Week 21 - Christmas Away From Home

Wow, in the blink of eye it seems like Christmas has been and gone.

The days leading up to Christmas were filled with ticking things off the 'to do' list, cleaning, going to the place I seem to visit the most here (the bank) and generally getting ourselves organized for the big day.

As Wednesday here was Christmas for everyone at home in New Zealand, I was so excited to Face time family and friends. We first had a good chin wag with the Franks. It was so good seeing their beautiful faces and catching up on all the news. It was a bit surreal watching them in their summer gear while we were in the middle of winter.

We then got to Face time my family. I was worried that I was going to turn into a blubbering mess, but I was quite composed. Sez (my sister) on the other hand was crying when the i pad was turned her way as she had just opened a present from me. Every year for the last goodness knows how many, we have gotten each other a box of scorched almonds for Christmas. I wasn't letting distance stand in my way, so I organized for Cindy (another sister) to buy a box, write a message on the tag and give it to her. We had Face timed at the right time as mum and dad were due to open their present from us kids. We decided to pool funds and buy them an i pad so they could face time us more. They were stoked about the gift. We left them to opening the rest of their pressies. My Christmas was complete as my heart was full from seeing my family.

Christmas Eve saw us making our way to our pastors house for some carols, socializing, prayer and snacks. The carols were the highlight for me as we decided to rug up (well, everyone bar Pete), and sing carols to the pastors neighbours. It was such a special thing to do, and one neighbour thanked us with tears in her eyes. 9:30 came around, and everyone except family was booted (nicely) out. We felt so special to be considered family as we were asked to stay. Daphne (our pastor) and Gina (one of the interns) had made us all pyjamas with our names embroidered on the bum. We all put them on to pose for several photos.

We then settled down to watch Maze Runner. Once that was done we packed up and headed home.

At 5:30 am, Pete decided to get up and check his phone. As it was Christmas, I was too excited to go back to sleep, so we lay in bed while Pete read us the Christmas story from the bible. We then headed out to unwrap presents. We felt so loved unwrapping gifts that had been sent from home.

Once the unwrapping had taken place, we went back to bed and slept for a couple of hours as we were due at the Clarks (our pastors) house again for Brunch at 10.

Bob, looking fine.

The aftermath.

Pete's new toy.

Brunch was fantastic. We dined on South African Cuisine which was so good. After our tummies were full and we had hung out for a bit, we made our way home to Face time Pete's parents and prepare food for a Christmas dinner we were attending.

Dinner was at friends (Val and Les) with a bunch of other people. We ate more (no surprise) and had a blast playing pool and hanging out with friends. Just as we were about to leave, we saw gorgeous snowflakes fall gracefully from the sky. Our Christmas wish had been granted. It was snowing.

Friday saw us braving the shops in search of Boxing Day sales. What we found was pretty dismal, so after a few hours, we made our way home to a quiet night in.

Saturday and Sunday were super boring days as I got sick (just a cold), so Pete spent time watching TV and relaxing, while I spent time in bed and on the couch.

And that sums up another week for us here in Canada. Christmas was magical, and despite not being with our real family, we still spent time with our adopted family which made Christmas all the more special for us.  

Week 20 - Work, Calgarian sites and 'A True Canadian'

I can't believe that Christmas is this close. Time seems to be flying by. When people said the year here would go quickly, they weren't kidding.

This week was slightly more eventful for me as I started work! Ahhh, to be back in the work force felt good. Monday I arose early with Pete and leisurely got myself ready for work. When I had dressed acceptably (sadly track pants were not going to cut it), and had applied make up (I had to look good for the kiddies) I walked to work. That's right ... walked. I have never had a job where I could walk to work. Once I arrived, I was introduced to the team (who were all lovely bar one) and got straight into it. My job title is an assistant. This means I clean (toys, tables etc), take kiddies to the washroom (toilet for us kiwis), play with the kids and help the teachers any way I can. As only my boss knew of my teaching background, I was asked by a colleague who had showed me the ropes if I was overwhelmed. I said nope. I revealed I was a teacher and she commented with a surprised look on her face that this would be a piece of cake then. It wasn't a piece of cake, but it was definitely easier than teaching. I worked 8:30 - 1:30 and then made my way home.

