We left when it was raining.
The forecast called for rain all day.
It went through sporadic moments of drizzle to downpour.
We were prepared for it.
Extra clothing, puddlejumpers, rain jackets, rain cover for the stroller, toques (because it is cold)...
Filomi Parade was great. The events after were fun.
Despite the rain, we were enjoying our time.
Then for 20 glorious minutes it was sunny.
20 minutes of real, honest to goodness, sun.
We were prepared for rain-but not the sun.
So now I feel guilty.
My little ginger girl has a mild sunburn. Her first sunburn of many that I am sure are to come...(but hopefully kept to a minimum where I can help it)...
What was I thinking? Why did I know bring the sun tan lotion? Her hat?
Why didn't I just put the sunscreen on in the a.m. regardless of the forecast that never really tells the whole truth anyways?
Now I wonder...what is worse, the pain she may feel, or the guilt I feel?
Tomorrow it calls for rain...but, I think I'll keep the sunscreen on hand.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Friday, July 15, 2011
Good Morning Indeed
Sssshhh.
Do you hear that?
I know right-it's......(dare I say it)......silent.
That's right.
I woke up early, had breakfast, a shower, did my hair, worked out even.
My beautiful child, where is she?
She is nestled in to her Dad-sleeping soundly.
That's right.
I have three hours to myself.
No babysitter. No frazzled husband at the end of it.
I almost don't know what to do with myself.
Do you hear that?
I know right-it's......(dare I say it)......silent.
That's right.
I woke up early, had breakfast, a shower, did my hair, worked out even.
My beautiful child, where is she?
She is nestled in to her Dad-sleeping soundly.
That's right.
I have three hours to myself.
No babysitter. No frazzled husband at the end of it.
I almost don't know what to do with myself.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Monday, July 11, 2011
Where is Summer?
The perks of being (the wife of) a teacher.
Summers.
Remember as a kid, how summers lasted forever?
How one day lasted forever and you lived on freezies, and anything that was quick, easy, and allowed you to return to the neighbor's yard for another go on the trampoline...
Well, it is summer.
Only, it's to cold to enjoy a freezie, never mind hang out outside for any length of time. The sun has been totally MIA, maybe it missed the memo that it our time for summer.
Plus, despite the fact that it is already almost mid July, I have hardly felt like we have had a break since there has been so much to do; things have been put off until the end of the school year, and the list is ever so slowly being checked off.
Most of it is done though, so...
Hey-you-Mr. Sun...please shine down on me, I am in desperate need of vitamin D...without it I feel lousy...please shine down on, please shine down on, please shine down on me!
Summers.
Remember as a kid, how summers lasted forever?
How one day lasted forever and you lived on freezies, and anything that was quick, easy, and allowed you to return to the neighbor's yard for another go on the trampoline...
Well, it is summer.
Only, it's to cold to enjoy a freezie, never mind hang out outside for any length of time. The sun has been totally MIA, maybe it missed the memo that it our time for summer.
Plus, despite the fact that it is already almost mid July, I have hardly felt like we have had a break since there has been so much to do; things have been put off until the end of the school year, and the list is ever so slowly being checked off.
Most of it is done though, so...
Hey-you-Mr. Sun...please shine down on me, I am in desperate need of vitamin D...without it I feel lousy...please shine down on, please shine down on, please shine down on me!
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Babysitters
Having a good babysitter is key.
Seriously.
We just had our girl come for the second time to spend with Jay and even though we didn't go 'out' we got lots done.
I think that's the trick, for those of you who aren't sure about leaving your lil' one all alone with the babysitter at first...
Get your babysitter to come, come with you shopping, to the beach, to the park, or hang out in the house.
You, do whatever it is you need to do, with the comfort of knowing that if it gets crazy you are around still.
You get that mental 'ahhh' without the stress or, sometimes even the guilt, that comes with going 'out'.
Seriously.
We just had our girl come for the second time to spend with Jay and even though we didn't go 'out' we got lots done.
I think that's the trick, for those of you who aren't sure about leaving your lil' one all alone with the babysitter at first...
Get your babysitter to come, come with you shopping, to the beach, to the park, or hang out in the house.
You, do whatever it is you need to do, with the comfort of knowing that if it gets crazy you are around still.
You get that mental 'ahhh' without the stress or, sometimes even the guilt, that comes with going 'out'.
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Moving Momz: Just Walk
Okay, LOVE that you are reading this.
But once this is done, you are going for a walk.
I know, I know...you have SO much to do.
Laundry, dishes, vacuuming, clothes to put away, shirts that you should have ironed weeks ago, plus you really need to do the grocery shopping, oh shoot-you forgot to pull that thing-a-ma-bob out of storage for the week, and you need to address that letter so it goes out Monday and...
ENOUGH ALREADY.
Yes, there are tons of things to be done. Aren't there always?
But for now, you are going to go, pack up your kids (yes I know it is hard), and you are going to a park, walk to the store, walk around the block, I don't care where.
Just go walk for 20 minutes. Get your heart rate up. You could even chase after those kids of yours...or push the stroller UP the big hill instead of down.
Just 20 minutes.
Now go.
But once this is done, you are going for a walk.
I know, I know...you have SO much to do.
Laundry, dishes, vacuuming, clothes to put away, shirts that you should have ironed weeks ago, plus you really need to do the grocery shopping, oh shoot-you forgot to pull that thing-a-ma-bob out of storage for the week, and you need to address that letter so it goes out Monday and...
ENOUGH ALREADY.
Yes, there are tons of things to be done. Aren't there always?
But for now, you are going to go, pack up your kids (yes I know it is hard), and you are going to a park, walk to the store, walk around the block, I don't care where.
Just go walk for 20 minutes. Get your heart rate up. You could even chase after those kids of yours...or push the stroller UP the big hill instead of down.
Just 20 minutes.
Now go.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
My dear friend...
It is always hard to watch your friends go through heartache.
It is hard to sit, feeling helpless, just as they surely do...to stop their world from spiraling, seemingly, out of control.
To those of us who know someone who is hitting that bump in the road, that each one of us do from time-to-time, reach out to them. Let them know that you are there for them...
When we are in the thick of 'it' (whatever 'it' is for each individual person), we hear people say "what doesn't kill us makes us stronger", and at the time...it doesn't really help does it?!
No, it isn't until we are out of 'it', that we can see the growth in our lives, in our character...
But I'm going to say it anyways-to my girl out there, "what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger".
Only time will begin to reveal this new facet of your beautiful character-take time to heal, take time to rise above, to learn, and know that you are not alone.
With love.
Busy Life Of a Mom and Daycare Provider: A new chapter?: "Well it is official, I just broke up with my fiance. It was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made in my life. I keep wondering if th..."
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Czech 1, 2, 3
It was one of the (many) reasons I fell in love with him.
When he spoke it made my knees shake.
I always wanted to date/marry a foreign man.
In fact, many of my short novels that I wrote as a teenager, were all based around fabulous men from far away places that I had never been.
My Auntie, and matron of honor, had said "you now have your very own fairytale".
Which was true. You see my husband was born in the Czech Republic. His family moved here when he was eight years old, and much to my excitement, they have retained their native language. In truth, I am sure that after all this time, he sees himself as Canadian as can be...but neither of us forget the journey his family took to get here.
So, as we celebrate the last day of work for my hubby for the next few months, I am also eager for the thousands of opportunities that will surely arise, where he can speak to her.
Jedna, Dva, Tri-as they say...
Yes, this summer will be the beginning of language for my daughter, in both Czech and English.
It will also be a summer of rekindling the love I have for my husband, that has blossomed into a family of our own, and a future of possibilities beyond our wildest dreams.
When he spoke it made my knees shake.
I always wanted to date/marry a foreign man.
In fact, many of my short novels that I wrote as a teenager, were all based around fabulous men from far away places that I had never been.
My Auntie, and matron of honor, had said "you now have your very own fairytale".
Which was true. You see my husband was born in the Czech Republic. His family moved here when he was eight years old, and much to my excitement, they have retained their native language. In truth, I am sure that after all this time, he sees himself as Canadian as can be...but neither of us forget the journey his family took to get here.
So, as we celebrate the last day of work for my hubby for the next few months, I am also eager for the thousands of opportunities that will surely arise, where he can speak to her.
Jedna, Dva, Tri-as they say...
Yes, this summer will be the beginning of language for my daughter, in both Czech and English.
It will also be a summer of rekindling the love I have for my husband, that has blossomed into a family of our own, and a future of possibilities beyond our wildest dreams.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
To the parents of '19 Kids and Counting'
Are you crazy?
Seriously?
19?
I can barely manage one.
Last night was already a late night, an 11pm night. Then she wanted to eat every 40-45 minutes. So by 2:00am I had not slept a wink and she was still wanting the boob.
So my poor hubby took over, came down stairs and hung out with her on the couch while I cried myself to sleep.
At 5:00am, he came up with her and I fed her. Again with the 40-45 minute thing until he left for work at 8:25am.
Then she wanted to play. So we played...and we played for a good 1.5 hrs until she was all wore out. Of course-I was so over-wired I was a borderline maniac.
Then once again, she fed, and slept until my husband came home at noon.
Now will someone please tell me why you would want to go through that 19 times?
Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again... do they really get different results?
Seriously?
19?
I can barely manage one.
