

I have since said that this hospital stay would have been GREAT fodder for directing WIT which I had completed the previous summer. For the first 12hrs of Thaniel's stay on the children's ward he was so fragile that they put him in isolation. This meant no visitors and any Doctors and Nurses entering his room were required to be in gown, glove and mask before touching him. Also his input and "output" were measured to ensure kidney function - I spent half my time quoting WIT - "time to measure this emesis" ha ha ha.

We spent time watching movies and letting Than sleep. Taking pictures between (and during) rounds and waiting, waiting, waiting. Finally around supper time the next day - everyone agreed he was stable enough to go home and REST. We were instructed to keep him in bed as much as possible, watch closely for any further signs of bleeding and were given a prescription for anti-nauseates, something to coat his stomach since it was so irritated and raw and the steriod Prednisone. He would also need to be checked by his family physician every 2-3 days.

My dear friend Suze was a Phenomenal help to us in those few days - she picked up Hannah and took her home to feed her and let her sleep over. She enlisted the help of another good friend Amanda and they (with Hannah's help) came into our home and SCRUBBED the bathrooms, kitchen, living room, Nathaniel's bedroom - anywhere a germ could find my little guy - so that he would be coming home to a safe germ-free environment. Suze brought me a change of clothes and a toothbrush, said she would sit with Nathaniel and ushered me into the hospital room's bathroom for a shower. She brought Nathaniel games, books and her son to visit. She was an angel. A bossy, lovely, thoughtful angel. MANY people offered to help and brought gifts of games and toys and food to us at this time - I cant even list everyone on here and I am so grateful to each of them - Suzanne though - did not ask what I needed she simply brought her best and gave it freely.

It was scary taking Nathaniel home in such a fragile state - I felt as if we should keep him in hospital longer. Surely the doctors would take better care of him than I would? I did not know if I was up to the task of caring for someone so sick - what if he became violently ill again? The hospital staff assured us we were more than capable and that they would be there if we needed them. We wrapped Thaniel up in far too many blankets, carefully loaded him in the car, drove slowly home and carried him in to the sofa. My next thought - ok now what???

Borscht

2010-09-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

On Saturday Nathaniel and I visited the Farmers Market and I picked up and bunch of beets - which are in season and gorgeous right now! A couple of nights ago we had steamed beet greens (yum) and today I decided to make borscht (beet soup)

This is traditionally made with beef but I decided to try a vegetarian version. This is not a traditional recipe but rather a combination of what tasted good to me and what I had in the house. The result was a creamy, fulfilling, sweet tasting soup with lots of body and a gorgeous bright burgundy colour. Enjoy!!

Dorinda's Borscht:
1 tbs olive oil
4 large Beets peeled & chopped
1 onion diced
2 large carrots coined
1 pkg, shredded cabbage
3 small potatoes diced

1 teas. minced garlic
4 cups water
1 envelope dry onion soup mix

2 tbs. course salt
1 teas dill
1/2 teas cayenne pepper
2 cans sliced beets (with the juice)
1 can diced tomatoes
1/2 cup fat free cream

Sauté the onions, cabbage & carrots until soft (about 7mins). Add beets, tomatoes, potatoes, garlic, spices and water. Bring to a boil and then keep at a low boil for at least 20min. Turn stove down to low and simmer 1-2hr or until you are ready to eat! At this time I used my immersion blender to blend the soup to a creamy thick texture. You may choose to leave your soup chunky if that is what you prefer. About half and hour before serving mix in the cream. Salt and pepper to taste.

returning to the land of Blogging

2010-09-13T12:32:00.000-07:00

It's been an enormously busy, emotional and challenging year! Lots of things have been happening and I am taking some time to return to the things that bring me joy. And YES, this blog is one of them.

I confess I have occasionally stopped by to catch up on everyone else's blogs but just couldn't muster up the energy (or TIME) to put into words all the things that were going on.

One of the biggest things was Nathaniel getting so very sick this year. I have parts one and two of that story blogged along with some boring information on the disease itself. Part three is rattling around in my brain but it may be a while before I get it all down.

In the meantime I will try to catch up on family happenings, post recipe successes and failures, fill you in on on my theatrical ventures and wax philosphical when ever the opportunity presents itself.

Cheers!

what are the complications of HSP??

2010-05-31T23:16:00.001-07:00

http://www.kidsgrowth.com/resources/articledetail.cfm?id=1839

Henoch-Schonlein purpura, also known as anaphylactoid purpura, is a disease characterized by an inflammation of the body's smallest blood vessels throughout the body. While the cause is unknown, it seems to be triggered by a recent respiratory infection, either viral or streptococcal. Children ages two to ten (particularly boys) are most commonly affected, although the condition can develop in adults as well. The older the child (or adult), the more likely the disease is to be serious.
The disease may begin suddenly, with rash, abdominal pain, and other signs, or it may develop more slowly over a period of weeks. Henoch-Schonlein purpura is characterized by:
·A rash, which is always present, begins with small hives, or red patches, which appear anywhere on the body, but especially on the legs and buttocks. This rash represents swollen blood vessels, and the spots blanch with pressure, since pressure moves the blood along the vessel. The allergic nature of the rash often makes it itch. As time passes, blood leaks from the swollen vessels, the rash changes from red to a bruised, purple color (hence the name purpura), and the rash no longer blanches when pressed. As the tiny bruises heal they turn to a rust color, and then fade. Each spot lasts for about five days. Often the rash comes in several crops, and a single child may have a rash of a variety of different colors. The skin rash is the most obvious, and most common, finding in Henoch-Schonlein purpura - but by no means the most serious. Blood vessels in other parts of the body can also be involved --most frequently in the joints, the intestines, and the kidneys.
·Joint symptoms (arthritis) occur in two thirds of the children. The knees and ankles, particularly, often become swollen, tender, and painful with movement. This arthritis can be quite debilitating, but usually resolves in just a few days. No permanent deformity results, even with the most severe arthritis.

key points:

Henoch-Schonlein purpura is a short term inflammation of certain blood vessels thought to be triggered by a malfunction of the immune system.
Symptoms include a purple spotted skin rash, abdominal pain swollen painful joints, and gastrointestinal upsets such as diarrhea.
Children (particularly boys) are most commonly affected, although the condition can develop in adults too.
In most cases, the symptoms disappear by themselves within one to four weeks.

·Gastrointestinal symptoms occur because of inflammation of the blood vessels of the GI tract. Most of these children experience abdominal pain, often quite severe. They will often vomit -- sometimes vomiting blood. More than half of the children with Henoch-Scholein will have bloody stools. Serious short-term complications most often come from the GI involvement. of pain and gastrointestinal bleeding, with possible complications of bowel rupture or intussusception

·Kidney disease occurs in up to half of affected children, usually manifest by blood and protein in the urine. While more severe kidney involvement can occur and may even become more or less permanent, most children with kidney involvement recover fully. A very few do not clear up fully and may go on later to develop more serious chronic kidney disease.

·Angioedema - massive transient swelling of the scalp, eyelids, lips, ears, backs of the hands and feet, back, scrotum, and perineum is common and may be striking, especially in young childrenMost children recover fully. The disease may be quite mild and last only 2 or 3 days. For those with moderate to severe symptoms, though, the disease lasts an average of 4 to 6 weeks, with relapses occurring up to a year later (particularly after the child gets another cold or is re-exposed to the offending agent).
Rarely, children die from complications experienced near the time of diagnosis (bowel perforation, hemorrhage, seizure, stroke, etc.). Having made it through the acute crisis, the long-term outcome depends on the extent of kidney involvement. With no kidney involvement, full recovery is the rule. One-fourth of the children with kidney problems will still have detectable problems years later.
There is no specific treatment for HSP. If the initiating trigger is identified, everything possible should be done to remove it. If the cause is thought to be a bacterial infection, such as Strep throat, prophylactic antibiotics are often given once the infection is eliminated, to prevent recurrence. Anti-inflammatory drugs, and sometimes immunosuppresive drugs, are used to provide much-needed symptomatic relief. Steroids may cause dramatic reversal of GI or brain involvement, but have not been shown to be very effective for the kidneys.

HSP is a very serious disease. Thankfully, it is also very uncommon.

Our HSP Story (part two)

2010-05-29T22:41:00.000-07:00

Over the next couple of days Nathaniel's rash continued to spread over his feet, ankles, legs, bottom and arms. He ran a fever, complained of constant pain and could not mange to bear any weight on his legs. He was taking antibiotics for the Strep throat and Tylenol for the pain.

By Wednesday March 30th (just over one week after he first started feeling poorly) he became very nauseous and started vomiting. I like to believe I am from the school of parenting that is Non-Panicking but when it became more blood than vomit I called the doctor.

When the Dr. office called us back - it was not reassuring. 'Take him to Dorenbecher - to the emergency room. We are calling ahead so they know he is coming.' Oh dear! So we loaded up the boy, his Lambie and his 'bowl' and headed into Portland. Here is what he looked like on arrival:

They started an IV and pumped him up with anti nauseates to stop the vomiting. The ER doctor decided to call in a consult from the Paediatric ward, who suggested that he must have had a stomach bleed (due to the purpura in his stomach) and should be kept for observation. So Thaniel was admitted and moved to the childrens ward.

Due to the bleed in his stomach he was not allowed any food or drink and they started him on 40mg of Prednisone to stop the bleeding. After a battery of blood work and testing we settled in for the night. By morning Nathaniel's body was covered in bruises and his joints had swollen enormously. Here are some pics of the swelling:

Yep - thats MY thumb and Nathaniel's hand!! And here is what his face looked like - just from sleeping on that side of his body!! Poor baby,

HSP overview:

2010-05-28T16:49:00.001-07:00

What is Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP)?
Henoch-Schönlein purpura (say: hen-awk shern-line purr-purr-ah) causes blood vessels to get inflamed (irritated and swollen). This inflammation is called vasculitis. It usually affects the small blood vessels in the skin (capillaries). It can also affect blood vessels in the bowel and the kidneys. When the blood vessels get inflamed, they can bleed into the skin, causing a rash that is called purpura. The intestines and the kidneys may also bleed.
What causes HSP?
HSP is caused when a person's immune system doesn't fight an infection like it's supposed to. It occurs most often in the spring, usually after an upper respiratory infection, like a cold. HSP occurs most often in children from two to 11 years of age, but it can occur in anyone. Its exact cause is unknown. It might be triggered by bacterial or viral infections, medicines, insect bites, vaccinations or exposure to chemicals or cold weather. You may catch an infection that caused someone's immune system to respond with HSP, but HSP itself isn't contagious. Doctors don't know how to prevent HSP yet.
What are the symptoms of HSP?
HSP causes a skin rash, pain in the joints (such as the knees and ankles) and stomach pain. The rash looks like small bruises or small reddish-purple spots. It's usually on the buttocks, around the elbows and on the legs. HSP can also cause fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The symptoms usually last for about four to six weeks. If the blood vessels in the bowel and the kidneys get inflamed, HSP can make you bleed when you have a bowel movement or when you urinate. Serious kidney problems don't happen very often, but they can occur. In rare cases, an abnormal folding of the bowel called intussusception (say: in-tuh-suh-sep-shun) can occur. This makes a blockage in your intestines that may need surgery.
How is HSP treated?
There is no specific treatment for HSP. Medicines can help you feel better and treat an infection that may have triggered HSP. Fortunately, HSP usually gets better without any treatment. Anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen (brand name: Advil) or naproxen (brand name: Alleve), can help the pain in your joints. Sometimes medicines like prednisone can help people with severe stomach pain.
What happens to people with HSP?
Most people do fine. Usually, HSP gets better on its own and doesn't cause lasting problems. About half of people who had HSP once will get it again. A few people will have kidney damage because of HSP. Your doctor may want to check urine samples several times after your HSP goes away to check for kidney problems. Be sure to see your doctor as many times as he or she tells you to.

Our HSP Story (part one)

2010-05-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

Monday March 22nd - Nathaniel woke up with a fever and sore throat. I let him stay home from school for three days. By Thursday he was feeling better but that night Eric noticed what he thought were bug bites around Nathaniel's feet and ankles.

We were headed to the beach for a couple days and began to notice that what we thought were bug bites - were actually spreading up Nathaniel's leg and growing into dark purplish red splotches. We sent an email to our doctor because I was worried that it may be somekind of secondary infection from the bug bites.

By Saturday morning (the 27th) Nathaniel was having a very hard time walking and was complaining of pain in his feet, ankles knees and hips. By the end of the day he was crawling across the floor instead of walking. We decided to cut our trip short and get him back home and straight to the doctors office.

The Pediatrician on staff ran a rapid strep test which can back positive and she recognised the rash right away. She explained that it was not bug bites at all but HSP. She sent us home and told us to keep a close watch on him over the next week or so. Here is what some of his rash looked like:

Weird but yummy!

2010-05-26T11:15:00.000-07:00

Easy Stir Fry Peppers

2-3 cups sliced (any combination) green, red, yellow or orange sweet peppers
1 teas olive oil
1 teas minced garlic
2-3 teas (or to taste) Worcestershire sauce
2 tbs Ketchup (yep!)

Heat over med-high until peppers are tender crisp (about 5mins) I love this as a side dish.

enjoy!

breakfast?

2010-03-17T14:28:00.000-07:00

My good friend A and I joined Weight Watchers together. Well actually, this will be my third time down the WW hallway. Technically I am a lifetime member having met and maintained my goal weight some 4yrs back. Now that I have gained a good 20lbs+ of that back I am back on the wagon - so to speak. And that means calculating and counting points.

I like this part of the WW program - its easy and really helpful. I keep track of my eating habits without having to count calories and I am more mindful of my choices. No food is off-limits - but healthier foods are far less points so you eat more when you make smarter choices.

So for the next few blogs dont be surprised if you see alot of WW information and recipes. It keeps me on track to write things down - and who knows - it may be of use to some of you too:)

Today I am starting with breakfasts. Here is what I had this morning:

4 ice cubes (0)
4-6 large frozen strawberries (0)
1 tbs Frozen Orange juice concentrate (1)
1 (6oz) container non-fat, sugar-free strawberry yoghurt (1)
1 cup reduced cal, no-suger added, vanilla soy milk (1)

Blend together until smooth. (3) pts! Yummy!

Script writing is HARD WORK

2010-01-20T11:06:00.000-08:00

Yikes. I dont know how writers do it! I am not even writing from scratch - just reworking yet another adaptation of Jane Austin's Pride & Prejudice.

Seirously, I was thinking a couple of days - no problem. This is WORK!! I have been a this for days (and days) and so has my co-adapter R, and still, so much to do. On the up side - its going to be fantastic!

Here's the one I am starting . . .

2010-01-15T00:25:00.000-08:00

Not sure if this is the one my friend S is doing but this is the program I am following. What appeals to me the most is having the running fit in to suit your body. - "This means that you may run for 1 minute, walk for 5 minutes, run for another minute OR maybe save the running for the middle of your routine and walk before and after your running...anyways, you get the idea. Do whatever is comfortable to do the required minutes. However you choose to do it, you are still building up." This means I can do this at my own pace, my own way as long as I get the running in - perfect for the Director in me! LOL

The Aggressive Couch to 5K (3mile) Program - 4 Month

The following tables should help you get started on a simple walk/run routine. It is more aggressive. You work out three times a week at 30 minutes per session. This program takes 16 weeks and is a quicker though steady progression from the conservative program. Remember to eat healthy too. Feel free to change the days if needed to convenient you, but just remember to always have a rest day between runs - you need that rest.

You should be able to do your 5K with no walking after finishing this program provided you can maintain a 10min/mile pace. If you are slower, its ok to still do the 5K BUT walk during it. Don't push yourself. OR add another month of training at the end of this program to build up to about 40minutes by increasing your duration by no more than 10% per week.

If you are experiencing joint pain during this program, it might be best to start off with biking and a decent diet to lose some extra weight that could be irritating your joints. Also, see your doctor. By using this program, you accept the RESTRICTIONS AND TERMS OF US

***Starting on week two, you will see that you run and walk a certain number of minutes each. This means that you may run for 1 minute, walk for 5 minutes, run for another minute OR maybe save the running for the middle of your routine and walk before and after your running...anyways, you get the idea. Do whatever is comfortable to do the required minutes. However you choose to do it, you are still building up. It is sooo important to not overdo the running...and don't even think about speed. Run at a leisurely, comfortable pace. It does not matter how fast other people are running.

You will also notice in the training that the last two weeks of every phase is about the same. I feel this is good as it is kind of a rest. Your not going up in running minutes but just maintaining. This will also keep you less injury-prone...you can't constantly be improving. To improve you need some rest stages where you go back down and some stages where you just maintain. Remember, rest is very important in training.

Now I want you to do something...Print this routine out, put it on your refrigerator and start your first day!

Some running essentials:

Get fitted for a proper running shoes at a dedicated running store FIRST!!! A lot of injuries can be avoided this way...just ask us.
Avoid running on asphalt or concrete....find a good, smooth trail.
A good warm-up is imperative to a safe run. A recommendation is to start with a 5min walk, 1-5minute light, slow jog , 5min walk, LIGHT, gentle stetching, 5min walk THEN start your routine. Doing this will get some blood flowing to your muscles before stretching. NEVER stretch a cold muscle.
Cool-down. Very important. Cool-downs eliminates lactic acid, brings your heart-rate to normal and prevents muscle cramps. Walk for at least 5-10minutes. The more the better. Do a LIGHT, gentle stretch session after your walk, walk some more. Later that day/night, do a more intensive stretching.

Phase I Walk/Run Month 1 Mostly Walking (Times in minutes per day)
Week	M	T	W	TH	F	S	S	TOTAL
1	Off	25/0	Off	30/0	Off	Off	30/0	85/0
2	Off	27/3	Off	27/3	Off	Off	27/3	81/9
3	Off	24/6	Off	24/6	Off	Off	24/6	72/18
4	Off	27/3	Off	24/6	Off	Off	24/6	75/15
Grand total: 313/42

Phase - II Walk/Run Month 2 Mostly Walking (Times in minutes per day)
Week	M	T	W	TH	F	S	S	TOTAL
1	Off	21/9	Off	21/9	Off	Off	21/9	63/27
2	Off	18/12	Off	18/12	Off	Off	18/12	54/36
3	Off	15/15	Off	15/15	Off	Off	15/15	45/45
4	Off	18/12	Off	15/15	Off	Off	15/15	48/42
Grand Total: 210/150

Phase - III Walk/Run Month 3 Mostly Running (Times in minutes per day)
Week	M	T	W	TH	F	S	S	TOTAL
1	Off	12/18	Off	12/18	Off	Off	12/18	36/54
2	Off	9/21	Off	9/21	Off	Off	9/21	27/63
3	Off	6/24	Off	6/24	Off	Off	6/24	18/72
4	Off	9/21	Off	6/24	Off	Off	6/24	21/69
Grand Total: 102/258

Phase - IV Run Month 4 All Running (Times in minutes per day)
Week	M	T	W	TH	F	S	S	TOTAL
1	Off	15	Off	15	Off	Off	20	50
2	Off	20	Off	20	Off	Off	20	60
3	Off	20	Off	25	Off	Off	25	70
4	Off	25	Off	25	Off	Off	30	80
Grand Total: 260

Chipotle any one??

