Thursday, December 20, 2012
Unplug and be careful
Note to self: ALWAYS unplug the blender before sticking fingers near the blade.
Did I do this? No
Did I chop off the top of my finger? No
Did I come very close to chopping off the top of my finger? Yes
Am I ok? Yes
Good. But Zut Alors that was close!
A few minutes after this incident C called to say he was on his way home from work. I told him I cut my finger and I could hear a gasp in the split second before he asked if I was ok. I understand this gasp, because the last time I cut my finger I ended up in the emergency room at 10:30 at night and left with with 8 stitches. That was after the paramedics and the police showed up at our apartment in response to C's call to telehealth for advice about what to do, and after a ride in a police cruiser to the hospital. We didn't have a car at the time and the officers were having a quiet night so they offered the lift. We said, "OK!" A rid in the ambulance would have cost us money.
I got that cut from the open lid of a can of pinapple juice that I had used to make pina coladas. Talk about a fun evening gone wrong.
Last night's cut came while making Christmas cookies to give as gifts to Lauren's teachers. I was holding the hand blender with my right hand while scooping batter away from the blade with the index finger of my left hand. For whatever reason the finger on my right hand involuntarily pressed the power button and set the blade in motion. I immediately pulled my left finger away, rushed to the sink and flushed it with water, then applied lots of pressure. I took a peek a moment later to asses the damage and could see a fine cut 3mm long from the skin that reached across the most of the nail.
Was it deep? I wasn't sure, but my first thought was, "Oh my gosh my nail is going to come off!" I applied more pressure then went to sit down on the couch. After feeling like I wasn't going to pass out I peeked again and saw the bleeding had stopped. Phew. I then applied some Polysporin then a band-aid.
Turns out the cut is shallow and looks pretty unimpressive today. The nail should hopefully heal in a few weeks. The potential for the injury being far worse still freaks me out. I was fiddling with a very sharp blade after all. D'uuuhh... what was I thinking? Well, I wasn't.
Lesson learned? Unplug and be careful!
Did I do this? No
Did I chop off the top of my finger? No
Did I come very close to chopping off the top of my finger? Yes
Am I ok? Yes
Good. But Zut Alors that was close!
A few minutes after this incident C called to say he was on his way home from work. I told him I cut my finger and I could hear a gasp in the split second before he asked if I was ok. I understand this gasp, because the last time I cut my finger I ended up in the emergency room at 10:30 at night and left with with 8 stitches. That was after the paramedics and the police showed up at our apartment in response to C's call to telehealth for advice about what to do, and after a ride in a police cruiser to the hospital. We didn't have a car at the time and the officers were having a quiet night so they offered the lift. We said, "OK!" A rid in the ambulance would have cost us money.
I got that cut from the open lid of a can of pinapple juice that I had used to make pina coladas. Talk about a fun evening gone wrong.
Last night's cut came while making Christmas cookies to give as gifts to Lauren's teachers. I was holding the hand blender with my right hand while scooping batter away from the blade with the index finger of my left hand. For whatever reason the finger on my right hand involuntarily pressed the power button and set the blade in motion. I immediately pulled my left finger away, rushed to the sink and flushed it with water, then applied lots of pressure. I took a peek a moment later to asses the damage and could see a fine cut 3mm long from the skin that reached across the most of the nail.
Was it deep? I wasn't sure, but my first thought was, "Oh my gosh my nail is going to come off!" I applied more pressure then went to sit down on the couch. After feeling like I wasn't going to pass out I peeked again and saw the bleeding had stopped. Phew. I then applied some Polysporin then a band-aid.
Turns out the cut is shallow and looks pretty unimpressive today. The nail should hopefully heal in a few weeks. The potential for the injury being far worse still freaks me out. I was fiddling with a very sharp blade after all. D'uuuhh... what was I thinking? Well, I wasn't.
Lesson learned? Unplug and be careful!
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Rub a dub dub
My bathtub is littered with little plastic ocean animals. And it makes me smile.
There's a shark and killer whale and sea turtle, beluga whale, dolphin and an otter. Oh, and a deep sea diver too. And three little rubber piggies for added fun.
I tiptoed around them during my shower last night rather than put them away. I want them to be ready for their next bath time ocean adventure.
There's a shark and killer whale and sea turtle, beluga whale, dolphin and an otter. Oh, and a deep sea diver too. And three little rubber piggies for added fun.
I tiptoed around them during my shower last night rather than put them away. I want them to be ready for their next bath time ocean adventure.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Wonders never cease
It's a wonder to me how a four year old child can sleep soundly while her baby sister screams and cries at the top of her lungs in the middle of the night from a crib five feet away.
It's a wonder how sleep training that worked so well and so quickly at first, somehow slowly deteriorated leaving us back at square one.
It's a wonder how a 20lb baby can shove an adult 10 times her weight across a queen size bed thus leaving herself three-quarters of the space to sprawl while her parents huddle together on the remaining quarter.
And the biggest wonder is how this routine repeats night after night and everyone involved is alert and functional the next day. Sort of...
It's a wonder how sleep training that worked so well and so quickly at first, somehow slowly deteriorated leaving us back at square one.
It's a wonder how a 20lb baby can shove an adult 10 times her weight across a queen size bed thus leaving herself three-quarters of the space to sprawl while her parents huddle together on the remaining quarter.
And the biggest wonder is how this routine repeats night after night and everyone involved is alert and functional the next day. Sort of...
Veggie lover
I love that I can offer Claire string beans and carrots for a late afternoon snack and she gobbles them up like a kid eating candy.
I hope her love for veggies lasts a long time.
I hope her love for veggies lasts a long time.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Onwards and upwards and bumps and bruises
Claire is on the move and pulling herself up with whatever she can get a hold of.
It started with a butt shuffle several weeks ago. I would put her down on the floor in one place, turn around, and moments later find her a few feet away. I caught her in action a few times and saw her stretch out one leg, wiggle her butt and inch herself forward in an upright position.
The butt shuffle evolved into the military crawl where she would bend forward at the waist, sprawl her legs backwards then proceed to pull herself forwards. This was sometimes frustrating because she couldn't get anywhere very fast and would often just flail around on the spot like a fish out of water.
Perseverance paid off though as she soon figured how to get one knee and then the other underneath her body to give herself some lift. Soon after she was scooting along in a full crawl. Once reaching her destination like a chair or my leg, she would hoist herself up to her feet.
Last week during bedtime story while C read to Lauren, Claire pulled herself up holding the bedside table. Then let go. Freestanding. The three of us watched for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 seconds. It was amazing. She held the table again and we all applauded and cheered. Claire screeched in delight and pride.
Could Claire be walking any day now? Who knows. Maybe she'll just keep on crawling and cruising until the time is right which could be in another 2 or 3 or 5 months from now. We'll just have to keep watching.
In the meantime the gains haven't been without a little pain. Dr. B assured me yesterday at Claire's 9 month check up that baby heads are very hard and "designed" to withstand a few bumps. Phew, because it seems to happen on a daily basis, and between her forehead and knees, she's got a collection.
It started with a butt shuffle several weeks ago. I would put her down on the floor in one place, turn around, and moments later find her a few feet away. I caught her in action a few times and saw her stretch out one leg, wiggle her butt and inch herself forward in an upright position.
The butt shuffle evolved into the military crawl where she would bend forward at the waist, sprawl her legs backwards then proceed to pull herself forwards. This was sometimes frustrating because she couldn't get anywhere very fast and would often just flail around on the spot like a fish out of water.
Perseverance paid off though as she soon figured how to get one knee and then the other underneath her body to give herself some lift. Soon after she was scooting along in a full crawl. Once reaching her destination like a chair or my leg, she would hoist herself up to her feet.
Last week during bedtime story while C read to Lauren, Claire pulled herself up holding the bedside table. Then let go. Freestanding. The three of us watched for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 seconds. It was amazing. She held the table again and we all applauded and cheered. Claire screeched in delight and pride.
Could Claire be walking any day now? Who knows. Maybe she'll just keep on crawling and cruising until the time is right which could be in another 2 or 3 or 5 months from now. We'll just have to keep watching.
In the meantime the gains haven't been without a little pain. Dr. B assured me yesterday at Claire's 9 month check up that baby heads are very hard and "designed" to withstand a few bumps. Phew, because it seems to happen on a daily basis, and between her forehead and knees, she's got a collection.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Wonder woman
Sometimes I astound myself.
On Friday I moved the sofa bed from our home office on the second floor of our house all the way to the basement. All by my freaking self! Mind over matter. And I did it without straining a muscle or scratching a wall.
Moving the sofa to the basement is one of the last pieces of my master plan to turn the basement into a comfortable and functional play area and guest room. This project has been on my to-do list for 3 years, and for the last several months I've been getting it done slowly and surely.
I figured that we bought a whole house, so what a waste to use two thirds of it while the basement is left forgotten except for storing junk that we never use. So item by item, I've been getting rid of stuff we don't need. The old VCR and DVD players and miscellaneous electronics were sent to recycling heaven, the giant cathode ray tube TV was put out in the front yard and taken away by who knows who, and the ancient gas stove was picked up by two guys who answered an ad on kijiji. "FREE! If you can get it out of our basement, it's yours."
And after vacuuming the spider webs and adding art to the walls, it's finally looking like a nice place to play and rest.
The final step will be to replace the old vinyl floor with new, but that project can wait. For right now the basement is finally open for action.
On Friday I moved the sofa bed from our home office on the second floor of our house all the way to the basement. All by my freaking self! Mind over matter. And I did it without straining a muscle or scratching a wall.
Moving the sofa to the basement is one of the last pieces of my master plan to turn the basement into a comfortable and functional play area and guest room. This project has been on my to-do list for 3 years, and for the last several months I've been getting it done slowly and surely.
I figured that we bought a whole house, so what a waste to use two thirds of it while the basement is left forgotten except for storing junk that we never use. So item by item, I've been getting rid of stuff we don't need. The old VCR and DVD players and miscellaneous electronics were sent to recycling heaven, the giant cathode ray tube TV was put out in the front yard and taken away by who knows who, and the ancient gas stove was picked up by two guys who answered an ad on kijiji. "FREE! If you can get it out of our basement, it's yours."
And after vacuuming the spider webs and adding art to the walls, it's finally looking like a nice place to play and rest.
