The Davidsons: A Sea of Stories

And Now for Something Completely Different

2011-05-03T12:48:00.001-06:00

Not only did the spring bring warmth, green grass and singing birds but this year, spring brought the Davidson family a new adventure to anticipate.

In a few short months, we are leaving our little house on the prairie and travelling to Mombasa, Kenya. Our family will be working in a guest house right on the Indian ocean for a year. Sean and I are going to home school the girls while we all learn how to live and work in a very different part of the world.

We are excited and nervous and downright scared some days. It is a big adventure with more unknowns than knowns. But we are all trusting that this chapter in our “Sea of Stories” will be a fantastic experience that leads to things we cannot even imagine right now.

In order to keep you connected with our adventures in Africa, our family will share our experiences here:

http://davidsonsinmombasa.wordpress.com/

We would love it if you would check it out and continue to dive in when you can. I imagine that your words of encouragement and humour will be even more important as we navigate the uncharted waters of life in Kenya. So please join us. Learn with us. Laugh with us. And let us all see how the story continues.

~Mandy

After School Super Heroes

2011-05-03T12:27:00.001-06:00

The Fantastic Four are ready for anything: no villain is too terrible, no task is too dangerous as long as school is out, they’ve had a snack and their parents say it is okay. Many a crisis has been averted thanks to these friendly heroes.

~Mandy

Spring is on the way . . .

2011-05-03T12:20:00.001-06:00

One day in March, after a very long, very cold winter, we awoke to find that the sun was shining again and radiating warmth, coaxing the green grass out from its heavy white coat of snow. It is magical every year when the spring sun begins to shine. Every year, it causes our little girls to find shorts, rubber boots and a reason for an adventure.

Sun and snow and sticks. What more do you need?

~Mandy

The Cedar Gallery

2011-05-03T12:07:00.001-06:00

During the girls’ winter break, we took a day to explore the Moose Jaw Art Gallery and Museum. It is one of our favourite places to go when we have the time. Local artists as well as those from across Canada display their work. We just love to be inspired by art.

After our time at the gallery, we came home and decided to try our hands at creating our own art gallery. We got out our paints and paper and went to work. After painting some beautiful pictures, I began to frame and display the work on our living room wall. So, without further ado, I present The Cedar Gallery . . .

These local artists are new to the art scene in Caronport. They show a lot of promise.

Rosie actually used her paint mixing plate to create this piece. She called “Starry Night” thanks in part to Van Gogh.

Brooklyn loves all the warm colours so was inspired to create this lovely piece entitled, “Summer Swirlies”

The artists, seen here posing by their collection. It was a successful show with many visitors. Congratulations, Brookie and Rosie! We look forward to more of your creations.

~Mandy

Finally . . . Christmas!

2011-05-03T11:27:00.001-06:00

I am working on the principle that waiting for something makes it even more satisfying when you finally get. Like waiting forever for me to update our blog. Then one day – a new post!

It seems ridiculous that just as spring arrives, I am posting pictures of Christmas but there you go.

Christmas this year began with the traditional Christmas eve/morning events. So fun to watch the girls enjoy every moment.

Hanging stockings with care and making sure Santa gets a good snack for the road

Opening stockings . . . my personal favourite

Then it was off to Regina for fun at the Travelodge pool and waterslide . . .

One of our new Davidson family traditions is to go to the Globe Theatre for a family production on Boxing Day. This year it was a great musical retelling of The Ugly Duckling.

All in all, it was a wonderful Christmas.

~Mandy

A Moment

2010-10-11T10:40:00.001-06:00

Sometimes the prairie sky just will not be ignored. It glows in pinks and oranges, lighting up the bottoms of electric white clouds. God does some of his best work and simply asks that we stop and look.

The other night was one of those times. Brookie and Rosie were already in their pajamas, brushing their teeth before bed. I was trying to get stuff cleaned up and I caught I glimpse of this incredible sky. We grabbed our shoes and headed out the door, running to get to the end of the street for the best view. It was beautiful. Perfect.

Heading home, we basked in the glow of a setting sun and enjoyed just being together. These are the moments. I was so glad I hadn’t missed it.

This was taken after the real spectacle was over. Still quite pretty, though.

~Mandy

A Formal Tea Party

2010-10-07T13:45:00.001-06:00

Recently Brooklyn and Rosie were invited next door for a very fancy tea party with their friends, Maia and Aden. The invitation read:

You are invited to a tea party tomorrow afternoon. Come dressed up and pretty to 209 Cedar Crescent. Act Polite!

They dined on the front lawn in all their finery. Talia served the table of four their tea (with as much sugar as they wanted) and cookies. After the tea and polite conversation, they even danced. Adorable doesn’t quite describe it.

~Mandy

Reigning Champion

2010-10-07T13:33:00.001-06:00

These pictures capture just one of MANY times Rosie has beaten a member of her family at Memory. On this particular occasion, she crushed me. And I was trying.

Rosie really likes Memory. We had another version using the letters of the alphabet and pictures beginning with those letters but Rosie actually started to memorise the small nicks or water marks on the backs of the cards and so couldn’t help but cheat. Eventually we got a new game. We love this version because it is a great way to learn the names of different countries as the cards are all faces of children from around the world.

Now we all have our favourite faces. Rosie ranks hers every time we play, leaving the best for the top of the pile. And she will try to trade with her opponent if he or she gets her favourite face. India and Hawaii are two she really likes because they are girls and they are fancy.

When we are feeling like it, we put both the memory games together for an ultimate challenge. It is not for everyone. I like that it gives me more time with my sweet Rosie. I think Rosie likes the gigantic tower of matches she ends up with when she wins.

~Mandy

First Days of School

2010-10-07T13:02:00.001-06:00

Brookie began grade 2 this year. She is in another split class with the same kids she has known since Kindergarten.

Here she is posing for the classic First Day of School Picture to humour her mother

When I asked Brookie if I could take some pictures of her at the school that first day, she replied, “That might be a little awkward. First days are hard enough.” So . . . no pictures at the school.

Rosie is now in Kindergarten. She has a tiny class of 12 but they have their own room, complete with little desks, little cubbies, a little bathroom and many little play stations.

Rosie posing for the classic shot

It was a rainy first day

Rosie let me take some pictures inside her classroom

When Rosie came home after her first day, I asked her how it went and she said, “Good. Mr. Mitchell didn’t teach me anything, though.” Of course I explained that the first day is a bit more about meeting each other and settling in. But I think Mr. Mitchell is going to have to work very hard to impress Rosie.

My favourite part about school this year is watching the girls leave together in the morning, come home together at lunch and hearing about their time together at recess. They walk side by side, chatting together about stuff. Brookie is being a fantastic big sister. She has even pushed Rosie on the swing a few times. The two of them really like each other. And while I miss them, I am just so proud of the beautiful little ladies they are becoming.

~Mandy

. . . and we're back

2010-10-07T11:47:00.003-06:00

Yes, it has been a while since my last post. An embarassingly long while, actually. But sometimes the living needs to take priority over the writing about the living. So we have been doing some living and it has been fantastic. Lots of loving and laughing and exploring and learning and playing and growing and working. There is no way for me to catch you up completely so I am not even going to try. You will just have to trust me.

Enough about that. Let's get on with it, shall we?

Grid Road Adventures

2010-04-01T12:04:00.001-06:00

Monday evening was a perfect time for a bike ride. Brookie and I set out to tour Caronport and stop by the school playground. Sean took Rosie with him in the car out on the grid roads so he could measure out his next run. Later that night, after the girls had been in bed for some time, Sean and I heard crying coming from their room. Sean went in and found Rosie crying and wide awake. After some probing, Rosie shared that she was sad because she had enjoyed her drive out on the grid roads with her dad so much and hadn’t wanted it to end. Sean asked her what it was she liked about it so much and she said, “the wind in my hair.” Sean comforted her by explaining that they would be able to do it again very soon and Rosie drifted off to sleep,most likely dreaming about open roads and the wind in her hair.

Tuesday morning, Sean woke Rosie up early and took her out again for another drive.

That evening after our dinner, we decided to all go for a drive. We left the dishes behind and all piled into the car. (As a side note: I always feel like I am doing the right thing when that thing requires me to leave the dishes behind.) The girls sat in the hatch back with pillows and blankets. I brought along some peanut butter cookies and we headed out. After a few wrong turns, we made out way up to Signal Hill. It is the only real hill for miles and it got its name from the signal tower that stands out on the horizon.

When we arrived at the summit, we all sat in the hatch together, listening to music and eating our cookies. We could see forever in all directions. The wind played in the long grass. It was so silent – the only sounds were the wind, our breathing, our heartbeats. We listened and laughed together. It was just us. No hurry or rush to something else. We were the main event. It was absolutely beautiful. The kind of beautiful that catches in your throat and makes you ache a little because you know it can’t last.

We stayed as long as we could,watching the shadows stretch out before us, the evening creeping up the hill to meet us. Then we packed up and drove home.

~Mandy

Final Performances

2010-04-01T11:27:00.001-06:00

March was a month of endings. Rosie’s highland dancing lessons came to an end with a little dance recital. It was in our friends’ home on a Saturday morning. All the families came to watch the girls show their honed skills. And then after the dancing, we shared a delicious brunch together. It was another one of those positive small-town moments here in Caronport.

This is by far my favourite picture because it captures Rosie’s personality so well. She is there, dressed properly for the occasion and everything but still has her own casual approach, leaning on the kitchen stool, waiting for the photo shoot to be over.

This month also brought the end of the girls’ figure skating lessons. Of course the end of skating means another big performance. The girls were in the same group and performed a Caribbean number, complete with appropriately floral costumes. They were the hit of the night. Both of them managed to stay on their skates while turning, jumping and skating backwards. They have learned so much in such a short time. My favourite moment of the night was during their number when Brookie fell and Rosie stopped to help her up. We were very proud of them.

Who knows whether the girls will continue with either of these activities but they had a great time. Next up, swimming lessons!

~Mandy

Surprised by Sadness

2010-03-23T16:52:00.001-06:00

The other night, as the girls were still recovering from their crazy colds, we rented Where the Wild Things Are to watch together. Sean and I were a little unsure about how scary it would be but thought that as with all family movies we view, the constant conversation and explanation we encourage would compensate for any tense parts. and we had heard good things about it. So we settled in to enjoy the show.

Brookie and Rosie both engaged early on with Max and his sad little life. They are so thoughtful and observant. When Max travels to where the wild things are, Brookie made a wonderful connection between one of the girl “wild things” and Max’s older sister, explaining that the creature is what Max wishes his sister was like. Sean and I hadn’t even made that connection. And both girls gave lots of commentary as the story went along.

They were never really scared but were emotionally invested. They laughed out loud at some parts, quietly listened in other parts and got quite sad when Max was leaving for home, afraid that his good “wild thing” friend, Carol, wouldn’t make it back to say good-bye. It was even more sad when Carol doesn’t make it back in time to really say good bye but only to howl from the shore while watching Max’s boat sail away. This part was especially difficult for Rosie and without knowing why, she began to really cry - not just a subtle tear drop or two but the full deal, complete with sobs. She cried from that point on until the movie ended, with a further crescendo to the crying at around the time Max’s mother gives him a big hug when he returns home.

She continued to cry right through the credits, with Sean and Brookie and I trying to offer her comfort in the form of understanding. We were all a little teary-eyed. But Rosie got quite defensive, claiming that she wasn’t crying because the movie made her cry. She explained through sobs that she was having this emotional meltdown because the movie was so boring. And I quote, “I am crying because I didn’t find this movie interesting. It was boring. That is why I am crying!”

