First of all, let me apologize for a serious lacking in the cracking effort on my blog as of late. It’s been over a month since my last post and apart from running around like a chicken with my head cut off, out of town guests, the holiday season and a myriad of other responsibilities and fires to put out, I really have no excuse for being so lame …
Truth be told around the same time as my last blog post, we got the word that our dear dog Beli had not in fact torn his ACL as we had previously been told, rather he had bone cancer and only a few months to live. Talk about having the wind taken out of our sails. We went in to the vet to get Beli repaired and we came out with the news that what he had couldn’t be fixed.
Turns out a few months was optimistic and just 10 days shy of his 8th birthday, on January 22nd, 2010, we laid our beautiful furry friend to rest. Cue the tears.
Before I go any further, I really should warn you that this is going to be a long post. Marley & Me was 289 pages long so I will try to keep this shorter than that but I cannot make any promises.
Being a lab lover my entire life, there was no doubt what my first dog would be and even though Beli thought his name might have been “No, no bad dog” most of the time, he was named after a beach in Portugal where Jeff and I got engaged called Beliche Beach.
After growing up and hounding my parents for as long as I can remember “Please, please can I get a dog?”, I was always devastated that the answer was no. So when I moved in with my now husband, I started to work on him “Please, please Jeff, can I get a dog?” and shortly after we got married and bought our house, he conceded and we went puppy shopping! We settled on a breeder in Abbotsford and a little dog we nicknamed Whitey as he was the lightest color of the bunch. He also seemed to stay on his own and Jeff thought he might be a bit boring. For those of you that had the pleasure of meeting Beli, boring is not an adjective that would be used in the same sentence as Beli.
On my 30th birthday and a few days before we were scheduled to pick up Beli from the breeder, Jeff surprised me by bringing our 8 week old labrador retriever home and from that point on, our lives changed forever.
At first I was worried because after wanting a pet my entire life, I thought, maybe now that I had one, it wouldn’t live up to my expectations. Time would tell.
Beli, or “the beast” as some of us affectionately referred to him from time-to-time, was an amazing dog. We kept telling people he was gifted but his antics and failure to pass his obedience training didn’t convince everyone.
We had heard labs would eat anything and over the years we lost countless loaves of bread, tomatoes, chillies, beer caps, cob of corn and god knows what else. Perhaps the most memorable article Beli ingested was a fisherman’s glove that he found while beach combing near Porteau Cove. We had no idea until he threw it up one afternoon, all except one finger from the glove. That surfaced the next day. EWWWWW!
Unbeknownst to us, when he was a pup he also got his paws on a pound of butter. I couldn’t figure out where the butter had gone that I had left to soften on the counter but figured Jeff must have put it back in the fridge. A few days after the butter had gone “missing” we were en route to our friends place to make some salsa and stopped in at Safeway to pick up a few ingredients. Since Bel’s was a pup at the time, I was a bit worried about leaving him in the car but when we got back to our Honda Civic, he was sitting in the back seat looking so beautiful and well behaved. If it weren’t for the vomit all over the front passenger seat, we would have still thought he was well behaved. An entire pound of butter, foil and all came back to haunt him and haunt us for years to come. We tried everything to get the smell out of our car. Years later, we had it detailed just before we sold it so hopefully the dude that bought it doesn’t read this blog post and calls to try to get his money back.
In the past month, Beli had some good days but particularly in the last few days before he passed, his condition had deteriorated to the point where he had very little quality of life and by quality of life, we mean having the ability to sniff neighborhood scents & other dogs bums, pee like a girl (he never mastered the leg lift), hump randomly and to generally enjoy life as he used to know it.
When Marley and Me came out, Jeff bought the book for my birthday and I couldn’t put the book down. The parallels to our life were uncanny, although John & Jenny had 3 kids and we only have 2 (Hmm … think that is where the parallels end). Then when the movie came out on Christmas day in 2008 I wanted to go but held off until our 7th anniversary dinner a couple of weeks later. In the theatre, I started off laughing so hard I snorted and when the movie ended I was weeping.
I thought that Beli would be around the same age as Marley when he passed (and our kids would be around the same age as John’s kids) but regrettably, we lost our pal earlier than that.
As you can see, I had no need to worry that my expectations would not be met, they were far exceeded. Beli, you were one of the greatest loves of my life and while this may not be a NY Times Best Seller or a movie featuring A List Actors, it is my tribute to you. I honor you, cherish you, love you and miss you.
