Mangos and structural change

Less is more

2011-08-17T09:57:00.004-04:00

Maryann and I have both started new blogging adventures, but we're going to hold on to Mangos and Structural change to post occaisional updates and family photos.

Maryann:
http://www.dailyparable.blogspot.com/
http://www.outsideathome.blogspot.com/

Ben:
http://www.benroebuck.blogspot.com/

Happy travels!!

Ben

Mary's second new blog

2011-07-22T14:23:00.002-04:00

I started another new blog (in addition to the Daily Parable). It's a co-blog with my sister, called Outside, At Home.

Mary

Trying to Work

2011-06-07T13:58:00.004-04:00

A giant cabbage descends from the sky;
My brain, a ball of ambitious leaves.
Furiously folding them back, the leaves begin to wither.
I reach the end.
Cabbage gas.

Ben

Proverbs 31:8-9 (TNIV)

2011-06-06T09:44:00.001-04:00

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy."

I love how God's heart for justice is articulated in scripture.

Ben

Maryann's New Blog

2011-05-31T13:31:00.006-04:00

I've started a new blog. Here's the link: www.dailyparable.blogspot.com
It's about what God speaks to me through everyday life happenings. -Maryann

Porch Building

2011-05-24T20:15:00.006-04:00

Dad, Jay and Michelle came over the weekend to get a start on our porch. Weldy, Annie, and Edem joined in too. We got the deck done! Just the steps, roof, and railings left. We're so thankful for the help. Dad had gone back to Peterborough before we shot this group photo. The action shot below is Dad, Ben, Jay and Michelle!

Maryann

Decisions

2011-05-20T12:28:00.005-04:00

Rising, turning, jackknife, crashing down;
Swelling upwards, straining to see what lies beyond the precipice.
Each new wave, infinitely complicated in form;
White water thrashing, an angry waltz.

Heightening anticipation, cresting adventure,
Tipping chaos, profound questioning;
Each new wave daring resolve.

Heart on fire, eyes defy taunting waters,
Jaw of iron, fists tighten.

The paddle digs deeper.

Ben

Amelia

2011-04-01T08:04:00.005-04:00

Last week Ben, Isaac and I were in Burlington, visiting Mark, Melissa and Cole for a four-day weekend. It was pretty close to Melissa's due date (April 5th) so I hoped all weekend that Melissa might have her baby while we were there. She woke us up around midnight on Sunday to say they were going to the hospital! Ben said I leapt out of bed and across the room. Amelia Marguerite Hei-ling Peron was born at 5am on March 28th. I love her. Melissa was amazing. Marguerite was my grandmother's name and Hei-ling is my Mom's name. Here's a photo of Amelia and my Mom.

Lessons for Dads

2011-03-17T13:50:00.004-04:00

Every other week, I get to spend a day as a stay-at-home dad with my son, Isaac. We play, we nap, we eat, we adventure around town, we learn...

Today I learned an important lesson to be passed along to other fathers out there:

Feeding raisins to a baby is the equivalent of loading ammunition into a machine gun.

Ben.

Foolishness?

2011-02-21T10:01:00.004-05:00

How is your fool-o-meter doing? I'll say something, and you tell me if it's foolish. First, a practice round:

1) The sky is pink.

Foolish? Isn't the sky blue? I suppose it depends on the time of day, and whether there is a sunset painting the sky pink. Sometimes our initial reaction can stop us from seeing the bigger picture.

2) Jesus, the son of God, came to earth as a man and was murdered on a cross to save me.

Foolish? To those looking for God to prove his existence with mighty miracles, the death of Jesus is kind of like an anti-miracle. Why not come and put everything right? Why not save us from all the suffering and pain in our world?

To those looking to find God through philosophical logic, the Christ story is absurd. Why would the Creator of humanity choose to be subjected to human judgement? Why pay such a high price to save a world that doesn't believe it needs to be saved?

Perhaps there is a bigger picture to be explored.

Ben

Cynicism and Wisdom

2011-01-19T15:02:00.006-05:00

I'm reading in the book of Proverbs at the moment, and I just read one that reminded me of something God was speaking to me last week. It reads,"Cynics look high and low for wisdom - and never find it; the open-minded find it right on their doorstep!" (Proverbs 14:6, The Message).

I think that sometimes I may slide into cynicism which brings a hardness of heart; it's like a pride of intellect that can stop me from seeing the good in others and their ideas.

Searching for wisdom begins with humility, gentleness, awe, and most importantly, the fear of God. This deep respect for God's greatness prevents the human heart from exalting itself, and reminds us of how small we are, and how limited we are in our understanding.

God questioned Job's wisdom, asking, "Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation?" As wise as I ever think that I am, or feel I have become, my wisdom is nothing compared to the all-knowing, all-powerful God who chooses to reveal aspects of his nature to many people in many ways. The wisdom of God is hidden throughout his creation and must be sought out. The moment I feel like I have arrived, I expose my own foolishness and futility.

God wants us to become wise, but Godly wisdom is to remain teachable, to anticipate our daily bread and continuing revelation from the Holy Spirit. I believe that critical thinking is very important, but cynicism masquerading as critical thinking robs us from seeing beyond problems. It eclipses beauty, fragility, solution-oriented thinking, and faith in the goodness of God's unfolding plan.

Ben

Tobogganing

2011-01-04T19:47:00.005-05:00

Gary Hiscott

2010-11-22T20:07:00.002-05:00

When Cez came to visit in the summer, she showed us her father's paintings online. I absolutely love his style. They're colourful and a bit whimsical and just beautiful. They also remind me of our time in Wales. I wanted to post the links in case others enjoy them too:
http://hiscott.blogspot.com
www.eyesondrenewydd.homecall.co.uk
http://garyhiscott.posterous.com

Hallowe'en 2010

2010-11-04T14:24:00.007-04:00

Isaac had an atypical first Hallowe'en. At 3 in the afternoon on Hallowe'en Day, I decided I wanted to carve a pumpkin. No planning ahead. We drove to five different grocery stores and all of them were sold out of pumpkins... of course. At our last stop, I went to the squash section out of desperation and found a big orange Mother Hubbard squash. It was perfect - I carved it and stuck a flashlight in the bottom on our porch.

We took Isaac around to four neighbours. We told them it was backwards trick or treating and gave them fresh banana bread. They all insisted on giving us candy even though Isaac's too small... we didn't object.

Nana and Papa stopped by with Aunt Sherry and then we headed over to Jon and Janie's for their annual Hallowe'en Party.

8 Months

2010-10-21T09:48:00.005-04:00

2010-08-30T09:08:00.009-04:00

Upon request by Aunt Melissa, here are a couple Isaac videos.

2010-08-30T09:08:00.007-04:00

Summer's End

2010-08-29T22:23:00.011-04:00

Isaac's now 6 1/2 months. He rolls over and eats solids and sits up. He loved our stay with Nana and Papa and Uncle Peter for June and July, and he helped us entertain some friends and family who came to stay in August.

Too bad Nana and Papa tend to escape the cameras.

Maryann

2010-07-26T14:49:00.000-04:00

Dana

2010-07-06T11:24:00.004-04:00

Sadly, an old roommate of mine, Dana Tkachenko, passed away recently. Here's a poem that she wrote. It was featured at her funeral and reminds me of how caring and beautiful she was.

Maryann

If I could fly away from this place

Like a bird

I would.

To a velvet night with copper stars

A yellow day with sun splotched flowers

And bands of blue stroked on very thickly

If I could let go of this life

And go to the one where I keep sunbeams in a white drawer

I would.

