tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38034038137761901632024-03-25T07:57:40.773-06:00all kinds of lovelydajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.comBlogger190125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-3379885307915909632016-11-30T17:18:00.001-07:002016-11-30T17:18:33.235-07:00winter maternity photo sessionThese photos were taken on a chilly day late January just a few days before Luka and Oliver were born. I was set on having an outdoor photo session but the weather in Alberta, as you may already know, is unpredictable. By the time it was warm enough to be outside, I was already 35 weeks along. Yikes! I wouldn't recommend waiting that long to do a maternity session. Although I was feeling a *tad* uncomfortable, the pictures turned out beautifully thanks to our lovely photographer <a href="http://www.knphoto.ca/" target="_blank">Kelsy Nielson</a> (who had a nasty fall right before our session began but never revealed to us how much pain she was really in. The lady's a trooper and someone I'm grateful I can now call a friend.)<br />
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Here are some of our favourites:<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30492533796/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana029"><img alt="Dajana029" height="427" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5796/30492533796_783ddfec2f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30528743135/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana049"><img alt="Dajana049" height="427" src="https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5522/30528743135_f7bd2237f4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/29896181073/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana012"><img alt="Dajana012" height="320" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5782/29896181073_1174042c3c_z.jpg" width="212" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/29896191333/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana009"><img alt="Dajana009" height="320" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/6/5623/29896191333_4b7e45b064_z.jpg" width="213" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30528844885/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana008"><img alt="Dajana008" height="320" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/6/5757/30528844885_fd1ff1914d_z.jpg" width="213" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30492511336/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana037"><img alt="Dajana037" height="427" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5677/30492511336_6015a15fdd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/29898160464/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana034"><img alt="Dajana034" height="427" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5485/29898160464_9c6062ede6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30492557046/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana019"><img alt="Dajana019" height="427" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/6/5601/30492557046_ea6e9b4f5c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30492551816/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana021"><img alt="Dajana021" height="427" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5323/30492551816_3e5f7cc1cc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30441596731/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana039"><img alt="Dajana039" height="427" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5818/30441596731_96518d95df_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30412401322/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana031"><img alt="Dajana031" height="427" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/6/5655/30412401322_4f42796827_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30230719870/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana044"><img alt="Dajana044" height="320" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8659/30230719870_5f78701525_z.jpg" width="213" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30412454082/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana001"><img alt="Dajana001" height="320" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/6/5608/30412454082_2c7e1097df_z.jpg" width="213" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30528848405/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana006"><img alt="Dajana006" height="427" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/6/5817/30528848405_a01136c4fd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30412404812/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana030"><img alt="Dajana030" height="427" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/6/5715/30412404812_baf485bf6d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/30412330602/in/dateposted-public/" title="Dajana057"><img alt="Dajana057" height="427" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/6/5328/30412330602_b0fb91769e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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I may have been utterly exhausted after this session (I was carrying 12 pounds of babies!) but I am elated we did it. Our lives have changed drastically since that day: the boys are now nearly ten months old, have a few tiny teeth, are crawling (& in Oliver's case trying to stand), have the most contagious giggles and are full of personality. This January day seems like forever ago--being pregnant seems like forever ago and I'm grateful we have these beautiful mementos from that time in our lives. <3<br />
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Next week I'll be sharing our hospital photo session with Kelsy!<br />
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Photographer: <a href="http://www.knphoto.ca/" target="_blank">Kelsy Nielson Photographer</a><br />
Hair: Dean at <a href="http://www.organicbeautyparlour.com/" target="_blank">The Beauty Parlour</a><br />
Makeup: <a href="http://nicolagavins.paradepro.com/" target="_blank">Nicola Gavins</a><br />
Dress: <a href="https://yomamamaternity.com/" target="_blank">Yo Mama Maternity</a><br />
Vest: <a href="https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/deverlie-vest?category=kimonos-vests&color=014" target="_blank">Anthropologie</a> (similar)<br />
Scott's jacket: <a href="http://espyexperience.com/" target="_blank">Espy</a><br />
Location: <a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=mill+creek+ravine&safe=active&client=safari&rls=en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwif9o6HnI7QAhVJy1QKHdM2DNwQ_AUICSgC&biw=1280&bih=593" target="_blank">Mill Creek Ravine</a><br />
<br />dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-70514373629716693432016-08-03T07:31:00.001-06:002016-08-03T10:34:44.677-06:00happy 6 months, luka and oliver!<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/28734839355/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1583"><img alt="IMG_1583" height="400" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8533/28734839355_870854ca5b_c.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/28657640011/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_1589"><img alt="IMG_1589" height="400" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8838/28657640011_5e7e553fb7_c.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I have two 6-month-olds. It's hard to fathom! The months have flown by, but we've also had moments that felt like forever. Although it's been a crazy whirlwind life adjustment becoming parents to twins (they've cried & I've cried) Luka and Oliver have taught us about selfless love in such a short time and have enriched our lives in a way I could never articulate. Parenthood isn't for the faint hearted, but the growth you experience is incredible! Every day I'm finding strength I never knew I had and it's all because of my sweet baby boys. I often hear Elizabeth Stone's quote floating in my head and feel it in the depths of my heart, “Making the decision to have a child - it is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body."</div>
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Consistency may not always be my forte but I was determined to take monthly pictures of the boys on their quilts. And I did! Just look at how much they've grown and changed since their birth day on February 3rd. They both weighed six pounds at birth and now Luka weighs 22 while Ollie weighs 23 pounds. They're my curious, fun loving, beautiful chubba bubbas. This week we started sleep training and a few weeks ago the boys started eating solids. They're also able to sit up fairly well and flash their sweet smiles at the people they know. When I sing to them, they light up and storytime is also a favourite of theirs. Time truly has wings! The NICU and all of the weeks we spent there seem like a distant memory.</div>
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Love you, my sweet Luka. Your adorable cheeky grins are sometimes too much to bear. Thank you for showing me, through your heart struggles, to live in the moment and that relationships are above anything else. Your resilience at such a young age is inspiring. You've also taught me to go in to each day and to take it for what it ends up being instead of what I want it to be. You have made life beautiful and I'm so grateful to be your mama! Happy half birthday, little dude!<br />
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Love you, my sweet Ollie. Thank you for your kind nature, innate curiosity and instantaneous smiles that light up a room. You have brought indescribable joy to my life. Having you at home to care for helped get me through the sadness of leaving your brother behind in the hospital, day after day, night after night. You have made life beautiful and I'm so grateful to be your mama! Happy half birthday, little dude!<br />
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And here they are at one month old (so itty bitty! Luka's picture was taken at the hospital):<br />
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“Sometimes,” said Pooh, “the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” xoxodajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-24669686996972303952016-07-20T12:48:00.000-06:002016-07-20T14:31:40.696-06:00embracing my postpartum body <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFzN2l7s_HYWSLrcOTn-axs0C97fjeDQTgQrndMwwi7ldiTP10t1oDR2caXhXfGrrRk6T3nIyjBXksgZ0c-8nMZoKPrZF89BaN4js8yhdNXzGtER89wYKXGrW6_PhuhJmzNjU7pIQFMNrK/s1600/27819930734_8cfb06e2ef_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFzN2l7s_HYWSLrcOTn-axs0C97fjeDQTgQrndMwwi7ldiTP10t1oDR2caXhXfGrrRk6T3nIyjBXksgZ0c-8nMZoKPrZF89BaN4js8yhdNXzGtER89wYKXGrW6_PhuhJmzNjU7pIQFMNrK/s1600/27819930734_8cfb06e2ef_c.jpg" /></a>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I shared this post on </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/allkindsoflovelyblog/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/allkindsoflovelyblog/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Facebook</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> initially but then decided to share it here as well (especially since it received such a warm, kind and supportive response and seemed to resonate with so many women). Posting on Instagram and Facebook certainly seems to suit my life better now as I mother our little dudes. That said, I'll be posting a 6 month update on those two cuties here at the beginning of August. It's hard to believe they'll be 6 months old soon! I'm learning first hand that time has wings. Hope you'll come back to read it (& see how much they've changed since </span><a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2016/03/luka-oliver-month-one.html" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">this post</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">)!</span></span></span></span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">............</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Shopping for pieces that better suit this new mama body of mine is a humbling experience. I won't lie, it's been<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span>an ongoing period of adjustment and acceptance (our bodies change so drastically post baby). There've been some tearful moments over the past few months while standing in front of my full-to-the-brim closet realizing most of what it contains doesn't fit these days. Twenty extra pounds will do that. Some left over from pregnancy the remainder a result of emotional/stress eating (because this motherhood journey isn't always easy & did you know you can't continue to eat the same amount of food once you stop breastfeeding without major consequences? Yup, it's true. I, well really my ass, did the research for you). </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ultimately I'm proud and amazed by how my body was able to grow, birth and feed my two little dudes. In fact, I felt like a warrior during childbirth and at the end raised my arms in the air victoriously and shouted (& I'm not making this shit up. Scotty wrote it all down in case I forgot) "Yesss! I'm 40 years old and just gave birth to twins vaginally!" That's how damn proud I was and still am. I've never felt more powerful or beautiful than I did in that moment.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So instead of whining, complaining & bemoaning the fact I have extra junk in the trunk, I've decided to press in, breathe, focus on healthy habits and accept my new frame. Most importantly I'm practicing self compassion and offering myself extra grace these days. As women we can be so hard on ourselves. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When I'm laughing, singing, reading or playing with the boys the last thing on my mind is how my body looks. All I care about is their well being & happiness and that they see me happy, too. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is not about being thin (which I've never been anyways), it's about being healthy. I'm also not obsessive (& will NEVER give up my foodie title). I just want to feel strong, powerful and comfortable in my own skin. And I'm confident I'll get there. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyone else go through or are going through a postpartum body slump? Or any kind of self image challenges? How did you work through it?</span></span>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-25336535135265814852016-03-04T02:24:00.000-07:002016-03-04T02:36:11.650-07:00luka & oliver: month one<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/25196794930/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_4176"><img alt="IMG_4176" height="400" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1704/25196794930_376e0a1752_c.jpg" width="302" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/25124848809/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_4089"><img alt="IMG_4089" height="400" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1555/25124848809_71476c1fdd_c.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Time has wings! I can't believe our little dudes are a month old. Even weeks after their birth, it still boggles my mind that Scotty & I made these perfect little humans. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">What I've been loving lately:</span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">their squishy faces & bodies' </span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">their tiny squawks, squeaks & snorts </span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">their big little sneezes </span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">their alert soon-to-be blue eyes following my voice </span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">the way they snuggle into my chest</span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">the way Oliver purses his lips, sticks out his tongue and makes funny faces after a feed </span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">how Luka's smile & sweet disposition turn everyone around him into a mushy mess </span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #444444;">can't. stop. smiling or </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">covering their perfectly wrinkly foreheads in a million kisses</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">seeing how much our family and friends love and care for them</span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Every day I look at their sweet faces and think to myself, "Wow, these are *our* babies! They were so worth the wait and all the pain we endured over the years because I can't imagine my life without them in it." I'm beyond grateful IVF worked for us and helped make a seemingly impossible dream a reality. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Becoming Oliver & Luka's mom is the best thing that's ever happened to me and seeing Scotty in his new role as a dad makes my heart feel things I never knew possible. I couldn't have asked for a lovelier life. ❤️ </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">p.s. Aren't the boys' quilts beautiful? They were lovingly made by their Aunties Cathy and Caroline. I'm going to attempt a monthly picture of Ollie and Luka on the quilts for the next year. Attempt is the key word here. (;</span></i></span><br />
