what jay has to say ...

my birthday love from the twins

2012-02-11T08:33:00.003-08:00

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our weekend in pics

2012-02-11T08:33:00.001-08:00

A visit to Chad's parent's ...

A boy always loves his toys ...

Lexxus enjoyed our random February sunshine ...

Charles is now a soccer Ninja. Welcome to the team little man ...

Baby girl Sidney watching the Super Bowl ...

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i know, i know ... we are wee bit behind the times

2012-02-10T15:55:00.000-08:00

So one day randomly I had mentioned out loud in a group that I had put my name on the wait list at the library for the first season of Glee. I have never seen an episode but really wanted to see what all the hype was about so I was committed to watching the full first season - as long as I didn't have to pay for it! Husband overheard this and said, "I would love to watch that with you!" I was floored. So. Not. His. Thing. But - we are a couple of discs in and it is pure, easy enjoyment for both of us - he laughs even more than I do and we both tap our feet during the singing/dancing numbers. Hope to watch some more this weekend and then bring on season two! Oh wow - we are so cool :) Happy Weekend Friends!

follow me on instagram!

2012-02-09T14:52:00.001-08:00

jaclynvdb

today i am 33

2012-02-09T10:40:00.000-08:00

So Happy Birthday to Me! Today is my 33rd birthday and I think I am one of the last human beings on earth who LOVE celebrating birthdays. I love everything about birthdays and my new thought on them is that I am celebrating another year of life and my wedding anniversary is another year of survival :) It also pays to grow another year older. This morning I enjoyed a FREE Starbucks beverage. Tonight I will enjoy a FREE dinner at Denny's. I will pick up my FREE gift from Sephora this weekend and I am hoping that I was in time to sign up for my $25 gift certificate from the Boathouse for my birthday dinner on Saturday night. Seriously - what isn't good about your birthday??! Feeling so much love today - and feeling so happy and blessed that I feel better today to enjoy it!

Now - the only down side to today is that I am off to renew my license - wish me luck :)

P.S. - Saving a piece of cake for you today Dad. xoxo

how to be tranquil

2012-02-09T10:34:00.000-08:00

I love all the inspiration I get from the Tranquility du Jour blog. They just listed two more "manifestos" to help keep you on track and living a tranquil life on a daily basis. Enjoy the inspiration!

a not so "funny" movie but heart makes up for it!

2012-02-06T10:08:00.000-08:00

Chad and I watched this movie recently and I actually thought it was going to be way worse than it actually was. I am not saying it was great by any stretch of the imagination but there were some funny parts scattered throughout ... not enough for a movie called "Funny People" but it did keep our attention.

I know that I post a lot of "Heart of the City" comic strips on my blog. I just love her. From the moment I read my first strip years ago, she was my hero and favourite. She is so much like me it is ridiculous - and the interaction between her and her mom brings my mom and I to tears with laughter some times - way too familiar territory. Enjoy!

new item for wish list and currently ...

2012-02-02T15:47:00.000-08:00

YES PLEASE!

toms ballet flats

I am almost finished listening to Ellen's audiobook "Seriously ... I'm Kidding" in my car to and from work. I was really looking forward to this when my name came up for it at the library but honestly - I cannot wait for it to be over. Normally I love you Ellen but these three discs are PAINFUL. I am annoyed beyond anything but more annoyed with myself or not just turning it off and suffering until the end. I do that sort of thing - I have an obsession with completion. Candles are good for me that way - they burn until they disappear ... something to nothing. Love it!

recent viewings

2012-01-31T10:40:00.000-08:00

I thought I had already seen "War of the Worlds" when we picked it up for $3.00 at Christmas time but when we watched it the other night, I realized I hadn't. There were way too many cheesy moments for me to full appreciate this movie but the overall concept that aliens have been watching us since the beginning of man-kind kind of shook me to the bones. Tom Cruise was hilarious as the lead role but there was way too much forced acting from Dakota Fanning and the kid who played Tom's son. Typical Steve Spielberg - big noises, big effects and big actors. I have no desire to see it again but I didn't fall asleep through it either :)

A lady that I work with loaned me this movie yesterday so Chad and I watched it last night. It was slow and choppy but had both adorable and sad moments mixed with hilarious jokes and scenes. I rarely cry during movies but there was one part when I teared up a bit - cancer is a tough subject for me and they covered it really well in this film. Chad loved it which isn't always the case so it must have been pretty good :)

oh heart

2012-01-31T10:19:00.001-08:00

tuesday quote

2012-01-31T10:18:00.001-08:00

"To be beautiful means to be yourself. You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself." ~ Thich Nhat Hanh

my new favourite snack

2012-01-30T15:49:00.000-08:00

Try it! So good and I don't even like yogurt usually. My favourite so far is the 0% Pomegranate - all I taste is the fruit!

chobani greek yogurt

my weekend

2012-01-30T10:45:00.000-08:00

I had the most amazing, frustrating, loving and difficult weekend that I have had in a long time. I have been in quite the funk since 2012 started and it is time to get out of it - now. I have to make a choice to be happy in my day-to-day life with what I have and I have to stop trying to change things.

Friday I had a great night catching up with my friend Tara. Dinner and drinks at Milestones followed by manicures at Spa Pure in Langley.