And my life would be as bright as

A finger painting

As brilliant as

A real smile

And as decisive as

New ink on paper

But I can't do that quite yet

So I will

Keep a marmalade cat

And drink hot tea

And read good books

And I will listen to music

With all of my heart

I will give my time away

And my soul away

To the beautiful things

And the beautiful people

That are all around me

Because I have learned that

In so doing

Each moment becomes a gift

And I intend to find the reality

Where happiness is as tangible as

This pen in my hand

Because I know that it is there

And

One morning

I will get up very early

And just as the sun is rising

I will

Sail through the dawn.

Words

2010-06-21T14:43:00.003-04:00

Words are powerful.

Good words bring life;

Refreshment in a time of sorrow.

Wise words, when heeded, set a life on the right course.

Angry words bruise fragile spirits.

Kind words without kind actions are a cruel masquerade;

The icy kiss of betrayal from a mouth spewing goodwill.

Words unveil the fallen world and the secrets of redemption.

Ben

Por-por and Isaac share a special moment

2010-06-14T08:47:00.003-04:00

Off-the-Grid

2010-05-25T10:11:00.006-04:00

We went to a cottage with friends over the weekend in Kazabazua, Quebec. It was made of straw, concrete and wood, and powered by solar panels. It's called Solisterra (http://www.solisterra.com/), and the owners made the cottage and other ones like it themselves. So nice to spend relaxing time with friends. Isaac was the only baby and looooved the attention.

-Mary

Snoozing

2010-05-03T13:49:00.002-04:00

Team Roebuck

2010-05-03T13:00:00.004-04:00

Jenny (Ben's Mom) and I ran our first race on Saturday! It was a 5k called "Faster than a Pastor", fundraising for Woodvale Pentecostal Church's trip to Uganda. We had so much fun - we were both pretty giddy from the moment we woke up on race day. It felt so special since Jenny didn't let a recent case of pneumonia interfere with her goal to run the race and it helped me to remember I can keep running while caring for a little baby.

Janie (Ben's sister) and Lesley Brock ran the 10k. They're training for a half marathon so they crossed the finish line then turned around and ran the course all over again.

Side Door Mishap

2010-04-27T16:06:00.008-04:00

At 3:30 in the morning, Frisbee barked fiercely and ran downstairs. I followed quickly, having heard the side door open. Nearing the kitchen, I heard a man call out, “Hello?” I opened the door between our kitchen and the side entrance to find a man standing inside our home. We were surprised to see each other.

The man stepped out quickly and mentioned that his car had died and he was looking for some help to boost it. I asked him to wait a moment. I quickly put on some clothes and returned to the man, now waiting outside. I told him that I didn’t have any cables for boosting a car, but he said that he had some. I hesitantly agreed to help him. Then he asked me for money. At first he asked if I had change for $50. He said that he would return the cash the following morning. I said that I didn’t have any money, and that I don’t often carry cash. He explained that his car was also out of gas and that he needed to fill it.

He mentioned that he had an Aunt who lived in the area. Suspiciously, I asked,
“Who’s that?”
“Jean.” he answered.
“Oh, Jean.” I replied, in a knowing manner. I don’t know Jean.

This was when I first reflected on how I didn’t trust this man but had a strange appreciation for his creativity. I liked him.

He had his hands in his pockets for most of our interactions; large pockets on the front of a nice grey coat, possibly made of wool. He was wearing designer jeans, and an old, dirty ball cap. He smelled like smoke.

He requested my help again to boost his car, and to provide some money for gas. I went inside and came out with $20 which I told him I found in my wife’s purse.

We got in my car.

Rounding the corner, there was no car in sight. He pointed to indicate that it was a little further ahead. I noticed a tattoo on his inner left wrist.

“You can turn right here...now a left...another left...”

I questioned how long this road trip would be and, more importantly, how it would end.

After a few more turns, he looked intently for a house on the right. I slowed down. He muttered how he always had trouble finding his wife’s place.

He told me that I didn’t have to pull up to his car yet, since he didn’t have the keys. He got out and asked me to wait. Then he disappeared around the side of the house.

I waited. I didn’t have a cell phone, and I thought about my wife waiting at home, not knowing how far this stranger and I had traveled.

Ten minutes passed, and I had not seen the man. The lights were on inside the house. I wondered what was going on inside. I was not about to approach the house and ring the bell; though perhaps he wouldn’t have minded if I tried the side door.

I left, reflecting on how a man had illegally entered our home, and I had given him $20 and a courtesy drive.

I called the police and recounted the story. The police dispatcher seemed amused by my acts of generosity.

The police came and took my statement. They left.

4:45 am. I lay in bed, unable to sleep.

Don’t forget to lock your side door.

Ben.

Cozy

2010-04-26T10:14:00.010-04:00

I love blankets - they're one of my favourite things. Here are a few of the lovely baby blankets we've received recently.

This is a special quilt that was made by Mary Bright for Ben when he was a baby. Ben's mom saved it and passed it on for our children.

This is our "faith quilt". It was made by Melissa before I got pregnant. She gave it to us right when we found out.

This is a hand-knit blanket from Karen. She knit it in class in Bible School when Ben was teaching. She knew Ben wouldn't ask any questions.

And this is Isaac's circle quilt, made by Kate. He looks pretty happy. Maybe now he'll stop giving her shifty glances, and forgive her for poking him so hard when he was in my belly.

Big Smile

2010-04-08T11:12:00.002-04:00

The McTavish Boys

2010-03-27T15:16:00.003-04:00

Joshua and Matthew came over last week to introduce themselves to Isaac and to fill him in on a few things they've learned due to their two month head start in the world. They showed him how they wiggle and smile and squirm and they told him how grateful they are to have such awesome, loving, patient parents.

They were strapped into their carseats and ready to go when we decided to take a photo, so we popped Isaac into his carseat too.

Nesting

2010-03-11T17:53:00.006-05:00

The lovely Kate and I decorated Isaac's baby room and finished just in time for his arrival. At night he's in our bedroom with us, but he enjoys napping and chilling here throughout the day for now. Sorry for the poor quality photos. Kate's crafting name is Katie Geranium. Check out her blog (www.katevp.blogspot.com).

Justice Rant

2010-03-10T15:25:00.005-05:00

My name is Ben, and I am a Christian.

This is my justice rant:

I believe that Jesus came to save the world,

not to condemn it;

to restore the broken.

I believe that the voice of the church should reflect the grace of our Saviour,

not the condemnation of a made-up angry god.

I believe that I can see what God is like by looking at the life of Christ;

the God who spent his time with criminals,

who quitely led accusers to drop their stones,

who allowed himself to be wrongfully convicted in my place.

I believe that everyone fails in life,

and that everyone needs unconditional love and forgiveness to succeed.

I believe that God chooses to see our strengths,

his image in us;

that He is not as disappointed with us as we sometimes are with ourselves.

I believe that parents who see their children struggling should be offered support,

not mandatory minimum sentences and three strikes laws.

I can see that our human systems of justice oppress and entangle minorities and the poor,

and I believe that it grieves the heart of God.

I believe that God's blessing is not only for our own benefit,

but to care for the needs of others.

I don't believe it's my place to ask God why there is suffering in the world,

but to reply to the same question when God asks me.

I believe that God is both just and compassionate;

that his character cannot be divided.

I believe God wants us to be creative problem-solvers,

patient and wise,

not pushers of hasty solutions.

I believe in feeding the hungry,

and preventing hunger;

in visiting prisoners,

and changing the social conditions that make our prisons overcrowded.

