born a canuck, always a canuck

The Hubs recently took the plunge and became an American citizen. He figured it is about time he votes and has the eligibility to run for public office (the only two things he wasn't able to do as a Canadian).

He was naturalized on June 13. It was quite the event. It was held in a large theater in downtown capital city. Big time stuff. He was ushered in one way and we were ushered into the basement. Yes. A total party for the kids and I. I'm very very happy I actually packed snacks and a diaper bag full of distractions. This is the room we were in:

Super fun. The Hubs is somewhere in the room we are watching on the screen.

I must say how surprised I was at how emotional I got during the swearing in. It was truly such a neat experience and I'm glad we were able to be there all together. I know I take my American status for granted. Being there, I was reminded of what a sacred thing it is. My citizenship is definitely not on my mind all day, everyday. But I know for many of the people there it has been and to be able to achieve the seemingly impossible, for them, is life changing.

I always knew I would marry a foreigner but I'm glad he can now join the ranks of the stars and stripes. Besides, he will always be a Canadian at heart. He still loves his Big Turk's and Ketchup chips.

chubby club

Back in April I took on a challenge: to be chubby no more. I am sure there are many who can relate to my plight. 

I was introduced to The Chubby Club and decided to join. It is an eight week weight loss challenge and I decided working hard for 8 weeks can't be so bad. Plus it was the exact motivation I have been needing. Between The Chubby Club and using MyFitnessPal (one of the best apps), I started to lose. 

I went from this:

(yes, I totally just posted my fat pic)

To this:

Three weeks in I was on fire but then in the fourth week I hurt my leg. I was told to stay off it for 6-8 weeks. To be sidelined was a HUGE disappointment especially when I was doing so well (of course this had to happen to the most impatient person on the planet). 

I have signed up for my second round of The Chubby Challenge and am happy to report the leg is functioning at a good 97%. I have come a long way but still have more ground to cover. I am so glad I will be able to now cover that ground wearing these:

I know now how Dorothy felt when the ruby slippers ended up on her feet. BUT I bet those were not as comfy as these puppies!
 

first dance recital

Omi had her first dance recital. We were a bit worried about how she would do performing on a big stage in front of people. They had a pre-performance performance at the old folks home a month before and she didn't even want to set foot on the dance floor. Gratefully, she overcame her stage fright and, in my opinion, was the star of the show. Not biased at all. :) 

Here she is with her BF. This was their costume for their first number. Their second number was my favorite. They were orphans and danced to "Its A Hard Knock Life" from Annie. Their prop was a mop. It was such a fun routine!

They were asked to sport grumpy faces as well. Too cute!! 

And you are lucky enough to see the dance now: