"Possibilities"

"Lots of people limit their possibilities by giving up easily. Never tell yourself  'this is too much for me. It's no use, I can't go on.' If you do you're licked, and by your own thinking too. Keep believing, and keep on keeping on."    Norman Vincent Peale



I've never heard these exact words before, but I've lived them! And for whatever reason, I think many of you have, too. We give up on ourselves, we give into doubt, we stop trying, we retreat in fear, we forget to chase our dreams. Why?

I don't know for sure, but I have a theory. We are emotional beings, and for that I am thankful. The feelings of love, joy, and peace are heaven sent, and I welcome the sense of warmth, happiness and safety that envelops me when these emotions take hold. They lift me up, and make me feel like I can accomplish anything. But then there are times when we experience doubt, uncertainty, and fear... emotions that can cloud our thinking, pick away at our self esteem, take away our confidence, and bring us to our knees. This is when we 'give up' too easily. Maybe we're too tired. Maybe we're stressed. Maybe we're alone. Our mind plays tricks on us, and we believe we hear a message to 'stop, give up, give in'.

Been there, done that... but refuse to wear the t-shirt!
When I've been at the lowest of lows, (and believe me, there've been a few) I have felt like giving up, giving in. It seemed easier to do. No more struggling, no more pain, no more fear. But here I am. I got through all that, and I know why. I have two things on my side that brought me back from those dark moments... okay, maybe three. I have a guardian angel, as I believe we all do. My angel knows that I still belong here on earth, with many good things yet to accomplish and experience. (I know I am blessed)  I have a family that loves me beyond measure. A love strong enough to rescue a tired body and bring it back to safety. (I am doubly blessed!)  And finally, I'm just plain stubborn. When push comes to shove, I guess I'm a pusher. It may have gotten me into trouble a time or two when I was a young tot (!), but it has also gotten me through tough times in recent years. Yes, I'm a pusher, pushing doubt and fear into the background where they belong, and letting life take center stage.

Now, I'm all about possibilities. The possibilities that each day holds. It could be something small like a smile from your child, a call from a friend, finding a quarter on the sidewalk, a thanks from a co-worker, or discovering a delicious new recipe. It could be something huge like making a new friend, going back to school, starting a new job, or moving to a new city.
As we arise each morning, the opportunities for possibilities are endless. We must believe that each day holds the potential for greatness, big or small. As my sister said to me today, "Let's walk with an open spirit and let possibilities enter our lives."
Sign me up!

2010 is drawing to a close and will soon be the year that was. A new year is on the cusp, a year with 365 days of possibilities. I plan on making 2011 a good year. In fact, I plan on making it a stellar year!  If we believe, and keep on keeping on, it can happen.

"HaPpY  NeW  YeAr  EvErYoNe !"

Keep on keeping on... bArB :) -now I know where this comes from... thank-you Mr. Peale!

"Actions Speak Louder than Words"

The other day, my daughter and I did something we've been doing for years as a family. We took a large donation of clothing to an inner city church, who's mission is to provide for the homeless and less fortunate among us. I never have to 'make' my children come with me for this errand. They both have good hearts. They are not afraid, or turned off, by the homeless. They are saddened, and wish for a solution.

When we arrived at the church, Heidi in tow, there were three women huddled together out front, shuffling their feet in an effort to stay warm. It was a bitterly cold day. Before I even had the vehicle turned off, my daughter was out the door, round to the back, and lifting out our bags of clothing. Then, bringing a smile to my face, she didn't rush off to the donation door... she went right up to the ladies and started chatting.
That's my girl!
Heidi and I joined in, and fifteen minutes passed in that cold wind. Only when Heidi started doing the "my paws are freezing dance', did we break up and go about our mission of delivering the clothes. When we got back into our warm, comfortable vehicle... I saw a look in my daughter's eyes, and without words, she was telling me she knows how fortunate she is. Priceless.

We have a favorite pizza place in the city, located on a very busy street, frequented by people from all walks of life. It is also a  popular site for panhandling. Many view this as a nuisance, and I get it. But I see it as a lost soul's act of total desperation, begging for help to survive the next day, the next hour, or even the next minute. I don't judge or shake my head. I don't blame them for how they got 'here'. I am just saddened.
So, whenever we stroll this avenue and stop at our pizza place, we buy a few extra slices and quietly pass them out. The smiles and 'thanks' are genuine, the last little bit of pride evident as they wait to eat until we are almost out of sight. My children know they've done something good that requires no praise in return.

As a parent, you try to instill so many things in your children's hearts and minds, as you raise them to become loving and responsible individuals. A few years ago, my son unknowingly showed me that whatever my husband and I were doing, was working. It was another very cold winter night, around -35 degrees, and I was at a rink watching him play hockey. In between one of the periods, I, along with most of the other parents, visited the canteen to get a warm drink. A rattling noise caught my attention, and I turned to see a homeless gentleman giving a shake to one of the vending machines, muttering under his breath. A rink attendant approached him, they spoke briefly, and then ... nothing. The gentleman had lost his change in the machine, the attendant was unable to retrieve it. In his layers and layers of threadbare clothes, the gentleman went and stood by the door, where I noticed his bike for the first time. It was adorned with a small backpack and an odd assortment of knick-knacks. He just stood there, staring out into the freezing night. Garnering only glances of disgust from the other parents, I was spellbound. So over I went, with a few looks of utter disbelief from the parental crowd, introduced myself, and offered to buy this man a hot drink and something to eat. It turned out to be one of the most moving things I ever did. He graciously accepted a cup of tea and a hotdog. While I stood in line to order, he made a trip back to his backpack. He picked the farthest away table so as not to 'disturb' the others, he told me when I sat down next to him. Before I could even put his drink in front of him, he offered up a tattered, well worn, soft covered book, swollen twice it's size from dampness, and said, "I can't repay you, so I'd be honored if you took my book." It was a copy of War and Peace, and he had carried it with him for years. With tears welling in my eyes, I said I couldn't possibly take something so treasured, that just his generous thought was more than enough thanks. We chatted for a few minutes, he finished his wee meal, and our encounter drew to a close. He asked me which number my son was, saying he would watch through the glass and cheer for his team. I had just been blessed with twenty minutes of a most amazing experience.

