Well, for what it is worth, my Doc figures I am pretty good at this pregnancy thing. Too funny, I guess I am pretty relaxed about it all this go around.
Baby is looking good, nice strong heartbeat, bum is hanging out to the left, feet to the right. I feel like all belly this time around. It's amazing how you just gain weight when you are pregnant. I can't say that I am eating all that different, but the scale is still reading higher and higher every time I head in there!
I bought a pair of yoga pants last week (on sale, of course) where I wouldn't have expected to find a pair, and all skepticism aside, they rock. So damn comfortable. They will be a staple around the house in the next few months. Hell, I have no jeans that fit at the moment, so they worked for Friday casual pants. I dressed'em up with a pair of white flats (ha ha). Looks like I will officially get away with no maternity clothes this time around. A few new t-shirts and yoga pants don't count. The old, nice tops I had from the first go around are too big, and well, I just can't be bothered beyond switching up the order that I wear my stretchy skirts in.
People ask if I am ready - nope. Crib is still outside in the shed, we have that box of diapers, and Brandon's baby clothes are in the attic. I do have a list. A very modest list. I guess I am counting on having at least a little time after I am done work before baby comes... man, the days already seem to filling up fast.
We are paying for the month of June for daycare, and yet, I wonder how many days beyond the 5th I will use it. I am sure there will be a few, and I plan on some selfish time, and some resting (god knows when that will happen next), and some lazing around, but I am looking forward to a few adventures with my little guy before number 2 makes their grand arrival. And I have the urge to paint. If things come together, it will be painting a small, 3 drawer chest and the bookcase in Brandon's room. Maybe a few small projects. Who knows, maybe even printing out some Wedding Pictures... seeing has it has only been 3 years... but who is counting?
I am having a novel few minutes to myself, the boys are sleeping, and I am fighting off being tired myself. I am going to spend time with my book, and then off to the land of nod myself.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Friday, May 1, 2009
The Bump is definitely there.
I definitely feel pregnant at this stage of the game. I feel like I look more pregnant this time around, and less like I have put on weight, if that makes sense. It has helped starting out lighter - it feels like a round baby belly and not like I just look chubby. I feel obviously pregnant.
I have had less aches (overall), I feel like my complexion has been worse, and it seems like random nights I can't sleep to save my life. Like Tuesday night. Woke up about midnight. And that was it. Didn't fall asleep again until 9am, I knew that Wednesday would be a terrible day between fighting a cold and no sleep, that it was just easier to stay home. Then when I woke up, it was hot, I felt like hell because I was still tired, hot, and yes, I am bitching right now.
Folks ask if this pregnancy feels different... Not really - I still have a fair amount of energy, although I tend to go to bed earlier (up earlier), and it seems to be going faster. I still count off the weeks - breathing a sigh of relief with every next milestone, for example, hitting 32 weeks, next when we hit 36 weeks and most of the big baby-work is done and baby is just putting on weight for life outside of the womb... I am chasing around Brandon, I am more conscious of needing to figure out easy to prepare dinners for when I go back to work again the second time around...
I am pretty relaxed about the whole "setting up for baby". Time is flying, and well, I figure towards the end of the month we will get out Brandon's baby clothes, I have a box of diapers... we'll need some bits and pieces, and then to put together a hospital bag... it just feels like we have lots of time. Or that there is still a lot to do before I am off work!
Speaking of which, 24 more days of work, give or take. Wow. It is really starting to fly. Needless to say, in the wee hours of the night, I have read a few books. Nothing that I would jump up and down about, but some good reads.
I am really glad it's Friday. I have been the big kahuna (more or less) at work, and there have been lots of fires to put out, and lots of t's to cross... the next week, semester start up. Will be interesting to see how things go. I have stuff to wrap up, and it doesn't feel like I got even close to working on that stuff this week. Fits and starts.
I have had less aches (overall), I feel like my complexion has been worse, and it seems like random nights I can't sleep to save my life. Like Tuesday night. Woke up about midnight. And that was it. Didn't fall asleep again until 9am, I knew that Wednesday would be a terrible day between fighting a cold and no sleep, that it was just easier to stay home. Then when I woke up, it was hot, I felt like hell because I was still tired, hot, and yes, I am bitching right now.
