MIMM #9: Weekend Home

Early last week I started to miss my parents a lot. As beautiful as my residence room is, it still doesn’t feel like home. It’s not as though I haven’t made friends but our relationships naturally aren’t as close as those that I have back in Oakville. Thankfully the commute is only 2 hours and my mom was able to pick me up on Friday afternoon so that I could spend the weekend in my own bed.

Coming home to parents who will cook you meals, clean up after you and chauffeur you around is pretty marvelous after living independently for 2 weeks. London is full of marvelous opportunities such as the Covent Garden Market but it is a bit of a trek to walk or bus everywhere and the rainy weather has discouraged me from venturing off of campus.

I had an incredibly marvelous weekend and it started out with some marvelous mail. Joyce knows my obsession with tea and owls too well which is probably she sent along this variety of David’s tea (there is an owl on the package). Joyce also wrote a beautiful card and enclosed it with Owl stickers and sticky notes. As well, I received my Vega One French Vanilla and Vega Sport Vanilla, Silver Drinking Straws from the Maine Drinking Straw Company and the book “Whole Foods to Thrive”. Charissa put so much work into hosting the Colourful Smoothie Contest and I am so thankful that I was able not only to participate but win a prize.

The marvelous-ness continued when my mom picking me up from Chemistry class. The fact that she didn’t make me walk up the Brescia hill was not kind but pretty good door-to-door service. We had so much to catch up on the drive flew by. I’m pretty sure I talked my mom’s ear off. 

Marvelous is being given Moon Cakes to celebrate the Harvest Moon. Our neighbours, the same ones who gave us Lobster from P.E.I, surprised us with Moon Cakes on Friday evening. They are so generous and thoughtful.The flavour and texture is definitely acquired and I can’t say I’ve ever had anything quite like it before. The box they delivered the cakes in was beautiful.

Marvelous is getting together with Chelsea because we seem to relate on so many levels. It’s pretty obvious Chelsea’s blog is one of my favourites so I never turn down an opportunity to meet with her. It’s also pretty evident that our preferred places to meet up include Kindfood and Whole foods so it should be no surprise that I tried my first quinWOW bowl and fell in love with the marvelous miso gravy.

Marvelous is also attending Yoga class with Chelsea. We wanted to add in an extra component to our usual lunch date but the weather forecast was not promising which ruled out our idea of apple picking, frequenting the farmer’s market or hiking. Thankfully Chelsea had heard Be Yoga and Wellness was celebrating their birthday by teaching free yoga classes. We weren’t sure how hard it would be so we decided to stick to Hatha 1, but neither of us were overly challenged so we agreed to try Aerial or a more difficult level next time. I could definitely tell that my Pilates workouts have helped strengthen my core because I found myself more balanced while holding the tree pose. I haven’t practiced yoga in ages which is probably why I woke up sore the next morning. Amanda, the instructor, had a beautiful voice and finished the class with a powerful chant. The class was accompanied by live music so you could really feel the energy waves and rhythm of the beat. I found it a bit distracting because I wanted to watch the drummer and singer, but it definitely made for a positive atmosphere.

Marvelous is also discovering new local bakers. Nourishing Nook was giving away free samples at BeYoga and Welless so I got to try my first Sweet Potato muffin. She had kale chips that I found to be quite good since they were had a bit of a spicy kick to their crunch. Chelsea and I each had a granola circle and tried to decipher the recipe but found ourselves finishing the last bite before we had identified all the ingredients. I guess that just means I’ll have to purchase some which is definitely not a complaint on my end since they were marvelous.

Marvelous is also meeting Caitlin for coffee or watching Lottie blow bubbles and giggle. It’s having my last ice cream cone of the summer and then huddling with a blanket because Fall is definitely not frozen dessert weather. It’s hugging Emma, seeing Nathan, getting advice from my Mom and grocery shopping with my Dad.  It’s waking up to the smell of breakfast food and a full stocked fridge and winding down the evening with a cup of tea and in the company of my family. It’s being given the opportunity to go to university and to study a subject I am so passionate about. It’s taking time for myself just to be and it’s finally catching up on blog reading after being so behind. It’s being able to participate in things such as Katie’s Marvelous in my Monday tradition. What was marvelous about your weekend? What is marvelous about this upcoming week?  ♥ Molly

