The Family

The Last Few Months....

2011-05-02T14:17:00.001-07:00

Clara's 4th Birthday Party

Fun trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Washington

Snowshoeing on Mt Seymour with the girls

Skating lessons!

2nd trip to Mt Baker, this time Clara tried out skiing and loved it!

Aidan's 6th Birthday Party

Easter Sunday down at White Rock Beach

Bouncy castle fun in the back yard with the neighbours

Trip to the fish hatchery to release the baby salmon

Celebrating Dad's 65th Birthday in Gibsons

Pirate fun at the Beavers sleepover!

Aidan 1st time skiing at Mt Baker

2011-01-03T18:35:00.000-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D42tVLlOku4

Here is the link to youtube for Aidan's 1st time skiing today. He is already asking when he can go again!

Our 1st Geocaching Adventure

2010-10-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

Today Aidan, Ed and I went out and had a look for some Geocaching sites while visiting in Gibsons. Geocaching is a outdoor scavenger hunt using a portable GPS. Geocaches are hidden everywhere and has become a world wide phenomenon.

For our first attempt we located two Geos which contained little toys, trinkets and log book. The idea is to find the cache and put an entry in included log book for others to read. If you take a gift you must leave one behind. We decided to not take anything but left two of Ed's business cards inside maybe it will stir up some business.

Here are a few photos while we were out hunting today enjoy.

Summer Photos

2010-08-23T16:20:00.000-07:00

We have been living out of a suitcase now for over a month. With all the chaos Summer has still been great. We managed to get some camping in and spent a week up in Okanagan Falls. We spent some time in Penticton and watched the annual parade which the kids loved. Our new house is almost done and soon we will be busy with school, moving and getting settled in. Just a few photos from the past month enjoy.

Having a bath home away from home

Clara in Penticton

Starwars invaded the Penticton Parade

Swimming at Skaha Lake

Clownin around

Hanging out at the Penticton Fair

Yummy
Post parade photos I was in the parade this year with the VPD

Jackie & Clara at one of the many wineries we visisted

View from our condo in Okanagan Falls it was a nice week hanging out with the Family, Ed, Tracy, Liam & Deb

It will be all ours as of Sept 16th!!!!

2010-08-19T21:40:00.000-07:00

Wow, 7 months later....

2010-08-03T20:12:00.001-07:00

Wow, it has been too long....

Here are a few photos from the last month :)

Trip out to Ruby Lake on the coast with Auntie Tracy, Uncle Ed and Liam, the water was super nice and warm!

All smiles waiting for the Sea Cavalcade parade to begin. If you can believe it the bag in their hand was almost completely full by the end of the parade!

Our 2nd annual trip camping to Deception Pass Park on Whidbey Island in Washington. It was a lot cooler than last year as you can see by the fleece jackets but we still had a good time.

We left the campsite one morning to find the sunshine and went 30 minutes south on the island to the small town of Coupeville, it was very quaint and beautiful, they also had a sailing race on in the harbour which was neat to watch.

We also stopped at another state park called Fort Stevens, Aidan had a wonderful time exploring the old bunker built before the 2nd world war.

Must include the smores pictures :) Always my favourite!

I forgot to pack Uno but the kids had fun playing Go Fish.

We spent a nice Sunday morning at White Rock beach while Dad worked. It was great to see the sunshine after a cool June.

2009 continues....

2010-01-30T20:31:00.000-08:00

I am picking up where Carter left off..... of course they are in reverse order as usual :) We are all doing well, still cant believe that January is coming to a close and that my little girl is now 3! Where has the time gone?

Aidan was a shepherd in the preschool production of his christmas play

Meera, Ethan and Clara leaving our baby group's Christmas get together

Clara all dressed up for the Christmas get together

Thumbs up all around for the arrival of our new nephew and cousin, Liam Jack Aiken born Dec 6, it was an amazing experience to be there for his birth, thanks for letting me be a part of it Tracy and Ed!

Hanging out in the snow up at Mount Seymour

Love the self timer on the camera!

What a cutie!

Another big thumbs up for the puppet theatre that Carter built for Aidan and Clara, they have had hours of fun with it!

The Past Few Months In Review

2010-01-14T12:49:00.001-08:00

Wow it's now 2010 and we have fallen behind here with our Blog updates. Now that it is 2010, the 00's are behind us we are now moving forward hopefully with a better grasp on this Blog site. I will try to keep it more up to date.

The past months have been busy with Halloween, Christmas, Jackie's sisters new baby Liam. and of course Steven now officially becoming a RCMP officer.

Halloween this year was great. I had the evening off to go out with the kids. They had a great time collecting their treats. Aidan went a Spider and Clara went as Little Red Riding Hood.

Halloween Night with my neighbour Steve

The Loot

Of course there was lots of time to spend outside with the kids. Here are two of my favourite photos from the fall of 2009. I can't take credit for these shots.

Camo Aidan

I have so much more to add. I will put in a second entry for the November & December updates in the next few days.

October

2009-10-11T07:15:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would post a few photos from our trip to the Pumpkin patch in Richmond yesterday as well as some from last weekend in Gibsons. Enjoy!

Wow, was it summer! We went to Porpoise Bay and the weather was beautiful!

Playground at Porpoise Bay with Nona

Windy day at the beach!

Pony ride for Aidan at the pumpkin patch

Aidan loved playing in the hay!

Perfect fall weather! It was nice and dry since it hasnt rained in awhile and a good choice of pumpkins since we were there on the first day.

Aidan did a great job of carrying his pumpkins!

Sunny in the corn maze

We went with our good friends Meera, Andrew and Ethan. Here is Ethan, Clara and Aidan on the hayride to the pumpkin patch.

September Update

2009-09-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

Well I think its safe to say fall has finally arrived . The trees around our place are changing colors and we can almost put away the air conditioner that we decided to buy after the heatwave this past summer.

The fields are starting to fill with orange pumpkins and the kids are making decisions on their costume choices for this October.

