Beth and Brew in Calgary!

Weekend in Kananaskis

2012-01-15T20:24:00.001-08:00

We were looking for a weekend away to enjoy the winter weather before Dave gets too deep into his MBA Exam. We were joined by the Harmans. The Delta Kananaskis seemed to fit the bill with lots of options to keep the kids busy, as well as being close to Nakiska ski hill. We enjoyed some skiing (my first official time on skis after almost a 2 year hiatus from Snowboarding), taking the sleds out with the babies, as well as exploring the hotel, including the pool. It was a great weekend for all, and felt like a true vacation, even though we were only an hour from home.

World Juniors

2012-01-04T20:55:00.000-08:00

My friend Kaylea gave us her tickets to the World Juniors 5th place game tonight. We took Elise for her first taste of hockey and she was great! So excited by all the noise and lights. We only made it to the 2nd period, but it was great to be able to say "I was there". An exciting game between Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Christmas

2011-12-30T20:32:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for Christmas

2011-12-06T12:54:00.000-08:00

We finally bought a full-size Christmas tree this year. I'd been holding out, hoping that one of these days we would be able to get a REAL tree, but since it seems we are always spending Christmas in Ontario, it doesn't make sense to have a real tree (i.e. fire hazard) drying out and dropping needles on the floor while we are away for 2 weeks.

We found a nice pre-lit one at Costco, and amazingly, had enough decorations to make it look quite lovely, if I do say so myself (pictures to follow). [This may be in part due to my savvy post-Christmas Superstore sprees where I can always find Christmas stuff for 90++% off!]

Getting ready to go out the other night, Elise was playing under the Christmas tree, and I thought it was a perfect opportunity for some photos. She was 6 months old yesterday!!!

Recipes!

2011-12-01T13:43:00.001-08:00

I don't normally post recipes on our blog, but now that I am a "stay at home Mom" I have been spending more time in the kitchen and experimenting with different recipes. Here are a few that I've really liked:

This cookie bar recipe is so much quicker and easier than cooking sheets and sheets of individual cookies. They turned out great--I doubled the recipe...

http://www.bos-bowl.com/2010/04/oatmeal-cranberry-white-chocolate-chip.html

A great bran muffin recipe from All-Bran (see http://all-bran.ca/en/recipedetails.aspx?RecipetypeID=14141&t=512). I used the "molasses variation" at the bottom--so yummy and so easy!! Double the recipe if you can because they will go quickly!

1 1/3 cups or 325 ml	All-purpose flour
1/2 cup or 125 ml	Sugar
1 tbsp or 15 ml	Baking powder
1/4 tsp or 1 ml	Salt
1 1/2 cups or 375 ml	All-Bran Original* cereal
	-OR-
	All-Bran Buds* cereal
1 cup or 250 ml	Milk
1	Egg
1/3 cup or 75 ml	vegetable oil

1. Stir together flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Set aside.

2. In large mixing bowl, combine cereal and milk . Let stand about 2 minutes or until cereal softens. Add egg and oil. Beat well. Add flour mixture, stirring only until combined. Portion batter evenly into twelve greased 2 1/2-inch muffin pan cups coated with cooking spray.

4. Bake in oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes or until muffins are golden brown. Serve warm.

Variations :
Molasses: Decrease milk to 1/2 cup. Add 1/2 cup molasses to cereal with milk. Omit sugar. Follow directions above.

YIELD: 12 muffins

PER SERVING (1 muffin):
170 Calories
7 g Fat
26 g Carbohydrate
3 g Dietary Fibre
4 g Protein

"Baby Led Weaning"

2011-11-28T19:38:00.001-08:00

Our sister-in-law Janet Jackson tried this approach with her twin boys, and we were always interested in trying it with Elise. See: www.babyledweaning.com
As you can see, she is VERY interested in food, and we are so impressed with her ability (and interest) to feed herself!
So far she has tried a real variety of foods (avocado, banana, sweet potato, potato, carrot, apple, orange, toast, bread, waffles, rice, broccoli and salmon!) and we are enjoying having her "eat" at the table with us.

Our growing girl...

2011-11-07T08:51:00.000-08:00

Here she is at 5 months old...

Happy Hallowe'en...

2011-11-01T08:43:00.000-07:00

...From our little Pumpkin!

More of our little cutie(s)!

2011-10-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

(Can't forget about Greyson!)

Calgary Corn Maze

2011-10-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

After hearing rave reviews from several friends, we visited the Calgary Corn Maze this past weekend to celebrate Fall. While it was a little chilly (we got there first thing in the morning to beat the crowds), they have a great set-up for kids: petting zoo, lots of playgrounds, slides, jumping "bouncy pillows", a "pumpkin patch", pig races, and of course, the corn maze. Elise is still a little young to really appreciate it, but we met the Gaffneys and Gordons there, and Gracie and Maggie seemed to have a blast! Highly recommended if you are looking for a great fall outing...

Our little pumpkin!!

Tessa, Grace, Maggie and Elise (with Daddies too!)

Thanksgiving

2011-10-10T19:48:00.000-07:00

Our great friends Mike and Mel Wrigglesworth are bravely moving their family back to Libya. We were honoured to be able to spend their first Canadian Thanksgiving in many years, here in Calgary with Mel and the kids. Dave cooked his now-famous turkey and stuffing, and we went for a walk by the river to check out the fall colours. Chris and Marla Holliday also joined us for dinner--they too will soon be leaving Calgary, although they will be moving a bit closer to home: Toronto Ontario. Thanks for a great day!!