2010-01-15T00:09:00.000-08:00

A couple weekends ago I had a fun shopping trip into Portland with the 'girls'. And what shopping trip would be complete without some yummy food??

We totally splurged and shared an order of greesy, yummy garlic fries. Oh but that is not all - they served them with CHIPOTLE mayo . . . um my YUM that was good. I puzzled it over a bit and then determined to create my own healthier version. Here is what I bought:

1 small jar reduced fat REAL mayo (15 cals per tablespoon)
1 jar chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (found in the Mexican foods aisle)

Get out your food processor (or similar) and combine the entire contents of the mayo with 1-3 peppers. (I used three and thought it was perfect - the kids found it too spicy). I saved the rest of the jar of peppers and will have to come up with something creative for those I guess . . .

YUMMMM . . . I served this with chicken breast strips, lettuce, and shredded cheese in whole wheat wraps. Cant wait to try it on more things . . . . .

Pork Roast and a 5k

2010-01-14T14:19:00.000-08:00

So I have been inspired by my dear friend S who has been posting to Facebook this week about starting the couch to 5k program. I so admire people who take on a challenge! So I am unabashedly going to copy her!!

I have been walking on my treadmill at home already the past couple weeks and Eric and I have been trying to get out for walks together too (when the weather isn't too dismal) but having a program to keep me accountable and consistent sounds like just the thing I need! Another of my dear friends A, suggested that I should try yoga before bed to combat my insomnia so I think I may try adding that to the routine as well.

Speaking of healthy activities . . . The food I have been making at home lately has been much healthier lately too. Gone are the sweets and salts and fats and alcohol of Christmas (well mostly!) And in come the fresh juices, salads and healthy meals.

Tonight I decided to try a pork roast. Eric is not too keen on pork roast - probably because he dosen't like sauerkraut or applesauce - which is my general mode of cooking pork. So tonight I am trying something with no apples, applesauce or Kraut. Slow oven roasted BBQ pork. Sounds good right?

Here's what I did
1 4lb lean pork roast
1 medium onion sliced
1.5 cups ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup water
1 teas Tabasco sauce
1 tbs Worcestershire
1/4 cup Splenda ( you could use brown sugar if you are anti-fake sweeteners)
1/4 cup Black molasses

Place the pork in roasting pan. slice onion over the roast. combine all other ingredients in a med. bowl and whisk together. pour sauce over roast and onion. bake in a 275 oven for 2-3 hours or until roast is very tender (easily pulled apart with a fork) or use a meat thermometer to make sure pork reaches desired temperature (160 internal for pork)

Enjoy!!!

Where do you keep your ADA?

2010-01-12T14:16:00.000-08:00

Saturday night we had a fantastic time at the Magenta Theater celebrating our first annual ADA's (Artistic Director Awards). It was a completely touching, funny and rewarding night looking back over all the hard work and amazing accomplishments of the past year.

In addition to being surprised with a couple awards myself I have to say the highlight of the night was watching those I had worked so hard with rewarded for their outstanding achievements. Seriously I was puffed up like a mother hen and my cheeks ACHED from smiling so much!

I now have my personal ADA's on display in our living room. My friend J should be so very proud of her company! I know I am :)

A year in Pictures and a few goals

2009-12-31T11:46:00.000-08:00

2009 was an interesting and extremely busy year. In 2010 I plan to pay more attention to my health.
Not just weight loss and fitness (those of you who know me KNOW those are at the top of my list!) but health in other areas too.
I do intend to re-focus on my healthy eating and working out. I miss it and I know I look and feel better about myself when I am trying to live healthfully.
I intend to spend more time with Eric and the kids.
Less time stressing about things I cannot control.
And I intend to be more forgiving - of myself and of others.
2010 will be a challenging year! But then - who doesn't love a challenge??

Oh this was DOUBLE good!

2009-12-20T21:17:00.000-08:00

We had our cast party for ECS (Every Christmas Story Ever Told and Then Some) last night. I decided to try and bring something that was both extra healthy and hearty and hopefully - super delicious!! Thanks to Diana Dyer's website I was able to easily modify one of her Great recipes for my purposes. Diana is a THREE time cancer survivor and encourages healthy eating as a major preventative measure in the fight against cancer.

Here is what I made:
Lentil Soup with Sausage and Kale

1 teas olive oil
1 pkg. Italian Turkey Sausage
1 med. onion
4 large carrots
4 red potatoes
1 large bunch (about a lb) Kale, washed and torn from the stem
1 cup rinsed lentils
10 cups veggie broth
1 teas sea salt

Brown sausage and use spatula (or other) to crumble into bite sized pieces. I had Eric run the onion and carrots through the food processor for a quick and easy prep. You can do this or chop by hand. Add veggies to sausage and soften. Add lentils, broth, salt and potatoes (rough cubed). Finally add Kale. Bring to a boil for about 60mins. Keep warm either on the stove top or transfer to crockpot until ready to eat.

It was a rich chunky soup with great color! ABSOLUTELY yummy and healthy!!!

My 100th post!!!!

2009-12-17T14:07:00.000-08:00

I should really do something spectacular for this one right??

But I can't really think of a spectacular post - so I'll just say that blogging and reading blogs has become an interesting and fun part of my computer 'life'. Cheers to all of you bloggers that keep it up faithfully! As for the rest of us . . . . lol.

And so a couple cute pics that mean absolutely nothing other than I like them!

New Crockpot!!!!!

2009-12-10T08:32:00.000-08:00

I am so easily excited!

It is sad to report that the Birthday Crockpot cracked and died. I was a bit miffed about this as I have not yet had it a year . . . . I went online to see about replacements and sure enough I could get a new crockery for free!! As long as I included the $25 in shipping.

And so, I'm proud to introduce my NEW crockpot - on sale for only $17!!! (I love me a good deal!)

The maiden meal:
6 red potatoes rough cubed
2 Lean Smoked Turkey Sausages rough chopped
1 package sliced mushrooms
1 can healthy request Cream of Mushroom soup
1 tbs. olive oil
Kosher salt and Black pepper

What does Christmas mean to you??

2009-12-02T23:32:00.000-08:00

It has been a heck of theatrical year for me! I have had the great fortune to direct some of the most difficult and inspiring plays of my directorial career (thus far) Steel Magnolias and WIT - being heart-wrenching and lovely and hard among them. In addition I also played Susie in Wait Until Dark and had to study and learn all the intricacies of being blind - fending for myself in the dark and facing some personal demons (on the home invasion front and the short skirt wearing front)! A blog for another time . . .

Currently I am at the directorial helm of a Christmas Comedy - and unbelievably enough, unlike most Christmas fodder - its a genuinely hysterical, touching, laugh out loud, wipe your eyes, hold your sides, think about it after you go home, dang GOOD, Christmas show. Christmas and FUNNY dont always go together - but this script happens to weave the hilarity of X-mas silliness with the loveliness of Christ's selfless birth all together in a seamless blend of festive frivolity.

If you are anywhere NEAR Vancouver - come on out and see this show. Seriously funny. And Surprisingly touching. God Bless us Everyone!

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some)! Runs Dec. 3-19th at the Magenta Theater. 606 Main St. Vancouver WA.

'Secret' family pastry recipe

2009-11-26T17:43:00.000-08:00

This is my mothers grandfathers pastry recipe. I am guessing it to be easily 70yrs old. The trick is to handle it as little as possible once the wet ingredients go in. Flaky, old fashioned, hard to screw up goodness.

3 cups flour
1/2lb lard (I use vegetable shortening)
1 teas. salt
1/2 teas baking powder

cut with a pastry cutter until crumbly.

in a separate bowl or measuring cup add
1 egg
2 tbsp. vinegar
cold water added to the above to equal just 1/2 cup.

beat lightly and add to crumbled mixture. combine until just dough. roll on floured surface. makes two, two crust pies

depression cooking lessons for a recession??

2009-11-08T20:11:00.001-08:00

if you are anything like us, your finances have taken a big hit over the past year. despite tightening our belts on daily expenses and kiboshing the luxury 'extras' (like dishtv & starbucks), things are tight. uncomfortably so!

and if you are anything like us you and your DH/DW have been discussing ways to either reduce costs or increase income - maybe both!! I came across this very cool utube site called Depression Cooking with Clara. Clara is a 90+ spitfire who goes back to the basics of cheap cooking - sharing recipes from when she was a kid in the great depression. she also is incredibly cute and entertaining when sharing her life stories.

according to Clara, a family who had chickens and a garden actually ate pretty well during the depression and if you were lucky enough to be able to afford such luxuries, a sack of flour and a sack of potatoes - you had everything you needed to be healthy.

hmmm, a sack of flour and a sack of potatoes - luxuries? and here I am be-moaning the loss of my DVR . . . . makes you think. and be grateful. not to mention - many of her recipies look very scrummy! as Clara says 'eat and enjoy!'