Last night was already a late night, an 11pm night. Then she wanted to eat every 40-45 minutes. So by 2:00am I had not slept a wink and she was still wanting the boob.
So my poor hubby took over, came down stairs and hung out with her on the couch while I cried myself to sleep.
At 5:00am, he came up with her and I fed her. Again with the 40-45 minute thing until he left for work at 8:25am.
Then she wanted to play. So we played...and we played for a good 1.5 hrs until she was all wore out. Of course-I was so over-wired I was a borderline maniac.
Then once again, she fed, and slept until my husband came home at noon.
Now will someone please tell me why you would want to go through that 19 times?
Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again... do they really get different results?
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Luck
I don't consider myself an overly lucky person.
I've had a fair amount of good come my way.
With lots of struggle...
I'm not one of these people that 'clean up' with fab prizes.
My brother on the other hand...that boy has a horseshoe up his you-know-what...(note: that sentence is totally hilarious, considering the scenario it would take to get a horseshoe up the you-know-what...)
Just once though, I would LOVE to be that lucky one.
Crossing my fingers, holding my thumbs.
Let this be the week.
I've had a fair amount of good come my way.
With lots of struggle...
I'm not one of these people that 'clean up' with fab prizes.
My brother on the other hand...that boy has a horseshoe up his you-know-what...(note: that sentence is totally hilarious, considering the scenario it would take to get a horseshoe up the you-know-what...)
Just once though, I would LOVE to be that lucky one.
Crossing my fingers, holding my thumbs.
Let this be the week.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Confused baby...
I cracked up laughing at this one.
Truly.
I am sure my daughter thought I was a little deranged.
I think any parent would find this parent...especially those who have breastfed, or attempted.
This Baby is Quite Confused! - The Ellen DeGeneres Show
Truly.
I am sure my daughter thought I was a little deranged.
I think any parent would find this parent...especially those who have breastfed, or attempted.
This Baby is Quite Confused! - The Ellen DeGeneres Show
Doesn't this just say it all...
My brother, in a moment of epiphany's for himself and his life of nerver-ending possibilities, stumbled across this-and shared it...
At first I couldn't help but laugh...
But the innocence struck me so dead on, that I couldn't help but be inspired.
We lose that, as we get older.
We blame it on 'life experiences' that have caused us to 'wise up'.
In truth, so much of our decisions lie in fear. Fear of the consequences, fear of the unknown, fear of failure, fear of change, fear of being hurt, fear of what others might think or say.
We need to find balance between passion, hope and that carefree feeling children have, with common sense.
Wouldn't you love to accomplish something-and have the excitement in your voice, to match his?
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Dollar$ and $en$e-Cool w/ Credit
I was told a story once that stuck with me.
My stepdad went to buy his first CD player/sound system. He went into the store and eyed up a system. It was perfect, great quality (in fact he still owns it to this day). He didn't have the money for it at the time and had every intention of putting it on credit. The guy at the store however told him that he needed to go home and put the money away for the system. That he would feel better about buying it outright.
Now this guy, probably lost commission that day, but I think he was being smart, because he got a life-long customer out of him.
My stepdad, he went home and saved up the money and went back and bought it. I think he did feel better. He also took better care of the system, he knew how hard he had to work to get it.
Now a days, debt is expected and accepted.
Few of us ever save for anything.
It has to stop. We can't keep doing this...we aren't teaching our kids to work for what they want, we aren't teaching them how to delay gratification, how to have patience.
Credit has become our answer, nay, our way out of the marshmallow test.
My stepdad went to buy his first CD player/sound system. He went into the store and eyed up a system. It was perfect, great quality (in fact he still owns it to this day). He didn't have the money for it at the time and had every intention of putting it on credit. The guy at the store however told him that he needed to go home and put the money away for the system. That he would feel better about buying it outright.
Now this guy, probably lost commission that day, but I think he was being smart, because he got a life-long customer out of him.
My stepdad, he went home and saved up the money and went back and bought it. I think he did feel better. He also took better care of the system, he knew how hard he had to work to get it.
Now a days, debt is expected and accepted.
Few of us ever save for anything.
It has to stop. We can't keep doing this...we aren't teaching our kids to work for what they want, we aren't teaching them how to delay gratification, how to have patience.
Credit has become our answer, nay, our way out of the marshmallow test.
Loans, credit, they cover everything from emergencies to: cars, vacations, weddings, new furniture, fancy meals, new clothes, that fabulous pair of shoes that you just 'had to have', the top of the line stroller-you name it, we charge it.
So what do you do? Fancy something new. Whatever is it, price it out...how much do you need to set away to get that item?
If you were going to put it on VISA and pay $50 payments until it was paid off, how about saving it up instead.
Saving it up--> 64GB iPod touch costs $400.00, you can put away $50/month $400/$50=8 months, you have it free and clear...
Throw it on credit--> 64GB iPod touch costs $400.00, you put it on VISA with a 18% interest rate (pretty average) with a min. charge of 2%, it's going to take 62 months to pay off, and cost you $215 more...that's $615 and 4.5 years MORE of your life...
You do the math-was that worth it? Stop being cool with credit-save yourself the $$$.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Moving Momz: Eat Less, Move More
In a culture of yo-yo dieting we, as a society, have come to expect weight loss to be some big science.
It's not.
My husband happens to think this SNL is hilarious.
I think it really does speak to those of us who have been bombarded by everything from Atkins, to grapfruit and beer diets.
Get off your couch, your computer chair, whatever it is you are sitting on...give this 'miracle' a try-you'll be shocked at how something so 'simple', and 'cost effective' can 'change your life'.
Ciao.
Circle of Life
Woke up this morning with this sitting in my inbox-thanks to my wonderful sister-in-law.
I couldn't help but get a little choked up.
Emotional at the best of times, it's hardly a surprise that I shed a few tears at this one.
I just can't help but be in awe of the power of birth, human or otherwise.
It is a reminder of the circle of life (cue Elton John singing)-and how miraculous our time on earth is.
Have a good day everyone, and take a moment to relish in the miraculous things that you have done.
I couldn't help but get a little choked up.
Emotional at the best of times, it's hardly a surprise that I shed a few tears at this one.
I just can't help but be in awe of the power of birth, human or otherwise.
It is a reminder of the circle of life (cue Elton John singing)-and how miraculous our time on earth is.
Have a good day everyone, and take a moment to relish in the miraculous things that you have done.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Brand baby?
Loves tags.
No, really, she loves them.
It doesn't matter what toy you give her, what blanket, if there is a tag-she'll find it.
You lay her on her favorite blankie (courtesy of her Auntie D) and she goes right to it.
She then spends the next while tugging, flicking and sucking on it.
(I can't help but laugh at that sentence; I feel for the tag, my nipples know exactly what it feels like.)
I have some concerns though, about the whole tag thing-does it mean she is going to be a brand baby?
I hope not, because I don't think I can afford her if this is just the beginning of things to come.
No, really, she loves them.
It doesn't matter what toy you give her, what blanket, if there is a tag-she'll find it.
You lay her on her favorite blankie (courtesy of her Auntie D) and she goes right to it.
She then spends the next while tugging, flicking and sucking on it.
(I can't help but laugh at that sentence; I feel for the tag, my nipples know exactly what it feels like.)
I have some concerns though, about the whole tag thing-does it mean she is going to be a brand baby?
I hope not, because I don't think I can afford her if this is just the beginning of things to come.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Purpose
It's been a while...
I find I am having a hard time writing with purpose.
Constant drival...not (totally) my style.
There are just so many things that interest me.
1. Finance, especially helping people avoid many of the mistakes my husband and I (as well as other friends we have learned vicariously through), have made.
2. Health and Fitness. I have done 1 1/2 years of Physical Education/Education degree...which was put on hold to be with my (now) husband. I have played soccer, coached soccer, taught aerobics, dance for a college class, and, overall, really enjoy the fitness industry. Soon to continue, because I am getting my Aquafit Instructors Certificate so I can teach here in my local community.
3. Family. Mines on the crazy side, there is always lots going on.
4. Education in general, I have worked with infants-to high school students. In daycares, as a nanny, and as a support worker in the school sysytem.
5. Music, I am currently teaching vocal lessons, which I love.
6. The arts in general. Part of the North Island Concert Society.
7. Travelling...
8. Of course-a huge passion, WRITING. I enjoy my blog. Have a few novels on the go (I am lacking focus with them, it's easy to get off course with a 5 month old) and have some children's book ideas on my mind...I would love to be published-one day.
So where do I got with all of this? What is the purpose?
I find I am having a hard time writing with purpose.
Constant drival...not (totally) my style.
There are just so many things that interest me.
1. Finance, especially helping people avoid many of the mistakes my husband and I (as well as other friends we have learned vicariously through), have made.
2. Health and Fitness. I have done 1 1/2 years of Physical Education/Education degree...which was put on hold to be with my (now) husband. I have played soccer, coached soccer, taught aerobics, dance for a college class, and, overall, really enjoy the fitness industry. Soon to continue, because I am getting my Aquafit Instructors Certificate so I can teach here in my local community.
3. Family. Mines on the crazy side, there is always lots going on.
4. Education in general, I have worked with infants-to high school students. In daycares, as a nanny, and as a support worker in the school sysytem.
