They say at 5months along, an unborn baby starts to hear quite well, and can learn to recognize sounds. Especially its mothers voice.
My baby is going to think I am Veronica Mars.
My guilty pleasure lately has been watching the first two seasons on dvd. I have to say my habit has been wildly supported (enthusiastically instigated) by YoJo. She is my supplier. It's like crack.
And most nights now I like to watch in bed before I go to sleep, with my mini dvd player sitting on my stomach. It just fits there so well.
I'm nearing the end of the 2nd season, and I'm starting to get the sweats. What will I do when I'm finished?! Waiting around to watch the 3rd season as it unfolds weekly, once I catch up, seems like a sad substitute.
In any case, don't be surprised if my baby comes out singing 'We Used to Be Friends...'
I won't be.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Friday, January 26, 2007
Circus Act ll
Things you might find when you open the door after 'nap time'....
I tried to be stern, but it was really hard not to laugh. Cleaning up was a full fledged effort though, requiring lots of dish soap. Diaper cream is greasy. And it was in the top drawer of the dresser, supposedly out of reach to begin with. The Bug was quite proud of himself.
I tried to be stern, but it was really hard not to laugh. Cleaning up was a full fledged effort though, requiring lots of dish soap. Diaper cream is greasy. And it was in the top drawer of the dresser, supposedly out of reach to begin with. The Bug was quite proud of himself.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Chances Are...
So. We had another ultrasound today. It was so much better than our last experience, thanks to the Canadian Diagnostic Centre. And to Alyson and Mrs. Mmmmaaahvelous for their advice. Our technician was a lovely woman. It was exciting to see the wee babe again, and we were able to see a lot more than last time. Everything was better.
And it looks like chances are mostly, likely, quite possibly, it's a girl!!!
Now, I'd like to be able to say with more certainty, and the tech thought it was most certainly, but she suggested another viewing to confirm before we go painting anything pink. Is she crazy? What better story for a possible last minute switch? Sorry son, we thought you were a girl! And that closet full of dresses, you'll get used to it!
I don't know if we're really much better off than we were this morning. At least I think we can say our chances are up from 50/50....60/40? Let's go with 80/20!
In any case, we are excited to think that we are possibly having a daughter.
At the same time, throughout the exam, I kept thinking how amazing it was to see such a little tiny person. And how lucky we were to be able to see. And how beautiful and perfect.
Either way.
And because this is OUR child, and the first time we had ever had the option of a 4D image, the baby was curled up in a ball with 'her' chin down turned away from us, with 'her' feet over her head most of the time. So we have a lovely, complimentary(because they didn't charge us for such a minimal shot), 4D view of 'her' ear!
And it looks like chances are mostly, likely, quite possibly, it's a girl!!!
Now, I'd like to be able to say with more certainty, and the tech thought it was most certainly, but she suggested another viewing to confirm before we go painting anything pink. Is she crazy? What better story for a possible last minute switch? Sorry son, we thought you were a girl! And that closet full of dresses, you'll get used to it!
I don't know if we're really much better off than we were this morning. At least I think we can say our chances are up from 50/50....60/40? Let's go with 80/20!
In any case, we are excited to think that we are possibly having a daughter.
At the same time, throughout the exam, I kept thinking how amazing it was to see such a little tiny person. And how lucky we were to be able to see. And how beautiful and perfect.
Either way.
And because this is OUR child, and the first time we had ever had the option of a 4D image, the baby was curled up in a ball with 'her' chin down turned away from us, with 'her' feet over her head most of the time. So we have a lovely, complimentary(because they didn't charge us for such a minimal shot), 4D view of 'her' ear!
Friday, January 19, 2007
23 Months
New tools from Grandma.
Helping Daddy build our new chairs and table.
The Bug.
The boys reached the 23 month mark earlier this week. It seems like a lot has happened this month. We enjoyed a great Christmas and New Year having much fun with family and friends. January has been much quieter but we've still managed to find time for playdates with good friends and some new ones too. We went for a horse driven sleigh ride in the mountains, and had a blast sledding down a small hill nearby with Daddy and Auntie J.
The Bee has improved his sleeping habits...somewhat. There is still room for improvement, but he has actually slept all the way through some nights. Hooray!
He has also developed a new interest lately. Colouring. I've had them colouring a bit on paper with pencil crayons (more difficult to eat or break) for a while now, but recently we tried REAL crayons. The Bee loves them. He is great at colouring and loves to take the crayons out of the box and put them back in. The Bug seems to get bored fairly quickly, but The Bee will fill his whole page. It makes me happy to see him enjoy something that I enjoyed so much as a kid.
My easy going, happy little Bug has somehow turned into a moody teenager over the past few weeks. I suspect it's an early response to turning 'terrible two' (teenagers and two year olds are really much the same). He's had a couple of full-on temper tantrums, both in public of course, and will carry on, and on long after he can remember what he's upset about, I'm sure. This usually requires him laying face down on the floor and wailing or screaming. Eventually it will taper off, but then he will throw in a few half-hearted sobs just for effect. He doesn't give up easily. I seem to recall my own mother mentioning my stubborness as a child, and unwilling to let go of something when I was upset. It must be coincidence...