Brunch with friends

2009-11-06T14:10:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I had a couple girlfriends over for brunch. What a fun, fun time! I just love cooking for people and trying new recipes. I suppose entertaining can be stressful at times but this was easy, easy, easy and gave me a good excuse to clean up the house too! Maybe this will become a monthly thing???

Along with a fresh fruit salad, here is what I served:
Turkey Sausage w/ Potatoes and Veggies. This is a super easy overnight recipe I stole from one of my favorite blogs - a year of slow cooking. The link to this blog is on my list. Here is the link to the original recipe:

http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/03/overnight-breakfast-potatoes-with.html

I followed it almost exactly but used turkey instead of chicken sausages and added one package of sliced mushrooms. I don't really measure anything but I cant see how anyone could screw up something this simple! It smelled great and was very tasty!

The other thing I tried was a baked French toast dish. There are a ton of baked French toast recipes on-line. I just read a bunch and then tried to come up with something that looked good to me. These look like alot of work but you do everything the night before let it sit in the fridge over night and then just pop it in the oven - so EASY!! This was so yummy I think I may do it again for Christmas morning!!

Dorinda's Apple-Craisin Baked French Toast Casserole:
1 loaf fresh multi-grain bread cubed
2-3 small apples washed, cored and chopped (I left the peels on but do what suits you)
1/2 cup craisins (dried cranberries)
1/4 cup butter melted
1 tbsp cinnamon
1 cup brown sugar (divided 3/4c plus 1/4c)
1/4 cup butter (cold for dotting the top)
6 eggs
1 cup milk or fat free half & half

Toss cubed bread in a large bowl with apples, craisins, cinnamon, 3/4c brown sugar and melted butter. In a smaller separate bowl beat together the eggs and milk with a fork. Pour over the bread mixture. Mix well to coat the bread. Place into a lightly greased 9x13 pan - you may have to pack it down a bit. Cover with foil and place in the refrigerator over night.

The next morning lift the foil and dot the top with butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar (and a sprinkle of cinnamon if you like). Bake at 350 for 30-40mins or until 'set'.

The online recipes suggested serving your baked french toast with maple syrup but the girls and I all agreed this is plenty sweet on it's own. I bet my kids would have put syrup on thiers though!

Re-blogging Body image and the beast

2009-11-03T10:13:00.000-08:00

I have a few things I want to blog about but never seem to find the time!! So here is a reposting from last year. It is still applicable and something I still think about. Also it occurred to me - I really don't have weight problem - I have a depression/body image problem that I medicate with food. hmmm . . . . something to think about. What about you?

First I must make two statements:
Women struggle with body image
I am a woman

Sigh.

I am a person who has been very fat. And a person who has been relatively thin. Here's what I have learnt from my experience:
- I have felt fat and ugly at both a size 6 and at a size 16
- I feel strong & powerful & sexy when I exercise regularly no matter what the scale says
- I know the difference between healthy, wholesome foods and junk
- I often choose to ignore what I know

A while ago (after taking a piece of chocolate) I confessed to a friend that I knew I would be much happier if I just lost these last (nagging, persistent, resistant, frustrating, infuriating, want to crawl under the covers and cry) ten pounds. Did I mention that I was eating chocolate at the time? This friend looked at me like I had suddenly taken all leave of my senses - he looked at me like I was completely crazy. He sighed, paused and then said very carefully (being married and therefore having some experience with female sensibilities) "If you will pardon me saying so - you are perfect. I mean lose weight if it makes you happy . . . but to me, and probably to a lot of people - you are just perfect." Now it was my turn to look at him as if he had completely lost his senses.

Now here's the thing. This is a good friend that does not lie and does not say things to make people 'feel better'. I believed him. Kinda. For about three minutes I actually believed that I was better than okay, better than fine. But one good look in a full length mirror later was all it took for the ugly beast of insecurity to rear its head again.

I know so many women like this! I know so many beautiful women who think of themselves as average, so-so or even ugly! A good friend that is one of the most beautiful women I've ever known who hates her own thighs; another beautiful woman who despises the size of her hips; another that feels if she could just 'fix' a certain facial facial feature she might just be pretty. What the heck?!? These are all gorgeous women - what is wrong with us?

I wish that all women would turn that focus into living positive lives.

Eating to sustain and nourish instead of eating our emotions. Exercising to build muscles and strong hearts rather than to burn more calories. Loving and taking care of ourselves a little bit more instead of harping on our flaws and taking care of everyone else.

Boy that sounds good. I just hope I can take my own advise to heart!

Hanging on to emotional dissapointments

2009-10-27T01:32:00.000-07:00

So I have read (and heard) about folks hanging on to emotional disappointments. You know what I mean - the boy that never called, the teacher who never understood you, the parents who didn't give you your due credit . . . there are probably a million examples.

Today I have been thinking about another kind of emotional disappointment that often weighs me down - its the guilt that accompanies an unkind word or thoughtless gesture that I may utter on any given day. Or the crappy joke that turns out to be too close to home for someone. Or the held-onto disappointment that come with expecting to be adored or admired and then not receiving that.

Once, in grade six, I made an off-hand comment in choir that a song would be much easier to master once the accompaniment was down pat. It was not intended as a slight or even directed at anyone in particular but the piano teacher (an adult) rose from her stool and told me that I was disrespectful, the piece was very challenging, and I should learn to keep my mouth shut. Ouch. that was a painful lesson for a socially inept child. But it was the beginning of a life long lesson in the power and effect of WORDS.

So many I wish I could take back! So many I wish had come to me in the heat of an argument. So many I wish I had the fortitude and forthrightness to say in a moment of need. These are the emotional disappointments that can weigh me down. Most often I am disappointed in myself.

100% day

2009-10-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

on the Nutrisystem website 100% days are much lauded and much sought after. They are rare and enviable and hard to achieve!

In spite of Nutrisystem having covered all basic components of meals, providing concise lists of what add-on fresh foods are available, giving a pretty comprehensive list of 'extra' and free' foods, free - online and over the phone consellors 24/7 AND community website support . . . it seems that sticking 100% to the diet can be a real challenge!

Doesn't that seem to be true of everything lately - lol?? I have everything I need to keep a clean and organized house. Stay on top of the kid's schedules, prepare healthy meals for my family and deliver 100% on my out of the home commitments. Yet despite my efforts - I hardly ever hit a 100% day.

I try not to be too hard on myself - but I do tend toward an all or nothing personality. Must learn to cut myself some slack - but not tooo much - LOL

Holiday exchanges

2009-10-14T00:49:00.000-07:00

So when I was newly married (almost 15yrs ago), I had all these fanciful dreams of how domestic I could be. You know the ones - beds made in the morning, supper on the table, freshly washed shirts for the DH and of course never a store-bought cookie or Christmas tree ornament would cross my threshold. I think it only took about a month for all of those idealistic ideas to fade into oblivion. I am, after-all, a messy, disorganized, stay up late, sleep in late, hopelessly optomistic actress . . . lol!

Now I know you are saying - wait a minute - Christmas!? It isn't it even HALLOWEEN yet?? Yes I know - but the thing is, Halloween gets me looking forward to Christmas. Really! As much fun as dress-up is, for me, IMHO, Halloween is just the sugar holiday leading up to the all the fun and good stuff holiday - Christmas!! With its magical, mystical, powerful story of salvation through the tiny babe and the good ol' jolly ho, ho, ho of Santa, its do-gooding and elves and treats and magic . . . well - what can beat that? (especially when it is cold and miserable outside?)

Anyway - on to my point and yes I do have one - Christmas Exchanges. This is something I hosted or participated in every year until I moved to the US. Hand-crafted Ornament exchanges and Hand-baked cookie exchanges. Getting together with other idealistic women who dream of having tree decked out and plates overflowing with their love-in-action handicrafts. I wish I could whip up several dozen different kind of cookies and a few dozen different kinds of ornaments for my tree but bah humbug - who has the time?????

I'll tell you what I have time for - ONE batch of cookies or ONE afternoon of crafting. And then ONE evening in December where I meet a bunch of my best girl-friends to exchange said holiday pleasantries and take them home with (almost) equal pride. 'Those cookies are homemade you know' as you place a heaping platter before guests . . . . 'we just have SO many memories on that tree' as company gazes at your be-decked fir . . . . well you get the idea.

So much fun and so much reward - who's on for a cookie exchange this year???

Here comes the rain again . . . .

2009-10-12T23:32:00.000-07:00

Hannah and Nathaniel enjoying a rainy Vancouver day in February a couple years ago . . .

So the weather forecasters are predicting the start of the rainy season. And while I really want to complain about the upcoming weather, this past summer and fall have been just excellent weatherwise with far, far less rainy days than previous September/Octobers I have lived through here in the Pacific Northwest.

It does put a damper on the outdoor walking though. Trails that are super fun in the dry months become slippery with mud and leaves. City sidewalks and streets can often be spotted over with little rivers trying to find their quickest way to the drainage systems. And inevitably every year there are several neighbourhoods whose streets become backed up and flooded with rain and tree debris.

Every year about this time I remind myself that I am waterproof - well at least water resistant;). After living here for the last six years I now own several umbrellas. While parkas and boots are no longer necessary, good waterproof shoes and a warm jacket are. Really what kind of Washingtonian am I if I let a little rain (or several months of drizzles and downpours) spoil my outdoor fun??

So this year I am going to try and take the Swedish proverb to heart: “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad coats”.