Summer started early this year for us. We managed to get in several camping trips visiting the Okanagan, Deception Pass and Penticton for the Peach Fest Parade. Both Aidan & Clara have grown this summer and we have spent alot of time outside catching with family and keeping busy.

Here are some photos from the past few months to bring you up to date. You can click on any image to enlarge them:

Picasso Clara ( It's for sale ).

Aidan taking a martial arts class. Here he is at Tae Kwon Do.

Aidan grabbing the camera he loves the self portrait.

Aidan at soccer camp watch out Beckham.

We had to visit the PNE same stuff as always but the doughnuts were great.

The first time my camera has actually taken an action shot in focus.

Clara & Mom I told you she has grown ( same height as Jackie now ).

Biking .. Clara is all thumbs.

Swimming in Penticton.

Outside our Hotel in Penticton the smoke was terrible due to the fires this year.

The kids making apple juice Sun Ripe watch out.

The bear falling victim to a fashion disaster.

Aidan at the Campbell Valley Fair.

Here is a good friend of ours Dana ( to the left ) Sadly she is battling cancer but remains strong. She just had a new baby Bailey who is very cute and doing great Here is Jackie Dana & Marcia at a night out.

Just clowning around at the Capilano Suspension bridge.

Here is Aidan doing some bike bike tricks. Thanks Uncle Ed for the setup.

As always there is lots more going on but that should cover it for now. Have a safe Halloween and we will be sure to update again for costume photos.

Long time no post.... Again!

2009-06-20T20:56:00.001-07:00

I know, it has been awhile! I have been trying to work on a photo book and it seems to be taking away blog time. Anyways, enjoy the photos! Sorry, they are backwards in order....

We just got back last Wednesday from a 4 day camping trip to Shushwap Lake Provincial Park. It was wonderful! The weather was sunny and between 25-30 C and we had almost the whole place to ourselves since the kids are still in school. We bought a blow up boat that we had a good time rowing around in. Carter and Aidan actually went swimming as well.

Carter taught Aidan how to play Uno, he loves it!

Of course we had to have Smores :)

The beach at the campsite

Glad we brought the bikes along! The roads betweeen the campsites were paved which was perfect for riding, especially Clara's tricycle. Aidan is pretty confident now without his training wheels on. I got a lot of exercise by walking with him around all of the sites (25o in total) while he road his bike.

Waiting patiently for Dad to make the pancakes for breakfast.

Aidan's 1st love right now is lego (bike riding is a close second). Aidan and our next door neighbour Josh can entertain themselves for hours playing with it.

We visited a friend of Tracy's on the coast and the kids had fun playing in their hammock.

Visiting the park in Sechelt

We went to visit Richard and Kathy down at Black Mountain Ranch for the day. The weather was perfect and the kids had fun playing mini golf.

Jared and Kai came to visit with Richard and Kathy for a playdate. It was a hot day but the kids had fun in our bouncy castle.

The kids favourite spot to have lunch in the summer.

Playdate with Aidan's friend Alexander from preschool.

Visit to the park at Steveston.

Endless fun with playdough!

Auntie Tracy and Grandpa came to visit

Kite festival in White Rock

Day trip to the Tulip Festival in Mount Vernon, Washington

Easter up in Gibsons

Visit to my old elementary school, Cedar Grove Elementary with my cousin Jennifer's daughter Anika

Playing Lego with Uncle Ed

So cute!

Aidan's 4th Birthday Party in March

I baked the cake and Carter decorated.

Visit to Grandma's on Salt Spring Island

Nona and Aidan at the beach on Salt Spring Island

Clara loves helping me bake :)

Sunny Palm Springs!

2009-02-28T20:14:00.000-08:00

Well, we got back late Tuesday night from our sunny trip to Palm Springs to visit Carter's parents and what were we greeted with the next day, you guessed it, snow!! Ah well, it was a little easier to handle since we had some fun in the sun :)

We had a great time hanging out with Richard and Kathy and basically just relaxing and taking the kids to the pool. Aidan was so sad to leave that he whined and cried for about an hour before we headed to the airport about how he wanted to stay! Already looking forward to next year :)

We hit the pool as soon as we arrived!

Carter and Richard

Aidan and Clara loved the pool noodles and their water wings

But loved the hot tub the best!

So cute!!!

We didnt make it to Disneyland this year but Clara had fun on the rides at the outlet mall instead!

We took the kids to the Children's museum of the Desert which is basically a smaller version of Science World, Aidan found what we believe were grapefruits growing outside the front doors.

They had an old VW bug inside which the kids could paint, Clara had fun :)

Nice art work Clara!

Carter had to check out the police motorcycle of course :)

The museum had a great mini grocery store for the kids, they had a great time.

And they loved the pizza parlour as well. Remember Aidan, no olives for Mom!

Feeding the ducks with Kathy which is right in front of their place

We took the tram up the mountain on our last day, it was very impressive and scary, it took about 15 minutes to get to the top.

The view of Palm Springs from the top. It was a little chilly up there, about 14 degrees with snow while it was a hot 28 degrees at the bottom.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T19:21:00.001-08:00

Carter and Clara Christmas morning

Building a snow fort, of course I forgot to take one of the finished product

Sledding with Auntie Tracy

This one was taken before the snow arrived in early December in Gibsons

Uncle Ed was nice enough to let the kids "help" him decorate his gingerbread house

Aidan on Christmas day down at the beach at Bonniebrook in Gibsons

Christmas morning

Clara was so happy to have a left over piece of cookie that Santa didnt eat!

Just woke up!

Aidan leaving cookies for Santa

Trouble at the North Pole

2008-12-15T14:25:00.001-08:00

Today we dressed the kids in their Christmas outfits and took them out to Semiahmoo Mall to speak with Santa. As we stood in line Clara did not seem too pleased. As you can see the results speak for themself.

Unfortunately even at $15 for the one photo you don't get the option for retakes as the line of excited kiddies was putting pressure on staff.

As both of us stood out of view Clara stared at us with such a disgusted look it was hard not to laugh. After watching several other kids endure a visit with Santa I expect there were a few other families headed home today with similar results.