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><span style="color: black;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/25399605551/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_3407"><img alt="IMG_3407" height="200" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1502/25399605551_d276824f1e_m.jpg" width="200" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/25196804570/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_3408"><img alt="IMG_3408" height="200" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1647/25196804570_597db56ce7_m.jpg" width="200" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/25373984282/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_3254"><img alt="IMG_3254" height="200" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1476/25373984282_fc1829a134_m.jpg" width="200" /></a></span><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-40228541740217399482016-02-09T21:45:00.003-07:002016-02-26T14:27:41.801-07:00say hello to our sweet boys...<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/24610229130/in/dateposted-public/" title="IMG_3083"><img alt="IMG_3083" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1667/24610229130_fa751684f9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
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<span style="color: #737373; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; line-height: 15px;"><b><span style="color: #444444;">Oliver Finn and Luka Ellis!</span><span style="color: #737373;"> </span></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;">Born on Wednesday, February 3, Ollie (top) arrived first at 6:07 p.m. weighing 5 lbs 14 oz while Luka made his debut at 6:21 weighing 6 pounds. </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">Our sweet little dudes stole our hearts immediately.</span></span><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #737373; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;"> We</span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;"> love these tiny people in a way we never knew possible. </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;">❤️</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">Unfortunately, our elation quickly turned to shock when we found out just a few hours following their birth that Luka had a heart condition, called </span><a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pulmonary-atresia/home/ovc-20179584" style="line-height: 15px;" target="_blank">pulmonary atresia</a><span style="line-height: 15px;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">, and would need to be transferred to the Stollery Children's Hospital for further evaluation. </span></span><span style="line-height: 15px;">We were beyond overwhelmed with emotions over this news (nothing can prepare you for finding out your baby's sick) but we're slowly starting to emerge from the fog and are feeling much more hopeful about the future. Ultimately, we're grateful he'll be in the capable and experienced hands of the Stollery's pediatric cardiology team. They're Western Canada's best! </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;">Late last week, Luka underwent a catherization procedure and he will also need a series of surgeries over the next six months. He's in stable condition now and we received fantastic news today -- his breathing tube was removed this morning. Yay! We're hopeful he'll continue to make gains in the coming days. Especially since the dude's feisty like his mama. (: </span><i style="line-height: 15px;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;">The photo above is from yesterday. I held Luka for the first time since he was born which made me so so happy! </span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;">Meanwhile his older brother Oliver (above) is in the NICU at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. Initially his blood sugar levels needed to be stabilized (they were low which is not unusual in pre-term babies). Now that his levels are stable, he needs to master demand feeding before coming home. We're hopeful this will happen soon, but in the meantime we're enjoying snuggling, feeding & changing him. He's such a chill super snuggly baby and all of his 'Aunty Nurses' are just as besotted with him as we are. They call him Mr. Sweet Face. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;">Over the past six days we've experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, but surprisingly enough we've found the strength to keep it together through the support and love of our family, friends (thanks for the surprise food drop offs, peeps!) and of course, our mutual goofy sense of humour. Yes, we've shed many tears but we've also shared many laughs. Even with two babies in intensive care, we still have much to be grateful for and we'll continue to stay positive for the boys and for each other. We're overjoyed to finally have our little miracles here!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;">I'd be remiss if I didn't mention and thank the wonderful nursing staff at both hospitals. They've been nothing short of amazing (both during and after labour and in the NICU). It's been a challenge dividing our time between two babies at two separate hospitals. Knowing both boys are receiving the highest level of care by their Aunty Nurses gives us comfort and peace of mind. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #737373; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;">Our sole purpose in life for the next while will be to bring our sweet babies home, healthy and happy. For now, we'll continue to relish the fact we're finally parents to the most adorable wee dudes. Our wish came true and we couldn't be more thrilled!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="color: #737373; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 15px;">If you'd like to see more of the babies make sure to pop on over to <a href="https://www.instagram.com/allkindsoflovelyblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>. I'm an ecstatically</span></span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;"> proud new mom, so I'll be sure to share more photos as their little selves begin to develop and we celebrate all of their victories, big and small, in the NICU...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 15px;"><i>xoxo, Dajana, Scott, Luka, Oliver & Lucy</i></span><br />
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dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-23905584886058657952016-01-19T21:42:00.000-07:002016-01-20T08:01:32.837-07:00nursery update: paint, cribs & art!We've made some great progress in the nursery over the past few weeks. The room is our walk in closet/dressing room and frankly, I had serious doubts it would be large enough to fit two cribs much less a change table or glider. What a relief it was to see the space open up once Scott took out three huge clothes racks, my makeup table, a bench, a chair and two large dressers. In retrospect, we had way too much stuff in there. He also removed the bifold closet doors (to be replaced by sliders) and the door to the room (a white barn door will go up instead).<br />
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This is the room during the mass exodus of clothing (I purged 7 bags of clothes!):<br />
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And here it is after in all its newly painted two crib glory:</div>
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We chose <a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=behr+dolphin+fin&safe=active&client=safari&rls=en&biw=1280&bih=611&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiY0uLRnbjKAhVH02MKHfzQCO0Q_AUIBigB" target="_blank">Behr's Dolphin Fin</a> for the walls, the perfect shade of light grey with no discernible undertones. It's soothing and calm. I love it so much, I asked Scott to paint the remainder of the house the same hue. Not sure when that might happen with twins on the way but a lady can dream.</div>
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(Side note: I cried when Scotty called me in to see the room after he had finished setting up the cribs and then I gave him the biggest hug. Seeing our baby boys' wee beds made everything feel so real for us. Can't wait to meet these little dudes!)</div>
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Last week, my good friend Christine came over to help put together an art piece using the <a href="http://www.hyggeandwest.com/collections/fabric/products/daydream-green-fabric" target="_blank">Hygge and West Daydream fabric</a> I've coveted for ages and a canvas from Michael's. Christine was extra careful to make sure the fabric was cut evenly and that the corners were stapled perfectly tight. Plus, she didn't staple my fingers once! I'm beyond happy with how it turned out (and grateful to have such a crafty pal). Every time I pass by the nursery I can't help but smile at this sweet addition to the room.<br />
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Next up on my honey-to-do list (thank goodness for Scotty!) is to hang up the grouping of art below, install a display shelf, a mini reading nook and the missing doors. I'm also waiting for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/YarningMade?section_id=15658425&ref=shopsection_leftnav_2" target="_blank">two of these beautiful blankets to come in the mail. </a>You'll have to wait to see which ones I picked (:<br />
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Oh! and we still need to pick up our <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/graham-glider-g667/" target="_blank">West Elm glider</a>, choose a lamp and an ottoman. I bought the patterned one below at Home Sense and am waiting to see how well it coordinates with the glider. With a $50 price tag, I'm hoping it works.<br />
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Wish us luck! After the slight scare we had this past weekend (you can read more about that on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/allkindsoflovelyblog/" target="_blank">Instagram </a>or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>), I'm not sure we have much time left before these babies' decide to arrive. Here's to hoping they stay put for at least another 3 weeks!<br />
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<a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/12/and-so-nursery-planning-begins.html" target="_blank">In case you missed it, you can read about the initial nursery planning here. </a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-27752560713783923672015-12-23T20:51:00.002-07:002015-12-24T01:27:21.040-07:00my 7 month pregnancy update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello third trimester! Where has the time gone? Every morning I wake up and get a surge of excitement knowing that in less than two months I'll have these babies in my arms and our family will finally be complete after years of infertility. Life is good!<br />
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Here's the latest on all things pregnancy:<br />
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<b>How far along</b>...<b> </b>29 weeks 5 days.<br />
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<b>Eating</b>... everything! Since I got a prescription for Losec, an acid reflux medication, my love affair with food has returned. And that makes me so damn happy. I want to eat ALL the food and sometimes I do just that (hello two dinners!).<br />
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<b>Feeling</b>... exhausted. I've had to cut back on my social activities these past couple of months. I can only handle walking Lucy and one errand/meet-up per day.<br />
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<b>Names</b>... we finally agreed on names after months of vetoing and making fun of each others choices. Sadly Milo, Cass and Arlo did not make the cut.<br />
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<b>Cravings</b>... so many! Ice to start. I am<b> obsessed</b> with eating ice. Even just writing ice makes me want to crunch on some. Add to that: chocolate milk, pomegranates, avocados, makimono rolls, Mexican tortilla soup, potato pancakes, clam chowder, coffee crisp chocolate bars, bacon, sweet potatoes, egg nog and steamed milk with chestnut praline syrup from Starbucks.</div>
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<b>Weight gain</b>... 26 pounds. Thankfully most of it's babies and belly.<br />
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<b>Mood</b>... pregnancy hormones have hit me with a vengeance recently, poor Scotty. And they are SO the boss of me! Overall I'm pretty upbeat, happy and excited but I've also had a couple of days where I've been in a slump, bursting into inexplicable tears multiple times. During these episodes, you can find Scott and Lucy hiding in the laundry room.<br />
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<b>Anxiety</b>... I mentioned to a former radio colleague that my anxiety has been rearing its ugly head. She had this brilliant response: "I panicked the entire 40 weeks and didn't stop until I was holding my healthy little baby in my arms. Then an entirely new panic set in. I remember a friend of mine telling me to trust. Just trust. And I clung to that... every time there was a weird pain, strange sensation and after every ultrasound. I know you are the kind of person that is doing everything right at this moment and I hope you can get some comfort from that."<br />
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<b>Favourite moments</b>... at our last ultrasound, the technician, without being prompted showed us the boys in 3D. WHOA. Seeing them in 3D blew our minds and I uttered the word, "Wow!" about a million times. It was beyond cool. Both babies are healthy, super active, and are measuring a week ahead of schedule. (You can see them below, I think Twin B looks like me. The middle picture of them touching heads hits me right in the ticker box and makes me love them even more.) They both weigh about 3 pounds which makes me happy. Every time they move I get a wave of serotonin and burst of total joy. Love this part of pregnancy!<br />
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<b>Aches or pains</b>... horrid restless leg syndrome keeps me up at night (or is that insomnia?) and my ribs feel like they're about to split apart but other than that I'm doing okay. Uncomfortable, but okay. I've been using Japanese mint oil on my legs and that seems to help, may try drinking coconut water too.<br />
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<b>Exercise</b>... I'm still walking Lucy every day, but the distance has decreased from 7 km (in the first and second trimesters) to 3 or 4 km. I've also stopped going to the dog park and walk her exclusively in our 'hood now. Scott was worried that if anything happened it'd be hard for emergency workers to find my pregnant ass in the wilds of Buena Vista park. And he's right.<br />
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<b>Missing</b>... eating copious amounts of sashimi! And oysters. And prosciutto. Also, being able to put on socks without looking like I'm rehearsing for an SNL physical comedy sketch (so awkward!). Missing my fully functioning brain, too. Pregnancy brain is very much a real thing. There have been days where I probably should've remained silent and used gestures and pointed at things to communicate. The stuff that comes out of my mouth is pure crazy talk and oftentimes beyond embarrassing.<br />
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<b>Excited about</b>... seeing the little dudes at our next ultrasound on January 4! Plus, Scott started painting the nursery this week. Hope to have a nursery update posted soon!<br />
