A Year in Photo - Day 222

As we sit by our first fire of the winter season, tummies full and beverages in hand, I can't help but reflect on the last year. 2015 was filled with some high highs and some low lows, but surrounded by the people I love the most, I have made it through, happy and healthy; I'm following my dreams, learning so much and loving every minute. 2016 is going to bring some big changes and I can't wait to see where they take me.

Happy New Year to you and yours, may 2016 bring you health, happiness, love and peace.

 "Never be afraid to fall apart because it is an opportunity to rebuild yourself the way you wish you had been all along." -Rae Smith

A Year in Photo - Day 221

I managed to get up for a bit today to work on my I-Spy quilt, and I got the first batch sewn together. I'm really happy with the way the zig-zag stitch looks and how it's coming together. 

"It is up to you, to see the beauty of everyday things." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 220

After countless swaps and months of cutting and sewing, I have all of my individual hexagons done. 409 to be exact. I need about 364 to make the quilt the size I want, which will leave me with a few extras, or allow me to pull out some that I don't love. I can't wait to see the finished product!

"Asking a quilter to mend is like asking Picasso to paint your garage." -Unknown 

A Year in Photo - Day 219

What pots? Thank you snow for hiding them! Being able to look out at the beautiful snow while being sick inside has helped brighten my spirits. Now I want it to snow more!!

"We are like a snowflake, all different in our own beautiful way." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 218

I think I waited too long to bring my pots in...but I love the look of all the snow on them J

There is no need to be perfect to inspire others. Let others get inspired by how
you deal with your imperfections." -Ziad K. Abdelnour

A Year in Photo - Day 217

Is there really anything better than a hot cup of coffee and a World Junior Canada vs. USA game on Boxing Day morning? Not for me!

"Every loss, every win. Every season, every game. All the ups, all the goals, all the saves. Be proud to call yourself a fan." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 216

When Steve and I first got together, we started the tradition of exchanging ornaments at Christmas. This year he gave me this beautiful house that has a light inside that changes colour, and I got him this rustic wooden heart. I look forward to our quiet ornament exchange every year J©

P.S. Like our tree? This year we didn't have room to put up our tree because we have rearranged our living room to make me a sewing area. So instead, we used this 1 ft. tree we won in a Christmas gift exchange.

"Perhaps the most important thing we ever give each
other is our attention." -Rachel Naomi Remen

A Year in Photo - Day 215

I took Revere out to do some groundwork today and, well, we had an interesting start. The shortened version is his back leg can kick out really quickly, and quite far, when on a short lead line; luckily my head also had some quick reflexes today so no harm, no foul. In hindsight, I realized that I confused him, my fault.

We moved into the round pen to work out the kinks, and add some distance between my head and his hooves, and we did much better in there. We are still figuring each other out but I think by the end we were friends on again. Plus, I'm not above bribery....I think that helped too :)

"If your horse says 'no', you either asked the wrong
question, or asked the question wrong." -Pat Parelli

A Year in Photo - Day 214

For the first time in 3 years I don't have this sense of dread about Christmas. We had/have a lots of things planned including skating at the outdoor rink (well I would be watching my niece), the Caravan Farm Theatre, an elephant gift exchange...and so much more. 

And then BANG, sick, and I'm sidelined. Hrmph! So instead of partaking in the activities, I'm at home trying not to feel sorry for myself (I'm not doing a good job) while my family is celebrating. 

I'm trying to remember that it could be so much worse, I could be mentally unwell like I have been the past 3 years. SO, early to bed for me and I am determined to wake up feeling better so I can join in on the fun :)

"Rule your mind or it will rule you." -Buddha

A Year in Photo - Day 213

Sig, rocking his new bow-tie, made by my sis :)

"When all else fails...hug the dog." - Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 212

It doesn't feel like Christmas until we get our home made chocolates from Steve's Mom...mmm!!

