May 31, 2013

Reshma..

So there is this sentence.
It has 8 letters, 6 vowels, 
and it combines int 3 words..
I LOVE YOU!!!!

Today Reshma, our niece turns 14.  Let me start by saying that she is smarter than anyone I know.  I thought I was smart, but then she showed up and from the minute she was able to pick up a book this girl just absorbs knowledge like no one I know.   Arvid is always amazed at her.


Reshma was born in Rochester New York.  Grew up in Florida and now lives in Vermont.
  I think that even before she was born her parents knew they had a handful coming their way.  Let's just say that before you make any statement just make sure you have your facts correct otherwise, she will definitely give you the correct facts.  


As a baby this little one loved her chicken wings, and they had to be spicy.  I enjoyed watching her eat.  It reminds me of me.  Today she of course like all kids her age is more picky.  Once As I was visiting her in Rochester she just picked up these spicy wings and ate them up.  Loved every moment also.
She is growing up too fast and I am very fortunate to be able to have a close relationship with her.  I love her and for her just like for the others nothing is ever too much if I can do it for them.

Happy Birthday Reshma.
I LOVE you!!!!

I love you Reshma, because you give me a smile that always stays...

~Auntie Nad~

Can't Give In...

One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn't pay to get discouraged. 
Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore your faith in yourself...

It's not often I feel as discouraged as I did yesterday.  I took Brutus to the vet very early.  His paw was starting to open up and to drain again.  the swelling was there and the all of a sudden I had a feeling that Brutus was not going to get better.


I worked myself into an emotional situation in which I thought everything we were doing for Brutus was not helping.  He has now seen two doctors.  Both still optimistic that he will get better, but in my heart I feel that the only thing we are doing is injecting him with this dangerous antibiotic that sooner or later will have a disastrous effect on him

The night before I had made up my mind that sooner or later Brutus will need to be amputated.  I don't see any other treatment right now and according to his doctors everything that can be done is being done for him.  Not very comforting for us right now because we see everyday how his paw gets more and more swollen.

Arvid and I talked about this many times and more again today.  We both want to do what's best for him and if we feel amputation is best we will not hesitate to do it, but we can't help this sadness that takes over when we see him running and playing.  Everything about him is perfect except for the paw.

Arvid as usual has a good way of putting it.  he said to me, "well at least when he is amputated he cannot run away from us, and even if he tried we will catch him.  We will never lose him".  First of all Brutus has never tried to run away from us, but it was Arvid's way of comforting me and of making himself feel less sad as well.  He loves Brutus and Brutus loves him.

Today I am still very sad.  Not as much as yesterday and I know that tomorrow will be better, but he is our baby.  He is just a little kitty and we just don't know what else to do.  

Going to Chicago after all may have a few advantages.  We have already scheduled two vet visits for Brutus.  Yes, he will be having a consultation from two other doctors.  Who knows, maybe they have another treatment our doctor does not know about.
I hope so because the alternative is always on my mind.


Both Arvid and I know that no matter what happens we will do what's best for Brutus.  As Arvid said, we will have the entire summer to be with him.  We won't go anywhere so we can just focus on taking care of our Brutus.  No matter what I say, my heart is breaking every time I see his little paw getting puffier and puffier.  So far we continue to try everything.
As many know, Edison failed 10,000 times before he made the electric light. 
Do not be discouraged if you fail a few times.  

Hope is there....

I am not discouraged because every wrong
 attempt discarded is another step forward...

~Nadiya~

May 30, 2013

Rain...

Simple pleasures are best.
Clouds come floating into my life,
 no longer to carry rain or usher storm,
but to add color to my sunset/sunrise sky...


I love the rain.  Ever since I was a little girl the rain was always fun.  Living in Guyana we always played and splashed around in it.  No one ever said the rain was bad for you or that you were going to catch a cold because you are out in the rain.  No sir!  The rain was just a fun time for us..., but we were also kids back then.


All grown up and I still find pleasure in the rain.  I never mind getting wet. 
 What I do mind getting wet is my handbag, and all my gadgets.
When I know the rain is coming I always carry a plastic bag to protect
the mentioned items.


Arvid on the other hand, hates rain just like my dad.  They see rain and if possible will cancel doing anything that will take them outdoors.  Unfortunately, theses last few days there was no other option for him.  Things had to be done, time is limited so it was off in the rain.

Did not stop me from doing the tings I had to do.  That is as long as my things were well covered.