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Seven more weeks, peeps (yep, 37 weeks is considered full term for twins). This pregnancy is flying by and we are so not ready. Insert maniacal laughter here.dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-87747901265799226822015-12-01T20:37:00.002-07:002016-01-20T07:50:57.285-07:00and so the nursery planning begins... <a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/22719160889/in/dateposted-public/" title="ajennylindcrib"><img alt="ajennylindcrib" height="320" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5709/22719160889_73a79711e5.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/23122700611/in/dateposted-public/" title="grahamone"><img alt="grahamone" height="320" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/608/23122700611_072d143393_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script> <a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/22718555859/in/dateposted-public/" title="alphabet_grande"><img alt="alphabet_grande" height="320" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/566/22718555859_36090437e9.jpg" width="320" /></a><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/22693368157" title="tuscanylinenaqua"><img alt="tuscanylinenaqua" height="320" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/601/22693368157_12aa8446a9_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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I've been bitten by the nesting bug. Big time. These past few weeks have seen me perusing the internet like a mad woman searching for inspiration for the boys' nursery (who am I kidding? I've had ideas and plans brewing in my head for years). The truth is I'm trying to focus my energy on my excitement vs. being scared shi//less about having two babies. And part of what gets me all kinds of excited is picking out decor for our little dudes. We're staying away from the whole themed/coordinating nursery and making their room, which is currently our dressing room, an extension of our bedroom. Since the two rooms are only separated by a door, the colours will remain in the same palette as our bedroom: grey, white, cream and aqua with perhaps a bit of black to ground the space along with some natural elements (wood and rattan). My goal is for the space to feel calm, fresh, modern and charming.<br />
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Here's what we have so far:<br />
<ul>
<li>We recently purchased two <a href="http://www.westcoastkids.ca/Furniture/Cribs/Da-Vinci---Jenny-Lind-Crib" target="_blank">white Jenny Lind-style cribs</a> and the <a href="http://www.bookhou.com/collections/wood/products/alphabet" target="_blank">Bookhou laser cut birch alphabet</a>. I've had my eye on both of these items since we first started trying to get pregnant. I can't tell you how good it feels to finally get them! Plus, I love the juxtaposition of the vintage crib paired with the modern font of the alphabet. </li>
<li>The swatch of <a href="http://www.tonicliving.com/Tuscany-Linen-Aqua-fabric-P2969.aspx" target="_blank">aqua linen fabric</a> is the colour of the existing roman blind in the room. We had it custom made with a black out lining by <a href="http://www.tonicliving.com/Tuscany-Linen-Aqua-fabric-P2969.aspx" target="_blank">Tonic Living</a> a year ago. It'll add a touch of colour to the mostly neutral space and keep the room dark enough for the babies to sleep for long periods of time (here's to hoping!). </li>
<li>I spotted the contemporary yet classic <a href="http://www.westelm.com/products/graham-glider-g667/?pkey=cliving-room-chairs%7C%7C" target="_blank">Graham glider at West Elm</a> a couple of months ago and tested it out this past weekend while in Calgary to see if it was a winner (read: comfortable & on budget!). It was both comfy and serendipitously on sale so we ordered it in <a href="http://www.chrislovesjulia.com/2014/05/a-nursery-update-and-the-graham-glider-review.html" target="_blank">this colour</a>. If the glider hadn't worked out, we would've attempted this <a href="http://interiorsbykenz.com/ikea-hack-strandmon-rocker-diy-wingback-rocking-chair/" target="_blank">DIY rocking chair hack</a>, which is both utterly genius and affordable.</li>
</ul>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/23141982582/in/dateposted-public/" title="alovelyfabric3"><img alt="alovelyfabric3" height="400" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/729/23141982582_f1acc81604_z.jpg" width="314" /></a><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/23105445266/in/dateposted-public/" title="alovelywallpapertile"><img alt="alovelywallpapertile" height="400" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/753/23105445266_5903c21bcd_z.jpg" width="313" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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What I would most like to incorporate in the nursery is the <a href="http://www.hyggeandwest.com/collections/fabric/products/daydream-green-fabric" target="_blank">Daydream fabric</a>/<a href="http://www.hyggeandwest.com/collections/removable-wallpaper-tiles/products/daydream-sunshine-tile" target="_blank">wallpaper tiles</a> designed by Julia Rothman for <a href="http://www.hyggeandwest.com/" target="_blank">Hygge and West</a>. I've been enamoured with it for eons but am not sure if I want it on one of the walls or as a throw pillow or crib skirt (neither of which I know how to make). Then again it may be most economical to buy just a yard of the fabric and stretch it on a canvas like my pal Christine did in <a href="http://www.justbellablog.com/2011/11/nursery-reveal.html" target="_blank">her lovely nursery</a> with some cool Ikea fabric. Thoughts?<br />
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I'm digging this cloud pillow from Land of Nod and elephant basket from Zara Kids. This <a href="https://www.rhbabyandchild.com/catalog/product/product.jsp?productId=rhbc_prod492017&categoryId=&src=rel" target="_blank">faux fur pom pom pillow</a> also caught my eye as did these <a href="http://ca.pehrdesigns.com/collections/petit-bins/products/multi-alphabet-bin" target="_blank">alphabet</a> and <a href="http://ca.pehrdesigns.com/collections/petit-bins/products/petit-pom-pom-bin-pre-order-for-october-25-ship" target="_blank">pom pom</a> bins. Every nursery needs a touch of whimsy, right?<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/23264093056/in/dateposted-public/" title="alovelycloudpillow2landofnod"><img alt="alovelycloudpillow2landofnod" height="320" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5764/23264093056_f7df9f95f9.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/23264081226/in/dateposted-public/" title="alovelyelephantbasketfromzara"><img alt="alovelyelephantbasketfromzara" height="320" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5728/23264081226_338514103d.jpg" width="320" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
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Here are some inspiration photos of nurseries which feature the Jenny Lind crib (can you spot the alphabet art in the room below?). I also like <a href="http://www.elementsofstyleblog.com/2015/07/nursery-inspiration-serene-or-bold.html" target="_blank">this nursery inspiration roundup</a>. You'll probably be able to tell by these pictures that eclectic, modern, non-themed nurseries are my jam.<br />
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/23097384582/in/dateposted-public/" title="jennylindtwo"><img alt="jennylindtwo" height="400" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/583/23097384582_5a22fe5c12_z.jpg" width="320" /></a><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/22692800558/in/dateposted-public/" title="jennyone"><img alt="jennyone" height="400" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/615/22692800558_8bd761c964_z.jpg" width="326" /></a><br />
<img alt="alovelyjennylindnursery7" height="432" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5703/23142966046_ddca24d93d_z.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/23169089105/in/dateposted-public/" title="alovelyjennylindcrib"><img alt="alovelyjennylindcrib" height="424" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5801/23169089105_ca53f20b81.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/22801112999/in/dateposted-public/" title="alovelyjennylindnursery5"><img alt="alovelyjennylindnursery5" height="425" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5707/22801112999_ea174325ae.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHHTaBVfhSuK6EsjFXnnLsA3V25G-MrI_PIMxQYAdNLrN5k1f8DD7j5zMU5B4wsYnUXgwTVsHBBbXfyMW7lICb84WOn1fyo92W4M3sJbYwcNaiYkYUkXAMeXixyvSQ9l0n4M65QxR0OK5/s1600/jennylind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFHHTaBVfhSuK6EsjFXnnLsA3V25G-MrI_PIMxQYAdNLrN5k1f8DD7j5zMU5B4wsYnUXgwTVsHBBbXfyMW7lICb84WOn1fyo92W4M3sJbYwcNaiYkYUkXAMeXixyvSQ9l0n4M65QxR0OK5/s640/jennylind.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Nursery sources: <a href="http://www.elementsofstyleblog.com/2011/08/amazing-reader-nursery.html" target="_blank">1</a>. // <a href="http://covetgarden.com/blog/2011/9/26/best-of-covet-garden-kids-rooms.html" target="_blank">2</a>. // <a href="http://witanddelight.com/2014/09/wd-home-feathering-nest/" target="_blank">3</a>. // <a href="http://www.maddiehughesdesigns.com/portfolio/" target="_blank">4</a>. // <a href="http://lindsaystephenson.com/blog/2010/10/nursery-final-reveal.html" target="_blank">5</a>. // <a href="http://tania-handelsmann.squarespace.com/" target="_blank">6.</a></span></div>
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This is truly the fun part! A whole new room to work on. Plus, I have a very tight deadline so procrastination isn't allowed... this time. I'm hoping my next nursery post will feature a before and after of a painted room, so stay tuned.<br />
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P.S. Any advice on what you feel is absolutely necessary to have in a nursery? Or what is essential gear for babies in general? I'm all ears (and frankly a tad overwhelmed by all the stuff that's available).dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-69539420888595735022015-11-25T18:34:00.004-07:002015-12-24T00:19:05.404-07:00fall family photo sessionAt the end of September, Scotty and I had photos taken by the creative, hilarious and down to earth Carla of <a href="http://www.carlamarieblog.com/" target="_blank">carla marie photography</a> whom I discovered through <a href="https://www.facebook.com/I-carla-marie-photography-inc-I-229224070421340/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>. The session was super fun! We wandered through Whitemud Park with Lucy at dusk, laughing, goofing around and kissing. Things even got a little steamy (sorry if we creeped you out, Carla).<br />
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We're absolutely thrilled with the photos; I've probably looked through them a hundred times. Thank you so much Carla and a big thank you to makeup/hair artist Amber Ali who made me feel so dang beautiful! We're grateful to have pictures of us as a family of three before the boys arrive (I was four months pregnant at the time these were taken). Plus, it's been 4 years since we've had a professional photo session so it was high time, I say.<br />
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It was difficult to pick which ones to share, I loved them all. Here are some of our faves...<br />
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Photography: <a href="http://www.carlamarieblog.com/" target="_blank">carla marie photography inc.</a></div>
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Makeup and hair: Amber Ali</div>
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Location: Whitemud Park</div>
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Dress: <a href="http://www.asos.com/asos-maternity/asos-maternity-skater-dress-in-leopard-print/prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5315692&clr=Multi&SearchQuery=leopard+maternity+dress&pgesize=4&pge=0&totalstyles=4&gridsize=3&gridrow=1&gridcolumn=2" target="_blank">Asos Maternity</a></div>
dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-6951510700853854612015-11-02T19:51:00.000-07:002015-12-24T00:19:05.400-07:00the ultrasound results are in! we're having...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yesterday we met our family at Jumbo for dim sum and over shrimp rice rolls and ginger beef dumplings, Scotty opened the envelope from our ultrasound technician (which had been sitting on our fridge taunting us for well over a week) to reveal we're having boys! BOYS. <3<br />
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There were joyful tears from our mamas and the biggest smile on my dad's face. He wanted to rush home to call his family in Croatia to tell them the news. Scott was beaming while my brothers were probably thinking, "Oh lordy, our sister's going to have two more guys to boss around for life." Haha. Jokes aside, the excitement was palpable! <i>Side note: dim sum is a fantastic place to share fun news like this. No one noticed our raucous laughter and we could be our wacky selves without getting the evil side eye. </i><br />
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In addition to being excited, I also spent most of yesterday feeling a bit overwhelmed and in shock. I needed time to sit with the news. Had I harboured a secret longing for one of the twins to be a girl? Yes, I had. And I felt incredibly guilty for feeling that way. It would've been nice to have one of each, but I also know that when these two babies are placed in my arms I won't care about anything other than loving them and being the best mama.<br />
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For the past five months, we've been referring to these two as the babies and now that I know they're boys, it makes this pregnancy feel even more real. There's no way around it, I'm going to be the mama of two boys early next year. Eeek! In fact, I've already named them because<i> I had an inkling</i> they'd be boys, now I just need Scott's final approval (we have, um, quite differing tastes when it comes to names).<br />
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Are you the mama of boys? Or even twin boys? I'd love to hear your thoughts on parenting boys. <br />
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P.S.<a href="http://cupofjo.com/2011/04/motherhood-mondays-on-having-a-boy/" target="_blank"> Loved this post from blogger Joanna Goddard on having a boy.</a> It's as if she plucked the thoughts directly from my head. Judging by the near 600 comments, many expecting women have felt the exact same way I have. Here's to being honest about our feelings!dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-79981875697422145662015-09-30T16:01:00.000-06:002015-12-24T00:19:05.409-07:00the happiest news part 2: a look back, plus baby & belly pictures!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgUIDT-ypMY8eBeunw1LNGz2gNvxrON7ScOnwXndpD7betnKNZt0rPmCHErmmnCz5xEjqtdDaVfENkNFpow8KxTLNxmD0_pG2jvNKmWN4itnOwz_MiUW11Sm7OWo6erv36afF576wQhqzO/s1600/IMG_8999-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgUIDT-ypMY8eBeunw1LNGz2gNvxrON7ScOnwXndpD7betnKNZt0rPmCHErmmnCz5xEjqtdDaVfENkNFpow8KxTLNxmD0_pG2jvNKmWN4itnOwz_MiUW11Sm7OWo6erv36afF576wQhqzO/s640/IMG_8999-2.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">// 13 weeks //</td></tr>
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Thank you all so much for your sweet comments on <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/09/the-happiest-news-were-all-kinds-of.html" target="_blank">my last post announcing our twin pregnancy</a>! It feels good to finally let everyone know we are expecting and that our IVF journey was successful. I'm devoting the rest of this week to answering all of your texts, comments and emails (we've received an overwhelming response from the blog post and <a href="http://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=712112&binId=1.1203457&playlistPageNum=1" target="_blank">CTV story detailing our journey</a> and are feeling the love!).<br />
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Here's a look back at some important dates following our <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/03/ivf-update-egg-retrieval-complete.html" target="_blank">egg retrieval</a>:<br />
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<b>June 16, 2015</b>: We had our frozen embryo transfer today (FET). Compared to the retrieval and post retrieval recovery, this was easy peasy. I slow walked into the procedure room humming the Rocky theme song and I skipped out PUPO (pregnant until proven otherwise) with my bright fuschia lipstick still intact. The entire procedure took about 20 minutes in total. Those are our 5 day old baby blastocysts in the picture below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UF3ZNPUcql6STKZLrNhtfLQ69rhzYZbQldnGhU8HQipwAVlxfAbYbVaFSzDaNtKvsXy-FZJ7oFTfl5HtSgc3pdlsRkGEWCrhBZZ-VHnYsZtr9fOPknIT_yR-HJOr6hCd1AziUIwvFR6h/s1600/IMG_1980.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UF3ZNPUcql6STKZLrNhtfLQ69rhzYZbQldnGhU8HQipwAVlxfAbYbVaFSzDaNtKvsXy-FZJ7oFTfl5HtSgc3pdlsRkGEWCrhBZZ-VHnYsZtr9fOPknIT_yR-HJOr6hCd1AziUIwvFR6h/s640/IMG_1980.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>June 16 to June 25, 2015: </b>The oftentimes dreaded 2WW, two week waiting period, before my beta (blood test). I relaxed and didn't stress, still drank my one cup of tea per day, meditated and used the 4-7-8 breathing method, walked Lucy two to three times a day, ate healthy 80% of the time with 20% allotted to gelato, had fun with family and friends, took my supplements, vitamins and watched bad reality television. In other words, I lived my life and kept busy. I am proud of myself for not testing early (some women take a pregnancy test every day following transfer but I do not recommend it because you'll drive yourself mad). Plus, the HCG in your body could give you a false positive or negative. I kept my sanity by waiting patiently to hear the results of the blood test from a professional. Patience is key. So try your best not to obsess. <a href="http://www.iaac.ca/en/610-471-a-thimble-of-hope-surviving-the-dreaded-two-week-wait-by-judith-daniluk-ph-d-and-emily-koert-m-a-summer-2011" target="_blank">This article</a> may help with that.<br />
