MacGourmet Deluxe

A friend sent me a great programme to write my recipes down on the computer. I have tried it out for several weeks and I liked it so much, that I decided to buy the programme. Meaning I will have to take the other cookbook I made so far, and copy all of the recipes in MacGourmet Deluxe. It'll take me quite some time and maybe I'll know my recipes by heart by the time I'm finished, but it's worth doing. The programme gives you the opportunity to easily share your recipes with your friends. Shopping lists can be made and weekly mealplanners are available (I still haven't figured out that one..). I'm a fan!

MacGourmet Deluxe helps you collect, edit, use and share your favorite recipes and notes on your very own computer. It includes built-in nutritional data from the USDA database, which makes it possible to easily calculate nutritional info for your entire recipes.

It holds a tool for taking notes on wine, so you can keep track of personal ratings, bottle labels and cellar info.

Girly Girl Studio

What a great concept Girly Girl Studio is! Facebook showed me the fan page and immediately I checked it out. I'm crazy about unique gadgets and Girly Girl Studio wasn't any different.

The people behind Girly Girl Studio give their customers the opportunity to design their own handbag, wallet, shirt, purses,.. Every item is custom made within the US. For those who are not that creative, there are premade handbags as well. But part of the fun of this website, is to design your own purse, choosing between different fabrics. I had a ball picking out two handbags and one wallet. I felt like ordering one more, but I have so many purses already. I'm darn sure though, that the ones I created now, will be flashy and unique!

I'm looking forward to receiving them!! I'm totally excited!!! Or was that pretty obvious?

Do join the Facebook group of Girly Girl Studio. They have a Free Facebook Friday, every Friday. Meaning they hand out unique pieces of their work, for FREE! If that is not inviting, I don't know what is.

Keeping up appearances

I couldn't but smile when hubby told me he had muscle aches..
At work, he has the opportunity to go to the gym. There are several options: tred mills, exercise bikes, power plates..

You decided to ride the exercise bike this time. You do ride your own bike, but you're not used to working out on an exercise bike. There were quite some co-workers in the gym. Sooner than expected, you were worn out, but hey! You were not prepared to give in! What did you think??? So you tried to keep up appearances and you kept going. And going. And going.. The result is that you are just so sore.. It is kinda funny though.. Men.. so transparent, so easy to read.

Crybaby..

It's getting colder. It's no longer an option to keep the back door open day and night. Hubby just turned the central heating on. So I guess I'll have to reeducate the whippets. Especially Inthe is used to running in and out whenever she feels like it. Rebba is more at ease, since she spends most of her time on the couch. If Rebba doesn't have to go outside, she won't. But Inthe, that's another tale.

We started last week, by closing the door to the terrace. It's like Inthe has become claustrophobic instantly! She cries and she weeps and she's just inconsolable. She has no idea why all of a sudden, her way out is no longer available. She's completely frantic over it! She gives me that special puppy look like: why are you doing this to me??? It breaks my heart of course (whippets are really good at making you feel guilty), but it's the only way to teach her that the doors will no longer be open whenever she wants them to be.

I let them in and out 4 times a day now. For at least 15 minutes, they have outdoor recess, like school kids have their recreation on the playground. Rebba is not happy at all, but Inthe really looks forward to her playtime in the backyard.

I have decided they should spend some time in their outside kennel as well, on a daily basis. An hour at least. So they really get used to being out there every now and then. Rebba didn't like it at first. She just knows when they'll have to stay there for a while. To her, it means "mommy" is going out. And she doesn't want mommy to go out. She's too smart. But I tempt her with goodies and now she's become used to it. I don't even tell them. Goodies in one hand and a bowl of water in the other, I just go outside and in a jiffy, they are beside me. I piddle in their kennel for a while, until both of them come in as well. Then they sit down to get their treat and I leave. They go inside their doghouse straight away, to take a nap. It's good for them to have a safe haven. And it gives us some peace of mind as well.

Help find a cure!

Diabetes is not some disease that stays unnoticed, unfortunately. Most of you already know someone who is suffering from this chronic disease.

Someone I love has diabetes. 
Someone you love might too someday..  

You would probably be happy then, that researchers do their utmost to find a cure. For decades we have been told there was going to be a solution. Researchers are getting closer, more than ever. But they need finances to keep going. They need to keep going, to help millions of people with diabetes.

Hippo and Friends is a Dutch non-profit organization, that is offering all of its time in helping children with diabetes. They have come up with this texting event. Text "steun onderzoek" (support research) to 3355. For every text message you send, the Belgian Diabetes Registry receives € 2.00 to help finance diabetes research. The cost of a loaf of bread, to help people with diabetes get a better future. Assume you can be the one, that donates that specifique € 2.00 that will help find the solution. Wouldn't that be awesome??

At this moment, the 3355 number is only available for people in Belgium. Let's hope the action will spread to many more countries. Feel free to share the link with your friends and family. Tell them about the text message and ask them for a donation from the heart.

And I know your heart's in the right place..

Oh! and before I forget! There's no limit!
You can text as many times as you want!!!

Wilco

Always on the look-out for new words, but when this e-mail I got, just said: WILCO, I was like: wil-what??? I replied: ???? That's when my husband explained his Air Traffic Control language.. Wilco means: will comply.. Hmhmhm... I guess I have a new word to write down in my dictionary. He could also have said: Yes ma'am! That I would have understood and it means the same. Sort of..

It's not that hard to smile

It's nice to spend time with friends that are optimistic and fun to hang out with. We all have our problems and I must admit, some have more than others. But you know what? Some people are really in deep trouble, but still they smile and they try to make the best of it. I find that very attractive. Life's too short to worry about this and that. We can't control everything in life and life isn't always what we expect it to be. But that's no reason to keep yourself from smiling, right? I won't say your problems are not serious or important. I might even cry over your misery, honestly. We all have our bad moments in life, but every once in a while, it's good to leave the troubles behind and focus on the good things. Because life would be really miserable otherwise. So keep on smiling okay? Life isn't as bad as you might think.

It's now or never

You're 13 and a half now. I've been driving you to Bruges every Monday and I was there every Friday to pick you up. It's not always that easy to come get you. Sometimes your daddy and I are not home when we are supposed to pick you up. So this week, I suggested you could take the bus every once in a while. You weren't too sure about that. You said it's kinda silly to drag along a suitcase on a bus.. You said everyone would look at you. But I know you're just afraid. You've never taken the bus all by yourself. That's why I suggested me and my friend could come to Bruges, as we often do, but this time we could take the bus. After school, the three of us could walk to the bus stop and take the ride home. That made you more at ease I guess.

You must have thought it over. Later that night, you had spoken to your school friends. Some of them have taken the bus from day one. They told you it's no big deal. You would have to catch a bus near your school. It would take you to bus station. There, another bus would be waiting to take you directly to Eeklo. No stops in between. We could then pick you up at the bus station in Eeklo. Fair enough? We'll give it a try, okay? How about this Friday?

Milk & Cookies

In the middle of the night, I felt like having a mug of hot milk and some cookies to dip in the milk. I should've done it, since my blood sugars were low. But it made my stomach twirl, so I skipped the idea. I ordered my pump not to deliver any more insulin for a while.

I'm still very sore and my tummy is so painful. It's hard to stand or lay down. Can't seem to find the right position to catch the sleep I desperately need.
Hubby is going to work today and the girls are in school. Just me and the dogs and the couch. I'm cold. I feel ugh. Maybe a shower would make me feel better, but just the idea of getting up and going is too much. What if I slip in the shower and fall down? Nope, I'm not even going to try on my own.

I haven't eaten anything but some pudding, half a bread roll and one slice of bread since Monday night. Just thinking of food makes me want to throw up. Not even a glass of water can cheer me up. Let's hope things will improve by tonight..

So how are we doing?

I was released from the hospital right after lunch... well.. if a little cup of pudding can be called lunch. The sight of my real lunch (spinach, mashed potatoes and fish with a sticky sauce full of clumps) made me gag. I couldn't throw up, but I was real close.

The operation went well. Three out of the 5 previous keyholes were used again, and they made one extra in my belly button. The keyhole needed to remove my gallbladder was just a little too small, so they needed to stretch it a little. It's very sensitive now..
The ultrasound didn't show any gallstones, just sludge. But there was actually one stone in my gallbladder and some grit in the bile ducts. I hope they got it all out. I hear diabetics are more susceptible to having gallstones.

I have no stitches this time and no threads to be removed. I'm happy!

I'm not feeling too well. I'm sore and I feel nauseous. I can't even think of food, without feeling sick. So I guess I'll spend some more days on the couch. The whippets will keep me company..

For a special lady..

You know it doesn't make much sense

There ought to be a law against

Anyone who takes offense

At a day in your celebration

Cause we all know in our minds

That there ought to be a time

That we can set aside

To show just how much we love you

And I'm sure you would agree

It couldn't fit more perfectly

Than to have a world party on the day you came to be

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday my dear friend..