5. Music, I am currently teaching vocal lessons, which I love.
6. The arts in general. Part of the North Island Concert Society.
7. Travelling...
8. Of course-a huge passion, WRITING. I enjoy my blog. Have a few novels on the go (I am lacking focus with them, it's easy to get off course with a 5 month old) and have some children's book ideas on my mind...I would love to be published-one day.
So where do I got with all of this? What is the purpose?
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Father's Day
To all those incredible men out there who take care of their babies, and their wives (partners etc;)...
Happy Father's Day
Truly, life would be a lot harder without you.
A shout out to new father-on this father's day-Cody. He and his wife had a baby boy, and together they get to celebrate this very special day for him. Cheers!
Happy Father's Day
Truly, life would be a lot harder without you.
A shout out to new father-on this father's day-Cody. He and his wife had a baby boy, and together they get to celebrate this very special day for him. Cheers!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
The Aftermath
Like many others, I am embarassed, and horrified at the Vancouver Riots post Stanley cup loss.
It almost seems redundant expressing it here.
However, I feel it is important enough to note, once more.
Please note however, that those individuals responsible for damage and destruction are NOT Canucks fans. They may wear the jersey, but certainly not not the heart.
So, I hope, that through the power of social media, those responsible will be punished.
On another, more positive note...the Canucks did really well this season, and hopefully next year we will get another crack at the cup.
It almost seems redundant expressing it here.
However, I feel it is important enough to note, once more.
Please note however, that those individuals responsible for damage and destruction are NOT Canucks fans. They may wear the jersey, but certainly not not the heart.
So, I hope, that through the power of social media, those responsible will be punished.
On another, more positive note...the Canucks did really well this season, and hopefully next year we will get another crack at the cup.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Hockey Conspiracy
It took everything in me not to crack up laughing.
I am standing behind this guy talking to the cashier at the grocery store.
Of course they are talking hockey-who isn't? Seriously, even if you hate hockey, guaranteed you are talking about hating hockey, as the season drags on.
So the cashier makes a comment about it being dangerous for the Canucks going into game 7, despite home ice advantage.
"You know why it happened like this though right?!" the guy comments.
She gives him a questioning eye, and I can't help but to lean in to listen.
"The league makes more money this way, they stretch the series out because they get millions as each game progresses"
Yes, that's right, the league has decided to make money and that's why we are going to game 7.
It is hardly the first time I have heard of the hockey conspiracy and I can't help but give my head a shake. I think, truly, that people just love a good conspiracy, someone to hate, and hating big companies, big politics, big anything is the best way to exercise our right to 'stick it to the man'.
I left shaking my head. He must believe that the United States staged 9-11 and that walking on the moon was staged too.
I am standing behind this guy talking to the cashier at the grocery store.
Of course they are talking hockey-who isn't? Seriously, even if you hate hockey, guaranteed you are talking about hating hockey, as the season drags on.
So the cashier makes a comment about it being dangerous for the Canucks going into game 7, despite home ice advantage.
"You know why it happened like this though right?!" the guy comments.
She gives him a questioning eye, and I can't help but to lean in to listen.
"The league makes more money this way, they stretch the series out because they get millions as each game progresses"
Yes, that's right, the league has decided to make money and that's why we are going to game 7.
It is hardly the first time I have heard of the hockey conspiracy and I can't help but give my head a shake. I think, truly, that people just love a good conspiracy, someone to hate, and hating big companies, big politics, big anything is the best way to exercise our right to 'stick it to the man'.
I left shaking my head. He must believe that the United States staged 9-11 and that walking on the moon was staged too.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Smile
Yesterday was tough.
The night was awful.
Not great timing since it was my husband's birthday and I had every inention of accomplishing various tasks, which all but came apart because I was tired.
Today however, I woke up to a smiling child.
Smiling must be a child's survival mechanism. It keeps us from eating our young.
My child has a killer smile.
The night was awful.
Not great timing since it was my husband's birthday and I had every inention of accomplishing various tasks, which all but came apart because I was tired.
Today however, I woke up to a smiling child.
Smiling must be a child's survival mechanism. It keeps us from eating our young.
My child has a killer smile.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Dollar$ and $en$e: Identity Theft
You hear about it happening.
I have received telemarketing calls before, you know, the one where "you won a trip courtesy of ___, now all you need to do is pay $XX.XX for administrative fees and the trip is all yours!".
It's creepy though, getting the call.
The, "I am calling from your bank, there has been a mistake, we need to confirm your information..."
I get why some people fall into the trap. You hear it and your heart starts pumping, the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and the panic sets in.
I've watched CBC's Marketplace. I know how it works.
(Click on the link and see what Marketplace is up to.)
They ask me to spell my last name.
I don't.
I hang up the phone (politely), giving not a single shred of information and call my bank.
Yep-scam.
My advice to anyone who gets those kind of calls. Tell them "thanks for the information, I will be in contact soon for more information", then hang-up, and call the bank, hydro company (wherever the call is from) and confirm with them directly.
If it is true, they will re-route to the department that handles those concerns, if it isn't-you just saved yourself a lot of stress.
STAY SAFE: DON'T GIVE YOUR INFORMATION OUT!
I have received telemarketing calls before, you know, the one where "you won a trip courtesy of ___, now all you need to do is pay $XX.XX for administrative fees and the trip is all yours!".
It's creepy though, getting the call.
The, "I am calling from your bank, there has been a mistake, we need to confirm your information..."
I get why some people fall into the trap. You hear it and your heart starts pumping, the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and the panic sets in.
I've watched CBC's Marketplace. I know how it works.
(Click on the link and see what Marketplace is up to.)
They ask me to spell my last name.
I don't.
I hang up the phone (politely), giving not a single shred of information and call my bank.
Yep-scam.
My advice to anyone who gets those kind of calls. Tell them "thanks for the information, I will be in contact soon for more information", then hang-up, and call the bank, hydro company (wherever the call is from) and confirm with them directly.
If it is true, they will re-route to the department that handles those concerns, if it isn't-you just saved yourself a lot of stress.
STAY SAFE: DON'T GIVE YOUR INFORMATION OUT!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
They see me rollin...
She's on the move.
Like my sister-in-law said, it's pretty exciting when the first one does.
Then you get to the second and wise up.
It is pretty fantastic.
Except for the fact that now, when she rolls to her stomach she ends up in tears because she doesn't want to be on her stomach.
So you turn her over.
...and before you get up to go do something, she's rolled right over again.
I thought it was hard getting stuff done before...oh my.
Like my sister-in-law said, it's pretty exciting when the first one does.
Then you get to the second and wise up.
It is pretty fantastic.
Except for the fact that now, when she rolls to her stomach she ends up in tears because she doesn't want to be on her stomach.
So you turn her over.
...and before you get up to go do something, she's rolled right over again.
I thought it was hard getting stuff done before...oh my.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
What Mom Does
Nanna (Jay's Great-Nannna, or Granna for short), my Dad and Sawyer came to visit.
It was fabulous.
I always love a chance to visit with my Dad and brother. Plus this was Granna's first chance to see Jay which was so heart-warming. I am so glad that Jay has the opportunity to have her be apart of her life. Thanks for the visit you guys!
So anyways, from this visit, my brother and I had the funniest conversation...
We were 'testing' Sawyer.
What's Dad's name?
What's Mom's name?
Where do you live?
What city do you live in?
What's your phone number?
What's your name?
All of which, by the way, he can answer. Pretty good for a boy not yet 4 years old.
Then I asked him...
"Sawyer, what does mommy and daddy do?"
(They are both RCMP members, so I was expecting police, cop, something to that effect)
To which he replied, "Take care of me and play with me"
"Okay" I said (though not what I was looking for...so since my Dad has been at home the last few years with him, I thought maybe my question confused him).
So I re-worded my question, "Sawyer what does Mommy do?"
"Pay my toys and pay my clothes"
Pahahahahahahahahahaha, we all cracked at that.
Kids really do say the darnedest things.
It was fabulous.
I always love a chance to visit with my Dad and brother. Plus this was Granna's first chance to see Jay which was so heart-warming. I am so glad that Jay has the opportunity to have her be apart of her life. Thanks for the visit you guys!
So anyways, from this visit, my brother and I had the funniest conversation...
We were 'testing' Sawyer.
What's Dad's name?
What's Mom's name?
Where do you live?
What city do you live in?
What's your phone number?
What's your name?
All of which, by the way, he can answer. Pretty good for a boy not yet 4 years old.
Then I asked him...
"Sawyer, what does mommy and daddy do?"
(They are both RCMP members, so I was expecting police, cop, something to that effect)
To which he replied, "Take care of me and play with me"
"Okay" I said (though not what I was looking for...so since my Dad has been at home the last few years with him, I thought maybe my question confused him).
So I re-worded my question, "Sawyer what does Mommy do?"
"Pay my toys and pay my clothes"
Pahahahahahahahahahaha, we all cracked at that.
Kids really do say the darnedest things.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
On Facebook
Makes me laugh...this was posted on my friends facebook:
Seth: (yelling from the bathroom) I love you Mom!
Char: I love you too, Seth!
Seth: Can you wipe my bum?
The day in the life of a Mom.
Seth: (yelling from the bathroom) I love you Mom!
Char: I love you too, Seth!
Seth: Can you wipe my bum?