The final step will be to replace the old vinyl floor with new, but that project can wait. For right now the basement is finally open for action.
Nonstop
I am constantly on the move in this house.
Picking up clothes, sucking up dust bunnies, washing dishes, filling the dishwasher, emptying the dishwasher, putting away dishes, washing laundry, folding laundry, putting away laundry, tidying toys, tidying books, wiping counters, moping floors, filing papers.
Then doing all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day.
No wonder people hire maids.
Picking up clothes, sucking up dust bunnies, washing dishes, filling the dishwasher, emptying the dishwasher, putting away dishes, washing laundry, folding laundry, putting away laundry, tidying toys, tidying books, wiping counters, moping floors, filing papers.
Then doing all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day. Then doing it all over again the next day.
No wonder people hire maids.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Independent four
I was chatting with the daycare teacher this morning and was told that Lauren is very good at dressing herself, and that she's usually the first to get herself ready to go outdoors to play, and she has good manners (asking to be excused after lunch) and is overall very independent. Then said that Lauren must be like this at home too.
My jaw nearly dropped to the floor.
"No." Was my first response. "But I'm really glad to hear that she's doing so well here!"
C and I have been finding this year to be particularly challenging. We've seen all the symptoms of the "f***ing fours" and can't wait for this marvelous time to pass. There has been a whole lot of whining, crying, screaming, selfishness, sassiness, moodiness, impatience, you name it.
The fours came as a bit of a shock after such a pleasant year with three. But it's not just us that are experiencing sour behaviour. A few weeks ago I was talking with some other parents from daycare and a mom described her child's sass. Then another parent chimed in about "the terrible twos, tiresome threes and f***ing fours". "Oh yeah!!" We all said in unison nodding our heads knowingly.
I won't go into detail about all the annoying experiences we've had this year, but I will mention that getting ready to leave the house in the morning is not my favourite part of the day. However Lauren manages to get herself dressed at daycare seems to go by the wayside at home.
Ah well. C and I take it in turn to blow a fuse on any given day, but we need to remind ourselves that blowing up is not an appropriate response, and we keep telling ourselves to be patient. It's hard. Really really hard some days.
The chat with Lauren's teacher was definitely encouraging and something to keep in mind next time we feel like we're going to blow. "Independent four" is what I'll tell myself. After all, there have been a lot of fun and funny and sweet moments this year too.
My jaw nearly dropped to the floor.
"No." Was my first response. "But I'm really glad to hear that she's doing so well here!"
C and I have been finding this year to be particularly challenging. We've seen all the symptoms of the "f***ing fours" and can't wait for this marvelous time to pass. There has been a whole lot of whining, crying, screaming, selfishness, sassiness, moodiness, impatience, you name it.
The fours came as a bit of a shock after such a pleasant year with three. But it's not just us that are experiencing sour behaviour. A few weeks ago I was talking with some other parents from daycare and a mom described her child's sass. Then another parent chimed in about "the terrible twos, tiresome threes and f***ing fours". "Oh yeah!!" We all said in unison nodding our heads knowingly.
I won't go into detail about all the annoying experiences we've had this year, but I will mention that getting ready to leave the house in the morning is not my favourite part of the day. However Lauren manages to get herself dressed at daycare seems to go by the wayside at home.
Ah well. C and I take it in turn to blow a fuse on any given day, but we need to remind ourselves that blowing up is not an appropriate response, and we keep telling ourselves to be patient. It's hard. Really really hard some days.
The chat with Lauren's teacher was definitely encouraging and something to keep in mind next time we feel like we're going to blow. "Independent four" is what I'll tell myself. After all, there have been a lot of fun and funny and sweet moments this year too.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Octobaby
In the last four years I've forgotten how challenging, frustrating and downright hilarious it is to get a coat and footwear onto a fidgety 8 month old baby.
If humans had to put clothing onto wriggly octopus babies with all 8 tentacles going every which way, I'm sure the experience would be the same.
It must look like Claire and I are entangled in a game of twister each morning. Me with one of Claire's arms tucked under mine as I try to guide the other into a coat sleeve. One of her legs flailing around as the other tries to hoist her body upwards and away.
I miss summer already when all I had to do was strap her into the Snugli and away we went. No coat, no shoes, no hat, no gloves, no nonsense.
If humans had to put clothing onto wriggly octopus babies with all 8 tentacles going every which way, I'm sure the experience would be the same.
It must look like Claire and I are entangled in a game of twister each morning. Me with one of Claire's arms tucked under mine as I try to guide the other into a coat sleeve. One of her legs flailing around as the other tries to hoist her body upwards and away.
I miss summer already when all I had to do was strap her into the Snugli and away we went. No coat, no shoes, no hat, no gloves, no nonsense.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Bat girl
Lauren is going to be a black bat for halloween.
I'm surprised and delighted by this choice. Surprised because everyday is about frills and dresses and pink and sparkly things. Delighted because she decided on a bat three weeks ago and has stuck to it without once changing her mind. Once I realized that she was serious, I started gathering stuff to make the costume.
I started with a black reaper tunic from the dollar store. For $1.50 it was the right price and enough material to use to cut wings out of. At another dollar store I found a headband with little red devil horns that I covered with the same black material to make bat ears.
For the body part of the costume I found a black shirt for $4.99 at a clothing discount store. It's girl size, but on Lauren it goes down to her feet, which is perfect. She has a pair of black track pants she can wear underneath, but the full length shirt gives a nice seamless look. It's also stretchy enough that she can wear a coat underneath to keep her warm.
With the wings I sewed them onto the underarms and side of the shirt, added some strips of black tape to give the illusion of bones and to give the wings a bit of definition, and voila, a bat!
So now the costume is done and I'm impressed by my own handiness. Lauren tried it on the other day and gave me a hug so I know she's pleased with it too. Yay!
Happy Halloween!
I'm surprised and delighted by this choice. Surprised because everyday is about frills and dresses and pink and sparkly things. Delighted because she decided on a bat three weeks ago and has stuck to it without once changing her mind. Once I realized that she was serious, I started gathering stuff to make the costume.
I started with a black reaper tunic from the dollar store. For $1.50 it was the right price and enough material to use to cut wings out of. At another dollar store I found a headband with little red devil horns that I covered with the same black material to make bat ears.
For the body part of the costume I found a black shirt for $4.99 at a clothing discount store. It's girl size, but on Lauren it goes down to her feet, which is perfect. She has a pair of black track pants she can wear underneath, but the full length shirt gives a nice seamless look. It's also stretchy enough that she can wear a coat underneath to keep her warm.
With the wings I sewed them onto the underarms and side of the shirt, added some strips of black tape to give the illusion of bones and to give the wings a bit of definition, and voila, a bat!
So now the costume is done and I'm impressed by my own handiness. Lauren tried it on the other day and gave me a hug so I know she's pleased with it too. Yay!
Happy Halloween!
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Pumpkin cranberry spice bundt
I think I haven't been making it often because it's a pumpkin cake, and how often does anyone think of pumpkin except for this time of year?
Anyway, for the third time running it turned out delicious and was a success at the annual family thanksgiving gathering.
The photo doesn't do it justice. I blame a lousy camera and poor lighting.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Sweet dreams
10 hours straight! Last night was the best sleep in 8 months. For all of us.
Lauren was in bed just before 9pm which was around the time that Claire fell asleep in my arms. I let Claire snooze for a while longer until I could tell that Lauren was sleeping before putting Claire in her crib. And that was it. They both slept in their own beds until 7am! Actually Claire woke at 7 and Lauren was out until 7:30.
Sleep training began for Claire in mid September when we finally moved her crib to Lauren's room. It took about a week to get her to settle, and now for the most part she goes down fairly easy. She can typically sleep for about 7 hours before she's up crying at which point I get up and snuggle into bed with me and C for the last 2 or 3 hours before we get up.
I was wondering when she would stretch out the night sleep to 10 hours, and last night was it. I doubt we'll be so lucky tonight, but I'm happy that it's started!
Lauren was in bed just before 9pm which was around the time that Claire fell asleep in my arms. I let Claire snooze for a while longer until I could tell that Lauren was sleeping before putting Claire in her crib. And that was it. They both slept in their own beds until 7am! Actually Claire woke at 7 and Lauren was out until 7:30.
Sleep training began for Claire in mid September when we finally moved her crib to Lauren's room. It took about a week to get her to settle, and now for the most part she goes down fairly easy. She can typically sleep for about 7 hours before she's up crying at which point I get up and snuggle into bed with me and C for the last 2 or 3 hours before we get up.
I was wondering when she would stretch out the night sleep to 10 hours, and last night was it. I doubt we'll be so lucky tonight, but I'm happy that it's started!
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Conversation with a kindergartener
Claire and I have been in Lauren's kindergarten class to volunteer 3 times so far. So far so funny.
Here's a brief conversation I had with one of Lauren's classmates this week. Lets call her Jenni*.
Jenni: Is it a boy or a girl?**
Me: She's a girl
Jenni: How old is she?
Me: She's almost 8 months old
Jenni: But how old is she?
Me: She's almost 8 months old
Jenni: But how old is she?
Me: She's 8 months old
Jenni: But how old is she?
Me: She's almost a year old
Jenni: So she's zero?
Me: Yes, she's zero
*Note that Jenni is not the real name of the classmate.
** Note that this same classmate asked me this same question last week.
Here's a brief conversation I had with one of Lauren's classmates this week. Lets call her Jenni*.
Jenni: Is it a boy or a girl?**
Me: She's a girl
Jenni: How old is she?
Me: She's almost 8 months old
Jenni: But how old is she?
Me: She's almost 8 months old
Jenni: But how old is she?
Me: She's 8 months old
Jenni: But how old is she?
Me: She's almost a year old
Jenni: So she's zero?
Me: Yes, she's zero
*Note that Jenni is not the real name of the classmate.
** Note that this same classmate asked me this same question last week.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Friday, October 5, 2012
Planting bulbs
M came for a visit last weekend and helped me get the front garden in shape for the winter.
By "in shape" I mean weed pulling and bulb planting. The plan is for the bulbs to sleep sweetly this winter and come up looking fabulous in the spring. The garden was pretty much neglected this year due to high temperatures outdoors and child rearing (indoors and outdoors), so I'm getting a head start on making it look pretty for next year. We'll see how that goes.