Yesterday I went to Las Olas for a haircut.  Would have been nice with no rain because it is one of the only time I allow my hair to be dried with a blow dryer.  Well did not happen because as soon as I stepped out the skies were still bursting with water.
The good this is that the cars are getting a good wash and the balcony is also super clean.
Yep the rain is good!  Best thing to do when it's raining is to have a party!


So cheers to all and don't let the rain get you down!!
Remember, Life is full of beauty. Notice it.
Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces.
 Smell the rain, and feel the wind.
Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams...

Sometimes, the simple things are more fun and meaningful 
than all the banquets in the world ...

~Nadiya~

May 29, 2013

Soon Time To Go..

The decisions we made and the way we behave 
are what ultimately shape our character...

Soon it is time again for Arvid, Brutus and I to leave for Chicago.  What is usually the time I look forward to the most suddenly isn't.  Not because I don't care for Chicago.  It is still my favorite city, but things have now changed.

our view from our home in Chicago
Now I worry about Brutus all the time and his paw that does not seem to want to get better.  Here in Florida we have our vet almost right across the street from us.  Can walk if I wanted, but don't because I know Brutus will be too stressed.  Thing is the vet is close by and we have our car.

In Chicago the vet is a taxi ride away.  Not a problem, but since Brutus has been requiring treatment almost 4 times a week it will become quite stressful for him and for us.  This I do not look forward to and it is with a great sadness that we have decided on this being our last year in Chicago in a city we both love.  In my mind I have already left and going back now is only a matter of taking care of business and selling our apartment.  

Chicago..
I also know that should Brutus get sick and requires additional extended treatment we will fly back to Florida immediately.  So many thing I love about Chicago.  We walk everywhere, we are constantly out doing something, listening to music, going to so many places that is within walking distance of where we live.  In Chicago we never needed a car still don't, but with the Brutus situation... everything has changed.


This year we also do not go to Norway.  Very unfortunate because this was one year both Arvid and I were looking forward to going.  We were looking forward to seeing Aleah.  In a way, also doubted it would have worked out going to Norway with all that going on with Brutus as well.  I really don't want to be away from him for so long.


Going away for 4 months means seeing friends and saying goodbyes.  Also means putting on a few extra pounds if we continue the trend of meeting for lunch all the time.  While very delicious, the extra weight is difficult to shed, but I'm having fun and that's what matters.  Today was Spanish/Cuban Cuisine.  A favorite of mine.  Flanigan's a favorite of Arvid's and some other Norwegian friends of ours is on Friday.  Looking forward to seeing them and having a good time.  

a few of our favorite place..a last visit before we leave
For now it is so many thing to take care of.  Seems that things always happen in the last moment.  No complains, but it going to be some crazy days coming up.  We are ready and we always look forward to the challenge.

Seems like our last few days here are going to be filled with rain,
and with so much to do. At least everything looks clean,
but if it continues we will soon have to travel by boat rather than car....


Remember everyone.. keep it simple.
Have a good day and stay dry.

When you have to make a hard decision
flip a coin.
Why?
Because when that coin is in the air,
you suddenly know what
you are hoping for....

~Nadiya~

May 28, 2013

Sisters...

You and I are sisters.  
Always remember that if you fall I will pick you up,
as soon as I finish laughing.  
Sisters are joined heart to heart....

Many year ago when I was going through difficult times one of my sisters gave this to me.
I know that for sure, I am the lucky one.

Today I accidentally came across it and it brings a mile to me.
I realize how lucky I am to have four sisters, four best friends.
We are all extremely different, but the one thing no one can ever change 
is the bond that brings us together. 


 If like me you are fortunate to have a sister,
make sure you let her know how much she means to you.  To my four sisters,
I love you all and there is nothing I would not do for you.

You aren't just my Best Friend. 
You are my sister and I love you to freaking death. 
I don't know what I would do without you...

~Nadiya~

May 27, 2013

Just Curious...

A little thought and a little kindness are often worth more than a great deal of money...


What is it about money that makes even the nicest of persons seem so not nice?  
Every so often I catch a glimpse of what money does to a person 
and I have to say I am always disappointed.


Why is it that some people only call others when they need money from them? 
 Don't know, but sure it's not something I agree with.  
If I care for you I will call you regardless.  


For many family, business and money is all the same thing. 
 For me money is just a means to make life
 more comfortable for the ones I love.

For others it is just another way of staying in touch,
and saying you see, don't say I don't care.


 Remember, money is not everything.  It does good, but it does not warm the heart. 
For most it cannot buy love and affection, and it
will never replace genuine caring.

I have said this before, but here it goes again:
Always remember, it's the events of our lives
that shape us, but it's our choices that define us!
Have a good day


Money has never made man happy, nor will it, 
there is nothing in its nature to produce happiness. 
The more of it one has the more one wants...