The day in the life of a Mom.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Game 5 at Rogers Arena
Edge of my seat
Can hardly watch
The puck goes back and forth
A bad call here
'About time' call there
Those three can make or break our game
The time stretches on
1 OT, then 2
My voice no more, who's gonna score?
Bieksa's bounce
It's the winning play
4 more left till the STANLEY CUP
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Dollar$ & $en$e-Credit Cards
What's in your wallet?
Seriously?
Take a look. How many cards do you have in there?
Okay, so we have one. After a lot of hard work we have it down to $0, which is great because the interest is ridiculous-19.99%.
Which got me thinking about why we have this type of card to begin with, with the interest being so high...
Ah yes, rewards. Specifically travel rewards.
Okay, so there are some people out there that are great at using rewards. They live places where they can shop and use their cards and points to their full advantage. They also know how to 'work the system'.
We are not those people. At all.
Part of it just being lazy (I'm totally fine with admitting that) but a huge part is the fact that we really don't shop much if we can help it, and our town only has one grocery store (not a lot of options here).
So we have this card. We are paying $110+ annual fees for keeping this card, with the purpose of using it for travel rewards...only...we have NEVER, EVER, used it for travel since we've had it.
Actually we have never cashed in on any points. Despite years of using it, we only have about $300.00 towards travel.
Yeah, we bought into the hype of "Oh, the places you'll go".
Sound familiar?
If you, like us, are carrying a credit card with high interest + an annual fee and aren't using the point system-stop.
Why are you paying MORE money to have 'special' credit that you are also going to pay interest on when you aren't even using the points to make it worth it?
Don't allow yourself to fall into the 'points trap'. Take a look at the fine print, find out what your points are costing you. Find out what you have to spend to make it worth it. If the numbers don't add up-you know what to do.
I plan on making a call first thing Tuesday morning (being that Monday is a holiday) to get us into a no or low annual fee with low interest...after I use up the few points we have managed to rack up of course.
Update: Made an apointment for May 31st with Scotia-will let you know how it went.
Update: Just got back from our apointment. Cashed in our points for 2X $100 Gas gift cards and then switched to a No-fee Moneyback Card. This was a great choice for us...the interest is 3% less than our rewards card, no annual fee, and cash back on a certain % of our purchases annually. Thanks Scotia!
Seriously?
Take a look. How many cards do you have in there?
Okay, so we have one. After a lot of hard work we have it down to $0, which is great because the interest is ridiculous-19.99%.
Which got me thinking about why we have this type of card to begin with, with the interest being so high...
Ah yes, rewards. Specifically travel rewards.
Okay, so there are some people out there that are great at using rewards. They live places where they can shop and use their cards and points to their full advantage. They also know how to 'work the system'.
We are not those people. At all.
Part of it just being lazy (I'm totally fine with admitting that) but a huge part is the fact that we really don't shop much if we can help it, and our town only has one grocery store (not a lot of options here).
So we have this card. We are paying $110+ annual fees for keeping this card, with the purpose of using it for travel rewards...only...we have NEVER, EVER, used it for travel since we've had it.
Actually we have never cashed in on any points. Despite years of using it, we only have about $300.00 towards travel.
Yeah, we bought into the hype of "Oh, the places you'll go".
Sound familiar?
If you, like us, are carrying a credit card with high interest + an annual fee and aren't using the point system-stop.
Why are you paying MORE money to have 'special' credit that you are also going to pay interest on when you aren't even using the points to make it worth it?
Don't allow yourself to fall into the 'points trap'. Take a look at the fine print, find out what your points are costing you. Find out what you have to spend to make it worth it. If the numbers don't add up-you know what to do.
I plan on making a call first thing Tuesday morning (being that Monday is a holiday) to get us into a no or low annual fee with low interest...after I use up the few points we have managed to rack up of course.
Update: Made an apointment for May 31st with Scotia-will let you know how it went.
Update: Just got back from our apointment. Cashed in our points for 2X $100 Gas gift cards and then switched to a No-fee Moneyback Card. This was a great choice for us...the interest is 3% less than our rewards card, no annual fee, and cash back on a certain % of our purchases annually. Thanks Scotia!
Monday, May 16, 2011
When being a Mom isn't good enough...
Recalling a conversation I had with an coworker of mine, I remember how frustrated I was. You see, I was telling her that I was looking forward to being at home with my (future) kids until they are all in school. She was shocked, she didn't understand what I would "do" for 6+ years while my kids were at home.
I felt so taken aback, and immediately started defending my decision to stay home and raise my kids.
Then it hit me...
Hold the phone...
When did being a mom not cut it anymore?
Women's Lib.
Meant to free us from the "have-to's".
We wanted the right to work, equally, alongside men. We wanted to be able to take care of our families in other ways.
Women's lib has given us much...but in some ways, I think it has failed women.
You see, I think the fight was about CHOICES. It seems now a days, the word 'choice' has disappeared.
Whether it is pressure from ourselves, our spouses, our friends, coworkers, boss...we women have forgotten that women's lib was about choice.
So STOP.
Stop trying to be the perfect wife, lover, friend, mother, homemaker, employee among the thousands of other things you try to do.
Just because women's lib has come and conquered doesn't mean that now, on top of all those things that women did before, we must also do everything else. It isn't healthy for our sanity, nor our families. Trying to do everything, it isn't possible. Something will lose out in the end.
So take a step back: Feeling like you have to do everything? Well stop. What is important to you? When you are at your death bed, what are you going to wish you did more of? Now do that. You now have a choice, choose it.
Let the other stuff go.
For those of you who might let it 'slip' that your spouse isn't doing 'everything'...remember that we can't do everything. Either can you. Either are you.
There is no way to make your cake, clean the house, play with your kids, look like a supermodel, be the perfect employee, have great sex, have time for yourself...then eat your cake too!
Instead of 'women's lib' think of it as "a person's right to choose". That is something worth fighting for.
To those women and parents who are doing it alone and don't have the choice, I commend you. Let it be a reminder to those of us that can; there are people who would love the choices we have. Don't take them for granted.
I felt so taken aback, and immediately started defending my decision to stay home and raise my kids.
Then it hit me...
Hold the phone...
When did being a mom not cut it anymore?
Women's Lib.
Meant to free us from the "have-to's".
We wanted the right to work, equally, alongside men. We wanted to be able to take care of our families in other ways.
Women's lib has given us much...but in some ways, I think it has failed women.
You see, I think the fight was about CHOICES. It seems now a days, the word 'choice' has disappeared.
Whether it is pressure from ourselves, our spouses, our friends, coworkers, boss...we women have forgotten that women's lib was about choice.
So STOP.
Stop trying to be the perfect wife, lover, friend, mother, homemaker, employee among the thousands of other things you try to do.
Just because women's lib has come and conquered doesn't mean that now, on top of all those things that women did before, we must also do everything else. It isn't healthy for our sanity, nor our families. Trying to do everything, it isn't possible. Something will lose out in the end.
So take a step back: Feeling like you have to do everything? Well stop. What is important to you? When you are at your death bed, what are you going to wish you did more of? Now do that. You now have a choice, choose it.
Let the other stuff go.
For those of you who might let it 'slip' that your spouse isn't doing 'everything'...remember that we can't do everything. Either can you. Either are you.
There is no way to make your cake, clean the house, play with your kids, look like a supermodel, be the perfect employee, have great sex, have time for yourself...then eat your cake too!
Instead of 'women's lib' think of it as "a person's right to choose". That is something worth fighting for.
To those women and parents who are doing it alone and don't have the choice, I commend you. Let it be a reminder to those of us that can; there are people who would love the choices we have. Don't take them for granted.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Paraske----eh what?
Everyone survived right?
Paraskevidekatriaphobia, or specifically Friggatriskaidekaphobia, has wormed it's way into society's superstitious heart...
I am referring to of course, the fear of Friday the 13th, which I am hoping didn't honestly keep any of you on edge yesterday on the auspicious day.
We, the human race, enjoy thrills as well as a good heart-pumping scare now and again don't we.
However, listening to people in grocery lineups talk about how "bad their kids are today" because of full moons, it being Friday the 13th, or because of sugary drinks...
I am pausing for effect. I am sure to receive raised eyebrows at the last one. Do some research, science proves otherwise-that's all I have to say.
...well, it's all laughable.
So yesterday, I laughed it up and survived the day. No I didn't walk under any ladders, but I think that is just the smart thing to do. No black cats either, there just don't seem to be any in the neighborhood...
Superstition isn't big in our house, though fears...we have plenty of those. For example, every time Jay let's out one of her espresso sounding poops, I am afraid of what changing her diaper is going to look like.
Check out the Skeptics Dictionary for more info on Friday the 13th.
For more info on random topics, that aren't just being 'debunked' but examined with a common sense approach and science to back it up, check out one of my favorite's... Skeptoid with Brian Dunning
Paraskevidekatriaphobia, or specifically Friggatriskaidekaphobia, has wormed it's way into society's superstitious heart...
I am referring to of course, the fear of Friday the 13th, which I am hoping didn't honestly keep any of you on edge yesterday on the auspicious day.
We, the human race, enjoy thrills as well as a good heart-pumping scare now and again don't we.
However, listening to people in grocery lineups talk about how "bad their kids are today" because of full moons, it being Friday the 13th, or because of sugary drinks...
I am pausing for effect. I am sure to receive raised eyebrows at the last one. Do some research, science proves otherwise-that's all I have to say.
