Other than blowing the budget, we got through Christmas unscathed. We actually had a pretty relaxing time.
On Christmas eve day we went for a nice drive in the country. We stopped in a cute little town, went for a walk, and ducked into a tearoom for lunch. For dinner we prepared a beautiful prime rib roast dinner, which we paired nicely with a fine bottle of red wine. Once baby was asleep, we sat in front of the fire while sipping hot beverages. It was magnificent!
Christmas morning was a lot of fun. Baby boy was in his glory ripping at the wrapping paper, and rummaging through boxes. He was just as interested in our gifts as he was his own. When Daddy opened up a package containing a wooden spoon, he could barely contain his excitement! It was almost as cool as the banged up old cooking pot that he has taken to carrying with him wherever he goes.
We had Christmas dinner with our second family. Not blood relatives, but close friends who always take us in for the holidays. Baby boy loves going there as much as we do. Not only is it an opportunity to visit with his best buddy who is two months older than him, he is showered with attention by all of the aunts, uncles, young nieces, grandma and grandpa etc... He feels right at home at these family gatherings, and so do we.
My hubby likes to tell people that we did the "Christmas dodge" this year. No game of tug-o-war between my mom and the inlaws. No hauling eveything and the kitchen sink across the country. No racing around. And, best of all, no "guilt." I deflected it really well this year determined not to let it consume me. Now that baby boy is in the picture, it's time for us to start new traditions, here at home.
Merry (belated) Christmas everyone!
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Oh the funny things you do
Life has been pretty stressful around here lately. Thankfully, I get a bit of comic relief in the form of a 1-year old. Over the last few days he's done so many hilarious things that I need to share with everyone.
Right now he's going through a phase where he constantly wants to mimic everything the mom and dad do. He is particularly interested in the broom and dustpan, and all of the excitement around sweeping the floor (hmmmm....how long until he outgrows that, I wonder?). Wherever he goes, he liked to drag along our old metal duspan. If we accidentally leave the baby gate open, he sees it as an opportunity to sneak the dustpan up the stairs. A couple of days ago, he was watching dad load the dishwasher (another fascination of his!). Being the helpful little guy he is, he walked over and loaded the duspan into the dishwasher, just like a plate.
He's also quite into rooting through cupboards these days in search of treasure. This morning he struck gold. You guessed it -- he found my breast pump! And when you find something that good, it's hard to let it go. Which is why he insisted on bringing it with him to breakfast, and then proceeded to fill the suction full of cheerios.
What else??
Now that he's got the hang of walking, he's given up crawling completely. Not only does this make him feel more independent, it also frees up both of his hands to haul things. He almost always carries around a can, or some other packaged food item in one hand, and a CD case in the other. Or somtimes he just carries around his toy bucket. When I cook dinner he wanders in and out of the kitchen to show me all of the objects he's collected. By the time he goes to bed, the kitchen is littered with the strangest array objects.
Walking has also made it much easier to greet people at the door. When the UPS guy showed up at the door this afternoon, the little guy toddled over to greet him and then promptly slammed the door on his face. I just about died of laughter!
And finally....a story that is funny after the fact, but wasn't so funny when it happened. This morning I was letting his rear end air out (diaper rash is back). It's a dangerous business, leaving a 1-year old to roam without a diaper. Without giving you all the gory details, let's just say that I was up to my ears in sh#t this morning!!! And....right after I finished cleaning up that fun mess, the little guy managed to grab my travel coffee mug off the dining room table. I was in the kitchen making a snack when I heard this strangebanging noise. When I went to inspect, I found him sitting in a huge puddle of cold coffee, happily banging my mug against the floor. He looked as though he had swam through it -- he was that wet!!! He'd also done some great coffee finger painting on the walls.
Is there no end to the funny things you do?
Right now he's going through a phase where he constantly wants to mimic everything the mom and dad do. He is particularly interested in the broom and dustpan, and all of the excitement around sweeping the floor (hmmmm....how long until he outgrows that, I wonder?). Wherever he goes, he liked to drag along our old metal duspan. If we accidentally leave the baby gate open, he sees it as an opportunity to sneak the dustpan up the stairs. A couple of days ago, he was watching dad load the dishwasher (another fascination of his!). Being the helpful little guy he is, he walked over and loaded the duspan into the dishwasher, just like a plate.
He's also quite into rooting through cupboards these days in search of treasure. This morning he struck gold. You guessed it -- he found my breast pump! And when you find something that good, it's hard to let it go. Which is why he insisted on bringing it with him to breakfast, and then proceeded to fill the suction full of cheerios.
What else??