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First beta: 9dp5ft: 399 (I'm pregnant! Elation sets in.)<br />
Second beta: 11dp5dt 1146<br />
Third beta: 17dp5dt 13, 340<br />
dp = days past transfer // ft = frozen transfer // 5 = five day old blastocysts were implanted<br />
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When I saw these numbers multiplying exponentially, a part of me secretly hoped it was twins.<br />
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<b>July 20, 2015:</b> Our first ultrasound at 7 weeks! As soon as the ultrasound technician said the words, "This is Twin A and this is Twin B," we were both in awe. I burst out crying while Scott just kept looking incredulously from me to the screen and back again to me. Huge moment. So much to be thankful for.<br />
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After we left the clinic, I couldn't get myself to go home. Instead, I wandered through the J.Crew outlet store (meh!), checked out patio umbrellas at Rona and then went to IKEA for a solo swedish meatball dinner (my guilty pleasure!). I was in a state of happy shock and thought I could process the news with some retail therapy. But I didn't buy a thing, go figure.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwd4wCvUI4upn8a1FDmFSjTK5C3Wnxbz154mh7o1b_-n7zpfDJ81CkJLt6f7ptXxYiTuwrM0_z7wVHUbFNczaJ13T4hgpRkEZD3FF12DLcCU_-EaZYvxHqp2xvF-s5oobeCYiWVqhYVJX/s1600/IMG_4896.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWwd4wCvUI4upn8a1FDmFSjTK5C3Wnxbz154mh7o1b_-n7zpfDJ81CkJLt6f7ptXxYiTuwrM0_z7wVHUbFNczaJ13T4hgpRkEZD3FF12DLcCU_-EaZYvxHqp2xvF-s5oobeCYiWVqhYVJX/s640/IMG_4896.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>August 6, 2015: </b>First ob/gyn appointment. <a href="http://www.whce.ca/drHoskins.htm" target="_blank">Dr. Chris Hoskins</a> was referred to me by my friend Rosa. Unbeknownst to me, he is also one of the top ten ob/gyns in Edmonton. I quite liked the dude. Best part about him, aside from the fact the man is brilliant? He got my sense of humour, he had a sense of humour and a lovely New Zealand accent, too. Plus, he introduced himself and shook my hand. That makes him an instant winner in my books.<br />
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<b>August 12, 2015:</b> Second ultrasound. I was having some localized abdominal pain and wanted to allay my fears. You should have seen Scott's face while watching the ultrasound technician showing him both heartbeats and wee little moving arms and legs. He was like a kid on Christmas morning. My heart almost burst from happiness. He's going to be such a great dad!<br />
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<b>August 29, 2015: </b><a href="https://myhealth.alberta.ca/health/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=abo6088&" target="_blank">Nuchal translucency ultrasound.</a> This is a screening for chromosomal abnormalities. The results came back showing numbers equivalent to those of a pregnant 35 year old. So happy!<br />
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<b>September 21, 2015: </b>First appointment with <a href="http://monicapattacupuncture.ca/" target="_blank">Monica Patt</a>, an acupuncturist who works closely with infertility and IVF patients and also provides pregnancy care. I'm hoping she can help me with my anxiety, heartburn and migraine issues. My first session went well (I had fun and laughed a lot!) and I can totally see us becoming fast pals. Hope she's reading this (;<br />
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<b>September 23, 2015: </b>Received a phone call from a geneticist at the <a href="http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/facilities.asp?pid=facility&rid=1024456" target="_blank">Lois Hole Hospital for Women</a> with the news my Harmony prenatal test results had come back with a low risk for Trisomy 21 (Down's syndrome), 18 (Edwards syndrome) and 13 (Patau syndrome). Sweet relief.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">// 16 weeks //</td></tr>
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<b>September 25, 2015: </b>16 weeks of pregnancy! The realization this is really happening is slowly setting in, and the fears have left both my heart and mind. We are pregnant. IVF worked for us and I can't even begin to explain the joy, relief and gratefulness I feel.<br />
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I am going to be a mama! It feels amazing to finally say those words after so long.<br />
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If you're eager for little pregnancy updates and periodic twin news, be sure to follow me on <a href="https://instagram.com/allkindsoflovelyblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>. I regularly post personal tidbits over there. And one more big thank you for your well wishes, love, encouragement and for following along. It feels so good to have you sharing in our excitement. xoxo<br />
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<i>If you're reading this and going through infertility, I get it. Infertility sucks. It's toxic. It cripples you. It hurts when your friends lap you. It's devastating to hear about babies and pregnancy and family. It makes you doubt your body, your sanity, your faith, your everything. If you ever need to talk, I'm here. You can email me at dajanaf@yahoo.com and we can meet at The Tea Girl and sit and chat. Cry too, if needed. In the past three weeks, I've met with three different women to talk about all things infertility and IVF. It helps to speak with someone who has gone through it.</i><br />
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<i>Resources I found helpful:</i><br />
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<i>Facebook groups (these are private closed groups, no one will see that you've joined):</i><br />
<ul>
<li><i>Edmonton Infertility Support Group</i></li>
<li><i>IVF Support Canada</i></li>
<li><i><a href="https://www.facebook.com/fertilitymatterscanada?fref=ts" target="_blank">Fertility Matters Canada Facebook page</a> (an open resource page)</i></li>
</ul>
<i>Books:</i><br />
<ul>
<li><i><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/It-Starts-Egg-Naturally-Miscarriage/dp/0991126904" target="_blank">It Starts with the Egg</a></i></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Inconceivable-Womans-Triumph-Despair-Statistics/dp/0767908201" target="_blank">Inconceivable</a></li>
</ul>
<i>Website:</i><br />
<ul>
<li><i><a href="http://www.iaac.ca/en" target="_blank">Fertility Matters</a> (Formerly Infertility Awareness Association of Canada)</i></li>
</ul>
dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-48583142438101087832015-09-23T08:13:00.000-06:002015-12-24T00:18:47.816-07:00the happiest news: we're all kinds of pregnant!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, hi. Wondering what I've been up to since my <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/05/vacation-photos-mexico.html" target="_blank">Mexico post</a>? I took the entire summer off from blogging to start growing a couple of babies.<br />
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Yes, it's true!<br />
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After struggling with infertility for several years, I couldn't be more thrilled to announce that Scott and I are expecting twins in the new year (insert heart and confetti emojis here)!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's been difficult to keep this news a secret and I've had to bite my tongue many times over the past few months. We're beyond elated and I'm not sure there are words sufficient enough to describe how we feel and how grateful we are (which is ironic coming from a lady who usually has so many words). Our hearts are bursting with love, happiness, excitement and joy and yeah, we're scared and nervous too but we'll figure things out, we always do.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />We're finally growing our family! And yet even as I type those words, it still feels surreal. Not a day goes by that I don't turn to Scott and say, "Can you believe we're pregnant, dude? With twins? I'm so excited for us." And then I usually start to cry, overwhelmed by all of the emotions that come with yearning for something for so long and then finally having it become a reality. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m almost 16 weeks along and my energy and appetite are s l o w l y coming back. The first trimester was something else (I had some pretty intense <strike>morning</strike> all-day sickness)! If you follow me on <a href="https://instagram.com/allkindsoflovelyblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a> you may have noticed that my food photos have faded to near oblivion over the past few months. That's because the majority of foods, with the exception of anything my mom made, A&W chicken strips, mangos and Bon Ton Bakery croissants, looked, smelled and tasted like roadkill. As someone who lives, breathes and sleeps food, it was rough going. That said, with every wave of queasiness and bout of exhaustion, I knew something amazing was happening in my body and that the IVF had worked. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">We're incredibly thankful for the army of friends and family who stood behind us during this oftentimes excruciatingly emotional and unpredictable journey. You guys are the best cheerleaders a couple could ever have and we love you. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Thank you as well to everyone who left encouraging words of love and support on my previous blog posts describing our <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/03/staying-hopeful-through-infertility.html" target="_blank">infertility challenges</a> and our <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/03/ivf-update-egg-retrieval-complete.html" target="_blank">egg retrieval procedure</a>. Your positive thoughts helped carry us through an emotionally, physically and mentally draining time. As I've said before, IVF is not for the faint hearted. But we did it. We totally did it. And did I mention I'm knocked up with two babies?! So crazy good.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />And of course a million thank yous to our fertility specialist Dr. Motan, nurse Heather, embryologist Ryan and the countless other staff members we came into contact with at the <a href="http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/services.asp?pid=saf&rid=1046142" target="_blank">Regional Fertility Clinic</a>. What a gift it is to help couples like us start a family. You are the loveliest people, you made us feel comfortable throughout the process, allayed our fears time and time again and even put up with my wacky sense of humour. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">At the beginning of this journey, Dr. Motan had promised me twins and a 60 pound weight gain and he delivered. I'm hopeful the 60 pound weight gain is still negotiable. (; </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm in Vancouver for the next five </span>days for <a href="http://blogpodium.com/" target="_blank">BlogPodium</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> but more details are to come next Wednesday for those of you interested in the IVF timeline and seeing pictures of our babes and my baby belly (fully clothed, I promise). I started writing that post back in June when we had our frozen embryo transfer. Since then, I've been keeping all kinds of wonderful secrets that I'm now ready to share. Hope to see you back here in a week!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><i>Custom illustration by <a href="https://instagram.com/ilovethemoon/" target="_blank">Mabel Garcia</a>.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>P.S. Scott and I were on <a href="http://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/video?binId=1.1203428" target="_blank">CTV Edmonton</a> today discussing our infertility journey as well as revealing our pregnancy. <a href="http://edmonton.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=712112&binId=1.1203457&playlistPageNum=1" target="_blank">You can watch the video here.</a></i></span>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-81091111763547625202015-05-15T21:12:00.000-06:002015-09-02T00:22:03.646-06:00vacation photos: mexico <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17039739083" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8999 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8999" height="800" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7775/17039739083_572f2bae77_c.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17696455342" title="IMG_9032 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9032" height="800" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7794/17696455342_6c76668875_c.jpg" width="600" /></a>
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My mom and I recently took a week-long trip to the <a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=Riviera+Maya&safe=active&client=safari&rls=en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=vJFWVbzMCpCVyASEs4C4AQ&ved=0CAgQ_AUoAg&biw=1280&bih=611" target="_blank">Riviera Maya</a> in Mexico, which <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/04/scott-surprised-me-with-trip-to.html" target="_blank">Scott planned as a surprise for me</a>. I had no idea until we arrived at the airport where we were going, which was both thrilling and terrifying. I'd love to share some photos, if you'd like to take a look...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17039737463" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9002 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9002" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8899/17039737463_bafe1fd6ac_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17076442154" title="IMG_9036 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9036" height="640" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5323/17076442154_5594cd1cde_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17078611413" title="IMG_9031 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9031" height="480" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7708/17078611413_e920228541_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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It was a relaxing week filled with 30+ degree days, ocean breezes, non-stop reading and even a couple of wild animals, more on those later. Our resort, <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Hotel_Review-g663501-d574249-Reviews-El_Dorado_Royale_a_Spa_Resort_by_Karisma-Playa_Paraiso_Playa_del_Carmen_Yucatan_Peninsu.html" target="_blank">El Dorado Royale</a>, was beautiful and set right along the ocean. We enjoyed strolling through the expansive grounds in the evening before dinner (we ate our weight in fresh fish and <a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=platanos&safe=active&client=safari&rls=en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=HGpVVfvLOcOtogTc1IG4Dw&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAQ&biw=1280&bih=611" target="_blank">platanos</a>, sweet fried plantain). Twelve weddings took place during the week we visited, including the one above. The fairy lights and paper lanterns that decorated the dance floor were so pretty. What a picturesque setting for a wedding!<br />
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I always looked forward to seeing the resort's resident iguana, who I named Hector. Mom not so much, always making her way around him slowly as if he was about to rip her to shreds.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17473744369" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9001 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9001" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8820/17473744369_abf516f7dc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17473746069" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8998 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8998" height="800" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8745/17473746069_caef348f35_c.jpg" width="600" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17078609283" title="IMG_9034 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9034" height="800" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7667/17078609283_901c1c1d44_c.jpg" width="600" /></a>
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My mom and I had never traveled alone together prior to this trip. I wasn't sure what to expect and was a wee bit nervous but mostly excited. There was no need for concern because, as I quickly found out, we're fantastic travel buddies. Although I'm pretty certain I drove her batty wanting to take pictures of our outfits every night.
