Slightly Off-Center

The End

2011-12-21T12:46:00.000-04:00

"I like to write about the stuff going on in my life as long as it's interesting, but otherwise, I'd rather just read." - Story People

Pretty much sums up how this place came to this ending. Perhaps I will start a new in the new year.
Thanks for all the good times folks!

November!?

2011-11-10T15:59:00.000-04:00

Oh Crap! How did that happen???

weekend

2011-09-12T23:57:00.001-03:00

saturday afternoon

Lunch at a new café in my community

Pavia Gallery
__________________
espresso bar & café

saturday evening

spotted a wedding in the park

saturday night

watched the sun set the sky on fire

sunday morning

headed out of town in search of treasures

sunday afternoon

we walked on the ocean floor

sunday evening
we stopped for gelato and headed for home

I would love to hear about your weekend

♥

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Three doors

2011-09-11T20:50:00.001-03:00

“Everyone is an explorer. How could you possibly live your life looking at a door and not open it?”, a photo by ghettojack on Flickr.

“Everyone is an explorer. How could you possibly live your life looking at a door and not open it?”

{easy like a} Sunday Morning : A Tribute to 9/11

2011-09-09T15:32:00.001-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

Hey you! Yes you! I caught you looking. Are you ready to join in this Sunday?

*This Sunday we are dedicating the photo project to 9/11. Shoot your tribute to 2001 terrorist attack on America.

Here is the scoop:

Wake up
Have your camera handy (doesn't need to be a fancy camera; a point and shoot or even your phone camera will do)
Wait for that perfect moment
Shoot, shoot, shoot away!
Post your Sunday morning shot on your site and tell us about it
Visit my Sunday morning post to add your link (on inlinkz) located at the bottom of this post

That is all that is too it. Read all about it

Here are some photo prompts you might like to try:
Check out Apogee Photo Magazine for 151 things to photograph

If you have any suggestions for this project, I would love to hear them. Just drop me an email or leave suggestions in the comments.

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return. ~ Eden Ahbez, "Nature Boy"

2011-09-07T00:14:00.001-03:00

{Wordless Wednesday}

Check out more Wordless posts here.

Slightly Off-Center: That's why I'm easy {easy like a} Sunday Morning

2011-09-06T11:59:00.001-03:00

Slightly Off-Center: That's why I'm easy {easy like a} Sunday Morning

Not too late to post a photo. Have a peek through your phone/camera for a Sunday shot and link up :)

Ten Things I will not miss about summer

2011-09-06T07:55:00.002-03:00

allergies
humidity
mosquitoes
hurricane season
air conditioning
noisy crotch rockets
busy eateries and pubs
re-runs
sunburns (there is always a spot or two I miss with the sunscreen)
tourists with road rage

Do you have list for Tuesday? Let's here it!

Preface to Autumn

2011-09-05T13:28:00.002-03:00

Photos were taken via my iPhone using the free Instagram App.

Click here to view more photos using Instagram.

Are you as sad as I am that summer has unofficially come to an end? These beautiful September days pass by much too fast don't they? There was a chill in the air as early morning greeted me, but it quickly warmed up as soon as the sun appeared above the horizon. Another September day had begun and we will be treated to another beautiful day.

Driving along the coast Saturday, the warmth of the sun was cooled by the breezes drifting off the ocean . We discovered a new favourite beach and will be returning some day soon, perhaps in the next few weeks.

Last night there was a distinct scent of Autumn in the air. While walking the pup there were a few cicadas who were treating us to a song - we have hardly heard them all summer. I know moments like these are fleeting, as the warm days get shorter, and the cool nights become longer and longer. I like to think that each and every season will bring new hopes, happiness and new adventures.

Happy Monday all!

Ps. You can still add a shot to the Sunday morning project. Click here to do so.

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: passion, intimacy, love, pleasure

2011-09-04T20:40:00.000-03:00

Hoping to see more people link up as the week goes on.

{Click here to read all about the photography project}

Here is my Sunday shot:

Storefront spotted on our Sunday morning city stroll with the dog. Oh my!

How was your Sunday morning? What sights did you spy today?

That's why I'm easy {easy like a} Sunday Morning

2011-09-01T23:40:00.001-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

I am putting this post up a little early this week in hopes that more people will join in this Sunday.
So, are you ready to join in this Sunday?

Here is the scoop:

Wake up
Have your camera handy (doesn't need to be a fancy camera; a point and shoot or even your phone camera will do)
Wait for that perfect moment
Shoot, shoot, shoot away!
Post your Sunday morning shot on your site and tell us about it
Visit my Sunday morning post to add your link (on inlinkz) located at the bottom of this post

That is all that is too it. Read all about it

Here are some photo prompts for this Sunday that you might like to try:

Storefronts
Abstract
Inspired by a song
Breakfast/Brunch

If you have any suggestions for this project, I would love to hear them. Just drop me an email or leave suggestions in the comments.

Bath Time

2011-08-31T19:18:00.000-03:00

{Wordless Wednesday}

Visit other Wordless participants here

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Shadow & Reflection

2011-08-28T20:52:00.001-03:00

Hoping to see more people link up as the week goes on.

{Click here to read all about the photography project}

Here is my Sunday shot:

Wave watching before Irene hits Atlantic Canada.

We are so lucky to live so close to the beach!

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: back up and running

2011-08-27T10:55:00.004-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

Now that I am back to blogging on a more regular basis, I thought I would get the Sunday morning photo project back up and running. I hope you will play along and pass the link on to some friends that you think might like to join in. I am hoping to add a few exciting twists to this project this Fall if more people will join in the fun.

Here are some photo prompts for this Sunday that you might like to try:

Reflections (windows, water, mirror)
The sky between
Shadows
Emotions

If you have any suggestions for this project, I would love to hear them. Just drop me an email or leave suggestions in the comments.

Batten down the hatches...

2011-08-26T14:36:00.004-03:00

...

Open up the earth and sky
Waiting on a natural disaster
Sitting out on my back porch
Watching storm clouds moving faster
Like a natural disaster

~Joel Plaskett

Click here to hear the song
...

Friday Fill Ins

Click here to play along

And...here we go!

1. How in the world did I _become so stagnant this summer_.

2. _Sometimes I can't see the forest for the trees_ in front of me.

3. Life's _lesson for today: A great deal of power lies in the power of perspective. It's all in how look at things_.

4. _I like a little wine with my_ picnic lunch.

5. That was where we _talked about our fears and worries, and I honestly, truly fell in love with him all over again_.

6. _The place where the sand meets the tide_ I think of as "our place".

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _doing some shopping with baby girl_, tomorrow my plans include _a drive to the valley with hubby_ and Sunday, I want to _catch up on some housework and make plans for the quickly approaching Autumn season_!

What are your plans for this weekend?

I am an Instagram addict!

2011-08-25T20:23:00.000-03:00

Simplicity is one of the most beautiful things. As I have mentioned before, I enjoy capturing random moments with whatever camera is close at hand, lately it has been my iPhone.
For a few weeks now I've been using the free iPhone photo app called Instagram. Instagram adds effects and filters to your image that transforms the image into something truly lovely. After you get the desired affect, you may then send it to Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, or you can share your photo by adding it to your Instagram feed.

Do you use Instagram? What do you think?
Please feel free to add me to your network and I will in turn add you back. My user name is "ghettojack".

When the sun shines brightly do you smile and think how lucky you are, or do you worry it will rain?

2011-08-24T13:14:00.000-03:00

{Wordless Wednesday}

Go here to visit other Wordless participants

Beauty at dusk

2011-08-20T21:23:00.003-03:00

This evening I sat on the front steps and stared out into the dimming light letting my eyes adjust to the darkening sky. The coolness of a light breeze brushes over my skin, it feels a little like Fall and the hair on my bare arms rise as a shiver works its way up my back. I watch the bats swoop above my head and catch a glimpse of a couple of doves flying over the treetops.