I believe this is a day for good news;

to bind up the broken-hearted,

set captives free,

release prisoners from darkness,

and comfort those who mourn.

This is justice.

Ben.

Aunt Melissa meets baby Isaac

2010-03-09T19:02:00.002-05:00

Maryann's sister visited us last week for the first time since the baby was born. She has posted some photos of her son Cole, and our wee Isaac: www.melissaloftus.blogspot.com

Ben

Isaac Jay Meets Uncle Jay

2010-03-02T17:49:00.003-05:00

Jay and Michelle came to visit over the weekend! Check out their blog for some lovely photos: http://www.michelleandjay.blogspot.com/

Already Aging

2010-02-26T20:42:00.010-05:00

Isaac is now 12 days old, and he has already been having many adventures...many of them related to our incredible inexperience with photography. Many a peaceful moment has been disturbed with a flash ridiculously close to his young face. He is also very expressive with his young face, and can certainly disclose feelings of discontent and disgust.

This baby is also very loved and been held and adored by many fantastic people, including his Grandpa (Dave), Kate, Robyn, and cousin Keira. Of course there have been others, but I don't know how many people want to see photos of each and every Isaac holder posted on our blog!

We are so grateful to everyone who has helped us over the past weeks, providing meals and diapers, and lots of encouragement. Thank you everyone.

Ben and Maryann

Baby Isaac Arrived Today

2010-02-14T19:51:00.005-05:00

This morning at 9:30 am, little baby Isaac was born at home. The labour was so fast that there was no time to go to the hospital. Our midwives were really helpful. Isaac weighed in at 7lbs, 14oz, and was 50 cm long. It was quite the eventful morning.

Maryann and the baby are doing really well, and we're going to take it easy for a couple of weeks before Isaac Jay Hoy-Tse Roebuck makes his big debut in the world. For now, our phone has the ringer turned off to help us get some rest, but we have been encouraged by a number of best wishes from friends and family.

When I finally got to hold the baby, I had what must have been my first fatherly urge to call him "Champ".

Maryann is my hero.

Ben

The countdown is on...

2010-02-07T17:34:00.001-05:00

Maryann's due date is February 21. So soon. She has begun her maternity leave and we are anticipating the arrival of little Isaac. Any guesses on the arrival date?

Ben

Ultrasound baby!

2009-11-12T18:25:00.006-05:00

I'm 25 1/2 weeks pregnant now and we were able to see our little guy again on a second ultrasound. He's healthy and perfect and looking quite Roebuckian.

He's been kicking like crazy so it's funny to see how chill and peaceful he is in this photo. The technician had trouble getting him to move. It must have been too early in the morning for him. She snuck us some free 3D photos.

Thumbs up.

Mary

Grandma

2009-10-04T09:38:00.003-04:00

My grandma passed away last Sunday (Sept. 27th). We featured the poem below in her funeral. She loved to write.

Old Houses
by Peggy (Marguerite) Loftus

Old houses lean into sunset
Faded women before magic vanities
Fingers from Heaven heal weathered wounds
Brush rosy balm on sallow roofs
Trace smoky chimney tops with wisps of gold
Highlight in silver pencil the porch rails
Posts warped, eaves gilded, run ruler straight
Flaws flow and meld
Faceless windows, palettes of frenzied colour, wink and glow
Blinded in self-radiance.

While old homes preen
Night steals and seals the spell
Until dawn’s cold light
Mirrors the truth.

Prenatal Class Ctd...

2009-09-23T13:36:00.003-04:00

Upon greeting us at our second prenatal class last night, our public health nurse referred to us as "Giggle One and Giggle Two".

Mary

Fits of laughter

2009-09-18T10:47:00.002-04:00

Maryann and I had our first prenatal class this past Tuesday. We were prepared for some potentially awkward moments, perhaps a little unnecesary giggling, and I have certainly not been eager for the videos we will have to watch on the big screen, but I am delighted to let you know what happened in our first session.

In the middle of an admittedly awkward suggestion from a unknowing, naive and overly-optimistic father to be, Maryann burst out laughing. Her face went bright red, and she tried to stiffle her laughter with all her strength, but it just kept on coming. She was hunched over the table, visibly shaking. After a few minutes of being unable to regain control, she simply ran out of the room!!!

Haha!!! I love prenatal class!!

Ben

School of the Word Canada

2009-09-07T14:37:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow the first class of School of the Word Canada begins the school year. I am so excited for the year ahead for my friends who are participating, remembering the wonderful year Ben and I had at School of the Word in Cardiff. Some advice people gave us was super valuable in making the year such a great experience. I think this is good advice for approaching just about anything in life:

Open yourself wide and vulnerable to catch all the seed sown into your heart, so it can form deep roots and grow as it is meant to grow
Ask lots of questions - not to be cynical but to learn
Always be open to learning something new - if you think you've heard it all before, you won't be able to receive new revelation
Honour your teachers
Make your focus not on being philosophical or theological, but on knowing Jesus more and more
You get out what you put in

- Mary

Last Days of Summer

2009-09-07T14:26:00.008-04:00

This weekend we went camping for a night at "Root Camp" with the Roebucks. It was a nice way to bid farewell to summer.

The kids caught frogs and tadpoles and minnows all day long.

Delyth was passed from one cuddle to the next.

Frisbee didn't sit still for very long. In this picture, the contents of her tummy are:
- sticks and dirt
- a bar of soap
- a rock
- bits of dead fish
- remains of a plastic toy dog

A night in Japan

2009-08-26T17:29:00.004-04:00

Maryann and I have been in Japan this past week, where I am attending an academic conference. I thought I would write a brief note about my two faviourite moments from yesterday:

1) Maryann throwing up in Starbucks during a run through of my presentation for the conference.

2) The sign posted in the washroom asking that any suspicious packages be reported to the staff immediately.

On another note... here are some photos of our trip:

Ben.

A good quote for a PhD student!

2009-06-22T23:12:00.001-04:00

"The only way around is through"
~ Robert Frost

Frisbee

2009-06-17T17:38:00.008-04:00

Frisbee is the newest addition to our wee Roebuck household. She's part great dane and part chocolate lab and she's 14 months old. She came from a french family living near Montreal - they have four kids, including one year old twins. They only speak french, so right now Frisbee only understands french commands.

She's playful like a lab and calms down like a great dane. She sheds like a lab and has a big great dane head. She's got a sweet personality and is very obedient but she's still testing the limits. She likes to run around and around in circles and she has a bit of a smile.

We decided not to re-name her, but we're certainly having fun with Frisbee nicknames: Frizzy, Frizzberly, Fizz, the F-Bomb, the Frizzbinator... and so on.

Sweet Nothings

2009-04-23T23:27:00.003-04:00

Ben and Maryann exchange some affectionate words:

Ben - "You're my shmoop."
Mary - "You're my poop...(awkward pause)... I didn't mean to say that. Nothing else came out."

I feel loved!
Ben

The House That Melissa Built

2009-04-15T18:40:00.001-04:00

Melissa, Mark and Cole came to visit over Easter. Melissa made this lovely brownie house, just like the house we've bought, carport and all. We move in May 1st!

Quote of the Week

2009-03-24T07:14:00.002-04:00

Pat and Ali to little Garrett McKinnon:

"If you say Ben and Mary ONE MORE TIME, you are going to be in serious trouble."

What an honour!

My God Heals

2009-03-02T22:57:00.003-05:00

I heard the most incredible story this evening.

