What I did this summer

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I am so happy to have finished this special shawl! I can't remember how many times I started, stopped and tried again until I got just the right pattern. Lace knitting is so beautiful but definitely trying at times. The yarn is a baby alpaca and feels wonderfully soft. Fun, isn't it? lol

Right on track!

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Quick post to let you know I'm right on track with the Tour de Fleece! I've only missed one day of spinning since this challenge started. Also, since my foot continues to heal (finally, pun intended) I'm able to use my spinning wheel.

Not to self: when skeining my yarn try to note whether it was wheel or spindle spun and if on the spindle which one. At least that way I'd have a better chance of recreating the yarn when needed. lol

Off to find my pillow and some sweet dreams tonight.!

Mango and smoothie coming up for breakfast in about 8 hours.

Til again,
Doll

** picture of wheel and spinner unknown

Le Tour de Fleece

de France" style="border: medium none ; display: block;" width="193" height="193">Image via Wikipedia

Le Tour de Fleece


It's been a long time since I joined a fiber challenge but with having the month of July to myself I figured it would be fun.

My challenge to spin every day from July 4th to July 26th. I have lots and lots of fiber to spin.

Due to my foot injury and it's slow healing process, much of the spinning will be done with a spindle. Not a bad thing really. I enjoy my spindles.

Currently I'm working on a fleece to shawl project. The fleece is a grey/black icelandic that I purchased from a local farm a year ago. I'm doing a navajo ply then dying it with a red food colouring. So far it's looking pretty good. The pattern is Cold Mountain. Their picture show's this in lace weight but mine will be a bit heavier than that.

I'll let you know how I make out. Pictures to follow.


Following down my Diva path....

The Cozy Coaches, of The Raw Divas, have been working together since last December and are really excited to be presenting a new recipe book very, very soon. Details to follow!!

I'm doing well making sure that I take in more greens and more fresh fruit and veggies. This is always a bit of a struggle for me since I truly am a fan of all breads! lol I'm looking forward to the upcoming Body Enlightenment System that will start mid July. Click the banner at the top of my blog for more info. One of the benefits is that once you purchase the program you have it for life and are always invited back, free, for the live events. This July marks my first year anniversary with the BES! I am excited!!

For today I'm looking forward to getting into the pool but with the current rain it's not overly inviting.

Off to plan my afternoon and evening. Perhaps I need to wash some more fleece to prep for spinning! lol

Til again,
Doll

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Calm, cool and collected!

Image by Telendro via Flickr

That's my mantra for the day. I'm sitting in my hotel room in Laval attempting to relax before dressing for the big gig tonight! Is it working? Slightly...I think.

I am calm. (working on this one)

I am cool. (air conditioning is working well)

I am collected. (all is ready to go)

Now, if yahoo and google maps could just give me the same results when I do a search of the venues I would be so very happy. Even my Blackberry gives me a different route. What's a gal to do?!

So I sit here, working on french lyrics and diction for tonight. I love playing for the choir and am honored that I am given the opportunity to also sing with them. So much fun!

The venue tonight is a local church. I'm looking forward to it as many churches have amazing accoustics.

As for Laval, haven't seen too much other than a few blocks from the hotel. We visited a wonderful grocery/bakery during lunch today where I was able to get a bag of ripe plums and are so sweet and juicy. Yummy!

I can see Mont Royal from our 7th story window. Not sure but we might venture into the city (Montreal) later tomorrow before heading for home. I figure it's been about 20 years since I've even been this close. Gee if I could wait until Tuesday I could go and see Stevie Wonder!! Montreal is a great place to be!!!

Well off to make myself beautiful for tonight!

Are you doing anything exciting this weekend?

Til again,
Doll

Summer is Comin' In!

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Loudly sing Cuckoo!

Well depending on your neighbours possibly not too loudly! lol

June is definitely one of my favorite months. Not just because it's my birthday month but because of the great weather and the promise of summer. I absolutely love the water and wait for the pool to warm up to about 66F before I jump in. This week it's been sitting at 70F and so refreshing to swim laps. Much warmer than that and it's nice but...not as refreshing!







My food plan for this week is fairly simple; at least for me. I'm working on about 70% raw right now and it feels good for me. Isn't that what the whole diet and food process is all about? For me it's about balance and finding something that I really can stay with over the long haul. My staple right now is watermelon! The melons right now, although not yet local, are really sweet and wonderful. My only problem is being sure that I don't eat any after the dinner hour. All that water needs to go somewhere, right? I really do prefer sleeping through the night. lol

Off to plan my day. Make yours wonderful! I know mine will be.

