tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5548142225691207532024-03-13T10:39:13.061-05:00DowntimeMy Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-63710952862486727142015-01-01T22:02:00.001-06:002015-01-01T22:02:53.795-06:005 Things About MeToday's challenge: 5 Things About Myself<br />
<br />
1. Natural redhead who has never dyed her hair and likely never will (at least I tell myself that I will be cool with gray but not likely).<br />
<br />
2. Have never lived anywhere but Winnipeg and also never will.<br />
<br />
3. My dream vacation is to go to Prince Edward Island.<br />
<br />
4. I wish I could be a personal shopper as my career - I really love shopping and buying gifts for people.<br />
<br />
5. I love clouds and could spend hours photographing skies.My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-60790929471205939452014-12-20T14:43:00.001-06:002014-12-20T14:43:44.217-06:00SerialJust finished listening to the Serial podcast - have you heard it?<br />
<br />
I highly recommend it. I binged listened to it in three days because I learned about this the day the last episode was being released, so I had all of them available to me.<br />
<br />
I don't want to give anything away but I will say that I found it very fascinating and really enjoyed listening to all the research and details that were found after the fact. Since this case happened in 1999 we have so much more technology available to us now to do research, etc. that Sarah and her team found out way more information than the detectives and lawyers all combined.<br />
<br />
I would love to hear what you think about the crime and the various people involved.<br />
<br />
Do you believe Jay? Anon? Arial?My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-10499649418862522452014-12-16T08:56:00.000-06:002014-12-16T08:56:00.378-06:00Book: The Garden of Letters by Alyson RichmanI'm starting this book today - has anyone read it? <br />
<br />
I will keep you posted on what I think.<br />
<br />
If you would like to see what other books I loved and are reading check me out on Goodreads. I can't quit figure out how to find my homepage to link it for you but search 'Christine Winnipeg' and I should come up.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-68940549240072563062014-12-14T08:56:00.000-06:002014-12-14T08:56:01.719-06:00ReflectionWhen I look back at what I wanted to accomplish for 2014 I can say I did everything except like one thing! That is pretty good - especially for someone that feels like plans never seem to go the way I want them too.<br />
<br />
Now it is time to reflect on what I want to accomplish for 2015. Ideas? Suggestions??<br />
<br />
I know some more knitting projects will be on the list; need to save more money; and want to go on vacation but I will get back to you on the full list.<br />
<br />
Have a great rest of the year!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-21003129975510632832014-01-06T15:23:00.001-06:002014-01-06T15:23:36.179-06:00Trying for a New OutlookI'm just going to say it - 2013 sucked. There. Now that that is off my chest, its time to move on to 2014!<br />
<br />
I really am determined to have a better year. I'm still dealing with many of my health issues from 2013 but slowly I hope to have some resolution / diagnosis. Here's hoping!<br />
<br />
Resolutions are not really my thing but I do like to reflect and create goals or ideas for the future. Here are some that I am working on for 2014:<br />
<br />
<u>Financial</u>:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Save $5,000.00.</li>
<li>Purchase a new mattress.</li>
<li>Paint my condo. </li>
<li>Transfer out my old fireplace for a new electronic fireplace.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<u>Books</u>:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Other than the books I have requested from the library that will be coming at random times I would like to just read books that I already own. And who am I kidding, there are a lot!</li>
</ul>
<br />
<u>Food:</u><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>This is where I have already made the most changes and I just want to keep on keeping on. I recently purchased a 12 week meal plan from YUM Universe and I'm really loving it so far. So my plan is to keep on making more healthy meal decisions based on suggestions like YUM Universe.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<u>Health</u>:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Have more of a 'yes' attitude this year. Be open to more things.</li>
</ul>
<br />