There is a young woman in Ottawa named Elizabeth who had a stroke some time last year. She was left paralyzed on one whole side of her body, and was admitted to a care facility. She told me that she was unable to move any part of that side of her body, and that she could not feel a thing.

She told me that in December a number of young adults from All Nations Church visited her to pray for Jesus to heal her. She said that as our friend Erin was praying and holding her hand, it began to shake. Elizabeth was amazed that her hand was moving on its own, since this was impossible. She knew that God was doing something.

The next day, Elizabeth was reading a magazine that was sitting on her lap in her wheelchair. The magazine slipped, and as it was falling to the ground she reached out and grabbed it...with the hand that had been paralyzed!! God had healed her completely!

Last weekend she stood before the church and told everyone her story. I had to write about it.

God is real, and He is bigger than any obstacle that we face. But most of all, He is full of love.

Ben

2009-02-18T15:15:00.010-05:00

The tree fell into the theatre just before the elephant sat on the cat's house. All the little mutts and mice thought the walnuts were nice and the chocolate pudding was vanilla.

Ben

Different Worlds

2009-02-09T14:29:00.007-05:00

For just over a year now, Maryann has been signing emails, letters and notes around the house with "Muah!" Now, I am certain to the average girl, this would be an obvious way to write the sound of a kiss: muah!

Not being a girl myself, I was unaware, and as a boy I was likely more predisposed to think of MUAH!! as the way to write a sinister cackle: Muah Muah-ha-HA-ha-HA! Catch the drift?

After reading yet another note signed by Maryann with the "muah" in question, I became very curious. I don't think that I have ever heard her cackle, and I would very much like to hear what sinister melody plays through her head as she writes her standard muah. This weekend, I asked her.

Although the kiss is nice, I prefer to think that she still sends me cackles through emails and notes in pink highlighter.

Ben

Deep Freeze

2009-01-15T20:38:00.004-05:00

Here I am dressed up to head out for work yesterday morning when it felt like -39°C with the wind chill. Skin freezes in ten minutes in weather like this, but I was well protected!

I love that information like this is part of the weather forecast in Canada.

Auntie Poop

2009-01-12T19:37:00.003-05:00

The Roebuck nephews and nieces call Peter, "Uncle PeePoo", but I'd like to claim rights to this name too.

Once when Rhys was just a little baby, I was holding him and he pooped the grossest, greenest poop down his leg (he was just wearing a onesie). Jon was there to coach me, saying things like, "Hold him away from you!" And, "Put him on the table, put him on the table!"

Then, when Carys was a wee baby, the same thing happened.

THEN, when Delyth was just three days old, the first time I met her, I held her for a few minutes and sure enough, soon I felt warm and wet all over my tummy and arm.

Now I've gained a reputation in the Tenthorey household for my magical powers.

Last Friday, Ben and I stopped by to visit those lovely Tenthoreys. Janie handed me Delyth right when we walked in the door. She said she was glad I was there because Delyth hadn't pooped in three days and she really really needed to. I felt so privileged - like I was needed. I had been holding her for about half an hour, when I felt a whole lot of rumbling and a few little explosions. I had done it again - three days worth!

I think I've found my superpower.

-Mary

Maryann's new quote of the week

2009-01-09T17:33:00.001-05:00

Mary, "Amy Winehouse...Isn't she the one from Hillsongs?"
Ben, "No, the one who sings 'They tried to make me go to rehab.'"

Another Mary Moment

2008-12-03T20:59:00.005-05:00

My favourite Maryann quote of the evening was, "Ben, do you think I need to roast my walnuts?"

I probably found that way too funny.

Ben

Cole Mickeal Peron

2008-11-09T17:57:00.011-05:00

Baby Cole has arrived!

He was born on November 8th at 12:54am. He is 7 lbs 9 1/2 oz.

Here are a few photos!

Melissa looks so happy to have Uncle Jay holding Cole!

countdown

2008-11-04T21:38:00.003-05:00

L'il Beeper's now eight days from ETA.

See Melissa's blog for more details...

Beth's Toiletries

2008-10-28T17:32:00.002-04:00

Beth and I shared a room for a year - we shared a bunk bed in fact. And we got along quite well in that little space - we lived our parallel lives with a "goodnight Beth" and "goodnight Mary" to end off each day.

A funny thing happened this weekend - I think our time spent together impacted us in ways we don't even realize. I was at Beth's place and used her washroom, and when I glanced inside her bathtub it was like a mirror image of my own bathtub - the same Aveeno face wash, Dove shampoo and Fructis conditioner. How did that happen? Just a reminder of how glad I am to have shared that time in our wee room together.

mary and kate made a quilt

2008-09-16T20:27:00.006-04:00

Melissa and Mark and BP seemed pleased. I felt BP kick - I think it was his way of showing his appreciation.

Lunch with Ryan and Sara

2008-09-04T15:23:00.002-04:00

Ryan - We don't have this at home.
Ben - What?
Ryan - Mystery sauce!

Glad we kept you on your toes Ryan.

Ben

Baby Cole and the O'Hallorans

2008-08-11T22:28:00.002-04:00

Marie had her baby! Little baby Robert Gordon Cole. He was born at 2:20am on Tuesday August 5th. He's 7lbs 6oz. Word has it he's gorgeously cute. Marie says he's a good little baby.

Also, Beth and Pat are married now! Woohoo Off to Mexico! It was a lovely lovely wedding at Westben.

Camping Quotes

2008-08-11T19:46:00.003-04:00

We went camping at Bon Echo last weekend. Here are a couple memories:

Upon arriving at the beach, Abby greeted Ryan with, "Hey Ry" and then turned to me and said, dreamily, "I call him Ry".

At the campfire Ali said, "There are a lot of Maryanns in movies. Like the Wizard of Oz, "I'm frightened Maryann, I'm frightened.'" Silly Ali. People called me Auntie Em for the rest of the weekend.

-Mary

Welcoming Home Robyn

2008-08-11T19:05:00.004-04:00

I was going to blog about Robyn... how much we're anticipating having her back in Ottawa. How lovely she is. I was going to write about how I like to call her Mogey and I don't think she likes that but she'd never say so because she's so nice. And, how we're going to try to go on adventures and make life interesting and new since she's been travelling the world. I was going to try to write it in Robyn language.

Grin.

I was going to do that, but I feel like the happy birthday wish SHE sent to ME just about sums up how unique Robyn is and how we can't wait to have her around again. Here's her message:

"I am really really glad that you decided to take advantage of the labourious efforts of your Mom some twenty eight years ago to exit the womb and join the rest of us. What a great anniversary to be anniversarying!"

Love you too Mogey.

Mary

An astronaut

2008-07-29T22:08:00.004-04:00

I know Jay already posted this, but I wanted to as well. It just shows me how much we listen to our mothers. She's always told us, "You can do anything you put your mind to". Jay's a rocket scientist, he's built his own canoe, and now he's pursuing astronaut-ship.

Hee hee.

Dear Canadian Space Agency,

I am applying in pursuit of my dream to become an astronaut. My peak mental and physical conditioning will allow me to not only survive but to tame the very wildness of outer-space for the betterment of all Canada-kind.

All of my education and training has been in preparation for this moment, to answer my country’s call for spacemen. I have completed my Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, so my natural mental acuity has been supremely trained and honed with the concepts of aerodynamics, robotics and space systems. Physicality is certainly an area where I am no wimp, for camping, hockey, and ultimate frisbee have honed this body of mine to the point where I have been compared to a Greek god.