Saturday and Sunday were all about family - which I love. Lunch with Chad's Grandma and lots of time with our nephew Curtis on Saturday. Then Sunday we spent the day looking after our twin niece Sidney and nephew Chance.

There were lots of cuddles and laughs over the weekend but there was a dark shadow hovering not too far above me - I have been picking fights with the hubby, being super defensive and over-analyzing EVERYTHING ... basically I am letting THE EGO get the best of me and this has to stop - NOW.

This was what I found first thing this morning on Facebook - starting to realize that the universe really does give you all the inspiration you need as long as you are looking ...

"Difficult times are the greatest opportunities in disguise.When we face difficult times we have to put in determined work to get ourselvesinto Joy. But let me tell you, when you can get yourself into Joy despite whatis happening around you, your life must change - it's the law! In addition, asyou become Joy in difficult times you are becoming the master of your emotions,the master of your life, and the master of the law of attraction. Difficulttimes are your greatest opportunity to practice yourself into Joy." ~ From TheSecret Scrolls by Rhonda Byrne

P.S. And just because Heart always puts a smile on my face ... have a great Monday friends!

follow me ...

2012-01-30T10:24:00.001-08:00

Pretty excited about Instagram these days. So many fun photos and tidbits to share! Follow my journey here:

does your relationship drive you crazy?

2012-01-27T15:56:00.000-08:00

I found this article incredibly interesting, comforting and inspiring at this present moment in my life. Anyone who is married can always use a bit of a reminder as to why we got married in the first place. With all the Hollywood splits these days (Demi/Ashton, Heidi/Seal, etc.) you might be like me and start questioning "what does it actually take to make a marriage work?" Apparently laughter is a major part of the recipe that works. Read on and be inspired!

friday heart

2012-01-27T14:03:00.001-08:00

new blogs to follow

2012-01-27T11:49:00.000-08:00

Check out these two adorable new blogs I randomly found online today. Definitely must reads!

be present . be here

the curious pug

sick but i still have heart!

2012-01-26T11:40:00.000-08:00

I have been so sick the last two days ... AGAIN! I must be a medical miracle - I cannot believe that I was sick just before Christmas and now another sinus infection/head cold (not sure which) has taken over my body. I slept from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, got up and made dinner (I was starving so it is definitely not the flu) and then went to bed from 7:00 pm and slept through until 7:00 am this morning. I have an event this afternoon until 6:30 pm and all I have the energy to do today is daydream about going back to bed.

These are the days that I praise all the Momma Bears out there - I have zero clue how they take care of their families and themselves at the same time!? Craziness - great job ladies (and the Papa Bears out there too)!

At least Heart keeps me smiling ... and the sun is shining. Small blessings.

instagram - tattoo

2012-01-24T15:06:00.001-08:00

Chad's tattoo to celebrate his dad's side of the family. Love all of his artwork!

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heart always makes my day!

2012-01-24T15:03:00.001-08:00

instagram - our puppy

2012-01-24T13:40:00.001-08:00

My favourite girl!!

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instagram - my work space

2012-01-24T13:39:00.001-08:00

Where I spend my time planning and organizing business events Monday to Friday.

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my latest favourite iphone app

2012-01-24T09:12:00.000-08:00

Do you love Instagram but want to do more with it? Check this out ...

TypoInsta ... Only $1.99 and so worth it!

Also - CLICK HERE for a list of other Instagram Apps! So much to do with one little phone and one little photo! Enjoy!

my inspiration

2012-01-23T16:36:00.001-08:00

Check out the MY INSPIRATION tab on the right hand side of this blog. I have expanded the list of blogs I follow through Google Reader so you can see what inspires me on a daily basis. Tons of great reads - check them out and follow them too!

new blog to follow

2012-01-23T16:31:00.000-08:00

Check out this adorable blog that I just stumbled across on bloglovin' ...

her library adventures

found even more inspiration in my inbox today

2012-01-23T14:15:00.001-08:00

A Secret Scrolls message from Rhonda Byrne
Creator of The Secret and The Power

From The Secret Daily Teachings

If you have a problem with a member of your family who is negative, begin by writing a list of all the things you appreciate about that person. Remember to include gratitude to them for giving you a great desire for positivity in your life; because that is a gift they are giving you. As you focus with all of your strength on appreciation, you will not only reduce your exposure to the negativity, but at the same time you will be attracting positive people into your life.

Get yourself on to the appreciation frequency, and the law of attraction can only surround you with people who are in a positive state.

May the joy be with you,

Rhonda Byrne
The Secret... bringing joy to billions

my focus for 2012

2012-01-23T09:54:00.000-08:00

I am not a religious person but I do feel that as I grow older, I am doing a lot of personal spiritual research and learning. I don't believe in all that is written here but the part that is in bold is something that I MUST learn and put into practice this year.

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

~ Reinhold Niebuhr

my 'just because' flowers

2012-01-23T08:15:00.001-08:00

I am so grateful for Chad - my husband and my best friend. Thanks for lifting my spirits when I need it the most! Xo

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happy birthday grandma bower

2012-01-22T13:30:00.001-08:00

My dad's mom turned 89 on January 21st and we went and wished her a happy birthday today. This year's gifts included lucky bamboo and chocolates.