We didn't get around to planting all the bulbs, so I hope to get he rest in tonight or tomorrow. M gave me some wild lily seeds that I'll sprinkle around as well. And when spring comes around again I'll visit the garden centres and pick a few more plants and flowers to complete the project.
I'm thinking bleeding heart for the back of the garden patch and a variety of plants that will last the season.
You wouldn't think that a 10x10 plot of dirt would take so much time and planning to look nice, I know better now.
By "in shape" I mean weed pulling and bulb planting. The plan is for the bulbs to sleep sweetly this winter and come up looking fabulous in the spring. The garden was pretty much neglected this year due to high temperatures outdoors and child rearing (indoors and outdoors), so I'm getting a head start on making it look pretty for next year. We'll see how that goes.
We didn't get around to planting all the bulbs, so I hope to get he rest in tonight or tomorrow. M gave me some wild lily seeds that I'll sprinkle around as well. And when spring comes around again I'll visit the garden centres and pick a few more plants and flowers to complete the project.
I'm thinking bleeding heart for the back of the garden patch and a variety of plants that will last the season.
You wouldn't think that a 10x10 plot of dirt would take so much time and planning to look nice, I know better now.
Monday, September 24, 2012
The heat is on
C turned the furnace on yesterday afternoon for the first time this season.
I usually protest, especially if it happens before October, as I seem to have a higher tolerance for the chill than he does, but yesterday I couldn't disagreed. Even with a sweater and slippers on and after a few cups of hot tea my toes and hands were cold.
The chill caught us off guard considering the balmy weather we've had up until recently, but the cool nights and mornings are a reminder that winter is on the way.
I usually protest, especially if it happens before October, as I seem to have a higher tolerance for the chill than he does, but yesterday I couldn't disagreed. Even with a sweater and slippers on and after a few cups of hot tea my toes and hands were cold.
The chill caught us off guard considering the balmy weather we've had up until recently, but the cool nights and mornings are a reminder that winter is on the way.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
The tooth is out there!
A tooth! A tooth!
What I was feeling the other night was in fact the tip of a tooth. I felt around Claire's mouth yesterday morning and the sharp nub was poking out a bit more. I got her mouth open just enough to see a bit of white showing.
This is a big milestone for Claire, and a little bitter sweet for me. As she grows and develops new skills she's becoming less of a baby and more into herself. That sounds obvious and weird, but what I mean is that all those precious and particular baby moments only last so long.
I saw a commercial a few weeks ago about some baby product, and one of the lines that resonated with me was "Your child is yours forever, but they're only a baby for a year."
It's so true. Once the teeth come in, there are no more gummy drooly smiles, once they can stand and walk, they become a toddler, and once they start talking, well, they don't stop!
I love every minute of watching Claire grow, but I will savour every minute of these last few months of babyness.
What I was feeling the other night was in fact the tip of a tooth. I felt around Claire's mouth yesterday morning and the sharp nub was poking out a bit more. I got her mouth open just enough to see a bit of white showing.
This is a big milestone for Claire, and a little bitter sweet for me. As she grows and develops new skills she's becoming less of a baby and more into herself. That sounds obvious and weird, but what I mean is that all those precious and particular baby moments only last so long.
I saw a commercial a few weeks ago about some baby product, and one of the lines that resonated with me was "Your child is yours forever, but they're only a baby for a year."
It's so true. Once the teeth come in, there are no more gummy drooly smiles, once they can stand and walk, they become a toddler, and once they start talking, well, they don't stop!
I love every minute of watching Claire grow, but I will savour every minute of these last few months of babyness.
Friday, September 21, 2012
Out damn teeth!
Claire has been teething for months now and has nothing to show for it except a mouth full of drool.
It's like Niagara Falls gushing from between her gums. Ok, not quite Niagara Falls, but definitely a remarkable amount of dribble that soaks through her shirts in minutes even when she's wearing a bib.
Her mood hasn't been so bad, but I've noticed that she has been restless for the last two days. She had her thumb shoved down the side of her mouth and today I offered her my finger to chomp on which she gladly obliged.
I've been saying "any day now" since May but I really do think we're getting close to a breakthrough. In fact I think I felt a bit of something sharp earlier this evening. I couldn't pry her mouth open long enough to get a peak, but I'll get a better look tomorrow.
It's like Niagara Falls gushing from between her gums. Ok, not quite Niagara Falls, but definitely a remarkable amount of dribble that soaks through her shirts in minutes even when she's wearing a bib.
Her mood hasn't been so bad, but I've noticed that she has been restless for the last two days. She had her thumb shoved down the side of her mouth and today I offered her my finger to chomp on which she gladly obliged.
I've been saying "any day now" since May but I really do think we're getting close to a breakthrough. In fact I think I felt a bit of something sharp earlier this evening. I couldn't pry her mouth open long enough to get a peak, but I'll get a better look tomorrow.
Keener mom
I have become a keener mom.
In addition to being a member of the daycare board of directors (going on 1 year now), I volunteered to be a Parent Link representative for Lauren's class, and volunteered to help the teacher in the JK class itself.
Parent Link involves being a liason to pass along information from the school to the parents. I'll also have to attend school council meetings every other month. I don't anticipate this taking too much time over the course of a school year and I like the idea of being in the loop with school stuff.
Claire and I start in the classroom next Wednesday during the last half hour of class. I'll help the teacher check backpacks and fill them with whatever notes need to go home to parents while Claire charms the kids with her cute babyness.
I figure that I'm home anyways so why not take advantage of the time to help out. I'll be picking Lauren up on Wednesdays for her dance class for the next two months rather than her going back to daycare for the remainder of the afternoon, so coming in a bit earlier to check school bags is no big deal. Once I'm working out of the house again there will be less opportunity to be so involved, and even less opportunity for Claire to tag along too. Claire has already been attending daycare board meetings for a while now, but being in the class with her big sister is a unique opportunity. I know Claire won't remember it, but Lauren might and hopefully the memory will be a good one for her.
I remember when my mom used to help out at the school library when I was in grade 1. Or was it grade 2? Ok, I can't remember what grade I was in, but I remember she was there, and I thought it was pretty cool.
In addition to being a member of the daycare board of directors (going on 1 year now), I volunteered to be a Parent Link representative for Lauren's class, and volunteered to help the teacher in the JK class itself.
Parent Link involves being a liason to pass along information from the school to the parents. I'll also have to attend school council meetings every other month. I don't anticipate this taking too much time over the course of a school year and I like the idea of being in the loop with school stuff.
Claire and I start in the classroom next Wednesday during the last half hour of class. I'll help the teacher check backpacks and fill them with whatever notes need to go home to parents while Claire charms the kids with her cute babyness.
I figure that I'm home anyways so why not take advantage of the time to help out. I'll be picking Lauren up on Wednesdays for her dance class for the next two months rather than her going back to daycare for the remainder of the afternoon, so coming in a bit earlier to check school bags is no big deal. Once I'm working out of the house again there will be less opportunity to be so involved, and even less opportunity for Claire to tag along too. Claire has already been attending daycare board meetings for a while now, but being in the class with her big sister is a unique opportunity. I know Claire won't remember it, but Lauren might and hopefully the memory will be a good one for her.
I remember when my mom used to help out at the school library when I was in grade 1. Or was it grade 2? Ok, I can't remember what grade I was in, but I remember she was there, and I thought it was pretty cool.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Key lime pie
I mentioned this desire to C ealier in the summer to which he replied, "Have you even had key lime pie?" "No", I said. "You should probably try some before you try making it". "Hmm, good point" I said.
And as if the baking fairies were listening, just a few days after that while at lunch at my sister's house, she pulled out a frozen President's Choice key lime pie for dessert! And it was good!
That was months ago, and it has taken until today for me to get around to baking it. I stumbled on a recipe recently and took it as a final nudge to get cracking.
I just pulled it out of the oven and am waiting for it to cool before putting it into the fridge for the required 3 hour cool down. So far it looks and smells ok, just have to wait another 3 hours to know if it tastes ok.
3 hours later....
Mmmm....good!! It's not the most pretty thing I've baked, but it's tasty! A touch on the tart side, but served with whip cream (as recommended in the recipe) and it would be prefect. I'll definitely try this again.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Simple pleasure # 16 - Potato masher
Eating lunch with my own two hands while Claire finds pleasure in waving around a potato masher for ten whole minutes.
Toronto FUN
Tomorrow morning at 7am is the start of registration for fall recreation for the Etobicoke York district.
I've been nervous about it for weeks as I hear that getting into classes is very competitive. It is the community centre after all, so the price is right and it's a good place to test out different activities before investing more serious time and money.
A few years ago I tried to get Lauren into a swim class, but got the date wrong and called too early. When the right day came along I called an hour after the start time and EVERYTHING was full. I got onto a few wait lists, but never heard back of course.
Lauren has been anxious to try out a dance class for close to a year now, so the pressure is on.
I've marked off a few possible classes and will set the alarm at the crack of early to get ready. I'll have phone in one hand and will be working the mouse with the other. I've heard a rumor that some people line up as early as 4am to register in person. It's this sort of thing that makes parents crazy, I tell ya.
The classes I chose are mid week immediately after kindergarten lets out so hopefully that will improve chances of getting a spot. I won't even try for the Saturday classes as those are likely the busiest. Classes available for the 3-5 years old age group are early in the morning, and quite frankly I'd rather sleep in!
So, best of luck to me that it will work out. If not, well, we'll be making up our own dance class at home until next registration time comes around.
I've been nervous about it for weeks as I hear that getting into classes is very competitive. It is the community centre after all, so the price is right and it's a good place to test out different activities before investing more serious time and money.
A few years ago I tried to get Lauren into a swim class, but got the date wrong and called too early. When the right day came along I called an hour after the start time and EVERYTHING was full. I got onto a few wait lists, but never heard back of course.
Lauren has been anxious to try out a dance class for close to a year now, so the pressure is on.
I've marked off a few possible classes and will set the alarm at the crack of early to get ready. I'll have phone in one hand and will be working the mouse with the other. I've heard a rumor that some people line up as early as 4am to register in person. It's this sort of thing that makes parents crazy, I tell ya.
The classes I chose are mid week immediately after kindergarten lets out so hopefully that will improve chances of getting a spot. I won't even try for the Saturday classes as those are likely the busiest. Classes available for the 3-5 years old age group are early in the morning, and quite frankly I'd rather sleep in!