Til again,
Doll

Take a look!!!

This is really exciting!! Only one week to go before:




I've signed up...come and join me!

Our new neighbour!

What a sweet little fellow! He stayed there while I took down the laundry.

Still struggling...looking for gigs!

Those of you who are near and dear to me know about my fall and struggles with my foot. So...being the brave little girl I am I finally went to the Dr and for xrays! Don't know anything yet. I have physio to go to as well but after the initial meeting I simply don't have the bucks to pay for that. So much for universal health care in Ontario eh? At least the Dr's appointment and xray was "free". I really do need an additional health care plan. That's next on the list along with increasing my income.

Anyone need some "live" entertainment for an upcoming garden party?? I'm good at soft music and can fade into the wood work of any indoor or outdoor party. lol Translates: I really am a performer but don't need to take centre stage.

Playing my portable piano doesn't put too much strain on my ankle which is a very good thing. Playing a baby grand would be much more pain-filled.

So if you need a great piano player just drop me an email. Will travel any where in the Ottawa/Eastern Ontario region. I take cash, cheque, and paypal! lol

Well, there you have it. Plain and simple. I need some money and am willing to work. lol Just don't put me weeding in the garden...foot wouldn't take that too well! See, I haven't lost my sense of humor!


I'm almost finished a shawl that was to be in a silent aution in May. Will post pictures asap!

Have a super week!
Til again,
Doll

Thanks to all my students for a great year!

Snow or Hail??

Difficult to tell what time of year it is. I simply could not believe that hail could fall like snow lol Thinking about how I was lounging by the pool yesterday afternoon; moving into the shade because I was too hot! Now really!

And now? Sky is blue; everything around here is beautiful and green. Life is growing and great!

Have a super day!

til again,
Doll

Loving the sunshine!

The day is chilly but beautiful! One of the things I love about spring is the warmer temps and few bugs...at least in my back yard. lol The pool is inviting but still way too cold.

Seems like I've been on a roller coaster ride with my food and exercise. For me there seems to be no real middle ground. I'm either all the way or next to nothing. What happened to taking things bit by bit. Is it really possible to move along on this journey without obsession? Or, is it just that I have such an obsessive personality? Inquiring minds NEED to know. How's that for obsession?!?

I think about food all the time. What I'm eating; not eating; what I'm cooking; not cooking and so on. Guess I could find something to replace the obsession with but not sure that's a good idea either. I'm know there's all sorts of therapy for this stuff. Oh wait, been there, done that! lol Goodness me!

So, I'll continue on my path. It zig-zags and goes up and down hills and vales (lots) but that's all part of life. Right?

Do you have a straight line map that you follow? Does your path lead you to where you wish to be?

If you have some ideas please share.

Til again,
Doll

Still here

Boy it's been a while since I've posted. Not that life has been busy on the contrary things have slowed somewhat.

I had a slight incident with my back steps. They broke, I fell through and off...not a pretty picture. Neither is my foot. It's a slow heal but coming along. The down side is that I had just started to get back into my cardio routines. UGH! The universe was telling me it was past time to sit for a while.

I've definitely rested but can't say that I enjoyed the time much though. lol Got to make the best of all things. Right?

It's a holiday weekend here in Canada. For my Canadian friends, do you have special plans this weekend??? The pool is open and I've been in it 2 times. Chilly, refreshing and so inviting. Now if the weather would co-operate. lol

til again,
Doll

Mailice in the Palace Choir Loft

Time to ....

Change! I need to change how I look at my food; how I feel about the food I eat. I definitely give too much power to my nourishment. I focus on what I will eat, what I'm going to eat, what I need to buy for each meal; what time I eat; sometimes I think about not eating....

Definitely an obsession! Definitely has far too much focus in my life. For the next few days my plan is to relax and NOT think about food. Possible? I believe so. I know it's something I must do. My poor eating habits have become a source of self destruction. NOT good! I am better and bigger than all of this.

I'm going to dig deep and find the strength I know is there.

There you have it...given a little push and the out come will be positive.

til again
Doll

My latest site!

Raw Food and Green Living

This is my latest site. Squidoo is pretty new for me and has some great features. Another great platform for networking and marketing. Lots of terrific information on just about any subject you can imagine. Just on over and let me know what you think.

til again,
Doll

It's Friday!

Enough said! Have a great weekend!!!

about Mondays!

The beginning is the most important part of the work.

-Plato

I'll also add the Monday is the most important part of the week. Well for some of us it is...others, not so much. I guess I really look at Monday as the beginning, the do-over for a new week; a fresh start!