Tuesday was another work day except I started at 1:30 and worked til 4. The day went smoothly and I was asked to help out the next day for the kids Christmas performance. I gotta say, I love this part time business. That evening I had sewing. For this class I was finishing up a jacket I have been making for a while. I expected it to be a piece of cake, but it took a little longer than expected. Let's just say that buttons look great but the process of getting button holes and buttons on the jacket are slightly tricky.

Wednesday I walked to work (love, love, love that I can do this by the way) to arrive at 8:30. The concert started at 9, and I was not expecting it to be a difficult day. It wasn't as all I had to do was help the kids make a photo frame (with their parents help) and generally make myself known. I'm glad I was working though as I developed a huge respect for the teacher I assist. Her heart is so in the job and she loves the kids. It was so touching to see her thank the parents for sharing their kids with her. I left work at 12 and made my way home.

Thursday and Friday were days unlike others. Thursday night we went late night shopping to find a secret Santa gift. We selected a Disney Alice In Wonderland mug which was a favorite.

Friday night was a young adults event that involved eating, socializing and pressies. We played the secret Santa game where you selected a number and picked a pressie from under the tree. You un-wrapped it and then had the opportunity to steal anothers present if you weren't satisfied with your pick. I selected a candle and I was completely happy with that. Pete got a box full of kinder surprises. He was stoked too. The evening was a late one, but one we thoroughly enjoyed.

A snap shot of the Christmas from outside. The picture was one you would see on a movie.

Saturday dawned bright and sunny, so after spending time in bed doing a devotional together (something I love) we got ourselves ready to spend some time at the Heritage Park experiencing Christmas there. We arrived to a full car park. As the weather was bright, Pete donned his customary singlet and shorts. He received several comments. While waiting in line, we were asked if we wanted to go in as a 4 to get half price off our tickets. I think you can imagine our response. "Heck yes" was my response to be precise. The park was the same park we went to when we first arrived in Calgary. We went into a huge house to sit in front of an open fire and sing carols (magical) and entered shops selling wares from yester years. Pete picked up a wood plain which he was thrilled about. We then grabbed an apple cider and a coffee and sat basking in the beauty of the people and the park.

Pete in his 'Canadian attire.'

Awesome fires around seating outside.

Beautiful Edwardian house.

Snap shot of the river that surrounds the park. I think it was partly frozen.

I had the best seat. I think you can see my knee in this shot.

Pete and his plain. He was over the moon with this.

We arrived home to have a couple of hours to toy with before we had to embark on our trip to Pete's work party. John (Pete's boss) had given us the option of having a room for the night or $100 for a taxi. We opted for the room and I am so glad we did. John didn't talk the place up, but I was thoroughly impressed. The place was newly renovated and was so cool to stay at. We arrived to have a few drinks in Pete's colleagues (Shayden) room, then made our way downstairs to a buffet and a comedy show. It was one of the best Christmas parties I had been to. The food was awesome and the comedy show, though at times crass, was really funny. We then made our way to Shayden's room for more drinks, snacks and chit chat. We departed at 1am for our room.

A snap shot of us ready to head out. Pete scrubbed up really good.

The shower was massive and so something we are going to have in the place we build when we get back to NZ. Except ours will have a shower head at both ends.

The room with the bed un-made.

Sunday we slept in. We then decided to go to a diner that we had gone to when we first arrived in Calgary but had not been to since. The wait was on again, but the line moved quickly. We were not disappointed with the meal. After breakfast, we made our way to a couple of shops and then made our way home. As I wanted to pick up a pressie for Pete and visit my special place (the library), I headed out on my own while Pete watched DVDs he had picked up a local thrift store. I loved getting out and about by myself. After arriving home, we settled in for a quiet night in front of the box. I had picked up a Hallmark movie at the library (a Christmas one of course), so we were set for the night.

Me enjoying a hot choc.

My spunky monkey ready to devour his meal.

My first eggs benedict since arriving in Canada.

And that sums up another fun filled week here in Canada. It really feels like home now. Pete has been told 3 times now that he is a true Canadian as he does not dress for the conditions. He then opens his mouth and says "Yep, all the way from New Zealand." So I guess we are locals, well, up until the part where we open our mouths to speak.