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17663882032" title="IMG_9016 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9016" height="800" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8890/17663882032_401ec5ff7e_c.jpg" width="600" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17479440649" title="IMG_9012 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9012" height="800" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7730/17479440649_1bbcc7ef04_c.jpg" width="600" /></a>
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We fell into a comfortable routine of daily rituals: long lingering breakfasts, reading marathons on the beach, afternoon siestas on our balcony which was equipped with a hammock to take in the view, an occasional cocktail (we were neither teetotallers nor lushes), dolling ourselves up for dinner and entertainment "nights out." It was a lovely trip from start to finish.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17478744260" title="IMG_9017 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9017" height="640" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7791/17478744260_8cef064af5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17519844630" title="IMG_9049 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9049" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8730/17519844630_253cd07c5f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Some funny moments:<br />
<ul>
<li>Although the El Dorado was an all inclusive resort, we still wanted to tip the hardworking staff to help supplement their meagre wages. Unfortunately, because this was a surprise trip I didn't get the chance to pick up some American dollar bills beforehand. At the end of our first dinner, we were so embarrassed we didn't have any tip money we ran for the door as soon as our waiter went into the kitchen. Dine and dash Rado & Dajo style! The next day we promptly visited the ATM. </li>
<li>Most of the resort staff spoke excellent English but some things were still lost in translation. One morning my mom was asked by one of the restaurant hostess' what our last name was. My mom replied Fabjanovich and started to spell it, F as in Frank, she began saying. The hostess wrote down Frank as our last name and that's what we called ourselves for the remainder of the trip, the Frankies.</li>
<li>Walking back to our room after taking in Wednesday night's entertainment (Dorado Idol), I spotted an animal approaching us and pointed it out to my mom. She responded with, "Oh, that's just a cat. Don't worry, honey." Then it got closer and I realized it wasn't a cat but instead a <a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=mexican+coati&safe=active&client=safari&rls=en&biw=1280&bih=611&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=sFhVVdmvJcq6ogS67ICADw&sqi=2&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ" target="_blank">coati</a>. At that same moment, my mom realized what it was and did a sprint to our room! I've never seen her move that fast. Ha!</li>
<li>We didn't do any excursions. When I broached the subject of an afternoon jaunt to Cancun or a catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres, my mom deadpanned, "If we go to Cancun there is a possibility we'll be kidnapped for ransom and if we take the boat to Isla Mujeres there is a possibility we'll be kidnapped by pirates. And if not pirates, the boat could capsize and we'll be eaten by sharks." I realized pretty quickly, during this getaway, where my active imagination comes from (;</li>
<li><a href="https://twitter.com/dajanafab/status/597879820509315072" target="_blank">Check out this tweet</a>. If you didn't know I was a nerd before, you do now. Yep, I brought an NDP sign to Mexico with me just in case they won the provincial election in Alberta. And they did! We celebrated that historical win on Cinco de Mayo which was perfectly fitting. </li>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17682168576" title="IMG_9053 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9053" height="800" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7694/17682168576_68ca393aa2_c.jpg" width="600" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17522238419" title="IMG_9052 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9052" height="800" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/8/7662/17522238419_34672af2c3_c.jpg" width="600" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17520933598" title="IMG_9055-2 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9055-2" height="800" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5442/17520933598_d520b0fc0d_c.jpg" width="600" /></a>
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I have to say, I enjoyed spending this kind of quality uninterrupted time with my OBF (original best friend). My mom is such a sweet, thoughtful, funny and gentle soul. It was a joy to have a week of connecting with her. And during this trip, it also hit me (hard) that this lovely lady of mine, who I have always seen as a pillar of strength, is aging. And because of this I need to be more patient with her. Whether it's not charging ahead of her on walks and instead slowing my pace to echo hers or giving her some time to mull things over, I need to be more cognizant of the fact she's slowing down a bit. She is 66 after all, which I often forget because I only see her as my mom and nothing else.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/17698934025" title="IMG_9037 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9037" height="640" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8834/17698934025_7f6170ed4f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Overall Mexico was the vacation we both needed - to just laze around, soak in the sunshine, hang out and read. We both felt refreshed and recharged. I didn't realize how much I needed a change of scenery until I got there. My mom feels the exact same way. We both have extra pep in our step since coming home.<br />
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Have you ever been to Mexico? Where's your favourite place to stay? And have you ever traveled with one of your parents? I'd love to know.<br />
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Anyway, hope you've had a good few weeks. It's back to reality for me! On Monday I start the next step in the FET (frozen embryo transfer) process. It involves taking a medication that will shut down my hormonal system and put me in a menopausal state (hot flashes, night sweats & headaches). Yikes. Wish me luck!</div>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3803403813776190163" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3803403813776190163" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-81018940969204087292015-04-30T09:02:00.000-06:002015-05-01T13:09:06.099-06:00thoughts & photos from my 40th<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYoUXSs3g86zzSY8jflnLjuOJqWwH_wNAwhl3FEqyRFALkjEt47dYx9GQzoSHuqeFlqTLDtjMI9UuzevE0VZ9B7fwrXwSG8xLjcAxe9G5fnKYqvDF6PJQfQ_AmfTPU38TAdb2LnDbpbCN/s1600/IMG_6139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLYoUXSs3g86zzSY8jflnLjuOJqWwH_wNAwhl3FEqyRFALkjEt47dYx9GQzoSHuqeFlqTLDtjMI9UuzevE0VZ9B7fwrXwSG8xLjcAxe9G5fnKYqvDF6PJQfQ_AmfTPU38TAdb2LnDbpbCN/s1600/IMG_6139.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a>
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On March 28, I turned 40. And, I have to say, it was one of my favourite birthdays.<br />
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The day before, my friend Cathy treated me to an amazing lunch at one of my fave local spots, <a href="http://canteenyeg.ca/" target="_blank">Canteen</a>. It was my first real ladydate after the <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/03/ivf-update-egg-retrieval-complete.html" target="_blank">egg retrieval</a> so I was beyond excited to see Cathy (and to get out of the house & out of my sweatpants)! If you go, order the fry bread. It's delectable!<br />
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Cathy and my friend Ayesha also had <a href="http://www.frickindelights.com/" target="_blank">Frickin' Delights Donuts</a> delivered to my house that day.
Could there be a better surprise than a donut surprise from kick arse friends? I think not.<br />
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The next day, Scotty, with the help of my talented friend <a href="http://www.justbellablog.com/" target="_blank">Christine</a>, threw me a surprise brunch cooking class at <a href="http://www.thevitalitykitchen.ca/" target="_blank">The Vitality Kitchen</a> with some of my closest friends (my fave <a href="http://cravecupcakes.ca/" target="_blank">Crave cupcakes</a> were there too). I burst into tears when I walked in and saw all of their faces! Not because I was sad, but because I had never felt so loved as I did in that moment. Best. feeling. ever.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmK9EJyWu7IMe_0yN1cn37iL-pQYfUW_8A9d6fy-c-O04B7bANUU7Ukvpo8PTRdTohkD5pJ0cUMGxRVZBMXZ5uIPfe5pYqyJ26w1E8o45wlKEHABQhYWdOhw3k5MqlDeCjmB4Lew0zTO_/s1600/Dajanas-40th-brunch-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmK9EJyWu7IMe_0yN1cn37iL-pQYfUW_8A9d6fy-c-O04B7bANUU7Ukvpo8PTRdTohkD5pJ0cUMGxRVZBMXZ5uIPfe5pYqyJ26w1E8o45wlKEHABQhYWdOhw3k5MqlDeCjmB4Lew0zTO_/s1600/Dajanas-40th-brunch-12.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by my pal Christine Shankowsky of Just Bella Blog</td></tr>
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The brunch was fun, educational and delicious (plus pretty! C did a lovely job as you can see above). I tried Cordyceps tea (a medicinal mushroom) and cashew cream for the first time and dug them both, while the others gave bulletproof coffee a try (a cup of joe avec coconut oil). We also learned heaps of interesting facts about food and nutrition from proprietress and chef Bianca, who, unbeknownst to Christine, I had already been following on <a href="https://instagram.com/biancaosbourne/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> for quite some time. Serendipity in action!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWM3IEADPaYCtGdmN4jiCekEtwQ27dpgazw1Zp03IG3PDB8nwjpLzuOVt6sSSS04qzSV2lpaxTKhJ_5XvcgkR9yU4F4QRdL78w5TMv8oabB71qrg-cNlQiAERq-ipliIZIE11ZCJ2vt-T/s1600/IMG_8358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTWM3IEADPaYCtGdmN4jiCekEtwQ27dpgazw1Zp03IG3PDB8nwjpLzuOVt6sSSS04qzSV2lpaxTKhJ_5XvcgkR9yU4F4QRdL78w5TMv8oabB71qrg-cNlQiAERq-ipliIZIE11ZCJ2vt-T/s1600/IMG_8358.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L to R: Christine, Bianca, me, Kat, Nathalie, Ayesha & Liz. Sadly missed: Rosa, Cathy, Caroline, Misty, Jessica & Malti.</td></tr>
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That evening Scott and I had reservations at <a href="http://north53.com/" target="_blank">North 53</a> because their Rosy Cheeks cocktail, a libation inspired by <a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=persian+ice+cream&safe=active&client=safari&rls=en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=AxxBVcXxBciXNpfSgdgG&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAQ&biw=1280&bih=610" target="_blank">Persian ice cream</a>, is the most unctuous drink in the entire city. As we were walking towards the restaurant, I caught a glimpse of a man who looked like my brother sitting at one of the tables. Well, it was my brother! Scott had planned for my mom, dad, brothers and niece to join us at the restaurant as a surprise. Boy, do I love that guy! He made 40 very special for me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyF3_cW0qg2EaTuF9jZSPJr18zk5qCYlElF8lfwTOiKNemKHjKh7nYsFK4tKRkleSqzTqTs7t3HmeqmrFHkZF0_VPUnSbDJMQm8afJgflMYBA8k733qWaDdAQo5rBhF_x59RgkwG9aihP6/s1600/IMG_8335-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyF3_cW0qg2EaTuF9jZSPJr18zk5qCYlElF8lfwTOiKNemKHjKh7nYsFK4tKRkleSqzTqTs7t3HmeqmrFHkZF0_VPUnSbDJMQm8afJgflMYBA8k733qWaDdAQo5rBhF_x59RgkwG9aihP6/s1600/IMG_8335-3.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My family. I love these people so dang much.</td></tr>
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After dinner and dessert (a giant warm maple & chocolate skillet cookie with vanilla ice cream) we all traipsed over to our house to open presents and enjoy more dessert, a delicious white chocolate hazelnut torte made by my mom. We enjoyed the leftover torte the next day at a birthday dinner at my parent's house. Yup, more food! For our birthdays, my mom always cooks our favourite meals. She's the best.<br />
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One of the most special gifts I received, <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/04/my-new-bike.html" target="_blank">apart from Josephine</a>, came from my 11 year old niece Raissa who wrote the loveliest poem about my blog. It was unexpected and so sweet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKGwY0IeXBsB9zCBLHnzMNOOUa2Bxw2TMBV6a8D-7rIQIO6xgUQn-7v3cuqgK0EQW4FS8lIC7HE_2ANgjUMk3AyVBHCJd8EYsk6Phd4pwNZrxreT5ChmQjpKf83y9NMhOBq0qwB-SaYba/s1600/IMG_8336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKGwY0IeXBsB9zCBLHnzMNOOUa2Bxw2TMBV6a8D-7rIQIO6xgUQn-7v3cuqgK0EQW4FS8lIC7HE_2ANgjUMk3AyVBHCJd8EYsk6Phd4pwNZrxreT5ChmQjpKf83y9NMhOBq0qwB-SaYba/s1600/IMG_8336.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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The following weekend, my friend Ayesha planned another surprise birthday dinner at <a href="http://www.thecommon.ca/" target="_blank">The Common</a> with a few of my good pals. I ordered a <a href="https://instagram.com/p/ttbuq3A_RY/?taken-by=allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Lavender Rocks</a>, of course, another top notch beverage. But more important than any libation, <b>I couldn't have asked for a lovelier birthday season or lovelier friends</b>. Only time allows you to collect a quality crew of amazing people like I have in my life. The many texts, phone calls, cards and messages -- my heart was, and still is, so full. Thank you all!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgAgQr2L4GmhC2QOpsz2H1HfzACrHbLn5DkcCD5efXpK63sokWb5IQgDo3hWh5On-x1dnuryiwWC8gwoYtz9fVXxpjTzA2uVj0htdPii9CQUmjNjmYSp4yOjA6-NEoFKlmVm19vJu-7y3/s1600/Birthdayblogpost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgAgQr2L4GmhC2QOpsz2H1HfzACrHbLn5DkcCD5efXpK63sokWb5IQgDo3hWh5On-x1dnuryiwWC8gwoYtz9fVXxpjTzA2uVj0htdPii9CQUmjNjmYSp4yOjA6-NEoFKlmVm19vJu-7y3/s1600/Birthdayblogpost.jpg" height="475" width="640" /></a></div>
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People have asked me how I feel about turning 40 or if I feel differently. The truth is I don't get nervous or scared about birthdays and this one was no different, although it does feel so adult, so official. Most days I don't feel like a grown up at all and I keep waiting for someone to knock on the door and demand I return my adult card. And while 40 feels so big, I'm embracing this decade with an open heart and mind. I have no idea what the future holds but I grew so much in the past decade (mostly in my backside, har har) I'm excited to see what this next decade holds for me.<br />
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Here's what I know for certain:<br />
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<li>Family is everything.</li>
<li>I have the best friends I've ever had. </li>
<li>It's okay not to fit in. I don't at times and quite often I get along better with kids. Go figure.</li>
<li>Age is relative and totally dependent on your attitude.</li>
<li>Confidence comes from being yourself.</li>
<li><a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/03/ivf-update-egg-retrieval-complete.html" target="_blank">I'm much stronger than I ever knew.</a> </li>
<li>It's liberating not caring what people think of you. Which goes along with <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/06/opinion/david-brooks-the-problem-with-meaning.html?_r=0" target="_blank">this practical wisdom from a speech John Gardner gave at Stanford University,</a> 61 years after he graduated: "You come to understand that most people are neither for you nor against you; they are thinking about themselves. You learn that no matter how hard you try to please, some people in this world are not going to love you, a lesson that is at first troubling and then really quite relaxing."</li>
<li>Just because I'm 40 doesn't mean I should have everything together and that's okay. I'm still learning, growing and figuring things out, <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-to-relax-fall-asleep-quickly.html" target="_blank">like how to stop worrying so much</a>. </li>
<li>I'm at peace with my body, jiggly bits and all. <a href="https://instagram.com/p/zvt7Qmg_dU/?taken-by=allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">I talked about that in depth here.</a> That doesn't mean I don't want things to jiggle. It just means I'd rather eat or read than exercise. </li>
<li>Further to that, a good night's sleep, laughter and plenty of water are better than botox. </li>
<li>Life is too short (and precious) to allow drama or toxic people in your life. </li>