Lucy and Oscar

Our instant family--lol!

Beautiful Lucy and her beautiful bouquet of wildflowers

Pretty colours at the Bow River

Random September photos (mostly of Elise--surprise surprise!!)

2011-09-26T12:13:00.001-07:00

Anniversary Hike

2011-09-25T21:52:00.000-07:00

Dave and I celebrated our 6th Anniversary this weekend. We had a wonderful day together as a family, going for a mini-hike and enjoying a picnic in Kananaskis. The weather has been absolutely amazing lately in Calgary, and we were able to take full advantage of the sunny fall day in the mountains.

Blogging Slacker...

2011-09-25T20:29:00.000-07:00

Wow--looks like I have a lot to get caught up on! It's been way too long since I updated the Blog--I blame this mostly on Facebook, which just seems easier/quicker to update at the end of the day...But I really do like being able to continue the ongoing "story" of our lives on our Blog, so I will try to be better at updating! In the meantime, see the previous "backdated" posts for what we've been up to the last month and a half!

Date night!!

2011-09-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Kelly and Trevor for babysitting on our 6th Anniversary so Dave and I could have a night out...We went to see "Ovo"--Cirque de Soleil: such a great night!!

Fall photo shoot

2011-09-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

Shandra and I took a Photography course in the Spring, with the hopes that we could practice our skills taking candid portraits of the babies. Looks like it paid off--Shandra took these photos at Sandy Beach park on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. Thanks so much Shandra!!

Our beautiful baby girl is 3 months old!!

2011-09-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

She is getting more alert, interactive, and more of a personality all the time. We are loving this special time with her!!

Canmore days

2011-09-01T21:22:00.000-07:00

Upon our return to Alberta, we spent a few days in Canmore with friends from Ontario--the Baileys, and the Schultzes. It was great to have all the little ones together, and Dave got in some great golf games at some beautiful courses. Unfortunately, our visit was cut short by "the Canmore Plague"--a 4-day flu that ended up getting most of us (fortunately it seems Elise was spared!). Nonetheless, so great to see everyone, and such a beautiful location!!

Early morning wakeup at our condo.

Lunch at Silvertip Golf Course

The beginning of an epic stroller walk (I got a little lost! oops!)

Golfing

Introducing Elise to friends

Highlights of our Ontario Trip

2011-08-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

It seems part of the reason I have been so slow at updating, is that our last month or so has been a busy time of visiting family and friends in Ontario (as well as here in Calgary!), and as a result we have SO many great photos of our times together---it's hard to narrow it down to just a few selections! Here are some of our favourites...

Charlie loves his baby cousins

Malcolm and Uncle Dave

Cousin time

The Beautiful Birthday Girl: Chloe turns 1!!

First swims

Granny and Granddad time

The Dukelows at their Beach Paradise

Sisters....Cousins!

Congratulations Kathy and Mike!

Sisters!

Cousins!

Relaxing in the Bob

Naramata

2011-08-08T20:29:00.001-07:00

What a great and much needed vacation!

We spent a week in the beautiful Okanagan Valley in the town of Naramata:

many little boutique wineries, lots of fresh fruit (blueberries and peaches--yum!!), sunshine and great friends. Here's just a taste:

Mark

2011-07-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

We lost a great friend on July 24th...

Mark Skinner was a beautiful soul, with a gentle, kind heart, and was a truly gifted musician.

He was greatly loved, and will be terribly missed.

We send so much love and strength to his family, who have also been dear friends for many years...

Rest in peace my friend...

2011-07-18T22:12:00.000-07:00

6 weeks old: Stampede and other Adventures

2011-07-18T21:47:00.001-07:00

It has now been 6 weeks since our little girl was born: she is growing quickly and no longer seems like such a "newborn". She is getting stronger, physically: trying to hold her head up, and moving herself around during her "tummy time". She is also becoming a social little girl: smiling and cooing when we talk and sing to her.

We have been enjoying spending time together as our own little family, as well as introducing Elise to many new friends and new adventures. We had our friends Chad and Maria here for a visit last week during Stampede, and braved the crowds at the grounds to watch the Rodeo. We also headed to Canmore for the day on Friday, where the boys enjoyed a mountain bike ride together at the Nordic Centre, and the girls did a mini hike at Grassi Lakes.

Getting out and about with Elise, we are hoping to prepare her for the next few weeks of travel to the Okanagan and Ontario. So far she has been pretty adaptable: LOVES being carried in the Baby Bjorn, but HATES her carseat (which is a bit stressful for her Mom when we are trying to get around the city!).

I'm continuing to take hundreds of photos of our little beauty--Dave figures we will need more space on our hard drive if I keep up at this rate! :)

3 weeks old!!

2011-06-26T16:19:00.001-07:00

I can't believe Elise is already 3 weeks old! It's definitely true that time seems to fly much faster when measured by growing children!

So far things are going really well. Our teeny little baby is already outgrowing her newborn sleepers and diapers, and seems to be growing and changing every day.

She is sleeping well--for 2 hours at a time that is--and obviously eating lots (and consequently filling lots of diapers!). She is starting to have more awake/alert time, and has both of her parents fascinated by how intently she can look around and take in the world around her.

We are coping well, for new parents that is! There are definitely times when neither of us feels like we know what we're doing ("Is she hungry AGAIN? Already?"), but for the most part it feels pretty natural and she is a relatively easy baby--as long as she is fed, changed, and cuddled often.