On a more fun note, the boys are still fascinated with Cars. They watch at least a few minutes of the movie almost every day, especially at bedtime with Daddy. And if I try to expand their repetoir to say, Nemo or some other pale comparison, they simply keep repeating 'Car-Cars?' as if to say 'What is this crap? I don't see any cars? Are the cars coming?'
The Bug finally wore out his DVD cardboard cover by loving it to pieces. I got him a box of Cars valentines, mostly just for the box and he pores over it and studies it like the daily news. It is of the utmost and unending interest for him. Weird, but cute!
That's my boys...weird, but cute.
Helping Daddy build our new chairs and table.
The Bug.
The boys reached the 23 month mark earlier this week. It seems like a lot has happened this month. We enjoyed a great Christmas and New Year having much fun with family and friends. January has been much quieter but we've still managed to find time for playdates with good friends and some new ones too. We went for a horse driven sleigh ride in the mountains, and had a blast sledding down a small hill nearby with Daddy and Auntie J.
The Bee has improved his sleeping habits...somewhat. There is still room for improvement, but he has actually slept all the way through some nights. Hooray!
He has also developed a new interest lately. Colouring. I've had them colouring a bit on paper with pencil crayons (more difficult to eat or break) for a while now, but recently we tried REAL crayons. The Bee loves them. He is great at colouring and loves to take the crayons out of the box and put them back in. The Bug seems to get bored fairly quickly, but The Bee will fill his whole page. It makes me happy to see him enjoy something that I enjoyed so much as a kid.
My easy going, happy little Bug has somehow turned into a moody teenager over the past few weeks. I suspect it's an early response to turning 'terrible two' (teenagers and two year olds are really much the same). He's had a couple of full-on temper tantrums, both in public of course, and will carry on, and on long after he can remember what he's upset about, I'm sure. This usually requires him laying face down on the floor and wailing or screaming. Eventually it will taper off, but then he will throw in a few half-hearted sobs just for effect. He doesn't give up easily. I seem to recall my own mother mentioning my stubborness as a child, and unwilling to let go of something when I was upset. It must be coincidence...
On a more fun note, the boys are still fascinated with Cars. They watch at least a few minutes of the movie almost every day, especially at bedtime with Daddy. And if I try to expand their repetoir to say, Nemo or some other pale comparison, they simply keep repeating 'Car-Cars?' as if to say 'What is this crap? I don't see any cars? Are the cars coming?'
The Bug finally wore out his DVD cardboard cover by loving it to pieces. I got him a box of Cars valentines, mostly just for the box and he pores over it and studies it like the daily news. It is of the utmost and unending interest for him. Weird, but cute!
That's my boys...weird, but cute.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Circus Act
The Bee's bedroom is most likely the most kid-proof room in the house. There is no furniture except for his bed, some soft toys and large pillows. The boys are intended to share the larger room where The Bug sleeps, but we haven't been that brave yet. So when I need them to play on their own for a few minutes while I say, take a shower or something special like that, I put them in The Bee's room, where they can't really get hurt, or do much damage. Most likely. (They cannot dump drawers or climb dressers, or pull apart diapers, because there are none!)
Amazingly, while they are in there 'playing' it sounds like a WWE wrestling match, or like some major renovations are going on. Thumping and banging and the sounds of large bodies being moved around. So it is always with some trepidation that I open the door to see what is going on.
Today was a new one. I opened the door to find The Bee's bed turned upside down, and the two of them inside their new fort, happy as two peas in a pod. The Bee, of course, also had his shirt off. I was just thankful that his diaper was still intact.
I've heard from other people (like the nursery leaders) that my boys are quite the climbers and especially like buttons and knobs (stereos etc). I already knew that, of course, but aren't all little boys like that?
Or am I really just raising hooligan ape children??!
p.s. they sleep in a pack'n'play similar to this one, without the stuff on top...they had bassinets on top when they were first born which was really handy and have proved to be quite useful for us...however, big boy beds are in their very near future. The Bee likes to push his in front of the door when he goes to bed at night, all the better to reach the light switch and flick it off and on to his hearts content...
Amazingly, while they are in there 'playing' it sounds like a WWE wrestling match, or like some major renovations are going on. Thumping and banging and the sounds of large bodies being moved around. So it is always with some trepidation that I open the door to see what is going on.
Today was a new one. I opened the door to find The Bee's bed turned upside down, and the two of them inside their new fort, happy as two peas in a pod. The Bee, of course, also had his shirt off. I was just thankful that his diaper was still intact.
I've heard from other people (like the nursery leaders) that my boys are quite the climbers and especially like buttons and knobs (stereos etc). I already knew that, of course, but aren't all little boys like that?