The utter beauty of this evening enwraps me. I stand there quietly absorbing the beauty of the night that surrounds me, I somehow feel a big part of it, as if its been kind enough to let me in on some of its secrets, and I feel humbled as I stand there in the midsts of it all.

I walk back into my house and hubby smiles at me from the doorway, and I smile back.

Hope your enjoying your weekend,

my latest addiction - Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-17T08:58:00.001-03:00

my latest addiction, a photo by ghettojack on Flickr.

Visit more Wordless participants here

Via Flickr:

1. Untitled, 2. Untitled, 3. Untitled, 4. Untitled, 5. Pond, 6. Summer feet, 7. Another sun filled day,

8. Untitled, 9. Under the sea, 10. Untitled, 11. Untitled, 12. Untitled, 13. Untitled, 14. Untitled,

15. Untitled, 16. Another perfect day!, 17. Like ducks in a pond, 18. Untitled, 19. Untitled,

20. Untitled, 21. Untitled, 22. Untitled, 23. Untitled, 24. Untitled, 25. Untitled

bits & pieces from my weekend

2011-08-15T14:58:00.003-03:00

::walks in the park
::family gathering
::pretty country views
::firework

this weekend was perfectly sunny and warm. weekends like this have been few and far between here. hope you all had a nice weekend and you're having a lovely monday! xoxo.

Meet Mika the Silkshire Terrier

2011-08-12T22:46:00.002-03:00

Bio

Likes:
Walks in the park and being with his family

Pet-Peeves:
Thunder, fireworks, and large crowds (shakes like crazy)

Favorite Toy:
A stuffed puppy

Favorite Food:
The cats food

Favorite Walk:
Mika loves brisk walks in the woods or in the park or anywhere he can socialize with other dogs

Best Tricks:
He walks around on two legs, and can jump really high

Arrival Story:
I had been talking to the family about getting a small dog and naming him Peppa. One evening I was bored and started searching for small dog breads that would best suit our family dynamic. We narrowed the list down to two dogs we loved, one was a Papillon, the other was the Yorkie. I contacted a Papillon breeder first and was told they only sold dogs as "pets" from their litters if the puppy wasn't considered "show" quality; otherwise they only sold dogs to people who would agree to show their dog. I thought... "How totally pretentious!" Next we contacted a Yorkie breeder who wouldn't be expecting a litter until around September. Then my daughter found a Silky-Yorkie breeder near by so we contacted Tammy the breeder, and luckily they had one pup who wasn't spoken for. We didn't want to miss out on this guy so we make the 2 hour drive to see him the next day. Needless to say, all the puppies were sweeties, but our pup was hands down, the most handsome off all in the litter. He was so small and cute and cuddled right up in my daughters lap. She would put him down to pet another pup and the little guy would wander back to my daughter and crawl into her lap and fall asleep. Well, we fell in love with the little guy right then. We had to wait until he was 6 weeks before we could take our little Silkshire boy back with us to his forever home. We kept in touch with Tammy over the next three weeks, and she would send photos of our pup and update us on his progress. Finally we were able to pick our little guy up and we were so excited to bring him home! Total puppy LOVE!!!

Ps. We decided he was more of a Mika then a Peppa.

Motto:
There's our little guy- Mika Muggins!!!

Do you have a bio for your puppy? I would like to read it!

Friday Fill-Ins

2011-08-12T00:06:00.002-03:00

And...here we go!

1. The only question is: white or red wine?

2. If I am left alone, I can get a lot of work done in one day.

3. Three things on my desk: camera, film, sunglasses.

4. Clean the litter box is the one thing I HAVE to do today!

5. I love playing with my little puppy Mika.

6. Burnt popcorn overwhelms the senses.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to heading up the shore with hubby for a late dinner, tomorrow my plans include shampooing my daughters rug and Sunday, I want to attend a picnic at a farm and later in the day my niece Laurens birthday party !

Want to play along? Click the like below.

Road Trip!

2011-08-08T22:33:00.003-03:00

Every year the family picks a destination and we hit the road for an adventure. This past weekend we all met up in Delaps Cove, Nova Scotia. My entire family, kids and girlfriend and boyfriends, my mom and dad, siblings and their families, all enjoy this special time we have together.

....................................................

People I ♥

....................................................

Places to see
....................................................

Things to do
....................................................

at this moment...

2011-07-28T21:27:00.000-03:00

i am sitting on the new stone patio, enjoying my paper lanterns and sweet smell of wild roses. I will be back soon!

Taking a blogging hiatus

2011-06-06T22:29:00.001-03:00

Feeling so uninspired these days.

I'll be back after a little break...

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Looked up

2011-05-29T21:30:00.001-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

Turns out my Sunday morning shot didn't take much looking into the the sky after all. I mean, I started to look up but my eyes were not quite up to the sky before I spotted this...

and much to my surprise...

these were inside.

Beautiful aren't they?

Mrs. Robbin decided the arbor where my mom and dad grow their grapes was the perfect spot to raise her family. I didn't see her when we were there, but my dad says she is a busy lady always looking in at her eggs or sitting in her nest. I wish I could have met her too this morning.

What did looking up into the sky turn up for you?

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Look up to the sky

2011-05-28T07:35:00.005-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

I don't know about where you live, but here in Halifax, Nova Scotia we are having a really gray and rainy May. So much so that I forget what it is like to see the sun shinning and feel warmth from the sun's glow.

How about this Sunday morning, we all look up to the sky for our morning photo?

Taking a little blog hiatus. Please feel free to continue to post your Sunday Morning links on here. I will be leaving this open for the next few weeks.

Kokology: Like A Monkey In A Cage

2011-05-19T15:28:00.005-03:00

Kokology anyone?

*Your first time playing? Read the link below for rules, tips and hints to the game

What is Kokology?

Tips:

Say the first thing that pops into your head
Don’t try to predict answers
Be honest with yourself
Be prepared
Keep an open mind

They say that the eyes are the windows to the soul, and that is true of animal as well as man. When you look into the eyes of a friendly dog, it seems to be begging you to play, while if you stare into the eyes of a cat, it looks back with cool indifference. Animals have feelings and personalities just like humans, and if we would only heed our eyes, we'd see how close our worlds really are.

You are strolling through a zoo, watching the animals in their cages. You stop in front of a single monkey in its cage and your eyes meet. The expression is its eyes seems to be communicating something. What is the monkey trying to tell you?

*You can leave a comment with your answers or keep them to yourself - it's up to you.
Note: Reading this in Google Reader? Answer the questions before you continue to scroll to reveal the key to "Like A Monkey In A Cage"

(Click to reveal key to Like A Monkey In A Cage)

tuesday ten: Alive with Life

2011-05-17T15:14:00.001-03:00

5 AM the forest at the back of my property is alive with bird calls. Sometimes I lay there and imagine I have a rain forest in my back yard.

I wonder how many species of birds are back there?

Robin
Woodpecker
Crow
Mourning Dove
Blue Jay
Chickadee
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Sparrow
Finch
Loon

What bird species are in your backyard?

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Even on a cloudy day

2011-05-15T21:52:00.001-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

A foggy Spring morning on the water

Spring runoff

Fiddleheads make a delicious side dish in early Spring

Apple blossoms are just starting to bloom

Join us on Sundays with your favorite Sunday photo(s).

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: What do you like best about May?

2011-05-14T23:23:00.002-03:00

Share your favorite May photos.
Click here to learn more about the photo project.

Sigh

2011-05-11T15:34:00.000-03:00

I feel like I'm rusting. I think the endless fog and rain outside has seeped into my head making all the gears and pulleys seize up.

I have had a few things to post but haven't been able to assemble anything coherent in weeks. Guess that is what weeks of gray sky, fog and rain will do to a person. But here is a brief rundown:

A prom dress fiasco.
Upset teen.
Brand new ball gown for sale (size 12, pink) if anyone is the market.
My memory is shit.
Puppies are exhausting.

