For the last few weeks, Joel has sung this song continuously. He told me it's his most favourite song in the world and was thrilled that I wanted to video tape him today. He learned the song for his Christmas program at church and learned it in 4 languages, but Joel particularly likes to sing only the Khmu and Spanish verses. It's great to hear him belt out, "Sing Alleluia to the Lord".
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
The end of the Holiday
The last few days with Byron and Kristal and the boys were pretty special. I enjoyed a shopping afternoon with Kristal on Boxing Day and an evening of card making. Kristal was so thrilled with the Cricut that she left part of her finger on the blade. The cards we made were really nice; even the blood splotched one (okay, the cut wasn't that bad!) . Joel and Kezia and Sam enjoyed playing together and reconnecting and it put a smile on everyone's face to see Jack and Asha cooing and grabbing at each other. On the 27th in the evening, we took Byron and Kristal to Ray and Kelly's place to play Settlers. We had a great time playing and I was one hand away from winning. Next time Ray, next time...
On the 28th, we packed up and headed to Monterey. Though we had driven down the coast on the way back from San Fransisco, we wanted to spend time at the beach before Byron and Kristal went home. We spent the morning at the beach and the kids were pretty intrigued with the seaweed and kelp. Kezia enjoyed herself until she fell into the water. All the kids had a fun time climbing in the rocks and watching the hermit crabs in the tide pools. We drove around Monterey a bit and then drove the 17 Mile Drive down Pebble Beach. The view was beautiful, the Cypress Trees were amazing, and the 31 million dollar houses were overwhelming.
After supper, we headed to Santa Cruz to stay in a hotel. Joel and Kezia and Sam ran around, screamed, tackled each other, and laughed uncontrollably. It was bittersweet (and very loud!) to see the kids having such a good time together, knowing that in 24 hours, they'd be apart for another 6 months.
And then for the icing on the cake, as we were leaving the airport, I saw that there was a TGI Friday's in the terminal...oh brother.
On the 28th, we packed up and headed to Monterey. Though we had driven down the coast on the way back from San Fransisco, we wanted to spend time at the beach before Byron and Kristal went home. We spent the morning at the beach and the kids were pretty intrigued with the seaweed and kelp. Kezia enjoyed herself until she fell into the water. All the kids had a fun time climbing in the rocks and watching the hermit crabs in the tide pools. We drove around Monterey a bit and then drove the 17 Mile Drive down Pebble Beach. The view was beautiful, the Cypress Trees were amazing, and the 31 million dollar houses were overwhelming.
After supper, we headed to Santa Cruz to stay in a hotel. Joel and Kezia and Sam ran around, screamed, tackled each other, and laughed uncontrollably. It was bittersweet (and very loud!) to see the kids having such a good time together, knowing that in 24 hours, they'd be apart for another 6 months.
The next morning, we drove to San Fransisco and had lunch before heading off to the airport. Kristal and I whimpered in the back as we passed Ikea and were hoping we could console ourselves at a TGI Friday's...but there was no TGI Friday's that we could find. We spent some time at the airport with them before they had to head to security. I got a nice hug and kiss from Sam, rubbed Jack's head, and tried not to cry when we hugged Byron and Kristal. It had been such a great visit with them. I was touched that they decided to come and spend Christmas with us. We did lots of great things and made many memories. We're going to miss them.
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And then for the icing on the cake, as we were leaving the airport, I saw that there was a TGI Friday's in the terminal...oh brother.
Asha is 5 Months
Asha was 5 months on the 27th and so it was photo shoot time again...didn't we just have a few days of photo shoots? Thank goodness for digital cameras! And this month was pretty special because she could have a photo shoot with her cousin Jack in matching outfits Kristal and I got (on sale of course!).
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This month Asha had her first plane ride back to Winnipeg
Asha can sit up now
She weighs 15 pounds and is 26 in. long
This month she babbles a lot and says, Dada and Yaya
Asha can now put her soother back into her mouth
She can roll around on the floor, from tummy to back and then tummy again
Asha can skooch backwards on her tummy like a fish
Just last week she learned how to get on her hands and knees and rocks back and forth
Her favourite laugh is the nose-scrunched-snorting one
She discovered her amazing feet
Asha loves to lie on her tummy and play with toys
She's finally growing some of her hair back!
It's amazing to see Asha developing so quickly. I guess it's true what they say, Time flies when you're having fun. What a lil' girl!
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Christmas
After our activity filled trip to San Fransisco, all of us Heppner's were ready for a few days of lounging at home. Sunday we went to church and had a quiet afternoon, but on Monday, we headed up to Sequoia National Park with Byron and Kristal. On the way there we had a picnic lunch on the side of the road. There was snow at 6000 ft (but not at 5000 ft, weird....), so we needed to put snow chains on the van. The weather was mild and Joel and Kezia were thrilled to be reunited with snow; that was until they slipped and fell and got their bums wet. We went to see General Sherman (the largest tree in the world), took lots of pictures, hunted for Jack's soother (and found it!!) and headed back home.
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On Christmas Day the kids didn't get up as early as we expected. Carl read a Christmas story to all the kids, we sang a few songs and then opened the presents. It was quite the show and everyone was happy with the gifts they got. Some highlights were Joel and Kezia's Christmas socks, Sam's motorcycle, Asha's baby toys, the tissue paper for Jack, the hot wheels track for Joel and Kezia's new dress up dress and matching shoes. We had a nice brunch of french toast, bacon and fresh oranges that we picked that morning. By the time we finished eating, it was time to rest. Whew!