Now that he's got the hang of walking, he's given up crawling completely. Not only does this make him feel more independent, it also frees up both of his hands to haul things. He almost always carries around a can, or some other packaged food item in one hand, and a CD case in the other. Or somtimes he just carries around his toy bucket. When I cook dinner he wanders in and out of the kitchen to show me all of the objects he's collected. By the time he goes to bed, the kitchen is littered with the strangest array objects.
Walking has also made it much easier to greet people at the door. When the UPS guy showed up at the door this afternoon, the little guy toddled over to greet him and then promptly slammed the door on his face. I just about died of laughter!
And finally....a story that is funny after the fact, but wasn't so funny when it happened. This morning I was letting his rear end air out (diaper rash is back). It's a dangerous business, leaving a 1-year old to roam without a diaper. Without giving you all the gory details, let's just say that I was up to my ears in sh#t this morning!!! And....right after I finished cleaning up that fun mess, the little guy managed to grab my travel coffee mug off the dining room table. I was in the kitchen making a snack when I heard this strangebanging noise. When I went to inspect, I found him sitting in a huge puddle of cold coffee, happily banging my mug against the floor. He looked as though he had swam through it -- he was that wet!!! He'd also done some great coffee finger painting on the walls.
Is there no end to the funny things you do?
Friday, December 08, 2006
Sorry it's taken so long to write
I've had one hell of a week (well, two weeks actually)!
First it was the mad rush to get everything on my "to do" list done before I went back to work. The list was as long as my arm. Then I had to prepare for the little guy's first birthday party. And, no sooner were the birthday celebrations over -- BAM! I was back to work.
I started a new job on Monday. I cried when I said goodbye in the morning. I cried again when I walked by a a woman and her baby on my lunch break. But I haven't cried since. I think I got it out of my system because I'm feeling much better now.
Baby boy is also feeling much better about daycare. He isn't protesting when he gets dropped off in the morning. It's now become a familiar routine -- and routine is comforting. His days are fun-filled, and I know he is in an environment where he is happy and well loved.
But we're both exhausted. I took today off to help ease the transition. He slept most of the morning, and he's up there napping again. I should probably go join him....I forgot how exhausting starting a new job could be. It's doubly exhausting when you are up once or twice a night with a baby.
To top it off, the poor little guy had the worst diaper rash of his life this week. And now he's teething again. Sighhhhh....It must be tough to be a baby!
I'm looking forward to a nice relaxing weekend. Wish me luck!
First it was the mad rush to get everything on my "to do" list done before I went back to work. The list was as long as my arm. Then I had to prepare for the little guy's first birthday party. And, no sooner were the birthday celebrations over -- BAM! I was back to work.
I started a new job on Monday. I cried when I said goodbye in the morning. I cried again when I walked by a a woman and her baby on my lunch break. But I haven't cried since. I think I got it out of my system because I'm feeling much better now.
Baby boy is also feeling much better about daycare. He isn't protesting when he gets dropped off in the morning. It's now become a familiar routine -- and routine is comforting. His days are fun-filled, and I know he is in an environment where he is happy and well loved.
But we're both exhausted. I took today off to help ease the transition. He slept most of the morning, and he's up there napping again. I should probably go join him....I forgot how exhausting starting a new job could be. It's doubly exhausting when you are up once or twice a night with a baby.
To top it off, the poor little guy had the worst diaper rash of his life this week. And now he's teething again. Sighhhhh....It must be tough to be a baby!
I'm looking forward to a nice relaxing weekend. Wish me luck!
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Proud mom moments
I've had many proud mom moments -- particularly in the last few months. The little guy has gone from crawling, to climbing, and now to walking in such a short time. Last night he walked all the way across the room holding a metal spatula, with a huge grin on his face. I don't know who was more proud!
Every day he learns something new, and every day I burst with pride.
I can't believe he's going to be 1-year old tomorrow. Where did the time go?
Every day he learns something new, and every day I burst with pride.
I can't believe he's going to be 1-year old tomorrow. Where did the time go?
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
He saw his shadow
The little guy discovered his shadow this morning. Does this mean a shorter winter? I sure hope so!
Baby boy got really excited when he noticed a strange dark figure moving against the wall. He touched it, and waved his hands around and watched it imitate his every move. I took this as an opportunity to put on a shadow puppet show. Who needs television? For the little guy this was prime time entertainment!
Now, when I ask him where his shadow is, he looks across the room at that same wall. Where could it be? He hasn't quite figured out that his shadow follows him everywhere.
Baby boy got really excited when he noticed a strange dark figure moving against the wall. He touched it, and waved his hands around and watched it imitate his every move. I took this as an opportunity to put on a shadow puppet show. Who needs television? For the little guy this was prime time entertainment!
Now, when I ask him where his shadow is, he looks across the room at that same wall. Where could it be? He hasn't quite figured out that his shadow follows him everywhere.