Grandma Bower is one of my most favourite people in the world. I have memories filled with love, hugs, laughs, knitting, tea, Golden Girls, grilled cheese and chicken noodle soup when I think of her.

She was a huge part of my childhood and I know that I am the woman I am today in part because of her. I inherited her love of taking her of people, her obsession with the written word and her talent for arts and crafts.

Thank you Grandma. Today I honor you for being my role model, my friend and the best hugger in the world. Xo

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go canucks go!

2012-01-21T17:54:00.001-08:00

Canucks beat the Sharks 4 to 3. Started out slow but the boys sure picked it up in the last period!

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chance's first haircut

2012-01-21T17:51:00.001-08:00

What a little prince!

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legerweb

2012-01-20T11:40:00.000-08:00

Are you registered with Legerweb? Another FREE site - you answer surveys and the reward you with cold hard cash --- no joke and no scam.

Click here to register today!

watching and loving

2012-01-20T11:22:00.000-08:00

Our friend Leah suggested that Chad would love the series "Spartacus" so I got it for him for his birthday. I don't think he was super impressed by the gift because he didn't ask for it but we have started watching it and we are most definitely HOOKED. I highly recommend this series ... just get ready for lots of death and sex. Definitely not a family friendly show but adults will love the story line. Happy Friday friends!

superpoints

2012-01-20T10:07:00.000-08:00

Have you signed up for the Superpoints Network yet? You fill out surveys, watch videos and click the "Super Lucky Button" for free stuff! It is fun, easy and kind of addicting :)

Click here to join today with this link! It is just that easy!

rip sarah burke

2012-01-20T09:52:00.000-08:00

"On January 19, 2012, the snow industry lost an icon. SarahBurke, freeskiing pioneer, six-time X Games gold medalist, beloved wife,daughter, aunt and friend passed away. Sarah was truly a legendary athlete, role model and aninspiration. She was everything so many of us aspire to be." ~ Michael Spencer

I have no idea why one of Canada's top athletes would have any medical bills whatsoever left-over after passing away - no matter which country she was training in - but we can help her family. Click here to access the Sarah Burke Fundraiser to help her family deal with the burden of her outstanding medical bills.

via

this sums up my day so far

2012-01-19T11:28:00.000-08:00

via

9 years ago ...

2012-01-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

9 years ago today I lost my father to cancer. I can't believe how time flies ... days melt into weeks, weeks melt into months and then years just become memories. Today I celebrate the man who became my closest confidant as I became a young adult. He was taken from me just when I was getting to know him ... one day I know I will get to continue that relationship and until then I will save a piece of birthday cake for him!

Cheers to health, wealth, love and happiness Gord. You are missed. You are loved. xo

via

loving

2012-01-11T14:09:00.000-08:00

I am loving this "Karma Cleanse" that I saw on a blog in my daily Google Reader scanning. This SCREAMS how I am feeling at this present moment in time!

via

I am loving that it is my time at the library to read Steve Jobs' biography. Now I just have to find over the next two weeks to read it before it is someone else's turn!

currently

2012-01-09T09:21:00.000-08:00

Reading ... I really enjoyed the first two books by Mr. Larsson but they do take me a while to get through so it will be a bit before I get to reading on my new Kobo that I got for Christmas. Having a few glitches with it so that will give me time to fix it without freaking out :) Started reading a "Beginner's Bible" on the weekend too. Not sure my feelings around it but it has always been on my "to do" list so I guess 2012 is the year!

Listening to ... Tara and I decided that our "buddy goal" for 2012 is to LIVE IN THE MOMENT and I think Eckhart Tolle is going to be my buddy to keep me on task with this one! I will be listening to him to and from work so hopefully he will keep me grounded on a daily basis.

Watching ... We are going to start the first season of "Six Feet Under" when I pick it up from the library. I used to watch this show with my mom and it was so good so I am pretty sure Chad will enjoy it. We are Dexter fans afterall :) We watched "Never Let Me Go" last night (well - Chad left half-way through because he was super sized bored) and I think this is one of those movies that is probably an excellent book but it just translated into a long, boring drawn out movie. Too slow. Oh well - that is what the library is for - checking out things you might not if you had to pay for them!

some belated new year's eve love from heart of the city

2012-01-04T16:43:00.000-08:00

celebrating the start of 2012 in big white

2012-01-04T13:18:00.000-08:00

my two favourite ladies

2011-12-23T18:38:00.001-08:00

P.S. And yes ... I realize I look like a Christmas vampire in this photo :)

my favourite christmas photo this year

2011-12-23T18:36:00.001-08:00

25 questions: holiday style

2011-12-15T11:57:00.000-08:00

A big thank you to Julie at Peanut Butter Fingers for this fun idea!

25 Questions: Holiday Style

Eggnog or hot chocolate?
Eggnog with rum please and thank you.

Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree?
One main gift and stocking and nothing is wrapped.

Colored lights on tree/house or white?
Right now we don

Do you hang mistletoe?
No but I saw the most beautiful REAL mistletoe ornament this year that I thought I needed but I couldn't swallow the $30 something price tag.

When do you hang your decorations up?
This year we don't have any decorations because we are living in a construction zone but normally definitely before December.

What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)?
My mom's ham ball.

Favorite holiday memory as a child?
Always Christmas Eve and getting my brand new PJs.