So, best of luck to me that it will work out. If not, well, we'll be making up our own dance class at home until next registration time comes around.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Junior Kindergarten
Today was Lauren's first day of junior kindergarten.
She's in the afternoon class as all day learning hasn't yet come to her school (which will be in 2014), so her school day runs from 12:40 to 3:15. Not too strenuous compared to the long haul daycare day.
We hung out at the Parenting Centre this morning, had lunch then I took her to line up with her class and meet her teacher, Mrs M. Then she was off. When time was up I met her at the school doors and got a great first day review. Just a few tears when they went to the gym, but she bounced back. Lauren developed a fear of gymnastics and gym class over the summer for some reason. I have no idea where the fear came from but I hope it phases out soon. In the mean time Mrs. M will touch base with us by next week to see how she's settling.
All grown up already. Sniff...
She's in the afternoon class as all day learning hasn't yet come to her school (which will be in 2014), so her school day runs from 12:40 to 3:15. Not too strenuous compared to the long haul daycare day.
We hung out at the Parenting Centre this morning, had lunch then I took her to line up with her class and meet her teacher, Mrs M. Then she was off. When time was up I met her at the school doors and got a great first day review. Just a few tears when they went to the gym, but she bounced back. Lauren developed a fear of gymnastics and gym class over the summer for some reason. I have no idea where the fear came from but I hope it phases out soon. In the mean time Mrs. M will touch base with us by next week to see how she's settling.
All grown up already. Sniff...
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Lauren's hair
I'm procrastinatng over Lauren's hair.
My plan for yesterday was to give it a good wash, soak it in conditioner and comb out as many knots as possible. For the remaining knots and matted areas I was going to snip them out and trim back the rest of her hair. Of course that didn't happen because the day got away from us as it usually does on a lazy holiday. I chose relaxing over labouring.
Dealing with Lauren's hair is not easy even on a good day, so I drag my feet about it. We knew before she was born that she would inherit some wacky do, and she did. It's thick and curly and frizzy and gets knotted and matted in her sleep. There is usually a lot of screaming when I take out or put in the hair elastics, and untangling knots is even more traumatic. I've come to realize that it's not worth the struggle, so I do minimal maintenance now and will resume a more thorough routine when she's a bit older and can tolerate the fussing.
A few weeks ago one of the daycare teachers suggested she get a trim when school starts because it never fails that there's an outbreak of lice with the school age group. Now that Lauren is officially school aged and mingling more with the older kids, her chances are greater of getting it. Pulling nits out of her hair, of all hair, would not be pleasant. At all.
Fortunately she likes having it pulled into ponytails with clips and hairbands, so I think that should help. My sister also passed on some advice from the "lice nurse" suggesting that hairspray helps keeps lice away.
For now, fingers crossed that they do stay away.
My plan for yesterday was to give it a good wash, soak it in conditioner and comb out as many knots as possible. For the remaining knots and matted areas I was going to snip them out and trim back the rest of her hair. Of course that didn't happen because the day got away from us as it usually does on a lazy holiday. I chose relaxing over labouring.
Dealing with Lauren's hair is not easy even on a good day, so I drag my feet about it. We knew before she was born that she would inherit some wacky do, and she did. It's thick and curly and frizzy and gets knotted and matted in her sleep. There is usually a lot of screaming when I take out or put in the hair elastics, and untangling knots is even more traumatic. I've come to realize that it's not worth the struggle, so I do minimal maintenance now and will resume a more thorough routine when she's a bit older and can tolerate the fussing.
A few weeks ago one of the daycare teachers suggested she get a trim when school starts because it never fails that there's an outbreak of lice with the school age group. Now that Lauren is officially school aged and mingling more with the older kids, her chances are greater of getting it. Pulling nits out of her hair, of all hair, would not be pleasant. At all.
Fortunately she likes having it pulled into ponytails with clips and hairbands, so I think that should help. My sister also passed on some advice from the "lice nurse" suggesting that hairspray helps keeps lice away.
For now, fingers crossed that they do stay away.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Going white
The white hairs are sprouting fast and furious.
For years one or two would come up every so often from one particular spot at the top and to the left of my head. I would simply pluck them out until the next few came along. In the past year they've been venturing into new territory and at a faster pace than I can pluck.
Obviously this is common for people in their mid thirties, and of course I've noticed the whites showing on the heads of my peers, but it doesn't make it any easier for me to get used to. I still feel like a spry 20 something year old after all - just a lot busier and with two young kids, and probably a tad more stressed (which would account for the whites in the first place). And wasn't I just 20 something yesterday? Where did the time go?
Ah well, whattamIgonnado, eh?! I could dye, but once I start, I would think that it'd be hard to stop. I've never coloured my hair before (even for fun) and when/if I stopped, the change from colour to however further along my hair has gone white would be even more drastic and probably shocking.
That said I think I'll let it be, and try get used to the change gradually. And I'll try and be graceful as I grow old.
For years one or two would come up every so often from one particular spot at the top and to the left of my head. I would simply pluck them out until the next few came along. In the past year they've been venturing into new territory and at a faster pace than I can pluck.
Obviously this is common for people in their mid thirties, and of course I've noticed the whites showing on the heads of my peers, but it doesn't make it any easier for me to get used to. I still feel like a spry 20 something year old after all - just a lot busier and with two young kids, and probably a tad more stressed (which would account for the whites in the first place). And wasn't I just 20 something yesterday? Where did the time go?
Ah well, whattamIgonnado, eh?! I could dye, but once I start, I would think that it'd be hard to stop. I've never coloured my hair before (even for fun) and when/if I stopped, the change from colour to however further along my hair has gone white would be even more drastic and probably shocking.
That said I think I'll let it be, and try get used to the change gradually. And I'll try and be graceful as I grow old.
Never a dull moment
Phew, I'm tired.
Grandma B left today after spending a week long visit with us. Yesterday was a visit from Auntie B and the cousins, and the day before that was an afternoon in Oakville for cousin K's birthday BBQ.
The weekend before that was a brief visit from Auntie & Uncle T & JP & cousin C from Montreal. Before that was the annual weekend trip to the yurt. Before that was a sleepover at Auntie C's and cousin C' birthday party. Before that was the weekend trip to Niagara Falls.
Next weekend is a birthday party in the park and the weekend after that is a birthday party immediately followed by a backyard BBQ which was postponed from 3 weeks ago. And sometime in between, or after, we have to find time for grandma M to come for a visit.
Today I rest. Claire is taking a nap and Lauren is playing "raffle ticket show" and C is getting ready for a run. C and I are both too tired to cook food so we're just grazing off of leftovers whenever hunger strikes. Dinner will be leftover sushi, pizza, quiche and salad.
When I can muster up the energy I'll get Lauren in the bath so I can wash her hair, and before you know it, we'll all be getting ready for bed. Can't wait!
Grandma B left today after spending a week long visit with us. Yesterday was a visit from Auntie B and the cousins, and the day before that was an afternoon in Oakville for cousin K's birthday BBQ.
The weekend before that was a brief visit from Auntie & Uncle T & JP & cousin C from Montreal. Before that was the annual weekend trip to the yurt. Before that was a sleepover at Auntie C's and cousin C' birthday party. Before that was the weekend trip to Niagara Falls.
Next weekend is a birthday party in the park and the weekend after that is a birthday party immediately followed by a backyard BBQ which was postponed from 3 weeks ago. And sometime in between, or after, we have to find time for grandma M to come for a visit.
Today I rest. Claire is taking a nap and Lauren is playing "raffle ticket show" and C is getting ready for a run. C and I are both too tired to cook food so we're just grazing off of leftovers whenever hunger strikes. Dinner will be leftover sushi, pizza, quiche and salad.
When I can muster up the energy I'll get Lauren in the bath so I can wash her hair, and before you know it, we'll all be getting ready for bed. Can't wait!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Claire's hair
Claire has fuzzy hair. Already.
A month or two ago people would give Claire a once over and say "what's up with her hair?" It was never said in a mean or distasteful tone, just endearing curiosity. Still, I never understood the question because it looked like normal baby hair to me - wispy and sparse. It's brown with a slight red/orange tint depending on the light. I'm up close and personal with Claire all day every day so I'm blind to her quirks.
Since then I've been observing her hair. I can't explain the colour although there is Scottish and Irish ancestry on the much older branches of the family tree. As for the style, well, crazy is as crazy does. Lets just say that the family tree has seen a lot of it.
There's a tuft of growth at the top of Claire's head with a fringe around the base and not much in between. It's not growing in a uniform way but rather in segments. In profile it looks like she has a mohawk. It's pretty cute and indeed unusual so I can see now why people comment.
Over the summer her hair has gotten even wispier up top and around the sides. I wonder how crazy it's going to be in a few more months when it really fills in. Wouldn't it be funny if it eventually went straight? Stranger things have happened!
A month or two ago people would give Claire a once over and say "what's up with her hair?" It was never said in a mean or distasteful tone, just endearing curiosity. Still, I never understood the question because it looked like normal baby hair to me - wispy and sparse. It's brown with a slight red/orange tint depending on the light. I'm up close and personal with Claire all day every day so I'm blind to her quirks.
Since then I've been observing her hair. I can't explain the colour although there is Scottish and Irish ancestry on the much older branches of the family tree. As for the style, well, crazy is as crazy does. Lets just say that the family tree has seen a lot of it.
There's a tuft of growth at the top of Claire's head with a fringe around the base and not much in between. It's not growing in a uniform way but rather in segments. In profile it looks like she has a mohawk. It's pretty cute and indeed unusual so I can see now why people comment.
Over the summer her hair has gotten even wispier up top and around the sides. I wonder how crazy it's going to be in a few more months when it really fills in. Wouldn't it be funny if it eventually went straight? Stranger things have happened!
Dish duty
Emptying the dishwasher is not my favourite chore, especially when I have a heavy baby strapped to me.
But, I will not forget the time in the not too distant past when we had no dishwasher, or a proper functioning kitchen for that matter. For that reason I will never complain about emptying the dishwasher - baby strapped to me or not.
But, I will not forget the time in the not too distant past when we had no dishwasher, or a proper functioning kitchen for that matter. For that reason I will never complain about emptying the dishwasher - baby strapped to me or not.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Snow leopard on the prowl
Well it's about time.