Monday, November 27, 2006
New tricks
The little guy has added a couple of new tricks to his repetoire.
- As of last night, he can walk! Although he's not quite a marathoner yet, he can take three or four steps without holding on. And....he can multitask. This morning he took three steps while holding a toy in each of his hands.
- Last week the remote control for our stereo went missing. We looked high and low and couldn't find it anywhere. The mystery of the lost remote was finally solved when I witnessed baby boy pull it out of a perrier box. It turns out that, among his new tricks, he's become a pack rat! He's been using that box to stash plastic lids, a metal espresso cup, graham crakers etc.... Last night I caught him trying to box up one of my hubby's sandals.
In other news, daycare integration is going well. Today he was too busy playing with the other kids that he didn't even notice me walk through the door. Drop-offs are still a little rough, but once he gets distracted by all the toys, he feels right at home!
- As of last night, he can walk! Although he's not quite a marathoner yet, he can take three or four steps without holding on. And....he can multitask. This morning he took three steps while holding a toy in each of his hands.
- Last week the remote control for our stereo went missing. We looked high and low and couldn't find it anywhere. The mystery of the lost remote was finally solved when I witnessed baby boy pull it out of a perrier box. It turns out that, among his new tricks, he's become a pack rat! He's been using that box to stash plastic lids, a metal espresso cup, graham crakers etc.... Last night I caught him trying to box up one of my hubby's sandals.
In other news, daycare integration is going well. Today he was too busy playing with the other kids that he didn't even notice me walk through the door. Drop-offs are still a little rough, but once he gets distracted by all the toys, he feels right at home!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Quick update
Gotta chase baby....huff, puff, huff, puff
He's mastered stair climbing in the last 24 hours. So today we've been going up and down, up and down, and up and down the stairs some more! I figure I might as well let the novelty wear off. In between laps, we've been dancing to the tunes on his new Sharon, Lois and Bram CD. How can such a little guy have so much energy? Mommy is exhausted!
In other news, the second visit with the caregiver didn't go so well. He kept looking at the door for me, and had a few teary breakdowns. When I came to pick him up, he clung on to me and cried and cried and cried. I just about joined him.... My heart has been aching ever since. Do I really have to go back to work????
He's mastered stair climbing in the last 24 hours. So today we've been going up and down, up and down, and up and down the stairs some more! I figure I might as well let the novelty wear off. In between laps, we've been dancing to the tunes on his new Sharon, Lois and Bram CD. How can such a little guy have so much energy? Mommy is exhausted!
In other news, the second visit with the caregiver didn't go so well. He kept looking at the door for me, and had a few teary breakdowns. When I came to pick him up, he clung on to me and cried and cried and cried. I just about joined him.... My heart has been aching ever since. Do I really have to go back to work????
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Go organic!
I was inspired to join a local organics club after hearing an interview with Thomas Pawlick, author of The end of food: How the food industry is destroying our food supply - and what we can do about it. His book is full of disturbing facts about supermarket produce -- including how many of the tomatoes found there are gassed to make them turn red. An interview with Pawlick can be found online at http://gremolata.com/buford.htm. It's pretty disturbing stuff!
In any case, it sparked me to rethink the fruits and veggies I feed my family. They deserve fresh produce that is pesticide and sodium (yes, sodium!) free, and rich with nutrients (unlike many found in the supermarket that are mass produced in nutrient depleted soil).
I signed up for a weekly $20 organics basket. This week it contained: 2 lemons, 2 avacados, 1 bunch of celery, 2 zuccinis, 2 green peppers, 2 kiwis, 6 plums, 3 apples, a bunch of kale, a large container of strawberries and a basket of cherry tomatoes. I couldn't by that for $20 - organic or not at this time of year! It's a really good deal. Plus, now that I'm a member, I get a discount on all organic products.
The only challenge my basket has created thus far is: what do I make out of kale? If you have any good kale recipes, let me know!
I can't wait to get the next basket. I love that you don't know in advance what you're going to get. It's like x-mas morning every week (oh god, I'm such a nerd!!!).
In any case, it sparked me to rethink the fruits and veggies I feed my family. They deserve fresh produce that is pesticide and sodium (yes, sodium!) free, and rich with nutrients (unlike many found in the supermarket that are mass produced in nutrient depleted soil).
I signed up for a weekly $20 organics basket. This week it contained: 2 lemons, 2 avacados, 1 bunch of celery, 2 zuccinis, 2 green peppers, 2 kiwis, 6 plums, 3 apples, a bunch of kale, a large container of strawberries and a basket of cherry tomatoes. I couldn't by that for $20 - organic or not at this time of year! It's a really good deal. Plus, now that I'm a member, I get a discount on all organic products.
