Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
The greatest story ever told
Aiden is quite the story teller. His imagination knows no bounds and thinks up the story faster than his mouth can tell it.
It is a 20 minute drive to my moms house from my door to hers. Aiden began his story as I was strapping him in to his car seat in our driveway. A story so rich with his own creativity that it would have made George Orwell, or Dr. Seuss for that matter, shake their heads in wonderment.
He talked non-stop about the story that was unfolding in his head. My attention to the details of the story came and went throughout the drive. I heard chatter of a five Decker bus and the man who owned it (he traded all his Pokemon cards for it), bad guys who came to earth in a shiny ship shaped like a diamond who were trying to steal the bus, thunder clouds that shot out fire balls and guns that sent out blue lasers that stung like wasps. 20 minutes later as we pulled into my moms driveway I heard these words:
….and he kicked him in the wiener…
Uhhhhh…what was that honey? Who kicked who in the wiener?
The guy who stole the five Decker bus kicked the owner in the wiener to steal the bus.
That’s kinda harsh isn’t it?
Well, n-o-o-o-o-o mom, because the stingray gun was kicked out of his hand and his hands were chopped off from the blue lasers so he had to kick him in the wiener to steal it.
Makes sense.
It is a 20 minute drive to my moms house from my door to hers. Aiden began his story as I was strapping him in to his car seat in our driveway. A story so rich with his own creativity that it would have made George Orwell, or Dr. Seuss for that matter, shake their heads in wonderment.
He talked non-stop about the story that was unfolding in his head. My attention to the details of the story came and went throughout the drive. I heard chatter of a five Decker bus and the man who owned it (he traded all his Pokemon cards for it), bad guys who came to earth in a shiny ship shaped like a diamond who were trying to steal the bus, thunder clouds that shot out fire balls and guns that sent out blue lasers that stung like wasps. 20 minutes later as we pulled into my moms driveway I heard these words:
….and he kicked him in the wiener…
Uhhhhh…what was that honey? Who kicked who in the wiener?
The guy who stole the five Decker bus kicked the owner in the wiener to steal the bus.
That’s kinda harsh isn’t it?
Well, n-o-o-o-o-o mom, because the stingray gun was kicked out of his hand and his hands were chopped off from the blue lasers so he had to kick him in the wiener to steal it.
Makes sense.
Friday, October 9, 2009
All that I am thankful for
There are so many others in this world that don’t even have a fraction of what we have. Imagine what life is like for others who are not as lucky.
Women who have never known tender words or a loving caress from their lover, only angry words and fists.
Little boys who are learning how to use weapons to kill rather than learning the power of a pencil.
Little girls who are maimed in the most horrific of ways and who will never be given the opportunity to learn to read or write. Never learn their importance and value.
Children who go hungry, who have never had a parent tell them to eat everything on their plate before getting dessert because there is simply nothing…NOTHING to eat. They only live to die.
Mothers who have to watch their children suffer every day. Watch them slowly starve to death with swollen bellies and the saddest eyes that silently beg for mercy.
Children and families who are living in the midst of war. One that is not theirs nor one they want. Hearing blasts of guns, bombs and cries of torture and can only be thankful it is not them but wonder every day when it will be.
Children who live through a type of hell every day with unspeakable abuse and terror. Imagine never having a mom or dad to ‘kiss it all better’ but are the very ones who inflict the wounds.
In another world this could have been me, my children or someone I love.
I am indeed thankful for all I have. Thankful for my life and all that is in it.
My health.
Food on my table.
A roof over my head.
A job that gives me the ability to provide for my family and to help the less fortunate. I pray it reaches them and eases some suffering.
But most of all I am thankful for the all the love I have in my life. There is so much of it, more than I deserve.
My handsome and adoring husband. Life would be very boring without him around.
My beautiful and spirited little girl who brings an indescribable amount of joy to our lives. She’s smart and sweet and gives the best hugs.
My beautiful little boy who brightens every day with his smile and sense of humour. He is bright and kind and loving.
A home filled with love and so much laughter. More laughter than tears (Unless it’s tears caused by laughter and there is nothing sweeter).
My parents, in-laws and a family who love us unconditionally. They are our biggest supporters and mentors.
Let us rise up and be thankful,
for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little,
and if we didn't learn a little,
at least we didn't get sick,
and if we got sick, at least we didn't die;
so, let us all be thankful.
- The Buddha
Women who have never known tender words or a loving caress from their lover, only angry words and fists.
Little boys who are learning how to use weapons to kill rather than learning the power of a pencil.
Little girls who are maimed in the most horrific of ways and who will never be given the opportunity to learn to read or write. Never learn their importance and value.
Children who go hungry, who have never had a parent tell them to eat everything on their plate before getting dessert because there is simply nothing…NOTHING to eat. They only live to die.
Mothers who have to watch their children suffer every day. Watch them slowly starve to death with swollen bellies and the saddest eyes that silently beg for mercy.
Children and families who are living in the midst of war. One that is not theirs nor one they want. Hearing blasts of guns, bombs and cries of torture and can only be thankful it is not them but wonder every day when it will be.
Children who live through a type of hell every day with unspeakable abuse and terror. Imagine never having a mom or dad to ‘kiss it all better’ but are the very ones who inflict the wounds.
In another world this could have been me, my children or someone I love.
I am indeed thankful for all I have. Thankful for my life and all that is in it.
My health.
Food on my table.
A roof over my head.
A job that gives me the ability to provide for my family and to help the less fortunate. I pray it reaches them and eases some suffering.
But most of all I am thankful for the all the love I have in my life. There is so much of it, more than I deserve.
My handsome and adoring husband. Life would be very boring without him around.