Of course Aidan had a blast he was just waiting for the Candy Cane

Merry Christmas Aidan & Clara 2008

Aidan's 1st Party Day at Preschool

2008-10-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know it is a little long but I cant stop smiling and laughing (just a little when I watch this), guess I cant say that Aidan is shy! I wish it wasnt so blurry but it is easy to pick out Aidan. His preschool has a "party day" at the end of each month where the parents get to watch the kids sing the 2 songs they have been learning that particular month (they dressed up for Halloween for this particular one) as well as sing Happy Birthday to the kids who had birthdays that month. Aidan had to miss his September one as he had a cold so we were very much looking forward to today's and he did not disappoint! I have to say I am counting the days till the next one :)

And one last thing, I am so proud of myself, I figured out how to upload the video to youtube and post it in our blog without any help from Carter (of course I would of had him do it if he had not been working at the Madonna concert tonight). Hope you enjoy the video as much as we did (he starts off loud but gets even louder at about half way through if you can watch it that long)!

I will update our blog soon (I know I always say that) with Halloween photos etc...

Fall is here and time for another post

2008-09-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

Well, for some reason I cannot figure out how to stop the underline so I will just have to leave it for now :) My life seems to stop in a technical way when Carter is not around! (He is in Ottawa this weekend at the annual Police Memorial at Parliament Hill, a nice chance to hang out with the guys and get all dressed up in his finest). Anyways, the photos are a little out of order and only go up to the middle of August but I will catch up eventually!

Clara hanging out at the playground

We headed to Buntzen Lake near Port Moody with Kristina and Katie, it is a wonderful spot, feels like you are really getting out of the city.

We traveled to Chemainus in mid August for my cousin Cliff's wedding, it was a wonderful time and beautiful weather!

This has to be the first picture I have of Aidan and Clara where they are both smiling and the icing on the cake is that they are holding hands! Thanks for the great picture Auntie Tracy! Next step is to get Carter to photoshop out the office sign in the back.....

Having fun at the reception

Cool Uncle Steve!

Grandpa and Clara ready for the wedding

Not sure if I should be posting this photo of the guys at the reception, guess Carter cant stop me from Ottawa :), anyways, you are lucky if you are seeing it as it may be pulled from the site at any time.... You can also ask Carter and Steve about the fun story of them having to walk 5 km at 2am in their dress shoes to get back to the bed and breakfast!

Carter, Aidan and I (yes, no Clara but she had a great time at Nona and Grandpa's, she will make the trip next year) headed up to Penticton for the Peachfest so Carter could march in the parade. They had a little carnival beside our hotel which Aidan had a great time at.

Unfortunately it down poured for most of the parade but it was warm and Aidan and I stayed dry!

There was a lot of lightning and thunder that weekend, you can see the storm moving in behind us over the lake.

Our wonderful view from our gorgeous room! We were upgraded for some unknown reason to the top floor of the hotel with balcony, flat screen tv etc... We didnt want to leave!

We brought Aidan's bike along so we took a ride along the waterfront and stopped at the famous peach.

After Penticton we headed to Osoyoos for one night to check it out as we had never been there. It was nice but a little noisy and crowded with all of the power boats. We would prefer to camp on a lake that doesnt allow any motorcraft.

Aidan is becoming a great photographer, we actually just bought a new camera and gave him our old one, it is nice to have someone to take our picture like he did above in Osoyoos.

Aidan riding his "hot wheels" with his best friend from next door, Josh.

We headed down to White Rock beach with about 100,000 others to check out the sand castle competition. It was neat to see but a little too crowded for our liking.

Aidan enjoying the bubbler sprinkler up at Nona and Grandpa's.

Summer Photos

2008-08-01T20:22:00.001-07:00

Me and the kids (yes, Carter was hard at work) just got back from a trip to Gibsons for Sea Cavalcade and then onto Salt Spring Island to visit my grandma.

Aidan's first piece of candy caught at the parade! It was overcast that day but a great temperature for sitting on the road watching the parade.

Beachcombing, the tide was a little high but we went back the next day

Group shot at the park on Salt Spring, Grandma may be 86 but she can still play at the plaground!

Clara and Mom at the beach on Salt Spring

We found what we thought was sand but it was actually ground up shells, Aidan is loving his new sun hat!

We found lots of star fish!

Clara's new hat, a little big but will be perfect for next summer

Mom and Grandma at the park on Salt Spring

Amy came to visit a few days before we headed up to Gibsons. It was great to catch up :)

I know, it isnt Halloween yet but Aidan and Clara wanted to play dress up :)

Carter and I recently celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary with a night away in Harrison Hot Springs, thanks for babysitting Mom!

We spent an afternoon with Carter's parents at their friend Ralph's house, we had a yummy dinner and a nice dip in his beautiful pool pictured below

Catching Up...

2008-07-08T21:32:00.000-07:00

Yet again we are catching up on our posts.... I will just do a short one and then another soon so we can get caught up.

It is great to have Ed and Tracy back from their travels. Aidan especially likes playing tickle monster and hide and seek with Uncle Ed!

Clara hamming it up for the camera

Tracy, Mom and I took a two night trip to Whistler in late May. We had a great time shopping, eating out and relaxing. It was a little chilly though, especially for Tracy who was getting used to the 40C heat in Asia.

Trying out for the bobsled team!

Shopping in the village, I can safely say we visited every shop, it is such a luxury to leisurely shop with no kids :)

Long time no blog ....... Again!

2008-05-16T09:52:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know it has been a long time again since we have made our last entry, we have no excuses, of course we love to read everyone elses blogs but always seem to find something else that needs to be done!

We have patiently been waiting for the sun to arrive as well as Tracy and Ed from travelling. We cant believe that tomorrow we will be headed to the airport to see them after a year! Clara was only 2 months old last time they saw her, I am sure they will see big changes :) Clara and Aidan are doing well. Clara is saying more and more words each day and always wants to do whatever her big brother is doing, of course this creates a few disagreements. Aidan has been having a time visiting both sets of grandparents on his own, he went on a trip down to Carter's parents place near Mt Baker as well as a trip up to Gibsons. It is nice to have the one on one time with Clara as well as a little break!

