Jazzy Christmas

Last week we attended a Jazzy Christmas concert, organized by Cody's piano teacher. The kids were encouraged to play a duet with Christopher Norton and live Christmas music was the perfect setting to get us in the holiday spirit!

Cody was not into practicing in the weeks leading up to the concert. He had been sick and it was a battle to get him to sit down to the piano. So, he told Dianne he didn't want to do a duet.

We arrived at the church and settled into our seats. After a few solo songs, Christopher talked with the audience and asked if there was anyone there that could not play the piano. Devin's hand went up and he was promptly asked if he'd like to learn! He was soon on the stage learning to play Jingle Bells.



I as so impressed! So was Cody! Daddy obviously paved the way for when Christopher asked "Has anyone been learning O Holy Night? Would they like to play it with me?"...Cody's hand went up. I was so proud of him. He didn't really prepare to do this song, but away he went. It was beautiful. It's my favourite Christmas carol and I had tears in my eyes as I listened to him. I'm so very proud of this boy and all of the new challenges and accomplishments he has taken on!

Finding Joy in Disappointment

This past year has been one of accepting what God has given me and adjusting my expectations and dreams. It was the year that I laid down my dream of having a baby and rejoiced in the son that God gave me when Cody came into my life.

Accepting this reality took some time and has had many emotional twists and turns but God is faithful and he provided me with such a great family. I just love our little family of three.

In working through these emotions, I felt God calling me to share my story. I didn't know what that would look like - would it be through this blog? Would it be chatting with someone one-on-one that was struggling with something similar? I just wasn't sure, but I talked to Devin about it one evening. We thought it was amazing that God can take a difficult situation and use it for good.

Several days later, I received an email from our pastor. He was preparing for his sermon series for Advent - Joy To The World. He was looking for people to share their stories about joy and wondered if I would be open to speaking about finding joy in the midst of a difficult circumstance. To speak about my desire to be a mom, meeting Devin, the difficulty of a blended family and the pain of trying unsuccessfully to have biological children.

I couldn't believe the email when I read it. God had definitely been preparing my heart for this moment. In fact, in his request, Nate commented that he knew it was outside my comfort zone and understood if the answer was no. I responded to say that I had felt God calling me to share my story and I knew He was preparing me for this.

Someone at our church has an elaborate studio set up in his garage (Nate affectionately calls it the garage-mahal) and volunteered to put the videos together. I was quite impressed with the multi-camera set up, wireless mic, chroma key background and teleprompter! I felt like I was back at the TV station!

After putting together the elements, he sent me the link. I thought I would share it here as my hope is in sharing I will help someone else that is struggling with similar challenges and to know the joy that God can bring.

This is What Love Looks Like

Adoption Awareness

Did you know November is Adoption Awareness month? What a wonderful thing to celebrate! There are so many children that have much better lives after finding a family to love them and raise them.

After a discussion with Cody the other day, I was reflecting on how things have changed a lot over the years - impacting adoption and prospective adoptive parents. It has become socially acceptable to have a baby without being married and social assistance has made it possible, even appealing, to have children without a real means of supporting them. For this reason, many unsuitable parents choose to raise their child when a few decades ago, they might have given it up.

This may seem like a good thing. But it also means that kids need to be taken out of the home when they are a few years old and have emotional or physical scars. They are then placed with foster families who then deal with issues far beyond what typical families should have to.

I know several foster-to-adopt families and it astounds me the hoops they need to jump through in order to have a foster child live with them. Many have chosen this option after a long struggle with infertility. Sadly, infertile couples cannot simply adopt a child. They must go through this foster-to-adopt process which is tough on the adults AND the kids. They may have several kids come and go before they have the opportunity to actually adopt them into their family forever.

I'm thinking back on that talk with Cody. It started with him, once again, wishing he had a little sister. It breaks my heart because, of course, I would LOVE for him to have a little sister. When I explained that that's not what God has in store for our family, he asked if we could adopt a sister. If only it were that easy!

Once again, it made me grateful for having him in my life and how dear he is to me. To all the adoptive parents out there, thank you for making such a difference and loving those kids.

You Want Lights With That? (Part 2)

This week Devin & I were setting up the Christmas tree in our basement and stringing the lights in preparation to decorate it with Cody. Last year, we had a terrible time with the incandescent lights. They had served me well for most of my years since moving out on my own, so I couldn't complain. But, many of them had burnt out and we decided to pitch them and get new LED lights this year.

So, we strung our new lights on the tree - they looked great! Then we put the tree topper on. Yuck. It had old incandescent lights on it and the faded yellow light they emitted compared to the nice bright white lights on the tree just looked awful.

