Mom's Musings

Best Buy Canada “Pass the Present” Promotion with Giveaway

My Wee View

Link up Your Wordless Wednsday Post Here!!

$500 Target Gift Card Giveaway!!

2012-01-04T09:16:00.000-05:00

I have joined with a group of other bloggers to start out the new year with a bang. We are giving away $500 in Target Gift Cards to one lucky person!

Please note you only need to enter once on any of the participating blogs as we all will have the same form. The giveaway is open to both US & Canada. I know Canada doesn't have Target *yet*, but I didn't want to exclude my fellow Canadians. You can always bring them with you for some cross-border shopping!

Posting Date: January 4, 2012 at midnight EST. It ends on January 18, 2012 at 11:59 pm EST.

Prize: $500 in Target Gift Cards to one person

Eligibility: US & Canada

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday Menu Planning...

2012-01-02T12:26:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of making changes in the new year...cause we all do it, one way or another, we want to change our eating habits. That means, less junk and more at home meals. Oh, and no midnight runs to McDonalds!!
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What a 9 Year Old Can Teach Us Adults!

2011-12-22T10:28:00.001-05:00

I have been on both sides of the coin.

I have been the parent who has judged other parents too quickly, I have also been the parent who is judged now.
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It's Not Beginning to Feel Like Christmas...

2011-12-20T08:09:00.000-05:00

5 days, yup, that is it.
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Ronald McDonald House Charities(r) Promotion through Sharecare

2011-12-19T16:19:00.003-05:00

If you are a regular reader here, you will know that the Ronald McDonald House Charities has a big place in our hearts. When Faith was born, 4 years ago (oh my how time flies!!), we spent 2 weeks at the Ronald McDonald House in Hamilton.
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Happy 11th Birtday Angel!!

2011-12-08T16:59:00.000-05:00

11 years ago today our baby girl was born to Heaven.

Check Out My Organized Chaos' Giveaway!!

2011-12-08T00:02:00.001-05:00

I very rarely enter contests and giveaways, I just can't usually find the time, however this one is AMAZING!!

My friend Tammi, over at My Organized Chaos has this great giveaway on right now and just in time for Christmas!!

You can win some pretty amazing things. The 1st winner will get: A Samsung 16GB Galaxy Tab 10.1 with Wi-Fi, a Kobo VOX eReader and an Apple TV (ARV $770.00)

And the 2nd winner will get: A Nikon J1 Digital Camera with 16GB Memory Card (ARV $649.99)

If you want a chance to win one of these great prizes, make sure you click on over to Tammi's blog and enter!! I would love to either win or see someone I know win!!

Wordless Wednesday - Fun in the Snow!!

2011-12-07T00:44:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays?

2011-12-06T09:41:00.000-05:00

All the status updates on Facebook lately seem to revolve around the "Merry Christmas" or "Happy Holidays"...
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Mommies Aren't Allowed to Get Sick

2011-12-05T11:44:00.000-05:00

I have been slacking a bit here lately. I spent the better part of last week either in a hospital or at dr's appointments. This is not normal for me.

I know that I have issues, I need to lose weight, I need to eat healthier, I need to start exercising. But other then those things, I am a pretty healthy person.

Apparently my life has become quite stressful, either that, or I have not been able to cope as much with the stress as I used to. Not sure really.

Girls Roadtrip to Find #EqualCanada @McD_Canada #cbias

2011-12-04T22:34:00.002-05:00

A good friend of mine, @SoberJulie, was celebrating her 1 year blogaversary with a tweetup on Saturday! So, @shasherslife and daughter, @purplegal78 and myself, planned a trip down to join in and celebrate (and socialize) Julies big accomplishment.

After the party we headed out shopping at a store closeby and realized that shopping can make ya hungry!! So we decided to stop at McD's on the way home.

Am I Really Unique?

2011-11-30T23:50:00.004-05:00

First trip away from the kids in 16 years!!

So, Today’s Parent put out a call for bloggers, to share with them what makes us unique. I have been thinking about it, and of course, I have procrastinated as long as possible!

I am a mom (not unique). One of my kids has special needs (also not unique). I homeschooled for 6 years (not as unique as it used to be). I have buried a child (sadly, this does not make me unique). I have 5 kids (crazy, but still not unique). So, how am I unique?

I think each of us comes to a point where we realize we are not like everyone else. We are all made differently, raised differently and that makes us each unique. With 5 kids, from 4 years old to 16 years old, I have so many stories to tell, both funny and sad. This is the main reason I started my blog, almost 6 years ago. My blog has taken many turns through the years, from funny homeschooling tidbits to conversations in the van, to my brutal honesty about the issues in my life and an online journal through my youngest daughters fight for life.

So, to write a post about what makes me unique is hard. I am kind of all over the place!

We raise our kids in a way that most look at as odd. Our parenting philosophy is that we are raising these children to leave us. Shocking...but true! We are bringing up the next generation, and we want to make sure they are independent, respectful and have a good sense of the world NOT revolving around them. That means that at the age of 13 they travel to another country to do mission work. To see how privileged they truly are. My 13 year old has been to Peru, while my 16 year old has been to Guyana, and twice to Romania. They want to go more, they want to be the change in this world! Our 9 year old is counting down the days when she is able to go.

We are not a perfect family. We fight, we yell, we make mistakes, but we love and we apologize and we are honest with each other. We are a tight knit family that has been through so many storms, and these storms statistically, should have broken us apart, however, they have made us stronger. We have fought to stay strong and would have it no other way.

Maybe that is how we are unique...

3 of my favourite blog posts are:

Wordless Wednesday (with some words) - Family

2011-11-30T11:25:00.001-05:00

So, normally this is a "quiet" post, but I have some things I need to share, and this photo tends to inspire me to share...

I have had a few medical issues arise...and not with the kids, I am talking about me.
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THEO: God's Love - Movie

2011-11-26T10:09:00.001-05:00

My family was given the chance to review this DVD. My kids LOVE Adventures in Odyssey (and I admit that I do too:-), so we jumped on this opportunity!

Empire Reel Babies in a City Near You!!

2011-11-25T10:56:00.005-05:00

See this sweet little girl? She is a bundle of energy, and can sometimes be hard to leave at home if I want to head out with friends for a movie. With medical issues, and seizures, I often don't like to leave her with people who aren't familiar with her protocols, which means I only go out when they are available, or when Pete is home.
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Wordless Wednesday - Winter Cottaging with 8 Kids!!

2011-11-23T10:37:00.001-05:00

Invisalign Teen

2011-11-21T22:42:00.005-05:00

I remember growing up and wanting braces as a teen. It wasn't something that my family could do at the time, and now that I am an adult (yes, I am one;-) I feel fine about the way my teeth look. I have a bit of an overbite, but that is ok with me now.