It's been a month since we received the OS X upgrade and additional memory in the mail and I finally managed to sit down to complete the upgrade this evening. Yay.
I'm embarrassed that it took so long to get it done, but am positively delighted that it worked without a hitch. I was bracing myself for something to go wrong and expected to be heading off to the computer store tomorrow for help. Not necessary as it turns out. The system is running fine, C managed to upgrade itunes and transfer music to his iphone and I got my Kobo reader up and running.
I haven't gone through all my applications, but I can look into that another day.
Phew, now I can scratch that off the "to do" list. Next!!
It's been a month since we received the OS X upgrade and additional memory in the mail and I finally managed to sit down to complete the upgrade this evening. Yay.
I'm embarrassed that it took so long to get it done, but am positively delighted that it worked without a hitch. I was bracing myself for something to go wrong and expected to be heading off to the computer store tomorrow for help. Not necessary as it turns out. The system is running fine, C managed to upgrade itunes and transfer music to his iphone and I got my Kobo reader up and running.
I haven't gone through all my applications, but I can look into that another day.
Phew, now I can scratch that off the "to do" list. Next!!
Friday, August 10, 2012
Simple pleasure # 15 - bargains
Spending $6.00 for 3 plastic ponchos during a torrential downpour in Niagara Falls.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Toronto the good
This entry is in thanks to the dozen or so people that helped me during my journey this week with the girls on the TTC from home to Union Station and back.
I'm not stressed about packing us up and getting to where we need to go on public transit. Claire is easy enough to manage now and Lauren is usually pleased with the adventure and behaves well, as we don't take transit all too often these days.
I'm also really good about packing. I keep just the right amount of transit fare in a pocket that's easy to access and carry just enough snacks and chewy toys and diaper gear to keep the girls happy but not weigh me down.
On this latest trip I packed all I needed into Lauren's pink ballerina knapsack and carried it on my back. Claire was strapped into the Snugli on my front. I was anticipating lots of walking at our destination so I opted to bring along the small stroller for Lauren to use if she got tired. I didn't let her sit in it on the bus or subway because it takes up too much room. So with Lauren holding on to one of my hands and me pushing the folded up stroller in the other, I must have looked like a woman with her hands full - to say the least.
I was comfortable, but still there was no hesitation from people offering up seats or finding empty seats for us. Doors were opened for us and one gentleman on the subway offered to hold the stroller for me just to lighten my load.
For all the grouchy, rude and crazy behaviour I've witnessed on transit in the past, this sort of kindness restores my faith that there is a lot of good in the city.
I'm not stressed about packing us up and getting to where we need to go on public transit. Claire is easy enough to manage now and Lauren is usually pleased with the adventure and behaves well, as we don't take transit all too often these days.
I'm also really good about packing. I keep just the right amount of transit fare in a pocket that's easy to access and carry just enough snacks and chewy toys and diaper gear to keep the girls happy but not weigh me down.
On this latest trip I packed all I needed into Lauren's pink ballerina knapsack and carried it on my back. Claire was strapped into the Snugli on my front. I was anticipating lots of walking at our destination so I opted to bring along the small stroller for Lauren to use if she got tired. I didn't let her sit in it on the bus or subway because it takes up too much room. So with Lauren holding on to one of my hands and me pushing the folded up stroller in the other, I must have looked like a woman with her hands full - to say the least.
I was comfortable, but still there was no hesitation from people offering up seats or finding empty seats for us. Doors were opened for us and one gentleman on the subway offered to hold the stroller for me just to lighten my load.
For all the grouchy, rude and crazy behaviour I've witnessed on transit in the past, this sort of kindness restores my faith that there is a lot of good in the city.
Babe magnet
Babies are magnets for attention.
I learned this very quickly when Lauren was an infant and I would take her out and about. It was hard to go a block without someone (strangers!) wanting to take a peek at the baby. I thought the attention would ease off as she got older, which it has somewhat, but I still notice that she gets lots of smiles when we walk down the street. She is cute if I do say so, especially when she's skipping along and singing as she often does, wearing her cute dresses that she loves, with her pom pom hair bobbing up and down.
Claire is getting her share of attention now too. This time around I'm much more used to the advances by strangers and am always ready with the same answers to the same questions:
She's a girl. She's (insert number) months old. Yes, she's big for her age. Yes, she's very smiley.
A few days ago a curious mum sitting with her baby on the streetcar asked about Claire. Turns out her baby was born on the same day! Too funny. Maybe the kids will go to school together if they live in the neighbourhood.
Just a few moments ago on our return home from dropping Lauren at daycare, Claire and I were approaching two men who were carrying planks of wood into someone's house. I was observing the wood and could see that they were the tall baseboards which are common in older homes. We had the same kind installed in the living and dining rooms last year. As I was babbling to myself in my head impressed that I properly identified construction material, I noticed one of the guys smiling at us. I thought he was going to tell me to watch that I don't get my head smacked on the wood, but instead he said "how old?"
Pardon? was my response, because I wasn't expecting that question.
How old? he said again.
Oh, five and a half months.
Congratulations! Mine just turned one. It's awesome!
Well, congratulations to you! I said, and walked on by with a grin on may face. I couldn't help but smile.
It's sweet when people notice babies but the attention typically comes from women and even more so from the older grandmas. The handful of guys who have said hello always mention their own new babies or nieces and nephews with pride, which I find especially sweet.
I learned this very quickly when Lauren was an infant and I would take her out and about. It was hard to go a block without someone (strangers!) wanting to take a peek at the baby. I thought the attention would ease off as she got older, which it has somewhat, but I still notice that she gets lots of smiles when we walk down the street. She is cute if I do say so, especially when she's skipping along and singing as she often does, wearing her cute dresses that she loves, with her pom pom hair bobbing up and down.
Claire is getting her share of attention now too. This time around I'm much more used to the advances by strangers and am always ready with the same answers to the same questions:
She's a girl. She's (insert number) months old. Yes, she's big for her age. Yes, she's very smiley.
A few days ago a curious mum sitting with her baby on the streetcar asked about Claire. Turns out her baby was born on the same day! Too funny. Maybe the kids will go to school together if they live in the neighbourhood.
Just a few moments ago on our return home from dropping Lauren at daycare, Claire and I were approaching two men who were carrying planks of wood into someone's house. I was observing the wood and could see that they were the tall baseboards which are common in older homes. We had the same kind installed in the living and dining rooms last year. As I was babbling to myself in my head impressed that I properly identified construction material, I noticed one of the guys smiling at us. I thought he was going to tell me to watch that I don't get my head smacked on the wood, but instead he said "how old?"
Pardon? was my response, because I wasn't expecting that question.
How old? he said again.
Oh, five and a half months.
Congratulations! Mine just turned one. It's awesome!
Well, congratulations to you! I said, and walked on by with a grin on may face. I couldn't help but smile.
It's sweet when people notice babies but the attention typically comes from women and even more so from the older grandmas. The handful of guys who have said hello always mention their own new babies or nieces and nephews with pride, which I find especially sweet.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Crisis in a nanosecond
This morning I was reminded that a crisis can happen in a mere nanosecond.
I went out on the front porch to bring Lauren's bike closer to the front door and to fetch her helmet. With Claire in one arm I grabbed the bike with the other and swung it around and placed it near the stairs so I could easily carry it down when we were ready to go off to daycare.
In the next moment I walked back inside and noticed that Claire had a grimace on her face and lots of drool around her mouth. None of these two conditions is unusual and she wasn't crying so thought nothing of it. The next moment I'm down on my knees rummaging through my bag to look for my keys when I notice a wet flower petal on the floor beside me.
My brain does a quick calculation: grimace + drool + wet petal on the floor = baby swiped one of the flowers from the hanging basket next to the bike and put it in her mouth.
Zut alors!!!
I pried open Claire's mouth as best I could to see if there was anything else in there, then ran over to the sink to wash out whatever residue might be leftover. It seems as though she just got it in her mouth and rolled it over a few times before her tongue pushed it out. Thank goodness. The petal has the same texture as grape skin so she could have very easily choked had her tongue pushed it back rather than forward. Crisis averted, but still too close.
My heart pounds at the thought of how fast it all happened. Claire's hands are like octopus tentacles right now - they're in all directions all the time so I need to be EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA aware of what's within grabbing range.
It's been an hour and a half since the incident and she seems fine, snoozing peacefully as she usually does at this time. Phew!!
I went out on the front porch to bring Lauren's bike closer to the front door and to fetch her helmet. With Claire in one arm I grabbed the bike with the other and swung it around and placed it near the stairs so I could easily carry it down when we were ready to go off to daycare.
In the next moment I walked back inside and noticed that Claire had a grimace on her face and lots of drool around her mouth. None of these two conditions is unusual and she wasn't crying so thought nothing of it. The next moment I'm down on my knees rummaging through my bag to look for my keys when I notice a wet flower petal on the floor beside me.
My brain does a quick calculation: grimace + drool + wet petal on the floor = baby swiped one of the flowers from the hanging basket next to the bike and put it in her mouth.
Zut alors!!!
I pried open Claire's mouth as best I could to see if there was anything else in there, then ran over to the sink to wash out whatever residue might be leftover. It seems as though she just got it in her mouth and rolled it over a few times before her tongue pushed it out. Thank goodness. The petal has the same texture as grape skin so she could have very easily choked had her tongue pushed it back rather than forward. Crisis averted, but still too close.
My heart pounds at the thought of how fast it all happened. Claire's hands are like octopus tentacles right now - they're in all directions all the time so I need to be EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA aware of what's within grabbing range.
It's been an hour and a half since the incident and she seems fine, snoozing peacefully as she usually does at this time. Phew!!
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Clothes pegs
This is silly, but it seems I bought some inferior clothes pegs.
I bought them last year and noticed then that they would fall apart easily, but I didn't have time to get a new bunch.
I don't ever spend time thinking about clothes pegs until this weekend when I was catching up on several loads of laundy and putting the wet clothes out on the line. I think about half of the 50 that were in the the package have come apart, so I don't have enough pegs to put up a full load.
Zut alors.
Actually, I did at one point think about pegs because I remember I specifically bought the wood variety thinking they were more durable than plastic. I grew up without a dryer in the house so I've hung up my fair share of clothing on a line and the wood never failed. Maybe I bought a bum batch? Who knows.