After many failed attempts on my part to explain (without laughing) that the kind of emotional energy she was expending was not on par with feelings of boredom or lack of interest (the last attempt I made at such an explanation ended with a tiny smile breaking on my face, Rosie taking GREAT offense at said smile and marching down to the last stair in our basement, sitting there with her head in her hands, continuing to cry), Sean managed to break through to Rosie. He got her to stop crying for a time and they were able to process these surprising emotions that had apparently “snuck up to her”, unannounced and unwelcomed.

As part of Sean’s strategy, he shared a story about a time when he found himself crying over a movie and being surprised himself. As he retold the plot of this sad movie, Rosie interrupted and said, “Daddy, please stop telling me this. It is making me want to cry.”

Needless to say, Rosie slept really well that night. We all did. And I couldn’t help smile to myself as I thought of that little girl, sobbing with such genuine grief at the losing and the finding of friendship and love. Such empathy. It is a beautiful thing.

~Mandy

You know spring has sprung when . . .

2010-03-23T16:14:00.001-06:00

Brookie and Rosie begin their day looking out the window and reporting on the ratio of grass to snow.
the yard that we have had for almost 5 years is yet again a new and wondrous place to explore
the bikes are strewn all over the drive way
our walkway and porch are covered with sidewalk chalk -original artwork, messages and tic tac toe games
we have a rousing game of family soccer out on the front lawn at 7 pm and it is still light enough out to see the ball
rubber boots are a permanent fixture on little feet
rosy cheeks and runny noses are permanent fixtures on little faces
people are smiling more
you see your neighbours again
You open the windows again, even if it means you need to put an extra sweater on
it smells like mud and grass and promises of new life

~Mandy

The Sweetest Thing

2010-03-23T15:58:00.001-06:00

Recently, Brookie came down with a more-serious-than-normal cold, complete with a fever and a very sore throat. She was home from school for two days, just laying on the couch, snuggling Piggy, watching lots of movies, looking very sick.

Being the good mom that I am, I continually forced liquids down her throat, checked her temperature more often than necessary and made sure she had anything she needed. These things included but were not limited to various stuffies, popsicles (not grape), extra ice for juice, extra ice for water, books, the remote, clean jammies, socks, slippers, lip balm . . . well, you get the idea. And as all good mothers, I began to anticipate her needs before she even voiced them. A certain look, an extra strong cough, a sigh and I could guess what request was sure to follow. It was exhausting.

On one trip to refill her water bottle and fluff her pillow, I leaned over and gave her a kiss on her hot little head. She looked up at me with her fevery eyes and said, “Mommy, I would give up Piggy for you.”

(Piggy is Brookie’s favourite stuffy in the whole world. She has had him since she was a teeny baby and he is the only toy Brookie cannot sleep without. Piggy has been with her through lots of good days and bad days, always ready to hug, to wipe tears, to listen. Whatever. Piggy is worn. He is barely pink anymore. His once-curly tail hangs embarrassingly straight from years of worrying it like a stone. So the fact that Brookie would give him up for me, well, that is quite something.)

I gave her a big hug and wiped the tears from my eyes on my way back to the kitchen. Being a mom is the hardest thing – just when you think you can’t do more, you are required to do ten times more. And then, one day your daughter offers to give up her favourite stuffed pig because she loves you that much. And then you can do anything.

~Mandy

An Early Spring Walk

2010-03-23T15:14:00.001-06:00

Rosie and I had a lovely afternoon welcoming spring to Caronport. We brought our cameras and wandered the puddle-speckled streets, enjoying the warm sun. The spring day was such a treat but the time with Rosie was even sweeter. Welcome, Spring. Welcome.

~Mandy

PD Day Adventures in the Big City

2010-02-27T13:41:00.001-06:00

The girls were free from any pesky school responsibilities yesterday and so we hit the big city (Regina is our idea of a big city) and some of our favourite things.

The biggest decision that Brookie and Rosie need to make anytime we leave for anywhere is which stuffie they will bring. Yesterday it was Lambie and Piggie.

Our first stop is almost always Chapters. It is even more fun now that I have two little avid readers to bring along with me. We all find our books to look at and settle in for some serious reading.

We then went to a matinee of The Princess and the Frog. It is always a treat to sit in the dark, munching on popcorn and Skittles, sipping lemonade and talking about what might happen next – will she kiss the frog? Will the bad guy win in the end? Will she choose love?

And then we hit the Science Centre. It was another great visit with so much to explore . . .

I know I have said it before but I seriously love PD days!!

~Mandy

Rockin' Rosie

2010-02-27T08:49:00.002-06:00

Honesty, thy name is Rosie

2010-02-26T09:15:00.001-06:00

So Sean has occasionally gone across the road to our elderly neighbour’s house and helped to shovel her snow. It is his pleasure and it doesn’t take too long, usually, but of course Shirley is always very thankful. She has taken to delivering little treats to us. We have received a delicious pie, chocolate chip cookies and most recently, Valentines Day sugar cookies with chocolate hearts and a little card. It was so sweet (literally) of her and so the girls and I talked about what we could do to say thank you back.

We decided that better than a sandwich (which was Rosie’s initial idea and which probably had something to do with the fact that we were making sandwiches at the time of our discussion) would be a thank you card. So we got out the markers, crayons and paper. Each of the girls made a special, colourful card and signed them.

Later that day, I sent the kids over to give Shirley the cards. Before they left we practised what they should say and how to behave. It seemed like they were ready so away they went.

Moments later, they returned and as they stripped off their coats, I asked them how it went. “Good,” Brookie said. “What did you say”, I asked. “I said we were there to give her these cards and Rosie said we were giving them to her because she is old.”

Yes – Rosie did. And I guess in a round about way, she is right. I tried to explain that old people know they are old. We don’t need to tell them. But I have a feeling Rosie will say what she wants when she wants to. I am just glad Shirley has a sense of humour.

~Mandy

The Importance of Manners

2010-02-26T08:52:00.001-06:00

Not too long ago, our little family was having breakfast together. It was a lazy Saturday morning and I had become a short-order cook, letting everyone choose their favourite breakfast. Brookie wanted waffles but Rosie had decided on cheesy scrambled eggs. Sean and I settled on poached. While I worked the waffle iron, I asked Sean to handle the egg orders. In a whirl of chaos, we managed to pull all the breakfast orders together at relatively the same time, complete with sausages and fruit and juice.

When the girls sat down at the table, Brookie dove right in but Rosie paused after only one bite of her eggs. She screwed up her face and said, “Ummm . . . excuse me but I wanted cheese in these eggs.” I immediately felt like I had lost whatever tip I had been hoping for. After explaining that Daddy had in fact put cheese in the eggs, she quietly mumbled, “well, I can’t taste it.” Apparently the ratio was not to her satisfaction.

Brookie looked up from her near-empty plate and thanked us very politely for her breakfast. We encourage this kind of unforced show of manners and so I praised her for doing it. Not to be outdone, Rosie piped in with this little gem: “Daddy, even though I don’t like the eggs, I thank you for them.”

And what can you say to that?

~Mandy

Play Dough Creation

2010-02-25T23:08:00.001-06:00

The girls and I made play dough the other day together during their winter break. It is so fun to sit together and make all sorts of play dough works of art. This past Wednesday after dinner, we pulled out the soft, pink blobs and passed the time creating this hot air balloon scene. I helped a bit with the basket but the girls imagined the rest. I love how they worked together, not once arguing about composition. Rosie did the bear in the basket and layered quite a collection of clouds to the right. Brookie added a lunch basket under the main one, complete with lunch inside, a fantastic spidery sun and another cloud. We sat and admired it for a while, each of us quietly sailing in a bright blue sky, before squishing it in a big ball and packing it away until next time.

~Mandy

A sister . . .

2010-02-25T22:57:00.001-06:00

is both your mirror and your opposite. ~Elizabeth Fishel

Our Little Birdies

2010-02-25T22:11:00.001-06:00

One night when the wind was howling outside, the girls decided to build “nests” for themselves while they watched a movie. After a bit of a struggle and a few arguments about who gets what blanket/pillow, the job was done. Two little nests to snuggle into. Moments after completing them, the birds fell fast asleep and dreamed of spring . . .

~Mandy

And a Couple More

2010-02-25T22:07:00.001-06:00

Of course there were many moments of reading and snuggling – two of our family’s favourite things. There is nothing better.

~Mandy

Christmas in January

2010-02-25T21:53:00.001-06:00

We were thankful again to have Ama, Bops and Aunt Nessa brave the frigid prairie temperatures to spend some time with us this January. It was another wonderful visit. I cannot possibly include all the details but here are some highlights from their visit.

Brookie and Rosie strike a pose with new dolls and their new outfits.

There were more than a few games of “Guess Who” – the kids got a funky electronic version from cool Aunt Nessa. Rosie always picks a girl and always is the first to guess her opponent’s person. She is right 99% of the time.

More presents from Ama and Bops

Skating lessons were a huge highlight. The girls were eager to show off some of their new moves and of course Ama, Bops and Aunt Nessa were thrilled to be able to watch.

Perhaps one of the biggest highlights was watching Rosie perform in Caronport’s first Ceilidh. Here are a few action shots. What you won’t be able to see are pictures of all of us joining in with many others in learning folk, polka and line dances. We all had a fantastic time.

While my family was here, my mom had the idea of trying to organise a mini photo shoot so we could get a more recent family picture. The last one we did included Brookie in utero. It was about time.

But whereas our last family picture included at least an hour with a professional photographer in her studio and many, many takes, this one was less planned. I just called my dear friend who takes fantastic pictures and asked if she could swing by after work. We hadn’t considered this event ahead of time so we scrambled to pull coordinating outfits together for everyone, brush, wash and primp in a matter of half an hour. Jen arrived to take the picture and we all ran out the front door, joking about which dead, brown bush we should use as the backdrop. After squishing together in the snow, Jen clicked away a few times and that was it. I was REALLY happy with the final result. Isn’t that a lovely family?

So all in all, it was a perfect prairie visit. I cannot say how thankful we are to have these times together. These memories will keep us going until next time. We love you guys!!!

~Mandy

Fashions by Rosie

2010-01-13T16:39:00.001-06:00

Rosie came into the kitchen the other day wearing this creation, asking me for a drink. I had to stop what I was doing and focus on how fantastic she looked. She did this all by herself using an old blanket from her room and a hair band. Seriously. I was in awe. It was so popular that Brookie asked Rosie to help make one for her.

I haven’t been around a ton of four year olds but I am willing to bet it is rare to find a child this age so mindful of what she is wearing. And not only what she is wearing. Take for example the day of Rosie’s school Christmas program. As I was getting dressed to go, Rosie came in, looked me up and down and said, “Is that what you are wearing?” She proceeded to pick out a whole new outfit for me. She’s 4. Incredible. But I love that she is able to show her creative spirit through what she wears. Who knows, we may be sitting beside the cat walk years from now, applauding the latest fashion creations of Rosie Davidson. My guess is that no matter what the latest colour is, pink will play a large part in her collection. And there will be lots of high heels and spinny dresses and bathing suits. I can’t wait.