I purchased a daily calender from 'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff' and even though it is only January 6th I am really loving it. It's totally speaking to me. Here is today's quote: "When you are wishing you were somewhere else, it's almost as though you are one step removed from life rather than actually being in it, open to life exactly as it is.". Isn't that great?My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-78802120378097917622013-07-09T20:27:00.001-05:002013-07-09T20:27:55.994-05:00Keeping me on my toes...I have had so many changes lately life is definitely keeping me on my toes.<br />
<br />
Let me start with the biggest: I have discovered that my health problems for the last several years are due to severe food allergies that I have. Now, while this is great news to know what the problem is, it is a huge deal to change my whole way of eating.<br />
<br />
I have been forced (by my wonderful doctor) into this new world of gluten free, dairy free and egg free. Talk about overwhelming! I am now having to eat things I didn't even know existed - never mind know where to buy it or how to cook it. Huge huge changes for this picky eater. And on top of all that, weening myself off my old food caused major (and I mean major) withdrawals and made me very sick. In fact, once we had some more test results back (and they were much worse than I or my doctor anticipated) she put me on an additional 30 day cleanse where I honestly thought I might die I was so sick. So when you feel much worse it is very hard to get yourself excited about new food. <br />
<br />
I am about 3 months into my diet changes and am starting to see the light at the end of tunnel. My doctor has assured me that my body is responding positively to everything, just slower than I had hoped for. I am starting to feel like I have more energy and can do more than I used to. For sure, I don't have the afternoon slump that I used to have...but I do have a long ways to go before I can say I feel great.<br />
<br />
So with this major change I have had to delve into the vegetarian world quite a bit in order to find great dairy free / egg free recipes. While my doctor wants me to eat meat and fish pretty much everything else I eat is vegetarian. Let me give all you vegetarians props now because it takes a lot of creativity and planning (not to mention organization) to eat like this full time.<br />
<br />
I am just currently working on changing over my menu plan for lunches and dinners - so if anyone has any great tried and true recipes I am all ears cause I have already had a few flops!<br />
<br />
The other change in my life is that I am starting my own business! Yes, I know! I will wait and tell you all about that soon - it is very exciting!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-49528329855790296872013-03-14T20:49:00.001-05:002013-03-14T20:49:57.167-05:00I am still here......yes, it's true. I haven't dropped off the face of the earth! Just feels that way!<br />
<br />
I have been feeling very uninspired these last few months. Not loving my knitting, not feeling like baking (cause I will just eat it and who needs to add gaining weight with uninspired) and feeling quite drained.<br />
<br />
This too shall pass!<br />
<br />
Recently I was able to finally purchase a sewing machine (I'm expecting it to be delivered any day now). I'm very excited however I have no idea how to sew - slight problem, I know. In anticipation of my new sewing machine I have looked into some classes here in Winnipeg where I could learn but I was only able to find one that would teach me the basics that I need to learn and it is only scheduled on a night that I am not available. Sheesh. So now I am trying to find a book that could perhaps teach me step by step how to sew. Sewing for Dummy exist? If anyone has a suggestion I am all ears. Or if you know of something that is good to sew for beginners, I would love to hear it. I'm thinking pajama bottoms?<br />
<br />
As always, if you are on Pinterest - feel free to follow me <a href="http://pinterest.com/missybecker/" target="_blank">here</a>. Happy pinning!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-40633375960161213462013-01-27T21:10:00.001-06:002013-01-27T21:10:57.802-06:00Sunday Night Chit ChatWhat are you...<br />
<br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Reading: I am focusing on The Stone Diaries right now because I have it from the library and so I'm on a time crunch with it. Plus the library emailed me that I have another book from my wish list that is available and I have to pick it up tomorrow, so I need to get this one read. I always try to give priority to my library books first and get them back asap.</span><br /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Watching</span>: I am watching the Winnipeg Jets on TV right now and waiting for Downton Abbey to start in a few minutes. I LOVE Downton Abbey so much...probably my favorite show.<br />