<li>There's nothing wrong with setting boundaries, for family and friends.</li>
<li>It's perfectly fine to ask for help and support. <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/03/staying-hopeful-through-infertility.html" target="_blank">I did in this post!</a></li>
<li>Pursuing your passion is good for the soul.</li>
<li>It's a waste of time to compare yourself to others.</li>
<li>And I'll leave you with this, my mom <i>was right</i> about almost everything. She's going to love reading that! And I'm going to love travelling with her this Saturday! <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/04/scott-surprised-me-with-trip-to.html" target="_blank">Eeek, I'm still vibrating from Tuesday's surprise!</a></li>
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Thank you for being part of my journey, too.<br />
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Here's to living our lives to the fullest no matter how old, or young, we are! Cheers to 40!</div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D8101894096920408729%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-9Nns-OE4kLg%252FVUL4kZp_-_I%252FAAAAAAAAA8I%252FWhq9X4GnhOU%252Fs1600%252FIMG_8358.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1505px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D8101894096920408729%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-9Nns-OE4kLg%252FVUL4kZp_-_I%252FAAAAAAAAA8I%252FWhq9X4GnhOU%252Fs1600%252FIMG_8358.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1505px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-1666561158720961322015-04-28T21:34:00.001-06:002015-04-30T16:17:51.931-06:00scott surprised me with a trip to...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oGlmfhypTL8ocIF1-l465pyNieniZGwCDPtCRl3GrTR6-3mAOXF6yKH0bbYum6IS-DaHMBB_WVJBUO396qjUsGSnSATPUWU3iDTZH4Aju_6hm0iaIpJLk2lHlBy7yNsG3UIVPP4_YuJC/s1600/10505311_662018397199621_5284594012143874255_n.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1oGlmfhypTL8ocIF1-l465pyNieniZGwCDPtCRl3GrTR6-3mAOXF6yKH0bbYum6IS-DaHMBB_WVJBUO396qjUsGSnSATPUWU3iDTZH4Aju_6hm0iaIpJLk2lHlBy7yNsG3UIVPP4_YuJC/s1600/10505311_662018397199621_5284594012143874255_n.png" height="640" width="561" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">I don't know where! Yes, you read that correctly. Tonight Scott surprised me with the news that on Saturday morning,<i> this </i>Saturday, my mom and I are heading somewhere warm for a week of rest and relaxation! AHHH. T</span>his guy of mine!<span style="text-align: start;"> M</span>y heart has been beating out of my chest with excitement since he told me. </div>
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I have to be honest, as a major trip planner, this is all a bit surreal to me. That being said, I'm glad he gave me a few days to pack, shop (whenever a trip is imminent I freak out and feel like I need to buy ALL the things) and get back down to earth. Hours later and my head is still in the clouds. </div>
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Has someone ever surprised you like this? How did you handle the news? After he told me, I burst into tears of joy and then kept on repeating, "Is this for real?" "This isn't a joke?" "Is this really happening?" Which is exactly what I said when he proposed to me thirteen years ago. Go figure.</div>
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Follow along on <a href="https://instagram.com/allkindsoflovelyblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a> to find out where the heck we're going. You'll get to find out when I do. I still can't believe it -- what an incredibly unexpected and beautiful surprise! Thank you so much, Scotty!</div>
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P.S. The craziest coincidence? I purchased this gorgeous Topshop bathing suit a couple of weeks ago for a song and was bemoaning the fact I had nowhere to wear it. Isn't life funny!?</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/14558199120" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="03N06FBLK_large by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="03N06FBLK_large" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/14558199120_de675c4b1f_o.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-22168709970608541482015-04-21T20:29:00.000-06:002015-04-28T22:38:03.332-06:00a new bike!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Friends, meet Josephine.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Josephine is a <a href="http://www.linusbike.com/products/dutchi-3?variant=685301421" target="_blank">Linus Dutchi 3</a>. And I love her!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've wanted a Dutch-inspired city bike with a basket for years. A friend had posted about her recent Linus purchase on Facebook. Turns out she had bought her bike on sale at <a href="http://crankys.ca/" target="_blank">Cranky's</a>, a family owned St. Albert bike shop. That same week Scott and I hightailed it to Cranky's. We both test rode the <a href="http://www.linusbike.com/products/dutchi-3?variant=100520322" target="_blank">Dutchi</a> and the <a href="http://www.linusbike.com/products/mixte-3?variant=100521602" target="_blank">Mixte</a>. I preferred the 'big bum' seat and the pretty coral colour of the Dutchi so they suited her up with a <a href="http://store.electrabike.com/product/electra+cruiser+wicker+front+basket+natural.do?sortby=ourPicks" target="_blank">basket</a> and <a href="http://nutcasehelmets.com/2014/11/nutcase-dia-de-los-muertos/" target="_blank">bell</a> and now she's mine! </span>I'm thrilled with the Dutchi, which is cute, comfy and smooth to ride. She's going to be ideal for farmer's market runs, neighbourhood jaunts and hauling coke slurps from 7-11. <span style="font-family: inherit;">I've already taken her out a few times and on each ride, I felt like an eight year old again, hair flying in the wind and not a worry in the world. That's the </span>beauty of being on a bike. <span style="font-family: inherit;">John F. Kennedy was on point when he said, "</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nothing compares to the simple </span>pleasure<span style="font-family: inherit;"> of a bike ride.<i>"</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I also can't say enough about the service and people at Cranky's. On each of our visits, we were super impressed with their welcoming and helpful staff, especially Brad. Highly recommend! As with all my posts, I wasn't paid to write a glowing review nor was my bike comped. This post was sponsored entirely by my favourite dude, Scotty. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Do you have a bike? Which kind? I'd recommend a Linus if you're in the market!</span><br />
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P.S. With this present, my 40th birthday season is officially over (a post on all things birthday is coming up next Thursday).<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D2216870997060854148%3BonPublishedMenu%3Ddraftposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Ddraftposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-XsUFuktZmJg%252FVTSKgmh0XyI%252FAAAAAAAAA5Q%252FNivDz98H1Ps%252Fs1600%252FIMG_7670.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D2216870997060854148%3BonPublishedMenu%3Ddraftposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Ddraftposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-XsUFuktZmJg%252FVTSKgmh0XyI%252FAAAAAAAAA5Q%252FNivDz98H1Ps%252Fs1600%252FIMG_7670.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-83756997175818773462015-03-24T19:49:00.000-06:002015-03-30T23:33:20.118-06:00ivf update: egg retrieval complete!<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; margin-bottom: 15px; margin-top: 15px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">Update time! But first, thank you all so much for your supportive and loving comments, texts, emails and messages. You are the BEST people. I mean it, you guys kick ass! I was overwhelmed with gratitude by your response to <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/03/staying-hopeful-through-infertility.html" target="_blank">my last post</a>, whether from strangers wishing us well to people I had known for years confiding about their own struggles with infertility. While reading your comments here, as well as on <a href="https://instagram.com/p/0J0fFgA_UB/?taken-by=allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, I broke down and cried for the first time since beginning this process. Up until that point, I had tried to remain stoic. Your kindness and compassion opened up an entire floodgate of emotions. A friend joked it was the hormones and they may have been a contributing factor, but I also think it was because my silence over our hidden struggle was finally broken. There's </span><i style="line-height: 20px;">so</i><span style="line-height: 20px;"> much silence with infertility; talking about it openly and freely has been liberating and therapeutic. No one should suffer in silence. No matter what the issue.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">So let's talk...</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/03/staying-hopeful-through-infertility.html" target="_blank">Since my last post</a>, I completed the remainder of the hormone injections (23 in total!) and last Thursday we had the egg retrieval. </span></span><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">I was excited, nervous & anxious as all heck the morning of the procedure. </span><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">Let me preface this by saying IVF is not for the faint hearted and your ladybits are not your own after a while. </span><a href="https://www.google.ca/search?q=ivf+egg+retrieval&safe=active&client=safari&rls=en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=ZcUQVdOKEtS1sQT0ioL4Cw&ved=0CAgQ_AUoAg&biw=1040&bih=611" style="font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;" target="_blank">See evidence here</a><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">. Thankfully, Scott was there to allay my fears and make me laugh. Seeing him in scrubs made my day especially! </span><br />
<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">After changing into my peek-a-bum gown, Heather, one of the fantastic nurses at the clinic, gave me an Ativan to calm my nerves, hooked me to an IV with antibiotics and then led us into the procedure room. I felt a bit of pain during the procedure so they gave me additional pain meds and then, poof! everything was awesome. The retrieval took about 30 minutes because I had 27 follicles. Even when it comes to IVF, I'm an overachiever (; </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">Once it was over, I went into the recovery area for about 90 minutes where I ate snacks and chatted with Scotty and Heather. At least that's what Scott tells me, I don't have any recollection of that conversation which is probably for the best. On our way home, I started to feel a bit woozy and ended up throwing up on our lawn and then three more times inside (this time I made it to the bathroom). I was also very sore, like I had done hundreds and hundreds of crunches. In reality, I have no clue what that actually feels like, har har. After taking an extra strength Tylenol, I crawled into bed and remained there in a coma-like state until later that night when I woke up craving bbq t-bone steak with blue cheese crumbles. In total, it took me four days to recover from the egg retrieval and its accompanying cramps, soreness and bloating. It pains me to say this, but sweatpants were my best pal during those days, along with </span><a href="http://elementbotanicals.ca/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=128" style="line-height: 20px;" target="_blank">my bubu bag</a><span style="line-height: 20px;">. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZSGXpTZpi1lp2kCeJGsUMymjpEsseEYHKQHlWRU9rS-8MGfSjUzlxr0Iz_5Vpga27DCdCZPaIjCNUmFZS4JcGnDRtAKVOm4__T7DYNxPkeCJ2tDZ1B5WFTOOvkPjPNpy_08-a6X4u377V/s1600/IMG_5991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZSGXpTZpi1lp2kCeJGsUMymjpEsseEYHKQHlWRU9rS-8MGfSjUzlxr0Iz_5Vpga27DCdCZPaIjCNUmFZS4JcGnDRtAKVOm4__T7DYNxPkeCJ2tDZ1B5WFTOOvkPjPNpy_08-a6X4u377V/s1600/IMG_5991.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">Egg retrieval was an interesting procedure to say the least. Interesting as in your girl was a drugged up loopy mess (see exhibit A. above). Oh, the things I said! Scott remembered them ALL. </span></span><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">Here are a few for your reading pleasure:</span><br />
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<li><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">I sang/rapped 2Pac's <i>Baby Don't Cry</i>, specifically this line: "Even when the road is hard, never give up. Baby don't cry." </span></li>
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<li><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">I named two particularly painful eggs after politicians I'm not particularly fond of: Harper and Prentice.</span></li>
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<li><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">I told the entire medical team, nurses Carrie and Megan, embryologist Ryan and Dr. Motan, that I loved them. Because that's how we do.</span></li>
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<li><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">When Dr. Motan left the room at the end of the procedure, I hollered, "Peace out, Motan!"</span></li>
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">In the end, Dr. Motan was able to retrieve 21 eggs! Not bad for a geriatric patient. From those 21 eggs, 18 were mature and 16 fertilized. Yesterday we received the most wonderful news from Ryan: all 16 of our embryos made it to the blastocyst stage! We're so happy and relieved. Now, we'll wait for my body to return to a balanced state and a few cycles from now I'll start prepping for a frozen egg transfer. Our journey is only just beginning. {Backstory: because I was showing symptoms of <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-hyperstimulation-syndrome-ohss/basics/definition/con-20033777" target="_blank">ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome</a> (OHSS) and had extremely high levels of estrogen, Dr. Motan decided it was best to do a freeze all, which means they freeze all retrieved eggs and do a transfer at a later date. When the nurse first told me, I burst into tears. Rationally, I knew it was the right thing to do, but my heart just wasn't quite there yet. After leaving the clinic, I talked it out with Scott and a few girlfriends, went to HomeSense in search of a rug, ate a DQ cookie dough blizzard and had a good night's sleep. By the next morning, I had made peace with it.}</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><b>You will get there when you are meant to get there and not one moment sooner. So relax, breathe and be patient. -- Mandy Hale</b></span></span></blockquote>
<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">I'm going to take the next little while to take care of myself and prepare for the transfer -- exercise, acupuncture, volunteering, cooking, spending time with friends and family and continuing to blog about and Instagram the things that make me happy: fashion, style, interior design and decor, and food, of course, lots and lots of food. My life isn't just about trying to have a baby. And thankfully it never has been. There's so much I want to do, see & make. Plus, I have a 40th birthday to celebrate this Saturday! And that means cake. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">To anyone else going through this process, I wish you mountains of luck and a happy ending. Hang in there! And remember, you are stronger than you think. If you need someone to talk to, email me: dajanaf@yahoo.com. I'm here for you! xoxo</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #454545; font-family: Droid Serif;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">P.S. There are two Facebook support groups I highly recommend: IVF Support Canada and IVF Support, the international version consisting of women from the UK, USA, Canada and Australia, where British ladies sometimes pepper their sentences with words like fortnight and stone, to describe their weight. Cool ass language aside, both forums have been a godsend to me these past few weeks. I'm with my people (which is the way I felt when I went to my first NDP meeting, haha) and the women participating in both groups are strong, open, lovely and brilliant. </span></span><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">If forums are more your thing, </span><a href="http://ivf.ca/forums" style="font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;" target="_blank">this one's helpful</a><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;">. Familiarize yourself with </span><a href="http://www.ivf.ca/acronym.htm" style="font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;" target="_blank">this handy abbreviation guide</a><span style="color: #454545; font-family: 'Droid Serif'; line-height: 20px;"> first. Best of luck! I'm rooting for you.</span></div>
dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com67tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-69670617398166767092015-03-12T21:27:00.000-06:002015-04-21T18:10:02.550-06:00staying hopeful through infertility <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/16797888992" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_5749 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5749" height="800" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7283/16797888992_7a5b0d5365_c.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
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This may well be the most challenging blog post I've ever written. No, scratch that. It was fairly easy to write, but it took some time to gain the courage to hit the publish button. Thankfully, I'm braver today than I was a few years ago when infertility entered our lives like an unwanted house guest not willing to leave. It's important for me to share my story and help others learn that they aren't alone. By speaking out, I'm also hoping to lessen the stigma and shame associated with infertility.<br />
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The picture above is of me being my usual goofy self holding a model of a uterus with my feet up in stirrups in a waiting room at the <a href="http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/services.asp?pid=saf&rid=1046142" target="_blank">Regional Fertility and Women's Endocrinology Clinic</a> this past weekend. Scott and I were there to find out if, after trying for three years on our own, we were getting the green light to begin in vitro fertilization (IVF). To pass the time, because there is <i>a lot </i>of waiting with infertility appointments, we took silly pictures. This is the only one you're allowed to see. I mean it (;<br />
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We did end up getting the go ahead from our doctor and I'm now the proud owner of more than a dozen needle marks on my stomach. That's the first part of the process: self administering hormones to stimulate the ovaries. I'm deathly afraid of needles so Scott, who I'm calling my hunky Florence Nightingale these days, has the job of jabbing me. I joke with him that his EMR training is finally paying off. Secretly, my heart gushes with love for this man who supports and loves me and is so careful not to hurt me.<br />
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I'm not going to get into the entire process of IVF here, just know it's involved, invasive and expensive. It was a decision we took a lot of time to make and I'm glad we did. I don't feel like we're in limbo any more. When you're struggling with unexplained infertility, every month is an emotional roller coaster of hope and anticipation, followed by heartbreaking disappointment and frustration. With IVF, I'm trusting in my doctor and my body and letting the rest go. I haven't always been so zen about it but I've come to a place in my life where I've chosen to move forward with hope and positivity. I'm also using this <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-to-relax-fall-asleep-quickly.html" target="_blank">breathing method</a> to help me through my anxiousness during ultrasounds (which I now call dildo cam time, haha!).<br />
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Now more than ever, I'm grateful for the good people in my life. It means so much to get a phone call or text from a friend or family member simply asking, "How are you doing today D?" It makes me and Scott feel supported, loved and not so alone in all of this.<br />
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If you have a friend who is going through infertility issues, acknowledge how much it sucks and then hug, love and support them. They need you more than you know.<br />
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As for me, I have five more days of injections left until the egg retrieval process. Please send your positive thoughts and prayers. It's the one time in my life I'm asking for support. Not pity or sympathy, just love <3dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-78351976846631741602015-02-20T09:22:00.000-07:002015-02-20T10:15:53.384-07:00the best cinnamon-sugar donut muffins you'll ever eat <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0ZAEQ8rsL_XbPCoeHytSWzZI5ZsN6iCY4rCjqnX6z2qxzM8Ow9gD5_YCiuK5xZ9jF2SfI_lec9gO6CyoMzW4tNzXjCeT-7HqsB65hMdL3064Dgd6VPqiT6tKt3s0_ypXS7ioBL6Z51iw/s1600/IMG_4803-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS0ZAEQ8rsL_XbPCoeHytSWzZI5ZsN6iCY4rCjqnX6z2qxzM8Ow9gD5_YCiuK5xZ9jF2SfI_lec9gO6CyoMzW4tNzXjCeT-7HqsB65hMdL3064Dgd6VPqiT6tKt3s0_ypXS7ioBL6Z51iw/s1600/IMG_4803-2.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do you remember eating cinnamon toast as a kid? I loved it. This recipe is an ode to those nostalgic days (makes me feel like I'm 7 again!) and is also the perfect comfort food. You'll end up feeling warm and cozy, no matter what the weather.<br />
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I made these sweet cinnamon coated cakey donuts yesterday and posted the recipe today. This lack of procrastination is testament to how bonkers delicious they are and how badly I wanted to share them with you. Plus the recipe comes together easily and will fill your house with the most heavenly scent.<br />
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The hardest part is waiting for them to cool so you can dunk them in the melted butter and cinnamon sugar and eat 'em. Consider yourself warned: your patience will be tested but it's well worth the wait.<br />
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<b>Cinnamon-Sugar Doughnut Muffins</b><br />
Makes 12 muffins or 24 mini donuts<br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/The-Back-Day-Bakery-Cookbook/dp/1579654584" target="_blank">The Back in the Day Bakery Cookbook</a><br />
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<b>Here's what you need to make them:</b><br />
3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour<br />
1/4 teaspoon baking soda<br />
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt<br />
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (or ground nutmeg)<br />
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom<br />
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk<br />
2 tablespoons buttermilk<br />
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature<br />
3/4 cup sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
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<b>For the doughnut coating:</b><br />
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted<br />
1 cup sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon<br />
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<b>To make the muffins: </b>Position a rack in the lower third of the oven and preheat the oven to 350F. Lightly spray 12 large muffin cups with vegetable oil spray OR if making mini donuts, lightly spray two mini donut pans.<br />
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Sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cardamom. In a medium bowl, combine the milk and buttermilk.<br />
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In a large mixing bowl, using a handheld mixer on medium speed, cream the butter for 2 to 3 minutes. Turn the speed to low and gradually add the sugar. Continue to mix until the mixture lightens in color. Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until combined. Add the dry ingredients in thirds, alternating with the milk mixture, mixing just until smooth; do not overmix or they will become dense.<br />
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With a large ice cream scoop or spoon, scoop the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling them approximately two-thirds full. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tops are firm to the touch and lightly golden. Please note: I used a teaspoon to fill the mini donuts pans and the mini donuts were done after about 17 minutes.<br />
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While the muffins bake, set up two bowls to dunk them in. In one bowl you will have the melted butter, and in the other bowl you will have the cinnamon sugar.<br />
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Let the donuts cool completely on a wire rack (waiting is the hard part!). Dunk them in the melted butter, then coat them with the cinnamon sugar. The muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<b>Notes:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Please don't omit the cardamom. Although it's only a teensy amount, it makes such a difference in flavour and aroma. Trust me, it's worth seeking out. </li>
<li>With the batter, I made a combo of 12 (very large) mini donuts and 5 muffins. </li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/The-Back-Day-Bakery-Cookbook/dp/1579654584" target="_blank">The Back in the Day Bakery</a> is my new favourite cookbook. I bought if for myself a few weeks ago but hadn't made anything yet until last weekend when one of my friends made the Buttermilk Biscones (a cross between scones & biscuits). They were amazing! Tasting those tasty biscones inspired to try something from the book too. Highly recommend! </li>
<li>The winner of the Duchess Cookbook giveaway <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/02/duchess-cookbook-treats-giveaway.html" target="_blank">is revealed here</a>. Congratulations to the lucky lady! And thanks to everyone who entered.</li>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F1.bp.blogspot.com%252F-1GFdWEpOhFw%252FVOblhpebQrI%252FAAAAAAAAA2I%252FW1sG30IMLGQ%252Fs1600%252FIMG_4803-2.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F1.bp.blogspot.com%252F-1GFdWEpOhFw%252FVOblhpebQrI%252FAAAAAAAAA2I%252FW1sG30IMLGQ%252Fs1600%252FIMG_4803-2.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-65923196021921666842015-02-14T01:26:00.000-07:002015-04-09T21:44:16.843-06:00valentine's day as a single lady<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuR8dZMx77EbZ7bpPSrl98lzF9IXT7SseqkigkaSZvHklgjE0eNCOxD5a3ou4NvRB2mB0xDq6hj_ryAk_cT2kh5Owbrt348DsZVoJ_YIO6_9UYsavYy2M-K5bkBACNXMaJ2zs4iJIAokJ/s1600/Dajana+&+Scott.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFuR8dZMx77EbZ7bpPSrl98lzF9IXT7SseqkigkaSZvHklgjE0eNCOxD5a3ou4NvRB2mB0xDq6hj_ryAk_cT2kh5Owbrt348DsZVoJ_YIO6_9UYsavYy2M-K5bkBACNXMaJ2zs4iJIAokJ/s1600/Dajana+&+Scott.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
Fourteen years ago today, I was feeling hopelessly single and wondering if I'd ever meet my soulmate. Didn't seem likely. I had gone on a bunch of unsuccessful blind dates (online dating hadn't quite yet taken off at that time) and one day I found myself discussing the topic with a close friend. Her mom, who was listening in on our conversation, quickly piped up and told me the reason why I was single is because I talked too much. "Men don't like that," she added.<br />
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"Ha," I thought indignantly to myself, "I'm not changing who I am so I can meet a man."<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">And I didn't. Because I'm stubborn like that and even back then, I knew my worth. Not too long after, I met Scott. That first night we talked for<i> hours </i>(take that friend's mom!). </span><span style="background-color: white;">Goes to show that you just never know what's right around the corner. And that, </span><span style="background-color: white;">as corny as it sounds,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> you should never change who you are.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Hope you have a wonderful day with the people you love. Scott and I are having an at-home date night and we'll be chowing down on <a href="http://www.frickindelights.com/donuts.html" target="_blank">these</a> (can't wait!). xoxo</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">P.S. <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015/02/how-to-keep-sparks-flying-in-your.html" target="_blank">Six ways to keep the sparks flying in your relationship.</a></span>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-78068807347081049682015-02-10T20:44:00.000-07:002015-03-09T13:23:25.714-06:006 ways we keep the sparks flying <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXS3bT3BTLLZ3Wp-X45z62bzh1RNE3jTpHavPCCTywAmPQDdfDeAM6at4EX0EmE186rA3ldusoxrouX9bZrUaOhuz9KahNIrNFJLlSnaTIaR64bRhzFT_kvuQekOltrFJvuJcREK21uEfy/s1600/Berlin+Kiss.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXS3bT3BTLLZ3Wp-X45z62bzh1RNE3jTpHavPCCTywAmPQDdfDeAM6at4EX0EmE186rA3ldusoxrouX9bZrUaOhuz9KahNIrNFJLlSnaTIaR64bRhzFT_kvuQekOltrFJvuJcREK21uEfy/s1600/Berlin+Kiss.jpg" height="479" width="640" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/14293568394" title="tumblr_m9p66pjznA1rrux7ko1_500 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"></span></a><br />
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Scott and I have been together for 13 years, 8 months and 16 days. After spending that much time as a couple, we've reached a level of intimacy I never knew existed. While there is something to be said about being completely comfortable and intimate with each other, it's also important to be reminded of the butterflies we had when we first started dating. The bonus is that butterflies usually lead to flirtation and sexy-time. And who doesn't want sexy-time?!</span><br />
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Here are a few things we do to keep the sparks flying in our relationship:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Meet separately at the restaurant.</b> I always get excited when I meet up with Scott at a restaurant or bar. I love that moment of anticipation as I scan the room to find him! There's nothing quite like seeing a handsome man and then realizing it's <i>your </i>handsome man to stir up the butterflies. That is such a lovely feeling and it makes me feel fun and flirty. Meeting separately also gives me the chance to see him not just as the person I share my home life with, but as the person he exists beyond that. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Keep phones off the table during meals.</b> I've been known to take photos of our food, but I've started to do less of that (you might've noticed this if you follow me on Instagram). The time I spend with the people I love has become much more valuable. </span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hold hands at the table (but really, hold hands every </span>chance<span style="font-family: inherit;"> you get). </span></b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Scott and I do this all the time, whether we're on a fancier dinner date or just having some pho at our fave Vietnamese place. So simple but it sets a special mood.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>5 minute make-out sessions.</b> One of us just asks "Wanna make out for 5 minutes?" and it's nearly impossible to turn down or be turned down. Everyone has five minutes for a little old school making out, right? Sneaking in a kiss each day that lasts longer than 5 seconds takes me back to the early dating days. Sometimes while we're watching tv, I'll plank on Scott. Sounds bizarro, I know but it's our special thing. And no, it's not sexual, dirty birds. I'm always fully clothed while planking (;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Ask each other out on dates, don't just plan dates</b>. I'll text or call Scott and ask if he'll go on a date with me and then plan accordingly and vice versa. Again, it adds just enough of those same butterflies.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">S<b>cott purchased <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/101-Nights-Great-Laura-Corn/dp/0962962872" target="_blank">this book</a> for us recently</b>. Whoa, spicy. I'm thinking an entirely separate blog post might be in order here (;</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">These are all little things, but sometimes life is about the little things, right? </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">What funny little things (or big things!) do you do to keep the sparks flying in your relationships? </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'd love to hear...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">(Photo by <a href="http://www.harrybenson.com/index.php#mi=2&pt=1&pi=10000&s=30&p=1&a=0&at=0" target="_blank">Harry Benson</a>)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D7806880734708104968%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BpostNum%3D3%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-xVTD5TstJrY%252FVMmtSqBKH3I%252FAAAAAAAAA0s%252F1znB8buqVPE%252Fs1600%252FAnders%25252BPetersen.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 155px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 36px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D7806880734708104968%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BpostNum%3D3%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-xVTD5TstJrY%252FVMmtSqBKH3I%252FAAAAAAAAA0s%252F1znB8buqVPE%252Fs1600%252FAnders%25252BPetersen.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 155px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 36px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-88967778236745188992015-02-05T10:00:00.000-07:002015-02-20T02:07:45.259-07:00duchess cookbook & treats giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/16453047735" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_3983 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3983" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8649/16453047735_ba5eaf12c0_z.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.duchessbakeshop.com/" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">Duchess Bake Shop</a><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;"> has had my heart since it opened its doors in the fall of 2009. It's one of my favourite spots in Edmonton to grab a delicious French pastry and then sit, eat & chat with friends for hours. If you follow me on </span><a href="http://instagram.com/p/v__OzHg_Vv/?modal=true" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px;"> you'll know that last statement couldn't be more true.</span><br />