What is on your Christmas wish list?
A Kobo. Pretty, pretty please!

Do you open a gifts on Christmas Eve?
One gift - PJs and a small gift usually.

How do you decorate your Christmas tree?
With lights and random ornaments that bring tons of memories each year.

Snow? Love it or dread it?
Love it for Christmas!

Real tree or fake tree?
Impartial.

Do you remember your favorite gift?
Cabbage patch kids when I was a kid and my Uggs and Lug bag as an adult.

What’s the most important thing about Christmas for you?
Spending time with my family.

What is your favorite holiday dessert?
I am usually too full to get to the dessert table but nanaimo bars are a hands-down favourite.

What is your favorite tradition?
My new favorite tradition is church on Christmas Eve with momma Elaine.

What tops your tree?
Tinkerbell!

Do you prefer giving or receiving?
Giving - 100%!

What is your favorite Christmas song?
All I Want for Christmas is You by Mariah Carey - no joke!

Candy canes, yuck or yum?
Yummy - only once a year!

Favorite Christmas movie?
A Christmas Story.

What do you leave for Santa?
Nothing anymore but watch out Santa when we have kids :)

Do you have a Christmas morning tradition?
Stockings, breakfast, presents, TV and relaxing. Heaven!

Do you prefer to shop on-line or at the mall?
At the mall!

Christmas letter or Christmas card?
Sadly none this year but either works for me!

charles is proud of his canadian roots

2011-12-14T14:24:00.001-08:00

This is my cousin's little guy Charles and they live in California but I know he will grow up knowing he is always welcome to Canada any time he wants to come and visit his Canadian family members!

heart is getting ready for christmas!

2011-12-14T14:23:00.001-08:00

getting into the holiday spirit!

2011-12-14T11:31:00.001-08:00

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where to lexxus?

2011-12-12T13:28:00.001-08:00

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thanks jimmy!

2011-12-12T13:26:00.001-08:00

Jim was super sweet and washed my car yesterday afternoon. This morning I went to get in my car and found the doors frozen solid. Had to climb through my hatchback to start the car and then got myself stuck and locked in until the locks thawed. Is it Friday yet?!

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currently

2011-12-06T11:08:00.001-08:00

Right now I am in the process of listening to this audiobook to help me get into the Christmas spirit (this feels like dejavu as this is not my first Christmas book of the year but without snow, it takes a while for it to sink in for me). This is a cute listen - super predictable but gives you warm fuzzy feelings from the relationships that develop throughout the chapters. I have all of my Christmas shopping done and am "THIS" close to having all of the wrapping done too so I have to do something to keep that Christmas vibe going in my life.

This morning I went to the dentist first thing before work and got an "all good" on my teeth. Love that - have not had any issues with them in FOREVER (touch wood) except for teeth grinding and gum erosion which are both works in progress.

I started using a Bible Study app on my iPhone. This will come as a shock to some but reading the bible (regardless of what I believe) is something I have wanted to do for a long time and what better way then in day-by-day chunks using modern technology? Mind you - I am only at the very beginning and already a bit confused and questioning everything so we will see where this process goes in the New Year.

two of my fave little men

2011-12-05T11:55:00.001-08:00

Jaxon and Peyton's 2011 Photo with Santa Claus!

chance's first hair cut

2011-12-03T20:39:00.001-08:00

What a little prince!

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must remember always

2011-11-30T10:34:00.001-08:00

via

i am SO ready for a break!

2011-11-30T10:11:00.001-08:00

The true reason that I am so totally, completely and 100% ready for my 2 week and 2 day break over the holidays? If someone continues to ask you questions but they really do not care to hear your answers or give you credit for the inspiration they get from your answer - wouldn't you want to run away to? I am at that point where little things are annoying me for no good reason, I am questioning everything and not coming up with any answers that make sense and I am losing the focus that I need to be great at what I do. Bring on 2012 with a clean slate - can't wait to see what the New Year brings! (Unfortunately though, most people don't/won't change so it is up to me to get everything back on track - wish me luck!)

currently

2011-11-29T13:15:00.001-08:00

I am currently listening to this audiobook in my car and it is so good! Can't wait to find out how they catch the real killer.

On a recent visit to Target I saw this movie for $5.00. I have never seen or heard of this before but I cannot wait to watch it soon. I LOVE Cousin Eddie.

Chad and I are currently watching Season 5 of Dexter. Only 3 episodes in and it is so good!

j'adore heart

2011-11-29T13:12:00.003-08:00

wish list addition

2011-11-29T13:12:00.001-08:00

via

always thankful

2011-11-24T10:16:00.001-08:00

via

happy thanksgiving to all my american friends and family

2011-11-24T10:13:00.001-08:00

are you on pinterest?

2011-11-23T09:43:00.001-08:00

If so - join me!

first draft christmas wish list

2011-11-16T11:35:00.001-08:00

My family has been asking me what I want for Christmas and I can honestly say that this year, I would love health and happiness for all that are close to me. I know it sounds sappy but it is the truth. I have felt "a change" this past year and am loving every minute of my marriage, my home, my family, my friends and my career. Life IS good. I drive by a church on my way to work each morning and they have a sign outside that says "The Lord is My Shepherd, I have all that I need" ... this brings me a bit of inner peace every day.