Or am I really just raising hooligan ape children??!
p.s. they sleep in a pack'n'play similar to this one, without the stuff on top...they had bassinets on top when they were first born which was really handy and have proved to be quite useful for us...however, big boy beds are in their very near future. The Bee likes to push his in front of the door when he goes to bed at night, all the better to reach the light switch and flick it off and on to his hearts content...
Thursday, January 11, 2007
January
Last week was a busy one for me. I had an appt or something nearly every day, followed by a busy weekend. This week is hibernation. I'm not sure if it's recovery from last week, because I'm just that tired and lame, or it's just the January blaaaahhs. Either way, I've barely done anything useful and certainly not inspired. We've barely left the house.
It's just as well now that's it's all freezing igloo-ville out there again. A good excuse. We're planning a playdate in the morning, so we'll see how we fare. Energizing or exhausting?
Now back to my hibernating! McDreamy is calling...
It's just as well now that's it's all freezing igloo-ville out there again. A good excuse. We're planning a playdate in the morning, so we'll see how we fare. Energizing or exhausting?
Now back to my hibernating! McDreamy is calling...
Monday, January 08, 2007
Of No Consequence
I wish tanning was good for you.
I am a WHITE girl, so it's not like I get all chocolatey dark brown or anything. But as I was looking at my pastey white self today, I thought how much better I would look with a tan. It would be different if I had lovely milky white skin like Nicole, or something. But I do not. And pregnancy is no friend to my skin.
I had no experience with the 'tanning bed' until I was in my late 20's. While skeptical at first, I soon became enamored with the flush, darker biege color it imparted, and the yummy tropical fresh baked coconut smell which lingered. Like a 20 minute vacation. Then I realized that wrinkles were part of the package. No more tanning for me.
But sadly, I looked at the lovely 'brown-sugar' tanned, fake-but-delightfully-honey-colored-professionally-blown-out hair of Kelly Ripa this morning and I felt a little longing...
*sigh*
I am a WHITE girl, so it's not like I get all chocolatey dark brown or anything. But as I was looking at my pastey white self today, I thought how much better I would look with a tan. It would be different if I had lovely milky white skin like Nicole, or something. But I do not. And pregnancy is no friend to my skin.
I had no experience with the 'tanning bed' until I was in my late 20's. While skeptical at first, I soon became enamored with the flush, darker biege color it imparted, and the yummy tropical fresh baked coconut smell which lingered. Like a 20 minute vacation. Then I realized that wrinkles were part of the package. No more tanning for me.
But sadly, I looked at the lovely 'brown-sugar' tanned, fake-but-delightfully-honey-colored-professionally-blown-out hair of Kelly Ripa this morning and I felt a little longing...
*sigh*
Resolute
Thanks everyone for your great comments on my last post.
I have a new doctor this time around, since this is not a high risk pregnancy and does not require a specialist, but she seems to be great. She had the ultrasound results the next day when I went to my appt and noticed that they were unable to get any view of the umbilical cord. Therefore, we should have another ultrasound! And that was before I even mentioned Igor the aweful. Everything else looked good.
I will keep you posted!
Now, to my real topic today. New Year's resolutions. I feel free this year, once again, from the obligatory weight loss resolution. Not that it won't come to the forefront at a later date, but not today. I don't feel that being pregnant is an excuse completely to eat everything in sight, but there are certainly wider parameters. I have to say there can be a lot more enjoyment in eating, when you aren't really worrying about every gram of fat or carbohydrate. But I assure you there will come a day, likely this time next year, when I will be tired of my post baby body and will once again be onboard with losing the flab.
In the meantime...I don't have any 'real' resolutions other than trying to ensure I have a healthy baby, and try to make it through the coming days with at least a shred of my sanity in tact. That applies more heavily to those early days with a newborn and 2 two year old boys. I didn't know how it was going to work the first time either, but it always does somehow, right?!
Other than that, a few 'goals' are:
Short term, CH and I want to get some stuff up on the walls. Photos etc. We bought a bunch of frames, and now we need to fill them.
To learn to use the lighting set-up CH got me for Christmas. We could set up a little studio space in our basement. At first I was intimidated by the 'machines', but I'm excited to see what I can do with them.
Ongoing:
To have more patience with my boys. To enjoy them every day and try to introduce them to new experiences and have fun together.
To enjoy time spent with my CH. It's not always easy to find that time, but always worth it.
To have a harmonious, happy home. I'd like to add peaceful, but let's not get crazy.
And to make sure I take time for myself and do some of the things I still love to do. Ever mom's goal I guess, but it beats 'running around screaming, pulling our hair and talking back to the little birdies'. Unless that's what you like to do!
I have a new doctor this time around, since this is not a high risk pregnancy and does not require a specialist, but she seems to be great. She had the ultrasound results the next day when I went to my appt and noticed that they were unable to get any view of the umbilical cord. Therefore, we should have another ultrasound! And that was before I even mentioned Igor the aweful. Everything else looked good.