The Classic Christmas Pageant

2010-01-13T16:16:00.001-06:00

Nothing says Christmas like a bunch of adorable kids dressing up in sheets and their dads’ old robes to act out the story of Jesus' birth. It is always a crowd pleaser. Well, on December 27th, the kids in our little church put on an impromptu performance for us, complete with costumes. It was the best. Brooklyn was Mary. She was so perfect as the young, confused, innocent girl. She did a great job. You can see from the pictures that the role of Joseph, Mary’s young and equally confused fiancé was played by Talia, an older friend of Brookie’s. There was a lack of willing boy participants, as usual.

And what role did Rosie play, you may ask. None. That’s right. None. Nothing seemed to interest her once the role of Mary was taken. What about an angel? A shepherd? The inn keeper? A sheep? Nope. Rosie was the only child who didn’t participate in some way. And why? Because of the costumes. She was only willing to be Mary because in every picture or movie she has ever seen of this wonder-filled story, the only character not destined to wear brown, beige or white is Mary who is always dressed in a very pretty blue. So that is it. For Rosie, it isn’t the story itself that matters as much as what you get to wear while acting it out. So she sat and watched her friends in her pink shirt, pink skirt and striped tights with no regrets.

Boxing Day with Peter Pan and Wendy

2010-01-13T15:58:00.001-06:00

This Boxing Day, our family had front row tickets at the Globe Theatre in Regina to see Peter Pan. It was absolutely fabulous! We went not knowing what to expect from this little place in Saskatchewan. I mean, it isn’t Toronto. But it turns out that other cities can put together really great theatre too! And you don’t need to give up one of your children in order to get tickets either!

Like I said, we had front row tickets and this was theatre-in-the-round so we were really in the action. In fact, when the pirates arrived on stage, Rosie and Brookie were both a bit unnerved. In fact, Rosie turned to me and whispered, “I don’t like this movie!”

But nothing prepared us for Captain Hook’s entrance! Even I was a bit scared of him and he walked majestically down the stairs right beside Rosie and I!

But as the play went on, the girls became used to the atmosphere and were more convinced that no one was going to make them walk the plank, they enjoyed themselves immensely. Sean and I did too. The actors were wonderful and the set was so creative. We even got drinks and cookies at intermission!

After the show, Sean took all us ladies out for a very nice dinner, including dessert.

So now all that is left to do is decide what we will see next year. Another tradition is born!

Another Christmas in Caronport

2010-01-13T15:25:00.001-06:00

The pictures speak for themselves. We missed our “far away family” but managed to find some Christmas cheer right here. After sleeping in until 9:15, the girls opened their stockings and presents while Sean and I sipped our tea. Later we had a lovely breakfast together. Our friends had us over in the evening for a delicious turkey dinner and games. It was a merry little Christmas.

Brookie’s 6th Birthday

2010-01-13T14:54:00.001-06:00

Our little Brooklyn Grace turned 6 years old on December 18, 2009. It was a great day. When Brookie got up that morning, she found a path of pretty note cards each with a word from the “Happy Birthday” song leading her to her favourite breakfast – peanut butter bread. And because she had been staring at her gifts for a week in great anticipation, we allowed her to open one from Nan and Pops. It was a beautiful, grown-up necklace. Wow.

At school, Brookie had a Christmas party and an afternoon of skating since school was finished for the holidays. But I told her we could pretend that the party and the skating were for her to celebrate her birthday. She thought that was a great idea and so secretly she spent the day imagining that every special thing was in her honour. Fantastic!

Finally, that night we had a birthday dinner of Brookie’s choosing: waffles, whipped cream, strawberries and sausages. It was delicious. The dinner was followed by gifts. Rosie picked out a new set of Disney Polly Pockets to give to her sister, which she loved. Sean and I first gave her a whole bunch of “desk” necessities such as a desk lamp, pencil holder, paper, new pens, tape – all wrapped separately – and each time Brookie opened one, we told her they would be perfect for when she actually got a desk. She was so pleased but the best part was leading her downstairs to where her new desk was waiting for her. Remember when you were growing up and you got the perfect gift? The gift that you had been hoping for? Well, this was one of those moments for Brookie. Her joy and excitement were endless. She held her wee hands up to her cheeks and kept repeating, “Oh my goodness. Oh my goodness.” It was such a wonderful moment.

We finished off the evening with dirt cups and worms (another request from the birthday girl). It was a very good day. Happy birthday my sweet, thoughtful, caring, intelligent little girl. I love you like crazy!

~Mandy

The Classic School Christmas Program

2009-12-21T20:58:00.001-06:00

Brookie and her class were the finale in the Caronport Elementary School Christmas Program. They counted their way through the holidays with each child taking part in one of the numbers. Brookie was partnered with her friend in grade two to bring us all “two Christmas wreaths to hang on our door with mistletoe and holly and ribbons and more.” She said her line very clearly and with a big smile on her face. My favourite part was at the very end after they took a well-deserved bow, Brookie looked right at me, smiled and waved. She was so proud of herself and was so glad I was there to see her. There is something so poignant about those moments with your child. They are perfectly happy, knowing that you are there.

It is going to be a good Christmas.

~Mandy

A Rosie Christmas

2009-12-16T11:38:00.001-06:00

Today Sean and I joined all the other parents at Rosie’s preschool to watch a Christmas program. It was a collection of songs that the kids had learned over the past few weeks to share with us. Rosie dressed in her fanciest dress for the occasion and even picked out the shirt she wanted me to wear. But when it came to the actual songs, our wee Rosie was . . . well, quite bored. She took part in the ones she liked but felt free to kind of sit out on the rest. She doesn’t buy into the whole thing even when there are people watching. She does things her way and that is that.

The jingle bells and “Jesus songs” and wishes of merry Christmases made for a festive morning. We had a wonderful time watching our little Rosie shine (when she wanted to) and she has started this Christmas season off well. Thank you, Rosie!

~Mandy

Brookie’s 6th Birthday Party

2009-12-16T11:26:00.001-06:00

It was a frigid Saturday in December when 10 excited, little girls and two adults left Caronport for the Kinsmen Pool in Moose Jaw. Brooklyn Grace Davidson was having her birthday party and we were going swimming for the afternoon. There were a lot of details to remember: car seats for everyone, the cupcakes, a lighter, candles, napkins, swimming stuff for everyone, presents, goodie bags, hats, mittens, extra blankets in case the vans broke down, music for the vans, and a camera to commemorate the occasion. So I remembered almost everything. Care to take a guess on what I forgot? Well, let’s just say that we needed to get napkins at the pool. We pretended to blow out the candles and I will need to sketch the pictures by hand. Yes – that’s right. I forgot the camera. But in a way, it is a good thing. You will get to practice using that imagination!

So imagine here is a picture of all the girls bundled up in the van, anticipating an afternoon of birthday fun.

And here is a shot of everyone at the pool, ready to start swimming. Brookie is the one in the middle with that green and pink bathing suit on. Rosie is the one leaving the picture to go down the waterslide.

Here are all the girls playing with Robert. Robert is the young, capable lifeguard we hired to entertain the kids for an hour while Sean and I soaked in the hot tub.

Here is a great shot of Sean and I in the hot tub.

This one really captures the excitement of climbing all those stairs to ride down the waterslide.

Here we are playing in the shallow end all together just before we stopped for cupcakes.

The girls all loved sitting poolside for drinks, chips, present-opening and cupcakes.

And here we are wet, tired, and ready for our drive back to Caronport.

See! Who needs a camera?

~Mandy

Through the eyes of a 5-year-old

2009-11-16T15:36:00.001-06:00

Last Christmas Brookie got a kids’ camera. You know, the kind you can throw down the stairs and run over with the car. She took pictures all through the holidays and into the new year. She asked us a few times if we could put the pictures on the computer but I couldn’t find the cable and I seemed to always get distracted with the monotony of the daily grind. So, long story short, we finally found the cable and actually took the time to download her photographs. Brookie sat beside me and we edited them together. The above are some of my favourites . . . especially the last one. It is a mirror. Is it just me or does this child have a good eye for line and light?

When we finally cleared all the pictures off the camera, Brookie had a renewed interest in capturing that perfect shot. I suggested that we could go out together for a photo shoot. Brookie took her camera and I took mine. Together, we wandered the neighbourhood and snapped away at anything that interested us. The following are some of those photographs.

There are two things that I absolutely love about Brookie, the budding photographer. Mostly, I think it is amazing that she gives me a glimpse of life from her perspective through every shot. Incredible. She sees beauty in things that I would just pass by. This is truly fantastic. The other thing about it is that Brookie literally squeals with excitement after every flash. She takes a picture, looks at it and then calls excitedly for me to come and see. She loves to take pictures. That is also truly fantastic. Nothing in this world could be better than seeing your child fill up with awe, confidence and joy as she discovers her talents and interests. Fantastic.

~Mandy

The First Day of Skating Lessons

2009-11-03T19:07:00.001-06:00

October 30th was the first day of the girls’ skating lessons. They were so excited. I have been putting this off for a few years but because there are no dance lessons being offered this year, we decided it was a good time to skate. They had a fantastic time and they both did much better than I had expected! Here is Rosie on the ice with some skating helpers. She managed to move forward and backwards as well as doing the classic “Head and Shoulders” song all while staying upright.I call that a success.

I couldn’t get any pictures of Brookie this week because of where she was skating but I will try again next week. She did really well too. She learned how to glide forward and backward.

After all that exercise, the two little skaters happily enjoyed a snack while watching some of the other classes practise. I think it is going to be a very fun year.

~Mandy

Halloween

2009-11-02T14:44:00.002-06:00

This Halloween we did things a bit differently. It was a full afternoon and evening affair. After getting the “pretty fairy” and Minnie Mouse all ready at home, we headed out to the Town n’ Country Mall in bustling downtown Moose Jaw where all the stores were participating in passing out candy. It was a lot of fun. The kids got a really good start on filling their candy bags and they actually got to show off their costumes without the usual winter layers.

We stopped to have some dinner and let the sun go down a bit. Then it was time to take it to the streets! We visited some beautiful, old homes in Moose Jaw for even more Halloween fun. Sean and I admired the architecture and the kids tricked and treated their way up and down the Avenues. We did some coaching beforehand about how the girls needed to actually say “trick or treat” at the doors. Nice and loudly. Then follow the candy donation with a big “thank you.” Well, you don’t need to tell Rosie twice to say it loudly – she was literally screaming at the poor people. She made at least a handful of them actually jump. Needless to say, the two girls brought many a smile to the neighbourhood. And although it was a bit chilly, the weather was quite perfect for the occasion; there was even a beautiful, big moon lighting our way.

After the fairy and Minnie tired of hoofing it up and down the street, we headed back to Caronport for a Halloween Party, complete with games, deliciously spooky snacks and friends to share it with. All in all, it was one of our best Halloweens yet!

In the morning, Sean and I awoke to the sound of candy sorting. Brookie and Rosie were in the living room, going through their bags and every few seconds we could hear Rosie squeal with excitement as she yelled, “Brookie! Look at this!”

So now begins the daily “post Halloween” rationing of the treats. And the girls are already talking about what they want to dress up as next year.

~Mandy

Our Grade One Ground Squirrel

2009-10-23T10:40:00.001-06:00

Brookie’s grade 1-2 class performed their autumn production just yesterday. She was a ground squirrel. And of course, Sean, Rosie and I were there to watch one of the shows.

Brookie was excellent. Firstly, she actually dressed in brown (apparently her fellow ground squirrels missed that memo), and she had even practiced her lines ahead of time with some parental coaching on the concept of “projecting” your voice for optimal effect. She even added some squirrelly hand actions and inflection in her voice to make things a bit more interesting. We were very proud, in a biased parent kinda way.