I looked at Devin and asked if we should get a new tree topper? I was hesitant because this one had particular sentimental value. Three years ago (our FIRST Christmas together) Devin & I decorated my Christmas tree. As we put the star on top I commented that it looked nice in the daylight but since it didn't have any lights on it, it looked strange in the dark with the tree lit up. He quickly asked if I'd like him to add lights and got some tools out of his truck.

I was swooning! Here is this amazing man that is not only capable of doing such a thing, but he's willing to do it with a smile on his face! AND I was marrying him. I was so impressed, I blogged about it here.

Fast forward three years to when we put the topper on the tree this year and my comment about the lights. Just as quickly as last time, he asked if I'd like him to switch out the lights to LEDs? He was eager to do so and within about 20 minutes it was on the tree, looking like it belonged.

The funny thing is, the next day when I looked at my Facebook memories, the original lighting adventure popped up. It was nearly to the DAY. Too funny!

And for the record, I'm just as enamored with this many three years later. In fact, perhaps even more so!

Micro Vacation

This weekend, Devin & I headed to the big city of Toronto for a little getaway. It's amazing how just 30 hours away from home felt like such a vacation!

The inspiration for this getaway was a Facebook ad for Toronto Christmas Market. I thought it looked absolutely lovely - like a Christmas card. So, I suggested it to Devin and he liked the idea. I arranged to go on a weekend when Cody was going to spend time with his biological mom, so we dropped him off and raced to the Go Train station in Burlington. We arrived in time to take the 5:01 train and we were thinking we'd need to take the 5:31 or 6:01 depending on traffic. Sweet!

We hopped on board and settled in for our journey into the city. We are certainly not pros at taking public transportation, so we needed to find our way once we got to Union station, but we were soon taking the subway to our hotel and checking in. We dropped off our bag and were back out in the crisp evening air to go to the market.

It was beautiful! Little white lights everywhere, Christmas music, delicious smells wafting from booths selling delectable treats. I was LOVING it. We were pretty hungry by this time so we stopped for some dinner and a chance to catch our breath and take in our kid-free getaway!

The rest of the evening was spent meandering in and out of shops, buying a few Christmas presents, and taking advantage of the many Instagram-worthy photo ops! A great way to kick off the holiday season.

Our hotel (Bond Place Hotel) was a great little spot - steps from Young/Dundas square. It had been a while since I was in downtown Toronto and I was taken with how much it reminded me of being in New York City with all of the oversized screens and holiday decorations. It was kinda fun to feel like we had gone on a trip but we were really only 2 hours from home!

Saturday was spent wandering the Eaton Centre and admiring the Bay's window displays - reminiscent of the Macy's windows in NYC. We had such a great time together and agreed that taking these micro vacations should be a regular thing. It felt so great to get away and have some downtime to recharge and just spend time together instead of feeling like we need to be working on the unending list of projects at home! And speaking of that list, we were able to squeeze in a stop at Ikea on the way home - supplies for our next project!

And so begins my most favourite time of the year! Welcome Christmas 2018, I've been waiting for you.

Trick or Treat!

Halloween is not my favourite holiday, but it has been fun to come up with family costumes and go out together. Last year we passed on trick-or-treating and attended a party hosted by Cody's babysitter.

This year when discussing costume options, Cody wanted to be Mario and Daddy would be Luigi. I went online and, wouldn't you know, I found a kid's Mario and adult's Luigi costume! I drove to Port Dover on a Saturday afternoon to get them, but I got them.

The logical solution for my costume would be Princess Peach, but I decided to go a bit more creative. I came up with the idea, but Devin executed to perfection!

It was fun to travel around the neighbourhood together and get reactions from other parents :) Now, to overcome the candy coma!

Mum's Lament

I have absolutely loved my transition from single gal to wife and mum. But, one thing I have struggled with is how it has impacted my pre-existing relationships.

Clearly, I have less available time than before. That makes sense! I have two new people that I am committed to investing in. I love spending time with Devin & Cody. However, I struggle with not seeing all of the wonderful people in my life that I used to have time for - coffee, games nights, trivia at MoHo, etc.

I suppose part of the issue is that I moved 45 minutes away from where I used to live. That, alone, causes more scheduling issues than before. It's not as simple as saying "stop by for a coffee after dinner tonight". In addition to that, I wasn't tuned into how consuming parenting can be. After school we are focused on practicing piano, multiplication drills, practicing for spelling tests, memory work and completing an additional reading program to help him where he struggles. If there's time we might play a family game or go for a bike ride.