When the game was over, and I headed out into the 'abyss of frigid night' to start our vehicle, I did not see my gentleman, but his bike was still propped up against the wall.
As I sat in the truck, waiting to see my son standing in the door, I bowed my head and said a silent prayer for 'Mr. War and Peace". When I looked up again, I saw my boy standing just inside the entrance to the arena. He was talking to someone. I thought probably a team mate or his coach. I drove around to pick him up. After unloading his gear in the back, he hopped in front with me and said, "I just had the coolest conversation with an old dude. Really neat. He said to 'say hello, and thanks again' to my Mom. What's up with that?" Out of all the players leaving the rink that night, my son took the time to stop and talk with the homeless gentleman. And my gentleman quickly figured out which tree this apple had fallen from. The cold night no longer bothered me, for my heart was warmed by my son's selfless act of kindness.

Actions do speak louder than words. We can not just 'say', we must also 'do'.
My husband and I have probably made tons of mistakes as parents. But we keep on, and when we least expect it, our children show us, by their actions, that the good is getting through, and the not-so-good is forgiven. They have shown us time and again what good people they are, and that the little things we do make a hugh difference for someone in need.

A long entry today, but such an important one. I can't imagine being homeless. The fear and loneliness. The hunger and pain. The sadness and sorrow. It is a problem much bigger than one person can handle. But one person can make a difference. A kind word, a cup of coffee, a donation of warm clothing, a cheque to a food bank, giving blankets to a shelter, or volunteering at a soup kitchen. Simple. Joyful. Wonderful.

Thank you to my children, for inspiring my story telling today.
Thank you to the three ladies, and Leo Tolstoy's devoted fan (my dear homeless friend), for inspiring my children.
If you are moved by my stories, please keep them in your heart, and let them move you to action.




Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

" Give me an F-A-M-I-L-Y ! Yeahhhh Family ! "

Family- a social unit consisting of parents and children, whether or not dwelling together in the same home.


When you look up 'family' in the dictionary, you can find any number of definitions. Some are way outdated (I found one that mentioned servants!), some are too wordy, others are very basic.
In the end, a definition is just words. I like to view the word family  'a la Grinch-style' ... "maybe family, I think, means a little bit more. Maybe family, I know, means a whole bunch more!"

And 'why' you might ask, would I consider myself versed enough to pontificate upon such a pillar in the world of words? Well, I have 49 years experience of being an active member of my family, 23 years experience being married into my hubby's family, 22 years hands on experience raising my own family, several years experience of being an 'honorary member' of other families, and finally, I have a special group of friends who have become 'family'.  So, with this kaleidiscope of 'family experience' to my credit, I will take literary license and muse upon this extraordinary word.

When you hear the word 'family', many images may spring forth in your mind. The stars, and the moons, and all the signs of the zodiac, must have been in alignment the night I was born, for I was given to a loving, caring family, and I have nothing but wonderful images whenever I think of them. From my earliest memories as a little girl, to when I was out on my own and going home to see family was a 'special event', to those fun and exciting days of being a young mom, to my most recent "surprise' visit home, when I think of family my heart smiles, and a warmth washes over me, as I picture the faces and hear the voices of those I love.

Now, before you think "Gee, this nut sounds like she and her family are right out of a Fairy Tale"... we weren't the 'perfect' family. No family ever is. We all come with 'warts and boils', we all have bad things happen to us, we all have disagreements, we all make mistakes. We are all human. But this is where one of the 'not found in the dictionary' meanings of the word 'family' comes in to play. Family accepts you, warts and all! They come to your side when bad things happen. They will forgive after an arguement. They will admit their mistakes and try to learn from them. (But I'll never admit that it was a mistake to wear my fuzzy pink socks, with my red velvet Christmas dress, standing in the front row, at my grade one school concert!)  It's that 'love and caring' thing. It binds us together through good times and bad, through thick and thin.  It's the 'emotion' of family that no book can define. When you live it, you know it.

Families today are so much more than the tradtional meaning of the word that often comes to mind. (Remember, a definition is just words!) There are adoptive families, divorced families, blended families, single parent families, granparents as parents families, same gender families, and separated by conflict families. All families need to be celebrated. It should never matter if one is different than another. For in reality, and it's really very simple, we are all the same. For family is love. Family is loyalty, tolerance, patience, forgiveness and respect. Family is a place. A place where you feel safe. Where you can grow and flourish, where you can start to spread your wings. It's a place you can leave, and be welcomed with open arms when you return. Family is home. Where you're rooted, and from where you blossom forth. The best gift we have been given, and that which we can give, is 'family'.


My children have been blessed to grow up in a home with both parents, to know the joy of having Grandparents, to have treasured times with Aunts and Uncles, to have cousins to keep in touch with. (They also have honorary grandma's and grampa's, aunts and uncles... all holding a special place in their hearts, too). Their lives have been enriched, and their souls have been nourished, by each and every one. As they reach young adulthood, my wish for them is that they venture into the world with a strong sense of family, knowing they are loved by many, cheering them on as they follow their hopes and dreams, and that they bring love, loyalty, tolerance, and respect, into all of their relationships, new and old. 

I am sitting here, pretty choked up as I write these words for you. My family is everything to me, and I am missing the ones back home... particularily at this most special time of the year. But my hubby and kidlets, good family friends, and next door neighbours, will help me celebrate this holiday season, and I am so thankful for them.

As I close for today, I propose this toast. (So grab a glass of eggnog, raise your hand, and say with me) ... "To family and friends, and friends who are family!"

Wishing you all peace and joy this Christmas, and the blessing of health and happiness this coming New Year.

                           " Merry Christmas Everyone! "


Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"Live Love Laugh"

            

Live well.
Love much.
Laugh often.
Six little words that pack a big punch! But what do they really mean?

Here's my take on these wonderful and insightful words...

Live well.
For most of my life, it has been an uphill battle to live in a state of 'wellness'. Unfortunately, chronic and critical illnesses have been my 'companions' for years, taking me on the roller coaster of crisis too many times. The personal and family toll has been huge. At times, it has been a struggle just to live. There have even been times when I've been afraid to 'face another day'. Then I remember those I love, and who love me back, and my mind says 'live'.  So I've decided I'm not just going to live, I'm going to 'live well'.  I will greet each day with a smile, for each day is a gift.  I will look for the positive and say 'no thanks' to the negative. I will grab at opportunity whenever it presents itself, and make the most of the experience. I will no longer be afraid of the 'what ifs', instead embracing the 'whatevers'. I will live for the moment, and make that moment count. I will say my prayers and count my blessings. I will 'live well'.