But as a whole, this had to have been one of the lamest class plays I have ever seen. I mean boring with a capital BORING! The kids all stood, leaning against the wall, chalkboard, whatever and they never moved. Never changed position. They delivered their lines with no emotion or enthusiasm of any kind. Half of them mumbled so we couldn’t even hear them. It was painful. Finally at the end, they didn’t even get to take a bow! I mean seriously if the goal was to suck all the fun out of it, the teacher succeeded. A+. Fun had left the building.

Which just begs the question, why? Why can’t we have fun in school generally and while putting on a play specifically? Why can’t we teach the kids the basics of public speaking and of making things interesting for their audience while at the same time encouraging them to have fun acting, imagining, pretending? I don’t know. But it made me crazy. It made me scared. It made me sad.

At the end of the production, Sean and I cheered like lunatics – lots of woo hoos and clapping and whistling – mostly to wake everyone up. And I encouraged the students to bow, even overtop of the teacher’s instructions about where they all needed to put their ears. Later, when Brook got home, I let her take as many bows as she wanted.

~Mandy

Here Comes the Sun . . .

2009-10-22T17:07:00.001-06:00

This morning, the girls crept into our room while it was still dark and asked if they could go outside to watch the sun rise. Of course, I said. Just make sure you stay warm while you wait. When I came out to see them moments later, I found them huddled together on the deck, facing the sky and reading “Leo the Lop” as they patiently waited for the sun to make its first appearance of the day.

There are times as a mom when you feel overwhelmed with thanks that you have little people in your life to remind you of the truly important things; to creep quietly up to you while you sleep through life and whisper, “Look! Stop and look! Do you see that? Isn’t that incredible? You don’t want to miss it! Come see your gift.” And this morning was one of those times. The sun came up, we watched and then came in for some Rice Krispies. But I have to say that it really is amazing that the sun comes up every morning in all its brilliant splendour. And I am really glad I saw it. Thank you, Brookie and Rosie, for helping me see the gift.

~Mandy

The Bunk Bed

2009-10-22T16:44:00.001-06:00

I think this speaks for itself. The girls are finally in the same room with a bunk bed. They LOVE it. Really. I, on the other hand, think of it as a form of torture every morning when I attempt to make that top bunk while balancing precariously on the lower one, the whole time feeling as though I have been locked in a prison made of wooden slats. But the girls are blissfully unaware of that stuff.

As a side note, Sean and I pulled the classic, who-needs-to-actually-read-the-instructions? move when we were putting this contraption together. I mean it is just two exact replicas of the same bed and then we just put one on top of the other. Easy peasy lemon squeezy, as Rosie would say. We started in using our joint intuition and we were flying through, moving so smoothly like a fine tuned machine, a vision of perfect teamwork . . . until we realised that in fact the one bed was distinctly different than the other – it had railing on the sides which required pre-drilled holes. Oh . . . I see. This is why they include the instructions. Then we had lots of time to make our new plan of attack while we took the whole thing apart again.

Two English majors plus over-confidence minus instructions plus four beer plus 3 hours longer than estimated equals one awesome bunk bed and two extremely tired but excited little girls.

~Mandy

Rosie’s First Day of Preschool (for the second time)

2009-10-22T16:23:00.001-06:00

Our little Rosie started her second year of preschool on October 5th. She is a seasoned student now, who knows all the subtle intricacies of the preschool scene.

When I picked her up after her first day, I asked her about the new friends she had made. She informed me that one of her classmates is “aggravating”. When I asked why, she explained that this person, “talks too much.” Too funny. So let that be a lesson to you, with Rosie, get to your point and do it quickly.

~Mandy

One Last Glimpse of Summer

2009-10-22T16:05:00.001-06:00

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It was the end of September. The girls and I decided it was such a perfect day that we needed to spend the afternoon in the park. I am so glad we did because it is the beginning of October now and I am looking out over a winter wonderland! Life is good when you are at the park, enjoying summery weather in September hanging out with your two beautiful daughters.

~Mandy

We have a dream . . .

2009-09-25T10:37:00.001-06:00

Open Scene: A quiet living room, two people (mother and daughter) sitting together as the lights come up . . .

Brookie – I would like to go to Paris one day.

me – So would I. We should go together.

Brookie – Can we? Just you and me?

me- Sure. Why not? That would be so much fun. We should do it.

Brookie – And we can see the Eiffel Tower and speak French.

me – Yeah . . . (pause) . . . it will cost quite a bit of money. We will have to save up.

Brookie – (Pause) I know. We should make a Paris jar to save our money in.

me – Good idea.

Brookie – And I can put all my money from my piggy bank in it. I have a lot of money in there.

me – Okay. That would be a good start.

Scene change – the dining room table, complete with jar, markers, labels, piggy bank

Brookie – It looks beautiful. We will have to fill it right up to the top.

me – Yep. And maybe even more than that.

Enter Rosie, Stage left, wearing something only she could wear.

Rosie – What are you guys doing?

Brookie – We are making a Paris jar for our trip to Paris, just mommy and me.

Rosie – But I want to come too!! (tears pending)

me – Well, maybe Rosie could come if she wanted to help with saving money . . .

Brookie – Oh, alright.

Rosie – I have money in my piggy bank – I’ll get it!

Rosie exits stage left and returns seconds later with a big, plastic, pink pig.

Rosie – I’ve got it. I can open it by myself.

Rosie, with some help, cracks open the bottom seal and pours out the money.

Brookie – Okay, Rosie. Put it in the jar.

Rosie - (Looking solemnly at her pile of coins) I will give you some of it but not all. I want to save up for a new party dress.

End Scene, to the sound of a few pennies dropping into the jar.

So begins the Paris jar. Who knows, maybe we will save up enough to take a wonderful trip together and maybe Brookie and I will stand on the Eiffel tower, drinking in the Paris lights. Maybe. But regardless, making the jar together was juste merveilleux!

Saturday Morning Tea

2009-09-25T10:06:00.000-06:00

While Sean and I sat, enjoying the last of our waffles, the girls created a living room within a living room. After all the work, each of them pulled up a chair to the tiny table for tea. They chatted, pleased and thanked each other, giggled and sipped away the morning in tiny china cups. Here’s to Saturdays, sisters and imagination galore.

~Mandy

2009-09-17T15:04:00.001-06:00

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet. ~James Oppenheim

Fence-climbing 101

2009-09-15T16:27:00.003-06:00

A few days after beginning grade 1, the social anxiety of said grade reared its ugly head. Brookie was playing with two other little friends. Now we all know what a group of three feels like anyway, and in this case especially because Brookie is younger than both of these other girls, so it wasn't surprising to me that at a certain point, Brookie ended up in tears at the back door. After giving her time to just sit with me and cry, I asked her what was wrong. "I am the only one who can't climb the fence and I hate being left behind," Brookie explained between sobs. It is always so heart-breaking to see your child struggle with anything but the struggle to fit in is particularly painful. I offered a fairly painless solution. What if we had a fence-climbing lesson with Daddy and Rosie after dinner?

And that is exactly what we did. After we ate that night, we headed out to the back yard fence and began practising the fine art of fence climbing. Brookie was determined. It took her only a couple of tries before she was scaling our fence without any help. Rosie "learned" too, although I think she had a good handle on it already. And by bedtime that night, the crisis had been adverted.

The next day after school, I heard Brookie ask through the fence if she could play next door. Then she climbed over the fence all on her own and ran off around the corner. I couldn't help remembering the first time Brookie had crawled away from me when she was just a wee thing and had disappeared around the couch. It was the same feeling I had in my throat; a tightening and a sadness at the inevitablity of our children leaving us behind mixed with a quiet pride in knowing Brookie had done it. No fence would ever hold her back again.
~Mandy

Grade 1

2009-09-15T16:00:00.004-06:00

What can I say? Brookie began grade 1 August 25th and it was much more difficult for me than kindergarten. Much. Rosie and I walked our little first grader to the school and dropped her off. By lunch, Brookie gobbled down her sandwich and informed us that she needed to leave early so she had time to play. It has been a bit of a rollercoaster ride with some days being great and other days punctuated with many tears but no matter what, Brooklyn Grace is growing up officially way too quickly.

Don't you think?

~Mandy

Rainy Day Adventure

2009-09-15T15:11:00.006-06:00

The richness of the rain made me feel safe and protected; I have always considered the rain to be healing - a blanket - the comfort of a friend. Without at least some rain in any given day, or at least a cloud or two on the horizon, I feel overwhelmed by the information of sunlight and yearn for the vital, muffling gift of falling water. ~ Douglas Coupland

2009-09-15T14:48:00.003-06:00

This August, Brookie and Rosie took swimming lessons at the pool in Moose Jaw. They were both in the same class - The crocodiles and whales. It was a solid two weeks of lessons every day for half an hour and I couldn't believe how much the two of them learned!

Waiting for the fun to begin

Paying close attention to the teacher

A well-deserved soak in the hot tub after all the hard work

At the end of the two weeks, both girls could float, glide, dive to get rings at the bottom of the shallow end, and kick the whole way across the pool with a flutter board. Amazing!

~Mandy

More Camping Pictures

2009-09-15T12:02:00.005-06:00

The girls were beyond excited about riding real horses. Brookie rode Gator and Rosie had a lovely horse named Ebony. Both of these horses enjoyed trotting, which only made it more fun for the girls.

Minigolfing with young children is even more entertaining than the boring way of playing with people who can aim and who pay attention to each shot. This was more like watching a fast-paced hockey game, minus the goalie.

One of many scenic views we stumbled upon on a hike

Those are the faces of two little girls having a marvelous time just being

~Mandy

The Davidsons Go Camping

2009-09-14T21:42:00.008-06:00

The last week of July was our family trip to Cypress Hills. It is a wonderful little spot close to the Alberta boarder with trees and water. Those two things alone make it worth the 3 hour drive. But in addition to the trees and water, there are all sorts of other great things to do like horseback riding, minigolf, swimming, hiking . . . you name it, we most likely did it in our short stay. It was a family trip to remember.

Here is our campsite - #47 - complete with a fire pit and two perfect tent spots.

The girls had their own tent and they were a little excited

One of the other exciting things about camping was the little cereal boxes - a camping tradition I am continuing from my time growing up

Our first night, we were a bit too tired from the drive to cook dinner ourselves so we went to the Cypress Hills Resort for a nice dinner. Rosie took this picture of Brookie and I . . .

and Brookie took this one of Sean and Rosie

The first morning, Rosie and Brookie went exploring and found a terrific fort which they revisited numerous times throughout our stay

There were beautiful trails for hiking and we must have walked on almost every one of them

The beach area was clean and expansive but the weather made swimming a bit painful for Sean and I. The kids, however, could not be stopped.

Here they are enjoying the icy cold water despite the arctic wind cutting through the trees

Eventually the wind and the water got the best of them - the blue lips confirmed it

Playing on the beach with the sun warming those little bodies was a welcomed change

Little hands . . .

In the midst of the trees and the water, we had time to do nothing and everything. We rode horses, played mingolf, hiked, swam, cooked our dinner over a little camp stove and read The Magician's Nephew by firelight. We laughed and talked more than we had in a while and realised that we really like spending time together. And while I had decided that surviving was probably the best I could do, I had a surprisingly good time even with the dirt and rain and sleeping on the ground. Here's to camping!

