lazy weekend...just the way i like it!

This weekend we decided to change gears and slow down a notch. It seems that every weekend we are always on the go, go, go and this weekend was the total opposite. We enjoyed some family down time; it was ok that we were still in our pajamas at 10am. I am not sure if it was the cold, snowy weather or simply pure exhaustion from the holiday season, but it felt like a much needed break. Here is a little peak as to how we spent our weekend. Please note; a lazy weekend means no make-up, so don't say that I didn't warn you!

Little Miss L. and I enjoying some down time. This was the first time the television captured her attention for more than 10 minutes.

Even though it was a low key weekend, the laundry still needed to be done!

Little Miss L. enjoyed helping mommy sort the lights and darks.

She even decided to throw a little game of peek-a-boo in there as well.

The family enjoyed their snuggle time :)

Even though it was a quiet weekend, mommy did gather a little energy to get herself ready and head out for a girls breakfast. Our girlfriend from out of town was down for a few days - the perfect opportunity to finally catch up and have a few laughs! We miss you Jess!

change those toothbrushes!

There are many reasons why you should change your toothbrush. The most common reason, which many of us notice, is when the bristles begin to show wear; once this occurs, the toothbrush starts to lose its effectiveness. Changing your toothbrush is especially important during the winter months. With the winter season come colds, flus, and mouth infections. After coming down with one of these nasty bouts, you should replace your toothbrush with a new one. Many germs can hide in your toothbrush which can lead to reinfection. We should also pay special attention to our children's toothbrushes. Their bristles seem to wear quickly because they often brush with uneven strokes. Also, as I know first hand, Little Miss L. loves to chew and bite on the bristles which can create a breeding ground for germs, fungus, and bacteria. So, get out and buy a few extra to have on hand when you finish that nasty cold or flu. Happy brushing everyone :)

skor bar sqaures

During the holidays, my girlfriend from Montreal visited us. Little Miss L. and I had the privilege of watching my dear friend April whip up a batch of her famous Skor bar squares. These are very easy to make, great for the little ones to partake in, and they are super yummy yummy...really you can't go wrong with these scrumptious treats.

Ingredients

• 1 box Ritz crackers
• 1 package Skor Chipits
• 1 can Eagle Brand Condensed Milk (300ml)
• 4 squares semi-sweet chocolate (optional)

Preparation

• Crush crackers into chunks.  This can be done using your hand.
• In large bowl, mix crackers, Chipits, and condensed milk.
• Press into bottom of greased 9x13inch pan.
• Bake at 350 degrees/176 Celsius for 10 minutes.
• Cool in pan. If you are chocolate lover, you can drizzle with melted chocolate (optional). 

Note: Make sure squares are cool before cutting.

Little Miss L. and Auntie April crushing the Ritz.

That was hard work, are we done?

This is how the magic happens!

Add all ingredients into a large bowl.

Yummy, who doesn't love Skor Chipits!?!?

Pour into greased pan.

The finished product, add a little chocolate if you so desire and enjoy!

start off 2011 with a little sparkle

If you are anything like myself or my mother, then you spent the past weekend putting away all of your Christmas decorations. With Christmas over, it does not mean that your house should be free of winter decor! It is the perfect time of year to hit up your local craft store and purchase a wreath for your door. Many of our local craft stores have an abundance of decorations left over from the holidays at super low prices. As I hit up our local Michaels, I was able to purchase a grapevine wreath, along with some purple and silver ornaments for under $8.00. I used the can of faux snow I had left over from Christmas. I was happy with the end result and I couldn't beat completing this craft all for under $10.00.

Grapevine wreath. You will want to use an old sheet or newspaper when spraying the faux snow.

Next I used the faux snow. Make sure to follow directions on can. Allow time to dry before adding your ornaments/decorations.

I then added some glittered decorations, I felt silver and purple would be great for January and really looked nice against the white snow.

Close up! I love faux snow, it gives everything such a wintery feel.

There you have it folks, the finished product!

remembering 2010

 The new year is fast approaching and what better time to sit back, relax, and reflect on the past year. Our family has had the opportunity to experience many amazing places, create new memories that will last a lifetime, have met new friends who we will cherish forever, and have moved back from one beautiful country to another.

Mommy and Little Miss L. getting ready to head to Madrid, Spain!

In front of the Temple of Debod in Madrid, Spain.

At the Valley of the Fallen in El Escorial, Spain.

The hubby and I in front of the Cathedral in the center of Segovia, Spain.

Family shot in front of Alcázar of Segovia, Spain.

Enjoying a great night out in Belém, Portugal with our friends visiting from Canada

Weekend getaway to Albufeira, Portugal.

Daddy and Little Miss L. enjoying the beautiful beach in Albufeira, Portugal.

Little Miss L. getting excited to head to Ireland and learn about the other half of her heritage.

Family shot in front of the Blarney Castle in Ireland.

Daddy and Little Miss L. kissing the Blarney Stone in Blarney, Ireland.

Daddy and Little Miss L. in front of the prison in Cork, Ireland.

Daddy and Little Miss L. waiting to board the plane to Valencia, Spain.

Valencia Opera House. City of the Arts and the  Sciences, Valencia, Spain.

Little Miss L. experiencing her first Carnaval, in Portugal.

Watching the Carnaval parade in Lisbon, Portugal.

Daddy and Little Miss L. inside the Chapel of Bones Evora, Portugal.

Mommy and Little Miss L. in front of St. Mark's Basilica Venice, Italy.

Daddy and Little Miss L. goofing around in the streets of Venice, Italy.

Little Miss L. loving the warm water, her first time in the Mediterranean sea.

Enjoying our family gondola ride in Venice - the end to a perfect trip!

Little Miss L. celebrating her first birthday!

Our little girl is no longer a baby!

Thank you to everyone who has made the last year so special and we can't wait to see what 2011 has in store! Happy New Year!

highlights of christmas 2010

Our bellies full, the presents unwrapped, it is now time to unwind from all our holiday festivities. This Christmas, we were able to look back at the past year and reflect on what we are thankful for. Being surrounded by friends and family really reminded us of all the things we are grateful for including love, health and happiness. Little Miss L. loved all of the action that took place around her. Here are a few highlights:

Our neighborhood is also famous for its "Älight at Night" Christmas celebration where all homeowners light their properties with numerous candles roadside on Christmas Eve which brings in visitors from all over the area.

 

The display involving over 100 residences is based on a Spanish Christmas tradition called luminaria.

After taking in all the lights, Little Miss L. could not stay up any longer.

Yippee, it is Christmas morning!

Wow, where did all these presents come from?!?!

Hey everyone, I am ready to open all these presents!

Finally! Little Miss L. could not get enough of all the wrapping paper.

This picture explains it all - complete chaos Christmas morning.

Little Miss L. and her first toboggan!

This was way more fun indoors.

Christmas would not be complete without a plate full of homemade goodies.