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For supper we decided to have Tostados. It's kind of fun to have the freedom of choosing the meal and the activities of Christmas Day. In past years at this time of year, we are all running from one family gathering to another. We feasted on our Mexican meal and then after supper we went for a walk along Huntington Ave. to see all the Christmas lights.
The next day, we did a little photoshoot of all the kids for Christmas. It was quite the challenge trying to get 5 pairs of eyes to look at you and look at least slightly amused. It was somewhat of a novelty for us Canadians to capture Jack's and Asha's first Christmas on the lawn in California, with the backdrop of palm trees. I think we got many great pictures and made some special memories.
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On Christmas Day the kids didn't get up as early as we expected. Carl read a Christmas story to all the kids, we sang a few songs and then opened the presents. It was quite the show and everyone was happy with the gifts they got. Some highlights were Joel and Kezia's Christmas socks, Sam's motorcycle, Asha's baby toys, the tissue paper for Jack, the hot wheels track for Joel and Kezia's new dress up dress and matching shoes. We had a nice brunch of french toast, bacon and fresh oranges that we picked that morning. By the time we finished eating, it was time to rest. Whew!
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For supper we decided to have Tostados. It's kind of fun to have the freedom of choosing the meal and the activities of Christmas Day. In past years at this time of year, we are all running from one family gathering to another. We feasted on our Mexican meal and then after supper we went for a walk along Huntington Ave. to see all the Christmas lights.
The next day, we did a little photoshoot of all the kids for Christmas. It was quite the challenge trying to get 5 pairs of eyes to look at you and look at least slightly amused. It was somewhat of a novelty for us Canadians to capture Jack's and Asha's first Christmas on the lawn in California, with the backdrop of palm trees. I think we got many great pictures and made some special memories.
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San Fransisco - Heppner Style
On the 20th, Carl and I and the kids headed to San Fransisco to pick up Byron, Kristal, Sam, and Jack at the airport. We were excited about them coming for Christmas. Unfortunately, we were late (because the journey took longer than we anticipated) and I didn't get to stand at the bottom of the arrivals to see them come off the plane; for me that's the best part of welcoming someone. Anyways, we found them at the luggage carousel and gave them lots of hugs. Asha and I had seen them the week before, but Joel and Kezia were on cloud nine to see their auntie and uncle and cousins. We headed from the airport to the hotel to unload all of our stuff and then went see the Golden Gate Bridge before the sun set. It was quite the sight! We had to head back towards the hotel because the kids were getting hungry and Kristal was getting car sick :(. But once we got back, some food and rest made everyone well.
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The next day we headed to Pier 39. It was really interesting to see all the cool shops and the Bay. We even got a good view of some sea lions that were basking in the sun. We stopped for lunch (fish and chips of course) before the guys headed to Alcatraz and we girls and the kids hung out a the Pier for a bit before we headed back to the hotel. Our drive back to the hotel was quite long because of the traffic. Once we got back, I spent 15 minutes feeding Asha before hopping back in the van to pick up the guys. Auntie Kristal watched the other four kids at the hotel. I made it back to Pier 33 without any problems and I was quite proud of myself that I could drive the van in San Fransisco rush hour! When I picked up the guys, I listened to their stories about the famous Alcatraz.
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That night we went to the most amazing Chinese Buffet. They had all kinds of fish, Chinese food, Suishi, American food, desserts, salads and fruit....it was almost overwhelming! We all ate well and then headed back for our hotel rooms. We were all pooped after a long day of sightseeing.
On Saturday, we packed up and drove up to Telegraph Hill to see the view of the city. The gallery was quite interesting and we found some cool little paths off the hill down to a residential area. I couldn't imagine carrying groceries down all those the flights of stairs to your home. Well, I guess that's life in San Fransisco. Then we went back to the Pier to go to the Aquarium of the Bay. There were glass tunnels you could walk through that had fish swimming all around you. It was pretty cool. The kids thought it was so neat that you could almost touch a fish that was swimming above your head! We had lunch along Fisherman's warf (clam chowder of course) before getting back into the van.
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On our way out, we drove by the Painted Ladies and took more pictures. The trip home was pretty good but by nightfall we were all anxious to be back in Fresno. Once we arrived, Byron and Kristal settled in across the courtyard at Nate and Maddy's and we all fell into our beds at home. Boy, your own bed feels so good when you've been away for a few days.
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The next day we headed to Pier 39. It was really interesting to see all the cool shops and the Bay. We even got a good view of some sea lions that were basking in the sun. We stopped for lunch (fish and chips of course) before the guys headed to Alcatraz and we girls and the kids hung out a the Pier for a bit before we headed back to the hotel. Our drive back to the hotel was quite long because of the traffic. Once we got back, I spent 15 minutes feeding Asha before hopping back in the van to pick up the guys. Auntie Kristal watched the other four kids at the hotel. I made it back to Pier 33 without any problems and I was quite proud of myself that I could drive the van in San Fransisco rush hour! When I picked up the guys, I listened to their stories about the famous Alcatraz.
