A Week full of Lessons :)

‎"To succeed you must first improve, to improve you must first practice, to practice you must first learn, and to learn you must first fail."

This week- I have learned so much in such a short period of time. As my classroom has past the "honeymoon period" we are now entering the stretch where classroom management becomes vital for the remainder of the year. I was lucky to have the opportunity to meet with a woman named Karen who is from the district school board. Her job is to help me create a plan for myself on how, over the course of the year, I can become the best teacher I can be. While I first thought that she would come in and tell me how terrible of a job I was doing, meeting her ended up being like a breath of fresh air! 

After she observed my classroom we had a meeting where she started off by asking me, "what are some things that you think you do well as a teacher?".....I sat for a minuite and listed off a few things.....patient, genuine, prepare, honest, relatable etc....and she said "what else?" ....after a few seconds........I responded with..."to be honest, I dont find myself sitting down thinking about myself or how i'm doing, i'm busy worrying about the kids and what they need." She replied with "I can tell you a lot of things you are great at...." She started listing things..."i've never seen anyone on their toes like you....you are so well prepared.....you care about these kids so much and its so obvious how much you care and want them to do well"........hearing her say that really made me emotional. I usually have a hard time explaining things that i'm passionate about and hearing her acknowledge that I care so much and am giving this job my 100% really made me have a loss for words. With tears in my eyes I explained to her how hard it can be sometimes and how much it helps to have someone acknowledge my strengths. 

All too often I beat myself up for things not going well, or students not working to their full potential. She reassured me that my heart is int he right place and that i'm so close to having the students exactly where I want them. For the most part, they care about me, and with a few changes in my daily instruction (having a symbol for being quiet, a non-verbal system for controlling behaviour) I will be able to create a safe and positive environment for everyone.

I find myself so fortunate to have the opportunity to create a growth plan and have the support that I do. At the end of the day, Karen came into my classroom and said- "I'm not worried about you for a second- you have some challenges to overcome but by the end of this year- this is going to make you an unstoppable teacher......you have such a challenging class, but you won't let them win- its not in your nature." I found it amazing that after meeting me for one day, and watching me teach for 20 minutes, she was able to observe all of that. She knows how much I love my job, and my students and is going to give me the tools to create an amazing classroom! 

I am so excited. Despite the emotions, tears, and changes that are coming ahead. I am so excited! I have no doubt that this is going to be an amazing year- I love those kids with everything in me and these 2 months have already changed me as a person and educator!!

 

Long anticipated updates :)

You can make more friends in two months by becoming genuinely interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.

- Dale Carnegie

I came across this quote today and decided to open my blog with it because I've been a little "down in the dumps lately" (for lack of a better word).  To no surprise- I've been finding it rather challenging to meet friends here on the North Island. Its difficult to come into a new town, have a new job, and try to establish myself with a social network. I know that I have only been here for 2 months and that making friends takes time, but I keep constantly finding myself asking "In a town of 5000 people, what does everyone do with their spare time?"

 I Think one of the reasons that I am having such a hard time finding friends is because back at home I have been blessed with a very strong social network. I am such a talkative person that I've never had a hard time meeting people. I'm the girl that can go into a room of 100 people knowing absolutely no one, but will come out knowing not only everyones name, but something interesting about them. I guess I have taken this skill for granted over the past 20 years because I am finding it challenging just to put myself out there and spark up a conversation. Challenge number 1 is finding someone my own age to talk to, and challenge number two is to have the confidence to say something too them. (this sounds silly when written down and not in my head, but I guess that's the joy of reflecting)

I guess the reality is that ever since I've moved out from home (6 years ago) I've always been put into a situation that was prime for making friends. A university town where everyone has shared experiences. In many ways I've never been the only "new kid" on the block. People in Port Hardy have their lives established, they have their social networks and they have their routines- I'm the one who needs to put myself out there and take an interest in how things are done. 

Despite the fact that I feel like I'm writing in a diary (and posting it online for the world to see) I have accomplished something for myself today. I have realized that sitting in my apartment and feeling lonely is not going to help my cause for meeting people and getting involved. My plan for this week is to challenge myself to make a friend by stepping outside of my comfort zone. 

So if you're from Port Hardy, and happen to be reading this (doubtful) save me the awkwardness and be my friend :) HA.  I'm pretty fun to hang around.....ha ha ha

"If you go looking for a friend, you’re going to find they’re very scarce. If you go out to be a friend, you’ll find them everywhere."

- Zig Ziglar

(im pretty sure my mom is one of the only people that read this and I want to assure you that I am LOVING MY LIFE out here, it is amazing! I couldn't ask for anything better. I love my job, love my apartment and love my car- life is good) I would just like to have more people to hang out with in my spare time- theres no need to worry about me! xoxo) 

Quote of the week: "Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference" - Winston Churchill

I have been encouraged by my yukonian friend Jayme to begin writing in my blog again (apparently people are actually bored enough to read this). I'd like to start off by saying that BC is still the most beautiful place in the whole world, and I can not believe that I've already been here for a month. As I finish my 3rd week of teachings I am happy to report that things are going very well.

This week was actually pretty hectic for our school, or at least the 5,6,7 class. On Monday it was a Pro-D day, which meant meetings all day! I spent the afternoon/evening planning for the week and was in bed pretty early on Monday night. On Tuesday we had a regular school day. It was hard to get the kids back on track after a 3 day weekend. I was talking with one of the other teachers and we decided that Wed and Thurs are the optimal teaching days. On Monday its a write off because its just after the weekend, on Friday its a write off because its just before the weekend and Tuesday is still too early in the week to tell. Any big concepts or new concepts will be introduced on Wed or Thurs....we'll see if that theory works. HA.

On Wednesday my class took part in BC's "forest week" we got to go on a field trip to explore BC forest industry. We planted trees, went on a hike, and participated in logging games. It was a lot of fun to hang out and bond with the students outside of the classroom. They really have unique personalities and I am really enjoying getting to know them.

Today I had a really great day, we didn't do anything exciting in the classroom but everyone was so well behaved it made me very happy. The kids play this game during gym called "snowball" and its actually so fun. I played a few rounds and it was exhausting. After school I planned on starting a running club.....but I don't want to get started on how that turned out.

All in all I am having an amazing time out in BC! I have a great class, an amazing apartment and have met some really wonderful people. I am so lucky to have the opportunities that I do, and I am living the dream.

Cheers :)
Sarah

cute poem :) (thanks LISA)

my cousins gave me this poem (which is now posted in my bathroom) and I LOVE it :)

I didn't know poem

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I didn't know that years of school and a college degree would be of little

consolation when facing a room full of bright little eyes on the

first day of school. I thought I was ready...



I didn't know that five minutes can seem like five hours when there is

idle time and an eight hour school day far too short for a

well-planned day of teaching.



I didn't know that teaching children was only a fraction of my job.

No one tells you about the conferences and phone calls, faculty meetings, committees, paperwork and paperwork...



I didn't know that it took so long to cut out letters, draw and color pictures,

laminate-all for those bulletin boards that were always "just there"...



I didn't know that I would become such a scavenger, and that teaching

materials would feel like pure gold in my hands...



I didn't know that an administration and co-workers that support

and help you could make such a difference...



I didn't know that there would be children that I loved and cared for

and stayed up late worrying about, who, one day,

would simply not show up.