“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” – Oprah Winfrey 

The Beginning Of It All

I’m all moved in and boy what a change is residence from two years ago. I went from being in Ursuline Hall, an old, less air-conditioned residence with twin size beds and common bathrooms, to Clare Hall which is brand new, has an abundance of storage, queen size beds and offers semi-private washrooms. While the Ursuline Hall had character, I can’t say I don’t enjoy living in a more modern style room. I left Oakville around 10:00 a.m. Monday morning and arrived in London just before noon the same day. Like Huron and Kings, Brescia is an affiliate college within the University of Western Ontario, the only difference being that it is all girls as opposed to co-ed. In the end I graduate with a Western Diploma but I chose to be part of the Food and Nutrition program, which is specialized and only offered at Brescia’s campus. The downside is that many of my science classes are on main campus, which is a bit of a hike since Brescia is at the top of a half-mile hill! The advantage is that Brescia’s classes are around 30 students in size as opposed to 500 like my lectures on Main campus!

Despite barely lifting a finger since males from Huron and Kings helped Brescia Sophs (Upper year orientation leaders) move first year students like myself into their rooms, I was still extremely exhausted by the time I reached my room on fifth floor! The “movers” must have been exhausted by the end of the day because I wasn’t the only one who brought their entire wardrobe and a large selection of room décor. Thank goodness for the floor to ceiling built in storage cupboards! I am definitely going to need a step ladder since I can’t exactly reach all of the drawers and shelves. With just my luck I am on the top floor, which is both good because I don’t hear noise from above and bad since the elevators haven’t been installed yet since there was a strike. I guess I won’t be gaining the freshmen fifteen since I’ll be climbing stairs and walking uphill everyday! The good news is my bathroom-mate shares a similar personality so we get along well.

Some highlights of my time here in residence so far include Tie-Dying, Human Scavenger Hunt, Residence Mixer, Baking brownies and Brescia’s Opening ceremonies. I’ve learned many cheers and dances and I am working on remembering the names of many new faces. I also had the privilege of hearing a motivational speaker, Andy, who reinforced that University is what you make of it so don’t be afraid to answer questions, ask questions and most importantly volunteer. He agrees that University is 50% learning in class and 50% learning outside of class and you should never be afraid of putting yourself out there because equally passionate and academic students surround you.

I ended yesterday evening by attending the opening Western Mustang Football game against Carleston. My phone died or else I would have taken more photos but I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the cowgirl ride around the track on a Mustang (Horse), watching the cheerleaders perform, screaming with every winning touchdown and dressing head to toe in purple. I must say I am pretty tired but every event is too fun to pass up. I did skip out on “Yoga dance” which was glow in the dark because I am trying to get into the habit of going to sleep earlier. Despite the comfortable mattress, morning sweat sessions and receiving plenty of fresh air, all of which should tire me out, I’m having difficulty falling asleep. I guess all of the excitement is keeping me wired!

Can’t wait to share some of my cafeteria experiences in tomorrow’s post. I feel busy as a Brescia Bee so I am sorry in advance if my posts aren’t as frequently spaced as usual. ♥ Molly

MIMM #3: Birthday Celebrations

First off, I just wanted to thank everyone who wished me a happy 20^th birthday on Thursday. It was so kind of people to take the time to acknowledge my special day, and none of those comments went unappreciated. My birthday was definitely marvelous!

To say this past week was “busy” would be an understatement. From shopping in Toronto to driving lessons in Oakville, appointments to eating almost every meal out, each minute has been spent on the go. I’ve been waking up earlier and going to bed later than normal, and many nights haven’t been slept in my own familiar bed. While it’s been fun and the constant shuffling is a distraction from my anxieties, I was definitely pushed out of my comfort zone a majority of the time. Thankfully supportive people surrounded me so most of my worries and challenges went unnoticed. While I enjoyed eating out, I do miss saving money by cooking for myself. Shopping was fun and I found so many purchases that I wanted to buy, but again trying on clothing and spending money on myself isn’t one of my strong suits. One regret I didn’t have, was watching “High School Musical” and “Glee” during my Toronto sleepover with Megan. I might be twenty but the dancing and singing performed by Vanessa and Zac were just as enjoyable as when I was 13! Megan and I share similar personality traits, and we can be pretty boring when it comes to boys and bars. We both find cheesy lyrics and chemistry class a bit too fun but we are also able to laugh at our quirks. It’s marvelous.