My beautiful and spirited little girl who brings an indescribable amount of joy to our lives. She’s smart and sweet and gives the best hugs.
My beautiful little boy who brightens every day with his smile and sense of humour. He is bright and kind and loving.
A home filled with love and so much laughter. More laughter than tears (Unless it’s tears caused by laughter and there is nothing sweeter).
My parents, in-laws and a family who love us unconditionally. They are our biggest supporters and mentors.
Let us rise up and be thankful,
for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little,
and if we didn't learn a little,
at least we didn't get sick,
and if we got sick, at least we didn't die;
so, let us all be thankful.
- The Buddha
Monday, August 24, 2009
The best gifts
Today I am celebrating my 39th and have never been more excited or hopeful for what is around the corner. I am not afraid of getting older as every year gets better for me. I am never disappointed on my birthday. This year is no different.
I am usually long gone in the morning and rarely get to see my kids as I start my day. Today, Marc woke them both up to be sure I got to see them and hug them before I left. The gifts I received from them are priceless.
A handmade card on pink paper with sweetly drawn flowers and "I love you mommy" written carefully in a black triangle that held all the love in the world. It was taped to the orange juice carton so when I reached for it, as I do every morning, I was sure to see it. A shiny necklace that has beads of every colour on it, red, blue, pink, lime green, blue and purple. It was hand picked by the sweetest boy in the world. I am proudly displaying it around my neck and don't ever want to take it off. Every bead worth more to me than all the diamonds in the world.
A big hug from a sleepy little girl. You know the kind only a baby can give. Her little arms held tightly around my neck and her beautiful head with the softest hair rested on my shoulder and snuggled into me. This moment was followed up by a sloppy, drooly kiss from her. It was a perfect moment and tears silently slid down my cheek as I was completely wrapped up in it.
But the best birthday gift I am getting this year is from my mom and dad. After years of living more than 2 hours outside the city they are selling their house and making their way back to us. Back to their grandchildren and children who love and miss them so much. Unfortunately, today's responsibilities and pressures of life don't allow us to travel to see each other very often. I know this decision wasn't easy for them. They have to sell their beautiful country home that they poured themselves into over the past 10 years and are now stressed about finding a new one.
But my kids and my niece and nephews will now have an opportunity to bond more closely with the 2 people who gave life to 3 and who are the proud grandparents of 7. My camera and my heart will now hold more pictures of them playing with their grandchildren. Snapshots of every memory made of time spent with them. I can't wait to have them closer. Thank you mom and dad...this is truly the best gift.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!
I am usually long gone in the morning and rarely get to see my kids as I start my day. Today, Marc woke them both up to be sure I got to see them and hug them before I left. The gifts I received from them are priceless.
A handmade card on pink paper with sweetly drawn flowers and "I love you mommy" written carefully in a black triangle that held all the love in the world. It was taped to the orange juice carton so when I reached for it, as I do every morning, I was sure to see it. A shiny necklace that has beads of every colour on it, red, blue, pink, lime green, blue and purple. It was hand picked by the sweetest boy in the world. I am proudly displaying it around my neck and don't ever want to take it off. Every bead worth more to me than all the diamonds in the world.
A big hug from a sleepy little girl. You know the kind only a baby can give. Her little arms held tightly around my neck and her beautiful head with the softest hair rested on my shoulder and snuggled into me. This moment was followed up by a sloppy, drooly kiss from her. It was a perfect moment and tears silently slid down my cheek as I was completely wrapped up in it.
But the best birthday gift I am getting this year is from my mom and dad. After years of living more than 2 hours outside the city they are selling their house and making their way back to us. Back to their grandchildren and children who love and miss them so much. Unfortunately, today's responsibilities and pressures of life don't allow us to travel to see each other very often. I know this decision wasn't easy for them. They have to sell their beautiful country home that they poured themselves into over the past 10 years and are now stressed about finding a new one.
But my kids and my niece and nephews will now have an opportunity to bond more closely with the 2 people who gave life to 3 and who are the proud grandparents of 7. My camera and my heart will now hold more pictures of them playing with their grandchildren. Snapshots of every memory made of time spent with them. I can't wait to have them closer. Thank you mom and dad...this is truly the best gift.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!
Friday, August 21, 2009
A cheerful heart is medicine for the soul
Marc and I are going on a date tonight. Dinner and a movie. Marc said he is going to let me pick the movie...any one I wanted which NEVER happens...EVER. Our choices in films differs somewhat and he says I have a history of choosing bad ones. As I was going through the listings this is what transpired.
Marc - Have you seen the trailer for Inglorious Bastards?
Lisa - Nope. Hey I heard The Ugly Truth was really funny.
Pause.
Marc (leaning in to me and whispering very softly) - Bruno..? (side note: I know this one is supposed to be funny but this type of humour doesn't appeal to me in the slightest.)
Lisa (ignoring the not so subtle hint) - What about Julie and Julia...I would love to see this one.
Marc snickers.
Lisa (slightly annoyed) I thought you said I could pick the movie??
Marc - You're right, you're right. Go ahead and choose and I will go to whatever you want.
Lisa - hmmm, I feel like laughing, don't you? What about Funny People?
Marc - It didn't get good reviews. GI Joe?
Pause. Silence.
Marc - Let's just watch the trailer to Inglorious Bastards and then you can decide.
I watch. Admittedly, it does look fantastic. Brad Pitt is just beyond talented. He still looks fantastic and is a brilliant actor but it's just not what I'm in the mood for.
Lisa - Marc, I just feel like laughing. I don't want death and blood.
Marc - Well, I heard District 9 was pretty good. Let's watch the trailer for that.