Folks ask if this pregnancy feels different... Not really - I still have a fair amount of energy, although I tend to go to bed earlier (up earlier), and it seems to be going faster. I still count off the weeks - breathing a sigh of relief with every next milestone, for example, hitting 32 weeks, next when we hit 36 weeks and most of the big baby-work is done and baby is just putting on weight for life outside of the womb... I am chasing around Brandon, I am more conscious of needing to figure out easy to prepare dinners for when I go back to work again the second time around...
I am pretty relaxed about the whole "setting up for baby". Time is flying, and well, I figure towards the end of the month we will get out Brandon's baby clothes, I have a box of diapers... we'll need some bits and pieces, and then to put together a hospital bag... it just feels like we have lots of time. Or that there is still a lot to do before I am off work!
Speaking of which, 24 more days of work, give or take. Wow. It is really starting to fly. Needless to say, in the wee hours of the night, I have read a few books. Nothing that I would jump up and down about, but some good reads.
I am really glad it's Friday. I have been the big kahuna (more or less) at work, and there have been lots of fires to put out, and lots of t's to cross... the next week, semester start up. Will be interesting to see how things go. I have stuff to wrap up, and it doesn't feel like I got even close to working on that stuff this week. Fits and starts.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Sneaky Belly shot - 30/31 weeks
Seize the day! Was it a sign that this was the name of the boat across from our floating cabin?It finally happened. Brandon had his first overnighter, and Ken and I booked it and got out of town for 24 hours. It was freaking wonderful. I didn't feel guilty about leaving the Don behind, maybe I missed him a little, but man, it was just so nice to just be me, with my man, and wandering around a place neither of us knew.
Bowen is a great getaway because it is really close, and far enough. The price to get there is also 1/8th of what it costs to get to the island which is also a bonus, and you could get away with not bringing your car over. We had some great food experiences, and then some not so great food experiences (nothing like waiting over an hour for a clubhouse... and a tuna burger) and spent time just wandering around, aimless wandering with no where we had to be, and nothing we had to do, except maybe satisfy our appetites.
Our floating palace was really cool - we stayed right in the marina, and it was just so nice to get out and walk in the woods, or along the docks for that matter. Hold hands. Not be on call, and just forget about being a parent for a few hours. I think the break for us was as good as it was for the Don - he was treated like a rock star, and since it was his cousin's birthday, loved flirting with all of her friends before they went out to the bar. Sounds like a great weekend for all of us, for totally different reasons.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
A little faint?
Today started out with a bang - experience my first real blood pressure drop in years and nearly fainted as I was getting ready for work! I guess there are times when you are pregnant when you can experience a real change in blood pressure, and well, all you can do is lay down, and then wait for things to return to normal.
Which they did... but I was still thankful my doc's office got me in for a quick checkup, because in moments like that, there is nothing like being able to hear your baby's heartbeat on the Doppler, and know all is well again.
Easter was good - for once, no trip to the island. I think we are almost at the point of feeling a bit "familied" out - lots of family dinners and visits, and will be nice to just chill for a bit. I think I will try to make it out and visit my gran once more before things get too far along.. but time will tell and how easy that will be.
B was really cool about Easter - his eyes lite up about the Easter Bunny and finding chocolate eggs. Then today, what did Brandon do as he rooted around the island cupboard? I should have known he was too quiet, but the chocolate hound found the hot chocolate container, tipped it out all over the place, and was enjoying a wee snack. He is lucky he is so cute.
Which they did... but I was still thankful my doc's office got me in for a quick checkup, because in moments like that, there is nothing like being able to hear your baby's heartbeat on the Doppler, and know all is well again.
Easter was good - for once, no trip to the island. I think we are almost at the point of feeling a bit "familied" out - lots of family dinners and visits, and will be nice to just chill for a bit. I think I will try to make it out and visit my gran once more before things get too far along.. but time will tell and how easy that will be.