Love much.
We are human beings, with a beating heart, and we were made to love.
Love the Lord, who gave us life... do it quietly, or shout it from the mountain tops.
Love your self. Be good and kind to 'you', so you can flourish, and accomplish all that life has planned for you.
Love your family. They are an extension of you, and share in your hopes and dreams.They love you unconditionally. They are your personal cheerleaders in life.
Love your friends. The special people who are there whenever you need them, to share a laugh with, who offer a shoulder to lean on,  tell you the truth when you need to hear it, or don't when you don't. 
Love what you do. Whether working or playing, put passion into whatever you do, and you will find joy and satisfaction in return.
Love your community. This is where you live, where you work, where you raise your family, where you gather with friends. Treat it with kindness and respect.  Smile at your neighbours, drive courteously when out and about, thank a sales clerk for their service, support local charities. You get what you give.
Love the world. There are so many problems in our world today. War, famine, violence, disasters, greed and hatred. So many things not to love. But if we could all live each day with love, understanding, and tolerance in our hearts, what a better world it would be. It seems like a daunting task, but one very worthy of taking on.


Laugh often.
Where would I be without laughter? In a very sad place, to be sure.
As the famous saying goes... 'it is the best medicine!"
We laugh a lot in my family. It's one of the things I love the most about us!
Somehow, laughter just ensues whenever we are together. From the sublime, to the outright ridiculous. At times when laughter seems fitting, and at times when it doesn't. (Those times are the best and the worst all in one. We know we shouldn't be laughing, and that makes us laugh harder. Oy! But none of us have ulcers!) It doesn't matter if it's over a good joke, a hilarious story, a particularily funny situation, or just life in general. Laugh loud and laugh hard. It does a body good!

So there you have it.
My musings on six little words.
As this year comes to an end, and a new one is about to begin, I say to you:
Live well. Love much. Laugh often.



Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"Welcome Christmas, Christmas Day"

  "Welcome Christmas Day" (By Dr. Seuss)



The Who's of Whoville (Big and small)

 Fah who for-aze
 Fah who dor-aze
 Welcome Christmas
 Bring your light

Welcome Christmas
Fah who rah-moose
Welcome Christmas
Dah who dah-moose
Welcome Christmas
While we stand
Heart to heart
And hand in hand.

"How the Grinch Stole Christmas",  my all time favorite Christmas special.
For as long as I can remember, I have watched the Grinch, and Cindy-Lou Who (who is no more than two!), and all the Who's of Whoville, as they celebrate Christmas... and my heart grows "3 sizes" every time!

From the imaginative imagination of Dr. Seuss, comes a story worthy of telling each holiday season for it brings a wonderful message... "Maybe Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more."

Christmas does mean  'a little bit more'.
I've been thinking of all the things that Christmas means to me, and I've come up with a recipe that simply shows what I feel Christmas to be. (You all know how I love to cook!)  Feel free to add your own 'special ingredients', when making up a 'batch' for you and yours! Here it is...

"Just A Cup Of ": (from BaRb's kitchen)

INGREDIENTS:
 1 C peace 
 1 C love
 1 C joy
 1 C hope
 1 C faith
 1 C family
 1 C memories 
 1 C friends and neighbours

DIRECTIONS:
 Gather all ingredients together.
 Blend.
 Hold in your heart throughout the Christmas season.
 Makes enough to share with everyone.

(P.S. Can be made throughout the year, for the spirit of Christmas should forever glow within our hearts.)

        ************************************************************************

Wishing you joy this Christmas season.
May your time with family, and friends, be merry and memorable.
Keep love and hope in your heart.
Share the gift of peace with those around you.

Love... Barb


Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"I Love a Good Spoonerism!"

Spoonerism- an unintentional interchange of sounds (usually beginning consonant sounds), in two or more words. Example...
"I'd like the fickin chingers, please."


Ahhhh, there's nothing quite like a hilarious, unexpected spoonerism, to make you laugh until you cry!
I come from a long line of  'spoonerspeakers'. My grandmother Stears was infamous for her consonant 'faux pas', to this day bringing tears of laughter in the retelling of her most hilarious mix-ups! My Mom inherited the 'spoonergene' and in turn has passed it on to her girls (that would be me, and my sisters!). Fits of uncontrolled laughter are a usual occurence when we all get together, but when the spoonerisms join our conversations... well, it's all out comedic chaos, to be sure! No one is safe from the belly aches brought on by 'gits of figgles'!  


For pure enjoyment, I'd like to share one of my favorite 'spooner stories'....

                                                  " The Tale of Rindercella"

    Once upon a time, in a coreign fountry, lived a beautiful young girl named 'Rindercella'.
    Rindercella lived with her mugly other, and her two sad bisters.
    Also in this coreign fountry, lived a pransome hince. He lived in a cig bastle with his mom and dad, the Quing and Keen. They were going to throw a bancy fall so their son, the pransome hince. could meet the gairest firl in all the land. Then there would be a wancy fedding. And maybe even brand gabies!
    On the day of the bancy fall, all the gair firls were busy getting ready for the nig bight.
But not Rindercella. She had no dretty press to wear, and no corse and harriage to get to the cig bastle. Her mugly other and two sad bisters went to the bancy fall, but Rindercella stayed home, meeping and swopping the floors. She was so sery vad.
    When her fears started salling, Rindercella was surprised by a magical poof'...
And there, in front of her very eyes, stood her gairy fodmother !
   "Now, now my dear," said her gairy fodmother, "you must crop this stying!" And with a wave of her wagic mand, the gairy fodmother made all of Rindercella's dreams come true.
    Rindercella found herself in the most beautiful gallbown, and wearing the shiniest slass glippers. Then, she was being whisked to the bancy fall in a cumpkin poach being pulled by hix shite worses. Her gairy fodmother waived goodbye, wished her luck, and reminded her to be home by the stroke of nidmight.
    Hushed oohs, and ahhs, greeted Rindercella as she made her entrance at the bancy fall.
    The pransome hince was bellspound by her barkling speauty. From that moment on, he danced only with Rindercella. It was a night of mure pagic... until the clock struck nidmight! 
   "Oh no," cried Rindercella, as she ran out of the cig bastle, "I must leave at once." In her haste, Rindercella lost one of her slass glippers on the castle steps.
    For days, the pransome hince roamed the coreign fountry, searching for the dirl of his greams. He would know it was she, by the fit of the dropped slass glipper. The pransome hince finally arrived at the home of the mugly other. When told of the wince's prishes, the mugly other excitingly called to the two sad bisters.  All three sat upon a chair, and bared their feet, to try on the slass glipper. First, the mugly other... it fidn't dit. Then a sad bister... but it fidn't dit. And then the other sad bister... and still, it fidn't dit! The pransome hince was grieved, as this was the last home in the royal kingdom, where the gairest firl in all the land might be found.
   Just then, with a shy glance of hesitation, Rindercella entered the room, sat upon a chair, bared her tiny foot, tried on the slass glipper... and... it fid dit!!! The pransome hince swept Rindercella off her feet, and took her home with him to the cancy fastle. There was a big wancy fedding (without the mugly other and two sad bisters), and Rindercella and her pramsome hince lived happily everafter.