Happy birthday to you! xx

Eton Mess

It won't be much of a surprise to you, that I just love Nigella Lawson. Not only does she look fabulous, her recipes are so simple, so delicious, so .. Nigella! Just watching her prepare a meal is a feast on itself. The way she handles food, makes you drool. I have a couple of her books at home and whenever I read her books, I have a shopping list in the other hand. Believe me: by no means can you read her books without disappearing in the kitchen afterwards to start experiment. So that's what happened the other night. I was watching one of her shows on TV and she made Eton Mess.. Oh my gosh! Did that look supercalifragilisticexpialidocious or what??? I had a couple of egg whites left in the freezer (thanks for the tip Nigella, I keep my excess egg whites in ziploc bags in the freezer), so I made meringue. And today, I sent my daughter out for strawberries. We always have double cream in the house, for emergency cravings. Yummie! Okay, okay!!! I'll give you the recipe! If only you promise to let me know what you thought of it!

Ingredients:

4 cups of fresh strawberries
2 teaspoons of vanilla sugar
2 teaspoons pomegranate juice (I used white balsamic vinegar because that's what all I had, but it worked wonderfully well)
2 cups whipping cream
4 meringues (homemade or not - if you make them yourself, you can freeze leftovers easily)

Directions

Hull and chop the strawberries and put them into a bowl. Sprinkle the sugar over the red rubies and add the juice or the balsamic vinegar. Leave the fruit to marinate while you whip the cream.
Whip the cream until thick but still soft. Crumble the meringues into bigger chunks (for extra texture) and finer crumbs and stir the meringue into the thick cream.
Set aside half a cupful of the strawberries. Fold the meringue cream and the fruit mixture together.
Take 4 wide glasses and spoon the Eton Mess pile high in the glasses. Top with the leftover strawberries. Chill until you want to serve your guests. Or do as we did: enjoy this dessert right away!

Off you go now!

My suitcase is packed. I'm ready to go. They told me to stay sober. That's not really a problem for me. Hopefully I won't have to wait too long before it's my turn. As usual, I have asked for a single room. I don't like to share a room when I'm in the hospital for surgery. You are not looking your best after an operation and I don't need any neighbor to look at my sleepy head in the morning. I don't know yet what time the operation is scheduled. We'll see when we get there.

Hubby is taking me. He's taking the day off tomorrow so he can come visit me. It'll be strange to be back in the clinic, but at the same time, it's not my first operation any more. Been there, done that. Don't you worry, I'll be just fine. I'm a tough cookie, remember?

I'm bringing my MacBook to keep you all informed. It'll do me good to talk to you on the Internet. It's less tiring than calling or texting everybody separately. My mother-in-law and auntie have called me several times by now, to wish me good luck and a speedy recovery. They are so nice and loving. 

Emergency call

Your daddy and I were out shopping. I heard my cell phone ring in the store, but I didn't feel like answering it at that time. On our way to the car - we wanted to get a cup of coffee some place - daddy got a phone call as well. So I decided to check my cell at the same time. Unknown number? hmhm.. I dialled my voicemail. It was your principal (your dad was talking to her while I was listening to the message). She had to rush you into ER. Apparently a wasp had stung you.. in your tongue! How on earth could that happen?? Oh sweetie! That must have hurt terribly! Your tongue was all swollen and the principal didn't want to take any chances. I'm glad she took you to the ER. They gave you some pain relief and antihistamine. She said you were fine and you were going to stay in school. She wanted to warn us though. It was possible that we needed another visit to the doctor this evening. You never know how people respond to wasp stings..

Around lunch time, you were having your jelly sandwich. You were enjoying your last bite, and that's when something crunchy startled you. All of a sudden, the sandwich tasted bitter and you spit it out, to discover a wasp! You probably bit its head of..

I'm glad to have my Boîte à Bobos. It has antihistamine and pain killers as well. Maybe we'll need them tonight.

I got you some edible paper, host type. They are printed tattoos. Maybe you can put one on the sting. I'm sorry sweetie. It's not funny. Not at all. Really.. hihi..

Boîte à Bobos +

The other week, I was going through the pantry, trying to clean up and throw out things that no longer belonged in there. One part of that pantry holds medical supplies. It startled me to see what a drugstore we have in the house.. I don't know if it's a good sign or not. We have medication around for most anything: headache, tummy ache, diarrhoea, tablets for motion sickness, cough syrup, nausea tablets, vitamins.. Bandages, sterile swabs, rubbing alcohol, band aids, tweezers.. Ointments for burns, bug bites, muscle cramps, allergies, .. And then there's a special section for my diabetes treatment: infusion sets, insulin cartridges, pump batteries, insulin pens, glucose strips, needles for my lancing device, glucose tablets, liquid glucose gel, waste bin for used needles, extra glucose meter and tons of pump pockets.

Most First Aid Cabinets don't have that much space to hold all of these supplies. Neither does ours. But most things are kept separate. I keep tablets in one section, ointments in another. My diabetes supplies are a completely different section. Most of those items are kept in closed boxes. Those boxes have labels, so anyone can get me whatever I need whenever I need it. There can't be any confusion. That's the same spot where I keep the manual of my insulin pump.

We even have a First Aid kit for the pets around here. They have their own set of tweezers (for tick removals), tablets (we don't like them to have worms), pain killers. Both dogs and tomcat Arthur have a Health Passport, that we take along on every visit to the vet. I keep my own health records in Google Health online.

In the living area, I have a Boîte à Bobos, with a small supply. It sits on the couch and it keeps glucose tablets, an insulin cartridge and infusion set, insulin, pump batteries, an extra lancing device and needles to go with it. Sometimes this place looks more like a drugstore..

I keep another Emergency Kit in the trunk of my car. It holds pretty much the same things: emergency supplies for my diabetes treatment, an insulin prescription, tablets for headaches and some band aids. It's better to be safe than sorry, right?

A dance of joy!

The newlyweds are finally home from their honeymoon in the States. I was so thrilled with their blog. Several times a day, I checked their stories and photos. They did great and it was good to read them. They've been away for too long. I missed my friend!!! She's an active member of our diabetesforum as well and I'm sure the other members missed her too. Despite their active vacation, I hope they also found some time to relax. Both of them have busy careers and little spare time.

Welcome home, K&G!

A wonderful mommy...

Rebba is the best mommy Inthe could wish for. The way Rebba looks after her, is so tender and loving, it moves me. Inthe is an outside girl. She loves to play in the backyard and most of all: she's fond of the rain and muddy ground. Rebba on the other hand, prefers to stay inside, on the couch, under a cosy and comfortable blanket. She doesn't like to get dirty. As soon as little twit runs back in, Rebba starts cleaning her up. She licks her wet paws, dries her snout and ears and helps her calm down from the racing around. They communicate well. Rebba makes Inthe stand in front of her, so she can dry her off with her fast and adept tongue. As soon as goofy is dry, she runs straight towards the back door, to continue her games. I'm sure that Rebba often thinks: what have I done to deserve this little brat? but at the same time: she loves her to pieces. They are together 24/7 and they are so attached to one another. It would be devastating to break them up in one way or another.
I envy Inthe, for having such a wonderful mommy. She's taken very good care of and she's never alone. She has a mommy to comfort her, to hug her and to turn to whenever she's in trouble. Some moments, they have disputes, but ten minutes later, they are asleep on the couch, their heads in each other's necks. Their love is unconditional. No terms at all..

Going back to school

Like many of us, I'm going back to school. Not a regular school though. I've subscribed for cooking classes. They call it: cooking for diabetics. People with diabetes should no longer stick to a sugarfree diet. In fact, they can eat what any other person taking good care of his health may eat. Healthy food, that is beneficial for all of us. Of course you're not supposed to have truck loads of sugar, that's pretty obvious. But neither should any other person, right?

I'm really looking forward to the cooking classes. It's going to be my first cooking experience in a school related area. Exciting I must say! Maybe I'll get to know some more people with D. There are so many of us. Everyone nowadays knows at least one person with diabetes. Or at least, that's what the statistics tell us. Don't you think it's about time that people start to take better care of themselves? Time to invest in our own health? I'm sure it's a darn good investment! I think I need some time on a sunbed in a distant place, to relax and enjoy life. To have someone around, bringing me a healthy, nutritious salad full of vitamins and good stuff. I don't think there will be sunbeds in school, but who will stop me from pretending?

Arrangements

Some arrangements need to be made, before I head back to the hospital. I want to make sure the groceries are done and the freezer is packed with home cooked meals. The intention is to stay at the hospital for 2 days, but you never know what happens, so I want to be prepared.

I'm not afraid for this operation. It's routine and plenty of people undergo this kind of surgery. No big deal. The only thing I worry about, is that my scars are going to be cut open again. I know it's better than having 5 new scars, but still. I was happy with the way they were healing. I used special Cica-Care band aids to make the scars less thick and red. The thing I'm not looking forward to, are the stitches. It was okay for one time, but a second time in just two months is a little too much, even for me.