Grandma and Grandpa Jackson had a nice visit with her for her first few days/week, and were said to say goodbye. Granny and Granddad Brewin are on their way tomorrow night for their first visit, and we are all looking forward to seeing them.

Other than "baby stuff", we have been keeping pretty low key the last few weeks/months. Dave is still busy with his MBA courses ("Marketing" at the moment), and has been trying to fit in the odd mountain bike ride or home workout, along with busy times at work. I've been really lucky to have a pretty quick and easy "post-partum" recovery, and am now feeling pretty much back to myself. We have been experimenting with pumping/bottle-feeding on occasion, which has allowed me a few hours out of the house without worrying about Elise going hungry. I was able to go to a Yoga class last week, as well as a few solo trips to the grocery store (a big treat for me!!). Elise has also been dragged on countless errands, and visits around the city. She is usually pretty happy to visit people (loves the cuddles!), but is not yet a big fan of her carseat. Hopefully once she can see what's going on around her a bit better, she will enjoy it more!

We have a few trips planned for the summer: a week in the Okanagan (Naramata) with our friends Steve and Tannis, as well as a few weeks in Ontario, including my cousin Kathy's wedding and our annual Family Reunion. We're keeping our fingers crossed that Elise will be a good traveller!

2011-06-23T09:38:00.000-07:00

2011-06-22T06:04:00.000-07:00

2 Weeks old

2011-06-20T13:30:00.001-07:00

Here are some recent photos over the past 2 weeks--time is flying by already!!

More baby photos

2011-06-08T19:48:00.001-07:00

She's here!!

2011-06-08T19:38:00.000-07:00

Our little miracle has finally arrived!

We are so thrilled to announce the arrival of our baby girl:

Elise Yvette Brewin was born on Sunday June 5th at 8:20am at Foothills Hospital in Calgary: 6lb 13oz.

Overdue!

2011-06-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

Still no baby: enjoying a visit with Mom and Dad and exploring the city...

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-11T12:41:00.001-07:00

We spent our 4th Mother's Day in Calgary joining thousands of families for the annual Mother's Day "Run". Obviously it was a "walk" for us this year (note the belly size!), and true to tradition, it was cold and rainy, but a great experience. Thanks to all who sponsored us!!

And of course, Happy Mother's Day to our wonderful mothers, and to all those mothers we know and love...

Baby Room

2011-05-07T11:18:00.000-07:00

Looks like we haven't had too much exciting going on the past few weeks: mostly making preparations for the baby, and Dave has been working on his MBA Finance course.

Dave finished building and staining the furniture for the baby's room (crib, dresser and shelf), and "Granny Sue" (Dave's Mom) did a great job on the bedding (bed skirt, bumper pads, quilt and valance curtain).

Great spring snow!

2011-04-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

Backcountry ski day at Crowfoot Glacier (Dave and Tommy)

Crazy snow at Castle Mountain Resort

We've had lots of great snow these past few weeks--luckily Dave has been able to get out and enjoy it!!

More work in the woodshop

2011-04-01T19:14:00.000-07:00

Dave has been busily working these last few weekends on building furniture for the (soon-to-be) baby's room. Here is the dresser/changetable so far...

Granny Brewin will be adding her handiwork by making the bedding/curtains/etc.

"Skating" with the Wrigglesworths and Hollidays

2011-03-13T16:24:00.000-07:00

The Wrigglesworths are back in Calgary, with a new addition: "Libby"! We were so happy to spend some time with them today, for "brunch" and then a walk/skate at Bowness Lagoon with the kids. Here's a group shot:

27 Week "Photo Shoot"

2011-03-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, our good friend Marc Binkley took some great "couple" photos of Dave and I and the "belly"...While we still have a few good months left before her impending arrival (due date = May 29th), we thought this was a good opportunity to get some photos together--not really knowing what the next few months will bring! We will plan to get more photos done closer to the due date if possible...

Whitefish weekend with Barrie/Dad Brewin

2011-03-01T14:53:00.000-08:00

We were delighted to have Dad/Barrie visiting last weekend, and joining us for another great weekend in Montana. We stayed once again at a rental property on the Whitefish ski hill with a large group of friends: the Gaffneys, Harmans, Binkleys, and Budi. It was a great weekend, with so much snow that we ended up extending our stay in Fernie BC on the way back, awaiting the road through Crowsnest Pass to reopen.

Barrie and I (Beth) took our snowshoes out to explore the Whitefish mountain: a beautiful pristine way to enjoy the winter weather!

Fernie weekend

2011-02-04T15:42:00.001-08:00

We've been laying low for the past few weeks here in Calgary, enjoying spending time with friends, and each other, working on our "hobbies", and resting and relaxing. This past weekend we were off to one of our favourite getaways: Fernie BC, with friends Dave and Shandra Harman (and baby Alex), Crystal and Marc Binkley (and baby Kenyon), Rob Budianto, and Karlie and Mike Krenklehorn. According to the diehard skiers, this weekend was one of the all-time best for great skiing--we always seem to have good luck with Fernie!

We have a few more getaway weekends planned for February--heading to Eureka and Whitefish Montana. It's always so nice to enjoy winter by spending time in the mountains!!

Christmas photos: New Years

2011-01-01T20:03:00.000-08:00

We celebrated New Years in Toronto at the Schultz's with a beautiful catered dinner with great friends!!

