A Christmas Creed

I believe in Jesus Christ and in the beauty of the gospel begun in Bethlehem.

I believe in the one whose spirit glorified a little town; and whose spirit still brings music to persons all over the world, in towns both large and small.

I believe in the one for whom the crowded inn could find no room, and I confess that my heart still sometimes wants to exclude Christ from my life today.

I believe in the one who the rulers of the earth ignored and the proud could never understand; whose life was among common people, whose welcome came from persons of hungry hearts.

I believe in the one who proclaimed the love of God to be invincible:

I believe in the one whose cradle was a mother's arms, whose modest home in Nazareth had love for its only wealth, who looked at persons and made them see what God's love saw in them, who by love brought sinners back to purity, and lifted human weakness up to meet the strength of God.

I confess my ever-lasting need of God: The need of forgiveness for our selfishness and greed, the need of new life for empty souls, the need of love for hearts grown cold.

I believe in God who gives us the best of himself. I believe in Jesus, the son of the living God, born in Bethlehem this night, for me and for the world.

Walter Russell Bowie

Amy Claire

This post is a congratulatory one - my friend Kim (kimberlygladman.blogspot.com), gave birth to a beautiful little girl just over a month ago. I finally got to meet her on Saturday - and she's even cuter in person. Congratulations, Kim (and Jordan), she's wonderful.

Nuckleheads

This past Saturday night, Dave and I, along with our fantastic friends Brad and Samantha, went to the Canucks vs. Minnesota game at GM Place. It was wonderful to see the Funstons (they were visiting from Moose Jaw), and the Canucks ended up winning the game (barely). Afterwards, we met up with Jay, Kyle, Spence, and Michelle. We went to the new restaurant/lounge in Ironwood, 'Brown's Social House'- which, I should mention, exceeded our expectations greatly - and had a fabulous time 'quadruple-dating'. I love you guys!

Ah, the self-portrait - a must.

I miss you already DB !

My mysterious little sister...that I love!

The overwhelmingly wonderful Michella-wella

Exactly what we did!

Thankfest and more

The day was filled with warm scents, familiar sounds, and all the hustle and bustle that comes naturally with an impending brood of 21 for dinner. The street hockey game was on, turkey was cooked, wine was poured, and, of course, music was played. My absolute favourite events are those spent with family.

This holiday weekend was filled with absolutely wonderful things. Wonderful food, wonderful people, and wonderful weather. I am feeling extremely blessed and fortunate to have spent so many wonderful moments with those that I love. Here, in no particular order - as per usual - are my thoughts.

Weekend Highlights:

- giving Gatty and Brig 'welcome home' hugs - and then continuing to hug them all weekend.

- baking a new 'pumpkin-crisp' recipe. Thank-you to mennonitegirlscancook.blogspot.com

-watching Jim and Pam's wedding (The Office) with Dave, Jay, Kyle, Mom, Gat, Brig, Spence, Mich. Did someone change my name to Baskin Robbins?

-Hanging out with the Kroekers at the Giant's Game - and discovering similiar Office-obsessions.

-girlie-sleepover-spoonfest with Michella-wella.

-Breakfast with Auntie Ter and Uncle Guy

- STARBUCKS COFFEE on Saturday morning AND Saturday Night.

- Watching Michelle try and convince Spencer that a piece of starbucks merchandise is "cute" enough to buy (Also, the whipped cream incident, and Michelle's response).

- singing with Mom, Gat, and Auntie Tracey on Sunday morning

- getting a neck massage from my wonderful husband

- "Blitzing" with the other slaves. Well, Jalen was being an Elf I suppose.

-Watching Dave take down innocent children to score in Street Hockey.

- Playing Identity("I vas Oprah.") and losing to Mackenzie and Brighid.

- Trying to make the connection between the names Ferris and Peter.

- Singing 'Night Fell' with Jay Jay, Gat, and Momma.

-Drooling at the table because of Grandma's "Well did you ask 'Budget'?" Apple-give-a-way story.

The finished product of our chalkboard contest

Uncle Buggsy and I

part of Momma's Fall Display

Rockwell Family -but missing my Auntie Ter!

Dave is about to steal the puck from a child...