Since my birthday falls in the middle of July, which is prime vacation time, many of my birthdays have been spent in travel. Honestly, I’d have it no other way. It’s marvelous to celebrate abroad! When I was little, the added attention of “Birthdays” didn’t seem to phase me. I loved hosting a party, eating cake, and appreciated the gifts. Over the years, I’ve begun to feel undeserving of my celebration and the extra acknowledgements, so on my actual birthday it’s easier to be doing a family activity than something centered around me.

Sometimes we are at cottages, last year we were in France and this year we decided to venture into Buffalo for some shopping. For all of you who live in the States, I envy your assortment of Goldfish Crackers and Chobani! You also have some pretty cool coupon clippings! When we got home around 8:00p.m. I decided to open up my presents. I noticed there was a very appropriate theme going on which all had to do with baking and ice cream. If you read yesterday’s post you know that I’ve never enjoyed ice cream more than I have this summer. My sister Caitlin, her husband Aaron and her daughter Lottie all gave me an ice cream maker with some cute ice cream cups. They match my residence room perfectly. They also included a marvelous ice cream cone card. Emma is very crafty and as one of my gifts, made a “neapolitan” ice cream cone using a base she purchased from Anthropologie and pom poms she made out of wool. She wrapped hers using ice cream cone stickers. My brother is an avid Poker player so he made me “Win” my present. We played a round of simplified poker in which I dominated and won a generous monetary gift. Amongst many clothes and other things, my parents gave me money towards my trip to Myrtle Beach, Lululemon and Ivivva, an individual cupcake platter that has a glass bell and this really neat “memory” stamp.

Of course, my friends don’t let me escape all of the attention. Joyce showered me with gifts, Megan took me out for Frozen Yogurt and I went for appetizers and drinks with Caitlin and Elyse. My friends are marvelous to say the least. Caitlin and Elyse made me a “Because I love you…” memory box. I’m definitely going to be talking more about how much I appreciate inspirational and sentimental gifts later this week. This present hit the spot and left me in tears of joy all night. I am so blessed to have such incredible friends and family. I really couldn’t be more fortunate!

The last marvelous thing I want to mention about the week was receiving marvelous birthday “perks”. Does anyone else enjoy signing up for birthday “perks”? I was able to receive a free lipgloss and mascara from Sephora and I have yet to redeem my coupons for a free ice cream at Marble Slab, a free starbucks beverage or food item, a free meal at Milestones and a free yoga class (plus I can bring a friend) at both Kula and The Clarity Centre… and those are just the perks that interested me most!

So there is a very brief (well actually pretty long) summary of my week, although I am sure more will come out through WIAW. After all, I have to share some of the neat eats and treats that I enjoyed.  Don’t forget to check out the other MIMM posts linked up at Healthy Diva Eats. Katie celebrated her husband Mike’s birthday this past weekend. Happy Birthday Mike! Thanks again Katie for hosting MIMM, it’s such a great way to reflect on the marvelous life that I live, and to look forward on the great things that are planned in my upcoming week. What do you like to do on your birthday? Are you a fan of the added attention? What was marvelous about last week and what marvelous events are to come? ♥ Molly

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou (… And I will never forget how happy and special everyone has made me feel throughout my birthday week. I am so grateful.)

It’s My Birthday!

Today I enter a new decade as I celebrate my twentieth birthday. While I still have most of my life ahead of me, I can’t help but feel “old” when I hear my new age. Unlike 16 (Driving Permit), 18 (Lottery Tickets), 19 (Canadian Drinking Age) or 21 (American Drinking Age), the number 20 isn’t rewarded with an added privilege, but to me, it is still equally important. I am so thankful for everyone who has helped me achieve great health, happiness and memorable moments in the years leading up to this milestone.

Celebrating my 19th Birthday

I would also like to wish my parents a very happy belated 31st wedding anniversary, as yesterday marked the day of their 31st year being married. If it weren’t for you Mom and Dad, I don’t know where I would be today. May every new tomorrow draw you closer to each other and may it keep the promise of today. You are the perfect example of what parents should be and how a married couple should act. Wishing you wonderful years filled with tremendous happiness and great health, in the years to come. You have me setting high expectations for my future husband Dad, and Mom you have me hoping that I can be as positive of a role model for my daughter(s) as you were for me.