Christmas photos: Jackson Christmas

2010-12-28T19:52:00.000-08:00

We spent the Jackson Christmas in Bobcaygeon: a beautiful winter wonderland!!Mom and Dad show off their tree (with lots of presents for the grandkids!!)
Janet and Dave explore the frozen lake with the boys
Cuddling with Nadine

Merry Christmas to all...

2010-12-28T16:46:00.000-08:00

We've had a busy but really fun few days of visiting here in Ontario:

First, we spent a few days in Burlington with Dave's sister Tara and her family: husband Jay, daughter Chloe, and two "step-daughters" Ellie and Hannah, as well as Mom and Dad Brewin (of course). It was our first time spending more than a few hours with the girls (Hannah and Ellie) and we had a great time getting to know each other--very lovely, sweet, well-behaved and quick-to-warm-up kids!! Chloe is getting bigger all the time, and seems to just get cuter as she grows! Tara and Jay have a wonderful home and were gracious enough to host all of us from the 21-26th. I managed to fit in a brief visit with my oldest and dearest friends: Skye, Lara and Lindsey while we were in Burlington. It's amazing to see how much our lives have changed over the years, yet we are still able to maintain such an easy and fun friendship.

We headed up to Bobcaygeon on the 26th for some time with the Jackson/Marchildon clans--our nephews Malcolm, Charlie and Westley, and nieces Nadine and Kaiya, as well as all of the adults (Joel and Janet, Amy and Jay and Mom and Dad Jackson). It has been so fun watching the children delight in the magic of Christmas: opening presents, playing in the snow, and playing with each other and Uncle Dave!! While we don't get to see them often enough, our visits always feel special and fun (although busy!).

We will be celebrating New Year's with our old "Toronto" friends at Karen and Blair's home in Toronto. We are looking forward to some time to catch up and enjoy our old "stomping grounds".

We are also excited to announce that we are expecting another little Baby Brewin in the end of May--we just had an ultrasound last week that confirmed she is a girl, and we are in the process of talking about names and nurseries, and all the fun that goes along with planning for a baby. Since we've been through some of these early stages already, we are taking things slow and "cautiously", but are hopeful and optimistic that this will be an entirely different experience. Luckily we have many friends and family members with new babies (girls too!) so we are looking forward to hand-me-downs and words of wisdom from the "experts".

We hope this season finds you happy and healthy as well, and enjoying time with family and friends in the true spirit of the season.

Merry Christmas to all...(... and to all a Good night!)

Christmas photos: Brewin Christmas

2010-12-25T19:40:00.000-08:00

"Granddad" Barrie with Ellie
Uncle Dave with baby Chloe
Granny and Granddad Brewin

Banff Birthday

2010-12-19T09:29:00.001-08:00

We spent my birthday in Banff for the day: brunch at the Fairmont Banff Springs, followed by a crisp but beautiful walk around Johnson Lake. It's always so great to get into the mountains, especially this time of year when everything is so beautiful!! :)

Dave's Birthday

2010-11-25T09:39:00.000-08:00

For Dave's Birthday, we were joined by friends for a day of Laser Tag, followed by a sushi dinner and then cake and UFC back at our house. Thanks everyone for helping to make Dave's birthday so special! :)

The Garage

2010-11-19T17:12:00.000-08:00

Dave's latest project has been finishing the ceiling in our garage: since we've moved in, it has been a bit of a mess of old insulation, poorly put together roof tressles/joists, and just generally a bit of an eyesore. Here is the finished product--all cleaned up, and with "attic access" for storage--nice job! :)

So much SNOW!!

2010-11-19T16:54:00.000-08:00

This past week, we've had crazy amounts of snow in Calgary! It has been snowing for almost 5 days straight! The new road clearing system seems to be doing a good job of keeping the roads clear this year, but driving anywhere is still pretty slow and sometimes treacherous--one of the downfalls of working in an "Outreach" job where a lot of my day is spent on the road!!

Nonetheless, there are still many great things about the snow--it sure looks beautiful, especially at night, and there is something so peaceful about the soft crunching of snow under your feet, when the rest of the city's sounds are muffled by the blanket of snow covering everything!

And of course, the ski/snowboard crowd are all getting excited--I think we will wait a few more weeks before we head out to the mountains!

Visit with KT and Blair

2010-11-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

Our good friends Karen and Blair Schultz spent the weekend in Calgary, enjoying a visit that involved lots of chatting, eating (!!) and a beautiful hike in Kananaskis Country. Thanks for the great visit--can't wait to see you again over the holidays!!

Happy Hallowe'en!

2010-11-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

Here's Greyson exploring our pumpkin.

Hope you all had a very Happy Hallowe'en!! :)

Anniversary photo shoot

2010-10-20T20:40:00.000-07:00

http://juliewilliamsphotography.ca/blog/?p=6896

For our 5 year Anniversary this year, Dave and I had some professional photos done with a photographer recommended by a friend: http://juliewilliamsphotography.ca/blog

She did an absolutely incredible job, and we are so pleased with the results.

We were so happy to have such a beautiful keepsake as a reminder of our last 5 wonderful years together...

Baby Harman

2010-10-15T21:15:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Shandra and Dave on the birth of their baby girl, Alexandra Joli Harman on September 30th.