<br /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Listening: Well technically I'm listening to the hockey game on TV but in terms of music I am enjoying right now, I would have to say 90s music. I have been enjoying 90s dance parties on Songza a lot lately. Been great to snap my mood since it has been a rough couple of weeks.</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span><br /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Baking/Cooking</span>: I just made this dessert yesterday for our family dinner that turned out great. Here is the pin I got it from: <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/200762095860871724/" target="_blank">Best Ever Cobbler</a> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I actually made it with pears this time because I have made this with peaches many times and wanted something a little different. Everyone thought it was delicious and wanted the recipe so that is great. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Happy you accomplished this week</span>: Surviving this week! Seriously, the last two weeks have just been too much for me and I have been miserable. This past week was sooooo looong I thought it would never end, so to make it to today is great all in itself!<br />
<br /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Looking forward to next week</span>: Getting back to a more 'normal' schedule this week. Trying to feel more like myself so I can enjoy next weekend (which is fully packed again).<br />
<br /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Thankful for today: I had several hours to finally put my feet up and relax. I am getting time to blog!</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br /></span>
<div style="clear: none; margin-bottom: 11px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">*BONUS QUESTION* What chore around the house do you dread doing the most? My most hated clean is toilets but I am fortunate that my husband cleans our bathrooms, so I guess my most hated chore would be...dusting because it always feels like it reappears just as fast as you can dust it.</span></div>
<div style="clear: none; margin-bottom: 11px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br />Well, <a href="http://halfdozendaily.typepad.com/my-half-dozen-daily/2013/01/sunday-night-chit-chat-3.html" target="_blank">Carla</a> thanks again for this great chat - have a great night everyone!</span></div>
<br />My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-34564200549659583312012-12-30T07:00:00.000-06:002012-12-30T07:00:05.754-06:00Book Review: Where'd You Go Bernadette? by Maria SempleThis was the second book I read on my holidays and found it very entertaining! Maria wrote this book in an unusual style and it totally worked. You get the complete picture of Bernadette, not from her, but from all the people around her, i.e. her daughter, friends, enemies, etc.<br />
<br />
The story is technically about a woman who is having a bit of a meltdown physiologically and would normally not be a lighthearted situation but because you get to 'see' the perspective from all people watching this breakdown happening it puts it in a totally different light. The author should get a lot of credit in how she wrote this book and how entertaining she made it and ultimately a great read!<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoy reading this book! My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-32129455519260793382012-12-27T12:16:00.000-06:002012-12-27T12:16:11.993-06:00Book Review: The Chaperone by Laura MoriartyI have done a lot of reading so far on my holidays. The first book I finished was The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty. Very good read!<br />
<br />
For some reason when I read the book jacket I thought the book was going to be more about the girl she was chaperoning, because she is based on a real life person, but interesting enough it really is the story about the chaperone. <br />
<br />
I found her life story utterly fascinating and enchanting. She was a woman who lived in difficult circumstances in a time when people were not understanding and compassionate and she was determined to live the best life she could and not just survive but thrive in those circumstances.<br />
<br />
This book also covers her whole life which I enjoy. Often books end as soon as the main issue is resolved or once someone gets married, has a child, etc. but I love it when I can get the whole picture to a story and see someone's whole life. <br />
<br />