And that I would never see them again...



I didn't know that I can't always dry little tears and mend broken hearts.

I thought I could always make a difference...



I didn't know that the sound of children's laughter could drown

out the sound of all the world's sadness...



I didn't know that children could feel so profoundly.

A broken heart knows no age.


I didn't know that a single "yes ma'am" from a disrespectful child

or a note in my desk that says "You're the best!" could make me feel like

I'm on top of a mountain and forget the valleys I forged to get there...


I never knew that after one year of teaching I would feel so much

wiser, more tired, sadder and happier, all at once.

And that I would no longer call teaching my job,

but my privilege.

and it hit me... "I'm in BC"

I am sitting here enjoying my evening while watching some TV and it FINALLY sank in that "I'm living in BC!!!" It made me start thinking about how life is so full of twists and turns. If you would have told me a year ago, or even 6 months ago that I would be where I am right now I probably wouldn't believe you. I am so lucky to have the opportunities that I do! I can't believe I am getting ready to start my first teaching job! As I was setting up my room today, I felt like a real "professional" for the first time, I was comfortable calling all the shots and really feel like i'm ready to jump right into it!!! Mind you I still have a tonne of planning to do, I really am excited for this school year!!!!!!

this is a pretty pointless blog, I am just being all "reflective" and now that I live by myself I have no one to share my thoughts with (i'll just bottle it all up and use that energy in the classroom) LOL

I'm watching Americas got talent right now, and I really think that little girl is going to win- she is very talented. I feel like there is too much diversity (if there is such a thing) on this show. Since talent is a a subjective term, I feel that a lot of people get credit for being good performers, rather than full of raw talent. For example: the piano player guy is SO TALENTED, but when it comes down to performance, he cant beat someone who's using lighting and stage props to enhance their performance. I really don't think they should be in the same category, its just not fair. 

that's my rant on prime time TV- I need to get a hobby :) LOL, once my running shoes show up with the UPS boxes, i'll start jogging around my wonderful community!

have a great night,
Sarah

“The nice part about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you're doing, someone else does”

Greetings from Port Hardy BC! Actually- to be more specific, I am reporting from my very own apartment in Coal Harbour, which is a tiny town literally a 2 minute drive from my school (the most beautiful school in the whole world)!

I arrived here on Thursday and was COMPLETELY exhausted. Due to the fact that I had to visit as many people as possible before I left, I managed to plan a date with Dan and Brando after the Tom Petty concert and stayed up all night before my flight on Thurs. I flew out of Toronto at 7:30am and arrived in Vancouver at 10:00am BC time, I flew from VAN to Campbell River at 11:30 and arrived with one of the other teachers waiting for me at 12:30pm. After another 2hr drive- I reached my new home!!!! Well, not really my home- I ended up living with one of the other teachers for a few days until my place became available.

 It all turned out to be great and well worth it because the apartment I just moved into today is fully furnished and is super badass (for lack of a better word) All of the appliances are brand new, the couches are leather, I have a queen bed in my room and a spare room with two twin beds- which is perfect for visitorssssssssssss! (the beds are ready to be slept in)! LOL, I also have a stocked fridge/freezer with some fresh sockeye salmon.....there are also some crab guts (bait) that I need to go drop in the ocean sometime soon. The owners of the building were staying in this apartment and asked me if it was okay if I dropped it off for them. I said it was no problem at all because I LOVE walking down to the pier. I spent 3hrs there yesterday watching people catch crabs. It was so cool, I saw the biggest starfish EVER attached to the net, I also made friends with these people visiting from New Zealand and one boy caught a starfish on his hook. It was wild. The ocean intrigues me so much, I hope to make friends with some fishermen so they can take me out on the weekend :)

Other than watching people down at the pier I have started picking blackberries, I have enough here to bake a pie but I am just waiting to get to town in order to get a pie plate. I am really excited as I have never taken to baking before, but the fresh berries get me really excited. lol. I find it kind of funny living by myself because I have turned into a bit of a neat freak since working at the lodge this summer. When I made my bed today I totally did the "SWWL crew cut" on the bed, I even folded my towels the way we did it at the lodge. All my clothes are put away so nicely, which is totally unlike me. lol, I guess living on my own in such a nice place makes me a bit more organized. These are all good habits to get into!!!!

Today I spent all day in my classroom getting it set up. I got a TONNE done!!!! If you check on facebook you can see how my room is setup but in the left corner there is a "science" area, kind of like a lab area where there are also a lot of cupboards for storage. I went through every stitch of paper and have it all organized the way I want it for the year- it looks GREAT! I set up the desks as well- including my own! Tomorrows job = bulletin boards!! I have 7 to decorate so i'm hoping my camp skills of arts and crafts leader come in handy!!!! LOL.

Other than that, tomorrow I am waiting for my UPS boxes to arrive so I can unpack the rest of my stuff. 5 more boxes and im completely moved in! I am currently watching Father of the Bride Pt. 2, enjoying a cold beer and weighing the pro's and cons of getting a car.......life is good :) :) :)

I will be getting a PO box soon, and once I get that- I will post it so you can send me mail  YAYYY! hope all is well back at home in Ontario (I hear its hot), stay cool and COME VISIT

cheers :)
Sarah

Bittersweet :)

It is truly amazing how much you can learn about yourself in 4 short months. Within the past few days I have really began to understand that my job up here has been much more than cleaning cabins and serving meals. This summer has allowed me to realize that if you surround yourself with positive people, you can accomplish anything. I have learned that settling is not an option and that you are the only one in control of your own future. I now fully believe that “everything happens for a reason” and that my decision to come here for the summer was to reaffirm my passion for teaching by following my dreams. Through my experiences with two of the most wonderful children in the entire world, I look forward to being able to make a difference in the life of children in my future classrooms.


I do not think I ever would have discovered these things in any other work environment. Rather than simply working 9-5 at a traditional job, my bosses (and friends) managed to welcome the entire staff into their family. Through thick and thin we made it through the summer, and despite the aggravation we often caused one another (like any “normal” family), I know I have met some lifelong friends.

While I prepare to say goodbye to missy and the kids, and to finish up my last three days of work I feel like this really is the end of a chapter of my life. As I pack up my life and move to the other end of the country, I am now ready to start my career. My time at SWWL has given me the confidence in myself to dream any dream, pursue any goal, and to believe in myself. These are things that I will take with me for the rest of my life.

Missy gave me a card tonight, with a poem inside of it (which is the reason why I got all sentimental in the first place). I want to share it with everyone, and plan on getting it framed for my new apartment (yay). It is my new anthem and the way I look forward to living the rest of my life:

You can Design Your Own Destiny

You are a wonderful person,

so do wonderful things.

You can make a difference in

your own world.

You have a purpose;

You have the power;

you are magic.

You can create beauty,

Recall the past, plan the future.

You can soar in imagination.

You have the courage to question,

and you can choose to change.

The only limitations you have are those in your own mind.

Don`t be satisfied with less than all you can be.

Don`t compare yourself with others;

draw your own dreams

and design your own destiny.

Live each day to the fullest.

Give a little more than you take.

Make the world a better place to live,

and always...

always...

Listen to your own heart,

For only you know what is best for you.

Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to have this many emotions at the end of the summer. It really goes to show how much of an influence an experience can have on how you view the world.

august 2010

First off- I can not believe its already August. I guess the time truly does fly when you are having FUN! I only have 15 days left here at the lodge when it seems just like yesterday I was packing up my stuff and moving into the wilderness for the summer! I sure have had an amazing adventure- I am soaking up these last few days and enjoying it! Today, I am working with the kids for one of the last times. We are having a lot of fun, its sad to think it'll all be over soon. BUT on the positive side I HAVE SO MUCH TO LOOK FORWARD TOO!

This was just the beginning of my adventure.....

I am officially finished working at the lodge on the morning of the 18th, then I will be going to Thunder Bay for the evening and flying home to Toronto for 2:30pm on Thursday the 19th. I will be home for exactly a week and then will by flying out to my new home at 7:30am on August 26th! I can't wait. I was doing some research on areas surrounding Port Hardy/Coal Harbour and it looks phenomenal. There are so many outdoor/nature activities I am going to fit right in! I can not wait to go whale watching. Its going to be the time of my life. Not to mention all of the rich history of the surrounding areas, its going to be amazing!!!!

I am also really excited to see my school/classrooms. The pictures i've seen are gorgeous but I think its going to be even more phenomenal in person. I am so excited to get my classroom up and running- its going to be an amazing year!!!

Camp is starting to wind down as people slowly start to leave. Missy and the kids will be gone on the 15th and then jess and I are out on the 18th...from there everything winds down and the season comes to an end. I will certainly be sad to leave here, and I will always have a place in my heart for Northern Ontario- I love it. I'm so glad that I chose to come up here as my last adventure before "real life" begins. As much as I miss home, I love living the dream :)

Bittersweet- 3 more weeks :)

Hello again! So our busy time at the lodge has finally ended so we have been getting finished work a little earlier every night, which is really nice considering it was super crazy for about a week straight. The last big group we had here (a group of 17) were really awesome- I spent a lot of time around the campfire with them at nighttime. Although I had a great time getting to know them and staying up WAY too late, i'm kind of glad that they are gone so that I can catch up on my much needed sleep. I took an amazing 2hr nap this afternoon that definitely helped....slowly but surely i'll get back into my sleeping habits.

I am ashamed to admit that I have not only started reading twilight, but I am enjoying it. I am almost done the first book and it is such an easy read I can't help but like it.....i'm going to try to hammer through the remainder of the books I have here during the last 3 weeks. I have finally finished the first 3 seasons of Friday Night Lights and am looking forward to buying the 4th one once it come out at the end of august....if anyone is looking for an amazing show to watch, I totally suggest FNL- its filmed like a reality TV show but it isn't one, so its a little bit different in that sense. Overall, its about football and all the drama of a small southern town. Its awesome (and thers some pretty hot guys in there too) :)

Other than that boring news- theres not too much new with me. I am starting to wind down and realize how much i'm really going to miss the lodge once I am gone. I find myself appreciating the small moments and taking the time to realize how lucky I really am, and how this is such a great place for me right now. I especially love the family atmosphere and that there are always two children running around. If i'm ever in a bad mood, or just having a rough day I can usually have a conversation with brooke or blake and it'll make me feel better. Even just the simple things like asking Blake to help me count out the onions for my shore lunch boxes. I actually have no idea where I get my patience from, but I really look forward to the small moments that I get to spend with the kids. Even if it slows my day down by a couple of minutes, I love being able to have their full attention with counting or spelling or something like that. Its always at unexpected times when they are interested in those types of things too so it keeps my life interesting. Today, Brooke came down and showed me her very first loose tooth. It was so exciting because she is so pumped up about it- shes already made an envelope to put her tooth in once it falls out. She is the smartest 5 year old I've ever met and her teacher is going to be very happy to have her in the classroom.......I think I'm really gonna miss those kids when I'm gone in a few weeks :(

Right now I'm just sitting in the lodge waiting for a cake to bake. Tomorrow is jenns bday so I am making her a surprise cake (which wont be a surprise if she reads this, but I highly doubt she'll get here before tomorrow)! Battastoni mentioned to me in passing that we are going to go to the dump and fire off some guns so I think that is what I am looking forward too tonight. Other than that, i'm just hanging out and getting ready for another day at work tomorrow! I have a day off Friday so I am looking forward to sleeping in a bit and getting more paperwork done- hopefully the Internet is quick that day! lol

I got to talk to my sistah jenn on the phone tonight and wish her a happy trip- i'm excited that her adventure is FINALLY beginning because I feel like she's been talking about it forever. Its going to fly by, but if I know her she's going to be taking a tonne of pictures. Lol, she's going to love Europe and part of me is so jealous of her!!!

Anyways, I really think i'm rambling at this point. For those of you in the southern Ontario area, please let me know (email or facebook) when you are free so that I can plan some sort of get together during the short week that I am home. I would love to see as many people as possible and I feel that in order to make that happen there needs to be some mild planning beforehand.....

cheers :)
Sarah

saturday = roast beef day

HELLO! Its been a while since i've written because it has been SUPER BUSY here at the lodge. We have finally gotten through our busiest time here- 57 in for dinner, sure makes for a lot of plates to wash. At one point we actually used literally every piece of cutlery during dessert, we may have resorted to using shore lunch forks. Lol, in the worlds tinyest sinks it sure is fun washing dishes for 3hrs straight (im kidding- its no fun)! I'm surprised I can still tolerate the girls I work with (i'm just saying that because I know Jen is going to read this and I wanna piss her off) LOL. We have some hilarious times in that kitchen, whether its someone slipping on the freshly mopped floor, or us getting hyped up on ice coffees at 630am- i'm always having laugh attacks. It sure is a good time.

Another positive thing of the groups that were just here we had a large group with a bunch of NHL hockey players in it.....needless to say on one of the really hot days it was quite a distraction when they all jumped into the lake!!!! We were so sad to be in the kitchen cleaning when all we wanted to do was go for a swim....they were some nice eye candy for the week. Last night I actually went and played poker with them, it was HILARIOUS. I played for one of the older guys who had consumed a little bit too much Brandy and somehow managed to win him a lot of money.....they were talking about how impressive it was this morning, who knew all those nights at Andy's house playing poker in highschool would have come in handy!!! lol. As a result of last night shennanigans it was a bit of a rough morning- thankfully some tylenol and ice coffee got me through this LON|G day. We had 20 people leave and 16 people come in......its not fun washing and re-making that many beds.....but we got it done and now i'm rewarded with some lunch and an afternoon of relaxing!!!!!!

Anyways- that is my mini update on whats going on in my life. I haven't been out fishing in a long time, hopefully next week once Peter gets off the water guiding he can take me in the afternoon. Need to break in my new rod (once I get a reel from dub). The countdown until my arrival home is ALMOST starting, its a little premature- but who cares 26 days until i'm creekboud YAY!!!!!!!!!!