Moral of the story? If you live in a coreign fountry and want to marry a pransome hince, get thee to a bancy fall ... and don't forget to slop your dripper!

   
   

    Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"Random Acts of Kindness"

People helping people... there's a great idea! And as the Christmas season is now upon us, what better time to put our talents and energy to good use? Random acts of kindness, those little things we do for others, are miracles in the eyes of their recipients. They can turn a bad day into a good day, a time of 'need' into a time of 'have', a time of worry into a time of relief, make a sad day a little happier. A random act of kindness will be one of the best things you can ever do. Trust me on this one.

I am just going to freely suggest many 'acts of kindness' that you can perform, making someone's life a little brighter, their day a little cheerier. If you've done this before, and I know most of you have (yeah you!), you have expierenced that 'deep down' joy that comes with giving of yourself. There's nothing quite like it!

So here we go...
Shovel a neighbor's driveway or sidewalk... offer to walk a sick friend's dog... double up on your Christmas baking and deliver sweets to a shelter or seniors home... volunteer to read holiday stories at a daycare or your local library... offer your time at a soup kitchen... volunteer to deliver Christmas baskets for a local charity... adopt a family in need and provide stockings, or the makings for a holiday dinner... drop some change into every Salvation Army glass ball you walk by... smile, and wish people you come across 'the best of the season'... write a personal note in your Christmas cards, it means so much... wrap a few homebaked goodies in cellophane, tie with a festive ribbon, add a candy cane, and give out to the paper boy or delivery man who comes to your door...  use festive ribbon to tie a little bell to a piece of fresh greenery (gather wee branches from your backyard evergreens, or ask your local florist for discard bits from seasonal bouquet making), and attach to your co-workers computers or desks... offer to watch a friend's home, and water their plants, if they are away over Christmas... invite a senior out for an evening drive about the city, to see 'the lights of Christmas' ... buy hot chocolate for the people in the car behind you, when at your favorite drive-through... drive with care and courtesy through busy mall parking lots... when lunching with family or friends while out Christmas shopping, buy an extra piece of pizza, or an extra cup of coffee, and share it with the gentleman on the corner... dress in your festive best, be it beautiful or silly, visit your local hospital, and bring smiles to those who are missing the fun at home... help out with the preparations for your child's school Christmas production... invite someone who is alone, to share Christmas dinner with you and your family... share your craft talents with children at a boys and girls club, making homemade ornaments that will be cherished for years to come... carry little wrapped candy canes in your coat pocket, to give out with handshakes and cheery nods as you go about your day... let someone with a full shopping cart, go ahead of you in line, bestowing them with your biggest smile as you say 'it's the season of giving!'....

These are but a few of the wonderful things we can do for others. The list is endless, and you will have many great ideas of your own. Just promise me this... find the time to make your ideas into reality, brightening the lives of others, sharing the true spirit of Christmas. It will surely be a season of  joy and love, if we can be a "people helping people, through random acts of kindness".



Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"Ready, Set, Bake!"

So... are you ready? Ready to spend a most glorious day in your kitchen, wearing your best holiday apron, humming and singing along to the songs of the season, taste testing your homemade confections, and remembering Christmas fun from years gone by? Yes? Well let's get started! Grab your well worn recipe cards of tried and true family favorites, and if you are feeling adventuresome, bring out those new recipes you've been itchin' to try. Pile all the ingredients for the day on your kitchen table, clean off your kitchen counter, pre-heat your oven, find your measuring implements, gather your cookie sheets and baking pans, do a chocolate chip quality control check (very important!), and... get baking!

Whether you are flying solo, or have called in the troops (family and/or friends), make this day a festive event. Have the eggnog chilling, the Christmas CD's stacked on the ready, light a few cranberry-spice candles, don a pair of red or green socks, turn on the lights if your tree is already up, attach some silvery bells to your pet's collar (calling their name every once in a while, just to hear them jingle!), find a Christmas-y plate to put your 'taste-testers' on, start humming your favorite carol, and let 'JOY' be the theme of the day!

Here are the recipes for some of my favorite Christmas goodies. Remember to include 'love' as the main ingredient, giving your treats that 'special something' to be shared with family and friends. And in the true spirit of the season, maybe you could bake an extra batch of  sweet sugar cookies and deliver them to a local shelter or inner city church... bringing a bit of joy to those who are greatly in need. A simple gesture of giving that will fill your heart with joy, too. Wishing you all the merriest of days this Christmas season...

Mom's Mocha Balls (that are actually square!!)

1 poundcake block (from your grocer's bakery dept.)
1 to 1 -1/2 C icing sugar
1 TBSP butter, softened
1 TBSP milk
1 TBSP cooled coffee
1 can finely chopped peanuts

Have 2 or 3 wire racks ready on counter, with wax paper underneath. Trim brown crust off of poundcake. Cut into 1 inch cubes. In deep, narrow bowl, mix together: icing sugar, butter, milk and coffee. Should be runny but NOT watery. (Adjust ingredients as needed.) Scatter chopped nuts in wax paper lined pie plate. Gently pierce poundcake piece with a fork, dip into icing (or drizzle icing over cake piece), making sure all sides are covered. Let excess drip off a bit. Roll each piece of cake in the chopped peanuts. Place on wire racks and let sit til icing sets.
Layer in cookie tins, with wax paper in between. Easily doubled, tripled.... Freeze well too. (Can be eaten from frozen state, right out of the freezer, by sneaky little hands... so be forewarned!)

Aunt Mary's Whipped Shortbread (These are melt-in-your-mouth delicious!)

2 C butter, softened
1 C icing sugar
1/2 C cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla
3 C flour (scant, to be added gradually)
icing, homemade buttercream or Betty Crocker's Whipped Vanilla
cherry halves

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. On med speed, blend together butter, icing sugar, cornstarch and vanilla. Gradually blend in flour. Dough will be light and soft. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 8-9 mins, until edges just golden. Watch carefully.
Remove to wire racks and let cool. Decorate with dollops of icing and cherry halves. Good plain, too. These also freeze well.

My Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies (Just a little bit special!)