I will keep you posted!
Now, to my real topic today. New Year's resolutions. I feel free this year, once again, from the obligatory weight loss resolution. Not that it won't come to the forefront at a later date, but not today. I don't feel that being pregnant is an excuse completely to eat everything in sight, but there are certainly wider parameters. I have to say there can be a lot more enjoyment in eating, when you aren't really worrying about every gram of fat or carbohydrate. But I assure you there will come a day, likely this time next year, when I will be tired of my post baby body and will once again be onboard with losing the flab.
In the meantime...I don't have any 'real' resolutions other than trying to ensure I have a healthy baby, and try to make it through the coming days with at least a shred of my sanity in tact. That applies more heavily to those early days with a newborn and 2 two year old boys. I didn't know how it was going to work the first time either, but it always does somehow, right?!
Other than that, a few 'goals' are:
Short term, CH and I want to get some stuff up on the walls. Photos etc. We bought a bunch of frames, and now we need to fill them.
To learn to use the lighting set-up CH got me for Christmas. We could set up a little studio space in our basement. At first I was intimidated by the 'machines', but I'm excited to see what I can do with them.
Ongoing:
To have more patience with my boys. To enjoy them every day and try to introduce them to new experiences and have fun together.
To enjoy time spent with my CH. It's not always easy to find that time, but always worth it.
To have a harmonious, happy home. I'd like to add peaceful, but let's not get crazy.
And to make sure I take time for myself and do some of the things I still love to do. Ever mom's goal I guess, but it beats 'running around screaming, pulling our hair and talking back to the little birdies'. Unless that's what you like to do!
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
It's a Boy!....Or a Girl!
OK internet, I have to confess I've been holding out. Big news.
Well, I expect all 4 of you reading this are thinking, yah, already knew. But in case you didn't internet, the TwoMittens family is expecting a new baby!
With so much going on the past few months and weeks, it's almost been a non-issue. Not that it hasn't been a big deal, because it has. I just haven't had a lot of time to dwell on it constantly, like I did last time.
So there you have it.
And we've had an ultrasound, and routine testing and all the rest, and all is well. And all is one. Baby that is. One baby this time around. I can't tell you what a happy relief that was. Two was quite a novelty the first time, but we are plenty happy with one this time. Whew!
And while I love my boys with every fibre of my being, I think a girl would be a nice addition. Just so I'm not, you know, completely outnumbered. Although, I know we'll be thrilled with whatever we get. Because really, it's already done except for the finding out.
AND TODAY WE WERE SUPPOSED TO FIND OUT!!
And I was so excited. Until we got to the examining room for our routine 18-20week ultrasound this afternoon and realized in a moment that it was not going to go well. I've had myself many an ultrasound before, and some better than others, but all mostly good. Until Igor. Igor the aweful. First of all, most of the techs are women. Not sure if that's usually the case, but maybe it imparts a certain empathy? They are generally quite friendly and helpful. Even enthusiastic.
I don't really believe in stereotypes, but if Igors with thick accents and no personality or warmth or apparent interest in the patient other than his highly technical task at hand, don't bother to ask questions I'm not going to answer, I just got here from 'the block', implies a stereotype...well then, he was it.
I barely saw any of what was going on. He 'politely' deferred any questions CH asked him. And the pictures we requested (as is the norm) seemed to be a chore for him at the end of the session.
I'm so disappointed.
I realize many people still wait all the way until gosh, delivery to find out what they are having. But we are not those people. I was just as excited today and looking forward to knowing a little more about my tiny new person.
Anyway, I'll consult with my doctor and if need be we'll make our own appt for the very near future. We're going to find out dammit!!
I was just hoping it was going to be today.
Well, I expect all 4 of you reading this are thinking, yah, already knew. But in case you didn't internet, the TwoMittens family is expecting a new baby!
With so much going on the past few months and weeks, it's almost been a non-issue. Not that it hasn't been a big deal, because it has. I just haven't had a lot of time to dwell on it constantly, like I did last time.
So there you have it.
And we've had an ultrasound, and routine testing and all the rest, and all is well. And all is one. Baby that is. One baby this time around. I can't tell you what a happy relief that was. Two was quite a novelty the first time, but we are plenty happy with one this time. Whew!
And while I love my boys with every fibre of my being, I think a girl would be a nice addition. Just so I'm not, you know, completely outnumbered. Although, I know we'll be thrilled with whatever we get. Because really, it's already done except for the finding out.
AND TODAY WE WERE SUPPOSED TO FIND OUT!!
And I was so excited. Until we got to the examining room for our routine 18-20week ultrasound this afternoon and realized in a moment that it was not going to go well. I've had myself many an ultrasound before, and some better than others, but all mostly good. Until Igor. Igor the aweful. First of all, most of the techs are women. Not sure if that's usually the case, but maybe it imparts a certain empathy? They are generally quite friendly and helpful. Even enthusiastic.