Perseverance, tenacity, dedication, charismatic, genius, future Prime-Minister of Canada; all of these words, and more, have been used to describe yours truly. Whether I am captaining the University of Toronto Free Flight Glider Team or leading my ultimate frisbee team to yet another victory, I always demand the best from my teammates and myself. My father has described me as my own biggest critic, and I am, but yet I see no flaws. Perfect candidate, check!

End Letter.

Morning Glory!

2008-07-26T16:47:00.009-04:00

Today my first morning glory bloomed. I'm so happy! I'm growing morning glories, and tomatoes, and mini sunflowers on the balcony.

Some successful basil... and my not so successful rosemary. - Mary

Penguins

2008-07-23T20:21:00.010-04:00

Penguins are a British biscuit - like a chocolate wafer. Our friend James Ramage taught us how to make them super tasty: bite a tiny bit off of two diagonal corners and sip tea through the rest like a straw then put it in your mouth really quickly as it dissolves into warm, chocolatey goodness.

Another fun thing about penguins is they have these great penguin jokes on the wrappers.

Esther brought us some penguins from the UK recently. Here are some penguin jokes to share our penguin joy:

What's black and white, black and white, black and white?
- A penguin rolling down a hill

What's black and white and red?

- A penguin with a sunburn

Where does a penguin store money?

- In a snowbank

What do you need to see a glacier 20 miles away?

- Good ice-sight

What do penguins have for lunch?

- Ice bergers

Why Women Run

2008-07-19T08:51:00.009-04:00

That's the name of a book Melissa lent me recently - she's been cleaning up their house to make room for BP (Baby Peron). I think the book is a compilation of essays by women runners on the topic of why they run. Just a guess.

Sometimes I ask myself that very question - why do I run? Or, more commonly, in the middle of running, I think desperately, "Why am I running?!!!" Especially on Saturday mornings - when I wake up early, without much energy - and proceed to spend the limited energy reserves I have, dripping with sweat along the canal.

Early in Melissa's pregnancy she cut her running down to 5k then down to walking. She was a bit discouraged about that so I told her I would make sure I keep running while she's pregnant. My own little "Run for Melissa".

When I started out my run this morning it was the perfect morning - just like cottage mornings growing up. There was a cool breeze and the water was perfectly still and you could smell summer in the air.

I passed two asian women with big straw hats fishing in the canal. They were putting their fish in an empty Tostitos bag. I thought, now isn't that practical. Why taunt the fish and keep them alive in a little bucket of water when you're just going to eat them for breakfast anyway? The Tostito bag jumped at me when I ran past it. Yikes.

I thought a lot about the dim sum I'd eat for breakfast later on with Carla. That kept me going on my run I think.

I also passed an older woman probably about 50 or so running along. She was good. I thought, I'm going to run like that when I'm older. I'm going to still be running. I thought of the verse, let us run with perseverance the race that is before us...

I think that's why I run.

Mary

Through the eyes of a tourist

2008-07-03T22:04:00.004-04:00

Our friend Esther has just visited us from the UK for 10 days, and what an adventure we had. There is something about entertaining out-of-country guests that makes me so absolutely Canadian and so absolutely thrilled with Ottawa. We showed Esther around town, then the best part...we took her on a huge road trip with our friend Edem from Ghana! Maryann had to work, so I chauffered the two ladies to Peterborough, Toronto, Burlington, Niagara Falls, and then on the weekend, we all went to Montreal!

In Toronto, I did something I haven't done in years...I went up the CN Tower. I loved it !!! Hahaha, we did the whole thing: the glass floor, the sky pod, the cheesy adventure ride, and the open air observation deck. This last part was the absolute best. We laughed ourselves to pieces as the wind whipped around us and nearly carried away Edem! We took a video of Esther describing the experience, and in the end all we could hear was the wind. It was awesome.

Esther's trip ended with Canada Day on Parliament Hill. We went and watched the musical performances on the stage in front of the Peace Tower and then quickly tried to get around Major's Hill Park to watch the fireworks explode over parliament. I guess a lot of people had the same idea, so we ended up sandwiched in the middle of a massive crowd, getting pushed a little in all directions. The fireworks began, partly behind a large tree, while three very drunk and very loud guys directly behind us sang "O Canada", our anthem, as loud as they could. The music played and the whole crowd joined the singing and errupted in a loud cheer. A perfect Canada Day.

Ben

New Quote

2008-05-23T12:21:00.002-04:00

Last night Maryann asked me, "Would you be offended if I placed 'step lightly' signs around our house? ..... ..... I take it by that silence that you object?"

Hahaha.

Ben.

Happy Three Years

2008-05-21T19:36:00.008-04:00

It's our wedding anniversary today. Three years of fun! Here are some highlights of the past little while:

Ben's been presenting at some conferences this year - I've been tagging along a bit. In fact, when we went to New Orleans in February not only did I tag along, but Kate and Thom came too. Kate and Thom are gold. If you want some people that you can be yourself around, spend some time with Kate and Thom. And Olivia and Charlie - the pets are pretty sweet too.

Melissa and Janie, our respective sisters are now both pregnant! Melissa's due in November and Janie's due in December! Can you believe it! Also, two of the Sarahs in the church are pregnant - Sarah Taylor and Sarah Wilkins! Woot Woot! I looooooove it when friends are pregnant. It's one of the most exciting things ever!

We went to Cuba in early May with a team from the church. We visited a number of churches in Santiago, Guantanamo and Bayamo, following two teams from the UK who covered other areas of Cuba. We brought encouragement and testimonies - showing the Cubans we're together with them through the body of Christ. We saw healings and miracles while we were there - tumours gone, backs freed of pain, knees healed.

We've also bought a car this month and went through the process of preparing to purchase a house. In fact, with the house shopping we got to the point where we were about to put in an offer - we were on our way to the real estate agent to do it - and that's how far we got before we stopped and decided to wait a year! There is a time for everything - a season for every activity under heaven. Maybe our next season will bring us a puppy...

Maryann

Quote of the week

2008-03-18T14:39:00.001-04:00

Maryann to Ben: "I love your wrinkly hands; they make me feel young."

More snow!!!

2008-03-12T09:50:00.012-04:00

Wow! This has been the most incredible winter of my lifetime.

This winter Ottawa has had over 400 cm (4 meters or 13 ft) of snow. It is our 2nd snowiest winter since weather statistics have been kept in Canada.

At the top are some shots of the entrance to our house. The best thing about living in a cold climate is that when the snow falls, it doesn't melt. It just stays put until the next snowfall, and the next, and the next, until we are literally buried in snow. The snow banks are almost 2 meters high (over 6 ft)!

This is a little Vegetarian restaurant down the road from our house. Can you see the bike in the snow bank? Hahahaha.

Great snow = great snow forts!
This has multiple rooms connected with tunnels and has snow benches all around the walls for people to sit down. The Canadian flag hanging has been signed by everyone who worked on the fort.

This is one of the pathways that I am responsible for shovelling. It gets really hard to toss the snow up on top of the pile.

And finally, the Sandy Hill Community Centre where the church (All Nations Church) meets. I love all of the icicles hanging from the roof.

I LOVE WINTER!!! It's so beautiful. Of course, I'll still be happy when summer finally arrives.
Ben.

Winterlude

2008-02-29T22:37:00.016-05:00

Ahh! Winter is such a glorious time of year. For two weeks every year Ottawa hosts the Winterlude festival. There is an international snow and ice sculpting competitions, there are free outdoor concerts in the -20 C weather, skating on the Rideau canal, beaver tails, and free hot chocolate. It's wonderful.

This year Maryann's brother Jay and his fiancé Michelle came up to visit us in Ottawa for Winterlude. Here are some photos of the ice and snow sculptures:

Ben.

