In April it will be 9 years ago that I became a mother. I gave birth to my son 3 days overdue with the help of a doctor, some nurses, and a wonderful drug called an epidural. Since then, my life has been on an on-going roller coaster ride. Up, down, straight, bumps, screams, smiles, and sheer fear. I had my 4 kids within 7 years and I can honestly say for certain, “I am done!”
I am moving on now. I am looking forward to the stages I already passed with my older 2; with my twins. Diapers, potty training, and no baby car seats. It’s funny because there are so many things I have learned along the way and I continue to learn.
Since Joseph was my first, I shared all my “firsts” with him. I guess I understand the different relationship an older child has with its parents. They are the ones we “try” things out on. Like feeding foods for the first time, sleeping patterns, nap times, bottle weaning, pacifier weaning and potty training readiness. We swore that we would do it better the next time. So when our second children are born, we want to do the exact opposite. Like when people come to visit, we no longer smell their breath to make sure they didn’t have a cigarette or a drink 3 hours previous. We no longer put our ears to their mouth to make sure we hear them breathing, and we no longer cringe at the thought of bringing them to a mall and uncovering them for strangers to coo at them. We loosen up, and we love it. I cannot tell you how much you don’t fret if you have a third or fourth..lol..I think my twins were climbing stairs at 6 months..lol and eating full grapes at 12 months..lol.
I am going through all the motherhood changes right alongside my oldest. He is like my project child. I figure if it works on him, it should work on the others. I didn’t take into account ...personality. What rule worked on 1, may not work on the next. You see, there is never a right way of doing things, or a right way of approaching a situation. When you are a parent, everyday is a new challenge.
Sometimes I find myself looking at my kids and wondering when the camera is going to stop rolling and the taping ends. When are their real parents coming to pick them up? Lol..It sometimes still feels surreal to me that after 9 months, I had a baby, and I even had 2 at once (talk about productive..lol). At night, when I put them to bed I still look at them one by one, by, one, by one, and stare at them. I sometimes still check if they are breathing, and I sometimes still wonder what answer I will give them when I am asked from my son “how babies are born?” Or “how does a woman get pregnant mommy?” or “do you ever see Daddy naked?” I am working on answers that are just so unbelievable that I try hard not to burst out laughing.
I remember when my son started JK I was a wreck. I cried, I was so emotional that I couldn’t bare to talk to anyone about it because I felt so silly. The next year when my best friend’s daughter began, I had the nerve to say, “Oh toughen up, she will be fine.”..lol. My point is, we forget. We forget the hard times, the emotional times, and the times where we want to sell them to the gypsies. (A line my own mother would use).
Raising children, (whether it was 5 years ago, 15 years ago, or this month) is not easy. It is an on-going questionable period in our life that pretty much NEVER ends. We will guide them, teach them, show them, scold them, and nurture them until the day we die. We will be side by side with them as they reach all their milestones, and we may sometimes not know how to handle it, or what to do. And that’s ok.
Parenthood is a work in progress, a continuous test, exam and assessment. We try different recipes, formulas and tactics over the years. We do not get a final grade, or a report card. And one day when we are old and grey, rocking in our chair, we will have realized that we just spent the past 80+ years (we are all living until 105..lol) learning, revising, re-doing, and re-checking over and over our “little” Science experiment we call “Parenting”.
That's my peace today!
Roasted Red Peppers
6 red peppers washed left whole
1/4 cup olive oil
3 springs fresh basil
6 springs fresh parsley
3 cloves garlic cut in halves
salt and oregano
In the summer it is best to do this on the bbq but you can still do in the oven in Winter time. Place the peppers on a baking pan and cook in oven for 1 hour at 400 degrees. Once the peppers look soft and blackened, remove and cool. Peel off skin and remove stem and seeds. With your fingers break apart into thick long strings. Put in a bowl with oil, salt, oregano, garlic and herbs. Toss and refridgerate.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Girls will be girls
Raising daughters is obviously quite different than raising boys. You have to factor in hormones, fashion, phone calls, make-up, and DRAMA. There is always drama when girls are involved. I know, I grew up with 3 sisters. There is a little bit of competition, envy, and sheer silliness when you deal with girls. It is very important to teach them how to be strong in mind and body.
My daughter will be 6 in March. She is in Senior Kindergarten and she is a very pleasant little girl. She is always happy and laughing. She has many friends at school. She makes friends easily with the boys and the girls. She definitely has her own fashion sense. As long as it glitters or shines, she is wearing it. She has a great personality, she is fun spirited and she doesn’t take too many things serious. (She gets that from me)
On Friday, she came home quite upset. She told me that her teacher split her 2 “friends” Sophie and Sophia. I asked why and she explained to me that they were being mean to her. Every time she would go beside them, they would run away and laugh. The teacher realized what was going on so she didn’t allow the 2 girls to play with one another. I then went on to ask her why she continues to speak to them and she said “Because mommy, they are my friends.” I try to explain to her that she doesn’t need them, she has so many other friends that adore her, but she is just adamant about being their friend.
We women have a tendency to just do what we are not really “supposed” to do. We like the bad boys, we chase the delinquents, we transform the nerds into hotties, and we make friends with the mean girls. I think we are just glutton for punishment. We love to do the opposite. It makes us feel like we are in control. I don’t even think we even care about what we are doing, we just do it.
How can I teach my daughter to walk away from those girls that are not so nice? How do I explain to her that they are being mean to her because they have insecurities about themselves? How do I let her know that there is nothing wrong with her, but they are the ones with the problem? Her teacher was there to protect her at school against those girls, but she will not always be there. My daughter is confident with herself, she doesn’t care that they ran away. It hurt her feelings, but it didn’t stop her from talking to them the next day. In fact, she wants to invite them to her birthday party.
I am going to try my best to be an adult and forgive their behaviour because they are just kids.
My job is way more important than that. My job is to teach her to walk away and be the better person. My job is to let her know that she cannot control other people’s behaviour, but she can control how she handles it. We all have a choice in life on how to behave and treat other people. My children have taught me that. My daughter did not hold a grudge, or anger for these girls, she still called them her friends. Who am I to tell her that she shouldn’t be the nicer person?
She will have her whole life to make decisions on how to handle tough situations. She will learn on her own, that she should not accept mean behaviour from other people. She will learn that her “true” friends will always like her, no matter what. She will learn that people will say mean things and do mean things and that they can intentionally hurt your feelings. I need her to learn that on her own. I cannot pave that way for her; she will have to smooth the bumps on herself.
It will hurt me to see her feelings hurt, but that is the only way she will learn how to deal with it the next time. I cannot call each and every little girl that offends her. I cannot give their mother’s a dirty look and key their car..lol. The only thing I can do for my daughter; and all my 4 kids, is to listen and bite my tongue and let them figure it out on their own. One day the innocence will fade and all that will be left is the reality that there are mean people out there who are not so nice. They will learn and understand one day, that girls will be always be..girls.
That’s my peace today!
Fungi Risotto
1 pack portabello mushrooms
6 oyster mushrooms
6 cremini mushrooms
1/4 cup flour
1 cup uncooked risotto
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white wine
2 cup chicken stock
3 tbsp butter
Slice all the mushrooms, wash, pat dry and roll in flour. Heat a heavy pan, add oil, place all mushrooms and sautee, add half the wine and salt the mushrooms. Cook for about 10 min and put aside. Meanwhile in another heavy pan, melt butter, add rice and toast for about 1 minute. Add the stock, 1/4 cup at a time. Keep stirring until cooked about 25 min(you may have to add some water if it begins to stick). Once the rice is cooked with no liquid left, add the cooked mushrooms and stir together.
My daughter will be 6 in March. She is in Senior Kindergarten and she is a very pleasant little girl. She is always happy and laughing. She has many friends at school. She makes friends easily with the boys and the girls. She definitely has her own fashion sense. As long as it glitters or shines, she is wearing it. She has a great personality, she is fun spirited and she doesn’t take too many things serious. (She gets that from me)
On Friday, she came home quite upset. She told me that her teacher split her 2 “friends” Sophie and Sophia. I asked why and she explained to me that they were being mean to her. Every time she would go beside them, they would run away and laugh. The teacher realized what was going on so she didn’t allow the 2 girls to play with one another. I then went on to ask her why she continues to speak to them and she said “Because mommy, they are my friends.” I try to explain to her that she doesn’t need them, she has so many other friends that adore her, but she is just adamant about being their friend.
We women have a tendency to just do what we are not really “supposed” to do. We like the bad boys, we chase the delinquents, we transform the nerds into hotties, and we make friends with the mean girls. I think we are just glutton for punishment. We love to do the opposite. It makes us feel like we are in control. I don’t even think we even care about what we are doing, we just do it.