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Mothers Day Morning at the Gardens

2011-05-09T19:58:00.001-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

Wasn't the sunniest of Mother's Days

but it was pretty at the park just the same.

How was your Sunday?

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Happy Mothers Day!

2011-05-07T21:30:00.002-03:00

Wishing all mothers past, present and future a very Happy Mothers Day!
Let us see your best Mothers Day Sunday photos.

Read more about the Sunday Morning Photo Project here.

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Finally May!

2011-04-30T21:23:00.006-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

April Showers bring May flowers

and Mayfly

Sunday mornings are the best! Especially early Spring mornings.

{easy like a} Sunday Morning is a photography project. Click here if you would like to learn more about it.

Friday Fill-Ins

2011-04-28T22:07:00.000-03:00

-Rob Brezsny

Looking for the link to play along?
Just click on the image below.

And...here we go!

1. I love to cuddle with the pup and kitten in bed and listen to the peepers.

2. Can I get a wink and a smile?

3. It's how you know it's always best to trust your guts - you know that feeling you get way down in the pit of stomach?

4. I haven't seen the movie yet; don't tell me!

5. Well, would you please get out and vote on Monday!

6. I have been enjoying the sounds of the season, especially the spring peepers.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to picking up baby girls prom dress from the dress shop, tomorrow my plans include shopping for the perfect shoes, clutch, tiara and other accessories to match her dress and Sunday, I want to pick a rout on the map and head off in that general direction!

Today was...

2011-04-27T13:42:00.000-03:00

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Mika enjoys mornings

2011-04-24T23:22:00.002-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

Mika enjoys Easter morning having a little run in the grass. I had to keep chasing him away from eating dandelion flowers.

How was your Sunday morning. Do you have a photo you would like to share?

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Happy Easter!

2011-04-23T22:18:00.005-03:00

We are celebrating Easter with family doing all the things we enjoying doing on Easter weekend like having an exquisitely baked Easter ham with all the fixing, colouring eggs and hunting for eggs in the back yard.

Hope you are all have the most pleasant weekend too! Now lets see some of those photos of your beautiful Sunday morning.

Read more about {easy like a} Sunday Morning photography project here.

Between wakefulness and sleep I enter a world of shadows, a kaleidoscope of coloursfall from my ceiling

2011-04-22T01:15:00.002-03:00

"Only when I am on the brink of sleep,
with the consciousness that I am so..."

Edgar Allan Poe

When I was really young, like maybe four or five, I can remember being afraid to sleep alone because I believed there were magical gnomes living under my bed. At night they would create their magic and make my bed float up to the ceiling, 'till my nose seemed like it would touch it if I stretched my neck just a little. I never told anyone this that I can remember. Not my siblings, or my mom or dad, not a single soul until now.

In my late 20's, early 30's I would sometimes experience sleep paralysis. These things are pretty darn creepy. It's sort of like dreaming while you are awake. I would wake up and see something in the corner of the room, it looked like the plaster was peeling on the walls and someone was peeping in at me. I would get a feeling of urgency that I had to get up and turn on the light, but I couldn't move. I felt totally paralyzed. I finally got up the courage to ask my family doctor about it and she explained it something like this: On the edge of your REM sleep your brain activity is greatly increased and you eye movement and breathing becomes erratic. It is in your rem sleep that you dream, so in order to keep you from flailing around while you dream your muscles become paralyzed. And if you wake up going into a REM sleep, you can be paralyzed and have dreams while you are in a semi-awake state. This is called a hypnagogic hallucinations.
"So I'm not going insane after all!" - sigh of relief!
I was certain my doc. would be ready to call the men in the white coats to come and take me away for sure.

Lately, the past six weeks or so, I have been having hypnagogic hallucinations again, only I have been seeing shadows of people, lights that fade across my walls, and a kaleidoscope of tiny coloured lights that bounce around my room like a multi coloured light hitting a disco ball. Although I know there is nothing to fear, I always come out of it with my heart beating like a jack hammer. Needless to say I am sleep deprived, on edge and quite cranky in the mornings. I am about to ask my doctor for something to make this go away.

There! I really needed to vent tonight.
Thanks for listening,

9 + 1 = tuesday ten: Cameras In My Collection

2011-04-19T00:12:00.001-03:00

Fuji fine pix
Holga
Kodak Brownie
Kodak Starmite
Polaroid 215 Land Camera
Polaroid SX70
Ricohflex VI
Voigtlander Brilliant
SMENA SYMBOL
(+1 I don't have yet...)The Polaroid Macro Camera

1.016_15, 2. smena, 3. I imagine the people who lived here, 4. Tower & Lion,

5. Instant Gratification, 6. Ode to Summer, 7. Holga, 8. Halifax Finest,

9. Blomidon Look-off, 10. Bored As Hell

Do you have some favourite cameras you like to use? Maybe something vintage you take off the shelf, dust off and fall in love with it all over again?

So Sick!

2011-04-18T16:38:00.000-03:00

I wanted to post new puppy photos but Norwalk Virus has hit us pretty hard here, so they will have to wait 'till I'm feeling better.

Hope you are a well and remember to keep washing those hands, sanitize and stay away from hospitals or anyone with flu symptoms. This is one particularly nasty virus!

Kokology -- Oodles Of Doodles

2011-04-14T00:22:00.000-03:00

WoooHooo, puppy day & Kokology Thursday. That's right folks, today is the day we get to bring little Mika the Silky-Yorkie home. We are so excited here, we can hardly contain ourselves. I think I bought every toy in the pet store yesterday. Hope he loves us as much as we love him!

Now, who's up for a game of Kokology today?

*Your first time playing? Read the like below for rules, tips and hints to the game

What is Kokology?

Tips:

Say the first thing that pops into your head
Don’t try to predict answers
Be honest with yourself
Be prepared
Keep an open mind

Oodles Of Doodles:
Schoolchildren understand that page margins were made for doodling. It's almost sinful to let all the empty white space in a notebook go to waste. Scribbles, squiggles, googly-eyed faces, and hearts with arrows quickly grow and multiply, crowding into the writing space mid page. give a child a notebook , a pencil, and sufficient time (say, the length of a history lesson), and that boundless imagination spills forth onto page after page. We're taught that doodling is a bad habit, and the notebooks we keep as adults are neater (if duller) for it. but wouldn't it be a little sad to see a student whose notebooks were filled with page after page after page of neatly printed notes and flanked by clean margins on both sides?

Imagine you are a child, doodling happily away. You have begun to draw a picture of a bear. Which of the following looks most like your art?

1. A bear snoozing away contentedly.
2. A bear with its arms raised in a frightened pose.
3. A mother bear leading her cub.
4. A cute bear, like a stuffed toy.

*You can leave a comment with your answers or keep them to yourself - it's up to you.
Note: Reading this in Google Reader? Answer the questions before you continue to scroll to reveal the key to "Oodles Of Doodles"

♥Click to reveal key to Oodles Of Doodles♥

Teen Burgers 2 FOR 6 {Wordless Wednesday}

2011-04-13T00:00:00.003-03:00

{photographed with a Holga 35mm}

Visit more WW participants here.

Reading Rob Breznsy's...

2011-04-11T19:32:00.001-03:00

PRONOIA Is the Antidote for Paranoia: How the Whole World Is Conspiring to Shower You with Blessings

A thousand years from today, everyone you know will be long dead and forgotten. There’ll be nothing left of the life you love, no evidence that you ever walked this planet. That, at least, is what the fundamentalist materialists would have you believe. But suppose the truth is very different? What if in fact every little thing you do subtly alters the course of world history? What if your day-to-day decisions will actually help determine how the human species navigates its way through the epic turning point we’re living through? And finally, what if you will be alive in a thousand years, reincarnated into a fresh body and in possession of the memories of the person you were back in this era? These are my hypotheses. These are my prophecies. Which is why I say: Live as if your soul is eternal.