I love this aspect of my "new" life and wouldn't trade it for the world. But, some days I feel like I'm not living up to my own expectations for my friendships. I feel defeated when I realize whole seasons have passed between seeing a particular friend. Or realizing the last time I saw another friend was when she told me she was pregnant...now she has a new little bundle in her arms.

This is a season. I keep telling myself that. I am savoring the moments I have with Cody because I know one day he will be grown up and moved away and I'll long for the days we practiced the 7 times table! I am blessed beyond measure to have him and Devin in my life. But, sometimes it's good for the soul to let your thoughts flow through your fingertips and express themselves. The conflicted feelings always sort themselves out and I know most of my friends are in the same spot, so they understand.

Confessions of a Mum

Summer was a wonderful frolicking dance - the guidelines were unclear, rules were relaxed and the temperature was right for kicking off your shoes! But, like it always does, it faded away with the routines and schedule of September.

Don't get me wrong. By the last week of August, I was yearning for September. One full month of late bedtimes, no routines and lots of time on the road makes for a pretty cranky little boy and frazzled parents!

My precious boy has amazed me during the month of September. We decided in the spring to switch to Woodstock Christian School which meant a new class, new teacher, new bus, new friends. Lots of changes for a boy that has already adapted to a brand new life. On Labour Day, as we worked to organize his brand new school supplies he said "I wish I could go to school today! I'm so excited!"

The first week we heard about how amazing the new school is. He really is enjoying the new setting and people. But, there are new and greater expectations. Part of it is being in grade four and part of it is the high standard of curriculum at the new school.

We are four weeks into school and he has memorized 2 scripture passages + the books of the Bible. He got 33/39 on his Bible test and is memorizing multiplication tables. He's dissected a worm, applied to be part of a leadership team, is running cross country and raised $60 for the Terry Fox Run.

During the month of September, we have had a great opportunity to do some bonding as Devin has been away 21 days of the month! Cummins sent him to the Arctic for 10 days, he returned for 5 days and then was off on a long-planned moose hunting trip with his dad, my dad, brother and nephew. Of course, it's more challenging to be a "single" parent while having him away but it also has been so rewarding.

We've had the opportunity to spend some great quality time together - focused on academics or piano as well as fun times like a bike ride, geocaching or going out for breakfast. These are the moments I cherish and am so blessed to have him call me Mummy.

Last week, I watched him walk to the bus stop and stand there in his cute little rubber boots. He stood there for a moment until the big yellow bus pulled up. He turned and waved and climbed onboard. My emotions hit me like a tidal wave when he took his seat, pressed his face to the window and waved at me. There I sat, alone in my car, tears streaming down my face. I wasn't prepared for the outburst and not sure what triggered it, but I am so incredibly lucky and grateful to have this kid in my life. I had no idea how amazing it would be to be a mum. I daily thank the Lord for bringing Cody into my life and giving me the opportunity to fulfill the desires of my heart.

TV Family

Last week I had a little extra time on my hands after work so I decided to stop by the TV station. I spent nearly 15 years of my life within the walls of that newsroom and the people became like family.

What a wonderful time I had catching up with old friends. I wasn't sure what faces I would recognize as it's been five years since I left. Fortunately, I knew most of the people that were working that day!

Working in TV was such a unique and rewarding experience. I truly loved my time at the station and the fun I had with the people. We worked as a team - sometimes under tight deadlines and pressures - but how rewarding when we pulled off a successful show. It was a great group of people to work with and have fun with. Countless potlucks, coffee runs, ice cream runs, Dutch Blitz games and even re-watching old bloopers together.

Some poignant and memorable moments happened in that newsroom:

• I found out I was an aunt for the first time
• I watched 9-11 unfold from a "behind the scene" perspective
• A few of my closest coworkers stayed after the late show to await news on my first-time house purchase
• During a 3 minute commercial break, I got a call that Dad had a heart attack. I had to keep it together for the remainder of the show and was surrounded by caring and concerned coworkers when the credits rolled
• I took a call from my sister Connie in the middle of the busy newsroom to discover they had just adopted a baby!
• I found out about the deaths of George Harrison and Ernie Coombs from the wire alerts 
• I excitedly sat through the noon news before picking up my first Beetle - yellow - my dream car! I promptly drove it back to the station for everyone to see since they were still a novelty at the time.

Thanks for the memories! A great chapter in my life and happy to have shared it with such amazing people.

Found Treasure!

While looking through some video files, I found these treasures from January 31, 2015. I had decided to document some of Grammie's memories - for posterity. I'm not sure why it ended - possibly I ran out of battery or something like that.

I really enjoyed watching these - hearing her voice and reliving those memories that she would often share.

Wanted to share them here for my family to enjoy as well.