I don't really believe in stereotypes, but if Igors with thick accents and no personality or warmth or apparent interest in the patient other than his highly technical task at hand, don't bother to ask questions I'm not going to answer, I just got here from 'the block', implies a stereotype...well then, he was it.
I barely saw any of what was going on. He 'politely' deferred any questions CH asked him. And the pictures we requested (as is the norm) seemed to be a chore for him at the end of the session.
I'm so disappointed.
I realize many people still wait all the way until gosh, delivery to find out what they are having. But we are not those people. I was just as excited today and looking forward to knowing a little more about my tiny new person.
Anyway, I'll consult with my doctor and if need be we'll make our own appt for the very near future. We're going to find out dammit!!
I was just hoping it was going to be today.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Happy New Year!
** I don't know what happened to my photos here...they worked fine when I had them up, then slowly started disappearing...maybe they will reappear??**
Happy first day of 2007.
I think Christmas 2006 was a smashing success!
We started two days before Christmas with the birthday of our beloved Capricorn, CH. Yes, the goat. Imagine that. We spent a fairly quiet day, because unlike myself, CH doesn't like much hoopla. He is a quiet birthday person.
The kids made cards, and 'helped' me make a cake. As you can tell from the licking of the beaters. And by make a cake, I mean I bought an angel food cake, sliced it into layers, and filled it full of pudding and bananas, and whipped cream and mango puree. It looks like pancakes, but it tasted delicious!
From there we had a festive Christmas eve here at home, with great friends.
Then a day with CH's family, and then a few days with me and the kiddos at my parent's place, along with extended family.
Our own little Christmas miracle was the fact that for the first time ever, we had a peaceful happy car ride. In fact, all our travel went very well. An angel must have got his wings!
The highlite, I think for the kids (other than being the center of attention, and adored everywhere we went), was CARS. Oddly enough, none of us had seen the movie, but about a month ago we got a box of baby wipes with pictures on the side. The boys loved it. The Bug especially likes to carry it around with him.
Santa brought the movie and two 'Smak and Yak' soft cars that say 'ouch' when you bang them around. I think The Bug has slept with it ever since. And we have all enjoyed the movie. Several times already. With several more showings to come, I'm sure.
The Bug carries the cardboard case from the dvd around with him like a book and will often stop and 'read' it as he looks carefully at all the pictures. Yep, cardboard. All the entertainment you need!
Happy first day of 2007.
I think Christmas 2006 was a smashing success!
We started two days before Christmas with the birthday of our beloved Capricorn, CH. Yes, the goat. Imagine that. We spent a fairly quiet day, because unlike myself, CH doesn't like much hoopla. He is a quiet birthday person.
The kids made cards, and 'helped' me make a cake. As you can tell from the licking of the beaters. And by make a cake, I mean I bought an angel food cake, sliced it into layers, and filled it full of pudding and bananas, and whipped cream and mango puree. It looks like pancakes, but it tasted delicious!
From there we had a festive Christmas eve here at home, with great friends.
Then a day with CH's family, and then a few days with me and the kiddos at my parent's place, along with extended family.
Our own little Christmas miracle was the fact that for the first time ever, we had a peaceful happy car ride. In fact, all our travel went very well. An angel must have got his wings!
The highlite, I think for the kids (other than being the center of attention, and adored everywhere we went), was CARS. Oddly enough, none of us had seen the movie, but about a month ago we got a box of baby wipes with pictures on the side. The boys loved it. The Bug especially likes to carry it around with him.
Santa brought the movie and two 'Smak and Yak' soft cars that say 'ouch' when you bang them around. I think The Bug has slept with it ever since. And we have all enjoyed the movie. Several times already. With several more showings to come, I'm sure.
The Bug carries the cardboard case from the dvd around with him like a book and will often stop and 'read' it as he looks carefully at all the pictures. Yep, cardboard. All the entertainment you need!
Friday, December 22, 2006
3 More Sleeps
Originally we had planned to spend Christmas here in our lovely new home. We've never done that before, and thought it might be nice not to haul the kids and gifts and all the accessories around and invite family to join us here, while getting to sleep in our own beds.
Yah, that's not happening. We are getting up Christmas morning and driving to spend the day with family. Not that I have any problem with family. I don't. I guess it's just the change in expectation of what I thought it would be.
BUT...as reality sets in, I realize I am plenty happy not to be cooking and cleaning for a housefull of people right now. As much as the idea of a cozy house full of Christmas cheer is delightful, I suspect reality is not quite so glorious. At any rate, we still have wrapping and last minute shopping and a birthday tomorrow, and entertaining on Christmas eve, before we even get to 'The Big Day'.
For me, the build up to Christmas day is the true excitement. It's all the getting ready and planning surprises and festive spirit. As long as the stress and shopping doesn't kill it completely. As with so many things, it's more the journey than the destination.