B was really cool about Easter - his eyes lite up about the Easter Bunny and finding chocolate eggs. Then today, what did Brandon do as he rooted around the island cupboard? I should have known he was too quiet, but the chocolate hound found the hot chocolate container, tipped it out all over the place, and was enjoying a wee snack. He is lucky he is so cute.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Chocolate highs and lows
There is a lot of chocolate floating around my workplace right now.
Almost too much. I love chocolate. I don't need frilly chocolate or special chocolates, I just like plain old milk chocolate. This has felt like an indulgent week - just not great meals, snacks, chocolate. You know how it goes. Slippery slope, and thank god for a few walks thrown in for good measure!
8 more weeks of work. Holy shit is the time going fast!!! I definitely have a baby belly this time around - everything seems to have shifted differently this time around. I think I am carrying high, and I have been feeling pretty darn good, except being tired at the end of the day/week. But is that baby or is that working full-time with a 2 year old?
Skirt season for me has officially started. No more "normal" bottoms. They don't work anymore. Skirts and black leggings, and jammies that sums up my bottom half. I may need to break and pick up a few items, okay, who doesn't like a few new things (but, items I can wear after, not just enjoy for the next 8 - 12 weeks).
Am currently writing up my official leave. The home stretch is truly upon us!
Almost too much. I love chocolate. I don't need frilly chocolate or special chocolates, I just like plain old milk chocolate. This has felt like an indulgent week - just not great meals, snacks, chocolate. You know how it goes. Slippery slope, and thank god for a few walks thrown in for good measure!
8 more weeks of work. Holy shit is the time going fast!!! I definitely have a baby belly this time around - everything seems to have shifted differently this time around. I think I am carrying high, and I have been feeling pretty darn good, except being tired at the end of the day/week. But is that baby or is that working full-time with a 2 year old?
Skirt season for me has officially started. No more "normal" bottoms. They don't work anymore. Skirts and black leggings, and jammies that sums up my bottom half. I may need to break and pick up a few items, okay, who doesn't like a few new things (but, items I can wear after, not just enjoy for the next 8 - 12 weeks).
Am currently writing up my official leave. The home stretch is truly upon us!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Glorious Sun
The weather is as glorious today as it has been terrible for months!
Yesterday I sat in the sun for my lunch hour with my book, and today I went for a lovely walk around campus with a coworker. It is so blissful to have the sun in your face and to have summer shoes on. Oh spring, where art thou have been? Of course, it will be a bit fleeting since it is supposed to cloud over tomorrow... but today, ah today.
Brandon has been itching to be outside... the last few nights he has been hanging out in the backyard, spending as much time as he can outside before coming in. It's like he feels it too, spring fever is getting us in its grip.
Easter is around the corner and probably one of the first times I am not making the trek to the island to see my gram. It just isn't as easy anymore, and it costs so damn much. With the fare increase, back and forth with a car and 2 passengers is close to $150!!! HOLY CRAP! We can fly to Vegas for less than it costs to go to Vancouver Island!! O U C H ! ! ! I love her dearly, but, it's a lot of effort to do frequently and we were there a month ago... there are so many other places where the money needs to go right about now, and it is an exhausting trip with still having to work full-time.
I got to experience the joys of 3 boys between the ages of 2 and 5 on Saturday night. It was interesting - so much energy, so much rambunctiousness, a few tears, and a few laughs. Makes me grateful that two is a good number.. I couldn't imagine a whole house full of kids!!! Two is plenty... Brandon is a strong kid - definitely somewhat physical, definitely still a toddler. But man, can he TALK!!!!! it's cool.
Tonight shall be a picnic night. Get out, enjoy the nice weather while it lasts. We haven't done that since last SEPTEMBER.... back when Brandon was taking his first steps... and I got my remade wedding rings from my sweetheart. Pretty cool. Egads, time flies. And O M G it's been a long, long winter!!!!
Yesterday I sat in the sun for my lunch hour with my book, and today I went for a lovely walk around campus with a coworker. It is so blissful to have the sun in your face and to have summer shoes on. Oh spring, where art thou have been? Of course, it will be a bit fleeting since it is supposed to cloud over tomorrow... but today, ah today.