But because I am forced (twist my rubber arm) into name drawing, holiday planning, christmas party inviting, etc. - I have prepared a brief list just in case!

Because I am a dreamer ... an iPad is numero uno on my wish list this year (and probably was last year). I am head over heals in LOVE with my iPhone and can't even imagine what kind of time wasting trouble I could get in to with one of these bad boys. Chad and I are getting a mac sometime next year so this will wait but one day - you will be mine! Count on it!

I have hard AMAZING things about this show so I would love the season DVDs so that Chad and I have a new series to follow. I would also love all the past episodes of Gilmore Girls too - that would be a delight!

Almost out of my bottle of RALPH and need to move on to something new. This smells DIVINE and my fingers are crossed that my amazing hubby comes through on Christmas Day :)

I don't need THESE track pants but I do need some new soccer gear including track pants, shin pads and boots.

I want to build my collection of Christmas movies and we already have Santa Clause 3 so I need 1 and 2 but I had to post number 2 because it is the funniest one. Those reindeer slay me ... get it? Ha ha! I also want It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street and the list goes on but this is a must to add to our shelves this holiday season!

What are you wishing for?

currently

2011-11-15T12:33:00.001-08:00

I'm listening to this audiobook to get me into the holiday spirit. It isn't really working unfortunately but the background music sure is!

I watched this adorable movie with our dog on her birthday. Ha ha - I thought she would like the animal theme. She got bored and went to lie down in bed but I enjoyed it. These little critters crack me up.

Just finished listening to this audiobook and I loved it. Barbara's history is a really interesting story. Anyone who enjoys memoirs like I do should check this out!

If you are following this blog you know that I LOVE the Heart of the City comic strip. This one cracked me up because it made me think of both my mom and my boss at the same time!

Two of my favourite girls - my little cousins Abbey and Ainsley in their soccer informs! My heart melts. The only issue is that Ainsley HATES soccer with a passion. Oh well - you win some, you lose some!

Here are my favourite girls again as Hermione (I'm thinking) and a kitty cat. Or maybe Ainsley is Abbey's cat from Harry Potter? Whatever - they are both Halloween sweethearts in my eyes! xo

recently

2011-11-07T15:40:00.000-08:00

Just finished listening to this audiobook. So simple and predictable but it was like a hot cup of tea on a cold fall day - it just made me feel cozy listening to it on the way to work.

My niece Sidney and her twin bro Chance enjoying the pumpkin patch. These kids are too adorable not too share and they have huge personalities to go along with their cuteness too. Love them!

I don't remember where I got this photo from so I apologize for not giving credit but seriously - if you are ever having a bad day just look at this and I know you will be smiling and enjoying life once again!

Hope you all are having a wonderful start to your week!

i feel you heart

2011-11-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

Except I WANT to get to the point where I feel like running around and dancing and I WANT to go to work. Oh Heart - I was so you when I was 9! :)

i live in my truth

2011-11-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

via

right now

2011-11-02T15:37:00.000-07:00

Keeping close to home today. Sick again with a cold and ear infection. Hopefully I will be better for this year's holiday season if I get all the sickies out of the way now!

Snacking on left-over Halloween mini chocolate bars. Each cold and flu seems to come with a different food craving and this one definitely wants to be fed sweet things. Weird.

Sipping on Mountain Dew. I believe in fluids, fluids and more fluids when I'm sick but right now this is the closest thing we have in the house to Ginger Ale.

Remembering all of the things I have to do at work but that just makes me even more tired and I just want to crawl back in to bed.

Hoping that I feel 100% better tomorrow.

Wishing that I was feeling 100% better right now.

Waiting for this stupid cold to go away! :)

Hating that it hurts to even type this.

Looking forward to the weekend but more importantly to the next few long weekends and Christmas holidays.

Admiring all of the successful events I have organized over the last little while.

Searching for Christmas gifts. I feel like I am already behind!

Pretending we have the money to buy gifts for everyone under the sun.

Taking a break from life today. And maybe tomorrow.

Reading The Girl Who Played with Fire.

Listening to new episodes of Sarah's House on HGTV. Man she is a snob but I do enjoy it. Twisted - I know.

Grateful for my career, home, family, Lexxus, friends and always ... and most of all ... Chad.

Thanks for the template and inspiration Narrating Life! LOVE your blog!

happy halloween

2011-10-31T11:23:00.003-07:00

Wishing you and yours a BOOtiful evening of tricks and treats!

LOVE this

2011-10-31T11:23:00.001-07:00

"The best years of your life are the ones in which you decide your problems are your own. You do not blame them on your mother, the ecology, or the president. You realize that you control your own destiny." ~ Albert Ellis

anytime i'm upset ...

2011-10-28T14:27:00.001-07:00

I'm just going to look at this photo because when I randomly came across it on my Google Reader I literally laughed out loud. Adorable and hilarious!

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oh dean - you make me so happy!

2011-10-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

YES! cannot wait!

2011-10-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

2011-10-21T11:12:00.000-07:00

This weekend is going to be a whirl-wind of activity and craziness. Tomorrow is my major awards event for work so that will keep me busy all day long setting up, getting ready and getting through the evening! Love the planning but sure do love the day after a successful event the most of all :)

Sunday I have a 10 am soccer game and then going to go to Burnaby to visit my Grandma and Aunt Janice who is here from California. Love all the activity but am really needing to schedule in some down time soon. I have another event next Wednesday, one on the 2nd and then our local Municipal All Candidates meetings to get through and then it is time to focus on our new database/website at work. Lots coming down the pipe to keep me busy until the New Year - that is for sure!