1 C shortening or butter, softened
1 C packed brown sugar
1/2 C white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp almond extract
2 C flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 C craisins
1 and a 1/2 C white chocolate chips
1/2 C chopped pecans (optional)

Cream shortening and sugars. Add eggs and extract. Combine flour, soda and salt... gradually blend into creamed mixture. Stir in craisins, white choc. chips and nuts. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 375 for approx. 10 mins. Remove from oven, let cool a few minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

Aunt Phem's Sugar Cookies (These are the bomb!)

1 C butter or marg, softened
1 C sugar
1 C icing sugar
1 C Crisco oil
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp each baking soda, and salt
4 C flour, sifted
pinch of nutmeg

Mix all ingredients by hand, til soft dough forms. Roll into 1 inch balls. Place in batches of 12 onto ungreased cookie sheets. Grease and flour the bottom of a patterened glass, and flatten balls down. Sprinkle with pinch of granulated sugar. Bake at 350, 10-12 mins., until lightly golden. Remove from oven, let sit a few minutes, then remove to wire racks. So buttery, crispy good! Freeze well.
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I could type on and on, but these should get you started. Each one is soooo yummy, I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite. Do you have a favorite Christmas baking recipe? Would you like to share? If so, you can send it my way via the comment section of my blog, or email me at:  bitsy61@hotmail.com  I'll be looking for you!

"MeRrY ChRiStMaS" everyone..

Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"Getting Ready for Christmas"

Yes, it's the most wonderful
time of the year! And it's my
favorite time of the year.
I LoVe Christmas!

December 1st is soon upon us. And for me, that marks the beginning of the Christmas season. Not the 'media print frenzy, glitz and glamour, tinsel town, buy Buy BUY Christmas' that starts right after Thanksgiving. That's not for me.

My Christmas starts with a little tingling sensation in my heart, usually when I see the first snowflake fall. As the days grow shorter, and the nights grow longer... as fall's crispness turns into winter's sharpness... as visions of 'nuts and bolts' dance in my head... I am ready for Christmas.

From my earliest memories, through my childhood and teen years, as a young woman out on my own,  as a wife and then a mother, to my now 'middle years', my love of the Christmas season has never waned. So, what is it I love about Christmas? What makes it so special for me? The answer has everything to do with family, friends, memories, and tradition.

When I was a little girl, my Dad travelled for his work. He was away most weeks, but never Christmas week. And oh, the fun we would have! He would play in the snow with me, making snow angels and fantastic snow forts. We would walk hand in hand about the neigborhood, delivering Christmas goodies that my Mom had made. And my Mom and Dad always made Christmas fun and festive... inviting family and friends to visit, having carol sing alongs, lighting a crackling fire to give a warm and welcoming glow to our home... sharing of themselves in true Christmas spirit.  They never missed my school Christmas concerts. No siree! They would sit as close to the front as possible, smile, and wave back at me when I would spot them in the crowd and give a big toothy grin. (And Mom, I still think my pink socks looked beautiful with my red velvet dress!)

Then there is Christmas baking. And Christmas dinner. Mmmmmmmm! Almond fingers, mocha balls, plum pudding and rum sauce, homemade 'secret ingredient' nuts 'n bolts, ginger crinkles, shortbread with buttercream icing and cherries on top, Aunt Phem's sugar cookies, sweet breads, ham pasties, baked glazed ham, roasted turkey with stuffing (real, from inside the turkey, stuffing!), mashed potatoes with gravy, all the trimmings, and pies. I loved cooking with my Mom, learning all the recipes she learned from her Mom. A tradition I now carry on with my children. Food, lovingly prepared, feeds the body and nourishes the soul. Sharing these treasured recipes, with others, at Christmas time, is truly a gift we give ourselves.

Decorating the tree was always special. After Dad put on the lights, the garland was carefully draped around the tree, and then we would start hanging the ornaments. We all had our favorite one. Mine was the pink one, dotted with silver glitter. It sparkled like diamonds. So, so pretty. And then came the tinsel, lovingly hung strand by strand, (no tossing by handfuls here!). In the eyes of a six year old, our tree was magical. The telling of the classic 'Twas the Night Before Christmas', a treat of eggnog and cookies, and then off to bed, for what seemed like the longest night of the year!

Well, tinsel is a thing of the past, and we've resorted to an artificial tree with the lights already attached. But when it is up and fluffed, and our treasured collection of ornaments are hung... it sparkles and shines, ready to receive gifts from family and friends, ready to oversee the gathering of friends and neighbors, and the celebration of the season.

Ahhh, Christmas morning. A time of absolute glee and wonderment for me and my sisters, one of complete chaos for my parents. Little did we know that they were running on mere hours of sleep, having been awake til the wee hours, putting things together, looking for batteries, wrapping gifts, filling and hanging stockings, adding extra touches here and there so come morning, the entire livingroom looked like a fairytale come true. But they always pulled it off, and we were the lucky recipients of their tireless efforts. Every year, since becoming parents, Paul and I stay up late on Christmas Eve, have a fire burning bright, listen to Christmas CD's, wrap presents, stuff stockings, and nibble on home-baked goodies. I so love family tradition. It's a connection to our past, and a gift we give to our future. 

And amidst all the hussle and bussle of the season, the visiting with family and friends, the baking of traditional treats, the neighborhood gatherings, the sharing of gifts... there is no better place than a house of worship to experience the real joy of Christmas. Be it a small country church, a little chapel, an inner city parish, or a big cathedral... raising your voice with others, in the singing of carols, and hearing a message of birth, hope,and promise... your spirit will rejoice in the true meaning of Christmas, and you will feel blessed.

Wishing you and yours, peace, joy, and happy memories this Christmas.
Love... Barb



 Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"Back to the River St.John"

"At Woodman's Point tonight, are the lights shining bright? Is Kingston just the same? Do they still remember my name? Is anyone there missing me, where the water flows back over falls from the sea to the River St. John? This is where I belong. Where the land is so green, and the skies are so blue. Back to the River St. John, the only place I belong, back to the River St. John and you."
 (Back to the River St. John... by Janet Kidd)

I went back to the "River St. John". The lights, and the sun, were shining bright. Kingston was as beautiful as ever. People remembered my name. Family, and friends, had been missing me. It is where I belong, for it is where I come from. It is home. And always will be. No matter where I roam, no matter where I lay my head to rest at night.

I have a western home, with Paul and our children. We have good neighbors and friends. We love the mountains, and the sweeping fields. We enjoy world class concerts, national and world level sporting events... gourmet restaurants, funky farmer's markets, and sizzling summer festivals... skiing paradise, camping heaven, and golf galore. The 'west' is very good to us. And we call it home. We call it home, because this is where we 'hang our hat'.
Ahhhhhhh, but the 'River St.John'...