How can I teach my daughter to walk away from those girls that are not so nice? How do I explain to her that they are being mean to her because they have insecurities about themselves? How do I let her know that there is nothing wrong with her, but they are the ones with the problem? Her teacher was there to protect her at school against those girls, but she will not always be there. My daughter is confident with herself, she doesn’t care that they ran away. It hurt her feelings, but it didn’t stop her from talking to them the next day. In fact, she wants to invite them to her birthday party.
I am going to try my best to be an adult and forgive their behaviour because they are just kids.
My job is way more important than that. My job is to teach her to walk away and be the better person. My job is to let her know that she cannot control other people’s behaviour, but she can control how she handles it. We all have a choice in life on how to behave and treat other people. My children have taught me that. My daughter did not hold a grudge, or anger for these girls, she still called them her friends. Who am I to tell her that she shouldn’t be the nicer person?
She will have her whole life to make decisions on how to handle tough situations. She will learn on her own, that she should not accept mean behaviour from other people. She will learn that her “true” friends will always like her, no matter what. She will learn that people will say mean things and do mean things and that they can intentionally hurt your feelings. I need her to learn that on her own. I cannot pave that way for her; she will have to smooth the bumps on herself.
It will hurt me to see her feelings hurt, but that is the only way she will learn how to deal with it the next time. I cannot call each and every little girl that offends her. I cannot give their mother’s a dirty look and key their car..lol. The only thing I can do for my daughter; and all my 4 kids, is to listen and bite my tongue and let them figure it out on their own. One day the innocence will fade and all that will be left is the reality that there are mean people out there who are not so nice. They will learn and understand one day, that girls will be always be..girls.
That’s my peace today!
Fungi Risotto
1 pack portabello mushrooms
6 oyster mushrooms
6 cremini mushrooms
1/4 cup flour
1 cup uncooked risotto
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white wine
2 cup chicken stock
3 tbsp butter
Slice all the mushrooms, wash, pat dry and roll in flour. Heat a heavy pan, add oil, place all mushrooms and sautee, add half the wine and salt the mushrooms. Cook for about 10 min and put aside. Meanwhile in another heavy pan, melt butter, add rice and toast for about 1 minute. Add the stock, 1/4 cup at a time. Keep stirring until cooked about 25 min(you may have to add some water if it begins to stick). Once the rice is cooked with no liquid left, add the cooked mushrooms and stir together.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
It's harder than you know
When a woman has kids her whole life changes. Not only physically and mentally but every possible aspect of life changes. It is especially hard when you have a career that you love and that you are successful at. When you become a mother, you must sacrifice a lot more than your flat belly.
Last night I was at my mom’s house and my sister (who just had a baby 10 months ago) was contemplating going back to work. If it was simple, it would end at that. But of course, it is not that simple. She has 2 young children that she stays home with and cares for everyday. She went to University for a gazillion years and has a degree in ECE and languages, and then some. She worked very hard to get to where she got; before she had kids.
I felt very bad for her because I know what it feels like to want to get out there and be an adult again. But at the same time, she has an obligation to her 2 little ones. A husband gets it. When he has children, he still has to go to work. He doesn’t worry about travel with work, or the location of his office vs. Daycare or school. He does not need to worry about that, because he knows his wife will.
When I went back to work after all my pregnancies I felt sad to leave my kids, but I also felt like “me” again. I didn’t have to sip my coffee 2 feet away from my mouth just in case my little one grabbed it. I didn’t have to wonder if I would be able to pee without racing to see if one of the kids was eating Ajax. I felt like I had control of my life. Don’t get me wrong, I still have worries about them, responsibilities when I am away, and when I get home, but from 9-3, I am me.
People say it all the time, your life will change. Yes we know that it does. We no longer plan for ourselves, but we plan for our families. Every decision is carved around their comfort, no longer ours. We are given the most important role anyone can ever have. We must raise babies into adults and we must do our best at it. A stay at home mother has a very long, tiring day. I know; I did it. Some people think you have all the time in the world to go shopping, read, watch soaps and chit chat with your friends. Anyone who stays home, knows that is not true, in fact, it is the exact opposite. Time flies, but it flies with laundry, making breakfast, snacks, lunch, playtime and then dinner time. There is no real break at home.
My sister had a career before she gave birth. She woke up every morning and drove to a place where she was able to chat with colleagues, have a coffee, go for a patio lunch and get a pay check. That all changed. I am sure she is very happy with her life, but sometimes you feel like you are stuck in neutral and always doing the same thing, everyday, over and over. Unfortunately we do not see the rewards until they are grown and out of the home. It is only then, we can see our hard work of motherhood pay off.
Last night when I was at my mothers and I saw my sister’s face when she was talking about the possibility of going back to work, I wanted to cheer her on. I wanted to yell out at the top of my lungs, “Go for it..just do it!” I know she loves what she does when she works, and that is important. I say it all the time, I love my job and for me, it is not considered “work.” I know she feels the same. My sister will end up making the decision that is best for her and her kids, but it is not an easy decision to make. There are so many things she needs to weigh in and analyze. I support her decision either way because I know she will make the right one.
Women have to make that decision every day, and whatever works for you and your family, is the right choice. It is not an easy one, it is not a fast one, and it is not a clear one. It is life at its best. God gave us the opportunity to be moms, and thank God for that. But next time you see a woman or hear a woman telling you she is going back to work after having a child, just know that she didn’t make that decision overnight. She used a lot of paper to write out the pros and cons, she had many conversations with other mothers, and she used a lot of tissues wiping her tears away. It is result of her life as a mother, and as wonderful as it is; it is harder than you know!
That’s my peace today!
Pasta Primavera
1/2 cauliflower cut in pieces
1/2 broccoli cut in pieces
1/2 red pepper sliced thin
1/2 white onion sliced
1 carrot sliced
5 cremini mushrooms sliced
1 pack spagetti
1/2 cup olive oil
In a pan heat 3 tbsp of the oil, add veggies and saute for about 10 minutes, salt and pepper. Cook spagetti as directed, drain and add to veggies, add the rest of the oil and toss in heat for 2 minutes.
Last night I was at my mom’s house and my sister (who just had a baby 10 months ago) was contemplating going back to work. If it was simple, it would end at that. But of course, it is not that simple. She has 2 young children that she stays home with and cares for everyday. She went to University for a gazillion years and has a degree in ECE and languages, and then some. She worked very hard to get to where she got; before she had kids.
I felt very bad for her because I know what it feels like to want to get out there and be an adult again. But at the same time, she has an obligation to her 2 little ones. A husband gets it. When he has children, he still has to go to work. He doesn’t worry about travel with work, or the location of his office vs. Daycare or school. He does not need to worry about that, because he knows his wife will.
When I went back to work after all my pregnancies I felt sad to leave my kids, but I also felt like “me” again. I didn’t have to sip my coffee 2 feet away from my mouth just in case my little one grabbed it. I didn’t have to wonder if I would be able to pee without racing to see if one of the kids was eating Ajax. I felt like I had control of my life. Don’t get me wrong, I still have worries about them, responsibilities when I am away, and when I get home, but from 9-3, I am me.
People say it all the time, your life will change. Yes we know that it does. We no longer plan for ourselves, but we plan for our families. Every decision is carved around their comfort, no longer ours. We are given the most important role anyone can ever have. We must raise babies into adults and we must do our best at it. A stay at home mother has a very long, tiring day. I know; I did it. Some people think you have all the time in the world to go shopping, read, watch soaps and chit chat with your friends. Anyone who stays home, knows that is not true, in fact, it is the exact opposite. Time flies, but it flies with laundry, making breakfast, snacks, lunch, playtime and then dinner time. There is no real break at home.
My sister had a career before she gave birth. She woke up every morning and drove to a place where she was able to chat with colleagues, have a coffee, go for a patio lunch and get a pay check. That all changed. I am sure she is very happy with her life, but sometimes you feel like you are stuck in neutral and always doing the same thing, everyday, over and over. Unfortunately we do not see the rewards until they are grown and out of the home. It is only then, we can see our hard work of motherhood pay off.
Last night when I was at my mothers and I saw my sister’s face when she was talking about the possibility of going back to work, I wanted to cheer her on. I wanted to yell out at the top of my lungs, “Go for it..just do it!” I know she loves what she does when she works, and that is important. I say it all the time, I love my job and for me, it is not considered “work.” I know she feels the same. My sister will end up making the decision that is best for her and her kids, but it is not an easy decision to make. There are so many things she needs to weigh in and analyze. I support her decision either way because I know she will make the right one.
Women have to make that decision every day, and whatever works for you and your family, is the right choice. It is not an easy one, it is not a fast one, and it is not a clear one. It is life at its best. God gave us the opportunity to be moms, and thank God for that. But next time you see a woman or hear a woman telling you she is going back to work after having a child, just know that she didn’t make that decision overnight. She used a lot of paper to write out the pros and cons, she had many conversations with other mothers, and she used a lot of tissues wiping her tears away. It is result of her life as a mother, and as wonderful as it is; it is harder than you know!
That’s my peace today!