"All you need is love, and chocolate." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 211

The whole family is home, time to celebrate! ©

"Family, like branches on a tree, we all grow in different directions
but our roots remain the same." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 210

The first significant snowfall of the season called for a new wreath. I wanted a real one but I couldn't find one, so I got one for inside instead, and I love it :)

"The future lies before you, like a field of fallen snow; be careful how you
tread it, for every step will show." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 209

Too old to make a snow angel? Says who?! Freshly fallen snow at the farm, hot from feeding the horses....I couldn't help myself :)

"Trust me, when I woke up today I had no plans to
be awesome, but shit happens." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 208

I few years ago I was involved in a local horse rescue. During my time volunteering at the rescue there was a horse there named Misty, who had endured horrible abuse and as a result, was VERY standoffish. She picked the people and I was not one of them, she would not let me near her; I couldn't get close to her no matter how hard I tried and how slowly I went.

A few days ago (when this photo was taken) I tagged along with Kristi to watch her trim. Little did I know that Kristi's good friend had adopted Misty, I was THRILLED to see her. And even happier to see how well she is doing. She is in an amazing forever home, with an owner her understands her limitations and is patient with her, but has boundaries. 

When Misty came out to get trimmed she not only let me approach her but she let me touch her head and face; I stood right beside her while she was being trimmed and even got a few selfies. Her eyes have changed; the fear and anger that was once there has now been replace with kindness and a calmness. Seeing a horse change so much with the right environment and care was so amazing, and boy does Misty deserve it!

"A horse's eyes have the power to speak a great language." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 207

I hung out with my buddy Revere, my friend's horse, this afternoon. She's gone to Mexico so he wanted to show her that it's cold here, and it's snowing, and he's not very happy about it. So much so that he had to wear a scarf, which he definitely was not happy about.

"May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears." -Nelson Mandela 

A Year in Photo - Day 206

Brainstormed with Ella (my Mom) today on a couple of projects. I'm excited to get sewing. And as you can see, somebody's getting a new stocking this year :)

"Continuous effort - not strength or intelligence - is key
to unlocking our potential." -Winston Churchill

A Year in Photo - Day 205

♫ Blinded by the light....…♫ 

With my Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) diagnosis, the cloudy, gloomy Kelowna winter upon us, and a few bad days this week....it's happy light time.

I don't particularly like sitting in front of it, and I'm not sure that it makes a big difference, but if helps my mood and my anxiety even a little bit, I'll take it.

"Perhaps strength doesn't reside in having never been broken...but in the courage required to grow strong in the broken places." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 204

I spent the afternoon reliving my childhood with these two girlies. We played Sorry and Monopoly, both of which I lost, and finished off the evening with some cartoons; that was the only part that wasn't part of my childhood, I was the weird kid who didn't like them.

I then went home and watched some wicked fights with Steven. A great day :)

"Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within
yourself, in your way of thinking." -Marcus Aurelius

A Year in Photo - Day 203

New pyjama pants are the best! I'm so lucky that I get at least one pair every year, custom made by my Mom :)

"No beauty shines brighter than that of a good heart." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 202

Oh beloved Wolverine quad, how we miss thee. While the ride on John Deere mower is a step up from the sled system I used earlier in the week to feed, and eventually does the trick, it's more of a Sunday stroll type ride and it just doesn't have the get up and go that you do white beauty. I appreciate your hard work and tenacity oh so much more now and hope for a speedy recovery. Until we meet again... <3

"A good laugh recharges your battery." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 201

I volunteered at Inn from the Cold tonight, after too long away, and I had a great time. Being there fuels my soul. The feeling I get when I can make someone feel like they matter, and someone cares, cannot be compared to anything, it's amazing.

Today was a hard day but as I sit here looking at our beautiful Christmas decorations, I'm reminded how lucky I am.