The only challenge my basket has created thus far is: what do I make out of kale? If you have any good kale recipes, let me know!
I can't wait to get the next basket. I love that you don't know in advance what you're going to get. It's like x-mas morning every week (oh god, I'm such a nerd!!!).
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Separation anxiety
The little guy doesn't suffer from separation anxiety. I do.
Yesterday I left him at the caregiver's house for two hours as part of our strategy for easing him into daycare. I was so nervous, I felt sick to my stomach. It was the first time I had ever left him at someone else's house.
I had a meeting with my boss during those two hours, and I kept on stealing glances at my watch. When the meeting was over I practically sprinted all the way to the caregiver's house. My mind was racing. What if he felt abandoned? Has he been crying since I left? He's still so young -- he just won't understand!
When I got to her door, I could see my little guy through the window. He was pushing a kitchen stool around the house with a big grin on his face, just like he does at home. I realized at that moment that I was the one who who couldn't handle the separation. He was just fine. That's hard on the maternal ego!
Next week he'll be going there again for a couple of hours. I'm already dreading it. What am I going to do with myself while he's there? How will I stop myself from worrying? People keep telling me it will get easier over time. I hope so, because I'm a wreck!
Yesterday I left him at the caregiver's house for two hours as part of our strategy for easing him into daycare. I was so nervous, I felt sick to my stomach. It was the first time I had ever left him at someone else's house.
I had a meeting with my boss during those two hours, and I kept on stealing glances at my watch. When the meeting was over I practically sprinted all the way to the caregiver's house. My mind was racing. What if he felt abandoned? Has he been crying since I left? He's still so young -- he just won't understand!
When I got to her door, I could see my little guy through the window. He was pushing a kitchen stool around the house with a big grin on his face, just like he does at home. I realized at that moment that I was the one who who couldn't handle the separation. He was just fine. That's hard on the maternal ego!
Next week he'll be going there again for a couple of hours. I'm already dreading it. What am I going to do with myself while he's there? How will I stop myself from worrying? People keep telling me it will get easier over time. I hope so, because I'm a wreck!
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Dogs to the rescue?
The littlest hobo. Lassie. My dearly departed Springer Spaniel, Fred. They were all heros in my mind.
Dogs best friend was put to the test recently to find out if they would actually come to the rescue in an emergency situation. In a series of staged events, owners pretended to be in peril to see if their canine companions would go for help. None of them did. I, for one, think that this study is flawed. Even the best actor in the world can't fool a dog. If my late dog is any indication, dogs can sense emotion. I have no doubt that my Freddy would have known that I was faking, had we been part of the study.
What would my dog have done if I was lying on the ground pretending to be injured? He would probably be delighted! Oh boy, a new game! He would have galloped on over and licked my face, and stuck his butt up in the air to gesture "game on."
My Fred was as loyal as they come. Always there to greet you at the door, to cheer you up when you were down, to protect the household by barking when the doorbell rang... He was a good old boy. To say that he was heroic might be a stetch. Anyone who knew him would agree that he was a big chicken. A big bark, but no bite. He would hide behind my legs when a stranger came to the door. Even so, I have to believe that if I was really in trouble, he would have sensed it, and done something to help me.
He would have sensed danger in the same way he sensed when I wasn't feeling well.
I'll never forget how, one time, I had a terrible flu and he didn't leave my side all day. He snuggled up to me to keep me warm and had a genuine look of concern on his face.
He would have sensed danger the same way he sensed my family's sadness the night that my grandmother died. Fred broke the news to me. Normally when I arrived at the door he whined with excitement, madly wagging his tail. But on that particular evening he walked over to me slowly with his head bowed down, wearing a very sad expression. He gave my hand a comforting lick, as if to say he was very sorry.
I'd like to see how a dog would react in a real situation before stripping them of their hero status. I say we should give dogs a little more credit for being the sensitive and loyal creatures that they are.
Dogs best friend was put to the test recently to find out if they would actually come to the rescue in an emergency situation. In a series of staged events, owners pretended to be in peril to see if their canine companions would go for help. None of them did. I, for one, think that this study is flawed. Even the best actor in the world can't fool a dog. If my late dog is any indication, dogs can sense emotion. I have no doubt that my Freddy would have known that I was faking, had we been part of the study.
What would my dog have done if I was lying on the ground pretending to be injured? He would probably be delighted! Oh boy, a new game! He would have galloped on over and licked my face, and stuck his butt up in the air to gesture "game on."
My Fred was as loyal as they come. Always there to greet you at the door, to cheer you up when you were down, to protect the household by barking when the doorbell rang... He was a good old boy. To say that he was heroic might be a stetch. Anyone who knew him would agree that he was a big chicken. A big bark, but no bite. He would hide behind my legs when a stranger came to the door. Even so, I have to believe that if I was really in trouble, he would have sensed it, and done something to help me.