...well, it's all laughable.
So yesterday, I laughed it up and survived the day. No I didn't walk under any ladders, but I think that is just the smart thing to do. No black cats either, there just don't seem to be any in the neighborhood...
Superstition isn't big in our house, though fears...we have plenty of those. For example, every time Jay let's out one of her espresso sounding poops, I am afraid of what changing her diaper is going to look like.
Check out the Skeptics Dictionary for more info on Friday the 13th.
For more info on random topics, that aren't just being 'debunked' but examined with a common sense approach and science to back it up, check out one of my favorite's... Skeptoid with Brian Dunning
Friday, May 13, 2011
"Was that on purpose?"
Egh.
That was how I felt when I heard the story.
Thought I would share...
A new acquittance of mine had her 4th child a few months ago. Her oldest is 8, her youngest now 8 months old. Over a family holiday down island she was speaking to a parent (yeah, a parent no less) of a girl her sons age...the conversation naturally lead to "do you have any other children?"
To which she replied "yes, I have four of them", and then pointed to husband and youngest daughter and said that her youngest daughter is almost 8 months old.
"She's yours?" the mother replied.
I can almost see now, the proud grin stretch across her face.
"Was that on purpose?"
Pause for effect.
"Was THAT on purpose?"
Was that on PURPOSE?"
That's right, she asked if her beautiful daughter was "on purpose".
Now I don't care who you are, but asking that is just plain wrong.
In some cases, it can be pretty clear that perhaps getting pregnant was not what they were expecting, or perhaps wasn't the first choice timing wise, it might even be apparent that they are struggling with it in a big way. In some cases even knowing that it was their choice, and perhaps shouldn't have been, gets that kind of internal thought process going...
However-since when did taking a look at others actions, deciding that we would never do it, therefore it must be a mistake become appropriate to voice?
Think it, fine. I too have thought those things here an there on various subjects. Speak it aloud though?
Unless a parent offers up that kind of information-WHY WOULD YOU ASK?
What kind of answer did she expect?
"Yeah, the condom broke and I was too busy to realize I was pregnant to get an abortion in time, so now I am just hoping that some sort of car accident will relieve me of the mistake of having a fourth child to clothe and feed-hey, you aren't looking to adopt are you??"
That was how I felt when I heard the story.
Thought I would share...
A new acquittance of mine had her 4th child a few months ago. Her oldest is 8, her youngest now 8 months old. Over a family holiday down island she was speaking to a parent (yeah, a parent no less) of a girl her sons age...the conversation naturally lead to "do you have any other children?"
To which she replied "yes, I have four of them", and then pointed to husband and youngest daughter and said that her youngest daughter is almost 8 months old.
"She's yours?" the mother replied.
I can almost see now, the proud grin stretch across her face.
"Was that on purpose?"
Pause for effect.
"Was THAT on purpose?"
Was that on PURPOSE?"
That's right, she asked if her beautiful daughter was "on purpose".
Now I don't care who you are, but asking that is just plain wrong.
In some cases, it can be pretty clear that perhaps getting pregnant was not what they were expecting, or perhaps wasn't the first choice timing wise, it might even be apparent that they are struggling with it in a big way. In some cases even knowing that it was their choice, and perhaps shouldn't have been, gets that kind of internal thought process going...
However-since when did taking a look at others actions, deciding that we would never do it, therefore it must be a mistake become appropriate to voice?
Think it, fine. I too have thought those things here an there on various subjects. Speak it aloud though?
Unless a parent offers up that kind of information-WHY WOULD YOU ASK?
What kind of answer did she expect?
"Yeah, the condom broke and I was too busy to realize I was pregnant to get an abortion in time, so now I am just hoping that some sort of car accident will relieve me of the mistake of having a fourth child to clothe and feed-hey, you aren't looking to adopt are you??"
Monday, May 9, 2011
Round 3 here we come
Anyone else totally stoked that the Canucks defeated Nashville?
We're tempted to jump in the car and drive around with the post-game honkers that drive around town after a win...
Unfortunately 'jumping in the car' is hardly the same with a 4 month old.
So instead we'll stand at the window "Woohooing", but not too loudly because it just sends Jay a screamin'.
(Thankfully) the quest for the Stanley cup continues...
We're tempted to jump in the car and drive around with the post-game honkers that drive around town after a win...
Unfortunately 'jumping in the car' is hardly the same with a 4 month old.
So instead we'll stand at the window "Woohooing", but not too loudly because it just sends Jay a screamin'.
(Thankfully) the quest for the Stanley cup continues...
Mamma had a baby...
My Mamma had a baby 5 (at 41 years young).
She was 6lbs 9oz and cute as a button. Little Macy Mae*** is 23 1/2 years younger than I am and Auntie to my beautiful little girl...Welcome to the family little girl.
So-to all those who celebrated Mother's day...first time or not...congrats!
***Name has been changed to protect her privacy
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Pancake Ritual
There is nothing like waking up on a Saturday, the troubles of the week behind you, knowing that when you roll out of bed-bliss awaits.
It awaits in the form of a blueberry pancake.
Perfected over years of Saturday morning rituals.
Tasting all that much better because my husband made it, not I.
I'm hopeful that for Jay (and any future children) this ritual becomes as important to them as it is to me.
Maybe they will refuse Friday night sleepovers just so that they don't miss Dad's pancakes...cue the hysterical laughing...okay, so they will probably not base their social calendar around a pancake.
However I hope that as adults they manage to form their own ritual, in some form or another, and that in turn they pass it on to their kids.
Just in case...I'll make sure that my hubby writes down the recipe and sends it off with them when they leave home...or better yet still, we'll keep the lights on and the door unlocked so they can join us!
It awaits in the form of a blueberry pancake.
Perfected over years of Saturday morning rituals.
Tasting all that much better because my husband made it, not I.
I'm hopeful that for Jay (and any future children) this ritual becomes as important to them as it is to me.
Maybe they will refuse Friday night sleepovers just so that they don't miss Dad's pancakes...cue the hysterical laughing...okay, so they will probably not base their social calendar around a pancake.
However I hope that as adults they manage to form their own ritual, in some form or another, and that in turn they pass it on to their kids.
Just in case...I'll make sure that my hubby writes down the recipe and sends it off with them when they leave home...or better yet still, we'll keep the lights on and the door unlocked so they can join us!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Vocal Shackle
You ever have the feeling after leaving a place that you just talked the ear off whomever you were last speaking with?!
It's a syndrome of sorts I am sure.
You see, it occurs when we have spent a little to much time at home goo-gooing and gah-gahing over our little one and not enough time talking to an adult; so that when faced with an opportunity to string more then 2 sentences together we have verbal diarrhea over the closest willing ear.
Unless they are a parent themselves, I am sure they walk off with a need to lie down and have some space to themselves.
Whereas we walk off, bottling the slight high we have had, hoping that the conversation will sedate the need we have until the next opportunity to do it all over again.
So I encourage you, mothers and fathers of the world, go out and unleash the vocal shackle around your mouth. Your thoughts are important...and I want to hear it!
It's a syndrome of sorts I am sure.
You see, it occurs when we have spent a little to much time at home goo-gooing and gah-gahing over our little one and not enough time talking to an adult; so that when faced with an opportunity to string more then 2 sentences together we have verbal diarrhea over the closest willing ear.
Unless they are a parent themselves, I am sure they walk off with a need to lie down and have some space to themselves.
Whereas we walk off, bottling the slight high we have had, hoping that the conversation will sedate the need we have until the next opportunity to do it all over again.
So I encourage you, mothers and fathers of the world, go out and unleash the vocal shackle around your mouth. Your thoughts are important...and I want to hear it!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Sleep
Yawn
Cue Jay crying...
Of course.
So I feed her.
Yawn
She starts dozing...awesome.
I lay her down.
Yawn
Then I lay next to her. She is so cute.
I can't help but plant a kiss on her cute little forehead.
She starts to stir.
Whoops, I try to back away from her, to give her space.
Doesn't help.
Yawn
I pick her up and rock her to sleep...now the question is, can I get her back down without waking her...? Dare I try?
Yawn
I wonder if the candidates woke up feeling as exhausted as I did this morning.
I'm guessing that Michael Ignatieff and Gilles Duceppe hardly slept a wink last night, know what the morning would bring.
I couldn't imagine being responsible for a whole country-not today. Not today when I can't seem to get Jay to nap.
Yawn
I lay back on my pillow, she is cuddled into me, drooling on my chest.
The positive side of not running a country...
I can sleep whenever...whenever Jay lets me anyways.
Cue Jay waking up in tears...
Like I said, whenever Jay lets me.
Cue Jay crying...
Of course.
So I feed her.
Yawn
She starts dozing...awesome.
I lay her down.
Yawn
Then I lay next to her. She is so cute.
I can't help but plant a kiss on her cute little forehead.
She starts to stir.
Whoops, I try to back away from her, to give her space.
Doesn't help.
Yawn
I pick her up and rock her to sleep...now the question is, can I get her back down without waking her...? Dare I try?
Yawn
I wonder if the candidates woke up feeling as exhausted as I did this morning.
I'm guessing that Michael Ignatieff and Gilles Duceppe hardly slept a wink last night, know what the morning would bring.
I couldn't imagine being responsible for a whole country-not today. Not today when I can't seem to get Jay to nap.