I have a busy day ahead of me, but before I go, I’d like to leave you with 20 fun facts, you might not already know about me! What are some birthday traditions your family participates in? When I was little, my parents would wrap money in coins, and hide it underneath everyone’s “slice” at my birthday party, that way everyone got an extra surprise. ♥ Molly

“God gave us the gift of life; it is up to us to give ourselves the gift of living well.” – Voltaire

0. The day I was born 2. My second birthday 5. My “Arthur” themed 5th birthday party 6. My “Olympic” waterworks obstacle birthday party 17. We went to see the Legally Blonde musical on my 17th birthday 19. Last year we were in France so my dad and I went to the Catacombs the morning of my birthday

Twenty Interesting and Slightly Embarrassing Facts about Myself!

1. I can do my splits. At the age of three my parents signed me up for ballet, but in all honesty, I would run around the room instead of skipping or stretching. Regardless, I fell in love and began competing when I was 7. I’ve done Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop and more, but my favourite (and strongest suit) will always be Tap.
2. I love my name because of it’s “ring” and truthfully, it suits me perfectly. Molly Martha Schoo (pronounced shoe). People call me “Molly Pocket” because I am just barely 5’3” and I look about 14-16, but nicknames have ranged from Molly Moo to Schooster.
3. When I was little I thought “Tim Hortons” was “Tim Portons” and I called Figure Skaters, “Finger Skaters”. My parents preserved this innocence for a bit too long!
4. I’ve been on national television. This year I was part of a “Bell Let’s Talk Campaign” advocating for Mental Health, so I was featured on a Marilyn Dennis (Canadian Talk Show) Special!
5. I’m a dare devil and I love adventure. Skydiving, Bungee Jumping, Surfing (In Hawaii!!), Climbing a Mountain and White Water rafting are all on my “to-do” list.
6. As a kid, I always wanted to experience living with braces, glasses and a cast. While I’ve had braces, and continue to wear glasses (or contacts) on a daily basis, I’ve never broken (nor do I want to) a bone in my life.
7. I went through French Immersion beginning in Senior Kindergarden, so as a result I am bilingual. I hope to become fluent in a third language such as Dutch.
8. You’ll hardly ever find me in pants or shorts. Skirts and Dresses are staples in my wardrobe (I have more than 50 everyday dresses). I admire people that can look cute in sweatpants, but I don’t think I’ll ever be someone that can feel “put together” in a tracksuit.
9. I’d pick cardio over weight training any day. A goal of mine is to run a full marathon but I have a ways to go with my running abilities. Swimming or Zumba are my go to exercises.
10. My taste buds are well rounded. I like vegetables and fruit equally, I enjoy “sweet” desserts but also enjoy “salty” snacks, I value protein but still love carbohydrates, and I have no preference between butter or applesauce in my baked goods!
11. My favourite movie is Legally Blonde, I continue to watch re-runs of Gilmore Girls and the song “Just Give me a Reason” never gets old. Miss Congeniality, Everwood and Ho Hey are all close runner ups!
12. In grade 8 I had a shirt that said “I got an A+ in Talking”. I can be pretty loud as my voice carries almost TOO well. It comes in handy when presenting or debating, but it’s also one my biggest challenges in classroom settings (Particularly meditation and yoga classes).
13. I’d eat onions like apples if it didn’t make me cry. I find every excuse to put onions in a recipe.
14. I collect postcards. In grade 3 I bought a package of “Hello Kitty” postcards from my school’s book sale, and ever since I’ve enjoyed picking them up when I travel. Feel free to send me one from your hometown or vacation!
15.  I’d rather go grocery shopping than clothes shopping. Fashion interests me and I enjoy pretty attire, however I am not good at spending money nor am I eager to try things on.
16. I swallowed a penny when I was a baby! The doctors thought I had asthma but my parents later found the evidence in my diaper!
17. I’m a games person and as much as I try to play for the fun of it, I can get pretty competitive. I’ll play just about anything, but to name a few Apples to Apples, Scattegories, Risk, Catch Phrase, Cards and Scrabble are some of my favourites.
18. I’ve always wanted to be a twin. I have three incredible siblings (I am the youngest) all of whom I am close with, but having a relative my own age would be convenient in a lot of circumstances.
19. If money weren’t necessary, I’d volunteer my time instead of working. I hope to find a career than enables me to give back to my community by helping others. To me, one of the greatest gifts in life is seeing the results of my generosity. Acts of kindness are so little and can have such positive effects.
20. I love quotes. They can be so inspiring and finding the perfect one to counteract a negative thought is extremely rewarding. Some of my favourites were first spoken or written by Helen Keller, Shakespeare, Julia Childs, Dalai Lama, Albert Einstein and of course Audrey Hepburn! Here’s another applicable one for today! “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.” – Oprah Winfrey