Just the ladies :)

I remember coming home for a visit in April - my Aunt and Uncle had surprised Jalen and flown me home for her shower - and feeling quite emotional at the thought of having to say goodbye again and leave to head back to Saskatchewan. Closing my eyes during one of our family "music-sing-a-long-fests" (for those of you who have been to some family gatherings, you know what I am referring to), I wanted to soak it all in and savor the things about home that I had been missing all year. Never would I have imagined that in 6 more months I would be moving back. There were several reasons that we decided to move back - number one, of course, being that we consider Vancouver our home, and had always planned on returning back here (one day). Another reason, and perhaps the deciding factor, was that Dave was going to be doing his schooling correspondence from Briercrest - and there was a flexible, well-paying, and closely located job here for him. So here we are. Although there are people in Moose Jaw that we miss (the Dyck's! the Funstons! the Wiebes! the Y Kids!) we feel strongly that this was the best decision for us. We are happy to be back in beautiful B.C. - and more than thankful for the love and support from all of our friends and family - the ones who we live near, and the ones we don't!

Son on the Water

My Auntie Terri sent me an email Today to share a favourite quote from a book she finished reading (Eat, Pray, Love). I thought I would share it. It's a beautiful illustration!

"I want God to play in my bloodstream the way sunlight amuses itself on water."

This quote began my thought-process about the play on words potential - SON on the water-Jesus on the water- His living demonstration of God's love for us, His creation.

Celebrate Celebrities (Acting Edition)

Now, I know what you are thinking - "A blog about Celebrities? How shallow." - and really, you're absolutely right. However, this is my blog, and I am allowed to post whatever I want....so there. I do have a celebrity-gossip-magazine-fetish. Let me be more specific- certain celebrities do intrigue me, and not to say that I emulate these people, rather, that I enjoy their talent.

Certain friends of mine have made joking references to this in the past, stating that I "know everything about every celebrity." This, of course, is not true....or possible (I've tried).
So, without further adue, here is my fave-list of actors/celebrities, in no particular order, and why.

1) Jennifer Anniston - because she is unique in her comedy, clothing, and beauty. She has a sweet vulnerability about her, yet is confident and quick to laugh at her own expense. Also, she was on FRIENDS- love that show (along with the rest of the general population). Watch this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mx5Wpqf4-OM&feature=related

2) Amy Poehler and Will Arnett - Potentially my favourite celebrity couple, because they are both so so so funny. They posess an enviable dry-wit, and I really enjoy their work (Will-arrested development, Amy-SNL, Baby Mama). Watch them interviewed together: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1MymGnoDko&feature=related
3) Reese Witherspoon - I have been told, on occasion, that I look similiar to her...which, is obviously a ridiculously-far-fetched call, but, I'll take it. She is extremely cute, and you get the impression that she is actually just a genuine, down-to-earth person, who acts for a living. She has never seemed to be caught up in the celebrity status. Also, she's dating Jake Gyllenhall. Wow.

4) Matthew Perry - I love his style of humour - dry, sarcastic, with a hint of slapstick....and once again, he was on FRIENDS. Also, he's Canadian.5) Rachel McAdams - 2 words - THE NOTEBOOK. Also, she is naturally stunning, Canadian, and unique. 6) Taylor Kitsch - Friday Night Lights - Funny, ridiculously handsome, canadian....need I say more? 7) Kristin Chenoweth - Wicked, Pushing Daisies, Glee - she is stunning, has a gorgeous voice, and a charming wit. Watch this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmj6Vdlteo88) The Entire Office Cast - I just absolutely love that show. The first in its class, fresh, witty, and completely awkward, it has revolutionized modern comedic television! Here are some favourite office moments: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EAyCXwqyJE&feature=related 9) Jim Carrey - Dumb and Dumber...The Truman Show...Ace Ventura...The man is hilarious. AND Canadian. So there you have it. I'm sure there are more....but Dinner awaits. I hope you enjoyed my guilty-indulgence.

A Saturday to Remember

My wonderful sister-in-law Olivia was baptized Yesterday afternoon in her parent's pool. It was a beautiful day, for both the weather and the celebratory reasons, with lots of family and friends there to witness Olivia's step of faith in Baptism. It was an 'Anglican' Baptism, basically meaning that the congregation gathered is far more involved than a regualr baptismal service, in that there are specific readings (Dave and Josh both read scripture) followed by congregational responses. The service was quite liturgical(which was somewhat unexpected in a backyard setting), but the beautiful prayers and presentation of scripture created a very poetic feel to the entire afternoon. It was a great reminder of our necessary participation (for our own behalf) in our faith and relationship with Christ. This is no spectator sport - but an ongoing process of renewal and reformation for our souls. It was a much needed wake-up call for me, the queen of lazy-spirituality.

Afterwards we had family photos for the Dyck side, and I then went on a photo-frenzy, snapping photos of Terry and Diane's new home and their new puppy, Lucy. Brighid was kind enough to bring her fantastic camera, and I, not currently owning a camera, was perhaps a little over-the-top in my photo-taking. That night we sat out on the deck with Dave's parents, enjoyed wine and "Cherry Garcia" Ben & Jerry's, and daydreamed about our future. All in all a great Saturday!

