Teeny Tiny Blue Ball

Most kids have some item they are attached to. We've been loving Tigger almost as long as we've been loving Simon. He's the "go-to" comfort for our little man. Claire hasn't really formed any attachment to any item. I tried introducing a lot of sweet stuffies to her and she'd like them for a bit and then ditch them for the next best thing. No blankies, suckies would soothe her at all.

Then, we met "blue ball". This is a tiny Zooble baby that I'm pretty sure she stole from the kids we share a baby-sitter with. She's carried this little ball in her hand all spring and summer. That means I have spent endless hours searching for "blue ball" when it's gone missing.

We have rules. "Blue ball" stays in a safe place (Momma's jewelery dish in our en-suite) when we go out. We don't cry when "blue ball" goes missing because it always turns up (and miraculously, it does).

Not sure what the attachment is but, she's napping with it clutched in her chubby little baby hand. It makes her happy so, it makes me happy.

City Parks Review - 2011

One of the best parts about teaching is that I will always have my summers. One of the best things my kids and I have found to do in the summer is to hit up parks. Here's my review of our more frequented (or less frequented due to a poor review).
Candy Cane Park
A lot has changed here since I was a kid. Gone is the grungy wading pool and unsafe candy canes to climb (who's idea was that?). There is a snazzy new goose but, the slides are a little too steep for my kiddos. Simon LOVES the bus and the slide area. Claire LOVES the baby swings. Both kids can be highly entertained for hours here. This park often requires the use of Claire's Bjorn so that I can chase after Simon. This is by far one of our most favorite park. We're giving it 5 out of 5 stars.

Kinsmen Park
We spend a lot of time at this park because it's a good walk. We also get to go by Auntie Andrea's and visit with her if possible. Simon LOVES the spray pad. We wish it had softer turf (like Rick Hanson) because the asphalt hurts when you fall. Claire likes it when we let her meander through the puddles but, she's not a big fan of the actual splashes. The equipment is great. Both kids have things to do. Simon loves crawling up and sliding. He's also a big fan of the little house and teeter-totter. Claire is our little swinger and she also feels pretty important when we let her stand in the little house. It'll be interesting to see how often we get to this park once we move. It's a definite 5 out of 5 stars.

Kiwanis Park
We went here once to check it out. The equipment was much to challenging for my toddler and I was nervous carrying Claire up the play structure. The slide was too steep so, we didn't stay for long. We did, however, enjoy the Mac's across the street and the waterfall nearby. Right now, it's a 2 out of 5 but, it has potential for when my kids are older.

School Parks
Since kids have been out of school, most school parks are pretty empty. We've taken advantage of their slides. Most school parks we've been to are pretty good but, they lack baby swings. They are a good option when we need a change. Most school parks rate a 3 out of 5 for us.

Rick Hanson Park
We did venture north this summer and we checked out the RH Splash Park. Simon really like holding on to the hose but, he was frequently pushed out of the way by bigger kids. It was really busy and, the play structure was fun to climb up but, Simon didn't LOVE it. It was such a large play structure that I had a hard time keeping track of where Simon was while carrying/entertaining Claire. Once again, I think this is a great park but, I don't think I'd like to go back until the kids are older. It's a 4 out of 5.

Marina Park
The park at the Marian has a super location. The kids both loved hanging out by the fence and watching the geese. The play structure was pretty good and I really liked the rock formations. We'll probably go back as the kids get older. I'll give this a 3 out of 5.

We've been to other parks but, these are the ones that really stand out to us. I'm sure things will change up a lot by next year when I have 2 adventurous movers.
What's your favorite park and why?

Commuter

I have a 27 minute commute to and from work. 27 minutes as long as I make most of the lights, have no construction on my route and avoid semis. Lately, it's been about a 37 minute commute. I'm usually okay with that in the morning but, it kills me after school. All I want to do is rush home to Simon sans breaking the speed limit (a lot).