Anyways, better get going so we can go and enjoy the sunshine today! Hope the photos were worth the wait!

Bouncy castle jumping at Aidan's 3rd bday party!

Present opening

Hanging out at Crescent Beach

Tulip Festival in La Connor with Grandma and Papa

Afternoon trip to Redwood Park in South Surrey yesterday

Finally enjoying the sunshine!

Trip to the Rec Centre for Gymnastics class with Nona

Aidan loves doing sommersaults!

Enjoying the trails in Redwood Park

Mowing the grass at Nona and Grandpas

Yah, my bangs are out of my eyes! Yes, I have a little owie from falling out of the wagon

Trying to get a group photo on Mothers Day! As usual, Clara wasnt very happy about the plan:)

Happy Birthday Aidan!

2008-03-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

Wow, cant believe our little guy is 3 years old! He had a great time this past weekend celebrating his birthday along with Easter up in Gibsons. The weather turned out to be pretty nice and it would of been perfect if Carter hadnt had to work and miss it all!

Our other news is that Clara is finally walking. She must of overheard my dad and I talking while we were with her outside playing, I was wondering when she was ever going to start! It seems like she has been at the point of taking only a few steps forever. Anyways, we went inside and she literally stood up on her own and walked across the kitchen, the farthest she has ever gone and she hasnt stopped. It is so cute to see her teetering around although she already has a couple of war wounds which includes a black eye from falling on a toy in the play area of the ferry. I am sure it will only be a little while till she is chasing after Aidan, I know he is going to love that :)

Aidan licking the bowl from the birthday cake I made him

Mmmm, yummy cake mom!

Mrs Dietz, me and Aidan, he couldnt stop eating the cake long enough to pose for a picture

Clara all dressed up for our baby group get together at our house

Sampling the loot from the Easter Bunny

Aidan and I Easter morning

Clara and her new bunny

Thanks for the great books Auntie Tracy and Uncle Ed! Cant wait to see you in May!

Sunny Palm Springs!

2008-03-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

What a great sunny week we had in Palm Springs! We went to stay with Carter's parents at their place that they just bought last year, they have a prime spot in their complex, you can see the pool from their deck! Aidan had a great time and loved being in the pool. We all went to Disneyland on our 2nd day there, it was a long day but worth it. Aidan was a little tired for the first half but perked up in the evening and wanted to keep going on more rides.

Clara had a nice time at home with my mom for the week. I think she enjoyed not having her big brother around telling her what to do :) We are headed up to Gibsons for the long weekend without Carter as he has to work. Can't believe that Aidan will be turning 3 on Monday, where has the time gone?

Hanging out in the pool on our last day

Aidan and I in the teacup at Disneyland, unfortunately the actual ride was closed that day

Aidan loved the Dumbo ride!

Richard and Kathy enjoying the Autopia ride

Aidan on the plane on the day we left for Palm Springs, see the weather we left through the window!

That same afternoon, enjoying the pool!

The lady that took our picture forgot to say 1,2, 3, so not all of us are looking but our only group shot

A few various shots from February that didnt make the last blog...

Our new neice Kai, one day old. Love the hair!

Our attempt at a family self portrait on our last trip to the zoo, oops, we almost had it!

I thought this one was cute of Carter wrestling with Aidan and Clara

February in Review

2008-02-26T10:01:00.000-08:00

Wow February is almost gone. It has been really busy here with Aidan & Clara at home. Clara is starting to speak. Her words of choice seem to be "kitty" and "blankie" She has mastered the Mom, Dad, bubba and screaming to a "T". Both Jackie & I are planning to buy earplugs.

Clara is starting to walk and will take a few steps here and there. She seems content crawling on all 4's for now.

Aidan has kept us busy with his multi sport on Fridays he is getting quite good at Soccer and enjoys playing T-Ball.

Clara makes a run for it

Last week my Sister had her second baby there were a few complications but looks like she is out of the woods now. Jackie, Aidan & Clara stopped by to say hi. I had to work I got a visit in later.

Aidan has taken a real interest in Photography and often grabs the camera for some candid shots around the house. He likes to take quite a few pictures of the wall, tv and of course himself.

Early March, Jackie & I are taking Aidan to Palm Springs for a week I look forward to the break and hope to have some nice warm weather.

Going to sign off for now. I am sure there are lots of other things to be doing. I will attach some other photos for the month in review. Hopefully we will get some new posts up after our trip.

Take Care

Aidan's new Bunk Bed

Clara's pearly whites

Aidan at a Kindergarden orientation

Just having fun at the park

Happy 1st Birthday Clara!

2008-01-19T14:37:00.000-08:00

Wow, has it really been a year?

One day old, coming home from the hospital

1 year old, waiting for the birthday party to begin

Opening her presents, she sure had the hang of it!

Yet again trying to get the group photo!

Look out the window, snow for her birthday!

My attempt at birthday cake decorating

Aunt Tibby and Clara, cant wait for the new baby to arrive :)

Earlier this month up in Gibsons, Clara and Uncle Steve

Just this past week we all travelled with my mom to visit my Grandma in Salt Spring, we had one really nice, but cold, sunny day

Having lunch while on Salt Spring

Aidan with his new Christmas bike, he doesn't let a little snow stop him!

Not sure if we have already posted this one of Clara and her new dolly and stroller that she got from Nona and Grandpa for Christmas, she loves them!

Christmas 361 Days to Go

2007-12-29T19:28:00.000-08:00

Yes our countdown for Christmas 2008 has begun. We all waited for what seemed forever to wake up to screaming kids, gifts, mess, and family. Sigh.. its all over once again. I unfortunately had to work over Christmas. We spent the morning at my parents. Steve came from Gibsons and took my place for the traditional Christmas Eve dinner at the Keg while I was hard at work.

Thankfully work was uneventful. Well not exactly, if I can suggest one thing. To anyone buying a Christmas gift, be sure to provide a gift receipt or you may end up being bashed with the gift you bought for that special someone. Ahh yes Christmas in Kerrisdale.