Being a teen is hard, and it seems to be getting more difficult as time goes on. These kids tease and poke fun at each other, and while it may seem to be "fun" it slowly eats away at them. Self confidence is hard to gain and keep when teens care so much about what their friends think. Their friends are their world during that time in their life!!

I just heard about a great product called Invisalign Teen that I would love to have for my kids. Both Devin (16yo) and Keri (13yo), should have braces. Until I get a job with benefits, we won't be able to do this, but when the time comes, I think this is the type that I would love to get for them.

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CentrSource Twitter Party!!

2011-11-21T10:16:00.001-05:00

Have you RSVP'd for the CentrSource twitter party yet???

When: Wednesday November 23th, 2011
Time: 6:30-8:00PM ET
Party Hosts: @shasherslife and @tarasview & the sponsor @CentrSourceCA
Twitter Hashtag: #CentrSource

There are 23 Visa Gift Cards and other Gift Cards (from $10-$250) to be won, for a total of $1000 in prizes!!

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet? LOL!!

All you have to do is go to the CentrSource twitter party registration page and then join in on Twitter on Wednesday, and follow the hashtag #CentrSource

@shasherslife and @tarasview will ask the questions
Don't forget to include #CentrSource at the end of your tweet
Winners will be chosen randomly out of the correct answers

The party is open to Canadian residents, excluding Quebec, but Quebec is still included in the CentrSource Dream Big Canada Vacation contest with a GRAND PRIZE of $10,000!!

LOTS OF WAYS TO WIN SOME GREAT PRIZES!!

HOPE TO "TWEET" YOU ON WEDNESDAY!!

The Zombies are Coming!! A Kodak Review

2011-11-09T17:38:00.000-05:00

I was sent a Kodak EasyShare Camera a few weeks ago and finally figured out how to do these amazing "creepy" pictures!!

We went out for appetizers with some friends the other night and we were able to figure out how to do it...

Just imagine, sitting in Casey's and 4 adults at the table...snapping pics and ducking out of the way!! It was actually a lot of fun!

Hunting for #EqualCanada at Caseys - #CBias

2011-11-07T07:02:00.001-05:00

This weekend, my hubby was supposed to be in the US watching a football game with a bunch of guys from church. Long story short, he wasn't allowed across the border because of a record he had from 20 years ago. We wanted to have a fun weekend anyways and make the best of the time, so we went out A LOT!! We spent some time with a few people that we enjoy being around and last night was the "final treat" to end the weekend.
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Barbie I Can Be...Inspiring Our Girls

2011-11-05T15:36:00.000-04:00

Shash and Mini Shash

Growing up, I can't say that I specifically remember having a "mentor" per se, but I had many women that I looked up to. My mom, aunts, friends of the family. When I was married and started having kids, I learned from moms who had been down this road previously. Then I had 4 girls, after our son. Now, as a mom, I want to expose my girls to positive, successful role models and mentors. I want them to know that they can do anything in this world, from being a stay at home mom to being the Prime Minister, if that is what they want to be.

Wordless Wednesday - 4 Years of Miracles!

2011-11-02T08:05:00.001-04:00

Have to add some words to this one...

Mars Gift Basket for Ronald McDonald House Hamilton!

2011-10-31T16:46:00.001-04:00

#CBias chose me to be one of the lucky ones to prepare a donation for a charity of my choice...and of course, I chose the Ronald McDonald House in Hamilton. They are an organization that has put so much into my family and I love that we had an opportunity to give back!!

My KINDER Moment!!

2011-10-30T00:07:00.001-04:00

KINDER Canada on Facebook has this fun new application!! You can frame those special moments you have shared with your kids and create a great memory! I just created one and it was so easy!! I can't wait to frame some more photos of my kids playing!!

Our Diwali Supper

2011-10-28T19:54:00.001-04:00

Some of the sauces we used to make this meal easy!!
Sorry for the blurriness...

I was approached by one of the agencies I do work for and asked if I would like to try out some of the VH Sauces to make some food for Diwali.

Might seem strange, since we don't celebrate Diwali, normally, but if you have read my blog long enough, you know that I am all about teaching my kids about different cultures and celebrations! I think that by doing this I will open their world and help them to be able to see people for who they are! All about the worldview again (and also to learn that the world doesn't only revolve around them!)
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More of Life in the Van

2011-10-25T09:36:00.001-04:00

The other day I picked the girls up from school and, just like in the past, the lessons they learned in the van were huge.

We had driven past a cemetery and Hope piped up from the back "All those stones are where the people are, right mom?"

And I answered her, yup, she was right.

Does This Tim Hortons Have #EqualCanada Sweeteners?

2011-10-23T23:22:00.000-04:00

This is me and Hope. She is #4 in our line of kids....

We have had some issues arising with her and sometimes she tires us out. She has been diagnosed on the low end of ADHD...she has spunk, and we are trying to teach her to work with her abilities and use them to help her get through school and life in general.

I Heart Blissdom Canada

2011-10-21T14:12:00.001-04:00

I was one of the lucky ones who was able to get a ticket to Blissdom Canada. I sat by my computer that day, waiting for them to go on sale and I snagged my ticket!

Wordless Wednesday - Thelma and Louise Take On NKOTB!!

2011-10-19T00:14:00.000-04:00

Photo Credit to CL Buchanan

Join the Wordless Wednesday fun with

Dream Big with Centrsource!!

2011-10-18T09:00:00.004-04:00

I always start dreaming of travelling when the cold weather starts to come...Cuba, Hawaii, you know, the warm places...but in reality I know where I would like to go.

Photo Credit to my sister Esther T

Carlito C. Catepillars MathHouse Game - Review and Giveaway

2011-10-17T20:51:00.002-04:00

I was sent a set of the Carlito C. Catepillars MathHouse Card Game to review. As I am typing this up right now, my 13 and 6 year olds are sitting at the table playing the game!
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Luxe Box Reveiw and Giveaway

2011-10-12T23:57:00.003-04:00

I have had some amazing opportunities these past 2 months. In September I was able to head to She's Connected, a conference for bloggers to meet with brands and learn how to build relationships with them. And tomorrow I am heading to Blissdom Canada for another blog conference to learn more!! I have learned that there is always something to learn and people to learn from! This is an ever changing field to be in...

Loose Button was kind enough to send me their September box with some samples for me to try out to get ready for all this great networking that I would be doing!

Photo Credit to Tara from Tara's View of the World

"Inclusion is an umbrella that keeps us dry when the downpours of life occur."

2011-10-12T09:55:00.001-04:00

Title quote by Linda S. Wallace

I want to learn how to bring inclusion to my family and the others around me...this post is a stepping stone for a community conversation!! This is a new road that I am walking and I am just admitting it now.

