Aventure canadienne

Wipe Covers

2011-09-18T16:44:00.003-04:00

Today I made a wipe cover for my friend Jess to replace the one she misplaced. These are fun to do and very simple.

My 1st DIY project

2011-09-17T10:29:00.002-04:00

My mother-in-law bought us this dining room table set which I really liked except the fabric on the chairs. I've been waiting to find the right fabric to redo someday and I finally found it!

Before

Step One:

measure the fabric to fit the cushion

Step Two:

pull fabric up on from the front and the back and staple in place

Step Three:

gather the fabric in the corners so its tight and staple it in place

Step Four:

Secure the cushion back to the chair frame

After

This project was really easy and fun.

A life changer!

2011-09-11T21:54:00.001-04:00

Glad to announce the birth of our daughter:

Emma Beth Morgan Perry

Born: June 21,2011

Time: 1:55am

8lbs 20 inches

Another couple of weeks pass...

2011-05-03T13:05:00.000-04:00

Here are some updated baby perry belly shots!

32 weeks

Some more baby belly photos...seems like thats all the photos I take these days.

2011-04-11T11:28:00.000-04:00

27 weeks

29 weeks

I am now at 30 weeks and 1 day!

I can't believe that I will be meeting my baby in less than 10 weeks.

Its amazing to see and feel my baby do somersaults, many kicks, and of course hiccups.

There is just something about a pregnant womens belly that people like!

2011-03-17T14:36:00.000-04:00

I thought I'd update with some baby Perry belly photos.

Enjoy :)

December 19th-14 weeks

January 3rd-16 weeks (In Florida for The Wesleyan Gathering)

January 24th-19 weeks

February 7th- 21 weeks

February 21st-23 weeks

March 7th-25 weeks

Most recent at 26 weeks and 3 days(March14th)

It is absolutely amazing to watch my belly grow and I can't wait to meet the little one inside of me. :)

Epic Perry

2011-01-28T15:34:00.000-05:00

Would you like a sneak peak at our baby?!

Are you wondering about the title of this blog?!

Here is the explanation:

In the very beginning of the pregnancy I was having dreams about people asking us if we had names picked out. I got a little tired of that question and trying avoid it because we didn't want people to know. So when people would ask I'd say ..."oh, the name will be "Epic!". What people didn't know was that that was the babys name :)

Life in Canada since September 2010

2011-01-20T17:46:00.001-05:00

Once again I can't believe I haven't updated since August!

Maybe one of my New years resolutions should be to become a better blogger. Oh, I don't know maybe not.

Our summer was very full and exciting. September things seem to slow down just a bit but not really a whole lot.

Aaron and I went out to Manitoba the 3rd week of September for his brother Tim's ordination service. This was my first trip to the western part of Canada. It was remarkably flat. I remember looking out the window in the plane and seeing land and lots of it.

Me, Aaron, Tim, Rachel, Hugh, Calvin and Sara

At the end of September I went to Canada's Wonderland with Danielle, Lynn and Cassy. We had a great time and made some wonderful Memories.

One of the most exciting things for us in September was that we got 7 new windows and a front door put into our house.

4 new windows along the front, new Bay Window, and Front door. In the back of the house we replaced to basement windows. They also finished the trim on the outdoor portions of the Kitchen window and Bathroom.

The old ones...

October was a wonderful month. Aaron and I found out that we were going to be parents! We are due in June. I had a really rough 1st trimester, but I'm feeling like I have more energy now that the 2nd trimester is upon us.

For the rest of October we had Canadian Thanksgiving, Ethan had his 5th Birthday. We also got to do a trunk for our Church's trunk or treat. The alternative halloween event.

In September Kate and I put on a baby shower for Stephanie. She was one of the church interns. On October 14th her and Rob had their 1st son Nicohlas Elijah.

November, we were able to go down to NY to celebrate My Mom's birthday and American Thanksgiving. We also went up to Ottawa one friday afternoon and went to The Science and Technology Museum. It was fantastic!

December, what a great Month. Not only is it Christmas time its also my birthday month. Aaron did a fantastic job this year with my Birthday.

I woke up to this...

He made me breakfast, gave me a foot massage, and we got to get our Christmas tree. He took me out to dinner that night after my piano lesson. We went to C & C's Christmas tree farm where we got to cut it down ourselves. This was our 1st REAL christmas tree as married couple and I loved it!

Christmas this year at my parents was different but a lot of fun. We got to spend some real quality time with each other. One morning we did an ugly sweater contest and went to Cracker Barrel and had our waitress be the judge. Heidi won, but didn't actually win a prize. We gave the waitress a gas card for the prize. She was very happy.

We were able to spend a few days with Aaron's parents in Shawville before New years. We rang in the new year with some friends at Church

The first week of January we spent in Jacksonville, Florida at a Wesleyan Conference.