Baby!

2008-01-16T20:16:00.000-05:00

I've known Marie for about eight years now - she's lovely. We've watched a lot of Friends episodes and girly movies together. We've assembled furniture together. She's put up with Ben breaking her belongings a lot. She's been very supportive over the years.

Anyway, she's married to Rob Cole now - we're very happy for them both. And now she's pregnant! Oh, nothing could make me happier!!! Marie's pregnant!!!

-Mary

Report on Homelessness

2008-01-15T12:38:00.000-05:00

The report I've prepared on homelessness as a research assistant at the Institute for the Prevention of Crime is finally available online! It is titled Homelessness, Victimization and Crime: Knowledge and Actionable Recommendations.

The report brings together information on how victimization contributes to homelessness, and ways that homeless people typically come into contact with the criminal justice system. We then conducted interviews with shelters, academics, and community groups in eight Canadian cities from Vancouver to Halifax to develop a list of practical recommendations for municipal, provincial and federal levels of government.

If you are interested, have a peek by clicking on the photo of the report.

Ben

Let it snow, again!

2008-01-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

Man! Have we got snow. I can't remember a year with so much snow, and all this before the New Year. By mid-December we had already received 1.5 meters of snow...more than the entire snowfall in Ottawa last winter! I love shovelling!

Road trip to New York (pre-christmas)

2008-01-01T12:33:00.000-05:00

Just before Christmas my friends Noah & Robyn, Ryan & Sara, Sylvie and I went on a road trip to New York City!!! Woot Woot!!

We had a lot of fun. Stayed at a cheap hotel in Newark, New Jersey with a 15 minute shuttle bus into Time Square, New York. Time Square is a giant mass of advertisements and video screens. So much visual stimulation! Easy to spot the tourists whipping their heads around trying to take in all of the lights and images.

Our first experience in the Big Apple was the military recruiting booth, right in the middle of time square. It's a very different experience for a Canadian. I learned in first year that the New York City Police Department is larger than the Canadian Military. As tempted as I was to see if the recruiters would accept a Canadian, we ventured on...so much yet to see.

We visited the Hershey's factory and the M&M Store. Here Robyn slipped into her best M&M camouflage to see if she could slip around the store undetected. She was largely successful, and we were able to get up close and personal with the giant M&M's s around the building (Noah knows!).

Ryan discovered that he was part chihuahua.

The public library was incredible! Painted ceilings, giant pillars, lots of books. It certainly made the Ottawa public library look like a shoe-box decorated by a 5 year old. (If you haven't been to the Ottawa library, you are lucky...there is plenty of orange carpet to go around).

Visiting "ground zero", the former site of the World Trade Centre Towers, was a humbling experience. There are now large construction projects underway, continuing to clear the spaces where the towers used to be, and beginning work on the the new Freedom Tower that will be built in their place.

I had to take a minute to be silent and consider all those who lost their lives in the attack on September 11. It seems so surreal, so detached from the busy city surrounding the site. It is understandable how such a large event has impacted the entire country, and to some extent, the world. I was amazed at how lively and resilient the city is. Life has returned to normal: taxis everywhere beep their horns, hip artists try to sell you their latest CD on the streets, thousands of people pour in and out of shops, Wall Street keeps trading, and the 'show goes on' all over Broadway.

What a great experience! A massive snow storm delayed our return to Ottawa for a day, so we hung out around our hotel for an extra day, playing games, watching tv, and having some snacks. We may have gone a little stir crazy. We met a couple of young punks. We were pretty scared.

So, in the words of my good friend Hiro Nakamura, "I love New York!"

Ben

The Capital of Canada

2007-12-10T17:43:00.001-05:00

Last year in the UK we tried to inundate our British classmates with as much information about Canada as we could. We would answer their questions about our mother country with a lot more knowledge than they asked for. We hoped they would absorb every random fact and detail we threw at them.

The first lesson about Canada generally went like this...
"So, you're American?"
"No, we're Canadian" (hee hee - no, just kidding... usually they knew we were Canadian).
It went like this...
"So, where are you from in Canada?"
"We're from Ottawa, the capital of Canada" (note that subtle example of giving them more information than they bargained for).
Their response: "The capital? I thought Toronto was the capital."
"Nope, Ottawa's the capital of Canada."

We really wanted them to get it. Of all the classmates we thought would get it, we would have counted on Matt. Matt's from Huddersfield - he's doing his PhD. He was given the award for highest mark in our class. Matt's clever and he really pays attention too.

Apparently this weekend Matt was in some sort of student quiz. He was shown a Canadian flag. He had to name the country and the capital. He got the country right - not the capital.

Matt, you've let us down... but we still love you.

Lesson one: Ottawa's the capital of Canada.

-Maryann

Snow anyone?

2007-12-03T12:59:00.001-05:00

Right now in Ottawa we have plenty of snow. In fact, Canada is covered with snow from Coast to Coast! We are living in a housing co-op where everyone pitches in volunteering around the buildings to help everything function smoothly. I've been assigned to shovelling snow, so I've been VERY busy. It has snowed for the past 2 or 3 days, without letting up, and I have to shovel about 3 times a day so people can get to their units. Ha hahahahah!!! I LOVE IT!!!

Living in the UK last year, I really missed the snow and the cold in Canada! Now we have plenty of it. We are sitting at a nice -8 C with a windchill of -17 C. I compared this on-line with Cardiff...10C to 14C this week. What a difference! Think of all the things we can do! Shovel cars out of snowbanks, make snow angels, go skiing, skate, snowshoe, visit the sugar bush, make snow men, or shovel an entire co-op! So many exciting options.

One of the greatest parts of a snowy day is how cozy it is to bundle up inside with a nice cuppa hot chocolate. Maryann has decorated our new place so nicely. It's full of colour. You may be able to see that we have about 2 feet of snow on our balcony just off the living room. This is great!!

Environment Canada has predicted that we are going to have our coldest winter in over 15 years! It's the perfect year to live in Ottawa by the Canal, for the winterlude festival with all the ice and snow sculptures, and to dress like a Canadian bear! If you haven't ever experienced a Canadian winter, this one's gonna be a doozie! Don't miss it!!

Ben

Happy Engagement!

2007-10-09T12:44:00.000-04:00

Jay (my brother), and his lovely girlfriend Michelle, got engaged over Thanksgiving Weekend - while having a picnic in Peterborough. Congrats Jay and Michelle!
-Mary

Emma

2007-10-03T11:21:00.000-04:00

Emma stayed with us last week. She came to visit all the way from the UK. This past summer she volunteered with an HIV/AIDS organization in Ghana, travelled around Italy, and then made a final stop in Canada. I must say I enjoyed every minute of her time with us, pretty much just because it was spent with her. Let me record my favourite day of the visit: a day in the Gatineaus with Emma and Kate.

Unfortunately the day didn't begin so well because after Kate kindly agreed to drive, she got a speeding ticket, right on our way out of Ottawa! Dear me. This didn't phase us for long though, and we went on to Wakefield, what a cute town. The shops are absolutely the best - alternative bookstores, shops full of blankets and teapots and cottage paraphernelia (my favourite, I think), and cute little cafés. We had lunch at Café Molo. I would highly recommend it - they give you heaps of fruit with whatever you get. After that we went up to a used clothing store on top of Café Molo only to discover that no one was there and we had pretty much broken in. Oops.