I hope my diabetes regulation won't be disturbed too much from the operation. Things are going real well now. In fact, my average blood glucose (HbA1c) has finally reached a 6 number: 6.9%. Okay, that's almost the same as the 7% I got last month, but it's not a 7! So I'm really happy with that number! It is my lowest A1c ever, by the way!

I'm getting so much support from friends and family. Thank you all. It means a lot to me. It's comforting to know that many people care and that they wish you all the best. I feel blessed..

Fatfree

Today I spent most of the day in the Emergency Room. This morning, when I was talking to my surgeon on the phone, he asked me to come to the ER to have an ultrasound of my gallbladder. I had all the symptoms of gallstones. So I drove up there and spent most of the time in bed, waiting for someone to take the ultrasound.

There were no gallstones to be seen, but the doctor saw a significant amount of sludge in my gallbladder. Sludge can turn into stones. There's no need to wait for that to happen. Because it might become surgery on the spot then.

Having your gallbladder removed is not that unique. Many people live without a gallbladder. The liver makes the gall, not the bladder. The bladder is only "the container". So it shouldn't be a problem. Fatty food is no longer an option. But it's not my favorite food to begin with. I like healthy food!!

Next Tuesday, a different specialist is going to remove my gallbladder. I'll be staying in the hospital for approximately two days. I hope they won't make any more scars. I have plenty so far. It'll be another keyhole operation. I have faith and confidence and I know I'll be just fine. But you know what? I hoped it would be over already..

When the going get's tough

Last night, I was talking on the phone with my little girl, when all of a sudden, I got this dreadful pain in my stomach. I was gasping for air and saliva dripped out of my mouth in little streams. I gave the cell phone to Hubby, so he could continue the conversation, and I stumbled to the bathroom. I felt like throwing up, but there was nothing there. For dinner, I had had a wonderful salad and that was nearly 2 hours earlier. Man, did I feel awful! Never before had I experienced that kind of pain. It wouldn't go away. I tried to walk around, sit down, lay down on the couch, but nothing took away the pain. Sweat dripped from my body, so I pulled off my clothes to find some relief. Really, I thought this was the end! The pain started to fade away about 20 minutes later. Good grief!

I contacted my diabetes nurse. She thinks I might have gallstones. Sounded real familiar to her. That means I will have to call the hospital today and talk to my surgeon and endocrinologist. If I really have gallstones, it means I'll spend a couple of days in the hospital, to have my gallbladder removed. Let's keep our fingers crossed. Believe me, I do not want to experience that pain again. I'd rather go into labor again, than having that killing pain..

A melt down

Hey sweetie,

just look at you.. You are having a little melt down. Yesterday, you were really not in this world. You were cold and not feeling that well. What could we expect, after that terrible boo boo?
So I went upstairs, to look for your pyjamas. They are nice and comfy and most of all: they keep you warm. You slept most of the day. I guess you were still a little in shock.

We went to see the vet again tonight. She gave you some more antibiotics and another pain killer. You were wonderful Inthe. You sat down on your bum while the vet changed your bandage. It stuck a little to the wound, but you're a tough girl. You didn't even blink your eyes. The wound looked clean and it's starting to heal already. Let's keep our fingers crossed that blood will keep flowing to the remaining tip of your ear. We are not waiting for an amputation..

I just wanna be ok

My operation was 2 months ago. I'm doing real well, although I'm still tired from the narcotics. But the overall feeling is absolutely great. My blood sugars have never been this good. In fact, I'm looking forward to my next HbA1c! I'm pretty sure it will be even better than the last 7%, which was a very decent number. I hope to be in the 6% area this time. That would be the first time in my 8 year diabetes career. It tells me I have done the right thing.

The physical scars are healing well. Five little lines and some dots from the staples are all that are left from a surgery, that wasn't that minor to begin with. The emotional scars are healing too. It's been a rodeo, and I was about to give up, but I made it and I'm happy with my decision. It was a true ordeal and the operation is still controversial, but for me it was the best option possible. Would I recommend the operation to my peers? I don't know. A whole lot depends on your attitude towards the operation and towards D. You must have come to terms with yourself about the whole thing. It's not just something you decide overnight. You must have really thought it over. It does affect your life and it may affect the life of your beloved ones, if you don't do what you're supposed to do. So far, things are going just fine and I'm proud of myself for doing the best I can.

We are all related

Last night, the 7 of us went out to the movie theatre. There was grandma, 4 sisters-in-law (I included myself), and the two oldest granddaughters (my girls). We had a terrific time! It was a joy to have a ladies night out. In fact, we should do that more often! Seriously, it was a lot of fun! There were goodie bags and there was a great movie. Julia Roberts took us along on her journey towards Italy, India and Bali and told us everything we needed to know about Eat - Pray - Love.

We went out to dinner first. Nothing fancy, just pizza. But it was fun and different without the boys. I think they're a little jealous. Nothing keeps them from organizing a men's night out though. I'm sure they would enjoy that as well!

Thanks girls! You rock!

You make me wanna cry

My sweet little girl.. Last night, while I was out with the girls, Hubby called me. Something terrible had happened.. You and Rebba were playing outside, like you do all the time. All of a sudden, you came rushing in, followed by Rebba. There was blood all over the place. He thinks you and Rebba got into a fight. You lost a quarter of your ear... I'm completely devastated.. How will we be able to fix that? You must have been hurting so bad, Inthe..

Hubby picked you up and ran to the vet's house immediately. She disinfected the wound and put you on antibiotics. Your heart rate was too fast to put you under narcotics, so she asked Hubby to come back the next morning. There's a chance she will have to amputate another piece of your ear. I'm driving Eva to school now, and then I'll take you to the vet again. Please, please, let her diagnosis be less dramatic. You'll never grow another ear, that's certain, but if you could keep half? My heart is bleeding for you and for Rebba as well. I know she didn't mean to hurt you. Both of you are dominant personalities. You and Rebba are the same size now and you have the same weight. Rebba wants you to listen to her. After all, she's been here longer than you and she's older. But you do not want to be tamed. You dare her quite often and she tries to hold you down. Until things get ugly, like this time. Please keep your fingers crossed for little Inthe. Please..

It's written in the stars

This is what my date of birth says about me:

• Loves to joke
• Attractive
• Suave and caring
• Brave and fearless
• Firm and has leadership qualities
• Knows how to console others
• Too generous
• Takes high pride of oneself
• Thirsty for praises
• Extraordinary spirit
• Easily angered
• Angry when provoked
• Observant
• Careful and cautious
• Thinks quickly
• Independent thoughts
• Loves to lead but also loves to be led
• Loves to dream
• Talented in art and music
• Sensitive but not petty
• Poor resistance against illnesses
• Learns to relax
• Hasty and trusty
• Romantic
• Loving and caring
• Loves to make friends

If this describes me as a person, I won't fight it.

Sweetener or Sugar?

I know, it's a contradiction. Many still claim diabetics can't have sugar. But hey, guess what? Neither can you! Sugar is just not healthy. But then again.. it makes life more beautiful, doesn't it?

Ever tried baking cookies or a pie with sweetener? I'm sorry, but it's not edible. People that claim otherwise, haven't eaten sugar coated cookies or a crumble topped pie. You do need real sugar to get the yummy taste we all crave. So yes, I use sugar and I'm not ashamed of it. I use a whole lot less sugar than the recipes ask for. I count my carbs and I make sure I shoot up enough insulin to cover it.

In some recipes, I do use sweetener. Splenda Brown Sugar Blend is still my favorite. It is half brown sugar, half sweetener and it still has the structure of the real stuff. It is great for baking (I made my own gingerbread the other day), or to sprinkle over rice pudding. And I always use sweetener in my coffee (preferably Splenda Hazelnut), never ever do I use sugar in coffee. Not because I can't have it, but because I don't like sugar in my coffee.

And how about you? How do you feel about sugar? Or sweetener?

Don't get me wrong

Things have gone back to normal.. The kids have started school again and Hubby has gone back to work after 5 weeks of vacation. Time to breathe and calm down. There are many things I'm looking forward to: cleaning out cupboards, without having to stop at a certain time to pick somebody up or to start making preparations for lunch. I would like to empty my wardrobe as well, and see what can go to the bin or the second hand shop. Rearranging the pantry will keep me busy for an afternoon, but that's something I really like to do. Even playing ball with the dogs sounds appealing now.

Don't get me wrong. I enjoyed having the whole family home for the summer. But at a certain point, things come to an end. Things have to go back to normal. That's how life works..

And so say all of us!

We have a new sister-in-law. She's an attractive young lady in many ways. She looks great, has a terrific sense of humor and wisdom and she blends in real well. I must say, it's a joy to have her around and we are all fond of her. It's wonderful to see how happy she makes my brother-in-law. He's having a great time and they are truly in love. She gets along well with the little one, without trying to replace his mommy. And that's not always as easy as it seems. If one time, she doesn't come along to our Sunday meetings at the in-laws, we miss her already!