Yawn
I lay back on my pillow, she is cuddled into me, drooling on my chest.
The positive side of not running a country...
I can sleep whenever...whenever Jay lets me anyways.
Cue Jay waking up in tears...
Like I said, whenever Jay lets me.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Nary a word...
Shame on me.
It has been brought to my attention that I failed to include the recent nuptials of one, William Arthur Phillip Louis Mountbatten-Windsor to Catherine 'Kate' Elizabeth Middleton on April 29th, 2011.
Blah blah blah blah blah...
I was not one of the many that drowned themselves in coffee to be bright eyed and bushy tailed for the 2am live viewing of their special day.
However it was not because I don't find British History, especially Royalty, fascinating. Its just...this century is a lot less interesting as compared to the time of King Richard, or my favorite, King Henry the VIII-you know, the time when the monarchy had real control over the everyday happenings of the lives of civilians.
In fact, I have devoted hours upon hours reading fiction and non-fiction alike in the area. I especially love getting lost in the historical fiction novels by writers like Anne Easter Smith, Phillipa Gregory and Ken Follett.
In this case though, I felt bombarded by every newspaper and media outlet.
I could hardly turn on the TV without being told out by the Royal Wedding and some fascinating tidbit or speculation about their wedding day. By the time the wedding actually came around, I felt that I had already spent so much time listening about it, devoting more time just wasn't going to happen.
Though I must agree with one interview on CBC, it is nice to celebrate love for a change isn't it?
For now, watching the highlights of their day was enough for me. It was certainly enough to form a general opinion...Kate's dress was tasteful, the affair understated in a sense that the church was not dressed to the nine's, the Queen looked fabulous for her age, and her Papa proud.
I wish them all the best, for it can hardly be easy, to be one of the most publicly viewed marriages of our time.
Now...back to Canada where we woke up to Election Day day...monarchy doesn't rule our day-but our ELECTED government does.
People do not miss out on the opportunity and privilege that many have worked tirelessly and given their lives for.
...and if you don't vote-don't complain.
It has been brought to my attention that I failed to include the recent nuptials of one, William Arthur Phillip Louis Mountbatten-Windsor to Catherine 'Kate' Elizabeth Middleton on April 29th, 2011.
Blah blah blah blah blah...
I was not one of the many that drowned themselves in coffee to be bright eyed and bushy tailed for the 2am live viewing of their special day.
However it was not because I don't find British History, especially Royalty, fascinating. Its just...this century is a lot less interesting as compared to the time of King Richard, or my favorite, King Henry the VIII-you know, the time when the monarchy had real control over the everyday happenings of the lives of civilians.
In fact, I have devoted hours upon hours reading fiction and non-fiction alike in the area. I especially love getting lost in the historical fiction novels by writers like Anne Easter Smith, Phillipa Gregory and Ken Follett.
In this case though, I felt bombarded by every newspaper and media outlet.
I could hardly turn on the TV without being told out by the Royal Wedding and some fascinating tidbit or speculation about their wedding day. By the time the wedding actually came around, I felt that I had already spent so much time listening about it, devoting more time just wasn't going to happen.
Though I must agree with one interview on CBC, it is nice to celebrate love for a change isn't it?
For now, watching the highlights of their day was enough for me. It was certainly enough to form a general opinion...Kate's dress was tasteful, the affair understated in a sense that the church was not dressed to the nine's, the Queen looked fabulous for her age, and her Papa proud.
I wish them all the best, for it can hardly be easy, to be one of the most publicly viewed marriages of our time.
Now...back to Canada where we woke up to Election Day day...monarchy doesn't rule our day-but our ELECTED government does.
People do not miss out on the opportunity and privilege that many have worked tirelessly and given their lives for.
...and if you don't vote-don't complain.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Rough Night
I stopped counting how many times I've yawned today.
Up until the last 5 nights or so, Jay had been an angelic sleeper.
Fall asleep between 10:00-11:30pm, 2-3 good feedings during the night (one by her Dad with formula), then up between 10:00-11:30am.
Yeah, like I said, angelic.
Well, last night I was up every 30hr-1hr feeding her until 6:30am, when she finally decided to crash for 4 hours.
Oh yes, and she isn't taking her formula anymore. She is only interested in Mom's Restaurant.
I know this is hardly the worst it could be. Many a mom's have told me their horror stories of ridiculous schedules and feedings.
No matter, a change in your schedule, regardless of what everyone is doing, is still a change.
So, with a few extra yawns, and a less than eager attitude to clean the house today, I am resting...preparing for another night of weird sleeping and trying to remember that I'll never get these days back, and at some point, I won't always be her end all be all.
Crossing my fingers and holding my thumbs for more than 4 hours of straight sleep couldn't hurt though.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
"I feel good...Na na na na na na..."
Swish goes my hair.
I glance at my reflection in the car window next to me.
Sweet.
Today I have fabulous hair.
There is something to be said for a trip to the hairdressers. Every woman knows exactly what I mean, and I am sure, most men.
I desperately needed that boost. That reminder that I am not just a wife, a mom, a cook, a housemaid...but also that I am a beautiful 23 year old woman.
The haircut and color became the start of a domino effect...you see afterwards we went grocery shopping...and feeling good makes we want to continue that trend. So after cutting and prewashing our produce I took a glance in my refrigerator and grinned at the 2 shelves full of fruit and veggies.
My body may not feel 100% but I know that I am going to be able to eat what we brought home guilt free.
One haircut can truly change the outcome of ones day, of ones week.
We know what happens after a bad hair cut now don't we?!
Let's just hope I wake up with the ability to make my hair look half as good as the hairdresser did tomorrow and maybe that will translate into some time at the gym...
I glance at my reflection in the car window next to me.
Sweet.
Today I have fabulous hair.
There is something to be said for a trip to the hairdressers. Every woman knows exactly what I mean, and I am sure, most men.
I desperately needed that boost. That reminder that I am not just a wife, a mom, a cook, a housemaid...but also that I am a beautiful 23 year old woman.
The haircut and color became the start of a domino effect...you see afterwards we went grocery shopping...and feeling good makes we want to continue that trend. So after cutting and prewashing our produce I took a glance in my refrigerator and grinned at the 2 shelves full of fruit and veggies.
My body may not feel 100% but I know that I am going to be able to eat what we brought home guilt free.
One haircut can truly change the outcome of ones day, of ones week.
We know what happens after a bad hair cut now don't we?!
Let's just hope I wake up with the ability to make my hair look half as good as the hairdresser did tomorrow and maybe that will translate into some time at the gym...
Friday, April 29, 2011
Top of my list
I made a list yesterday.
A list of all the things I wanted to get done before my hubby gets home.
It's amazing how, no matter how reasonable my list feels like for the day, I rarely accomplish every single thing.
It can be awfully hard to get stuff done though when...
As if on cue, my lil Jay starts crying, now happily playing on her playmat I am going to attempt to finish this...
As I was saying, it can be awfully hard to accomplish anything when you have kids around. Not just because they cry, or even because they need to be changed or fed. Sometimes because I can't help but get wrapped up in the little moments. The little moments I won't ever get back again.
Yesterday she worked tirelessly on rolling over. She has a system, she tucks her feet in and uses the momentum from that action to turn her hips over. Then she plasters her face into the mat and tries to get the rest of her body over. If only she could pull her hand and shoulder out she would have it.
After a few moments of struggling she squawks into the mat and turns back over. Just to do it all over again.
I watch, I try not to get to close, not to break her focus.
When she gets frustrated I desperately want to help, but I don't. I let her do it. I let her master it, I let her struggle.
Just like us, I do believe that children need those opportunities...to try, and try again, and sometimes fail. (I also believe in parents being close at hand though, I know that if this becomes to much for her, that I can swoop her in my arms and comfort her.)
I know that today, like yesterday, she will try to roll. Maybe today will be the day she gets it, maybe not.
Maybe today I will get everything done on my list. Maybe not.
Maybe I should just remind myself that the top of my 'daily do list' always says 'Jay'...
BTW: Anyone else breathing a sigh of relief after a fairly successful first game vs Nashville?
A list of all the things I wanted to get done before my hubby gets home.
It's amazing how, no matter how reasonable my list feels like for the day, I rarely accomplish every single thing.
It can be awfully hard to get stuff done though when...
As if on cue, my lil Jay starts crying, now happily playing on her playmat I am going to attempt to finish this...
As I was saying, it can be awfully hard to accomplish anything when you have kids around. Not just because they cry, or even because they need to be changed or fed. Sometimes because I can't help but get wrapped up in the little moments. The little moments I won't ever get back again.
Yesterday she worked tirelessly on rolling over. She has a system, she tucks her feet in and uses the momentum from that action to turn her hips over. Then she plasters her face into the mat and tries to get the rest of her body over. If only she could pull her hand and shoulder out she would have it.
After a few moments of struggling she squawks into the mat and turns back over. Just to do it all over again.
I watch, I try not to get to close, not to break her focus.
When she gets frustrated I desperately want to help, but I don't. I let her do it. I let her master it, I let her struggle.
Just like us, I do believe that children need those opportunities...to try, and try again, and sometimes fail. (I also believe in parents being close at hand though, I know that if this becomes to much for her, that I can swoop her in my arms and comfort her.)