Tara and Jay's Wedding

2010-10-10T20:25:00.000-07:00

Tara and Jay had a beautiful intimate wedding in Burlington on the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend. We are so happy for them, and looking forward to sharing in their new life together--Congratulations!!Proud parents!
Beautiful Bride and Groom

Thanksgiving in Ontario

2010-10-10T20:10:00.000-07:00

Being in Ontario for Tara and Jay's wedding was also a great opportunity to enjoy Thanksgiving with both sides of the family! We celebrated at Tara and Jay's in Burlington, as well as at Joel and Janet's in Milton.Uncle Dave and Baby Chloe
Jay carves the turkey with assistance/supervision from Dave
The twins explore Joel and Janet's yard
Breakfast at Cora's with the Jacksons and Brewins
Jackson family photo

Beth's 10Ks

2010-09-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

One of my goals now that I've been feeling healthier and more energetic was to get back to running. I used to love the feeling after going for a nice long run, and it was such an easy way to stay in shape wherever we were: the only equipment required was a good pair of shoes!! My flexible work schedule over the summer also allowed me to take some time over lunch-hours to go for a quick 5-7km run, and our vacation schedule this summer was also great for fitting in runs.

To keep myself motivated, I registered for two organized 10km "races" in September: one in Canmore (Sept 12th) and one in Calgary (Sept 19th). Both were supporting good causes, and promised nice routes with beautiful views. I was super excited during the first race to realize that I was actually exceeding my goal time of 1 hr, and by pushing myself to the finish, I ended up with a time of 54:39 (placing 28th out of 163 women in my age group)!! By the second race, I wasn't sure if I would be able to beat that time, but ended up with just over 53 minutes (no official chip times were taken). I was very pleased with both of these results, and hope to continue running until the weather cools down.

http://www.raceheadquarters.com/results/2010/run/RockyMountain201010kAG.html

ABOVE: Running in the rain in Bowness Park--Sept 19th Allies for Autism race...

BELOW: Crossing the bridge (and handing off my jacket!) in Canmore: Sept 12th CAUSE Canada race.

Mike and Mel visit

2010-09-14T21:28:00.000-07:00

Lucy has a lot of experience posing for the camera!
The whole gang
The "Wrigs"
The Hollidays

We've had a few great visits with Mike and Mel Wrigglesworth since they've been in town this summer. While we didn't get photos of many visits, here are a few of a hike Shandra and I took with the Hollidays and the Wrigglesworths, a few weeks ago...

We definitely miss having you guys in town, but sure are thrilled that you make so much effort to spend time together when you're here! See you in January!

Montana Weekend

2010-09-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

We often get (envious) comments about how many weekends we get out of the city: the truth is, we are lucky to have many friends who also enjoy getting out of the city, several of whom have cabins and vacation properties in great locations, and are generous enough to invite us along for a visit!

This past weekend, we spent the weekend with Joe and Natasha Macfarlane at their cabin in Montana. They have built a great home, and are also surrounded by friends and family who also have similar vacation properties close by. All in all, it makes for a great spot to spend the weekend (or the summer!)

Welcome Baby Chloe!!

2010-09-01T20:53:00.000-07:00

Tara and Jason are the proud parents (and we are the proud Aunt and Uncle) of a beautiful baby girl: Chloe Elizabeth.

We were lucky to be in town one week after she was born, to meet her and see Tara and Jay's new house in Burlington. Congratulations--we are so happy for you, and can't wait to visit again at Thanksgiving (Tara and Jay's wedding).

Friends and family in Ontario

2010-08-30T21:07:00.000-07:00

Sunset off of Jim and Andrea's new dockEnjoying the "lake" at the Bailey's
"KT" and Beth

We had a brief, but great visit with friends and family during our weekend in Ontario--and got to enjoy some of their AMAZING summer weather too!!

Mom and Dad--looking great, as usual!!

Congratulations Maria and Chad!

2010-08-27T21:08:00.000-07:00

Congrats to our former roommate, Chad Tranter, and his lovely bride, Maria, on their perfect wedding! We had so much fun, and wish you every happiness!!

No comment!!

Road Trip Part V: Kelowna

2010-08-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

Road Trip Part IV: Vancouver Island/Tofino

2010-08-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

Road Trip Part III: Whistler--Beauty and the Bike

2010-08-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

Our amazing weekend in Whistler BC was spent celebrating Kelly and Craig's marriage at her family cabin, as well as checking out the downhill mountain biking at Whistler's amazing trails.

Road Trip Part II: Vancouver

2010-08-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

Bridal Veil Falls in Chilliwack (en route to Vancouver)
Out for sushi with the Handfords near their home in Vancouver.
Testing the water at Spanish Banks

Road Trip Part 1: Naramata

2010-08-03T19:16:00.000-07:00

We absolutely loved our time with Tannis and Steve Gaffney and their daughter Grace in Naramata. It is a great place offering lakes, mountains, wineries, biking, and lots of time for visiting and relaxing.

Road Trip!

2010-07-29T22:52:00.000-07:00

We're SUPER excited about our upcoming roadtrip!

Here's our itinerary:

Friday: Salmon Arm to visit Aunt Jennifer and Grandma

Sat-Tues: Naramata with the Gaffneys, Harmans, and Binkleys

Wed-Fri: Vancouver with the Handfords

Saturday/Sunday: Kelly's wedding in Whistler!

Mon-Thurs: Vancouver Island, Tofino (on our own!)

Fri-Sun: Kelowna with the Cleg-kels

Phew!

It will definitely be a busy few weeks, but we are looking forward to spending time with lots of great friends, and visiting lots of beautiful places!

(Lucky for Greyson, our friends Candice and Ben are house-sitting for us, so we feel much better about leaving Grey in very capable hands for such a long time!)