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That night we went to the most amazing Chinese Buffet. They had all kinds of fish, Chinese food, Suishi, American food, desserts, salads and fruit....it was almost overwhelming! We all ate well and then headed back for our hotel rooms. We were all pooped after a long day of sightseeing.
On Saturday, we packed up and drove up to Telegraph Hill to see the view of the city. The gallery was quite interesting and we found some cool little paths off the hill down to a residential area. I couldn't imagine carrying groceries down all those the flights of stairs to your home. Well, I guess that's life in San Fransisco. Then we went back to the Pier to go to the Aquarium of the Bay. There were glass tunnels you could walk through that had fish swimming all around you. It was pretty cool. The kids thought it was so neat that you could almost touch a fish that was swimming above your head! We had lunch along Fisherman's warf (clam chowder of course) before getting back into the van.
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On our way out, we drove by the Painted Ladies and took more pictures. The trip home was pretty good but by nightfall we were all anxious to be back in Fresno. Once we arrived, Byron and Kristal settled in across the courtyard at Nate and Maddy's and we all fell into our beds at home. Boy, your own bed feels so good when you've been away for a few days.
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Sunday, December 23, 2007
Christmas Programs Galore
It's been a few days since I did my last post....but you'll have to wait until I catch up to know the exciting things we've been up to!
Last weekend, while I was in Winnipeg, Carl shuttled Joel and Kezia to their Preschool and Church Christmas Programs. Small World had theirs on Friday and Sunday evening was Butler's turn. The kids and their dad had lots to keep them busy while I was gone.
On Friday the Small World program was cute and chaotic, like it was the last time at Thanksgiving. Carl got the kids dressed in very nice outfits (I hinted to him before I left what they could wear) and he did a great job with Kezia's hair. Joel sang his heart out (especially for Feliz Navidad), and Kezia stood their and smiled.
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For Sunday's program, Joel and Kezia were among a number of kids that were the sheep for the nativity scene. It was so cute, and quite amusing to see the program on the video. While the other children were sitting nicely on the stage, Joel was on all fours acting like a sheep. And to make things even more hilarious, the sheep all started picking apart their headpieces. There was cotton ball fuzz tossed over the stage, fooling around etc., all while the wisemen were worshiping Jesus. How precious. I was a bit sad to have missed it, but Carl did a great job capturing the highlights on the cameras.
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Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Cold Nose, Warm Heart
Asha and I returned safely from our whirlwind trip to Winnipeg. A lot happened in our 66 hour holiday.
On Thursday night, Rhonda dropped me off at the airport. I flew out of Fresno at 8:30 in the evening to fly through the night. My luck, I got to sit next to a drunk Shriner on the first segment of my flight. Thankfully, he was a very happy and pleasant drunk. Asha slept for the entire time on the plane. And when I was on lay overs, she was happy and was quite entertaining for me. On Friday I arrived, though my plane was delayed, and Carl's parents met me and Asha at 1 o'clock. We stopped to see my chiropractor before we headed to Steinbach. The weather wasn't as bitterly cold as it had been the day before, though it was still -25. Praise God for that! Before we went to their place, I picked up a few essentials, like creamed Manitoba honey for Carl and the kids. We got to their place, I hopped in the shower and Asha spent some time with her grandparents. Asha bonded with Grandma and Grandpa as if she had just seen them yesterday. My friend Jenny popped by for an hour visit. It was really nice to see her.
At 6:00 I headed out with Asha to my aunt and uncle's place. We were having a Plett birthday party. Macy was turning 5 and her brother Braden turned 9. Asha had a great time bonding with my aunts and uncles and grandparents. I was pretty tired since I hadn't really slept a lot the night before on the plane. But I decided to stay and play a round of Guillotine. I was glad I did because I have missed playing games with my family.
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Asha and I headed home at 10 o'clock and we headed to bed shortly after that. I was concerned that Asha wouldn't be interesting in sleeping, and that once she got to sleep would have trouble since she still had a stuffy nose. But she slept pretty well and soon it was 8:30 and time to get up. My friend Andrea came to pick me up for breakfast at 8:50. Asha was still sleeping and I decided it would be nice for her to stay with Grandma and Grandpa. I had such a good time with Roxie, Matilda, and Andrea. It was like old times, we just chatted as if there hadn't been 4 months and 2000 miles between us. The girls came by to see Asha and then it was time to pack up and head to Winnipeg.
At 1:00 I drove Mom and Dad Heppner's van to Winnipeg. They let me borrow it for the weekend, which was great. I was glad that I didn't have to rely in people to give me rides (though I knew people wouldn't have minded). Asha and I arrived at Judy's around 2:00 and she was so happy to see us. Asha was thrilled with the dogs, even though she hasn't had any exposure to any puppies. It was great to see her connect with Judy.
I stopped by church to drop off Christmas cards and I had a nice visit with Frieda and Annabelle. But then I had to quickly zip back to Judy's to get ready for the wedding. Once I got back, I realized I was cutting it pretty close, and so Judy helped get Asha ready while I tried to find my earrings! I was a bit frustrated with myself; here I was coming all this way for Sandi's wedding and I end up being late and missing half of it! But I made it there just in time (because the wedding was a bit late starting, Thanks San). The wedding was beautiful and I think I did a pretty decent job with my speech.