Anyway, I'll go with plastic when I go out for a new pack and I'll see how long those last.
I bought them last year and noticed then that they would fall apart easily, but I didn't have time to get a new bunch.
I don't ever spend time thinking about clothes pegs until this weekend when I was catching up on several loads of laundy and putting the wet clothes out on the line. I think about half of the 50 that were in the the package have come apart, so I don't have enough pegs to put up a full load.
Zut alors.
Actually, I did at one point think about pegs because I remember I specifically bought the wood variety thinking they were more durable than plastic. I grew up without a dryer in the house so I've hung up my fair share of clothing on a line and the wood never failed. Maybe I bought a bum batch? Who knows.
Anyway, I'll go with plastic when I go out for a new pack and I'll see how long those last.
Simple pleasure # 13 - rain
Thunder, lightening and a downpour in the middle of the night during a very hot and dry summer.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Classroom politics
It was a smooth drop off this morning with smiles and even singing.
There were still a few tears and lots of pouting last week, but today was great. Lets hope it sets the precedence going forward. We got to the school early so she could spend a bit of time in the pre-school class which is where the kindergarten kids hang out until they go up to their own classroom at 9am. This way she can spend time with her old teachers and friends.
I did a little more probing last week to try get more info on the unhappiness and found out that "boring" wasn't quite the right word. "Inadequate" would better describe what she was feeling. Turns out there are some "rules" that the kids are expected to know, such as "stay on the sidewalk during neighbourhood walks" and "stay with your partner." I've seen these rules written on a poster on the classroom door and it's all basic safety stuff that Lauren has learned at some point, just not as "rules". I think she got anxious about having to know what they all are and thought she had to give a presentation or something. I told her that she isn't expected to know all the rules right away and that she'd learn them all in due time.
The partner rule was a little more tricky because she was partners with girl-1. She knows girl-1 from two years ago when they were in the pre-school room together, but girl-1 is a year older and was never a close friend. She doesn't dislike girl-1, but girl-1 tends to make Lauren feel inferior and said some things that hurt Lauren's feelings. She told Lauren that she "wasn't as smart as her dad" and that she was a "scaredy cat". I'm not sure about the dad comment, but Lauren did admit to me that she was scared of some things. For instance during the Mad Science demonstration, Lauren had to spend quiet time on her own in another part of the classroom because the flames were freaking her out. She also got freaked out about feeding the birds during a trip to the Botanical Gardens.
Girl-1 is also always playing with another older girl-2 that Lauren wants to spend time with, but would rather play without girl-1 being around.
I know the mother of girl-1 who is a lovely lady, and my first instinct was to ask her to ask her daughter to be nicer. But, I don't think this is the way to go. Lauren needs to speak up for herself and learn to cope. Of course I'll step in if she starts to feel harassed but I don't think it's remotely like that now. 4 & 5 year olds can say some hurtful things, but a lot of it is out of context and doesn't make a lot of sense. Often times the one saying the words quickly forgets what they were talking about.
It's makes me a bit nervous that classroom and playground politics are taking shape already. These kids are so little! What's going to happen at 11 & 12 years when words can get really nasty and feeling an emotions are reaching the peak.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Bounce!
Claire made me laugh out loud yesterday.
We were sitting on the living room couch together and I propped her up so her legs were under her and her belly was against the back cushion. This helps her practice putting some weight on her legs, and if she lifts herself high enough she can peek out the window to the street to do some people watching.
Once she was in position she pumped her legs a few times to bounce herself on the cushion, then looked at me with a big gummy grin. Too cute! Then she turned around again and bounced herself on the cushion then looked at me again with a big gummy smile. This time I laughed. Then she turned around AGAIN and bounced herself on the cushion then looked at me again with a big gummy smile.
Now it was downright hilarious. She caught on pretty quick that I was finding her bouncing funny so she kept up the same routine for several minutes. Bounce, turn, smile, bounce, turn, smile, bounce, turn, smile, bounce, turn, smile....
What made it so funny was turning her head to look at me after each bounce to see my reaction. She always smiles when I get close to pick her up or when we're tumbling around in play, but this was such a deliberate cause and effect interaction.
Maybe she'll be a comedian when she grows up. Who knows, but for now I'm looking forward to more laughs.
We were sitting on the living room couch together and I propped her up so her legs were under her and her belly was against the back cushion. This helps her practice putting some weight on her legs, and if she lifts herself high enough she can peek out the window to the street to do some people watching.
Once she was in position she pumped her legs a few times to bounce herself on the cushion, then looked at me with a big gummy grin. Too cute! Then she turned around again and bounced herself on the cushion then looked at me again with a big gummy smile. This time I laughed. Then she turned around AGAIN and bounced herself on the cushion then looked at me again with a big gummy smile.
Now it was downright hilarious. She caught on pretty quick that I was finding her bouncing funny so she kept up the same routine for several minutes. Bounce, turn, smile, bounce, turn, smile, bounce, turn, smile, bounce, turn, smile....
What made it so funny was turning her head to look at me after each bounce to see my reaction. She always smiles when I get close to pick her up or when we're tumbling around in play, but this was such a deliberate cause and effect interaction.
Maybe she'll be a comedian when she grows up. Who knows, but for now I'm looking forward to more laughs.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Rough morning
It was a rough morning for Lauren.
She started crying at breakfast and continued for the full hour it took to finish getting ready for the day and while I dropped her off at daycare.
She tried her best to explain her sadness - the gist of it being that she misses the preschool classroom and finds the kindergarten class "boring". She also misses being home with me and Claire. Poor baby. I shed a few tears too when she told me that last bit.
She has had so many changes in her life lately that I understand the breakdown. Not only is there a new person in the family (which is a huge change at home), but she went from being full time at daycare to part time for 3 months when all 4 of us were home, to full time again now, to graduating to a new classroom where the expectations from the kids are more. She still sees her old teachers and friends in the playground, and is even reunited with friends who graduated last year, but this didn't help her feel better this morning.
It was really tempting to let her stay home with me today, but I know this won't help her to deal with tough situations in the long run. This was a tough lesson for both of us.
Today was scheduled to be a fun day for the kids with a trip to the splash pad and picnic. I'm hoping to hear that it was indeed a fun day.
She started crying at breakfast and continued for the full hour it took to finish getting ready for the day and while I dropped her off at daycare.
She tried her best to explain her sadness - the gist of it being that she misses the preschool classroom and finds the kindergarten class "boring". She also misses being home with me and Claire. Poor baby. I shed a few tears too when she told me that last bit.
She has had so many changes in her life lately that I understand the breakdown. Not only is there a new person in the family (which is a huge change at home), but she went from being full time at daycare to part time for 3 months when all 4 of us were home, to full time again now, to graduating to a new classroom where the expectations from the kids are more. She still sees her old teachers and friends in the playground, and is even reunited with friends who graduated last year, but this didn't help her feel better this morning.
It was really tempting to let her stay home with me today, but I know this won't help her to deal with tough situations in the long run. This was a tough lesson for both of us.
Today was scheduled to be a fun day for the kids with a trip to the splash pad and picnic. I'm hoping to hear that it was indeed a fun day.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Upgrade 10.6.3
I'll be upgrading the OS of this computer soon. Right now it's running OS X 10.4.11 which is 6 years old. Which is ancient.
C and I don't usually get around to upgrading the computer until things stop working. All we really use it for these days is web surfing, email, word processing and image making. C mentioned months ago that he couldn't get itunes on his ipod, and I haven't been able to download anything onto my Kobo. The latest thing that we can't access anymore becuase of the outdated system is Skype. So yeah, time to upgrade.
I called apple to find out what we can still get from this computer. Turns out that 2 MB of ram and Snow Leopard will give us about a year or so of use before we'll need to seriously consider a new computer. I thought I was the last person on earth to be upgrading by many years, but the tech guy I spoke to had done the exact same upgrade just last year. We're not that far behind after all.
So, $29 for the OS plus $50 for the RAM plus $130 for the backup drive. Some money, but still less than a brand new computer, so we're all set to go. Fingers crossed that the upgrade goes smoothly!
C and I don't usually get around to upgrading the computer until things stop working. All we really use it for these days is web surfing, email, word processing and image making. C mentioned months ago that he couldn't get itunes on his ipod, and I haven't been able to download anything onto my Kobo. The latest thing that we can't access anymore becuase of the outdated system is Skype. So yeah, time to upgrade.
I called apple to find out what we can still get from this computer. Turns out that 2 MB of ram and Snow Leopard will give us about a year or so of use before we'll need to seriously consider a new computer. I thought I was the last person on earth to be upgrading by many years, but the tech guy I spoke to had done the exact same upgrade just last year. We're not that far behind after all.
So, $29 for the OS plus $50 for the RAM plus $130 for the backup drive. Some money, but still less than a brand new computer, so we're all set to go. Fingers crossed that the upgrade goes smoothly!
Home alone
Claire and I are at home alone all day today for the third time ever.
Seems strange seeing as she's been around for nearly 5 months, but there have been a lot of routine changes in that time.
When I started my leave at the end of January C was already on a contract working from his home office. When my mom came to help with baby's arrival, there were 3 of us home all day. That help turned into a 3 week stay. When Claire arrived my mom went home but there were still 3 of us at home. When Lauren went down to part time day care in April, there were 4 of us here - and 3 of us trying our best to stay out of C's way while he tried to work.
Last Tuesday Lauren started back at day care full time, and C started working on site again as of yesterday.
So here we are, Claire and I home alone.
Seems strange seeing as she's been around for nearly 5 months, but there have been a lot of routine changes in that time.
When I started my leave at the end of January C was already on a contract working from his home office. When my mom came to help with baby's arrival, there were 3 of us home all day. That help turned into a 3 week stay. When Claire arrived my mom went home but there were still 3 of us at home. When Lauren went down to part time day care in April, there were 4 of us here - and 3 of us trying our best to stay out of C's way while he tried to work.
Last Tuesday Lauren started back at day care full time, and C started working on site again as of yesterday.
So here we are, Claire and I home alone.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Half baked
It is suddenly more difficult to bake...
...Or cook, or tidy up, or do anything around the house. That must mean that Claire is changing. She doesn't sleep for hours at a time on end the way she used to, but instead takes shorter naps and is awake for more hours of the day. This is good because she sleeps more at night which is better for all of us. Unfortunately her best sleep is in my arms because when I put her down she wakes up.