Sunday is a work day for me; it's my day of worship but as a church musician it's also what I do to pay the rent. Monday is my day of rest. I relax, take care of me and re-group my thoughts, goals and inspiration.

Starting each week is easy. The sun goes down then rises once again. The alarm goes off; I throw open the curtains and let the light come in. I'm awake. Well, at least some might say so.

Beginning is putting one foot in front of the other. Have you seen the movie "Awakenings"? The are times in the story when one or more of the characters completely stop moving. Usually just a little nudge from someone and they're ok and off again. The beginning is like this. Sometimes it's just the nudge to get going is all that is needed. Once you have the momentum it's easy to keep at it.

ie once the dishes are washed and put away isn't it easier to look at the counter and clean it off as well? Just doing the one thing leads to another. Or, looking through your mail..often just opening up one piece leads to looking through another and so on. I'm sure you get my meaning.

For me there is nothing worse than in-activity or in-action. Without the motion...perpetual or otherwise I just find it difficult to get started.

Have you ever felt like this??? If you have felt like this what helped you to get going again? Please share your thoughts.


Til again,
Doll

Happy Easter!

Wishing all a super, wonderful day!!

Here it's cold but bright and sunny. The sunshine is deceptive. I took a stroll out the back door and decided after 2 or 3 minutes that being in cotton sleeves and birks(baretoes) is not the way to go today!

So, I'm back inside and making an attempt at creativity.

I have re-affirmed my goal to a healthier lifestyle and to lose the abundance of added weight on my body. This has been a long time coming. In one year I've gone up, down and back up again. I'm the kind of person who needs direction and drive!

Ok, so I have the road map I want to use. It's a combination of different food plans and exercise programs that I am putting together to fit my needs and busy life. Now all I need is the drive and determination. Perhaps it's not about discipline but of habit like many others have told me.

I am creating my life over and over again. With new routines (habits) I see myself completing my goal feeling healthy, happy and perhaps a little sexy? Well...that's not really for me to decide. lol

Life for me is all about balance. This is what I need and desire and so will create!

We celebrate Easter, a time of hope and reassurance of greatness ahead. Like the butterfly who emerges out of the cocoon after a long winters nap so will I. Watch out world as this caterpillar is about to grow wings!

New Favorite Song

My new favorite performing group: CELTIC THUNDER I don't think there are any of their songs that I don't like. Actually it's been a long time since I've really felt drawn to a specific group. Go figure! Music touches me deeply and Celtic Thunder more so than any I've heard lately. Enjoy! Let me know what you think.

A Bird Without Wings Lyrics

Like a bird without wings
That longs to be flying
Like a motherless child
Left lonely and crying
Like a song without words
Like a world without music
I wouldn't know what to do
I'd be lost without you
Watching over me

full lyrics

more lyrics

Spring has sprung!

Time to get those lingering toxins from winter, bad eating habits, pollution and stress OUT of your body to

make room for more energy and vitality!

Sign up for the 6-Week Deep Tissue Detox before bikini season hits!

Bright and Early

Well, definitely early for me but bright? Well if you can call the whiteness of the snow as being bright. Enough already!! I'm done with winter, snow, heavy coats, boots etc. I feel really sorry for the poor robins. They've been singing but don't sound too cheery this morning.

On to my journey....

This winter has been tough. I've had no focus and definitely no self control. I read somewhere that it's not about discipline as much as it is about habits. Both can be broken. Mine are and desperately in need of a mechanic. I make a plan; tweak it til it fits then on to the next step. I purchase the appropriate food and make sure both Nick and I know what's on deck each day. I decide which days I'm off to the pool and which days I do some activity at home.

All looks good on paper, right? Well it is a good, no, a great plan. Then guess what? Nothing. Like most people my Monday starts off with a bang, all things going accordingly. Tuesday...less so and well, you know the rest of the story. All of which begins again the following Monday.

Getting frustrated and desperate here. I need additional motivation. (she cries out to the universe since of course the universe is awake this early in the day lol) Ok, so I can cut the drama but really friends something needs to happen. I need a wake-up call...literally!!!

Ideas, comments, help...please let me know your best thoughts on this.

Off to do what I do...

til again,
Doll

New from the Divas!

Here's the new program from the Raw Divas! I'm really excited about this. Check it out here: 6 Week Detox!

Quick fly by

Posting on the run here....

Still time to submit your enter for the "name my bike" contest!!

Going to make a decision by the end of this weekend. Ideas? Enter as often as you'd like. Prize? Not sure yet but it will be special!!!

hugs
Doll

Earth Hour

Earth Hour Facebook Group

Will you be joining the world and turning off your lights tonight???