The great WET north

Hello from the rainy north.....well, it hasn't been THAT bad but it seems to me that the forecast is always calling for some kind of a thunderstorm. The rain here is actually so cool because when it thunders you can feel it vibrate the entire building. We actually had hail the other day, which was pretty scary since it was right around dinner time when the boys were coming off the water- luckily everyone made it home safe and sound :)

The last few days have been a bit of a challenge for me, I find myself in a bit of the "mid summer rut." AKA: i'm just cranky sometimes. The guests we have here right now are AMAZING though and whenever i'm in a bad mood I just walk out into the dining room and they make me laugh. They are all such great people, its fun to be around them- they always put me in a better mood! Working in the kitchen is also so much fun- the girls that I spend 24/7 with are hilarious and always making me laugh. This morning at 7am I was in tears over a conversation about oatmeal.....it just goes to show how its the little things in life that matter :)

The cook sherry is absolutely hilarious as well. Today I was doing dishes (as per usual) and I asked her about her turkey brine. (ps. mom- i'm on turkey duty this Christmas- it'll blow your mind how delish this is) She was explaining it to me and I went to dump out a pot that was soaking, and she SHRIEKED at me (like nothing I've ever heard before) and it scared me half to death I just looked at her like omg, whats going on. Turns out, the pot was not soaking it was her turkey brine cooling near the sink and she thought I was being a jackass by dumping it out. Writing this out it sounds like you had to be there for it to be funny but it was actually hilarious, I really laughed a lot. Just goes to show that you can have fun while working!!! lol.

Tonight was steak night and it was unreal. Just a usual Friday night. I was planning on going berry picking, but as the title of this blog states, its raining. I'm surprised the satellite Internet is still working. I guess I am just lucky.

I am going to head upstairs and take a shower now and probably watch a movie before bed. OHH The purpose of this blog was to inform everyone that I BOOKED MY FLIGHT HOME (yay) It will be on August 19th at 12:30pm which means I will be arriving in Toronto at 2:30pm!! Its a thursday and I will be home for exactly 7 days! I have a TONNE to organize before I get myself packed up and ready to go on the 26th but it'll be TOTALLY WORTH IT! I am so excited for what September has in store, I just cant wait to get there :) :) :)

July updates :)

Hello from the LODGE! I havent written in a while becuase I have been super busy, and truthfully I forgot. I am sittin outside right now on my day off listening to the hustle bustle in the kitchen and getting eaten alive by mosquitos......the life of a lodge girl on a day off :)

Life here has been pretty sweet lately. Not going to lie- I am continuing to live the dream. I work with some of the most amazing people in the whole world, and am so lucky to have this experience. Yesterday, I got the opportunity to skype with Colly all the way in NZ. Its crazy to think she is sitting in snow, while its nice and hot here....I am acutally so glad i'm not back in southern Ontario- the heat would probably kill me. it gets humid here but only when its about to storm. I hear back at home i'd be melting. I dont like that at all. I am currently sitting in a sweater and am at perfect temperature....this is a really boring post....

Earlier in the month we had a little Canada day celebration (pics on fb) and it was so much fun. We got to the beach and prior to leaving we had checked the radar and there was no rain in sight, so we were stoked. WRONGO. Shortly after arriving we had wings and a fire and then its started to rain very hard.....it was lighting for quite some time and we were stranded on the beach. If I had to be stranded on a beach with anyone I was happy that I was with 10 guys who spend their entire summers on the water and know when its safe and when its not. Their expert advice to me was, "sit down and crack another beer." So thats exactly what I did.

A few days following canada day- it was July 4th- so we got the best of both worlds. There was a little celebration here and the kids even made a lemonade stand.....which went VERY well with gin :). Turning the willems children into bartenders one day at a time! I had a great time and enjoyed the fireworks. It was overall just awesome.

Other than that, not too much to report with me. I will be sending some emails very soon (promise) have a great weekend everyone :)

p.s. if anyone is looking for a good series to watch: FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS owns my life right now, its amazing.

A taste of civilization.....

yesterday we finished work early (at 1:30ish) so Jen and I decided to take a trip into town....aka Dryden to check out this sheep farm. After a bumpy 1hr drive  we arrived safely. Its so weird to get into a car and see stoplights and litter on the roads....and other people! I had made a pact with jen that I was going to not be friendly to everyone I saw because I'm sick of being nice to people all the time.....I failed epically. I went into the store, and not only was I friendly and smiling, I said hello to randoms. I am so used to always being nice to friendly to old men, I couldn't help myself! lol, its funny to see how living int he bush can really change you! ha. On the way home we stopped at dairy queen...what a TREAT! loll I felt so sick after..but it was SO WORTH IT!

tomorrow is canada day. The plan: hull through dishes and then head to a beach for wings, fireworks and beers! annnnnd- I have the day off on Friday, which means I can sleep in!!!!! I'm drinking tomorrow for John A. Macdonald!!!!

Cheers everyone :)

“This life is yours. Take the power to choose what you want to do and do it well. Take the power to love what you want in life and love it honestly. Take the power to walk in the forest and be a part of nature. Take the power to control your own life. No one else can do it for you. Take the power to make your life happy.”
- Susan Polis Schutz

This is a quote that I actually took from Annes FB profile (thanks AGG) and I really like it! Especially with everything that has been going through my mind lately, it really is comforting to remember that I am the ONLY one who is in control of my life and I am the only one that can make the choices to make myself HAPPY! So far, that is what I have been doing- but can you really blame me for being so happy when I have such wonderful people in my life? I am VERY lucky. (thanks to everyone who is always there for me- you mean the world to me)

Today has been a GREAT day! Actually, its been kinda cold but I got to hang out with my little monkeys all day! We spent the majority of our time indoors but we had a lot of fun. We started out with some crafts making some scary masks: aka an elephant mask, a chicken mask and a monkey mask. Then, we proceeded to walk around camp and scare everyone that was here today. It was awesome! The kids really got into it....I even got blake to eat crasins by telling him that monkeys like them. HA. In the afternoon we made some home made play dough and played some imagination games outside. Its funny to think that you dont even need any plans or materials to have fun. All I have to do is pretend that im a guest and blakes a guide and he will sit for hrs cooking me pretend fish and guiding me around the lake. He wants nothing more than to be seen as a big boy.......hes adorable. Today, he actually took a ginormous spill off of the stool and got himself a black eye. I convinced him to tell everyone "you should see the other guy" when they ask him what happened. He is hilarious. I will hopefully post some pictures of them soon!!!!

Other than that- not much is new. today was a town run and I GOT MY ROD! wooooot. Who knew that would be so exciting! I am going to buy a reel off of Mike and hopefully I can get it all rigged up and ready to go! I cant wait to use it!

I have one request: please email me your phone numbers. I lost my sheet of paper with the numbers on it and I would like to catch up with everyone (aka: katie- i know you are off work but I don't know yr number)!

our hilariously scary masks

blake with our home made playdough

miss you all- have a great week :)

Full moon Friday :)

Hello Again! We have been blessed with beautiful weather the past couple of days- the wind has been PERFECT and has blown all the warm water towards the lodge. I have gone swimming twice (and its not ice cold)! I think the water is at about 72 or something like that- so refreshing! It is great to go down to the swim dock on break, lay in the sun reading a book until its hot and then go in for a dip! (don't worry- I wear sunscreen but you should see how many freckles I already have)!!!!

Speaking of reading books- I have developed a love for reading up here.....to the point where i'm up until 1am, unable to go to sleep because I'm promising myself "only a few more pages." I bought a few books of amazon last week (they arrived so quick- i'm addicted) and I have already ready two of them. I bought some more last night (whoops) I have been looking for some good aboriginal literature to prepare myself a little bit for teaching in the north. The book I read first was called "For Joshua: an Ojibway father teachers his son" and it is one of my favourite books of all time (right up there with Anne of Green Gables)! It is about a father who spends his life struggling to find himself. I think that it is a good read for everyone, and it teaches you more about ojibway culture, which is something that we all know way too little about! I highly recommend it. I also found a new quote from it that I really find influential:

"As parents and teachers we need to tell our children this- that you can never be less than who you were created to be. You never have to qualify. You never have to prove yourself. You just need to be."