More time with Ama and Bops

2009-09-14T15:21:00.005-06:00

This is Rosie in a new dress from Ama and Bops enjoying some homemade sushi on our deck.

Ice cream in Moose Jaw

Brookie at the dairy farm across the highway from us. They had so many new kittens just the right size for snuggling

Rosie could hold three kittens at the same time. She was squealing with excitement

Wakamow Park

More park time

Ama with her girls at the park

We had so much fun and got so many little (and not so little) jobs done around our house. I love family! There is just nothing like them!!

~Mandy

A Saskatoon Adventure

2009-08-19T14:25:00.005-06:00

My parents came to visit this summer and one of our highlights was an overnight trip to Saskatoon. The first and possibly most popular part of our adventure was the ferry trip. Yes - there is a ferrry in southern saskatchewan.

On our way to the big city, we came across a great little lake with a beach that was just too perfect to pass up. The girls began with wading in to feel the water. Then they went up to the hems of their skirts, and then they hiked up their skirts and went up to their little underweared butts. Before I could get back from the car with their bathing suits, they had just taken the plunge fully clothed. We did finally get the suits on and they had a fantastic time playing on the beach.

One of my favourite places in Saskatoon is the Kinsmen Park. They have a carousel and a train that the kids can ride for a dollar. Parents ride for free. They also have a really good splash pool and park. Needless to say, we spent some time taking it all in . . . and then some.

As a special summer treat, we took the girls to Build-a-Bear in the mall where they spent 1 1/2 hours creating their very own stuffed bears, complete with little hearts inside all that soft stuffing, pretty little outfits and shoes. Thanks to Ama, the bears even got some underwear. It was quite an experience. Brookie named hers Cotton Candy and Rosie went with Pinkie Pie.

Of course, another exciting part of our Saskatoon trip was sleeping in a hotel. The girls had a great sleep and then began their day with timbits and cartoons in a king-sized bed. It doesn't get much better.

It was an excellent trip. We saw Saskatoon at its prettiest and had lots of quality time with Ama and Bops. Thanks, guys!
~Mandy

Rosie's 4th Birthday Party

2009-08-12T13:21:00.007-06:00

Our Birthday Girl

The Birthday Girl after a birthday swim

Rainbow cupcake time (the party guests decorated their own)

Painted pots and summer blooms (the guests made them and brought them home with them)

Present time!

Painting the pots with a little help from some grown-up friends

Brookie on a creative streak

A birthday swing

Who would believe it? On July 4th we celebrated Rosie's 4th birthday with her friends here on the prairies. It was a backyard bash with lots of rainbow streamers, balloons and bubbles. Rosie invited her favourite people (who don't live too far away) to play games, paint flower pots, eat cupcakes and just have fun with her. It was a perfect day for a party and we had a wonderful time.

Happy Birthday, Rosie! We love you.

I Need You To Slow Me Down

2009-06-21T20:09:00.008-06:00

This past Thursday morning, Rosie and I dropped our little Ford Focus off at the local dealership for a check-up. The nice man at the counter took the keys from me and said, "See you at 4:30." His chipper voice led me to believe that he had never been stranded in Moose Jaw with his almost-four-year-old daughter and no car. Upon further investigation, I found out that all the courtesy cars were spoken for that day. He offered to drop me off somewhere but what was the point of that? I had no idea where I even wanted to go and we had until 4:30 to fill - what was the rush? So Rosie and I walked out of the dealership,collected our colouring books, crayons, snacks, water and sun hats from the car and we were free to wander. I must admit that at first, I was less than thrilled with the prospect of hoofing it all over Moose Jaw. I mean, the Jaw can rarely capture my attention for longer than an hour and then even with a car, I can't get out of there fast enough. But I was determined to have some fun with Rosie so we set off in search of something.
Our first leg of the journey took us through a field just beside the main street of the city. As we walked, we saw prairie dog after prairie dog, sitting up on its hind legs, scoping out the territory, then scurrying off to a hole in the ground or just under some brush. There were so many! We stopped for a few minutes (afterall, we had nowhere to be) and just watched the prairie dog community at work. I thought how odd it was that I had driven past this field for six years now and had never noticed one little creature hiding in the grass.
We continued our walk past Canadian Tire and began up the hill to the mall entrance. Rosie needed a break. There was a bench just waiting for us so we sat halfway up the hill and had a snack and some water. We chatted together, counted the red cars that passed us, then packed up and continued the climb. This was the first of many breaks that day. I am sure that for wee Rosie, our ascent to the mall entrance was akin to reaching base camp at Mount Everest. It was tiring and daunting and she wanted to give up a few times, but I set a more modest pace and we finally made it.
The mall isn't much to write home about but it was air conditioned and there were things to look at. In Zellers, we tried out every chair or swing they had set up in their "outdoor living area". It was so much fun. We sat and rocked and swung while people came and went around us. We even played house for a while. Then we moved on. We walked the length of the mall, making very few actual purchases since I was already maxed out on storage space. Rosie sat in the coin rides and I finally found a loonie at the bottom of my purse so she could experience the real thing. As we sauntered, I felt myself letting go of whatever that is we carry around with us - the thing that makes us uptight, impatient, overly concerned about schedules and time. It was such a wonderful feeling. I noticed things, I heard Rosie and could give her my undivided attention. We could take as long as we wanted to do whatever. I was slowing down outside and in.
We left the mall and walked numerous blocks to the library. On the way, we needed to have another break so we stopped in the shade of a memorial statue which I had never really noticed before. We ate apples and watched people cutting their lawns. When we walked again, Rosie and I pointed out to each other which houses we liked the best. At one point, Rosie asked me if I thought this certain flower we came across smelled nice. I actually said, "Let's stop and smell it." Now I really understand that saying. It is simply delightful to stop on a leisurely stroll with your daughter and smell a flower.
We hit the library, the Pita Pit, the park, Tim Horton's and Blockbuster. We walked everywhere slowly and that slow, unrushed walk set the tone for the whole day. It was one of the best days I have ever had. We actually did very little. But I was present in each moment. I wasn't thinking about something else, planning dinner, going over my to-do list. I walked and talked with my daughter, exploring a city I hadn't ever really taken the time to see before.
I am so thankful for our day without our car. I highly recommend it to everyone. Leave the car and the cell phone and whatever other devices you have that keep you constantly plugged in to an ever-aggitating reality. Walk. Look around. Listen to your daughter, your friend, your heart beating, the trees in the wind. Slow down. Don't forget that this life is happening now. It is a gift beyond compare. Enjoy.

The Graduate

2009-06-01T11:04:00.004-06:00

It is the end of preschool for this year and all the kids got together for a little graduation celebration. I am definitely of the mindset that we probably have a few too many graduations. Case in point - do we really need to call it a graduation when a child moves from the first year of preschool to the second? But boy did Rosie have a good time at hers!

Rosie enjoying her dinner before the program

Our Graduate
Our graduate doing her own thing

Our graduate quietly pondering all the possibilities of life after preschool . . .

Now I know why they don't generally use cardboard for those hats. Every time the kids moved, their mortar boards would either fall off or fall apart. We ended up with a lot of pictures of Rosie trying to sort out her hat. And the program was a bit long for everyone. Hence the pictures of Rosie sitting rather than standing, but Rosie thoroughly enjoyed herself. Now she is just chillaxing over the summer, she may travel a bit. After that, who knows?
~Mandy

In the Garden

2009-06-01T10:58:00.001-06:00

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For those of you living in different parts of this country, you have probably already moved on from the excitement of watching the first buds explode into green or the joy that comes after winter when you get to feel grass underfoot or tuck a small seed into a pocket of soil in the hopes of seeing something beautiful grow. But we just arrived at this lovely place called spring. It has been an incredibly long winter, with snow in April and cooler than normal temperatures for a lot of May. But this past weekend, Sean and the girls began work on our garden. They planted tomatoes, zucchini, watermelon, corn and carrots. After much hard work and many breaks in which the kids abandoned Sean to play on the swing set, the garden is finished. It is a deep brown patch of potential. I can’t wait for my first taste! ~Mandy

The Ballet Recital

2009-06-01T10:34:00.001-06:00

Brookie and Rosie finished their year of ballet classes with a recital May 27th at the Golden Age Centre here in Caronport. They did their routine to a Winnie the Pooh song dressed in pink. It was pretty adorable, which made up for the lack of originality in the choreography. Their instructor, Miss Lacey, is young and still learning herself. We were just really thankful to have someone willing to organise the lessons.

Brookie is the one with her arms up in this picture and Rosie is the tiny one to the left

So as someone said, it did feel a bit like we had been dropped onto the set of Napoleon Dynamite and there were lots of quirky “small town” moments when I secretly wished for something better for the girls (and me) but the fact of the matter is that this is it for us right now, in all its quirky, weird, less than professional splendour. And the girls felt like little stars. They had a wonderful time.So that is the most important thing. No matter where you are, everyone is beautiful at the ballet. ~Mandy

The First Annual Caronport Parade

2009-05-31T16:15:00.001-06:00

This spring the village of Caronport decided to organise a Community Day Parade. This was a bit of a running joke for Sean and I, as I am sure you can imagine. Don’t even get me started on the fact that there don’t seem to be enough people living here to be in the parade and to watch the parade at the same time. I imagined three people cheering on the floats as they came down Centre St. and those same three people running to Birch St. to wave and cheer again. But Brookie and Rosie were asked to be in the parade for their Ballet class, so Sean and I made our way over Saturday morning to have a look.

Surprisingly, it was a lot of fun! Our own part-time police officer led the way in his cruiser, clowns, little ballet dancers, local businesses represented with various “homemade” floats, banners and fire trucks spraying water onto the crowd. Yes – there was, in fact, a crowd. Who knew all these people lived here!. Brookie and Rosie did an amazing job walking quite a distance and holding up their signs. And I really wanted a picture of the fire fighters in their truck so I literally stopped the procession in order to get a shot. That is one really good thing about small towns – no security to stop nuts like me! All in all, it was a very successful first annual parade. ~Mandy

Little China Girls

2009-05-31T13:29:00.001-06:00

Sean’s dad, Pops, brought these wonderful Chinese outfits back with him from a business trip and had given them to the girls months ago. Rosie was initially a bit disappointed that hers wasn’t pink. They had tried them on, worn them a couple of times around the house and then they disappeared into the back of their closet. Last Sunday Brookie found hers and wanted to wear it to church. Rosie quickly followed suit and before we knew it, they were beautiful, little China girls. They had many compliments throughout the morning. Thanks again, Pops. It is so nice to have a little international moment here in Caronport. ~Mandy

A Moment with Rosie

2009-05-29T22:10:00.001-06:00

The other day, Rosie and I were hanging out on the couch together and chatting about life. She said something funny. I gave her a big hug and said, “Rosie, I really like you.” She replied with barely a pause, “I really like peanut butter.”

~Mandy

Happy Mother’s Day

2009-05-29T21:49:00.001-06:00

It was a perfect day for celebrating mothers. Our day began with the girls presenting me with flowers. Brookie made me a card that she made all by herself. She sounded out all the words herself and even attached a “lucky penny” on the back with tape. Rosie gave me two lovely Hello Kitty colouring pages that she had done especially for me. After church, we had time together as a family which is a wonderful present in itself. I wanted to go to my favourite place for ice cream in the afternoon but it was closed so we went for a “scenic”drive and wound up having popsicles at home instead.