We welcome you and we are privileged to have you around. And so say all of us!

Heavy breathing

Hugging and sleeping together
Photo by Lana Joos

If you've never owned a whippet, you have no idea how funny they are. They can be very active, racing around the backyard until you have this scary idea they might drop dead. And then they crash on the couch, sticking their long noses behind the cushions. They make it so difficult for themselves to breathe. That's when the snoring begins.. First you hear their heavy breathing. It almost sounds like panting. Do you remember those cartoons, where some character is sound asleep and they let you hear those surreal sleeping sounds? That's a sound you might hear when you have a sleeping whippet in the house.

Once they are sound asleep, they start making those funny sounds, like "wreet-wreet". One of their lips goes up and down, whenever the sound is being released. You can see the rapid eye movement and sometimes it's like they are having convulsions: their legs move back and forth, like they are still racing on the track.

Whippets love blankets. It doesn't matter what color they are, as long as they are comfortable and soft. We have tons of doggy blankets in the house and in their outside kennel. They love to wrap themselves in a blanket. It's not that they are cold - they just love the cosy feeling of laying under a fleece blanky. I don't blame them.. Another favorite spot is the hind of your knees. They would fight over that spot! You'll never have cold feet if you have a whippet in the house. And if you have more than one (like most whippet fanatics do), you won't be surprised to find a bundle of whippets on the couch. They love to climb on top of each other. At a certain point, you have to unfold them, because all of their spider-like legs have emerged and you can no longer tell the difference. So it's good to have different colored whippets, like ours..

Cankles and pigtails

I just can't believe I bought this kind of meat. Not for us, but for the whippets. I'm sure they'll love it! Just the sight of it in that wonderful stock, makes my stomach swirl. I can't grasp it, but sometimes people even eat cankles! They make a sort of Dutch stew - hodgepodge - full of cabbage and carrots, celery, onions, turnips and potatoes. And on top, a cankle and a pigtail try to sink in the mass, soaking up as much of the stock as it can hold. Once it's thoroughly cooked, the meat will fall off and the hodgepodge will have all the flavor it can get. I'm sorry, but it's just not me.. But I bought the ugly pieces of meat and I poached them for the dogs. It'll need some time to cool down and then they can dig in. Outside, no discussion about that! They can enjoy themselves in their kennel.. I don't need to witness any of it.

I think I do..

Do you love me? 

After 25 years, you ask me that question: do you love me? 

I know we've been together for 25 years, but still: do you love me?

I think I do..

My sister-in-law and her husband met 25 years ago and ever since, they have been a happy couple. Not that obvious nowadays, but they still get along real well. They love each other and even more so: they are still madly in love. Isn't that special? I think it is..

They organised a party tonight and invited their family, friends, colleagues from work. Even the children could come along. We had a great time. The theme of the night was Egypt, since both of them love Egypt. They have visited the country so many times now, they could be residents. The dresscode was Egyptian of course. Many guests had rented special outfits and it was great to see they did. It's always fun to have a theme at a party. There were Egyptian decorations all over the place. 

Top of the bill was the surprise act my brother-in-law had booked for his wife. A very pretty belly dancer came to perform her act. She was not only a belly dancer, if you know what I mean. Many male hearts must have pounded. I'm sure we would have heard the pulsation if they had turned the music down.

It was a great party. It's good to see that - even after 25 years - people can still love one another and care enough for each other to remain a terrific couple.

Just between you and me

Sweetie Pie
Photo taken by Eva Joos

Hey you gorgeous.. Where has my little girl gone? Thirteen years ago, you were so tiny and vulnerable. Totally depending on your mommy and daddy to feed you and to hold you. And look at you now.. You are so.. mature.. Since you started high school, you have changed dramatically. Not in a bad way, certainly not. You and your sister are both in high school now and that has changed our family. We have no more children! The two of you are true teenagers and perfectly capable of taking care of yourselves - up to a certain point of course.

You like your independence. You can handle responsibility, so we give you that opportunity to grow. Having your own bank account meant a lot to you. You save your allowance and you know how to wire money. That's good! I'm pretty sure you'll do real well in the future. You're a bright girl. I'm proud of you xx

Now that was outstanding!

I'm going out tonight, with a good friend. The invitation came as a total surprise, but I'm glad I have the opportunity to go. I'm sure we'll have a great time and the music will be great. I'm a lucky girl.. Wanna bet I'll tell you the night out was outstanding?

What's cooking?

Lately, I have made quite some different soups. I guess I'm going through a soup phase? A creamy tomato soup is still favorite here, as well as white asparagus soup. But what's wrong with chicken stock, packed with finely chopped veggies? Or mushroom soup, Thai chicken soup or apple curry soup? There are so many soups and recipes to try out. It's a good way to have your daily vegetable intake and it's low calorie/low carb. So what keeps you from making your own soup? I try to start from fresh chicken or vegetable stock. Okay, it may be time-consuming to make your own stock, but it's so much better than the store bought stock cubes. And at least you have control over the ingredients.

Sometimes I put a couple of marrow pipes in my stock. Yes, both whippets sit beside the Range Cooker, to wait for their goodies. The marrow gives a really nice taste to the stock. That's the stock I keep to make my creamy tomato soup. I use the blender to make it velvety. That's one of the only soups my children will eat. No lumps or chunks, just creamy and velvety.

Soups can be very filling, especially if you make it a mealtime soup, with potatoes or pasta in it. I'm always looking for new recipes. The best ones I keep in my own cook book. And that book is getting thicker by the day. Have a bowl!

Limited edition

Have you ever realized how unique every one of us is? So many people on this planet and not two are completely alike. You could say we are all limited editions. Even twins can be very different next to their obvious and less obvious similarities. People can look so much alike on the outside, but be totally different when it comes to their personality. Is that a comfort? To me it is! There shouldn't be many more of me! Too hard to handle! I'll stick to the limited edition!

One little piggy went to the market

Every now and then, my friend and I meet in town to go to the local market. Not that we even make it to the market to shop for groceries. Mostly, we meet some place to have a drink and a bite and we start chatting. By the time we're done talking, the stall holders have packed up their goods and left.. So far so good. But that's okay, I prefer to run for errands all by myself, so I can take my time to get to know new products and pick whatever I prefer.

My friend and I are meeting up again. I'm looking forward to seeing her. The sun is out, the kids have gone to school and Hubby will take the dogs for a walk.

A change would do you good

That's what your Dutch doggie mommy said, when we came to take a look at you last year. She had picked you up in Denmark, where you had lived for 2 years. Her house is full of whippets and Italian sighthounds. They loved you deeply, but you told her you lacked attention. You wanted more cuddles and someone to call your own. They decided we could have you if we promised to take good care of you. So on September 1 2009, you came to live with us. I can't believe it's already been a year. I remember your first day in our house. You raced around the backyard, playing with your toys. You were really happy to come live with us, although you loved your Dutch mommy and daddy deeply. We adopted you, but every now and then, you have the chance to visit your other adoptive parents. They still love you and you haven't forgotten about them. We picked another name for you and you know your name real well.

Since your playmate Inthe came to live with us, you have declared yourself a mommy. And you are a very good mommy to her! You take care of her, you teach her things, you scold her for bad behaviour and you dry her when she's been out playing in the rain. Inthe is so fond of you and she follows you around the house.

You are a very smart whippet. When we need to go some place, you and Inthe spend a couple of hours in your outdoor kennel. You're not crazy about the idea, but once you're in the kennel, you go to the dog house and you lay down and sleep. But it's a real charade to get you there. Most of the time, you stay on the terrace, while Inthe races to the kennel straight away. We end up carrying you all the way back there (you're heavy girl!). You're just too smart! Did I tell you that we all love you to pieces???

Seems like old times

School was never a problem for me. I really liked going. I was eager enough to learn, although I never liked to study. But I was good at paying attention in the classroom, so a lot of information came through anyway.

Both our daughters are doing real well in school too. They are amongst the best in their class and they get good grades. They don't study that hard, but just like their mom, they pay attention in class. School starts again this morning. Only for half a day. It was moving to see our youngest put on her uniform again. She looks so cute in her mini skirt and blouse. She's changed so much over the last year - from a tomboy into a little lady. The oldest on the other hand, looks so grown up already. She's tall and people estimate her older than she is. Sometimes she even believes she's older than 15. But she's not.

Life is going back to normal. It will be quiet around the house. Just me and the dogs. A lot of me-time. Time to do some cleaning up. Time to cook. Time to relax. And then, by 12:30 PM there'll be more movement around here, when the oldest drops in. I'm ready to hear the stories.. It seems like old times..

As skinny as a rake

Not one of us will ever be as skinny as a rake, because we all love to eat and enjoy good food. Nothing wrong with that, right? Even better: why would we want to be skinny? We already have two whippets in the house..