Enjoy!

Because I needed a good laugh I thought I'd share this with you all. It's really worth the time to see it.

For all us "old" Star Wars fans! We need to save the ORGANICS! lol

enjoy!

follow this link...the video is on the right hand side part way down.

http://www.greenrewards.co.uk/GreenTV.aspx

Grocery Store Wars
This intergalactic parody is set "not long ago in a supermarket not so far away". Starring an all edible cast of Cuke Skywalker, Obi Wan Cannoli, and Chewbrocolli fight DarthTata and The Dark Side of the Farm for control of the supermarket

Day 7

....On my 30 day clutter reducing challenge.

Here's my thought for the day:

He who trims himself to suit everyone will soon whittle himself away.

(Raymond Hull)

Part of my de-cluttering, body detoxing etc is also linked to how I manage my time and relationships. Let's face it I can't do it all, have it all or be all things to all people. Right? I aim to please but have come to realize that I simply cannot, nor should I, aim to please everyone at all times. Talk about energy draining.

So in my focusing I'm adding what I do with my time and how I enjoy my friendships etc. Not always an easy task. Saying NO has never been my strong suit. I am learning.

Today I am going through my planner and trimming what I really cannot logically do or manage.

How about you? Are there areas in your life where learning to say no would be a blessing? If you've been able to do this in your life, please share how you arrived at that point. I'm still learning.

Sending warm sunshine and love,
Doll

Day 6

Well, if you check the date it's really day 7 but since I'm still up and having totally closed out day 6 yet then that's where I'll stay for now.

Today I took a couple of really nice sweaters out of my closet and put aside as they are no longer part of my wardrobe. Going through clothes is relatively easy for me. I tend not to buy much and if I don't wear it in a couple of years it's out the door. Part of that comes from moving around a lot and not wanting to pack and unpack and repack. I'm sure you get the drift.

Any how...not sure what my number of objects is as yet. Perhaps I'll count tomorrow. lol

My household detox is alive and well. A wee bit each day...that's all I need to do.

Well, the pillow is calling my name and I'm ready.

til again,
Doll

Day 5

As I've been moving through my house I realize that one of the things that I need to do is use the stuff I have! That meant moving my exercise bike out of the basement...way too dark and gloomy down there and put it in the major activity area of my home. Now really, how can anyone walk by something this big in the way, in the middle of the room and not get on it? At least that's my plan. If this monster of a piece of equipment doesn't get used these 30 days it too will find itself out the door!!! So, my plan is to come up with a name for it, other than Monster!

Ideas anyone?

Here's a contest for you: Name my exercise bike!

The winner will receive.....??? Gotta think about that for a wee bit but I'm sure I can come up with something fun.

For now...off to find something yummy for a late lunch.

til again,
Doll

Day 3

Day 3 of my spring challenge! Today I have a bag of bed linens put aside to give away. I've had them for 1.5 years and it's time they were used. Why do I need them taking up space in my closet when I don't need them?? Right? So, off they go!

This is going to be an interesting journey taking me through my home and my memories! I'll share as I go!

hugs
Doll

New challenge???

Ok, so the whole posting each day hasn't happened, yet!

So far:

1 mid sized crock pot
1 small computer desk

These two items are slated for a yard sale in May!

The only purchases were for a few items to hand out as gifts at my Green Smoothie Party tonight. So much fun. More about the event tomorrow.

For now I'm off to find my pillow and gear up my head for a great retreat day tomorrow with the Goulbourn Jubilee Singers!

hugs and love
Doll

New challenge

I face many challenges throughout the course of my week; my day and now have taken on something new.

I'm going to do a 30 day detox of my stuff! What this means for me:

1. each day for the next 30 days I'm going to recycle or free-cycle something in my house.

2. there will be no purchases other than necessities for the next 30 days

3. I will post each day as to how my day went.

Parts of this look really easy...at least on the surface. Let's see if by day 15 I still feel this way.

When Nick and I moved here from AK we had all our precious things in the back of the Mazda Pick up. In it was "everything we needed" and "nothing that we didn't". Simple? On the surface yes.

We have been very fortunate to have been able to furnish our rented home with gifts from many friends (both new and used). Now we have to face the fact that if we needed to move in a hurry that we have way too much STUFF to pack! Here's my thought: why wait until there is necessity before we clean out our clutter? There is no reason at all.

Perhaps with a clutter free home my mind will release some of it's own clutter.

Care to join me? Please leave a comment if you wish to jump on board. I think it's going to be a grand 30 day ride!!! I wonder just how many people we can have all taking on this challenge??

til again,
Doll

Do you believe it?!