Sue
Beli’s Mom & Chief Executive Mom at Raspberry Kids
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Our latest newsletter: http://www.raspberrykids.com/newsletter-jan11-2010
The Award Winning Creative Cookery Club has a retail value of $139.99 and all new and existing Raspberry Patch newsletter subscribers are automatically entered so don’t delay, sign up for our newsletter today!
All of our new and existing Facebook Fans also receive a ballot so if you have not become a fan of Raspberry Kids yet, now is the time!
The draw will take place in early January via random.org. Good luck to each and every one of our valued Raspberry Patch newsletter subscribers and Facebook Fans!
This is just our way of saying thank you for all of your support!
Sue
–
Sue Sinclair
Chief Executive Mom, Raspberry Kids
On the web: http://www.raspberrykids.com
Tweet with Us: http://www.twitter.com/raspberrykids
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He wrote not a word in his Momiji or espe journal, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose!
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle,
And away they all flew like the down of a thistle.
But I heard him exclaim, ‘ere he drove out of sight,
“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a fresh, healthy & fun night!”
From Mrs. Claus
a.k.a
The Chief Executive Elf at Raspberry Kids
Sue Sinclair
Chief Executive Mom, Raspberry Kids
On the Web: http://www.raspberrykids.com
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More details: http://www.raspberrykids.tel
Fellow mompreneur, Karen Randall from New & Green Baby cloth diapering asked me to write some content for her recent newsletter about gift giving considerations this holiday season and I thought I would share it with our blog readers as well.
Humming and Ha-ing this holiday season? Here’s some tips we hope help you:
The main questions I ask when considering a purchase is “who makes it”, “where is it made” and “what is it made from”. I have to feel good about the answers to each of these questions before I will proceed with my purchase.
I definitely look for items made in Canada or the US but will consider products that are ethically made or have been made with consideration to the environment as well as Fair Trade products from around the world.
Packaging is another huge consideration with a “less is more” preference. I avoid plastic and twist ties like the plague and opt for no packaging or eco-friendly packaging and make sure all of the packaging is recyclable. I also look at creative ways to wrap presents by re-using wrap from years gone by or getting creative with using gifts as packaging. For example, wrapping another present in a backpack, or giving a piece of jewelry in a lunchbot or goodbyn container and the like.
Lunchbots Uno & Duo
Having seen lots of products since the birth of my eldest 4.5 years ago, I really look to buy less “things” and opt for higher quality (ie. usually a bit more expensive) items whether it be clothes, feeding products and toys because the old adage “you get what you pay for” still rings true and these items tend to last longer, wear better and can be passed down to future generations. This cannot be said of all products on the market so definitely keep an eye out for good quality as it is worth it in the short and long run.
Another great way to reduce waste or unwanted gifts is to create and share a wishlist. Make sure to include items in a variety of price ranges but this helps to channel those that mean well and want to get something for you or your children but at least this way, they are buying something you need or want. Electronic gift cards are a really good option as well and are especially good for those that leave their shopping to the last minute!
It’s December 1st tomorrow. If you haven’t started thinking about Christmas, my last tip would be start earlier rather than later. We have already seen some very popular toys sell out for the year!
Have a fresh, healthy & fun day,
Sue
Sue Sinclair
Chief Executive Mom, Raspberry Kids
On the Web: http://www.raspberrykids.com
Tweet with Us: http://www.twitter.com/raspberrykids
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More details: http://www.raspberrykids.tel
Wondering what to get the Super Moms on your list?
She is the quarterback, the Jill of all trades, the CEO of the family, the Chef, the Chauffeur, the milk factory, the referee, the tutor and the housekeeper. Let’s face it Moms, have a lot on their plates!
And for just that reason, we have come up with a list of gems just for Moms this holiday season:
1. The Quoteable Kid. OK, already, I know you are asking what the heck does that have to do about Moms but if you are like me, you get a huge kick out of all of your hilarious Out Of The Mouth Of Babes (OOTMOB’s as we like to call them at Raspberry Kids) moments and this wonderful book allows you to capture each of them in an organized fashion. This is a much better option than jotting these newsy items on bits of paper or a restaurant napkin. These books are small enough to keep in your purse or diaper bag and in a pinch, you can use the quotes for a quick status update on Facebook or Twitter or as a conversation starter at your holiday parties.
My Quotable Kid, $19.95
2. We recently connected with a local mom who designs some of the prettiest jewelry around, Christine from BLUSH designs. Check out the pieces she has made exclusively for Raspberry Kids including earrings, bracelets and necklaces. Considering the lack of sleep we get, we need to replace the sparkle in our eye with something!