Black Coffee

Recently, Devin & I completed a Whole 30. "What's that?" you might ask. Well, it's 30 days without eating sugar, dairy, alcohol, grains or legumes but focuses on eating whole foods that are good for you. Protein, veggies & healthy fats.

One of the hardest parts of this challenge was eliminating cream from my coffee. Way back in 2009, I dropped the sugar from my double double but couldn't seem to get rid of the cream. For years, I was a double cream kinda gal.

So, to cut out the cream for 30 days was tough. At first, I was doing bulletproof coffee - coffee that is blended with coconut oil. Surprisingly good! But, not always convenient. I also tried using coconut milk - which was also pretty good, but just not the same. So, I was intermittently going black and using coconut milk, and sometimes bulletproof.

However, I think I've finally made the switch. I'm now drinking black coffee and enjoying it! Especially when it's OJOE coffee!

Celebrating Two Years

Has it really been two years since we joined our lives together? In some ways, it seems like yesterday. In other ways, it feels like we've been a family unit forever!

This year, our anniversary was just after our week away at Top Tech. Since we had just spent five days away from home, we decided to go low key on the big day. Although, it does fall very close to the long weekend so we took off to Uncle Cliff & Aunt Penny's cottage for the May 24 weekend. We had a wonderful and relaxing time with two of our favourite people. We even stopped at The Black Dog for lunch on our way to the cottage. This great little spot in Bayfield was a favourite on our honeymoon, so it was fun to go back with Cody to commemorate our special day.

On May 22, we stopped at the Elm Hurst (conveniently located 10 minutes from our house!) for a quick smooch photo in front of the fountain. I like the idea of getting the same photo each year on our anniversary. Makes for a neat photo journey.

We then headed into London to Forrat's Chocolates. We had received a gift card to do a date night here from our dear friends Peter & Sabrina (as a wedding gift two years ago!). It was high time we used it! What a decadent experience! We had such a nice evening relaxing by the fireplace and indulging in a smooth chocolate fondue.

I truly feel like I won the jackpot when I met Devin. He's more than I ever could've hoped for in a husband; patient, loving, encouraging, hilarious, pulling me outside my comfort zone while being a perfectly matched partner for me. I never quite understood when people said they loved their spouse more each day, but now I get it. I really do fall more in love with this guy each day.

And, the bonus for me is that he came with an added feature - Cody! What an amazing blessing he has been in my life. These two boys turned my world upside down, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

North American Top Tech Finals

All of Devin's hard work and Top Tech challenges culminated with a trip to Indianapolis to compete in the finals. What a week we had as Cummins rolled out the red carpet.

Unfortunately, United Airlines did NOT roll out a red carpet. Or carpet of any kind. We were really disappointed with the service on our way to Indy - arriving at the airport at 8am to discover our flight was delayed which would cause us to miss our connecting flight in Washington. We stood in a huge line with other frustrated passengers as one employee slowly worked through the problems. This was, of course, while three other employees mingled in the self-check in area to help anyone that might have a problem. We were finally rerouted through Chicago and, again, we were delayed. So much so that we had to RUN to catch our connecting flight. We slid into our seats at the absolute back of the airplane, winded and sweaty. Then we sat on the tarmac for 90 minutes. What a day! We finally arrived in Indianapolis with no time to lose as we were headed to the opening reception.

The Cummins HQ building in downtown Indianapolis is new, sleek and modern. It was a beautiful spot to welcome everyone with fantastic food and a peek into what we had in store for the week. The thing that stuck with me during that opening night was when one of the men stated: "There are 3600 Cummins technicians in North America. There are 36 of you here tonight. You are the top 1% of this company." My husband is a 1%er! Who knew?

The next morning, Devin was picked up at the hotel at 6am for his day of testing. The ladies in the group had an easier morning as we left around 9am. They took us to the testing facility so we could get a glimpse at what the techs were up to. Then it was off for lunch and shopping in Little Nashville. It was a cute walkable town, but it was very hot so we were all exhausted by the time they took us back to the hotel!

Wednesday was jam packed with activities for both spouses as our group had completed the testing. We did a walking tour of the downtown - which was filled with interesting historical tidbits. We had lunch at a great restaurant and then headed off for the Rolls Royce museum and Lucas Oil Stadium - where the Colts play. It was a great day but we crisscrossed Indianapolis on foot and we were all tired and sweaty by the end of it! We flopped on the bed in our room when we returned and mindlessly watched a game show on the food network! That night we checked out a great paleo-inspired restaurant for dinner. They started us off with a shot glass of olive oil. It's apparently supposed to help satiate you and curb carbohydrate absorption. (or something like that) Sounded interesting so we gave it a try. Devin ordered veggie lasagna and I had chicken strips and sweet potato fries.