We'll be sure to update when we return!

24 hrs of...FUN!

2010-07-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

Dave participated in the "24 hrs of Adrenaline" in Canmore this past weekend. It was super fun, and their team "Beer Guts" did fantastic, making 20 laps around the 17km course in 24 hrs. Dave made some great times: just over an hour on both daytime and nighttime laps--he really pushed himself to the limits! I'm so proud! Here are a few photos (although they don't really do this weekend justice...!)

Columbia Lake

2010-07-18T22:31:00.000-07:00

Lunch in InvermereBiking with some Bighorn Sheep

Just had to post a few pictures from our weekend at Columbia Lake with the Brewins--absolutely gorgeous!!

Ice Dancing Extravaganza

2010-07-13T20:13:00.000-07:00

This was probably my favourite part of Stampede this year: a combination of Ice Dancing (including Elvis Stojko, Tessa Virtue and Scott Moyer), Acrobatics, and "Rock and Roll". The effect of a cover band singing AC/DC while random people were skating around an acrobat spinning above the ice was...hilarious! I'm not sure who thought this was a good idea, but the entertainment value was great--whether intentional or not! Here's a sample:

Brewin Visit and Stampede

2010-07-13T19:48:00.000-07:00

Dave parents joined us at the Calgary Stampede this year. The weather hasn't been great so far--lots of rain, including a major hail storm yesterday. We've enjoyed seeing a different side of the Stampede, as well as showing Barrie and Sue how crazy Calgary can get this time of year.

Checking out the Grounds in the rain.
Our 2nd Annual Brewin Stampede Breakfast.
Ruby loved the watermelon!
Sugar Shack: Stampede "Sneak a Peek"

Happy Birthday Nadine and Kaiya!

2010-07-03T20:30:00.000-07:00

Amy and Jay and family on Canada DayNadine got good at applying Tattoos

The girls with "Auntie Bethie"
Malcolm (looking serious)
the twins: Charlie and Westley
Grandpa helps Nadine with the Hippity Hop
Princess Kaiya (1)
Princess Nadine (3)
Princess Janet! (25? )
Joel (trying to stay awake?)
Testing the icing
Making faces

I headed back to Ontario for Canada Day long weekend to celebrate my nieces' birthdays in Hillsdale at my sister's house. They are both getting cuter all the time, and I loved having a chance to be a part of their day-to-day lives, even if only briefly. I also got to see Mom and Dad, and "the Jackson 5" again, which was great! Here's a few photos:

Kimberley Weekend

2010-06-17T16:28:00.000-07:00

Spring in Calgary

2010-06-05T21:01:00.000-07:00

Out for a walk near our house today, and brought our camera to take a few shots...Here's a few results of experiments with the fancy camera and our Mac:

If April showers bring May flowers, what does snow in May bring?

2010-05-29T19:13:00.000-07:00

May 29, 2010....Seriously?!?

Vegas!?!?

2010-05-29T19:03:00.000-07:00

I spent the long weekend in Las Vegas with my good friend Kelly (from OT school), and a group of her girlfriends celebrating Kelly's Stagette or "Bachelorette" party.
Kelly had great luck at the Roulette Table!

Fun at the club ("X/S" at the Wynn Hotel and Casino)

Visit from the "Jackson 5"

2010-05-22T19:52:00.000-07:00

Joel and Janet came for a visit with our 3 beautiful nephews. We had a wonderful time, with great weather, and lots of fun, including a trip to the Calgary Zoo, a visit with "Thomas the Tank Engine" at Heritage Park, and a day of exploring the mountains in Kananaskis and Canmore.

Thanks for the wonderful visit--we can't wait to have you back! (Our house is way too quiet now!!)

Visit from the "Jackson 5"--Kananaskis

2010-05-22T19:44:00.000-07:00

Joel tries hiking with the Mai Tai with WestleyJanet and Charlie
Malcolm LOVED playing in the snow (in his T-shirt--no snowsuit required!)

The boys loved playing in the snow, but weren't too sure about what to do when their hands (and feet!) got cold!

Visit from the "Jackson 5"--Heritage park

2010-05-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

Piggy Back from Uncle DaveRiding the carousel (the boys LOVED this!!)

Janet and Westley
Joel and Charlie

Thanks for the wonderful visit--we can't wait to have you back! (Our house is way too quiet now!!)

Mother's Day Run

2010-05-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all who sponsored us for the Mother's Day Run this year! It was cold and rainy/snowy, but still a great day, and a great turnout of almost 14000 people! Happy Mother's Day to all...

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-11T20:26:00.000-07:00

Just in case we don't say it often enough, we love and miss you, Mom(s)!!

Farewell in Richmond

2010-05-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

We spent last weekend in Richmond, just outside of Ottawa, visiting family and bidding farewell to my Grandfather, Howard Martin, who passed away on April 17th at the amazing age of 99 years old! It was a nice time having everyone together at Grandpa's house, and sharing stories and memories of this remarkable man. He was greatly loved, and will be sadly missed....

John Howard Martin: September 4th,1910--April 17th, 2010

2010-05-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

My Grandfather: Howard Martin, and my Grandmother: Violet Martin, on their wedding day: September 4th, 1939.