In today's society it is all too easy to change who you are, what you believe and put up a front to protect yourself from discovering who you really are. As a teacher, I hope to let my students realize that being YOU is what is important, rather than being what others want you to be. The other two books I purchased last night were both written by the same author- one being his first novel, called "Keeper 'n me" which was a bestseller, I can't wait to get it next week!!!!!

Other than my new love for reading. Not much is new. I am sitting in the lodge currently smelling fried mushrooms and onions...which clearly means its STEAK DAY and im so excited. I'm on dishes tonight which means 2.5 straight hrs of boiling hot water and scrubbing. YAY! its a nice break from serving and being social. (hard to believe but I don't always like to talk to people)! Tomorrow is a HUGE changeover day for us (4 cabins) so we are going to hopefully get into cabin one (the largest cabin) and clean it up tonight so we have an easier day tomorrow. After that- i'm hoping to get to a beach to watch the wonderful sunset/full moon tonight!

Still living the dream! Hope everyone has a glorious weekend :)

another day off :)

aloha from the north. It is a beautiful sunny day outside and its a shame im in the lodge on the computer.....actually, I'm trying to organize a list of stuff that I need for up Fort Hope It is getting really lengthy (sorry mom- I will be sending you a list as soon as I have it completed)! If anyone has any suggestions of what I might need up there for either my classroom or just my living area please let me know- I would really appreciate it :)

Amidst all of my organizing and planning I am also in the process of writing an article for one of my friends (Dave: my co counselor from camp last year) about working with children with disabilities. I am focusing on my experience with horseback riding and plan to make a beginner article on tips/strategies etc. on teaching children with disabilities. I am off to a bit of a bumpy start (I've never been good at captivating introductions) but I think it'll end of great- I will make sure of it!

The last few days sure have been BUSY. We have the fullest camp we've had so far (12 in cabin 1) which makes for a very busy dinner!!! We are always on the go- especially with tonight being RIB NIGHT- the girls sure will be busy. Last night was home made lasagna and it was to die for, I actually had a piece at 10:30 for breakfast. I am planning on eating a late lunch and then going out fishin for a bit with pete. Amber has proposed going for a long swim down to the jumping rocks, but last time we did that it was so cold I was FREEZING so I don't know if i'll embark on that adventure with her today. we'll see :)

anyways- I am going to end this short because a) theres only 10% left on my computer battery and b) i'm going to go up the hill and organize some more of my stuff (aka: laundry)! what an exciting day!

Happy Fathers day :)

This is going to be a short post as a shout out to my DAD! Happy fathers day to not only my dad, but all the dads out there! Last night, one of the guides wives went into labour and had a baby boy at 10:08pm weighing 6lbs 8oz. Needless to say its been an exciting day out at the lodge! I am "nanny for a day" and have also had an eventful morning. It started with the idea of making a mini ecosystem (aka: aquarium) for the kids to have minnows in their room.......long story short it turned into me catching leeches (which is the grossest thing in the world) and lots of other cool bugs. I am pretty sure one of the minnows is already dead, but we've got about 1,000 more in the minnow tank outside, so the kids will get over it pretty quick :)

After our morning snack we decided to make musical instruments. Which was another good idea turned bad when I realized how obnoxious a Kazoo and a tambourine can be...but it was lots of fun :)! I think the kids are having a fun day. One of the guides is having his daughter come up this afternoon for some fathers day fishing so I am going to be taking care of her to for a couple of hours, I'm pretty excited. Its nice to have lots of little ones running around entertaining each other......once the kiddies wake up from their nap i'm thinking about making jello Jigglers.....which will be a good time!

Other than that, there is not much else to report. last night I was 100% successful in using my shenis to pee off the side of the boat!!!!! (dad you would be proud)! I'm pretty much an expert....theres some hilarious pictures on someones camera that will eventually surface....ha ha with a nice sunset in the back too!!!!!

Its about 1pm here, I am going to go finish reading the book i've been working on while continuing to fight the urge to nappppp! I am trying to quit that habit so I can enjoy myself outdoors as much as possible (but its easier said than done)

As always, this post is much longer than expected......I am so damn chatty :)

Happy Fathers day, have a great Sunday

p.s. mom- expect a phone call tonight around 7pm (aka 8pm your time)

Carpe Diem

You live longer once you realize that any time spent being unhappy is wasted.

~Ruth E. Renkl

 I thought I would start of this post with a quote because not only do I find them inspirational, I really think that they teach important lessons. This week in camp we have a guy here that was born in 1919. That's right my friends, he was born just after WWI (making him 91). He is in the best shape I've ever seen and he can withstand an entire day out on the water. I talked to his guide yesterday who mentioned he is always talking about how beautiful it is up here, and how lucky he is to be here. It really got me thinking.....we are so lucky to live in such a beautiful place, have such amazing people in our lives, and we all take it for granted- at least I know I do sometimes. I want everyone (at some point this week) to go out and do something for themselves that will make them happy. Whether its something subtle like sitting outside for half an hr to read a book, or going shopping for a new pair of shoes- make sure you spend as much time as you can being "Happy"! This summer I am truly realizing how lucky I really am to not only have the opportunities I do, but to be able to sit back and enjoy them. Last night I saw a gorgeous sunset and a glimpse of the northern lights- I'm living the summer of my dreams.

Anyways, enough of the inspirational words by sarah......another day off- and this time it's ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS outside. I am sitting here in shorts and a tank top just waiting to get outside and enjoy the SUNSHINE! Missy mentioned that jess and I should take the kids to blueberry lake (a lake 20 min down the road) that is a lot smaller and warmer, so it is suitable for swimming! I am pretty excited and I think Jess and I will plan to do that this afternoon.....other than that- not much is new with me. I received two packages from Auntie and Jenn containing lots of sweets so I am trying to ration them out so I do not overload all at once.......

I have some big news regarding my running schedule....yesterday I ran somewhere between 5-6km straight without stopping. I don't know exactly the distance because they are just roughly marked on the roads by landmarks but I am still very impressed with myself. That is the furthest I've ever run. My goal is to run about 6km every 2 days....we'll see if that happens. Amber is trying to convince me to start interval training so we'll see where that goes. So far, I've sworn off of cookies, which is SO HARD since I am sitting in the lodge and sherry just made a fresh batch.....ha ha I live such a hard life :)

Anyways, this is a really long post...and I am itching to go outside so I'm going to end this now :) Have a wonderful Wednesday! Cheers!

weekly update :)

So I have not written in a while. Partly because i’ve been so busy and mostly because i’ve been lazy. I always have a lot to say but sometimes the internet is just so slow its not even worth it. The past week has been super fun/exhausting. We have a lot of groups in here right now, there are even some of the guides eating at a fold out table in the back room! One of the groups here has 11 people in it- and trust me- its not fun making 11 beds in a row each morning! Sometimes I feel like a mother to a giant family! Its really really fun. The people I work with are absolutely incredible, I find it hard to believe that my boss was able to pick such amazing staff (minus this one girl jen, shes a huge pain in the ass to work with ha ha ha ha) Im clearly joking, everyone is phenomenal and pulls their own weight, I love waking up every morning and coming to work. As much as i’m starting to miss Kodiak, i’m so happy with where I am right now!

jessica and I being weight in the boat

The other day I took over as “nanny for the day” and gave Jessica a day off. It was a lot of fun- we went on an adventure picking wild roses, and then after nap we went on a scavenger hunt. I posted a few pics on facebook- the kids were so cute and so into finding clues. I had a great time too! I am looking forward to hanging out with them again.