Thursday was probably the coolest day! We went to the Indy 500 track to watch them practice for the big race. Cummins has two suites, so we had to wear lanyards with our passes but had access to free food and drink, AC spot to relax, pit passes, etc. I have no idea about race cars but it was a really cool experience and when will we ever have that opportunity again!?!

Thursday evening was our last of the trip and time for the big reveal! We got fancied up and set off for the reception at Cummins HG. Unfortunately, Devin did not place in the top three but I was super proud of him for making it this far. Apparently the first engine he was tested on was a marine engine - which he's never been trained on or worked on. A disappointing way to start the competition as he was feeling defeated. I know he was disappointed with himself, but it was an incredible accomplishment to make it this far and, as I encouraged him, he will know what to expect for next year!

Mother's Day 2018

Today is Mother's Day and it's with mixed emotions I sit down at my keyboard. 

I am eternally grateful for the wonderful Mum that God gave me. We share a special bond and I so appreciate the relationship we have. She has been a selfless woman, putting the needs of her children first and raising four wonderful kids. (if I do say so myself!)

Her example has been inspirational and I have longed for the day that I could, myself, be called Mum. Many Mother's Days passed by without the slightest prospect of that becoming a reality. There were many tears shed by both Mum and me as she shouldered this burden with me. Many prayers went up by both her and her friends as they prayed that God would grant me the desire of my heart.

And He did. I met Devin and I became a wife and a mummy all at once. It was what I had always hoped for, although presented a bit differently than I had imagined. Cody welcomed me into his life with open arms. At six years old, he had a longing for the attributes that I was longing to give. After just a few short weeks, he told me that he loved me. My heart swelled as I realized the connection we were making.

We have continued to grow in our relationship as we've settled into our new family. Eventually he asked if he could call me Mommy. At first, I hesitated. I said that he has a Mommy and that's not me. I also explained it might be confusing for him to call both me & Melanie "Mommy". He didn't seem to mind and persisted. So, we agreed that I would be called Mummy with a u to differentiate.

As much as I love Cody as though he were my own, my heart longed for the experience of having a baby. Someone that had my DNA, that looked like me, a product of both my husband and myself. After all, it's the way God designed it. 

Devin & I recognized early in our relationship this was important to both of us and knew it was something we would pursue, but time was of the essence. I was 39 years old when we got married and my window of opportunity was slowly closing. After countless appointments, tests and procedures we have not been successful in this endeavour. 

In the beginning, I was optimistic. It was finally my time to become a mum. But, as the months passed, each one a reminder of a lost opportunity, my optimism faded. I gave myself a mental deadline of my 41st birthday. I knew that we were pushing the boundaries of having a healthy baby and honestly, I did not want to be 50 years old and dealing with the same issues we are now going through with Cody. 

I struggled with this decision, as it felt selfish. But, the more I talked to Devin about it, the more at peace I was with the conclusion. As he pointed out, sometimes we need to let go of past dreams in order to embrace new ones. We have the rest of our lives together to enjoy and that means different dreams than I ever allowed myself to dream before.

All of this was brewing in my mind for months, but I dared not say it out loud. If I did, it would be more real. Several months ago, as I tucked Cody in for the night and sang him a song, I felt God say to me he's enough. I pushed that out of my brain. I didn't want to hear that because I wanted what I wanted. It didn't seem fair that a couple like Devin and myself would be denied the opportunity to welcome a new little one. Especially when my eyes are focused on terribly inept parents everywhere I go. Why God, would you allow people like that to become parents and deny me? I pressed on.

Until, one Sunday, our pastor said something that hit me like a ton of bricks. His illustration was comparing his relationship with his 2-year-old daughter with our relationship with Christ. Quinn can tell Daddy that she's hungry and that she wants ice cream for dinner. As her dad, he can give her food so that she is not hungry. But, he knows what is best for her and would not give her ice cream for dinner. God is like that with us. He will give us what we need but not necessarily what we want. Boom. There it was as plain as day. I was asking for ice cream. The tears streamed down my cheeks as I recognized what this meant.

We had decided to try one more round of IUI to ensure we had given our all and would not regret anything in the future. However, when my period finally arrived, I was overwhelmed with emotion. The reality was, I didn’t want to make the call to the clinic. I knew what the treatment made me feel like and I felt I already knew the answer. After several hours of teary conversation, Devin & I decided not to pursue this any further. 