I believe we carry home in our hearts, wherever we go, wherever we stay.
And by home, I mean not only the place, or the house, we grew up in... but the people, the feeling, and the essence of belonging. Where our earliest memories were born, where our first friends were made, and perhaps where our first love bloomed. It's Thanksgiving dinner with all the family, it's the excitement of Christmas morning, it's baking cookies and muffins, it's a Saturday morning visit to the market, it's a Sunday afternoon drive in the country. It's picnics and swimming, it's winter and 'snow days'. It's orchard trips and apple crisp, it's Easter Sunday and a new outfit.

I've been 'gone' now for twenty years, but home is never more than a second away. A song on the radio, a certain whisp of a breeze, a photo in an album, a favorite recipe from my childhood, glimpsing the 'treasures' from my mom and sisters, that decorate my home, a funny card in the mail, or a  'just because phonecall'...
in a flash, I am home (in my mind) and I'm smiling and happy.

I just had ten (for real!) days at home, thanks to my wonderful husband and understanding children. It was fantastic, fantabulous, fabuloso, fantifico! (In case you were wondering still, it was GREAT!)  
I totally indulged in the love of family, the gathering of friends, the crisp country air, and the saltiness of the sea breeze. My soul is revived, and my cup of joy runneth over.

I have been 'back to the River St. John'. Back to where I belong.
And the memories will sustain me, 'til I return once more.


Keep on, keeping on... barb :)

"The Element of Surprise"

I love a good surprise, don't you?  Something that takes you totally, well... by surprise! Something that makes your mind say, "What the...?", your heart go 'BoInG!', and your knees go weebly-wobbly. It's always fun to be on the receiving end of a surprise, but it's totally awesome to be on the plotting end. And I know this because... I've just been a plotter myself!

As many of you may know, I'm kinda close to my Mom and sisters, who live 'back home' in the Maritimes. Although we are miles apart, we are always close in heart. When we thought we would be living in Montreal by the Fall, plans were flying amock about having Christmas together, as a family, for the first time in twenty years. Well, life is known for throwing you curveballs, thus we will be calling Alberta  home for a little longer. And that's okay. But my longing for a visit with my mom and sisters  was taking over my daily thoughts. We had the reward points for me to make a sojourn to the East, then more unexpected developments seemed to make a trip home 'out of the question'. (Color me blue, here).

But, and that's a big BUT... another little miracle came my way and within a span of ten minutes, I was planning a "SuRpRiSe" with lifted spirits. Woop Woop!!

With help from "the love of my life", a good family friend back home, and my unaware mother, the whole event went in to motion: 1 phone chat with my mom, 1 visit to the Aeroplan website, 1 phonecall to the friend back home, 2 promises from my children to keep their lips sealed, 3 days of laundry, packing, grocery shopping. cooking and cleaning, 2 plane rides, and 1 night at said friend's home later... the "SuRpRiSe" was about to unfold! 

Picture a ladies church luncheon, the hustle and bustle, the jibbering and jabbereing, some recognizing me as I arrived and thus receiving that non-verbal motion of 'locking their lips', the music folk warming up and sound checking, ladies arriving with their delicious food contributions, the dilemma of who's sitting where, our friend trying to steer my mother and sister to a location where their backs would be to my point of entrance... all while I'm locked in the rector's office (in case my mother tried to walk in and drop something off on his desk, which she quite possibly would do!), hiding in a back corner, reading, but not really reading because I'm too excited, the latest edition of 'Reader's Digest', and wondering if my friend, or one of our two new co-conspiritors, would come and get me when the time was right. We hadn't actually planned that part out!

But, no worries. As the 'ladies who lunch' settled into their seats, I was retrieved from my secret local, whisked under the cloak of a jacket, and like magic... appeared in front of my mother and sister. WOW! The silent signs of shock and disbelief were instant... the hands to the chest, the big eyes, and the open mouths of surprise. Then tears of joy started flowing in abundance and there were bears hugs all around. I'm all shivery now, remembering the moment. Others joined in with their own tears and happy smiles. It was fantastic!

The day just flowed from there... simply gorgeous, sun shining, temperature an unbelievable plus 20 degrees, a drive through the country, picture taking, two ferry crossings, a big hug from my brother-in-law, and moments of absolute hilarity. It was the best of days!

The time will go by too quickly, I know. We will pack what we can into each day. Some moments we'll be crazy busy, with laughter spurring us on. Others, we'll be quiet, content just to be near each other. And whenever we look at each other, we'll smile and shake our heads, still reeling a bit from the surprise of it all. We'll feel all warm and fuzzy inside. We'll feel lucky and blessed. 

And why will we feel these things?
Well, no surprise there. We are family.

I hope each of you experience the joy of "SuRpRiSe" in your life, whether giving or receiving.
Although it doesn't appear on the 'Periodic Table', it is an 'element' of great worth.


   
Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

" Planetary Differences""

Men are from Mars, women are from Venus... the title of a hugely popular book back in the early 90's. I never read it, but it created a lot of buzz, and inspired a whole new batch of men vs. women jokes and one-liners.

Besides the obvious physical comparisons, we are different in many other ways.
For the pure reason of enjoyment, I have chosen not to go into the psycho-babble discussions of the noncorrelations between homo-maleions and homo-femaleias, that exist adnauseum . Thanks to the marvelous thing called 'Google', and a little humorous research, I'm going straight to the funny and ponderous!



4 words/phrases every man should be aware of when in 'heated discussion' with his woman:
1. "Nothing"- this means "something", and until you figure it out, be on your toes!
2. "Go ahead"- you have been issued a dare... don't do it!!
3. "No problem, I've got it"- Big problem! After failing to complete whatever it is you have been asked to do, probably several times, she has done the task herself. This will later lead to the cold shoulder, and you, having completely forgotten the previous incident, will ask "Honey, what's wrong?" Answer... "Nothing!" (See #1)
4. "Fine"- not really. But the argument is over, and if you are wise, you will retreat to your man cave and tinker about, until the all clear has been given.
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When Jill, Sue, Martha and Dianne go out for lunch, they will call each other Jill, Sue, Martha and Dianne.
When Bob, Ted, John and Jim go out for lunch, they will affectionately call each other Bubba, Tedinski, Loo-Man and Jimbo.
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Men go to bed, and wake up looking the same.
Women go to bed, and somehow deteriorate through the night.
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Women know everything about their children; who their best friends are, who they have a crush on, when their next game is, what day and time their dentist appointment is, what food they love to eat.
Men are vaguely aware that some short people are living in their homes.
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Women have the memories of elephants, they never forget.
Men forget everything, that's why there's instant replay.
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Bob and Ted were enjoying a brewski at the local pub. While talking about getting along with their wives, Bob said, "I have to admit, our last fight was my fault. When she asked 'what's on the tv?', I replied 'Dust'."
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When women use restrooms, they can make these trips into 'social gatherings'.
Men use restrooms solely for biological reasons. Men never speak to each other while going about their business. There is not one recorded time in history when a man has excused himself from a restaurant table and said, " Hey Bill, I'm off to the men's room to reapply my cologne. Want to come with me?"!
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And finally, some defintions in 'male and female speak'.