In case I don't get a chance to say it later, may your stocking be filled with oranges, and not a lump of coal! Happy eggnog and turkey! May your pants have elastic and get a nap after dinner! Enjoy your children, or your family or friends, or whoever you are lucky enough to spend time with! May drunken relatives be cheerful and not embarrassing! All is happy and bright!
And to my fiesty little Grandma R, who passed away on Christmas day two years ago, we miss you and think of you often. Much love!
Yah, that's not happening. We are getting up Christmas morning and driving to spend the day with family. Not that I have any problem with family. I don't. I guess it's just the change in expectation of what I thought it would be.
BUT...as reality sets in, I realize I am plenty happy not to be cooking and cleaning for a housefull of people right now. As much as the idea of a cozy house full of Christmas cheer is delightful, I suspect reality is not quite so glorious. At any rate, we still have wrapping and last minute shopping and a birthday tomorrow, and entertaining on Christmas eve, before we even get to 'The Big Day'.
For me, the build up to Christmas day is the true excitement. It's all the getting ready and planning surprises and festive spirit. As long as the stress and shopping doesn't kill it completely. As with so many things, it's more the journey than the destination.
In case I don't get a chance to say it later, may your stocking be filled with oranges, and not a lump of coal! Happy eggnog and turkey! May your pants have elastic and get a nap after dinner! Enjoy your children, or your family or friends, or whoever you are lucky enough to spend time with! May drunken relatives be cheerful and not embarrassing! All is happy and bright!
And to my fiesty little Grandma R, who passed away on Christmas day two years ago, we miss you and think of you often. Much love!
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Joy
I heard a talk recently on looking for joy. Being aware of, and finding it in our lives.
I do not always feel joyful. I sometimes get in the mindset that my life is hard. It can certainly feel that way, especially when I am tired and frustrated.
Luckily, I don't have to look very far to find it. My boys are full of joy. Sure, they are full of LOTS of things, not all good, but joy is at the top of the list. They wake up every morning and can't wait to get out of bed. They run around with huge smiles on their faces. They take every opportunity to laugh and giggle and light up a room. I feel bad sometimes being the person who makes them slow down, and clean up and be quiet at times. It can be difficult to contain all that enthusiasm.
I hate to think that growing up somehow crushes that joy with responsibility and civility.
I am thankful that joy is still relatively easy to find in the world around us. Friends are inspiring. Creativity is contagious. Kindness is appreciated.
I had the opportunity to enjoy some amazing music by some very gifted musicians tonight. Live music always conveys a powerful kind of energy. The musicians were extremely talented, and the music was absolutely joyful.
Now I just need to work a little harder at finding the joy when I'm changing the gazillionth poopy diaper and The Bug has thrown his lunch on the floor and The Bee has run out the front door with a sock on one foot and his bib on his head!
I do not always feel joyful. I sometimes get in the mindset that my life is hard. It can certainly feel that way, especially when I am tired and frustrated.
Luckily, I don't have to look very far to find it. My boys are full of joy. Sure, they are full of LOTS of things, not all good, but joy is at the top of the list. They wake up every morning and can't wait to get out of bed. They run around with huge smiles on their faces. They take every opportunity to laugh and giggle and light up a room. I feel bad sometimes being the person who makes them slow down, and clean up and be quiet at times. It can be difficult to contain all that enthusiasm.
I hate to think that growing up somehow crushes that joy with responsibility and civility.
I am thankful that joy is still relatively easy to find in the world around us. Friends are inspiring. Creativity is contagious. Kindness is appreciated.
I had the opportunity to enjoy some amazing music by some very gifted musicians tonight. Live music always conveys a powerful kind of energy. The musicians were extremely talented, and the music was absolutely joyful.
Now I just need to work a little harder at finding the joy when I'm changing the gazillionth poopy diaper and The Bug has thrown his lunch on the floor and The Bee has run out the front door with a sock on one foot and his bib on his head!
Thursday, December 14, 2006
22 Months
This has been a busy month. I guess they all are. Maybe it's just the added mayhem of Christmas approaching.
The Bee is very busy with taking his clothes off, but he has also started putting them on. That can only be good news! He especially likes putting his pants and socks on. Although he sometimes gets tangled in one leg and needs a bit of help. He also likes to pull them up reeeallly high in the front, but leaves his diaper hanging out the back. Oh well.
He is more likely to take his shirt off than put it on. Especially at dinner time in his high chair. He often will pull one arm out, and then it will somehow end up with both out, and the neck hole around his waist, or just off completely. At the very least he cannot leave his bib on. Something must come off.
He also must take his shoes and often socks off in the car. I guess it's all he can reach. I am thankful for that.
The Bee is also a busy boy with a shovel, broom or the vacu-flo. If we go outside to play he will insist on sweeping or shovelling. He is afraid of the noisy vacu-flow, but will set out with it once it is quiet. He has work to do!