It’s not easy to walk through the baby department at a store or congratulate a friend on their pregnancy. And sometimes I get overwhelmed with all of the things I’ll never do. I will never get the opportunity to give birth. To experience infant – 6 years old. To be a part of a new moms group. To choose a name. To see my eyes looking back at me. 

But God is faithful and has given me the family I desired. I am blessed beyond measure to have found such a wonderful, caring husband and a beautiful little boy to pour into and call my own.

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My Precious Boy

Today is a special day for me & this guy.

Three years ago I met Cody for the first time. I was a little nervous - this was like nothing I had ever done before. What if he didn't like me? What if I didn't like him?

I rang the bell and took a deep breath. Cody spent a few minutes hiding behind Devin, but it didn't take long for him to invite me to see his toys and play with Nerf guns in the back yard. Soon after, he wormed his way right into my heart.

I didn't spend 9 months preparing to meet him. Although, it could be said, I spent my entire life preparing to meet him - without even knowing it. I didn't carry him or deliver him, but he has made me a mummy and has filled an empty spot in my heart.

Being a parent is the hardest job there is. (And being a step parent is even tougher) But, the rewards are also far greater than I ever could have imagined.

Tonight we are going on a family "date" to celebrate this special anniversary. Cody is so excited... and so am I.

Canada's Top Tech

After acing the written test and coming in #2 in the first round of Cummins Top Tech competition, we set off for Montreal last week so Devin could compete with the other 2 technicians that made it into the next round.

We arrived just in time for the Pointe Claire branch reps to take us out for dinner with the other competitors. It was a nice opportunity to get to know the other guys as well as the people that put together the contest. Devin stayed modest and commented that it would be tough competition, but from the first time I had heard about the competition, I felt he was going to win.

The next morning he was picked up at the hotel at 8am. I had no idea how long the competition would be and since we had taken Devin's work truck - I was stuck at the Holiday Inn. There wasn't really much that I could walk to without crossing a 4 lane highway, so I indulged in a day of relaxing by the pool, reading and watching HGTV. I kept looking at the clock and wondering when he would finish and when I would finally know the results. Although I knew he would win, I had to mentally prepare what I would say if he didn't. I had not really considered that before!

It was nearly 6pm when I heard the card in the hotel room door. He walked in and casually asked me how my day was. I quickly responded by asking how HIS day was. He said it was alright and then dropped the bomb. "Well, you're married to Canada's Top Tech!" What!?!?! How exciting. I was so proud of him. He just proved himself to be the top Cummins Tech in all of Canada! And, as a bonus, won $5,000 US. He will now move on to the next round of competition in May. We are both invited to go (expenses paid) to Indiana where Devin will compete against America's Top Tech and Mexico's Top Tech. The competition will be fierce, but the winner will go home with $10,000 US in his pocket!

We went out to celebrate in Montreal that night. A Google search provided a fantastic restaurant called Gibby's. It is in an old stable from the 1600's so the atmosphere is quite unique. The food was exquisite and the service was impeccable. Our waitress Mona took excellent care of us and when we told her that we were celebrating Devin's win, she brought out a cake and took our photo. At the end of the meal, she brought the bill and a small card which had the photo tucked in it as a souvenir. So sweet!

We spent the next two days exploring Montreal: wandering small markets, checking out the biodome, meandering old Montreal and sampling exceptional food along the way. It was such a wonderful and welcome getaway for the two of us.

Diving In

It may seem strange for many people, but I never learned to swim. We lived in the country and driving "into town" to take swimming lessons wasn't a priority when I was growing up. As a result, neither me nor my siblings learned how to swim.

It was always something in the back of my mind that I thought "I should really take some lessons". But, never got around to it. Last summer, Jo-Anne & I were at the beach with our families when the guys took a load of stuff to the vehicles. We were left with the boys on the shoreline. Not a big deal, but the waves were huge that day and they wanted to get in a few more before we had to leave. We were both uncomfortable with them being in the water since neither of us could swim. I think that was the moment I decided I needed to act.

So, a few weeks ago I inquired at our local pool about adult lessons. I signed up and suited up. My instructor is great! By the end of my first lesson I was actually swimming!

I must say, it is quite an unusual and amazing feeling to push off from the edge of the pool and feel my body hovering at the surface. I am now able to swim 15 meters!

I don't expect to compete in any races or achieve any accolades, but conquering my fear of the water and learning to swim at 41 feels pretty good to me.

My Top Tech

I want to take a moment and shamelessly brag about my husband. He deserves it!

In December, Devin & I volunteered through Cummins to pack hampers for the Salvation Army. The gentleman that organized this event is Cummins' trainer. He's the guy that teaches all the techs how to service the different engines. That day, Mike was encouraging the technicians to enter Cummins' Top Tech Challenge. He explained there are three levels to the competition, each with a cash prize. As he pointed out, it can't hurt to try.