Pasta Primavera
1/2 cauliflower cut in pieces
1/2 broccoli cut in pieces
1/2 red pepper sliced thin
1/2 white onion sliced
1 carrot sliced
5 cremini mushrooms sliced
1 pack spagetti
1/2 cup olive oil
In a pan heat 3 tbsp of the oil, add veggies and saute for about 10 minutes, salt and pepper. Cook spagetti as directed, drain and add to veggies, add the rest of the oil and toss in heat for 2 minutes.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Holy Moly...What a goalie!!
Yesterday my 8 year old son played as goalie on his hockey team for the very first time. He has been playing hockey for 3 years and always wanted to try it out, but to my advice, he never played this position.
After the holidays, Joseph decided that he wanted a chance to play in net for a game. The goalie schedule was already set out for the year, so I told him it was too late. He was not happy with that answer. He begged me to ask his coach. I asked him again (like I had many, many times before) “are you sure Joseph? It is a lot of pressure to be goalie.” He didn’t think it was a big deal, he just wanted to play hockey as goalie position. I hesitantly emailed his coach (hoping there were no spots left) and asked if there was room for him to play in net. He said he would ask the boys that were already signed up, if they didn’t mind switching with Joseph. The next day he emailed me with a date he would play.
AHHHHH is what I thought. OMG, how is my son going to do this? I was so nervous and not looking forward to January 24th. As a parent, we feel the pain, the nerves, the tears, and the weaknesses. We want so badly to have them succeed and do well in everything, just to protect them from any harm or criticism. “When a child bites into a sour grape, it is the mother that tastes the wrath.” Any decisions our children make in life, affects us more.
The morning of the game I woke up with butterflies in my stomach. The game was at 4pm so I had to go the whole day with these nerves in my tummy. My son was so excited, and so was my husband. I couldn’t wait to get it over with. My father, my sister and my niece decided to come and watch his first game as a goalie. When I got into the dressing room I felt emotional and nervous when I saw him in the extra equipment and mask. I again asked him if he was nervous and he looked at me with a strange look and said, “Nooo, why would I be nervous?” It was at that moment I wanted to take his equipment off and put them on me. I wanted to play in net for him..lol.
I went in the stands with my daughter, hubby and rest of my family who came out. Other mothers that were there totally understood my nerves and emotions. The fathers thought I was nuts (just like my own hubby thought) The game started. They were off, my VILLELLA son was in net and there was no turning back.
Save, Save, Save, Save. He saved all the shots taken on him. My son got a shutout! His team won 3-0. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Who knew my son could make all those saves? I sure didn’t. At the end of the victorious game, all his team members jumped on him to let him know, “Good job buddy!” When I arrived in the change room after the game, they were doing 3 cheers for the team and 3 cheers for my little Joseph. All the dads were coming up to me and my husband and complimenting our son in net, telling us how amazing he did. He did so well, that they asked him to be in net next week again. I told the coach I was not sure if my heart can take it..lol
In life the biggest compliment any one person can give you, is to compliment your child. We want them to succeed, well above our own lives. We want to take away their pain, wipe away their tears and take that virus that gave them a fever, and give it ourselves. I now know what my own parents meant when they would tell me, “It hurts me, more than it hurts you.” They knew what I know now. They knew that we feel more than our kids ever will. I was nervous, my son was not. I wanted so badly to be in his skinny little 52 pound body and save those goals. But the thing is, he didn’t need me to do that. He did it on his own. He made those saves because he is the one who practiced and plays; not me. Why would I think that I could do better than him? I felt so proud of my #5 player last night. He played an awesome game, that all would agree. He played a game that deserved the words we chanted to him after his victory; “Holy Moly..what a goalie!!
That’s my peace today!
Asparagus wrapped in Veal Scallopini
1/2 bunch asparagus steamed
6 veal scallopini
2 tbsp butter
salt and pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper both the veal and asparagus. Place 3 asparagus strings in the middle of the veal (so that it is hanging out on both sides. Put a tsp of butter in the middle, starting from one end, roll into a log. Heat oil in pan and saute the veal on both sides (about 5 min each side). You can sprinkle shredded mozzarella for extra flavour.
After the holidays, Joseph decided that he wanted a chance to play in net for a game. The goalie schedule was already set out for the year, so I told him it was too late. He was not happy with that answer. He begged me to ask his coach. I asked him again (like I had many, many times before) “are you sure Joseph? It is a lot of pressure to be goalie.” He didn’t think it was a big deal, he just wanted to play hockey as goalie position. I hesitantly emailed his coach (hoping there were no spots left) and asked if there was room for him to play in net. He said he would ask the boys that were already signed up, if they didn’t mind switching with Joseph. The next day he emailed me with a date he would play.
AHHHHH is what I thought. OMG, how is my son going to do this? I was so nervous and not looking forward to January 24th. As a parent, we feel the pain, the nerves, the tears, and the weaknesses. We want so badly to have them succeed and do well in everything, just to protect them from any harm or criticism. “When a child bites into a sour grape, it is the mother that tastes the wrath.” Any decisions our children make in life, affects us more.
The morning of the game I woke up with butterflies in my stomach. The game was at 4pm so I had to go the whole day with these nerves in my tummy. My son was so excited, and so was my husband. I couldn’t wait to get it over with. My father, my sister and my niece decided to come and watch his first game as a goalie. When I got into the dressing room I felt emotional and nervous when I saw him in the extra equipment and mask. I again asked him if he was nervous and he looked at me with a strange look and said, “Nooo, why would I be nervous?” It was at that moment I wanted to take his equipment off and put them on me. I wanted to play in net for him..lol.
I went in the stands with my daughter, hubby and rest of my family who came out. Other mothers that were there totally understood my nerves and emotions. The fathers thought I was nuts (just like my own hubby thought) The game started. They were off, my VILLELLA son was in net and there was no turning back.
Save, Save, Save, Save. He saved all the shots taken on him. My son got a shutout! His team won 3-0. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Who knew my son could make all those saves? I sure didn’t. At the end of the victorious game, all his team members jumped on him to let him know, “Good job buddy!” When I arrived in the change room after the game, they were doing 3 cheers for the team and 3 cheers for my little Joseph. All the dads were coming up to me and my husband and complimenting our son in net, telling us how amazing he did. He did so well, that they asked him to be in net next week again. I told the coach I was not sure if my heart can take it..lol
In life the biggest compliment any one person can give you, is to compliment your child. We want them to succeed, well above our own lives. We want to take away their pain, wipe away their tears and take that virus that gave them a fever, and give it ourselves. I now know what my own parents meant when they would tell me, “It hurts me, more than it hurts you.” They knew what I know now. They knew that we feel more than our kids ever will. I was nervous, my son was not. I wanted so badly to be in his skinny little 52 pound body and save those goals. But the thing is, he didn’t need me to do that. He did it on his own. He made those saves because he is the one who practiced and plays; not me. Why would I think that I could do better than him? I felt so proud of my #5 player last night. He played an awesome game, that all would agree. He played a game that deserved the words we chanted to him after his victory; “Holy Moly..what a goalie!!
That’s my peace today!
Asparagus wrapped in Veal Scallopini
1/2 bunch asparagus steamed
6 veal scallopini
2 tbsp butter
salt and pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper both the veal and asparagus. Place 3 asparagus strings in the middle of the veal (so that it is hanging out on both sides. Put a tsp of butter in the middle, starting from one end, roll into a log. Heat oil in pan and saute the veal on both sides (about 5 min each side). You can sprinkle shredded mozzarella for extra flavour.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Those arn't tears; there's something in my eye
So we did it! We bought our “new” resale home on Tuesday. It was a very stressful experience and I do not want to go through it for another 15 years (at least). The price was right; the house was great and the location..stellar! Our new home’s yard backs onto my children’s school yard. I will actually be able to see my kids playing with their friends from my kitchen window. (I am sure Grade 8 will be interesting).
The housing market is hot, hot, hot. Houses are selling like hotcakes. The house was on the market for 1 day and we had 4 other people to beat. My fingernails didn’t make it, and my heart almost didn’t either. I felt it in my heart; that was my house. In fact, I was getting annoyed with all the other visitors that were looking in my closets..lol.
My kids were also excited about the possibility of living behind the school, they thought it would be cool to see mommy in the yard from the playground. Before my son went to bed on Tuesday night he asked me to say a special prayer for the house. He knew we put an offer and we were waiting, so he thought that if he asked God for that little something extra he would do it. He looked at me and said, “Mommy can you try your best to buy the house.” I promised I would do the best I could.
When you buy a house, you are not just buying a building; you are buying a place for your family to live everyday of their life in; to eat; bathe; play; run; laugh; cry and sometimes scream in. A house is not only bought with money (and lots of it) but it is bought with emotions. It means something different to every one person who is planning to buy it. For me, I wanted that house because I liked it, but more importantly, because my kids loved it.