It was nice to see family, I only wish it had been warmer.

Heidi and Luke came up for a visit last weekend and that was really nice. We have a few trips planned in the next couple of months and I'll post photos once I get them.

Here is a pregnancy photo of me. I am 16.5 weeks here.

Well, that's all for now. Have a great 2011 and I'll be back to post more at a later date.

Helping you get caught up since May '10

2010-10-12T13:35:00.000-04:00

Wow, I can not believe I haven't updated my blog since May. A lot of things have been going on since then. Like I normally do I'll help update you with some photos.

To finish the month of May:

Aaron and I celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary on May 17th. We enjoyed a beautiful walk in downtown Brockville and some more beautiful sites in Skaneatles, NY. Skaneatles has become a little tradition for Aaron and I. We stay at a bed and breakfast that have four themed rooms. We have stayed in the "English Estates" and "Old Country Room". We'd love to make it to each room :) The area is just peaceful and beautiful.

We are at the underground railroad way in downtown Brockville.

Across the water is NY. :)

Our awesome bed for two nights!!

We've been doing a lot of little projects around our house that need to be done before winter.
Aaron built a wall along side of our friend Mike. The wall was needed to keep cold air out and the warm air in.

We are getting new Windows and a Door this month so I'll post photos once that happens. This is all very very exciting!

During the last week of May I had the opportunity to babysit an 18 month old girl, Abby whose Mom works at the Christian School. We had a lot of fun going to the local parks and playing outside.

The month of June:
The first weekend in June my cousin Adam got married to a lovely girl Ashley. I thought the ceremony was wonderful and it was great getting to see friends from Word of Life and seeing family.

The 3rd weekend in June we met up with friends from NY to go camping at Kring Point State Park. We brought our friends Brent and Danielle with us and had a wonderful time.

At the end of June Kate Agrell and I went strawberry picking at Tincap Berry Farm. We felt adventerous and picked 14 litres of berries and made jam. It was messy, but a lot of fun.

What a Mess! We learned very quickly that our pot was too small!

Jam is complete. Now ready to go into mason jars.

The month of July:

July was a very busy month. We had Canada day, 4th of July, our summer Vacation to New Brunswick, Zion Hill camp, and a new bible study that started up called Really Bad Girls of the Bible.

Ethan and I at Highland Park for 4th of July Celebration!!!

Heidi and I at Highland park.

Mom and I at Highland.

Aaron and I waiting patiently for the fireworks to start.

I love cotton candy!

My Nephew Ethan loving his light sword!

Vacation: New Brunswick

Aaron and I and Beulah Camp

A part of our trip was an Aaron Perry reality tour.

We ate lunch at one of Paul's friends restuarants. He sold Gluten Free Pizza! It was good.

We stopped by Heidi and Neil's house on our trip home.

On the way home! Aaron and I were tired of being in the car!

The month of August:
Again another busy, busy month. We spent the 2nd week at Roblin Holiness Camp, and I had a nannying job for the remainder of the summer.

Darcy and Joe came home for a visit the first week of August. I was able to go home and spend some wonderful time with them. Darcy made a 5 course meal for us and it was fabulous!

1st course- Traditional Gaspacho

Mixed greens with Lemon Vinegrette, blue cheese crumbles, apples with Candied Pecans.

Course 3- Appitizers: Caprase Skewer, Date stuffed with goat cheese and wrapped in proscuitto, and Watermelon with Balsalmic Vinegar.

Main Course- Pork Tenderloin with Mushroom Risotto and Zucchini

Dessert: Baked Cinnamon peach with vanilla whipped cream and Fresh Blueberries

We went to Falls and had a great day!

Aaron was in his friend Dave's wedding

Dave and Esther

On Wednesday August 25th I became an Canadian Permenant Resident! (Once I get my card I will show you!!)

Thats all for now, more to come...

Happenings...

2010-05-12T14:57:00.000-04:00

The last time I updated was shortly after my trip to California but a lot has happened since then so, I'll try and give you a brief run down.

Moving to Canada has been a big adjustment. From finding a bank to finding new doctors and even friends. God has blessed us both.

For those of you who didn't know I was in a car accident in June 2006 and sustained severe injuries to my back and neck. Since the time of the accident I have been seeking medical care to take action in getting the injuries in a healing state. I had been going regularly to the Chiropractor and massage therapy and things seemed to be coming together nicely. Moving to Canada put a damper on the medical routine and seemed to fall off the priority list. In March I was referred to a chiropractor in town that has been wonderful. Wonderful in the fact that I am now back in my therapy routine. The therapy itself has been a journey and not an easy one. Since there was a time lapse in the medical care I hadn't realized how much I had regressed in my back and neck injuries. (7 month absence did a lot of damage) Now that I am seeing the Chiropractor and Massage therapist I am doing better but in a lot of pain as I need to retrain my back and neck. I have regular appointments weekly and the insurance company I am privately insured with will absorbed a few more treatments and then we are back to having to pay ourselves. I believe that the no-fault accident claim through NYS should cover this and I will be looking into filing a new claim if I need to.