Vulnerable (Adj.)
   Female- emotionally opening up one's self to another
   Male- playing hockey without a cup

Butt (noun)
   Female- the body part that determines if an article of clothing will be purchased or not
   Male- the body part for mooning and flatuating

Entertainment (noun)
   Female- a good movie, concert, play or book
   Male- anything to do with football, poker, or the 3 Stooges

Taste (verb)
   Female- something frequently done while cooking, to make sure it's good
   Male- something done to check if food is bad, prior to tossing it out

Remote Control (noun)
   Female- a device for changing one TV channel to another
   Male- a virtual racing toy that's challenge is to surf through all 85 channels in 2 minutes
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Yes, we are very different us guys and gals. But that's what makes life interesting. 
It would be soooo boring if we were all the same.
Isn't there a famous quote that says "opposites attract".
And we have to laugh at ourselves... I mean, how could we not? We provide "so much material", as a late night host would say!
Hope you've had a chuckle, or two, as you journeyed through the "Planetary Differences"


Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"Life's Little Pleasures"

  A few short months ago, I was in a bad way. Hospitalized with a serious illness, feeling really sick and very scared, it was the worst of times. My husband and children were worried, my family back home were feeling helpless.
But little miracles keep happening to me, and once again I live to tell my tales.
(YeAh Me!)  With the never ending love of family, and a few good doctors and nurses thrown in, I am travelling down the road of recovery and singing along to my favorite tunes!

It's been a long journey though, with a few rough patches and some unexpected twists. During a 'not so good week', I received a package from my sister... a heartfelt, sisterly note and, "The Book of Awesome".  Just what I needed. Over the next several days, I would scrounge up the energy to make a cup of tea, wrap myself in a cosy blanket, and snuggle up on my big  porch chair, to take in the fresh air, the early summer sun, and the pages from "The Book of Awesome".  Even though I could only manage a few stories at a time, it was enough to bring a smile, or make me laugh, or bring back a cherished memory.
It was much needed 'medicine'.

I am feeling so much better now. And I keep "The Book of Awesome" on my bedside table in case of "emergencies"... those times when I'm down or dismayed and need some 'first aid for my spirit'!  
This got me thinking of all 'the little pleasures' life has to offer. And do you know what? It's an endless list! Really! One little thought leads to another, and then another, and so on, and so forth... So, I'll just share a wild assortment of 'the little things' that bring joy and happiness to me. As you read, I'm sure you'll start thinking of all the 'little things' that bring you moments of joy and happiness too.

Here we go... cupcakes, the smell of bacon cooking in the morning, the big  'Red Box' of 
Ganong's chocolates, fresh squeezed orange juice, my Mom's dressing balls, a dish of apple crisp with a thick slice of cheddar cheese, an ice cold glass of milk with a just-out-of-the-oven- chocolate chip cookie, a slab of brown bread and a side of molasses for dipping, one piece of sweet corn-on-the-cob drenched in butter (corn's a no-no for me, but a girl's got ta have what a girl's got ta have!), homemade nuts and bolts with a chilled mug of beer and friends to share them with, spaghetti and meatballs on a stormy winter night, my sister's barbequed pizza, garlic mushrooms cooked in a cast iron frying pan, Digby scallops at Billy's in the Saint John City Market, and olives on celery sticks!

... the warmth of a Summer breeze, the crisp colors of fall, the glistening snow of winter, the fresh air of Spring.

... a crackling wood burning fire, a baby's laughter, jumping into bed with sheets fresh off the clothesline, singing Christmas carols in church, getting a real letter in the mail, picnic lunches in the backyard, walking on a beach and finding the perfect skipping stone, playing crib with my Mom, remembering my Dad, holding hands with my husband, the sights, sounds and smells at a farmer's market, having a movie night with my kids, a sunset, a rainbow.

... a bubblebath by candlelight, a late night swim by moonlight, a romantic dinner by firelight, a good ol' game of hide 'n seek by flashlight.

... any day with family and friends, a good haircut, a backrub, an itch scratched, going on a treasure hunt, photo-op day with Julia, a "luv you Mom" call from Sam, date night with my hubby, a laugh-out-loud episode of "The Big Bang Theory", turning my pillow over to the 'cool' side, remembering all the words to a song, remembering who sings the song, discovering a great new recipe, walking my beautiful puppy 'Heidi' and getting slurps of appreciation, decorating the house for Christmas, finding a new and funky restaurant, a day trip with a girlfriend, a stay-in-bed-in-your-favorite-pj's-with-a-good-book-kinda-day, a dress up night of dancing.

I could go on, but I don't think I need to. You guys get what I mean.  Life these days seems challenging at best. However, if  we can just remember the 'little things',  a bad day can turn good, troubles can be soothed, tensions can be eased, and balance can be restored. 

There are so many 'little pleasures' to experience every day. Aren't we lucky?


Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"A Time to Remember"

"Between the crosses row on row..."

And so begins one of the most famous, well known poems ever wrtitten. Inspired not by love or beauty, but by sadness and loss. A penned prose of homage to the brave soldiers of war.

It is a poem I learned as a school girl, to be recited at the Remembrance Day assembly every year. We were told of the story behind the words. We studied the 'World Wars' in history classes. But we didn't really know what it was like, as the events took place before 'our time'. We had to ask our parents, or our grandparents if we were lucky enough to still have them with us.

My grandfather was in the services. And when his call of duty was over, he attended Remembrance Day services every year. Bampy passed away when I was very young, and my memories of him are few. My older sisters were blessed to have had  more time with him, and their memories are of a gentle, loving, and joyful man. But every November 11th, he become a solemn man, a man who donned his old uniform, and went to the cenotaph ceremony to quietly pay his respects, and remember. My sister Ruth went with him. And even as a youngster, she somehow knew this was a time to be seen and not heard, to just stand still and hold her Bampy's hand. Still today, her memory of this brings her to tears, the image of her proud Bampy standing strong and silent on that cool November day is as vivid as ever. She has written her own moving poem, and those of us who have been honored to read it, deeply know why it's important to 'never forget'.