As you may have read, this summer was a very long, hard summer for us. One of the things that we realized we are facing is the fact that with Faith getting older, our lives have become very different.

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Wordless Wednesday - Trip to the Dentist...

2011-10-12T07:35:00.000-04:00

You can join the Wordless Wednesday fun at

My Organized Chaos
My Wee View
Tara's View of the World
It's OK to be Weird
the Doug's Photoblog

Thanksgiving...What are YOU thankful for?

2011-10-08T12:45:00.008-04:00

We always hear the normal thankfuls - Thankful for my family, my house, my job, my life, my ability to wake up breathing everyday...and these are great things to be thankful for.

Today I was reminded of something else that I am thankful for.

If you have never read our story about Faith, click her name to check it out...

check it out
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Tim Hortons BFF Date!!

2011-10-07T19:40:00.009-04:00

Ok, as many of my readers know, I have a BFF...and no, I am not a teenager (or preteen for that matter) but Cheryl is my best friend and has been for 10 years!!

We try to get together regularly to destress after work, or just to talk about life and how it's treating us!

The One Where Reality Kicks My Butt!!

2011-10-06T16:43:00.003-04:00

We had gone for at least a month without a seizure. Probably even more then a month.

Last week, Faith had a very small, focal seizure while I was away in Toronto for a social media conference. Pete texted me to let me know and I was kind of sad about it...she had gone sooo long!!

But we were hoping that it was just a fluke and that the new medication really was the miracle we were hoping for.

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I Am Going To She's Connected!!

2011-09-29T00:40:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow is the BIG DAY!!

It is the start of the She's Connected Conference, and I am so excited that I was one of 200 women chosen to attend this event.

The Shunning Movie Review and Giveaway!!

2011-09-28T08:01:00.003-04:00

I was really looking forward to watching this movie, so excited that we watched it the same night it arrived!!

My family is hooked now!

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KINDER Canada $200 Basket Giveaway!!

2011-09-28T01:03:00.000-04:00

With 5 kids, all various ages, I have done a lot of things to keep my kids occupied with fun activities.

One of my favourite things to do is have a "Kids in the Kitchen" cooking class with them. Call me crazy, but I love to invite their friends over and create a meal that they can bring home to share with their families...maybe I am crazy?

The Day My Blog Disappeared...

2011-09-27T08:55:00.001-04:00

Holy scare the life out of me!!!

I have had a friend helping me out with redesigning my blog, I am loving the changes and am so grateful that he was willing to help out. I told him I am just helping him brush up on his skills, so it is a benefit to him too;-) Not sure if he believes me, but oh well!!

Anyhow, last night we were working through some things, making a few more changes and then...

*POOF*

My blog was GONE!!!

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The Grace Card DVD Review and Giveaway

2011-09-26T15:16:00.003-04:00

I was sent a copy of this movie to review. We made it a family night and watched it together. It was a great story and an awesome outcome at the end. For myself, I found it very good, it had a great message and the story line was one that could/has been a reality for so many. The younger kids watched it in bits and pieces, but that is expected.

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Back To School Snacks...

2011-09-15T10:15:00.002-04:00

This week the kids all headed to school. (can I get an AMEN!!)
With 5 kids, finding snacks that are healthy, nut-free and affordable can become quite daunting...

Something that my kids just love now, are Bear Paws, we have sent them to school for as long as they have been a nut-free facility...

We were sent a back to school care package of the newest Bear Paws out there...the Cereal and Fruit ones. They are a sandwich cookie with a nice fruit jam filling...
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Little Reminders That All Is Well:-)

2011-09-12T12:24:00.001-04:00

These are the moments that remind me...

God is good all the time and....

All the time GOD IS GOOD!!

A Tale of Two Trucks...

2011-09-07T23:08:00.001-04:00

This is our truck.

A few weeks ago, we were getting the kids ready to head to swimming lessons on a Saturday morning, and sent them out to get in the truck...

But the truck wasn't there...
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Everyone's Talkin' About It!!!

2011-09-06T08:32:00.002-04:00

You know, the kids are back to school today!!

I am so excited about it and my kids are mostly excited too!

Today I have a Junior Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 5, Grade 8 and Grade 11...

They grow so fast.

Have You Heard of Baby and You?

2011-09-05T09:45:00.002-04:00

Baby and You is a great, new community on Facebook right now.

If you are a parent, you KNOW that you LOVE to talk about your kids, and even if you don't have kids of your own, I hope you know that you still have an impact in the lives of the kids that you interact with and their families.

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School Bus Training and Faith...

2011-09-04T22:41:00.002-04:00

Don't mix so well...

I am so excited that Faith is going to start school this year. I am excited for her, mostly...but also for me!! I am going to have 3 hours, every.single.morning to myself!! That means I could have a nap, go for coffee, have a pedicure, blog etc...

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Finding Time for Fun in the Busyness of Life

2011-09-04T17:18:00.001-04:00

This summer has been one of the craziest, busiest ones we have ever had. Between work, kids programs, medical issues and new revelations about our lives, we have had a hard time finding the fun.

It kind of makes me sad to think that a whole summer flew by and we didn't make time for the things we love - camping (with or without a tent), going to the beach, going to the parks etc...

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I should be blogging about....

2011-09-03T15:29:00.000-04:00

But all that is consuming me right now is what I am going to blog about instead...

I said something that I never thought or expected I would have ever said...

After this summer, I have been replaying the events and conversations surrounding Faiths birth and first 16 days...

The part that sticks out the most right now, at this moment in my life, is:

When the doctor told us that he has been at conferences and spoken with other parents who had the opportunity to let their babies "declare for themselves" whether they should live or not. He said that the majority of the parents, many years later, said if they knew what their lives would entail, they may have made the "other" decision.

That was when we spoke up and said NO WAY!!! She is ours and we will take her as she is. We fought for her...

After this summer...and all the new issues...I had that thought...

What if I had a do-over, knowing what our lives would look like with her here...

What would I choose? Would I make the same decision? Would I have fought so hard? Would I have believed them? Would we have left that hospital without Faith?

Before anyone judges me, or jumps down my throat...

Before those who are so stuck in their religion that they deny questioning as a part of life...

Before you all think that I hate my life or my child...

You need to remember that these are my shoes. This is my journey. This is my path.

I make choices that you may not like and you make choices that I may not agree with.

I have seriously thought about what our life would have been like if we had chosen to walk the path of grief instead of life. Would it have been easier? I really don't know.

Would we have been able to live with ourselves? I don't know.

Would I be able to live without the life that Faith brings into our lives? I don't know.

This week as I was driving home, from a long, frustrating day at work, I was met with my daughter, my 3 year old special needs daughter, at the end of my street (at least 20 houses away) across the main street and playing with a shopping cart on the side of the road. Oh, and the dog was with her...