As a farm girl, I've always had a commute. I actually kind of like it. There's a geographical separation in my day between where I work and where I live. I have 27 minutes in the morning to mentally prepare for my day. I have 27 minutes after school to debrief and sort out my thoughts. I used to have this fabulous commuting group of ladies. I miss them. However, with Simon, I'm not the most reliable commuter anymore. I'm back on my own.

Mostly, it's a pretty happy, mindless time during my day. I play my Ipod or I listen to CBC. My favorite artists to commute to are: Josh Ritter, the Weakerthans, the Weepies, Courtyard Hounds and Jakob Dylan among others. If only the sun would shine, it'd be a happier trip to work.

Fashion Maven I Am Not

My first realization that I wasn't too savvy in the fashion department occurred in grade 7. I was tall, gangly, bespeckled, well-freckled girl with permed bangs and straight long hair. I spent much of my time with a nose in a book. I loved wearing my Hyper-colour shirt (remember those... great for sweaty pre-adolescents) paired with white tights covered in black stars (this is where my childhood friends Janelle and Amy will gleefully comment that, upon occasion, I would wear purple panties with those white tights... sigh). I had this pert little friend with two older sisters. I would go to visit and they kept wanting to play "makeover" with me. Eventually, I stopped wanting to visit.

When I was 20, I finally gave up my brown unicorn wallet (velcro - tres, tres cool). I've been missing it ever since. Before Simon was born, I went through 10 years of odd purses. The most practical was my bright red Swiss Army purse that I took back-packing around Europe with me. It just didn't match my teacher clothes though. Finally, I thought a diaper bag would solve all my issues. I would just carry a wallet inside. I've been through 3 wallets already (that's what happens when you cram all your cards into cheap, cheap wallets). Also, I don't always carry my diaper bag. I bought a very pretty, expensive (for me), leather Etsy purse. It's adorable! I'd be proud to wear it with any fancy dress or with any teacher clothes in the future. Unfortunately, I don't use it that often. Instead, I've been carrying around a bag that Trevor's aunt crocheted from recycled plastic bags cut into strips... and it's orange and white.

I figure that while I tromp around in my Sorrels with my ridiculously large blue toque and my classic "mom uniform" (read jeans and a long-sleeve T-shirt that probably has some Simon cruddies somewhere on it), the orange bag might suit me a little more then my beautiful Etsy purse.

Just Say "No"!

I am a sucker for kids who use the door-to-door sales tactic to raise money.
I can't say "no" to their waxy chocolates, stale jujubes or boxed cookies. Every time I spend my $3-$5, I shake my head at myself and wonder when I will muster up enough willpower to refuse.
Unfortunately, I look at their earnest little faces and think of all the blocks they've walked and will walk that night and I shell out.

This post has been brought to you by some really bad "Chocolate Whirls" bought in support of the Youth Bowling Association... helping neighbourhood children across this city learn to throw 5 lb. balls more accurately.

Lu Lu Loopy!

I stood in line for a 1/2 today. I was waiting to get in to the Lu Lu Lemon Warehouse sale. Honestly, I am not a lulu lemon nut. My only yoga is with Wii Fit. I bought a pair of capris in the spring and wore them all over Europe and LOVED them. I thought I could get a pair of pants at the sale.
I was wrong.
I overheard in the line that one woman camped out at 3:45 AM just to be the first there when the doors opened at 9 AM. I also heard that another woman spent over $3 000???? That's an insane price for any shopping trip let alone for just one brand of clothing.
I didn't find any pants.
I bought a touque. It's cute and blue and wool. It was under $10... and 45 minutes of my time.

Confessions...

Things I've learned about myself in the dog days of summer.

1. Since coming home from Germany, I lack motivation. Motivation for doing my class, motivation for re-doing our siding, motivation for doing my hair, motivation for most things except reading like a fiend.

2. I have a serious guilt complex so, the lack of motivation isn't helping. (The most pressing guilt I'm currently feeling is the amount of crazy weeds in my back alley...)