Aaron and I have successfully finished a second round of Crown Financial at Centennial Road. We both believe that this ministry is an important one and will continue to train leaders and participiants in handling our money in a godly way.

In the middle of March my new friend Danielle treated me to a spa day. Here are some photos of that fabulous treatment.

Danielle and I enjoying a nice foot soak and some ice cold water.

The finally product...

Aaron has been teaching through the Book of Mark on Thursday mornings. In attendance each week is anywhere from 15-25 people. God has really given Aaron the gift of teaching. The study of Mark has been wonderful. Aaron would like to continue offering such studies and encourage members of the church and fellow believers to live in a life of spirituality and constant spiritual conversation. It is amazing to see God at work.

Our church did a pretty neat outreach event on March 20th. A group of us gathered at the church around 9am to pass out energy saving lightbulbs to our community as a gift of God's love and invite them to our church Passion Play. The passion play was a lot of work but really fun. It was nice to meet new people and get to know others better. I was a part of the choir and Aaron had a lead role as Marcus. (A centurian Solider). Our performances were April 2 & 3rd 2pm and 7pm. Here are a few pictures...

All of the main actors had to wear stage makeup. It was very strange seeing all the the men as "pretty boys"!

Aaron during the Friday night performance. He did a wonderful job.

In March Aaron celebrated his 29th Birthday. I planned a surprise for him in Ottawa. We went to a hockey game and His cousin Graham was there to surprise him. It was a fun night.

Aaron, Graham and Paul at the Ottawa Sens game. It was amazing my friend Jen helped us get tickets!

The surprises didn't stop at Aaron's birthday. My eldest sister Desirae decided to come home from Denver, CO and surprise my parents. While Desirae was home she and Heidi came up to Canada for a nice visit and brought my mom along. I had no idea my mom was coming up! Then I went home with them and surprised my Dad, Deanna, and Ethan. I then went over to Jessica's house and surprised her and had a nice visit with Jess and Hugh.

Towards the end of April my friend Alicia moved to Vancouver Island. This was sad, we were just getting to know each other. She got a permenant job there, may God bless her in her new job.

On April 24th our church held its very first simulcast. We had Beth Moore speaking on her new book "So long insecurity". The day was wonderful and we had such a great team working together to make the day a big hit. Of course I have some pictures to show...

We provided muffins, cookies and assorment of fruit. Along with Coffee and Tea. This was available through out the entire conference.

God blessed us with 155 women. It was an amazing day.

The boys played a huge role in clean-up. We didn't have to lift any tables or tablecloths!

We had a nice couple of days to recover from this event. May God bless everyone involved.

This past weekend Aaron and I travelled to Toronto for Aaron to present a paper at The University of Toronto. He did an amazing job, I was so proud of him.

We rode the subway and were very excited!

We did have some very sad news this past month and that was April 27th. Aaron's dear friends Jeremy and Wanda lost their 3 1/2 year old son to Cancer. It has been very emotional for us. God has really used Carter to strengthen my faith and look to God went times get tough. But also ask the tough questions when we don't understand why things happen. I know Carter is healed and in Heaven with our Great King! Prasie Jesus for this reassurance. Will you pray with me for continued strength for Carter's parents Jeremy and Wanda as they mourn the loss of their son. I can't imagine what they are dealing with and the emotions they are feeling. God is good even in times of sadness and sorrow.

We are almost current day...

Mothers day was bittersweet. This was the first year I was unable to be with my mom on Mother's day. Altough I had a great time with Aaron's mom and family I still missed mine.

Things are going well with our New house. We have begun a list of things we'd like to do and prioritize them. Its amazing how much space we have and the potenial we have too. God has truely blessed us.

Yesterday was our friend Danielle's birthday so tonight a group of us are going to The Swiss to celebrate.

Til next time...

It's been awhile...

2010-03-17T09:53:00.000-04:00

Since the last blog...

Aaron and I bought a house. We are now living in Lyn, Ontario. Lyn is just outside of Brockville. We only live 3 miles from the church. Great bike riding distance, and hopefully a running distance once we get back into that.

I went to California for a week to visit my dearest friend Betsie. She is doing very well and enjoying life in the west.

I could sit here and write about both topics but I'd rather put photos up because thats what I would rather see.

House photos will come soon...

