Anticipation..

Well... it's May 10th and I'm 3 months in and things are getting pretty intense. Planning for a new baby is a very stressful process. Especially when the 'arrival' date is very unexpected.

Originally I figured I would take my time, I have 9 months to enjoy the prospects of being an expecting mother, however, that expecting date may just have been shortened to 6 months.. Well, no big deal.. right? Haaa... not so much.

I jumped the gun a little bit when I actually went to visit the breeder. I didn't know what I was expecting, but I certainly didn't expect to be as overwhelmed as I was. I was determined to stick to my goal, and wait the full 9 months, therefore, I made a full 9 month plan so I began the plan on Saturday April 28th, 2012.

I had a list of prospective breeds and a list of breeders close by I wanted to visit. However, due to sanitary reasons, it's not suggested to visit more than one breeder any given day. So I had a few appointments I was waiting to hear back from. The first one I received was from a woman named Mary who was very responsive to my emails and messages and managed to answer all my questions so I made the appointment. Mary run's a large property on the outskirts of King City north of Toronto which breeds both Golden Retriever's and Basset Hounds. Basset Hounds just happen to be my #1 choice on my list of potential breeds:

1 - Basset Hound
2 - (English) Cocker Spanial
3 - Shar Pei
4 - Dalmation
5 - Pug or English Bulldog

Even though I hadn't set my list in stone, I decided to go with my gut on this one. I took my cheque book....

The drive was about an hour or so, and it was a lovely, warm spring day. I probably couldn't have picked a better day actually. Unfortunately I had attended a wild soca rager the night before so my head wasn't exactly in the right spot, but surprising enough, liquid advil's work at an astonishing rate even when you wake up in a miscellaneous hotel room 4 steps away from your front door (don't ask)...

In an effort to look 'presentable' for my breeder appointment I managed to throw myself together and look like one of those gangly messy celebrity mug shots with a caption that would likely say something along the lines of... "Demi Moore after a workout" As the idea of going to a breeder often implies that, not only will I be scoping out the place to suit my needs, but the breeder would also be scoping me out as well. An adoption interview... if you will?

The pressures of motherhood began to sink in. Since I already have a baby at home, he requires no responsibility, he's essentially a teenager that just learned how to drive and I barely see him anyways.. So needless to say I felt a little pressure, especially with the weighing guilt I would have for attending a party I had attended the night before, WITH a baby at home... ouch..

Well, all the guilt, the headaches, the pressure disappeared when we rolled up to the property. Nestled on a small secluded country road, a large sign "Golden Asset Kennels" welcomed us along a long winding driveway rocky driveway as we pulled it. It was so charming I wanted to jump out of the car and enjoy the country side.

Along with the main house, only a few meters away, a smaller 'garage' type building stood, that was fairly new (later confirmed just built) with a laberyth of chain link fences surrounding it. Out of the grass and trees came running 7 or 8 stubby legged, floppy eared, little balls of fur and wrinkles, howling and drooling their way to where we were standing.

Words can't describe it but I fell in love almost instantly and of course.... I took photo's.. since posting photo's is what all the kids are doing.. I'll post:

The final photo is Miss. Annie who is the mother-to-be.

I don't think I need to elaborate any more on this story. The facility was immaculate, the people were lovely, warm and welcoming, the dogs were extraordinary and loveable and I've never written a cheque so fast in my life.

So now I remain on the waiting list, hoping to get one of Annie's litter's that were due May 2nd. I haven't heard anything yet from the breeder on the health of the puppies or the mother but I anticipate word shortly.

HAPPY!!!!!

Stay fabulous
- jennarae

I'm... expecting...

Sooo... I realized I wrote a bunch of miscellaneous stuff on here that I didn't publish. Most of it I deleted, but some of it I published. Anyways, I'm going to try not to make that  mistake again! HA HA!

A VERY common trend I've noticed with, I'd say, about 85-90% of my friends is that they're all settling down, getting married, having children, buying houses/car's.. etc. and I'm not going to lie I feel a little left out. With me turning 26, I made a decision that I'm going to do something important with my life this year so I started thinking about my options.

I don't know if I'm old enough to be making such big decisions about my life but, not having children is something I've 99% decided I will never do. For several reasons. I may be almost 26, but I don't feel over 15. I have an inability to plan ahead (which makes me a terrible money-saver), I still depend on my parents, and I tend to make quick rash irresponsible decisions at the last minute. All of which are characteristics I need to grow out of before I ever/if ever, decide to start a family.