3. I LOVE grocery shopping. I love pushing the cart through the aisles and reading labels and price checking and looking at all the produce and imagining what great things I could cook if I'd only get motivated.

4. My cat is a wee beastie. I think he scared our house-sitter with his demanding cat-ttitude. What will we do when we go away at Christmas?

5. I dread the fall. I love my job but, I love sitting on my butt more. How do I get paid for that?

Any confessions you'd like to make?

Spring!

For most people, spring arrived a while ago. On Monday, we reached a high of ~27. I was in parent/teacher interviews all evening and missed it. My windowless classroom didn't help much either. The only way I knew it was hot was the scant amount of clothing on my students.
Today, I didn't have school. Today, I lazed and read in the sun with the Ferg and the husband.
Today, I watched the leaves of my big maple slowly uncurl.
Today, I counted tulips, daffodils and paperwhites popping up in my yard.
Today, Shiya and I got pedicures.

I hear that Calgary's getting a pile of snow. Guess I should enjoy my spring day all the more.

Hallmark is not me

It's birthday season for Trevor and I.
Every time we buy or make a card, I always try to think about something good to write. My brother usually comes up with great one-liners. I usually stick to "Happy B-day (insert name)! Hope you have a great (insert age)th year."
Blah.
Do you have anything better to write?

Dog Diary vs. Cat Diary

My friend Amanda sent this to me. It made me laugh hysterically. Makes me a wary of my little dictator cat.
( DOG DIARY )

8:00 am - Dog food! Myfavorite thing!

9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!

9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!

10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!

12:00 pm - Lunch! My favorite thing!

1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!

3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!

5:00 pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing!

7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!

8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!

11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

(CAT DIARY) Day 983 of my captivity. My captors continue to taunt me with
bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates
and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations
perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.The
only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again
vomit on the carpet. Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet.
I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am
capable of. However, they merely made condescending commentsabout what a 'good little hunter'
I am. There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary
confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of 'allergies.' I must learn what this means,
and how to use it to my advantage.This morning I was almost successful in an attempt
to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as hewas walking. I must try this
again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs. I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches.The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him
communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors
have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe.

For now...The Cat

Open Letter to My Favorite TV Shows

To: My Favorite TV Shows,

Remember when you'd come into my living room every week and tell me tales that kept me entertained and amused. Remember when I based some evenings entirely around you. Thursday night was especially enjoyable. I loved the drama and the comedy you brought into my home.

Last fall, you went away. Something about your creators not getting paid well. Fair enough. People have a right to strike. However, I was left with a void. For a few weeks, I found myself lost. I wondered what in the world I could watch while correcting papers. Reality TV tried to fill the void but, I found it was a little too melodramatic. I tried watching re-runs of you, my favorite shows but I found myself getting bored. You left a gap.

Gradually, I moved on. I spent more time on the phone. I paid better attention to my marking and worked much quicker. I spent quality time with my husband. Fergus got extra play time. I discovered LOL cats on the internet. Trevor and I started watching all 5 seasons of The Wire (our guilty pleasure). You were no longer a part of my life and I was okay with that!

Now, you are appearing in commercials while I'm watching the news. You're trying to return and draw me in to your completely superfluous plot lines. I'm not sure what to do. Should I welcome you back with open arms or cautiously check you out, one at a time. It just depends...

a hodge-podge

1) Today, we said good-bye to Shiya. She was here on a whirlwind, wedding planning jaunt. Here's a new pic of her and her man Marshall.

2) I went to the dentist today. I found out I have a cavity. I've never had a cavity in my life. I'm a vigorous flosser. I'm very sad. I'm also very afraid. May 8th, I get my first filling. How afraid should I be?


3) I had my 5th weigh and measure day at Curves. I've gained weight and lost inches. I'm trying to remind myself about muscle weighing more then fat but, it's still psychologically daunting.

4) Fergus is taking little adventures outside on his leash. He likes his little adventures when I'm there but, he's a whiny baby when we leave him alone for a few minutes.