Snowboarding

2010-02-21T10:49:00.000-05:00

Camp Fortune Ski Resort

February 20, 2010

Entering Quebec.

Me, Corey, Aaron , and Darren riding the ski lift together for the umtenth time. I really liked that the lifts seated 4 people.

Corey, Aaron and Darren on the ski lift (Aaron looks rather scared, this was his first time back to the mountain since he was a sophmore in College. He did a wonderful job, I was so proud!)

The beautiful view from the ski lift.

Aaron and I before we went down the Black Diamond. It scared us both, but we made it down and decided to stick with easier trails.

We had a great time...

Family Day

2010-02-16T11:27:00.000-05:00

Ontario has made Family Day a holiday. Families are encouraged to spend the day together. Aaron and I headed up to Silver Lake in Maberly, ON for some fun with friends.

Skating on the lake...

Log events...

Boiling water competition...

Beautiful things

2010-02-13T19:46:00.000-05:00

This past week I was able to go home and visit two of my favorite people other than my family. We had a wonderful visit and even some great videos of baby Hugh.

When I returned home this is what I found...

Jess gave me this Christmas Cactus a year ago and this is the first time I have seen it like this!!

New findings!

2010-02-03T16:46:00.000-05:00

On Monday Aaron and I headed to Kingston, ON for the Minister and Mates Retreat. We had a great time meeting new people and getting caught up with family.

While we were there we found a Gluten Free Bistro and Bakery called "Silly Yak".

The business started by a father wanting to be able to go out to dinenr with his family and not just order a salad. You see his son and daughter were both diagnoised with celiac disease. They make Breads, pizza dough, and baked goods.

We bought some Honey Brown Rice Bread and some Pizza dough crusts. I'll rate them and let you know.

(not that many people read this blog, but I'll still update)

It is Official!

2010-01-31T17:08:00.000-05:00

Aaron and I have bought a house. Our closing is February 26th!

more skating...

2010-01-26T18:13:00.000-05:00

This is becoming a favourite thing!!

Rideau Canal

2010-01-23T11:31:00.000-05:00

Last night was a lot of fun! We met Paul at his place in Ottawa and then went to The Canal to go ice skating. Like good ole' Canadian boys they had their own skates. I had to rent.

So we walked into the rental trailer and the girls at the counter say "are you returning those?" (looking at Aaron and Paul's skates) I said "no, I'd like to rent a pair!" They said "we are not renting out skates for the rest of the evening, you see we close at 8pm tonight because this section just opened so we are slow". ( At that point I was a little disappointed because we drove 1hour and 15 minutes to experience the Canal) Aaron says "it's just 10 after 7 can we please just rent a pair?", the girls looked at each other and said " well we don't do half hour rentals, you'd have to pay for the hour". Yes, we'd like to. Ok, well we will do it because our boss isn't here right now. But you'd better have them back before 8pm. What did they think we'd steal them...come on!

Anyway, we got the skates and had a good time. We returned the rental trailer about 10 minutes before 8 and the girls say really loud to their boss...."see! we got them back!, the boss says, "well GOOD!.

Oh well...we will most likely return and enjoy it then to. We'd like all our friends from NY to enjoy The Canal.

Christmas 2009 and New Years 2010!!!

2010-01-04T17:20:00.000-05:00

Where do I start? Aaron and I had a wondeful Holiday season! I'll let the photos tell you!!

Aaron and I got to spend some real quality time with the Niece and Nephews...

Movie night!

Aaron and I traveled to NY on Monday December 29 we encountered some bad weather but made it! Mom and Dad (Desirae!) planned a very special secret day for all of us. The quick run down- 8am breakfast at Cracker Barrel, 10am Girls-day at the Spa, Boys-bowling. 2pm Horse drawn wagon ride, 5pm Christmas lighting competition, 7pm Dinner at Little Venice, and to end the evening we all gathered at G & G Bowmans for dessert and fun!

Aaron and I waiting to go on the wagon ride...it was very cold!

Aaron, me, Mom and Dad...Dad was so cold he looks like he died...crazy!

Aaron and I got to meet Darcy's boyfriend Joe. What a genuinly nice boy. We all had a great time getting to know him.

Before Darcy and Joe left we all went to Apple hills for a nice lunch and some sister pictures.

I can't believe how much fun we all had!!

Christmas and New Years!!

2009-12-24T09:09:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!!

Our Christmas plans this year... tonight we have 3 Christmas eve services at Centennial Road (4pm.,6pm.,and 8pm) If the weather is clear this evening we will travel to Shawville. If the weather isn't clear then we are going to spend some time with the Hopkins family and then leaving early Christmas morning for Shawville.

We are in Shawville til Monday. Aaron is preaching on Sunday at his parents church. We are in NY monday evening til January 2nd.