My heart was racing the whole night. The offers were being presented at the same time; 10:30pm. Our agent called for a last minute chat and we asked him to swing by because we wanted to up our offer to make sure we were the winners. It was a nail biting 1 and a half hour, waiting, and waiting for his call. Finally at 11:45pm I picked up the phone to hear the words “Congratulations, you got the house!” I screamed, I laughed, I jumped and I smiled from ear to ear. We got our home.
We went to bed late that night. Our agent came by, we had some alcohol, some espresso and we talked. He explained what was going on and the craziness of house bidding. We gave it our all and it paid off. The next morning I was up at 6am (partially because of the babies and partially because I was excited). I ran into Joseph’s bed and I pretty much woke him up. He looked at me and asked me “Well, well, did we get the house?” I looked in his beautiful big green eyes and said, “Yes baby, we got the house.” He sprang out of bed and ran to tell his sister.
He was proud, and so was I. As parents, the best feeling is seeing our kids’ happiness. We do everything we can to keep them safe, to feed them well, and to see them happy. I achieved my goal. I bought a house that we all love. When I saw his and my daughter’s reaction to our efforts, I was satisfied. All the future memories began running through my head. The barbeques, the walk to school, the at home lunch time meals, and the fingerprints on the newly painted kitchen walls. I felt a little silly at how emotional I was getting thinking about the future in my new home, so when my kids asked, “Mommy are you crying?” I quickly smiled and answered, “No honey, I have something in my eye.”
That’s my peace today!
Veal Sandwich
6 veal scallopini
1 cup breadcrumps
oil for frying
2 cups cooked sauce
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1 sliced onion
1 cup mozzarella
6 buns
Dip veal in beated egg and bread. Fry in pan with heated oil. Place onions and mushrooms in a pan and stir fry with 2 tbsp oil. Place cooked veals on a baking pan with cooked sauce and sprinkle mozzarella. Bake for half hour. Remove from oven and place in open bun, add cooked veggies.
The housing market is hot, hot, hot. Houses are selling like hotcakes. The house was on the market for 1 day and we had 4 other people to beat. My fingernails didn’t make it, and my heart almost didn’t either. I felt it in my heart; that was my house. In fact, I was getting annoyed with all the other visitors that were looking in my closets..lol.
My kids were also excited about the possibility of living behind the school, they thought it would be cool to see mommy in the yard from the playground. Before my son went to bed on Tuesday night he asked me to say a special prayer for the house. He knew we put an offer and we were waiting, so he thought that if he asked God for that little something extra he would do it. He looked at me and said, “Mommy can you try your best to buy the house.” I promised I would do the best I could.
When you buy a house, you are not just buying a building; you are buying a place for your family to live everyday of their life in; to eat; bathe; play; run; laugh; cry and sometimes scream in. A house is not only bought with money (and lots of it) but it is bought with emotions. It means something different to every one person who is planning to buy it. For me, I wanted that house because I liked it, but more importantly, because my kids loved it.
My heart was racing the whole night. The offers were being presented at the same time; 10:30pm. Our agent called for a last minute chat and we asked him to swing by because we wanted to up our offer to make sure we were the winners. It was a nail biting 1 and a half hour, waiting, and waiting for his call. Finally at 11:45pm I picked up the phone to hear the words “Congratulations, you got the house!” I screamed, I laughed, I jumped and I smiled from ear to ear. We got our home.
We went to bed late that night. Our agent came by, we had some alcohol, some espresso and we talked. He explained what was going on and the craziness of house bidding. We gave it our all and it paid off. The next morning I was up at 6am (partially because of the babies and partially because I was excited). I ran into Joseph’s bed and I pretty much woke him up. He looked at me and asked me “Well, well, did we get the house?” I looked in his beautiful big green eyes and said, “Yes baby, we got the house.” He sprang out of bed and ran to tell his sister.
He was proud, and so was I. As parents, the best feeling is seeing our kids’ happiness. We do everything we can to keep them safe, to feed them well, and to see them happy. I achieved my goal. I bought a house that we all love. When I saw his and my daughter’s reaction to our efforts, I was satisfied. All the future memories began running through my head. The barbeques, the walk to school, the at home lunch time meals, and the fingerprints on the newly painted kitchen walls. I felt a little silly at how emotional I was getting thinking about the future in my new home, so when my kids asked, “Mommy are you crying?” I quickly smiled and answered, “No honey, I have something in my eye.”
That’s my peace today!
Veal Sandwich
6 veal scallopini
1 cup breadcrumps
oil for frying
2 cups cooked sauce
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
1 sliced onion
1 cup mozzarella
6 buns
Dip veal in beated egg and bread. Fry in pan with heated oil. Place onions and mushrooms in a pan and stir fry with 2 tbsp oil. Place cooked veals on a baking pan with cooked sauce and sprinkle mozzarella. Bake for half hour. Remove from oven and place in open bun, add cooked veggies.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Home is where the family is
Many of you know, some of you don’t, but I am in the process of looking for a bigger home. Our family almost doubled since we moved back from Montreal and the home we bought just isn’t large enough to house the Villella clan.
I can honestly say we have been “looking” for a new home since the summer time. The twins are getting older and we realize we need to upsize (and we do not want fries with that). We just want a house; a larger house. I did not anticipate the amount of stress and confusion that was going to come with the house hunting process.
Since the beginning of the search we have changed our minds a million times. I have talked to everyone and their mother for advice and their opinions on new home vs. resale homes and I have received their input, and then some. Of course, everyone has their own story, advice and thoughts to the new vs. resale home and I thought I had the answer, but I am not sure anymore?
I would love a new home, we can get a 5 bedroom (which would fit our family needs perfect), we can choose the finishing’s and the kitchen cabinets, but it will be in a neighbourhood away from my kids school; and that is not what I want. When we began this search we decided that the proximity to the kid’s school was the most important aspect. But since then, my mind and decisions have gone astray.
Sometimes in life, when you ask too many people for their opinion, or advice it can back fire. Everyone has their own view and they love to share it, when they are asked. Some even like to give advice when you don’t even ask for it. Obviously, we all have different reasons for doing things and buying a house is not any different.
I did the whole pros and cons page. I did the whole why, when, where, what thing, but I am still confused. In fact, my husband and I are both confused. It is getting to the point where I am thinking of sending him to buy his own 1 bedroom condo because we won’t even need a bigger home when I kick him out..lol. This house hunting is causing marital disagreement and stress too. He wants new one day, and a resale the next.
The other night my father gave me his take on the whole situation. He said to me, “You have to do what is best for your family. If it means staying near the school they are comfortable with, and that you are comfortable with, then that is what you need to do.” He went on to say that as parents, it is our job to make all important decisions on the basis of our children.
On Saturday night I was at my parents house; sitting down on their couch. I began looking around at their newly renovated home that they bought over 30 years ago and raised all of us in, and the wonderful memories I have from this home. It got me to think about my house hunting. Do I want a brand new home that I can move into? Absolutely. Will I be just as happy in an older home that I can renovate myself? Absolutely.
It made me realize that it doesn’t matter what I buy for my family. It doesn’t matter what colour the tiles will be, or what colour the kitchen cabinets are; what matters is who will be living in the house. What will matter are the memories we will make in our house with my children. What will matter is the choice I make for them; and only them. The brand new smell won’t matter and the 5 inch stained strip floors won’t matter either. My kids will be happy wherever we decide to lay our hat. My family will be happy whatever decision we make, and whichever home we purchase. On Saturday night I realized and reaffirmed in my mind; a house is made of brick and mortar, but a home is where the family is.
That’s my peace today!
Corn Bread
2 cups flour
1 cup corn meal
1 package of yeast
2 cups warm water
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp sugar
2 tbsp oil
Pour yeast in the cup of warm water, leave for 10 minutes (until frothy). In a separate bowl mix flour, cornmeal, salt and sugar. Make a hole in the center, pour the yeast water and oil. Knead dough on a floured surface. If you think you need more liquid because it is not forming into dough add water a teaspoon at a time, or if it is too sticky add flour a teaspoon at a time. Once dough is formed place in a large bowl and cover tightly with saran wrap and a damp cloth for over 2 hours. After 2 hours you may knead again, cover and leave for another hour. It can stay up to 8 hours covered. When you are ready, oil a pan and form dough into a bread shape,make slits on top, place in oven 400 degrees for 30 minutes or until golden.
I can honestly say we have been “looking” for a new home since the summer time. The twins are getting older and we realize we need to upsize (and we do not want fries with that). We just want a house; a larger house. I did not anticipate the amount of stress and confusion that was going to come with the house hunting process.
Since the beginning of the search we have changed our minds a million times. I have talked to everyone and their mother for advice and their opinions on new home vs. resale homes and I have received their input, and then some. Of course, everyone has their own story, advice and thoughts to the new vs. resale home and I thought I had the answer, but I am not sure anymore?