5) My One-Act is looming. Just 2 more weeks until we take the stage.

Tag... you're it

I was tagged by Amanda

The Rules:

1. Pick up the nearest book (of at least 123 pages).

2. Open the book to page 123.

3. Find the fifth sentence.

4. Post the next three sentences.

5. Tag five people.

I thought I'd pick up my nicely autographed Stuart McLean book. Here goes:

"She was planning to do it after supper. But, before she could do that, the doorbell rang and there was Gerta - standing on the stoop with a wagon full of presents. Christmas cookies."

I tag:
Kim
Elenore
Crystal
Brandy
Wanda

Happy reading ladies!

I've come to realize...

Stolen from 5 a 7

1. I've come to realize that my butt: still looks good in jeans but, swimsuits....?

2. I've come to realize that when I talk: I use my hands a lot.

3. I've come to realize that I need: to laugh often!

4. I've come to realize that I've lost: my black and white views of the world.

5. I've come to realize that I hate it when: kids overuse the word "got" in assignments.

6. I've come to realize that I have a crush on: Disney's Robin Hood... yes he's a fox but...

7. I've come to realize that the last time I cried was: a few days ago... I'm still a cry baby!

8. I've come to realize that my cell phone is: REALLY old!

9. I've come to realize that when I wake up in the morning: I brush my cat. Then, I stand in front of the mirror and zone out.

10. I've come to realize that before I go to sleep at night I: need to take a shower.

11. I've come to realize that when I get on Facebook: I'm all about the Scrabulous application and pictures.

12. I've come to realize that today I will: pick my Grandma up from the airport late at night!

13. I've come to realize that I really want to: have the security of a permanent contract. I really miss that!

14. I've come to realize love: is what makes my world go 'round.

15. I've come to realize my best guy friend: is equally as busy as I am and lives too far away.

16. I've come to realize my best girl friend: is in the middle of a sweet, whirlwind romance.

What have you realized lately?

worm poop

Today, I bought a pile of worm poop (and worms). Actually, I bought two piles (one for my Mom as a Christmas gift).
Why? you ask. Good question.
Vermicomposting.
These crazy red wigglers will eat all my kitchen scraps (tea bags, coffee grinds, banana peels, onion skin, etc.) and then, they will create marvelous soil for my flower garden. (Some people pay big bucks for this kind of nutrient laden organic compost to add to their plants.)
My outdoor compost is frozen and I wanted an alternative.
If you're interested, you can check out: garbagedelight

P.S. Bev - if you're reading this, please don't tell my mom. I'd like it to be a surprise for Christmas. Thanks!

"Oh, the drama..."

I'm the back stage lady for our school's annual musical. It's an all-Elvis Broadway musical. It's hilarious.
I spent my weekend at work. Yes, that made me grumpy.
However, when it all comes together, I have big dreams of this show being awesome. I'm just scared it won't come together. Tomorrow is our first show and, we still haven't practiced the whole show without stops. Eeek!
I am not in charge. I just need to make sure that the jukebox and the scenery are in the right places.
Wish me luck.

Bring it on...

Just in case you couldn't guess who we'd be cheering for
in the 95th Grey Cup!

HALLOWEEN

Have a Spook-tacular Halloween!

A Touch of Random

1. I'm healthy again! No more late nights coughing.

2. The Ferg likes to eat red pepper. He goes nuts every time I'm cutting one for salad or stir fry.

3. Tim and Karri have been married for almost a week.

4. We're still trying to sell the Mustang. Know anyone who wants a sweet ride?

5. Trevor's curling again.

6. I am help with a musical called All Shook Up. It's like Mama Mia... just Elvis instead of Abba.

7. I miss having free lunch hours.

8. I do not miss hearing the "F-word" on a regular basis.

9. Our yard has a ridiculous amount of leaves that we need to deal with soon.

10. Tonight, Trevor and I are going to a Weakerthans' concert.