Strapping her in the Sugli is a good short term solution, but now that she's on the brink of 20lbs, I'm on the brink of breaking my back if I carry her around for too long at a time.
I used to stick her in the Bumbo chair up on the counter so she could watch me bake, but now that she has a tad more mobility she reaches out to grab whatever is nearby. Last week she managed to reach the terra cotta kitchen utensil holder and tip it over sending the utensils all over the place. And if she's not grabbing at things, she'll arch backwards to try pop herself from the chair. So not safe.
Today I was determined to try out a new muffin recipe so I plopped her in her ExerSaucer and got down on the floor with her to prep some of the ingredients. This worked for a while but there's only so long you can watch someone grate carrots before you'd want to cry. So she eventually started to cry and I put the muffin making on pause to feed her. There were lots of feeding pauses actually. I just pulled the muffins out of the oven now so I'd say it took about 3 hours from start to finish. Was it worth it? I'm not sure yet. I'll see once the muffins have cooled down and I try them out.
...Or cook, or tidy up, or do anything around the house. That must mean that Claire is changing. She doesn't sleep for hours at a time on end the way she used to, but instead takes shorter naps and is awake for more hours of the day. This is good because she sleeps more at night which is better for all of us. Unfortunately her best sleep is in my arms because when I put her down she wakes up.
Strapping her in the Sugli is a good short term solution, but now that she's on the brink of 20lbs, I'm on the brink of breaking my back if I carry her around for too long at a time.
I used to stick her in the Bumbo chair up on the counter so she could watch me bake, but now that she has a tad more mobility she reaches out to grab whatever is nearby. Last week she managed to reach the terra cotta kitchen utensil holder and tip it over sending the utensils all over the place. And if she's not grabbing at things, she'll arch backwards to try pop herself from the chair. So not safe.
Today I was determined to try out a new muffin recipe so I plopped her in her ExerSaucer and got down on the floor with her to prep some of the ingredients. This worked for a while but there's only so long you can watch someone grate carrots before you'd want to cry. So she eventually started to cry and I put the muffin making on pause to feed her. There were lots of feeding pauses actually. I just pulled the muffins out of the oven now so I'd say it took about 3 hours from start to finish. Was it worth it? I'm not sure yet. I'll see once the muffins have cooled down and I try them out.
Water
My mother has turned me on to flavoured water.
She gave me some sprigs of lavender and mint from her garden to put into a jug with water. It's so refreshing and smells lovely whenever I take a sip. Before the lavender I tried pear slices and ginger and next I'll try mint and lemon.
This has inspired me to grow some edibles in my own garden. I kind of left the garden to go to seed this year because I simply don't have the time. Or rather I can't put the baby down for any significant amount of time to pull the weeds. Next spring should be easier so it will be a project to look forward to.
Lavender is one of those plants that I forget about until I get a whiff of it and remember again just how lovely it smells. MMMMmmmmm....
She gave me some sprigs of lavender and mint from her garden to put into a jug with water. It's so refreshing and smells lovely whenever I take a sip. Before the lavender I tried pear slices and ginger and next I'll try mint and lemon.
This has inspired me to grow some edibles in my own garden. I kind of left the garden to go to seed this year because I simply don't have the time. Or rather I can't put the baby down for any significant amount of time to pull the weeds. Next spring should be easier so it will be a project to look forward to.
Lavender is one of those plants that I forget about until I get a whiff of it and remember again just how lovely it smells. MMMMmmmmm....
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Party!!
Three birthday parties in 3 consecutive weekends and another coming up in two weeks plus the family get together for me & C next weekend. That's a lot of birthday cake!!
C & I spent a good several moments trying to remember what we did for our birthdays last year. We managed to come up with dinner at Marcello's, which I think is right.
I can remember the details of Lauren's last 4 birthday celebrations, but it's getting more difficult to remember my own. All I ever want these days is a good meal and birthday cake to make it a good day. Anything else is bonus.
The birthday giddy rush I get now is for the girls, and planning parties a week apart for the two of them will be something I'll look forward to every year.
Monday, July 2, 2012
The graduate
Lauren graduated from the daycare preschool room last Thursday and will be starting in the kindergarten room tomorrow. She's one of 5 older kids moving to the new room this week and the remaining kids will graduate later in the summer.
There was a little ceremony at circle time that another mother and I attended where the kids received diplomas and learned what it means to graduate. They had no idea what the rolled paper diplomas were but it was very cute just the same. The graduates got their photo taken by the teacher and all the kids in the class got a bouncy ball and a ring. Circle time was followed by snack which included fruit, cake and popsicles as a special treat.
So little and reaching significant milestones already. I'll blink and Lauren will be graduating from University!
There was a little ceremony at circle time that another mother and I attended where the kids received diplomas and learned what it means to graduate. They had no idea what the rolled paper diplomas were but it was very cute just the same. The graduates got their photo taken by the teacher and all the kids in the class got a bouncy ball and a ring. Circle time was followed by snack which included fruit, cake and popsicles as a special treat.
So little and reaching significant milestones already. I'll blink and Lauren will be graduating from University!
Go to bed already
Go to bed Caroline.
It's 11:15pm and I'm sitting at the computer surfing around and writing this blog when I really should be in bed. The alarm is set for 7am so I can get the baby up and get a head start on getting Lauren ready for daycare.
I can't help it though. Sometimes this hour to myself late at night is worth the risk. There's always a good chance that one of the girls will wake at 2 or 3 or 5 am and disrupt my precious slumber, but I'll take the chance knowing full well I may feel like a zombie tomorrow.
Oh well, as a very good friend of mine once said, "I'll sleep when I'm dead."
It's 11:15pm and I'm sitting at the computer surfing around and writing this blog when I really should be in bed. The alarm is set for 7am so I can get the baby up and get a head start on getting Lauren ready for daycare.
I can't help it though. Sometimes this hour to myself late at night is worth the risk. There's always a good chance that one of the girls will wake at 2 or 3 or 5 am and disrupt my precious slumber, but I'll take the chance knowing full well I may feel like a zombie tomorrow.
Oh well, as a very good friend of mine once said, "I'll sleep when I'm dead."
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Withdrawal
It's been a year since I've been on my bike and I'm itching to get back on.
I remember that I just got it tuned when I decided to stop riding because the weather got too hot and I didn't want to faint and fall off, what with the little baby growing inside of me.
It's been hard to find a few minutes to get out because Claire is still all about the mama. She'll tolerate C holding her, but not for long enough for me to get a good ride in.
In the meantime I'm going to look into baby seats and trailers. I was too nervous to haul Lauren on the bike, but I feel my desire to get back out there is overshadowing the fear. It would be wonderful for us all to go out for a cycle at the same time.
I remember that I just got it tuned when I decided to stop riding because the weather got too hot and I didn't want to faint and fall off, what with the little baby growing inside of me.
It's been hard to find a few minutes to get out because Claire is still all about the mama. She'll tolerate C holding her, but not for long enough for me to get a good ride in.
In the meantime I'm going to look into baby seats and trailers. I was too nervous to haul Lauren on the bike, but I feel my desire to get back out there is overshadowing the fear. It would be wonderful for us all to go out for a cycle at the same time.
Baked
I'm going to bake a cherry pie today!
The girls and I picked some beautiful fresh cherries off a friend's tree last weekend so I'm feeling inspired. I make a mean apple pie so I'm sure I can do the cherries justice as well.
Come to think of it, the last few months that I've been home has been very productive in the kitchen. This is what I've baked up so far in single or several batches: chocolate zucchini muffins, chocolate chips cookies, gingerbread cookies, chocolate chip chick pea cookies, lemon loaf, cupcakes, peanut butter cookies, chewy raisin oatmeal cookies, banana loaf, apple oatmeal muffins, apple crumble, tapioca pudding.
The list will go on because I've been stashing away recipes for granola bars, puddings, and various chocolate and oatmeal inspired desserts. Maybe being home with the children has fired up the domestic instinct in me, or something...
To be honest, I like eating homemade treats, so what better way to keep up the supply that to keep baking!
It has crossed my mind to start a second career in baking and open a shop, but I hear it's tough. Really tough. Good quality ingredients are expensive and you need a steady stream of clients to keep business on track. Maybe I'll give it a crack when I have "more time" on my hands.
For now I'll keep on baking in my kitchen for my own enjoyment.
Come to think of it, the last few months that I've been home has been very productive in the kitchen. This is what I've baked up so far in single or several batches: chocolate zucchini muffins, chocolate chips cookies, gingerbread cookies, chocolate chip chick pea cookies, lemon loaf, cupcakes, peanut butter cookies, chewy raisin oatmeal cookies, banana loaf, apple oatmeal muffins, apple crumble, tapioca pudding.
The list will go on because I've been stashing away recipes for granola bars, puddings, and various chocolate and oatmeal inspired desserts. Maybe being home with the children has fired up the domestic instinct in me, or something...
To be honest, I like eating homemade treats, so what better way to keep up the supply that to keep baking!
It has crossed my mind to start a second career in baking and open a shop, but I hear it's tough. Really tough. Good quality ingredients are expensive and you need a steady stream of clients to keep business on track. Maybe I'll give it a crack when I have "more time" on my hands.
For now I'll keep on baking in my kitchen for my own enjoyment.
Chart topping
Yes indeed, Claire is a big baby!
Went to see Dr. B on Monday and got the nitty gritty on Claire's size. I didn't jot down the exact measurements, but she's 99th percentile for head size, 99th percentile for length and 90th percentile for weight. Wow!
I can already imagine her looking down at me when she's a teenager. Yikes, lol!!
Went to see Dr. B on Monday and got the nitty gritty on Claire's size. I didn't jot down the exact measurements, but she's 99th percentile for head size, 99th percentile for length and 90th percentile for weight. Wow!
I can already imagine her looking down at me when she's a teenager. Yikes, lol!!
Friday, June 15, 2012
Four months old
Claire is 4 months old today.
Where the last 3 months went to, I have no idea. It's been a whirlwind, but it has been great. She's at a fun stage in her development now, grabbing all she can get her hands on, showing off big gummy smiles to everyone and chatting up a storm. I suspect a tooth or two wants to come out judging by all the drool coming out of her mouth, and all the fingers she shoves in to chomp down on.