He would have sensed danger in the same way he sensed when I wasn't feeling well.
I'll never forget how, one time, I had a terrible flu and he didn't leave my side all day. He snuggled up to me to keep me warm and had a genuine look of concern on his face.
He would have sensed danger the same way he sensed my family's sadness the night that my grandmother died. Fred broke the news to me. Normally when I arrived at the door he whined with excitement, madly wagging his tail. But on that particular evening he walked over to me slowly with his head bowed down, wearing a very sad expression. He gave my hand a comforting lick, as if to say he was very sorry.
I'd like to see how a dog would react in a real situation before stripping them of their hero status. I say we should give dogs a little more credit for being the sensitive and loyal creatures that they are.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Don't deck the halls quite yet
Now that Halloween is over, the malls are hauling out their Christmas decorations. It seems like every year retailers try to draw the "shopping season" out a little longer. Case and point: The Bay had their x-mas display out in September. Give me a break already! I always feel sorry for those poor employees who have to listen to the same x-mas music over and over and over again...
And just when we all let out a sigh of relief that we've survived yet another hectic holiday season, the Boxing Month sales begin.... I bet nobody yells "Merry Christmas!" when the credit card bills start arriving in the mail in January.
I've made a list and I'm checking it twice. It's a list of dos and don'ts for the holiday season.
Do: eat, drink and be merry
Do: stick to your x-mas gift-buying budget
Do: stay out of crowded malls (that's why online shopping was invented)
Do: give generously to charities that need help this holiday season
Do: take advantage of the time off to spend with the little guy
Do: relax and enjoy
Don't: shop at any store that puts out decorations before December
Don't: give into pressure tactics to spend x-mas in far off places
Don't: let the preparations for holidays take over your already hectic life.
Don't: go overboard with the eating!
And just when we all let out a sigh of relief that we've survived yet another hectic holiday season, the Boxing Month sales begin.... I bet nobody yells "Merry Christmas!" when the credit card bills start arriving in the mail in January.
I've made a list and I'm checking it twice. It's a list of dos and don'ts for the holiday season.
Do: eat, drink and be merry
Do: stick to your x-mas gift-buying budget
Do: stay out of crowded malls (that's why online shopping was invented)
Do: give generously to charities that need help this holiday season
Do: take advantage of the time off to spend with the little guy
Do: relax and enjoy
Don't: shop at any store that puts out decorations before December
Don't: give into pressure tactics to spend x-mas in far off places
Don't: let the preparations for holidays take over your already hectic life.
Don't: go overboard with the eating!
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Saturday, October 28, 2006
One, two, three
Three new teeth have popped through in the last two weeks. A fourth is on its way. The little guy is full of toothy grins now that the teething pain is subsiding (or at least until the next round...).
A bonus in all of this is that he's slept through the night four blissful nights in a row.
A bonus in all of this is that he's slept through the night four blissful nights in a row.
Monday, October 23, 2006
The scoop on travelling with a baby
I used to an expert at packing lightly. If it couldn't fit into a carry-on bag, I left it behind. Well, gone are the days when I could avoid waiting for luggage at the airport. Travelling with an infant is a large-scale operation that takes days of planning. There's the stroller, the car seat, the eating supplies, diaper bag, toys....
Forget the carry-on bag, I need the biggest suitcase they make!!!
I've travelled a lot with the little guy over the past year so I can pass on this advice:
1. Buy diapers and wipes when you reach your destination. I only bring what I need in my diaper bag (I use a knapsack instead of an actual diaper bag. It's way more practical!!)
2. Baby food can also be purchased later. Just make sure you have enough on hand in case there are travel delays. I always carry a sippy cup, spoon, fast drying bib, and lots of snacks in my diaper bag.
3. Don't try to save room by skimping on the baby clothes. I've made this mistake only once. Drool, diaper leaks, and food spills can happen at the most inopportune moments. I always plan two outfits for every day I'm away, plus a couple of extras for the diaper bag.
4. Disregard pointer #3 if you will have access to laundry facilities. I always make use of my mother's washing machine when I come to visit. This makes a huge difference in the number of clothing items I pack for the baby and myself.
5. Instead of using a toiletry bag, I usually use a ziplock bag. It's way more compact!
6. Only pack small toys and books (books fit into the front zip up parts on your suitcase). If you are going to be staying with relatives, only bring enough toys to occupy the little one while in transit. Ask your relatives to get some toys from the dollar store or a thrift store before you arrive.
7. I never pack magazines or books for myself. I'm way to busy attending to the little one to actually read anything. On the off chance that he falls asleep, I find a newspaper, or watch the movie.
