Day 39: Grade A Alberta Beef!!

Nothing like coming home from a busy day at work, kick off the work cloths, pop open a cold one, and light up that BBQ!  Sauteed up some mushrooms and made some mash potatoes...so good!!!

Now, if only I could find someone that could fold the cloths I kicked off, clean the dishes that piled up, and give me a back massage...just because!!!

Day 38: Oh, Boy!!!

Who would think...that this little tool could cause so many troubles.  I didn't think so...Until Sunday!!!

Nope..I follow the rules that were taught to me...I make sure I walk carefully...pointing the scissors down.  No running, no playing around scissors.  

I guess the rule about not cutting my hair didn't make a big impact on me.  Once again, I went to trim my bangs...and well...trim I did!  I guess one isn't to scrunch up their forehead when cutting bangs.

How does the old saying going...it's only two weeks between a good and a bad hair cut!  Well, my hairdresser, this is to fixing this mess in another week!!!

Day 37: Go Light Your World

There is a candle in every soul
Some brightly burning, some dark and cold
There is a Spirit who brings a fire
Ignites a candle and makes His home

Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the helpless, confused and torn
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, go light your world
Take your candle, go light your world

Frustrated brother, see how he's tried to
Light his own candle some other way
See now your sister, she's been robbed and lied to
Still holds a candle without a flame

So Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the lonely, the tired and worn
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, go light your world
Take your candle, go light your world

We are a family whose hearts are blazing
So let's raise our candles and light up the sky
Praying to our Father, in the name of Jesus
Make us a beacon in darkest times

Carry your candle, run to the darkness
Seek out the helpless, deceived and poor
Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, go light your world
Take your candle, go light your world

run to the darkness
Seek out the hopeless, confused and torn

Hold out your candle for all to see it
Take your candle, go light your world
Take your candle, go light your world
Take your candle, go light your world

-Chris Rice-Go Light Your World

Day 36: My Grammy and her family:

Today's post is a little glimpse on my Grammy & Grandpa and her family.  This would be on my mom's side (in the picture...my mom is the youngest on in there!)  I never did get to meet my grandpa...but from the stories mom has told us, he seemed like a amazing guy.

My Grammy...our little prayer warrior.  God held a very strong place in her life and heart.  

Little things about Grammy...She always had a peppermint jar full of peppermints...and all the grandchildren knew where this was located!  She made the best squares...I can't remember the name of them, but they had a jam on top...no one makes them like Grammy did!  Grammy loved needle work!  And she never answered the phone between 2-3 in the afternoon...that was when her favorite soap was on...Another World.  On some Saturdays, we would spend the morning at Grammy's when mom put curlers in her hair for Sunday. 

Oh, and I learnt, never say yes to warm milk if Grammy asked.  I thought she meant chocolate milk...she didn't...she really meant warm milk...wasn't my favourite!! 

Day 35: My Grandparents

 Not sure if taking a picture of a picture counts....but today's post and tomorrows post will be that way!!

These are my grandparents on my dad's side...so my Dad's parents.  I grew up living close to them...only a mile away.  We spent many summer days biking to their house to bring them their newspaper.  That way we would get to visit with them and jump on their trampoline!

Lots of hours were spent around the pond close to their house...'hunting' with my cousin!  We never got anything...but it kept us busy for many, many hours!!

I also remember helping grandpa and dad out in the shop.  I am sure I wasn't much help but they always made me feel special...Like I was a big help.

Another memory is Grandpa coming over for coffee...him slowly driving over...whether it was morning coffee or right after school coffee.  There weren't many days we didn't see him!

Day 34: Moving??

My sister and brother-in-law are moving!  I have mixed emotions about this move.  I am happy for them because this has been a dream of theirs...but sad because they will no longer be in the same town as me.  I will now be the long ranger out here.

Today I was able to help my sister pack a few boxes and washing walls.  Even through we did a lot of work, we found time to laugh and giggle....moments I treasure!!

Day 33: My Favorite...

If, by any reason, you want to give me flowers...I lover Gerber Daisies!!  Red are my Favorite.

Psalm 100

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.

Know that the Lord is God.

It is He who made us, and we are His;

We are his people, the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving 

And His courts with praise;

give thanks to Him and praise His name.

For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;

his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Day 32: Music to my Ears!

I grew up with a piano in my house.  Albeit, I may not have been the best pupil when it came to piano lessons but I loved listening to my mom tickle those ivories!  What am I saying...I still enjoy listening to mom play the beautiful music she does on there.  