Week 19 - How Many Times Can a Girl Say Uneventful?

I can't believe I am here yet again writing about another week in Canada. The time seems to be flying. Especially considering it's Christmas next week!

Our weekdays have been the same as normal. Pete working hard, me being a lady of leisure/ domestic goddess. Our evenings seem to be more interesting, so I'll focus on those... and the weekend of course.

Monday evening: A night in. This meant dinner, a movie (we alternate who chooses), conversation and bed. Thrilling stuff.

Tuesday: We decided to take advantage of Cheap Tuesday at the movies. Our selected Movie: Dumb and Dumber 2. I was a huge fan of the first one, so had to see the second. Again, I was the one laughing when others weren't, desperately trying to mask my laughter by jamming my hand over my mouth. There were a few jokes made in the movie that made fun of Canadians. Surprisingly, there were not that many chuckles at those jokes.

Wednesday: Same as Monday.

Thursday: An eventful thing happened during the day. We received forms to say we had 2 packages waiting for us at our local post office. I wandered on down in my winter boots as the footpaths were super slippery. When I handed the form over, I received 2 huge boxes from our parents. I stupidly took both packages and made my way very slowly home. Let's just say at the end of my epic journey, my arms felt like jelly and the couch looked mighty inviting.

That night our connect group came together to celebrate Christmas. We had to bring a dish from our country. So I proudly made a Pav (my first pav ever and it wasn't too bad) and brought my huge New Zealand flag. On a side note, we received this as part of a gift from my cousins Brad and Alise and it was such a great idea. Anyway, the evening was awesome. We ate loads, chatted and worshiped a bit to Christmas Carols.

The table set for our Christmas do.

My Pav!

Friday: There was a slight change in my day as I went for a job interview. It was at a Pre School not far from my house. It was part time and right up my alley. The interview went well, and I was told that as I was one of 3 people being interviewed, I would be rung that night or the next morning with the verdict. I happily went on my way, hoping and praying that the job would be mine.

Friday night we made our way to pick up Gina and Miriam (friends from church) to attend a Christmas Concert. There were 3 men (famous but we all were unsure of who they were exactly) who performed songs with an orchestra and a choir. It was a great night. I didn't receive a call, so I was beginning to doubt that the job would be mine.

Saturday, gosh, it seems so long ago. Ahhh that's right. Well, once awake, I spent time with God in our room while Pete went into the lounge to give me space. During my time with God, I received the call I had been waiting for. I was offered the job. Perfect timing too as with Christmas around the corner we have been a bit stretched for cash. The rest of the day was extremely uneventful as I was not feeling my best, so I stayed in bed reading and watching YouTube while Pete went out to do a little Christmas shopping. As I was still not feeling the best, we decided to give church a miss and have another night similar to Monday.

Sunday was a beautiful day, so we headed out to run errands. Jeez I remember writing that the weekends were more eventful. I guess not. After some time, Pete dropped me off to my new work so I could sign the contract and we then continued on with our errands.

I have found good coffee. A favorite of ours when we run errands.

You can really tell we have settled into real life here. With several social engagements scheduled next week, I hope the next blog will be more entertaining.

Week 18 - Favor with Chocolate

Do any of you feel that Christmas has snuck up on you this year? Completely out of the blue? I sure do. And that's saying something as I love Christmas and eagerly delve into the Christmas spirit.

This week has been warmer than last. Again the temperatures as increasing and the snow is melting. We still have snow all around, except on the roads, which is the way I like it.

Monday through to Thursday were days unlike any other. Pete heading off to work (usually yawning as he isn't sleeping that well) and me pottering around the house being the domestic goddess I am. (Cough cough) Tuesday evening I had sewing. I finally finished the jacket I had been working on. Well, sort of. I tried it on and it felt like it needed buttons. So next lesson, before I begin my next jacket, I am going to sew buttons on. Even though sewing is not that cost effective after you pay for lessons, patterns, fabric etc, it is still something I love. My teacher is a sewing teacher by profession, so loves talking to me about work. Well, more like complaining. And I love it! I know what it's like to be unhappy with decisions made at work and feeling like you can't voice your opinion. So she voices them to me.

