Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly [BLOGLOVIN HOP] up to October 3

Another week has come and gone.

Where does the time go?

Wait a minute, don't answer that. I know exactly where it went.

First of all, Ed has been gone all week. That means, I'm in charge of the entire Zoo by myself. Good news is that he comes home tomorrow and The Kids are still happy. Who wouldn't be after dining on cookies for breakfast. Twice.

Part of the week was spent posting new giveaways; one for an incredible knife from CUTCO Cutlery, Authentic tasting rice from Tilda Canada and a Wellness Mat to support your health and compliment your home décor. You can find them all HERE and in our side bar over <--- THERE.

And, we posted our happy conclusion of Aries and her Royal Canin #CatsAgingGracefully Challenge.

And now it's time for...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly [BLOGLOVIN HOP] up to September 26

I love Thursdays!

They give me a chance to remember everything that I've been doing in the week. Such as...

• Aries increased energy levels due to Royal Canin. Well, maybe not so active but definitely happy,
• How the gift of a quarter changed my life,
• Bailey the Dogs very unfortunate haircut,
• Hosted a giveaway linky and opened my Facebook Wall to giveaways. Stop by and post or ENTER TO WIN!
• And our review and giveaway from CUTCO Cutlery. You want this stuff. Trust me.

And now it's time for...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly [BLOGLOVIN HOP] up to September 19

This week was slower than last week. Slightly.

• Max answered some skill testing questions regarding What I Do For a Living!?
• Marcella who is finally home after two years in Korea and two years in Spain came to visit for the weekend.
• We posted a giveaway for a bunch of Wholly Guacamole FPCs.
• We became an affiliate for Zulily. If you haven't checked them out, you should. They have absolutely adorable items for the whole family and your home (!) for up to 90%. New items arrive daily. Create an account and start saving on your first order. Invite friends and earn credits yourself!
• And shared how the Aviva Community Fund wants to give your community a slice of $1,000,000!

And now it's time for...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly [BLOGLOVIN HOP] up to September 5

In case you didn't notice, we've been getting around.

• It began with our trip to the bowels of Algonquin Park for our annual family vacation at The Taylor Statten Camps. Five days without internet was refreshing. Or, maybe it was the air.
• Upon our return, we posted our first (of three) updates on the #CatsAgingGracefully Campaign with Royal Canin. Aries poo has never looked better. I knew you'd be interested.
• Artemis' collection was down to only 34 tutus so I decided to become an affiliate with Zulily (affiliate link). Nothing the matter with saving up to 90% off on kids, womens and houseware items.
• Posted a bunch of giveaways, a giveaway linky and opened my Facebook Wall to giveaways. Stop by and post or ENTER TO WIN!
• and rounded it out with our adventures at African Lion Safari. Don't you have that jingle in your head now.

And now it's time for...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly [BLOGLOVIN HOP] up to August 28

This week has been busy. And I thought that things were supposed to slow down over the summer. Ha!

Here's a taste of what went on:

• Our magical experience at and a giveaway to Canada's Wonderland Amusement Park!
• Five helpful tips from IAMS on how to keep your Dogs happy, healthy and safe this Summer,
• Wholly Guacamole's giveaway that involves avocados, $100 and You!
• A not so average Pulled Pork Sandwich Recipe,
• And we're heading on our annual summer vacation at The Taylor Statten Camps on Canoe Lake in Algonquin Park, Ontario.

And if that wasn't enough, today is the...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly [BLOGLOVIN HOP] up to August 22

We have spent the past two weeks at The Farm filling our days playing in mud puddles, jumping on the trampoline, collecting chicken eggs, building sand castles, Celebrating Aunt Isabelle's 104th birthday, and visiting with Aunt John, Aunt Sally, Kevin and Liz. We can't forget that pig roast!

Plus, trips to Canada's Wonderland with Uncle Andrew and African Lion Safari with Poppa.

A great time was had by all but we are relieved to be Home Sweet Home and that it's finally Thursday and the ...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly BlogLovin Hop for August 8 [HOP]

The weather at the top of Blue Mountain has been treating us well.

Sunshine in the morning, a sprinkle in the afternoon and warm nights with beautiful sunsets.

Yesterday, we celebrated Great, Great Aunt Isabelle's 104th Birthday at the Family cottage at Wasaga Beach. She's looking pretty fine for a woman 104 years old.

The chickens have been laying six "farm fresh" eggs a day with one almost always being a double (anyone know what the name is for that?). Chickens you say? More on that to come.

Today we managed to avoid being eaten by a Lion at African Lion Safari. Do you have the jingle in your head now?

And in case I haven't told you lately, thank you so much for stopping by each week and linking up. It puts a giddy smile on my face to see so many familiar faces.

And on that note, it's Thursday and you know that that means...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly BlogLovin Hop for August 1 [HOP]

We had a very proud experience last week, when we shared about our Walmart shop and donation to our Local Food Bank, House of Lazarus.