Here are some of my favorite memories from around the piano:

1.  This past Christmas, we as a family, had a amazing time of worship together...reading passages, devotionals and singing Christmas hymns around the piano.  (Don't tell anyone but I secretively recorded a song on my phone during that evening...and listen to it often)

2.  Bath time on Saturday night when I was younger....How does bath time have to do with the piano?  Mom would be practising for Sunday...There was nothing better then putting my head under water and listening to the piano being played that way.

3.  Mom playing Sunday Morning Suite for me...one of my all favorite songs to hear being played.  If I had my way, I would have mom play it every time I come home.

4.  All the various songs me and my siblings practised for special occasions with mom playing.

Day 31:  Unconditional Love!

This is KoKo and well, I love him to no end.  He is my parent's dog...but he brings many smiles to all our faces.  When he was a puppy I didn't think he would ever slow down.  But as he has grown out of that stage I can't help but love it every time he comes up to me for a pet...especially his ears!  

No matter what I have done, no matter what kind of day I have had, he loves me unconditionally.  To bad we couldn't all learn to be more like that.

Day 30: My Newest Bracelet

The newest piece of jewelry I have added to my collection.  I love it!  And I found it in the least likely place.

I was grabbing a gift card for my friends bridal shower.  What do you get someone our age that have been on their own...why not a gift card to Dunvegan Gardens.  That way they can get flowers for their yard!!  So off I went to Dunvegan Gardens (just outside GP) and decided I had a bit of time, I was going to take a look around.  That place has a few hidden treasures...and was one for me!

Day 29: Cold Beer & Wings

Who could blame me for heading out for a cool beer and wings after having re-living that WORST date EVER!!!  

My friends and I like to hit the odd wing night...and this night was no exception.  Who doesn't enjoy a tasty, cold beverage...Wings....and great friends to laugh with!!!  I would like to give a shoot out for Maddhatters here in Grande Prairie...they have amazing wings!!

So, if ever you are bored my friends and you feel like just having a night out, give me a call!

Day 28: Part 8/8...Worst date EVER!!!

After The Dude finished cleaning whatever type of mess he left in the bathroom we sat and visited some more.  Finally my brother made it.  I sat with them for a few moments then excused myself for bed.  Seeing it was a Sunday night and I had work the next day.  My brother and the Dude sat there for about 1/2hr longer and then headed to bed.

At this point I text my brother to see if he was with me on the whole no go with this guy...and he said 'yep, your fine!'

Morning came.  I got ready for work.  I could hear that the Dude was awake and getting ready as well. I woke my brother up to join us for breakfast because I wasn't going to do that on my own.  He wasn't to impressed having to wake up...but what he won't do for his older sister.

We sat down, had breakfast.  My brother kept looking at the clock and telling me I should get going or I would be late for work.  I headed outside and so did the Dude.  My hands in my pockets.  He says goodbye.  As I was jumping into my Rav, he told me he was going to text me later.  

He left about 20 min after me.  As he was leaving, he told my brother that he was sure he was going to see a lot more of them.  My brother (sometime not so subtle) tells him not to count on it and shuts the door.  

The Dude did text me that day a few times.  And that night, after putting on rubber gloves and cleaning the bathroom twice over, I worked on a very nice email to send him. A few days later he said that he wasn't surprised to see it.

My friends have all had a great time ribbing me about this date.  I have sold that house now, but every time two of my friends came out of the washroom...they won't just come out and join the group hanging out...nope...that would be to easy.  With gusto, the would wing the door open and proclaim, "Tasha, where's your cleaning supplies?  I made a huge mess in there!!!"  Thank you RV and LP for those memories!!!

Can you beat that worst date experience???

Day 27:  Part 7/8...Worst Date EVER!!!

After I finished wishing mom a happy birthday, I headed back upstairs.  He finished in the bathroom and headed downstairs to his room to change.  When he came back upstairs he looked around the room, trying to figure out where he should sit.  He finally decided on the other couch. (I told you those shopping bags would be handy later on!!)

We put the movie in.  As we watched the movie, I worked on Christmas cards.  In hindsight this is probably a strike against me.  I shouldn't have been that rude and won't do that again if I am ever to endure a situation like this again!!!

We watched the movie.  The movie ended.  We chatted about the movie.  Then all of a sudden this converstaion happens...brackets is what I was thinking...didn't actually say out loud.

The Dude:  I have something that I have to ask you?

Tasha : Okay (What could he possibly need to ask.  I was hoping to just email him a 'I don't think this is working' letter)

The Dude:  I am not sure how to say it.

Tasha:  I think you should just say it.  (Is he really thinking this is going well...He isn't going to ask me out is he??)

