tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82566967361956872012024-03-05T17:35:51.096-08:00modern mommytamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-42853429655718200212015-03-06T17:50:00.000-08:002015-03-19T11:52:22.340-07:00100th day of school<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Beckett's homework was to create something for his 100th Day of School. This is what we came up with, well I came up with the idea and Beckett agreed. Then I stayed up all night colouring in this monster and glued 100 eyeballs on it. When Beckett saw it in the morning he was so happy and he proudly carried it into school where all his classmates congratulated him. Go Beckett!!tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-17489390430708888602015-02-18T17:39:00.000-08:002015-03-19T11:52:01.669-07:00milestone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span data-reactid=".5.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0:0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$text0:0"><span style="font-size: small;">Milestone. I just took my last dose of cancer medication. Every day for the last three years, I have taken two of these pills every morning and every night. I'm done. I'm effing done!!!!!!!! Tomorrow I wake up pill free, I'm excited and terrified. Good riddance to my numerous side-effects...no more fatigue, muscle cramping, crappy hair, brutal immune system or water retention. Oh - and I can drink again...and take Tylenol or Advil - woohoo! And Saleema, </span></span><span data-reactid=".5.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0:0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$end:0"><span style="font-size: small;">I love you so much for talking to me on FaceTime while I swallowed these last two miracle workers, who I desperately hope did their job. I recognize that I have many anxious days ahead of me and that I'll be closely watched for the rest of my life...but right now, right this minute...I have tears of joy streaming down my face. </span></span></span></h1>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">Y</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">ou can read more about my cancer story </span><a href="http://www.vancouversun.com/health/Tamara+Taggart+Cancer+cover+girl/9427641/story.html" style="font-weight: normal;">here</a><span style="font-weight: normal;">.</span></span></h1>
tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-34240512516108285452014-12-20T23:27:00.000-08:002015-03-19T11:55:41.743-07:00christmas 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My new favourite photo is now this year's Christmas card. I just love it, there's a lot of love & joy in this picture.</div>
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<a href="http://www.klikphotographic.com/">Kyrani</a> took the photos of the monkeys jumping of our bed, then we heading down to Jerhico Beach for some family photos. It was freezing, seriously cold. For a west coast wimp like myself, I couldn't handle the -11 temperature. Yes, it was a lovely day, perfect for photos but it wasn't long until the complaining started - we were barely out of the car! </div>
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We were in the cold for about 25 minutes, there are lots of beautiful shots. Poppy was the coldest and had a few tears but a warm bath and some hot chocolate when we got home fixed everything. </div>
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<br />tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-51856222288306000822014-12-18T23:07:00.000-08:002015-03-19T11:56:06.405-07:00santa 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Some of my favourite photos of my brother and me are on Santa's lap, mostly because the Santa is crazy looking and it's hilarious. This Santa is sweet, we go back to Oakridge Mall every year to see Santa. Over the years we have had some tears but not this year. The big guy was a hit.tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-32828784983024147252014-11-30T23:02:00.000-08:002015-03-19T11:57:36.078-07:00hot chocolate for the holidays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Sometimes you just need to make some hot chocolate and get some cookies, my kids think its a good idea. I packed up the kids last weekend and took them over to photographer Kyrani from <a href="http://www.klikphotographic.com/">Kilk Photography's</a> house. She has a lovely white kitchen, we thought we'd try for a family photo - clearly my husband is missing here so the plan failed. We did get some fun shots though and no one complained about the large hot chocolate consumption.</div>
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My friend Shannon is opening her new bakery soon, Kat (amazing pastry chef) made these cookies - incredible and way too pretty to eat but we managed. Watch for <a href="https://instagram.com/libertyyvr/">Liberty</a> to reopen on Main Street soon, I can't wait to see what Shannon & Kat create!</div>
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The mugs, garland & glitter house are all local finds. I tend to start buying Christmas decorations early, then find myself with an overwhelming amount of treats that never seem to match. This is the problem when you don't have a plan and you just get what makes you happy. </div>
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Happy is what I am, especially when I look at these pictures. Happy Holidays. xxtamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-31563450798914301952014-11-01T20:17:00.000-07:002015-03-19T11:51:32.792-07:00movember<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's Movember...support and love the men in your life. </span></div>
tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-34755768662302820772014-10-31T23:04:00.000-07:002015-03-19T11:57:14.085-07:00halloween 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Halloween! </span></div>
tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-8347481733182197212014-10-16T23:00:00.000-07:002014-10-16T23:00:18.044-07:00woodland picnic for glitter guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been a while since I have posted, I promised myself I would post more often but life gets busy and my blog ideas pile up. So here I am posting about a fun shoot I did three months ago - last August - for <a href="http://theglitterguide.com/2014/08/12/little-gem-woodland-shoot/">Glitter Guide</a>. A sweet woodland picnic...inspired by my love for all things <a href="http://selinalake.blogspot.ca/">Selina Lake</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijquMIANly3Kb6giNQvc62Ys9uJ6K_avRxi3PpWhfLbswbSLCuQLLZhC92JOdhJ3ZH208BGrfr-7GCs_OD8pPgfR-VBr4yqzImY7_zTFULOdpaGlswLmSXISouk3wsHRsi3Navg_9rngVl/s1600/Glitter+Guide+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijquMIANly3Kb6giNQvc62Ys9uJ6K_avRxi3PpWhfLbswbSLCuQLLZhC92JOdhJ3ZH208BGrfr-7GCs_OD8pPgfR-VBr4yqzImY7_zTFULOdpaGlswLmSXISouk3wsHRsi3Navg_9rngVl/s1600/Glitter+Guide+1.jpg" height="532" width="640" /></a></div>
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I thought it would be fun to head into the woods, just a few minutes from our home and set up a picnic using vintage finds, beautiful flowers and delicious food. <a href="http://www.cioffisgroup.com/">Cioffi's Meat Market & Deli </a>supplied the charcuterie platter (it was amazing), <a href="http://www.vancouverpiehole.com/">Vancouver Pie Hole </a>made the mini cherry pies (tiny & delicious), the flowers were from the <a href="http://www.flowerfactory.ca/">Flower Factory</a> (perfect as always) & that incredible cake was made by <a href="http://cococakeland.com/">Coco Cake Land</a> !</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUHuqaOBUnwOjtZePk_cf2AkMJJVqUXt6VYrtC9rBE5gSvOSpCGNPmOY2IEYKz1krHv-pR57-eB9V7FxyCySSoNhxtT9m7gPub89bcMqsa2mJrpfB1QzczXYCClEIzKVK36Wgu_SQvqMr/s1600/Glitter+Guide+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUHuqaOBUnwOjtZePk_cf2AkMJJVqUXt6VYrtC9rBE5gSvOSpCGNPmOY2IEYKz1krHv-pR57-eB9V7FxyCySSoNhxtT9m7gPub89bcMqsa2mJrpfB1QzczXYCClEIzKVK36Wgu_SQvqMr/s1600/Glitter+Guide+3.jpg" height="210" width="640" /></a></div>