We co-hosted a giveaway for a Family Getaway to Syracuse, New York!

All while enjoying the beginning of our annual two-week vacation at The Farm on the top of Blue Mountain.

To add to the excitement, yesterday found us enjoying all the Beauty of Canada's Wonderland.
Be sure to check back for our review and giveaway!

And today we posted our monthly "I Am Canadian" Feature and Linky on In My 30's and It's Time. And it's only Thursday!

Speaking of which, it's time for the...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link up and make some new friends below!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly BlogLovin Hop for July 25 [HOP]

This week, I shared my feelings about what it was like to find out I was pregnant with triplets.

Raved about the Crocheted Owl Hats that we received from The Stitchin Mommy. They're Owl-dorable!

And on Tuesday, as we do every Tuesday, we opened up our Facebook Wall and posted our Giveaway Linky. Don't forget to link up your giveaways and enter to WIN. I promote daily.

And last but not least today is the...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link up and make some new friends below!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly BlogLovin {#BlogHop} July 18

This week, we posted about the marvels of Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Maybe it could help me with that Mosquito.

And posted three amazing giveaways for Children's Place, Norwex Cleaning Products and a Wellness Mat!

Not to mention that Canadian Coupon giveaway.

But that's neither here nor there because today is Thursday and that means the ...

BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link up and make some new friends below!

Link Up to The Zoo's Weekly BlogLovin {#BlogHop} July 4

This week, we made it to the Canada Day party but I haven't blogged about it yet.

I figure I have a 361 day buffer.

We educated the public on the days of the week and that

yesterday was Wednesday, not Tuesday.

And, guest posted at The Koala Bear Writer about the Top Ten Questions you Should Not Ask a Woman Pregnant with Triplets. Because I know that you're all wondering.

And to top it off, we made it to Thursday with the understanding that it wasn't actually Friday. Trust me, this is an item worth noting. And on that note, welcome to...

The BlogLovin Hop
at Journeys of The Zoo!

Link up and make some new friends below!

Bonfires, Giveaways and Humour with Spicy Hobo Greeting Cards {Update}

Another week. Gone by in a flash.

The Zoo took advantage of the warm weather and got some work done outside.

We also created three posts introducing you to some great companies (make this one four!) and offering you giveaways so that you can experience them yourselves. You're welcome.

Without further ado, here is The Zoo's week in review (including the Drivel).

Around Here We Eat Caviar with a Spoon {Drivel}

Another week has come and gone.

Speaking of which, who ever decided that Sunday was the first day of the week?

I don't know about you but it really messes things up for me. Monday should be the first day of the week. Just saying.

Here's The Zoo's Weekly Drivel for April 8...

SUNDAY: Visit to a Maple Sugar Shack in Quebec. Post coming this week.

MONDAY: Issued our first Weekly "Sunday Night at the Movies". Hoping that you'll link up your movie this Monday.

The Week in Review with Some Fairies Thrown In {Drivel}

Last week was a busy week.

We met up with some Fairies, edited a paper and hosted a ton of giveaways to name a few.

Never a dull moment at The Zoo.

And now for The Zoo's Week in Review...

As Much as I Remember About this Week {Drivel}

Let's just cut to the chase.

I've been meaning to do something for a while. You know what they say about "that road" and "good intentions".

But, I forgot about it. I'm no elephant.

Then I became someone's "Blog Crush". I don't kiss and tell.

So I stopped by to say hello to Melissa at "Dreams and Colours". I lied (see above).

Then I remembered again. You can call me Dumbo.

And here we are. Any idea where that might be? I think I forgot again. Oh ya...

The Zoo's Week in Review!

MONDAY: "I Am Canadian" Feature and Linky {Monthly}

TUESDAY: Coupon Extravaganza Giveaway and Facebook Giveaway Wall {Weekly}

WEDNESDAY: Reptile Zoo Giveaway

THURSDAY: BlogLovin Hop {Weekly}

FRIDAY: Ronald McDonald House Charities. Making a Difference and April 5th Trivia

And if you think that's exciting, we have several reviews and giveaways as well as a new Meme starting next week. No rest for the wicked...

How Was Your Week?

  Besos, The Zoo

Hitchhiking to Canada with a Potty? {Drivel}

If you've come here looking for Toilet Training tips or Hitchhiking routes from Mexico to Canada then you've come to the wrong blog.

Okay, maybe not on the second point.

If you've come to hear about puddles in the corner, Teddy's gender, and broken down vans,

You've Hit the Jackpot!

Toilet Training. Remember all those "signs" that Artemis was sending me in November 2011. Well, one year, 4.5 months later (but who's counting, I AM, I AM!) and it seems like she's decided that "diapers are for babies".

Well, there's more to the story than just that (isn't there always!?).

It all started February 24. She decided to wear underwear and that was that. Two weeks later, after NO accidents, she decided that peeing in the closets, under tables and generally wherever she wanted was way more fun. And don't get me started on #2.