I still can’t actually believe I am a mother. But here I am. And now when Mother’s Day comes around, I tend to think about all the mothers that have shaped me into the mother I am becoming. There is my Grandma who had more strength and energy than I can believe. She worked tirelessly at keeping her home, walked to work every day and still had time to make everything from scratch. She is a mother I admire. My aunt has two children and I grew up watching her create birthdays to rival anything in Martha Stewart. She gave herself over to raising her son and daughter, putting aside many of her own dreams in the process. She is a mother I admire. Of course there is Sean’s mom who spent many long weeks alone with two small boys and later balanced work and family, always stopping to listen to her sons when they wanted to talk. She is a mother I admire. And then there is my mom. She raised two young daughters alone in a house that was barely standing up and managed to fill my growing up time with countless memories of laughter, joy and love. She is a mother I admire. Thank you. On days when things seem difficult or tiresome or frustrating or crazy, thank you that I have such tremendous examples of moms who worked and played and laughed and loved in spite of the difficulties. Happy Mother’s Day.

And even as I write, Rosie snuggled up beside me and whispered, “Love you, Mommy.” She kissed my elbow. Happy Mother’s Day indeed. ~Mandy

Convocation 2009

2009-05-29T17:23:00.001-06:00

This year, thanks to many loved ones, Dr. Andrew Sean Davidson made his first appearance at the Briercrest graduation in style. Here he is sporting the cap, gown and hood of an official McMaster PhD. Thank you to everyone who made it possible.

And let me take this time to say how truly proud we are of our Doctor.

While I normally skip the convocation ceremony for obvious reasons (obvious to anyone who has ever attended one of these ceremonies), I thought it might be fun to bring the girls over so they could see all the pomp and circumstance and Daddy in his new duds. They loved watching the processional. Rosie kept saying, “I see Doctor Daddy!”. And they were just as keen on the recessional but the part in between didn’t really capture their interest. But it was an important event for me. I got to see Sean, my husband of 16 years, walk down the aisle having finally completed this academic milestone that at times we thought might crush us both. I saw countless students whom we have gotten to know so well finally at the end of this part of their academic journey. It made me realise that although I will never enjoy living on the prairies and will continue to hope for a new adventure for us elsewhere, good things are happening here. Sean is an important part of those good things. He is loved and respected by so many students and colleagues alike. It was just good to take it all in. I am more proud of him for that than for finally being able to wear the funny hat.

~Mandy

Super Hero Day

2009-05-29T15:28:00.001-06:00

One afternoon in April, Brookie came home to inform us that the next day at school was Super Hero Day. She was a bit concerned because we didn’t have any super hero costumes and everybody was going to dress up. After dismissing my first idea of her going to school dressed as me – the superhero mom – I suggested that perhaps we could make up our own hero called “Super Brookie”. We brainstormed about her powers and costume. Pretty soon, we had created the best super hero ever. Super Brookie has the power to help anyone in need. She can run really fast and she uses her magic wand to help her in tricky situations. We went with a minimalist logo but I think it has real punch. Of course Brookie couldn’t pass up the opportunity to have her face painted. Rosie would not be left out. And let’s face it, every great super hero needs a trusty sidekick. Meet “Wonder Rosie” – helpful when helping people in need, can climb anything while in high heels and can change her clothes more times in a day than anyone else. This is quite a powerful (and adorable) duo!

~Mandy

Easter Sunday

2009-05-29T15:11:00.001-06:00

The girls posed grudgingly before they began their annual search

Here Rosie stops to admire her bottle of bubbles

The classic sister photo

Rosie and Brookie in their Easter dresses

And a couple of family shots just before leaving for church

~Mandy

Highland Dancing Recital

2009-05-29T10:37:00.003-06:00

April brought with it snow, colder than normal temperatures and the final recital for the girls' highland dance class. There were little girls in kilts everywhere you looked. The recital was held in our friends' living room and all the parents crowded in with cameras poised. It was very "small town" in the best sense.

Brookie getting ready to "fling"
Brookie and her very small class

Rosie concentrating on her next move

Rosie again

and again

Each group of dancers showed us their much-practiced routines and received lots of clapping and hurraying. Afterwards, all the kids crowded around the kitchen table for ice cream sundaes complete with gummie bears, marshmallows and lots of chocolate sauce. What a marvelous celebration! These are the times when living in the middle of nowhere is actually . . . I don't know . . . nice. ~Mandy

Circus Day At Preschool

2009-05-28T17:05:00.001-06:00

Rosie’s preschool teacher organised a circus performance for the parents. All the kids were involved in the various circus acts.

She was dressed in her circus finery to show the audience some amazing and death-defying stunts. She was the “strong woman” and she balanced beautifully in the big top as a skilled tightrope walker. I was so proud of her! After the show, we had popcorn and candy apples while the kids showed us all around. Their classroom had been transformed into a real big top, complete with red and white stripes. Rosie held my hand tightly while chewing away on her popcorn. I don’t think I need to worry about her running away to join the circus any time too soon. ~Mandy

Various March/April Photos

2009-05-28T16:38:00.001-06:00

Brookie and Rosie enjoying life together – there is nothing better!

~Mandy

Highland Dancers

2009-05-28T13:16:00.002-06:00

Sometime this past winter, Brookie and Rosie's higland dance class was asked to perform at an international dinner. They were fantastic.

~Mandy

The First Annual Puzzle Night

2009-05-28T13:06:00.002-06:00

Sometime after Moet left, the family got a hankering to do some puzzles. But the kids puzzles we have were just too easy for us. So that is when we decided to do every puzzle we had! And thus, Puzzle Night was born.

Here Sean, Rosie, Brookie and I are just getting started. An important part of Puzzle Night is snacks. One of our favourites is sliced apple sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar.

And here are all the puzzles.

We put pieces together, laughed, ate apple slices, talked about our favourite movies, about why some kids are mean at school and which puzzle we liked the best. I think we stumbled upon a new tradition.
~Mandy

The Dog Whisperer

2009-05-28T13:04:00.002-06:00

Sometime in February, friends of ours asked if we could dog sit for them. Let me be clear - I am not a dog person. But the girls LOVE anything in the animal kingdom, so we agreed. It seemed like a perfect opportunity to show the kids what having a dog is like. So we were dog owners for two weeks. Our dog friend is Moet. I basically ignored Moet as much as possible, fed him and cleaned up after him. Sean wasn't much more connected to the dog. But the girls were incredible. They were so gentle with Moet and could calm him down just like professionals. They each had their own way of speaking Moet's language. Though they did comment on how hard it is to have a dog, neither of them could be persuaded from dreaming about one day owning their own dog. And dreaming about a dog is okay with me.

~Mandy

Brooklyn's 5th Birthday Party

2009-05-28T13:00:00.003-06:00

Our Brooklyn Grace turned 5 on December 18, 2008. But because Sean and Rosie left early for Ontario, we didn't have time for her birthday until January. She and her friend, Myaleah, decided it would be fun to have a joint birthday. So the planning began. We chose a "Winter fun" theme, complete with tobogganing, a bonfire, an outside hotdog roast, snowman cupcakes for dessert and hot chocolate. It was sunny and snowy and cold and lots of fun.

Brookie and her friend, Carlie

Brookie and Carlie and Sean on the slopes

Rosie, Brookie, Kiarra, Rachel and Carlie

Kiarra and Brookie at the top of the hill, chillin' (literally)

We drove to this great farm nearby to toboggan and on the way, one of our vehicles got stuck. When we got it unstuck and arrived to the farm, the local dog ate an entire plate of our snowman cupcakes and a package of hotdogs before we even all got out of the cars. And on the way home, there were a number of other "stuck in snow" incidents. But the birthday girls and their friends had a great time. Although Brookie has already asked for a swimming party next year.

~Mandy

Christmas with the Davidsons

2009-05-26T18:53:00.003-06:00

Here are some pictures of our time spent with Sean’s family. We had a wonderful time with them, as usual. Some of the highlights from our time together would have to be Brookie’s big birthday bash, our hike in The Royal Botanical Gardens where we got to feed the birds, Christmas eve with new pyjamas and stockings hung by the chimney with care, and just hanging out. If you ask the girls, their highlights often include time spent with Uncle Brent – a commodity in high demand whenever we get together with him.

Uncle Brent got the girls a great fort building set so we had fun trying it out in the basement.

But of course, the girls didn’t need a fort building kit – pillows on the couch work just fine!

Here the girls are hanging their stockings up on an actual fireplace (something we don’t get to do at home). They felt much more sure Santa would find them.

Presents Christmas morning . . .

Nan and Rosie enjoying a snuggle

These last photos are all taken on our hike at the Royal Botanical Gardens. The birds were super hungry and more than eager to nibble off our hands or my head. I was so glad to share this experience with the girls. Sean and I used to hike in this very place while we were dating and at an early stage in our relationship, Sean even carved our initials in a birch tree on our regular route. We tried not to read into things too much when we returned one spring to find the tree had been chopped down. So we couldn’t show Brook and Rosie “the tree” though the stump is still there. But we did love sharing with them this little piece of Ontario splendour.

We had a lovely time with the family and look forward to our next visit. Thanks, guys!

~Mandy

Sorry - just a few more Christmas Memories

2009-05-26T16:52:00.002-06:00

Bops and the girls

My Grandma's grave stone. It was our first Christmas without her. I wanted to say good-bye at the cemetery as I had missed the funeral. Although we had a wonderful Christmas, I missed Grandma - her spunk, her umpteenth attempt to teach me how to make gravy, her laugh. But I know her spirit was right there with us the whole time.

The classic "at the airport saying goodbye" picture.

~Mandy

And Still More Christmas

2009-05-26T16:49:00.003-06:00

Rosie got a new dress-up trunk for Christmas and she did a lot of fashion shows for us.

We spent lots of time at the park. This picture is of the girls at a great park in Lowville.

Another highlight - a visit to Mountsberg Conservation area. We had a sleighride, saw lots of farm animals and watched the birds of prey demonstration. It was a perfect, chilly, sunny day.

And we had a great New Year's Eve celebration in Millgrove.

All in all,it was a lovely Christmas with my family. Thanks to everyone who made it so special.

~Mandy

More Christmas

2009-05-26T16:45:00.002-06:00

Another highlight for our wee prairie family over the holidays was going to the theatre to see Oliver with my mom, dad and sister. This was a serious event which called for seriously pretty dresses. We had so much fun walking into this beautiful theatre from the wintery storm outside. Our seats were incredible and the performance was excellent. Everyone had a splendid time and the girls felt like princesses.

Aunt Nessa and the girls pre-show

We also had an opportunity to actually meet Santa this year! Wow! What a treat! The girls were quite literally speechless.

Some Santa love for Brooklyn and Rosie

And of course we opened a lot of presents!!

~Mandy

P.S. Stay tuned for Part Three of Christmas in Ontario

Christmas in Ontario

2009-05-26T16:42:00.003-06:00

Okay - so it is May 26th and I am just now getting around to catching up with the blog. It has been almost 6 months since my last post and there has been lots going on for the Davidsons on the prairies. I am sorry that I have been a bit lax (understatement of the century) but let's just say that sometimes it is better to spend your time actually enjoying the life you are leading rather than stressing about the recording of it. So I have spent lots of time enjoying life with Sean, Brookie and Rosie. Now I am here to catch you up on all the major happenings . . . let's go!!