Last night, we had our friends over for dinner and a good time. I enjoy cooking for them and it's always a challenge to prepare food to everyone's taste. Last night wasn't any different. There were several things to choose from. We started off with a Thai chicken soup with bean sprouts and lemon grass. That was comfort food to me.. I'm glad I can cook on my Range Cooker, because I really needed those 6 cookers. There were green beans with pancetta and mustard seeds, Bombay potatoes, Chinese noodles with mushrooms and cream, Malaysian Chicken Curry, Malaysian Coconut Shrimp, stir-fried zucchini/carrot/onions and Sesame Seed Steak Kebabs. And then we had a terrific dessert: egg yolk based liquor mousse. Very light and creamy. There weren't many leftovers and that's the way I like it! Dinner was low-carb. My blood sugars liked that very much! No spikes and not much insulin to bolus. But still a good dinner!

Le geek c'est chique

When we were  young, kids weren't fond of wearing braces. They were embarrassed and afraid to smile. That's a shame, because we could all have had beautiful dentures.

Our girls have wanted braces since they were in 6th grade. The oldest has been wearing hers for over one year now. She's doing so well, listening to the dentist and wearing the rubber bands on the braces as often as possible. She doesn't feel bad about it, because all of her peers wear braces too. They get to pick different colors, but mostly she picks black. Today she's seeing the dentist again, for another check-up. One more year to go. We hope.. And then it will be time for the youngest daughter to start wearing hers..

With or without you

Photo by Lana Joos

We are having a formal meeting with our friends tonight. Decisions have to be made. Something big is coming up. We're working on some project. It is truly exciting and very private at the same time. All 5 of us will be involved, hopefully. If not, it will be a little harder, but still doable.

Let's have another bite and something to drink, and then think things over. It is important to consider every scenario possible, before we make this step. It is everything I always wanted, but it's scary too. Don't forget it's long distance. You can't go there and fix things if you want to. But I'm glad there's at least one professional to convince and advise us. Let's hope things will work out the way we planned.

I can't believe it..

Our daughters are often invited to go to birthday parties of their school friends. So I drive them around town, sometimes even an hour drive away from home. I'm always amazed at the sizes of the houses those kids live in.. Wow.. This week I dropped the youngest one at her friend's house. What a wonderful home those people had. A heated outdoor pool with a fully furnished pool house (bathroom, kitchen, bedrooms, changing rooms,..) was the eye catcher. Eva was so astound. She looked at me like: why don't we have a pool??? I think she has too many rich friends.. Or at least friends with more than wealthy parents. She frequents an old school in Bruges and apparently, many rich kids attend that same school. We are not poor, by any means. In fact, we do real well. But no, we don't have a pool nor a pool house. And no, we don't need three cars, two are plenty. Kids are so vulnerable. They see differences between families and they dream their dreams. If I ask them how they will accomplish their dreams, they say they'll marry a rich man.
We all need money to live. Living in the 21st century is expensive. People that say money can't buy happiness, probably have plenty. We all need money. Because we do want more out of life. It's more comfortable to live than to survive. Each one of us is used to a certain standard in life. Some are wealthy since birth, others climb up step by step by working hard and saving their money. And then you have the lucky ones, who win the lottery. Money can be a real pain too. Listen to people that are involved in nasty divorces. If they have money, the outcome is disastrous. Neither one wants to give up their luxurious lifestyle. And that's when the fight over money begins.
Knowing how to handle money is something we all need to learn. It starts at a very young age. You work weekends and holidays and for the rest of the year, you go to school. That's a good way to start saving for future dreams. At least, if you are lucky enough to get the money you saved.. Because not all parents are that honest.. In fact, some are real good at pretending you never saved any money.. Whatever.. dreams come true, not only in Disney movies.

MEN

MENstruation, MENopauze, MENtal breakdown... ever noticed that most female problems begin with MEN? Men are lucky.. There aren't many typical male problems, like the problems women are facing. Think menstruation.. Just make the calculation. How about we take 13 years old as the starting period age? Let's say: for a 50 year period. Twelve times a year. Not a very appealing thought, is it? And then there's menopauze. More hassle. I hear menopauze is even worse than menstruation. Are women blessed with these two pfenoMENon because we're the only sex that can handle it? Perhaps so.

We all have mental breakdowns every now and then. Because there are so many things to deal with in such a short period of time. Even though men have come to their senses and try to help out more around the house, they are still mainly in charge of bringing home the paycheck (trust me, the paycheck is still important). Most of the household chores are still in women's hands. If men agree to help out, they sometimes hire help to do so: they ask their mom, they hire a cleaning lady or a nanny. And you know what? They are absolutely right! Women need to change this crazy superwoman ideal! They don't have to be everything and a whole lot more. They are women and that's plenty for a job! So ladies out there: don't wait for your husbands to hire help around the house. Find help yourself! You deserve it! It will keep you from having another mental breakdown..

Mary Janes

Maybe I should plan another trip to the local DIY store. My shoes need another cabinet for the other is way too crowded already. The other cabinet I made all by myself and it looks like a million dollars. I never found a decent cabinet that would hold all of my shoes. Pumps as well as boots, high heels or flip flops.
I have no problem giving away clothes, but I don't like to get rid of my shoes. Just the other day, when we came back from Oberhausen, my youngest daughter asked me to leave her my shoes after I died. In fact, I didn't have to wait that long, she said. She loves shoes, just the way I do. And you know what else she said? That she would buy shoes just for the look of it. There's not always a need to wear them. Some are so pretty that she would expose them in her bedroom. She's adorable..

In Oberhausen, Germany, I got myself a pair of petrol blue Mary Janes. They are comfortable. They may not be that elegant or feminine, but my feet like them. They match my jeans or white pants and I know I will wear them quite often. They are good shoes to wear when I have a long car ride ahead of me. My black and velvet sky high Nicky Vankets heels may be eye catchers and they may make my feet look dazzling, but I could never drive my car wearing them. So I guess I'll keep my Mary Janes in the car. Next to my Nicky Vankets's. Just in case.. A girl always has to be prepared for just about any occasion.. Always.

Zip it!

They are nagging back and forth like two little pacman characters. If one of them says "black" the other will say "white". There is no grey, there is no in between shade. Not for the moment. They have this particular age,  where normal communication between siblings is rather non existing. Sometimes they snap at each other for no reason. Thirteen is too young compared to fifteen. The gap between the ages is no more than two years, but still, it's too big a gap for the moment. They will grow closer once they get older. I know they will. It's just puberty.. monkey moments.

Disappointed..

I'm disappointed. Just disappointed.. That's the only emotion I can come up with right now..

I'm very sorry for your loss

Ratatouille - his last moments

I'm starting to feel sorry for Ratatouille. We have been bonding I guess.. In the early morning hours, Ratatouille ran back to his shelter in the kitchen. He must have hurt himself somehow, because several blood stains were to be found along his escape route. Did he get caught in the trap after all? Did he chew on a leg that was captured in the spiral ring? I don't know... but he's hurting. There's a bad, rotting smell in the house and I can't trace it.

We were advised to put several things on the rat traps: chocolate, peanut butter, bacon drippings, wet cat food. We've tried it all by now. You could say he's a spoiled (b)rat!

The man from Animal Pest Control came this morning. I expected some long bearded, heavy, smelly man (I know I know, prejudices..) but hey: a very good looking, well trimmed stud rang the doorbell. I showed him Ratatouilles picture and he confirmed it was a brown rat. He taught us that we'd better line up both traps. If he misses the first trap, he'll jump onto the second one. Like us, he doesn't want Ratatouille to die behind our cabinets. It would cause a horrible smell and a terrible mess. So he needs to come down. He left us with some more poison. I'm sorry Ratatouille, but you don't belong with us. You are going to see your ancestors real soon. I hope..

UPDATE: May Ratatouille rest in peace. He died in a ferocious fight.. I will keep the details to myself, but I can tell you there was a lot of screaming (from my part and yes I sat on top of the couch) involved as well as the rolling pin, pliers and a broom. There's a dent in my toaster and blood splatters on the back splash of my Range Cooker, but he's gone.. R.I.P.

Moments of stress

I know you must be stressing out right now. There's no need to. You'll be just fine. Have faith. Trust your doctor. He's doing whatever needs to be done and he'll come and tell you the good news as soon as you open your eyes. You won't have the time to blink, because he will have told you you are going to be just fine.. I'll light all the candles around the house for you. Because you have become important to me. I care..

Parade

Tonight there's another parade in the town where our friends live. We're all invited to join them, so we can watch the parade together. The girls are really excited! They like our friends too and they are happy to join us for a change. They have been dying to see the house our friend has decorated. He's a great interior designer and he's so unique and creative that you can't but love him!