Monday Memories

2009-10-12T00:43:00.001-07:00

Engagement photos - 1995. Hard to believe it has been that long!!!

Even harder to believe - I learn to love this man that God gave me, not more each day as the cliche goes, but in deserts and storms, dry spells and floods, joys and sorrows, heartfelt and heartache.

Love you E.

It's arrived

2009-09-18T10:21:00.000-07:00

My HUGE box of Nutrisystem foods arrived yesterday. What fun! It took some sorting and moving things around to find space in the kitchen for everything.

Now I just have to stick to it. That shouldn't be too hard. Except when I get bored of the food. Or have a really stressful day. Or want to go out with friends. Or . . . . LOL!!!

No really, I can do this!

Interesting . . . .

2009-09-12T02:23:00.001-07:00

Olivia Bucks, The OregonianAfter a day at the office, the Rev. Dave Brauer-Rieke, bishop of 43,000 Oregonians who are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, tends to chickens and goats at his home in Milwaukie. Brauer-Rieke is determined to listen to all perspectives as congregations respond to the denomination's recent decisions on blessing same sex unions and gay and lesbian clergy.

Last month, more than 1,000 members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America met in Minneapolis to decide whether partnered gay and lesbian people could become pastors. Two long lines formed behind microphones designated "yes" and "no."

"Every 20 minutes, we'd stop to pray," said the Rev. Dave Brauer-Rieke, bishop of Oregon's 43,000 ELCA members.

During breaks in the testimony, people from each line reached across the aisle, put their hands on each others' shoulders and bowed their heads, he said. "People listened, heard and prayed together. There were no protests, no lockouts, no placards. It wasn't a town-hall meeting about health care."

Civil discourse prevailed at the churchwide assembly, even as 1,045 voting members passed the following controversial resolutions:

• Acknowledging disagreements over blessing same-sex unions and calling gay and lesbian pastors but deciding to pursue options for interested congregations

• Asking the national church council to create a blessing for same-sex unions

• Deciding that gay or lesbian people involved in monogamous, life-long and publicly accountable relationships may be "rostered," or considered as potential pastors of congregations.

The resolutions are connected to an over-arching social statement called "Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust," which the ELCA has been studying and revising for seven years. The statement passed at the assembly with a close two-thirds majority, Brauer-Rieke said.

The ELCA, with 4.7 million members, is the largest Lutheran group in the United States. The second largest, the 2.4 million member Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, believes that the Bible condemns homosexual behavior as intrinsically sinful. The ELCA is the most recent Protestant denomination to change its policy on gay and lesbian clergy. In July, a national convention of the Episcopal Church recognized that gay and lesbian members are involved in ordained and lay ministry and moved toward blessing same-sex relationships, though they have not adopted an official rite.

Back in his Northeast Portland office, Brauer-Reike tries to be even-handed as he hears from ministers and church members who object to the changes and those who applaud them. As bishop of 115 ELCA congregations that include a variety of viewpoints, he doesn't talk about his own perspective.

"It's my job to ask, 'How are you doing? If you're madder than hell, tell me about it. If you're happy, tell me about it,'" he said.

In a recent interview, he talked about why these decisions are difficult to make and live with. His answers have been edited for space and clarity.

Q: For some Christians, gay or lesbian sex is an abomination. Others argue same-sex relationships are acceptable. Is it a yes or no question?

A: It's not a black and white situation for hardly anybody. Someone may have a niece or a nephew who's gay and they're happy that the church is moving this way. And someone else has a niece or nephew who's gay -- and they do care about them -- but they don't want the church to change.

It's a complex collage, and it doesn't help to describe people as in favor or against the changes. It's not about good people or bad people. It's a matter of how we understand the Bible.

Q: How does the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America understand the Bible?
Faith Cathcart, The OregonianBishop Dave Brauer-Rieke, who serves 115 Oregon congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, participates in Communion at St. Andrew Church in Beaverton in January 2009.
A: We take Scripture very seriously. We're defined by the ecumenical creeds - the Apostles' and Nicene creeds -- the Lutheran confessions, the plain meaning of Scripture -- how it was understood in its day -- and the principle that Scripture interprets Scripture. If Scripture says two things, you look for hints within Scripture to resolve the difference.

The Bible deals with same gender sexuality as a violation of assumed, heterosexual norms. But it also says to welcome the stranger, love your neighbor and bear one another's burdens.

Q: What implications do these decisions have on the church's understanding of marriage?

A: For Lutherans, marriage is a secular reality and a religious rite. I won't marry people if they won't sign the documents at the courthouse. A couple has to be publicly accountable; there may be children involved, cars, houses. It's a way of ordering a relationship.

Such public accountability, which benefits everybody, is not always an option for same-sex couples. This is what civil union or domestic partnership laws seek to provide. Our question as a church is how might a religious rite of blessing also serve to strengthen same-sex couples or households led by such couples.

Q: As bishop, will you recommend gay or lesbian candidates to a congregation searching for a pastor?

A: Only to congregations that are open to such a placement. Thirty-seven years ago when we started ordaining women, some congregations didn't want to call a woman pastor. A congregation could say no. In the church, that would not be a violation of civil rights, as it would be in a secular context.

Q: What has been the reaction to these changes as you visit Oregon congregations?

A: Some people want to talk about it. Some don't. It's not on everyone's agenda.

Q: What is?

A: The economy.

Q: When the conversation does turn to same-sex relationships, what do you advise?

A: I encourage pastors to be sensitive, to find out where people are and have conversations with them. We're engaged in a process that won't happen overnight. We need to take a deep breath and keep talking.

Q: Will some congregations leave the denomination?

A: There may be some. But I don't expect a lot of division. I am proud of my church for two reasons: for being willing to tackle these questions and the way we tackled them. We are called to bear one another's burden. That's the core of what the church is called to be.

Took the plunge . . . .

2009-09-10T00:02:00.000-07:00

Been struggling with my weight this year - down to 140 back up to 150 (PLUS) Dont ask dont tell I say . . . . lol

Anyway today after an encouraging chat with my hubby who loves me chubby but loves me BETTER when I am happy with myself . . . . I decided to order Nutrisystem online. Not sure if I will like it but I noticed my friend K has had very good success with Medifast (which is similar) - so I thought it was worth a try!!!

So today I actually ordered the food. Not sure yet WHEN to expect it - but I am anxious and motivated all at the same time!

I've made the decision - I've ordered the food. Now I wait. I've never been particularity good at waiting . . . lol!

In the meantime I am on the NS site setting up my page and trying to read as much as possible. I hope to get a workable grocery list and some much needed encouragement!

Here's to the beginning . . . . . :)

Back to school - back to crockpotting!

2009-09-08T00:04:00.001-07:00

Nothing says back to school in our house like a crockpot meal (or several) I love crockpot cooking! It is the fastest prep and easiest cooking method I know of - other than eating out!

Today was Labour Day - or is that Labor day in American?? And Eric and I have decided to get back on track with diet and exercise habits we have let slip over the summer. To commemorate I made Weight Watchers soup. If you have ever tried WW you probably know what this is - but to those of you who haven't it is basically WW's version of a cabbage soup. It's a tasty all veggie and basically calorie free soup that you can eat as much of as you want. Which actually ends up being a good thing because you get hungry again pretty quickly subsisting on cabbage tomato and zucchini (the main ingredients)! But I digress . . . .

We had this soup for supper and there were a ton of leftovers (it's a huge batch). I wasn't really looking forward to leftovers and so wondered what I could do to jazz it up. Inspiration hit me in the form of a frozen lb of Italian seasoned ground turkey I found in the freezer. So here is what is simmering in my crockpot overnight.

4-6 cups leftover cabbage soup (veggie broth, cabbage, zucchini, tomatoes & tomato paste, carrots, onion, green pepper, garlic, basil & oregano)
2 cups V-8 juice
1/2 onion diced
teas. minced garlic
1 ripe tomato chopped
3 med. potatoes scrubbed and diced
1lb Italian seasoned ground turkey (I browned this on the stove first but that was probably not necessary)
dash of cayenne pepper
ground black pepper
teas. Kosher salt
sprinkle of oregano

That's better - protein from the ground turkey and a bit of bulking up with the added potatoes and veggies. Looks and smells fantastic. This will be lunch and supper tomorrow!

Where have I been???

2009-09-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

yeah, yeah I know . . . .

I have been an absentee poster
a dysfunctional journal-er
a MIA writter

a BAD BLOGGER

I could give a bunch of reasons why I needed a break but I wont. I am back and determined to blog every now and then - if not every few days.

I miss reading these everyday and staying caught up with everyone. I promise to do better - really!

Finally!!

2009-07-31T15:58:00.000-07:00

after a nine year hiatus I finally have a wedding ring again! These are not great pics - snapped on my cell but soon I will take some good ones to post!

Just bring it to the northwest I say~!

2009-07-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Canadian-doughnut-chain-apf-3983613882.html?x=0&.v=5

malcontent

2009-07-23T16:19:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a spirit of malcontent in my house lately. The kids are bored and complaining. I suggest fun things for them to do but they don't feel like it. If I make them do chores I am a big meanie.

The hubby is tired, overworked and cranky. No time or energy for fun (much less romance). Keeping up with the kids, the yard and the chores leaves no time left for him to relax.

As for myself - I hate to be a downer but I seem to be on a streak of offending, irritating and annoying everyone around me.

It is possible to be lonely in a crowd. Bored when you are overworked. Frustrated when things are seemingly going your way. Why this malcontent in the middle of what should be a glorious summer break with the kids??