Regardless, I feel like I'm missing the thrill of the child-bearing experience. The attention, the mindless chatter with strangers about baby talk, the life change, as well as the intangible encouragement to get your life together. The very idea that there's going to be someone else that will depend on you for the next 18 years (in my case 26 years) is pretty intense. I think people take parenthood for granted sometimes, especially in this day and age, and I'm not going to be one of those 'mothers'.

With that being said.. I've made a decision..

With my financial life slowing coming together,  and my social life becoming less impromptu and more 'sophisticated' and 'under control' I feel like if I gave myself a bit more time I too, could be expecting an addition to the family.

HAHA! Before anyone gets crazy, everyone who knows me longer than 6 minutes knows how much I hate children, and I have yet to justify it, I just do. I've actually pinpointed that rooms full of children drive my anxiety up the wall more than I even realized at first. ALSO, anyone who knows me longer than 2 minutes knows that Bean's is my whole world, and well.. my animals are my children.

Weeelllllllll I'll cut to the chase, I'm THINKING about buying a puppy. I'm giving myself 9 or so months, to baby-proof my house, my finances, and my life in general, to prepare for my new addition. Personally, having a puppy is a much larger responsibility than having a child. I've had animals all my life, and I understand the responsibility, that's why I'm giving myself 9 months to make a decision.. (if not longer!)

The idea of treating it like, '9 months until the baby comes', to some, might be the cries of a lonely woman, but it makes the wait time more exciting! I have a lot of things I want to do, things I need to learn, and things I need to deal with until the addition comes, and it makes it so real. I also work better under pressure so I think it'll be a good motivator for me.

I've found a city I love, full of people I love, and a job I enjoy. I still have a lot of thinking to do, and who knows, in a month or two I could be totally changing my mind about all this, but that's why I'm giving myself 9 months :o) (it's a little more forgiving than a real pregnancy but it's still exciting to me).

Call me crazy.... cause that's what I am...

Stay fabulous.
- Jenna.

Tea Time in February

People always think there's something about turning 25 that makes you put life into perspective. I disagree. 25 didn't phase me. I think maybe the winter months scare me a little more than the summer months so my actual birthday gets lost in the craziness of the Canadian summer, so I suppose it didn't have the impact that it should have.

Now that I'm turning 26, things feel different.. I can't really explain why. Maybe I feel a bit pressured to make bigger decisions for myself, to do bigger things, or even.. dare I say it... feel bigger things? I've never been one to sit down and say "today I need to find myself" or aspire to "learn something new" or "snuggle up with a good book" which are things I enjoy doing, but I don't think it defines me as a person. With that being said, what kind of person am I? Maybe I'll know when I turn 26.

There's something very unique about me I think I'm going to share with the world this year. I haven't figured it out yet, but it's going to be big.. not just for the people in my life who know me best, but most importantly, for myself.

Stay Fabulous,
- Jenna

Another New Year

I know people tend to make these overwhelmingly obscene new years eve resolutions and over indulge themselves on trying to take that one "good first step forward"... and frankly... it's kind of annoying. With that being said, I purposely took the first week of January as a write-off. The gym is a perfect example of this. It's like the first year of University. Everyone punctually attends their classes wide-eyed and ready to learn (or ready to work out, lose weight), but by week 2 and 3... the sparkle and new-ness has faded and people continue on with mundane little lives feeling like they've accomplished something and they'll "try again next year." The point I'm trying to make here is that, like the street's on the first year of University, the gym is a nightmare the first week of January...

This year I didn't take that approach. Like I said, I wrote the whole first week of January off. Don't get me wrong, my job did weigh me down a bit so I didn't exactly get to "relax" ... I mean.. everyone has to catch up from the holidays right? However, I did make some interesting resolutions that I haven't been able to iron out the details for, but that's why the year is so long right?

Some old habit's will need to die, hard... and some even older habit's will have to kick it into high gear this year. When and where that will take place, I haven't decided. Maybe I should aspire to be a bit more organized with my goals? But then again, 'formal goals' freak me out.

I'll have to do it without Anca this year. Which makes me really sad. I justified my sadness though. She's only in Korea for a year, and she's doing a wonderful thing for herself. So it makes me happy. Every day I hear from her is exciting. It's like watching a really good TV series and you can't wait for next week's episode! I think it'll be a good year for us.