I would love a new home, we can get a 5 bedroom (which would fit our family needs perfect), we can choose the finishing’s and the kitchen cabinets, but it will be in a neighbourhood away from my kids school; and that is not what I want. When we began this search we decided that the proximity to the kid’s school was the most important aspect. But since then, my mind and decisions have gone astray.
Sometimes in life, when you ask too many people for their opinion, or advice it can back fire. Everyone has their own view and they love to share it, when they are asked. Some even like to give advice when you don’t even ask for it. Obviously, we all have different reasons for doing things and buying a house is not any different.
I did the whole pros and cons page. I did the whole why, when, where, what thing, but I am still confused. In fact, my husband and I are both confused. It is getting to the point where I am thinking of sending him to buy his own 1 bedroom condo because we won’t even need a bigger home when I kick him out..lol. This house hunting is causing marital disagreement and stress too. He wants new one day, and a resale the next.
The other night my father gave me his take on the whole situation. He said to me, “You have to do what is best for your family. If it means staying near the school they are comfortable with, and that you are comfortable with, then that is what you need to do.” He went on to say that as parents, it is our job to make all important decisions on the basis of our children.
On Saturday night I was at my parents house; sitting down on their couch. I began looking around at their newly renovated home that they bought over 30 years ago and raised all of us in, and the wonderful memories I have from this home. It got me to think about my house hunting. Do I want a brand new home that I can move into? Absolutely. Will I be just as happy in an older home that I can renovate myself? Absolutely.
It made me realize that it doesn’t matter what I buy for my family. It doesn’t matter what colour the tiles will be, or what colour the kitchen cabinets are; what matters is who will be living in the house. What will matter are the memories we will make in our house with my children. What will matter is the choice I make for them; and only them. The brand new smell won’t matter and the 5 inch stained strip floors won’t matter either. My kids will be happy wherever we decide to lay our hat. My family will be happy whatever decision we make, and whichever home we purchase. On Saturday night I realized and reaffirmed in my mind; a house is made of brick and mortar, but a home is where the family is.
That’s my peace today!
Corn Bread
2 cups flour
1 cup corn meal
1 package of yeast
2 cups warm water
1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp sugar
2 tbsp oil
Pour yeast in the cup of warm water, leave for 10 minutes (until frothy). In a separate bowl mix flour, cornmeal, salt and sugar. Make a hole in the center, pour the yeast water and oil. Knead dough on a floured surface. If you think you need more liquid because it is not forming into dough add water a teaspoon at a time, or if it is too sticky add flour a teaspoon at a time. Once dough is formed place in a large bowl and cover tightly with saran wrap and a damp cloth for over 2 hours. After 2 hours you may knead again, cover and leave for another hour. It can stay up to 8 hours covered. When you are ready, oil a pan and form dough into a bread shape,make slits on top, place in oven 400 degrees for 30 minutes or until golden.
Friday, January 15, 2010
We do share this world
“We don’t live in this world alone.” Is what my father would say to me all the time when I was growing up. He cared so much what the neighbours thought, what the relatives thought and what his friends thought. I think sometimes he wouldn’t even care if we went somewhere but he had to stick to his “What if someone sees you come home late.” He meant well, that was just his mentality.
In life, we are taught to respect people and treat them the way we want to be treated. In fact, I teach that same belief to my own children. We do not live in this world alone and we should care a little what others think because it is not a nice feeling when others look down on something we did. I do think that has a limit. I do not believe that we should care to the extent of doing things that we do not want to do, because it will make us, or our children look good.
I think we all do our best to be good people in this world. We do what we can to help the people we love and people we don’t even know. This is what humanity is all about. That is what separates us from other mammals; we have morals, values, and a conscience. For our friends, we do what we can to make them happy; sometimes we try to accommodate them to make something a little easier for them, even though it may be harder for us. We like to see others happy, it makes us feel good.
Last night I was having a conversation with my mother (who is still in Florida btw..lol) and we were talking about something (not important) and she said this to me, “You know, you cannot please everyone all the time. Sometimes you have to do what is best for you and your family.” She has said this to me a million times before, but for some reason it really stuck in my head.
Sometimes I think we feel pressure to be the best at everything we do. We worry that we are not being good parents, good friends, good daughters/sons, or good spouses. We put this stress on our shoulders because we want everything to always go right and to satisfy everyone. We do it so much, that we forget why we are doing it in the first place. We forget that sometimes we need to put our happiness first, before anyone else’s’. It is ok to want to help people, or do something nice for someone else, but we don’t have to. It is not something we should not be obliged to do. It can be very tiring trying to make others happy.
Sometimes I see this happening with my kids. My son will trade a “good” hockey card because his friend wants it, even though he loves that card. Or my daughter will take a bead off her dress because her friend Sophia liked it. I try to explain to them what my own mother explained to me, “Don’t give up something you really like to make someone else happy, if that is not what you really want to do.” I tell them that if they are really your friend they would not expect you to take that bead off your dress, or give up that card that they know is special.
Give what you want to give. Do what you want to do. In the end, someone will not like you anymore, or respect you anymore because you gave up something that really wanted or liked, for them. I think it is nice to be a good person to everyone as often as you can, but I also believe you shouldn’t do something because others may think you are bad if you don’t. It is true, we must share the world with millions of others, but it is also true that we should live it for our own merit and not for someone else. I do try to live a good life, a happy life, but I do it for me and my family; not others.
That’s my peace today!
Fried Cauliflower and Oyster Mushrooms
1 cauliflower cut into little trees
1 pound oyster mushrooms
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs beaten
salt
oil for frying
Wash cauliflower and mushrooms. Dip in egg and then in flour. Heat oil on medium high. Fry each little tree and mushroom for 6-7 minutes (golden) and drain on paper towel, salt.
In life, we are taught to respect people and treat them the way we want to be treated. In fact, I teach that same belief to my own children. We do not live in this world alone and we should care a little what others think because it is not a nice feeling when others look down on something we did. I do think that has a limit. I do not believe that we should care to the extent of doing things that we do not want to do, because it will make us, or our children look good.
I think we all do our best to be good people in this world. We do what we can to help the people we love and people we don’t even know. This is what humanity is all about. That is what separates us from other mammals; we have morals, values, and a conscience. For our friends, we do what we can to make them happy; sometimes we try to accommodate them to make something a little easier for them, even though it may be harder for us. We like to see others happy, it makes us feel good.
Last night I was having a conversation with my mother (who is still in Florida btw..lol) and we were talking about something (not important) and she said this to me, “You know, you cannot please everyone all the time. Sometimes you have to do what is best for you and your family.” She has said this to me a million times before, but for some reason it really stuck in my head.
Sometimes I think we feel pressure to be the best at everything we do. We worry that we are not being good parents, good friends, good daughters/sons, or good spouses. We put this stress on our shoulders because we want everything to always go right and to satisfy everyone. We do it so much, that we forget why we are doing it in the first place. We forget that sometimes we need to put our happiness first, before anyone else’s’. It is ok to want to help people, or do something nice for someone else, but we don’t have to. It is not something we should not be obliged to do. It can be very tiring trying to make others happy.
Sometimes I see this happening with my kids. My son will trade a “good” hockey card because his friend wants it, even though he loves that card. Or my daughter will take a bead off her dress because her friend Sophia liked it. I try to explain to them what my own mother explained to me, “Don’t give up something you really like to make someone else happy, if that is not what you really want to do.” I tell them that if they are really your friend they would not expect you to take that bead off your dress, or give up that card that they know is special.
Give what you want to give. Do what you want to do. In the end, someone will not like you anymore, or respect you anymore because you gave up something that really wanted or liked, for them. I think it is nice to be a good person to everyone as often as you can, but I also believe you shouldn’t do something because others may think you are bad if you don’t. It is true, we must share the world with millions of others, but it is also true that we should live it for our own merit and not for someone else. I do try to live a good life, a happy life, but I do it for me and my family; not others.
That’s my peace today!
Fried Cauliflower and Oyster Mushrooms
1 cauliflower cut into little trees
1 pound oyster mushrooms
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs beaten
salt
oil for frying
Wash cauliflower and mushrooms. Dip in egg and then in flour. Heat oil on medium high. Fry each little tree and mushroom for 6-7 minutes (golden) and drain on paper towel, salt.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Pause, rewind and fast forward
Yesterday I did not have the best days as a mother. My older kids were acting up and I felt like the steam was blowing out of my ears. As a mother, I think we all have those days that we can’t wait to say goodnight to them. It was so stressful; I almost pulled out the wine to put me to sleep. But I think I have been watching too many episodes of “Intervention” and I thought it may lead to a more serious problem..lol.
I cannot even go through all the little things that added up to my frustrations. There are too many to remember, all I can say is that it was very painful. Sometimes I wonder what goes on in their little brains. What makes them think that our patience can put up with the nonsense? Maybe they don’t care if we have the patience, and that is the point of them testing it.