I think I need an intervention . . . or is that vacation?

Catching up!

2009-06-28T23:18:00.000-07:00

SO many things going on right now its hard to keep up with my blog!!

on the theater front:
WIT auditions July 19th & 20th. Roles for men and women - ALL ROLES are open!!

Wait Until Dark Auditions are August 10th. 1 woman, I girl, six men. All MALE roles are open!

Magenta Improv Theater - open classes Tuesdays at 7pm. Shows upcoming for those not brave enough to play!

on the home front:
Thaniel has begun his weekly Sensory Integration Dysfunction therapy, plus we have started his brushing therapy at home every two hours.

The kids are home from school and it has been a cool start to the summer but we did manage one day at the Klineline beach. Hope to get back there soon

Our new roomies are moving in this week - shared baths and kitchen. Extra people always makes a house busier, noisier, messier and definitely more fun!

And speaking of noisy and fun - July 4th party at our place is shaping up. So far 40+ people confirmed!! Including my Mum and Dad who are coming up for 10days or so. Can't wait to see them and catch up on everything that has gone on this past year!!

And FINALLY I have convinced Eric to get away with me for a night. So while grandma and grandpa are entertaining the kids - we are headed off to McMenamins Edgefield for some R&R!!

WHEW! :)

Girlfriends - the REAL solution to life's problems!!

2009-06-20T15:22:00.000-07:00

Hiking Trip on Green Mountain

2009-06-10T08:31:00.001-07:00

2009-06-08T09:22:00.001-07:00

Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.' (Matthew 25:34-40)

Welcome E and L into our home. We are blessed to have you!

pizza Canadian style!!

2009-06-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

One of our fave pizza places to go when Eric and I were dating was Boston Pizza. Don't be fooled by the name - it is a Canadian pizza chain. I couldn't mimic the crust - but I did have a craving for two of my faves on the BP menu - The Great White North and The Cheeseburger. These are far from authentic but they did satisfy the cravings and the family LOVED them.

Here are my versions:

Great White North:
pre-made pizza crust (I used Boboli)
alfredo sauce
parmesan cheese
skim mozzarella (shredded)
cheddar (shredded)
thin sliced deli ham

Layer the crust, sauce, three cheeses, ham, cheeses, ham, cheeses. Bake until bubbly. OMGosh yummy!

Cheeseburger:
pre-made pizza crust (I used Boboli)
pizza sauce
browned lean ground turkey
saluted onions and mushrooms
thin sliced tomatoes
thin sliced dill pickles (optional)
mozzarella (shredded)
cheddar cheese (sliced)

Layer, crust, sauce, turkey, onions & mushrooms, sliced tomatoes and pickles, mozzarella. Top with sliced cheddar and bake until bubbly. Hannah's FAVE!

special needs

2009-06-03T11:23:00.000-07:00

The latest in a string of diagnoses, Nathaniel is now in therapy for Sensory Integration Dysfunction Disorder. This diagnosis has been both easier (Aha! I knew there was always something there!) and harder (really? really Lord? One more thing??)

Here is a blurb from Wikipedia about SID:
Sensory Integration Dysfunction (SID, also called sensory processing disorder) is a neurological disorder causing difficulties with processing information from the five senses (vision, auditory, touch, olfaction, and taste), the sense of movement (vestibular system), and/or the positional sense (proprioception). For those with SID, sensory information is sensed, but perceived abnormally. Unlike blindness or deafness, sensory information is received by people with SID; the difference is that information is processed by the brain in an unusual way that may cause distress or confusion.

SID is its own diagnosis, but it can be linked to other neurological conditions, including autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder, dyslexia, Developmental Dyspraxia, Tourette syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and speech delays, among many others. The meaning of SID falls under the DSM-IV criteria for Asperger syndrome. [1]. There is no known cure; however, there are many treatments available.

Brings to mind that along with the SID, Nathaniel suffers from Dyslexia, PTSD, Anxiety Disorder (social and general) and childhood Depression. All this 'qualifies' him as a Special Needs child.

But here is the rub. Isn't Hannah, who is bright, articulate and gifted, also a special needs child? It makes me question normal. I mean doesn't every parent want their special needs child to be normal??

I cant really imagine my kids any differently at this point. And while I may not always be happy about the struggles that they go through I believe that they are both strong, independent, kind and loving kids. What more could a parent want??

Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

smarty pants!

2009-06-02T08:49:00.001-07:00

Hannah to Mom:

'mom, I think I need to write a debate about how princesses affect little girls. I mean, aren't we just having little girls growing up with an inflated sense of entitlement? And then they get into the real world and boom - you know?'

I love that kid!

Umm Ekkk? And ew.

2009-05-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

So the joy of cats. Every now and then Sparky loves to give us a 'present'. Yes you can see where this is going . . . a bird? a mouse?

no this morning I opened the door to find - a MOLE

blech.

More kitchen favorites

2009-05-26T09:49:00.000-07:00

In addition to the couscous - here are a few more faves from our kitchen. Sorry I dont have pics - trust me these are great!

Broiled Shrimp with Garlic, Tomatoes and Feta

1lb frozen whole med. shrimp
1 lemon
2-3 teas minced garlic
1 pkg. cherry tomatoes halfed
1 small container reduced fat feta
olive oil drizzle

Line a cookie sheet with foil. Spread shrimp, tomatoes and garlic over the foil. Drizzle with olive oil and the juice from 1 lemon. Top with feta and broil on med-high for 8-10mins or until shrimp is opaque and feta is slightly browned.

Bruschetta Stuffed Salmon

This works best with a whole salmon on the BBQ but could also be done in an oven.

Bruschetta:
3 large tomatoes, coarsely chopped
1/2 sweet onion, chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
fresh ground pepper and coarse salt

Purchase (or have your butcher do this for you) a whole de-headed salmon, split and cleaned. Stuff the cavity with the bruschetta. Wrap the fish loosely with foil and BBQ until fork tender. (about 20mins for a medium fish)

What do I eat? Couscous!!

2009-05-21T09:47:00.001-07:00

This is a question I am frequently asked: What do you eat??

I never seem to tire of this question because I too love to know what other people are making and eating in their own homes! I am not a vegetarian though I must admit I don't really like red meats and have stopped eating pork. It's not a political thing I don't really like the taste and texture of red meat and after reading the book 'Skinny Bitch', I can never, ever look at a pig the same way again!!

So here is something we do eat a lot of: Couscous. If you haven't tried it yet you are missing a delightful, yummy and amazingly versatile little grain! And did I mention FAST and EASY?? Here are three of my go-to ways to use couscous. These can be great side dishes to fish or chicken but also make a fantastic lunch all on their own! Have more than 2 people to feed - just double the recipe! ENJOY!

Couscous with Parmesan and Peas:
1 Cup water
1 cup couscous (I always use the trader joe's whole wheat kind)
1 Tablespoon Butter (the real thing is nicest but you could use olive oil)
1 cup frozen peas (you dont need to cook them they will be perfect after five minutes)
1/4 cup Parmesan
salt and pepper

Bring water to a boil. Turn off heat. Add couscous, butter and peas. Cover. Let sit for 5mins. Fluff with fork. Stir in Parmesan. Salt and pepper to taste.

Couscous with Caramelized Onions, Mushrooms and Feta:
1 Cup water
1 cup couscous (I always use the trader joe's whole wheat kind)
1 whole sweet onion sliced very thin
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup feta cheese
salt and pepper

Heat your oil in a non-stick pan (I use my wok) and cook onions over med. heat until they start to brown slightly. This takes 5-10 mins. Add mushrooms and cook 2-3 minutes longer or until the mushrooms begin to soften. Bring water to a boil. Turn off heat and add the couscous. Cover and let sit for 5mins. Fluff with a fork. Transfer couscous to pan and stir into mushroom and onion mixture. Stir in Feta. Salt and pepper to taste.

Dorinda's Couscous Tabbouleh:
1 Cup water
1 cup couscous (I always use the trader joe's whole wheat kind)
1 large bunch fresh parsley (about 1 cup finely chopped)
juice of two lemons (fresh is best but you could sub 1/4 cup lemon juice)
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1 can (drained) Garbanzo beans
2 Tablespoons olive oil (don't scrimp)
Salt and pepper

Bring water to a boil. Turn off heat and add the couscous. Cover and let sit for 5mins. Fluff with a fork. Transfer to refrigerator for a quick chill while you prep the rest of your ingredients. Chop parsley - finner is better. Chop tomatoes. Drain chickpeas. Remove couscous from fridge and add all three. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture. Stir gently to combine. Salt and pepper to taste.

thankful thursday

2009-05-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

It hass been forever since I last blogged!! So I am kicking it back off with a thankful thursday! I am thankful for so many things this sunny morning but here are a few at the top of my list:

Nine years ago:

2009-05-08T22:59:00.001-07:00

2009-05-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

Opening week!!!

2009-04-26T13:37:00.000-07:00

This is it!! Opening week is here! What a rare privilege it can be to work with women! That said - this is not just a chick show. Bring your husbands and dads to this heartwarming look at the lives, loves and losses of some southern women! You'll be glad you did!

Tickets available now on line! www.magentatheater.com

Productivity

2009-04-21T12:58:00.000-07:00

is such a funny thing! Somedays I get next to nothing done (despite my good intentions)! And then there are days like today were things just seem to click. I have already started on the (mounds and mounds) of laundry, vacuumed the front room and stairs. Assembled and baked a lasagna, baked cookies, unloaded and reloaded the dishwasher, swiffered the kitchen, entry and downstairs bath and scrubbed the kitchen sink.