The Dude:  Ummm...I made a huge mess in your bathroom, where are your cleaning supplies?

Tasha:  Ummm...in the bathroom.  (Say What!!...now...this is Strike SIX...First...you are in a bathroom.  Look under the cupboard...more than likely there are cleaning supplies.  Second...you are already in the bathroom with water and toilet paper, do your best.  Third...you don't wait the whole movie to say something)

I told him where the rags were and the cleaning supplies.  

Finally, my brother comes to save me!!!

Day 26:  Part 6/8...Worst Date EVER!!!

I should mention, seeing he was from out of town he was going to stay at my house.  Before you start shaking your head know that I had my brother coming over to stay the night as well.

Do you remember me mentioning the shopping bags...this is when they come into play again!  We were heading to my place after renting 'Up'.  All I could think about is that I didn't want to have him sit right beside me on the couch.  I knew I could buy some time with him having to get his overnight bag from his truck.  As we parked and we got out he started towards the house.  I mentioned maybe he should get his stuff.  He thought that was a good idea.  I quickly unlocked the house door.  I knew my boots may take a bit to take off...so I tried to get them off fast....I wanted to get my shopping bags onto the middle cushion of the couch.  I knew, if I had to, I would go upstairs with my boots on to make sure!

Got my boots off and shopping bags onto the couch.  Then as he was coming in I said that I was going to give my mom a call for her birthday.  As I headed to my room to call mom he passed by me and said, "sounds good, I have to use your washroom, that spaghetti is shooting straight through me."  (Yes, this is another Strike....Strike FIVE!...One doesn't ever need that many details!!)

I went downstairs and phoned my mom!  I am sure I was pulling a face as I went down the stairs.  Told mom to get Cam to come over as soon as he was done hockey.  No waiting around!!

Tomorrow...movie time!

Day 25: Part 5/8...Worst Date EVER!!!

We finished at Bethlehem live and supper was next.  Off to Boston Pizza we went on the westside of town.  We decided to go on to the lounge side of things...I figured there would less of a chance to see someone I know on that side.  As well, I didn't want to sit and wait to be seated.

We sat down near a window.  He began his questioning...101 questions in 20 minutes.  I mainly looked outside and all I could think was how much longer could this night be.  Little did I know it was really only the beginning.  He ordered Spaghetti and I ordered Tropical Chicken Pizza.  I know this doesn't seem like an important point right now but it will be a vital point later.

We made it through dinner.  The Dude excused himself from the table to go use the washroom.  He was in there for a while....for quite awhile.  The waitress kept coming up to see if we had the payment for the bill...so out came my VISA.  (Strike FOUR....if your taking a girl out for the first time, pay!!  I went out with one guy and he won't allow me to pay saying that for our first night out that isn't how he would want to remember it, me pay!)

He finally emerged from the washroom, grabbed his jacket and we headed outside.  Once we were outside he mentioned something about the bill.  I just said it had been looked after.  His reply was, 'great'.  

We were thinking about a movie but with how things were going, I really didn't want to sit beside him in a theatre or pay for it.  I really didn't think he was reading my body language and realised that I wasn't really all that into him.  I suggested that we go rent a movie.  He agreed.  Off to the movie store we went.  We rented 'Up'.  I had seen this movie already before but I figured it was a safe movie with no awkward parts!

Day 24: Part 4/8...Worst Date EVER!!! 

We arrived at the Alliance Church.  Every year, the Alliance Church, puts on this Bethlehem live play. You become apart of a tribe.  You walk around outside and they have live actors throughout telling the story of the birthday of Jesus.  It is amazing!  

Again, I had said a little prayer that I won't see anyone that I would know.  We had to sit down and wait for our tribe to be called.  While we wait, they have different groups come up and lead us in singing Christmas songs.  Just as our tribe was called someone walked in I knew....whew....Close call!!

Off we go with our group.  Things were going okay.  We get to the part that has Tax Collectors.  They have always provided entertaining.  And once again, they had me laughing my butt off.  I was laughing and this is how the conversation went:

Tax Collector(TC):  If you don't stop laughing, I am going to make you my next wife.

Tasha:  Bhahahahaaha

TC: Just pay your taxes and be gone with you!(Tasha pays her taxes and walks over to the fire to warm up.  The Dude is right behind her paying his taxes)

The Dude:  I was going to tell that guy to back off!

Tasha:  Why?  That is how they are here...the provided a lot of entertainment.

The Dude:  Because, you are already half spoken for! (Strike THREE!...Again...first meeting boys, no need to start marking your territory yet.  Wait to see if she even says yes to a next date!)