It's a little far fetched at this point, but I've aspired to travel this year. I didn't last year and it drove me up the walls. I enjoy my little life I've made here, my little friends, my little apartment, my little adventures, but sometimes you need to go big and crazy. I was hoping my travel plan's would be set in place a lot sooner rather than later, but this might turn out to be a next "fall" thing at the rate I'm going.

Regardless, it's week 2 of the new year and I still feel pretty good. Which puts me ahead of about 80% of the population who probably gave up after the first week. Well my gym was pretty empty yesterday so it just goes to show ya.....


Stay Fabulous xo
Jenna

COUNCIL STATEMENT! #VoteBarnhardt #VoteMaracle

Official statement posted by Ted Maracle as part of council:

#VoteBarnhardt #VoteMaracle for December 3rd!!

Thanks for all the support!!

________________________________________________________________

My name is Carl (Ted) Maracle and I am seeking your support for election to the position of Councillor of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte.

I believe in:
Healthy community: one in which we can work together, play together, plan together and be unified by the decisions we make together.

Healthy Work Enviroment: one in which every staff member is treated in a fair and
consistent manner enabling them to deliver service with excellence.

Transparency/Accountability: keeping you informed regularly of all funding and spending
issues, policy and program updates.

Engaging the Community: continuously seeking the community in-put through committees
or other forums.

Employment: creating jobs or assisting new businesses and partner shipping with existing
businesses.

Education: continuously encouraging, helping and assisting members in achieving their
goals.

Integrity: always keeping my word and never promising anything more than doing my best.

I understand that there are many outstanding issues and concerns in our community; the
proposed water treatment plant, education funding, our aging infrastructure (administration
office, fire hall, school, roads, etc), by-laws or the lack thereof. I will ensure that the community is aware of the status or progress of these issues through regular correspondence.

I am determined to serve you, our community, in an open, respectful, honest, fair and consistent manner.


My name is Carl (Ted) Maracle, I am the youngest of six children and raised on Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. I am married to Debbie, 31 years and father to two children; Missy and Shala and have four grandchildren. Missy is a CHR for MBQ and has one daughter and two sons; Shala is a full time student at Loyalist with one daughter.

I was employed by the Mohawks of The Bay of Quinte for over 18 years as their in-house electrician before accepting a position last November as an Electrical Inspector with the Electrical Safety Authority. For the past approximately 20 years I have been a volunteer member of the Tyendinaga Education Committee. Also I’ve been a member of the Mohawk Pentecostal Church for over 30 years and have served as a Board Member, Secretary Treasurer, Sunday School Teacher, Youth Leader and actively as a Worship Leader. I have also served as a volunteer on many steering committees over the years and have been involved in policy developments or amendments through-out our communities programs and services.

On Dec. 3, 2011, I ask for your vote!

If you would like to discuss any of my concerns of if you have any questions or concerns of your own, please contact me at 613-966-0009 or carlted1112@gmail.com

“A sense of humor is part of the art of leadership, of getting along with people, of getting things done.”
- Dwight David Eisenhower quotes (American 34th President (1953-61). 1890-1969)

OFFICIAL STATEMENT! #VoteBarnhardt

So my mom has officially released her statement as nominee for Chief of Tyendinaga,
Please see below :) and spread the word to everyone!!!!!!!! #VoteBarnhardt

- Jenna

_____________________________________________________________


My name is Carla Barnhardt and I am asking for your support in the election for Chief of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte.

I believe in the strength of our community. We have many individuals and groups who have a great deal to contribute to the unity of our community. There is always an opportunity to learn from each other, to bring ideas, solutions and expertise together to promote a healthy community. We need to listen to each other and to work together.

I intend to serve my community in a respectful, honest, fair and consistent manner. I believe we all must be supportive of one another. We can listen to the wisdom of our elders and apply it to the new reality that growth brings.

Change is a very intimidating occurrence but thoughtful change can often be beneficial. Our programs need to upgrade procedures and policies to better accommodate the reality of our community.

ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES

I would like to promote economic development. Small businesses would create jobs for our young people and strengthen our community. Currently, the band has very little assistance for new or existing businesses. A rotating loan fund could be established, to assist our start-up businesses. Planning advice and referrals to other helpful organizations would also be required.
It is very clear that there are many in our community with an interest in starting businesses. This would allow more of our people to return to the Territory to raise their families in our culture.