Update!

2009-12-15T10:16:00.001-05:00

Well Clay, Jess, and baby Hugh Himmelberger came to visit me with my sister Heidi. I had no idea that they were coming. It was a total surprise. Unfortenately I only have one photo to prove that they were hear. Well actually maybe two or three. The boys made us breakfast which has been a friend tradition for the last three years. (Heid and I celebrate our birthdays on December 9th and Jess's is on the 10th) The boys like to collaborate. It was awesome. I loved having them here.

We are toasting to our birthdays! (Eggnog & OJ)

Very nice!!! It tasted very good too.

Baby Hugh on his playmat, I was trying to get his adorable smiles...

This past week we've been looking at some houses but haven't found anything yet. We have 2 on this Friday that we are going to see. Maybe something will come out of these.

Yesterday the Olympic torch for Vancouver 2010 came through Brockville, ON. It was such an event. We got some items to help cheer when the runners came in and we got some pretty neat cokes.

Here are some photos from the Olympic Torch:

The Vancouver 2010 Bus. It transports the runners from stop to stop. (When they are not running it of course)

Aaron and I waiting for the torch.

The crowd starting to gather!

The coke Zambonie...they passed out pennents and coke bottles.

Aaron got me a bottle and then I went over after the mob died down a bit.

Coke truck doing the coke cheer...GO Canada GO!!

If you look hard enough you can see the flame. I was trying to get a photo as they passed but they were running and it proved to be a bit difficult.

This is me with Alissa Simpson. She was the torchbearer through Brockville, ON.

It was a really neat experience. I bet I was the only American there!!! ha. I think I fit in just fine. I even know the Athem and sang right along..even in french!!

Christmas Lane information will come later...I am hoping to get some photos up first.

Stay tuned...

Birthday!

2009-12-09T08:01:00.001-05:00

WoW!

The day has already started well. Aaron woke me up with some kisses and sang me happy birthday. Then he told me it was snowing lots! I love snow and really wanted some on my birthday. I hear they are calling for 10-15 centimeters!! (6-9 inches)

I will report back later on how the rest of my day went...

So here is the report from the rest of my day...

Aaron planned a nice "family" dinner with a fellow pastor and his wife. It was very nice. I really enjoyed the family atmosphere because that is what I am used to. I realized that yesterday Heidi and I celebrated our first birthday alone...we've been together for every birthday for the last 25 years!!!

After dinner we went over to Mark and Colleen Earle's house where I was surprised with some more friends and we ate some banana splits. After that Aaron took me to go see The blind side. We were the only ones in the theater. It was an awesome movie!!

To say the least I had a very good evening.

Thank you Aaron!

A trip down memory lane...

2009-12-03T02:40:00.000-05:00

1st photo together! Sept. 04.06

The new dunkin donuts on Reynolds rd. We woke up early. I think we got something for FREE!

We made our very first pumpkin pies together!

Oh! Crazy Davis Days!!

Destroying a building at Davis! If I remember correctly that was pretty fun.

Oh how I loved these boys! I really miss them now!

Ah, friends. God is so good!

Tie sunday at Calvary Community Church

Apple picking is still one of my favorite fall activites

Betsie's graduation...2006

Santa Parade, Brockville, Ontario

2009-11-28T18:32:00.000-05:00

Today was the local holiday parade. Our church entered a float into the parade. The theme was "Christmas Lane". Christmas lane is a big outdoor production that the church puts on each year before Christmas that walks you through the Christmas Story.

Here as some photos from our Float...

A new passion?

2009-11-19T09:17:00.000-05:00

Do you like to hike? I never have really thought about that question. To be honest I don't think it has ever come up in conversation. To answer the question though, I do. I am finding that it is a good time to be with Aaron and talk about the day, the next and our future. During the last couple of days I have been searching the internet to find places to hike. For free that is!! Friends of ours from CRC told us about a wildlife area that has some walking and hiking trails. Below are some photos from Mac Johnson Wildlife Area. If you know of any good places to hike, please pass it on.

Since Nov. 3rd

2009-11-14T11:10:00.000-05:00

Once again I have failed at keeping this blog updated. So here is what we have been up to.
The weekend of Nov.6,7 &8 My parents came up to visit. We had a wonderful visit. While they were here we looked at a few houses. The first was really small and it seemed like and expensive apartment rather than a house. We even got Aaron's parents to come down and look at the house with us. We have not done anything as far as an offer goes, but we might. Who knows, we are very content where we are so there is no rush.

On Tuesday Nov. 10th I started a Beth Moore bible study called Living beyond yourself. A study in the fruit of the spirit. I am looking forward to this study the most because I've never been a part of just a ladies bible study. We've got a group of nine women. Some pastor's wives, staff wives from the church and new friends from church. I do believe that God is going to allow major growth in my life and the other ladies as well.