The parenting centre loaned me the use of a baby Excer Saucer for the summer and Claire loves it. She can stand upright and kick her little legs around 'til her heart's content. I would not be surprised if she started walking sooner than later. Although I thought she would be born sooner too and that didn't exactly happen...
I'll make an appointment with Dr. B next week for Claire's 4 month check-up and get the nitty-gritty details on how big she is. She seems long to me, and feels heavy, but I'm sure it's all proportional. Babies do come in all shapes and sizes after all.
I'm hoping to get the go ahead to start her on solids. Breastfeeding has been very good, and so convenient of course, but I'm curious to see if she'll take to food more easily than Lauren did. I don't want to resort to jarred food so easily as I did (although it was organic), and am anxious to try out some yummy baby food recipes. Should be a fun experience all around!
Where the last 3 months went to, I have no idea. It's been a whirlwind, but it has been great. She's at a fun stage in her development now, grabbing all she can get her hands on, showing off big gummy smiles to everyone and chatting up a storm. I suspect a tooth or two wants to come out judging by all the drool coming out of her mouth, and all the fingers she shoves in to chomp down on.
The parenting centre loaned me the use of a baby Excer Saucer for the summer and Claire loves it. She can stand upright and kick her little legs around 'til her heart's content. I would not be surprised if she started walking sooner than later. Although I thought she would be born sooner too and that didn't exactly happen...
I'll make an appointment with Dr. B next week for Claire's 4 month check-up and get the nitty-gritty details on how big she is. She seems long to me, and feels heavy, but I'm sure it's all proportional. Babies do come in all shapes and sizes after all.
I'm hoping to get the go ahead to start her on solids. Breastfeeding has been very good, and so convenient of course, but I'm curious to see if she'll take to food more easily than Lauren did. I don't want to resort to jarred food so easily as I did (although it was organic), and am anxious to try out some yummy baby food recipes. Should be a fun experience all around!
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Late fees
I used to be really good at returning borrowed library material on time. That was until 4 years ago. Now I'm terrible.
You know you've really gotten careless when the library sends a letter to your home to notifiy you of your amount of fees owing ($10 and change) and reminds you to be considerate of others who are waiting to borrow books that aren't returned on time.
Zut alors!!
Yikes. That's pretty bad. To be fair, keeping track of return dates was the last thing om my mind during that last week or pregnancy, and I did return most books just a few days late. It was just the odd one or two of three books that didn't get returned that brought up the fee. Plus I've been holding off on paying the fee because I didn't have cash on me when I did return the books.
Anyway, the letter came with a warning of a card suspension if the fee isn't paid soon. So, off to the library I go tomorrow. Hopefully no hard feelings. I'd like to regain my flawless on time return record.
You know you've really gotten careless when the library sends a letter to your home to notifiy you of your amount of fees owing ($10 and change) and reminds you to be considerate of others who are waiting to borrow books that aren't returned on time.
Zut alors!!
Yikes. That's pretty bad. To be fair, keeping track of return dates was the last thing om my mind during that last week or pregnancy, and I did return most books just a few days late. It was just the odd one or two of three books that didn't get returned that brought up the fee. Plus I've been holding off on paying the fee because I didn't have cash on me when I did return the books.
Anyway, the letter came with a warning of a card suspension if the fee isn't paid soon. So, off to the library I go tomorrow. Hopefully no hard feelings. I'd like to regain my flawless on time return record.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
February 14 or bust
So it seems this baby had us all fooled.
Tomorrow is my "official" due date, but I somehow convinced myself that baby would be early. No wonder it feels like it's already late. With all the moving around going on inside and all the aches and pains I figured baby wanted out sooner than later. Also, Lauren was two days early and shot out like a canon, so I assumed the same only quicker this time. I'm pretty sure Dr. B was of the same opinion when she felt the head sitting way down low at an appointment two weeks ago, and then mentioning that she was on call to deliver on the 28th and 31st.
At my appointment on the 31st I was 2 fingers dilated "and stretchy" and was told "any day now". I was close to getting in the car on Monday night, but the cramping eventually stopped and I fell asleep. Ah well. This baby is coming when it's good and ready.
So, today's appointment showed that I'm "3 stretched to 4" cm dilated and 50% effaced. In other words things are progressing gradually but not really as quickly as I would have thought. Dr. B is next on call on the 14th by which time I'll be heading towards 41 weeks. The plan is that if nothing happens before then I'll get a call on that day to come in so they can get things going.
I would have never guessed a Valentine's baby, but it could happen! We'll see soon if this baby has other plans.
Tomorrow is my "official" due date, but I somehow convinced myself that baby would be early. No wonder it feels like it's already late. With all the moving around going on inside and all the aches and pains I figured baby wanted out sooner than later. Also, Lauren was two days early and shot out like a canon, so I assumed the same only quicker this time. I'm pretty sure Dr. B was of the same opinion when she felt the head sitting way down low at an appointment two weeks ago, and then mentioning that she was on call to deliver on the 28th and 31st.
At my appointment on the 31st I was 2 fingers dilated "and stretchy" and was told "any day now". I was close to getting in the car on Monday night, but the cramping eventually stopped and I fell asleep. Ah well. This baby is coming when it's good and ready.
So, today's appointment showed that I'm "3 stretched to 4" cm dilated and 50% effaced. In other words things are progressing gradually but not really as quickly as I would have thought. Dr. B is next on call on the 14th by which time I'll be heading towards 41 weeks. The plan is that if nothing happens before then I'll get a call on that day to come in so they can get things going.
I would have never guessed a Valentine's baby, but it could happen! We'll see soon if this baby has other plans.
To be a he or a she, that is the question
"Do you know if it's a boy or girl?" By far the most asked question this time around.
Of course my answer every time is, "No, it's a surprise!" which almost always gets a surprise reaction. Obviously we're a family in the minority for not knowing or wanting to know, but I am 100% satisfied with the decision.
When we were expecting Lauren, I didn't want to know the gender but C did. When I mentioned this to the technician performing the ultrasound she didn't put any gender on the report so no one knew what was coming, not even Dr. B. After several people had guessed boy leading up to Lauren's birth we too were convinced - so much so that C was momentarily confused when she turned out not to be. When Dr. B announced "girl" I was thoroughly delighted. Not that I wanted one over the other, but that it was a true surprise. So rare in this day and age.
Ultimately a boy or girl doesn't really matter. All I really want to know is that my baby is healthy, so I'll accept the 9 months of check-ups and exams and ultrasounds and tests and poking and prodding and will save one grand surprise for myself.
Hearing people's guesses and theories is part of the fun as well. One person mentioned that if you see legs crossed in an ultrasound it's likely a girl because boys don't usually cross their legs. Another said that it's a boy if your belly button pokes out, although a friend of mind who had a boy doesn't remember her own belly button poking out. Several people have suggested that carrying low and outward it a sign of a boy and carrying around is a girl, but I'm pointing out, just as I did with Lauren. And the last boy theory I heard is that if you crave foods you can't have (like my craving for wine and sushi), it's a boy. Something to do with conflicting hormones, I think.
Despite all the theories, there have been far more boy guesses than girl, and they've all been very definite.
As for my own guess, I didn't really have one until recently. I'm carrying the same as with Lauren - basketball shaped and way out front, only bigger. I'm definitely eating more and have put on more weight. Nausea was milder but more drawn out into month 5 and 6 and I even now feel a little ill if I don't eat breakfast soon after waking up. I still get a weird aftertaste after eating some foods. With Lauren I was felt quite ill for the first 3 months, but don't remember it lasting much after that.
First time around I used to have visions of walking hand in hand with a little girl in pony tails. This time around I had a dream that I was holding a baby that looked like Lauren from the face, but it really could have been a boy or girl. Just the other night I had a dream that I was holding a baby boy.
As for the balance of the sexes of the 3rd generation in the families, we're at 3 boys and 2 girls for my side, so a girl would even the score. For C, there are 3 girls and 3 boys so it could really go either way.
Just a few more days (or hours??) and we'll know.
Of course my answer every time is, "No, it's a surprise!" which almost always gets a surprise reaction. Obviously we're a family in the minority for not knowing or wanting to know, but I am 100% satisfied with the decision.
When we were expecting Lauren, I didn't want to know the gender but C did. When I mentioned this to the technician performing the ultrasound she didn't put any gender on the report so no one knew what was coming, not even Dr. B. After several people had guessed boy leading up to Lauren's birth we too were convinced - so much so that C was momentarily confused when she turned out not to be. When Dr. B announced "girl" I was thoroughly delighted. Not that I wanted one over the other, but that it was a true surprise. So rare in this day and age.
Ultimately a boy or girl doesn't really matter. All I really want to know is that my baby is healthy, so I'll accept the 9 months of check-ups and exams and ultrasounds and tests and poking and prodding and will save one grand surprise for myself.
Hearing people's guesses and theories is part of the fun as well. One person mentioned that if you see legs crossed in an ultrasound it's likely a girl because boys don't usually cross their legs. Another said that it's a boy if your belly button pokes out, although a friend of mind who had a boy doesn't remember her own belly button poking out. Several people have suggested that carrying low and outward it a sign of a boy and carrying around is a girl, but I'm pointing out, just as I did with Lauren. And the last boy theory I heard is that if you crave foods you can't have (like my craving for wine and sushi), it's a boy. Something to do with conflicting hormones, I think.
Despite all the theories, there have been far more boy guesses than girl, and they've all been very definite.
As for my own guess, I didn't really have one until recently. I'm carrying the same as with Lauren - basketball shaped and way out front, only bigger. I'm definitely eating more and have put on more weight. Nausea was milder but more drawn out into month 5 and 6 and I even now feel a little ill if I don't eat breakfast soon after waking up. I still get a weird aftertaste after eating some foods. With Lauren I was felt quite ill for the first 3 months, but don't remember it lasting much after that.
First time around I used to have visions of walking hand in hand with a little girl in pony tails. This time around I had a dream that I was holding a baby that looked like Lauren from the face, but it really could have been a boy or girl. Just the other night I had a dream that I was holding a baby boy.
As for the balance of the sexes of the 3rd generation in the families, we're at 3 boys and 2 girls for my side, so a girl would even the score. For C, there are 3 girls and 3 boys so it could really go either way.
Just a few more days (or hours??) and we'll know.
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