Tasha:  *sputter, sputter* (deer in the head lights look and is now walking three steps ahead of The Dude).

We finished off there and the next plan was supper at Boston Pizza....that, you will have to wait for till tomorrow.

Day 23: Part 3/8...Worst Date EVER!!!

First stop was the mall.  Seeing it was close to Christmas we thought we would walk around and get some Christmas shopping done.  I did find a few items and later in the story, this would prove to be a very big blessing in disguise.  The whole time I was at the mall, I just kept praying that I wouldn't run into anyone I knew.  How do you explain this stranger.  And having someone ask you if they are a 'special friend' is always awkward beyond words!!

We then decided to go grab a cup of coffee at my favourite hang out spot...Esquires.  This is when the story start getting good...

Up to the counter we went....He had never been to a Esquires before so he was looking over the menu. I knew I wanted my Chai Tea Latte.  The lady working there asked me what I would want.  I placed my order.  I figured we would just go dutch on it.  I didn't want to assume that he was going to pay for it.  No sooner had I got my order place The Dude tacks his order on as well.  Okay...I wait a minute...he doesn't even go for his wallet  (Strike TWO!!...now boys, if you are trying to impress a girl pay for their coffee, especially on your first meeting! Or go dutch...but don't expect her to pay for yours as well...especially if she did't ask to meet!).  I paid for the coffees.  And we proceed to go take a seat and talk more.  Seeing we hardly knew each other, we seemed to have lots to talk about.

We finished our coffee and off to Alliance Church for a little "Bethlehem Live."

Day 22: Part 2/8 Worst Date EVER!!:

Dec 6th, 2009...a Sunday...also my mom's birthday!  This particular Sunday we had a special church service out at PRBI for the team that had gone to Rwanda.  I remember waking up and being a little nervous that morning.  My first real, purposeful date!  YIKES!!!

I picked my friend CB for church...off we went to Sexsmith.  Only a handful of my very close friends even know I was going to be meeting this guy.  Church was nice.  Then it was time to head home.  Getting ready for this guy to show up at about 2:00pm.  

From now on, the events of the day will be measured in 'Strikes'...

2:00 came and my doorbell rang...I took a deep breath...down to my door to answer it.  Open the door...and the greetings began.  I believe we shook hands.  Then he proceeded  to look me up and down not just once...but twice...and just gave me the big smile.  (Strike ONE!...you never look the person up and down with them knowing about it...you sneak it in!!!) 

He came inside.  We sat on the couches and just talked for about an hour.  Talked about his trip here.  He was from Drayton Valley so it was a little bit of a drive here.  We chatted about what we were all going to do.

Off we went....

Day 21 : Part 1/8 - Do you think you can beat this worst date???

I have decided that I am going to blog (with pictures) about my worst date ever!!  And I figure since it is valentines week, it couldn't be a better time to tell this story...I really do wish I could say it was a tale!

I would bet to say it is the worst date of ALL time.  I should actually get an award for enduring this type of date!!  It will come to you in 8 parts.  There will be moments that will leave you holding onto you seat.  And other moments that you will think to yourself I can't believe Tasha endured this!!  And like most of my friends you will laugh and think, 'happy it is her not me!'

Oh how to start.  We will just save this guys name so I will refer to him as 'The Dude'.

2009 brought a time of online dating for me.  This guy was the one of the first guys I actually ever gave my phone number to in regards to online dating.  He would text me every morning to say 'good morning' and every night to say 'sleep tight.'

One November night, he decided to give me a phone call.  It was only 20 min long.  At this point I didn't feel anything.  In all reality, I started to panic and wondered what I was embarking into.  But with slight pushing from friends and family, I gave him a chance.  A few days later, after bible study and coaxing from those ladies, I let him call me again.  That phone call went a bit better.  I do believe he was really nervous that first time we talked.  This call resulted into planning on meeting up with each other....Dec 6th, 2009...a day I will NEVER forget or live down!!!

Tomorrow...the fun comes!

Day 20:  Here's another one Dear Sister!

The other day my socks drove my sister crazy.  They had a few holes in them.  They were my favorite pair!  The one thing about me is to not really tell me that things bug you.  I kept them on then because I knew it drove her crazy...right until the group of ladies that were coming over came to the door.  I did end up taking them off and throwing them out.  Looks like I have another pair dear sister.

So next year, when you ask me what I would like for my birthday...you can add socks to the list!!

Day 19: Clicks!!

Today is more of a joke between my parents and I.  I can just imagine how many times they have clicked on here to see if I have posted a new picture.