I highly recommend this book and know you will enjoy reading The Chaperone!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-87388631789447577452012-12-16T11:33:00.000-06:002012-12-16T11:33:01.358-06:00I love you chocolate chip cookies!My Saturday night:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X4yFcB58nXI/UM4CSTeVlyI/AAAAAAAAALs/sjrHuTfgqv8/s1600/IMG_0775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X4yFcB58nXI/UM4CSTeVlyI/AAAAAAAAALs/sjrHuTfgqv8/s320/IMG_0775.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mZF04DSjKxA/UM4Ce9U2cFI/AAAAAAAAAL0/MgQB7Co7B6I/s1600/IMG_0776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mZF04DSjKxA/UM4Ce9U2cFI/AAAAAAAAAL0/MgQB7Co7B6I/s320/IMG_0776.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ljsO36l5wYE/UM4Cq0z3pkI/AAAAAAAAAL8/VWiPCAmxXFs/s1600/IMG_0777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ljsO36l5wYE/UM4Cq0z3pkI/AAAAAAAAAL8/VWiPCAmxXFs/s320/IMG_0777.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ecTPDoAqxy0/UM4C27_M2JI/AAAAAAAAAME/_tTFV-5vQAo/s1600/IMG_0778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ecTPDoAqxy0/UM4C27_M2JI/AAAAAAAAAME/_tTFV-5vQAo/s320/IMG_0778.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-At9xFFOLNhg/UM4FKtrIh4I/AAAAAAAAAMU/O35i6nGfzxk/s1600/IMG_0780%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-At9xFFOLNhg/UM4FKtrIh4I/AAAAAAAAAMU/O35i6nGfzxk/s320/IMG_0780%5B1%5D.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yum Yum! </div>
<br />My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-38952282082488388602012-11-30T07:30:00.000-06:002012-11-30T07:30:01.849-06:00Happy Friday!Here are some random shots to help you enjoy this fabulous Friday even more!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5WP_o7nCRsM/ULgcr1ITO4I/AAAAAAAAALE/KterkK_oCLo/s1600/IMG_0669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5WP_o7nCRsM/ULgcr1ITO4I/AAAAAAAAALE/KterkK_oCLo/s200/IMG_0669.JPG" width="130" /></a></div>
<br />
I love these colours and think they are the most comfortable colours for decorating with.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1R89i43GpI/ULgdEdsFPFI/AAAAAAAAALM/JkXo16_hvNE/s1600/IMG_0604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p1R89i43GpI/ULgdEdsFPFI/AAAAAAAAALM/JkXo16_hvNE/s200/IMG_0604.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
This is my favorite mug right now. My dear friend bought it for me and every time I make tea I think of her now! What a great gift for someone.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sk9-GMR8SHY/ULgdX_EL_GI/AAAAAAAAALU/fBRgQHrCO-k/s1600/IMG_0505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sk9-GMR8SHY/ULgdX_EL_GI/AAAAAAAAALU/fBRgQHrCO-k/s200/IMG_0505.JPG" width="133" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
This is me - can't you tell! Just kidding! My 10 year old niece made this picture of me using an app she just loves. She is such an artist and loves to create, especially fashion and so she designed this outfit for me. Don't I look glamorous! My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-80409523122399932432012-11-27T22:30:00.000-06:002012-11-27T22:30:14.810-06:00Book Review: The Last Juror by John GrishamI'm going to openly admit that I am a John Grisham fan. I am behind in reading his latest books but other than the last couple I have read all his books...fiction and non-fiction. Don't know what it is but I always enjoy him. His books are usually about the legal community and based in the deep south which would seem like it would get old, but I still keep coming back for more and more! I even work in the legal community so you would think that I would be totally sick of it and not want to read about it...again, wrong!<br />
<br />
The Last Juror was shorter than his normal books but I found there was still lots of story in it and great character development. Based on how the cover described the book it was not exactly as I expected...yes, that means there is drama! But amongst all the drama there is wonderfully written characters and you discover a very likable little town (despite all its nuances and quirks). <br />
<br />
The ending was not what I expected and I totally love that. I love it when a book keeps you on your toes so that even when you try to predict what will happen you are mostly wrong.<br />
<br />
Do you like reading pop fiction like John Grisham? I recommend The Last Juror - go read it!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-47916370611874146972012-11-20T07:00:00.000-06:002012-11-20T07:00:01.294-06:00Nope, not gonna happen<div style="text-align: justify;">