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The kids were so excited to be in the forest (really just a wooded area near a busy park)...it felt magical, especially when we set up a hammock! Beckett is playing Dave's childhood guitar.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdrDQADuYkQYEs8R67fABKK163S3W7Ik_iM7DQyZ8Sdo1Twlo8cIL8Q_mYVw8Q2pC8mAhr2NvIINgACSyspaSS_cfkGiOKdJ48l1_YjfayanLCIUv_deZY9sUmWQ02SklBMFord__iu4f/s1600/Glitter+Guide+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdrDQADuYkQYEs8R67fABKK163S3W7Ik_iM7DQyZ8Sdo1Twlo8cIL8Q_mYVw8Q2pC8mAhr2NvIINgACSyspaSS_cfkGiOKdJ48l1_YjfayanLCIUv_deZY9sUmWQ02SklBMFord__iu4f/s1600/Glitter+Guide+2.jpg" height="392" width="640" /></a></div>
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We had a lot of sweet touches like the deer (I have a bit of a collection happening) from <a href="http://www.heatherrossinhouse.com/">Heather Ross</a> & the "Be Happy" banner was custom by <a href="http://www.confettiandsparklepartyshop.com/">Confetti & Sparkle </a>(now hanging in Zoë's room). I'm in love with the chair from <a href="http://thecrossdecor.com/">The Cross</a> - it's perfect - the pillows, birds, dishes and gold forks were also from <a href="http://thecrossdecor.com/">The Cross</a>. My good friend <a href="http://theenglisheccentrichome.com/about.html">Nikki Renshaw</a> brought a carload of treasures...like the baskets, vintage throws, books...her eye is incredible. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-GCAVYryx4BvFhLGuCH5bvGlBwm-LGff568BIBav3fmOx-kf8jLIFlghU8BmyyJf_qYwdkcYKw4vroFKbXAL9cXyWIt-Atk2mH7U_W9-dnbDTEW5PlttcsyvCNnPsgpDAMe9-PvmUl3G/s1600/TamaraforGG-239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-GCAVYryx4BvFhLGuCH5bvGlBwm-LGff568BIBav3fmOx-kf8jLIFlghU8BmyyJf_qYwdkcYKw4vroFKbXAL9cXyWIt-Atk2mH7U_W9-dnbDTEW5PlttcsyvCNnPsgpDAMe9-PvmUl3G/s1600/TamaraforGG-239.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiQPc3QYcvrwXn9s-Pl_P4lJ7DZkbt8HJ1fYCjnQIc-ezzGRmMonbDXquh-D2W6ry2zPtuim2DL02oRWyq6bfNoF5xd48eJ57Hn893InSnAFs0lB_rJkmi07aRZQKURKAbEQUGJVN58Jp/s1600/TamaraforGG-25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiQPc3QYcvrwXn9s-Pl_P4lJ7DZkbt8HJ1fYCjnQIc-ezzGRmMonbDXquh-D2W6ry2zPtuim2DL02oRWyq6bfNoF5xd48eJ57Hn893InSnAFs0lB_rJkmi07aRZQKURKAbEQUGJVN58Jp/s1600/TamaraforGG-25.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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This tiffin carrier is so good. We filled it with berries, wouldn't it be fun to pack a lunch in? It's from <a href="http://thenewdomestic.com/">The New Domestic</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQiU3ppsbAP_08B8xDCnPAqeXIuT5UL-PrNY7hhfhS5oFPM0JvYPE6KH9r-5q8Osw4Qm1SGQjS_wDtfsh0NH9GMhm-MqmIlTwdF8MVMj7PlS-nw-KoC61_FJhuo8R6Zdn6MRFQuDvj-c1C/s1600/TamaraforGG-289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQiU3ppsbAP_08B8xDCnPAqeXIuT5UL-PrNY7hhfhS5oFPM0JvYPE6KH9r-5q8Osw4Qm1SGQjS_wDtfsh0NH9GMhm-MqmIlTwdF8MVMj7PlS-nw-KoC61_FJhuo8R6Zdn6MRFQuDvj-c1C/s1600/TamaraforGG-289.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
It really was a lovely day...if only this was reality! Ha! Quite a lot of fun to put together...all made possible with help from my friends...<a href="http://instagram.com/englisheccentrichome">Nikki</a>, <a href="http://instagram.com/linneacarmen">Linnea</a>, <a href="http://instagram.com/emilyjo_h">Emily Jo</a> & <a href="http://instagram.com/olivia_renshaw">Olivia</a>. <a href="http://www.klikphotographic.com/">Kyrani Kanavaros </a>photographed the entire afternoon....I could post a lot more photos!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fYTXphTLDAH59ZtcuCja1vKSSfw-pP8uQERtIFpDZwiEVBcxjw5QF3BMY1i0h_oHYF6tu1YtZ-rM6jaDzf1FFXGW7fIK9UJq5c3l1MTxXWoBOUZhgv8ga14DVn6dVuR-Ej8wKCIVwwRZ/s1600/TamaraforGG-255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6fYTXphTLDAH59ZtcuCja1vKSSfw-pP8uQERtIFpDZwiEVBcxjw5QF3BMY1i0h_oHYF6tu1YtZ-rM6jaDzf1FFXGW7fIK9UJq5c3l1MTxXWoBOUZhgv8ga14DVn6dVuR-Ej8wKCIVwwRZ/s1600/TamaraforGG-255.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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I'm a big fan of vintage wooden crates, we have them all over the house filled with toys - they are prefect for Beckett's HotWheels collection! These ones are from <a href="http://stepback.ca/">Stepback</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOzciEg9Wa0D-kGF8TrCkEgCH_Xmxdjtp0jJOIkTWlAzcVDrfUYjvPo88c2iXEt5wKYnAx1q5YoM5TRhFrIkYOpxBctoZo8uG_A8uW22ZPfPOizItSQYs7kKP-xviFLX5fqJuYqGLu4UV/s1600/TamaraforGG-212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOzciEg9Wa0D-kGF8TrCkEgCH_Xmxdjtp0jJOIkTWlAzcVDrfUYjvPo88c2iXEt5wKYnAx1q5YoM5TRhFrIkYOpxBctoZo8uG_A8uW22ZPfPOizItSQYs7kKP-xviFLX5fqJuYqGLu4UV/s1600/TamaraforGG-212.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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It's hard to believe we did this three months ago, feels like yesterday. The great thing about picnics is they aren't just for summer...you could easily do this in fall...I better hurry before the rain really starts here in Vancouver!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-6wNV3rYfNWXTtiQSXonUZC8yEESj0AYedf5ZOtsG9CGFB69XbugF_MfvrfzhGhgVmd6l_xWJw3FyQFL0sxBusm4xTLKX36EVAbA7ineZK4g3QIjWELCkTlq_hQP839AcQtnQ1JLMC7o/s1600/TamaraforGG-146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW-6wNV3rYfNWXTtiQSXonUZC8yEESj0AYedf5ZOtsG9CGFB69XbugF_MfvrfzhGhgVmd6l_xWJw3FyQFL0sxBusm4xTLKX36EVAbA7ineZK4g3QIjWELCkTlq_hQP839AcQtnQ1JLMC7o/s1600/TamaraforGG-146.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have decided that I need a hammock in my life...this one is from Target. The pillow is The Cross and the bedding (sigh) is <a href="http://www.stgeneve.com/">St. Geneve</a> and very dreamy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhOBZ99fQW8qqwypvB5-cHebQf_b3_AyHzjqfBOqEBGTwhK2SdxXePpW2mjmheNhQsD_qLxUgk9GFS3wlEwm1dWjy-j7qyX90nUdLI3ww1OPur_kpjb4Fs5MXo-UP2yE5C4NibbdnzHko/s1600/TamaraforGG-264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglhOBZ99fQW8qqwypvB5-cHebQf_b3_AyHzjqfBOqEBGTwhK2SdxXePpW2mjmheNhQsD_qLxUgk9GFS3wlEwm1dWjy-j7qyX90nUdLI3ww1OPur_kpjb4Fs5MXo-UP2yE5C4NibbdnzHko/s1600/TamaraforGG-264.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy trails. xx</div>
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tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-5986280874387691712014-08-30T22:47:00.000-07:002015-03-19T11:57:51.063-07:00cherry vanilla pie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkURzGZuWKc5qHYD9OA2XQe0NQwEIPeBSkLNdBqzJExh2B0kAqRkb0ron7PbAjKU7cyoHjCQmOWRvHJxaeiUzk-ZkyZo7h51-JwZFpRMJIDvGkhx_9BbdfADwDPt1M6mD_yYGb6Ebtqoxm/s1600/TamaraforGG-99.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkURzGZuWKc5qHYD9OA2XQe0NQwEIPeBSkLNdBqzJExh2B0kAqRkb0ron7PbAjKU7cyoHjCQmOWRvHJxaeiUzk-ZkyZo7h51-JwZFpRMJIDvGkhx_9BbdfADwDPt1M6mD_yYGb6Ebtqoxm/s1600/TamaraforGG-99.jpg" height="960" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I was planning my woodland picnic I really wanted to have mini cherry pies. I called Jenell from <a href="http://www.vancouverpiehole.com/beans/">The Pie Hole</a> and she created these little beauties...they are so yummy. Jenell was kind enough to share the recipe - happy baking!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Crust Ingredients</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 cups of AP flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp of sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">pinch of salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 cup of butter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 tbsp white vinegar</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Directions</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Mix flour, sugar and salt together.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Cut frozen cube chunks of butter with pastry knife until butter is approximately pea size chunks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. Slowly add ice cold water infused with the white vinegar, 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture holds together. Chill until ready to roll.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Let dough cool in the fridge for at least 30 mins.