~Nadiya~

May 26, 2013

A Good Day....

If you're happy, if you're feeling good, then nothing else matters.
Taking joy in living is a woman's best cosmetic...


I am having a really good day so far.  started out with Arvid watching the Soccer match between Bayer Munich and Dortmund.  As usual Arvid and I bet a dollar on either team.  This time Arvid was the first to go so he choose Bayer Munich as the winner.

Not even 10m minutes into the game I get a text from our niece Danielle.  Goes like this:
"tell uncle Arvid I bet him a dollar on Dortmund"

I read the text to Arvid and he says, "tell her it's game on"
Back and forth we go with textes when finally both Danielle and I saw we lost the bet.
She says to him, "don't let one little win get to your head"


He said to her as he is still laughing, "bring lots of money this year to Chicago
because I feel like I will be winning lots of bets with you".
Goes this way for a while.  All of us laughing and having a good time.

Danielle and I lost the bet, but it sure was fun to "torture" Arvid for a bit.
Yes, simple things can bring so much pleasure.  Also Brutus' paw is looking a tiny bit less 
swollen, so we are happy.

look carefully and you see Arvid checking out the car
Wishing you all a good day.  It's Sunday and it's our favorite day.
With a little music last night, we are now ready for a relaxing Sunday.
We get to spend it together, doing something we both enjoy.
Remember it's the little tings in life that make a difference!

Laughter is the sensation of feeling good all over and showing it principally in one place.  
Life is only as good as you decide to make it.  
So stand up be bold, and don't let everyone else define it...

~Nadiya~

May 25, 2013

Why Not?

Some of us think holding on makes us strong; but sometimes it is letting go... 

Every so often you come across someone who seems to hold on to the past and cannot seem to drag themselves out of a certain place and time.  With life being so very fragile, I do not want to ever become one of those people who cannot seem to move on to better days and better things ahead.


Everyday that goes by I learn a little more.  I learn to appreciate the now and the life we have.
I learn that the past is the past, not forgotten, but hopefully the bad memories and the so called
bad things that have happened are not worth holding on to.


I know that life has its good and its bad moments.  Just like everything else.  
We all experience them, but at the same time we all learn to move forward and not look back
to what could have been, what was and what has happened.  

My life is too busy to worry about what others say, do or think. Remember:
"forget what hurt you, but never forget what it taught you"

I demolish my bridges behind me
then there is no choice than to move forward....

~Nadiya~

May 24, 2013

Not A Good Day...

Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle...

I keep telling myself to be positive.  I try being positive. 
I am positive, but then i see Brutus' paw and something in me gives.


He has been on every medication possible.  For a few days we thought it was
getting better, but today the paw is starting to look big and swollen again.
My heart is breaking and for now I am allowing myself to cry again.


Tomorrow is another day and then we will cope again.  Today is rough.
Today is difficult, but tomorrow is still yet to come.
Please be better than today.


For now, wishing everyone a good day.  Just remember be thankful for what you have and always
remember that somewhere out there someone is going through much worse than us.

It's the events of our lives that shape us
but it's our choices that define us...

~Nadiya~

May 23, 2013

Words of Wisdom...

Stop worrying about what you have to lose, 
and start worrying about what you have to gain...

Today I just thought it would be nice to share a few of the postings I have come across and that have made an  impression on me.


How many of us have experienced something similar and how many of us are guilty of doing the same thing.  Always good to take a few minutes to reflect.  Never hurts and can do a world of good.


Same goes for this.  Too fast we are ready to judge a person and believe the worst of them based on opinions of others.  Don't make that mistake unless you can verify for a fact.  In my experience people are mostly good, with kind hearts and always ready to lend a helping hand.


No matter what your obstacles are, only you have the power to change directions.
Don't hesitate, life is short and there is too much to live for.


For everyone who has ever lost a loved one.  Something to hold on to.
No one wants to forget, no one wants to forget... life is such that we do move on, 
but in our hearts there is always that glimmer of -what used to be-
If you believe in heaven, then one day you believe you will once again be reunited
with that someone special...


After all is said and done, it is always the simple things in life
that bring us the most joy and satisfaction.  Remember life is already 
complicated without us complicating it even more.

Whatever you do, always remember to have a good time and to always be part of the moment!
We only live once.. make it count!

Life is short, break the rules,
 forgive quickly,
kiss slowly, love truly,
laugh uncontrollably,
and never regret anything
that made you smile...

~Nadiya~

May 22, 2013

Mom and Dad's...

My motto is: more good times.