Thursday evening we decided to ditch Moana (our GPS) and try to get to connect group using our own wits. However, we made a wrong turn. Needless to say, we were late. That didn't affect our evening though. We were greeted with Nicco and Peter (not my Pete) giving me a box of chocolates. They felt bad for trying to take my chocolates at the game we went to on Sunday night. What was ironic is that I had brought them both chocolates as I wanted to give them a little something as they won nothing at the game. We then chatted, prayed, worshiped and spent time with God. I have been getting more pictures lately. God gave me one where He entered the room and held out his hand. I took it and went to lead him away to something I wanted to show Him. He said no. Let's just hang out. I said but I want to show you something. He said, I know Deb. You often want to lead. How bout we do what I want. Let's just sit, have a cuppa and chat.

Sort of what I saw.

               
Friday arrived to me heading to that lovely place I visit each fortnight. Yep, you guessed it. The bank. I banked Pete's cheque, picked up eggnog at the local supermarket and headed home. As I got in the door, the picture I received on Thursday came to mind. So I sat at the table ready to hang out with God. I put on a worship clip on YouTube and felt God say, That's not spending time with me. So I asked if I should read the bible, do a devotion. He said again, I want you to just hang out with me. So I put the kettle on, made a cup of tea and sat. It was strange, so I then asked, Now what? He said talk to me. What has your day been like. So I did that. Just chatted. It was different to say the least, but oddly comforting as God is all about relationship. He just wanted to hang out with me.

Friday evening we had big plans. Note the word HAD. We went to pick up my Christmas pressie. This year as money is limited, we have decided to get each other something we know the other will want. So no surprises. My pressie is a camera. We picked it up and somehow on the way home got into an argument. Our big plans involved picking up a Christmas tree, decorating it and having a special meal. As you can guess, we weren't feeling very festive after our 'discussion'. So we came home. I cooled down in the room (some may call it sulked) and eventually we kissed and made up. As it was late by then, we had our special meal (which I had whipped up earlier) and watched a Christmas movie.

Saturday saw us embarking on the great Christmas tree selection. We decided to get a real one this year. The lady who offered to help us find the perfect tree (had to be a Canadian tree and not a pine) commented that Pete was a real Canadian (note he was wearing his customary shorts and T Shirt while we were stomping through the snow). He answered, Sure am... all the way from New Zealand. She was a bit shocked but commented that he had acclimatized really well. After much discussion, we made our selection ($50 later!), stuffed it (gently) in the boot and made our way home. When we arrived, we commented to our neighbor above us about the lights she was putting on her porch banister. She thanked us and then told us we weren't allowed Christmas trees in the apartment as we won't be covered insurance wise. We thanked her and quickly snuck Bob (we have dubbed him this so we won't get into further trouble if people hear us talking about our Christmas tree) inside. We then decorated him and put a few pressies that Pete's parents have sent over for us.

Couldn't resist taking a snap for Sez.

Shock horror people... Pete got a jacket for winter!

After relaxing around home for the rest of the day, we dolled ourselves up for our church Christmas Party. Pete wore a dress shirt and looked so good! The evening was so much fun. Pete even won a box of chocolates. That makes 4 boxes of chocolates this week between us. We opened them to share. After a huge meal, lots of items and great laughs, we left ready for bed.

Sunday we decided to head north a bit to an outlet mall to buy Pete a much needed accessory for this winter. A balaclava. He made his purchase (camo - much to my disgust) and then we did a bit of window shopping. After our shopping excursion, we made our way to Kurt's (a friend from church) birthday. We had missed part of it, but still made an appearance and gifted him with... chocolate. How could we not. As we were fading (shopping takes it out of you), we declined another invite with a group of friends and decided to go home for a quiet evening in, ready for another week.

Week 17 - Winter and its Joys

Well winter has well and truly settled in. I say this as snow covers everything in sight, the roads are slippery and the temperature has been in the negatives all week.

Our week has been the same old really. Monday - Wednesday were days unlike any other. Pete is still rising at the crack of dawn to get ready for work. I join him, but head back to bed once he leaves. I busy myself during the day. I am getting prepared to launch my business (Bumble Avenue) so I have been getting a logo made, been working on my other blog and been working on getting my Etsy store up and running. It is all really exciting stuff.