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Roll chilled dough and place into pie plate.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGiYDlQsezs4BOZlNJ_ExgVfgXTFwI5pGOJoI_WMruSfegseoBiezXnwO1hbA1hsMGQRnA7uLr1Q1zh0h6upGMzB9m24MN2Q8jW68_UyGmTuASExg30G3kha9XbS1tn9H4OyvADWhOK5Fq/s1600/TamaraforGG-134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGiYDlQsezs4BOZlNJ_ExgVfgXTFwI5pGOJoI_WMruSfegseoBiezXnwO1hbA1hsMGQRnA7uLr1Q1zh0h6upGMzB9m24MN2Q8jW68_UyGmTuASExg30G3kha9XbS1tn9H4OyvADWhOK5Fq/s1600/TamaraforGG-134.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Filling Ingredients</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 pounds sweet BC cherries, pitted</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 vanilla bean</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3 tbsp arrowroot flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1/2 tsp sea salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Directions</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. Wash cherries well. For smaller mini pies, cut cherries in half.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2. Slice the vanilla bean open using the tip of a pairing knife and gently scrape the vanilla bean seeds out.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cherries, vanilla, arrowroot, sugar and salt. Mix well with large spoon gently pressing some of the cherries to release some delicious juice! Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rest for 15 minutes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4. Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared pie shell leaving a 1" overhang. Cover with pastry, and pinch to create a decorative edge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5. Whisk egg and brush the top of the pastry evenly covering all surface area. Sprinkle with sugar and cut several 1" slits for venting. Place in the oven for 10 minutes at 400F and then lover to 350 for an additional 35-40 minutes.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmsfM-Eu7xL4yiF_XG5C7Hj_nIcSIQ-bS9k7ng9PDY7qpmqK4wy-7QX9mFz-Y0xdEGwgDXLr3cUs0CFb0y4oZhMLAgIAUosNeZ4W0qiOGRTbcEqwiZXJ3HdySGAtcxRiFwhmcZvvLSy8D/s1600/Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmsfM-Eu7xL4yiF_XG5C7Hj_nIcSIQ-bS9k7ng9PDY7qpmqK4wy-7QX9mFz-Y0xdEGwgDXLr3cUs0CFb0y4oZhMLAgIAUosNeZ4W0qiOGRTbcEqwiZXJ3HdySGAtcxRiFwhmcZvvLSy8D/s1600/Pie.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">all photos by Kyrani at Kilk Photography<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cool, and enjoy!!!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-83749574079910126052014-08-16T23:39:00.000-07:002015-03-19T11:52:53.374-07:00poppy's 4th birthday party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Poppy loves My Little Pony, so thinking of a theme for her 4th birthday party was easy. Rarity is her favourite, with Pinkie Pie a close second - Twilight Sparkle is right in there too. I can name all the ponies. True story. </div>
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Where would we be without Auntie Denise? We actually start thinking of party ideas months in advance, this one was a lot of fu. Denise made the cake and cupcakes....together we made all the other food. <a href="http://thewhisk.ca/">The Whisk</a> did the cookies, how sweet is the cutie mark on the number 4 cookie? If you don't know what a cutie mark is you can read more <a href="http://mlp.wikia.com/wiki/Cutie_mark">here</a>. Important stuff.</div>
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<br />tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-19238806626318907662014-08-09T22:37:00.000-07:002015-03-19T11:58:08.129-07:00beckett's 7th birthday party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's hard to believe that Beckett is seven!! When I was tossing around ideas for Beckett's party I realized that I had already thrown him a party for each of his favourite things. Thomas - check, dinosaurs - check, cars - check, hot wheels - check. Dave suggested we just have a party to celebrate 7...a good old-fashioned, themeless party. Perfect.</div>
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Once again my good friend Denise (or Auntie Denise) made the cake and food, she likes to remind me that she's a realtor not a baker. Her cakes are insanely delicious, if this realtor thing doesn't work out...right, she's an amazing realtor. Kyrani from <a href="http://www.klikphotographic.com/">Klik Photography</a> took all the photos, best decision I ever made was to have someone capture all the moments. The cookies are from <a href="http://thewhisk.ca/">The Whisk</a>, always amazing. </div>
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We hired <a href="http://bellebuttons.com/">Bell E. Buttons </a>to face paint and perform some magic tricks, the kids loved the show. He kept them entertained and laughing for a couple of hours, it was great. From these photos it looks like it's just us as the party but we had friends and family over! </div>
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It was a great time, I love birthday parties and from the looks of it - so do my kids! </div>
<br />tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-27389077840998090612014-04-21T18:23:00.000-07:002014-04-21T18:23:28.242-07:00zoë's 5th birthday party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span id="goog_879574103"></span><span id="goog_879574104"></span>While I'm on a roll of birthday party postings...here's Zoë's 5th birthday party - we went with a Fairy theme. The school year had just started and as much as Zoë wanted to invite everyone, I talked her into a small gathering at home. I realize that hosting birthday parties at home is coming to an end...I really don't want it to - I love having them at home.<br />
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Auntie Denise made the cake...a masterpiece in all it's purple/lavender ombre glory. The cupcakes were from <a href="http://sweetbakeshop.com/">Sweet Bake Shop</a> and the cookies were once again from <a href="http://thewhisk.ca/">Whisk</a>. I bought the marshmallows at <a href="http://www.butterbakedgoods.com/">Butter Baked Goods</a>, Denise made the squares and my mom made the tea sandwiches. It was a rainy day & surprisingly dark outside for late September. All of the photos are by <a href="http://www.klikphotographic.com/">Kyrani Kanavaros</a>.<br />
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It was a great day and fun to look back on these photos. I'm already planning this year's birthday parties, just tossing the ideas around in my head...hoping I can squeeze in one more year at home! xxtamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-38503616915375230202014-04-21T16:28:00.000-07:002014-04-21T16:28:13.549-07:00poppy's 3rd birthday party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Aloha - it's about time I got around to posting Poppy's 3rd birthday party, it was only eight months ago! I'm not sure where the time goes but it sure goes fast. As you can probably gather from the above photos, we went with a Hawaiian theme - the party was in August so we felt pretty confident that we would have sunshine! As always, my good friend Denise made the cake - this time she did fondant (which non of the kids liked)...Denise always backs it up with cupcakes, so we were covered. My husband carved the watermelon (love it) and the cookies are from <a href="http://thewhisk.ca/">Whisk</a>...the hula girls are too cute!<br />
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This was probably the easiest party to plan, it's colourful and fun. The food was pretty simple, we ordered sushi, prepared chicken skewers the night before and sprinkled the table with lots of sweet treats. All of the decorations, including the balloons are from <a href="http://www.thepartybazaar.com/">The Party Bazaar</a>. All of the Hawaiian birthday photos are by <a href="http://www.joyphoto.ca/">Joy Chen</a>.<br />
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For Poppy's first birthday we invited the babies we knew that were born in her first year...we took a photo and have taken the same photo each year. They're getting tough to wrangle!<br />