As soon as it was time for bed, there were in it. Jenna gave me a hard time (always happens when you need them to sleep) so by 930pm, they were all tucked in. My husband rolled in the driveway and I rolled out. I got in my car, blasted the radio and was headed to pick up my medium 2 milk, 1 sugar coffee. As I was waiting for it, (after having to repeat my order 3 times..lol) I was on my way to caffeine heaven. What came on the radio really helped me to stop, focus and listen.
“I’m not surprised, not everything lasts; I tried so many times not to lose it; and I promise you kid, that I’ll give so much more than I get.” Were the words I heard. Even though this song is not about motherhood, but about finding love, I found the words ringing right in my ear. Michael Buble’s song made me realize that this is what it’s all about.
Nothing lasts, everything passes. Life is not easy and we try our best to get through it unscaved, especially in the times we want to throw in the towel, but we did sign up for this job. We made the promise to our babies that we would give birth to them and raise them in this world. We vowed to love them unconditionally and to forgive and forget. We promise to give them so much more than we want it return. We give our heart, our soul, our sweat and tears for these little guys; they just don’t get it..yet.
Last night will not be the last time I feel like pouring myself a glass, (ok 5 glasses) of some strong wine. It will not be the last time I feel like locking myself in the bathroom and inhaling the nail polish remover until I pass out. And it will not be the last time I feel like telling my kids their “real mothers” are coming to pick them up and take them back. The one thing I do know, is that it will pass, it does not last and we will look back and remember the days of milk on the floor, shoes at the door and toys in our stoves and actually miss it. I just have to try and remember that I cannot PAUSE, I cannot REWIND, and I really DO NOT want to FAST FORWARD, I like the speed, just as it is.
That’s my peace today!
Chicken Broth with vegies
2 chicken legs back attached
1/2 butternut squash peeled in 1 large piece
2 carrots, peeled and whole
2 stalks celery whole
1 potato peeled whole
3 whole springs parsley
salt
In a large pot boil chicken for 15 minutes. Drain water, put fresh and add all veggies, bring to boil on high, lower to medium high, add salt and continue to boil for over an hour. This broth is nice if you add to a bowl with small pasta. If you do not use at once pour into a Mason jar and preserve in the fridge for up to a week.
I cannot even go through all the little things that added up to my frustrations. There are too many to remember, all I can say is that it was very painful. Sometimes I wonder what goes on in their little brains. What makes them think that our patience can put up with the nonsense? Maybe they don’t care if we have the patience, and that is the point of them testing it.
As soon as it was time for bed, there were in it. Jenna gave me a hard time (always happens when you need them to sleep) so by 930pm, they were all tucked in. My husband rolled in the driveway and I rolled out. I got in my car, blasted the radio and was headed to pick up my medium 2 milk, 1 sugar coffee. As I was waiting for it, (after having to repeat my order 3 times..lol) I was on my way to caffeine heaven. What came on the radio really helped me to stop, focus and listen.
“I’m not surprised, not everything lasts; I tried so many times not to lose it; and I promise you kid, that I’ll give so much more than I get.” Were the words I heard. Even though this song is not about motherhood, but about finding love, I found the words ringing right in my ear. Michael Buble’s song made me realize that this is what it’s all about.
Nothing lasts, everything passes. Life is not easy and we try our best to get through it unscaved, especially in the times we want to throw in the towel, but we did sign up for this job. We made the promise to our babies that we would give birth to them and raise them in this world. We vowed to love them unconditionally and to forgive and forget. We promise to give them so much more than we want it return. We give our heart, our soul, our sweat and tears for these little guys; they just don’t get it..yet.
Last night will not be the last time I feel like pouring myself a glass, (ok 5 glasses) of some strong wine. It will not be the last time I feel like locking myself in the bathroom and inhaling the nail polish remover until I pass out. And it will not be the last time I feel like telling my kids their “real mothers” are coming to pick them up and take them back. The one thing I do know, is that it will pass, it does not last and we will look back and remember the days of milk on the floor, shoes at the door and toys in our stoves and actually miss it. I just have to try and remember that I cannot PAUSE, I cannot REWIND, and I really DO NOT want to FAST FORWARD, I like the speed, just as it is.
That’s my peace today!
Chicken Broth with vegies
2 chicken legs back attached
1/2 butternut squash peeled in 1 large piece
2 carrots, peeled and whole
2 stalks celery whole
1 potato peeled whole
3 whole springs parsley
salt
In a large pot boil chicken for 15 minutes. Drain water, put fresh and add all veggies, bring to boil on high, lower to medium high, add salt and continue to boil for over an hour. This broth is nice if you add to a bowl with small pasta. If you do not use at once pour into a Mason jar and preserve in the fridge for up to a week.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Can't we all just get along?
Last night I watched the ever so popular “The Bachelor” and I was very shocked to discover that one of the bachelorettes was allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with a producer of the show. I actually felt bad for her because she looked so sad. Anyway, the part that made me angry was the reaction of the other women.
When the women were told what was going on, it was absolutely absurd. They were shocked (of course), but the thing that irked me, was that the women were actually upset..lol. Why were they upset? Roslyn was the prettiest women there; it was very obvious Jake would have kept her until the end. One woman actually cried..lol. Give me a break!! They were not upset, they were happy. They acted as if they were just mortified, “how can she do that to Jake?” is what they said. Why can they not admit they were happy she was gone?
It angers me when women are just plain mean with each other. I truly believe that in order to be happy in life (no matter what you do); you have to be truly happy for others. Why do women want other women to fail so badly? Why are they satisfied with seeing them hurt? Unfortunately in this world there are people that bathe in other people’s misery. There are some women that feel insecure and are not confident with themselves so they feel it necessary to insult and belittle others. Some woman cannot admit when another woman is pretty, sexy, or smart. If they admit it that means they may feel beneath them. It is the exact opposite. If you can admit that someone is pretty or sweet or intelligent, you are letting others know that you are confident with yourself and you are able to see the good in others.
It is a long life to live if you cannot see the wonderful beauty in others. There is a saying, “When you hire people who are smarter than you are, you prove you are smarter than they are.” It is ok to admit you don’t know everything, or that there may be someone that looks better than you, or is better at something that you. There is always going to be someone with more money than you, better looking than you, and more intelligent that you. This is what makes the world spin. We are all different and instead of criticizing this, we should embrace it.
Last night, these other 14 women displayed such classless behaviour. They were hypocritical and just obnoxious. I think they were worse than Roslyn with the behaviour they displayed. Not one of them smiled and said, “Phew, she is gone.” That would have been what I would have said. How can you pretend to be sad at what happened when you know damn well she would have been the woman he chose. They are they to compete, so just compete. Let’s call a spade a spade; she was the prettiest, she was sweet, and now she is gone. She made room for the rest of the women to get in good with Jake, so what is the problem? Did they not come there to win him over all the other girls? Yes, they did. So instead of pretending to be disgusted and care about her departure, just shut up, move on and continue with the show and the reason why you came in the first place. I say, let’s be happy for others, be honest with others, don’t be catty, don’t be mean, cheer on the underdog and smile. It actually feels good when you love and laugh. The world already has challenges with serious issues that are well beyond us, so as women in this world, I ask you this, “Can’t we all just get along?”
That’s my peace today!
Pan fried Steak with, onions and mushrooms
4 steaks (Stiploin or Sirloin)
1 pack cremini mushrooms sliced
1 onion sliced
1 tbsp flour
1 tbsp buttersalt and pepper
fresh basil and parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic chopped
1/4 cup red wine
In a pan, heat butter and oil add steak flip to brown both sides. Remove from pan. Add mushrooms, and onions and sautee in wine and garlic. Once reduced by half, add steak and herbs. Slowly add flour and stir. Continue to cook until you get the steak the way you like it.
When the women were told what was going on, it was absolutely absurd. They were shocked (of course), but the thing that irked me, was that the women were actually upset..lol. Why were they upset? Roslyn was the prettiest women there; it was very obvious Jake would have kept her until the end. One woman actually cried..lol. Give me a break!! They were not upset, they were happy. They acted as if they were just mortified, “how can she do that to Jake?” is what they said. Why can they not admit they were happy she was gone?
It angers me when women are just plain mean with each other. I truly believe that in order to be happy in life (no matter what you do); you have to be truly happy for others. Why do women want other women to fail so badly? Why are they satisfied with seeing them hurt? Unfortunately in this world there are people that bathe in other people’s misery. There are some women that feel insecure and are not confident with themselves so they feel it necessary to insult and belittle others. Some woman cannot admit when another woman is pretty, sexy, or smart. If they admit it that means they may feel beneath them. It is the exact opposite. If you can admit that someone is pretty or sweet or intelligent, you are letting others know that you are confident with yourself and you are able to see the good in others.
It is a long life to live if you cannot see the wonderful beauty in others. There is a saying, “When you hire people who are smarter than you are, you prove you are smarter than they are.” It is ok to admit you don’t know everything, or that there may be someone that looks better than you, or is better at something that you. There is always going to be someone with more money than you, better looking than you, and more intelligent that you. This is what makes the world spin. We are all different and instead of criticizing this, we should embrace it.