On Wednesday Nov. 11th I attended "Ladies Night Out". This is an event that Centennial Road has been putting on for years. It is an event to allow women to just have the evening free and to be with other ladies and enjoy singing and a wonderful message. This year the singer was Nancy DeMerchant (which happens to be Aaron's 1st cousin). She has a wonderful voice and truly sings for the Lord. The speaker was a lady from Alberta, Canada named Connie Cavenaugh. She was really funny and I did enjoy her.

Throught out the whole week we've been working on the finalizing of my immigration. It feels so good to have some of this stuff done! I can not imagine when it is all finished.

Yesterday we went to Paul's in Ottawa. It was his birthday so Aaron and I planned a birthday party for him. He had some of his friends come over and we played Cranium WOW and last word. We had a bunch of fun.

So here we are...Saturday Nov. 14th. Aaron is currently working at a work bee and I'm going to clean around the house...

Aaron is preaching tomorrow!!!

God Bless...

A True Blessing!

2009-11-03T16:11:00.000-05:00

God is good, all the time. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends. Even though we are far away God is still good.

Thank you Jess and Clay for giving Aaron and I the opportunity of being Hugh Henry's Godparents. What an amazing chance to pour into a young life and to see Hugh grow and encourage him to be more Christ like.

We love you guys!

Trunk or Treat...

2009-11-03T13:26:00.000-05:00

Our Church(Centennial Road Church) had its first ever Trunk or Treat this past weekend. The turn out was good for both trunks and treaters.

Aaron and I decorated our trunk in Pittsburgh Steeler items...

2009-10-29T12:51:00.000-04:00

We went skating...

learning to skate backwards...

Aaron skating off the rink...

Our friends Cory & Julia...

(Julia is in the white jacket, Cory is on the right side of Julia all in black)

Recently I've been taking photos of our dinners...maybe its because I think they are pretty or that the presentation looks good...

take a look for yourselves...

preparations for a beef stir fry

Red, yellow, green peppers and onions sauted and placed over a nicely grilled pork chop. Oven roasted potatoes, a side of broccoli, and creamed corn. We made a nice orange and spritz up punch.

Aarons favorite season is the fall...we have some beautiful trees just outside our apartment.

can you see our little black friend?

We had a little run in with some Brockville locals...

Last night we got to met our very first Golden doodle...

That is all for now...til next time.

"Open Apartment"

2009-10-24T19:26:00.000-04:00

Aaron and I decided that we'd try and meet some of our neighbours in our apartment building. We made an invitation and hand delivered them to our neighbours. We had some punch and snacks to enjoy will getting to know our new friends.

We had a large vegetable tray to feast on, some chips and salsa (our favorite snack) and some brownie bites with reese's peanut butter cup crumbled on top. Our neighbour across the hall James brought over a plate to join in on the snacks. It was very thoughtful.

Now, here is a photo of a wishbone from our Thanksgiving turkey. What does it mean when this happens?

Its been a while...

2009-10-20T23:13:00.000-04:00

Although its been less than a week since our last blog it feels a bit longer. This is what Aaron and I have been up to since the last blog.

October 15- (Thursday) Normal day around Brockville. I did some volunteering at the church that involved some more raking and some reorganizing of chairs in the Sanctuary. Aaron went to a Sens game with a guy from our church.

October 16-(Friday) Was pretty uneventful, I cleaned the apartment, worked at the church for a bit, then stayed in for the evening with Aaron.

October 17-(Saturday) What a crazy day! Aaron had a Men's Breakfast at 730 am then Christmas Lane work bee at 830am. I had a pampered chef party at 945am, then we left around 10:45am to get to Bristol, Quebec for Uncle Hugh and Aunt Norma's 50th Wedding Anniversary which started at 1:30pm. We both enjoyed seeing cousins, family and friends. We left the party around 4:15 to head back toward Ottawa to go to Paul's Concert. Paul (Aaron's brother) sings in a Mens quartet called The Bridge Builders. He did a wonderful job. His group opened for the Easter's. It was a good concert. We left Ottawa around 10. Stopped for a snack and got home around 12am.

October 18- (Sunday) Church was really good. Pastor Eric started a campaign on Stewardship called "Giving and Growing in Faith". There was also a baby dedication which was very nice. After church Aaron, myself ,Pastor Mike and his wife Kate went to Jannies House for lunch (She is a lady that attends our church). It was a great time of good food and fellowship. In the evening Aaron and I went to Sunday Night Remix. Which is a time for adults to get together and have some fun and eat great food. This week we did some trivia games. (there was an object given and we had to guess the name of the painting that clue went along with.

