First time running through the sprinkler. They call it the shower.
My mom warned me that my boys would seem so big after we brought the baby home. She was right! So grown up in an instant.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
28 Months
Oh so late...but worth the wait! Photos galore! The boys like the new baby well enough, but they are generally too busy to pay her much attention. Summer is here. Hurray!
First time running through the sprinkler. They call it the shower.
My mom warned me that my boys would seem so big after we brought the baby home. She was right! So grown up in an instant.
First time running through the sprinkler. They call it the shower.
My mom warned me that my boys would seem so big after we brought the baby home. She was right! So grown up in an instant.
Gone Fishin'
Ok, not really fishing, but on vacation...all I ever wanted.
OK. Hardly. We all no there's no such thing as a 'vacation' when two 2yr olds and a 2mo old are involved. In fact 'vacation' really means the same craziness as you have at home, but you just take it on the road. And you sleep less.
Still, we have been on 'vacation' at my parent's place this past week. Hot, sunny beautiful Rocky Mountains. And cold, kicky Kicking Horse River. Unfortunately, no phone or email. Their system is down and awaiting repair. Sort of relaxing not to have them, but it can also be annoying.
Anyway, lots of photos and lots to update. The Baby is still colicky so I feel like I am way behind on things, but will do my best to catch up ASAP!
Loves to you all.
OK. Hardly. We all no there's no such thing as a 'vacation' when two 2yr olds and a 2mo old are involved. In fact 'vacation' really means the same craziness as you have at home, but you just take it on the road. And you sleep less.
Still, we have been on 'vacation' at my parent's place this past week. Hot, sunny beautiful Rocky Mountains. And cold, kicky Kicking Horse River. Unfortunately, no phone or email. Their system is down and awaiting repair. Sort of relaxing not to have them, but it can also be annoying.
Anyway, lots of photos and lots to update. The Baby is still colicky so I feel like I am way behind on things, but will do my best to catch up ASAP!
Loves to you all.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Houdini Bee
Many of the doors in our home have childproof safety latches on them. It's just a small sliding latch at the top of the door, so that our children can't open them. Because they can't reach them.
This prevents the kids from flushing stuff, and emptying the toilet paper roll, escaping to the garage, and re-arranging our bedroom every second of every day. It also keeps them in their own rooms at naptime and bedtime. Crucial to the peaceful, happy flow of our home.
One afternoon last week the boys were in their rooms for a nap and I was trying to get the baby to follow. Much to my surprise a little blonde head pops up from downstairs. Very pleased with himself he is calling, Mommy? Mommy? Daddy? Daddy?
Maybe I'd forgotten to latch his door?
However, this happened again the next day. I promptly took him back to his room to let him know it was still 'nap time'.
He them figured out that mommy makes him return to 'napping' so he figured he might as well watch a little tv, or pile up all the toys from the playroom into his bedroom before coming upstairs. Oddly enough, he only did this at naptime.
Until today. This morning instead of waiting for us to come and get him, we hear this happy little voice coming up the stairs calling, Mommy? Daddy? and up pops his little blonde head.
And while we are amused by his cuteness, we are really more astounded by his amazing feet of escape. We have no idea how he is getting out of his room.
This prevents the kids from flushing stuff, and emptying the toilet paper roll, escaping to the garage, and re-arranging our bedroom every second of every day. It also keeps them in their own rooms at naptime and bedtime. Crucial to the peaceful, happy flow of our home.
One afternoon last week the boys were in their rooms for a nap and I was trying to get the baby to follow. Much to my surprise a little blonde head pops up from downstairs. Very pleased with himself he is calling, Mommy? Mommy? Daddy? Daddy?
Maybe I'd forgotten to latch his door?
However, this happened again the next day. I promptly took him back to his room to let him know it was still 'nap time'.
He them figured out that mommy makes him return to 'napping' so he figured he might as well watch a little tv, or pile up all the toys from the playroom into his bedroom before coming upstairs. Oddly enough, he only did this at naptime.
Until today. This morning instead of waiting for us to come and get him, we hear this happy little voice coming up the stairs calling, Mommy? Daddy? and up pops his little blonde head.
And while we are amused by his cuteness, we are really more astounded by his amazing feet of escape. We have no idea how he is getting out of his room.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
A Birth Story
Everybody's got one.
I know you've been waiting with baited breath...
For whatever reason, I do feel the need to document the occasion, as many have done before me. If only for myself. And you internet.
I will try to keep it brief.
Feel free to skip this post entirely if it's just TMI.
First of all, I was concerned about how I would know when it was time to go to the hospital. Last time my water broke, and that was a pretty good sign for me. I figured if it didn't break this time, how would I know?
Ummm...not an issue.
I'd been having crampy (crappy?) Braxton Hicks contractions all day. Lots of them. But I normally have a lot, so I wasn't overly anxious. I had a Dr.'s appt that afternoon, but with no great panic. I was 3cm's at 3pm. My Dr. (or rather her replacement as she was away on a 3 week vacation) suggested it may be early labour, but maybe she'd see me again next week.
6:50pm
Intense labour contractions start. Maybe 5-7 minutes apart. Did I mention INTENSE.
Call nice neighbour to come over to watch kids until sister can HUSTLE IT OVER ALREADY! (She kindly watched the twins with my mom while we were away)
7:00pm
Throw bags in car and race to hospital while honking and using flashers to get people out of the way. Did I mention contractions getting closer and more INTENSE?
Luckily it was not still rush hour and their wasn't too much construction on Glenmore Trail or baby would have had to been named Glenmore. After her birth place.
7:15ish (I didn't really check the time here)
Arrive at hospital. Freaking out about contractions as they are still close and INTENSE. 6-7cms.
Get checked out by maternity ward, they dawdle around a bit and move me to a delivery room, while I loudly request a freakin' epidural already.
7:16-8:12
CH and nurses try to help me while we wait for the Epidural Guy. He's on another job. I request louder. Contractions are getting closer, longer and INTENSELY PAINFUL.
Epi Guy comes and fumbles around a bit. Almost gets into fist fight with CH. Everyone is getting INTENSE.
My water breaks. Watch your shoes!
This is out of control! Epi Guy finally finishes. Thanks for nothing.
PUSHING!! I will refrain from going into too much detail here. Let's just say I was 'unprepared' emotionaly and physically for the INTENSITY of my natural birth. I had fully expected to be drugged and relaxed.
Oh yes, and the on-call Dr. arrived somewhere in there. She was lovely.
8:13
Hello Baby!
A few stitches and everyone is friends again. Except us and Epi Guy. We're not friends.
*noteworthy*
I was watching Veronica Mars when my contractions started. Just a random episode on tv. Coincidence??
I know you've been waiting with baited breath...
For whatever reason, I do feel the need to document the occasion, as many have done before me. If only for myself. And you internet.
I will try to keep it brief.
Feel free to skip this post entirely if it's just TMI.
First of all, I was concerned about how I would know when it was time to go to the hospital. Last time my water broke, and that was a pretty good sign for me. I figured if it didn't break this time, how would I know?
Ummm...not an issue.
I'd been having crampy (crappy?) Braxton Hicks contractions all day. Lots of them. But I normally have a lot, so I wasn't overly anxious. I had a Dr.'s appt that afternoon, but with no great panic. I was 3cm's at 3pm. My Dr. (or rather her replacement as she was away on a 3 week vacation) suggested it may be early labour, but maybe she'd see me again next week.
6:50pm
Intense labour contractions start. Maybe 5-7 minutes apart. Did I mention INTENSE.
Call nice neighbour to come over to watch kids until sister can HUSTLE IT OVER ALREADY! (She kindly watched the twins with my mom while we were away)
7:00pm
Throw bags in car and race to hospital while honking and using flashers to get people out of the way. Did I mention contractions getting closer and more INTENSE?
Luckily it was not still rush hour and their wasn't too much construction on Glenmore Trail or baby would have had to been named Glenmore. After her birth place.
7:15ish (I didn't really check the time here)
Arrive at hospital. Freaking out about contractions as they are still close and INTENSE. 6-7cms.
Get checked out by maternity ward, they dawdle around a bit and move me to a delivery room, while I loudly request a freakin' epidural already.
7:16-8:12
CH and nurses try to help me while we wait for the Epidural Guy. He's on another job. I request louder. Contractions are getting closer, longer and INTENSELY PAINFUL.
Epi Guy comes and fumbles around a bit. Almost gets into fist fight with CH. Everyone is getting INTENSE.
My water breaks. Watch your shoes!
This is out of control! Epi Guy finally finishes. Thanks for nothing.
PUSHING!! I will refrain from going into too much detail here. Let's just say I was 'unprepared' emotionaly and physically for the INTENSITY of my natural birth. I had fully expected to be drugged and relaxed.
Oh yes, and the on-call Dr. arrived somewhere in there. She was lovely.
8:13
Hello Baby!
A few stitches and everyone is friends again. Except us and Epi Guy. We're not friends.
*noteworthy*
I was watching Veronica Mars when my contractions started. Just a random episode on tv. Coincidence??
Dance Hall Days
Where do grown married women with breastfeeding babies and small children go to dance?
Why, their cars of course! Bustin' a move with a little classic MJ. It doesn't get much better groove-wise.
Honestly, where should grown women who don't want to go to bars, or even dance with men go to dance??