As for us everyone is doing well. Its now time to start planning Clara's Birthday January 19th. I cannot believe she soon will be one. It will go with her single tooth she sprouted a few weeks back.

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and was spoiled rotten. I sure was thanks Santa. I am now just waiting for the thank you card from Visa. Our spending combined with others I am sure will keep them in business for years to come. Here is to a Happy New Year 2008. Alas I will be working again sigh.. watch out...

Enjoy some photos from the past few weeks....

Clara Christmas Morning just made it under the wire for the 1st XMAS Cap

Aidan and his new drums " These are staying at Nana & Papa's "

Christmas Morning

Clara swimming a few weeks ago... her lessons have since completed she mastered step 1 drinking from the pool

Jackie & I, took Aidan & Clara to the kids VPD Christmas party this year at BC Place. Aidan loved the Horses which were on display. There were all kinds of great things for the kids; bouncy castles, bumper cars, and catered breakfast. This photo was at 10 am. Later in the day I worked the night shift. The following morning photo has been censored. I barely made it home..

Yes that's Aidan it took a bit of time to build thanks Uncle Steve

That should update the past few weeks in photos from our end. Again have a safe & Happy New Year best wishes for 2008

Snow much fun!!

2007-12-06T15:48:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a winter wonderland! We all had so much fun playing in the snow and were also happy that it was gone so fast. We headed up to Gibsons Sat morning and got there just before the snow started... Sorry the photos are not in the correct order, cant seem to cut and paste them properly tonight. Enjoy!

Aidan loved his new sled, it sure goes fast!

Clara loving her walker

Nona and Clara

Is he already driving?

Clara loves the swing too!

Mmm, who should I throw this at??

Aidan and Josh sledding

The 10 foot snowman that Uncle Steve, Carter and Aidan built and Dad helped a little as well as you will see below :)

Clara hasn't decided if she likes her snow suit or not!

Yes, it took a little engineering to figure out how to build it!

We will miss you Marcus

2007-11-15T08:00:00.001-08:00

Carter and I lost a great friend last week to a courageous battle with cancer. We will miss so many things about you Marcus including your witty humour and amazing storytelling ability. You, Kristina and Katelyn are in our thoughts.

Happy Halloween!

2007-11-03T09:22:00.000-07:00

Aidan had a great time trick or treating this year although he still doesnt fully understand the concept of free candy! I am not complaining at all, it is great, we have hidden his bag of loot and he has completely forgotten about it, I wonder if this will be the last year we can do this!

Clara is crawling and pulling herself up on anything she can. She loves to open drawers and empty them as you will see from one of the photos....

Clara' s baby group - hard work gettting a group photo!

Clara empyting the drawers, hours of fun!

Clara the cowgirl!

All dressed up for the Rec centre playgroup!

Family photo at Thanksgiving

Papa and Clara

October Updates

2007-10-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

Hello again October has just flown by. Next week Halloween will be over. I can't believe how much Christmas stuff has been already set up. Yesterday at Canadian Tire the whole store had already been re-arranged for the Christmas Decorations.

First things since our last blog update. With the $ollar so strong we bought a car online! Well its not exactly for us, we plan to flip it here across the line. It was a bit un-nerving getting the process going but, the car now is en route. We expect to see it early November. Its a Florida car I hope it likes the cold.

As usual time here seems limited due to crawling little ones, mischevious bigger ones, and mess, mess, mess. Here are a few photos from the past few weeks enjoy your Halloween

Clara out front Brrr its getting cold!

The Daredevil

An attempt at some fall photos

Aidan is planning to be a Lion this year... a test run

Last week the family visited Squamish. Clara did some driving along the way at least she had the 10 & 2 o'clock concept

Aidan hunting for the perfect pumpkin

Aidan has added a trailer to his " ride " Clara the backseat passenger loves the tour de Solay. ( Our Complex )

Some fresh Red Pepper, Clara gets to work on it for dinner plans

The shaming ( plans for future grad photo )

She is off and running, well make that crawling!

2007-10-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, Clara is officially crawling! She has been attempting to crawl for what seems like the last month but now she has finally got the hang of it. Watch out Aidan, your toys are no longer safe! Clara, Aidan and I have been up in Gibsons for the last week, I had to work at my dad's office for a couple of days and then stayed on for Thanksgiving. Carter was up for a few days but is back home working the graveyard shift all weekend. At least he has a nice quiet house for sleeping!

Aidan is doing well, he loves zooming around the driveway on his bike and is having fun playing with Uncle Steve's enormous lego collection.

Hope everyone is having a great Thanksgiving!

Clara being pushed around in Cousin Anika's baby stroller, it fits her almost perfectly!

Aidan sampling Mrs Dietz's apples, they sure make yummy apple juice

Aidan watching how the apple juice is made

Clara has learned how to pull herself up on things

Carter and Aidan's pumpkin, they loved how it was both orange and green

Aidan loves his bike!

Carter spent last weekend at the annual police memorial in Ottawa - love the uniform!

Can't Believe that Summer is Over!

2007-09-22T20:28:00.001-07:00

Where did the summer go? It went by so fast. Here are a few photos from the last few weeks...

Sandbar fun at Crescent Beach

Dad clowning around with Clara

Whose in that box?

Aidan!

Nona and Clara on our trip to Porpoise Bay

Picking apples with Mrs Dietz

Fun in the tub!

On the ferry to Salt Spring, Aidan enjoying a good book...

...while Clara preferred to play with a few toys

Checking out the squash at the fall fair on Salt Spring

Clara was all smiles at the fair!

Checking out the biggest pumpkin contest

Enjoying the park in Ganges with Grandma

Family shot by the harbour in Ganges

A Few New Photos

2007-09-01T20:22:00.001-07:00

Clara and Katie hanging out

Aidan playing at the park at the Aldergrove Zoo

Clara in her party dress for Ashley's 2nd birthday party

Clara and Dad all smiles!

Summer continues...

2007-08-24T21:02:00.000-07:00

We have had a great couple weeks which included a trip to the zoo and the pne, here are a few photos...