This is just the latest in the grand scheme of our summer...I can honestly say that it has been hell.

We have been living hell this summer. An emotional roller coaster. Up and down.

We survive, we look forward to the future, we do what we need to do...but we also learn where we need to re-prioritize our lives, we learn who is really there for us or not, we learn the value of time.

We also learn to question and grow. We learn what works for us, no matter what others may think. We learn how to set up our new normal.

As long as we learn. As long as we grow. And as long as we find and move into our new normal, I consider anything we do a success...

And I know that I could NEVER live without Faith...if she weren't here, I wouldn't have grown into the person I am...

And life would be BORING!!

The best looking-glass is the eyes of a friend*

2011-08-15T17:28:00.000-04:00

*Title is an Irish Proverb

I have not been here blogging as much as I would like to. I am finding the balance between how much is too much to share and me being able to work through things in my life without writing.

I am a writer, I have journaled all my life, I have written poetry, attempted songs, started 2 books...I am a writer.

It has been so hard for me NOT to spill the issues in my life right now, so that I can work it all out. I love to talk about what is going on, I love getting other peoples perspectives, I love having a sounding board that is neutral...which is what I consider this blog sometimes.

The latest time in my life is not a time for me to be public, and yet I want so badly to talk about the subject, because it would help me to sift through how I am feeling.

So...here is my attempt to get something out...but keeping it private still...

Marriage is hard. Add to it all the new stresses in our lives, me starting work in the last year, Faith's needs are heightening, I feel like my rope just keeps getting shorter and shorter...you know, that probverbial rope that I have talked about before.

We have been through a lot and we have worked through a lot. We have had our fair share of ups and downs. We have beaten stats out there that say after the death of a child most seperate, having a special needs child - we should be seperated...we beat these odds. 16 years!!

But that doesn't mean that this is easy. It is a lot of work, and I don't know that people actually get that. They may say it, it can be really cliche, but in reality it is hard work. I think this is why divorce is so rampant. People just don't realize the reality of that statement. WORK!!

Anyhow, through this all, I am so fortunate to have a few close friends that I can be honest and open with. I have more then most people, just with the 1 in particular.

My "BFF" is the title quote to me: My looking glass...she is honest. She says it as it is. In turn, I say it as it is to her too. We may get upset with an answer from the other, but it is usually the best way to get the brutally honest truth out so we can fully evaluate any situation in our lives.

I know how fortunate I am to have found this kind of friendship. Not everyone has what we have.

Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart. Eleanor Roosevelt

Cheryl, thanks for being a footprint:-)

The Help - Phenomenal!!

2011-08-10T09:51:00.005-04:00

I was given the opportunity to see an advanced screening of The Help on Monday night.

Let me start by saying - I have not read the book. I have a hard time finding time to read...

I am going to find the time to read this book.

I love history, so I knew this movie would be right up my alley.

My best friend and I saw a preview for The Help when we went to see another movie, and we knew that we knew that we knew, that we would see this together.

Last night was that night...it was BFF Date Night!!

This story kept my attention the whole way through...I laughed out loud, I (almost) cried (cause I don't cry in public ya know;-) and felt the emotions of the actors...

The roles were great, the selection of actors/characters was a very good fit...

I will see this movie again, and will definitely share this one with my kids.

Well done Disney!!

2 Thumbs Up from me!!

THE HELP Based on one of the most talked about books in years and a #1 New York Times best-selling phenomenon, “The Help” stars Emma Stone (“Easy A”) as Skeeter, Academy Award®–nominated Viola Davis (“Doubt”) as Aibileen and Octavia Spencer as Minny—three very different, extraordinary women in Mississippi during the 1960s, who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project that breaks societal rules and puts them all at risk. From their improbable alliance a remarkable sisterhood emerges, instilling all of them with the courage to transcend the lines that define them, and the realization that sometimes those lines are made to be crossed—even if it means bringing everyone in town face-to-face with the changing times.

Don't forget, I have a giveaway for some cool "The Help" stuff over here...check it out!!

The Help Giveaway!!

For more talk about The Help, feel free to check out these videos on YouTube:

Watch THE HELP trailer: http://youtu.be/KJiBqBB413c

Watch THE HELP behind the scenes featurette: http://youtu.be/he9IB5g4yxw

Watch THE HELP Mary J Blige featurette: http://youtu.be/J5fGmnT_d84

You can also get in on the conversation on here:

Tweet your thoughts about the movie: #TheHelpMovie #Canada

Write your thoughts on our wall: www.facebook.com/WaltDisneyStudiosCanada

Wordless Wednesday - Trip to the Mall

2011-08-09T21:41:00.003-04:00

She squealed when she saw this shirt...

She matter of factly told me that this was where I could buy a purpleberry...

You can find more Wordless Wednesdays at:

The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group - Review

2011-08-07T08:00:00.002-04:00

The Abused Werewolf Rescue Group

by Catherine Jinks

This book came in a box of books that we received to review...

It immediately appealed to my 13 year old daughter...I knew that with all the Twilight and Werewolf movies and books out there, this one would be a perfect fit for her.

She loved the book, and being 13, thinks that telling me about it for a review constitutes homework...so this is all I could get out of her:

What Keri liked - I really liked this book because there was a lot of suspense and I couldn't wait to see what happened next.

She said she had a hard time putting it down and really enjoyed reading it.

A little about the book:

The brilliant companion to The Reformed Vampire Support Group follows the trials and adventures of Toby, whose life changes after he is found in a dingo pen with no memory of the night before.

I still hadn't fully absorbed the terrible possibility that I might actually be a werewolf. A werewolf. I kept stumbling over that word; it made no sense to me. How could I be a werewolf? Werewolves didn't exist.

When Tobias Richard Vandevelde wakes up in hospital with no memory of the night before, his horrified mother tells him that he was found unconscious. At Featherdale Wildlife Park. In a dingo pen.

He assumes that his two rambunctious best friends are somehow responsible, until he discovers that they're just as freaked out as he is. Then the mysterious Reuben turns up, claiming that Toby has a rare and dangerous 'condition'. Next thing he knows, Toby finds himself involved with a strange bunch of sickly insomniacs who seem convinced that he needs their help.

It's not until he's kidnapped and imprisoned that he starts to believe them - and to understand what being a paranormal monster really means. (Taken from girl.com.au)

So, from Keri this is 2 thumbs up!!

Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book to review. All thoughts and opinions posted belong to me and my family.

Robert Pierre's "I'm All In" CD Review and Giveaway

2011-08-06T12:50:00.000-04:00

I love music. It is something that drives me and can send some amazing messages to the world. I find that my music tastes are very eclectic, and I think that is ok. It definitely depends on the day and how I am feeling, that determines what music I listen to that day...

I was excited to receive a CD in the mail to review for you here. I am a little late at posting this...but the album made its debut on July 26th...