I recently picked up the book Phantom by Jo Nesbo from my local library and I just can't finish reading it. I HATE it when a book doesn't do it for me but I'm giving up on this one. It is supposed to be a suspense mystery with an interesting premise but I found the writing so confusing. Most of the time it was from the perspective of the villian which prohibited me from relating to the main character and getting into the story.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sorry Phantom - I wanted to love you but it is just not going to happen!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now, I'm going to go back and finish The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest...</div>
My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-30708477185209712532012-11-18T18:18:00.002-06:002012-11-18T18:18:20.563-06:00YummyI had my best friends over last night for a girl's night and an amazing time. I'm very grateful to have them in my life. I'm the kind of person who doesn't have a lot of friends but the ones I have mean so much to me.<br />
<br />
I made a variety of appetizers for us to eat and most of them I got the idea from Pinterest. Check out what I made:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MkATckwo7BI/UKl4B57haxI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/xeJkJPghCQY/s1600/175851560420446763_yrKlWYh7_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/200762095860434694/" target="_blank">Buffalo Chicken Taquitos</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MkATckwo7BI/UKl4B57haxI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/xeJkJPghCQY/s1600/175851560420446763_yrKlWYh7_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MkATckwo7BI/UKl4B57haxI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/xeJkJPghCQY/s200/175851560420446763_yrKlWYh7_b.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/200762095860434636/" target="_blank">Pizza Cupcakes</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TyPOMmBys9g/UKl5Z-_yRPI/AAAAAAAAAKA/8mPw8vAR80A/s1600/112167846939597809_J3IXiDr6_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TyPOMmBys9g/UKl5Z-_yRPI/AAAAAAAAAKA/8mPw8vAR80A/s320/112167846939597809_J3IXiDr6_b.jpg" width="37" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And the best was...<br />
<br />
<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/200762095860385526/" target="_blank">Chocolate Chip Dip</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ddQkQmOwiC0/UKl53r0AyBI/AAAAAAAAAKI/ula2UBsApaU/s1600/177329304049315101_pEuIsnKH_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ddQkQmOwiC0/UKl53r0AyBI/AAAAAAAAAKI/ula2UBsApaU/s200/177329304049315101_pEuIsnKH_c.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
It was a fabulous night. Hope you had a great weekend too!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-73852414365750172462012-11-14T17:58:00.000-06:002012-11-14T17:58:15.106-06:00Book Review: The Birth House by Ami McKayI recently finished reading The Birth House by Ami McKay which my chiropractor's office graciously lended to me (thank you Dr. Kim @ Two Rivers Chiropractic!).<br />
<br />
It took me almost half way into the book to really get 'into it' but once I did, I was hooked. This book is set in the early 1900 in eastern Canada (Nova Scotia) and modern medicine is trying to make inroads into the work of the midwives. I think what was bothering me at first was how disrespected the midwives were back then. But...have no fear...alls well that ends well! Many things happen in the book to keep you interested and I was really satisfied with the ending. I also really enjoyed the style of writing for this first time author. I would like to read more of her books.<br />
<br />
Please go out and get your copy of The Birth House, you won't regret it!<br />
<br />
<br />My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-26591451090868885372012-11-09T17:22:00.001-06:002012-11-09T17:22:40.207-06:00Storms a comin'So apparently we are in for a huge snowstorm this weekend...<br />
<br />
...I better get working on my knitting! Here are some shots of my pinwheel afghan that I am working on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l7KEzXHejVk/UJ2PcAKAPMI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/Q15_unuiyWA/s1600/IMG_0554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l7KEzXHejVk/UJ2PcAKAPMI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/Q15_unuiyWA/s320/IMG_0554.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QRLaiAo_JdA/UJ2Pn1GbK7I/AAAAAAAAAJY/I8qEcEzKjvs/s1600/IMG_0556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QRLaiAo_JdA/UJ2Pn1GbK7I/AAAAAAAAAJY/I8qEcEzKjvs/s320/IMG_0556.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KRuaTKr2jBo/UJ2Px9zaeGI/AAAAAAAAAJg/p7sUNEQYI_o/s1600/IMG_0557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KRuaTKr2jBo/UJ2Px9zaeGI/AAAAAAAAAJg/p7sUNEQYI_o/s320/IMG_0557.