BLUSH Designs bracelet, $19.99
3. Long before we launched Raspberry Kids we were fans of Canadian designed espe products and now we are so pleased to sell them in our store. The range includes so many funky, adorable and modern designs in a range of colors so there truly is something for everyone. From wallets, to lunch bags, to luggage or laptop bag tags, to shoulder pouches, to card holders and notebooks, these make an excellent gift for Moms or others (think Caregivers, Teachers, Hostess gifts).
5. Last but certainly not least are the wonderful products from Klean Kanteen. We’ve long used the water bottles in our family but were absolutely over the moon when they recently came out with Klean Kanteen wine Karafes, available in stainless steel or merlot colored. For someone who likes the outdoors, walks, hiking, picnics and who also loves red wine, this item is a must have under your tree.
Klean Kanteen Wine Karafe, from $29.99
Hints for Moms reading this: How do you make sure you get what you really want this holiday season? You either drop some very obvious hints (including URLs, magazine clippings taped to the mirror with big circles drawn around the item you desire) or you pick up a little something for yourself while you are running around like a mad woman leading up to the holidays. If you want it done right, you gotta do it yourself
From Raspberry Kids to you and yours, we wish you a fresh, healthy & fun holiday season!
Sue
–
Sue Sinclair
Chief Executive Mom, Raspberry Kids
On the Web: http://www.raspberrykids.com
Tweet with Us: http://www.twitter.com/raspberrykids
Become a fan: http://www.facebook.com/RaspberryKids
More details: http://www.raspberrykids.tel
Raspberry Kids Warehouse will be open to the public for some in person seasonal shopping hours:
Raspberry Kids has recently moved into fresh new digs down near Granville Island. Our new address is #204-1540 W. 2nd Avenue.
If you live in or are visiting Vancouver in the next couple of months, we want to invite you to come and see us on the following days and times when we will be opening our warehouse doors for some in person shopping:
November: 14, 21**, 28 from 12:00 to 5:00 PM
**We will be open until 7PM on November 21st and are co-hosting a Stella & Dot jewelry party on site. 25% of Stella & Dot sales are donated to BC Children’s Hospital.
December: 12, 19, 20 from 12:00 to 5:00 PM
December: 21, 22, 23 from 10:00 to 4:00 PM
December: 24 from 10:00 to 2:00 PM
We are also co-hosting special events with Felicia Lee from Usborne Books:
Sunday, November 22nd from 2:00 to 6:00 PM
Tuesday, November 24th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM
We are also booking private shopping events for you and your family & friends. Please email shopping@raspberrykids.com for more information and to check on availability.
For those of you that live afar or prefer to shop online, obviously we still welcome your online orders and remember we can ship to 3rd parties with enclosed gift messages which makes for a HASSLE free shopping experience! Save yourself the time of running around, parking, finding the perfect gift, enclosing a gift message and then racing to the post office to ship it. Let Raspberry Kids and their elves do all the work for you this holiday season!
You can also take advantage of our new electronic gift cards that you can email to yourself or directly to someone else!
We are trying to make it as easy as possible for you this year and we hope to see you in person or online. We have an incredible selection of toys, stocking stuffers, books, clothes, gear and more!
We thank you in advance for considering Raspberry Kids for gifts for the little ones in your lives!
We hope you have a fresh, healthy and fun festive season.
Sue
Chief Executive Elf, Raspberry Kids
Check out our great selection of Stocking Stuffers, Toys & Books for the upcoming holiday season! Shop early for best selection.
On the Web: http://www.raspberrykids.com
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More details: http://www.raspberrykids.tel
It ceases to amaze me how much stuff such a little being requires. I mean they are so little yet when we leave the house for a simple outing, I need to remember to take everything including the kitchen sink because without a doubt, if I have forgot it, I will need it.
When Christine from Vancouver Mom asked me to put some suggestions together for ideas for what to get babies this holiday season, this is what I came up with:
1. Colette Kids or Made in Canada Oopsy Doodle Designs Organic Onesies: At a very young age, our kids lived in onesies and while I thought I had gone overboard and had bought too many, we used them all and we used them often. These also make great gifts, particularly the Oopsy Doodle Designs as they are gift wrapped in environmentally friendly boxes.
3. Our kids didn’t use soothers for long but when they did, their binkee clip holders came in very handy. We offer Sweetpea Baby or locally made Silver Spoon Clips to help keep tabs on your baby’s pacifier.
4. Bath time is so much fun and one of the most used gifts we ever received were hooded towels. These are an excellent choice for yourself or others because you can use them from age newborn to about age 4. We adore both the Dwellstudio Hooded Towels as well as the 3 Sprouts Organic Hooded towels. Don’t forget to pick up some PVC, Phthalate & BPA free boon bath toys while you are at it.