I think it is pretty amazing that Robert Pierre is just a young guy starting out...he has some great songs. I find that I am tapping my toes, or humming along to the songs. They are really catchy and the words are all so encouraging!

Read more about Robert Pierre below...

For Robert, I’m All In is more than the name of his third studio album, due July 26 from thinkaboutit records. It has become Robert’s life motto as he responds to God’s calling to live fully committed to Him. In addition to writing and recording I’m All In and playing on a summer tour, Robert also leads regular Sunday morning worship at his 800-member Orlando, FL church. And he’s done it all as a high school senior.

“All of the songs have something to do with things I was going through my senior year,” Robert said of I’m All In, “preparing to say goodbye to friends and not really knowing what would come next, but finding comfort and peace in the Lord’s plan for my life. The Bible talks about how the eyes of the Lord are searching to and fro throughout the earth, searching for someone whose heart is wholly His, someone He can strongly support. This CD is me saying, ‘I’m all in.’”

Creating I’m All In was a powerfully personal experience for Robert, who teamed with veteran songwriter Jason Ingram (Tenth Avenue North, Sanctus Real, Bebo Norman) and legendary producer Matt Bronleewe (Jars of Clay, Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman) on the album. The result is a collection of songs that enthusiastically and energetically worship God while wrestling with what it means to be a Christian in a world full of difficulty and joy, anxiety and excitement.

You can view more information about this inspiring artist at his website - Robert Pierre
On Facebook or you can purchase your own copy at Amazon

I was given the opportunity to provide a copy of this new album as a giveaway here!! Enter away:-) Giveaway ends August 16 - Open to Canada and US

Mandatory Entry:

Tell me who you would share this CD with if you were to win...

For Extra Entries:

Follow me on GFC
Like Mom's Musings on Facebook
Follow Mom's Musings on Twitter
Tweet the giveaway (upto once a day): Enter to win Robert Pierre's I'm All In @momsmusings http://www.pattonfamilymusings.com/2011/08/robert-pierres-im-all-in-cd-review-and.html Closes 08/16
Blog about this contest (5 entries)
Post on Sharing Sites (Digg, Stumbleupon etc...)

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Point to Happy - Book Review

2011-08-06T00:37:00.000-04:00

One day a few months ago, I received a box of books on my front steps...

I haven't had the chance to post the reviews yet, so I am going to try to catch up :-)

The first book I want to review here is being reviewed by Faith!!

Yup, you heard that right, Faith!!

This book has become her favourite book ever!

It came with a pointing hand, which she did rip off the ribbon...

But, she still uses it with the book, and she uses the book without the hand too.

I love that this book takes her through pictures of expressions, objects etc...

It is geared towards kids on the Autism Spectrum...

Plus it is chunky and colourful and full of visual sensory fun!

I am so glad that this was one of the books we were able to review.

Faith would easily give this 2 thumbs up!!

Disclaimer: We were sent a copy of this book to review. All the thoughts and opinions in this post belong to me and Faith!!

Chicken Soup for the Soul - Dogs and Cats

2011-08-05T17:52:00.001-04:00

I love reading the Chicken Soup for the Soul books!!

There are so many great stories and experiences that either help me through something in my life, make me laugh when I need to laugh or make me think about others and other situations people go through.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Cat's Life

101 Stories about All the Ages and Stages of Our Feline Family Members

From kittenhood through the twilight years, our feline companions continually bring joy, love, and laughter to the lives of their "staff." This collection of 101 new stories captures the experience of living through the natural life cycle with our cats — from the laugh-out-loud antics of kittens and tear-your-hair-out escapades of teenage cats to the more mature adult years and final stages of life. Stories cover each age and stage with all the fun, frustrations, special bonds and routines involved. The book also holds a special chapter about grieving and recovery when our feline friends leave us. (from Chicken Soup website)

AND

Chicken Soup for the Soul: My Dog's Life

101 Stories about All the Ages and Stages of Our Canine Companions

It's a dog's life. This collection of 101 new stories focuses on all the memorable ages and stages of our lovable canines' lives. Starting in puppyhood and covering a range of middle and senior years to the twilight and end when our dear friends leave us, this book captures the entire experience of living through the natural life cycle with our dogs. All dog lovers will laugh, cry, and recognize themselves and their furry friends in these heartwarming and inspiring stories of puppy antics, teenage rebellion, adapting to an aging dog and, finally, having to say goodbye. (taken from the Chicken Soup website)

I have been given 2 of each of these titles to give away on my blog. For this giveaway the 2 winners will receive a copy of each title.

Mandatory Entry:

Tell me something about your pet, or any memorable experiences you have had with a pet of any kind. What kind of impact have they had on your life?

Extra Entries:

For Extra Entries:

Follow me on GFC
Like Mom's Musings on Facebook
Follow Mom's Musings on Twitter
Tweet the giveaway (upto once a day): Enter to win Chicken Soup for the Soul prizepack @momsmusings http://www.pattonfamilymusings.com/2011/08/chicken-soup-for-soul-dogs-and-cats.html Closes 08/16
Blog about this contest (5 entries)
Post on Sharing Sites (Digg, Stumbleupon etc...)

Disclaimer: I was sent copies of these books to post and the company is providing the giveaway copies. All thoughts are my own.

The Help Giveaway!!

2011-08-05T15:10:00.001-04:00

I have a date with my bff on Monday night...we are going to an advanced screening of The Help:-) I cannot wait to see this movie. I saw a preview for it a while ago and have had it on my mind ever since.

I was given the opportunity to host a giveaway here for:

THE HELP hand held novelty fan
THE HELP nail file
THE HELP bookmark

Mandatory Entry:
All you have to do is comment why you want to see this movie

For Extra Entries:
Follow me on GFC
Like Mom's Musings on Facebook
Follow Mom's Musings on Twitter
Tweet the giveaway (upto once a day): Enter to win The Help prizepack @momsmusings http://www.pattonfamilymusings.com/2011/08/help-giveaway.html Closes 08/15
Blog about this contest (5 entries)
Post on Sharing Sites (Digg, Stumbleupon etc...)

For more talk about The Help, feel free to check out these videos on YouTube:
Watch THE HELP trailer: http://youtu.be/KJiBqBB413c
Watch THE HELP behind the scenes featurette: http://youtu.be/he9IB5g4yxw
Watch THE HELP Mary J Blige featurette: http://youtu.be/J5fGmnT_d84

You can also get in on the conversation on here:
Tweet your thoughts about the movie: #TheHelpMovie #Canada
Write your thoughts on our wall: www.facebook.com/WaltDisneyStudiosCanada

And if and when you see the movie, feel free to come back here and share your thoughts as well!!

Wordless Wednesday - How to Keep Faith Busy...