It's been a few good days spent with my parents.  
It is now soon time to head home back to Brutus.
Hopefully, will see them again in the not so long future.

View from their patio
good times
moms favorite 

This trip I taught my mom how to burn a CD.  Needless to say she is super happy and excited and can't wait to start making CD's.  I really enjoy showing her how to do different things every time we meet.  She is a fast learner and it is always fun to see how happy she gets when she has new knowledge.  Arvid in the meantime introduced my dad to a few of his favorite TV shows



My mom is always doing something, making us all the favorite things we like, while my dad is 
always pottering around the yard, which by the way is immaculate.  Dad loves
being outdoors and he and Arvid always have a good time.


Yes, this has been another good trip.
I am happy and very glad I am able to see them so often.
Hopefully next time will not be too long a wait.

Life moves so fast. You gotta document the good times, man
~Nadiya~

May 21, 2013

What's Perfection?

Sometimes... when you hold out for everything, you walk away with nothing..
Gold cannot be pure, and people cannot be perfect...

So many of us are obsessed with being thin that sometimes we actually forget to see the beauty in us with all of our imperfections.  Don't get me wrong, I will be the first to admit to being one who always wants to be a few sizes smaller . 
I will also admit that I like who I am with all my imperfections and not.  

This is something posted by one of my friends and it reminded me of how superficial many of us really are.  You don't have to agree, but an open mind is OK.  
It goes like this:

A while back, at the entrance of a gym, there was a picture of a very thin and beautiful woman. The caption was "This summer, do you want to be a mermaid or a whale?"


The story goes, a woman (of clothing size unknown) answered the following way: 

"Dear people, whales are always surrounded by friends (dolphins, seals, curious humans), they are sexually active and raise their children with great tenderness.

They entertain like crazy with dolphins and eat lots of prawns. They swim all day and travel to fantastic places like Patagonia, the Barents Sea or the coral reefs of Polynesia.
They sing incredibly well and sometimes even are on cds. They are impressive and dearly loved animals, which everyone defend and admires.

Mermaids do not exist.

But if they existed, they would line up to see a psychologist because of a problem of split personality: woman or fish? 
They would have no sex life and could not bear children.
Yes, they would be lovely, but lonely and sad.
And, who wants a girl that smells like fish by his side?


Without a doubt, I'd rather be a whale.

At a time when the media tells us that only thin is beautiful, I prefer to eat ice cream with my kids, to have dinner with my husband, to eat and drink and have fun with my friends.

We women, we gain weight because we accumulate so much wisdom and knowledge that there isn't enough space in our heads, and it spreads all over our bodies.
We are not fat, we are greatly cultivated.

Every time I see my curves in the mirror, I tell myself: "How amazing am I ?! "

I am comfortable with myself and even though I will always want to lose those few extra pounds, I am happy and I like me.  There is only one me and that is what makes me special and unique. 
We may not be perfect, but on the other hand, does perfection exists?  Once we accept the fact that we are not perfect, then we can develop some confidence.

As my friend Ivette says:

People should be more caring and understanding of others. Don't criticize others. If you can, help them. Be a friend. Don't hurt their feelings. We are not better than anyone else. And no one is better than us. If someone wants to change, it's personal. Help them if possible. If they not trying to change, it's personal. Help them by encouragement, not insults.

~Nadiya~

May 20, 2013

Some Good Times...

Always cherish the simple things in life and people that treat you right! 
That is most important... Everything and Everyone else is simply insignificant..
.
As I was looking at pictures of the times we went to North Carolina to visit my parents, I realize that every time was a good time.  We always had fun and were always in the best of company.  Not sure what it is but I am so happy that my parents and family love Arvid and he them.


One of our favorite times was the year Arvid and I decided to rent a boat and take everyone out for a boat trip.  What a blast we had.  At the time Lilly Vade, as you can see was just a tiny little thing.  That's Arvid trying to be friend with her. Both Arvid and I love kids and all the kids adore him.  He will make a great grandpa. 


One of the favorite things we like is to take the golf cart and go around the neighborhood.  Relaxing and so much fun.  My dad has it all ready to go for us.


The kids are a lot more grown up today, but as always uncle Arvid is always one of their favorite persons.  I am truly happy when I see Arvid and my family together.  
Arvid has a favorite pub in NC and loves to take my dad there.  While they are having a few cold ones my mom and I always go and do a bit of girl stuff.   Yes, NC is always a good time.


Wishing you all a great day.  Remember life is made up of simple pleasures.
Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated

No matter what dreams your chasing, never get above your raising 
and let the simple things be amazing on the journey of your life.

The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them...


~Nadiya~