Our first stop is Rosie's special "Aunt Nessa" day, which she had while Brookie and I were still freezing our faces off in Caronport (see last post). Rosie and Aunt Nessa spent the day with horses and other farmyard animals, then came back to Millgrove where Rosie had fun just being Rosie. This includes but is not limited to dressing up, eating, playing the piano and watching movies. Thanks, Aunt Nessa, for a truly memorable day! By the way, Brookie says you still owe her one. They never forget.

Next we celebrated Brooklyn's 5th Birthday in style with all our family. We had games, cupcakes and of course, presents. Brookie wore the "Happy Birthday" hat in honour of the occasion.

~Mandy

You know it is winter in Saskatchewan when . . .

2008-12-16T10:10:00.005-06:00

your face is numb in the morning when you wake up

you actually consider wearing a toque to bed

you need to plug in your car (mental note - never live in a place where having a block heater in your car is a necessity)

the ice is so thick on your dining room windows that you can't actually see the outdoor thermometer (which is actually a blessing because do you really want to see what it says?)

So it is officially winter here on the prairies. Don't even think you know what I am talking about unless you have experienced all four of the above examples. It would be funny if it wasn't exactly what Brookie and I are living right now. I wish I was exaggerating. It was -45 on Sunday and -40 yeterday. I haven't even looked at the weather report for today because really all I need to know is that it is still bone-chillingly cold. Yes, a dry cold but what does that even matter when it is -40?

And the hits just keep on coming because last night, the power went off a little after six and didn't come back on until almost 11. That is when I became terrifyingly aware of how cold it is outside. It was dark, cold and eerily quiet. Now, if I were not a mom, I would have panicked pretty much right away. I have no survival skills. I jump out of my skin at weird noises. The thought of scary things hiding in our basement causes me to turn on every light before braving the laundry room. I am 36 and I am a chicken. But when you are a mom and your five year old is scared of the dark, you need to pull yourself together. So that is what I did.

We lit lots of candles and chatted about what a fun adventure this was going to be. We ate our dinner by candlelight, dressed in our warmest clothes and then we had an impromptu lesson about shapes, including octagons, hexagons and parallelograms. We practiced reading. We took some pictures. Then we began to get a bit chilly so we decided to get ready for bed.

While I was brushing Brookie's teeth, she mentioned that she hoped the power came on soon so we could watch "Elf". In a moment of weakness, I said that I hoped the power would come back on soon so that we didn't "freeze to death." Yes, these were my exact words. Ooops.

I managed to make up for my accidental honesty by snuggling up in my bed with Brookie and every blanket we could find. We read stories and then when my hands got too cold to hold the books, we told each other stories. Finally, Brookie drifted off to sleep after I promised to stay awake until the power came on again. So I was left in the dark to think and ponder while Brookie softly slept beside me. I came to the realisation that power failures are fun adventures. I loved every cold, dark minute I had with Brook, talking, laughing, snuggling, telling stories. I think it was an early Christmas present just for me. I could almost hear God saying, "Here. Enjoy."

~Mandy

Formal Day at Caronport Elementary School

2008-12-16T10:01:00.002-06:00

Brooklyn was so excited to get dressed up for the day at school. She chose her new fancy dress which we bought for Christmas this year and went to school feeling very pretty.

There is something to be said for getting all dressed up and feeling pretty. I could really use a "pretty day". Thankfully Rosie and Brookie are here to remind me that everyday can be a "pretty day" with the right dress and the right attitude.

~Mandy

Highland Dancing Recital

2008-12-16T09:57:00.002-06:00

Highland dancing came to an end in November and to celebrate all the progress the girls had made, they put on a little recital. All the girls got to dress up in kilts for the first time and show their stuff to a living room full of proud parents.

Brooklyn and Roslyn before the recital

Some of the wee lasses posing before the show started

A little group warm up

Showing off some tricky arm movements

We watched the girls try their best to follow along with the bagpipe music, turning, kicking, jumping incessantly and sidestepping. All we can say is that we are so proud of them and that highland dancing is really difficult. Let's just say that for most, it is a work in progress - something to keep working on through the cold Saskatchewan winter.

When the show was finished, each girl received a special present from their teacher and we all enjoyed cupcakes and punch. Just another little community moment here on the prairies that makes me almost glad to be here :-)

~Mandy

Caronport Ballet Class

2008-12-16T09:50:00.002-06:00

This fall Brookie and Rosie have been taking ballet lessons with Miss Lacey. They absolutely love it. And really, what is there not to love? They get to dress in their ballet skirts, twirl, and giggle together with their ballet classmates. It is a joy to watch them turn out their toes for first position and attempt plies, ballet skips and their reverence.

This is the class

Here they are warming up

Rosie from the back - I just love this picture. She looks so grown up!

These are the days of ballet and pink, spinny skirts and dancing whenever there is music playing. These are good days.

~Mandy

Princess Rosie

2008-12-16T09:48:00.002-06:00

A princess's work is never done. For Rosie this work involves practicing printing her name

"We are not amused."

~Mandy

Brooklyn's "Show and Tell" Premiere

2008-11-06T11:08:00.004-06:00

Today was Brooklyn's turn for "Show and Tell" in her kindergarten/grade 1 class. In front of 22 classmates whose combined attention span is not much more than that of a small insect, Brooklyn introduced her sister and talked about life with Rosie. That's right, Brook chose to bring Rosie for "Show and Tell".

Brooklyn sat in the teacher's special chair (an honour reserved for the "show and tell" student of the day) with Rosie all "pinkified" beside her

Brooklyn's class asking questions like "Do you like Rosie?" and "How many times do you play with Rosie?"

Brooklyn has everyone's attention except Rosie and that one girl in the front

Sean and I watched from the back of the class while Brooklyn told of Rosie's love for all things pink and how she twirls in her pink dress (which Rosie happily demonstrated). We listened with fingers crossed as Brooklyn shared Rosie's birthday (which we had practised numerous times). And we smiled proudly as Brookie recounted the struggles and joys of sisterhood: "We laugh together and sometimes we cry together but we always love each other."

The class clapped. I gave the girls a standing ovation (perhaps a bit over the top) and as we left with Rosie in tow, 22 little voices yelled, "Goodbye Rosie!"

Brooklyn was very glad it was over and she did amazingly well for her first time. But beyond any of that, I was so proud that instead of Piggy, her Groovy Girls, or various other special treasures, Brook chose her most special treasure to share with her class: her sister.

~Mandy

Much Better than Doing Dishes

2008-11-06T09:23:00.005-06:00

After dinner last night, Brooklyn brought our painting basket up from downstairs. My initial response was an internal list of all the ways that would be so messy at the end of a very long day of messes. But out loud I said, "Sure. Let's all paint together."

Well, we sure did. I set up all our painting supplies while the girls changed into their paint clothes. I turned on a CD of "Oliver!" that I just picked up from the library and we got down to the business of creating.

The girls and I

Wee Rosie with her creation (one of many)

Sean and the girls

Brooklyn with her creation

And these are the final products drying on our kitchen counter

Once again, setting the dishes aside and just having fun with our kids was the best decision. We had a ball. Sean and I may actually have enjoyed it more than the girls. For some mysterious reason, the act of mixing colours, slathering paint, rinsing brushes, watching as a blank page becomes a work of art that you created is just so good for your soul.

Brookie and Rosie encouraged us, commenting on things they liked in our pictures and we did the same for them. I think this post-dinner art time may become a new weekly event. It was messy, sure. But even the mess was a thing of beauty.

~Mandy

Hallowe'en Night in Caronport

2008-11-01T18:01:00.000-06:00

This Hallowe'en, we decided that for purposes of warmth, Brookie would do another year as a ladybug and Rosie could be Winnie the Pooh. At first, Rosie was fine with that arrangement but when she saw the costume and realised that there was nothing pink or frilly about Winnie the Pooh, she refused. I mean there were tears and she fell prostrate on the floor, repeating over and over, "No! Not Winnie the Pooh!"

After trying out a number of other ideas with similar results, I finally decided to leave the costume entirely up to her. We opened the dress-up chest and I told her to decide what she wanted to wear. She came up with a "girl Zebra" which consisted of the zebra costume from last year paired with a very pink skirt. So we hit the streets of Caronport with a ladybug and a girl zebra. I went as a cat and Sean was a tired college professor.

Before we left, our little girl zebra had a quick nap in preparation for the main event

Here are the girls "post make-up" and already into the candy

Sean and his two girls

The trick or treaters in the car, filled with anticipation

It turned out that Brookie only made it to two houses before she asked to go home. She was feeling sick. So I took her bag and continued to collect candy for her by using the line, "I have a sick ladybug at home. Can I get some candy for her?" Thankfully everyone understood and the girls got lots of treats to last them well into the new year.
~Mandy

Pre-Halloween Preparations

2008-10-31T11:15:00.000-06:00

Rosie and I took advantage of some time this morning to get our pumpkins ready for Halloween night. I covered the table with lots of newspaper while dj jazzy Rosie chose the right tunes to set the mood (she went with a rock mix) and then we set to work creating two jack o' lanterns to spookify the steps of our little house.

Rosie lost interest about 5 minutes into it and only joined me again once the cleaning of the pumpkins was finished. For a child who quite willingly dives into most messes head first, she still surprises me with the things she finds even beyond her comfort level. Those pumpkin innards were beyond gross for her. But she sat with me and we chatted about all sorts of things. She practised writing her name and I cleaned and carved. Finally we ended up with "scary pumpkin" and "happy pumpkin". I was a bit disappointed with the name choices but Rosie told me they were good names.

Rosie in her pink, furry boots with said carved pumpkins

Beyond the actual pumpkin carving, we just had so much fun together. I told her when a song came on that I really liked and she did the same. We sang together when we knew the words and even when we didn't. She told me about her favourite parts in High School Musical and why Chad was her favourite. I told her about trick or treating when I was a kid. It was the best. There is nothing better in all the world than to just slow down and actually spend time with these little, wonderful beings in our lives. They teach us so much about what is important. And we can find ourselves relaxing, laughing, singing, sinking into the thickness of life as opposed to hovering on the surface. Thanks, Rosie, for helping me to slow down. I love you.

~Mandy

A Beautiful Autumn Day

2008-10-31T11:11:00.000-06:00

October 29th was a really beautiful day here in Caronport. The weather was sunny and warm which is such a wonderful surprise for this time of year. So the girls and I headed outside because it was a day that demanded to be enjoyed. I cleaned up the gardens and prepared them for winter, though I was so thankful that winter seemed so distant in that sunny moment. Brookie helped me water the plants one last time and Rosie . . . well Rosie took advantage of the warmth in her favourite bathing suit.

Here Brookie is working on the front lawn. She is such a huge help.

Brooklyn was extra generous with the water for our silver maple tree - Sylvester (yes we named him. It is easy to keep track of names when there are so few trees and it seems to me that trees around here deserve to be named)

Rosie plays the "Don't spray me/Please spray me"game with Brook

Later that same day while I was in Moose Jaw, Sean and the girls made chocolate chip cookies. Here are the girls waiting patiently at the oven for the cookies to be finished. Let's just say it has been a while since I have made cookies, which may explain the eager anticipation.

All in all, it was a glorious day. It was one of those fall days that make me imagine God smiling down on us and saying, "Here. Enjoy."

~Mandy

Let's Go To The Theatre

2008-10-24T10:01:00.000-06:00

On October 21st, the whole family went to see Annie at the theatre in Moose Jaw. It was very exciting. I still remember my first time going to see live theatre and it was life-changing for me so I was anticipating the same for our little girls. They have seen the movie numerous times and they couldn't wait to sing along with their favourite red-haired orphan.