Next was canoeing on Lac Phillippe. Emma's first time canoeing! She was amazing. We followed some loons and at one point we found ourselves on top of a beaver lodge. When we got to the farthest point on the other side of the lake it started raining... caneoing in the nice, warm autumn rain. Finally, on our way out of Lac Phillippe three deer came out of the forest and started playing and prancing and chasing each other right beside the van. They weren't afraid at all! It was amazing!

Alas, Emma has gone home. We do miss her.

-Maryann

(photos to come)

Ben sent a letter to the Minister of Health today...

2007-10-01T15:51:00.001-04:00

Greetings Minister Clement,

Thank you for your hard work to make Canadians among the healthiest in the world. As a citizen, I appreciate the time, energy and thought you devote to your role as Minister of Health.

I am writing with a concern about your recent announcement to develop a Canadian anti-drug strategy. While I support the overall goal of a Canadian public that uses less illicit substances and experiences less substance abuse, I am concerned about the methods that may be employed to achieve that goal.

Approaches that emphasize enforcement over treatment, prevention and harm reduction tend to stigmatize drug users who are in need of help and make them less likely to seek assistance. Harm Reduction strategies have proven, not only in Canadian research but internationally, to significantly reduce the prevalence of HIV/Aids, Hep C, and other diseases associated with drug use.

In light of the overwhelming conclusions of research, a decrease in harm reduction programs, or the closing of Insite in Vancouver would appear to be a deliberately calculated decision to prioritize a law and order agenda over the health of individual Canadians.

As a social scientist, I would like to inquire about the research, theoretical model, and consultations your government has conducted in developing this new approach. Would you please provide me with some documentation that I can review to understand this change in policy?

My concern is that Canada may inadvertently adopt a “war on drugs” approach that may be more harmful and costly to Canadians than your government expects. I urge you to approach this area cautiously, keeping in mind the social and health implications of your decision-making.

Although this letter is brief, I would be pleased to meet with you or a member of your staff accompanied by experts in drug policy and health from the University of Ottawa to explain my concerns more fully, and present you with the research I have alluded to.

As a criminologist, I am concerned about the theoretical underpinnings of your new approach to drugs; as a former employee of Health Canada, I am concerned about how your decision will affect the health of Canadians; as a tax-payer, I am not eager to pay for the associated rise in costs of imprisonment and policing required to implement an anti-drug strategy; and as a Christian, I urge you to adopt a more compassionate approach to those who are typically the most vulnerable and marginalized in society.

In good faith that you will act in the best interest of all Canadians.

Ben Roebuck
PhD (Candidate), M.A. Criminology

A Baby Shower?

2007-09-26T17:31:00.000-04:00

Never having actually attended an event like the one in question, I was shocked to review the photographic evidence of the womanly ritual of preparing for childbirth.

Apparantly these ladies pass diapers full of melted chocolate bars, and guess what type of chocolate they are viewing...or tasting?!?

This has been another man observation.

Ben

Dad and Carmen

2007-09-05T11:58:00.000-04:00

Dad and Carmen got married on Saturday! Noella, Carmen's sister, said it was the happiest she's seen Carmen... EVER! The wedding was probably the most touching I've ever been to.

Carmen gave Dad an eagle feather - a very high honour indeed - instead of a wedding band and also for his work in aboriginal communities and also just for being who he is. She calls him her Grey Bear. Jay was Dad's best man! In his speech he said, "Yah, I've known Dave for about the past 25 and a half years." He also said that Dad has all the qualities that he strives to have as a man.

Nancy, Carmen's musician friend, played at the end of the reception and had Carmen up at the front playing her mandolin. Also, Nancy called up my cousin Kaitlin because she's a stand-up comedian. Kaitlin was not prepared! And, she pulled a very funny little "observation" out of her hat. It was a hilarious, awkward moment. Had to be there. Oh, and we had some special guests:

Grandma came!!! This made us all very very happy!

AND... Connor came!!! He's my little cousin, diagnosed with autism. It was his first wedding and he was amazing! He giggled a bit during the ceremony but he knew that when he couldn't stop giggling that he had to leave the room so he left very discreetly. He loved the music during the reception. Look at Sara (also my cousin)... she's gorgeous.

That's all. Congratulations Dad and Carmen!

-Maryann

Craig Cardiff

2007-08-31T11:46:00.001-04:00

Our church hosted a Craig Cardiff concert in Vincent Massey Park last night. How awesome to listen to great music outside in a beautiful park under the stars. My favourite moment was in the middle of his Dancing Like Pierre song when he covered a bit of Paul Simon. It was absolutely pure bliss. Life is good. Check out Craig's website: http://www.craigcardiff.com/

-Maryann

Sweet Carys

2007-08-27T08:56:00.001-04:00

I told Amelia I'd post some photos of Carys...

kids grow really fast, eh.

Check out her piano hand posture.

Nana and Rhys take her on lots of adventures.

And here's one of the family.

-Maryann

Quote of the night

2007-08-23T23:22:00.000-04:00

Maryann: Do dogs have knees?

Vancouver

2007-08-13T14:18:00.000-04:00

Thought I'd post a picture of the beautiful city of Vancouver, Canada. It's been a while since Noah, Robyn and I did our road trip from Ottawa to Vancouver, but I'd love to go back sometime soon.

Ben

Not that far off...

2007-08-07T12:23:00.000-04:00

I'm still recovering from my near death experience in downtown Ottawa the other day. I was walking down the street when a stampede of wild beavers knocked me off my feet where my head was nearly trampled on by a startled Canadian street Yak. Fortunately it missed and I was able to grab the antlers of a passing moose which pulled me to safety. It's always an adventure living out here in the wild!

Come to Canada! Ben.

The Perons

2007-08-01T09:36:00.000-04:00

Melissa sent me an email yesterday that was signed, "Melissa Peron". Melissa and Mark are now married! Their wedding was beautiful and also very fun - a good combination. Melissa did really well with staying calm and collected all day. She and us bridesmaids were so prepared and organized that we were ready to go an hour before we had to be at the ceremony, so we played cards to kill time (It was 31 so we didn't have to use our brains). Mark was tear-y in the best moments during the ceremony and reception... it was all very touching. -Mary

Melissa dancing with Alison.
Mark and Melissa and Auntie Jo.
Not the best quality but I had to include this one of Mom dancing - she danced the night away!

Institute for the Prevention of Crime

2007-07-13T14:13:00.000-04:00

I am now working at the IPC based in the University of Ottawa. Here's a little description of the Institute:

The IPC was established with a $1.6 million investment by the National Crime Prevention Centre. One of it's principle aims is to gather international knowledge about what works to prevent crime and make it accesible to policy-makers and practitioners. The Institute works with a Network of Experts from right across Canada, and a team of Community Safety Managers from major cities in Canada to influence the way that Canadians deal with social problems.

Many of the most effective prevention programs invest in social development: programs that offer support and training to new parents, pre-school programs with home visits, programs to help youth-at-risk finish high school and become employed, etc. There are so many things that we know reduce crime. The IPC works with all orders of government in Canada, convincing them to invest in what will make our communities safer.

To learn more about crime prevention and the work of the IPC, check out our web site at: http://www.prevention-crime.ca/

Ben

Chillin' with the Family

2007-06-29T20:47:00.000-04:00

We're back in Ottawa. I went through Toronto to Peterborough on my way here and saw my dear dear family on the way - Mark and Melissa are planning their wedding along with my Dad and Carmen. Jay's looking for a rocket science job while his Michelle finishes her pharmacy degree. And, Ma is just as sweet and silly as ever.

Ben flew into Ottawa yesterday, after a week in Cardiff getting in as much time with Gareth and Lydia and Tim and Jo as he could. We'll miss them soooo much.