Happy St. Pat's Day

I love spring. I can hardly believe how wonderful the weather is. Warmer temps and bright sunshine are making me feel light and springy! Can you believe that we made it through the long winter?? Reading the temps in Fairbanks today at -25F goodness that's cold. Another month and they'll be feeling springy too!!!

The robins are singing up a storm here and our friendly pileated woodpecker has been back and has carved some new holes into one of the trees on our front lawn. Heard the sound again this morning as he/she calls out!

Heading out the door here shortly. I'm on a mission to get some fresh potting soil to get my new batch of wheat grass growing.

I pulled some heads off the winter-over marigolds and some seeds off the morning glories on the pool fence. Going to check them in the next week or so and see if they'll sprout indoors. If so then I won't need to buy more seed this spring. The morning glories completely covered the fence where we planted them giving us great privacy so the plan is to continue with more of the fence this year. The front half will have beautiful morning glories and the back fence will have the pole beans that did so well there last year. Isn't it great to be planning the summer garden.

I'm anxiously waiting for the first of the dandelions to pop through the lawn. Crazy? Well maybe just a bit but fresh foraged greens like that in my salad or smoothie is wonderful!

Enjoyed my green smoothie this morning and will have a great salad here in a bit. Also, managed my walk this morning! That's 2 days in a row!! Go me!

Off to Canadian Tire to get my planting supplies!

Enjoy this great day. Lift a grew brew for me! Dance a jig or two!!

We're all Irish on a day like this!!

Til again!

Green Smoothie Blog

I've just posted here I'm one of the regular posters for one of my favorite drinks. Check it out!

Are you green this week?

hugs
Doll

Waiting for Spring!

I think it's here. Well, at least it's trying. We woke this morning to a loud call outside. Nick thought at first it was a flicker but when I looked there it was larger than life: a pileated woodpecker. We saw one around here last spring and I am thrilled to see it return. Not sure he stays around here. Long enough to put huge holes in the trees on the front lawn though.lol Not sure it's a male either since I haven't done the research to see what the difference is between them.

Did I have my camera ready or nearby? Not likely. Perhaps next time.

This picture was taken yesterday afternoon. That's ice in the pool and hopefully in another month it will all be gone. Can't push the season too fast that's for sure.

On the green journey: full jug of green smoothie today. Recipe:

3 bananas, 5 strawberries, 4 handfuls of baby spinach and 1 stalk of celery. This was brunch as I generally don't eat anything Sunday morning.

For Monday: another smoothie,
great big, huge salad
slaw
nice long walk

Going to enjoy the weather as it's shaping up to be a wonderful week!

Til again,
Doll

Getting better

Starting to feel more like myself! and boy do I like it so much better.

I'm heading out soon to do some teaching and some writing..(have a song to finish tonight).

Wishing all a great day/evening.

Sending blessings....

til again
Doll

Too busy to be sick!

I really dislike having the flu. I'm working at changing my attitude about it by accepting that my body needs to heal something and relax. No guilt. Just me, taking care of me.

There are times that no amount of positive thinking is going to make me feel better at this given moment. What will make me feel better is to release the guilt and let nature take it's course.

This is the second bad bug I've come down with this season. Not great but better than some years.

Ok...so I will relax, curl up with my knitting and just be. At least for another day or so.

Perhaps a nice fruity smoothie is on my horizon!?


hugs,
til again...when I know I will be all back to my lovable self!
Doll

Blog fun!

Or not! I've tried posting a few times with blogger coming up with errors. I am not defeated! lol So, will try again.

I worked on my life purpose and this is what I came up with:

My purpose in life is to let people know that they are loved and cared for as I help build them up through their experiences with me either through my teachings, songs or presence.

There are many areas of my life that take my focus...this is a good thing. I tend to do better when I'm not totally focused on one aspect. I need variety!

So whether I'm working on my business, teaching, music or food I am happy and ready to face the day!

til again,
Doll

Feeding my cravings!

I had this huge craving for a milk shake today. This is what I came up with: My strawberry smoothie supreme!!

I took:

4 ripe bananas
1 inch ring of fresh pineapple
5 strawberries

Blended this all up until it was thick and smooth.

Did it stop my current craving? You betcha!

I have my water bottle there to remind me that I'm not taking in enough H2O. In the back you can see the mini-tramp. Yes, it works much better when lying flat on the floor and when I actually get on it. Do I like it? Yep! Do I use it regularly? Not enough. lol

To keep me in shape today my objective is to eat raw and healthy as well as some sort of cardio activities. Guess I should choose this eh?