— Rob Brezsny

At Last There Is Nothing Left to Say -(The Ditches On A Long Road Home)

You will be dead much longer than you will be alive. This is the truth of things. Better get used to the idea. The lives of men and women, cats and dogs, birds and fish are merely hiccups in an endlessness that will never be fully realized. You are here now and will be gone in some years, months, perhaps even days or hours. The execution of this plan will never change, despite the fact that you will do your best to convince yourself otherwise.You merely feed off the scraps of words and wares consolidated by those that came before you. You are a thing void of structural integrity. Like anything built or born, you will eventually succumb to either the weight of the world or the weight of walking it. This is the only thing you ever need come to terms with. That eventually you will be lost. They will lose you. You will be forgotten and never heard from again. And no one will ever know the story that was your life.

— Mathew Good

Just gave me something to ponder today and probably tomorrow, and possibly for the rest of the week.
What are you reading right now? Is it something that has totally enraptured you?

{easy like a}Sunday Morning

2011-04-10T07:37:00.001-03:00

Welcome to the second installment of {easy like a}Sunday Morning.

I'm up and off early this morning to try to catch a beautiful shot of my Sunday morning. I'll be back in a bit to post my Sunday morning shot. I look forward to seeing all your photos. Possibly the beauty of nature, maybe the simplicity of family, or what ever makes you most comfortable on a Sunday morning.

For those just joining us and want to know more, click on the link in my menu bar or Read More →

Oh, and don't forget to stop by others who are participating this Sunday. You just never know who will inspire you!

Up before the dawn

2011-04-10T06:55:00.002-03:00

{click here to read all about this photo project}

This morning was absolutely gorgeous. The air was cool from the spring frost, but the sunrise just peeking above the horizon was slowly warming me all over.

There is nothing quite like breathing in the ocean air just before a sunrise.

Apr 10, 2011 6:40 AM

Then off the McD's for an egg mcmuffin and a hot cup of tea

{note the sun in my rear view mirror}

How is your Sunday going so far? Anything happening you would like to share on {easy like a}Sunday Morning project? Click here to link up.

Tuesday ten: Photographic Inspiration (Choose a Theme)

2011-04-05T06:52:00.003-03:00

A photo can speak a thousand words and can even tell a really great story. Don't you think?
Yesterday while looking through the photos submitted for the {easy like a}Sunday Morning photography project, I noticed Lee from The Linar Studio made a list of shots she is looking forward to taking this Spring/Summer - I love how she gets into a project! Her list has inspired me into making my own list...

Themes I would like to shoot this Spring / Summer:

Alter Ego
Hello Neighbor
Spontaneous portraits
Catch it before it's gone
What image represents your faith?
Zen (Simple, elegant, sparse)
Photos of people taking photos
Begins with the letter...
Silhouettes
Rusty/Crusty

Got a list for Tuesday Ten? Let's hear it!

When dreams are nice I sleep well

2011-04-04T05:26:00.012-03:00

I had a dream last night that I could fly. I sprouted hug wings from my back and spread them open like a beautiful butterfly. I started off really slow at first, low to the ground then I gradually got braver and braver. I flew to great heights, above all trees, higher than the tallest buildings. Up, up above the clouds - it's cold up there you know? I flew over the ocean. To all my favourite places in the city. Then I got tired and flew back home and crawled into my bed, slept deeply and sound for the rest of the night.

Where did your dreams take you last night?

Ps. Don't forget to check out the new photo project I started; {easy like a} Sunday Morning. If you have a photo shot from Sunday and would like to link up, click here and I will take you to where you can do so.

Happy Monday♥

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Come join me on a new adventure

2011-04-03T00:00:00.046-03:00

So here we are. The first installment of (easy like a) Sunday Morning. I thought I would be up with the birds today looking for that perfect Sunday morning moment to shoot, but no such luck. I'm in bed with a grouchy bug that has decided to invade my body (seems it's been going around these parts). I did manage to click a not-so-glamorous photo of my stripped down bed waiting for clean sheets. Hopefully next week I will have something fun and exciting like a sunrise, blooming flowers, or a deer grazing in a nearby field.

For those just joining us and want to know more, click on the link in my menu bar or Read More →

I am so ready to get on with Spring and start a new project.
Hope your Sunday is a special one!

Fun!Fun!Fun!

2011-04-01T21:32:00.003-03:00

Hello there. I have something fun to share with you today. Over the past few months I have had an idea for a project rolling around in my head that just might interest you. I have been patiently awaiting the exact right moment to implement my new idea, and now is the right time. Yay!

There’s something about a Sunday morning isn't there? Waking up at the crack of dawn, sleeping in late, early morning breakfast or late morning brunch, church, worship, meditation, market visits, or just a leisurely Stroll down a cobblestone alley... Sunday moments that make you feel like you have nothing but time.

So here is my idea. What if we were to capture our favourite Sunday morning moment(s) each and every Sunday so we can share it with everyone who visits our site?

easy like a Sunday morning: Is a photography project for everyone who wish to share their Sunday moments with their readers. Anyone can participate, you do not have to be a professional photographer, you just have a camera and an eye for capturing a moment. So what do you think... want to play along?

Here is the scoop:
+ Wake up
+ Have your camera handy (doesn't need to be a fancy camera; a point and shoot or even your phone camera will do)
+ Wait for that perfect moment
+ And shoot, shoot, shoot away!
+ Post your Sunday morning shot on your site and tell us about it
+ Visit my Sunday morning post to add your link (on inlinkz) located at the bottom of my post

Simple. Right?

Thanks everyone, I am hoping you will participate by sharing your Sunday mornings with us all, it is going to be a lot of photography fun this Spring/Summer. See you on Sunday!

Grab the button:

<div align="left"><a href="http://www.slightlyoff-center.com/search/label/%28Easy%20Like%20a%29%20Sunday%20Morning" title="Slightly Off-Center"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/epq9md.png" alt="Slightly Off-Center" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

<div align="left"><a href="http://www.slightlyoff-center.com/search/label/%28Easy%20Like%20a%29%20Sunday%20Morning" title="Slightly Off-Center"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/1zp5yfm.png" alt="Slightly Off-Center" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

Happy Anniversary to my Mom & Dad Today! and Friday at last!

2011-04-01T04:15:00.001-03:00

My handsome dad and beautiful mom on their wedding day 44 years ago today.

Now on to the Friday Fill-Ins
Come give it a try! Click on the link below.

And...here we go!

1. I can't believe _ it is snowing today on April 1st_.

2. _Drinks_ for everyone.

3. How can I _find my piece of mind?_

4. _BBQ chicken pizza_ was the last thing I cooked.

5. "Six of one _Half a Dozen of the Other", and "The Road To Hell Is Paved With Good Intentions" - Two of my favourite Idioms_.

6. _YesYesYes_; nonono!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _hanging out with the girl doing therapeutic things_, tomorrow my plans include _grocery shopping, errands, etc._ and Sunday, I want to _hit the road and go where it takes me_!

Things I have learned through Therapy

2011-03-31T22:01:00.002-03:00

Some discussions must have limitations put on them. Other times it's just important to sit and listen, say nothing and offer support. Then there are those which we must discuss in length giving our opinions weather they are received or rejected (and do not to take rejection personally).

I am learning a lot of useful information that I wish I had learned long ago as a parent of three children.

(image by Charles M. Schulz)

Wordless Wednesday: Newest member of our family

2011-03-30T00:07:00.007-03:00

Visit other Wordless participants.

tuesday ten: ten things I have let go of

2011-03-28T22:55:00.002-03:00

Fears
Grudges
Cares
Myself
Old clothing
Balloons
Bad habits
Hurtful things
Clutter
Control

Do you have a list for tuesday ten? Let's hear it!

Just curious...

2011-03-27T23:42:00.002-03:00

Do you always carry your camera with you?

Friday Fill-Ins

2011-03-25T00:44:00.000-03:00

Want to play along? Click the image below.