Just finished listening to this audiobook and I LOVED IT! Such an easy listen and I love getting into the holiday spirit early but this wasn't really about Christmas. It was about being a good human being, hard work and gratitude. I got to know both of the families in the story really well throughout the chapters and at the end, I just didn't want it to end ... I wanted to go and spend my Christmas with them!

Who doesn't love a little Bradly Cooper in their life? Picked this up at the library last week and although it wasn't the best movie I have seen lately, it definitely held my attention (and kept me awake). What if there was a pill that you could take that would allow you to use 100% of your brain function? Watch this movie and you will find out! Honestly though - I don't think this movie is out of touch with reality. I truly think this already exists and would explain a lot about certain public figures in today's society.

And last but not least - just finished this audiobook too. I don't recommend it at all but every girl needs a little bit of predictable chick lit every now and then ;)

chills, belief and truth

2011-10-20T10:56:00.001-07:00

“You simply will not be the same person two months from nowafter consciously giving thanks each day for the abundance that exists in yourlife. And you will have set in motion an ancient spiritual law: the more youhave and are grateful for, the more will be given you.” ~ Sarah Ban Breathnach

this is going to be amazing!

2011-10-14T09:53:00.001-07:00

feeling good

2011-10-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

Not feeling great but so feeling better than I have been! I have been sick, tired, depressed, anxious and overwhelmed for a while now and it finally kicked my butt on Monday and Tuesday. Was back in to work yesterday and today we have an event which always gets my heart pumping. What can I say? I was born to plan! :)

Just finished reading "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" last night and can't wait to start the second book tonight. Everyone says this book starts out slow but it is a really good read with lots of twists and turns ... once you figure out who's who, it gets good so don't stop - keep reading! Looking forward to the movie coming out. I saw a preview and am not too impressed with the actor selections but will have to wait and see what they do on the big screen.

Found this on Pinterest the other day and I apologize for not noting who it is from but it had to be shared. So, SO true! As always I am thankful and grateful for (in no particular order) - my Chuddy, my friends, my family (especially having three grandmothers alive and well between Chad and I), my job/career, my overall health, Lexxus and our home.

I picked up a bunch of older DVDs at the library that Chad and I have been motoring through (like Chaos Theory, Get Smart, etc. - a lot of dumb ones that make me smile) but Source Code finally was available for me to pick up. Oh Jake - how I love thee but how I did not love this movie. It was okay but I am usually pretty clever when it comes to these things ... was it three layers of reality working when you really thought it was two? If that is the answer - don't tell me because it won't make me like the movie any more or any less. It had Jake in it so I am okay with that :)

I had to miss soccer practice last night because I just didn't have the energy but today the sun is shining and I am craving some exercise. Will have to wait though - gotta get back to the grind and get ready for our event. Just another day in paradise and living the dream :)

love!

2011-10-12T11:51:00.001-07:00

"The best day of your life is the one on which you decide your life is your own. No apologies or excuses. No one to lean on, rely on, or blame. The gift is yours - it is an amazing journey - and you alone are responsible for the quality of it. This is the day your life really begins." ~ Bob Moawad

just finished

2011-10-10T20:06:00.001-07:00

I read 'A Stolen Life' by Jaycee Dugard in just two days. It wasn't the most well written book - written almost in journal form with reflections from her life now after each chapter. I don't have much to say about this book other than - WOW - what a story and the fact that she has come out of it with her head and heart in the right place and moving forward with her life is incredible. She is a true angel and inspiration and I hope she continues putting one foot in front of the other into her bright and peaceful future.

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happy thanksgiving

2011-10-10T19:58:00.001-07:00

To my Canadian friends and family!

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i so needed a heart smile today!

2011-10-06T09:57:00.001-07:00

rip steve jobs

2011-10-06T09:54:00.001-07:00

"The only way to do great work is to love what you do."

~ Steve Jobs, 1955 - 2011

lately ...

2011-10-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

I have been over the top busy with both life and work. I don't usually get myself overwhelmed - just a bit stressed out - but I have been overwhelmed but starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel ... but then I start thinking about the holidays and my heart gets all jumpy again :) Been a bad, bad blogger lately - must get back on track with that as it does help me collect my thoughts and keeps me focused.

We've watched a bunch of movies lately but not one has been 100% awesome - except for 'Dinner for Schmucks' which was way more entertaining than I thought it would. Looking forward to my next batch to become available at the library.

i just can't get enough of her!

2011-10-04T09:53:00.001-07:00

yes! project runway is back

2011-09-13T13:46:00.001-07:00

I am loving my lunch break today. Vegetable beef soup, bread and cheese to eat and episode 1 of season 9 of Project Runway. Oh how I messed Heidi and Tim :)

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catching up and currents

2011-09-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot on my plate lately - both with projects at work and in my persona life so I haven't had much time to write things down. I am keeping a daily journal on my iPhone and loving that process but now I need to take the time to make sure that info gets from there onto here!

Currently we have been watching ...