2011-07-19T20:25:00.000-04:00

Sorting, sorting and more sorting...doesn't matter what it is;-)

Join in for more Wordless Wednesday fun by visiting...

God Listens...

2011-07-14T23:38:00.000-04:00

Psalm 116
1 I love the Lord because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy.
2 Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!

I love my job. I have said it before, I am definitely in the right place, doing the right thing. I love my job:-)

Part of the job is taking part in personal plan meetings and reviews throughout the year. I have not had the opportunity to be a part of this aspect until the last few weeks. In August, I start a temporary, 3 week contract at one of our locations.

I had the opportunity to meet the family of one of the individuals for a review meeting.

This meeting ended up with me sitting in my van, in tears, after everyone had left. It was definitely orchestrated by God!!

I continue to be amazed when these things happen, and really I shouldn't be. It is just a part of my faith.

The mother had shared with me a very small snippet of their journey, as parents, and as their child. It is exactly what I have been needing to hear.

Remember just a week or so ago? This post about where Faith was going to end up in 5, 10, 15 years? Us coming to terms with the fact that she may end up in a group home setting? Realizing that we may not be the best equipped place for her to live? Yeah, that one...

I was reminded tonight that God Listens!! It doesn't matter how long it takes, we just need to continue praying and believing and thanking God that He will put Faith in the right path. The right locations will show up, the right organizations will open.

It is so hard for me to believe that God listens, because I want things done in my time. I want my answers now. I don't want to have to be patient and wait...Isn't that how we are raised? In our microwave society?

I love my job. I broke down when I realized that everything is going to be fine. God is in control of it all.

It was like I got the biggest God hug ever!!

Thanks God:-) I know now that you hear me...

Let Me Introduce Myself...

2011-07-13T21:47:00.000-04:00

I started blogging back in 2006. We had been through quite a bit before then and I started to fill in some of those blanks when I started. I have a whole bunch of new blog readers, who may not know where we have come from, where our faith stems from and why we are the way we are:-) So, I am going to randomly start sharing blog posts from years back to re-introduce myself to you newbies out there...I am going to start with a memory I wrote after we buried our third child.

Meet Angel...

We were so excited when we found out that we were expecting our third child. Everyone, including the kids. We had decided that we were going to see a midwife and have a home birth this time round. We had never had any problems with our other children and their births.

We were starting to get the room ready and move our two kids into their new room so we could set up the nursery. I was 32 weeks along and we had decided that we wanted an ultrasound just to make sure everythng was going to be okay for the home birth. We went in the morning to the clinic and I knew right away that something was wrong. I started trying to remember when I felt the baby move last and realized that it was on Saturday, it was now Monday. You don't realize what you take for granted until it is too late!!

The technician was asking me questions throughout the exam...how many kids did I have, were they boys/girls, telling me that it was nice to have one of each. I had asked if I could get an ultrasound picture after the exam and she said we would see about that afterwards. I hada really unsettling feeling. She told me that she would be right back and she came in with the doctor. They proceeded to tell us that there was no heartbeat. I totally lost it. They had to repeat themselves a number of times. I didn't want to believe it. We had just been at the midwife less then a week ago, and we had heard the heartbeat.

I had so many awful feelings when I found out. Immediately I wanted a c-section just to get my baby out. It scared me that my baby was dead inside me. The midwife came in to talk it all over with us and what our options were. We decided that I was going to be induced and give birth right away. I had chosen to have an epidural because I didn't think that I should have had to feel the pain. What was the point??

Anyhow, on Tuesday we went to the funeral home and made the arrangements for what we never thought we would have to do. Then we went to the cemetary to pick out a plot for our baby. It was a horrible snowstorm, and there we were trudging around the snowdrifts choosing our baby's resting place. I spent most of the night trying to pick a name for our baby. We didn't know if it was a girl or a boy and the name had to be special. On Wednesday we started the induction. I went home and continued doing my daycare. I got through the week because I was totally numb. I didn't believe what was happening. On Wednesday night we went back for more gel, and then on Thursday morning in we went again. They sent me home because I still wasn't ready. My hubby and I spent the entire day at our pastors house. Just hanging out, we didn't want to come home. It was a nice, peaceful and supportive place to be and that was what we needed. We stayed for supper and I started to feel some contractions starting. We headed back in to town to the hospital, in the middle of a storm and they kept me there.

During this time, I had decided not to have an epidural, I had planned on having a "supernatural" childbirth and felt that I should still do this. I opted for a self-administered morpine drip instead. I barely used it and I don't regret it!! Our daughter, Angel, was born at 4:23 am on December 8, 2000. She weighed 3 lbs. 14 oz. There was a true knot in her umbilical cord. Apparently it had tightened and she had died instantly. We spent our time with her and then we had to say goodbye. The hardest thing was watching the nurse take her away in that special basket. Everyone at the hospital was so good. They helped keep our spirits up and they cried with us when we cried. Our midwife, Ann, was absolutely wonderful as well. I don't know how we could have handled it without God, and everyone who was there.
We had a memorial service at the cemetery for our family members. Our Pastor was awesome. It's nice to have someone your life who tries to understand and wants to feel the pain with you. It was the most beautiful service we had ever seen. We are all doing ok now. Our kids had a lot of questions and they still talk very openly about their sister in heaven. I think this is one way that I have been able to work things out, having to answer them and wanting to be honest with them about everything as well. So much of our lives has changed now and we have learned to accept what we don't want to. We know that we will see her again when we get to Heaven and we know that she is in the Father's Arms.

Father's Arms
Ruth Patton
January 8, 2001

In our Father's Arms,
I know that's where you are,
It's so hard to let you go,
To be up in the stars.

I know God's taking care of you,
And you never will feel pain,
You'll never know tears or suffering,
And I know I'll see you again.

My heart it feels so empty,
My arms feel empty too,
But I know deep down inside,
That God is there with you.

I know that you are happy,
And that there is always cheer,
It's just some days I really wish,
That I had you with me here.

I am learning to let go,
And give it all to God,
I am looking for a reason,
Why I am finding it so hard.

But you are always with me,
Treasured in my heart,
Those memories will always live,
And never will depart.

Wordless Wednesday - What is Wrong With This?

2011-07-12T21:59:00.000-04:00

Join in for more Wordless Wednesday fun by visiting...

http://www.teenmania.ca/index.php?target=donate

A Busy Mommy

My BFF!!

Coming To Terms With My Life...

2011-07-01T13:49:00.000-04:00

This was the first time I ever looked at Faith.

We prayed for strength, for a miracle, for the doctors to be wrong.

We were told that she wouldn't live, we were told that she shouldn't live.

We disagreed with them.

I don't regret our decisions...

We are now seeing what the doctors told us about.

We are seeing the frontal lobe brain damage the most...