And...here we go!

1. Why does it _take me so long to fall to sleep lately?_

2. _250 ml_ is equal _to 1 cup_.

3. My favorite breakfast includes _Canadian back-bacon, scrambled eggs, hash browns, toast and a mimosa_.

4. _The Lake Of Dreams by Kim Edwards_ was the last book I read _and enjoyed_.

5. I am SO glad _we are all excited about the new puppy _.

6. _A hot water bottle and handfull of Midol_ would make me feel better right now.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _shopping for some doggie supplies_, tomorrow my plans include _hanging out here at home and possibly run some errands_ and Sunday, I want to _try for the market again. Something always seems to come up that takes precedence_!

Wishing you all a great weekend ♥

Kokology - All The World's A Stage

2011-03-24T04:15:00.000-03:00

Back by popular demand...

Who wants to play KOKOLOGY?

*Your first time playing? Read the like below for rules, tips and hints to the game

What is Kokology?

Tips:

Say the first thing that pops into your head
Don’t try to predict answers
Be honest with yourself
Be prepared
Keep an open mind

Life is often compared to a drama--it's and easy comparison to make. The coming and going of the characters, the suspense as each day's plot unfolds, the lines we hear spoken, and the acts performed: you could say we live each day on stage. There are even genres to the stories--office comedies and after-school specials, sometimes even a mystery or romance . And the star of each daily episode is...YOU! That's what makes life's drama so fascinating and endlessly varied--every cast member in every scene, every extra on the street, is the star of his or her own story in a plot that gets more complex every day. Even the simplest exchange between two people can have infinite implications as the drama plays out. Maybe that's why, despite the same old character and story lines we can never seem to get enough. In the next scenario the curtain is up, the crowd is waiting and the spotlight is on YOU.

1. You are a member of a theater group. What type of play do you most want to act in. In the play, what do you picture as your big scene? Explain.

2. You audition for the part and are chosen from among all your fellow performers for the starring role. What words does you main rival have for you on being chosen?

3. At the last dress rehearsal before opening night, you see the director sitting with his arms crossed in front of him. He looks dissatisfied with you performance. What is it he doesn't like?

4. The performance goes off without a hitch, and the play was a huge success. The crowd has gone home happy after the encore, and the theater is quiet. What do you say to the empty hall as you stand there looking out for the darkened stage?

You can leave a comment with your answers or keep them to yourself - it's up to you.

Note: Reading this in Google Reader? Answer the questions before you continue to scroll to reveal the key to "All The World's A Stage"

♥Click to reveal key to All The World's A Stage♥

Key to "All The World's A Stage"

The theater represents a world of imagination you create for yourself. Your answers to this game reveal what lies waiting in your own future.

1. The type of drama you wanted to perform corresponds to your future. Did you foresee a melodrama, a tragedy, or a slapstick pie fight? And your big scene reveals what you predict will be the turning point in your life. If it was a love scene, there may be romantic lead waiting to change our life. Was it a scene of parting with friends, of meeting new people, or of a heated battle? These all could be the cues for you to take center stage and make your command performance.

2. The image you have of your rival reflects how your future self might react to the person you are today. The rival's words give an idea of how you think you will feel while looking back on your life when you're older. Was your response something encouraging like "nice going!" Keep up the good work!" Or was there a sense of caution: "Don't get a big head. One good show doesn't make you a star. You've still got a long way to go till you make it to the big time".

3. The director watches every aspect of the performance with cold and objective eye. His dissatisfaction was caused by a weakness you unconsciously recognize in yourself. The flaw in your performance represents the area in which you're most likely to make mistakes in the future.

If he said your character was getting lost in all the scenery, you may need to work harder at standing up for yourself in life. Who's the star of this show anyway?

On the other hand, if he told you that you were hogging the stage, you might want to try toning things down a notch. Nobody like a ham.

And if he said you just weren't exciting to watch, you should try to liven yourself up a little. If even you can't sit through your performance, think how the rest of the world feels.

4. Your words to the empty theater are the words you picture yourself saying at the end of your life. Recognize any of these famous last words?

"Thank God that is over! I need a drink!" - An understandable sentiment, but there aren't any bars where you're headed.

"I couldn't have done it without the little people". - It's good to remember the people who helped us on the way.

"That wasn't so bad." - Maybe that's the best parting line that any of us can hpe to be able to say.

"Look out, world, her I come." - Just where is it exactly that you think you're going?

So Long A Privilege to Know You

2011-03-24T00:27:00.000-03:00

Two dear friends of mine passed away this week. One a couple days ago of a heart attack and another today from a massive heart attack, ages 42 and 43. Too young too soon :(

Tomorrow is not promised to anyone, make your peace today,
♥

Happy Vernal Eqinox

2011-03-21T14:51:00.001-03:00

Celebrating the colours of Spring

Happy first day of Spring! - Autumn for those of you in the southern hemisphere. Yay!
I'm balancing eggs and digging out my Spring clothing today. How are you celebrating your fist day of Spring/Autumn?

I See The Bad Moon Arising

2011-03-18T23:52:00.002-03:00

I see trouble on the way.
I see earthquakes and lightnin'.
I see bad times today. - John Fogerty

Some people say their bodies, and mind is effected by a full moon. We know that the moon has a great effect on bodies of water on the planet Earth, so take into consideration that the human body is made up mostly of water - 60-70% - then the moon should have some sort of effect on us, right?

Well Saturday March 19th there will be a "Supermoon". It will be about 14 per cent bigger and 30 per cent brighter than normal, according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. What do you think? Do you think the full moon has an effect on you? And if so, in what way?

And the winner to the Anniversary Give Away is...

2011-03-18T15:49:00.001-03:00

Congratulation to:

Winn (aka Koreen) said...: Congrats! Happy blogiversary. ;) Can't wait to see what you come up with in the next year of blogging. (Although I wouldn't say no to another few rounds of kokology.)

Koreen, just give me a shout via email to
ghettojack[at]gmail[dot]com
ghettojack@gmail.com

I will get your info and mail your prize right off to you.

Thanks for playing everyone!

Friday Fill-Ins: Fly like an Eagle

2011-03-18T00:00:00.004-03:00

I'm not sure if these birds where Eagles, Hawks, or Osprey, but they sure were a treat to see soaring above my house yesterday.

Now on to the Fill-Ins.
Want to play along? Click on the image below.

And...here we go!

1. I love to go to _the country when the weather turns warmer_ because _there are so many delightful sights, sounds to take in_.

2. _It is not the quantity of the Easter chocolate_ it’s the quality!

3. The last thing I had to eat was _a cheese and spinach pizza_.

4. _Pantyhose with a dress_ is no longer essential.

5. Please take a moment to _count all your blessings and remember all the good things in your life_.

6. _If you consider your life to be a journey; what are some adventures that_ have brought you this far?

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to _not really planning anything - just go with the flow_, tomorrow my plans include _taking the Girl for a hair design at our favourite salon_ and Sunday, I want to _get my ass out of bed early and get to the market for some breakfast and goodies_!

What will be your plans for the weekend?

Ps. Stay tuned for the 3rd Blog Anniversary Give Away draw later today.

Tuesday Ten: 10 things that make me happy today

2011-03-15T14:45:00.002-03:00

Family

Hot tea

Empty dirty laundry hamper

An organized linen closet

A cuddle with the Kitten

Mini Eggs

+ temperatures

Fluffy clouds

Polaroid cameras + film

Making a delicious chicken soup from ingredients on hand

What is making you happy today?

Hello Thursday

2011-03-10T14:37:00.003-04:00

The mild(ish) temperatures and lack of snow and ice on the ground have put me in a great mood. Actually, I have had quite a few surprises that have changed my mood. Tuesday I saw my first robin in the back yard, Monday baby Girl had a great meeting with a new therapist and left her office with a huge smile on her face --smiles from baby Girl have been few and far between in the past several months, things just seem to be clicking along nicely the past couple weeks.