I was pretty pooped by Sat. evening and got home close to midnight since the roads were a bit slippery. I decided to take Portage Ave. instead of the perimeter. I miss seeing all the lights on Portage and Main. It was very beautiful. And I even drove by our old house and dropped a few Christmas cards in the mail to the neighbours. But I couldn't drop off a card at 106; it was weird dropping off a Christmas card at your own place....and Mike and Rebecca were setting up their Christmas tree and would have totally seen me. I sat in the car and watched them for a few minutes, and I didn't get teary eyed. It was special to see that someone was having their first Christmas, making their special memories in a place that held so many for me.
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It was getting close to midnight and I headed back to Judy's for the night. The next morning, Asha and I headed off to church. I walked in and was greeted with hugs and there were a few tears shed. I hadn't realized until then how much I missed that place and all the people that are so dear to me. Our Mom's Sunday School class was so wonderful. It was great to share with each other and pray for one another. After the service there were more warm embraces and then we girls headed for lunch to Boston Pizza. Asha slept the entire time and it was only after Danae and Corrina were bringing me back to the van at church did I realize that I didn't take a picture of all of us girls at the restaurant. So we three posed in the freezing cold in the parking lot; I think the picture turned out great and captured a special moment. I kept looking at the camera screen on my way to Steinbach, seeing the picture filled my eyes with tears....
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Sunday afternoon was Heppner Christmas. Once I arrived in Steinbach, Asha was smothered in kisses and we headed out to Dad Heppner's cabin. I didn't have proper boots, but it was fantastic to see all the things that he's done on his land. It's going to be a great family place. After we headed back home and and had supper. The meal was awesome and I had extra helpings of Mom's stuffing...I may as well eat Carl, Joel and Kezia's portions too! Once the dishes were done, we sat down and each shared about our year. That's been a tradition for a number of Christmas's. Dad prayed for us and then we headed for the presents. Asha watched her cousin Sam rip into the paper, and then tried herself. It was special to watch her participate in her first Christmas. The evening was spent visiting, but soon it was time to say goodbye. Even though I knew we'd see Byron and Kristal later that week in CA, and Mom and Dad at the end of February, it was still hard. It was hard because for a small snipit of time I could launch back into our life in Winnipeg, but then get snapped back to Fresno. I knew that I was okay with it all, despite the tears, because I told them I was looking forward to going home and seeing Carl and the kids. I was going home.
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On our way back, I stopped at Wendell and Shana's to see their renovations before they dropped me off at Judy's. I spent almost 90 minutes trying to repack my bag to fit all the presents in. I got maybe 3.5 hours of sleep that night. Oh it was so hard to wake up that morning. Wendell and Shana picked me up and I and Asha said our goodbyes to Judy. I told her, see you in about 19 Saturdays. That makes it a bit easier.
Wendell and Shana helped me get checked in, and then they gave Asha extra kisses before I headed into customs. The plane ride back was very good. Asha again slept during every segment of the flight (and I didn't sit next to anyone who was drunk). I was so glad to meet Carl and the kids at the airport. I was exhausted and thrilled to be back home.
It was a very special weekend, all 66 hours of it. I wouldn't have traded the time spent reconnecting for anything, not even sleep. And I think it was enlightening for me. I was reminded of a few things:
-that people missed us and feel our absence on a regular basis
-that people are glad that we are in Fresno studying
-that time really does go fast when you are having a good time (both this weekend and the last four months)
And I realized that home is where you make it, and Fresno is home for now.
On Thursday night, Rhonda dropped me off at the airport. I flew out of Fresno at 8:30 in the evening to fly through the night. My luck, I got to sit next to a drunk Shriner on the first segment of my flight. Thankfully, he was a very happy and pleasant drunk. Asha slept for the entire time on the plane. And when I was on lay overs, she was happy and was quite entertaining for me. On Friday I arrived, though my plane was delayed, and Carl's parents met me and Asha at 1 o'clock. We stopped to see my chiropractor before we headed to Steinbach. The weather wasn't as bitterly cold as it had been the day before, though it was still -25. Praise God for that! Before we went to their place, I picked up a few essentials, like creamed Manitoba honey for Carl and the kids. We got to their place, I hopped in the shower and Asha spent some time with her grandparents. Asha bonded with Grandma and Grandpa as if she had just seen them yesterday. My friend Jenny popped by for an hour visit. It was really nice to see her.
At 6:00 I headed out with Asha to my aunt and uncle's place. We were having a Plett birthday party. Macy was turning 5 and her brother Braden turned 9. Asha had a great time bonding with my aunts and uncles and grandparents. I was pretty tired since I hadn't really slept a lot the night before on the plane. But I decided to stay and play a round of Guillotine. I was glad I did because I have missed playing games with my family.
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Asha and I headed home at 10 o'clock and we headed to bed shortly after that. I was concerned that Asha wouldn't be interesting in sleeping, and that once she got to sleep would have trouble since she still had a stuffy nose. But she slept pretty well and soon it was 8:30 and time to get up. My friend Andrea came to pick me up for breakfast at 8:50. Asha was still sleeping and I decided it would be nice for her to stay with Grandma and Grandpa. I had such a good time with Roxie, Matilda, and Andrea. It was like old times, we just chatted as if there hadn't been 4 months and 2000 miles between us. The girls came by to see Asha and then it was time to pack up and head to Winnipeg.