There was a time when my very best girlfriend and I would go out every weekend to a stinky bar just to dance. We'd go early before the 'crowds' hit. We were bar nerds. Drinking water and dancing for hours.
I don't miss the bar. At all. But sometimes I miss the exhileration of dancing for hours, sweating and losing yourself in music. Dancing at home can be fun, no doubt about it, but it's not the same. You try the occasional Christmas party or wedding, but it's not the same either.
What's a suburban mom to do?
Why, their cars of course! Bustin' a move with a little classic MJ. It doesn't get much better groove-wise.
Honestly, where should grown women who don't want to go to bars, or even dance with men go to dance??
There was a time when my very best girlfriend and I would go out every weekend to a stinky bar just to dance. We'd go early before the 'crowds' hit. We were bar nerds. Drinking water and dancing for hours.
I don't miss the bar. At all. But sometimes I miss the exhileration of dancing for hours, sweating and losing yourself in music. Dancing at home can be fun, no doubt about it, but it's not the same. You try the occasional Christmas party or wedding, but it's not the same either.
What's a suburban mom to do?
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Monday, June 11, 2007
And So It Goes...
The Baby wanted all of my attention this morning. Which is difficult when you have siblings (hers, not mine). I tried to explain this to her, but she cried anyway. Maybe that's why she cried...?
And then the boys were into kissing. Me. On the mouth. Which was super cute, and just a tiny bit gross because I'm a Virgo and they were a bit slobbery. They were pretending to leave. They had their old easter buckets full of plastic balls and they would say 'Goodbye' and come over and give me a kiss and then pretend to leave...wherever they were going with their buckets full of plastic balls...
The Baby got a couple of good kisses on the head too. Kisses for all!
But now it's afternoon and I haven't had a shower yet. And I'm eating chips. Out of the big bag. Because that's how CH have decided to bring Sexy Back. One chip at a time. And reading Woman's Health.
Good health to you!!
And by the way. Where IS everyone? They better not be over at FaceBook. That two faced...book. Sure it can be fun, but I find it overwhelming. Like finding out you suddenly have fans and paparazzi and everyone wants your autograph. Everyone wants a piece of you.
I spit my gum at Facebook. Now I must go check for messages...on Facebook.
And then the boys were into kissing. Me. On the mouth. Which was super cute, and just a tiny bit gross because I'm a Virgo and they were a bit slobbery. They were pretending to leave. They had their old easter buckets full of plastic balls and they would say 'Goodbye' and come over and give me a kiss and then pretend to leave...wherever they were going with their buckets full of plastic balls...
The Baby got a couple of good kisses on the head too. Kisses for all!
But now it's afternoon and I haven't had a shower yet. And I'm eating chips. Out of the big bag. Because that's how CH have decided to bring Sexy Back. One chip at a time. And reading Woman's Health.
Good health to you!!
And by the way. Where IS everyone? They better not be over at FaceBook. That two faced...book. Sure it can be fun, but I find it overwhelming. Like finding out you suddenly have fans and paparazzi and everyone wants your autograph. Everyone wants a piece of you.
I spit my gum at Facebook. Now I must go check for messages...on Facebook.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
27 Months
Daddy has been busy building in the back yard.
Ok, the boys were 27 months weeks ago. But better late than not at all right? I'm not sure how I'm going to continue in this format. Add another update for the baby? Do one update a month for all of them? Not sure, but I'll figure out something. I just need it to be relatively quick and easy to do, so I will be sure to continue...
View from the big tub.
The boys have been great. Mostly. With so much going on just before the baby and certainly after, they've done very well. There has been some acting up, but who could blame them. Since this update was due so long back, maybe I'll save more details for the next one coming, and just throw out some photos.
More backyard fun.
As handsome as ever...
Lovin' their new Thomas the Train shirts!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Hello World
And here she is....Little Miss Sunshine herself...I haven't decided yet what her blog name will be...not that you don't all know her name anyway, but if the boys have 'blognames' she has to have one too!
First car ride.
All in pink.
New crib.
Friday, May 25, 2007
She Was Born on a Tuesday Night...
Emery Sara Ellis
7lbs 13oz 19.5in
May 22 8:13pm
You may call her Baby Em, or Emmy (but not Oscar or Golden Globes). The photo is not so good, but in the mad rush to the hospital we forgot the camera so our really nice doctor (that we just met moments before) let us use her camera phone!
More details and better photos will follow....must feed and change baby...need sleep....all is well!
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Quiz
Ok, feel free to play along...
What's more fun than being 38 weeks pregnant?
a) Being 38 weeks pregnant and having swollen hands and feet. Because nothing says pretty like thick ankles and man hands!
b) Being 38 weeks pregnant and the PUPPS. I guess I should be thankful it hasn't spread past my stomach, but the itching...oh the itching...
c) Being 38 weeks pregnant and having a SINUS INFECTION. Stuffy and snotty AND rationing the tylenol.
d) All of the above.
If you guessed (d), you win! I can feel your envy.
And because I'm not ALL about complaining, on the upside, my skin has been quite lovely lately. Dare I say a little glowy. It's a nice change from the first couple months of breakouts.
And in fun news, Congratulations to the MWB's on their beautiful new arrival. I'm sure details will soon follow!
What's more fun than being 38 weeks pregnant?
a) Being 38 weeks pregnant and having swollen hands and feet. Because nothing says pretty like thick ankles and man hands!
b) Being 38 weeks pregnant and the PUPPS. I guess I should be thankful it hasn't spread past my stomach, but the itching...oh the itching...
c) Being 38 weeks pregnant and having a SINUS INFECTION. Stuffy and snotty AND rationing the tylenol.
d) All of the above.
If you guessed (d), you win! I can feel your envy.
And because I'm not ALL about complaining, on the upside, my skin has been quite lovely lately. Dare I say a little glowy. It's a nice change from the first couple months of breakouts.
And in fun news, Congratulations to the MWB's on their beautiful new arrival. I'm sure details will soon follow!
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Weekend Update
I was away over the weekend.
Can you believe it? CH and I went away. Without the children. For the first time. My fun-loving mother-in-law came in from out of town with two helpful and wonderful neices in tow, to look after our kids and WE WENT AWAY!!
It was the first time we've been gone over night. CH was worried that the boys might be a bit freaked out going to bed/waking up without us, but I think they managed quite well. In fact they have taken the past few days to get back to the reality of just me and them again after all that undivided attention and non-stop over stimulation. Apparently they were very well behaved while we were gone, but not so much when we got home!
Anyway...we got to spend two days in Banff at a wedding. CH was a groomsman for a good friend. I was a little nervous being so close to my due date, but I was determined to make it away for the weekend, if at all possible.
We stayed at the fabulous Rimrock Hotel, in a room with a stunning view of the mountains. I even managed to book myself in for a massage at the hotel spa! How indulgent of me. And we slept in the world's most comfortable bed. Not that we had time to relax as much as we'd like, but I could have stayed there all weekend.
The wedding was in a small chapel on main street on Saturday morning followed by brunch at the Banff Springs. Cheers to the new Mr. and Mrs. and congratulation to them on their most beautiful and happy wedding day!
I took photos, but have not downloaded them yet. It seems that anything requiring any amount of effort is quickly falling by the wayside and just sitting here at the computer is incredibly uncomfortable.
No baby action yet, but will keep you posted!!
Can you believe it? CH and I went away. Without the children. For the first time. My fun-loving mother-in-law came in from out of town with two helpful and wonderful neices in tow, to look after our kids and WE WENT AWAY!!
It was the first time we've been gone over night. CH was worried that the boys might be a bit freaked out going to bed/waking up without us, but I think they managed quite well. In fact they have taken the past few days to get back to the reality of just me and them again after all that undivided attention and non-stop over stimulation. Apparently they were very well behaved while we were gone, but not so much when we got home!
Anyway...we got to spend two days in Banff at a wedding. CH was a groomsman for a good friend. I was a little nervous being so close to my due date, but I was determined to make it away for the weekend, if at all possible.
We stayed at the fabulous Rimrock Hotel, in a room with a stunning view of the mountains. I even managed to book myself in for a massage at the hotel spa! How indulgent of me. And we slept in the world's most comfortable bed. Not that we had time to relax as much as we'd like, but I could have stayed there all weekend.
The wedding was in a small chapel on main street on Saturday morning followed by brunch at the Banff Springs. Cheers to the new Mr. and Mrs. and congratulation to them on their most beautiful and happy wedding day!
I took photos, but have not downloaded them yet. It seems that anything requiring any amount of effort is quickly falling by the wayside and just sitting here at the computer is incredibly uncomfortable.
No baby action yet, but will keep you posted!!
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Happy Mother's Day
I too have a Good Mother.
Thanks Mom for all you do. For all you have always done. You're a blessing in my life.
Much love.
xoxo
Thanks Mom for all you do. For all you have always done. You're a blessing in my life.
Much love.
xoxo
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
7 Random Things
Ok, I've been tagged...
1. I'm a terrible phone person. Sometimes I avoid it like the plague. I don't know why. Oddly enough I've had a couple of jobs where I had to talk to people on the phone. I survived, but it hasn't improved the avoidance in my real life. It has nothing personal to do with who is calling me.
2. I have always thought I would have a daughter. I really hope we get along.
3. My first pet was a dog named Butch. He was already our pet when I was born. We got along great, but I've always been a cat person. I'm pretty ok not having any pets right now. I don't need any more messes to clean up.