We watch it. Again, I admit it does look pretty good but there is absolutely nothing funny about it.
Lisa - I don't feel like thinking too much. I just want to watch a silly-not-thinking-or-feeling-too-much-movie. Didn't you say I could choose?
Marc - Oh yeah, the library called. That book you wanted to read is in. 50 Dead Men Walking? Let's watch the trailer to that.
We start watching it and thankfully we are interrupted by dinner time and a fussy baby. I am going to read that book and watch the film as the storyline fascinates me but I am just not in the mood for this kind of movie today.
Later, I sat on the bottom of the stairs and looked at Marc and suggested The Hangover. Thankfully he agreed, although I know he would rather not.
It has been an odd summer. Full of love and fantastic memories and fun times but also of tragedy and sadness. A colleague who lost a baby in the most heartbreaking way. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her and hope she is finding a way to heal her heart. A brother who lost one of his friends to suicide. My heart broke knowing his intense sadness and even more so for the mom and dad who had to bury their son. A special and wonderul family member who was diagnosed with an illness that is painful and unfortunately no cure.
These are my reasons for choosing the movie I did. I want to laugh out loud until tears run down my face. I don't want to think or feel sad or watch a movie full of death and that leaves you feeling hopeless. I want to laugh and feed my heart with nothing but happiness today. May all of you have a day full of the same.
EDIT: I cannot tell you how happy it made me when I just discovered my favourite childrens story of all time, Where The Wild Things Are, is coming to the big screen in October! I watched this trailer and cried...tears of happiness of course. I simply cannot wait!!
UPDATE: OK, so we never made it to The Hangover as it wasn't playing at a time that was good for us (our life with children and babysitters) so I ended up choosing Inglorious Basterds. In one word: FAN-TARANTINO-TASTIC!! I still managed to laugh out loud several times. Despite Quentin's reputation for violence he also has one for humour. I loved it. LOVED it. Thanks for dropping all those not so subtle hints my love. You are still the king when it comes to choosing movies.
Marc - Have you seen the trailer for Inglorious Bastards?
Lisa - Nope. Hey I heard The Ugly Truth was really funny.
Pause.
Marc (leaning in to me and whispering very softly) - Bruno..? (side note: I know this one is supposed to be funny but this type of humour doesn't appeal to me in the slightest.)
Lisa (ignoring the not so subtle hint) - What about Julie and Julia...I would love to see this one.
Marc snickers.
Lisa (slightly annoyed) I thought you said I could pick the movie??
Marc - You're right, you're right. Go ahead and choose and I will go to whatever you want.
Lisa - hmmm, I feel like laughing, don't you? What about Funny People?
Marc - It didn't get good reviews. GI Joe?
Pause. Silence.
Marc - Let's just watch the trailer to Inglorious Bastards and then you can decide.
I watch. Admittedly, it does look fantastic. Brad Pitt is just beyond talented. He still looks fantastic and is a brilliant actor but it's just not what I'm in the mood for.
Lisa - Marc, I just feel like laughing. I don't want death and blood.
Marc - Well, I heard District 9 was pretty good. Let's watch the trailer for that.
We watch it. Again, I admit it does look pretty good but there is absolutely nothing funny about it.
Lisa - I don't feel like thinking too much. I just want to watch a silly-not-thinking-or-feeling-too-much-movie. Didn't you say I could choose?
Marc - Oh yeah, the library called. That book you wanted to read is in. 50 Dead Men Walking? Let's watch the trailer to that.
We start watching it and thankfully we are interrupted by dinner time and a fussy baby. I am going to read that book and watch the film as the storyline fascinates me but I am just not in the mood for this kind of movie today.
Later, I sat on the bottom of the stairs and looked at Marc and suggested The Hangover. Thankfully he agreed, although I know he would rather not.
It has been an odd summer. Full of love and fantastic memories and fun times but also of tragedy and sadness. A colleague who lost a baby in the most heartbreaking way. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her and hope she is finding a way to heal her heart. A brother who lost one of his friends to suicide. My heart broke knowing his intense sadness and even more so for the mom and dad who had to bury their son. A special and wonderul family member who was diagnosed with an illness that is painful and unfortunately no cure.
These are my reasons for choosing the movie I did. I want to laugh out loud until tears run down my face. I don't want to think or feel sad or watch a movie full of death and that leaves you feeling hopeless. I want to laugh and feed my heart with nothing but happiness today. May all of you have a day full of the same.
EDIT: I cannot tell you how happy it made me when I just discovered my favourite childrens story of all time, Where The Wild Things Are, is coming to the big screen in October! I watched this trailer and cried...tears of happiness of course. I simply cannot wait!!
UPDATE: OK, so we never made it to The Hangover as it wasn't playing at a time that was good for us (our life with children and babysitters) so I ended up choosing Inglorious Basterds. In one word: FAN-TARANTINO-TASTIC!! I still managed to laugh out loud several times. Despite Quentin's reputation for violence he also has one for humour. I loved it. LOVED it. Thanks for dropping all those not so subtle hints my love. You are still the king when it comes to choosing movies.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Summertime and the livin's easy
T minus 4 hours until Plante Vacation 2009 begins. In honour of this blessed event I was trying to find some summer songs to listen to and came across some classics like Summer in the City (although this certainly would not apply to O-Town this year) and Summer Breeze. One of my favs by Don Henley and I remember grooving to this one back in the day.
I came across this song by Mungo Jerry (LOVE that name) and although I really like the song, I giggled my ass off watching the video. Get that guy a dentist and a razor!!!
Here are some lyrics from Pinch me by the Barenaked Ladies that reminds me of when I was a kid and the days of summer were long and hot and I am sure I did this on many an occassion. Remember?