Heart is still doing her job well making me smile on a daily basis ...

And Charles is still filling my heart up full from Cali ...

Time to get back to work but I do miss it around here. Must be back soon! Happy Monday friends - enjoy your sunny week!

a day late ... but never forgotten

2011-09-12T11:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York. We had our first soccer game at 2 pm in Poco (we tied 3-3 and it was hot as hell out but it was a great game to start the season with) and that took up most of my day but didn't stop me from remembering ...

I was working at the Surrey Food Bank at the time and living at home. My mom was off work that day and came upstairs and woke me up saying that a plane had flown in to the World Trade Center. I didn't really understand the magnitude of what she was trying to tell me because I just thought it was an accident and unfortunately there was a mix-up and a passenger plane got off route and crashed. I grudgingly got up and watched the news with her and very quickly realized that this was an attack and not an accident.

I listened to the news as I drove into work and the information just kept mounting with the Pentagon and White House also being on the attack list. The stories just piled in and we spent a good part of the day avoiding work and listening to the updates.

Everyone's lives changed that day - the world changed that day. It is something we can never forget, something to learn from and something that has left a footprint on each of our heart's who were alive to witness the evil acts. God bless all who were directly involved and thank you to each and every person who acted as a hero that day. You should be celebrated always.

bit the bullet

2011-08-30T12:58:00.001-07:00

Ordered my advance copy of Sons of Anarchy Season 3 yesterday from amazon.ca and I am SO EXCITED FOR IT TO ARRIVE IN THE MAIL!

Yes - I am a bit of a dork - but when it comes to the series that I love, I truly LOVE them!

to do list

2011-08-30T12:45:00.001-07:00

Work is great right now. I love that I get to put my OCD to good use on a daily basis planning events :)

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this weekend

2011-08-29T10:55:00.000-07:00

I had a lovely visit with Grandma Bower. She was looking, feeling and acting way better than the week before so that always makes me happy!

Lots of lazy moments in the sun for Ms. Lexxus and myself!

We set up our new patio furniture just in time for a Sunday afternoon visit from Jim and Mom.

Chad's garden is flourishing and his patio vision is almost complete. Next summer is going to be amazing in our back yard!

Started listening to this audiobook and am enjoying every minute of it - no wonder there was so much hype around this book and movie release!

it's been a while ...

2011-08-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

I don't really have a good excuse for not blogging for a while except for the fact that I have been pretty obsessed with my iPhone the last few weeks ... how lame does that sound? Ha ha!

Life has been great in my neck of the woods - lots of "end of summer" family and friend get togethers, visits with both Grandma B and Grandma D, getting ready for the fall soccer season to start, tons of bike rides and tracking those rides on my iPhone (of course), lots of house renos including painting and window coverings (before and after photos will come one day - promise) and I am REALLY busy at work which I love and wouldn't want it any other way!

I recently finished "Choosing to See" by Mary Beth Chapman. A while back I saw a bunch of posts on Facebook back and forth from people I went to high school with saying that this was a must read book. After ordering the book from the library and digging into the foreword by Mary Beth's husband, I quickly realized and put two and two together that the group of people on Facebook were a very religious group and this book definitely supported that. I am 32 and in the process of figuring out my own belief system - I don't judge or feel one's choice in belief is any better than anyone else's but this book was VERY God centered. I did read the whole thing though and although at some points it was quite preachy, it had such a powerful core message - we can't control anything and it is how we deal with the situations that come our way that is important. An unbelievable true story that I don't wish on anyone - but if tragedy does hit, Mary Beth can help you endure!

I cannot wait for the next season of Dexter to be available at the library. The preview looks so good!

Heart does it again ... she always makes me smile!

I am currently listening to the audiobook of "The Paris Wife" - a fictional take on Earnest Hemingway's first marriage. Anyone who loves literary history and a good human interest story should definitely have a look at this love story!

I am about halfway through "Patriot Hearts" by John Furlong about this (and Vancouver's) road to the 2010 Olympics. Such a huge and amazing time for our city, province and country. This book chronicles the road to the 2010 Olympics - all the ups and downs and curves along the way. It is really bringing back to me the memories of the energy we had as a nation at that time. Can't wait to spend some time

Chad and I just finished watching Season 4 of Burn Notice but in between episodes, we managed to fit in a few movies. Nothing spectacular - actually really glad that all three were free library rentals!

it always amazes me ...

2011-08-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

I am always amazed with what one simple change can do to a room. Chad and I bought this light fixture from Ikea last weekend while on a the hunt for the perfect master bedroom curtains (which we found - yay us). I think the light was about $60 but Chad REALLY wanted it. I could see the allure but couldn't really picture it in the room he wanted to put it in ... the laundry room!?

I had to work late last night so when I got home, Chad and Lexxus were curled up with all the lights out so I moved through the house in silence and darkness. But when I got up this morning, I went into the laundry room and the light was so. much. better. Seriously - the room looks completely different and then angles on the light help light up the mudroom more, etc. - $60 but the room looks brand spanking new. Isn't it amazing what a new detail can do to spiff up a place? Now if only we had a door on this room since there is a toilet in there ... nah, probably not going to happen :)

just finished watching ...