I know that today, like yesterday, she will try to roll. Maybe today will be the day she gets it, maybe not.
Maybe today I will get everything done on my list. Maybe not.
Maybe I should just remind myself that the top of my 'daily do list' always says 'Jay'...
BTW: Anyone else breathing a sigh of relief after a fairly successful first game vs Nashville?
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Golf season just hasn't quite started
Anyone else hoarse from last nights game?
We too like to ref from our side of the screen...
Last night I was fighting with my hubby to get him to watch the game initially. In all seriousness I knew he was going to watch it, but he was so disappointed after the last three games that he almost wanted to save himself another night of presumed pain.
Less than 3 minutes in, my faith was certainly restored...
It took my husband to the 3rd period before he was feeling it. Before the excitement was there, the hope...
Then Chicago scored.
This time, I couldn't watch it any longer, I organized the books in our living room and glanced at the TV every time I heard excitement in the announcers voice.
My hubby's eyes were glued.
Then it happened. Of course, I missed the goal initially...I was placing "My Little Wordbook" on the shelf at the time.
I also missed the first replay.
My hubby had scooped me up in a bear hug and I couldn't see the screen.
Then we sat, cheering-this time a little quieter since I had put Jay down just before OT started.
There it was. A moment of glory. Burrow's snagging the puck, the amazing turnover, the shot.
We make a call, my brother, his line is busy. I get off the phone and am met with a short ring, it was my brother. We talk about the game, the shot, the anticipation. Apparently at Boston Pizza you could have heard a pin drop at the beginning of OT, then the restaurant erupted. We could hardly hear him.
After the phone call I marveled. We did it-we finally took the Hawks out. Third time really is the charm.
Yes, I did saw 'we', it's a fair statement. Here in Canada, we take our game VERY seriously. How seriously you ask? Politics has to do some schedule juggling so they aren't competing with our game-that is how serious.
As my hubby and I climbed into bed we could hear the pub game watchers heading home, a steady stream of horn honking filled the air until the last of them made it home.
So today I may be hoarse, but what's really important is that...
The Canucks are back-and we are coming for the Stanley Cup.
We too like to ref from our side of the screen...
Last night I was fighting with my hubby to get him to watch the game initially. In all seriousness I knew he was going to watch it, but he was so disappointed after the last three games that he almost wanted to save himself another night of presumed pain.
Less than 3 minutes in, my faith was certainly restored...
It took my husband to the 3rd period before he was feeling it. Before the excitement was there, the hope...
Then Chicago scored.
This time, I couldn't watch it any longer, I organized the books in our living room and glanced at the TV every time I heard excitement in the announcers voice.
My hubby's eyes were glued.
Then it happened. Of course, I missed the goal initially...I was placing "My Little Wordbook" on the shelf at the time.
I also missed the first replay.
My hubby had scooped me up in a bear hug and I couldn't see the screen.
Then we sat, cheering-this time a little quieter since I had put Jay down just before OT started.
There it was. A moment of glory. Burrow's snagging the puck, the amazing turnover, the shot.
We make a call, my brother, his line is busy. I get off the phone and am met with a short ring, it was my brother. We talk about the game, the shot, the anticipation. Apparently at Boston Pizza you could have heard a pin drop at the beginning of OT, then the restaurant erupted. We could hardly hear him.
After the phone call I marveled. We did it-we finally took the Hawks out. Third time really is the charm.
Yes, I did saw 'we', it's a fair statement. Here in Canada, we take our game VERY seriously. How seriously you ask? Politics has to do some schedule juggling so they aren't competing with our game-that is how serious.
As my hubby and I climbed into bed we could hear the pub game watchers heading home, a steady stream of horn honking filled the air until the last of them made it home.
So today I may be hoarse, but what's really important is that...
The Canucks are back-and we are coming for the Stanley Cup.
Monday, April 25, 2011
"I'm still her Uncle right??"
We were all sitting around talking about my brother and closest sibling in age who traveled from Quesnel, B.C. to be with us over Easter holidays. This was the first time he was going to meet his niece Jay, and I for one was ecstatic.
However, as we are sitting there talking about this my youngest brother says..."I'm still Jay's Uncle right??"
Now, to the average person, this might seem like an odd statement at best. However, in my case, this was just down right adorable. You see, my youngest brother is not quite 4 years old.
I am fortunate to have a constantly growing family. My parents divorced when I was 10 years old, and since then have remarried and are continuing to build onto our family. Of course, starting out at the age of 16 makes having a 3 1/2 year old brother not at all strange.
Right now, Sawyer***, (the youngest brother...so far...) is at the age where family matters, well, at least titles do. He has been trying to understand the relationships around him, which can be confusing when one person can be a mom, and auntie, sister, daughter...). In the confusion he has been known to get teary-eyed when he thinks that he might not be "mommy's son anymore", for example, after an explanation about how my husband is "mommy's son-in-law".
So this visit with my older brother had Sawyer momentarily concerned. He loves being Jay's uncle. He happily introduces himself as such to family and friends with pride. So he took a moment of clarity to insure that in all this, he has not lost his place...
He couldn't possibly be more cute in that moment, or more hug-able.
All I can say is, how lucky I am, to have such a beautiful little brother, but more than that...how lucky my lil' Jay is. She will have an uncle, but more than that I am sure, she will have a life-long friend in Sawyer.
***Name has been changed for the purpose of this blog
However, as we are sitting there talking about this my youngest brother says..."I'm still Jay's Uncle right??"
Now, to the average person, this might seem like an odd statement at best. However, in my case, this was just down right adorable. You see, my youngest brother is not quite 4 years old.
I am fortunate to have a constantly growing family. My parents divorced when I was 10 years old, and since then have remarried and are continuing to build onto our family. Of course, starting out at the age of 16 makes having a 3 1/2 year old brother not at all strange.
Right now, Sawyer***, (the youngest brother...so far...) is at the age where family matters, well, at least titles do. He has been trying to understand the relationships around him, which can be confusing when one person can be a mom, and auntie, sister, daughter...). In the confusion he has been known to get teary-eyed when he thinks that he might not be "mommy's son anymore", for example, after an explanation about how my husband is "mommy's son-in-law".
So this visit with my older brother had Sawyer momentarily concerned. He loves being Jay's uncle. He happily introduces himself as such to family and friends with pride. So he took a moment of clarity to insure that in all this, he has not lost his place...
He couldn't possibly be more cute in that moment, or more hug-able.
All I can say is, how lucky I am, to have such a beautiful little brother, but more than that...how lucky my lil' Jay is. She will have an uncle, but more than that I am sure, she will have a life-long friend in Sawyer.
***Name has been changed for the purpose of this blog
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Happy Easter Weekend
No matter the way, or the reason that you gather with family this weekend, enjoy your holiday! Spread the love with hugs and kisses to those closest to you. Cheers!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
The trouble with packing...
Easter weekend for us, like many people, means a trip to visit family. A chance to change up the treadmill that we are often on when at home, a breather of sorts.
So here I am, 11:00am in the morning, 4 hours shy of heading down island, and with what seems to be, a mountain of packing and prepping.
Now, my husband and I happen to love road trips. Until this morning I was of the belief that we pretty much had a down-pat system for getting us on the road...
It has now come to my attention that our 'system' is hugely flawed.
Packing and prepping to leave for the weekend is a whole lot more complicated with an infant.
Never mind the odds and ends that you need to remember for them: the bjorn for long walks, the peanut shell for short, her favorite toy so she has something to play with in the car, the blankets, the receiving blankets, the infant Tylenol, the nose baster (I have done everything in my power to avoid sucking the boogers out of my little one)...
Then of course there are the things that you want to bring down to the relatives...
And all of things that must be done to 'close up shop' for a few days so that you don't come home to smelly garbages and rotting food in the refrigerator. Also, we like to power everything off and save us some $$$ while we are away and not using those power suckers...
There is also the items which you must pack for yourself...
All of which I suppose isn't so bad except that I get into 'couple packing mode' and not 'family packing mode'...I have not accounted for the fact that I have to maneuver this around her schedule. Apparently I have not allotted enough time to consider the type of mood she is in. The number of feedings and cuddles she will need in between the chaos. Of course, I should have realized that you need more time that usual because Jay knows that something is going on, and now wants more of my time and attention than usual.
Of course it doesn't help that my list system is flawed in all of this. I have been making list after list for the last few days. An electronic list X2, a few written lists, and now, I can't find the written ones, and the electronic ones are to general...
I'm strongly thinking of running down to my husbands work and laminating a 'must haves' list for every trip and tape it to the back of the front door.
Instead, I'm going to keep packing and remember for next time that I need to approach packing like a marathon---stretching it out over a few days, rather than like the sprint that I am used to.
So here I am, 11:00am in the morning, 4 hours shy of heading down island, and with what seems to be, a mountain of packing and prepping.
Now, my husband and I happen to love road trips. Until this morning I was of the belief that we pretty much had a down-pat system for getting us on the road...
It has now come to my attention that our 'system' is hugely flawed.
Packing and prepping to leave for the weekend is a whole lot more complicated with an infant.
Never mind the odds and ends that you need to remember for them: the bjorn for long walks, the peanut shell for short, her favorite toy so she has something to play with in the car, the blankets, the receiving blankets, the infant Tylenol, the nose baster (I have done everything in my power to avoid sucking the boogers out of my little one)...