Upcoming Mother's day run

2010-04-21T20:59:00.001-07:00

Dave and I are running in the Mother's day run, in support of NICUs in Calgary:
Please visit our page if you wish to sponsor...
http://www.eventsonline.ca/cgi-bin/events/forzani_cal/pledge.pl?id=JME1746191

Greyson update

2010-04-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

Just to make sure we don't leave out one of the most important parts of our days: Greyson. Here is one of his favourite things--attacking us while we're trying to sleep! :)

The "best" backcountry season?

2010-04-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

Dave was only out for one "backcountry" ski day this year: not much snow!

Easter in Montana

2010-04-19T19:34:00.000-07:00

We stayed in Montana for Easter weekend this year: at a rental property that Tannis and Steve found, that was a little bit ridiculous---super nice (see below)!! The "small" kitchen!!

My favourite part: in this beautiful multi-million dollar home, there was this sign, that I totally agree with!!!

Our room (one of the smaller rooms in the 4 BR 4.5 Bath house!)

Driving home through Glacier Park, we saw some wild horses on the highway...

Some really pretty views on the drive home

March weekends...

2010-03-21T19:54:00.000-07:00

Here are a few photos of our recent adventures in Calgary over the past few weeks... Visiting Kelly at her new house

St. Patrick's Day-themed "Gourmet Club": Guinness Irish Stew and Baileys!

A visit to Bragg Creek to check out the progress on Jenn and Tom's place: the Turret is looking great--our first "Turret Party"!

Dave biked home from Bragg--a beautiful day for a ride!!

Our Annual Providence Gala: me posing with Deanna and Kelly

New beginnings

2010-03-01T21:21:00.000-08:00

It's starting to feel like spring already in Calgary, and making us think about moving forward and "new beginnings"...

Upon returning from our Hawai'i trip, I also returned to work at Providence, but in a new position. I am now working at one of our Satellite Sites in the South end of the city. This new location is very close to our house, and allows me to work with familiar staff, but in a completely new environment, with a new caseload of kiddos.

It's been great to have the familiarity of my "old" job, but also great to be able to start fresh with something totally new. I am also working in Outreach again 2 days a week, and really enjoy the flexibility of that schedule, as well as support of that amazing team. I am so thankful that my work has been so accomodating to offer me this opportunity upon returning to work. I know it would have been hard to go back to the "same" job now, after so much has changed...

I am also looking forward to the opportunities for the future: I am excited about a research project that I have started to become involved in, as well as feeling a renewed excitement for work, after having some time to really put things into perspective. I was able to return to work at a time when I was really ready to be surrounded by people, and especially kids, doing the thing that I love!

Dave and I are also getting back into our regular "Calgary" routine: we've had a few weekends to enjoy spending time together around our house, doing errands through the city, going out for dinner, and especially watching the Olympics (Go Canada Go!!) with friends!! Dave has been playing hockey and volleyball, and I've been trying out a few different Yoga studios in the city. We spent a fun and relaxed day at Sunshine Village in Banff on Saturday with Brian and Kris.

Being back in our regular routines has Dave and I feeling settled, happy, and hopeful for the future. We are talking about plans for the summer, and have been enticed by all of the "BC Travel" commercials to plan a road trip through BC and Vancouver Island this summer. We are also looking forward to visits from friends and family, including Joel and Janet (and the boys!) in May, and Dave's parents and Grandmother in July.

I continue to be followed by my Obstetrician, who we are still very happy with; I am also seeing my GI Specialist regularly, and we continue to look at keeping my Crohn's Disease under control as much as possible.

So while so much has changed, in many ways, our lives remain very much the same, and we continue to be happy, and for the most part healthy, and overall are very optimistic about what the future has in store for us: whatever that may be!

Please feel free to keep in touch with us any time... :)

Hawai'i

2010-02-17T17:57:00.000-08:00

Dave and I have just returned from 8 wonderful days in the sun and sand of Hawai'i (the "Big Island"). As you may know, the last month has been a stressful, exhausting, and heartbreaking time for both of us, and we know our friends and families have shared in this. We had decided that once things were stable for me medically, we would really like to "get away" somewhere where we could reflect, reconnect, and recover both physically and emotionally.

While in the end it ended up being a very "last minute" decision (we booked our flight about 12 hrs before we left!), it was an absolutely perfect trip. We spent many hours on the beach: reading, relaxing, people-watching, swimming and "surfing". We went hiking through Volcanoes Park: we walked on the surface of a Volcano, and watched another erupt. We hiked through the beautiful Waipio Valley, where we saw waterfalls, and rainforests, black sand beaches, and sacred Burial Grounds. We took an ocean kayak to Captain Cook's monument, and snorkelled with amazing fish. We ate lots of fresh sushi (and Dave had a few beers!).

All in all, it was exactly what we needed: a chance to remember all the amazing things in life, and in each other. We know there's still a long road to go, but this trip helped us to realize that "we're going to be okay", no matter what happens in this journey of ours. We are so blessed to have each other, and especially to have such amazingly thoughtful and supportive friends and family.

The beach near our hotel

Lounging in one of our favourite spots.

Sunset on our first night.

Waipio Valley

Sacred Burial Grounds in Waipio Valley

Snorkelling at Captain Cook's Monument

Another of our favourite spots: Hapuna Beach

For Emmett...

2010-01-25T16:40:00.000-08:00

We have set up a donation page through the Calgary Health Trust "Silent Hopes" program (see link below):

http://www.community.calgaryhealthtrust.ca/netcommunity/emmettbrewin

Alternatively, tax deductible donations may be made on behalf of Emmett to the Calgary Health Trust - Pregnancy & Infant Loss Program and sent to:

Pregnancy & Infant Loss Program
#126A, 1441 - 29 St. NW
Calgary, AB T2N 4J8

Although not necessary, all donations are greatly appreciated and will be used to directly support and assist bereaved parents in the provision of memory building items.