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When I found out Giselle Courteau, the shop's co-owner, was writing a cookbook I was elated. Its release date, November 12, was a happy day for me and I wasn't disappointed in the least bit. The book is a true keepsake with stunning photographs and invaluable accompanying step-by-step instructions. This is the first time I've owned a cookbook in which I've sampled most of the recipes (which makes owning it that much more special).<br />
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You can probably tell from the picture above that I've already tried many of the recipes (& also have a hard time keeping cookbooks clean, mine are almost always covered in batter & flour), including our family faves: double ginger cookies and raspberry white chocolate scones.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/16267059167" title="IMG_8316 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8316" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7431/16267059167_66ec5d2af7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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I'm happy to report that Giselle has generously provided a signed copy of Duchess' cookbook as a giveaway for one lucky reader. Also included in the giveaway: a package containing the shop's <a href="http://duchessprovisions.com/collections/confections/products/salted-caramel-250ml" target="_blank">beloved salted caramel sauce</a> (which I used to make <a href="http://instagram.com/p/xhzuRvA_XU/?modal=true" target="_blank">these</a>), <a href="http://duchessprovisions.com/collections/confections/products/duchess-hot-chocolate-300g" target="_blank">hot chocolate</a>, <a href="http://duchessprovisions.com/collections/confections/products/raspberry-rose-jam-250ml" target="_blank">raspberry rose jam</a> and a <a href="https://www.theochocolate.com/product/78" target="_blank">Theo gingerbread milk chocolate bar</a>.</div>
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For a chance to win, please visit <a href="http://www.duchessbakeshop.com/collections/all" target="_blank">Duchess' website</a> and then leave a comment below with the name of the baked good you'd like to try making at home. For additional entries, follow all kinds of lovely on <a href="http://instagram.com/allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allkindsoflovelyblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and comment on the giveaway post/picture. </div>
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Entries must be posted by <strong>Friday, February 13 at 9am MST*</strong>, and one winner will be chosen at random.<br />
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Best of luck!<br />
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You can also purchase the cookbook in Edmonton at Provisions <a href="http://duchessprovisions.com/" target="_blank">or online</a>. Highly recommend!</div>
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<i><b>Contest is now closed. Congratulations to Brie of A Slice of Brie! Thank you to everyone who entered.</b></i><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/16426968526" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_8004 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_8004" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8625/16426968526_64ed698862_z.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7431%2F16267059167_66ec5d2af7_z.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=IMG_8316" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 869px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7431%2F16267059167_66ec5d2af7_z.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=IMG_8316" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 869px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-5470357029077785642015-02-03T10:00:00.000-07:002015-02-03T11:40:05.348-07:00style: chic earrings<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/15809688364" title="755f07639adc41c8d5bff2165949eb53 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="755f07639adc41c8d5bff2165949eb53" height="320" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8598/15809688364_cb6dc34fd5_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/16431290772" title="p18969654_standard by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="p18969654_standard" height="320" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7379/16431290772_af1c0f710e_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/16244987050" title="il_fullxfull.301791481 by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="il_fullxfull.301791481" height="320" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8676/16244987050_094e6faf33_n.jpg" width="313" /></a> <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dajanafab/16245786858" title="By Boe Gold by Dajana Fabjanovich, on Flickr"><img alt="By Boe Gold" height="320" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7331/16245786858_71c41431e4_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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Gorgeous earrings can change your whole look in a instant. I know my winter wardrobe could use a perk up right about now (anyone else over winter?). These four pairs are at the top of my wish list.<br />
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<i>Clockwise from top left:</i><br />
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<li>Edgy & wear-with-everything studs from my favourite Canadian shop, <a href="http://sopretty.ca/collections/rose-gold-vermeil/products/brave-stud-earrings-swarovski-gold" target="_blank">So Pretty Jewelry.</a> </li>
<li>This exotic pair from <a href="http://www.clubmonaco.com/product/index.jsp?productId=41409586" target="_blank">Club Monaco</a> has been on my mind for a while now. Beautiful, right?</li>
<li>Feminine & sweet reminder bows handmade by New York based <a href="https://byboe.com/byboe/earrings/reminder-bow-earrings-e167-134.html" target="_blank">By Boe</a>. </li>
<li>Etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/77707696/no-430-hammered-14kt-gold-filled-quartz" target="_blank">Dinosaur Toes</a> makes these simple modern hammered hoops. Such a great price, too. </li>
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Wouldn't they all be beautiful to wear to date night? Or anytime really. (: Which pair is your fave?<br />
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I just purchased these <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/shop/en_ca/p/casablanca-chandeliers" target="_blank">art deco chandeliers</a> which can be worn three (!!) ways. Love. They were a "I survived the January blahs" present to myself. The So Pretty studs are next on my list.</div>
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Hope your week is off to a good start! Be sure to check back here on Thursday. I have a delicious giveaway I'm excited to share with you featuring a beloved bakery of mine.<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D547035702907778564%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7331%2F16245786858_71c41431e4_n.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=By%20Boe%20Gold" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 351px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 356px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D547035702907778564%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7331%2F16245786858_71c41431e4_n.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=By%20Boe%20Gold" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 351px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 356px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-41617848635330304382015-01-22T21:24:00.001-07:002015-01-23T09:51:54.631-07:00how to relax & fall asleep quickly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCT75OY3cgNKDVKVFN3iJDV7NeD9jE0I6iffEYr_cuVVXJtVoYNN7zHUysRn6TdkyXBZ_1UkI8K_cKFLIA2AJABD85AWlDSVAoXYmLdAuMTerQCIpTtQWkjrIo6rIkLvjRYr2ZzvRKTUUM/s1600/il_fullxfull.639410346_a9xi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCT75OY3cgNKDVKVFN3iJDV7NeD9jE0I6iffEYr_cuVVXJtVoYNN7zHUysRn6TdkyXBZ_1UkI8K_cKFLIA2AJABD85AWlDSVAoXYmLdAuMTerQCIpTtQWkjrIo6rIkLvjRYr2ZzvRKTUUM/s1600/il_fullxfull.639410346_a9xi.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Getting my brain to turn off at bedtime can be difficult. Especially when I have a gazillion things on my mind. During the day, I feel pretty happy-go-lucky, but as I lie down at night, my mind starts spinning. Lately the tossing and turning topics include <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2015_01_01_archive.html" target="_blank">trying to have a baby</a> (we have a BIG doctor's appointment coming up on Monday) and the logistics of a full kitchen renovation. Exciting and good things yes, but also anxiety inducing, as is <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2013/10/sometimes-life-can-be-overwhelming.html" target="_blank">my wont</a>.<br />
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So when I recently came across <a href="http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/VDR00112/The-4-7-8-Breath-Benefits-and-Demonstration.html" target="_blank">this breathing technique</a> I immediately decided to give it a try.<br />
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Here's how it works:<br />
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Step 1: Breath in silently through your nose for a count of 4.<br />
Step 2: Hold your breath to the count of 7.<br />
Step 3: Exhale through your mouth while making a whooshing sound to the count of 8.<br />
Step 4: Now inhale again and repeat the cycle another three times or until you fall asleep.<br />
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I've been doing it for the past week and it honestly works! Admittedly, I felt like I was going to die the first few times I held my breath, but I got the hang of it quickly. And it's gotten easier with each passing night. Now I'm usually asleep after three rounds of 4-7-8. Blessedly sweet sleep. It's become my go-to method to "close some tabs" when my thoughts get a little all over the place.<br />
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Are you a good sleeper? Any tips? Or are you a worrier, too? When it comes to worrying, we can really nail it sometimes (:<br />
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P.S. <a href="http://hereistoday.com/" target="_blank">This brilliant website</a> puts a single day of your life in perspective.<br />
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Print <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/APairOfPears?section_id=14075959&ref=shopsection_leftnav_3" target="_blank">via</a>. It's funny 'cause it's true.<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D4161784863533030438%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-SMlggP8LeuU%252FVMCdzw5kJNI%252FAAAAAAAAAz8%252FTOZFdWVfXcI%252Fs1600%252Fil_fullxfull.639410346_a9xi.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3803403813776190163%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D4161784863533030438%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dpublishedposts%3BpostNum%3D0%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-SMlggP8LeuU%252FVMCdzw5kJNI%252FAAAAAAAAAz8%252FTOZFdWVfXcI%252Fs1600%252Fil_fullxfull.639410346_a9xi.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 26px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3803403813776190163.post-49911365454961236882015-01-01T08:00:00.000-07:002015-01-25T20:16:54.849-07:00bye bye 2014. hello 2015!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitE9K2hZ7myC1GBmxWRKQEO_HvE8xAMiozVO2tRqi0lWNvGImj_SE07uxGfdtTmUE8nPr18lUdh5hlP26VtH2IqJ6Bcak0RUf_4ST-mF_DOl0YKNs66uk52YSHL1dHVsiKSAcf270PhMjx/s1600/il_570xN.393806765_hbpd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitE9K2hZ7myC1GBmxWRKQEO_HvE8xAMiozVO2tRqi0lWNvGImj_SE07uxGfdtTmUE8nPr18lUdh5hlP26VtH2IqJ6Bcak0RUf_4ST-mF_DOl0YKNs66uk52YSHL1dHVsiKSAcf270PhMjx/s1600/il_570xN.393806765_hbpd.jpg" /></a></div>
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Happy New Year friends! I hope you had a great holiday and celebrated the end of 2014 in a way that made you feel ready to embrace the new year ahead. <i>I had a few too many blood orange-rosemary fizz cocktails last night. Will definitely be sharing that recipe with you! </i></div>
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When it comes to 2014, I don't really know where to start. It was a challenging year with some rough spots and changes, yet it had many beautiful moments too. Highlights included <a href="http://instagram.com/p/izsfMvg_Qx/?modal=true" target="_blank">this magical experience in the mountains</a>, <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2014/07/our-secret-to-happy-marriage-that-weve.html" target="_blank">our 11th wedding anniversary</a> & <a href="http://instagram.com/p/rwtipLA_UZ/?modal=true" target="_blank">trip to Bosnia/Croatia</a>, the <a href="http://instagram.com/p/pAleA6A_bj/?modal=true" target="_blank">wedding of one of my nearest & dearest</a>, <a href="http://instagram.com/p/s7kOX5g_Vm/?modal=true" target="_blank">my first blogging conference</a> in Toronto and of course, <a href="http://instagram.com/p/xC84SEA_Q9/?modal=true" target="_blank">any time spent with these two</a>. I also <a href="http://instagram.com/p/tvXNKbg_Qb/?modal=true" target="_blank">ate</a>, <a href="http://instagram.com/p/tB9yaIg_Q3/?modal=true" target="_blank">cooked</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/p/sRCBi-A_XC/?modal=true" target="_blank">baked</a> a ton of <a href="http://allkindsoflovely.blogspot.ca/2014/12/eat-maple-rosemary-spiced-pretzel-nut.html" target="_blank">delicious things</a>. </div>
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Over the past twelve months, I've also grown considerably. I've learned the breadth of my resilience, figured out how best to deal with my anxiety, regained my professional confidence and discovered who I can count on during tough times. I'm beyond grateful to have a wonderful husband, family and a great group of friends surrounding me with love, laughter, encouragement and support. I needed them this year especially.</div>
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And I'm grateful for you too! Thank you for sticking with me and my spotty posting. I'm flattered to have you along for the journey and am appreciative of every comment, tweet, email or share. It means a lot to me that you find your way here, especially with all the awesomeness available on the internet these days. </div>
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Things to look forward to in 2015: turning 40 in March (holy shit!), trying to start a family (holy shit x a million! Can you tell I'm scared? But so excited if it does happen!), a kitchen/bathroom renovation, and travelling more. And just generally investing more time and energy in the people that matter and more money in experiences rather than things. That all sounds doable, right?</div>
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Cheers to a wonderful year in store, full of unexpected surprises and delights! And thanks again for reading the blog. If I could hug you through the internet, I would. xoxo</div>
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P.S. Come back soon, will ya. I'm hosting my first giveaway of twenty fifteen soon (: </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/JimmyMarble" target="_blank">Print via.</a></div>
dajana, all kinds of lovelyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11927453458193863799noreply@blogger.com20