The water quality issue is very serious and widespread. The majority of the community needs to install water purification systems to clean their well water or install holding tanks because they do not have enough water. I have inquired about why, after 15 years of talking about water, so little progress has been made. The answer is always “no funding”. Perhaps it is time that we used our community resources to deal with the issue of contaminated water. I believe the entire community needs to discuss and plan how to proceed. This is too important to us to leave in the hands of the government.

A new administration building, with access for the disabled and elders is needed now. The building is not safe; leaking roofs, evidence of asbestos, outdated equipment, poor wiring, poor ventilation/air quality and the list goes on. It is a stressful work environment due to political interference. Established policies are often ignored but are never amended. Law suits, sick leave and absenteeism is at an all-time high within MBQ. Important positions stand empty for many months, such as Human Resources and CAO. Many departments are short staffed.

Over the years positions have been created to develop by-laws for Tyendinaga. However, to my knowledge, none have been completed and the reason is unknown. Whenever members raise an issue to council, the answer is always that nothing can be done, since there is no by-law.

As the years go by, fewer and fewer community members vote. I find this not only distressing but difficult to accept. My hope is that the 2011 election will bring all eligible voters together, to create change, grab on to opportunities, share accomplishments and increase wellness in our community.

I would like to make certain that there are adequate programs for our Youth. There have been some good examples recently. We need to ensure that a variety of programs and activities are available to meet the needs and interests of the youth in our community. They are our future. There are many problems that need to be addressed. With effective, regular two-way communication, we can be certain that all of the members of our community are involved in looking at the issues and working towards solutions. Establishing clear communication within the community will be one of my priorities. I believe all members should be aware and informed
of all issues affecting our community.

BACKGROUND
My name is Carla Barnhardt, born to Carl (late) and Della Maracle. I am the fourth of six
children; Sharon, Val, Lynn, Penny and Carl (Ted) and raised on Tyendinaga Mohawk
Territory. I am married to Ken (Sam) Barnhardt, 36 years and mother to three children; Cory, Matthew and Jenna and a grandmother to three. Cory is a foreman at Ontario Hydro, residing on the Territory with his wife (Stephanie) and two sons (Jacob and Riley); Matthew, is a steel worker, also residing on the Territory with his wife (Heidi) and daughter (Isabella), and Jenna a Technical Report Writer & Researcher for Scientific Research & Experimental Development in Toronto.

I have been employed at the Mohawk Administration Office for 15 years, currently as the Supervisor of Revenue and Collections. Prior to this, I worked for Dr. Clare Brant and The Native Mental Health Association for 5 years. For the past approximately 22 years I have been the volunteer treasurer for the Anglican Parish of Tyendinaga.
On Dec. 3, 2011, I would like to join with you to heal and grow our community!

If you would like to discuss these issues or have any questions please contact me at
613-966-9734 or carla2056@gmail.com

“Being in a leadership position does not make you a leader. ...Leaders are identified by a community. You become identified as a leader when others recognize that you contribute to some meaningful change.”
2005 - Akuda Benjamin Social activist. Source: Profiles of Peaceful Women by Sierra Bacquie on Section15.ca Accessed June 2011.

#VoteBarnhardt

For those of you who don't know what #VoteBarnhardt is by now, my mom, Carla Barnhardt, has taken a step up and decided to run for Chief of Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory and I couldn't be more proud of her. For year's she has worked in the administration and has observed all the recklessness of the current Chief R. Donald's mistakes over the years. With some encouragement to members of council, no one has taken a stand to actively run against him, until now.

So, we're going to try something new here. Outreach and raise awareness, particularly with the members who are currently living/working on the reservation. However, acknowledgement to outside community members who still want to be involved with the voting process and helping the youth of Tyendinaga change their community for the better is still greatly important.

Although no official statements have been released by each of the running parties, I'd be very interested to read them and follow this election closely, not just because it's my own mother who's running, but because there's a different vibe in the air this time around. Awareness is becoming a main priority with the #VoteBarnhardt campaign. Even if people aren't #VotingBarnhardt as long as they're voting we would have done our job!!

Follow me on twitter and Facebook for all the campaign updates directly from the horses mouth.

Stay fabulous!
#VoteBarnhardt
- Jenna