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This is Poppy's first birthday....<br />
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Poppy's second birthday...<br />
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And Poppy's third birthday...<br />
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We had a great time, looking at these photos now reminds me how special the day was and how excited Poppy was to be turning three. They also make me long for summer again! Aloha.<br />
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<br />tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-89760162744252263712014-03-21T11:02:00.000-07:002014-03-21T11:02:07.581-07:00happy world down syndrome day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">Happy World Down Syndrome Day! Just over six years ago I rarely thought about Down syndrome, I didn't know anyone with Down syndrome and if I did see someone, I never went out of my way to interact with them. I was uninformed and scared. Today it's different, I'm a new person and a little bit of an expert when it comes to Down syndrome! Beckett has changed everything, in a good way.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">I often wonder if some people think I'm full of it when I say that Beckett has changed our lives for the better. In my experience, I was told so many negative things about Down syndrome and constantly reminded of what Beckett wouldn't do...of course I was sad in those early days. Actually, I was terrified, and why wouldn't I be? I was bombarded with so much unnecessary garbage, all the photos I looked at of children with Down syndrome in pamphlets were outdated and unflattering. I get it, Beckett won't drive, have children, live on his own - blah, blah, blah. When people heard of Beckett's birth most were inclined to say "sorry" instead of "congratulations"...there is nothing to be sorry for, we are the lucky ones. We really are.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">I can't tell you how many new parents I have spoken to over the past six years, honestly I have lost count. I have talked to women in their hospital beds holding their hours old baby, women who have just found out they are carrying a baby with Down syndrome, women crying because their husbands had one foot out the door....you name the situation - I have talked to them. I tell them all the same thing...it's going to be okay - I promise. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">It will be okay and I really do promise. Down syndrome does not cross our minds on a daily basis, yes Beckett is a slower to develop when it comes to speech and toilet training and a few other things. We have had more appointments for this sweet boy than we ever imagined but we're used to it. We know what it's like to be on a wait list, and I'm clear on what it means to be an advocate. We can't imagine life without his bright smile (toothless right now), his hearty laugh and his charismatic glow. Beckett is empathetic, smart and ambitious. We love him so much our hearts could seriously burst. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">Some may look at Beckett or another child with Down syndrome and think they are not perfect, they are flawed. Here's a news flash, perfect doesn't exist and even if it did - how terribly boring. If you are looking for perfect, you will be looking for a long time. What a shame to miss the real beauty in life, we are all unique - we all have a story to share.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">It really would have been nice if in those early days someone told me all the wonderful things Beckett will do and what an amazing person he will become. I get why 90% of women who find out they are carrying a baby with Down syndrome terminate the pregnancy <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(this number is widely reported)</span>, there is so much negativity and fear. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">It's 2014 and we have come a long way. We don't throw a child with Down syndrome into an institution anymore (at least not where I live) - although it wasn't long ago in Canada that we did. A child that is loved and nurtured like their typical siblings thrives. I find at times there is still a bit of negativity when meeting with some health care professionals, we have crossed paths with a few who are stuck in the sixties - the good news is, we just move on and find someone new. We find someone who sees what we see, a beautiful, charming, bright boy....who happens to have an extra chromosome. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">Of course there are challenges, there always are - with every child. I'll never forget our first meeting with our Geneticist, he said to me "Tamara, in the grand scheme of things Down syndrome is not a big deal" - it was to me and I was very confused by his comment. I get it now, compared to the thousands of horrific diseases and challenges a person can have - Down syndrome is not so bad. He was being kind and trying to let me know that we were going to be fine and we are.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">So today on March 21st (everyday for our family) we celebrate that extra chromosome with World Down Syndrome Day, a day to raise awareness of what Down syndrome is, what it means to have Down syndrome and most importantly - how people with Down syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities. Next time you see someone with Down syndrome say hello, I guarantee they will say hello back and smile.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">For more information on World Down Syndrome Day please click <a href="http://www.worlddownsyndromeday.org/">here</a>.</span>tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-55012653054847523862013-12-31T18:28:00.000-08:002013-12-31T18:28:17.960-08:00bye bye 2013What a year. These past couple of years I seem to feel a little blue on New Year's Eve, it's a new feeling for me. I think it's because of my traumatic start to 2012, I was so sure 2012 was going to be a great year & three days into it I nearly died. 2013 was a <b>great</b> year, I'm healthy, my sweet family is healthy and our home is filled with love. I realize there are challenges ahead in 2014...my father-in-law is not well and we are desperate to spend as much time together as a family. I have high hopes for the new year but deep inside I feel the fragility that is possible.<br />
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Here are some photos from the past year...it really was a good one...I sure do love my babes.<br />
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<br />tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-31853186790298879542013-12-20T21:23:00.000-08:002013-12-20T21:23:28.734-08:00beckett's 6th birthday party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This post is incredibly late....Beckett's party was in August, it's now December - time sure flies. Our boy loves HotWheels, so the theme this year was easy. It was a beautiful, sunny day & we shared it with friends and family. I loved that some of Beckett's friends from school were able to make it.<br />
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The photo in the middle is Beckett & his best friend Finn. Seriously, how cute is that? Finn is in the other grade one class at school, the boys find each other at lunch & they love spending time together. Finn also happens to have Down syndrome. My heart is full when I think of the boys going through their school years together.<br />
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My sweet friend Denise made the cake (again), she really is the queen of cakes. Sonia at <a href="http://www.sugarysweetthings.com/">Sugary Sweet Things</a> made the cookies. We set up two major HotWheels tracks in the backyard & the kids raced cars all afternoon.<br />
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It really was a great day. Beckett had the best time, he loves a party & party he did. Our kids like to blow out candles, over and over and over again. So we light the cake, sing and relight it. Then we light a cupcake, sing and relight it. It's quite the process & there is pure happiness with every candle that gets blown out.<br />