Wednesday night we had friends over for dinner (David and Claire). It was so nice hanging out. Pete did the cooking which was awesome for me as cooking is not my most favorite thing to do. We ate and introduced them to the game Phase 10.

Thursday was another day. We had connect group on that night. The night went really well as we watched a clip from Bill Johnson which was inspiring and thought provoking. We discussed it and then spent the rest of the night chatting. We again were prayed for which meant a lot to us. Peter (a friend from connect) spoke over us a scripture that mentioned flowers growing in the desert. I was thrilled to hear that as even though life here in Canada is amazing and exactly where God wants us to be, it is still hard at times.

Friday was a busy day for me. I rugged up and made my way to the local school where I helped out with a sewing day. There were 16 kids in total, so I was kept busy all day. I loved it and had a lot of fun. I then made my way home (walked). This took me twice as long as usual as it was much colder and the wind had picked up.

I arrived home with a couple of hours to play with and then was picked up by Daphne with Miriam and Gina in the car to head to a girls night out. The weather was terrible and people were being warned not to drive unless necessary. Daphne was unsure of going, but we didn't want to let Cydney (she was putting on the evening) down, so we soldiered on. However, a spanner was put in the works as at a set of lights a friendly local made us aware that a front tire was flat. So, with Daphne's husband in South Africa on a missions trip, who better to call than my knight in shining amour. Or maybe I should say my knight in a singlet. Yep, that's right Pete. So while we sat in the warm vehicle and consumed crackers, dip and apple pie, Pete tackled the negative temperatures and changed the tire. I felt bad for him as he was lying on the snow laden ground with nothing for protection other than a jersey and a beanie. He got his gloves out as he couldn't feel his fingers which froze on the way home.
After our adventure we decided to extend the evening by heading back to Daphne's house for more food and a Christmas movie.

Saturday came to us spending our morning running errands. We then made our way home to rest up before we made our way to church. We did make a stop along the way to London Drugs (ironically their slogan is Proud to be Canadian) to purchase some make up. One thing I love about Canada is the price of make up. To say it is overpriced in New Zealand is an understatement. We had to arrive early to church as I have been asked to help with Kids church. Those who know me know that this is not where I wanted to serve in church. However, after praying about it, I felt God say that this is where He wanted me in the church. Sheryl (the teacher and planner of the lessons) led me through the plan for the evening. As our church starts at 6pm and sometimes finishes at 9pm, there needs to be loads to keep these kids occupied. What I found was awesome and so refreshing. It was totally different to what I had experienced. There were so many activities and the kids were always doing things. Sheryl puts her all into creating lessons (taking up to 6 hours to plan one lesson) and I could tell. It was exactly how I plan lessons when I teach (well, not the 6 hour part).

My spunky monkey

Sunday came to us having all these plans and secretly knowing we wouldn't achieve half of them. We headed out to Fabric Land to buy fabric for me as I had sewing next week. Bringing Pete was maybe not the best choice as he encouraged me to buy really nice fabric. When I saw the price tag, I said heck no rather loudly. However, we discovered it was 50% off, so went for it. We then went home to relax for a bit before heading to our friends (Val and Les) house to watch the game (NFL I think). Calgary Stampeders were versing Hamilton Tigers. You can guess which team we were supporting. We had a blast. There were 11 of us in total. We all bet on what the scores would be at each quarter. I filled it out and then realized the points system, so begged to change my numbers. Lucky I did, as I won a box of chocolates at half time. Nicco and Peter (not my Pete) tried and succeeded on several occasions to steal my chocolates. I eventually switched on. Pete won us another box of chocolates as he had the closest guess at full time. How ironic. The kiwis who know nothing (well me for sure) about the game took out the prizes.

Pete with the prizes. He won the bog box and won the Ferrero Rochers.

Winter has hit us in full force as the roads are so icy. I am really tense in the drivers seat as you have to break so far in advance in case the brakes lock up and you go sliding into the back end of another car. Pete is becoming confident driving on the roads, calmly telling me he has no control of the car as we go sliding. He has become a different man as he previously would have panicked and likely blamed me.

Despite the weather and the treacherous roads, Canada is feeling more like home.