So, today I was itching to create something Spring-like and happy to reflect my mood. It's a new blank note card currently unnamed, I am open to suggestions if you have any.

Hope your all having a wonderful Thursday,

From the Archives {Wordless Wednesday}

2011-03-09T14:15:00.001-04:00

Go here to view other Wordless participants

Celebrating 3 Years of Blogging Bliss!

2011-03-05T17:06:00.001-04:00

It is time for my third year anniversary giveaway! I thought really hard about what prize I will give away this year. In case you guys haven't noticed, I have been occupying a lot of my free time playing with Photoshop creating brushes and collage art. So this year I have decided the giveaway should reflect what I have been blogging about. I'm so excited!

This Giveaway is open internationally! Contest begins today 04/03/11 and will end 18/03/11. You guys have two weeks! Winners will be chosen at random from random.org.

Here's how to enter:

1. Leave me a comment on this post / one entry
2. Follow my blog / another entry
3. Post about this giveaway on your blog/twitter/etc.(*Please let me know in your comment where you have posted it with the link) / another entry(s)

Now that all the technicalities are out of the way, on to the prize:

Prize package consists of three 5x7 blank note cards of Find Your Wings, three 5x7 blank note cards of Awakening and an art panel print of Awakening. Good Luck!

♥ Read the small print ♥

I am really looking forward to a new year of blogging. I wanted to thank you all for your continued support - I so enjoy interacting with you all and love reading all of your wonderful comments.

_____Contest is over. Thank you all for your participation____

Tuesday Ten {10 new Photoshop brushes}

2011-03-01T07:15:00.029-04:00

New Photoshop Brush Set to celebrate by Blog Anniversary
Happy 3rd Anniversary Slightly Off-Center!

Textures & Butterfly

Download Zip file

The last sets of brushes I posted so far have 1390 downloads... Wow!

Check back later this week for my Blogaversary Giveaway

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New Baby & Rainy Weekens

2011-02-28T15:52:00.002-04:00

Friday evening there was a cold winter rain falling outside, composing a syncopated rhythm as it dripped silver from the wet, naked trees. I shrived involuntarily as I ran to the car; heading out to retrieve dinner for the family... pizza. We all eat dinner together then everyone slips away one by one to do their own thing; I am left to my own devices. I curl up in the big chair with my laptop - my sanctuary.

Saturday we went into the hospital with a bag of goodies for my new baby niece, Morgan. Mommy and baby weren't in the room so we left them behind the goodies and headed out for dinner with Kensey. I was a little bummed, I really want to cuddle baby Morgan! Monday I think we shall visit them for sure :)

Sunday we spent the day inside the house just puttering about cleaning and doing odds and ends. Mostly I sat curled up in my big chair day-dreaming of a summer afternoon lazing on a sandy beach, listening to the waves crash, tasting the salty air...

This week I vow to only focus on the good, positive things in life... I wonder how that will go?

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Tell me a little about it :)
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Photoshop brushes by moiEnjoy!

2011-02-11T20:30:00.002-04:00

As promised, I am adding some of my Photoshop Brushes for you to download for your own personal use. Some of the brush sets are just spin-offs from the digital collage work I have shown on here before and some are new.

If you use any of them, I would like you to send me a link so I can admire your work and post it on the blog.
Enjoy!


Find Your Wings {Download}

In Life {Download}

These Days {Coming Soon!}

In Your Eyes{Download}

More To Life{Download , Download II}

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Hello

2011-02-10T15:19:00.000-04:00

I have been neglecting this place as of late, I know. I have been busy keeping my daughter company and comfortable while she is going through a difficult medication change... Some days are diamonds and some are rocks. The door is sometimes open and sometimes blocked, but I'm learning not to take thing personally at this time of change and have been just going with the flow and offering comfort and support when needed.

I wish I could post in more detail about what is going on with The Girl right now, but at this point in time she isn't ready to share certain aspects of her personal life with all who visit my little corner of blogland; perhaps when she is feeling better she will allow it. I truly believe that talking about her personal experiences with mental health could help others who may be going through something similar or know of someone who is.

I would like to thank you all for you kind words of encouragement you leave behind either in my inbox or in the comment area. I am always amazed at the kindness you readers show -I feel so very lucky. Thank you!

**************

On my down time here at home, I have been finding being creative has been a helpful refuge for me. I've been creating a lot of collage work and making some Photoshop brushes that I hope to share on here tomorrow. Check back if your a Photoshop user, there just might be something in my brushes you might find interesting enough to download and use on your own art collages.

{here is a sneak peek}

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January's Photos of Project 365

2011-02-01T23:08:00.000-04:00

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Friday Fill-Ins Kitten and J. Peterman S.M.

2011-01-28T14:15:00.001-04:00

Click on the link below if you would like to play along.

And...here we go!

1. Up and about early is hard for me lately. I wish I could have just one night of uninterrupted sleep.

2. Around here there is a lot of daydreaming going around.

3. Coats and scarves, mittens and boots: are stuffed into my closets and overflowing into the front foyier; next year I will be getting a mitten box for both closets for sure.

4. Hubby worked hard all week. He is deserving of a nice back rub.

5. I'm thinking about warmer weather and being able to lock away the boots and wool hats and trade them for flip-flops and floppy straw hats.

6. And when the night is cloudy, there is still a light, that shines on me, shine until tomorrow, let it be. I wake up to the sound of music, mother Mary comes to me, speaking words of wisdom, let it be. ~The Beatles

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a nice evening in with the family, tomorrow my plans include shopping for paint for my kitchen and maybe painting if I catch the mood and Sunday, I want to get up early enough to get the the market and maybe brunch with hubby!
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{smile}it's Friday!

2011-01-28T00:00:00.000-04:00

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Running on Empty

2011-01-26T20:55:00.001-04:00

I just heard the news that Jackson Browne is coming to town.

Yay! I have to purchase tickets to this show :)

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Around My City - Creative Graffiti

2011-01-24T16:15:00.002-04:00

Downtown Halifax business are getting tired of paying for repairs of buildings being hit by vandalism by graffiti. Some have decided to hire urban artists to do a graffiti mural on the building hoping it will stop other graffiti artists from painting over the work of the other artist.

This scene was painted the length of the back of a building on Barrington Street in Halifax South End. I noticed it while going the the neighbouring Tim Hortons Drive-thru.

Click here to see the entire photo of the graffiti artwork.
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... on the bright side

2011-01-18T00:45:00.000-04:00

I've been feeling really disconnected lately. I feel as if I have no idea of my own reality -- if that makes any sense... Possibly these feelings stem from being so worried about my youngest daughter and her situation and feeling like I am so helpless to be able to fix what is wrong. Mothers are suppose to do that arn't they? They are suppose to make it all better and right now I don't know how to do that.

I'm trying hard to remind myself that that which does not kill us only makes us stronger, and usually I have found that to be true.

On the bright side...
the sun was shining today,
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Unblogable + Friday Fill-Ins 2011-02

2011-01-14T14:46:00.001-04:00

Sorry I haven't been around that much these past couple weeks. We are dealing with some pretty heavy, un-blogable stuff around here lately. I am usually not one to hold back when It comes to blogging what's going on around here, but this time it concerns sensitive matters of other involved so for now must be kept under blog lock and key. So for the time being, memes and games and fluff-posts will be popping up here whenever I find the time to sit and blog.

Friday Fill-Ins are perfect for these sorts of times. Thank you Janet!

And...here we go!