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I need to make roughly 30 of these pinwheels. I think I have made 3 so far...so I have lots of work to do!<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend everyone!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-24070161732599827712012-11-08T08:00:00.000-06:002012-11-08T08:00:06.905-06:00Weight WatchersOne of the things that has kept me very busy over the last few months is living on the Weight Watchers plan. I can't say enough good things about it...it has truly changed my life and I couldn't be happier. I reached my goal weight, went on maintenance and obtained my lifetime membership! This may not sound like much, since I didn't have that much weight to loose, but it is still hard work. I am so thankful that I have found balance in my eating again and am able to enjoy my body so much more. The only issue I am now facing, is my crazy desire to shop, shop and shop some more! I want all new clothes! All I can say, is I love you Old Navy, especially for your online sales when a girl needs some new clothes!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-25149766492961102782012-11-05T21:17:00.000-06:002012-11-05T21:17:09.841-06:00The Good WifeWell the last few months have been crazy, to say the least. One of the things I did this past weekend was finish catching up on my favorite TV shows. That leads me to the title of this post - The Good Wife. What an amazing show. I can't get over how different and interesting each episode is...and don't even get me started on the writing and acting. I think every actor and character on that show (main or supporting) is so outstanding. I just love it and wanted to share that with you. If you don't watch The Good Wife, please do. You won't regret it!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-87979115091378558002012-09-24T15:54:00.000-05:002012-09-24T15:54:11.462-05:00Update on The Paris WifeWell, I did finish The Paris Wife, somewhat reluctantly though!<br />
<br />
I have to say that it has a ending that leaves you feeling satisfied and that somehow things ended up as they should (at least from my point of view) so that really helped me feel more positive about this book.<br />
<br />
I still felt like I had to force myself to read it because it was somewhat depressing / frustrating at the predictability, but ultimately everything did work and you got to see their lives 30 years in the future. I love seeing how people 'turn out' way in the future from where a book leaves off. Just gives me such a complete feeling about the story.<br />
<br />
So I would have to say my feelings on this book did improve but it is still not one of my favorites.My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-65757452973050542842012-09-11T18:47:00.000-05:002012-09-11T18:47:01.967-05:00The Paris Wife by Paula McLeanI am currently on vacation with my family - I promise lots of photos when I get back.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I started reading The Paris Wife by Paula McLean and am feeling quite disappointed. I have heard many good things about this book and was really looking forward to reading it. I am about half way through am I am finding it very predictable so far.<br />
<br />
Has anyone else read this book? Is it going to get better?<br />
<br />
<br />My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-1549642227219371322012-08-29T12:18:00.000-05:002012-08-29T12:18:40.332-05:00Book Review: The Lord God Bird by Russell HillI have been reading up a storm lately and so I am going to try and catch up with all my reviews!<br />
<br />
The Lord God Bird is a really sweet different story. The book is not long so you don't need to feel intimidated by it. I personally had never heard of these birds before (I assume that they are real???) but in the book they are viewed as extinct and is a really big deal with this man sees one. Then the story is about how the media gets involved and needs to report on the sighting of this bird and scientists get involved and need to study this bird, etc. The author also does something interesting when he writes some chapters from the bird's perspective. This may sound weird, I know, and I was skeptical...but I did find it endearing. <br />
<br />