It's the perfect time of day
To throw all your cares away
Put the sprinkler on the lawn
And run through with my gym shorts on.
Take a drink right from the hose
And change into some drier clothes
Climb the stairs up to my room
Sleep away the afternoon.
In just a few hours I will be in slow mode and anxiously awaiting a visit to Collingwood, where we will be spending our time on beaches, having picnics and discovering fossils. Marineland is next on the docket and we have one very, very excited 6 year old who is exactly 48 inches and can ride on almost every single ride there. He will have his first roller experience...yikes! We will end it all at a stay in 1000 Islands, we are staying here. Marc and I got married at this very spot 8 years ago. I am also SO hoping I get to see this wonderful, brilliant, gorgeous and wickedly funny girl, my old friend, for a spot of tea on our way home. Keep your fingers crossed!
Happy summer everyone!
I came across this song by Mungo Jerry (LOVE that name) and although I really like the song, I giggled my ass off watching the video. Get that guy a dentist and a razor!!!
Here are some lyrics from Pinch me by the Barenaked Ladies that reminds me of when I was a kid and the days of summer were long and hot and I am sure I did this on many an occassion. Remember?
It's the perfect time of day
To throw all your cares away
Put the sprinkler on the lawn
And run through with my gym shorts on.
Take a drink right from the hose
And change into some drier clothes
Climb the stairs up to my room
Sleep away the afternoon.
In just a few hours I will be in slow mode and anxiously awaiting a visit to Collingwood, where we will be spending our time on beaches, having picnics and discovering fossils. Marineland is next on the docket and we have one very, very excited 6 year old who is exactly 48 inches and can ride on almost every single ride there. He will have his first roller experience...yikes! We will end it all at a stay in 1000 Islands, we are staying here. Marc and I got married at this very spot 8 years ago. I am also SO hoping I get to see this wonderful, brilliant, gorgeous and wickedly funny girl, my old friend, for a spot of tea on our way home. Keep your fingers crossed!
Happy summer everyone!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Eggs and freckles
Earlier this week we got the news that Aiden has probably out grown his egg allergy and we can start slowly introducing it back into his diet. His joy and 'egg-citement' was evident as he yelled several "YOO-HOO's" as we left the doctors office. The smile and the non-stop chatter about who he was going to tell and how he was going to share the news made my chest burst with love and a ton of relief. A TON of it I tell ya! The first thing that came to my mind was birthday parties. They will be so different for him now. He doesn't have to be the kid who doesn't get a piece of the cake anymore. I don't have to call parents to see what's on the menu in fear of it containing eggs. I don't have to watch his face crumple in disappointment when he's told he can't share something sweet with his friends because his little body can't tolerate it. Yes, it was a ton of relief indeed.
We went to Toys R Us as a treat afterwards and he continued to share his news with a lady stocking the shelves, a little boy and his mom in the Ben 10 section and the guy at the check out. These strangers genuinely shared his 'egg-citement' as they gave him hi-five's and congratulated him.
East Side Marios was the next stop for a bite to eat and some bonding. He wanted to have something on the menu that had eggs in it. I gave him several options but he decided he wanted pizza, which has zero egg content but it is his favourite food. Marc suggested pancakes with egg in it for supper. He agreed and he talked about helping me make them and how he was going to touch an egg...for the very first time.
I got lost in the moment as he chattered on endlessly in his complete and utter joy. My love was immense for this little boy with the beautiful freckles who sat across from me. He was completely caught up in his own little world with so much emotion and happiness. A completely wonderful world that just opened a very big door for him.
We went to Toys R Us as a treat afterwards and he continued to share his news with a lady stocking the shelves, a little boy and his mom in the Ben 10 section and the guy at the check out. These strangers genuinely shared his 'egg-citement' as they gave him hi-five's and congratulated him.
East Side Marios was the next stop for a bite to eat and some bonding. He wanted to have something on the menu that had eggs in it. I gave him several options but he decided he wanted pizza, which has zero egg content but it is his favourite food. Marc suggested pancakes with egg in it for supper. He agreed and he talked about helping me make them and how he was going to touch an egg...for the very first time.
I got lost in the moment as he chattered on endlessly in his complete and utter joy. My love was immense for this little boy with the beautiful freckles who sat across from me. He was completely caught up in his own little world with so much emotion and happiness. A completely wonderful world that just opened a very big door for him.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
I'm so tired...
My eyes are burning, my body is slow to move and when anyone speaks to me it sounds like the nasally "mwa-mwa-mwa-mwa" just like all the adults sound in the Charlie Brown cartoons. Thanks to Marissa for wanting to play the soose in my mouth/eye/ear game until almost midnight. The game really is not that cute after 8pm.
The weather outside doesn't make it any better. It is cold. And grey. And it is July. I grew up in Newfoundland where you never put away your winter coat...ever. You could get snow in June and the first frost in August. You think I would be conditioned to this type of weather. But I am not. I want the heat and at this point I would take the humidity. I want to hear people complain about how hot it is. I want to see the sun. I want to slather on layers of sunscreen and swim in Moniques gorgeous, blue, salt water, inground pool. Instead, I am wearing long pants, and shoes that don't allow my pretty painted toes to peak out in fear or losing one to frostbite, and a sweater vest over my shirt...in JULY!!!
So, I'm shaking the tiredness and forgetting the coolness of the outside by listening to some music to get me moving. I was inspired, as usual, when I visit here. Right now I am listening to Paper Planes by MIA. I feel better and not quite as groggy.
I am going to have that 2nd cup of coffee though.