I was intrigued. I knew Devin's abilities and thought he had a good chance at winning. Unfortunately, he was in the Arctic when the written test was administered. We thought he would have to pass this year, but they actually gave him the opportunity to write the test when he returned.

Several weeks later, Devin received an invitation to participate in a call regarding the competition. I eagerly awaited his phone call to give me the update. He tried to play it cool and ask me how my day was going, but I knew he had news to share!

Out of 49 participating technicians across Canada, Devin has the TOP score in the written test. The overall mark is made up of this test, plus his manager's review, safety rating, efficiency, etc. So, with that factored in, he was in second place - by a hair! The top score is 92.3 and Devin's score is 91.7. Talk about close!

He has won $500 USD and moves on to the next round of the competition. At the end of the month, we will travel to Montreal where the top three technicians will compete. Should he win that hands-on challenge, he will win $5,000 USD and move on to compete against the top American and top Mexican technicians in Indiana. I may be biased, but I think he has a great chance of winning!

There Goes Rhymin' Simon

Last week, while casually perusing my Facebook feed, I saw a post from Paul Simon announcing his retirement. I don't say I blame him, nor was I surprised. He is, after all, 76 years old! But, I was saddened. In my mind, he is a musical genius.

I first discovered Paul, together with his pal Art Garfunkel, during the days of Columbia House music club. Do you remember that? You would sign up for a ridiculous low cost of $5 or something and get about 10 tapes. Yes....it was in the days of cassette tapes! Then you would purchase a certain amount at regular price over the year. Along the way, there were deals to be had. Each month, I would scan the catalogue to see what might be of interest. Simon & Garfunkel's Greatest Hits seemed like something I would like. They always listed a couple of the songs on the album and I liked "Mrs. Robinson" and "Sound of Silence" so I checked the box. It arrived, I popped it in the deck and I fell in love. The beautiful harmonies and poetic lyrics grabbed me and drew me in.

I soon purchased all of the Simon & Garfunkel albums on CD - yes, I was moving into the future by getting compact discs! Columbia House even featured a special boxed set with rare recordings - which, of course, I snatched up! It wasn't long before I was curious about Paul Simon's solo recordings. I purchased Graceland and was further intrigued. What a diverse talent!

When you're an old soul like I am, sometimes it seems like it might be a dream to get to see some of your favourite artists. As a teenager, my favourites included The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Mamas & Papas and Simon and Garfunkel. Not really the names that were showing up on the newly formed Lollapalooza line up! So, I resigned myself to the fact that I would be content to listen to them on my stereo only.

Imagine the thrill I got when I discovered in 1999 that Paul Simon would be touring with Bob Dylan. I couldn't believe it. I wasn't a big fan of Dylan, but my friend Carrie wanted to see him, so we got tickets to the show in Detroit. I was mesmerized by the eclectic array of instruments and musicians that joined him on stage and the beautiful arrangements that recreated all those old songs! With the exception of suffering through Bob Dylan's unintelligible mumbling, the concert was amazing!

The next year, he released You're the One and I convinced my S&G sidekick Karla to see him at Massey Hall in Toronto. Amy and her new boyfriend (now husband!) Patrick joined us for the incredible show. Massey Hall is one of my favourite places for a concert.

One year later, Paul toured with the legendary Brian Wilson. Well, I just had to go to that show! Once again, Karla & I set off to see him - this time in the 10th row at Molson Amphitheatre. Wow! What a show. My favourite concert. Brian Wilson was pretty sedentary as the opener, but his Beach Boy classics were great to get the crowd on their feet and dancing. Before we knew it, we were leaning on the stage. From our vantage point, we thought we saw Jim Creegan of the Barenaked Ladies. It wasn't out of the question to think it might be him since they are from the GTA. Sure enough, the Ladies were backstage and joined Brian Wilson on stage for a few surfin' classics before singing their very own song called Brian Wilson. It was a wild ride and Paul hadn't even come out on stage!

He did eventually come out and sing a few songs with Brian Wilson before taking over the stage. What a fantastic concert! Outdoor summer concerts have a completely different feel and this one was so amazing! We were movin' and groovin' to classics like Diamonds on the Souls of Her Shoes and Cecilia. At the end of the show, he walked along the edge of the stage and grabbed the hands of everyone standing there. INCLUDING ME! Ya, it was a moment for sure!