4. I'll be 37 later this year. I'm getting a little freaked about turning 40 already.
5. I'm looking forward to having sushi when I'm not pregant anymore.
6. I'm afraid of fish. Touching me. Snorkeling creeped me out.
7. I wish I could sing. Well. (I 'can' sing, just not well enough that anyone wants to hear!)
And so I must tag Mrs. M, Mrs. Sweetpeas, and Mrs. Wonderful!
1. I'm a terrible phone person. Sometimes I avoid it like the plague. I don't know why. Oddly enough I've had a couple of jobs where I had to talk to people on the phone. I survived, but it hasn't improved the avoidance in my real life. It has nothing personal to do with who is calling me.
2. I have always thought I would have a daughter. I really hope we get along.
3. My first pet was a dog named Butch. He was already our pet when I was born. We got along great, but I've always been a cat person. I'm pretty ok not having any pets right now. I don't need any more messes to clean up.
4. I'll be 37 later this year. I'm getting a little freaked about turning 40 already.
5. I'm looking forward to having sushi when I'm not pregant anymore.
6. I'm afraid of fish. Touching me. Snorkeling creeped me out.
7. I wish I could sing. Well. (I 'can' sing, just not well enough that anyone wants to hear!)
And so I must tag Mrs. M, Mrs. Sweetpeas, and Mrs. Wonderful!
Baby Birds
I'm still feeling quite hooked on the little birds theme. I had at one time considered doing something with it for the boys, but it really fits much better for a nursery. It seems like little birdies are everywhere these days, which is fun. I'm thinking of painting or putting something together myself, but it hasn't really happened yet...big surprise! Oh well. I'm really not pressuring myself to do everything beforehand. The baby is going to be around for a while, and we'll have plenty of time to add decor or whatnot. At least the baby gets her very own room this time. That's a good start.
(that's my story and I'm sticking to it)
I think this would look so cute in the nursery. I need to do some looking around locally so I can find some fun artwork close by!
The littlest birds sing the prettiest songs...
(that's my story and I'm sticking to it)
I think this would look so cute in the nursery. I need to do some looking around locally so I can find some fun artwork close by!
The littlest birds sing the prettiest songs...
Friday, May 04, 2007
Have One for Me (or ten)
Cheers!
I'm not a drinker. Never have been. Generally it's a total non-issue. But then there are days when I think it would be a good time to start...
I'm not going to, but part of me would just like to spend the day drinking these.
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
I'm not a drinker. Never have been. Generally it's a total non-issue. But then there are days when I think it would be a good time to start...
I'm not going to, but part of me would just like to spend the day drinking these.
Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Latest Obsession
It's not mine. It's The Bee this time. And it's Thomas. Otherwise known as Toot Toots. With a strong emphasis on the 'ts' at the end.
Oddly though, he doesn't recognize him as a train. He is a bus. Or simply toot toots. Go figure.
My mom brought the boys a couple of dvd's which came with cute little toy engines a couple of weeks ago.
I was happy with the newly added variety to our viewing, and The Bug likes them well enough, but it is The Bee who LOOOOOVES them. It's probably a good thing that they are both not totally obsessed about the very same thing. I don't think I could handle it. The Bee will even choose playing with his train engine over eating his dinner. Now that is saying something.
My grandpa was an avid train enthusiast his whole life. He was also very mischevious and would spend hours playing games and being silly with his grandkids. My grandpa passed away several years ago, but I think he and my boys would have been the best of friends.
In the meantime, we will have to go check out the big (little) train this summer at Heritage Park. I suspect it will be a big hit.
p.s. The Thomas show at the park is completely sold out. Just our luck!
Oddly though, he doesn't recognize him as a train. He is a bus. Or simply toot toots. Go figure.
My mom brought the boys a couple of dvd's which came with cute little toy engines a couple of weeks ago.
I was happy with the newly added variety to our viewing, and The Bug likes them well enough, but it is The Bee who LOOOOOVES them. It's probably a good thing that they are both not totally obsessed about the very same thing. I don't think I could handle it. The Bee will even choose playing with his train engine over eating his dinner. Now that is saying something.
My grandpa was an avid train enthusiast his whole life. He was also very mischevious and would spend hours playing games and being silly with his grandkids. My grandpa passed away several years ago, but I think he and my boys would have been the best of friends.
In the meantime, we will have to go check out the big (little) train this summer at Heritage Park. I suspect it will be a big hit.
p.s. The Thomas show at the park is completely sold out. Just our luck!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Not Feeling Guilty
Mrs. M had a post a while back about guilty pleasures. I don't think it's any secret that I love 'the dancing'. I don't care that it's cheesy or even a little freaky sometimes. That may be part of the appeal.
I also love to dance. Not all dancing. As a kid I took lessons, but no ballet or slow stuff. Give me something I can move to! And while I have no delusions about my skills as a dancer, it's all about the joy of moving to music.
Anyway, when I watched this the other night, it made me think of all that is good and happy about dancing. Somehow Joey (Fatone) even seems attractive in his enthusiasm and I can't help but smile when I watch him. The music stuck in my head too. This song with a samba beat.
All pure happiness!
I also love to dance. Not all dancing. As a kid I took lessons, but no ballet or slow stuff. Give me something I can move to! And while I have no delusions about my skills as a dancer, it's all about the joy of moving to music.
Anyway, when I watched this the other night, it made me think of all that is good and happy about dancing. Somehow Joey (Fatone) even seems attractive in his enthusiasm and I can't help but smile when I watch him. The music stuck in my head too. This song with a samba beat.
All pure happiness!
Monday, April 23, 2007
Game On
For all my whining and complaining about being pregnant, now that the end is nearing I'm starting to freak out!
This is actually as far as I've been pregnant before. I am 34.5 weeks now. My twins were born at 34.5 weeks. I had them on this day in my pregnancy. YIKES!!
That whole business of actually giving birth is still very unknown and scary to me. It went very well last time, so l like to think it will be similar. But the reality is, it may not be. And I'm thinking that this baby will be at least a little early (not too early, just healthy) but that may be wishful thinking on my part. The whole 'mystery' about when and how, etc, can really make you (me) crazy. I know I just have to relax and accept that things will work out exactly as they should and everything will be fine...but I'm still freaking out over here!!!!
While the actual birth of the twins was very smooth and not nearly as scary as I'd worried it would be, there are some things I hope will be better. Mainly the fact that my baby will be healthy enough that I can 'keep' her right away and she won't be wisked away to the NICU for the next few weeks. Even though my boys were a decent size (4.5 and 5.5lbs) they still had to stay in the hospital to get stronger. It seemed like forever. There were many babies much worse off than ours, so I am grateful our situation wasn't so bad, but it was very stressful.
It's hard to believe my wet little kittens with all the tubes and monitors are the same healthy, rowdy boys they are today!
This is actually as far as I've been pregnant before. I am 34.5 weeks now. My twins were born at 34.5 weeks. I had them on this day in my pregnancy. YIKES!!
That whole business of actually giving birth is still very unknown and scary to me. It went very well last time, so l like to think it will be similar. But the reality is, it may not be. And I'm thinking that this baby will be at least a little early (not too early, just healthy) but that may be wishful thinking on my part. The whole 'mystery' about when and how, etc, can really make you (me) crazy. I know I just have to relax and accept that things will work out exactly as they should and everything will be fine...but I'm still freaking out over here!!!!
While the actual birth of the twins was very smooth and not nearly as scary as I'd worried it would be, there are some things I hope will be better. Mainly the fact that my baby will be healthy enough that I can 'keep' her right away and she won't be wisked away to the NICU for the next few weeks. Even though my boys were a decent size (4.5 and 5.5lbs) they still had to stay in the hospital to get stronger. It seemed like forever. There were many babies much worse off than ours, so I am grateful our situation wasn't so bad, but it was very stressful.
It's hard to believe my wet little kittens with all the tubes and monitors are the same healthy, rowdy boys they are today!
Saturday, April 21, 2007
26 Months
Aaaahhh...my little babies are growing up. I realize it's all relative. And nothing earth shattering has happened over the past month, just little things. A few words are strung together, more interaction, more recognition of the world around them. Even a lot of their clothes are getting a bit shorter all of a sudden. Sometimes just the way they look at me seems more grown up.
With the exception of the general 2yr old defiance and exhertion of independence (tantrum power) things are going fairly smoothly at the moment. I realize these moments can be brief, and it feels like perhaps the quiet before the 'storm' of the new baby shakes up our household!
I can't imagine that the boys fully understand what is coming. The Bee likes to poke my stomach and say 'Baby' and he recognizes babies in pictures or on tv. The Bug doesn't say much about it, but that's his style. He may just be collecting all the data and sorting and filing it away in his busy brain for the right moment.
One thing is for sure, both boys can't get enough of their daddy. They will call him from their rooms in the morning if he doesn't get up soon enough. If I'm the one getting them up they will always ask for 'Daddy?'. Like they can't believe he would go to work without playing with them. Daddy always makes them laugh with tickles and cuddles and chasing them around..and the occasional ball to the head. They are definitely Daddy's boys.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Forever Winter
The reality is that I no longer consider a day to be a 'good day' or a 'bad day' or any section or part thereof. It is always just a sliding scale of partly 'good' and partly 'bad'.
Yesterday was mostly 'good'! Maybe 80/20.