Strawberry Fields

There is nothing sweeter than picking strawberries on a warm summer morning. On the way home, the delightful aroma filled the car, bringing with it fond memories of childhood trips to the strawberry fields. My sister and mom decided that it was time for a summer adventure and the idea of picking fruit sounded tasty, affordable and fun! We woke up extra early to beat the heat, and have a fresh selection. Of course, you can’t just pick a few strawberries when you go, because it is far too much fun. We ended up leaving with two full baskets, plenty to be eaten fresh, baked into a pie, blended into smoothies, sliced on top of yogurt or turned into sauces and jams. ♥ Molly

“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” – Dalai Lama

Color Me Rad

This past Sunday I participated in my first ever colour run! Words cannot even begin to describe how much fun I had! I was reunited with a friend that I hadn’t seen in over a year which made this “first” experience even more memorable. I also ran into some unexpected acquaintances which was coincidental and neat.

While it was 5km (A decent length for “newbies”), it wasn’t a race to set a PR at. The layout was designed to challenge beginners, but for the more advanced you had the flexibility of setting your own pace. The race was definitely less about speed than it was about colour and amusement. In fact, a lot of parents brought their children as those under 7 ran for free. I was impressed at how many little kids were successfully running the full 5km. Sometimes I forget how much energy I had when I was younger!

Color Me Rad is an organization that hosts races throughout Canada and the United States and the moment I heard they were coming to Toronto, Ontario, I signed up (It sold out so fast)! Downsview Park was an ideal location, as it is accessible by foot, car, bus and subway. It was a fairly flat course (Hooray!) and was mostly paved. The event was very hot as the trail was not shaded and the sun beamed at 40 degrees . In compensation I stayed extra hydrated even though I am not a fan of having much liquid (heavy) in my stomach when I run.

Our location was sponsored by Larabar so they were handing our “Cashew Cookies” following the race. Unfortunately I am allergic to nuts, but I did manage to score a Vitamin Water that they were handing out. There was also the opportunity to participate in a “Pepsi Taste Challenge” or get free Red bull. For some reason those beverages never really appeal to me, especially pre or post-workout!

For those of you still wondering what a “colour run” is, let me explain. The idea is that you start out very clean, wearing mostly white (for effect). We were provided with sunglasses that are designed to protect your eyes from sun and colour. I went as far as making white tutus for my friend and I to wear (they absorbed the cornstarch too) as the idea was to be “rad”. Many sported high socks, side pony-tails and white shorts as well. Throughout the run (in my situation it was each kilometer) you are coated with non-toxic, dry, coloured cornstarch. I was sprayed by wet coloured cornstarch at kilometers 2 and 4 which definitely helped to cool me down. At the end of the race I got my own “Colour Bomb”. This was similar to a ziploc baggy filled with a coloured cornstarch. We got our cameras ready and popped the bag for an ultimate explosion. My friend captured most of our memories, as I was too scared to ruin my phone! The organization also had photographers situated throughout the course and there was a photo booth at the end of it all. I can’t wait to see how those pictures turned out.

Today I am still living a “rad” life as some of the colours have yet to come off of my stomach. Similarly, I got a mild sunburn on my arms and back so there is an outline from my black “rad” tattoo. I guess it protected my skin from the sun but I am hoping that the tan line soon fades. I am already looking into running another “themed” race, as “Color Me Rad” was very enjoyable. Thank you again to all that volunteered or helped organize Toronto’s event. From the Zumba warm-up class, to the colour bomb squad, every detail was well thought out and planned. It is a race I would recommend to anyone provided they aren’t allergic to cornstarch and don’t have severe asthma. There is really nothing I would change about the race, except maybe spelling “color” with a U since it was a Canadian location! I am so grateful for having been provided with this opportunity. ♥ Molly

Source

Defining Happiness

Happiness. By definition, it is the state of well-being characterized by emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy (Source). While happiness is a human right that belongs to everyone, it does not mean that we each experience pleasure every moment of each day. In fact happiness can co-exist with any emotion. It is very possible to be happy and sad at the same time in situations including and similar to commencement. As promising as one’s future may be upon graduating, leaving behind friends and a known part of one’s life is undoubtedly emotional.