8. Get to the airport early. Everything takes longer when travelling with a baby!
9. Get to where you are going in the most direct way possible, even if it's more expensive. The price of your sanity is worth the extra cost of a direct flight!
10. If you are renting a car, get the biggest one they have. Compact cars don't cut it -- trust me on this one!
11. Don't cram too many activities into a day when you take a baby on vacation. If you do, you'll have a cranky baby on your hands.
12. If you've had a busy day order room service or eat at the hotel restaurant. Trust me when I say this will make your life a lot easier.
13. Make friends and relatives come to you instead of the other way around. They'll be happy to visit you on your terms if it means seeing the baby. The more can limit trips in the car, the better!
14. Ask for an extra seat on the plane, if it's not full. The staff will be more than happy to accomodate you.
15. Bring a compact stroller instead of one of those SUV-like joggers. Airlines will let you take a small stroller right to the gate, but not a big brute.
16. Pack your sling in the carry-on in case the airline makes you check your stroller. It does happen from time to time, so you need a back-up plan for hauling your precious cargo!
17. Never pack towels, soap or shampoo. They are always available no matter where you are staying.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go pack. We're leaving on a 4-day trip tonight.
Bon voyage!
Forget the carry-on bag, I need the biggest suitcase they make!!!
I've travelled a lot with the little guy over the past year so I can pass on this advice:
1. Buy diapers and wipes when you reach your destination. I only bring what I need in my diaper bag (I use a knapsack instead of an actual diaper bag. It's way more practical!!)
2. Baby food can also be purchased later. Just make sure you have enough on hand in case there are travel delays. I always carry a sippy cup, spoon, fast drying bib, and lots of snacks in my diaper bag.
3. Don't try to save room by skimping on the baby clothes. I've made this mistake only once. Drool, diaper leaks, and food spills can happen at the most inopportune moments. I always plan two outfits for every day I'm away, plus a couple of extras for the diaper bag.
4. Disregard pointer #3 if you will have access to laundry facilities. I always make use of my mother's washing machine when I come to visit. This makes a huge difference in the number of clothing items I pack for the baby and myself.
5. Instead of using a toiletry bag, I usually use a ziplock bag. It's way more compact!
6. Only pack small toys and books (books fit into the front zip up parts on your suitcase). If you are going to be staying with relatives, only bring enough toys to occupy the little one while in transit. Ask your relatives to get some toys from the dollar store or a thrift store before you arrive.
7. I never pack magazines or books for myself. I'm way to busy attending to the little one to actually read anything. On the off chance that he falls asleep, I find a newspaper, or watch the movie.
8. Get to the airport early. Everything takes longer when travelling with a baby!
9. Get to where you are going in the most direct way possible, even if it's more expensive. The price of your sanity is worth the extra cost of a direct flight!
10. If you are renting a car, get the biggest one they have. Compact cars don't cut it -- trust me on this one!
11. Don't cram too many activities into a day when you take a baby on vacation. If you do, you'll have a cranky baby on your hands.
12. If you've had a busy day order room service or eat at the hotel restaurant. Trust me when I say this will make your life a lot easier.
13. Make friends and relatives come to you instead of the other way around. They'll be happy to visit you on your terms if it means seeing the baby. The more can limit trips in the car, the better!
14. Ask for an extra seat on the plane, if it's not full. The staff will be more than happy to accomodate you.
15. Bring a compact stroller instead of one of those SUV-like joggers. Airlines will let you take a small stroller right to the gate, but not a big brute.
16. Pack your sling in the carry-on in case the airline makes you check your stroller. It does happen from time to time, so you need a back-up plan for hauling your precious cargo!
17. Never pack towels, soap or shampoo. They are always available no matter where you are staying.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go pack. We're leaving on a 4-day trip tonight.
Bon voyage!
Saturday, October 21, 2006
A little fall frolicking
The little guy seems to like frolicking in the leaves as much as I do. Here are some pics we took just before Thanksgiving dinner.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
He strikes again!
The food strikes are over. The little guy will now eat anything you put in front of him, so long as he can feed it to himself. Not cooincidentally, one of his top teeth poked through last week. We think that teething pain was contributing to his food aversion. Thank goodness he's eating well again!
But now a new strike has begun. His once favourite activity is now his least favourite -- bathing. Every time we put in the bathtub he screams his head off. Even his many bath toys don't seem to sweeten the deal. We're not sure where the sudden aversion to bath time come from. I guess it's just another one of those phases he going through. I'm sure it too will pass.
Have a great day everyone!
But now a new strike has begun. His once favourite activity is now his least favourite -- bathing. Every time we put in the bathtub he screams his head off. Even his many bath toys don't seem to sweeten the deal. We're not sure where the sudden aversion to bath time come from. I guess it's just another one of those phases he going through. I'm sure it too will pass.