We had quite a successful outing in the morning with Mrs. M (until meltdowns at hometime) but then good naps in the afternoon. Dinner was the usual shenanigans, but Daddy was home to help with bathtime and bedtime. I pushed myself to go out to a 'girl's night' complete with a chocolate fountain and games. It's one of those times when it would have been easier to stay at home, but I knew I would feel better for having put in a bit of effort. And I did. It wasn't a group of women that I knew really well, but I was comfortable enough, and the grown up conversation was refreshing.
CH had invited friends of ours over (a last minute thing) to watch the hockey game, so I made it home in time to catch the last/winning period. How sociable of me!
I am reminding myself as it looks a lot like this again today and we aren't likely to leave the house...spring has to come eventually...right??
Yesterday was mostly 'good'! Maybe 80/20.
We had quite a successful outing in the morning with Mrs. M (until meltdowns at hometime) but then good naps in the afternoon. Dinner was the usual shenanigans, but Daddy was home to help with bathtime and bedtime. I pushed myself to go out to a 'girl's night' complete with a chocolate fountain and games. It's one of those times when it would have been easier to stay at home, but I knew I would feel better for having put in a bit of effort. And I did. It wasn't a group of women that I knew really well, but I was comfortable enough, and the grown up conversation was refreshing.
CH had invited friends of ours over (a last minute thing) to watch the hockey game, so I made it home in time to catch the last/winning period. How sociable of me!
I am reminding myself as it looks a lot like this again today and we aren't likely to leave the house...spring has to come eventually...right??
Monday, April 16, 2007
Fabulous Photography
I aspire...
I don't usually aspire to photograph children as people who can sit still and don't cry a lot are much easier, but these are some of the most beautiful portraits I've seen. A lot of people are avid b/w enthusiasts, but the color here is enchanting.
I don't usually aspire to photograph children as people who can sit still and don't cry a lot are much easier, but these are some of the most beautiful portraits I've seen. A lot of people are avid b/w enthusiasts, but the color here is enchanting.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Thinking About....
...these right now! So fluffy and pretty.
Anyone want to whip some up and bring 'em over???! That's ok...I'll just keep thinking about them. I was in a baking phase a while back. Cookies and muffins all over the place. I seem to be over it now. Only store-bought goodness for my family!
Anyone want to whip some up and bring 'em over???! That's ok...I'll just keep thinking about them. I was in a baking phase a while back. Cookies and muffins all over the place. I seem to be over it now. Only store-bought goodness for my family!
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Class Act at the Mall
The lovely Mrs. M and I often get together with our boys for playdates. It is getting increasingly difficult to find places to go where the kids can have some fun, but we don't have to physically chase them around too much. Because we are tired and getting too pregnant to run very fast. It's still too soggy to play outside but we still like to get out of the house and enjoy each others company.
Today we decided to meet at Chinook Mall, before the stores actually opened, so the kids could run around a bit and not get into too much trouble....can you sense the impending 'doom'?
First, let me just make it clear that Mrs. M is practically a Southern Belle. Who lives too far North to be considered Southern. She was clearly brought up well, and this is in no way a reflection otherwise. Unlike myself...
Second, Chinook Mall does not like children. There is no play area, shopping carts are not allowed out of the larger stores, and you cannot rent a stroller. We have a very large stroller, which does not fit well into stores.
Soooo...our morning went something like this:
The Bee took off his shoes and a sock on the way there. Upon entering the mall I realize that I put his shoes back on the wrong feet. And The Bug has a big patch of jam on his pants that I missed in the mad dash to get everyone in the car. Looking good so far!
We let the boys explore and wander around a bit, trying to make sure they are all in the same general direction.
We get to the escalator. The Bug and Bee are quite interested. The Bug flops himself on the floor and continues to lie there when I won't let him get on the escalator. A nice older lady asks him if he is cleaning the floor.
We eventually continue our 'walk' with both kids taking turns perfecting their passive-aggressive tactics. And while it is somewhat humorous in recounting, or as one hearing the story later, at the time I was quite tempted to leave the child lying on the floor and just walk away and get myself a muffin.
Instead we head into a store with shopping carts. The kids are actually pretty content to ride around until we discover that we are absolutely not going to get them out of the store. We try anyway. And again. To no avail. We are trapped unless we abandon ship.
We steer the little hooligans (mine) and the much better behaved W to the food court where we manage to scrounge up some high chairs, much to my surprise. Snack time is the usual shenanigan of getting food and drink every which way possible, but relatively successful.
We cut our losses and head home hoping that we've worn them out enough to have a decent afternoon nap. As we ourselves are exhausted.
And of course we always end with the promise to meet again next week. Cuz we're crazy like that...
Today we decided to meet at Chinook Mall, before the stores actually opened, so the kids could run around a bit and not get into too much trouble....can you sense the impending 'doom'?
First, let me just make it clear that Mrs. M is practically a Southern Belle. Who lives too far North to be considered Southern. She was clearly brought up well, and this is in no way a reflection otherwise. Unlike myself...
Second, Chinook Mall does not like children. There is no play area, shopping carts are not allowed out of the larger stores, and you cannot rent a stroller. We have a very large stroller, which does not fit well into stores.
Soooo...our morning went something like this:
The Bee took off his shoes and a sock on the way there. Upon entering the mall I realize that I put his shoes back on the wrong feet. And The Bug has a big patch of jam on his pants that I missed in the mad dash to get everyone in the car. Looking good so far!
We let the boys explore and wander around a bit, trying to make sure they are all in the same general direction.
We get to the escalator. The Bug and Bee are quite interested. The Bug flops himself on the floor and continues to lie there when I won't let him get on the escalator. A nice older lady asks him if he is cleaning the floor.
We eventually continue our 'walk' with both kids taking turns perfecting their passive-aggressive tactics. And while it is somewhat humorous in recounting, or as one hearing the story later, at the time I was quite tempted to leave the child lying on the floor and just walk away and get myself a muffin.
Instead we head into a store with shopping carts. The kids are actually pretty content to ride around until we discover that we are absolutely not going to get them out of the store. We try anyway. And again. To no avail. We are trapped unless we abandon ship.
We steer the little hooligans (mine) and the much better behaved W to the food court where we manage to scrounge up some high chairs, much to my surprise. Snack time is the usual shenanigan of getting food and drink every which way possible, but relatively successful.
We cut our losses and head home hoping that we've worn them out enough to have a decent afternoon nap. As we ourselves are exhausted.
And of course we always end with the promise to meet again next week. Cuz we're crazy like that...
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
What's in a Name?
Ok, the invitation is officially extended...girl name suggestions please. And thanks to all who've already added them in the previous comments!
And please note...when we do pick a name, it will be a surprise until the baby is born so you will have to wait to see how it ends up. It's just more fun that way!
And please note...when we do pick a name, it will be a surprise until the baby is born so you will have to wait to see how it ends up. It's just more fun that way!
Monday, April 09, 2007
Baby Girl
So...Going on the premise that we are having a girl, we still have no name. Nothing. CH and I like totally different kinds of names. And his favorite name in the whole world, is not one I would pick. He likes older, girly names. I like newer, more unique, less girly names. Names that have not been on the top 10 list since the bible. And I realize it's a fine line between 'unique' and just looking like you're trying too hard. Or just lame. I like names without preconcieved notions. At least my own. I'm not looking for wierd, just not 14 other girls you know with the same name.
With the boys, I would just go through books and lists and make my own list of names that I liked, or didn't mind, or just didn't hate, and then show them to CH. Then he would dislike 98% if them and I would keep looking. We managed to find two that we both liked. It seems even more difficult this time.
In my search for the 'perfect' name I came across this site. And while there are still too many Tiffanys and Amandas for my liking (no offence if that's your name, but does there really need to be any more?? Like Jennifer. That name should be officially declared 'used to death'. Again, no offense Jennifers) I was pretty impressed with the wide range of 'one of' names.
Many of these names may be cultural or heritage references like Vaanika or Trail-Dancer which I can totally respect, but some people are just bad spellers as in Trinaty or Sumr. And some are just wildly 'creative' like Rutendo, Jetlyn, Ekman or Frankie-May. I think my favorites are the overly sentimental/your daughter will be a stripper names like Precious(3 in 2006), Treasure, Mystique, and Honey(4 in 2006).
Aaaahhhh...it warms my heart!
With the boys, I would just go through books and lists and make my own list of names that I liked, or didn't mind, or just didn't hate, and then show them to CH. Then he would dislike 98% if them and I would keep looking. We managed to find two that we both liked. It seems even more difficult this time.
In my search for the 'perfect' name I came across this site. And while there are still too many Tiffanys and Amandas for my liking (no offence if that's your name, but does there really need to be any more?? Like Jennifer. That name should be officially declared 'used to death'. Again, no offense Jennifers) I was pretty impressed with the wide range of 'one of' names.
Many of these names may be cultural or heritage references like Vaanika or Trail-Dancer which I can totally respect, but some people are just bad spellers as in Trinaty or Sumr. And some are just wildly 'creative' like Rutendo, Jetlyn, Ekman or Frankie-May. I think my favorites are the overly sentimental/your daughter will be a stripper names like Precious(3 in 2006), Treasure, Mystique, and Honey(4 in 2006).
Aaaahhhh...it warms my heart!
Friday, April 06, 2007
Bunny Tracks
Last year around Easter...