At 1:00 I drove Mom and Dad Heppner's van to Winnipeg. They let me borrow it for the weekend, which was great. I was glad that I didn't have to rely in people to give me rides (though I knew people wouldn't have minded). Asha and I arrived at Judy's around 2:00 and she was so happy to see us. Asha was thrilled with the dogs, even though she hasn't had any exposure to any puppies. It was great to see her connect with Judy.
I stopped by church to drop off Christmas cards and I had a nice visit with Frieda and Annabelle. But then I had to quickly zip back to Judy's to get ready for the wedding. Once I got back, I realized I was cutting it pretty close, and so Judy helped get Asha ready while I tried to find my earrings! I was a bit frustrated with myself; here I was coming all this way for Sandi's wedding and I end up being late and missing half of it! But I made it there just in time (because the wedding was a bit late starting, Thanks San). The wedding was beautiful and I think I did a pretty decent job with my speech.
I was pretty pooped by Sat. evening and got home close to midnight since the roads were a bit slippery. I decided to take Portage Ave. instead of the perimeter. I miss seeing all the lights on Portage and Main. It was very beautiful. And I even drove by our old house and dropped a few Christmas cards in the mail to the neighbours. But I couldn't drop off a card at 106; it was weird dropping off a Christmas card at your own place....and Mike and Rebecca were setting up their Christmas tree and would have totally seen me. I sat in the car and watched them for a few minutes, and I didn't get teary eyed. It was special to see that someone was having their first Christmas, making their special memories in a place that held so many for me.
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It was getting close to midnight and I headed back to Judy's for the night. The next morning, Asha and I headed off to church. I walked in and was greeted with hugs and there were a few tears shed. I hadn't realized until then how much I missed that place and all the people that are so dear to me. Our Mom's Sunday School class was so wonderful. It was great to share with each other and pray for one another. After the service there were more warm embraces and then we girls headed for lunch to Boston Pizza. Asha slept the entire time and it was only after Danae and Corrina were bringing me back to the van at church did I realize that I didn't take a picture of all of us girls at the restaurant. So we three posed in the freezing cold in the parking lot; I think the picture turned out great and captured a special moment. I kept looking at the camera screen on my way to Steinbach, seeing the picture filled my eyes with tears....
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Sunday afternoon was Heppner Christmas. Once I arrived in Steinbach, Asha was smothered in kisses and we headed out to Dad Heppner's cabin. I didn't have proper boots, but it was fantastic to see all the things that he's done on his land. It's going to be a great family place. After we headed back home and and had supper. The meal was awesome and I had extra helpings of Mom's stuffing...I may as well eat Carl, Joel and Kezia's portions too! Once the dishes were done, we sat down and each shared about our year. That's been a tradition for a number of Christmas's. Dad prayed for us and then we headed for the presents. Asha watched her cousin Sam rip into the paper, and then tried herself. It was special to watch her participate in her first Christmas. The evening was spent visiting, but soon it was time to say goodbye. Even though I knew we'd see Byron and Kristal later that week in CA, and Mom and Dad at the end of February, it was still hard. It was hard because for a small snipit of time I could launch back into our life in Winnipeg, but then get snapped back to Fresno. I knew that I was okay with it all, despite the tears, because I told them I was looking forward to going home and seeing Carl and the kids. I was going home.
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Wendell and Shana helped me get checked in, and then they gave Asha extra kisses before I headed into customs. The plane ride back was very good. Asha again slept during every segment of the flight (and I didn't sit next to anyone who was drunk). I was so glad to meet Carl and the kids at the airport. I was exhausted and thrilled to be back home.
It was a very special weekend, all 66 hours of it. I wouldn't have traded the time spent reconnecting for anything, not even sleep. And I think it was enlightening for me. I was reminded of a few things:
-that people missed us and feel our absence on a regular basis
-that people are glad that we are in Fresno studying
-that time really does go fast when you are having a good time (both this weekend and the last four months)
And I realized that home is where you make it, and Fresno is home for now.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Return to the Deep Freeze
Tomorrow Asha and I are flying to Winnipeg for my friend Sandi's wedding. It'll be a whirlwind trip of quick coffee dates, breakfast and lunch with girlfriends, a family birthday party, Heppner Christmas and of course the wedding. Last week I made myself a list of all the things that I needed to do before I left. This is on top of all the other things that I do, like cooking, cleaning, laundry and storyteller. Some examples from my list are:
-make chocolates
-pick up Christmas cards
-buy envelopes
-make birthday cards
-bake cake
-bake cupcakes
-shop for party (hats, bags, tablecloth, veggies, sour cream)
-chiro appointment
-book San Fran hotel
-write out envelopes
-finish speech for wedding
-buy baby gift and Christmas ticket gift
-birthday gifts
-bake cookies and brownies
-clear up preschool account
-buy jacket, shoes, mitts and scarf
-Asha toque
-sort clothes
-call airline
Each 1/2 day I would return to my list to check things off. Then once I had done at least 6 things, I would rewrite a revised list of things. Now my to-do list is on the back of a receipt, instead of the original 8x14 piece of paper.
And then I kept a running list taped to the desk of all the things that I need to pack in the bag, like passports, the flash drive, Canadian cheques, and Christmas presents.