A few nights ago we went to a beach and had a bonfire (hopefully I can post a picture)! It was really huge, and awesome. The guys busted out their guitars and we had some sing alongs. Sounds lame, but it was a lot of fun. I may have belted out “don’t stop believing” on the boat ride home after a few too many gin and tonics- a shout out to my guelphers 

Today I had another day off, this time with JESSICA! Which was nice because I had someone to hang out with....people are starting to call us “partners in crime”...whatever that means. Lol we really didn’t have an exciting day though. We watched some glee, slept in a bit and then made some milkshakes. I actually spent a considerable amount of time today on the phone/internet catching up with people. It makes me miss home but I am so lucky to have you all in my life- thanks for always being there for me to chat 

Other than that, not much is new. I’m going to end this now and head up the hill to the guide shack for a few too many beers.....I may stop in at the walk in fridge for some leftover Yorkshire pudding ......i’m living the dream.

Have a wonderful Sunday (happy early birthday dad- love you) xoxo

p.s. I bought a few books on amazon today about teaching aboriginal students- if anyone has any suggestions on books for me to read, please send em my way! Thanks

me picking up my own pike off the dock today :)

p.s.s. totally joking about the jen thing, I love jen!

hangover friday :(

Last night I learned a valuble lesson- "ladies night" in cabin 2 is always bad news. After being asked for the entire week to go down to their cabin after work for a drink, I finally caved and headed there around 10:30....long story short and half of a 26 of vodka later- it has been a rough day. I worked through it though and was rewarded with a nice long nap :)

Tonight is steak night- which is my absolute favourite night of the week.I just heard that dessert for dinner is bread pudding, which i'm excited to try. I really have nothing else to report- I am currently enjoying a crunchie bar with a 3 year old.....life is good.

Time to get back to work- tomorrow is a busy day of changeovers- TGIF have a wonderful weekend

cheers :)

Chicken Thursday

The only way I can tell the difference between the days of the week is through what we're having for dinner.....what a wonderful life I live. Although I have become addicted to my watch, I love being able to have my scheduled list of work and then once I get that done I am FREE to do as I please :)
The last few days I have been fulfilling my commitment to running. Amber had me doing lunges (which I swear I am going to feel in my legs for the rest of my life)! I am finally able to run again and was brave enough to run alone this afternoon. Through the bear infested road, I scared them off with my terrible singing and heavy breathing. ha ha ha....they are only black bears anyways. I actually have yet to go to the dump to see the bears there, but I have seen pictures. The kids have them all named "bruzer" is one, and I can't remember the other....

Yesterday I went fishing with peter who works for guest services/guiding! It was a lot of fun. I have been going out with him as a mock guest so he can get more experience on the lake. We were having bad luck for a while but after about half an hr we starting catching fish like CRAZY! I caught a 25.5 inch walleye!!!!! It was so much fun to reel in, and it was amazing to see- such a gorgeous fish!

25.5 inch walleye :) biggest fish yet (such a windy picture)

Speaking of fishing- I somehow got suckered into buying myself a st. croix rod. The boys here told me which one would work out best for me and I spent about $100 on a rod that has a lifetime warranty. I am pretty stoked about ti because apparently its a great brand and the retail value is about $200. Not to mention is a 2 piece rod so I can take it up north with me and have it for myself. I am still going to talk to mike about buying a shimano reel off of him. I can not wait to have my own equipment and be able to take myself out fishing. I have already learned how to put on a minnow and how to tie my own jigs on a line. I forget the name of the knot but my goal is to learn a bunch over the summer. I am also slowly learning to not be scared of the fish and to learn how to take them out of the water without getting my hands ripped to shreds. I know the logistics of the whole thing and where to pick them up but I'm a huge chicken when it comes to that kind of stuff. I am going to fish off the dock by myself sometime soon so that I have no choice but to do it alone and not ask one of the boys for help "sink or swim" is what I say.....I

Other than that news- there is nothing much new with me. I believe on my next day off I'm not really taking a day off. Instead I am letting Jessica have a day off (the nanny) and I am taking over her role for the day as nanny!! I am pretty excited because I am going to be like the fun loving aunt that spoils them rotten! I am already planning fun activities like a scavenger hunt, Tye dying or paper mache.....we'll see which one pulls through!

Anyways, its almost 4 here so I am going to head back up to my cabin and watch a movie.

Cheers :)

Cabin Fever :)

Defined: Cabin fever (also known as House Syndrome) is an idiomatic term for a claustrophobic reaction that takes place when a person or group is isolated and/or shut in, in a small space, with nothing to do, for an extended period (as in a simple country vacation cottage during a long rain or snow).

HA.HA.HA. Although I have not yet caught cabin fever, Jessica and I had a hilarious chat today about the effects of cabin fever and how my evening plans of "scrabble and pilates" could potentially turn into cabin fever in the future. lol. I am just joking- I love it here. There is always something fun to do with someone. Whether it be fishing, kayaking, watching a movie, or simply having beer in the guide shack- I am never bored. Truthfully I am usually to exhausted to be bored- any time I have to relax I'm either reading or sleeping. Its a pretty awesome life.

I started running today. Amber is going to be my trainer and whip me into shape....we have already sworn off of carbs (aka: the home made fresh bread everyday) and I'm going to work at minimizing my portions. I eat way to well here!!!!

Hope all is well in Southern Ontario- I hear its hot! It a beautiful day here as well, time for me to go out and enjoy it :)

Cheers :)

Fishing log 101

Hello :) Reports from another day off! (yes- I've had 2 days off in 3 days- I switched days with Jenn....so now I have extra free time) despite the rain- its a pretty awesome day. I am spending my time FINALLY uploading pictures. Its actually taking facebook FOREVER to load them, I've been waiting for half an hour and its still loading......I think fast Internet is something I take for granted at home!

Right now, camp is going through a big "changeover"- meaning that people are both leaving and coming in tomorrow. It is going to be a BUSY day. Especially with the rain- the boys come into camp during lunch to cook rather than sitting out in the rain to eat. It gets crowded in the lodge and we are working on staying organized when theres 13 guys in control of the kitchen.....the one good thing from rain days = LEFTOVER fish!!!! I stuffed my face today with baked walleye, and I will go back for round two later this afternoon. I just can't get enough and I am very lucky.

Right now there is a couple here that inspires me to live my life to the fullest. They are both over 75 and are so in love they act like teenagers. He calls her "my fishing queen" and they share everything. I brought her a dessert last night and they looked forward to sharing it with her.....they define "true love" everyday as they hold hands walking down to the dock....I think its so cute and more people need to live their lives enjoying the little things.