Last night, these other 14 women displayed such classless behaviour. They were hypocritical and just obnoxious. I think they were worse than Roslyn with the behaviour they displayed. Not one of them smiled and said, “Phew, she is gone.” That would have been what I would have said. How can you pretend to be sad at what happened when you know damn well she would have been the woman he chose. They are they to compete, so just compete. Let’s call a spade a spade; she was the prettiest, she was sweet, and now she is gone. She made room for the rest of the women to get in good with Jake, so what is the problem? Did they not come there to win him over all the other girls? Yes, they did. So instead of pretending to be disgusted and care about her departure, just shut up, move on and continue with the show and the reason why you came in the first place. I say, let’s be happy for others, be honest with others, don’t be catty, don’t be mean, cheer on the underdog and smile. It actually feels good when you love and laugh. The world already has challenges with serious issues that are well beyond us, so as women in this world, I ask you this, “Can’t we all just get along?”
That’s my peace today!
Pan fried Steak with, onions and mushrooms
4 steaks (Stiploin or Sirloin)
1 pack cremini mushrooms sliced
1 onion sliced
1 tbsp flour
1 tbsp buttersalt and pepper
fresh basil and parsley, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic chopped
1/4 cup red wine
In a pan, heat butter and oil add steak flip to brown both sides. Remove from pan. Add mushrooms, and onions and sautee in wine and garlic. Once reduced by half, add steak and herbs. Slowly add flour and stir. Continue to cook until you get the steak the way you like it.
Monday, January 11, 2010
My 20 minute mindless moments
It is Monday morning. The weekend is over and we are beginning a new week. As usual, my weekend was pretty hectic, chaotic and loud. After all, I have 4 kids, a husband and 3 sisters...lol. There is not much time to do what I want to do on the weekends; they are all about the kids. Hockey; skating; Wii; playing barbies; changing diapers; reading books; tidy up; cooking 3 meals a day and of course, laundry. These are the times when being a parent challenges every fibre of your being. You are in neutral the whole day, cruising along and trying not to grab the wooden spoon from the drawer..lol.
Sunday nights are now a wind down zone for me. I remember when I was younger, no kids, and working. I HATED Sunday nights. I would get the so called “Sunday night blues”. I wanted so much to sleep in on Monday morning and not have to go to my dreaded “job.” Boy have times changed. Sunday nights for me are the exact opposite. I do not make plans with my friends, instead, I shower and bathe all the kiddies, get them tucked into bed with hugs, kisses, and blankets and I plop my rear end on my couch. I make myself a coffee, flip the channel, find some brain-dead reality show and just watch TV.
Monday mornings are quite hectic. The kids are lazy to get dressed, out of bed and eat their breakfast. I am hurrying to make breakfast, lunches and get myself showered and ready to get out the door. In the winter it is especially annoying because of the hats, gloves, scarves, and boots. Once the car is warmed up, we are off. The drive to the school is short so there is not much time to think about anything but the destination. I drop the kiddies off, make sure they are safe in the yard and then I drive off like the Dukes of Hazards; I skid out from there faster than a virgin on prom night..lol.
The drive to work is anything but stressful. It is the part of my day I look forward to the most. I find a song I love (lately been hard to do), and I just blast it. In these moments on the way to work, while I am listening to my tunes, it is then that I “think”. I use the word “think”, loosely. In these minutes on the way to work I think of nothing important, life altering, or any major decision I need to make. I take the time to recap the weekend or the night before. Sometimes I smile, sometimes tears form, but most of the time absolutely nothing happens. It is in these minutes on the way to work that I do not have to discipline, talk, or explain anything to absolutely anyone.
It is said quite often that taking a drive clears your head. I believe this to be an understatement. I cannot stress how much these drives in the morning help me de-stress. I love to flip the stations to find the perfect song on the radio and if that doesn’t work, I turn on my IPOD and just listen. I think mothers lack the “listening” part of life. We are always listening to others that we forget to listen for ourselves. I don’t know what makes you feel less stressed or what clears your mind, but for me, it is the 20 minutes I spend every morning in my mommy mobile on the way to work. It is the 20 minutes while I am driving that helps me to think of nothing but mindless moments that took place the night before, and I love every mindless minute of it!
That’s my peace today!
Fettucini Alfredo
1 pack of fresh or dry fettucini
2 cups cream (35% )
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
salt and pepper
fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
extra parmesan cheese
In a saucepan pour cream, allow it to come to a boil and reduce to medium heat, add butter (1 tbsp at a time), then add the cheese. Meanwhile boil pasta, drain and mix to cream mixture. Garnish with parsley and cheese when plating.
Sunday nights are now a wind down zone for me. I remember when I was younger, no kids, and working. I HATED Sunday nights. I would get the so called “Sunday night blues”. I wanted so much to sleep in on Monday morning and not have to go to my dreaded “job.” Boy have times changed. Sunday nights for me are the exact opposite. I do not make plans with my friends, instead, I shower and bathe all the kiddies, get them tucked into bed with hugs, kisses, and blankets and I plop my rear end on my couch. I make myself a coffee, flip the channel, find some brain-dead reality show and just watch TV.
Monday mornings are quite hectic. The kids are lazy to get dressed, out of bed and eat their breakfast. I am hurrying to make breakfast, lunches and get myself showered and ready to get out the door. In the winter it is especially annoying because of the hats, gloves, scarves, and boots. Once the car is warmed up, we are off. The drive to the school is short so there is not much time to think about anything but the destination. I drop the kiddies off, make sure they are safe in the yard and then I drive off like the Dukes of Hazards; I skid out from there faster than a virgin on prom night..lol.
The drive to work is anything but stressful. It is the part of my day I look forward to the most. I find a song I love (lately been hard to do), and I just blast it. In these moments on the way to work, while I am listening to my tunes, it is then that I “think”. I use the word “think”, loosely. In these minutes on the way to work I think of nothing important, life altering, or any major decision I need to make. I take the time to recap the weekend or the night before. Sometimes I smile, sometimes tears form, but most of the time absolutely nothing happens. It is in these minutes on the way to work that I do not have to discipline, talk, or explain anything to absolutely anyone.
It is said quite often that taking a drive clears your head. I believe this to be an understatement. I cannot stress how much these drives in the morning help me de-stress. I love to flip the stations to find the perfect song on the radio and if that doesn’t work, I turn on my IPOD and just listen. I think mothers lack the “listening” part of life. We are always listening to others that we forget to listen for ourselves. I don’t know what makes you feel less stressed or what clears your mind, but for me, it is the 20 minutes I spend every morning in my mommy mobile on the way to work. It is the 20 minutes while I am driving that helps me to think of nothing but mindless moments that took place the night before, and I love every mindless minute of it!
That’s my peace today!
Fettucini Alfredo
1 pack of fresh or dry fettucini
2 cups cream (35% )
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
salt and pepper
fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
extra parmesan cheese
In a saucepan pour cream, allow it to come to a boil and reduce to medium heat, add butter (1 tbsp at a time), then add the cheese. Meanwhile boil pasta, drain and mix to cream mixture. Garnish with parsley and cheese when plating.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
CANadians Ey?
We are proud, we are great; we are nice, we are Canadians! Last night I proudly watched our World Junior hockey team play a great game. I felt proud and humbled by it. These young men skated, and played their hearts out. We all watched in awe and grace.
I am of Italian heritage but I am born Canadian. My grandparents immigrated here over 50 years ago to begin a new life from the “old country” where there was promised freedom, independence and a new prosperous life. They had some obstacles to face. They had no money, no education, and they did not speak the English language. They were here with their bags, their kids, and their dignity. They started a new life; a new life “America" the land of opportunity.
Canada is known to be a country of calm, peace, and opportunity. We deny no one; we accept all that need refuge and a safe place to live. We vote for democracy and we picket for injustice. We help people in need; we donate to countries in crisis. We believe in others, we believe in equality. This February we are hosting the world in one of our most beautiful provinces; British Columbia.
I am excited to be able to witness the winter games this year with my kids. They will learn that they have the ability to do whatever they set their mind to. They will learn that for 2 weeks, the world unites as one as they face off to compete for victory. My children will learn that there are daughters, sons, fathers and mothers that can ski off mountains, speed skate and loge down a steep tunnel in nothing but a tight suit and a board.
We occasionally joke about Canadians. We are passive, complacent, push over’s. We drink beer, we walk around in snow shoes and we live in igloos. The world has the perception that Canadians are awkward, and little sister to the U.S. I am here to say, we are not passive, we are not complacent, we are not awkward beer drinking citizens. We are strong, we are opinionated, and we are informed about World Issues. We are confident enough to know about other World leaders besides our own. We are capable of learning more than just 1 language. We can win, we will win; we can beat, we will beat; we can bring home the Gold and we will bring home the Gold. We can because we are from CANada and we are CANadians Ey?