2011-08-10T11:20:00.000-07:00

I have no clue but Chad really wanted to watch the first Nanny McPhee movie so after I saw that one, I had to see the second. He fell asleep through both of them of course :) I liked this one better - not the best children's movie I have seen but some parts were pretty adorable and made me smile!

i am pinning!

2011-08-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

I am now on pinterest! I am new but love this site like I love my iPhone - what the heck was my life like before I found these technological wonders? :) I kid, I kid but ... I am still in love!

You can find me here ... http://pinterest.com/jaclynvdb/

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i bit the bullet

2011-08-08T15:59:00.001-07:00

And got me an iPhone 4!!! I can't even remember what life was like before it came int he mail. LOVE!

currently ...

2011-08-08T15:57:00.000-07:00

I am listening to this audiobook on my iPod and I am absolutely haunted by this mother and child's journey. I won't spoil it for anyone as it is a new release but it is a very unique take on an amazing kidnapping story. I am more than sure you will be hooked!

Chad and I only buy the DVD's of a few series (the others we rent from the library): Breaking Bad, Sons of Anarchy and Burn Notice. I was so excited when our copy of "The Fall of Sam Axe" came in the mail because it was a special treat for Chad who is a huge Bruce Campbell fan. Unfortunately this 90 minute special failed to capture the humour that is Bruce Campbell and Burn Notice. Oh well - we had to get it for the collection anyways :)

I watched this documentary over the weekend while playing with my new phone. I wasn't really concentrating on it too much but some things really jumped out at me. If you are in to learning more about the economies ups and downs, and how the U.S. seems to keep screwing up the world's economy and not just their own - this is a must see!

this put a smile on my face today!

2011-08-03T14:49:00.001-07:00

today's inspiration!

2011-08-02T10:59:00.001-07:00

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peyton's 3rd birthday party!

2011-08-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

Chad and I enjoying all the sunshine and festivities!

Ms. Leanne enjoying her homemade colouring pages!

Only the adults wanted to colour!

Chad concentrating hard on his creation!

Jaxon enjoying the afternoon - wiggling and giggling away!

Birthday boy with his new remote control car.

Make a wish Peyton!

And now he gets to enjoy all the sugar he wants.

Happy 3rd Birthday Peyton! We love you!

our cactus plant

2011-08-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

These photos do not do it justice. I swear - the flowers are so big and bold - florescent pink. They almost glow!

she makes my day every single time!

2011-08-02T09:27:00.001-07:00

bc day long weekend 2011

2011-08-02T09:25:00.000-07:00

Friday ... We were super duper excited for the BC Long Weekend so we celebrated with Gas Station Sushi for dinner! Seriously - I have zero clue as to what the restaurant's name is but it is beside a gas station in Aldergrove and it is hands down the best sushi I have ever had. Then we went and visited Chad's parent's for a bit and home to start Season 4 of Dexter!

Saturday ... We were up and out early and headed across the line to do some shopping. Stayed down in the States for a couple of hours and then headed home so I could have a shower and freshen up because we were heading to Peyton's 3rd Birthday Party! We had a great time - and so did P-Man :) Best part of the day? When he came up to Chad and shook his hand to thank him for our gift. Priceless. Party photos to come!

We couldn't stay too late at the shindig because we had to go pick up Lexxus so it was off to Chad's parent's house where we had a pleasant surprise - Cory and Stacey were home early from their camping trip so we got to spend some time with the twins! After failing to get our poop together and making dinner plans, we headed home to relax - long day but so much fun!

Sunday ... I wasn't feeling too hot Sunday. Went to bed Saturday night early with a killer headache and woke up with an even worse one. Stayed in bed until 10:30 am which is unheard of for me these days! Played on the computer for a bit and finished this book which was a.m.a.z.i.n.g. I love stories about people's lives that intertwine. This one did not disappoint!

Then I started this book and I am only at the very beginning and am laughing my ass off so I can't wait to get into it more!

In the afternoon, my girlfriend Christie from Calgary stopped by for a visit. She was home visiting her family for a few days and I was so glad we could spend a few hours together catching up! I gave her a tour of our house and showed her our wedding album. Then we just gabbed in the back yard. After she left, Chad and I headed back to his parent's house to drop off a trailer that Chad had borrowed the day before. Surprise, surprise, we were just in time for dinner! While Elaine was fixing up a yummy meal, Chad and I went for a quick visit to his brother's house where I got to spend some time with the twins again. Heave for me :) Love those little guys! After dinner we went home and watched some more Dexter.

Monday ... Yesterday was a VERY productive day. Yay - love those! Chad's dad came over to help him lay the first part of concrete for the expanded backyard patio. I made them a huge breakfast to get their energy levels up and then ... left them to it! :) I finished off my "must-put-all-my-photos-on-discs-to-one-day-make-into-photo-books" project which made me very happy as this has been an on-going project for a while now. While doing this I watched the latest episode of Big Brother. Danielle putting Rachel and Brendan up on the block MADE. MY. DAY. After that I ran to the grocery store because Chad's parent's were coming for dinner. Then home to work in the back yard. I prepped three fence panels for painting. Not the best job but always satisfying when it is over :) Then we had an amazing dinner - halibut with this sauce on it. You MUST try this if you like a good sweet and spicy combo! We picked this up at Costco in the States.

After dinner we relaxed with double churned Neapolitan ice cream and watched this classic! What a great long weekend!