1. Right now I need A little bit of resolve.

2. Herbal tea is what's in my glass.

3. A copy of this letter to Dr. A and B, the school, and the insurance company.

4. Fudge frosting is best with a spoon.

5. The best movie I've seen lately is the book of Eli (haven't seen many movies lately).

6. Fondant I don't like; butter-cream I love.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to anything as long as it's not sitting at home another evening, tomorrow my plans include usual errand running and Sunday, I want to take a little hike with hubby and a camera!
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A Restless Soul

2011-01-09T03:43:00.001-04:00

I was laying here in bed in the dark listening to my heart beat - It's 3:18 a.m. Thoughts have been ruminating through my head at light speed, as if caught in a temporal loop with no awareness of their repetitive state. I was repeating spelling every letter in the alphabet, phonetically of course; "A -- a, B -- bee, C -- see (or sea or cee). Last night it was word association: twitter, bird, jay, Murry, pal, friends, introvert, inside my head, song, big wreck... Totally f#&*ed up or what!?

Is this my fate? Am I destined to live a life where panic and obsession rule my life? I swear, just when I thought things were going good, "WHAM!" their back again. I hate the feeling of anxiety, but I sometimes think the obsessive thoughts are worse. Obsessions exhaust my mind usually at night when I should be sound asleep. No wonder I am feeling tired, cranky and not rested this past week.

I am trying not to invest too much emotional attention to this matter yet because this might only be a passing phase. (For anyone who has been reading my blog entries over the past year you may recall me being absent for some time due to panic, anxiety, and OCD.) Perhaps my mom was right; she would often tell me I had a restless soul, after many sleepless nights in my teen years were spent cleaning and re sorting my bedroom or stay up until the wee hours clicking away on my old green Hermes typewriter (remember those?).

So here I sit...

Can anyone tell me how do you sooth a "restless soul"?

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This Is Not a Resolution

2011-01-04T15:47:00.001-04:00

have more family gatherings
start a new hobby or get back into an old hobby
arrange more girly-girl things with my two daughters
take a special trip just hubby and me
make some changes in the blog
start a p/t job and make some "fun" money
challenge myself to step outside my box
make my home more enviro-friendly
make healthier food choices
read more books

What are some things you would like to accomplish in 2011?
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From Me To You

2010-12-24T22:52:00.003-04:00

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Saturday Night Etsy Finds

2010-12-18T19:30:00.000-04:00

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Friday - the swirl on the cupcake

2010-12-17T19:09:00.001-04:00

We learned to make a swirl on top of a cup cake this week in our cake decorating class.

Now on to the Friday Fill-Ins hosted by Janet from Fond of Snape Blog
If you would like to play along, just click on the image below.

So...here we go!

1. What in the world was the culprit that triggered this wicked migraine today?

2. I like organic turkeys that are plump and well fed.

3. Go to a loved one right now and tell them how much you appreciate and cherish them. (GO! I'll wait for you to get back to read the rest of my fill-ins)

4. After a visit with my doctor this morning, she sent me straight home to bed.

5. I keep on top of my chores around they house especially around the holidays just in case someone unexpectedly stops by for a visit.

6. I stood on the front step tonight, and look up to gaze at the millions of icy flakes falling from the sky. We are getting snow like it or not.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to staying in my comfy bed trying to get rid of the migraine hangover, tomorrow my plans include some little leftovers of holiday shopping and Sunday, I want to make chocolates and cookies with the family!
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End of the week ramble{Because I need to vent}

2010-12-16T15:00:00.003-04:00

Into the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I am always confounded by the frenzy that is associated with the Christmas holiday. These last few weeks I have been like a sponge, soaking up a lot of the negative energy from other people around me. Everywhere I go, the sights and sounds and smells of Christmas are in the air. I wish people would just slow down just a little and enjoy the holiday season.

This past week flew by, as we prepared for our own holiday time at our house. David and I are hosting this years work party this weekend, either I'm frantically cleaning the house or trying to keep it clean, or baking and preparing a menu for the party. The tree is all decorated with hundreds of glittering white lights and the only the prettiest adornments and raffia bows that hang delicately from every odd branch. I think it is breathtakingly beautiful (but I am just a tad biased).

As we move farther into this holiday season, my only hope is that I will be able to keep my cool and not cave under all the pressure, and to keep a smile on my face even when times get the most hectic.

One other thing happened earlier this week that put us all in a tizzy. My Father-in-law fell ill having a minor stroke and scaring all of us to tears. He is feeling better and stronger every day, but now the life he knows will have to drastically change if he wishes to live the rest of his life healthy and happy --and we want him around for many more years to come-- we are blessed to have him with us. It's times like this I feel blessed to have my friends, my family, this life. There are many twists and turns life tends to throw our way which we must deal with whether we like it or not. We must keep on your toes and be aware of our surrounding because you never know what little surprise life has in store for you.

Are you ready to take on anything? Are you thankful for everyday you have on this earth?
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It's the hap- happiest season of all!

2010-12-10T13:02:00.008-04:00

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Finally I have some holiday decorations around the house. Looking forward to cutting down our tree on Sunday and decorating it. I can't believe how the holiday season has snuck-up on me this year; I still have so much to prepare. Are you ready for the Holidays?

__________________________________________________

Friday Fill-Ins #203

Would you like to play along?
Just click on the image below.

So...here we go!

1. I wish you all joy, love and peace this holiday season.

2. "How did I let this holiday season sneak up on me again this year?"...that's what I'm thinking.

3. Please bring a bottle of Pinot Gris and a couple glasses and join me for sip.

4. Life is so amazing.

5. One of my fondest hopes is for a warm home, loving family and friends and to feel blessed going into the new year ahead.

6. I love getting visits here from all of you, and your positive support and sincere comments you leave behind are appreciated. They really do mean a lot to me, and sometimes they help me through some tough times, and I just wanted to say thank you!!!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to relaxing at home, tomorrow my plans include starting and hopefully finishing my holiday shopping and Sunday, I want to enjoy the day with the family wandering through a u-cut tree lot looking for the perfect(for us) tree, then heading off to hubby's uncle and aunties farm for a family gathering!

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend!

The Icing On The Cake

2010-12-09T16:41:00.005-04:00

I've been taking a cake decorating class at my local Michaels Craft store. It's been so much fun but the Cake Boss has nothing to worry about. It will be quite a while before I will be able to learn those fancy flowers and lovely cup cakes I oh so admire on those cake decorating shows on TV (if ever). But I'm have fun anyway and that is all that matters -- right?

The photo collage above are photos taken from our class last night. My cake is the one in the middle and bottom left.

Technology & Miracles

2010-12-03T15:58:00.005-04:00

{Screen shot I took from SIL session}

Last night I got to log on to view my SIL's ultrasound session for baby #2. It blows my mind how advanced technology has gotten since I had my kids. I wasn't even allowed to have hubby in the room with me when I had an ultrasound for my first two kids.

Last night we were able to watch and listen to everything going on, and if we wanted, we could interact via web cam or chat with the other people logged on as guests. Too cool!

SIL's last baby was born three years ago and hubby and myself with the aid of my dad, made baby Ella a cradle. We dressed it with the cutest bedding and the cuddliest blankets - it looked amazing!

{see post: The Cradle Will Rock 2}

I am looking for something equally nice to give to SIL and baby #2, but I am having a hard time coming up with ideas. Maybe you have some? If you have any ideas for a gift for my new Niece, leave a message with your idea. We have until mid February to come up with something; who knows, there may be a little surprise gift for the person with the best suggestion.

What have I been up to?

2010-12-02T14:24:00.002-04:00

Hello Darlings,

How have you all been? I've been busier than a beaver in a coffee lake. This week I have been doing some heavy duty cleaning and preparing my house for the holiday season. I can't wait to get all my decoration up inside the house as well as finish putting up the lights on the outside of the house. I am also taking a cake decorating course, so that is keeping me on my toes too. I can't wait to actually decorate a cake though, instead of practicing flowers and swirls on parchment.