That’s my peace today!
Here is a good ol French Canadian recipe today
Shepard's Pie
1 box of Sheriffs potato flakes or 8 peeled, boiled and mashed potatoes (how you normally fix them)
1 pound ground beef
1 can corn
1 can creamed corn
1/4 cup butter sliced
1 tbsp paprika
In a pan cook meat with 1 tbsp of oil. Once the meat is cooked spread in a 9x13 pan. Spread corn and creamed corn. Top with sheriff flaked potatoes (prepare as directed on box) or mashed potatoes. Spread sliced butter evenly on top and sprinkle with paprika. Cover with foil and place in oven for 1 hour at 385 degrees.
I am of Italian heritage but I am born Canadian. My grandparents immigrated here over 50 years ago to begin a new life from the “old country” where there was promised freedom, independence and a new prosperous life. They had some obstacles to face. They had no money, no education, and they did not speak the English language. They were here with their bags, their kids, and their dignity. They started a new life; a new life “America" the land of opportunity.
Canada is known to be a country of calm, peace, and opportunity. We deny no one; we accept all that need refuge and a safe place to live. We vote for democracy and we picket for injustice. We help people in need; we donate to countries in crisis. We believe in others, we believe in equality. This February we are hosting the world in one of our most beautiful provinces; British Columbia.
I am excited to be able to witness the winter games this year with my kids. They will learn that they have the ability to do whatever they set their mind to. They will learn that for 2 weeks, the world unites as one as they face off to compete for victory. My children will learn that there are daughters, sons, fathers and mothers that can ski off mountains, speed skate and loge down a steep tunnel in nothing but a tight suit and a board.
We occasionally joke about Canadians. We are passive, complacent, push over’s. We drink beer, we walk around in snow shoes and we live in igloos. The world has the perception that Canadians are awkward, and little sister to the U.S. I am here to say, we are not passive, we are not complacent, we are not awkward beer drinking citizens. We are strong, we are opinionated, and we are informed about World Issues. We are confident enough to know about other World leaders besides our own. We are capable of learning more than just 1 language. We can win, we will win; we can beat, we will beat; we can bring home the Gold and we will bring home the Gold. We can because we are from CANada and we are CANadians Ey?
That’s my peace today!
Here is a good ol French Canadian recipe today
Shepard's Pie
1 box of Sheriffs potato flakes or 8 peeled, boiled and mashed potatoes (how you normally fix them)
1 pound ground beef
1 can corn
1 can creamed corn
1/4 cup butter sliced
1 tbsp paprika
In a pan cook meat with 1 tbsp of oil. Once the meat is cooked spread in a 9x13 pan. Spread corn and creamed corn. Top with sheriff flaked potatoes (prepare as directed on box) or mashed potatoes. Spread sliced butter evenly on top and sprinkle with paprika. Cover with foil and place in oven for 1 hour at 385 degrees.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Diana's New Year Challenge: 1 goal at a time!
Well we survived a whole decade. The millennium is now 10 years done. Where the hell has the time gone? Let’s see, for me 10 years = marriage, new home and 4 children...wow..who would have thunk it? I never would have imagined 10 years ago that I would be raising 4 beautiful, perfect, annoying little critters with constant coughs and colds...but I am glad I am!
With every New Year comes new “resolutions”. You hear everyone talking about it...”What’s your New Year’s Resolution?” or “this year I am going to do...” We set ourselves up for this “new” change or little challenge that we failed to succeed the year before. New diets, new exercise regiments, new relationships etc. We hear it for weeks before and for days after on the tv. “Join now”, “New Year, New You!” The media feeds into our “new changes.”
We hear things in the media from the coming weeks leading up to New Year; the top 10 News stories; the top songs; movies; etc. We are bombarded with “old recounts” and past moments from the Year and in this year’s case; past decade. Have you ever tried thinking of the top 10 little moments you had this year? Did your child begin to walk, talk, read or potty train? Did you celebrate your 25th wedding anniversary or your 40th birthday? I am sure we don’t sit there and think about our top 10 or 20 or 100th greatest moments of 2009. If you think long and hard and you write it down, you will realize all the important “little” things you experienced this year. It will help you recap your own flash of the decade and this past year. I am sure we had wonderful things happen to us, and I am sure we have had things we hope we never have to go through again. This is part of our life journey and I am so glad that I am able to celebrate the turning of a decade with the people that are currently in my life. It is another “tick” off my list. My kids will be celebrating new birthdays, new experiences and new changes, and I am glad to be around to see it.
On January 1st, I sit down and make a list of goals that I plan to achieve. Some are grand, some are not. These goals help me along my journey of life. They remind me what I have to “do” this year, and my plans to achieve them. I keep this little goal card in my purse so I am reminded by it every day, this ensures me I will not get off track. I can guarantee you, that if you try this, you will see that your eye will remain on the ball and you WILL get what you want.
Here is my challenge to you:
Write down goals. They should be under 3 headings: Physical, Spiritual and Financial. I was introduced to this 3 years ago from a mentor of mine. Since then, I have achieved everything I wrote down on my goal card because when you see it every day, it will be easy to achieve.
Life is all about journeys, lessons, and relationships. It is also about goals. We should all have them. I heard a saying once, “If you have aim at nothing, you will definitely hit the target!” If you are already living your life this way, I applaud you, if not, please try it. There are days that I feel like I am doing all this for nothing, but then I remember what I need to achieve, I pick myself up and I continue on my ride of life, doing it, 1 goal at a time!
That’s my peace today!!
Sausage and Potato Balls
3 or 4 Italian sausages
5 or 6 potatoes
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
1/4 cup grated romano or parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
oil for frying
Remove skin from sausage and fry the loose meat in a heated pan with 1 tsp oil. Peel and boil potatoes in a pot. Once the potatoes and sausage is cooked, cool and place in a large bowl. Add parsley, cheese and egg, mix. Form into balls (2 inch thick) and roll in breadcrumbs. Heat oil in deep pan (enough to cover the balls). Fry evenly on both sides for about 7-8 minutes. Sprinkle with more cheese.
With every New Year comes new “resolutions”. You hear everyone talking about it...”What’s your New Year’s Resolution?” or “this year I am going to do...” We set ourselves up for this “new” change or little challenge that we failed to succeed the year before. New diets, new exercise regiments, new relationships etc. We hear it for weeks before and for days after on the tv. “Join now”, “New Year, New You!” The media feeds into our “new changes.”
We hear things in the media from the coming weeks leading up to New Year; the top 10 News stories; the top songs; movies; etc. We are bombarded with “old recounts” and past moments from the Year and in this year’s case; past decade. Have you ever tried thinking of the top 10 little moments you had this year? Did your child begin to walk, talk, read or potty train? Did you celebrate your 25th wedding anniversary or your 40th birthday? I am sure we don’t sit there and think about our top 10 or 20 or 100th greatest moments of 2009. If you think long and hard and you write it down, you will realize all the important “little” things you experienced this year. It will help you recap your own flash of the decade and this past year. I am sure we had wonderful things happen to us, and I am sure we have had things we hope we never have to go through again. This is part of our life journey and I am so glad that I am able to celebrate the turning of a decade with the people that are currently in my life. It is another “tick” off my list. My kids will be celebrating new birthdays, new experiences and new changes, and I am glad to be around to see it.
On January 1st, I sit down and make a list of goals that I plan to achieve. Some are grand, some are not. These goals help me along my journey of life. They remind me what I have to “do” this year, and my plans to achieve them. I keep this little goal card in my purse so I am reminded by it every day, this ensures me I will not get off track. I can guarantee you, that if you try this, you will see that your eye will remain on the ball and you WILL get what you want.
Here is my challenge to you:
Write down goals. They should be under 3 headings: Physical, Spiritual and Financial. I was introduced to this 3 years ago from a mentor of mine. Since then, I have achieved everything I wrote down on my goal card because when you see it every day, it will be easy to achieve.
Life is all about journeys, lessons, and relationships. It is also about goals. We should all have them. I heard a saying once, “If you have aim at nothing, you will definitely hit the target!” If you are already living your life this way, I applaud you, if not, please try it. There are days that I feel like I am doing all this for nothing, but then I remember what I need to achieve, I pick myself up and I continue on my ride of life, doing it, 1 goal at a time!
That’s my peace today!!
Sausage and Potato Balls
3 or 4 Italian sausages
5 or 6 potatoes
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
1/4 cup grated romano or parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
oil for frying
Remove skin from sausage and fry the loose meat in a heated pan with 1 tsp oil. Peel and boil potatoes in a pot. Once the potatoes and sausage is cooked, cool and place in a large bowl. Add parsley, cheese and egg, mix. Form into balls (2 inch thick) and roll in breadcrumbs. Heat oil in deep pan (enough to cover the balls). Fry evenly on both sides for about 7-8 minutes. Sprinkle with more cheese.
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