I feel like I am living in a house that I work in.

We are now having to build a safe room...for her safety and the others in the house.

She is only 3 and a half...

She has bruised, bitten, pinched, punched slapped, kicked, everyone in our house...

She has thrown plastic chairs, toys, overturned kitchen chairs in her rages...

She has tried climbing out the bedroom windows, on the second floor.

She is pushing us to our absolute limits...

We love her, she loves us, we couldn't live without her...

We need to learn to live with her, and this is what is hard.

I now have to say the doctors were right. I now have to come out of my denial closet.

Everything has escalated so much and so fast that I can barely process it...

I can't help but think what is going to happen to her in 10 years, in 15 years...even just in 5 years...

It makes my heart sad to think that we won't be able to handle her one day.

She is already too strong for me to restrain properly...

How on earth do parents handle this part of the journey?

She can go from a happy go lucky little girl

To a complete, uncontrollable, violent meltdown in less then a second...

And to top it all off...no one sees this unless they are close enough to our family...

I am not handling this well...at all...

Finding the Great Divide!!

2011-06-30T15:23:00.000-04:00

I have not been shy about my "girl" issues...you know the ones, with the letter H involved?

Remember, I bought a bra for $130? Yeah, the wire has popped out and the bra rubs the wrong way and has caused some serious issues for me...

BUT...

I found a store, that a friend told me about, that sells my size, in cute looking designs...for under $50!! I am in heaven now:-)

Seriously, Addition Elle is my new favourite store. Their sizing is great, I found the perfect size pants, shirts that fit me the right way and great new bras to boot...and they actually work!

I am going to do the unthinkable right now...I am going to post pictures...a before and an after and you will see that I finally found the Great Divide!!

I still have a lot of work to lose the tummy, now that you can see it. LOL!!

You can see here how everything just fell together...

This is a great pic of me and my BFF taken at a party this past weekend.

And now, I have The Great Divide!! (Yes, I still need to work out some more)

I was not paid to write this post. I am just so in love with my new bras that I just had to share it with the world!! And make sure that other women who have a hard to find size, can know that they can find something for them without remortgaging their house!!

My Kids are Going to Reach the World This Summer!!

2011-06-25T09:52:00.000-04:00

The time is nearing for these 2 amazing missions trips to take place.

Keri's trip to Peru is from July 9-July23

Devin's trip to Romania is from July 16-July 30

Keri (13 years old) has earned about half of her trip so far but still has a ways to go ($1500 more). Thanks to all who have supported her efforts so far. If you would like to support her in this endeavour, you can make a tax deductible donation here:

She is a Global Expeditions Missionary

Name: Keri Patton

ID #: 2631416

Devin (15 years old) has earned most of the money for his trip already. He has worked hard at his job and has saved almost all of his pays to be able to afford this trip on his own. He would like to have some extra money to be an extra blessing to the kids and families he will meet along the way. You can make a tax deductible donation through New Song Church, contact me for more information (we have a paypal account set up, or can find another way to do it).

We are so proud of our kids and the compassion and desire to help others that they have in their hearts. Please help us make this a reality for them!!

Thanks in advance for your help:-)

A Proud Mom!!

Coldsore FX Revolution $5000 Travel Contest!

2011-06-22T17:54:00.000-04:00

What can make a coldsore better?

What can make it bearable for you?

What about a $5000 travel voucher, to ANYWHERE in the world???

AND

By clicking over to the Coldsore Revolution you can enter to win this amazing prize!

Be sure to share to earn more chances to win!!

I would LOVE to see someone I know win this prize...

WHERE WOULD YOU GO IF YOU WON???

Downtown Burlington $2000 Shopping Spree!!

2011-06-21T09:58:00.000-04:00

Do you love to shop?

Have you been to Burlington, Ontario?

Would you like the chance to win a $2000 shopping spree?

Check out this great contest that the Downtown Burlington Association is running right now!!

Not only do you have the chance to win the shopping spree, you also win instantly by receiving coupons that can be used at over 2 dozen local shops!!

This contest closes on June 29th so you have to

HURRY UP, ENTER and SHARE!!

Open to Canadian Residents (excluding Quebec)

Girls Night Out Wine Tasting Party AND CONTEST!!

2011-06-20T14:47:00.005-04:00

What happens when you get a group of women together?

Without kids? Without housework?

WE HAVE FUN!!

On Saturday night Shash from Shasher's Life threw a wine tasting party to introduce us all to

Girls' Night Out Wines!!

The Wine for the Night!

And the great spread:-)

There was a great mix of ladies, old friends, new friends.

We laughed, we talked about "girl" things.

That would be me, in the middle...thinking that
the others around me were smiling at the camera too;-)

This was my absolute FAVE wine for the night!!

We had time to RELAX and REFRESH!!

And we tasted wine.

I have never enjoyed wine, I usually find it way too strong...

But, this wine, this Girls' Night Out Wine, is AMAZING!!

It has a whole different flavour and really didn't taste much like wine.

There were 4 different flavours there:

Strawberry Samba (my fave)

Darkberry Duet

Tropical Tango

Citrusberry Twist

There was also a Sparkling there (I didn't get a chance to try that one)

We laughed.

A lot!!

We need to do this more often and I can't wait, now that it is summer time, to do this again!!

OH!!! And Girls' Night Out Wines have a pretty amazing contest on right now...

If you live in Canada (excluding Quebec) then you can enter to win a

$2,500 SHOPPING SPREE at Winners!!

There are also 75 $50 gift cards to be won too!!

So, click on over, enter and SHARE with your friends!!

Girls' Night Out Shopping Spree!!

GO!! ENTER!!! ENJOY SOME WINE!!

RESPONSIBLY!!

Cars 2 Giveaway - Ka-Ciao!!!

2011-06-16T21:57:00.002-04:00

So, guess what is premiering on the 24th??

That's Right!! CARS 2 races into theatres June 24th, 2011 in Disney Digital 3D™

SYNOPSISWhen star racecar Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) and the incomparable tow truck Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix, Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage.

CARS 2 PRIZE PACK:

CARS 2 tshirt in youth sizes only

CARS 2 official movie poster

CARS 2 temporary tattoos (2 per winner)

CARS 2 bumper stickers (set of 3)

CARS 2 puzzle

Open to Canada only!!

MANDATORY ENTRY:

Follow this blog - Mom's Musings - on Google Friend Connect (it's THAT easy!)

The "Follow" button is in the right-hand sidebar

For EXTRA ENTRIES (these are optional):

Follow Mom's Musings on Twitter and Tweet this giveaway –

Enter @momsmusings #giveaway for a #cars2 prizepack http://bit.ly/lbsVpr #canada only ends June 24th @ midnight EST (RT once a day for more entries)

"Like" Mom's Musings on Facebook

Follow Mom's Musings on Networked Blogs

Subscribe to my blog by email (in the right hand sidebar) (2 entries)

Share this giveaway on any Sharing Site (Digg, StumbleUpon etc...)