It's going to be a great night! We'll have a good time over a bite and a drink and in the end, we will all go outside to see the fireworks. And let's hope Ratatouille will have fled by the time we come home... He made the traps snap twice last night, but he managed to get away. He's hiding under the central heating in the dining room. Animal Pest Control is coming tomorrow.. They'd better catch him!

There's more to life

It's been a while, but I'm glad we're finally meeting up again. I have been looking forward to our date. I've cruised around Lier before, but I've never really explored the town. So I'm anxious to hear what you have planned for us.

You are a special lady. A beautiful appearance. Life hasn't been easy on you, but you manage well. Raising three children all by yourself is no sinecure. Of course all families have their ups and downs, but you keep going, despite some disillusions. I'm proud of you and I hope you are proud of you too!

We have several things in common. Diabetes is the reason why we met. In the meantime, we have become friends on several other levels. I'm so happy to see you every now and then. This time is no different!

In the evening, I'm having another outing with some more friends. Who said life is boring???

Energy

Around lunch, my insulin pump let me know that the battery of my pump had died. The pump comes with one battery. The glucose meter aka remote control has three. Their life expectancy is approximately 4 weeks.
Take a look around your house, to see how many batteries you need in your different appliances. Quite a bit huh? Some are expensive and last longer than the cheaper ones. I can't use cheap batteries for my insulin pump, nor for my glucose meter. They require high quality batteries. I try to limit the sounds on the pump, so the batteries don't die that fast. But still, they run empty way too soon.

It would be good if the pump and meter would have a charger like cell phones do. It would save us a lot of money.

Reality kicked in

One more week.. The kids are starting school again in a little while. They complain and they whine about it, but deep down, I know they are glad. Both girls love to go to school although they say otherwise. But they are teenagers and that's what teenagers do: complain about just about everything!

Today we are going to pick up the books. Those books are so expensive, and they are rental books. We will make it a day out. Pay grandma a visit. The sun's out, so maybe we'll walk around town as well. We'll see..

Another whippet

Inthe and Rebba have a little brother... He doesn't have a name yet. He came as a total surprise to me. My friends got him for my birthday. That's really funny, because last year, we were in Sevenum, Holland, on our way to Oberhausen, when we ran into a lady with two whippets. That's where I kneeled to give the dogs a big cuddle. That's when I told my friends about my love for the breed. That's when they told me they were going to get one for my upcoming birthday. And that's when Hubby decided they couldn't get me one, since HE was going to buy one for me..

They must have remembered that and still, they know we already have two! But here he is: he's so slim and beautiful and his tan is almost silverish. He's all shiny and very quiet. I love him! He's sitting in the window sill, looking over our family room. We won't have to take him for walks. My new whippet is a wonderful statue..

Never, never, never give up

You decided to give up on cigars three months ago. I'm so proud of you! I know it's not easy. I can tell by the amount of chewing gum I'm buying to keep you busy.
Last week, we went away for two days with our friends. Three of them smoke. I was a little worried you might get tempted, and maybe you were, but you didn't give in. It would be a shame if you would start again. You don't talk about it - you are not the most talkative person - but I just know it's on your mind on some occasions. Like when we were driving to Germany and we were kinda lost.. You probably nearly died for a cigar! But you didn't get one.. So let me tell you once more: I'm proud of you for being so strong.

Ratatouille

We named him Ratatouille, after the rat from the Ratatouille movie. With the only difference that ours is not cute and he doesn't cook.

He's still sitting there, in his private place behind the kitchen cabinets. Every now and then, a little dropping comes down. That's the proof Ratatouille is present. I want him out of here! Right now! I'm afraid to use my Lattissima, because it's sitting way too close to his shelter. I hope he will eat all of the poison and die, so he won't get killed in the trap. Just imagine him being caught in the trap without being dead??? He will scream, that's for sure, and I'm not prepared for that noise! And who will kill him if he's in the trap but not dead? Not me!!!

Let's hope Ratatouille decides this place is not as exciting as he thought it would be. He may have thought this house was rated 5 stars, but hey, he's wrong! No more food, no more drinks. No more All Inclusive! Move out!

There's a rat in the kitchen what am I gonna do?

There's a rat in the kitchen

This song crossed my mind instantly, when I saw this awful brown creature behind my Delonghi Lattissima!! AAaarrrgghhh!!!!

Last night, I was getting ready to go to bed, putting my empty glass on the counter top. That's when I saw this creepy creature crawl behind my coffee maker! SCREAM!!! Both whippets and tomcat were laying on the couch, dreaming their dreams. They didn't come to the rescue. That fat rodent really freaked me out! I ran upstairs to get Hubby. Not that he's a big fan of rats or mice.. With a broom in one hand and a blanket in the other, he was convinced he could catch the ugly beast. Good grief! It must have heard my heart pound! I took my camera to take its picture. It was looking right into the lens. Hubby ran off as soon as he spotted the rat. The only thing he could say was: that is definitely not a mouse! that thing is huge!!!!! Without exaggerating, it must have been 30 cm without the naked tail (that must have been around 15 cm I guess). Its little black eyes were staring at me as it was sitting down, stretched out, pointed ears in the neck and ready to attack!

Hubby threw the blanket over the beast - that's what he does when he needs to catch one of our chickens - but it didn't stay put, on the contrary. It ran up the back splash, into a little hole, back to its shelter behind my kitchen cabinets! Shoot! So now it's sitting up there again. I can't believe it has lived here for more than a couple of days, since we haven't found any droppings or urine stains. The back door is always open, so the whippets can go in and out whenever they want. Now I know who eats the cat food at night.. not Arthur..

This is not a job for Lisa Williams. I'd better call Animal Pest Control!

Creepy..

In the early morning hours - around 4:45 AM - I heard a clattering noise in the kitchen. Without turning on any lights, I went to see what was going on. A flowerpot had fallen down from one of the top shelves in my kitchen cabinet above the sink. That was strange, because things do not fall down just like that, do they? It could not have been the cat, because there's no way he can climb on that top shelf. And then I heard this weird noise, coming out of one of the kitchen cabinets. Now that was creepy! Trust me! So I turned on the light. I didn't see anything unusual, besides the flower pot that had fallen down, but I could still hear the creepy noise, coming out of that cabinet. I carefully opened the door, to see nothing but coffee mugs and dinner plates.. The sound was louder when I opened that door. It was like something was hiding between the wall and the cabinet. I went to get Hubby, because I knew he wouldn't believe me if I told him later. He heard the same noise and he opened the next cabinet as well. We both stood there, listening to a sawing and tapping sound coming out of the cabinets. And then all of a sudden, the sound faded..

I told our oldest daughter about the weird sounds in the kitchen, and with eyes the size of saucers, she stared at me and said: that's exactly what I heard when the two of you were in Oberhausen!!!  She had also looked in the cabinets and just like us, the tapping and sawing sound freaked her out.. She didn't tell us because she thought we wouldn't believe her. We still don't know what the sound is, but I can tell you: it's not supposed to be there.. I think I'll check with the neighbors today. Their shed is right next to our kitchen wall. Maybe something is in that shed? Do you think I should call Lisa Williams?

To be continued..

The Belle of the ball

high heels..

You looked ravishing in your cream colored, strapless wedding gown.. You were very elegant and feminine and girly, but still very natural. You wore that dress like you had never worn anything else. It suited you perfectly well. Your husband was very handsome as well. A very nice couple, I must say. And the wedding was pretty original too. We loved the ceremony. You have very good friends, you know! They must have put a lot of work in it, to make that ceremony that special. I'm happy they did, because it was worth it.

What a different location you picked for the wedding party. We were invited on a boat to have dinner with you, your family and your friends. It was nice to get to know your other friends. You and your sisters look pretty much alike, although you are very different at the same time. Dinner was excellent and surprising too. Unique, like the two of you!

My friend and I came in little black dresses and super high heels! We had a great time! We chatted with your friends and danced to the music. We enjoyed a cool breeze on the deck of the boat, over a cold glass of wine. Thanks for having us.. have a wonderful honeymoon in the US! Hope to read about your adventures on your honeymoon blog!

Just pop the question

Central Park, New York. Your best friend and partner surprised you with THE question every girl is waiting and wanting to hear: will you marry me... And of course you said: I will..

Today is your day. Today is the day it's going to happen. You have been looking forward to your wedding for many months now. I'm so happy you asked me to be there...! That is pretty special you know. I don't attend that many weddings, since I'm not that much of a party animal. But this time, I wouldn't want to miss it. In fact, I can't wait to see you and your husband!

I could bring a guest and my friend M is coming along. She's heard so much about you that she could be your friend as well. It'll be a wonderful day. A day to remember. Your special day.. Some more friends will join us later in the evening. Looking forward to that as well!

Congratulations K & G. You are a wonderful couple. I love you.

You are so vain!

