Kate and I went for a walk today. Of course, where we go our boys go too - so the four of us trekked out with strollers and back carriers in tow. We were headed for the library.

Any locals would appreciate that this is no small feat as Ottawa was hit with a decent snowfall over the past few days. I had Henry bundled in a onesie + sleeper + lined cord pants + fleece hoodie + socks on top of sleeper + winter boots + fleece ear flap hat + hood from hoodie + hood from snowsuit + down filled snowsuit. He was in his stroller covered by several blankets and I tucked his lambskin under him for coziness and warmth. He was toasty warm the whole way!

Kate and Matthew and Henry and I had a great time at the library, but decided we would never, ever, ever, ever, ever, (ever) attempt this again until the spring. We thought it would be a good workout, trudging through the snow, and it definitely worked us! It took us over an hour EACH WAY to get to the library (it normally takes us 20ish minutes). And during both of those entire hours I was pushing a rather large stroller and heavy baby through major snow drifts while Kate carried Matthew on her back attempting to move forward and remain upright. Did I mention it was up hill both ways? It really is. I'm not even lying.

Anyway - we arrived home safely. Our boys stayed warm and we have a few good books to peruse in the mean time. Reading is probably all we'll be able to do while our bodies recover.

The rest of the day went well. I made this healthy soup with some crunchy bread on the side. My son was particularly cute at the table this evening and then sat quietly over his papa's shoulder while he read to us from God's word.

Overall? A great day!

Happy 2nd Anniversary Sweetheart

Cory and I were married on August 5th, 2006. We had a simple but lovely ceremony in a stone small town church followed by an Old Tyme Country Square Dance and meal in a heritage building in the same small town. I will take time to recount my wedding sometime - as it was a wonderful celebration!


Because Monday was a Civic Holiday (at least in Ontario) Cory and I began our celebration a day early. Henry gave us our first Anniversary gift by sleeping in until 9am(!!). Around 10 o'clock we headed out the door for a delicious Breakfast at a Breakfast only restaurant called Cora's. Henry slept through most of breakfast - which was absolutely delicious. We really enjoyed our mounds of fresh and sweet fruit. . .mmmm. . .

From there we went to the Arboretum. We walked through the Arboretum to the Ottawa Canal, along the Canal, and back.

PHEW. Henry was especially tired from all the walking.

We were so thankful for a lovely day. The sun shone beautifully, there was a bit of a cool breeze - perfect!! In the Arboretum there is a very special Oak tree (arguably one of the most beautiful trees in Ottawa) under which Cory proposed to me nearly 3 years ago.

So Henry Cory and I played games, laughed, talked, and ate some snacks. We got some wonderful pictures of Henry.

He was in such a delightful mood. He enjoyed the day just as much, if not more, then us. Cory and I were reflecting on how much joy Henry has brought us. Children are such a gift.

God has been so good to us the past year. It is true what they say - your love really does grow stronger and deeper over time. If I feel this way at 2 years what will I feel at 10?? or 25?? or even 60???

Cory went off to work early this morning. My Mom arrived around 10 o'clock. We spent the day in a specialty sewing machine/wool shop. Afterwards we went for lunch and were shocked when we arrived back at the car and it was already 3:30 - where had the day gone??? My Mom left to pick up my Dad from work and begin the commute home.

Henry settled in for a long nap, which gave me just enough time to write out an Anniversary card to Cory and make him "Ginger Fried Beef" (recipe to come soon!) for Supper. We picnicked outside by candlelight, as well as flowers that Cory brought home for me today, for ambiance.

Recently we’ve been reading through the book of Mark for family worship after Supper. But today Cory ended our meal by reading John 15:1-27. John 15:12 was our wedding scripture and we find it really encouraging to go back to this portion of The Word and talk through it.

My command is this:

Love each other as I have loved you.
John 15:12

Us

My name is Vanessa. I was an ESL teacher. I was also a primary school teacher. I married my best friend August 5, 2006 and am now a delighted (see side-bar) stay at home mama to our delicious Henry. I'm a novice home keeper - but a keen learner. There are few things that make me feel as luxurious as a well organized and clean home - this doesn't always happen. I have a wonderful extended family, true friends, and a patient Lord.

This is my husband, Cory. He is a super hard worker. He is an accountant while studying in the evenings/weekends to earn his designation. He loves gardening and landscaping. He is my soccer superstar. He loves me selflessly and is the proudest papa around (I kinda think he is the best. . .can you tell??). Also, he would want me to tell you he is Dutch - just so that's clear.

And now the real star of the show. . .Henry. He was born April 1st of this year. He is a very content baby, except when he's not. He likes to breastfeed. He likes to hear the songs "You Are My Sunshine" and "Matchmaker" (from Fiddler on the Roof - my mom discovered that one) and falls asleep to Mozart. He also loves his baths (usually)! He developed his first cold on Sunday. He is doing okay, but Mama is trying to pretend she isn't experiencing "first-time-mom" anxiety over his runny nose.

I'm sure you will get to know each of us as I chronicle life in our cozy nest. Welcome!