And this year. There's not quite this much snow at the moment, but it's not far off.
*sigh*
And this year. There's not quite this much snow at the moment, but it's not far off.
*sigh*
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Photo Update
And here are my other baby faces...I guess having a newborn again will automatically bump up my 'babies' to big boys...but until then...
My little Bug. See what I mean about the sleeping? Who wouldn't want to kiss those cheeks? Photo thanks to Daddy.
Still lovin' cars. Sadly the red one ended up in the vacu-flo only days later. It has yet to come out the other end.
And The Bee is still lovin'...the vacuum!
Look out or he will come after you!
My little Bug. See what I mean about the sleeping? Who wouldn't want to kiss those cheeks? Photo thanks to Daddy.
Still lovin' cars. Sadly the red one ended up in the vacu-flo only days later. It has yet to come out the other end.
And The Bee is still lovin'...the vacuum!
Look out or he will come after you!
Baby Face
I had another ultrasound yesterday. The clinic was very quiet and I got in right away. The woman doing the ultrasound was very helpful and lovely. The official point of the ultrasound was to check that nothing was really happening due to all the crazy Braxton Hicks contractions I have, and all looks well at this point.
The bonus then is to see the baby again. Still no 'clear view' of the 'area', but the woman agreed that it looks like a girl from what she could see. A nice modest girl! Ha. She said there would be more hardware visible if it were a boy. So we're sticking to our original 'most likely, probably' a girl theory!
A suprise for me though, was seeing the baby's face in 4D. I've seem pictures of other people's ultrasounds, but we've never seen ours like this. You can really see what your little person looks like. It was amazing. Pretty much just a profile, but it was so striking I was quite shocked. I mean, I know there is a little growing person in there, I just didn't expect to see such a fully developed, already there...PERSON.
I can't stop looking at her beautiful little face...
The bonus then is to see the baby again. Still no 'clear view' of the 'area', but the woman agreed that it looks like a girl from what she could see. A nice modest girl! Ha. She said there would be more hardware visible if it were a boy. So we're sticking to our original 'most likely, probably' a girl theory!
A suprise for me though, was seeing the baby's face in 4D. I've seem pictures of other people's ultrasounds, but we've never seen ours like this. You can really see what your little person looks like. It was amazing. Pretty much just a profile, but it was so striking I was quite shocked. I mean, I know there is a little growing person in there, I just didn't expect to see such a fully developed, already there...PERSON.
I can't stop looking at her beautiful little face...
Monday, April 02, 2007
Word Up
I was happy to pick up a copy of the Calgary Spoken Word Festival program when I was out on the weekend (yay me!).
Back in 'The Day' ('The Day' was before kids when my life existed beyond my own home and picking up diapers at the supermarket) I attended several spoken word/poetry events around the city. There is a real energy and vibrancy around artists/writers/poets/storytellers performing their own works right in front of you. And rather than reading long boring poems written hundreds of years ago (which can be enlightening as well) it's all very current and timely, as each author tells his/her own story. It was something I really enjoyed and I'm glad I live in a city where these sorts of things exist. It's a big part of what I like about the city. More arts!! LOVE IT!
Anyway...ramble, ramble...here are a couple of exerpts I enjoyed from the printed program...I hope to attend some events in person. And I hope you do too!
from "She Dreams In Red"
from "Precious Cargo"
(for obvious reasons...it sounds so poetic the way he describes it...)
Back in 'The Day' ('The Day' was before kids when my life existed beyond my own home and picking up diapers at the supermarket) I attended several spoken word/poetry events around the city. There is a real energy and vibrancy around artists/writers/poets/storytellers performing their own works right in front of you. And rather than reading long boring poems written hundreds of years ago (which can be enlightening as well) it's all very current and timely, as each author tells his/her own story. It was something I really enjoyed and I'm glad I live in a city where these sorts of things exist. It's a big part of what I like about the city. More arts!! LOVE IT!
Anyway...ramble, ramble...here are a couple of exerpts I enjoyed from the printed program...I hope to attend some events in person. And I hope you do too!
from "She Dreams In Red"
from "Precious Cargo"
(for obvious reasons...it sounds so poetic the way he describes it...)
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Shoutin' Out
Congrats going out to the very talented and famous actress, YoJo for starring in her first production over at the LooseMoose theater. She just finished her gig as the Nana/Granny in Little Red Riding Hood. (maybe now she'll have time to update! ouch, zing, zowie)
If you have never attended a children's performance of live theater, you are seriously missing out! Between the actors themselves and the the interaction with the kids, it was completely hilarious. After the performance, the kids all mill around the actors and get them to autograph their programs. It's about the cutest thing you'll ever see (some of them were quite wary of the wolf).
I've always thought those entertainers who do kids shows are a bit off their wigs, but now I can see the appeal.
I highly recommend the experience. It's good for the soul!
If you have never attended a children's performance of live theater, you are seriously missing out! Between the actors themselves and the the interaction with the kids, it was completely hilarious. After the performance, the kids all mill around the actors and get them to autograph their programs. It's about the cutest thing you'll ever see (some of them were quite wary of the wolf).
I've always thought those entertainers who do kids shows are a bit off their wigs, but now I can see the appeal.
I highly recommend the experience. It's good for the soul!
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
French Kissin' the Mornin'
I had a regular Dr.'s appt this morning (they have now shifted into higher gear, every 2 weeks instead of every month). I quite like my Dr. so far, but her building is old and crappy. As any pregnant woman knows, when you go to your appt's, you have to give a 'sample' for them to test your sugar levels, or some such thing. It's not a big deal, except that at my Dr.'s office, you have to get a key and then go up a floor to the crappy old bathroom that matches the rest of the crappy old building. SO, I get the 'sample' containers ahead of time, and then I can just bring it from home.
ANYWAY. I was driving to my appt this morning and I thought I'd check out a new radio station. First of all, I loathe the radio stations in Calgary. It's a pet peeve of mine. I'm not a rocker. I hate old rock. I don't like the 'oldies'. I'm not nostagic for 1985. I'm not into gangsta rap, or even top 40 anything. California and 'lite' music makes my ears bleed. The college and indie stations are fun sometimes, but it's really a crap shoot there.
So, I was listening to the new station. And kind of enjoying it. Some newer tunes, not anything I'm already sick of. A couple of blasts from the past, but in a fun way, not even irritating.
And then they played this Bon Jovi 'hit'. I'm not nostalgic, or even a huge BJ fan, but who can resist a song that refers to the Holy Ghost repeatedly in the lyrics??! Although, if I was in any way married to JonBJ, and he sang that song for me, I'd totally laugh in his face.
Instead I laughed at myself as I captured the mental image of me singing along in my Volvo wagon, 7 months pregnant, with a bottle of pee in my purse.
ANYWAY. I was driving to my appt this morning and I thought I'd check out a new radio station. First of all, I loathe the radio stations in Calgary. It's a pet peeve of mine. I'm not a rocker. I hate old rock. I don't like the 'oldies'. I'm not nostagic for 1985. I'm not into gangsta rap, or even top 40 anything. California and 'lite' music makes my ears bleed. The college and indie stations are fun sometimes, but it's really a crap shoot there.
So, I was listening to the new station. And kind of enjoying it. Some newer tunes, not anything I'm already sick of. A couple of blasts from the past, but in a fun way, not even irritating.
And then they played this Bon Jovi 'hit'. I'm not nostalgic, or even a huge BJ fan, but who can resist a song that refers to the Holy Ghost repeatedly in the lyrics??! Although, if I was in any way married to JonBJ, and he sang that song for me, I'd totally laugh in his face.
Instead I laughed at myself as I captured the mental image of me singing along in my Volvo wagon, 7 months pregnant, with a bottle of pee in my purse.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
March 24
Today is my 4th wedding anniversary!
It seems I cannot think of my anniversary without thinking about my wedding day. I suppose that is the beauty of it.
It was not a traditional wedding, by any means. I guess you can say CH and I eloped, although we didn't really plan it that way. We actually didn't plan it much at all. Which was also the beauty of it!
CH (formerly Charming Boyfriend) was down in Tucson, AZ riding and training in the beautiful Arizona spring weather. He had the good fortune to be there for several weeks, and I came down for a mini vacation. We had been discussing getting married, but CB waited until I got there to make it 'official'.
That was on a Friday.
The idea of months or weeks of planning, and organizing and stress seemed daunting ahead of us. I never had dreams of a big fairytale wedding. The thought of driving to Vegas flitted quickly through my mind. Too far and too cheesy, although I do understand the appeal (I once thought it appalling). It turns out you can get married in Tucson pretty easily too!
We picked up our marriage liscence on Monday morning down at the courthouse. I remember the two of us sitting outside in a little courtyard considering our options. CB always said we could do whatever I wanted. I really only wanted to be married. We had been together for a few years by then, so it doesn't make compete sense, but there was a feeling of urgency. Of just wanting to move onto the next phase of our lives.
And so we got married at dusk that evening, in a little park, in Tucson, Arizona. Just the two of us, and a wacky, but sweet marriage official and her husband and daughter as witnesses. It's not that I didn't want to share that experience with our loved ones, or that we're just a wild and crazy couple who do things on a whim.
There was just something pure and simple about it. Like if you peel off all the layers of a wedding with the fancy clothes and music and decorations, and arguing over invitations and who to invite (etc, etc) and you're left with just the core. The bottom line. I don't know if I would have allowed myself to be completely in the moment with all the other distractions.