Of course, nothing but the fanciest dresses would do. Here the girls pose for a picture with their programs. We saved these as keepsakes.

Here we are about to get a glimpse of the theatre for the first time

Front row seats - and I am not joking. We could see really well.

The girls were fascinated by the orchestra pit before the show began.

We thoroughly enjoyed the show. The girls were quite spellbound through most of it and then we started losing Rosie at about 8:30. She was exhausted. But the whole experience was amazing - we even got a drink at intermission and after the show, Sean took us all out for dessert and a drink. We arrived home tired, full and ready to dream about "Tomorrow".

~Mandy

Highland Dancing 101

2008-10-22T10:47:00.000-06:00

This year the girls are trying out highland dancing. A friend of ours arranged for an instructor to come to Caronport every week and run classes out of her basement. Now, you may imagine that recreational activities are not that easy to come by around here so we thought this would be a great opportunity. Every Tuesday afternoon, the girls try their best to tap into their Scottish roots.

Rosie listens intently while supposedly stretching

Here she is in action

Brookie stretching

A little barre work (but using a couch works too!)

It really is great. The classes are small and the instructor is from the big city (Regina) and we don't need to drive into Moose Jaw. The kids get to move around and have some fun too. I don't know that it will last long. Brooklyn is a perfectionist so she gets frustrated by not being able to do everything right away and I think Rosie wants to just dance to her own music, which doesn't include bagpipes or a lot of rules. I just hope I can get one picture of them attempting the sword dance wearing kilts.

~Mandy

2008-10-22T10:45:00.000-06:00

Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale. ~ Hans Christian Andersen

And I completely agree.

~Mandy

2008-10-22T10:44:00.000-06:00

Recently, we received a package from Ama, Bops and Aunt Nessa full of wonderful presents from their trip to Prince Edward Island. It was so fun to see the girls enjoying their Anne of Green Gables dolls, their sand dollars from the ocean and new night gowns. One of their favourite gifts was their "High School Moosical" t-shirts from a place called Cows . These are the greatest shirts. So here they are modelling them for you. In the first picture, you will also notice some super rad boots on Rosie. They are her pink furry moon boots. I think we will all agree that there couldn't be more perfect boots for our Rosie Roo.

~Mandy

Frolicking in the Snow

2008-10-22T10:40:00.000-06:00

What better thing to do on the first snow day than build a gigantic snowman? Sean and the girls set to work creating one of the biggest snowmen I have ever seen.

Brooklyn's good friend Maia from next door came over to lend a hand. Rosie gets easily sidetracked.

Sean was there to lend a hand

And here is Stanley, giant snowman and friend to all.

~Mandy

A Saskatchewan Tradition - Snow in October!!

2008-10-22T10:37:00.000-06:00

We woke up on Thansgiving morning to find our world had been covered in a blanket of white, sparkly snow. Of course, the novelty of snow has worn off for me. I am unfortunately left with thoughts of bundling up two small children, cleaning off the car, unbundling two small children, wet floors, more laundry and rebundling said small children. But who among us can resist the feeling of surprise and excitement when we see again the first snow of the year? Well, I can't. Brookie and Rosie couldn't either. And so we found ourselves exploring our world of white not long after breakfast.

Our neighbour, Lloyd, was unveiling his prize-winning pumpkin. I can't remember exactly how big it is but it took three people to move it. We couldn't pass up an opportunity to get a picture with Caronport's largest pumpkin.

Brooklyn and Rosie posed for a picture just outside our house.

We thought this tree, blooming with fluffy snow, was so pretty against the blue sky.

No matter how you feel about snow and winter, that first clean, graceful covering of snow seems to remind us of really good things - things too beautiful to even put into words. And then we move into the "My hat is itching me", "My mitts fell off", "My feet are wet", "My mitts fell off again", "I'm cold" and "Can we go inside now?" stage. But for those first precious minutes, it is glorious.

~Mandy

2008-10-22T10:34:00.000-06:00

"A photo says, You were happy, and I wanted to catch that. A photo says, You were so important to me that I put down everything else to come watch." ~ Jodi Picoult My Sister's Keeper

Stargazers

2008-10-06T16:32:00.000-06:00

A few nights ago, Sean had gone out and it was just us girls. We were doing the usual evening stuff which includes me trying to clean and tidy around Brooklyn and Rosie while they have one last swim in the imaginative pool, journey through the imaginative forest, class at the imaginative ballet school, ride on the imaginative pony, well, you get the idea. So I was focused on the never-ending mess when Brooklyn came and asked if we could go outside to look at the stars. It was getting really close to bedtime and stuff was everywhere. There were many reasons to say "no" to such a request. I mean, I even have the "it's a school night" excuse to pull out when needed, but the front door was open and I felt this perfect autumn breeze and before I knew it, I was saying "sure" and heading down the front steps.
We all laid on our backs and looked up at the prettiest sky full of stars I have seen in a long time. We talked about stars and constellations and our favourite star. Rosie suggested that we count them. We got to twenty and abandoned that plan. We laughed and snuggled, basking in the stillness of our street, the vastness of the universe and the treasure of moments exactly like this one.
Finally, it got a bit chilly on the grass so we came in and got ready for bed. As I was tucking Brook and Rosie in, before we thanked God for the stars, I thanked them for stargazing with me.
~Mandy

And Now Brooklyn Conquers the Two-Wheeler

2008-09-22T12:08:00.000-06:00

As if beginning kindergarten wasn't enough, Brookie asked us a few days ago if she could take the training wheels off of her bike. She got wind that all her friends at school were now riding two-wheelers. Obviously she didn't want to be left behind. So on Saturday Sean and I took her out to practise with Rosie cheering from the sidelines. Brooklyn worked so diligently and did really well. The most difficult part is the starting and stopping. She managed quite well once she got moving.

Here is Brooklyn, looking way too grown-up

The beginning stance

A little added stability from Dad

Brookie took a short break to pose for a picture with me

After many falls, bumps and little successes, Brookie had a good cry because she just hadn't mastered the whole two-wheeler thing in the alotted time (like a good perfectionist), and then we came inside to get warm and rested. Sean took her out again later that day and again Sunday. Each time she looks a bit more confident. She goes a bit further on her own. She seems a bit more patient with herself. Brooklyn is the youngest in her class, the youngest of her friends and the only one of her friends who is a first-born. Personally, I couldn't be more proud of her. And soon she will peddle off down the street with Maia, yelling a good-bye to me over her shoulder and I will have yet another cry on our steps. This mom thing is so painfully difficult. But I wouldn't miss it for the world.

~Mandy

Rosie Begins Preschool

2008-09-22T11:01:00.000-06:00

On September 15, Roslyn Joy set off on her first day of preschool. She has been looking forward to this since the first day we dropped Brooklyn off at preschool. Rosie would always follow Brooklyn in, take off her coat and shoes and head up the stairs, stopping to say "hi" to Mrs. Wiebe and her dog, Sadie. I would bring her back to the door, explaining that she was still too young to go to school.

Well, now she is going two mornings a week to spend time with her new friends, learning and playing together. So far, so good. Although she did tell me that her best friend is Sadie the dog and that she likes this girl Jenna, in her class but she doesn't like Jenna's pants. Sounds like Jenna needs some fashion advice from Rosie.

Here are the girls the morning of Rosie's first day

I asked Rosie to stand still for a picture. She stood but refused to smile.

Rosie's backpack is seriously cute - an apple with a detachable leaf change purse. And inside are her slippers, her box of kleenex and her snack for the day.

My beautiful preschooler with one more pose before she heads out the door.

I love you, Rosie! And I am so proud of you.

~Mandy

Kindergarten 101

2008-09-22T09:59:00.000-06:00

The big day finally arrived - the first day of Kindergarten. Brooklyn was very ready. She had her new dress, new backpack, new school supplies, new haircut and a new adventure waiting just down the street at Caronport Elementary School

Of course, we needed to get a few pictures of our Kindergarten girl . . .

Here she is by the front door, just getting her shoes on

Brooklyn and Rosie heading out

Walking to school

During carpet time, listening attentively to the teacher

Sean, Rosie and I walked Brooklyn over to the school, chatting with her about the new and exciting world of kindergarten. We took her into her class and watched from the corner of the room for a few minutes and then left. I didn't cry once, not even walking home with Rosie. But the next day, Brookie walked out the front door, backpacked and looking so tiny. She turned to wave to me, as she headed down the stairs to Maia's house and I lost it. I sat on the stairs and cried for all the obvious reasons and for many I couldn't even put into words. I cried and Rosie gave me a hug. Then I pulled myself together and we closed the door.

~Mandy

One Last Carefree Day

2008-09-22T09:55:00.000-06:00

This September was a big time of change for the Davidson family. After much consideration, we decided to enroll Brooklyn in Kindergarten and Rosie began going to preschool two mornings a week. So our time of complete freedom was coming to an end. It was time to hit the big city for a day of carefree shopping and fun. The girls and I headed to Regina to get some back-to-school necessities and to check out the Science Centre. It was a good day.

Brooklyn and Rosie hone their basketball skills

The bubble exhibit is always one of our favourites

On to hockey

And this time, the girls were chosen to help out in one of the shows about electricity.

We had fun and I was so glad to have the time with them.

~Mandy

Rosie's Birthday Continued . . .

2008-09-15T19:14:00.001-06:00

After our time at Springridge, we went back to Ama and Bop's place for presents, games and cake. And not just any cake but a princess cupcake cake, compliments of Ama. Wow, does she know what Rosie likes!
What preschooler obsessed with pink wouldn't want pink hair? Well, Rosie sure did. She loved this new look.
She was in awe of the new dresses. She has one on in this picture from Sandi and Meg - a real Disney Store Minnie Mouse dress. And she is eyeing the polka dot one from Ama and Bops.
Aunt Nessa gave her this beautiful pink dress with beadwork and a very fluffy skirt. Nan is admiring the dress. I think she might want to take it home with her . . .

Rosie modeled another dress which she now refers to as the dress that feels like a bathing suit. That makes it a favourite because the only thing Rosie loves more than wearing dresses is wearing bathing suits so how great to be able to get two in one!

Pops brought this wonderful balloon, along with many others to make the birthday extra shiny and festive. And after all was said and done, we all agreed that it was a stupendous birthday.

~Mandy

Rosie's 3rd Birthday

2008-09-15T16:04:00.002-06:00

Rosie's 3rd birthday was July 5, just days after we arrived in Ontario. Thanks to Ama and Aunt Nessa, the plan had already been conceived and developed. All we needed to do was show up. So the big day came and we all met at Springridge Farm for the best birthday Rosie has ever had! By far, the highlight was the pony rides. Rosie was immediately comfortable with Fred.
The birthday tiarra adds just the right amount of glitter for the farm. She wore it all day.

Brookie was, as usual, a bit more hesitant but after the first lap, she settled right in. And then there was no stopping either of them.Our friends, The Brinsons, joined us for the day along with all our family. It was so good to see them. Brooklyn seemed quite taken with Nolan, who was a true gentleman. If we still arranged marriages, Nolan would be topping the list of potential husbands

Paige and Rosie got along really well too - Rosie was very pleased to find a friend who appreciated her preference for dresses.

The farm had so many fun things to do. We rode, climbed, got lost in corn mazes, had lunch out of a sand pail, milked a pretend cow and went on a wagon ride. It was fantastic and most importantly, Rosie loved every second.

~Mandy