Yesterday was a day filled with happiness. I completed my first colour run, got to visit with a close friend whom I haven’t seen for over one year, swam in my own pool, spent time with my family and concluded the evening with a lovely dinner.

Gluten Free Carrot Muffins that I made for race fuel. One of the girls on my team has a gluten intolerance.

Left to Right: Leah, Larissa, ME, Will, Maude

These sunglasses were so handy. No coloured corn starch got into my eyes. I’ll be reusing them as they really block out the sun.

Slice of Tomato, Couscous/Red Onion/Red Pepper, Barbecued Salmon, Onion Tomato Relish, Cesar Salad! I haven’t had Cesar salad in so long!

Look at that smile. She is learning how to “shriek’ it is oh so adorable!

Sometimes happiness isn’t necessarily about what we do, but instead comes from the people whom we do things with. Whether or not we feel comfortable in our environment is also a key factor into the outcome of an event. I don’t love to run (and definitely did not train for this race) but running 5km was invigorating as I was motivated by laughter, music, fellow runners and of course “Colour Bombs”.

We can put a conscious effort into finding happiness through activities such as meditation or painting, but happiness can also arise in unexpected moments. It is fundamental in relationships and friendships and definitely makes tasks more manageable. I can’t imagine being employed in the wrong company or even the wrong field.

Part of the reason happiness is so sweet, is because it isn’t always present. In Gretchen Rubin’s novel “The Happiness Project”, some of the controversial arguments about happiness are mentioned.

 “The belief that unhappiness is selfless and happiness is selfish is misguided. It’s more selfless to act happy. It takes energy, generosity, and discipline to be unfailingly lighthearted, yet everyone takes the happy person for granted. No one is careful of his feelings or tries to keep his spirits high. He seems self-sufficient; he becomes a cushion for others. And because happiness seems unforced, that person usually gets no credit.”

This reminds me to be thankful for what I have because although others may appear to have their life more put together than myself, appearance can be deceiving. It resonates with one of my favourite quotes that I have mentioned before “Comparison is the thief of Joy” first said by Theodore Roosevelt.

I want to leave you with one last personal thought before I conclude this post about happiness. Happiness is something that is different for each and every one of us. What brings glee into my life is completely different than the things that create pleasure for my family members and friends. We are each entitled to our own opinion and while it is fair to respect the input of others, it is necessary to take your own to heart. Just because others might question your values does not mean that they are wrong. You cannot sacrifice your own joys in fear of rejection. ♥ Molly

“One of the secrets of a happy life is continuous small treats.” – Iris Murdoch

Summer Solstice

Yesterday marked the first official day of summer. Hooray! I can’t say I enjoy any other season more than this one. Here in Ontario, Canada the rhyme  “April Showers” came true for the entire spring season. While May brought flowers, it also brought torrential downpours. I am hoping that summer brings warmth and sunshine so that those threatening clouds get the memo to head elsewhere. (I am thinking positive thoughts for those currently struggling in Alberta that search to find dry land and  escape the flooding.)

I love summer for so many reasons. It tends to be the warmest season, the days are longer, it’s the perfect time for summer “reads”, clothing prints are always brighter and the materials are lighter (Hello Summer Dresses), my birthday falls within it, bike rides are more enjoyable, popsicles become more popular, as a student I get it off from school and it is typically the month in which my family travels. My parents must have had a hectic job coordinating summer day trips and weeklong vacations when I was younger. As one of four, not only were vacations expensive but very busy! I have fond memories of driving to the east coast, visiting Montreal and touring Ottawa. As I have gotten older however, we’ve caught the “Travel bug” and have gotten out of Canada more often! I’m fortunate to have ventured through California, gone to New York City, and have even seen a fair bit of Europe. Last summer we spent a few days in Paris France before heading to the South of France where we rented a house. It was the perfect opportunity to experience french living and culture.