Aidan and Clara clowning around

Clara is so happy when she wakes up from her naps!

Here is Clara on her 7 month birthday, where has the time gone?

Aidan always loves baking but he mostly thinks this means sampling!

Aidan at the sandbar in Gibsons

Busy Summer

2007-08-07T20:19:00.000-07:00

We have all been travelling a lot the last few weeks. Between a trip to Salt Spring and multiple trips to Gibsons we havent been at home a lot! It has been great to be out of the city though and of course spend time with family. Both Clara and Aidan are doing well. Clara is enjoying solid foods, is finally rolling over and can almost sit by herself unattended. Aidan has learned how to ride his tricycle by himself and mostly likes to do things on his own now, no help from mom and dad!

Aidan and Dad on the rope swing at the beach in Gibsons

Setting up the tent for some camping in the backyard at Nona's and Grandpa's

Good Night!

Carter helped Grandpa with some yard work

Mom and Aidan the beach for a marshmallow roast!

Aidan at the beach in Gibsons

Nona, Aidan, Clara and Wendy at the Craft Fair on Salt Spring Island

Great Grandma and Clara

From the last few weeks

2007-07-15T20:21:00.000-07:00

Clara in the Bath up in Gibsons

Tummy Time

Hanging out

Aidan & Clara in the Bucket

Well where did we leave off ... Summer is finally here. The past few days have been very warm here in Vancouver for all of you reading locally you know what we mean.

Last week it was so warm, Jackie & I ended up sleeping downstairs after taking a reading of 34 degrees in our bedroom. Thank fully the kids rooms are at the back which cooled off enough with fans.

Both Clara & Aidan are doing well. Aidan has started to speak in full sentences around us. Clara has started on solid foods which is quite funny to watch.

Both Jackie & I are also in the market for a newer home which has kept us busy looking around for a new place. So far its quite upsetting to see what almost $500,000 will get you.

July 8th was my birthday so we had the family over for cake & burgers. Mom & Dad have been busy looking for a permanent vacation spot in Palm Springs. Can't wait for the photos when they get back.

This past weekend the family was up in Gibsons. Jackie met with Amy, Jenny and Carolyn which was great. Being that Jenny & Amy are only here for the Summer. It was cute to see all the little ones running around in the yard with the sprinkler.

Thats it for now here are some photos of the past 2 weeks have a great summer

CR

Aidan Swinging at the Park

Clara and her first solid food

Jackie, Amy, Jenny, Carolyn

CR's Birthday

Clara loving Life

Happy Canada Day

2007-07-01T13:26:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday! Carter is sleeping the day away since he was called in for an extra full night shift last night, this was after he had been at my dad's office working on their computers all day. What a busy guy! He has to work the next 4 nights as well and then has an overtime shift at the BC Lions game next Friday night. What will we do with all of the extra money? Probably pay off some bills, and of course buy Carter a nice birthday present for his 31st birthday on July 8th!

Since Clara decided not to nap for very long this morning, I packed both of the kids up and headed down to Art & Knapps garden store just down the street from us. Of course, do you think I remembered my camera? No! Aidan had a good time playing with their Thomas the Train table and checking out all of the electric trains running, we also rode on a little train that runs through the grounds. I will be sure to remember my camera for next time! Anyways, here are a few photos from the last week...

It is so hard to get a good photo of them both! I have almost given up!

Clara with her friend Katelyn, it is hard to believe that Katelyn is about 2 1/2 months younger than Clara!

Yummy soft boiled eggs in his Lego cups that Nona brought back from Paris

Off to the beach! Aidan was a little upset because he usually likes to sit in the bottom seat.

Thanks for the wonderful hat Auntie Tracy and Uncle Ed!

Hanging out in Lower Gibsons

Vive Las Vegas!

2007-06-16T20:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I think we have finally finished unpacking and doing laundry from our week long trip to Las Vegas for Caylene's wedding. While Aidan had an action packed week in Gibsons with my mom, Carter, Clara and I were hanging out in sunny and very warm (about 35-40 C each day) Las Vegas. We had a great time spending time with Carter's parents, eating at the buffets, seeing the sights and of course attending the beautiful wedding of Caylene and Bernard at the Mandalay Bay Hotel.

Here are a few pictures...

On the plane to Vegas

In the Bellagio Hotel

Outside the Mirage Hotel

Clara wearing Aidan's new pair of sunglasses we bought him

Papa and Clara

Our hotel

At the wedding, we did have a cute pair of shoes for Clara to wear but she kept kicking them off!

The happy couple - Caylene and Bernard

Back at home this last week, Clara in her "jolly jumper"

And in her Jumperoo! She will be 5 months old on Tuesday, time is sure flying.

Baking Cupcakes with a 2 Year Old!

2007-05-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Lots of Fun!!

Before

After

A few other cute photos...

Go All Blacks!! Thanks Aunt Tracy and Uncle Ed for the cool shirt!

She is just so kissable!

The Last Couple of Weeks

2007-05-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

We have been staying close to home the last few days as we had a busy week last week visiting my grandma on Salt Spring Island. The weather was great and Aidan especially loved the playground in Ganges.

Grandma and Clara

Enjoying the slide!

On the tire swing with Nona

On our way to the park with a stop to check out the float plane in the harbour. Thanks for the funky Crocs Nona!

Clara "enjoying" the park

A Few New Photos...

2007-05-09T14:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay in posting some new photos. There always seems to be some form of housework calling that gets in the way of me updating the blog. Aidan and Clara are actually both napping right now (doesnt seem to happen that often recently) so I have a few spare moments.

Time is flying and I cant believe that Clara will be 4 months old in 10 days! She is all smiles and loves to laugh at things her older brother is doing. It is so much fun to see them interact with each other, I am sure it will only get better! Aidan is talking up a storm and amazes Carter and I with all of the new words he picks up and how he can put 3 or 4 words together in a sentence.