The weather outside doesn't make it any better. It is cold. And grey. And it is July. I grew up in Newfoundland where you never put away your winter coat...ever. You could get snow in June and the first frost in August. You think I would be conditioned to this type of weather. But I am not. I want the heat and at this point I would take the humidity. I want to hear people complain about how hot it is. I want to see the sun. I want to slather on layers of sunscreen and swim in Moniques gorgeous, blue, salt water, inground pool. Instead, I am wearing long pants, and shoes that don't allow my pretty painted toes to peak out in fear or losing one to frostbite, and a sweater vest over my shirt...in JULY!!!
So, I'm shaking the tiredness and forgetting the coolness of the outside by listening to some music to get me moving. I was inspired, as usual, when I visit here. Right now I am listening to Paper Planes by MIA. I feel better and not quite as groggy.
I am going to have that 2nd cup of coffee though.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Babies...let's have a bunch.
According to C.D. Howe Institute what Canada needs is more babies. Really? I mean REALLY?
As much as I would like to keep making contributions to the next generation and to ensure my pension and retirement is not impacted too much, I am pretty sure I'm done having babies. My ovaries are waving little white flags announcing their retirement despite their lack of of funding and inability to travel to Europe every summer.
The memory of puking for 9 straight months (and doing it quietly and efficiently so you don't disturb your sleeping husband), the constipation, swollen ankles and boobs the size of watermelons are still way too fresh in my mind. The lack of sleep, colic and breast feeding issues are not something I am eager to repeat now that they are no longer a part of my life. The information about pregnancy that is thrown at you and gives you nightmares (or at the very least may cause you to give birth to an 8lb tele-tubby)...no eating deli meat, tuna, caesar salad or lead-based paint chips. No plastic containers or water bottles, no colouring your hair, no sex with random strangers (which is not something I would do but just proves that I am not getting any younger).
Me thinks Canada is going to have to rely on other people to have the babies.
But why does my belly have butterflies when I see, smell or hold a new baby? Is the universe whispering to me, telling me to continue to populate Canada? I mean, I have 2 of the most gorgeous kids in the entire universe, who am I to withold adding more perfection to it?
As much as I would like to keep making contributions to the next generation and to ensure my pension and retirement is not impacted too much, I am pretty sure I'm done having babies. My ovaries are waving little white flags announcing their retirement despite their lack of of funding and inability to travel to Europe every summer.
The memory of puking for 9 straight months (and doing it quietly and efficiently so you don't disturb your sleeping husband), the constipation, swollen ankles and boobs the size of watermelons are still way too fresh in my mind. The lack of sleep, colic and breast feeding issues are not something I am eager to repeat now that they are no longer a part of my life. The information about pregnancy that is thrown at you and gives you nightmares (or at the very least may cause you to give birth to an 8lb tele-tubby)...no eating deli meat, tuna, caesar salad or lead-based paint chips. No plastic containers or water bottles, no colouring your hair, no sex with random strangers (which is not something I would do but just proves that I am not getting any younger).
Me thinks Canada is going to have to rely on other people to have the babies.
But why does my belly have butterflies when I see, smell or hold a new baby? Is the universe whispering to me, telling me to continue to populate Canada? I mean, I have 2 of the most gorgeous kids in the entire universe, who am I to withold adding more perfection to it?
Thursday, July 2, 2009
The first of many disappointments....sadly
Our neighbour has a fishing boat in his driveway that has long been admired by Aiden. Recently a for sale sign has gone up on it.
When news of the sale reached Aiden, he could not contain his excitement. He came running into the house asking for his change jar because...and I quote "that boat is mine mom". His dad and I tried to tell him that he didn't have enough money in his change jar to buy a boat like that. But with a fierce determination he grabbed 2 handfuls of change and went to buy this boat. We watched our little boy march over and with a shy smile made his first offer. Moments later Aiden came racing in the house once again, leapt up the stairs and with heart pounding excitement told us the neighbour needed "a little more than that'. So he grabbed another handful of change and went back outside, leaving a trail of pennies and dimes behind him. Sadly, the offer was still not enough.
Marc and I laughed at the sweetness and innocence of it but quietly my heart hurt for him. I wanted to buy the boat just so I didn't have to see those blue eyes well up.
His disappointment was soon forgotten by hugs and the promise of ice cream.
I only hope all his disappointments are as easily forgotten, but in reality we know life can be harsh.
And although I may not always have the power to take the hurt away, I will always be there with the promise of hugs and ice cream to help him through it.
When news of the sale reached Aiden, he could not contain his excitement. He came running into the house asking for his change jar because...and I quote "that boat is mine mom". His dad and I tried to tell him that he didn't have enough money in his change jar to buy a boat like that. But with a fierce determination he grabbed 2 handfuls of change and went to buy this boat. We watched our little boy march over and with a shy smile made his first offer. Moments later Aiden came racing in the house once again, leapt up the stairs and with heart pounding excitement told us the neighbour needed "a little more than that'. So he grabbed another handful of change and went back outside, leaving a trail of pennies and dimes behind him. Sadly, the offer was still not enough.
Marc and I laughed at the sweetness and innocence of it but quietly my heart hurt for him. I wanted to buy the boat just so I didn't have to see those blue eyes well up.
His disappointment was soon forgotten by hugs and the promise of ice cream.
I only hope all his disappointments are as easily forgotten, but in reality we know life can be harsh.
And although I may not always have the power to take the hurt away, I will always be there with the promise of hugs and ice cream to help him through it.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Suck it Iris!!
According to Alberta’s Finance Minister, Iris Evans, one parent needs to stay at home in order to raise children “properly”.