By 2003 I felt I had had a good run with Paul Simon. I had got to see him THREE times! And then the announcement came. Simon & Garfunkel would reunite for a tour. NO WAY! Naturally, Karla and I were all over that. We booked our tickets and headed to The Palace of Auburn Hills to see our music heroes. What a beautiful evening filled with our favourite songs. If we closed our eyes, we could picture it was 1981 and we were standing in Central Park :) This reunion was a dream come true for the two of us. I'm so thrilled I was able to see Paul & Art together AND I did with with my very best friend who shares a passion for their music.

After that show, I had an eight year Paul Simon gap. In 2011 I was just finishing up my time at Fanshawe and I heard he would be playing at Massey Hall. I had to go. Favourite artist, favourite venue. By this time Karla was busy having babies so she was out and I couldn't convince anyone else to spend the money on a ticket. So, I did something I've never done before and may never do again. I bought a single ticket. I'm glad I went but, I didn't like the experience. I didn't have anyone to turn to and express my feelings about the song. However, it turned out to be a pretty awesome decision to use my TIFF experience and wait around the exit door after the show. I had heard Massey Hall is a great place to get an autograph, so I gave it a try. Wouldn't you know it, I succeeded! He came out and was very nice to the small group of people that had gathered. When I gave him my photo to sign his comment was "why would you want that picture signed?" I exclaimed "I love that photo!" He did sign it and I gushed about how amazing he was.

I had the privilege of seeing him in 2014 together with Sting. That was a great show. They truly co-headlined - each singing their own hits plus doing some duets with each other. I went with a former coworker who was totally pumped to see Sting - so it worked out for each of us! Although, I must say I prefer his solo shows so I get all Paul all the time. LOL.

And now it's time for me to see him one last time. I was relieved to confirm my tickets for the show in Toronto in June. Devin is going to experience Mr. Simon with me for his first and my last time. They say seven is a lucky number - it will be my 7th time to see him. It will be bittersweet, but I'm grateful for the music, Paul.

A sidenote on the autograph: I clearly lost my head with excitement as I was holding my silver sharpie ready for Paul to sign at any moment. When the time came, he started in the upper left of the photo and the marker was dry. It wouldn't work. I panicked! What a rookie mistake for me to make. Fortunately, the guy beside me quickly handed him his black sharpie and all was well. That is why the ticket is placed so closely to his head. LOL. To cover up the mistake!

We Found Treasure!

Last night, in our quest to unpack and organize our basement, we stumbled upon a box of VHS tapes. Many of these tapes were filled with things that I had recorded from TV - a variety of stuff I thought was cool at the time. But, more precious than that - the ones with personal recordings: birthdays, Christmas, etc.

After Devin had set up the VHS machine, I popped in a tape. It flickered and some familiar faces came into view. It was from my sister Connie's bridal shower. As the camera moved around the room, the ladies introduced themselves and shared a story about Connie. Wow! Look at all those young faces. I progressed my way through the tape (and a couple of others) to witness Jo-Anne's bridal shower, a cute clip of the kids I used to babysit and multiple birthdays. It's funny to see such a similar scene each time we celebrated: Mum at the island, lighting candles on a homemade birthday cake, then carrying it over to the table as we would sing and the celebrated one blowing out the candles.

The thing that struck me about these tapes is that the content which we thought was important at the time (the gift that was being opened or the location of the event) is not at all what I want to see now. I want to see the faces and hear the voices of these beloved people 25+ years later!

As I watched the casual interactions of our family, I was struck by how much things have changed. I loved being transported back in time to when we all (or at least most of us) still lived at home. Mum was busy in the kitchen making dinner. My siblings were coming home from work at different times. (Jo-Anne madly chowing down on her pizza so we could serve the cake!) Dad constantly teasing someone. But, my most favourite part about this slice of life was the music. So many times we ended up in the living room in song. I loved seeing Jo-Anne & Connie pounding out a duet on the piano, only to be overtaken with laughter and couldn't get it just right. Then there was me during my hippy stage - strumming on Dad's guitar to an old folk song or a worship song from church. Then we were back to the piano and Connie was tickling the ivories while John played along on the guitar. And, of course, during all of these sessions, we were all singing along.

What a surprise to see Grammie & Grandad show up at multiple birthday parties. As their faces appeared on the screen, I was overwhelmed with how much I miss them. I could see and hear what they used to be like - in their younger days. Days I remember well, but what a treat to have a video representation to help my memory.

We also watched some of Devin's tapes and I got to see a four year old version of my husband. It was amazing to watch and listen to Cody's twin! Ha ha ha...so many times I said "that's Cody!"

We have many more tapes to make our way through, so we will be taking more trips down Memory Lane. Which is just fine by me - being the nostalgic gal that I am.