Aunt Caylene and Clara at Caylene's Bridal Shower

Aidan and his "Mardi Gras" beads he likes to wear at Nana and Papa's house

Aidan and Clara hanging out in Clara's crib after their baths

Easter Photos

2007-04-20T20:46:00.000-07:00

We are a little behind in our posting, please forgive us, the days just seem to fly by the time we have a few moments to ourselves in the evening we are too tired to do much but go to sleep!

At least the days are getting longer, this was especially nice for me since Aidan and Clara both decided that they would wake up at 5:45am this morning for the day, at least I had a sunny bright morning to ease me through the pain of such an early morning wake up call!

Aidan and Clara are doing well. Aidan is really into puzzles at the moment, the 24 piece ones are perfect for him. I think I need to head to the store to pick up a few new ones as I am getting a little bored with doing the 3 ones we have over and over again! Clara is all smiles and is laughing and giggling a lot. She really is an easy baby, content to play by herself and hardly ever cries. I am still getting up 2 times a night with her but she is done for bed at 7pm which is great. This gives me time to play with Aidan on his own and read him some books before he is off to bed.

Anyways, here are a few photos from Easter and the past few weeks...

Let's not forget about Clara

2007-04-09T15:49:00.000-07:00

We can't beleive how the time flies. Clara is almost 3 months old. She is starting to interact much more with us and play with her toy Doll & Butterfly. Once 'n awhile we can get her to giggle and she loves to smile.

Sitting on a Pillow

Clara with her Butteryfly

Aidan, Clara & Merv

Deb & Clara

A couple weeks in review

2007-04-09T15:24:00.000-07:00

Okay I think we are back on track. It has been a very busy couple of weeks for us. With Aidan's birthday party, a visit from Tracy & Ed, and a couple trips to Gibson's it's been hard to keep up.

There was also the MG Engineering office move downtown and another new edition to tell everyone about. Congratulations to our friends Kristina & Marcus and their baby girl Katelyn Maria Dressel.

There is quite a story about their little one you can read it here "Coquitlam Times"

Kristina & Marcus also have a blog set up you can check out their site from our friends & family link on the right " exit 44 ". I recommend viewing their site check out the CTV footage!

A honourable mention to Merv who had a birthday party a few weeks ago. Aidan was in his glory with all the cake & candles lately.

Happy Birthday !

Aidan helping open more gifts

Aidan down at the park in Gibson's

Making of " The Cake "

A spring ride on the " Trike "

Aidans Birthday Party

2007-04-09T15:06:00.000-07:00

Better late than never. Lately we have been neglecting the blog and I am planning to keep things a bit more current.

Aidan turned to BIG "2" on the 24th of March. For his birthday he chose to invite some friends to the White Rock Gymnastics club. I am not sure who had more fun. After the foam pit & trampoline everyone had a really great time. I am sure we could have stayed all day!

Birthday Morning

The Cake ... Aidan requested a "Dinosaur Theme"

The foam pit... No socks allowed I now understand why. If anyone has found my left sock in their laundry let me know

Tracy, Ed & Jackie

The party goers.. a little tough getting all the kids in one spot !

Clara Smiling

2007-03-13T08:12:00.000-07:00

Well, I am trying to make a bigger effort to take more photos. Unfortunately Clara has about 1/2 the number of photos taken of her than we did with Aidan but it sure does not mean we love her any less!

Yesterday was a beautiful sunny day and I headed to the park in our complex to let us all have a little fresh air. Clara slept for the whole two hours in her stroller but Aidan and I had fun in the sun, of course, do you think I remembered my camera? Nope, but I did get this photo of Clara smiling when we had just come inside.

Tubing at Mount Seymour

2007-03-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

Yesterday, I took Aidan up to Mt Seymour for a few hours with our neighbour Dave and his son Carson.

I did not realize how tough it would be to find a snow sled but, after visiting Toys "R" Us and listening to a sales assistant crash & bang in a back room for what seemed like hours we finally found one!

So off we went in Dave's car to the tobogganing area. There were only a few people out but it was a blast. Unfortunately the rain got the best of us. We all left a bit wet but the trip was still worth it.

Clara's Baby Shower

2007-03-11T08:55:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Aunt Sheryl for hosting a baby shower for Clara for all of my relatives on my dad's side. Clara slept through most of it but I woke her up near the end so she could meet everyone!

Clara has developed a bit of a rash on her face in the last week. The doctor said that it is nothing to worry about and it doesnt seem to be bothering her.

Cams Birthday

2007-03-11T08:47:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say thanks again to our neighbours Kim & Dave for hosting Cam's birthday party. We had a great time and the feast was amazing.

Be Careful Getting Your Oil Changed

2007-03-02T09:36:00.000-08:00

I had this sent to me this morning and thought it was absolutely hilarious. Now I know we have all thought hmm... what would happen if I do not drive exactly straight when instructed by the Oil Tech.

Well this is what happens ! Too Funny

Snow in March ?

2007-03-02T09:14:00.000-08:00

I can't remember if we had much snow last year. I am sure there was none last March. Yet in less than 20 days our long Winter nights should turn to longer Spring days. The flowers think it's time and so do the blooming trees. I am sure Vancouverites can't agree more.

So to my surpirse while watching tv yesterday, I noted our not so " Spring Like " weather of snow. Thankfully it was just a dusting. Does anyone know when I can turn off my heat !

Clara enjoying the heated house

Just out of the Bath

March 1st & the snow is falling

Photos from the Last Week

2007-02-24T13:11:00.000-08:00

Hi All,

Some more photos of our last week or so. Had a great time up in Gibsons visiting with family including my grandma and Auntie Donna who were both out visiting. We were able to get out of the house for a few walks and Aidan had a great time feeding the birds down at the beach.

Still trying to get the hang of managing two little ones on my own while Carter is away. We have managed to get out of the house a few times but it sure takes a lot longer than it used too! Clara is doing well, she is having nice long naps during the day and is up around every 3 1/2 hours during the night. Aidan is getting used to being a big brother, he loves to kiss Clara and only gets a little jealous every now and then when I am feeding her. Clara began to smile about a week ago, we have been trying to capture this in a photo but have been unsuccessful, will have to take more photos this week!

Are The Designers Running Out Of Ideas ?