How do you define properly when it comes to raising children? Is there a handbook or instructional manual that can help us with these guidelines. For god’s sake tell me where I can get it!! I need to know what the hell I am doing!
Being a parent is one of the hardest jobs in the world and with that comes some tough decisions, to work or not to work is one of them. I chose to go back to work and my decision was not based solely on finances. I am many other things other than a mom, although I cherish that title more so than any other.
The majority of parents I know are working ones. All of them have nothing but the best interest of their family at heart. They all have their own reasons for raising them the way they do but that is their business and their choices. No judgement needed from anyone.
Every waking moment that I have that isn’t spent with them is spent thinking of them. Every decision I make as a parent is never just for me, it is always done with my kids in mind. My husband and I love each very much. We are committed to each other as partners and as parents. We plan to be so for a very long time. Our home is one filled with love and laughter on a daily basis. Our kids know and will always know how much they are loved and they will always come first. They are happy, bright, well adjusted children who have happy, not-so bright, well adjusted parents and although we don't always make the right choices, we do so only with an abundance of love.
Not that I need your validation Iris but am wondering if that is “proper” enough for ya?
How do you define properly when it comes to raising children? Is there a handbook or instructional manual that can help us with these guidelines. For god’s sake tell me where I can get it!! I need to know what the hell I am doing!
Being a parent is one of the hardest jobs in the world and with that comes some tough decisions, to work or not to work is one of them. I chose to go back to work and my decision was not based solely on finances. I am many other things other than a mom, although I cherish that title more so than any other.
The majority of parents I know are working ones. All of them have nothing but the best interest of their family at heart. They all have their own reasons for raising them the way they do but that is their business and their choices. No judgement needed from anyone.
Every waking moment that I have that isn’t spent with them is spent thinking of them. Every decision I make as a parent is never just for me, it is always done with my kids in mind. My husband and I love each very much. We are committed to each other as partners and as parents. We plan to be so for a very long time. Our home is one filled with love and laughter on a daily basis. Our kids know and will always know how much they are loved and they will always come first. They are happy, bright, well adjusted children who have happy, not-so bright, well adjusted parents and although we don't always make the right choices, we do so only with an abundance of love.
Not that I need your validation Iris but am wondering if that is “proper” enough for ya?
Monday, June 8, 2009
Happy Birthday Bucky!
This is Aiden.
He turns 6 today. Big things are going to happen to him this year. Apparently, when you are 6 you get to watch movies like Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park, go to Disney World, and baby sit your 1 year old sister.
This little boy loves his mommy and daddy, pizza, Oreos and ice cream and believes there is nothing better in this universe. He loves to dance and ‘show his moves’. He is extremely creative and very, very funny. He is loving, sweet, kind and more tender hearted than any other 6 year old I know. He adores his baby sister and revels in her accomplishments like they were his own. He has big dreams of becoming a super hero, a police man, a scientist and of saving the earth from all its ills. He represents everything that is good in this world. May he never outgrow them.
Happy 6th Birthday Mr. Nittles.
He turns 6 today. Big things are going to happen to him this year. Apparently, when you are 6 you get to watch movies like Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park, go to Disney World, and baby sit your 1 year old sister.
This little boy loves his mommy and daddy, pizza, Oreos and ice cream and believes there is nothing better in this universe. He loves to dance and ‘show his moves’. He is extremely creative and very, very funny. He is loving, sweet, kind and more tender hearted than any other 6 year old I know. He adores his baby sister and revels in her accomplishments like they were his own. He has big dreams of becoming a super hero, a police man, a scientist and of saving the earth from all its ills. He represents everything that is good in this world. May he never outgrow them.
Happy 6th Birthday Mr. Nittles.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Happy birthday Princess
"It's a girl" Those words forever changed my life. My initial reaction was complete disbelief. There are still moments when I look at my girl, in pink from head to toe and I still don't believe it. A girl! ***sigh*** ....A GIRL!!
12 months, 365 days, 8766.1536 hours ago my beautiful Marissa came into our lives. After only 1 year I am honoured to know her let alone to be her mother. Isn't she magnificent?
I hope you will always be the girl who dances to music - no matter the tune or who is around.
I hope you are the girl who laughs as quickly and as easily as you do now. Find the humour in everything.
I hope you always love your daddy and your brother as much as you do now.
I hope you know that being second does not mean last.
May you never doubt that I have enormous love for you.
Happy birthday my beautiful baby girl. XO
12 months, 365 days, 8766.1536 hours ago my beautiful Marissa came into our lives. After only 1 year I am honoured to know her let alone to be her mother. Isn't she magnificent?
I hope you will always be the girl who dances to music - no matter the tune or who is around.
I hope you are the girl who laughs as quickly and as easily as you do now. Find the humour in everything.
I hope you always love your daddy and your brother as much as you do now.
I hope you know that being second does not mean last.
May you never doubt that I have enormous love for you.
Happy birthday my beautiful baby girl. XO
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
I have mad love for you
Five....that is how many Mothers Days I have had the honour of celebrating as a mom. This year will be the sixth.
I am so deeply and crazy in love with my children. The kind of love that only moms know. The kind you can't even begin to explain. It is simply pure, intense and unlimited. After I had Aiden I thought my heart was stretched to the end of the universe with this kind of love. Will there really be room in my heart for that kind of love for my 2nd child? Then Marissa was born and I now know my heart is capable of holding more....so much more. It is stretched to infinity and beyond with love for her.
This past year has been crazy and fuzzy as any mother will tell you the first year after giving birth. There were many days where I had no clue what I was doing and had moments when I felt worn out and was down for the count. Still, my worst day as a mom is a hundred times better than my best day before them.