"Do not judge my story by the chapter you walked in on." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 200

Bad day, what did I do? Crawled up and laid down on an 800 lb. bale of hay, made a pillow out of the hay nets and kept warm by cuddling with my pal Rocky, the farm dog. 

Sometimes you just need to lay down and reflect on life.  

"When life gets blurry adjust your focus." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 199

So the quad is out of commission and I had 18 hay bags and 5 buckets of supplements to deliver via wheelbarrow. Well that just didn't sound like fun, so I got creative. 

I found a sled and I tied the haybags to it with twine. I put a lead rope around the sled to pull it and one around my waist, I connected the two with a carabeener. 

Aha! I pushed the wheelbarrow and pull the sled; now I could "carry" 6 bags and 2-3 buckets of supplements. Cut my trips, EASILY, in half. The people driving by probably thought I'd lost my marbles...but guess what? I DON'T CARE! :)

Quad - 0, Me - 1

"It's not the load that breaks your down. It's the way you carry it." -C.S. Lewis

A Year in Photo - Day 198

We had a blast last night at the farm Christmas party, with a house full of amazing people! One of the greatest feelings is feeling like you belong, like you are exactly where you are supposed to be, and that was confirmed for me last night.

Much love my new found friends. Here's to more laughs, more time with all you crazy, err, I mean your crazy horses and to more great memories!

"An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but will never break."
-An Ancient Chinese Belief

A Year in Photo - Day 197

I spent Saturday night hanging out with my friend's girls. We had so much fun making gingerbread villages, reading stories and having a jammie party. 

After the girls went to bed I had rotating cuddle time with Peaches the cat (pictured), Cuddles the cat and Marshall, a toy poodle. 

It's funny how things change. I hated babysitting when I was in my teens but I enjoy it now. A great way to spend a Saturday night :)

"Collect beautiful moments." -Unknown 

A Year in Photo - Day 196

'Tis the season for new beginnings.

Making a big life change is pretty scary. 

But, know what's even scarier? 

Regret. 

(Unknown)

A Year in Photo - Day 195

So if you didn't think I was crazy before, I'm going to confirm that for you. After finishing my chores I decided today was the day I was going to catch a chicken. As I mentioned yesterday, I'm afraid of picking up chickens/turkeys, but if I want to have chickens one day I need to be able to do catch one if needed. 

So I started in the barn, but I quickly realized how quick they are and how much space there was for them to get away. So I moved into coop, but Rocky (the dog) was standing at the door and preventing them from entering; there were only a couple in the coop and each time I missed they walked out. So I closed the door and the craziness ensued. 

Those little shits are quick! I dove for them, stalked them, tried to catch them as they came through the door, no luck. Finally I set my sights on one chicken whose legs were long, I figured I'd have a better chance of grabbing her. She hopped in to the nesting box and I swooped in and grabbed her by the legs. It doesn't hurt her and when they are upside down they calm down. I took a quick selfie and then ran to the end of the barn to call Kristi, who was in the house, but could see me from her window. Seeing my fear when we did the turkey's she was pretty stoked too.

I was laughing so hard, thinking of how crazy it must seem to people that my goal was to catch a chicken. And how happy I am that I did. But then the other side of me doesn't care, it's been a goal for me and I accomplished it today, as crazy as it seems!

"Life is short. If there was ever a moment to follow your passion and do something that matters to you, that moment is now." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 194

I have always wanted a Christmas cactus, but for whatever reason I've never bought one. So getting this as a gift from my good friend Annie made it so special! And the laughs we shared were priceless.

"The women whom I love and admire for their strength and grace did not get that way because shit worked out. They got that way because shit went wrong, and they handled it. They handled it in a thousand different ways on a thousand different days, but they handled it. Those women are my superheroes." -Elizabeth Gilbert

A Year in Photo - Day 193

After a tough day, what do you do? Spend the day at the farm learning how to humanely kill turkeys. The turkeys in this photo are still alive and went totally calm when held upside-down. When I first started spending time on the farm I didn't know if I would be okay with this but I truly am.