It was a beautiful thing.
And so I'm thankful for this day of reflection. I'm thankful for the past 4 years with all their craziness that has come our way (children). I'm thankful for the future that lays ahead.
And I'm thankful for my beautiful charming Husband.
I'd marry you all over again in a heartbeat!
It seems I cannot think of my anniversary without thinking about my wedding day. I suppose that is the beauty of it.
It was not a traditional wedding, by any means. I guess you can say CH and I eloped, although we didn't really plan it that way. We actually didn't plan it much at all. Which was also the beauty of it!
CH (formerly Charming Boyfriend) was down in Tucson, AZ riding and training in the beautiful Arizona spring weather. He had the good fortune to be there for several weeks, and I came down for a mini vacation. We had been discussing getting married, but CB waited until I got there to make it 'official'.
That was on a Friday.
The idea of months or weeks of planning, and organizing and stress seemed daunting ahead of us. I never had dreams of a big fairytale wedding. The thought of driving to Vegas flitted quickly through my mind. Too far and too cheesy, although I do understand the appeal (I once thought it appalling). It turns out you can get married in Tucson pretty easily too!
We picked up our marriage liscence on Monday morning down at the courthouse. I remember the two of us sitting outside in a little courtyard considering our options. CB always said we could do whatever I wanted. I really only wanted to be married. We had been together for a few years by then, so it doesn't make compete sense, but there was a feeling of urgency. Of just wanting to move onto the next phase of our lives.
And so we got married at dusk that evening, in a little park, in Tucson, Arizona. Just the two of us, and a wacky, but sweet marriage official and her husband and daughter as witnesses. It's not that I didn't want to share that experience with our loved ones, or that we're just a wild and crazy couple who do things on a whim.
There was just something pure and simple about it. Like if you peel off all the layers of a wedding with the fancy clothes and music and decorations, and arguing over invitations and who to invite (etc, etc) and you're left with just the core. The bottom line. I don't know if I would have allowed myself to be completely in the moment with all the other distractions.
It was a beautiful thing.
And so I'm thankful for this day of reflection. I'm thankful for the past 4 years with all their craziness that has come our way (children). I'm thankful for the future that lays ahead.
And I'm thankful for my beautiful charming Husband.
I'd marry you all over again in a heartbeat!
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Real Moms...
I figure when the internet comes knocking, it would be rude not to answer...Thanks Alyson. Check out some of her other 'tags'. Especially the initial entry. Rock it sista!
Real moms take naps any chance they can get! At least the prego ones. Although I recommend it anytime.
And I sure do feel purdy!
And so now I must tag also Mrs. MWB, Mrs. SweetPeas, and MySisterOutEast.
Real moms take naps any chance they can get! At least the prego ones. Although I recommend it anytime.
And I sure do feel purdy!
And so now I must tag also Mrs. MWB, Mrs. SweetPeas, and MySisterOutEast.
'Fun' at the Library
We like going to the library. Mostly the kids enjoy the little kid-friendly computer they can play on. It has colorful keys and a little kid size mouse. They think it's great, especially since they don't get much computer time at home. They also like taking out dvd's and music, and sometimes even books!
I was feeling somewhat brave yesterday and took the boys myself. In the past my sister has always come with us, just to help keep a handle on things. As with many activities.
So we got our Thomas the Train dvd's, played with the computer, read a couple of books and were at the front desk getting ready to sign them out...I had to let go of both little sets of hands, because, I only have TWO myself and I had to get out library cards, and pay the $1.30 fine. Both kids had to explore a bit around the front entry. No problem... I can see them both... will only take a minute...
And then The Bug started giggling with glee and headed out the ever-so-helpful-self-opening-doors. And he was making great time. I left the dvd's and my wallet AND my other child (one disaster at a time please) while I had to RUN out the doors after him. Oh what a sight to see...me sprinting after the tiny trouble-maker as I finally caught up to him in the parking lot. Neither of us were any too happy with the other at that point.
Good times at the library!
I was feeling somewhat brave yesterday and took the boys myself. In the past my sister has always come with us, just to help keep a handle on things. As with many activities.
So we got our Thomas the Train dvd's, played with the computer, read a couple of books and were at the front desk getting ready to sign them out...I had to let go of both little sets of hands, because, I only have TWO myself and I had to get out library cards, and pay the $1.30 fine. Both kids had to explore a bit around the front entry. No problem... I can see them both... will only take a minute...
And then The Bug started giggling with glee and headed out the ever-so-helpful-self-opening-doors. And he was making great time. I left the dvd's and my wallet AND my other child (one disaster at a time please) while I had to RUN out the doors after him. Oh what a sight to see...me sprinting after the tiny trouble-maker as I finally caught up to him in the parking lot. Neither of us were any too happy with the other at that point.
Good times at the library!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
25 Months
The boys are 25 months now. As of last week. Ummm...it appears that I haven't taken a whole lot of photos the past few weeks. Another result of my waining energy. Luckily I have some back-ups, and will make an effort to get some more done.
We haven't had any 'big' events in the past month, but a few things have happened.
Firstly, and quite significantly, we have moved on somewhat from all Cars all the time, to now also enjoying Finding Nemo. Or Memo (like the memo pad, not Meemo). Or Mamo as he is affectionately referred to. It is somewhat refreshing, although we're still going to have to expand our collection. Mostly so I don't completely lose my mind.
The Bug is still an avid 'reader' of all things Cars though. He woke up at 5am this morning because he wanted his Cars colouring book, and just couldn't sleep another minute. He completely settled down again once he had it in his hot little hands (he's not interested in colouring so much as just carefully looking over each page). He also enjoys reading the Volvo magazine we recieved in the mail. He pours over it and points out all the cars. He studies all his 'papers' in great detail until they literally start to fall apart.
And we've made progress in the world of The Sleeping Bee. In a stroke of genius (desperation) we moved him downstairs so that he is more than 3 feet away from where we try to sleep. I was worried that he would feel too far away from us, but he LOVES it. It's like some kind of magic. He's happy to go to bed (much like normal) but then seems to sleep just fine through the night and wakes up pretty happy each morning. And if he does feel the need to be loud and bang around some, it's not like hot spikes being driven into our heads! We can still hear him, but it's at a much lower decible. Hooray!
Both The Bug and The Bee are learning new words. They're still a far cry from some of their female counterparts, but taking it step by step. The Bee now says 'Pease' quite well, when he wants something (although not necessarily when I want him to). Not every vehicle is a car anymore, but may be a 'tractor' or a 'bus'. The Bug can say most anything The Bee can, but The Bee is generally more verbal. He also likes it if we sing or hum so he can follow along, especially in the car. The Bee is also still more openly affectionate, giving hugs or kisses. The Bug will come up behind you with a sneaky hug or a kiss only when the mood strikes him.
It's pretty funny and we're certainly not going to complain!
We haven't had any 'big' events in the past month, but a few things have happened.
Firstly, and quite significantly, we have moved on somewhat from all Cars all the time, to now also enjoying Finding Nemo. Or Memo (like the memo pad, not Meemo). Or Mamo as he is affectionately referred to. It is somewhat refreshing, although we're still going to have to expand our collection. Mostly so I don't completely lose my mind.
The Bug is still an avid 'reader' of all things Cars though. He woke up at 5am this morning because he wanted his Cars colouring book, and just couldn't sleep another minute. He completely settled down again once he had it in his hot little hands (he's not interested in colouring so much as just carefully looking over each page). He also enjoys reading the Volvo magazine we recieved in the mail. He pours over it and points out all the cars. He studies all his 'papers' in great detail until they literally start to fall apart.
And we've made progress in the world of The Sleeping Bee. In a stroke of genius (desperation) we moved him downstairs so that he is more than 3 feet away from where we try to sleep. I was worried that he would feel too far away from us, but he LOVES it. It's like some kind of magic. He's happy to go to bed (much like normal) but then seems to sleep just fine through the night and wakes up pretty happy each morning. And if he does feel the need to be loud and bang around some, it's not like hot spikes being driven into our heads! We can still hear him, but it's at a much lower decible. Hooray!
Both The Bug and The Bee are learning new words. They're still a far cry from some of their female counterparts, but taking it step by step. The Bee now says 'Pease' quite well, when he wants something (although not necessarily when I want him to). Not every vehicle is a car anymore, but may be a 'tractor' or a 'bus'. The Bug can say most anything The Bee can, but The Bee is generally more verbal. He also likes it if we sing or hum so he can follow along, especially in the car. The Bee is also still more openly affectionate, giving hugs or kisses. The Bug will come up behind you with a sneaky hug or a kiss only when the mood strikes him.
It's pretty funny and we're certainly not going to complain!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Saturday, March 10, 2007
The Pregnant Lament
I am of the general notion that if I have nothing nice to say, I should just zip it. No one wants to hear me complaining. And yet here I am...unable to contain myself...
Disclaimer: If you are all dreamy eyed about someday being pregnant and glowy, you may not want to continue reading. If you are one of those woman who loves being pregnant and it makes you all dreamy eyed and glowy, go away.
At 28 weeks along you would think that the mere remaining 12 weeks would seem like a breeze. Instead, I find myself looking down the long hall of eternity. 12 MORE WEEKS. (I will not consider any possibility of being over-due)
I am tired, uncomfortable, and GRUMPY.
