TO with the boys

and friends.

Our trip began with a train ride. It was a first time experience for all of the kids.

And after the initial excitement and awe...

everyone settled in for our long trip to TO.

Our arrival was another thing. Everyone had their own luggage with one momma duck

in front and one at end, making sure all those little ducklings were safe.

Bartering for Frogs

Josiah catches the FROGS.

Tyrel and Josiah listen to the reasoning of

Julianna and Jeremiah for said FROG.

Julianna wins "care privileges" of the FROG.

More FROGS that Josiah caught but were immediately released since they don't mix very well with SMORES around the campfire.

No bartering this time.

Great Fishin', Good Eatin'

The first morning out was quite a success! We had quite a feast that evening. Tyrel went for the first time with Uncle Jamie and Terry. He had wide eyes the whole time he was fishing. He may find fishing a little disappointing after this great fish biting experience.

Last year the boys got the 411 on how to gut and cut up a fresh fish. They did an amazing job with no bones in the meat at all.

That evening Terry cooked up the fish. Even though there was lots of food for supper, everyone wanted a taste, and then more, of that delicious fish.

Cottage Living

There is nothing like a week enjoying quiet time on the lake. Hearing the water hitting the shore, laying in the hammock, building sandcastles, tubing, fishing, reading, smores and all that good stuff. Once a year we head out with the whole Joustra clan and take a week to soak up the sun and spend some good "famiy time" together. This year was another huge success. I will share some of our highlights and my favourite photos in the days to come.

In the meantime enjoy this Charleston Lake sunset. It makes me think again, how amazing our God is!

Canada Day is Coming!

Yes I LOVE Canada Day!

I think it has something to do with the fact that my mom and dad immigrated to Canada when they were teens and I am first generation Canadian, Dutch-Canadian that is. I love my country and all that it is and has to offer our familly. We always take the time to make a BIG celebration out of Canada's Birthday.

So since I was needing a break from my lockers project, I decided to try a new project that help us celebrate Canada Day.

On the site knock-off wood they have a great piece done that is so very American but I got to thinking... How can I make one of these for myself? and of course it has to be with Canadian content. The size was alos a very large piece so I cut it down to 24"x24" , a little less than half.

Here is what it looked like once I assembled the pieces.

It will beautiful hanging on my porch for our party.