Today, once again, we are hearing the horrible stories of war and destruction. Brave men and women are putting their lives on the line everyday, in worlds far removed from ours. Mothers and fathers are losing their sons and daughters. Children are losing their fathers and mothers. Families, and their communities, are shouldering the most difficult of days when a hometown hero is laid to rest.
We must not forget those who survive their tours of duty to return home, for their lives have been forever changed, the unimaginable images of war etched in their memories, life as they knew it, a thing of the past. Their bravery must continue, as they heal, and try to move beyond the experiences of war.

And please remember the innocent victims of war. They did no wrong. They were just living and growing where they were planted. Their mothers and fathers, brothers or sisters, children and communities, are grieving too. Find it in your hearts to say a silent prayer for them.

A supporter of war, or not... you must support the men and women, and their families, who have been called to a duty that most of us will never know. Remember them in your prayers, remember them in your thoughts, remember them in your hearts, remember them on November 11th.

Wear a poppy and remember, lest we forget.





Keep on keeping on... bArB :)

"Simply Romantic"

I think I can speak for most of us, who are of the female persuasion, when I say... Women love romance!

Now you men out there... don't start sweating and having palpatations. I'm not talking about Fabio-like tresses, rippling abs, and whiskings away to bedouin tents adorned with luxurious beddings! (We may read those fantasy novels, but we know those stories come from the desperate imaginations of  sad, love-lonesome, romance deprived women with pens). I'm not even talking grand gestures like diamonds, get aways to gay Paris, or hand in hand strolls along the sunset beaches of Tahiti. (Although these would be 'tres romantique', don't you agree?!)

Nope. I'm talking simple romance here. Romance that can happen anytime, anywhere. Here's a hint guys... the little, unexpected things pack the biggest punch! Really. I would never lie to you. Whoever said, "It's the little things that count", was right on the bull's-eye! And the good news for you menfolk... these little things require very little time, thought, planning or money. (That's why they're called "little things", sillies!) But they will make your special someone swoon at your feet... well, maybe not really swoon, but you get my drift. And what's romance but good ol' swooning, and oohing and awww-ing.

Don't know where to start? Here are my top picks for "little things that are big on romance":
1. Bring her flowers. Cliche you say? Mais non! This is where you can add your own special touch to an age-old romantic gesture. Instead of a pre-made bouquet, be brave, and hand pick the blooms for your sweetheart. Venture into the cooler at your local florist, choose just two or three flowers (think her favorite colors here), a sprig of baby's breath, and a nice flowy fern (no stick with rough leaves!). Have the florist include a pretty ribbon and my boy... you are on your way to "Romance Town!" Repeat at whim.
2. Make dinner.  No need to be a gourmet chef. Remember, 'simple'. A piping hot bowl of creamy tomato soup and golden crispy, grilled cheese sandwiches are perfect! Want to kick it up a notch? Use the 'good dishes', set the table, light a candle, and have a nice bottle of wine on the ready. C'est magnifique !
3. Take her to a 'chick flick'. (You know you like them too!) And don't ask, "Wanna go to a movie?" in that 'there's-nothin'-else-to-do kinda whiny voice'. Instead try, " Hey, let's go to that new movie you've been wanting to see, then maybe go for coffee." You've just done so many things right. Like taken the intiative, considered her movie choice, and committed to some chat time afterward. Score bonus points here!
4. Pour a bath. But not just a bath... a romantic bath. This is where a little effort on your part brings big rewards (wink, wink)! With the help of the girl at the beauty counter of your local pharmacy or department store, purchase a heavenly scented foaming bath gel or soothing bath salt. One evening, (and without any pre-announcement), pour your special someone a hot bath, using that wonderful addition you were so thoughtful to aquire. Have her robe and a fluffy towel ready, then take her by the hand and lead her to 'Shangri-La'. Want to go to another level? While the bath water is running, whisk (yes, that funny kitchen tool for scrambling) in one cup of milk and one cup of hot chocolate powder. This is soooo yummy!
(To allow for complete enjoyment on her part, bestow a wee kiss upon her cheek and quietly promise to clean the tub following her delicious soak!) Looking for the ultimate? Once again visit your favorite florist. Did you know, that for a wee price, they sell bags of rose petals! Add a capful of baby oil to the running bath water. When the bath is ready, scatter the petals on top, light several candles, put on some soft music, and place a glass wine on the edge of the tub. Pure bliss! It is important to remember that this bath is solely for the pleasure of your mate. Your involement is purely providing the pleasure! However, if done correctly, your involement will most likely not end there!
5. Plan a day trip. Big, romantic get aways are great if you have the time, money, or energy to take them. But the expectations are high for these trips, and disappointments often many. Not always, but you run the risk. And even if it turns out to be the trip of a lifetime, (how fantastic for you!), it's just that...the trip of your lifetime... likely never to be repeated. How do you fill the void? Day trips!  Whether you're a planner, or a spur of the moment kind of guy, day trips are perfect. Day trips are like little mini vacations that spotlight all the best parts of a big vay-cay! Your girl loves the countryside? Take a drive and leave the city behind. Pack a picnic and bring a blanket. Find a glorious field and voila... instant romance! She's into collectables? Visit a nearby small town and take in an antiques shop or two. Find a local diner and share a BLT, a diet coke, and an ice-cream sundae. How cute is that?! She's a music buff? Get tickets to a concert. Go early and snack on nachos and corn dogs. And don't buy the expensive floor seats. No, no. Get ones way at the back so you can smooch and stuff, like when you were teenagers. Just remember to bring the binoculars! She loves photography? Gather a few props to be featured in the 'pictorial of the day' (like a favorite teddy bear, a gerber daisy or two, an old tattered pair of sneakers, her grandmother's pearl necklace, a cute, framed photo of the two of you...) and take her on a photographic safari. Go urban, or go rural... just go!

There are so many ways to be 'simply romantic'.
Let your imagination rule in matters pertaining to romance.
Be silly or serious, plan or be spontaneous. Spend little, or spend a little more.
Surprise her or let her 'in on it'.

You can do it, and she'll love you that much more for it! Ain't romance great!

(PostScript. Just thought of this idea: May take a little planning, but so worth it in the end. Plan a night out with your girl, to your favorite pub or nightclub. Then, surprise her when you get there with a table full of her gal pals! Slip her a few bills, give her a juicy kiss, and tell her to have a great night of fun with her friends. And yes, a quick call from her will bring your chauffering services for a ride home at the end of the evening's festivities. Badda boom, badda bing... your're a romantic king!)


Keep on keeping on... bArB :)