October 19- (Monday) I volunteer at Vanier and was able to get really involved with the kids. Its really awesome to see how much kids can grow to like someone that they've only known for a few weeks. The kids are calling out my name for help and to show me something. ( I like that!) I helped Ms. Campbell with Math skills evaluations. That involved me sitting down one on one with the kids and asking them to do certain tasks involving numbers and counting. We had a fire drill that day as well. So far I've been able to experience a bus evacuation and a fire drill. I wonder what is next.
Monday evenings are busy for Aaron and I as well. We teach Crown Financial and we just have a superb group. We went a little bit late last night due to great conversation and having to do two weeks in one. (because of Thanksgiving).

Today! Right now I am at the church volunteering. I answer phones from noon til 3pm. Once I am done here I help Pastor Mike get things ready for Kidstuf. Its pretty fun, I get to make sample crafts and organize the activities. Aaron is currently out on a Pastoral visit. Later this evening I go to Cathy Hopkins (Pastor Randy's wife) house for So You Think You Can Dance Canada. We have a good time!

Leaves, Leaves, and more Leaves...

2009-10-14T19:49:00.002-04:00

Today I raked leaves at the church...

My friend Kate brought me coffee...

All done!!

I had a total of 8 bags! Big Bags!!!

Thanksgiving weekend!

2009-10-12T20:08:00.003-04:00

Aaron and I went Apple picking at Hall's Apple Market here in Brockville on Saturday afternoon. We picked 11 lbs and had a lot of fun. After we picked the apples we went to the Hall's Market and bought some apple cider.

We came home and boy were we disappointed! I was pouring Aaron a glass and it smelled like apple cider vinegar. I tasted it and thought gross I've never tasted apple cider this bad!!! I called up the store and asked if it was suppose to taste like fermented apples. She said well because we make it from fresh apples its more tart than other apple cider. I thought this isn't tart its is disgusting. She says, "heat it up and add some brown sugar!" To be honest it was that much better.

With the apples we picked I made an AWESOME apple pie. I am hoping to make some applesauce as well.

Saturday evening Aaron and I watched our friends Kate and Mike's dog, Sherlock.

On Sunday Aaron and I headed to Shawville for thanksgiving weekend. The drive up was just absolutely beautiful.

We stopped in Ottawa to meet up with Paul. We stopped in at Constance Bay to visit some cousins then took the ferry over to Quebec.

Paul's car on the ferry

Aaron and I had a fabulous weekend with family.

Since the Last post...

2009-10-07T17:35:00.000-04:00

Lets see...

Monday 10-4: I spent the morning at Vanier with Ms. Campbell and her class. I am really enjoying volunteering at the school. We read the book "Stone Soup" and did some activities to go along with it. I helped the students spell and sound out words to write in their paper soup bowls.

In the evening Aaron and I taught our Crown Financial Small group. This group is really interesting. Our group consists of parents and their teenage children. Its really awesome to see that these parents learn about finances with their teens.

Tuesday 10-5: Aaron and I had a lunch meeting with a women who leads a small group at the Brockville county Jail. We were both encouraged.

Every Tuesday I volunteer at the church answering phones from 12pm to 3pm. Then from 3pm til about 4pm I volunteer with Kidstuf. I get together the activities that the children will be doing on sunday morning. I do a sample craft if there is one. I've enjoyed this as well.

Tuesday evenings are girl nights at the Hopkins house. We watch So You Think You Can Dance Canada and eat lots of snacks. Aaron had a boys night at our place to watch some hockey.

Wednesday 10-5:
Today I was at Vanier from 9am to 2pm. I had an awesome day working with the kids. We made our "Stone Soup" . The kids helped me peel the vegetables and peeleds the onions. I also finished their turkey crafts. We have been talking about Thanksgiving. Which seems out of place for me since I am used to having Thanksgiving in November. In the afternoon I had to do some math testing. I would call over the kids individually and test them on some of their counting skills and recognizing numbers and there orders.

After school I walked to the Goodwill. One day a week they have 50% off days and today happened to be that day. I found a pair of A.E. Jeans for $5!!! Then I walked over to the mall and walked around for a bit. When I walked outside to walk home it was pouring rain. So my wonderful husband came and picked me up.

Welp, Aaron just walked through the door and its time for dinner.

Our first Visitors!

2009-10-04T17:54:00.001-04:00

Aaron and I were very glad to entertain our first guests to come visit us here in Brockville. Mom, Dad, Heidi, and Luke arrived on Saturday. We enjoyed a fabulous dinner at our apartment and played a game of Sequence. Unfortanetly the boys won both games...

Then Heidi, Mom, and Luke made some homemade salsa and guacamole. It was AWESOME!!!

On Sunday I got up early to make breakfast for the family. Aaron preached and played the drums for worship. He did an amazing job!!! I took the family through the Garden of Hope and faith walk.