Yes, I'm vain. This morning, I unpacked all the bags from Oberhausen. I can't believe I bought 5 pairs of shoes, 1 pair of pants, a dress shirt, a turquoise jacket, a leather jacket, a little black dress, a black and red jacket, a purse, a necklace and a a bracelet.. Was that too much? Probably.. Do I feel guilty? No, not one bit. I truly enjoyed my birthday and it was fun to try on several outfits. I had a little fashion show for the girls and they loved the things I bought. Our youngest daughter asked if she could have my shoes when her feet will have grown into my size. We'll see about that.. Some heels are so high, I feel way taller wearing them. I have no idea if I'll be able to walk on them. Maybe I'll tip over!!! We'll see. I'll stack some spare shoes in my car. Just in case..

You can reach me

The girls didn't join us on our trip to Germany. Both of them stayed home with the pets. This was mommy and daddy's time. They don't mind, since we take them along quite often. They have travelled along to many different countries: the US, Egypt, Morocco, Turkey, Tenerife,.. So every now and then, we go abroad without the kids and they have some parent free days. They know how to reach us and they have no problem cooking their own meals. They know we always bring them treats: shiny earrings, some cool T-shirts or whatever they fancy at the time. They are happy with whatever we bring them.

Of course I missed them, what did you think? It's great to take the kids abroad, but every now and then, I need some grown up time with the friends, without the children. After all, they are no toddlers any more and they no longer need a nanny. I'm sure they will be happy to see us come home and I'll cuddle them way too long. And then things will go back to normal. Just like it's always been..

It's just a symptom

August 20th. I'm having my 39th birthday today. For many years, I have celebrated my birthday abroad, with Hubby and our friends. That's the way I like it! I like to have a good time on my birthday. In my youth, I haven't had much fun birthdays, and maybe that's why I have always wanted that day to pass quickly. But not any more. For the last 10 something years, I have really celebrated that special day. And why not? After all, it's a great opportunity to celebrate life. The first happy birthday I remember, is the first birthday I celebrated in the States. In Portland, Oregon, to be exact. For the first time, I really had a birthday party just for me! With loads of cards and presents and beloved ones around me! The following year, I celebrated my birthday in Chelmsford, Massachusetts. Another birthday to remember! My American host family threw a wonderful birthday party for me and they invited my at the time boyfriend and my friends who were also working as au pairs. Nothing could go wrong from then on.

I still find it pretty special to celebrate my birthday abroad. Being around people you cherish, in a pleasant place, with nothing but good memories. Yes, I'm a very lucky girl. And I'm having a ball!

Enhancing your appearance

We are in Oberhausen, Germany. Our good friends invited us for a shopping spree in the largest shopping mall of Germany. We've been here before and we kinda knew what to expect. That's what I was looking forward to. Although I have had a hectic week, I was really looking forward to these days. How does my daughter call it? Chillax? That's exactly what we are going to do. Besides shopping and going out to breakfast, lunch and dinner. And enjoy each other's company of course.. I hope to find a real nice outfit, since I'm attending a wedding this Saturday!

Get ready for the tabloids!

Last month, a professional photographer came to our town to make a photoshoot of me. I'm not really fond of having my picture taken, but this time was different. I felt real good about it and there was some bonding between the photographer and me. She sent me the first shots this week and I get to pick three for free. I am so happy with the result! I can't believe it's me in the pictures! I'm not sure yet which pictures I'm going to pick, but I guess I'll order more than three. It will be a nice memory and maybe it's time to make another album.. The pictures will be used for an article in a diabetes magazine next month. I'm really looking forward to that and I hope many people will enjoy the article.

Feeding the friendship

Keeping in touch with the friends is important. Without getting an update every now and then, you loose track of each other. It takes time and organization, but in the end it pays off, because of the energy you get from meeting up with your friends.

Some of my friends have real hectic days, busy with work and stuff. So there isn't much time for outings with them. Most of them have partners or children or both. A lot of people to reckon with. I'm so happy Hubby gives me the opportunity to keep up with my friends. I really need that contact. My friends are part of my life, part of who I am. Of course I have my hands full with my own family and kids. But the kids grow up and we grow older and one day - when the teeny fingerprints on the wallpaper will have faded - the kids will have left the house and we'll have too much spare time. Thanks to my friends, I will always have people to hang out with!

Getting pampered

I wish you a very happy birthday! You and your friends have taken the children on an outing for the weekend. You haven't been dating that long, but the two of you get along real well. I'm so glad you are happy again! Your children and your friend get along just fine too. And that's important.

I hope this year will be better than last year. You have been through a real turmoil. Things will improve from now on. You are optimistic and your children love you deeply. Don't worry: you're doing great!

The Queen of Spam

Yesterday, my friends on our diabetesforum opened a topic for me. They call me the Queen of Spam, since I have written 20.000 posts in nearly 3 years. To me it's not really an effort, because the forum is very dear to me. It is important to get to know other people with D. We learn from one another and we try to help out wherever we can. I have met quite some forum members by now and with some I have a more intense contact. Distance is not a problem (trust me, Belgium isn't that large): we meet every now and then. Even with the members from Holland.

Sometimes I wonder how many more topics I can start on diabetes. But you know what? It's not been a problem yet. I frequent other websites as well and I read online articles on diabetes. I listen to peers with D and to my medical team. So there's always plenty of information. It would be selfish to keep all of that information to myself. Not all members have that much time, so it's good to have one place where they can check it all and stay up to date.

I plan on posting many more topics. What if one day diabetes will be cured? Would that mean we would no longer have our favorite diabetesforum?

Quality time

Hubby is taking the girls and his godson to an amusement park today. The little guy was really looking forward to that. Looking at the several rollercoasters on the website of the park, he was daring his godfather to try out the most scary rides! He knows his godfather is afraid of heights and he believes that's just ridiculous. I'm curious.. maybe neither one will do all the rides..

I'm sure they'll have a blast! I'm staying at home. A full day in an amusement park and the shaking back and forth on the rides is not really the best thing to do after surgery, is it? My day will come.. The plan was to pay my mother-in-law a visit. But last night, my friend let me know they had returned from Poland, unexpectedly! I'm so happy she's home again! So sorry grandma, I'll go see my friend today!

A luscious lady

Nigella Lawson is a pretty special lady. Raising her children by herself, after her beloved husband died, she's doing a really good job. She's so sophisticated and refined and still, she gives you that comfortable feeling that she could become your new best friend..
Have you seen her figure?? She's a walking hour glass and it suits her real well. She's so feminine and proud of her curves. Do you think she would have complexes as well about her body like everybody else?

I love to watch her shows and her way of cooking. Her food is everything one could hope for, and more. The sizzling of olive oil in a steaming hot pan, I can almost smell whatever she's preparing. Her recipes are so easy, tasty and honest, that you wish you could stop by, have a seat at her table and dig in. She gives you the feeling she wouldn't mind you paying her a visit. She's the proof that good food doesn't have to be that fancy. Good ingredients, some inspiration and enthusiasm will take you where you need to be: experimenting in your kitchen!

Cooking Camp

Hubby's godson is coming over for 3 days. He's subscribed for Cooking Camp with his auntie. At least that's how he calls it! He loved to cook and help out in the kitchen. I have no idea whatsoever about the meals we are going to cook. It's possible we're going to bake some Challah bread. We'll see what he's in for..

Take your time

Yesterday, my friend from Limburg drove all the way up here, so we could go visit another friend together. As I have said before, just like us, he's been diagnosed with D. But he was also diagnosed with cancer, some 3 years ago. We had no idea what to expect, since we hadn't seen him for a while. But to our surprise, he looked great! He wasn't that swollen any more and his memory was better than the other times we visited him. As always, his wife welcomed us with coffee and cake (no sugar added). She's such a sweetheart.. We were happy to see their new puppy.. Well... puppy.. he was humongous!
It was great to see Mr en Mrs P. He kept saying we couldn't go home yet, although we knew our visit must have worn him out. After all, cancer is not a cough.. But we'll be back buddy, don't worry!

In the evening, my friend and I went out to dinner. It took us some time to find a restaurant (it was weekend after all and we had not made any reservations), but we made a great choice! De Steenen Haene is an exquisite restaurant. Great service, excellent menu, unique interior. My friend and I chatted all night over a wonderful dinner we truly enjoyed. I would love to take my family there one day. I'm sure they would enjoy the scenery and the food as much as we did. One starter I would like to copy at home: a portion of hand peeled shrimp, a brunoise of avocado and finely shredded lettuce. Great seasoning with a nice zing to it. Very tasty! The restaurant serves homemade farmer's pate and I'm sorry I didn't buy some to take him with me. I'm sure Hubby would have liked that, with some mustard on the side, pickled onions and gerkins. It was a busy day and we drove quite some miles, but it has been worth it..

An Oh my Gosh moment

Six more days until you and your "sheep" are getting married.. I'm nervous for you. I know I shouldn't be, because the two of you go together like salt and pepper, so there's no need to worry. For the first time, I'm looking forward to attend someone's wedding. Really! I'm anxious to see you!