Thank you.
B&D

Baby Brewin Update

2010-01-22T08:34:00.000-08:00

Emmett Ulysses Brewin

Born/Died: January 21st, 2010.

A tiny 726 grams

Thanks to all for your kind wishes and support at this difficult time.

Update

2010-01-17T07:57:00.000-08:00

I wish we had some good news for this update, but for now we are in a bit of a holding pattern and taking things day by day:

Upon returning to Calgary after the holidays, we went in for an ultrasound to check on baby's growth, and it was determined that baby has intrauterine growth restriction: meaning that baby is very small for gestational age, and it appears baby is not growing well in utero. In addition, I have been found to have elevated blood pressure. This combination of hypertension and IUGR usually indicates pre-eclampsia or toxemia, and can be very risky for both mom and baby.

I was hospitalized for 6 days while they did many tests on me and baby, and after many discussions and decisions, Dave and I decided that it would be better for me to be monitored at home, where I could get some rest, and would be followed by our Obstetrician. We are currently still at home, trying to think good thoughts, with the support of many friends and family. My parents flew in from Ontario, and have been absolutely wonderful: making meals, cleaning and organizing our house, keeping me occupied and offering emotional support.

We're still not sure what this means for baby: he is still very small, and very young (30 weeks), with additional issues identified during the ultrasound (cardiac) that will be problematic once he's on the "outside".

So, we are just waiting, and hoping, and trying to get some rest and keep things pretty low key. We will try to update as soon as we know anything more.

Friends

2009-12-27T07:46:00.000-08:00

Some girl time at Jim and Andrea's property in Peterborough

Adam and Val Dukelow with baby Maddy and Gryphon

Lunch with Sandra in Windsor

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-26T18:24:00.000-08:00

The whole Jackson family spent Christmas day together this year at Mom and Dad's in Bobcaygeon. Here are: Charlie & Janet, Joel, Dad & Westley, Dave, Amy, Jay, Nadine & Mom, Beth & Kaiya, and Malcolm.

Christmas

2009-12-24T07:37:00.000-08:00

A few great days in Amherstburg with the Brewin family:

Brian and Kris welcome Reid Camden

2009-12-13T19:26:00.001-08:00

Our "in-law-in-laws" (Janet's brother Brian, and his wife Kris) welcomed baby Reid Camden almost 2 weeks ago on December 1st. They seem to be doing great, and adjusting to parenthood (and sleep deprivation) well!
Congratulations Brian and Kris!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2009-12-04T18:46:00.001-08:00

Here is the beginning of Calgary's December snowstorm--predicted to last...basically for the entire month of December! (At least we don't have to buy fake spray snow for our windows!)

Here's our tree from the inside (Greyson is a bit bigger than last year, and thinks the tree full of ornaments/"cat toys" is a perfect plaything!)

Brewin-style table decorations (thanks Mom and Dad Brewin!)

Our new wreath was decorated by more Calgary snow...

Furniture updates

2009-12-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

Dave continues to be busy in his workshop, and is filling our house with beautiful hand-crafted furniture. Here are a few of his latest creations...

Downstairs end table(s) (x2) You can see the refinished coffee table in the front, and the end tables are on the sides of the couch...

He has also been accumulating tools, which seem to make him unreasonably fast at completing these projects now!!

Next on the list? Baby room furniture: dresser/changetable and crib...

Baby bump update...

2009-11-22T14:28:00.000-08:00

Here's an updated "baby bump" photo: I feel like I've "popped" a bit more in the last few weeks, and am finally starting to actually look pregnant! Still feeling great, and feeling baby move around lots, which is so exciting! We are also starting to collect lots of "hand-me-downs": so great that everyone has been so generous!

New house and new baby for Jenn and Tom Gordon!

2009-11-22T13:37:00.001-08:00

Our friends Jenn and Tom Gordon have added a new member to their family: Maggie Ann Gordon. They are also in the process of building their dream home at a site in Bragg Creek (about 1/2 an hour outside of Calgary). We made a visit yesterday to meet Maggie, and to check out the building site.

Walking through their property...

Getting some practice... :)

The Gordon family.

Phoenix "Girls Trip"

2009-11-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

Karen, Andrea, Shandra and I planned a "Girls Trip" to Arizona: given that Karen and Andrea live in Ontario, and Shandra and I are in Calgary, we thought it might be worthwhile to meet up somewhere for an extended weekend so that we could enjoy some much-needed girl time and catching up. We spent 3 days shopping, "spa"ing, and chatting at a beautiful resort near Scottsdale (the Intercontinental Montelucia: www.icmontelucia.com ). "Summer toes"

Exploring the resort

Enjoying the desert at the "Boulders" spa near Carefree, Arizona

"Spa date"

Dinner on our last night...

Baby Bump!

2009-11-11T08:39:00.000-08:00

By popular demand, here are a few pictures of the "baby bump"...Yes: in case you haven't heard the news, it's been a long time coming, but "well worth the wait"! We are expecting a baby boy in the end of March (due date is about March 26th), and couldn't be happier! We've had several ultrasounds to date, and all is looking good. I've been feeling well, and trying to get lots of rest.

This weekend I'm off to Phoenix, Arizona with a few girlfriends for some "R&R".