After church we went to lunch at Sante Fe's. Then took a walk down to the river. Here are some of my favorite photos.

Mom, Heidi and me in the First Tunnel in Canada.

Library Cards

2009-10-02T16:16:00.000-04:00

Aaron and I took a walk to our public library yesterday to get our library cards!!

Aaron is excited to have the library cards so that he can get inter-loan library books. I am excited to have it because we can loan out 2 DVD's at a time! With all of my free time I am looking forward to watching movies and reading a lot of books.

Finally!

2009-09-30T22:22:00.001-04:00

Today I got to start my volunteering experience at Vanier Public School. I am in Ms. Campbell's grade 2 classroom. Today I observed for the most part, but was able to have hands on experience as well. I am hoping this oppourtunity continues to work out, if so I will be at the school Monday, Wednesday and every other Friday.

Today is International Milk day. So the kids all got a free milk during second lunch. Yes that's right, second lunch. The school runs on what they call a Balanced food schedule. They get a snack at 9am, then they eat half their lunch at 11am. Then at 1:45 they have second lunch.

Today I got to help out Ms. Campbell in the following ways...
> Finish cutting out paper sneakers for the Walk for a cure poster
> Open the kids planners to today's date and check for any parent notes
> Listened to a story on the "bus" (the "bus" is a carpet that the kids sit on for the morning story and announcements).
> Helped the children with there morning activity which was related to the book we read. I got to help kids think of living and non-living things, sounding out and spelling words.
> We also had to practice a bus evacuation. So we all went outside got on a bus and listened to the bus dirver explain how to get out in case of an emergency.
> Gym time! We got to do the Cha-cha slide!!

I really had a good time today!

Aaron had a busy day of morning golf, evening worship practice, and night hockey.

Around Brockville...

2009-09-28T16:03:00.000-04:00

Sundays are becoming very busy days for Aaron and I and yesterday was no exception! We head into church around 8:20am. Our church has two services 9am and 11am.
After church we went to a dinner party at Pastor Mike and his wife Kate's house. ( Mike is the Children's Pastor/Youth Pastor). Kate made Roast beef with onions, garlic and carrots. I made twice baked potatoes and brought a salad.
At 2:30pm we had a Coffee with the Pastor for new members and any members that wanted to know more about Centennial road.
At 3:30pm Aaron and I set out for Shawville, QC. Aaron's Uncle Walter and Aunt Margo and cousin Lynette were in town. So we drove our for a nice family dinner. Then stayed the night in Ottawa at Paul's house.

Today I started the Dr.OZ 4 week challenge for fitness. While I was out for my walk I took some photos of brockville. I thought I'd upload them to give everyone a little glimpse of our new home.

Enjoy!

Premier Fitness

2009-09-26T09:50:00.000-04:00

We are back! We got a coupon in the mail for a 30-free day trial and $100 off a annual gym membership for a local gym. Aaron has been wanting to get back into a routine so this coupon was used right away. We went down to the gym and Aaron signed up and I got two free weeks out of it.

Visiting NY

2009-09-24T20:15:00.000-04:00

Aaron and I headed back to Binghamton for a few days. Aaron had a preaching conference and I got to visit with family and friends.

We left Monday (9-21) around 3pm. Everything at the border went smooth! (it seems to be getting easier). Once we got to my parents my mom had a wonderful dinner planned. My sister Deanna and her husband Dan were there with their adorable son Ethan.

On Tuesday (9-22) Aaron, myself and Heidi all went to visit Jess and Clay around 9am. Baby Hugh was awesome! I fell in love with him the moment I meet him. We stayed for a bit and then Heidi and I left to go run some errands (which include a chiopractor appointment!) which allowed Jess to take a well deserved nap. Then returned to Jess's and got some more baby time in.

Tuesday evening we had a wonderful dinner with my family. Then and went to surprise our small group friends at Luke's bonfire. I think they were all surprised.

Wednesday (9-23) I got my hair cut at Colour!

Then made some amazing Chicken and Steak Fajitas for our Friends lunch with Clay and Jess. I was very sad to leave our best friends and baby Hugh. Aaron and I did get one final photo with baby Hugh Henry (i tired to get Melvin in the photo but he didn't want to :( ).

Aaron and I made it back safely to Canada...the border guy was really nice.

Le premier blog

2009-09-24T14:43:00.000-04:00

On August 12, 2009 Aaron and I moved to Brockville, Ontario, Canada. Aaron is the Pastor of Adult Education at Centennial Road Church in Brockville, ON.

The purpose of our blog "Aventure Candienne" (which is French for Canadian Adventure) is to keep our Family and Friends updated as to what is going on in our lives.

more to follow...