Then, a few days ago, she decided that underwear was once again the rave and we're back to using the toilet. I can't believe that I'm going to write this but I wish that she was still in diapers because it would cut down on "accidents" and washroom breaks for the ride home.

Next up, Thing #2 (a.k.a. Max).

Note that Artemis is still wearing a diaper at night but only because she shares a bed with Max and the Water Shortage Issues.

Bazar. We opened up the Bazar again on Sunday and had our best day so far! We made $1,515MXN or $150 as we finally managed to sell one of our three rooftop boxes. Every year, we drive down with one and then leave it here.

This week, I had two neighbours knock on my door asking if I was going to open my Bazar. Another woman wanted to know if I purchased items and/or sold on consignment.

Culturally, Mexicans don't like to sell things. The only time they do is when they really need the money. Then, they definitely don't want their neighbours to find out. Next year, I will definitely take in consignments.

Hasta Luego. After 12 weeks here, we're getting packed up and ready to leave for Canada on March 21. We still have some loose ends to tie up like trying to get the $100CDN back that the bank "stole" charged us and getting Buchephalus fixed...

Drivel Begins with a "D". Unlike The Word Monkey #humor

I'll get right to the point.

If you don't want to read about Earthquakes, Spanglish, More Mexican Parties, Monkeys and the chance to win TONS of giveaways then no point in reading this weeks post.

Don't worry if you miss out, Monkey's are a dime dozen.

1. On February 14, Ed felt an earthquake. The kids and I were out so we didn't feel a thing. It's not the first time we've had one. In fact, we usually have one or two each year. The last time, we were in the kitchen and the whole house started to sway. For the first few seconds, we didn't know what it was and then we ran for the door. The houses in Mexico aren't built like they're supposed to be.

Note that I am aware this is a picture of a volcano or a picture of someone having a "bad hair" day. Have you ever tried to draw a picture of an earthquake?

2. We speak Spanish to the kids about 50% of the time whether we're in Mexico or Canada. After two and a half months of complete immersion in the Spanish language, the kids have started to speak "Spanglish". At least one word in each sentence is Spanish and they often give each other "commands" in Spanish. I'm often at a loss for what they're saying as they're now mispronouncing words in a foreign language!

3. This week, we went to another rocking party in celebration of a friends daughters baptism. As usual, Ed and I ate too much and paid for it later. On the flipside, the kids had the best time playing and dancing with their friends. Here's a video of Artemis dancing with one of her new friends.

And just to make sure that you know what Mexican parties are really like, we took this video after five hours (of a nine hour party). A bunch of the 150+ people had already left. Good times!

Note that you can not hear yourself think and the kids are slightly more hyper by this point as they have been eating candy for the past five hours.

And now for our feature piece of drivel...

The Monkey and The Giveaways.

Another Week. Another Weekly Drivel Post.

Another week.

Another weekly drivel post.

This one has pictures and a video.

I'm hoping that they'll distract you into not noticing that the post lacks substance.


1. Did you know that we are currently residing in Central Standard Time Zone (CST). That means we're one hour behind everyone in Ontario (a.k.a. EST). Mexicans don't recognize Daylight savings time so soon we'll be two hours behind.

2. The kids prefer taking a bath (to a shower) and we don't have one in Mexico. In past years, I've brought them into the shower with me while they screamed and kicked. Fun. That worked okay while they were under 20 pounds, however, at almost 30, we needed to come up with Plan "B"...

Weekly Drivel: Parasites, Pigs Feet and #Giveaways.

There is so much that I have to tell you about The Zoo's adventures.

Partly due to #6 but also because I wanted to offer you something unique.

So, I'm bringing back the "Weekly Drivel" and adding a Mexican touch.

For this week anyways...

1. Every Tuesday, Journeys of The Zoo opens up our Facebook Wall to Family and Canadian Friendly Giveaways. Tons of chances to win, all in one place! Head on over and check out this weeks prizes. Feel free to like us and the post while you're at it.

2. We opened the bazar this weekend and made another $520MXN. Should be enough to pay for the parasite medication that Artemis needs. Probably from eating #4.

3. In case you didn't know, the Superbowl may or may not have been held. Seeing as I don't have a TV in any country where I reside, I can't actually confirm or deny this fact.

How Common is your First Name? Did you Make the List?

All through primary and high school there were three Sarah's in my class. The trio were known as "Sarah the Swimmer", "Sarah the Skater" and me, "Sarah the Skier".

Interestingly, we were all elite athletes in our respective sports.


I also went to school with 4 Jennifer's, 3 Amanda's and 2 Brenda/Laurie/Karen/Susie's. There weren't any out of the ordinary names. I would have remembered.

Nowadays, there are still a ton of common names in the class, however, there are definitely a ton of names that stand out on their own.

I thought it would be interesting to see what were the most common names in the USA in 1971 (http://www.weddingvendors.com/baby-names/popular/1971/) and compare them to those 40 years later (http://www.babycenter.com/popularBabyNames.htm?year=2011). Note that rankings are in "babies per million".