We wish you a fresh, healthy & fun holiday season!
Sue
Sue Sinclair
Chief Executive Mom, Raspberry Kids
Check out our great selection of Stocking Stuffers, Toys & Books for the upcoming holiday season! Shop early for best selection.
On the Web: http://www.raspberrykids.com
Tweet with Us: http://www.twitter.com/raspberrykids
Become a fan: http://www.facebook.com/RaspberryKids
More details: http://www.raspberrykids.tel
It has been 3.5 days of lifting, stairs, sweating, torrential rain mixed with sunshine, packing, unpacking, dismantling, setting up, trips to Costco, Canadian Tire, Save On foods and a lot of sweat equity from my better half but I am pleased to say our new warehouse is 95% set up! Still need to finalize the phone lines, internet, printer & a few other minor details and we are good to go.
Our new Raspberry Kids digs are in a shared office in the Arthur Erickson Water Fall building down near Granville Island. We love our new hood and cannot wait to welcome Raspberry Kids customers once we establish our …
I do tend to get excited about a lot of our products but I get especially excited when I find products that I think moms can really use and appreciate. Products that are well designed, have a nice aesthetic yet are functional.
No I am not talking about the latest and greatest binkee clip, blankie or burp cloth, this is not a feeding product or a toy that will amuse your child for hours. It could well be better than ALL of that!
Klean Kanteen wine Karafe in Silver & Burgandy, from $29.99
The Wine Karafe™ is designed to hold a standard, 750ml bottle of wine and is made from high quality, 18/8, food-grade stainless steel that’s totally free of BPA and other toxins. Because stainless steel itself is safe, they don’t need to coat the inside of the bottle with a plastic or epoxy lining, which is one of the main differences between a stainless steel Klean Kanteen™ and aluminum bottles.
Whether it’s up a ridge to your favorite picnic spot or along a beachside trail, replace that glass bottle with a lightweight, shatterproof Wine Karafe™. When you get there, make a toast knowing that the glass of wine you raise retains its true flavor and because let’s face it, you deserve a little wine for having to put up with the other kind of “whine” sometimes.
Consider this as a great gift this Christmas for yourself or others!
Cheers,
Sue
Sue Sinclair
Chief Executive Mom, Raspberry Kids
On the Web: http://www.raspberrykids.com
Tweet with Us: http://www.twitter.com/raspberrykids
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More details: http://www.raspberrykids.tel
We have always had a soft spot for Dwellstudio and love the fresh & fun designs they are known for. We eagerly anticipate their new catalogs and not just for the awesome motifs they come up with but also to see what new products they are unveiling.
Well it is that time of year again and we are absolutely in love with with their new designs and products and cannot wait for our shipment to arrive.
From toys, bedding, bath, travel and every day essentials, we have you covered. Speaking of covered, check out this new bath wrap. Great for toddlers who have outgrown their Dwell hooded towels.
New Dwell Bath Wraps coming soon!
One of our all time faves is the new Owl woodland pattern. What’s not to love? Shown here in their new sleepsacks …
New Dwellstudio Owl Sleep Sack coming soon!
And for the bigger kids, it also comes in a duvet set …
New Dwellstudio Owl Duvet Set coming soon!
The paper dolls pattern is also a winner.
New Dwellstudio Paper Dolls Crib Set coming soon!
Accessorizing is a must with the matching Dwellstudio boudoir pillow
New Dwellstudio Paper Dolls Boudoir pillow coming soon!
And finally, we are very pleased to be adding Dwellstudio rugs to our line up. This item will ship directly from Dwell upon ordering. We will carry all styles but we have featured the new owl design and the ever popular transportation motifbelow.
New Dwellstudio Owl Rug coming soon!
New Dwellstudio Transportation Rug coming soon!
Look for these Dwell products and more coming soon to Raspberry Kids. We anticipate our first shipment within a couple of weeks with the remainder following by the end of October. If you see something you like and want to place an order in advance, just drop us a line at info@raspberrykids.com
I won’t keep dwelling on how awesome these products are (pardon the pun) & we look forward to bringing these and more of Dwell’s amazing collection to you very soon!
Enjoying the spectacular September sunshine,
Sue
Sue Sinclair
Chief Executive Mom, Raspberry Kids
On the Web: http://www.raspberrykids.com
Tweet with Us: http://www.twitter.com/raspberrykids
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More details: http://www.raspberrykids.tel