Have a remarkable day!

til again
Doll

Crystal Garden

Ain't we sweet!

Rogers is the sponsor for the Crystal Garden Ice Carving area for Ottawa's Winterlude. If you look closely you can see Nick's arm behind the large ice cell phone! Too cute.

We had a great time wondering around on the ice; enjoying beaver tails, hot chocolate and lots of tourists!

I am now home and slightly chilled.

It's Katie's birthday so tonight (my now, 23 year old daughter) we going out for Cajun food. (thanks to the Rotary Club's gift certificat that was won last night)

The party continues all weekend long!!

til later
Doll

Boy does time fly

The last week just flew by! Do you ever feel that way? Sometimes I find myself so busy that each day blurrs in with the next.

This weekend is filled with fun family time.

Katie and Diane (my 2 youngest) are right now on a bus heading here. We have a weekend full of activities. Trivia tonight;, Winterlude on the Canal on Saturday; spa time; winter fun time in Stittsville on Sunday; oh yes and ... it's Katie's Birthday on Saturday so yes, this raw gal is going to make a chocolate cake with white icing. For me...I'll make myself something yummy just for me.

Pictures to follow for sure...


Have a terrific weekend everyone!

Clarity

This song says it all for me today: Clarity

Today's rain is washing away all the cobwebs and messiness inside my head. A bright day awaits. I am clear and purposeful. I live my life ON PURPOSE!

Do you have plans for this great day? What is your purpose?

Watch out! The lady in the red hat is on her way!

Love to all
Doll

When things really don't matter.

Goethe advised us: “Things which matter most must never be at the mercy of things that matter least" This came across my desk today and really hit me right between the eyes! Boy did I ever need to hear this!!

So here's my thought: Why do I let things that don't matter, matter to me? There's something deep inside of my that likes to push this to the edge.

Here's what matters most:

1. Nick, my husband
2. Beth, Vickie, Katie and Diane (in order of age)
3. My church friends and family
4. The great work I have in and outside of my musical life
5. The music that's in me waiting to get out!

The rest? Of course there is much more that matters to me. Some things are quite serious ie world peace, global warming, feeding the starving. The book I would write listing all these important things will still bring me back to my own universe and how I affect change for me and those I love.

What doesn't matter:

1. how many years will my car last (or weeks lol)
2. do I really heat my veggies to 200 F or just 110F?
3. will I be heart broken if I don't get some fancy jewelry for the 14th????

Ok...silly things, but true. There is so much in my life that doesn't matter. For what's important see the beginning of this post.

For now signing this,

tired but happy
\Doll

Happy Sunday!

Nick decided that a picture was in order this morning after we arrived at church. So, here I am jaunting my red hat and coat!

The day is sunny, bright and warm...so you will find me outside in the fresh air.

Enjoy your day!! I leave you with this thought from Deepak Chopra:

"Human beings are made of body, mind and spirit. Of these, spirit is primary, for it connects us to the source of everything, the eternal field of consciousness."

I welcome your comments.

Button Holes??

OK, so it's not that I'm lazy and can't/won't write being that it's late Friday night and I really should be finding my bed; I've decided to share a post with you.

This odd, you might say even rare post, has absolutely nothing to do with "Doll's Journey" or anyone else's for that matter.

I does have to do with knitting and button holes.

But, enough of my stuff go HERE to read up on the Yarn Harlots thoughts on said button holes.

Do I have an opinion? Not really. Actually, I can't remember the last time I knit something that needed them and I really have no problem with which side the silly things are on. Even though I'm terribly right handed/right sided. That's for another post/another day.

Have a terrific weekend everyone!

hugs to all
me

One of my favorites!

Each week I plan to show case one of my favorite authors and their books.

Up first: Dr. Wayne Dyer. I first started reading Dr. Dyer back in the late 80's. I've enjoyed his perspective and ideas for a very long time. Currently I'm enjoying the following:



Change your Thoughts, Change Your Life! I haven't gotten very far as it seems my reading time is limited. Perhaps that could be a February resolution.

What do you think?

Have you read this? If so, do you have any comments? Let me know.

Here's to great reading!

hugs
Doll

What type are you?

"There are three types of people in this world: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who wonder what happened. We all have a choice. You can decide which type of person you want to be. I have always chosen to be in the first group." Mary Kay Ash

So here's the question: What type of person are you?

Guess my biggest hurdle is that I move from type to type. Some days I'm a take charge kind of gal. You know, the kind of person who is in control and gets things done. Then, there are days when the world just moves around me and I watch.