Let me tell you a story...the other night, I was telling mom that I had over 1,000 views since I have started this blogging experience.  I explained to her it doesn't mean 1,000 different people have looked at it but that every time someone goes on the site it registers.  I then asked her how many times her and dad have been on to see if I have posted.  We had a good laugh.  

I would say that 60% of these views are probably my parents!  :)  But, do you know what, that makes me proud that they enjoy reading and seeing a glimpse into my daily life!   I can just imagine how many times they have clicked today as it is 11:30PM and I am just finishing this posting up...I was to busy swimming with some friends and the cutest 7month old I know!

***Love ya Mom and Dad!****

Day 18: Beautiful Winter Day!

We have had some nice weather these past couple of days.  So this morning was a little bit of a shock when it was so cold out and I didn't remember to warm up my vehicle....or didn't give myself enough time to warm up my vehicle.

However, this was soon forgotten when I got to see the following views on the way to work.  

Like I said, this Peace Country, is my Peace Country!  I love it here!!!

Day 17: What Girl doesn't like Flowers?

I am a girl that loves flowers.  Whether it is flowers from my parents,  my friends, a boy or just buying them myself...nothing looks better on the table then fresh flowers!

This past weekend I was giving a bouquet of tulips.  Beautiful tulips!  Tulips always remind me of one of my hopes and dreams.  I know what you are wondering, how?  One of my hopes and dreams is to someday go to Holland during the tulip season and take in that beauty.  The pictures would be amazing.  An added bonus would be learning more about my heritage.

Day 16:  Cure for Everything!

Peppermints...they always bring so many memories...lets walk down memory lane.

My grammy thought they could cure anything!  Today, as I wasn't feeling well, I couldn't help but think of her.  She had a little jar up in the one cupboard.  If we had to go there from school until mom or dad could pick us up because we weren't feeling well, grammy was sure that we had a peppermint or two while we waited.  

Then growing up in a CRC church...one always knew when it was time for the sermon.  You would hear movement.  Dad's going into the pocket to hand peppermints to their family in their bench.  Grandma's going to their purse and pulling out a bag filled with green peppermints.  Kings peppermints were always my favorite!

Day 15: Shrimp & Chicken...I Think So!!!

Sundays tend to be a little quieter kind of a day.  This Sunday, I was able to make this amazing meal...Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo.  (With enough helpings to freeze for lunches!!) With a nice glass of wine!  Now to only find that special someone to share this with!  In due time I suppose!

Day 14: Romans 8: 37-39

³⁷ No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. ³⁸ For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,^[k] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, ³⁹ neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Day 13:  New iPhone...Here's a picture!

The other day my friend text me to tell me he got a new iPhone.  Of course he had a few other things to say first but then he let me know he joined the 'cool' ranks as so many of us.  Today's picture has to do with a series of text messages between my friend and I.  

Friend: Got a iPhone now

Me:Cool.  You joined the cool ranks.  Huh?

Friend: Yep, broke my screen on my blackberry, so they asked me if I wanted to change and I said yes.

Me:  iPhones can do so much more!!!

Me:  Like on your BB this won't have been so cool...

Me:  (See Picture)

Friend:  Nice...That was something that I felt I was really missing!  :P

I warn you dear readers...I find out you have a new iPhone...BEWARE...a picture much like today's could be coming your way!!!!  (Note:  The original picture was in colour...I felt like I would spare you as readers with that....it was a little intense!!)

Day 12: SURPRISE!!!!

My day started out the same as any other...got up and off to work.  Work was work...busier than ever and I just awaited the weekend!  

My sister, mom and I had a ladies gathering planned for tonight at my house.  My mom and sister bought the food...I supplied the house and provided the games.

7:15 the doorbell rings and our first guests came to the door.  As they came to the door my mom and sister disappeared...and all of a sudden I had balloons and sparklers.  What a surprise!  Apparently I planned the games for my own surprise birthday party!! 

What a great night.  I got to catch up with some cousins, some friends, and my amazing mom and sister.  Spent many moments laughing.  Playing 'What Would You Do If...' which provided many laughs.  The point of the game is to write a question on a piece of paper.  Everyone switches up papers and answer someone elses question.  Then you go around the circle...one person reads their questions and the twist is the person on your right answers it with the answer they just wrote down.  My favourite question being asked by my sister...'What would you do if chocolate didn't exist?'...I was on her right...and the answer I had was 'maybe find a man!'  My original question that I had to answer was 'what would you do if there was no tv?'  It worked out perfect!!!

Thanks ladies for allowing me such a great night!!  What a perfect way to end a work week!!