I recommend this book and think you won't regret reading it! Enjoy!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-79404663413430939702012-08-17T14:47:00.001-05:002012-08-17T14:47:02.668-05:00Fill in the Blank FridayThanks for <a href="http://thelittlethingswedo.blogspot.ca/2012/08/fill-in-blank-friday_16.html">Lauren</a> for Fill in the Blank Friday: <br /><br />1. The best thing to do on a hot day is to find somewhere cool to be (if necessary inside) and read a book.<br />2. The best place to be on a hot day is where ever you can feel cool. <br />3. The best thing to eat on a hot day is ice cream! <br />4. Hot days make me tired cause we have lots of humidity and it makes me sloth like! <br />5. My go to uniform on a warm summer day is hmmm...not sure, probably a shirk with a loose shirt.<br />6. The scent that reminds me of summer is suntan lotion. <br />7. My favorite thing about summer is the long evenings and getting to go to Clear Lake, Manitoba.<br /><br />Wanna play?My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-45373910097407174062012-08-12T16:35:00.000-05:002012-08-12T16:35:08.910-05:00Book Review: Dune Road by Jane GreenI just finished reading Dune Road this morning and I enjoyed it. I have never read a book by Jane before and I honestly can't remember how I heard about this book. Light story, interesting characters and lots of goings on. I found it to be a fast read but refreshing and I suggest reading it. The easiest way for me to describe it is a story about many characters living in a small town close to New York. Some of the people work together, some are friends, family, lovers, etc. There is a little bit of romance, suspense and drama - something for everyone! Happy reading!My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-554814222569120753.post-84102219752134494102012-08-08T07:30:00.000-05:002012-08-08T07:30:00.796-05:00For the Love of Tea!I realized lately that I haven't shared much of another love I have: tea! I'm not a coffee drinker but I do love a good cuppa'.<br />
<br />
A few of my favorites are:<br />
<br />
Black Tea: Earl Grey (but it has to be Twinings)<br />
<br />
Green Tea: Royal Garden from <a href="http://www.corneliabean.com/index.php" target="_blank">Cornelia Bean</a>. Here are the ingredients...yum...Green tea, currants, black currants, elderberries, blackberries, raspberries, strawberry bits, flavour!<br />
<br />
Rooibos Tea: This is tough for me because this is my favorite type of tea: <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/our-teas/rooibos/jessie-s-tea" target="_blank">Jessie's Tea from David's Tea</a>, (FYI <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/our-teas/herbal-tea/bear-trap" target="_blank">Bear Trap</a> and <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/our-teas/black-tea/paradise-found" target="_blank">Paradise Found</a> are really great too)<br />
<br />
Organic Tea: This one is amazing: <a href="http://www.davidstea.com/our-teas/herbal-tea/midsummer-night-s-dream" target="_blank">Midsummer's Night Dream from David's Tea</a><br />
<br />
I would also like to give an honourable mention to Starbucks tea - I enjoy most of their flavors and love that they make loose tea in tea bags. If you are on a tea budget, this tea is really yummy and afordable: <a href="http://www.presidentschoice.ca/LCLOnline/products.jsp?type=details&catIds=cat40002&catIds=cat240009&productId=prod1090059" target="_blank">Mulled Apple from PC</a> <br />
<br />
I also love collecting tea pots. I have several in my kitchen which you can see below:<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MU2z0UPwtNY/UCBuhltdlUI/AAAAAAAAAIY/5YY6Wlzq0BM/s1600/IMG_0345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MU2z0UPwtNY/UCBuhltdlUI/AAAAAAAAAIY/5YY6Wlzq0BM/s200/IMG_0345.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese style with matching cups!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LAe_u0XYhOE/UCBu72Pv3mI/AAAAAAAAAIg/WuAqyqrHsTA/s1600/IMG_0346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LAe_u0XYhOE/UCBu72Pv3mI/AAAAAAAAAIg/WuAqyqrHsTA/s200/IMG_0346.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic White</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4FvrNfc71G8/UCBvWFOLS5I/AAAAAAAAAIo/Lg4bpq4OM4s/s1600/IMG_0347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4FvrNfc71G8/UCBvWFOLS5I/AAAAAAAAAIo/Lg4bpq4OM4s/s200/IMG_0347.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clear - for flowering teas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8xDywdccnw/UCBvytb_6kI/AAAAAAAAAIw/MVFdRN01qAs/s1600/IMG_0348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A8xDywdccnw/UCBvytb_6kI/AAAAAAAAAIw/MVFdRN01qAs/s200/IMG_0348.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfect single cup - the cup in on the bottom!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qzjaqUAhfpE/UCBwMRhjdBI/AAAAAAAAAI8/A9-Te4JkdR4/s1600/IMG_0349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qzjaqUAhfpE/UCBwMRhjdBI/AAAAAAAAAI8/A9-Te4JkdR4/s200/IMG_0349.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rustic / old fashion looking</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />My Piece of the Worldhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10945383750411290285noreply@blogger.com2