Today? Well, for this day I am in control. I've made the decision. I'm having a great day! I say this to myself throughout the day and do a quick check in.

Ok, I am in charge. Time to get myself moving here.

And, for those enjoying Bobbie Burns Celebrations this weekend...have a great time!

til again
Doll

--comments are welcome!

Fun stuff!!

Thanks to my dear friend Amanda we now have a nice logo for the church choir! By clicking on her name you can see of the other wonderful work she has done. Amanda is a creative and inspired designer. I am proud to know her!

This logo will be used on the choir's water bottles, travel mugs, t-shirts etc that can all be seen at Cafepress.

Let me know what you think.

"When circumstances throw us off course"

I found this from Care2.com and thought it worth sharing. The following is a direct quote.



"when circumstances throw us off course as they inevitably will, it’s time for the 4 A’s:

1. Assess the current situation.

2. Adjust what needs to be done.

3. “Admire yourself,” in the words of fitness guru Bob Greene, “for being strong enough to start again.”

4. Act quickly to implement your new course of action.

To my mind, the most important A’s are the last two. Admiring ourselves helps us stay positive and avoid a spiral into negative self-esteem, as in “Oh see, I’m not capable of doing this right. This mess-up proves it.” It turns a mishap into an esteem boost when we remind ourselves that it takes great courage and persistence to not give up."

This really spoke volume's to me today as I work at re-aligning my life both inside and out.

What are your thoughts?

Have a terrific day!

til again,

Doll

100 Mile Diet

Every once in a while I come across this web site and am reminded that everything I eat has an impact.

Obviously there are some food items that are impossible to grow close to home. I'm thinking specifically of tropical fruits. Bananas are a big staple in my raw food diet and they definitely do not grow in the Ottawa valley. I could eat apples from the valley but would soon tire of them.

My goal is to eat as much locally produced food items as I can. I most likely will never be 100% with in this radius but each mile I save means a slightly smaller foot print I leave on this earth.

Special Dinner and Celebration!

Bobbie Burns Dinner

This is an annual event sponsored by Stittsville United Church. I have the honor of playing some of the favorite Burns' songs for all to sing. Great food and entertainment. Let me know if you'd like more information or tickets!!

Happy Friday!

The votes are in and this is my response: I still don't like winter! I've tried the whole positive thinking thing. Telling myself I love winter; I enjoy winter etc but for me it just doesn't work. The snow looks beautiful until you have to go out side in the mess. Can you tell I'm waiting for spring and not too patiently! I might try skating on the canal but as I've gotten older I've been more inclined to do things that are not going to put my on my bottom especially in a public place! I used to skate and really love it. Not sure what's changed. Probably the lack of doing it. The first time back out doing anything is often difficult for me. I'm working on this. Moving forward. I'll keep you posted on this one.

I've not been on my program much this week and can't figure out why I got off track. I have the right food in the house. I have exercise videos, an exercise bike and a mini-tramp but NOTHING! And yes, that was me yelling at myself. I'm done being gentle about this. Bottom line is that I need to move my body. I know this and yet NOTHING! Most likely I can attribute this to a lack of motivation. I know this needs to come from inside of me; perhaps someone giving me a kick in the behind I'm so afraid of falling on!

Well, that's my song and dance for this morning. Quite the mood eh? Better watch out world, Doll is on a mission and NOTHING is gonna' stop this gal now!

Have a great one!
Til again,
Doll

*check the bottom of my blog for my current calendar

More fiber fun!

I took about 30 mins today to wash some Icelandic fleece that I bought from a local farmer last May. I have 5 fleeces that I have barely looked at, let alone washed from the spring and before the next shearing comes I'd like to get this processed.

True colour? Oatmeal with some grey and black mixed in. This is a long wool, not too oiling but some of it is pretty heavily laden with grasses etc. Washes up nicely and is spinning beautifully.

This batch will be my next pair of socks. Well, at least that my current plan.

I'm still searching for ways to market either the prepared fleece or spun yarn. I had done a good business on Ebay when I was in Alaska but the shipping costs here in Canada make it a non-starter for a wee business like this.

Shipped 3 or 4 oz skein of yarn could cost more than the bid on the item so it makes no sense. I'll need more market research before I make a decision for sure. In the meantime I have lots of wool to spin and lots of yarn to knit with.

No problem having a long, cold winter...I can just spend my time productively spinning and knitting.

Add in all my musical engagements and life with the Raw Divas and my circle is complete.

Good thing Nick enjoys all that I do. Sure is great to have a loving husband and family to support me.

(I'm so looking forward to seeing some of my family when they visit in February)

If you know of anyone who would enjoy some newly spun yarn just let me know. lol

Have a terrific day!