Then of course there are the things that you want to bring down to the relatives...
And all of things that must be done to 'close up shop' for a few days so that you don't come home to smelly garbages and rotting food in the refrigerator. Also, we like to power everything off and save us some $$$ while we are away and not using those power suckers...
There is also the items which you must pack for yourself...
All of which I suppose isn't so bad except that I get into 'couple packing mode' and not 'family packing mode'...I have not accounted for the fact that I have to maneuver this around her schedule. Apparently I have not allotted enough time to consider the type of mood she is in. The number of feedings and cuddles she will need in between the chaos. Of course, I should have realized that you need more time that usual because Jay knows that something is going on, and now wants more of my time and attention than usual.
Of course it doesn't help that my list system is flawed in all of this. I have been making list after list for the last few days. An electronic list X2, a few written lists, and now, I can't find the written ones, and the electronic ones are to general...
I'm strongly thinking of running down to my husbands work and laminating a 'must haves' list for every trip and tape it to the back of the front door.
Instead, I'm going to keep packing and remember for next time that I need to approach packing like a marathon---stretching it out over a few days, rather than like the sprint that I am used to.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Moving, with an infant, and all those moving complications...
The washer and dryer are in.
The test load is running.
Yes, a test load. Because experience has told us that believing that just because it is "new" doesn't mean it's going to work. So a load of rags are in the rinse cycle and I am trying to get this in before my almost 14 week old daughter decides that my husbands noises and funny faces are no longer entertaining.
Today has marked, what we hope to be, the end of a incredibly stressful move.
We live in a smaller town, and we rent. We rent in a community that has little to offer in the way of rentals. Up until about a month ago we were living on the third floor of an apartment that left much to be desired. The smell of rancid food, smoke, and other 'people' smells was enough of a reason to get out of there. Then there was the neighbors, the fighting, the partying...hardly what we considered appropriate for our new, growing family.
So we decided that we were going to move (with a 2 month old), to a place that we could grow into. Somewhere that we could feel safe and comfortable to raise our daughter. So we found this townhouse in a newly renovated complex, which hasn't yet been lived in (woohoo brand new is what I'm thinking), family oriented, and at a decent price. We jumped on it, not knowing how long we would have before someone else got it. Besides, making this move #4 in the last 2 years, we figured we had this moving thing down pat...even with a daughter.
Well, the list of things that went wrong seemed to be endless...
Day One, daughter and husband are sick. So of course all she wants is to be held-meaning that I am hardly any help on moving day. Oh yeah, and the 1/2 bath toilet is leaking. Thank goodness we are renting because we aren't even in 3 hours and already the place is starting to cost $$$.
Oh yes, and Telus goofed and cancelled our services 2 days early....and since we are one of a few it seems who don't own a cell...we are off the grid until they can send someone out.
Day Two, husband wakes me up to "our bathroom is leaking into the kitchen". To which I replied with some profanities and "you have got to be kidding me" as I ran down the stairs to see the leak. Oh yes, the plumbing in this house was not quite done properly, nothing was sealed right. So after a visit from the plumber, the assessment was as follows: 2 leaking sinks, a leaking tub, a leaking toilet, a hot water tank that needs to be replaced. Again...thank goodness we are renting.
Day Three, after several calls to the caretaker (a very sweet lady) the washer and dryer are apparently on backorder, and despite the 5 weeks notice they were given to have it in, we are having to drag our laundry to a friends.
If it wasn't bad enough, both hubby and daughter sick, I too got the bug and in a tearful panic admitted to my husband that there was no way I could take care of me and my baby girl...alone...all day...so-sick day #2 was spent the three of us feeling miserable, tag-teaming our daughter duties-in dirty clothes.
Day Four, what is that smell??? Smells, a major reason for moving in the first place...of course we moved next door to pot smokers! Something we never noticed when we first toured the place, nor in the first few days living here but now every hole in the wall shared with our neighbors is being bombarded with the stench and no amount of foam filler seems to help...
A few days later, still stinking, so now a call to the police. Which has ended in our favor-I think enough said on that account.
So here we are, a month later. No longer sick...with a washer and dryer that works...the rinse cycle having just finished. I can feel the stress of the last 2 months slowly starting to shed. Though I am less optimistic that I will ever look at this place with the same sense of hope that I had pre-move.
And in truth, the move with a 2 month old, in itself was not all that hard. In fact, we had more help than many of the moves we have done in the past, and we were prepared in many ways, more than we have ever been.
However, moving always comes with it's own sort of complications, most unforeseen. When it was just the two of us, and things went awry it was okay. This time though, feeling like I had failed in some small way as a parent was what made this move so stressful. Feeling like there were things I should have seen, things that should have sent giant red flags up, so at the very least we could have been more prepared. It is that guilt that made this such a rough experience.
So what have I learned in all of this?
We don't always get a test cycle. Sometimes things can't be foreseen. Sometimes no matter how well prepared you are-things go wrong. Sometimes you make the bold move, and you just have to learn from the mistakes that ensue. I certainly never would suggest moving with an infant if you don't have to, it's emotionally draining if nothing else.
More importantly, I realize that my daughter Jay*** will never be the wiser, and I can at least wipe that guilt from conscience. More than anything, she just wants her family...and right now...she just wants the boob.
***my daughter's name has been changed for this blog
The test load is running.
Yes, a test load. Because experience has told us that believing that just because it is "new" doesn't mean it's going to work. So a load of rags are in the rinse cycle and I am trying to get this in before my almost 14 week old daughter decides that my husbands noises and funny faces are no longer entertaining.
Today has marked, what we hope to be, the end of a incredibly stressful move.
We live in a smaller town, and we rent. We rent in a community that has little to offer in the way of rentals. Up until about a month ago we were living on the third floor of an apartment that left much to be desired. The smell of rancid food, smoke, and other 'people' smells was enough of a reason to get out of there. Then there was the neighbors, the fighting, the partying...hardly what we considered appropriate for our new, growing family.
So we decided that we were going to move (with a 2 month old), to a place that we could grow into. Somewhere that we could feel safe and comfortable to raise our daughter. So we found this townhouse in a newly renovated complex, which hasn't yet been lived in (woohoo brand new is what I'm thinking), family oriented, and at a decent price. We jumped on it, not knowing how long we would have before someone else got it. Besides, making this move #4 in the last 2 years, we figured we had this moving thing down pat...even with a daughter.
Well, the list of things that went wrong seemed to be endless...
Day One, daughter and husband are sick. So of course all she wants is to be held-meaning that I am hardly any help on moving day. Oh yeah, and the 1/2 bath toilet is leaking. Thank goodness we are renting because we aren't even in 3 hours and already the place is starting to cost $$$.
Oh yes, and Telus goofed and cancelled our services 2 days early....and since we are one of a few it seems who don't own a cell...we are off the grid until they can send someone out.
Day Two, husband wakes me up to "our bathroom is leaking into the kitchen". To which I replied with some profanities and "you have got to be kidding me" as I ran down the stairs to see the leak. Oh yes, the plumbing in this house was not quite done properly, nothing was sealed right. So after a visit from the plumber, the assessment was as follows: 2 leaking sinks, a leaking tub, a leaking toilet, a hot water tank that needs to be replaced. Again...thank goodness we are renting.
Day Three, after several calls to the caretaker (a very sweet lady) the washer and dryer are apparently on backorder, and despite the 5 weeks notice they were given to have it in, we are having to drag our laundry to a friends.
If it wasn't bad enough, both hubby and daughter sick, I too got the bug and in a tearful panic admitted to my husband that there was no way I could take care of me and my baby girl...alone...all day...so-sick day #2 was spent the three of us feeling miserable, tag-teaming our daughter duties-in dirty clothes.
Day Four, what is that smell??? Smells, a major reason for moving in the first place...of course we moved next door to pot smokers! Something we never noticed when we first toured the place, nor in the first few days living here but now every hole in the wall shared with our neighbors is being bombarded with the stench and no amount of foam filler seems to help...
A few days later, still stinking, so now a call to the police. Which has ended in our favor-I think enough said on that account.
So here we are, a month later. No longer sick...with a washer and dryer that works...the rinse cycle having just finished. I can feel the stress of the last 2 months slowly starting to shed. Though I am less optimistic that I will ever look at this place with the same sense of hope that I had pre-move.
And in truth, the move with a 2 month old, in itself was not all that hard. In fact, we had more help than many of the moves we have done in the past, and we were prepared in many ways, more than we have ever been.
However, moving always comes with it's own sort of complications, most unforeseen. When it was just the two of us, and things went awry it was okay. This time though, feeling like I had failed in some small way as a parent was what made this move so stressful. Feeling like there were things I should have seen, things that should have sent giant red flags up, so at the very least we could have been more prepared. It is that guilt that made this such a rough experience.
So what have I learned in all of this?
We don't always get a test cycle. Sometimes things can't be foreseen. Sometimes no matter how well prepared you are-things go wrong. Sometimes you make the bold move, and you just have to learn from the mistakes that ensue. I certainly never would suggest moving with an infant if you don't have to, it's emotionally draining if nothing else.
More importantly, I realize that my daughter Jay*** will never be the wiser, and I can at least wipe that guilt from conscience. More than anything, she just wants her family...and right now...she just wants the boob.
***my daughter's name has been changed for this blog
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