Have a great day everyone!
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
In search of the great pumpkin
We didn't let the biting wind and frigid temperatures get in the way of our fun. This past weekend we flew down and stayed with my brother and his family. The little guy had a fantastic time hanging out with his cousins, and exploring the countryside. On Saturday we went to a "pick your own pumpkin" farm and played in the pumpkin patch (and in the barn too!). And, the next day we went on a beautiful hilly hike to see the fall leaves. Here are some pics.
Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere!
We were greeted by a friendly goat when we arrived.
Before heading out to the patch, we stopped in to visit the livestock. What a cool old barn!!
There were pumpkins for as far as the eyes could see. The kids were thinking Halloween thoughts. I was thinking about pumpkin pie. Mmmm....pumpkin pie...
The little guy was all smiles. Or, at least until his nose got cold...
Hiking is lots of fun. Especially when dad does all the work!
Pumpkins, pumpkins everywhere!
We were greeted by a friendly goat when we arrived.
Before heading out to the patch, we stopped in to visit the livestock. What a cool old barn!!
There were pumpkins for as far as the eyes could see. The kids were thinking Halloween thoughts. I was thinking about pumpkin pie. Mmmm....pumpkin pie...
The little guy was all smiles. Or, at least until his nose got cold...
Hiking is lots of fun. Especially when dad does all the work!
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Goosey Goosey Gander
For the last few weeks we've been shivering under our duvet at night. The feathers are so old and flat that it's like sleeping under a thin sheet. We can't complain though because that duvet lasted more than 15 years. It was handcrafted by my mother-in-law and she really did a fine job. But alas, the duvet is on it's last "wings".
Over the weekend we went on a mission to find a new duvet. Who knew that it would be so complicated? We spoke to a duvet expert at a fancy linen store and learned all about fill power, loft, ounces of down per channel (or something like that) etc... She also went into great detail about each duvet that they carried and how the down was washed and treated, and how the panels were stitched. We learned that grey goose down was just as warm as white goose down, but most people opt for white down and will pay more money for it (she called this the "snob factor.") We walked out the door after she read us the price list. Yikes!!!! I'm pretty sure only snobs shop at her store...
We think we've found some duvet sources that are 60 or 70% cheaper than the fancy store and are roughly the same quality. When it comes right "down" to it, I really don't care what colour the down is. I just want a long-lasting duvet that keeps me warm in the winter but doesn't bake me to death in the summer and that fluffs up pleasingly when shaken without loosing its feathers. Oh won't it be nice to bask in my new nest?
Over the weekend we went on a mission to find a new duvet. Who knew that it would be so complicated? We spoke to a duvet expert at a fancy linen store and learned all about fill power, loft, ounces of down per channel (or something like that) etc... She also went into great detail about each duvet that they carried and how the down was washed and treated, and how the panels were stitched. We learned that grey goose down was just as warm as white goose down, but most people opt for white down and will pay more money for it (she called this the "snob factor.") We walked out the door after she read us the price list. Yikes!!!! I'm pretty sure only snobs shop at her store...
We think we've found some duvet sources that are 60 or 70% cheaper than the fancy store and are roughly the same quality. When it comes right "down" to it, I really don't care what colour the down is. I just want a long-lasting duvet that keeps me warm in the winter but doesn't bake me to death in the summer and that fluffs up pleasingly when shaken without loosing its feathers. Oh won't it be nice to bask in my new nest?
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
What I didn't know a year ago
I think it's fair to say my life is a heck of a lot different than it was a year ago. No matter how ready you are for parenthood, nothing can really prepare you for what is in store. For example, a year ago I didn't know:
- my song repetoire would consist of: the itsy, bitsy spider, if you're happy and you know it, and sticky, sticky bubblegum.
- that I'd become one of those mothers who checks for "stinkies" by picking baby up and taking a sniff. I used to tell people I'd never do that!!!
- how much time it takes to get out the door, or how much "stuff" you have to haul with you.
- how quickly babies move from one stage to the next. Just as you gain confidence in your parenting abilities, a new challenge presents itself.
- that my love for him would grow deeper and deeper every day.
- that pjs and outfits with snaps -- no matter how cute -- are evil! Try doing up snaps at 4 am and you'll realize why.
- the importance of getting a "full" night's sleep.
- that half of the stuff I bought in preparation for baby would end up being completely useless.
- how much laundry a little tiny person can actually generate. It's astounding!
- that a drool fountain would turn on and never stop.
- how overpowering a babies suckling reflex is.
- how many complete strangers would give me unsolicited advice.
- what a big job babyproofing would end up being.
There is so much more I could write, but you get the point. And I'm sure there are lots of things to come that I don't know about too....