Til again,
Doll

My day off!

Monday's are my FUN days!


Today I choose to knit and spin. I haven't been consistent with my spinning. I do miss it. There's something wonderfully soothing for me as the fiber moves through my fingers and the wheel spins.



I spent sometime yesterday mending some hand knit socks. I just can't toss them when I've put so much work into them. After 2 or 3 mendings then they become dust rags.

What I really need to do today is finish spinning some wool for my next socks. They will be 2 ply with the base colour being a burgundy blend that I purchased at Upper Canada Village in '06 and I will ply this with some cream coloured mixed breed that I bought last summer.

This is my old standard wheel...the BABE. Yes it's plastic and I love how light it is and how easily it spins. I'd love a really nice wooden one but for functionality this is just fine!



For my journey today...good healthy food and a trip to the pool!

Enjoy your day!

Til again,
Doll

Chip the Wonderdog!

Chip, the wonder dog, doesn't really know who he is. At 2 1/5 yrs still thinks he's a lap puppy. Part Jack-Russel, Chuahua, and Lab. Hard to imagine eh? Definitely. He has the temperament of the Jack but his legs are too long for the terrier in him. Poor thing has been so cold going outside this past week. He goes out; does what needs doing; then back to sleep on the couch. Don't let anything hit the floor in the kitchen though. lol He's our buddy and loves to snuggle. Definitely a "family" pet and we're happy he's now part of ours.

On our quiet Sunday afternoon at home I've been watching an old movie, talking with family on the phone and working with my pictures. Nice and easy and relaxing.

Hope your day is going well!

Til again,
Doll

Now, for something entirely different

I'll do some shameless plugging for my dear husband's web site and blog...

At Denaliguide Summit Blog you will financial analysis and trend development. And, at his website Denaliguide Summit Direct you will find the beginnings of a a great source for timely information.

Currently Nick is working with individuals who like his guidance. Check out these links and ask the questions.

I know that you can learn from his experience and expertise.

He's looking after my retirement portfolio. I don't fully understand all that his work entails but totally respect the work he does.

Now, back to your regularly scheduled blogging....

Happy Sunday all!

Excitement Plus!

Just how much excitement can there be when the temperatures are -25C?? Well, pretty excited around here. What's the news? Ecopolitan Ottawa is up and running! The site is in the process of growing and being built but the start is there.


Ecopolitan Ottawa is exciting for me because this affords me the chance to share with my community and beyond all the resources that are available to us. These would include greener living, a raw food and/or vegetarian lifestyle, opportunities to meet others of like mind and to introduce many to new ideas. This to me is exciting! Any time we have a chance to learn and to grow we continue to develop as people and as a community.

I'm still learning, still looking to understand and as my journey continues, I will expand my circle of knowledge, friends and the very sense of who I am in the world.

Til again,
Doll

Happy Weekend!

Late Friday evening and I'm ready to close out the week. I could do that except for the fact that I teach on Saturday and work at church Sunday morning. All is good. My weekend officially starts late Sunday night. My official day off is Monday.

So, for today I wish all the 9-5 ers working Monday thru Friday, a very happy weekend. Enjoy your days. If you live any where the temperatures are dropping, stay warm. Find a nice blanket, good book and if it's part of your life someone wonderful to cuddle with. Nothing warms quite like your nearest and dearest...unless it's a full coated husky! lol

You've heard of a three dog night? That's the night that is so cold it takes three huskies to get the bed warm.

Enough silliness for now. I've had my smoothie; some dried veggie chips and will soon find my pillow.

Hugs to all.

Til again
Doll

January Groceries and Budgets

I was asked to blog on the subject of grocery shopping on a budget. You'll find the post at The Raw Divas Blog. When I put the post together I was thinking in a general way not specifically shopping for raw menus.

This week I'm doing a seven day detox which you can also find if you follow the Raw Divas link on my side bar. My eating habits throughout the holidays were, well, stellar! Well, up until this past weekend. I still find traveling difficult to manage food wise. I'm a pretty smart gal and know that I will figure all this out and sooner than later!

All areas of my life get reset to normal mode this week. I'm back with my students, choir rehearsals, and my own practice time. Actually structure is really good for me and I welcome it now!

For today: time to put Christmas away for another year. Mondays are my "house blessing" days so that's what I'll do. Make things all spanking new for the new week and the new year.

The snow is coming down in big, fluffy chunks right now. Perhaps a walk with the dog would be fun. I enjoy finding ways to enjoy the winter. Well, that's my affirmation for the day.

What's your affirmation today?