I have another thing I wanted to share. I have two new (to me) cameras that I am oh so excited about. The first one is a Polaroid 215 Land camera made circa 1966. The other is a Ricohflex VI, circa 1950's. I think I will wait until after the new year to load the Richo with some film. 120 film is getting more and more expensive to buy here and there isn't a camera shop in this city (that I know of) that still will develop 120 film locally -- it gets a little expensive to sending the film out to be developed. Perhaps I will look into taking a film developing course after I fishing with the cake decorating. I did however order some Fuji pack film for the Polaroid and it should be arriving any day now (I love Amazon). If you have any suggestions for using either camera, I would so appreciate your input and expertise!

I will be back soon, hopefully with some photos from the new Polaroid and my first cake photos. Until then have a great week and weekend!

I want the stars and the moon - Is that too much to ask for?

2010-12-02T07:35:00.001-04:00

Last night I dreamed I climbed a ladder into the night sky, up to the heavens. My husband David was holding the ladder for me while I climbed higher and higher, a canvas bag swung off my arm. I picked carefully filling the bag with the only the most beautiful, brilliantly bright stars; one for each of my family members. Hubby yelled up to me to hurry up, it was time to come back down. My response was --

"I want the moon too! Is that too much to ask for?"

Happy Birthday Give-Away Winner!

2010-11-26T18:20:00.001-04:00

Today was the final day for the Birthday Give-Away. Congratulations to only a movie for winning my favourite things surprise package. Enjoy Movie!

I wanted to thank everyone who entered the contest.

Mix 'N Match Craft Challenge

2010-11-24T15:06:00.002-04:00

I am participating in a craft challenge/contest over at The Perfect Pear. For the first challenge our three items we had to use were: Yarn, Paperclip, Glitter.

I made a Pom Pom Bookmark

Head on over to The Perfect Pear to check out all the other creative entries.

Ps. Don't forget to enter the
Birthday Give-Away.

Winner will be picked on Friday November 26, 2010.

Happy Birthday Give-Away! (Winner picked)

2010-11-18T21:42:00.006-04:00

Birthday Weekend is upon us in my house. Myself and my two daughters are celebrating birthdays this weekend so in honour of our birthdays, I am hosting a give-away. I will be giving away a surprise package of a few of my favourite things to one lucky winner. If you would like to enter, the rules are simple...

To enter the birthday giveaway:

1. Leave me a comment on this post / one entry
2. Follow my blog / another entry
3. Post about my giveaway on your blog / another entry

I will pick the winner using the random generator on Friday November 26, 2010.
Good luck to all of you!

No global restriction apply. Please read the small print.

» Read The Small Print «

Peacefulness is in simplicity (Video clip)

2010-11-17T12:35:00.000-04:00

{Wordless Wednesday}

Sound clip: Odette by Matthew Good
Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants

The Perfect Pear

2010-11-15T15:29:00.000-04:00

Lauren over at The Perfect Pear is hosting a craft challenge/contest on her blog. Head on over to her place and check out the details.

While Waiting for the Sandman

2010-11-13T04:14:00.012-04:00

It's the early hour of the morning in this part of the world and yet I'm still awake. No doubt, Mr. Sandman skipped over me this night. Actually, it's been a few nights since his last visit...

Pretty soon the skies will be on fire as the sun starts to rise above the horizon, painted a kaleidoscope of colors outside my bedroom window; tinted with crimson, with gold, vermillion, with amber. Soon it will be time for me to get on with the day ahead.

What are your plans for today?

I love to buy crayons

2010-11-10T00:33:00.000-04:00

{Wordless Wednesday}

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Things I miss from my youth: { tuesday ten}

2010-11-09T00:18:00.000-04:00

Becoming in contact with an old pal I haven't heard from since high school has put me in a nostalgic mood today.

Are there things from your past that bring back wonderful memories for you? Here are 10 things I miss from my youth:

Kissing Potion
Loves Baby Soft perfume
Macrame purses
Roller skates
The Pop Shop
Penny candy
The Muppet Show
Platform clogs
Record stores
Transistor radios

Mondays... UGH! random thought

2010-11-08T14:19:00.002-04:00

"Do you ever look at your watch and immediately forget the time, so you look again? And still it doesn't register, so you have to look a third time. And then someone asks you what time it is, and you actually have to look at your watch for the fourth time in three minutes? Don't you feel stupid?"

George Carlin, Napalm & Silly Putty (2001)

Fall 'Roid Week 2010

2010-11-05T22:37:00.006-03:00

This week I participated in a photo project on Flickr. Photos where taken with my Polaroid SX 70 instant camera for 'Roid Week Fall 2010 Flickr Pool. I had a ton of fun learning new tips on shooting with a Polaroid and loved looking at all the magnificent photographs taken by the many talented Polaroid photographers belonging to the 'Roid Week Flickr Pool.

I just ordered a bunch of new film for my new Polaroid addiction.

1. It starts with one. And then another.,

2. all the small moments,
3. sometimes I let my expectations get the better of me,
4. etched against grey flannel,

5. boiling sea, howling winds, driving rain,
6. Bonus 'Roid

Film used: PX 70 FF Color Shade from The Impossible Project

sometimes I let my expectations get the better of me

2010-11-03T00:00:00.002-03:00

{Wordless Wednesday}

Visit other Wordless Wednesday participants

Slightly Off-Center

The End

November!?

weekend

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Three doors

{easy like a} Sunday Morning : A Tribute to 9/11

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return. ~ Eden Ahbez, "Nature Boy"

Slightly Off-Center: That's why I'm easy {easy like a} Sunday Morning

Ten Things I will not miss about summer

Preface to Autumn

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: passion, intimacy, love, pleasure

That's why I'm easy {easy like a} Sunday Morning

Bath Time

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Shadow & Reflection

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: back up and running

Batten down the hatches...

I am an Instagram addict!

When the sun shines brightly do you smile and think how lucky you are, or do you worry it will rain?

Beauty at dusk

my latest addiction - Wordless Wednesday

bits & pieces from my weekend

Meet Mika the Silkshire Terrier

Friday Fill-Ins

Road Trip!

at this moment...

Taking a blogging hiatus

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Looked up

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Look up to the sky

Kokology: Like A Monkey In A Cage

tuesday ten: Alive with Life

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Even on a cloudy day

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: What do you like best about May?

*Sigh*

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Mothers Day Morning at the Gardens

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Happy Mothers Day!

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Finally May!

Friday Fill-Ins

Today was...

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Mika enjoys mornings

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Happy Easter!

Between wakefulness and sleep I enter a world of shadows, a kaleidoscope of coloursfall from my ceiling

9 + 1 = tuesday ten: Cameras In My Collection

So Sick!

Kokology -- Oodles Of Doodles

Teen Burgers 2 FOR 6 {Wordless Wednesday}

Reading Rob Breznsy's...

At Last There Is Nothing Left to Say -(The Ditches On A Long Road Home)

{easy like a}Sunday Morning

Up before the dawn

Tuesday ten: Photographic Inspiration (Choose a Theme)

When dreams are nice I sleep well

{easy like a} Sunday Morning: Come join me on a new adventure

Fun!Fun!Fun!

Happy Anniversary to my Mom & Dad Today! and Friday at last!

Things I have learned through Therapy

(image by Charles M. Schulz)

Wordless Wednesday: Newest member of our family

tuesday ten: ten things I have let go of

Just curious...

Do you always carry your camera with you?

Friday Fill-Ins

Kokology - All The World's A Stage

So Long A Privilege to Know You

Happy Vernal Eqinox

I See The Bad Moon Arising

And the winner to the Anniversary Give Away is...

Friday Fill-Ins: Fly like an Eagle

Tuesday Ten: 10 things that make me happy today

Hello Thursday

From the Archives {Wordless Wednesday}

Celebrating 3 Years of Blogging Bliss!

Tuesday Ten {10 new Photoshop brushes}

New Baby & Rainy Weekens

Photoshop brushes by moiEnjoy!

Hello

January's Photos of Project 365

Friday Fill-Ins Kitten and J. Peterman S.M.

{smile}it's Friday!

Running on Empty

Around My City - Creative Graffiti

Sigh