These animals have had a great life and are killed in the most humane was possible. When I told my Mom about it she was surprised I would be able to deal with it but for me, I see them as a food source and I know that everything is done to ensure the process is as painless and stress free as possible.

This photo makes me look like a madwoman, which, maybe I am, haha. But after a couple of photos I got goofy. AND, I've always had a fear of catching/holding chickens and turkeys. I can walk around them no problem but they make so much noise and flap their wings when they are picked up and it startles me. So holding this turkey, I didn't catch it, was a bit of a win for me.

Big thanks to Kristi for teaching me so much and being so patient with my countless questions!

"I learned that courage was not the absence of fear,
but the triumph over it." -Nelson Mandela

A Year in Photo - Day 192

I'm going along, life is going great, hanging outside with the horses Monday to Friday, working on the Pack the Purse project, and spending time with friends and family.....when BAM, anxiety hits me like a tonne of bricks. 

I had a great morning, woke up rested, talked to my Mom and then headed out to the farm. Then, everything that could go wrong while I was feeding did, nothing major just little things. By the time I was 3/4 of the way done my anxiety was so bad that I had to leave, without finishing. Fail. At least that's what I felt like, a failure. Here we go again, the cloudy winter is here and so is my winter slip into depression and anxiety. I felt crushed, like I was going to throw up and really desolate.

Thankfully I have an amazing support network, so instead I'm trying to think that this is just ONE bad day, tomorrow is a new day and it will be better.

And my faithful therapy dog Sig knew something was up too. He was glued to me all afternoon and even willingly shared the heating pad. 

"Never have I dealt with anything more difficult than my own soul, which sometimes helps me and sometimes opposes me." -Imam Al-Ghazali

A Year in Photo - Day 191

New boots....I'm in love <3

"I'm learning how to walk away from situations or people who threaten my peace of mind, self-respect, or self-worth." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 190

Cold, cloudy, winter days are best spent outside. Especially when you have a new toque :)

"A good life is when you assume nothing, do more, need less, smile often, dream big, laugh alot, and realize how blessed you are." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 189

I had a great busy day today, but I forgot my phone so I couldn't take any photos. So instead, a photo of the end of a great day :)

"Accept yourself as you are. Otherwise you will never see opportunity. You will not feel free to move toward it; you will feel you are not deserving." -Maxwell Maltz

A Year in Photo - Day 188

Albeit a bit chilly, it was a beautiful sunshiny day. I will take a cold sunny day over a mild overcast day every time. 

"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed
in overalls and looks like work." -Thomas Edison

A Year in Photo - Day 187

A couple of weeks ago I started a project with my friend Kerri called Pack the Purse Kelowna 2015. We are collecting gently used purses that will be filled and distributed to women who are homeless or who are in need. Neither one of us expected it to grow as much as it has. We set our initial goal at 50 purses, not expecting to reach that many, but we have blown past it.

The media coverage has been insane, Castanet, front page of the Daily Courier and Country 100.7. People from across Kelowna and beyond, have come together and we are overwhelmed with the outpouring of support. 

Today I went to 4 of our 12 drop-off locations and I was blown away; my car was stuffed to the brim. When I got home I unpacked the boxes and bags and this is what was revealed. This is on top of the hundreds of items we have already received. 

None of this would be possible without the support from our community. The people of Kelowna really come together when the call is put out to help those in need and I am so proud to be apart of it.

"Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can't help them,
at least don't hurt them." - Dalai Lama

A Year in Photo - Day 186

Today was a good day; I fed both am and pm so I don't have a super interesting photo but my horse peeps might enjoy this one.