All my pants are either too tight now, or sliding off my bum. Literally. I could feel the gap between the top and bottom getting larger as I walked out of the grocery store with my hands full. Luckily it was a short walk.
I am impatient with my kids. I am tired but I cannot sleep. I feel big and lumpy and sore. Mylanta is my close companion, once again.
My sweet CH is helpful with the kids, and sympathetic (I think).
Mr. "I'm so skinny, I should just get skinnier, I'll just ride my bike some more, pass the lettuce".
I have dreams of a skinnier, more energetic me with freshly highlited hair. Dreams of an island vacation. But alas, those dreams are very distant. Mother Nature isn't fooling anyone this time around. I know what's coming!
And to top it all off, my belly button is crooked. I used to have a cute little innie. The twins took care of that for good. But I was in denial for years about the position. I would just say that all the buttons on all my pants were slightly askew. They never lined up. When in fact, it is undeniable it it's fully outward state, that my belly button is off centre.
The icing on my big, ballooned, stretched- marked cake.
Disclaimer: If you are all dreamy eyed about someday being pregnant and glowy, you may not want to continue reading. If you are one of those woman who loves being pregnant and it makes you all dreamy eyed and glowy, go away.
At 28 weeks along you would think that the mere remaining 12 weeks would seem like a breeze. Instead, I find myself looking down the long hall of eternity. 12 MORE WEEKS. (I will not consider any possibility of being over-due)
I am tired, uncomfortable, and GRUMPY.
All my pants are either too tight now, or sliding off my bum. Literally. I could feel the gap between the top and bottom getting larger as I walked out of the grocery store with my hands full. Luckily it was a short walk.
I am impatient with my kids. I am tired but I cannot sleep. I feel big and lumpy and sore. Mylanta is my close companion, once again.
My sweet CH is helpful with the kids, and sympathetic (I think).
Mr. "I'm so skinny, I should just get skinnier, I'll just ride my bike some more, pass the lettuce".
I have dreams of a skinnier, more energetic me with freshly highlited hair. Dreams of an island vacation. But alas, those dreams are very distant. Mother Nature isn't fooling anyone this time around. I know what's coming!
And to top it all off, my belly button is crooked. I used to have a cute little innie. The twins took care of that for good. But I was in denial for years about the position. I would just say that all the buttons on all my pants were slightly askew. They never lined up. When in fact, it is undeniable it it's fully outward state, that my belly button is off centre.
The icing on my big, ballooned, stretched- marked cake.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Speaking of Creativity...
Amy Butler has the most gorgeous fabrics and cushions. Beautiful!
Via the ever enlightening Design*Sponge.
My pet peeve though, is ordering stuff from the US. You just never know what it will end up costing through customs, exchange, etc.
Via the ever enlightening Design*Sponge.
My pet peeve though, is ordering stuff from the US. You just never know what it will end up costing through customs, exchange, etc.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Creativity vs Domesticity
I am the kind of person who needs to be involved in something creative. I am happiest when I am in the midst of it all. Planning, collecting, executing, looking at other creative works and being inspired. It is the twisting and turning of all those little cogs when time evaporates and I feel like I am truly following my bliss.
My problem seems to be that laundry, meal planning and making, bottle scrubbing, diaper changing, and the rest of the endless daily duties of 'life' seem to be in direct conflict with my creative energies.
(Can you hear that creaking? That's Pandora's Box I've just opened.)
Yes, I adore my children and I know it is a blessing to be able to be home with them. I don't feel the need to work outside the home, because then I would just have 2 full time jobs. That's not really the issue I'm getting at here.
And there are PLENTY of women who have children and manage to live very productive creative lives. I've seen their blogs! I have their paintings!
My point is simply that I havn't figured it out yet.
And some days I can go about my business (busy-ness?) and all is well. And other days I feel that if I have to suck up one more crumb or make one more muffin, I will implode and my head will look like this.
Some women manage to turn it around and become the Domestic Goddess to be envied and admired by all. Why can't I?!
It is also a double edged sword. If I do manage to become inspired and want to sink my teeth into something it can be worse. I become restless and frustrated by the 'real' demands and distractions of life.
I suspect the problem may be exaggerated at the moment by pregnancy and the fact that I can barely keep up with the boys all day, let alone link two creative thoughts together.
Perhaps I need to be content, for now with the fact that I am creating a person all day and be happy with that...
My problem seems to be that laundry, meal planning and making, bottle scrubbing, diaper changing, and the rest of the endless daily duties of 'life' seem to be in direct conflict with my creative energies.
(Can you hear that creaking? That's Pandora's Box I've just opened.)
Yes, I adore my children and I know it is a blessing to be able to be home with them. I don't feel the need to work outside the home, because then I would just have 2 full time jobs. That's not really the issue I'm getting at here.
And there are PLENTY of women who have children and manage to live very productive creative lives. I've seen their blogs! I have their paintings!
My point is simply that I havn't figured it out yet.
And some days I can go about my business (busy-ness?) and all is well. And other days I feel that if I have to suck up one more crumb or make one more muffin, I will implode and my head will look like this.
Some women manage to turn it around and become the Domestic Goddess to be envied and admired by all. Why can't I?!
It is also a double edged sword. If I do manage to become inspired and want to sink my teeth into something it can be worse. I become restless and frustrated by the 'real' demands and distractions of life.
I suspect the problem may be exaggerated at the moment by pregnancy and the fact that I can barely keep up with the boys all day, let alone link two creative thoughts together.
Perhaps I need to be content, for now with the fact that I am creating a person all day and be happy with that...
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Flickr Help
Anybody out there have some tips for setting up Flickr? I set up an account, but find uploading to be slow and combersome. Maybe my files are too big?
Any suggestions??
Any suggestions??
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Winter Wonderland
As I promised, here are the photos from our last trip out to the chalets. The snow was as deep as the kids are tall!
The big kids had as much fun as the wee kids playing in it. And even with all that snow, it was beautiful weather. It was very pleasant with no wind. Perfect winter conditions.
If we'd had more time, there probably would have been an igloo...
Too Little or Too Much
Sometimes I have nothing to say. And other times I find myself with a lot to say. But I question, at times, what really needs saying.
Especially in this format. It would be nice to think that you could just throw anything 'out there' in the name of truth or honesty, but the reality is that words are powerful and there are consequences for what we say. Or write.
What to expose? What to hold back?
I'm a believer in positive energy. In getting back what you throw out. That's basically my guideline.
Not that we all don't need a good shoulder to cry on, or anger to vent. Or support from online friends. One of the most amazing aspects of blogging.
How do you decide what information is for 'public' discussion and what is for private?
Especially in this format. It would be nice to think that you could just throw anything 'out there' in the name of truth or honesty, but the reality is that words are powerful and there are consequences for what we say. Or write.
What to expose? What to hold back?
I'm a believer in positive energy. In getting back what you throw out. That's basically my guideline.
Not that we all don't need a good shoulder to cry on, or anger to vent. Or support from online friends. One of the most amazing aspects of blogging.
How do you decide what information is for 'public' discussion and what is for private?
Friday, February 23, 2007
Welcome to my Rollercoaster
Ok, I'm well aware that I am coming from a place full of crazy hormones and phlehm which probably explains a lot. But I shall continue anyway.
A couple of things happened yesterday.
Last night CH and I were talking about the sad fact that a couple of his friends were getting separated/divorced. Now, I don't actually even know these people myself. They are guys CH cycles with for the most part. They have both been together with their spouses for many years. One has grown kids. The other has none. Like I said, I don't even really know them at all. It still makes me feel incredibly sad. Two people who loved each other and made a life together can't continue on together anymore. Even though sometimes it's for the best. I guess because I have a spouse. And I'm over-relating. And I'm emotional.
And then I watched Grey's Anatomy. Which I KNOW is a tv show. And the people aren't real. But someone almost died and it was about the people you love and loss and how we share each others joys and pain. And if your mom is mean to you, you will be screwed up. And my mom is always nice to me. And I have friends and loved ones and they mean the world to me. And of course I don't want to lose them. And I'm emotional. And over-relating.
And it made me think how it's easy to feel that love when the big things happen. Someone is hurt or at risk of being taken away and we focus on how much we love them. But then the day to day things chip away at us. We don't pay enough attention, or we take for granted, or we argue, or we are too critical. And one day we can't stand it anymore. We don't want to be with the person we used to love most. It scares me how this kind of thing can happen.
Because I have loved ones. And did you remember the pregnant hormones over here? I think I'm 0ver-relating...
(wait a minute, is this what it's like to be drunk?)
A couple of things happened yesterday.
Last night CH and I were talking about the sad fact that a couple of his friends were getting separated/divorced. Now, I don't actually even know these people myself. They are guys CH cycles with for the most part. They have both been together with their spouses for many years. One has grown kids. The other has none. Like I said, I don't even really know them at all. It still makes me feel incredibly sad. Two people who loved each other and made a life together can't continue on together anymore. Even though sometimes it's for the best. I guess because I have a spouse. And I'm over-relating. And I'm emotional.
And then I watched Grey's Anatomy. Which I KNOW is a tv show. And the people aren't real. But someone almost died and it was about the people you love and loss and how we share each others joys and pain. And if your mom is mean to you, you will be screwed up. And my mom is always nice to me. And I have friends and loved ones and they mean the world to me. And of course I don't want to lose them. And I'm emotional. And over-relating.