Last night before I was going to bed I spent some time admiring spiderwebs. It sounds silly but I have a new fascination with spiders (when they are not biting me- I have a nasty spider bite on my left arm). One of the guys has been watching this one spiderweb outside of the guide shack and we spent some time last night watching the net catch moths. It was literally like a real life Charlotte's web......I felt like I was in a live taping of discovery channel...ha ha ha The plan is to feed this spider pine beetles once they come out....the bugs are starting to get bad....I'm going to try out those vitamin B1 patches that I bought at the green living show, I'm just waiting until I can't bear them anymore.

Other than my general observations and odd fishing adventures- nothing else is new with me. I have been perusing online to see if I can order some "first year teaching" guideline books to read. If anyone has any suggestions for which ones are good, or most useful- please send me a message. I want to prepare myself for September as much as possible.

Anyways, after an hr my pictures appear to have failed uploading on facebook. I give up- here are a few to enjoy :)

picture from the top of "snob hill"

the warmest day so far- we went swimming

a picture from inside the lodge!

enjoying a day off on the dock

night fishing with trent

picture from the dock

have an amazing happy and hot weekend!
Cheers

The end of May :)

Hello again! Sorry I have been so MIA in writing/communicating with people. In all honesty, this Internet is just so slow its actually a huge pain to even come online- heaven forbid I even want to upload a picture.......I am on my day off today and have already had a fun-filled jam packed day. I woke up early and cleaned my room (which as most of you know is much needed since I am a huge slob)! Last night I promised Brooke and Blake that they could come and jump on me if I was not awake by 9am....although I was up around 8ish, as soon as I heard them coming near my cabin I jumped back into bed pretending to sleep. They are so incredibly cute, its awesome that I can spend my day off playing games. I got invited to a tea party this morning AND we did some fun art colouring....I am planning on coming up with a cool fathers day craft for them to make for Mike. Those kids are living the dream up here- playing all day and taking an afternoon nap, they really don't know how good they actually have it!

The other day here it reached over 30 degrees and I decided to go in the lake.....bad decision. It was so cold it felt like there were pins and needles in my entire body, not to mention I jumped in on slippery rocks that were very hard to climb off. I am glad I experienced it- I am sure its only a matter of time until the water warms up at least a little. All of the boats here have GPS on them, so I am hoping the boys can find a nice warm bay to take us swimming.

Another item on my agenda today is something Jessica and I have been talking about for a long time. As women, one of the problems we run into when out in the boat fishing is having to pee while out on the lake. Unlike guys, we can not piss off the side of the boat- not very successfully at least. We have done some Internet research and have discovered that we can purchase our very own "shenis" which is a device that allows women to pee standing up....HA. The slogan for the shenis is "don't take life sitting down" which is also hilarious. They are not very expensive, so as a joke we are going to purchase some to try them out. Who knows when it'll come in handy. lol. Another exciting purchase I am expecting to come in today is the board game scrabble. Often times during break or at night we are looking for something fun to do when hanging out- I also have a few people that have challenged me to a game....so I put it on the "town" list for today. I look forward to playing tonight after I go fishing!

Other than that, not much else is new and exciting in my life. I absolutly love the guests that have been coming to the lodge. They are all extrememly nice, and hilarious. Last night I was "lodge girl" which made me responsible for doing dishes all day- I acutally missed being out in the dining room chatting it up with everyone. Its a pretty amazing place- rather than travelling down south, I think people should really consider coming to Northern Ontario.

Speaking of Northern Ontario, I am currently reading the book that Jayme lent to me called "through the black Spruce." It is set in Northern Ontario and discusses many of the challenges faced by isolated communities within the province- it seems fitting for where i'm headed in September :)  I am only at the beginning but I am really enjoying it!

Anyways, Its about lunch time and I smell fresh cookies coming from the kitchen :) YUM! I am living the dream I tell you.....living the dream!

If you get a chance- feel free to write/email

Cheers :)

First Day Off :)

my view every morning :)

amazing shorelunch and tanning

I have LOTS to report on! Firstly, the weather this week has been phenomenal. Absolutely beautiful to be honest- its reached 30 degrees. I am really happy that I chose this year to come up to the lodge, I hear that it is usually really snowy and icy still at this time of the year. The other day my boss let us girls go out for a shorelunch and an afternoon of fishing! It was great to see how the boys cook their meals, and of course it was amazing to spend an afternoon on the water! I  caught 6 walleyes and a few small pike. The biggest being a 20" walleye. Nothing too exciting, but I had a lot of fun. Fishing sure is addicting- its like gambling (I already have one of the guides lined up to take me out tonight LOL) The other day Mike caught the biggest pike of the year thus far, a 43". I saw the pics, and it is absolutely ginormous. last year the record was 44" so I'm thinking that it will be beat this year! Hopefully. There have also been some 29" walleyes caught already. Considering its only been a week of walleye season, I think things are going pretty well.

Other than fishing, we do a lot of work here too (might as well talk about that a little)! The first guests came in yesterday, and now we are busy working out the kinks of serving dinner to a full house. Its a big change, but I work with really great/fun people which makes it worth it. On my day off today I was lucky to SLEEP IN! I got up at 930 and watched a few movies. I am currently finishing up a few loads of laundry and then I'll head back up to my cabin to put them away! I did some cool science experiments with the kids today (always thinking about teaching) we made goop (corn starch and water) and then we made a volcano (vinegar and baking soda) I am going to hopefully get some mentos and coke and then we can have some real explosions.......its fun to play with them and get them all excited about learning :)

I am going to add a few pictures in this post (if I can figure out how) to give you a glimpse of house beautiful it is here in the north ENJOY!

have an excellent long weekend- hope the weather is great! Cheers :)

blake and I enjoying shorelunch

Jesse and his ginormous pike

Sunday :)

This page takes so long to upload!!! I have an update from my previous post, I lied a little. Ha. I work 15hr days, not 17 and we are getting closer to a normal schedule so I have a few hrs off each afternoon! Ohhh, and in response to allisons comment about hunting- I will use my catches (if I acutally get one) for meat- which means that I am being sustainable. lol, I would never kill something unless it was for a purpose.....speaking of which I have seen a moose and some bears already while being up here! There is a lot of wildlife!

Other than that, I really don't have much new to say. I am currently laying on a leather couch in the lodge that is so comfy I am contemplating just sleeping here. Its sad that its only 9pm and my quote of the evening has been "I refuse to go to bed before the children." Its still light outside!!!! Its wonderful. Today was hot and the rest of the week is supposed to be even nicer. We are being spoiled thats for sure! Spoiled is also being hundreds of km away from civilization and having internet access.....living the dream I tell yah!

Anyways, I no longer hear little feet running above me upstairs, so I am now able to go to bed. We just received a pretty substancial VHS collection in our cabin so I am going to choose one of those and fall asleep!!!

SWWL week 1

Just as I was about to give up and call it a night, my page FINALLY decided to upload. I guess that is expected due to my current internet situation. I am too lazy to walk the 100ft to the lodge, so I am sitting at the top of what we call snob hill near the wood shed, looking at the beautiful northern stars. Pretty lucky if you ask me. Other than the slow internet. I am doing AMAZING! I love it up here. Despite the 17hr days, no breaks, and endless amounts of dishes- the staff, owners and everything else makes up for it! I absoltuly love my job. I have cleaned so many cabins, and learned how to make a bed properly (mom you will be so proud- I can crew cut a fold on a matress) lol. It is pretty much amazing up here. The other staff members have become like family and we have some really great laughs together.