Carl thinks my list making is a bit on the obsessive side. When I'm anxious, I make a list, when I'm bored, I make a list....he compares my compulsion with list making with his need to make scale models of the room and furniture (he says it saves time and back pain when you want to remodel a room, but I think it's totally unnecessary). Anyhoo, I love checking off items from my list. On Monday I was feeling pretty good about myself and all the things I had done, when at homegroup, Rhonda, who is the queen of lists, asks me how packing was going. Packing? I hadn't even thought about getting that together! So on Tuesday morning I decided I would start packing. Because I certainly didn't want to be crying over a suitcase 2 hours before my flight. Why do we do that to ourselves? Why do we wait until the last minute? Surely you can pack and then wear sweats for the next 2 days? (I'm not by the way). And can I tell you that except for my toiletries (and a few items on my list) I am packed for both me and Asha. What a flood of peace fills my heart!
And so this afternoon while Joel and Kezia are sleeping themselves to health, I plan to bake some cookies and a pan of brownies. The kids have both of their Christmas programs while I'm gone (boohoo is only an understatement) so I'm making treats for them to take along. Plus I already arranged for Carl to borrow a digital camera to take pics of the concerts while he is simultaneously filming it all on the video camera. Am I organized or what?!
I am really looking forward to going back to Winnipeg. It'll be nice to reconnect, even if it's short moments in a socially filled weekend; and it will be so special to have Asha make connections too. I look at this trip as bonus time. I wasn't expecting that I would be seeing people before June. The only thing that I'm dreading is the cold. I'm sitting her typing in the house and it's probably about 10 degrees outside. The house isn't that chilly, but I have 2 shirts on and a big pair of socks....and I'm still cold. Boy, I'm going to freeze in Winnipeg. Like the slogan from Thompson Manitoba, Cold Noses, Warm Hearts. That'll be me this weekend.
-make chocolates
-pick up Christmas cards
-buy envelopes
-make birthday cards
-bake cake
-bake cupcakes
-shop for party (hats, bags, tablecloth, veggies, sour cream)
-chiro appointment
-book San Fran hotel
-write out envelopes
-finish speech for wedding
-buy baby gift and Christmas ticket gift
-birthday gifts
-bake cookies and brownies
-clear up preschool account
-buy jacket, shoes, mitts and scarf
-Asha toque
-sort clothes
-call airline
Each 1/2 day I would return to my list to check things off. Then once I had done at least 6 things, I would rewrite a revised list of things. Now my to-do list is on the back of a receipt, instead of the original 8x14 piece of paper.
And then I kept a running list taped to the desk of all the things that I need to pack in the bag, like passports, the flash drive, Canadian cheques, and Christmas presents.
Carl thinks my list making is a bit on the obsessive side. When I'm anxious, I make a list, when I'm bored, I make a list....he compares my compulsion with list making with his need to make scale models of the room and furniture (he says it saves time and back pain when you want to remodel a room, but I think it's totally unnecessary). Anyhoo, I love checking off items from my list. On Monday I was feeling pretty good about myself and all the things I had done, when at homegroup, Rhonda, who is the queen of lists, asks me how packing was going. Packing? I hadn't even thought about getting that together! So on Tuesday morning I decided I would start packing. Because I certainly didn't want to be crying over a suitcase 2 hours before my flight. Why do we do that to ourselves? Why do we wait until the last minute? Surely you can pack and then wear sweats for the next 2 days? (I'm not by the way). And can I tell you that except for my toiletries (and a few items on my list) I am packed for both me and Asha. What a flood of peace fills my heart!
And so this afternoon while Joel and Kezia are sleeping themselves to health, I plan to bake some cookies and a pan of brownies. The kids have both of their Christmas programs while I'm gone (boohoo is only an understatement) so I'm making treats for them to take along. Plus I already arranged for Carl to borrow a digital camera to take pics of the concerts while he is simultaneously filming it all on the video camera. Am I organized or what?!
I am really looking forward to going back to Winnipeg. It'll be nice to reconnect, even if it's short moments in a socially filled weekend; and it will be so special to have Asha make connections too. I look at this trip as bonus time. I wasn't expecting that I would be seeing people before June. The only thing that I'm dreading is the cold. I'm sitting her typing in the house and it's probably about 10 degrees outside. The house isn't that chilly, but I have 2 shirts on and a big pair of socks....and I'm still cold. Boy, I'm going to freeze in Winnipeg. Like the slogan from Thompson Manitoba, Cold Noses, Warm Hearts. That'll be me this weekend.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Christmas Hoopla
Andrea, my dear friend and The Hoopla Creator, tagged me and asked what are 12 random things about yourself that revolve around Christmas. And since we are in the thick of this wonderful season, I decided this would be something fun! So here goes.
1. When we do Christmas with my Buhler family, we do a brunch instead of a turkey dinner.
2. We always set up the tree on December 1st
3. One year I made 8 doz. shortbread cookies, and then Carl told me he hates shortbread...
4. Asha posed as baby Jesus today for the preschool's Christmas picture.
5. The worst Christmas ever was when I was 10 when I had a horrible case of the stomach flu and couldn't eat anything! Not even some stuffing. Arg....
6. I absolutely love Christmas Eve candlelight services
7. Joel is the only one in our family that has a pair of Christmas socks; and he wears them (even with shorts) at least twice a week.