Congratulations Liv, we are proud of you!

Lucy the Wonder-Dog!

Auntie T

This is a special little note for my Auntie Terri - who I love very much!
Seeing as I love lists, I will make a top ten list of the reasons why she is oh-so-fabulous:

1) She is ridiculously TALENTED - she's practically a professional gift wrapper, interior designer, chef, hostess, photographer, and fitness queen.
2) She is generous to a fault (not that that would be a fault) and will do anything for the people she loves.
3) She always makes sure you are comfy and cozy while curled up and watching CSI or some other Thursday night TV indulgence.
4) She makes Rasberry Jam WITHOUT SEEDS. No, I'm not bluffing. It'll change your life.
5) Her hugs (including UG+AT sandwich hugs) make you feel simultaneously squished and completely loved all in one moment.
6) She always remembers the little details about my life that I share with her - no matter how seemingly insignificant - which lets me know that she cares about even the small things in my life!
7) She married one of my very favourite people EVER - the first person to make me laugh when I was a baby - my Uncle Guy!
8) She always smells pretty and fresh - which you appreciate more during the hugging.
9) Her organizational skills and anti-pack-rat mentality are inspiring!
10) the number one reason? SHE READS MY BLOG!!! haha... no, not the number one reason, but still a good one!

I love my Auntie Ter because she makes me feel SO special and adored - Just as she is by so many! Thanks for being a wonderful Auntie.
XOXOX
Whitters

If you care to know...

Random Survey Questions...

1. What time did you get up this morning?
7 am

2. How do you like your steak?
Medium

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
The Time Traveler's Wife

4. What is your favorite TV show?
oooh....Friday Night Lights. The Office. Friends. (3 way tie - for their own reasons!)

5. If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Tsawwassen! or Maui....but only if the family was there too.

6. What did you have for breakfast?
Cereal

7. What is your favorite cuisine?
oooh....Japanese.

8. What foods do you dislike?
Tobasco Sauce...(Sorry Michelle)

9. Favorite Place to Eat?
Rugby Club, Maguro Sushi, Sandbar

10. Favorite dressing?
Rasberry Vin, Honey Dijon

11.What kind of vehicle do you drive?
08 Golf

12. What are your favorite clothes?
I love dresses, dark jeans, scarves, and cardigans!

13. Where would you visit if you had the chance?
Cuba (always), Greece, Nova Scotia

14. Cup 1/2 empty or 1/2 full?
Try to see it as 1/2 full.

15. Where would you want to retire?
Maui

16. Favorite time of day?
Evening

17. Favorite Season?
Tough question....but Fall wins out. LOVE thanksgiving, the rich colours...and the start of my Christmas shopping/music listening....(November 1st - don't judge me)

18. What is your favorite sport to watch?
Hockey! By far! and then Baseball (Dave's obsession has worn off on me.)

19. Bird watcher?
That sounds really boring.

24. Do you have any pets?
Yes. 2 kitties that I absolutely love - Wrigley and Emilio.

25. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share?
Not anything just yet...but in the near future perhaps. No, I'm not pregnant.

26. What did you want to be when you were little?
Actress, Singer

27. What is your best childhood memory?
Hanging out on the farm with the Gustafson and Barnstable Cousins playing Run my Good Sheep Run, making up synchronized swimming routines with Jay in the pool, Softball Games at Brandrith...."Barbies" with Meggy....until we were teens....

28. Are you a cat or dog person?
Cat. Although certain Dogs have captured my heart. (Lexi, Lucy)

29. Are you married?
Happily.

30. Always wear your seat belt?
yesh.

31. Been in a car accident?
Yes. Rear ended as a teen and then a bad spin-off -the-highway-hit-a-post-get-whiplash one this past Winter. Scary.