- my song repetoire would consist of: the itsy, bitsy spider, if you're happy and you know it, and sticky, sticky bubblegum.
- that I'd become one of those mothers who checks for "stinkies" by picking baby up and taking a sniff. I used to tell people I'd never do that!!!
- how much time it takes to get out the door, or how much "stuff" you have to haul with you.
- how quickly babies move from one stage to the next. Just as you gain confidence in your parenting abilities, a new challenge presents itself.
- that my love for him would grow deeper and deeper every day.
- that pjs and outfits with snaps -- no matter how cute -- are evil! Try doing up snaps at 4 am and you'll realize why.
- the importance of getting a "full" night's sleep.
- that half of the stuff I bought in preparation for baby would end up being completely useless.
- how much laundry a little tiny person can actually generate. It's astounding!
- that a drool fountain would turn on and never stop.
- how overpowering a babies suckling reflex is.
- how many complete strangers would give me unsolicited advice.
- what a big job babyproofing would end up being.
There is so much more I could write, but you get the point. And I'm sure there are lots of things to come that I don't know about too....
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Looking into my crystal ball
Like all new parents, I like to fantasize about the little guy's future. Will he be a fireman? An engineer? Will he discover the cure for cancer? At his age, anything seems possible!
Here are a few predictions for his future, based on his activities of today.
- He likes to sleep late. So...he'll likely be attracted to careers that allow for flex hours.
- Out of all the objects in our home, he is most attracted to Daddy's shoes. Does this mean he will "follow" in Daddy's footsteps some day? Okay, maybe I'm reading a little too much into that...
- He loves to swing, and hang upside down. I hope that doesn't mean he's going to run away to join the circus, or become a professional monkey....
- He's discovered that people will give him lots of attention if he makes a fake coughing noise. I bet if he cleared his throat in the boardroom, he'd have everyone's undivided attention. Could this be the making of a top CEO?
- He'll only eat out of a big person bowl with a big fork or spoon. With such "sophisticated" tastes, he's sure to be into fine dining some day. If only we could do something about his table manners (spitting, throwing, smearing food in hair etc...).
- If we'd let him, he's probably live in the bathtub. Maybe this is a sign that he'll be a professional swimmer some day!
- Dogs, cats, squirrels...you name it, he thinks they're pretty neat! A veternarian perhaps?
- If there is a Cheerio hiding anywhere, he is sure to find it. Possible careers: Detective, treasure hunter, archaeologist.
- He's definitely the biggest ham you've ever met. Aim a camera at him, and he strikes a pose. Do I detect an interest in modelling, or acting perhaps? Could he be the next Tom Cruise (minus the craziness of course....)?
- Like most little boys (and men for that matter...) he has a natural attraction to tools, cars and other types of vehicles. I'm betting he'll be an enthusiest for life!
- His "output" seems to be greater than his "input" if you know what I mean... No doubt that is a sign of good productivity!
- And finally, he's a good snuggler. I hope that means that means lots of hugs for me in the future!
Only time will tell!
Here are a few predictions for his future, based on his activities of today.
- He likes to sleep late. So...he'll likely be attracted to careers that allow for flex hours.
- Out of all the objects in our home, he is most attracted to Daddy's shoes. Does this mean he will "follow" in Daddy's footsteps some day? Okay, maybe I'm reading a little too much into that...
- He loves to swing, and hang upside down. I hope that doesn't mean he's going to run away to join the circus, or become a professional monkey....
- He's discovered that people will give him lots of attention if he makes a fake coughing noise. I bet if he cleared his throat in the boardroom, he'd have everyone's undivided attention. Could this be the making of a top CEO?
- He'll only eat out of a big person bowl with a big fork or spoon. With such "sophisticated" tastes, he's sure to be into fine dining some day. If only we could do something about his table manners (spitting, throwing, smearing food in hair etc...).
- If we'd let him, he's probably live in the bathtub. Maybe this is a sign that he'll be a professional swimmer some day!
- Dogs, cats, squirrels...you name it, he thinks they're pretty neat! A veternarian perhaps?
- If there is a Cheerio hiding anywhere, he is sure to find it. Possible careers: Detective, treasure hunter, archaeologist.
- He's definitely the biggest ham you've ever met. Aim a camera at him, and he strikes a pose. Do I detect an interest in modelling, or acting perhaps? Could he be the next Tom Cruise (minus the craziness of course....)?
- Like most little boys (and men for that matter...) he has a natural attraction to tools, cars and other types of vehicles. I'm betting he'll be an enthusiest for life!
- His "output" seems to be greater than his "input" if you know what I mean... No doubt that is a sign of good productivity!
- And finally, he's a good snuggler. I hope that means that means lots of hugs for me in the future!
Only time will tell!
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