I wonder what is in store this summer!  My hope is for a sandy beach covered in seashells, warm water for swimming and interesting boutiques. I think I’ve had my fair share of museums and site seeing these past summers, so my wish is to go to a relaxing location with minimal walking. Lazy? Maybe! Peaceful? Definitely! To be truthful I don’t know if I am the type of person that can read by the ocean but I am definitely willing to test my patience and try! Someday I hope to stay in a resort in Hawaii so in the meantime I will have to work on lounging by a pool (coated in SPF 50 sunscreen of course).

Officially 4 months old!

Emma and Lottie!

Of course the first day of summer wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t swim in our pool! Yesterday was also special as it was Lottie’s first time swimming. She was so brave and loved the water. I think it reminded her of a big bathtub. She is already following in my footsteps and becoming quite the water fish. Summertime is just asking for memories to be created. ♥ Molly

“Some of the best memories are made in flip flops.” – Kellie Elmore

Dr. Seuss quotes Graduation

Graduation is a milestone that every student looks forward to achieving. Yesterday my family congratulated my sister Emma for earning her Honours Specialization in Health Sciences with Distinction. For four years Emma has had perfect attendance as she dedicatedly studied (rehabilitation sciences) at the University of Western Ontario. Emma’s hard work really shone through earning her a Gold Medal for being the top of her graduating class. She also got to be the Gonfalon carrier for her faculty. There is something to be said about studying in the field of your interest. Emma’s passion led her to be rewarded with these privileges. While she is naturally very intelligent there is no denying that she invested extra hours into readings, lectures, studying and exams.

To say the least, I am one very proud sister. Emma truly embodies the role of a leader and yesterday was just one more event that helped us to remember all of her past accomplishments. Emma shares her wealth of knowledge in the London community by volunteering in positions such as “LIT” tutoring. I was thankful that yesterday’s weather brought sunshine and warmth. Even though the Health Science award lunch and graduating ceremony was held inside, the majority of the gatherings (Alumni reception and photo taking) were outdoors. I welcomed the fresh air as my family and I drove a total of four hours. Despite the prolonged periods of sitting, my toes still managed to get blisters. How does this always happen?

As Dr. Seuss would say “Don’t cry because it is over, smile because it happened”. While this quote might be overused, it is the perfect saying to reference on a special day like convocation. After all, a graduation is not an end, it is the start of a new chapter in one’s life. Emma’s honours will open so many future doors and opportunities. Next year she will be continuing her education at the University of Toronto as she embarks on completing a Masters in Physiotherapy. I am excited to be her future practice patient.

Congratulations on a well-earned celebration to all graduates out there. The world is at your feet. I can appreciate how much hard work it takes to earn a grade, certificate, diploma, degree, doctorate and or other title. It must feel outstanding to have a final show and document for proof as to what you have completed.  … Or as Emma Donoghue, who received an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Western yesterday, half-hearted joked, “was given”. In case you did not know, an Honorary Doctorate is something one is chosen, or elected to receive. I thought that Emma Donoghue, the author of “Room”, was a well-deserving candidate of this award. In appreciation, Emma Donoghue delivered a  very eloquent, well-versed, witty and rhyming speech. It was a piece that I thoroughly enjoyed and I hope that one day I share my convocation with a figure as interesting as Emma Donoghue.

June is a busy month for so many and for that reason I would encourage you all to take the time to reflect on the great things that have been happening around you. Change isn’t only present when rewarded. ♥ Molly

Oh the Places You’ll Go – “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…” – Dr. Seuss

Happy Dad Day

I think the most original gift that my dad got today was from my sister Emma! She crocheted him a donut (And even bought him a real one) as he really enjoys this sweet treat (In particular Tim Horton’s Apple Fritters!). D is for Dad and D is also for Delicious Donuts. My dad is a dedicated, dependable, determined, daring and dapper man.

I hope that everyone is taking time today to acknowledge a person whom they view as a father figure. I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful, loving, supportive dad within my life. We have created so many memories together filled with laugher and happiness. He is the best grocery partner, sous-chef and dishwasher a little “cook” like me could ask for! My life would not be the same without you Daddy and I would not have grown to be the person that I am today! (Especially in terms of my abilities when it comes to card games and word jumbles!) You will always be the best daddy in my eyes. Congratulations as today was your first Father’s day as a “Papa”. I love you. xo. ♥ Molly

“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me.”- Jim Valvano