As I was filling up the water trough's today I came across one with turds floating in it. It's shared between two pens, Gally is in one and Arcadia and Tiego (a mini horse) in the other. I thought to myself, who the hell poops in their own water? Well, process of elimination... Tiego's ass can't even reach the trough, Arcadia hasn't shown any weird pooping habits, but Gally, he may be the culprit. He has a habit of backing up into things and pooping on them, his shelter walls, the gate and now his water? Crazy horse! I have to admit it gave me a bit of a giggle.

"Laughing is, and always will be, the best form of therapy." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 185

I had the opportunity to be a hair model for a L'Oreal colour workshop at Loyal Hair Therapy today. I haven't had my hair coloured for almost a year and the blonde streaks looked terrible (photo on the left). I'm SUPER happy with the results, a bit darker with natural looking streaks through the back (photo on the right).

Big shout out to Heather, Jake and the entire team for a great day and for my beautiful new hair!

Make yourself a priority once in a while.
It's not selfish.
It's necessary.
-Karen A. Barquiran

A Year in Photo - Day 184

Yesterday I went to watch Kristi trim a horse. Her feet looked good from the top but she has had 3 abscesses in the same foot, which would be like getting 3 cavities, back to back, in the same tooth. As Kristi started to trim that hoof she exposed an abscess that went further up than any I have seen. Turns out she had a small rock embedded way up in her hoof. 

It's impossible to know which came first, the abscess or the rock, but it was very interesting to watch Kristi tackle the issue. It looks pretty severe but the aggressive trimming did not/will not hurt the horse. To prevent another abscess from forming, all of the old abscess needed to be exposed or it could grow over and form another abscess. 

"Do it for the people who want to see you fail." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 183

An amazing day! I had a joint lesson with my good friend Mandy, RIDING!! After falling off the first time I tried to get up, I go up in the saddle and had a blast.

To top the day off, Mandy and I went to see a couple of horses we know from a couple of years ago, she was taking photos for their owner. Truthfully, Angelo (one of the horses) is the first horse who stole my heart and seeing him today was incredible. The bond we shared back then was still there and he will forever have a piece of my heart.

"Let a horse whisper in your ear, breathe on your heart,
and you will never regret it." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 182

Finally got my winter tires put on. Normally I get them done early October to avoid the chaos and to be safe rather than sorry. This year, due to farm sitting and such, I just got them put on today and I've been sweating it the last couple of days. I won't be waiting next year, I'd rather know I'm covered!

Big shout out to Kal-Tire Kelowna on Hwy 97N. Amazing service as always. Their courtesy driver was home sick but they still took the time out and got one of their guys to drive me home, despite being smoking busy. These guys are the real deal!

"Most people have 'a-ha' moments. I have
'ah for fucks sake seriously?' moments." 'Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 181

Learning to share the heating pad, slowly. Next step is for me to actually get it on my sore muscles, not my chest. But the cuddle time was nice and it did warm me up :)

"Happiness is like a butterfly, the more you chase it, the more it will elude you, but if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder..." -Thoreau

A Year in Photo - Day 180

Walking on the wild side...well not walking, riding a quad down an extremely steep, muddy hill. This photo was taken from the top of the hill, the bottom is the winding grey road. The photo doesn't do it justice but knowing I can ride the quad up the "Jenny Craig Hill" and I don't have to walk up it with two full hay nets and two hungry horses desperately wanting to eat... success!

"A Leo is always very clear cut of what they want and have the
guts to go out there and get it." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 179

Tonight Sig practised his tricks. His new trick was "down" and tonight every time I pulled out a treat he immediately went down; he clearly has that one figured out. Tonight we moved on to "sit pretty" and so far so good. He is a very eager student and he was making me laugh so hard; he's so good for my soul.

"The road to my heart is paved with pawprints." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 178

I played with fabric today :)

"Life is like a camera, you focus on what's important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don't work out, take another shot." -Unknown

A Year in Photo - Day 177

Good friends, great fights and a few bevies. A successful evening :)

"When you laugh and love abundantly you live a beautiful life." -Unknown