Now we're chilling with the Roebucks, in Jenny and Weldon's comfy living room, of course. The kids have grown like crazy this past year. Rhys sang us all of 'O Canada' today, and I got some cuddly time with Keira, and Carys tried to hug Kindra about twenty times repeatedly. Ben pretended to be a monster for Aidan and Aren and made them scream all over the house.

We're home. (This is a picture of Rhys)

-Maryann

Onwards and Upwards

2007-06-16T15:55:00.001-04:00

Today was the School of the Word, Class of 2007 Graduation. This year has meant so much to us and I realized today how many people have invested in our lives this year - family, friends, the church here in Cardiff, our church family in Ottawa, all of our lecturers, Roger, Keri, our classmates. It's truly amazing. The ceremony was powerful - our class sang four songs to praise God for the year and for our lives. Tony Ling gave a fantastic address and our classmate Emma Hoskins represented us well in her speech.

Matthew Wankling received the Student Achievement Award (top marks)!!! And, none other than my dear husband Benjamin Roebuck received the Students' Student Award! This award is the highest honour for the SOTW graduation. The students nominate a classmate that best represents their year and embodies the principles of School of the Word. Nominations are kept private and we didn't know he received the award until they announced it today during the ceremony. I'm so proud of Ben!!! He certainly deserves it - he's so humble and passionate and caring and supportive and he's really pressed the class forward this year. I think the friendships we've made this year are friendships for life and I can't wait to hear and see what the future holds for the class.

-Maryann

I'm a Loftus

2007-06-15T16:09:00.000-04:00

Last night we went to Alex's house for dinner. He lives on none other than... Loftus St!!! When we saw the sign, I said, "Wow. Feels like home."

Maryann

Climbed a Mountain!!

2007-06-07T09:16:00.001-04:00

Oooh!! This past weekend our most excellent friends Gareth and Lydia took us to North Wales to climb Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in England and Wales! We had just begun our climb when we heard a distinctly Canadian accent shout "NO WAY!" It was none other than Cheryl Cooper!!! She was quickly coming down the mountain to get to the toilets, and her parents were just a little further up the path. Ha ha ha...we've seen Cheryl so many times in the past few months, it was so funny and almost normal to bump into her on the Mountain (a five hour drive from Cardiff). After some chatter and a group hug, we parted ways and continued up the path.

Three long hours of climbing later, we reached the top of the mountain completely engulfed in cloud! We could only see about ten feet in front of us. We took a picture on the summit, but there is so much cloud we look like we could be at the photo studio in Sears instead of on a Mountain. You'll have to believe us...We did climb a mountain. Unfortunately, the visitor centre on the mountain peak was closed for construction, so there were no toilet breaks for the next 3 hours...we then understood why Cheryl was in such a hurry.

That night we camped in a tent on a farmer's field surrounded by sheep! What a funny experience for Canadians. We aren't used to seeing many sheep let alone having them sniff the tent and leave little packages for your toes outside the tent door. What a wonderful Welsh mountain experience.

Ben.

Another day with Eric

2007-06-07T08:27:00.001-04:00

Last Thursday we embarked on our final journey with our friend Eric. He had been busy during the past two weeks, going to West Wales and then to Northern England for a Jazz festival on the spur of the moment, regardless of being a young man in his 80's.

He took us to Newport for the afternoon. It's another city not far from Cardiff. We went to see a series of 12 locks that would have been used to lower boats from one body of water to another, and he took us to see the famous Transporter bridge. There are only a couple bridges like this in the world. It is a large platform attached to a track at the top. It carries the platform from one side to the other. I've included a photo for Duane, my bridgebuilding friend!

Our day in Bath

2007-05-31T08:05:00.000-04:00

When Sylive was with us, we took a trip to Bath. It's a beautiful older city in the UK, complete with Roman Baths! The baths are fed with hot springs bubbling up from underneath. At the end of the tour, you can taste a free glass of spa water. GROSS!!! It's warm, murky, and dank tasting. But hey! When else will you drink fresh water from a hot spring?

One of the best parts of the trip for us (not necessarily for Maryann), was when a Seagull pooped on Mary's head!! Naturally, we took as many photos as we could. It was soooo funny! It got her right on the top of her head, down her sleeve, and her forehead. Moral of the story: the birds in Bath are vicious; protect yourself!
Ben

Preach It

2007-05-25T08:29:00.000-04:00

It was preaching time in class again these past two days. We each had a go and everyone did very well. Here are some highlights:

Nobody gets there before the Holy Spirit. He's the Spirit of beginnings. -Ian

Live in the bull's eye of what God has for you. - Jez

Dine with the One who wrote it. - Cez (on reading God's Word)

With the Holy Spirit we can go to the ends of the earth. - Emma S.

We can't let comfort get in the way of walking into the inheritance God has for us. We can't let the good get in the way of the best. - Gareth P.

What's your dream? Every one of us has a dream in our hearts - it's inseparably linked to the purposes of God for you. Find it out and do it. The bigger your dream, the bigger the potential for your success. How big is your dream? - Timmy J.

Pursue the goal and not the plan. - Jack

If you try to be like someone else, you're robbing God of YOU. - Amanda

On two years of marriage...

2007-05-21T11:35:00.000-04:00

Today is our 2-year wedding anniverary. Yeah!! Two fantasic years together. It's been so fun. I of course have to complement my wife on this spectacular achievement!! She's so wonderfully patient, kind, loving, full of integrity, and rediculously efficient. She's gentle, compassionate, incredibly intelligent, capable, and full of faith.

I am so greatful that God has provided such a beautiful friend to be my companion in life, and I look forward to the many years to come.

Anyone who wants to know if God is real, if God is good, what Jesus is like, can spend time with Maryann and be assured of God's love. What a woman!!!

Ben.

Mangos and structural change

Less is more

Mary's second new blog

Trying to Work

Proverbs 31:8-9 (TNIV)

Maryann's New Blog

Porch Building

Decisions

Amelia

Lessons for Dads

Foolishness?

Cynicism and Wisdom

Tobogganing

Gary Hiscott

Hallowe'en 2010

8 Months

Summer's End

Dana

Words

Por-por and Isaac share a special moment

Off-the-Grid

Snoozing

Team Roebuck

Side Door Mishap

Cozy

Big Smile

The McTavish Boys

Nesting

Justice Rant

Aunt Melissa meets baby Isaac

Isaac Jay Meets Uncle Jay

Already Aging

Baby Isaac Arrived Today

The countdown is on...

Ultrasound baby!

Grandma

Prenatal Class Ctd...

Fits of laughter

School of the Word Canada

Last Days of Summer

A night in Japan

A good quote for a PhD student!

Frisbee

Sweet Nothings

The House That Melissa Built

Quote of the Week

My God Heals

Different Worlds

Deep Freeze

Auntie Poop

Maryann's new quote of the week

Another Mary Moment

Cole Mickeal Peron

countdown

Beth's Toiletries

Recommended Reading

mary and kate made a quilt

Lunch with Ryan and Sara

Baby Cole and the O'Hallorans

Camping Quotes

Welcoming Home Robyn

An astronaut

Morning Glory!

Penguins

Why Women Run

Through the eyes of a tourist

New Quote

Happy Three Years

Quote of the week

More snow!!!

Winterlude

Baby!

Report on Homelessness

Let it snow, again!

Road trip to New York (pre-christmas)

The Capital of Canada

Snow anyone?

Happy Engagement!

Emma

Ben sent a letter to the Minister of Health today...