8. I have had three brown Christmas's: the first was in B.C. when it rained (1989), the second was in Calgary (2001), and the third will be here in Fresno
9. The earliest date that I have ever had my Christmas shopping done is November 10.
10. Ever year we do advent readings with our kids; they know that Christmas is Jesus' birthday (in fact last year, some grandmas asked Joel if he was going to get lots of presents from Santa and he told them that his parents get him presents; And Kezia thinks Santa is Moses)
11. This year I made chocolates for the first time to give to the neighbours
12. My favourite Christmas albums are Oy To the World by the Klezmonauts and Celine Dion's These are Special Times
And so I will tag Laura to make a list of Christmas Hoopla's about herself. I look forward to reading it!
1. When we do Christmas with my Buhler family, we do a brunch instead of a turkey dinner.
2. We always set up the tree on December 1st
3. One year I made 8 doz. shortbread cookies, and then Carl told me he hates shortbread...
4. Asha posed as baby Jesus today for the preschool's Christmas picture.
5. The worst Christmas ever was when I was 10 when I had a horrible case of the stomach flu and couldn't eat anything! Not even some stuffing. Arg....
6. I absolutely love Christmas Eve candlelight services
7. Joel is the only one in our family that has a pair of Christmas socks; and he wears them (even with shorts) at least twice a week.
8. I have had three brown Christmas's: the first was in B.C. when it rained (1989), the second was in Calgary (2001), and the third will be here in Fresno
9. The earliest date that I have ever had my Christmas shopping done is November 10.
10. Ever year we do advent readings with our kids; they know that Christmas is Jesus' birthday (in fact last year, some grandmas asked Joel if he was going to get lots of presents from Santa and he told them that his parents get him presents; And Kezia thinks Santa is Moses)
11. This year I made chocolates for the first time to give to the neighbours
12. My favourite Christmas albums are Oy To the World by the Klezmonauts and Celine Dion's These are Special Times
And so I will tag Laura to make a list of Christmas Hoopla's about herself. I look forward to reading it!
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Oh Yeah, The Boots
Kezia's new cowboy boots are the want of all the land. I wish I had a pair of these in my size. They really are stylin'.
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Kezia's Birthday Party
Today we had a birthday party for Kezia...outside! The last few days it has been rainy, but today we woke up to a sunshine filled morning. We had invited everyone from the courtyard, plus two other families. Kezia got a new pair of cowboy boots from the Tanaka family, and she insisted on wearing them for her party. I have to admit, the boots are the cutest I've ever seen.
We had pizza, veggies and dip, and then a purple flower cake (I was very proud of how it turned out). Everyone sang happy birthday to her and cheered when she blew out her candle. She got books, Barbie clothes, activity books, nail polish, and a special tea party in January with her as the guest of honor. Afterwards, we cleared off the tables and I did a craft with the kids. Each child pasted a picture of themselves and tissue paper onto melamine plates with mod podge. And Voila! they had their own personalized dinner plate. I was happy with how the craft turned out, and grateful for Laura's idea.
And by 1:30 it was all over. Whew! What a great day for a party.
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We had pizza, veggies and dip, and then a purple flower cake (I was very proud of how it turned out). Everyone sang happy birthday to her and cheered when she blew out her candle. She got books, Barbie clothes, activity books, nail polish, and a special tea party in January with her as the guest of honor. Afterwards, we cleared off the tables and I did a craft with the kids. Each child pasted a picture of themselves and tissue paper onto melamine plates with mod podge. And Voila! they had their own personalized dinner plate. I was happy with how the craft turned out, and grateful for Laura's idea.
And by 1:30 it was all over. Whew! What a great day for a party.
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Friday, December 7, 2007
I'm THHHRREEEEE!
Yesterday was a special day for one of the Heppner's...it was Kezia's third birthday. She woke up in such a good mood and was so excited to go to school. I let her pick out her own her outfit and chose how she wanted her hair. After breakfast, we gave her her presents. Joel had bought Kezia a princess place mat and a Dora colouring book. Carl and I (and Asha too!) gave her a new skirt, a purple headband and a ladybug bracelet. She was so happy!
That morning Kezia went to school and Miss Corina had her wear a Happy Birthday sticker. I had sent along a bunch of cupcakes for her class for snack. Before I left to go back home, three of her classmates had given her a big hug and I knew that she was going to have a great morning.
After school, Kezia opened up a bunch of birthday cards that came in the mail (she had already opened up the packages from her grandparents that came on Saturday). Then she talked to Judy and Debbie on the phone; the phone calls were pretty short because Kezia was busy playing with her new Barbie. For supper Kezia wanted chicken nuggets and ice cream for supper, so we went to McDonald's. At first she was disappointed because she thought we were just going through the drive thru, "I want to go to a real restaurant to sit and eat". Well, we went in, and Joel was more thrilled than the birthday girl. We obviously haven't been to McDonald's in a while because Joel ran to the Ronald McDonald statue and gave him a huge hug and kiss. It was like seeing a reunion of two long lost friends...but Ronald didn't hug back, he just sat there and smiled.
We had an early supper because Carl had class, so when we got home, Kezia still had an hour to play with her Barbies before bed. She had a nice warm bath and got into some cozy pajamas. Then we did our advent reading and Joel prayed and said thank you to God for Kezia's wonderful day. It really was a special day to celebrate our Kezia. We love you very much sweetheart!