And it made me think how it's easy to feel that love when the big things happen. Someone is hurt or at risk of being taken away and we focus on how much we love them. But then the day to day things chip away at us. We don't pay enough attention, or we take for granted, or we argue, or we are too critical. And one day we can't stand it anymore. We don't want to be with the person we used to love most. It scares me how this kind of thing can happen.
Because I have loved ones. And did you remember the pregnant hormones over here? I think I'm 0ver-relating...
(wait a minute, is this what it's like to be drunk?)
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Germ Warfare
So the good news is that we went away for the weekend to my parent's place and had a ball there. The snow was piled higher than the kids are tall!
Photo updates to follow.
But the chicklets and I are sick again. Or still. Colds. Stuffy heads and runny noses and general yuckiness. The Bee has a horrible cough, especially at night. It seems we are in a vicious cycle of being stuck in the house being miserable, but everytime we are well enough to go out, something else finds us, and we're stuck at home sick again. UHG.
I hate to even talk about it, because I am at least as sick of being sick as you are of hearing about it, but that is what's going on.
We are really hoping life will resume again at it's regular speed. Very soon.
Photo updates to follow.
But the chicklets and I are sick again. Or still. Colds. Stuffy heads and runny noses and general yuckiness. The Bee has a horrible cough, especially at night. It seems we are in a vicious cycle of being stuck in the house being miserable, but everytime we are well enough to go out, something else finds us, and we're stuck at home sick again. UHG.
I hate to even talk about it, because I am at least as sick of being sick as you are of hearing about it, but that is what's going on.
We are really hoping life will resume again at it's regular speed. Very soon.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Zoo Fun
Yesterday we met up with another one of our favorite pals at the zoo. It was a beautiful quiet snowy, but warm day. We enjoyed a pleasant walk around and then the best part, as always, snacks!
Who knew you could have the best day at the zoo in February...
Who knew you could have the best day at the zoo in February...
Thursday, February 15, 2007
2 Years Old
Sooooo....yeah....remember that day two years ago (yesterday) when I had 2 babies? I sure do!
I managed to haul my whale sized self out of bed to pee at 7am, and my water broke. And I thought to myself, Holy Crap. I'm going to have Valentine's Babies. Who could've planned that?
Then a madcap drive to the hospital ensued, during morning rush hour, just like you would see in a movie, with a frantic crazy father-to-be weaving (safely) in and out of traffic and an even more frantic mother-to-be having intense contractions and freaking out in the car. Wuhoo!
Needless to say, it all turned out very well. And that feeling of complete shock and overwhelmed-ness I felt after they carried my newborns off to the NICU and my epi drugs wore off, well, I'm getting used to that too...
Last year, I wasn't sure at first how I wanted to handle the boys first birthday. Sure, it's a special occasion, but the kids really don't know any difference. I realized that I really wanted a celebration. I felt that I had accomplished something by just surviving that first year. And more or less we were all still intact. So really, it was more for me. Although they managed to make the most of the food and friends and the gifts and all the adoration, even if they didn't understand it!
This year, I wanted to do something the boys would really enjoy. Due to various circumstances, we decided not to have a big party, and we couldn't even pull off a grandparent-family get-together. So we decided to spend the morning at the Science Centre with our good pal REd.
What a great time!
We climbed and splashed and ran around, and built stuff and pushed stuff over, and slid down slides, and raced dinky cars, had snacks and then checked out the Creative Children's Museum downstairs.
The boys had such a great time they didn't want to leave after we realized we had been there for 3 hours and it was definitely nap time.
We capped off our day with some fine dining, which was very much to the boys liking.
Some cantelope for a starter followed by handfuls of fine grape tomatoes. A main course of chicken hot dogs (lower fat because we're all about health here) and smiley faces with a side of ketchup and mustard relish. Our tastebuds were then tantalized by the chocolate lovers ganache heart shaped cake.
A surprise treat from Daddy.
Good eats!
Happy Birthday my sweet Valentines!
I managed to haul my whale sized self out of bed to pee at 7am, and my water broke. And I thought to myself, Holy Crap. I'm going to have Valentine's Babies. Who could've planned that?
Then a madcap drive to the hospital ensued, during morning rush hour, just like you would see in a movie, with a frantic crazy father-to-be weaving (safely) in and out of traffic and an even more frantic mother-to-be having intense contractions and freaking out in the car. Wuhoo!
Needless to say, it all turned out very well. And that feeling of complete shock and overwhelmed-ness I felt after they carried my newborns off to the NICU and my epi drugs wore off, well, I'm getting used to that too...
Last year, I wasn't sure at first how I wanted to handle the boys first birthday. Sure, it's a special occasion, but the kids really don't know any difference. I realized that I really wanted a celebration. I felt that I had accomplished something by just surviving that first year. And more or less we were all still intact. So really, it was more for me. Although they managed to make the most of the food and friends and the gifts and all the adoration, even if they didn't understand it!
This year, I wanted to do something the boys would really enjoy. Due to various circumstances, we decided not to have a big party, and we couldn't even pull off a grandparent-family get-together. So we decided to spend the morning at the Science Centre with our good pal REd.
What a great time!
We climbed and splashed and ran around, and built stuff and pushed stuff over, and slid down slides, and raced dinky cars, had snacks and then checked out the Creative Children's Museum downstairs.
The boys had such a great time they didn't want to leave after we realized we had been there for 3 hours and it was definitely nap time.
We capped off our day with some fine dining, which was very much to the boys liking.
Some cantelope for a starter followed by handfuls of fine grape tomatoes. A main course of chicken hot dogs (lower fat because we're all about health here) and smiley faces with a side of ketchup and mustard relish. Our tastebuds were then tantalized by the chocolate lovers ganache heart shaped cake.
A surprise treat from Daddy.
Good eats!
Happy Birthday my sweet Valentines!
Friday, February 09, 2007
Pukefest Continues
...And Mommy makes 3.
Uhg. It seems that the 'reward' for spending the week bunkered down with the sickies, is well, catching their sickies. You'd think the least they could do is make their own food and change their own diapers to make up for it.
Uhg. It seems that the 'reward' for spending the week bunkered down with the sickies, is well, catching their sickies. You'd think the least they could do is make their own food and change their own diapers to make up for it.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Two Days
I had the unbelievable opportunity to go away this past weekend. Without my kids. Even without my CH. I went out to my parents place with a couple of girlfriends. It's the first time I've been away from my kids for more than a few hours. I had the best sleep I've had in more than two years!
My time away confirmed a few things I already suspected:
Sleep deprevation makes me tired. I am not at my best when I am tired.
Chips and salsa and Skor bites are a great meal replacement...for a while. Then you will crave a vegetable. Ice cream is not a vegetable.
I still know all the words to 'Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go'.
Dr. McDreamy really is dreamy. After watching a full season one, and part of season two (as much as we could fit in), he still holds up.
My Charming Husband has an undeniable talent which I love/hate for making everything he does seem easy. Even looking after a sick, puking boy and his cold-riddled brother for the weekend. He even did the puke laundry.
There is nothing like a little time apart to really make your heart grow fonder. My boys got bigger and even more adorable while I was gone, and my husband even more charming.
But fear not, the universe has a way of equalizing things in case you had a moment of envy, and I am back in full swing with Sad Puke Boy and Sir Coughs- A- Lot-Poopy Pants.
Update: Make that Puke Boy 1, and Puke Boy 2. It's always good to share with your brother!
My time away confirmed a few things I already suspected:
Sleep deprevation makes me tired. I am not at my best when I am tired.
Chips and salsa and Skor bites are a great meal replacement...for a while. Then you will crave a vegetable. Ice cream is not a vegetable.
I still know all the words to 'Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go'.
Dr. McDreamy really is dreamy. After watching a full season one, and part of season two (as much as we could fit in), he still holds up.
My Charming Husband has an undeniable talent which I love/hate for making everything he does seem easy. Even looking after a sick, puking boy and his cold-riddled brother for the weekend. He even did the puke laundry.
There is nothing like a little time apart to really make your heart grow fonder. My boys got bigger and even more adorable while I was gone, and my husband even more charming.
But fear not, the universe has a way of equalizing things in case you had a moment of envy, and I am back in full swing with Sad Puke Boy and Sir Coughs- A- Lot-Poopy Pants.
Update: Make that Puke Boy 1, and Puke Boy 2. It's always good to share with your brother!
Thursday, February 01, 2007
I Heart February
January is finally over. Yippy! Winter is one month closer to being finished. And while February is still cold and wintery, starting with today, at least it's shorter. Right?! And honestly there is something warm and cozy and velvety and rich and chocolatey about it. Whether you subscribe to the notion of Valentine's Day or not. Maybe it's just the notion of a little deep dark indulgence to get you through to spring. And in our case the birthday of our two valentines is just more fun to celebrate.
I find I am torn between aspirations of throwing a slightly Martha-type party with all the trimmings. And then I think of a house full of two year olds, and I reconsider. As I've realized before I am not Martha and maybe a quiet little family celebration is in order. Either way, something in me can't resist researching the perfect cupcake...
I find I am torn between aspirations of throwing a slightly Martha-type party with all the trimmings. And then I think of a house full of two year olds, and I reconsider. As I've realized before I am not Martha and maybe a quiet little family celebration is in order. Either way, something in me can't resist researching the perfect cupcake...
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