The Bug seems to have gotten over his nightmares, thankfully, and is back to his cheerful/sleepy self. Such a relief! He is busy at the moment trying to jump. He has trouble getting both feet up, but is working very hard at it, one foot at a time.
He is also quite mischeivous these days. He gets a very distinctive gleem in his eye when he is up to something. Which is often. Then he will giggle like a madman. But at least he keeps his clothes on!
Monday, December 11, 2006
Party Time
Hey, my cd drive suddenly started working, so here's some catching up...
Two weekends ago we had the chance to go to our very first Christmas Party for the kids. It was put on by CH's work, and we'd heard it was pretty amazing. It did not disappoint.
It was huge to begin with, but very well planned with lots of activities for all ages, lots of food, and they staggered the times throughout the day, so it wouldn't be too crowded.
Since The Bug and The Bee are still on the young side, it was quite a lot for them just to walk around and take everything in. They had face painting, and cookie decorating, and picture frame painting, and pictures with Santa, as well as some older activities.
I think eating themselves silly with little oranges was a big highlite! They also had really great gifts for every child. It was all very impressive.
One of our favorite things was at the main door as we stopped on the way out. They had real reindeer! And we got to pet one! Who has real reindeer at their Christmas party?! WE DID!
Sunday, December 10, 2006
The Saddest Boy in the World
The Bug has been a great sleeper for a long time. The Bee is another story, but that's another story...
The Bug is a busy little boy, but he gets tired and at either naptime or bedtime, has never been a problem. Just put him in bed, and he's off to sleep, usually without a sound.
This week has been a drastic change. All of a sudden he hates going to bed, and once there he climbs out immediately, and starts to sob and wail like his little heart is breaking. And you think yours will too. He will sit and cuddle up to me if he thinks he has to go to bed, for as long as he possibly can. He won't take his little bottle of water if he thinks he will have to go to bed. Anything to avoid it.
It doesn't appear that anything is physically wrong, as far as we can tell. It seems to be completely emotional. Perhaps he's had bad dreams and sleep is no longer the happy place it used to be? That's all that seems to make sense. The other night he woke up sobbing and when we went in to see him he was actually shaking. It's heartbreaking, but at the same time the whole house was awake and I don't think anyone got more than a couple of hours sleep. Not a very sustainable way to function.
I'm hoping this is a phase of some sort. A very short phase. For his sake and for the rest of the family. In the meantime, the house echoes with the sobs of the saddest boy in the world.
The Bug is a busy little boy, but he gets tired and at either naptime or bedtime, has never been a problem. Just put him in bed, and he's off to sleep, usually without a sound.
This week has been a drastic change. All of a sudden he hates going to bed, and once there he climbs out immediately, and starts to sob and wail like his little heart is breaking. And you think yours will too. He will sit and cuddle up to me if he thinks he has to go to bed, for as long as he possibly can. He won't take his little bottle of water if he thinks he will have to go to bed. Anything to avoid it.
It doesn't appear that anything is physically wrong, as far as we can tell. It seems to be completely emotional. Perhaps he's had bad dreams and sleep is no longer the happy place it used to be? That's all that seems to make sense. The other night he woke up sobbing and when we went in to see him he was actually shaking. It's heartbreaking, but at the same time the whole house was awake and I don't think anyone got more than a couple of hours sleep. Not a very sustainable way to function.
I'm hoping this is a phase of some sort. A very short phase. For his sake and for the rest of the family. In the meantime, the house echoes with the sobs of the saddest boy in the world.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Early Christmas Present
A couple of years ago on my birthday CH took me on a surprise trip to Fernie to pick out a painting from Angela Morgan, at her studio.
Angela herself was friendly and wonderful and it was such a treat to see her work space and get a glimpse at her paintings in progress. We picked out a lovely painting called Breeze and Bucket from the work she had on hand, but the one that I really fell in love with was at a gallery in Regina.
CH and I have agreed to start collecting art as we see pieces we love, and finances permit. I've always wanted to have a house full of beautiful creative artwork.
Over the last several months we have been working towards purchasing Girl and Elevator. Finally today she arrived. As with most artwork I've seen, she is even more stunning in person than her photograph suggests!
Angela herself was friendly and wonderful and it was such a treat to see her work space and get a glimpse at her paintings in progress. We picked out a lovely painting called Breeze and Bucket from the work she had on hand, but the one that I really fell in love with was at a gallery in Regina.
CH and I have agreed to start collecting art as we see pieces we love, and finances permit. I've always wanted to have a house full of beautiful creative artwork.
Over the last several months we have been working towards purchasing Girl and Elevator. Finally today she arrived. As with most artwork I've seen, she is even more stunning in person than her photograph suggests!
gliche
OK, I actually have things to post...stories, photos...BUT ever since we moved my computer no longer recognizes my cd drive. How does this effect my posting? Simply, I cannot backup my photos like I normally do immediately after I download them. So, I don't want to download them for paranoid fear they will disappear off my computer. I am working on the problem. Sort of. I am trying to find someone to fix the problem!