2007-02-21T21:27:00.000-08:00

Dodge Charger 1971

Dodge Challenger 2008

I have to admit the original blog design was dedicated to the Niddrie family but, I think I need to expand my horizons a bit branching out into things I am interested in. (Jackie included once I explain how to post things here to her).

I am not sure if there are any huge Morpar fans out there but, I really do like the 60's & 70's muscle cars. What I am not sure about is the new 2008 Dodge Challenger. Yes the name is different & Designers have added fuel injection among other safety features like the SRS airbag.

Let's not forget about GPS for our big city driving added to a 300 hp + engine. At the end of the day what is the real difference in 40 years ? Color no... wheels... yes... engine maybe price ?. Well if you were lucky enough to own a Charger in the 70's I am guessing it cost you about $3000.

If Barret Jackson's Auto Auction got a hold of it today, who knows. Is it worth $30,000, 40 ? or 50 thousand to buy?. Of course you could just wait till early 2008 and drive to your local Dodge dealer forget about Barret and get the new Challenger for I am guessing about $35,000 after the long waiting list.

Either way you will have a nice car and buying new will save you the $2000 flight to Arizona for a chance to bid on a Barret Car. Let's not forget buying a new car will have a great warranty and roadside assistance! It's too bad Dodge still does not get on board with GM for it's On Star program.

Mind you owning / selling an original Mopar car could leave you with a bunch of money in the bank allowing you to buy a 2008 with money to spare for all the fuel costs and recalls.

Either way both cars really look great minus the recalls that are bound to turn up.

A Bit Behind

2007-02-18T12:30:00.000-08:00

Sorry everyone... I have been really slow with updates these past few weeks night shift sometimes does that to me. Not much has changed here. It's starting to warm up sorry to all the Easterners out there (I hear its still a bit cold) . I had a look at our front flowerbed we even have some Crocuses even blooming.

For all who missed the news, Clara is now walking and prefers steak over lobster (joking) well not yet but she will.

Last week we took Aidan to a photo contest at the mall. They had a tiny studio set up and Aidan thankfully felt like smiling. Unfortunately he did not take the cake we think it was rigged.

Jackie just got back from Gibson's which was nice for me during night shift. While in Gibson's, Jennifer stopped by (Jackie's cousin) to visit and brought her daughter Anika. She is very cute & very close in age to Aidan. The two love to play together. Jennifer just had emailed us some photos of the two together which I have included.

As usual Clara is fast asleep but we should include a few family photos from the past week. Like I mentioned before, Clara is still not walking but we are working on it.

Here are a few more pics before I sign out have a great week! Check out Aidan's feet at the bottom the slippers are still a bit too big for Clara !

A Couple More Photos....

2007-02-05T19:58:00.000-08:00

I had to add these photos, it is not that often that I get my photo taken with Aidan or Clara!

Finally the family photo

2007-02-05T14:16:00.000-08:00

Fresh off the press a new family picture.

Not much new to report Jackie, Aidan & Clara got home from Gibsons earlier this week spending a few days with Nona & Papa.

Aidan had a great time playing at the beach. He was given some bird feed and fed all the seagulls & ducks.

Yesterday morning we took Aidan swimming at the Newton Wave Pool. Aidan is still getting used to the water but I think he had a great time with all the waves. Aidan sure loved to hide in the change room lockers it was hard to get him to leave.

Just recovering from yesterdays Super Bowl game at our neighbours Dana & Troy. There was plenty of food, kids, beverages, and baby sitters for Clara.

Thanks again !

The Cousins

2007-01-29T13:42:00.000-08:00

Before a snack today with Grandma & Grampa we decided to get all the cousins together for a quick snapshot. Aidan & Jaret were up for the task. Clara did not even know she was in the photo and as always was fast asleep.

Is the Sun a sign that Spring is around the Corner ?

2007-01-25T13:47:00.000-08:00

Finally after what seemed like months of cold snowy weather it's warming up. Aidan noted the car was quite dirty and needed a good scrubbing. He was out with his rubber boots, and could not let any spot go without being personally inspected. Obviously Dad did not do a great job rinsing. Aidan needed to use the hose to do the job right.

He even managed to find the toothbrush dedicated to car washing and gave it a test run on his pearly whites.

Overall the mission was a success with Aidan giving two thumbs up. Well the index finger up we are working on it.

Happy Birthday Jackie

2007-01-22T16:12:00.000-08:00

Jackie turned 31 on the 21st. The whole family came to celebrate and even Aidan got in on the fun. Aidan loves to sing Happy Birthday and blow out the candles. Of course baby Clara was sleeping the whole time and missed all the festivites. Look at the great cake the Debbie had made it was a hit

Mission Impossible " The Bath "

2007-01-21T22:21:00.000-08:00

So just after we thought we had " the bath " mastered we start over again from scratch. Gone are the days of a quick dip Aidan has figured out our little tricks making his bath time quite a process. The bath toy choices, the bubbles, and even water temperature followed by excessive flooding created by his tsunami force splashing

to Baby Clara who within an instant of being undressed was very upset Mom & Dad had taken her out of her blanket cocoon. Thankfully her bath water was just right and she settled right in. Due to the terrible photos that dad had while taking a bath tonight we will enjoy a post bath pick where Clara is happy and content back in her blanket cocoon.

Do you think Aidan & Clara look alike ?

2007-01-21T21:57:00.000-08:00

So after some discussion here, it seems like Baby Clara looks much like Aidan did (minus the red hair) in her first few days so we have decided to post some comparison photos for your comments

The New Addition is Finally Here

2007-01-21T13:35:00.000-08:00

After days, weeks, no months of waiting she is finally here. Clara Linnea Niddrie was born at Burnaby General Hospital January 19th, 2007 at 0553 hrs. Clara was 7 pounds 5 oz. Both Mom and Baby are doing very well.

Clara was in a big hurry to see her new world and decided she could not wait for Dr Ross. Lucky for us the nursing staff were great. Dr Ross came running half awake to find baby Clara looking up at her. Here is Clara and Dr Ross meeting for the first time.