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The only chance we have of getting a family shot is during the cake...we have til the end of Happy Birthday to sneak in a five-shot. There are lots of hugs, many kisses and too many smiles to count. It was nice to do this post five months after the party....such a great reminder of a fantastic day. xx<br />
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<br />tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-5504730679821696642013-09-24T12:41:00.000-07:002013-09-24T12:41:55.341-07:00zoë is five<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Zoë Frances Noriko Genn is five today. I remember the day she came into the world so well. Born at 8:55am, ZoZo (as we like to call her) was 8 pounds, 1 ounce and 21 inches long. Dave & I were so excited to have a baby girl join our family. It was an emotional day for a number of reasons, I was grateful to also have my best friend Saleema in the delivery room. There were tears of joy & a sigh of relief - she was healthy.<br />
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Beckett was very intrigued...I love this photo of Beckett inspecting his little sister. I knew in this moment that the relationship between Beckett & Zoë would be intense and important. My biggest fear when Beckett was born was that he would be alone once Dave & I were gone...he needed a team and I was going to build him one. Zoë was the first person on his team, Poppy would follow two years later. Our boy has his little sisters to love him and he loves them back with pure joy.<br />
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Zoë was an easy baby, she ate and slept like a dream. She always looked at people with her brows scrunched up, as if she was trying to figure out who they really were. Dave always joked that he hoped Zoë looked like me but acted like him. Personality-wise, she is my clone. It's unbelievable, she opens her mouth to talk and my words and attitude come out. I'm secretly overjoyed.<br />
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Beckett & Zoë are 13 months apart in age, ZoZo quickly caught up to Beckett - she walked before he did, she talked before he did. Zoë doesn't know that Beckett has Down syndrome, it hasn't come up yet. We'll talk about it one day, maybe soon - maybe later. I love how Zoë sees Beckett just as he is - perfect.<br />
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It was difficult to choose just a few photos of Zoë...These are some of my favourites. As you can see the girl has a sense of humour, a zest for life and the ability to create an atmosphere of love and happiness wherever she may be.<br />
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Everyday is a new adventure with all three of our children, the experiences are unique as they are each so different. This morning at 6am, Zoë climbed into our bed...I whispered Happy Birthday (she giggled with excitement) and I asked her if she felt different. She replied "Yes, I do". "How do you feel different?"...."I feel five".<br />
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Happy Birthday my love. Thank you for filling my heart. </div>
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tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-47209611897336741092013-08-16T10:25:00.000-07:002013-08-16T10:25:25.738-07:00poppy is threeMy baby. My baby is three today. I have been thinking about this day for weeks, trying to hold onto Poppy's last days as a two year old with all my might. I'm not ready for her to be three. When we have our bedtime story and our nightly song and cuddle together I remind her that she is my baby. She says "I not a baby, I a girl". True. But she will always be my baby.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by ka davidson<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Poppy came into the world at 8:17am weighing 8 pounds 15 ounces, she was 20.5 inches long - born on my grandparent's wedding anniversary. Her shock of black hair was amazing, we were convinced that our third baby most reflected Dave's Japanese heritage. We were wrong.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">just a few days old with my childhood teddy bear<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We were so excited to bring Poppy home to meet her big brother and sister, imagining our household as a family of five. It was an exciting time and still is. I love the relationship that has developed between these three.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by ka davidson</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBKpS7zQn-ekWUaerBsufmAuQnteIhyNg4umDAcr58Q1oR3t7ScG7qCmgWboYRjzQmwuR-gfmqD3IWUHHOyIFAnW0jIuj7Vs_gWIRZsMVvy2MoY3sr-gdsCGs7HYWT0rbtpkbbGkO5HZG/s1600/Baby+Poppy+-+6+months-20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOBKpS7zQn-ekWUaerBsufmAuQnteIhyNg4umDAcr58Q1oR3t7ScG7qCmgWboYRjzQmwuR-gfmqD3IWUHHOyIFAnW0jIuj7Vs_gWIRZsMVvy2MoY3sr-gdsCGs7HYWT0rbtpkbbGkO5HZG/s640/Baby+Poppy+-+6+months-20.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by mika inokoshi<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This photo is of Poppy when she was 6 months old, as you can see she doesn't have her dark hair or eyes or olive skin. Dave and I never thought we would have a blue-eyed babe...I love staring into those baby blues.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2E56iH7s8jO0bqfdGnsPRSdPwhGN5rC48H5uWkjt4EwaE1cvYJ8oG2aJBzte4rmKk_VyHz37ODAm9vtU9ow7rVT6HOfu79MvH-qG4cOnScpJSgBThyVHZdIeb9qrVesIplREJ3fiSbSoz/s1600/DSC_4165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2E56iH7s8jO0bqfdGnsPRSdPwhGN5rC48H5uWkjt4EwaE1cvYJ8oG2aJBzte4rmKk_VyHz37ODAm9vtU9ow7rVT6HOfu79MvH-qG4cOnScpJSgBThyVHZdIeb9qrVesIplREJ3fiSbSoz/s640/DSC_4165.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by ka davidson<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is Poppy on her first birthday. Her personality is sweet, her laugh is infectious and her cuddles are addictive. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrSonecqHlnR_wclhuKSjJj51gfXrBaTCCkIXpKQIAqhoGNgN66f673OOAwTbJ9M6eQ3dD7847Rfn7gk6l6X7AyeyCZnwd9YQqVjYYO8clnK-U6eK2-siUBCk94GeSRtXyBsv3BPifP3TA/s1600/Taggart-Genn2011-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrSonecqHlnR_wclhuKSjJj51gfXrBaTCCkIXpKQIAqhoGNgN66f673OOAwTbJ9M6eQ3dD7847Rfn7gk6l6X7AyeyCZnwd9YQqVjYYO8clnK-U6eK2-siUBCk94GeSRtXyBsv3BPifP3TA/s640/Taggart-Genn2011-15.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by kyrani kanavaros<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is my favourite photo of Poppy. It was taken in our backyard, I look at this photo and see magic. This is a girl who will do great things, she will dream big and light up the world with her spark. Her love for Beckett and Zoë is pure joy, I know they will be best friends for life.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_VaaFs9r_c5uB27gmfcn7gizb4C3_MuayDC5Xw0Xmn6BYtZbf00MJpGoyoBURpuOYSjCyQn3PBeTctxhVCvtvSIdn9Wby2BysNI-8vbwr_UGismKs1IWR0alqSb2AzsdakPOImKq0W5l/s1600/poppy2012-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_VaaFs9r_c5uB27gmfcn7gizb4C3_MuayDC5Xw0Xmn6BYtZbf00MJpGoyoBURpuOYSjCyQn3PBeTctxhVCvtvSIdn9Wby2BysNI-8vbwr_UGismKs1IWR0alqSb2AzsdakPOImKq0W5l/s640/poppy2012-12.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by kyrani kanavaros<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This is Poppy at two years old, taken in the same park as her portrait on her first birthday. Sweet.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Q-ggiqQhY9PfCgy7KUqzdC8X1NEJWdTBejnjSnUa3KUT8TThI0iJNS5Gj-gDe3aWjKN_d0UE-TNTzOzhU5cEde1ER7Jqv5of9T0UbGlH2w9Kee7biYEFJCm16kfsHIhgu6zS_HvwV4Kh/s1600/_MG_0891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Q-ggiqQhY9PfCgy7KUqzdC8X1NEJWdTBejnjSnUa3KUT8TThI0iJNS5Gj-gDe3aWjKN_d0UE-TNTzOzhU5cEde1ER7Jqv5of9T0UbGlH2w9Kee7biYEFJCm16kfsHIhgu6zS_HvwV4Kh/s640/_MG_0891.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by kyrani kanavaros<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Christmas 2012. They hold my heart. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKNBmEvUPHhlu5Zt_ZzTxQGpKUbbsoGA8hEEH_mVYxsOUAfqjdtJMOVOdH99JeN8XRvK9_KraDKXlW1vyVcDR2fy-fnpw_xsin1UoGPeYrWvtbzvAzMehSzSdfEFz_IErDMcoD1M3MJzCe/s1600/Beckett%2527s+6th+Birthday-22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKNBmEvUPHhlu5Zt_ZzTxQGpKUbbsoGA8hEEH_mVYxsOUAfqjdtJMOVOdH99JeN8XRvK9_KraDKXlW1vyVcDR2fy-fnpw_xsin1UoGPeYrWvtbzvAzMehSzSdfEFz_IErDMcoD1M3MJzCe/s640/Beckett%2527s+6th+Birthday-22.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by kyrani kanavaros<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Happy birthday sweet Poppy. You are three today. You are and always will be my baby. Thank you for filling my heart with so much love. xx</span></div>