Oh yes! And now I can add blogged to my list of accomplishments!!!

Monday memories

2009-04-20T23:28:00.000-07:00

Getting this in JUST under the wire!
This is a summer trip to Grandma and Grandpa's in Saskatchewan, Canada - 2003. Simpler times and fun with the family!!

what to make when you have not bought groceries in over a week??

2009-04-13T12:38:00.000-07:00

So its Monday again and that means being creative in the kitchen with what is left from the week. Here's what is in my crock-pot today:

Chicken with Spinach, Green olives and Tomato:
12 chicken breast tenders (frozen)
1 pkg, chopped spinach (frozen)
1 tsp pre-minced garlic (refrigerator)
2 tbps green olive tapenade leftover from a party (refrigerator)
6 garlic stuffed Sicilian green olives sliced (refrigerator)
1 can low sodium diced tomatoes (cupboard)
cracked black pepper to taste

I will make some rice to serve with this. WINCO tomorrow!

Monday Memories

2009-04-13T12:36:00.000-07:00

getting my 'tat'!

Good Friday

2009-04-10T11:43:00.000-07:00

So this is the first year in a long time we as a family have decided to observe Good Friday. The last few years the kids have gone to school, I have had rehearsals. It has become a bit lost. We care . . . but not enough to make a POINT of anything.

Anyway, this year we kept the kiddos home from school. Eric will be attempting to make hot cross buns with them. I am making a Good Friday stew. I was going to just do potato soup but I got inspired by the lenten recipes online and came up with a Salmon & Shrimp Chowder instead. We are fasting until supper so it is smelling SO good right now!!

One last word on the meaning of Good Friday before I post my recipe - take time to read through the book of John today. It is short but covers the life of Christ and his sacrifice, his death and resurrection so beautifully.

Dorinda's Impromptu Good Friday Chowder:
1 teas olive oil
1/2 tablespoon butter (yep the real thing!)
1/2 Large sweet onion chopped
2 Large Celery ribs chopped
1 cup baby carrots coined
1 tablespoon pre-minced garlic
4 large baking potatoes peeled and chopped
4 cups veggie broth
1 large (14oz) can Wild Pink Salmon drained and fork broken
2 small cans tiny shrimp undrained
3 cups skim milk
1 cup fat free half and half
1 teas dill weed
1 teas Kosher salt
a couple dashes green tobasco
1 cup frozen green peas
fresh ground black pepper to taste

Use a large pot or dutch oven. Soften veggies in oil and butter. Add broth add bring to a boil. Turn heat down to med-low and add salmon, shrimp, milk and cream. Stir in spices. Simmer on low all day or until potatoes are very soft.

Happy Easter!

Directing should not be this much fun!

2009-04-07T08:46:00.000-07:00

But with this cast it is! Amazing, heartfelt and earnest, this is one of the most rewarding shows I have ever directed.

Don't wait! Go online and get your tickets now!

Easter makes me think of 'Breakfast Casserole??'

2009-04-06T22:23:00.000-07:00

So my friend Karin ask me if I have a Breakfast Casserole recipe that was tried and true. I love breakfast Casseroles! Here is what I sent her:

Don't have a recipe per-say but I love to make breakfast casserole! This is what I usually do:

Spray a 9x 13 pan with non-stick spray. Beat together in a bowl 8 (or more depending on your tastes) eggs and
1 cup milk.

Line pan with stale bread (I just toast mine - usually whole wheat but use what your family likes)

Then layer the following:
(I use any one of these they are all good)
browned spicy turkey breakfast sausage
lean deli ham or
cooked turkey bacon

Then:
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded (you will use 1 cup total - more if you want a really cheesy top)

Then pour half of egg, milk mixture

Another layer of bread, meat, cheese and egg mixture. Now for the finishing touch (this sounds gross but it isn't!) One can cream of mushroom soup, I use healthy request, broken up over the top as 'sauce'. Bake at 350 until set. Cool before cutting.

One day I may have to find a crockpot recipe for this . . . .

what to make when you have not bought groceries in over a week??

2009-04-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

Tuesday is my shopping day. So on Mondays I sometimes have to get creative with supper. This past week has been extra busy so other than picking up a few things here and there (bread, milk, fruit) there are hardly any groceries in the house.

I am basically a cook from fresh kind of girl (lotsa chopping!) but today this was entirely chop-free.

Crockpot Pantry Chili

2 cans dark red kidney beans drained
1 can garbanzo beans drained
1 can black beans drained
1 can diced tomatoes
1 large container (16oz? - I am not sure, but the big one) refrigerated salsa
1 cup frozen corn

2 tbsp chili powder
2 teas cumin

If I had some frozen chicken breast tenders I may have added those and shredded them at the end - I think that would have been very good. As it is it seems a bit bare . . . so I think I will make some brown rice to serve it on!

Monday Memories

2009-04-06T00:02:00.000-07:00

Well it is after midnight so I will start tomorrow tonight . . . . lol!

This picture was taken May 9th, 2000. Hannah is 2yrs old and Nathaniel is 1 day old. She didn't get to visit him in the hospital because she was getting over a bad cold - so this is it: Meeting baby brother!

Thankful Thursday

2009-04-02T14:37:00.000-07:00

Wow I have made it to two now! Let's see how long I can keep this up!

Today I am thankful for:
1) Nathaniel's amazing progress this year
2) Good friends
3) My fancy schmancy new cell phone (and texting plan!)
4) Full cupboards and freezer
5) Commitments

Hummus

2009-04-01T19:04:00.000-07:00

Okay here it is! This recipe has been extensively played with and I am now happy with it! (I have adapted this from Diana Dyer's Cancer website. A three time cancer surviver Diana is a registered dietitian who focuses on healthy, natural recipes that taste amazing and have anti-cancer properties.)

Note: Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It has a strong flavor. I use tahini sauce as it is already premixed with lemon juice and olive oil for a slightly milder flavor. You can always start with one teas and increase to taste. Do not skip it completely though - you will have a spread that tastes like chickpea goo without it!

Dorinda's Hummus

2 cans garbanzo beans (chick-peas) thoroughly drained
2 teas. tahini sauce (or paste) I buy mine in the refrigerator section at Trader Joes
1 generous teas. sea salt
2 heaping teas. pre-minced garlic (opt. but very tasty and good anti-cancer properties in garlic)
1/3 cup lemon juice
1/3 cup olive oil

Combine all but oil in a food processor. Blend (mixture may be thick at first) Slowly blend in Olive oil and continue to process until very smooth. Use as a dip for tortilla chips, a spread for crackers or bread, as a dip for raw veggies, instead of mayo on your sandwich or with tuna. Keeps in the refrigerator for up to two weeks though ours never last longer than a few days!

Monday memories

2009-03-30T12:03:00.001-07:00

So I am stealing this from my very, very lovely friend Annaliese. A Monday memory - I can do that!

Just a super fun day at the park with my kids, my friend Terri and her sweet little girls. So glad we had the camera to capture these memories!

Its funny - Hannah dosent even have glasses yet!

Thankful Thursdays

2009-03-26T09:21:00.000-07:00

I am stealing this from the lovely Karin. I have been neglecting my blog lately so here goes. I am thankful for:

- the buds on the trees. Spring makes me feel so hopeful.
- my gym partner who motivates and inspires me!
- my children
- my house even (though it is a complete disaster lately - yes S, I am one of you!)
- high heels. Yes, really!
- the theater and all that comes with it - even the hard stuff

So that is my first instalment of thankful Thursday! More next week~!

The home town crowd

2009-03-18T12:47:00.001-07:00

So for a few brief years I really considered myself a musician. All during high school I competed in vocal competitions, played various instruments and dreamt of singing for big venues. In many ways that dream came true early.

At 18 I was the choral director for a major government funded Community Play project and got to be on the Cast recording. Also at 18 I learnt that I had made it into New Creations Ministries touring group 'Morning Star' this meant a two album contract and 10mth cross country tour. So exciting! Over the years that followed Eric and I hardly had a week without a gig of some-kind. Playing for weddings, coffee houses, touring with a Face in the Crowd and Crew Ministries, playing Glimpse in Edmonton and being hired out to work with church music teams. I also had the amazing opportunity to sing in the Alberta Lyric Choir and the Concordia Concert Choir. I gained so much knowledge from those choral experiences! Being on the Concordia Concert Choir Album was a big thrill! All in all it was a busy, fun and fulfilling time!

After a while though everyone has to grow up a bit. We had kids, went to school, got jobs (yes in that order - no wonder we were so poor!) and had to face reality! For me I was fortunate enough to be able to stay in the arts and focus on my truest passion - the theater.

Which brings me to the whole point of this blog (finally I know! If you are bored stop reading - I wont be offended!!) Eric and I are returning to our musical roots this week and playing a coffeehouse style gig at the Magenta Theater (606 Main St).

The reactions to this have been varied and also quite funny. You see, despite the fact that both Eric and I are Canadian Recoding Artists, both individually and together, most of that life happened before we ever lived here and before we made the friends we have now. Some of the people I know now have asked if the 'Canadian Recording Artist thing' was a ploy to make it (the event) sound good? Someone else asked why they should have to pay a $5 cover to hear me sing Karaoke? Quite a few others have remarked 'you are a musician? I never knew that! What do you play? Can you sing?'