33. Favorite Pizza Toppings?
Veggie/Greek/Chicken

34. Favorite Flower?
Hydrangea/Purple Lilac

35. Favorite Hobby?
Singing, Card-making, Baking

36. Favorite fast food restaurant?
Wendy's

37. How many times did you fail your driver's test?
Passed the L, failed the N twice!

38. From whom did you get your last email?
Bruce Gordon

39. Which store would you choose to max out your credit card?
Forever 21...William Sonoma...MAC

40. Do anything spontaneous lately?


41. Like your job?
Yes, though it is exhausting!

42. Broccoli?
Love the Greens!

43. What was your favorite vacation?
Maui in 2006 was awesome, snorkelling in Molekini......

44. Last person you went out to dinner with?
David. We went out for our anniversary :)

45. What are you listening to right now?
Dave is watching MTV Cribs.

46. What is your favorite color?
Purple, Green.

47. How many tattoos do you have?
none!


50. Coffee Drinker?
only coffee-flavoured drinks (lattes, frapps, etc.)

Three Other Names I have been called
1. Saiper
2. Whitty-Bear
3. Saip-Dyke (Thanks Meg)

Three jobs I have had in my life
1. Early Childhood Educator
2. Vocal/Musical Theatre Instructor for Kids
3. Hair Dresser

Three Places I have lived:
1. Tsawwassen, BC
2. calgary, AB
3. Moose Jaw, SK

Three TV shows that I watch:
1. Friday Night Lights
2. The Office
3. Friends

Three places I have been
1. Cuba
2. Maui
3. New York City

Three of my favorite foods
1. Sushi
2. Mushroom Caps
3. BBQ Ribs

Four things I am looking forward to
1. Moving Home to BC
2. Finishing School
3. Christmas in Mexico
4. Starting a Family
* some of these things will be a lot sooner than others I hope!

Three things that aggravate you
1. Close Talkers
2. Carpet Friction
3. Prairie Weather!

Three musicians/bands you could listen to forever
1. Augustana
2. James Taylor
3. David Gray

Three things you want to improve about yourself:
1. my character
2. my musicianship
3. my body (currently trying to get in better shape....killer!)

For Davey

To my best friend and true love....and fantastic Husband :)

Here are a list of reasons why I love you more today than our wedding day:

1) You laugh at all (well, almost all) of my lame jokes. Even when I'm laughing at them by myself, you will atleast laugh at me for that....
2) You always take the garbage out. I hate garbage.
3) You tell me I look beautiful even in times when most of the free world would rightfully disagree.
4) You have yet to kill me for our Life Insurance. Thanks.
5) You are a really good free-style rapper....and Journey singer/duet partner.
6) You look good in 'Coach Hines' short-shorts. Dang good.
7) You share in my Friends/Office/ Friday Night Lights obsession, and will even discuss the Bachelorette with me after even the most ridiculous of episodes.
8) You are never jealous when I want to spend time or talk with my girlfriends, and you always indulge me when I feel homesick for my family.
9) You never get upset when I wake you up in the middle of the night to make sure I make it down the dark hallway to the bathroom okay (it's perfectly normal for an adult woman to be afraid of the dark...)
10) You love me, even when I'm unloveable.

I married a genuine, soft-hearted, kind, capable, motivated, and handsome man of great character....and I couldn't be happier.

I love you Davey.

-Whitt

On our Honeymoon in Maui!

I love Lucy!

This is Olivia(my sister-in-law)'s new puppy Lucy! She is a maltese/Shitzu cross and her and Liv are staying here with us for a few days. We love her already!

Long Overdue...

Our summer so far has flown by!
It has been quite awhile, and I know that I am due for a substantial update. Dave is working at the YMCA as the Director of Youth and Children's programs, he is coordinating and running all of their summer camps. It is very busy but he is enjoying working with the kids. I am still at the Y as well, only at a separate child care facility. I have a group of eight 4-year-olds that are absolutely wonderful, they make me laugh every day. Craig (one of Dave's closest friends, and one of the groomsmen in our wedding - they played ball together in New Mexico, Craig is from Australia but has been playing baseball in the states up until last month) has moved here to live with us and it has been great to have him here. He begins his new job tomorrow as a salesman for Hyundai.

I am still struggling with homesickness quite a bit, I guess when you live away from the people you love most (minus Dave of course ;) you never really get used to it. I am praying that God would open up some doors for us to go back home hopefully by next summer. So we'll see.....

As of July 1,we moved into a wonderful place to live in Moose Jaw - finally no more commuting!
We have lots of space (4 bedrooms and a giant rec room/basement with a second bathroom - perfect for all of our future visitors!) and have really enjoyed being closer to everything and everyone here- makes life away a lot easier! I will post more pictures of the other rooms later, but for now here are some of the kitchen and main area.

Her Big Day - May 9th, 2009

My Sister - who is as sweet as she is gorgeous!

Jay Jay and Dad - a wonderful moment caught on film :)

Their beautiful cake (made by Margot) crowned with the cake-topper from my Grandparent's Wedding in August of 1958

Brig, Dave, Myself, Jay, Kyle, Gatty

A fabulous day of celebrating Kyle and Jalen - filled with wonderful people, delicious food, and gorgeous weather!