Thank you, Aiden and Marissa, for letting me love you the way I do. All crazy and intense.
Happy Mothers Day to all the mommies out there who are celebrating their first, sixth or 25th year as a mom. Enjoy your day.
I love you mom!
xo
I am so deeply and crazy in love with my children. The kind of love that only moms know. The kind you can't even begin to explain. It is simply pure, intense and unlimited. After I had Aiden I thought my heart was stretched to the end of the universe with this kind of love. Will there really be room in my heart for that kind of love for my 2nd child? Then Marissa was born and I now know my heart is capable of holding more....so much more. It is stretched to infinity and beyond with love for her.
This past year has been crazy and fuzzy as any mother will tell you the first year after giving birth. There were many days where I had no clue what I was doing and had moments when I felt worn out and was down for the count. Still, my worst day as a mom is a hundred times better than my best day before them.
Thank you, Aiden and Marissa, for letting me love you the way I do. All crazy and intense.
Happy Mothers Day to all the mommies out there who are celebrating their first, sixth or 25th year as a mom. Enjoy your day.
I love you mom!
xo
Friday, May 1, 2009
And the first person voted off Survivor Island....
Aiden: Mom, if I was on Survivor I just know I'd be the first person voted off.
Me: Why do you think that?
Aiden: Because I'm smart, cute and fast. They know I'd win aaaaaallll the challenges and everyone would like me. Payton in my class thinks I'm really funny.
There is nothing wrong with my sons self esteem.
Me: Why do you think that?
Aiden: Because I'm smart, cute and fast. They know I'd win aaaaaallll the challenges and everyone would like me. Payton in my class thinks I'm really funny.
There is nothing wrong with my sons self esteem.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
The lent challenge
I swear....a lot sometimes. Most of the time I don't even know it until the words are out of my mouth. It's a very bad habit and seems to be getting worse lately. I have been swearing for as long as I can remember. They are after all just words right?
Well, I guess they can be ugly but can be fun to say and aid with a tone of story or a joke. But with little ears around I have to be careful. No one will think it's very cute when my little girl drops an F bomb as a first word or when asking for Cheerios.
Aiden asked what Lent was on Monday morning and when I explained it (as best I could in my non-practicing Catholic way) I included how people give up things they like or kick a bad habit for 40 days leading up to Easter.
We headed out for school and imagine my dismay when I realized all the {insert expletive here} doors were frozen shut. I couldn't get in. If I couldn't get in my very well planned day could not begin and well, that just couldn't happen. And Mondays always come with bags that have to be loaded into the car. So with a baby in a car seat, diaper bag, gym bag, school bag and a bag with Aiden's sleep stuff in it and my son standing next to me I started to swear...first very midly and then the heavy artillery came out. In fear Aiden was thinking I was angry with him I kept reassuring him that I wasn't and that it was the situation that was frustrating. I know, mother of the year award.
I finally managed to get the passenger side door open and had to load the car seat and Aiden in through this way which was not easy with a 40lb car seat. I crawled over to the drivers side when I realized I left all those bags in the driveway...{insert expletive here}. I crawled back out through the passenger door and grabbed the bags and started reefing on the drivers side door. It popped open, I felt vindicated. Finally, things were looking up. Until I realized I had broken the door. It wouldn't close and when I did get it closed I couldn't open it. {insert expletive here}. Those nasty words were spilling out of my mouth when Aiden covered his ears and very calmly said, "mom, stop saying those bad words" Ahhhh, there it is. The shame that only a mother can feel when her child couldn't be more right and the parent more wrong. It washed over me.
I immediately apologized to Aiden for my behaviour and I promised him I would never use those words in front of him again. He suggested that I give up saying bad words for Lent. I agreed.
So there it is, my love of swearing is no more for the next 40 days and perhaps even for good. I am going not only going to clean up my vocabulary I am going to improve it. I am going to read more perhaps some poetry and sign up for a word a day and learn it's pronunciation, origin and meaning.
Words can be pretty powerful so I'm going to learn new ones and share them with Aiden. I will make him proud.
Well, I guess they can be ugly but can be fun to say and aid with a tone of story or a joke. But with little ears around I have to be careful. No one will think it's very cute when my little girl drops an F bomb as a first word or when asking for Cheerios.
Aiden asked what Lent was on Monday morning and when I explained it (as best I could in my non-practicing Catholic way) I included how people give up things they like or kick a bad habit for 40 days leading up to Easter.
We headed out for school and imagine my dismay when I realized all the {insert expletive here} doors were frozen shut. I couldn't get in. If I couldn't get in my very well planned day could not begin and well, that just couldn't happen. And Mondays always come with bags that have to be loaded into the car. So with a baby in a car seat, diaper bag, gym bag, school bag and a bag with Aiden's sleep stuff in it and my son standing next to me I started to swear...first very midly and then the heavy artillery came out. In fear Aiden was thinking I was angry with him I kept reassuring him that I wasn't and that it was the situation that was frustrating. I know, mother of the year award.
I finally managed to get the passenger side door open and had to load the car seat and Aiden in through this way which was not easy with a 40lb car seat. I crawled over to the drivers side when I realized I left all those bags in the driveway...{insert expletive here}. I crawled back out through the passenger door and grabbed the bags and started reefing on the drivers side door. It popped open, I felt vindicated. Finally, things were looking up. Until I realized I had broken the door. It wouldn't close and when I did get it closed I couldn't open it. {insert expletive here}. Those nasty words were spilling out of my mouth when Aiden covered his ears and very calmly said, "mom, stop saying those bad words" Ahhhh, there it is. The shame that only a mother can feel when her child couldn't be more right and the parent more wrong. It washed over me.