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That morning Kezia went to school and Miss Corina had her wear a Happy Birthday sticker. I had sent along a bunch of cupcakes for her class for snack. Before I left to go back home, three of her classmates had given her a big hug and I knew that she was going to have a great morning.
After school, Kezia opened up a bunch of birthday cards that came in the mail (she had already opened up the packages from her grandparents that came on Saturday). Then she talked to Judy and Debbie on the phone; the phone calls were pretty short because Kezia was busy playing with her new Barbie. For supper Kezia wanted chicken nuggets and ice cream for supper, so we went to McDonald's. At first she was disappointed because she thought we were just going through the drive thru, "I want to go to a real restaurant to sit and eat". Well, we went in, and Joel was more thrilled than the birthday girl. We obviously haven't been to McDonald's in a while because Joel ran to the Ronald McDonald statue and gave him a huge hug and kiss. It was like seeing a reunion of two long lost friends...but Ronald didn't hug back, he just sat there and smiled.
We had an early supper because Carl had class, so when we got home, Kezia still had an hour to play with her Barbies before bed. She had a nice warm bath and got into some cozy pajamas. Then we did our advent reading and Joel prayed and said thank you to God for Kezia's wonderful day. It really was a special day to celebrate our Kezia. We love you very much sweetheart!
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Thursday, December 6, 2007
My Television Debut
On Tuesday I had to do a few errands while Joel and Kezia were in school. I decided instead of going to Big Lots and then to Target with Asha, I would save time and just go to Target. Well, I’m glad that I did. While I was browsing in the toy aisle (Kezia wants to spend her Auntie Judy $$ on a Barbie, so I came to check things out before I brought her to shop), I was stopped by a reporter. She chatted with me a bit and then asked if she could ask me a few questions on camera about kid’s toys. FOR SURE! What a day to wear my glasses, but at least my hair looked good! I attempted to answer her questions without sounding too geeky and made sure that I smiled lots. That evening at 5:00 the kids and I gathered around the television and I recorded myself with the camera because I couldn’t figure out how to set up the V.C.R. It was pretty exciting!! Maybe I should consider getting into the television business.....
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Asha's New Seat
The last few weeks Asha has gotten stronger and more confident in her bouncer chair. I knew that she would grow out of it soon, but I wasn’t prepared for her to lean forward and almost fall out if it one day last week. Unfortunately she doesn’t know how to sit up yet and doesn’t always like to be in the exesaucer, so her options are lying on the floor or being held. Well, I discovered that she can sit in a Bumbo chair while we were at Ray and Kelly’s (since Paige has one), so look what Mama found on Ebay!
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It's 18 Degrees
On Sunday we gathered with a few Butler Church people at Kevin and Rhonda’s for a Christmas party. We “bundled up” since it was only 7 degrees outside and walked down Huntington Ave. where all the houses are lit up. We really enjoyed ourselves. But it was strange seeing people’s lawn decked out in traditional Christmas decorations. Why was Santa in a wooly red suit instead of a light tee shirt and shorts? And why are the lights shaped like icicles when it doesn’t snow here? Why is the Christmas tree not a Palm tree in California? Those were some interesting thoughts that we pondered while walking down the street.
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We set up our advent calendars on Sunday and I made a chain link of papers with a bible verse on each. The kids have really enjoyed reading a few bible verses, then singing a few songs before they get their candy each day. And it’s a good way to talk about Christmas and the meaning of it all with your kids in a way that they understand.
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While I was at Target yesterday, I bought some Christmas lights for our apartment and a Christmas stocking for Asha. I also bought sticky snowflakes and a nativity scene for the kids to put on the window. It was a bit weird preparing for Christmas when we’re too warm to put on a jacket during the day. I’m still thinking that we’ll have snow on Christmas Day. Fat Chance, but a Canadian girl can always dream.
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Absentee Blogger
For the last few days I haven’t been able to blog. I haven’t had sick children and my computer hasn’t been stolen. No…the wireless internet here in the courtyard has been down. In fact over the last few weeks, we’ve had trouble connecting because the signal strength is so poor. Carl and I counted that there are at least 15 computers here in the 10 apartments and that the seminary probably doesn’t have a system set up to handle all the computers. Anyways, it’s been a bit frustrating. I can’t check the weather, I can’t check my bank statement, and I can’t blog!! So my apologizes if some of you were wondering what was happening with the Heppner family…..I’m now blogging from the student lounge!
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Asha's First Bottle
Yesterday we gave Asha her first bottle. It probably should have happened months ago, but we just never got around to it. And frankly, it wasn't like I had anywhere to go for long extended periods of time without Asha. But now, it would be nice to be able to go to a movie and not wonder if Asha will be okay while I'm gone (or if Carl is okay with a starving baby). Plus, in January I plan to take an evening course.
Carl always gives the first bottle, since I've had the monopoly on feeding the baby. Asha was slightly intrigued with the bottle, but even more confused because she was getting food AND able to look at me across the room. She couldn't figure what was going on! Then she'd look at Carl, take another nibble and then arch her back to see me again. Well, hopefully over the next few weeks, she'll be accustom to getting food from this plastic thing when her Mom isn't able to be around, or when her Dad would like to have some bonding time with her.
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