It is funny. But it also makes me feel very nervous! Playing (singing) in front of strangers is easy. Playing for the hometown is a whole different ballgame. They know you - or at least part of you - so there are pre-conceived notions of who you are. Also I find those who know you the best can sometimes be the most critical! Don't believe me - go ask your mother!! So while I am hoping that this Sunday will be well attended there is this small part of me that wishes I had never volunteered for this gig!

Alright . . . off to practise!

I swear this is not a food blog . . .

2009-03-13T12:15:00.000-07:00

however I had the best food last night! Eric and I went to McGraths Fishhouse for his birthday and it was so, so good! We had clams to start and the broth was this really rich and yummy wine, garlic and butter mixture . . . I remarked to Eric that my friend J would probably be eating the broth with a spoon as she is known to sometimes do - lol!

Anyway it inspired me to try something similar in my crockpot today. This is not really diet friendly but I think it will be so, so good!

Crockpot Salmon (with wine, butter and garlic)
4 (4-6oz) portions salmon fillet
1/3 cup butter
1/2 cup white wine
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/4 cup lemon juice
2-3 tablespoons minced garlic
1 can partially drained diced tomatoes
1 scant teas dried italian seasoning

cook on low for 4-6 hrs or until Salmon is done to your likeness. I am serving this with whole wheat couscous with peas & parmesan.

Baking cakes

2009-03-12T13:14:00.000-07:00

I love making birthday cakes. Well any cake really. I love fiddling with the recipes. I love whipping up the icing. I love decorating. I love eating them! (too bad they love my tummy, hips and thighs just as much!)

Today I am baking a pecan coconut cream cake with cream cheese frosting for my beloved. I will decorate the top with pecan halves and shredded coconut. I know it will taste amazing!

You may have seen some of these before but here are some pics of some of the cakes I have made over the years.

11 years already!!

2009-03-05T11:23:00.000-08:00

Man - that just does not seem possible. Until she back-talks and then all 11 years come rushing back . . . LOL! Much love to our lovely, lovely girl!

Old fashioned doughnuts!

2009-03-01T09:53:00.000-08:00

This is a very old recipe that I got from my mom. I dont know where it originates but she was making these for us kids at least 35 yrs ago. I have made these with my kids are they are super easy and fun. Make sure a parent does the frying and have plenty of paper towels on hand for draining. Sorry I dont have a picture to go with these - they look more like dumplings than doughnuts.

Easy-Do Doughnuts
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
2 Tbsp oil
1 1/2 cups flour (I use 1 cup white, half a cup whole wheat)
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 teas salt
pinch nutmeg if desired

Blend sugar, egg, milk and oil. Add dry ingredients. Drop into hot oil (on stovetop vegetable or Canola is best) by rounded teaspoons. Turn partway through. Drain, cool slightly and roll in cinnamon sugar. Or cool slightly further and roll in powdered sugar.

SUPER good and easy. Enjoy!

The nicest Friends!!

2009-02-25T18:52:00.000-08:00

I am so blessed to have such wonderfully caring loving friends! This year I had such a great birthday I think it may go down as the best ever!

Thank you to each of my wonderful friends for coming to my Karaoke bash and to my close girlfriends for the great time having drinks and the naughty knickers shopping spree!!! So much fun - so many laughs!

Oh and thank you once more for the gift of the crockpot! That was the best gift ever and I inaugurated it today with a recipe inspired by the Obama family's chili recipe.

This made me so happy! World's Friendliest Country?? CANADA!

2009-02-22T11:59:00.001-08:00

http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-25363634

The country that once welcomed the tired, poor, huddled masses is now asking for a little reciprocation. And Canada, Germany and Australia are heeding the call.

They top a list of the countries most welcoming to expats. There, relocators have a relatively easy time befriending locals, joining a local community group and learning the local language.

In Depth: World's Friendliest Countries

Behind The Numbers

The study surveyed 2,155 expats in 48 countries, spanning four continents, between February and April 2008. Respondents rated their country in four categories: ability to befriend locals, number that joined a community group, number that learned the language and percentage that bought property.

"We conducted this survey to better understand expatriate needs and get insight into the emotions of expats. The banking business is all about trust, especially with the recent credit crisis," says Martin Spurling, CEO of HSBC Bank International and Head of HSBC Global Offshore. "We want them to build a relationship with their wealth manager regardless of where they travel."

For Americans, traveling abroad to start over is becoming increasingly common. America used to have it all: good jobs, booming economy, skyrocketing stock market and plentiful housing. What a difference a year can make. The boom has gone bust and people are now heading for the exits en masse — with an eye abroad.

It's no wonder they likely find Canada so welcoming. It has an accessible language, diverse culture and low levels of government corruption, says Patricia Linderman, editor of Tales from a Small Planet, an online newsletter for expats.

It also has other expats. This is important, Linderman says, since even the most gracious locals already have busy, established lives and can be unwilling to put in the effort to befriend someone they know could leave within several years.

"I'm not suggesting that it's good to live in an 'expat ghetto'. It's immensely rewarding to live among local people and make friends with them," she says.

Linderman says other expats are important because they share similar needs like making friends and adjusting to life in a new country. They also understand the frustrations daily life brings.

Canada is the most welcoming; almost 95 percent of respondents to HSBC Bank International's Expat Exploreer Survey, released today, said they have made friends with locals. In Germany, 92 percent were so lucky and in Australia 91 percent befriended those living there. The United Arab Emirates was found to be the most difficult for expats; only 54 percent of those surveyed said they'd made friends with locals. The U.S. ranks sixth among the 14 nations surveyed.

"A significant expat community," she says, "also means that there will be at least one truly international school, expat support groups and amenities like English-language bookstores."

Team Work

Joining a recreational sports team or community group can help speed integration. Almost half of respondents reported taking this action, with Germany leading the pack at 65 percent. Churches, organizations and schools provide good places to forge friendships with people who possess common interests and beliefs.

"When I was an expat in Hong Kong, I became a member of the local football club and found it was a fantastic way of meeting like-minded people," says Paul Fay, head of marketing and communication at HSBC Bank International, of his expat experience in Hong Kong. "Particularly in Asia joining these clubs works to your advantage."

Australia scored high in friendliness but ranked last when it came to joining a group. That's because expats in Australia tend to be younger, with 51 percent in the 18-34 age group, and may not need organized groups to facilitate meeting new people.

Groupthink is less of an issue in Germany, since meeting people there is relatively easy.

"I'm not surprised that Germany is a popular choice whether you are going for a short-term cultural experience or a long-term job assignment," says Robin Pascoe of expatexpert.com, a Web site for families living and working abroad. "Germany has fantastic international schools for the kids of expats."

Germany is also considered middle-of-the-road culturally, according to Neil Payne, who works for Kwintessential, a translation services company in the U.K. Anyone you stop on the street can talk to you in English, he says. What's more, "working conditions are also very well respected and there is a nice delineation for work life and social life, which we don't have in England."

China, India and United Arab Emirates scored low overall because cultural differences from the West made integration difficult.

This doesn't surprise Payne.

"Our experience is that people do struggle and find it hard to adapt," he says. "It's the psychological difference: so far removed from what Western expats are used to."

Still, says Fay, don't eliminate a country simply because of a language barrier.

"Cantonese and Mandarin can be very challenging for Western expatriates," he says, "though for those who are resilient and do invest, it can be an incredible experience."

A Party in Pictures!

2009-02-21T08:12:00.001-08:00

Taggged!

2009-02-14T07:56:00.000-08:00

Thanks for tagging me Annaleise - I have had nothing to blog about since Seattle!

this photo was taken of a Christmas Pageant I wrote and directed. Not very exciting but there it is!

Now my turn to tag:I now tag:
1. Merilee
2. Jaynie
3. Annaliese
4. Heidi
5. Pam
6. Angela

Okay, so here's what comes next...
Go to your Picture Folder on your computer or wherever you store your pictures.
1. Pick the 6th Folder, then select the the 6th picture in that folder.
2. Post that picture on your blog and the story that goes along with the picture.
3. Tag 6 other people that you know or don’t know to do the same thing and leave a comment on their blog or an e-mail letting them know you chose them.

Sometimes you just have to get the heck out of town!

2009-02-03T12:21:00.000-08:00

What a fantastic weekend I had in Seattle!

We ate, drank, shopped, walked, laughed (and laughed) and best of all saw an AMAZING version of Marat Sade. Find out more about this show here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marat/Sade
Fantastic local theater at its best.

Can't wait for next year's trip!!

I've been wanting one of these!

2009-01-29T13:58:00.001-08:00

for real!

http://www.usatoday.com/life/lifestyle/2009-01-27-snuggie_N.htm?se=yahoorefer

another snowy day!

2009-01-27T11:31:00.000-08:00

I am seriously getting tired of this!

I really miss sunshine. and planting flowers. and sitting out by the fire. and having bbqs.

SUMMER - come soon!

valentine's day poem

2009-01-23T08:30:00.000-08:00

Nathaniel wanted to write a poem for his 'girlfriend' for Valentines day. So he did what any smart eight year old would do: asked his big sister to help him!

Here is what they came up with:

The time of love has come back this year
The time of flowers, kisses and ribbon
Hang a pearl in every cow slips ear
and let your love know you care.
Let the light pour in,
From the smiling faces,
All I ask is one simple question:

Will you be my Valentine?

Nathaniel(8)
(with some help from Hannah (10))

I tried to scan this so you could see the swans he drew but couldn't get it to work !(