The weather has been nice as well. Minus rain yesterday, apparently its going to be 23 tomorrow, which means im going to be on the water hoping to catch myself a walleye- its opening season! Anything under 18 inches is MINE! lol. I love it. I have been talking to people and have decided that I might look into getting a hunting liscence since im going up north. Itd be a good thing to have, PLUS I am pretty much turning into an angler with every passing day. ha ha ha.

I miss home, but im having the time of my life. Once I start on a regular schedule and get normals breaks from 1-4 I will post some pics.......all I have to say is that you should be jealous, because while you are waking up to the smog of the city.....I am waking up the fresh air, bald eafles and endless supplies of walleye!

p.s. Mom- please send some candy! Love you xox

Roadtrip

Hello- this will be SHORT! I just arrived in tbay after a 12.5hr drive- we made GREAT time. Only hit snow in sudbury.....we are lucky to live in such a gorgeous province, if you get the chance EXPLORE IT! I am off to shower and head down to the local tavern for a celebratory beverage (this one's for you MOM happy mothers day xoxoxooxoxoxoxo)

next stop: Silver Water Wheel Lodge Tomorrow :)

*** FYI: tomorrow when I get to the lodge we  are an hour behind normal Time- aka: anyone who expects a phonecall from me, might get one early in the morning or late at night ***

and the ADVENTURE BEGINS

I am currently sitting on one end of the couch in my living room. My mom is on the other and I can see her creeping my blog from her laptop. HA, like mother like daughter. I really should be packing the remainder of my stuff but I would much rather procrastinate until the last possible minute.

Last night I had a lot of fun catching up with my friends. After  FINALLY getting everyone together, we had some pretty good laughs. Nothing like sitting at the beach and watching the waves during a thunderstorm (with maybe a little bit of croc hunting)! I also got an unexpected phonecall from my buddy Wes last night who happened to be in the neighbourhood and was able to stop by my house! Our short visit was amazing- i'll miss you Wes!

It still hasn't hit me that I'm leaving, I said goodbye but it really didn't seem to me like I'm going anywhere- I bet that will change once we hit the snow while driving tomorrow :)

Here are the plans:

4pm today: meet in Walkerton
4am Sunday: Hit the road for Thunderbay
9pm Sunday: reach T-bay
3pm Monday: destination SWWL

It is going to be a LONG adventure but certainly a FUN ONE! Who knows when I'll be back on the Internet, but keep checking my blog. I will call my mom and I'm confident her facebook status will inform everyone about my whereabouts :)

Have an incredible summer, keep in touch. Cheers :)

Good Friday :)

I haven't had a chance to write in a while because I gave my laptop away to Matt so he could make sure all is up and running for when I head out tomorrow.......I think Carolyn likes it though and is keeping it hostage to the last possible minute. I am currently waiting for her to stop by after work and drop it off. Its funny how I get used to using the one computer and while using my moms, "its just not the same" lol.

Today has been crazy busy. I didn't sleep well last night, but discovered that Home Improvement is played on CMT at 3am....kind of a bonus for being awake that early. I ended up falling asleep until about 830am and then I woke up and got my day started. The first thing I did was travel to Brantford to visit my grandparents. I actually had a really good visit with them, despite being 88 and a horrible driver, I had fun chatting with them and telling them all about my future adventures. My grandpa showed me this really cool ancestry book which had the "whiting" crest.....I told them I was going to get a tattoo of it (they were not impressed) lol. One new thing I did learn is that Whiting is a variation of Whiton, Whittin etc. It also is translated to mean "fair or pale" which in my case is VERY fitting. As a history nerd, I jump at the chance to take in anything he has to say about the war or just life in general. We had a nice chat about the Dionne Quints today and how he went to see them when he was 18....oh how I wish I could go back in time :)

When I got home, I made a stop at UPS and discussed with them the options I have at getting my stuff shipping up to Fort Hope. I have decided that shipping through them would be better than Canada Post because of the reliability. They have tracking numbers and can guarantee that everything will arrive in 5 days, and needs to be signed for. I like that they are accountable for what happens to my stuff, I would hate to see anything get lost along the way! It is going to cost me probably about $200 for an 100 pound 24X24X24 box.....I am not complaining, I'm going to be reimbursed for my moving, so I think that sounds great!

I am currently sitting in the living room and testing out my moms new web cam. Bruce is cooking me steak as my "last supper" and I'm waiting for Carolyn to bring me back my laptop.....Life is Good.

Tonight- the plans are to head out with my friends and stop by the penalty box to see poor victor at work! It'll be a busy 24hrs, but at this time tomorrow I'll be in Walkerton getting ready for the beginning of my adventure :)

"Life is either a great adventure or nothing"

- Helen Keller

The end of an Era..

Last night my mom had the unfortunate inconvenience of her van not starting. As much as I hate that ugly van, I really have some good memories driving that beast of a vehicle. Whether it was to wasaga beach, the cottage, or back and forth from Guelph an endless amount of times- the van served us well over the past 10 years. Although I am sad to see it go- I can't help but think ITS ABOUT TIME! Other than being an eyesore, it was not great on gas and there were a lot of things that needed to be fixed. Long story short, it is "the end of an era" at the Whiting household. The days of horseback riding competitions and hauling couches from students house-to-student house have come to an end. RIP Shianne the van :)

On a happier note, I am heading up to Binbrook this afternoon for one last visit with my little monkey Norelle (and Allison and Daryl of course)! Its starting to become "real" that I am actually leaving very soon. In these last few days I am learning to appreciate the small things of home that I am not going to have for the next year, ex: bruce waking me up to breakfast in bed (I'm so spoiled)

Oh and some good news, I found out today that my contract up north officially starts on August 26th 2010 which is a Thursday. I am going to be done at the fishing resort on the 20th, and then I am planning on moving to the North on the 24th so that I'll have time to settle in a little bit before I get started right away......this means I am going to possibly be having a "welcome home, goodbye and happy birthday" party here at my house Saturday August 21st 2010 (which happens to be my mom and cousins bday too so we will have LOTS to celebrate)!!!!!!! This is tentative but PLEASE mark it on your calender....I want to see as many friends/family as I can during my 3 days at home as I possibly can :)

Cheers- have a great and gorgeous sunny Wednesday!

HOW TO REACH ME THIS SUMMER :)

Here is a little "housekeeping" post I decided to write so that no one can have excuses on why we can not stay connected this summer! On Saturday I am heading out on my adventure to Dryden and I want to make sure everyone has the new address to contact me at (brownie points for those people who send me a package now so that I'll get it shortly after my arrival, HA)

Here is my address for the summer:

Sarah Whiting

Silver Water Wheel Lodge

PO Box 723

Dryden, Ontario

P8N 2Z4

A reminder to everyone that has my cell phone number/bbm....I am officially giving this phone to Marie for the summer/year, so please do not call expecting to talk to me- you can however call my mother anytime, I'm sure she'd love to chat. ha ha ha......

While up at the lodge there will be phone/Internet access that I look forward to using....I will keep you posted....

That is all my housekeeping for today. Stay tuned for my address in Fort Hope and other details as I find them out! Have a happy Monday!!!! cheers :)