You and your fiancé are still looking into writing your wedding vows. Wow.. I'm impressed. You have really thought things over and you are serious about it. Pretty soon you are going to be Mrs instead of Miss. How about that? Strange huh? But you'll get used to it real fast. I wonder if you will remain your maiden name or present yourself as Mrs Husband's name.. ? That feels special. At least, that's how I feel it.

It's like getting an upgrade. You will become members of a different group of people: the wedded ones. So many people around us get divorced and still, the two of you have decided to give it a shot and go for it. And I must say: I admire you for that! You are best friends with your partner and you love each other deeply. You communicate well and you spend a lot of time together. Communication is so important and so is the humor in your relationship. I know the two of you have a great time, cooking side by side or telling each other anecdotes. That's a very good base for a lifelong marriage.. I'm happy for you xx

The significant other

Rebba ° June 23, 2006
Photo by Lana Joos

Hi sweetie!

Almost one year ago, we went to get you in Holland. I fell in love with you instantly. For so many years, I had longed for a whippet of my own. And there you were, waiting for us. Ready to come home.. You were sitting in my lap in the car and you weighed a ton. You had no idea what to expect from your new family and we didn't know what life with you would be like. 

We got acquainted real fast and you behaved real well. We gave you a new name and you didn't mind at all. Your new name - Rebba - fitted you like a glove and you responded so well whenever we called you. Whistling is effective too. In a sec you stand by our side. 

In the beginning you were a little afraid to go for a walk. New surroundings, new people, new smells, new everything. But again: you are easy going.

Just three months later, we decided we wanted you to have a playmate. That's when we started to talk about getting a puppy. You were 3 when we got you. You were potty trained and friendly and accustomed to people. Was getting a puppy the right thing? 

You must have thought you were expecting puppies. You cried and made nests and you told us you wanted to have a family of your own. That's when we decided we really wanted that puppy. Inthe is a great companion for you. Every now and then, you frown your eyebrows when she's ditching the place, but you completely fell in love with her. You probably see her as your baby.. You teach her things, you scold her when she doesn't behave and you play along. The two of you race around in the backyard and you love to go out for a walk together. You have become so attached to Inthe, that you are in sheer panic when we try to take Inthe or you some place without the other. So we don't. 

I wouldn't know what to do if you weren't here anymore. You and Inthe have become members of the family. Even the in-laws love you and they always ask for you to come along on Sundays. That's why I hope we will be given many more years with you and your little playmate..

Go Greek

A friend of mine is a huge Greece fanatic. She loves the place, the food, the people, the language.. If she had the opportunity, she would move to Greece and spend her days roaming around the islands, go for long walks, bicycle rides, do some diving and enjoy the Greek food.

She's coming over today and we're going to have lunch together. I planned a Greek lunch for the two of us. Tzatziki, Greek Farmer's bread (home baked) sprinkled with oregano she brought me from Greece, Greek salad of lettuce, red onion, olives, hard boiled eggs. There will be a side dish of fresh green beans and tomatoes and some oven dried cherry tomatoes. Maybe some smoked salmon on the side, although I'm pretty sure that's not Greek..

In the afternoon, we're going to drive some more to visit another friend, who lives an hour and a half away. He's a very courageous man, although he is very ill. We have visited him before. Just like us, he has been "blessed" with D. All his life, he has tried to live as healthy as possible. That's why it came as a real shock to him and his beloved ones, that cancer ruined his body. He's still amongst us and we are very grateful for that. He's a terrific person and he has so much wisdom. I'm ready to go give him and his lovely wife a warm hug..

Antipasti

Don't you all love antipasti? There are so many different little treats to spoil yourself with, that I don't know what to discuss first. Maybe I should start with the latest tapas I bought? That was tomato caviar... and that was pretty exciting to eat! They are mini cherry tomatoes, the size of small pickled onions. They taste so sweet (they are not sweetened with sugar by the way!) and tender and juicy. There's a red and a yellow tomato caviar and either one is fabulous. I mixed them in a bowl with bite size mozzarella marbles, put some garlic pepper on top and added some freshly shredded basil leaves. What a great snack! Forget about crisps, drop the popcorn ad throw out the candy bars. This is what you were looking for!

I'm looking forward to more tapas by this brand. There are stuffed apricots I would love to try, sundried tomatoes and so many more products. Enrico distributes these great and honest products. They are located in Holland. I'm so happy to live that close to the border, so I can get my treats whenever I want. Check out the site! I'm sure you'll love their tapas too!

Loading up on carbs

I used to be a big carbohydrate lover. Bread, baked potatoes, rice, pasta, cookies, cake.. I believe too many carbs are not meant for humans. Diabetes has become epidemic.. Is it strange if you see how many carbs people have been eating in the last, say 50, years? In the old days, people had more meat and fat than carbs and there was less diabetes.

Since I've been diagnosed with D, my body no longer likes carbs. In fact, it resents carbs now. My body lets me know, by raising my blood glucose levels. I should've listened to my body way sooner. My pancreas couldn't cope any longer.. Is that why it gave up? No longer producing insulin? Did it teach me to eat less carbs?

My daily intake nowadays is around 60 gr of carbs. That's a whole lot less than what my dietician wanted me to have in the first place. She talked 220 gr of carbs.. way too much for me. My blood glucose is much nicer for me now, showing less rollercoaster moments. This is exactly what I was looking for..

I'm going down!

Yesterday, I had an appointment with my surgeon for a first check-up. He was real happy with my results so far and I couldn't but agree with him. I gave him a bottle of excellent wine for the good work he delivered. He changed my life and he's a very good surgeon. I haven't felt this good in such a long time. The scars are healing well and the overall feeling is .. well.. how should I phrase it? Ecstatic? Would that be the right word?

I had my blood work done as well. This morning, my diabetes nurse called me. She was as anxious as I was to see the results. She's a doll! One could have cut the tension with a knife!!! She asked me if I already knew my new HbA1c (the average blood glucose of the past 6 weeks). No! but I was pretty sure she was about to tell me??? And she did! She cheered for me and I yelled HURRAY! My numbers have dropped from 7.7% to 7% and that's a big achievement over such a short period of time. I'm so thrilled! I hope to end up in the 6% area by the next blood work appointment.

I'll keep up the hard work since it is paying off. I'M PROUD OF MYSELF!!! I'm rediscovering the person I used to be.. only a better version.

Ladies only

The girls and I had this plan, to take grandma to the movies in September. It must have been ages since she last went to the cinema although she always loved to do that. Every month, there's a special ladies only night at the movie theatre. And then we said: hey, why not invite all the aunties of the family? So the sisters-in-law are joining us as well! Meaning there will be a group of 7 wonderful ladies to have a great night out!

Grandma is not supposed to know about the event of the night. She knows we are going to pick her up to go some place, but she has no idea we'll go out for dinner and see a movie afterwards. Very exciting! We told her we were going to have a great time at some wellness centre.. LOL

I hope the photographer present will take our picture. It will be a memorable picture of all the girls in the family on their first night out together. Our youngest daughter will be in boarding school at the time, but I'm sure the principal will let us pick her up. The night wouldn't be complete without her..

Follow the leader

I don't know who the leader in our household is, but most all of our pets have tried to escape by now. First we lost Arthur, our tomcat. He had been kidnapped by a neighbor - cat hater. We didn't retrieve him til like 7.5 weeks after he was abducted. Then Rebba the whippet fled and ran on the highway for 2 hours. Little Inthe tried to escape her dog run last month, but she got stuck in between the bars.

A couple of weeks ago, one of our three turtles disappeared from his habitat. It was too hot out there for him to survive without any water. We never thought we would find his new shelter. But there he was: sitting on the banks of the neighbor's pond. I guess he preferred a room with a view.. He's back home now. Do you think Hubby should start building a new territory for the turtles now??

The love for your child

Not every mother loves her child, but once she's loved it, that love is eternal. There's nothing more wonderful and no better feeling in the world than when your child comes up to you and says: I love you mommy.. can I have a hug?

Latte Macchiato anyone?

This morning, a special delivery was made at our house. My early birthday present!!! I was so excited to see what hubby and the girls got me for my upcoming birthday. They must have checked the wish list on my blog, because they got it just right!

The Nespresso Lattissima is sitting on the kitchen counter and I have enjoyed my first Latte Macchiato. That was awesome! It's just incredible how a coffee maker of this size can make the most delicious latte. You have 4 choices: espresso, lungo (regular), latte macchiato or cappuccino. The milk foam is frothy and creamy, just the way I like it! It's magic how the coffee drips into the foam of milk and separates the drink into different colors.

I immediately made an order for Nespresso cups. I don't drink that much coffee and mostly it's decaf, but trust me: I will make quite some cappuccinos and lattes! I ordered some prepacked chocolates as well. Because a Latte Macchiato deserves good chocolate to accompany the drink.

I wonder if I could make a frappuccino as well.. I sure found some great recipes on the website!