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tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-78688382331875548812013-08-02T08:47:00.000-07:002013-08-02T08:47:20.295-07:00beckett is sixOn this day six years ago at 8:21am I became a mother for the first time. It was the most glorious moment of my life, followed by some dark, scary days. Thankfully the fear was short lived and we have had six beautiful years filled with love and pure joy. Beckett is six today. I can't believe how fast it has gone, I'm desperate to hold onto each day and savour every second. These are the best days of my life and it's because of my children. Here's each year of sweet Beckett's life so far...<br />
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This is Beckett minutes after he was born, 6 pounds 14 ounces and 19 inches long. It's also the moment I fell hopelessly in love and my life changed forever. This photo means so much to me, there's more here than I can ever explain.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViPd5WIpOvKnOX2nTTSPejzoWqZYRY1cMFkkUKK50Xm_x1-_R9YzHP_kXJHp_YLwTKhqBFaM5k7-g3WxGMyg-pyhWOL1cFJHR3XpBBcft7q7RRWLSFjFkY4B7dA2zU2nallcJhhpiJhok/s1600/_DSC0383100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViPd5WIpOvKnOX2nTTSPejzoWqZYRY1cMFkkUKK50Xm_x1-_R9YzHP_kXJHp_YLwTKhqBFaM5k7-g3WxGMyg-pyhWOL1cFJHR3XpBBcft7q7RRWLSFjFkY4B7dA2zU2nallcJhhpiJhok/s640/_DSC0383100.JPG" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by KA Davidson</td></tr>
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Beckett is seven weeks old in this photo, his first photo shoot. We were getting settled at this point, we knew Beckett had Down syndrome and had been to numerous doctors appointments. Our boy was healthy and happy. Dave and I were in love with this boy and so was everyone who met him.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9sSHwl-2eTj2e_0f0ak5PcN4GMoZgTct-s4Clp8KhR6zSggtTbXsyzKw3n8D6AGt2e_qxo4RPOknNEHwAAkcXI7HSGVQbAKhXMH-JVrgoID1jpAVaoz-AUTFnV_VaF_LsEJejfcF8qI0/s1600/_DSC3169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9sSHwl-2eTj2e_0f0ak5PcN4GMoZgTct-s4Clp8KhR6zSggtTbXsyzKw3n8D6AGt2e_qxo4RPOknNEHwAAkcXI7HSGVQbAKhXMH-JVrgoID1jpAVaoz-AUTFnV_VaF_LsEJejfcF8qI0/s640/_DSC3169.jpg" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by KA Davidson</td></tr>
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This is Beckett at 1 year old, getting cuter and sweeter by the second. I could get lost looking into those big brown eyes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigreAajFgDJZwV-xgPOWBA4TibDihH5CUtlZtp9r4DFWcR89iYFuZ9CL4myTmV_-5D-3hDvRFwvQXBoG_BblcZpf2827pAMW-8abERnvCrzA_yy2SlVhf_9JdpD_MwlPUmyCsn0QR-VMVD/s1600/DSC_0165A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigreAajFgDJZwV-xgPOWBA4TibDihH5CUtlZtp9r4DFWcR89iYFuZ9CL4myTmV_-5D-3hDvRFwvQXBoG_BblcZpf2827pAMW-8abERnvCrzA_yy2SlVhf_9JdpD_MwlPUmyCsn0QR-VMVD/s640/DSC_0165A.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by KA Davidson</td></tr>
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Beckett is two years old in this photo, he had just started to walk and we were thrilled. As you can tell from this photo, he liked to laugh a lot - and he still does. His laugh is one of my favourite sounds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxb0_3NW9fVy-sY2ybPVXBBCXae7EEl8jTdldQUiCcIqYKzkNAXEW-SEUmyqJx0g4Uw84wwjiu73LxHvFaExhi3lxXxOj2ZomMVG__V4lpHHUHyNEKPddvTCGZvM9c-ebrR8WIbrc_jGQ/s1600/DSC_1663-bitbw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxb0_3NW9fVy-sY2ybPVXBBCXae7EEl8jTdldQUiCcIqYKzkNAXEW-SEUmyqJx0g4Uw84wwjiu73LxHvFaExhi3lxXxOj2ZomMVG__V4lpHHUHyNEKPddvTCGZvM9c-ebrR8WIbrc_jGQ/s640/DSC_1663-bitbw.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by KA Davidson</td></tr>
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I love this photo. This is Beckett at three years old, playing the drum set Dave bought him when he was born. We had the drums in the back yard, which he was pretty happy about.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9Po4vlN3tYqa6tDQvi_aN-wWJPVblx1X5LGyN7N7QW446iRHxGJ2JzMZ0UdPtBxc9FsbyzLql31nrannIeFDGfdt2F2Bf-ec1kHVKYW3QpqxkIw5nLHmC2xSOG0HuGURQX28xOKw_mnT/s1600/DSC_7250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9Po4vlN3tYqa6tDQvi_aN-wWJPVblx1X5LGyN7N7QW446iRHxGJ2JzMZ0UdPtBxc9FsbyzLql31nrannIeFDGfdt2F2Bf-ec1kHVKYW3QpqxkIw5nLHmC2xSOG0HuGURQX28xOKw_mnT/s640/DSC_7250.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by KA Davidson</td></tr>
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Oh those eyes, how I love them. Beckett is four years old here. A beautiful boy and a great big brother to Zoë and Poppy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BvUXyuGL5rhxKx6s03OcvtPv46TjkluUpyiZ5_9LEDxhwf12gTLuhcchBLbzU8UPXzq8KeH1DxX_ExgxsV0T5mqJmTU0xOH3aLnSPzDyFUYEW_Z1JXHHrqhZpXIKXr-mcB9cLUay2ZKu/s1600/beckett-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BvUXyuGL5rhxKx6s03OcvtPv46TjkluUpyiZ5_9LEDxhwf12gTLuhcchBLbzU8UPXzq8KeH1DxX_ExgxsV0T5mqJmTU0xOH3aLnSPzDyFUYEW_Z1JXHHrqhZpXIKXr-mcB9cLUay2ZKu/s640/beckett-15.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by Kyrani Kanavaros</td></tr>
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At five years old Beckett loved trains and dinosaurs, not much has changed in that department - but we can now add Hot Wheels to the list! This would be the year Beckett entered Kindergarten, a big step. He loved his first year at school and even lost his two bottom teeth, his new chompers are still growing in.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by Kyrani Kanavaros</td></tr>
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And this is what six looks like. I still can't believe it, our boy is six. We had a birthday party for Beckett last Saturday, the theme was Hot Wheels (of course) and we had a great time. I'll post more pictures of the party soon. I love that some of Beckett's friends from school came to the party, he was so happy to see them. This boy has grown a lot in the last year. We started an intense food therapy last November and now Beckett is eating the same foods as his sisters. He has his favourites, he loves peanut butter, cucumbers and cherries! Beckett is continuing with his reading and speech therapy sessions and improving each month. It's been a big year of growth. It has also been a year of love. This boy has brought us more happiness than we could have ever imagined.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by Kyrani Kanavaros</td></tr>
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Happy Birthday Beckett. We love you. xxtamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-84574006793757520872013-06-13T11:27:00.000-07:002013-06-13T11:27:43.349-07:00celebrating 70<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love surprise parties, especially when I get to throw them and it's for someone I love. My mom just turned 70, a milestone for sure. My brother Frank and I were trying to figure out what we could do for her birthday, he lives in Panama so our first idea was to take her on a trip - just the three of us. After weeks of thought I began to imagine a small party with her closest friends and family. It would be a surprise, in seventy years she had never experienced a surprise party. What fun we had.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQODL8Yha5USAg6SKrDdHEhhJfB9Q-h2L5kY9r76p5xgwmreY2uKQhUuxBHxB71cP6NQp1NGKtC9ONp36Fkk5fRmuh8Y7VbSckW9JiQuOlTFcUUg29paFIs5jPd2WUrVxXoYBxsOTm94wL/s1600/Mom%2527s+B-Day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQODL8Yha5USAg6SKrDdHEhhJfB9Q-h2L5kY9r76p5xgwmreY2uKQhUuxBHxB71cP6NQp1NGKtC9ONp36Fkk5fRmuh8Y7VbSckW9JiQuOlTFcUUg29paFIs5jPd2WUrVxXoYBxsOTm94wL/s640/Mom%2527s+B-Day.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