I immediately apologized to Aiden for my behaviour and I promised him I would never use those words in front of him again. He suggested that I give up saying bad words for Lent. I agreed.
So there it is, my love of swearing is no more for the next 40 days and perhaps even for good. I am going not only going to clean up my vocabulary I am going to improve it. I am going to read more perhaps some poetry and sign up for a word a day and learn it's pronunciation, origin and meaning.
Words can be pretty powerful so I'm going to learn new ones and share them with Aiden. I will make him proud.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Love, love, love...sigh
February 13, 2000..that was THEE day. The day most girls dream of. The one I had only hoped for. The one I waited 9 years for. The day I was asked to be Marc's bride. His wife.
I remember the day as vividly as if it happened yesterday. Marc always said that when he proposed he would never do it on a date that it was expected. So I knew Christmas, New Years, Valentines and my birthday were out. Being the day before Valentines I never suspected...not even for a second.
We were enjoying a perfect day at Winterlude. Snow was softly falling. Marc was taking pics for his photography course he was taking at school. He took some gorgeous shots. (None of which are framed but should be.) We laughed, ate Beavertails, threw money in the eternal flame on Parliament Hill and made a wish. We enjoyed this perfect day. Marc with a custom made diamond Claddagh ring in his pocket, waiting for that "perfect" moment to pop the question. Looking back, there was a dozen "perfect" moments.
The moment he chose was in my parents driveway as we arrived for dinner later that day. I said I needed something from my bag in the trunk. The trunk opened and as I searched for what I needed, it happened.
Marc: So...what did you wish for today at the Eternal Flame?
Me: Marc, you know what I wished for
Marc: Did you wish for world peace?
Me: Nope (Although that is a truly honourable wish and no amount of money is wasted on hoping for this)
Marc: Did you wish I would get a snowmobile? (He had been wanting one for some time)
Me: Nope
Marc (as he pulled out that beautiful ring I wear proudly on my left hand): Did you wish I would ask you to be my wife?
There it was. The moment, the question I had been waiting for for as long as I had known him. The reaction that I had always imagined would happen was replaced with hiccups and sobs. I couldn't breathe. My heart hurt. My head spun. I couldn't find the one word that I thought would be so easy to say.
But I did say it, of course. I don't remember saying it but it doesn't matter. I remember the question.
And the item I was searching for in the trunk right before he asked? A tampon. Yup, a tampon.
Marc remembered me telling him once in a conversation that I wanted my parents to be the first to know when I got engaged. So as we arrived for dinner he wanted to honour that.
There was a dozen "perfect" moments that day when he could have asked as we drank hot chocolate and strolled hand in hand in a winter wonderland. But none more perfect than the one he chose.
I remember the day as vividly as if it happened yesterday. Marc always said that when he proposed he would never do it on a date that it was expected. So I knew Christmas, New Years, Valentines and my birthday were out. Being the day before Valentines I never suspected...not even for a second.
We were enjoying a perfect day at Winterlude. Snow was softly falling. Marc was taking pics for his photography course he was taking at school. He took some gorgeous shots. (None of which are framed but should be.) We laughed, ate Beavertails, threw money in the eternal flame on Parliament Hill and made a wish. We enjoyed this perfect day. Marc with a custom made diamond Claddagh ring in his pocket, waiting for that "perfect" moment to pop the question. Looking back, there was a dozen "perfect" moments.
The moment he chose was in my parents driveway as we arrived for dinner later that day. I said I needed something from my bag in the trunk. The trunk opened and as I searched for what I needed, it happened.
Marc: So...what did you wish for today at the Eternal Flame?
Me: Marc, you know what I wished for
Marc: Did you wish for world peace?
Me: Nope (Although that is a truly honourable wish and no amount of money is wasted on hoping for this)
Marc: Did you wish I would get a snowmobile? (He had been wanting one for some time)
Me: Nope
Marc (as he pulled out that beautiful ring I wear proudly on my left hand): Did you wish I would ask you to be my wife?
There it was. The moment, the question I had been waiting for for as long as I had known him. The reaction that I had always imagined would happen was replaced with hiccups and sobs. I couldn't breathe. My heart hurt. My head spun. I couldn't find the one word that I thought would be so easy to say.
But I did say it, of course. I don't remember saying it but it doesn't matter. I remember the question.
And the item I was searching for in the trunk right before he asked? A tampon. Yup, a tampon.
Marc remembered me telling him once in a conversation that I wanted my parents to be the first to know when I got engaged. So as we arrived for dinner he wanted to honour that.
There was a dozen "perfect" moments that day when he could have asked as we drank hot chocolate and strolled hand in hand in a winter wonderland. But none more perfect than the one he chose.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Even God is a fan of cartoons
The other day as I was on the couch channel surfing (which drives Marc insane)I glanced over at Aiden who was on the other end of the couch. His hands clasped in prayer, eyes closed and his mouth moving silently.
Whatchya doing buddy? I asked.
He looked at me and with a sweetness and honesty that comes from someone who's only had 5 and 1/2 years on this earth said...
I'm praying I get to watch cartoons.
Through tears of laughter I switched to the cartoon Network. With all that is happening in this world, if God was listening to my child's innocent prayer I'm happy to report He has a sense of humour and is a fan of The Smurfs.
Whatchya doing buddy? I asked.
He looked at me and with a sweetness and honesty that comes from someone who's only had 5 and 1/2 years on this earth said...
I'm praying I get to watch cartoons.
Through tears of laughter I switched to the cartoon Network. With all that is happening in this world, if God was listening to my child's innocent prayer I'm happy to report He has a sense of humour and is a fan of The Smurfs.
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