Post this giveaway on your blog and share the link in the comments (5 entries)

"Like" Walt Disney Studios Canada on Facebook

"Like" Cars on Facebook

The winner will have 48 hours to reply before another winner is chosen.

Feel free to check out the trailers at Walt Disney YouTube

And also check out the Cars 2 event page on Facebook!

Wordless Wednesday - And They Call It... - w/linky

2011-06-15T11:51:00.000-04:00

Puppy Love...

Join in for more Wordless Wednesday fun by visiting...

My Wee View

Medical Marijuana - Guest Post

2011-06-13T09:00:00.001-04:00

I was browsing some blogs recently and found an interesting topic on a friends. A question was posed asking for peoples opinions on a controversial topic. I commented and offered my space here as a guest post. I am going to leave my opinion out right now, because I would love to hear from others what their thoughts are on this. Let's keep the comments nice. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and no one is right or wrong... It is a topic with a stigma, definitely...So, without further ado, here is Carrie:-)

Hi I am Carrie and Ruth has been gracious enough to allow me to guest post on her blog. I have broached this topic on my blog, but more so in question form, not giving my opinion at all. I have to be honest, I am a chicken. There is a lot of judgment when dealing with a controversial topic. I guess I should actually mention what that topic is. It is medical marijuana. I have been doing a lot of research on this topic because I have epilepsy and I am so tired of the side effects of prescription medications.

Being a Christian and having prided myself on never getting involved with drugs, this has been a hard thing for me to look at. The more I research the topic, the more I am seeing this "taboo" plant as a gift from God. That is not to say that I use it, but I will say that I am strongly considering it. I got the courage up to ask my Dr. about it and unfortunately he doesn't support it, even though it is legal here in B.C. That in and of itself is frustrating.

Here are my thoughts, and as I mentioned earlier, I have done a lot of research. I think this could, when used for the right reasons be a very good thing. I can't believe how much this plant has helped so many people. It has given many their lives back. People who could barely function at all from things such as epilepsy, tourrettes, mental illness to name a few got their lives back and are fully functioning, healthy, people with jobs and children etc.

In most, if not all cases, it wasn't only their medical issue that was debilitating them, it is their prescription medications. The side effects are often worse than the ailment! The side effects are the reason that I started to research this topic. I am so tired of living with side effects...ironically enough one of the side effects being I am always tired...lol. I got excited when I found out just how much medical marijuana has helped people and cause no side effects at all! People were functioning way better in their lives on MM. than they ever had on prescription medication.

The way I see it, is how much worse can it be then many of the the medications prescribed by the Dr.? From what I am reading it is much better. Now some may be under the impression that you have to smoke it, which is one of the things that concerned me, but you don't. You can have it in a tea form, or a brownie form, or even through a vaporizer.

The other concern for people may be legal issues. It is not legal everywhere. It is legal where I am from in B.C. and it is legal in Ontario. Finding a Dr. to support it is a challenge, or even getting the courage to ask a Dr. is another complication. In order to get MM. you have to go through some red tape. It might be worth it to get your life back! The other concern is finding safe MM. Once medically allowed you can get MM from people (not on the street) who are licensed to grow it for people that use it medically.

I know this is long so I will add one more thing. There are different components of the plant that help different medical issues and that is something you can look into as well. I am still finding it hard to say but I am realizing that I support the use of medical marijuana. Why should that be so difficult?

I would love to hear opinions and feedback from anyone willing? If there are any of you who use it, I would love to hear from you too. One last note, my husband doesn't support it but will support whatever choice I make, as he knows he has no idea what a seizure feels like and what the medication for it does to me. We agree to disagree.

Until A Thousand Tomorrows...
Carrie
http://www.buckwheat38.blogspot.com/

For more information: (links I have added to Carries article)
Medical Marijuana Learning Centre
Mercola
The SETH Group
Recent Medical Story

Third Times a Charm...Hopefully

2011-06-09T22:59:00.000-04:00

Today was the third time for Faith to have tubes inserted in her ears.

We are hoping they last longer then 6 months this time.

You know you have been in the surgery department 1 time too many when the nurse looks at you and says "you have grown a bit since the last time we saw you".

Yup, they remembered Faith...she is unforgettable, but still...

Entertaining all the patients and their families in the waiting rooms...

Faith made the 5 hour day fly by. Every time someone new came into the waiting area, she made the rounds.

I wish that I could video tape her doing these things...which happen to be some of the things that we are teaching her NOT to do...but how do you stop someone from being so friendly?

Faith would very shyly walk up to the person and sit in the chair next to them. Then she would get up and stand in front of them. Then she would climb in their lap and then proceed to play with their hair:-)

And I would awkwardly step in and apologize for her actions...but the moms in these waiting rooms are so understanding and receptive...and gracious.

Obsessive sorting behaviours come in handy during a long wait:-)

The other thing that kept Faith busy was sorting. This is a behaviour that some people just don't understand...but I have learned that she needs to do it and I am ok with it (it gives me some quiet time!!)

Faith will completely focus on moving papers or books, or whatever really, from one spot to another and then back again. I believe this is one of the autistic tendencies that she has...

That we have made work for us!! In between playing with other peoples hair...she sorted books in one waiting room and papers in the other one. It keeps her quiet and focussed and NOT running through the halls...

I need to always have a bag of papers with us to keep her busy now, I think!!

Popsicle #1, she did much better in recovery this time round...

She was brought into the operating room and I moved to the next waiting room. After about 10 minutes, the doc came out and said it was all good and they would be in to get me soon.

I could hear her crying...all the way from recovery to the waiting room. I knew it was her. It kinda made me sad that I couldn't be in there with her, but I understand there are certain rules they have to follow.

She was in the same little corner that she was in the last time. She tried to climb out of my arms to walk around...crazy!!

The apple juice and crackers helped out a lot and this time she only cried for about 5 minutes and then started chillaxin' again...

She had one of the new white grape popsicles and loved it:-)

She would not let them check or oxygen or blood pressure and she wanted that bracelet off right away...definitely some sensory issues there!!

She would not sit still, and we got out really quick afterwards cause she was wild!!

I got to lay in the bed with her and get rolled into the next recovery room...

She was so eager to get out of the hospital that in this room she let them get all the numbers she needed (with the exception of the blood pressure)...

She got to have one more popsicle and then we headed out for McD's for our lunch treat.

Faith has been through so much, we are hoping these tubes stay in for at least a year and that she won't need them replaced...

Wordless Wednesday - Sprinkler Pads w/linky

2011-06-07T20:08:00.000-04:00

This summer is going to be so much fun!!

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