There were fifteen of us for dinner, we hired someone to come in to make dinner - it was Italian and it was amazing. I had never done this before but a friend suggested it, they worked with our budget and we were able to visit and not worry about what was happening on the stove. I also asked my friend <a href="http://klikphotographic.com/">Kyrani Kanavaros</a> to come to take photos, I knew she would capture the evening for us and we could have the memories forever.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdo-cwZqOEob0KjuBIsjCi-efkj0G2CvtooMieRwiEmJJg8oISq_dukiYdQ1dQJ5OSsltnX3dZ-uRYuX-sSRcNLwntruhphoZLa9ypBhVeKtxQ4FK8uJPQQ1DlAL4OV_6gSlapGRXiionr/s1600/Mom%2527s+B-Day+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdo-cwZqOEob0KjuBIsjCi-efkj0G2CvtooMieRwiEmJJg8oISq_dukiYdQ1dQJ5OSsltnX3dZ-uRYuX-sSRcNLwntruhphoZLa9ypBhVeKtxQ4FK8uJPQQ1DlAL4OV_6gSlapGRXiionr/s640/Mom%2527s+B-Day+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The best part of the night was that our kids were there to experience it. They had no idea what a "surprise party" was but once explained they loved it. My mom was so happy to have her three treasures with her. Of course the biggest surprise of the night was that my brother snuck into town, the look on my mom's face when she saw him was priceless. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8QbRy1zae53cW6tQZStbR39S7PfKd3r-niZ9ygHbMl6f9GjRIa_ssSfdN01-uv9ueDA8rI9iKfmXU2bIJI1Bv0vD27REjOjPNImZXu-Vn1Re-Kn8AjuMKHSKh8tO8XEXqItqu6kC849rc/s1600/Mom%2527s+B-Day+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8QbRy1zae53cW6tQZStbR39S7PfKd3r-niZ9ygHbMl6f9GjRIa_ssSfdN01-uv9ueDA8rI9iKfmXU2bIJI1Bv0vD27REjOjPNImZXu-Vn1Re-Kn8AjuMKHSKh8tO8XEXqItqu6kC849rc/s640/Mom%2527s+B-Day+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
When I was little my mom would throw me the greatest birthday parties. Lots of friends, cake and family. I was so happy to do this for her, to give her a night with her most loved that she will always remember. The cake was from <a href="http://www.butterbakedgoods.com/">Butter Baked Goods</a> and it was delicious.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlz_VU0POyu357JBh4zXswcWilwqQFaLGy_sjPQTSTEGBuGobcrHSxE9rgs9wmV8QgV2uVI6Ep7aV9epgQFBpdrVUFyZM0x9n54AaAhP7Q0khlDuJIPHUJRxCRQpmamRGtaudnkVEhUol9/s1600/IMG_7179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlz_VU0POyu357JBh4zXswcWilwqQFaLGy_sjPQTSTEGBuGobcrHSxE9rgs9wmV8QgV2uVI6Ep7aV9epgQFBpdrVUFyZM0x9n54AaAhP7Q0khlDuJIPHUJRxCRQpmamRGtaudnkVEhUol9/s640/IMG_7179.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I had to light the candles on the cake about five times, the kids love to blow out the candles and everyone needed a try. I love this picture, I know our kids will look at this decades from now and remember this time with great happiness. xx</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-25270161261950474772013-04-29T10:30:00.000-07:002013-04-29T10:30:21.981-07:00first play date
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsE7Za4O9ATzqqZksf3VUrs10OUmR84XV0dQafXqCISb-cHl1O-ghgD9xbFQRziqfg8pR58a7-1B_WzJPckvoD8yQzanjgL-J4dDiHsZMaxL5sDjwiew9C1RIMENuIOF9JWIq4K830tTJO/s1600/beckett-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsE7Za4O9ATzqqZksf3VUrs10OUmR84XV0dQafXqCISb-cHl1O-ghgD9xbFQRziqfg8pR58a7-1B_WzJPckvoD8yQzanjgL-J4dDiHsZMaxL5sDjwiew9C1RIMENuIOF9JWIq4K830tTJO/s640/beckett-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by kyrani kanavaros</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was in my inbox last week.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Hi Dave & Tamara, <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">A little while ago Aurora asked me if
she could have a play date with Beckett sometime. We would be very happy to
arrange this, if you and Beckett are interested. Aurora is trying to make a few
more friends in her class, and when I asked her which kids are the nicest, she
mentioned Beckett. I hope that you'll consider arranging something with us. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Thanks, Lisa </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I received this e-mail I had to
pause and process my feelings. Lisa couldn’t know that by sending this e-mail
she was opening up five years of feelings and fears.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, it’s just a simple invitation to play but this is different
– it’s the first time a “typical” child has asked my son to do something.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In my world, this is huge. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When Beckett was just days old, I would
stay up late with him asleep in my arms, fretting over whether he would have
any friends. Would he be bullied? Would other children want to play with
him?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When Beckett was a few months
old I met someone who worked for the School Board, I shared my fear of high
school and they said to me “Kids with Down syndrome can be quite lonely in
school – no one wants to be best friends with the kid with Down syndrome”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Insert knife in heart here. I have
never forgotten those words. Ever. When I received Lisa’s e-mail I wanted to
cry and I secretly hoped that Aurora would feel the same way about Beckett when
they get to high school.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hadn’t met Aurora yet and I already
loved her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it was Lisa’s
idea, maybe she instinctively knew that children with special needs usually
don’t get asked over for play dates?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I don’t care, I instantly adored Lisa for doing this.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We went for the play date yesterday
afternoon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was over the moon. Beckett
was happy but he didn’t understand what we were doing, I tried to explain but
it didn’t really have any impact.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Aurora was waiting in the window and
when we walked in Lisa explained that she had been excited all week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beckett took one look at Aurora’s toys,
realized he was in heaven and proceeded to play with every toy and ignore
Aurora.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Very disappointing for
sweet Aurora.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My bliss turned to reality once I
realized that Beckett didn’t know how to have a play date – I found myself
explaining to everyone that he was so excited to see their toys, that’s why he
was playing on his own - Beckett would eventually want to play with Aurora
(fingers crossed).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s challenging
because Beckett’s speech is delayed, he can communicate but not as well as a
typical five year old. It’s hard for his peers to understand him.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I found myself analyzing the situation,
is this play date going sideways because Beckett has Down syndrome or because
he’s a boy or both? He was having a good time, a really good time – by himself.
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">By the end of the date I realized, like
most other things, we would need to guide Beckett and get him used to the idea
of a play date. Aurora is now
coming over this week to have a play date at our house. She will meet Beckett’s sisters, I’m
sure they’ll get along great.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfznxGgZVkjmEEtj1bdgrM_ROr6bMEXk7OgIS4a47vBlRwnzjKshyphenhyphenRcMePfEivuNedcge9Pt2a2grmWEq8tGcYD1UuRQ13489B7mlZ4Hv3C5t8E4i3uAuO3GDQKCUh57Jn-o4RWQ5-S-ZZ/s1600/beckett-15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfznxGgZVkjmEEtj1bdgrM_ROr6bMEXk7OgIS4a47vBlRwnzjKshyphenhyphenRcMePfEivuNedcge9Pt2a2grmWEq8tGcYD1UuRQ13489B7mlZ4Hv3C5t8E4i3uAuO3GDQKCUh57Jn-o4RWQ5-S-ZZ/s640/beckett-15.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo by kyrani kanavaros</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have saved Lisa’s e-mail, I read it