Monday, December 04, 2006
Hipster Love
I just got this email from my cousin, Ben. He's the drummer for the Hipsters. They're a great band, and I think this will be a terrific evening. Just passing on the love if anyone would care to join us...and that's GREEK band, not geek band...!
Hi Friends,
Hi Friends,
On December 17th (Sunday evening), the Rembetika Hipsters (Ben's Greek band) are celebrating 10 years together as a band with a Winter concert at the Epcor Centre's Engineered Air theatre. We're going to put on our best performance ever, and it will be recorded for a live album. There will be exotic instruments, guest performers, both of our incredibly talented violinists, great food, and more. The venue is costing us a small fortune, so we want to make sure to fill the place up! Tickets are available in Calgary at Megatunes and Pegasus restaurant, or you could reserve your ticket through me or any of the Rembetika Hipsters. Please do pass this on to your friends who would be interested in a fabulous evening of World music.
Happy Holidays,
Ben Johnson & the Rembetika Hipsters
Saturday, December 02, 2006
More Christmas Past
Every year for as long as I can recall, I make Christmas cards. I guess you can call it a tradition, and it's something that I enjoy, even when it's hectic. Now that I have kids, friends and relatives will be enjoying my childrens faces pretty much every year...until they get to that awkward, geeky stage anyway.
However, I have found lately that it is getting more and more difficult to take a decent photo of the boys. They are too distracted by everything, and much too busy to let me mold them into the perfect little models I would like them to be. So this year's great photo is still in the works.
From the beginning, The Bee has been very photogenic. It has been fairly easy to get great pics of him. The Bug on the other hand, while equally as cute and adorable in person, is not so photogenic. He is often making a goofy face, or has his eyes half shut. And since they are twins, I feel it my responsibility to get the same equal amount and quality of shots of each of them. No favoritism here!
So while I wait for this year's magic to happen, here are some of our favorite shots from last year.
However, I have found lately that it is getting more and more difficult to take a decent photo of the boys. They are too distracted by everything, and much too busy to let me mold them into the perfect little models I would like them to be. So this year's great photo is still in the works.
From the beginning, The Bee has been very photogenic. It has been fairly easy to get great pics of him. The Bug on the other hand, while equally as cute and adorable in person, is not so photogenic. He is often making a goofy face, or has his eyes half shut. And since they are twins, I feel it my responsibility to get the same equal amount and quality of shots of each of them. No favoritism here!
So while I wait for this year's magic to happen, here are some of our favorite shots from last year.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Only 25 More Sleeps
For many of the recent childless adult years in my life, Christmas had lost some of its lustre. I think as an adult you reach a point where you question what it is all about. Is it worth the fuss? Is it just needless expense and stress? Is it even fun? I feared I was starting to sound/feel grinchy.
CH and I spent our first Christmas together travelling, and we were in Bali for most of the month of December. It was a welcome relief to be away from the hustle and bustle of North America, and the pressure to participate in numerous family gatherings, etc. Being in the tropics didn't hurt, but I enjoyed the newness of being in a different culture, and a break from tradition. We enjoyed ourselves in the company of new friends, food and festivities, as well as the quiet of just being there together.
However. I now find myself with a renewed sense of anticipation and enjoyment with the upcoming holiday season. I'm so excited!
It starts, of course with the impending family you are about to have, and grows from there. Last year was fun, but this year can only be more fun. The boys are more aware and more active. They still don't really understand, but they like lights and snow and cookies and music. I'm excited for them. And I'm also just happy to enjoy the lights and the music and the snow...and the cookies! We put up our tree on the weekend, and while we don't have many decorations yet, it makes me happy to see the glow of the lights every day. I guess, like the Grinch my heart has grown 3 sizes.
For that I thank my little Bug and my Bee!
2004
2005
CH and I spent our first Christmas together travelling, and we were in Bali for most of the month of December. It was a welcome relief to be away from the hustle and bustle of North America, and the pressure to participate in numerous family gatherings, etc. Being in the tropics didn't hurt, but I enjoyed the newness of being in a different culture, and a break from tradition. We enjoyed ourselves in the company of new friends, food and festivities, as well as the quiet of just being there together.
However. I now find myself with a renewed sense of anticipation and enjoyment with the upcoming holiday season. I'm so excited!
It starts, of course with the impending family you are about to have, and grows from there. Last year was fun, but this year can only be more fun. The boys are more aware and more active. They still don't really understand, but they like lights and snow and cookies and music. I'm excited for them. And I'm also just happy to enjoy the lights and the music and the snow...and the cookies! We put up our tree on the weekend, and while we don't have many decorations yet, it makes me happy to see the glow of the lights every day. I guess, like the Grinch my heart has grown 3 sizes.
For that I thank my little Bug and my Bee!
2004
2005
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