daily. Aurora thinks Beckett is one of the nicest kids in her class. That makes
me happy. It settles my fears. Aurora is right.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<!--EndFragment-->tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-21985055969019471052013-03-21T08:57:00.000-07:002013-03-21T08:57:04.650-07:00world down syndrome dayToday is the 8th Annual World Down Syndrome Day. The 21st day of the 3rd month was chosen as the day to celebrate and signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdVIBCNoa1kMlFOUXbZp8fTmAIy6dULOAbIpYaiDPf5nL6pwAa-2rmg8e2w-f2q87rjYrrs9WDykWrro4XVojdupbgUrjwWjOYqGaK3aDw5KsVpFoKtfH_wQ0eGEXqAazMt0VqaHi4nYn/s1600/Poppy+Bday+2012-297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHdVIBCNoa1kMlFOUXbZp8fTmAIy6dULOAbIpYaiDPf5nL6pwAa-2rmg8e2w-f2q87rjYrrs9WDykWrro4XVojdupbgUrjwWjOYqGaK3aDw5KsVpFoKtfH_wQ0eGEXqAazMt0VqaHi4nYn/s640/Poppy+Bday+2012-297.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
Today, we raise awareness of what Down syndrome is, what it means to have Down syndrome and how people with Down syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities. We celebrate Beckett everyday in our house, his extra chromosome presents some challenges but that's okay. There was a time when I was filled with fear, I didn't know anything about Down syndrome. That has changed, I'm an expert now! I hope I can teach others there is nothing to fear. People with Down syndrome are just like you - they have feelings, they love, they have dreams. The thought of someone judging my son based on his extra chromosome breaks my heart.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtLJDQ68dOvOlzW3vbwzXOwncEadfi9pzQWlIYYlE-1DTy-n0D7S3qE6iO3Y_N3_-KDBD8MyhyphenhyphenHFlVEQ7FPf7FyM5Juzn2JgFtVkGhHB1zvbfO5TG5tMNigFY2r0TQLI0cQdT7o4C7ohP/s1600/_MG_0891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCtLJDQ68dOvOlzW3vbwzXOwncEadfi9pzQWlIYYlE-1DTy-n0D7S3qE6iO3Y_N3_-KDBD8MyhyphenhyphenHFlVEQ7FPf7FyM5Juzn2JgFtVkGhHB1zvbfO5TG5tMNigFY2r0TQLI0cQdT7o4C7ohP/s640/_MG_0891.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our dreams for Beckett are no different than our dreams for our daughters. Be happy, be bright, be you. Happy World Down Syndrome Day. Next time you see someone with Down syndrome, say hi - you'll be pleasantly surprised. xx</div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-17940825974667023632013-03-02T17:33:00.002-08:002013-03-02T17:33:38.851-08:00happy birthday <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Ox02Zy5NHwmv1SOGST6Av7ufmHPqlkaSm5keYAOaDl5vAtxLOWa9PGYORxFAnVNtFhyaJ0k9ewutXYlveJCZpIu0uNB2xYiTGpjrUgbXPxB4dGGBwntRqmof5dgHRbbXGpUbalJbOwnc/s1600/Scan10036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3Ox02Zy5NHwmv1SOGST6Av7ufmHPqlkaSm5keYAOaDl5vAtxLOWa9PGYORxFAnVNtFhyaJ0k9ewutXYlveJCZpIu0uNB2xYiTGpjrUgbXPxB4dGGBwntRqmof5dgHRbbXGpUbalJbOwnc/s640/Scan10036.JPG" width="428" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy Birthday to my husband Dave...I love him.</div>
tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-40716238733082943832013-01-03T23:29:00.000-08:002013-01-03T23:29:47.436-08:00zoë's 4th birthday party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkO1P1i2X9Ag0N4D18wnTvIgQlR7OVMWdGmjVZ6GmEYsZtXF98qI42avKypHbXPPrYAi6m-ST-5U7GW8L8oEZF-i_u0FTPaoldQRzvREw6fg6F850FZxi9RXwiCD2qzTvziZMcUITnjwM/s1600/Zoe%CC%88+Party+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkO1P1i2X9Ag0N4D18wnTvIgQlR7OVMWdGmjVZ6GmEYsZtXF98qI42avKypHbXPPrYAi6m-ST-5U7GW8L8oEZF-i_u0FTPaoldQRzvREw6fg6F850FZxi9RXwiCD2qzTvziZMcUITnjwM/s640/Zoe%CC%88+Party+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I thought this was the perfect time for a "princess party" - Zoë's 4th birthday. I went with pink - and a surprise visit from Cinderella. With three birthdays in a row it's hard to make them totally different, it's a little intense scrambling to get it all done but once it is, I have a year to rest up!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioLCcU2vfw9nIyfosKRpd7ePBgtUTrjGUtXcBQqz_eWy-8wbm6XMQKFy5Owa8vN064xgSxR0SvgcQgY5oqpMiFlHbhUQ2s76OmKqcOPgVgWiJNU1xzPA8l_qmb_TMIdwPINzZ-aJB9BtDd/s1600/Zoe%25CC%2588+Party+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioLCcU2vfw9nIyfosKRpd7ePBgtUTrjGUtXcBQqz_eWy-8wbm6XMQKFy5Owa8vN064xgSxR0SvgcQgY5oqpMiFlHbhUQ2s76OmKqcOPgVgWiJNU1xzPA8l_qmb_TMIdwPINzZ-aJB9BtDd/s640/Zoe%25CC%2588+Party+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This party had many things similar to Beckett & Poppy's parties...my friend <a href="http://mikaphotography.com/">Mika</a> took the photos for me, Sonia from <a href="http://www.sugarysweetthings.com/">Sweet Sugary Things</a> made the cookies & my friend Denise made the cake - how perfect are those roses?! I follow Sheila from <a href="http://www.pinkribbonbakery.ca/index.php">Pink Ribbon Bakery</a> on Instagram, she makes amazing cupcakes (and cakes) & delivered the most delicious, beautiful cupcakes for Zoë's party.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzle0XU0Dy2nF8yNnVcAaERRa_atEeB9hF9Qg17hYIaFf5y7e2kqvhslmm8hNdQAfO5vMIvPEr92sQrHgmanocLjDM7AiOWAbyHJmS9FnYCTXXLPQSFtDkRdciHo050gCa8STQRrtXae2/s1600/Zoe%25CC%2588+Party+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUzle0XU0Dy2nF8yNnVcAaERRa_atEeB9hF9Qg17hYIaFf5y7e2kqvhslmm8hNdQAfO5vMIvPEr92sQrHgmanocLjDM7AiOWAbyHJmS9FnYCTXXLPQSFtDkRdciHo050gCa8STQRrtXae2/s640/Zoe%25CC%2588+Party+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Months ago, as I was walking out of swim lessons with the kids I picked up a card from <a href="http://princessdreamsvancouver.com/">Princess Dreams Vancouver</a> and tucked it away in my desk. That card came in handy when I decided to splurge & have Cinderella show up at the house for an hour to read the kids a story, sing & entertain them. Cinderella had 12 kids eating out of the palm of her white gloved hand. It was amazing to watch the magic.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLFpM3x0Fhh7hIANxum7DRGubpppsoRs1k2KXb7Mgj2znKimkuLa-gq01QbbZONw0u9aV-hdZPhbK1hvklcXVRTLDg1dKLdahTxefDyCxv570GVDXevo2PNVH6lABxtGOy2ndiAhC0v1r/s1600/Zoe%25CC%2588+Party+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLFpM3x0Fhh7hIANxum7DRGubpppsoRs1k2KXb7Mgj2znKimkuLa-gq01QbbZONw0u9aV-hdZPhbK1hvklcXVRTLDg1dKLdahTxefDyCxv570GVDXevo2PNVH6lABxtGOy2ndiAhC0v1r/s640/Zoe%25CC%2588+Party+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Like her parents, Zoë loves a party so it was a thrill to throw this one for her. With three parties in a row our kids are becoming quite skilled at celebrating, not a bad skill to have.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYVPK0eFSkojrDTqDWIAFxOnrbXAKUc3USleo8iaiEUbgBtZmcoXOZWUwDyZYPT8gYthT4UqFR4FHL2jztleLm_E1HFbB84eMLnJQo1XUJftrkNV9hqzQFvpzZwyt1NCiOhFtiHKvnNBA/s1600/Zoe%25CC%2588+Party+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglYVPK0eFSkojrDTqDWIAFxOnrbXAKUc3USleo8iaiEUbgBtZmcoXOZWUwDyZYPT8gYthT4UqFR4FHL2jztleLm_E1HFbB84eMLnJQo1XUJftrkNV9hqzQFvpzZwyt1NCiOhFtiHKvnNBA/s640/Zoe%25CC%2588+Party+2.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a>Beckett was the only boy at the party, that was okay with him. He thought Cinderella was fun & he enjoyed getting a little sparkly eye shadow with everyone else. The girls love his dinosaurs & he loves their princesses. Perfect.</div>
tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8256696736195687201.post-45439990832411088762013-01-03T22:39:00.000-08:002013-01-03T22:39:44.011-08:00happy 2nd anniversary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsegDnWstRjzuN72yEvfOnalKI3DkrQR6-_iQ0u4-oFUXnG2_xGkEWpHmjpYDXbsoyGu0Z_0hGOpVP4zb4ZlB15c3UKtq8nJh_31VhLkZANGIMgomzPz5XRa7XQZQpb_PmKZEm792jeVUs/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsegDnWstRjzuN72yEvfOnalKI3DkrQR6-_iQ0u4-oFUXnG2_xGkEWpHmjpYDXbsoyGu0Z_0hGOpVP4zb4ZlB15c3UKtq8nJh_31VhLkZANGIMgomzPz5XRa7XQZQpb_PmKZEm792jeVUs/s640/photo.JPG" width="640" /></a>Today Mike & I celebrated two years anchoring CTV News at Six. I love this job.</div>
tamarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04569920358727235276noreply@blogger.com1