Brandon has been itching to be outside... the last few nights he has been hanging out in the backyard, spending as much time as he can outside before coming in. It's like he feels it too, spring fever is getting us in its grip.
Easter is around the corner and probably one of the first times I am not making the trek to the island to see my gram. It just isn't as easy anymore, and it costs so damn much. With the fare increase, back and forth with a car and 2 passengers is close to $150!!! HOLY CRAP! We can fly to Vegas for less than it costs to go to Vancouver Island!! O U C H ! ! ! I love her dearly, but, it's a lot of effort to do frequently and we were there a month ago... there are so many other places where the money needs to go right about now, and it is an exhausting trip with still having to work full-time.
I got to experience the joys of 3 boys between the ages of 2 and 5 on Saturday night. It was interesting - so much energy, so much rambunctiousness, a few tears, and a few laughs. Makes me grateful that two is a good number.. I couldn't imagine a whole house full of kids!!! Two is plenty... Brandon is a strong kid - definitely somewhat physical, definitely still a toddler. But man, can he TALK!!!!! it's cool.
Tonight shall be a picnic night. Get out, enjoy the nice weather while it lasts. We haven't done that since last SEPTEMBER.... back when Brandon was taking his first steps... and I got my remade wedding rings from my sweetheart. Pretty cool. Egads, time flies. And O M G it's been a long, long winter!!!!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Bang on my drum...
There are a few "back" posts I have been meaning to add for a while.. and this is one of them. At work, I had the really cool opportunity to make my own First Nations drum. It was a great experience - the first day I stretched and laced up the drum, and then second I created my stencil, painted it on, and made my drumstick.
The day I painted my drum, the FNC Coordinator and his sister were both drumming and yakking, and it made it quite a poignant experience, as we swapped stories about family, and our ancestral history. I am really pleased with how mine turned out - I had wanted to buy a celtic hand drum years ago, and well, this is even better. Celtic symbols, traditional colours and materials - more of a fusion drum that I think is appropriate for someone like me, from here, from the coast.
What is also neat to see is when Brandon wants to play the drum, and he walks around banging it and making noise - he is pretty proud of himself too at the cacophony of sound he can create with it!
Monday, March 30, 2009
so much for aiming for every week!
28 weeks - 7 months.
Welcome last trimester!!!! All in all, I must say that I have been feeling pretty good. Weight gain has been reasonable, no crazy swelling, and baby is doing well.
I think my plan of not buying any maternity clothes this time around will be almost difficult - I am planning to wear all my loose skirts, but the weather is staying DAMN COLD. Remnants of winter have been kicking around way too long, and now that we have spring, at least my daffodils have made their appearance. Aside from a few sunny hours yesterday, it has not been skirt weather. So I may break and get something - or even just bigger pants. I can still fit in to some of my stuff, but the button gets popped (and I cross my fingers my zipper doesn't drop!).
Not sure when is the time to start preparing for bubs - although prep will consist of getting bag of age appropriate clothes, setting up the crib, and getting a few odds and ends - diapers, formula (just in case we run in to the same production issues as last time and need to supplement), more crack cream, and baby washing soap... there isn't much to do, but watch the weeks tick off. It is easier in a lot of ways than waiting for Brandon, and harder too, since you know how the first went, and you have no idea how this time will go. It is almost as mysterious as the first. Doc isn't expressing any major concerns, so I'm not either.
So what is up with gas prices? If you happen to fill up in the morning, you pay between 3 - 5 cents more than if you fill up at night. It is brutal. I can understand some price fluctuation, but since I have been paying more attention, the price changes from morning to night, every DAY! Especially on weekends - on Saturday almost got gas at 99.5 a litre, and last night, about dinnertime, it was at 94.9 a litre, and now today, it is back at 99.7 a litre. It is bizarre. I now won't buy gas before 5pm. What is the point? They get you on your way to work... What really gets me is that there isn't really consistency, or a real reason why for the variations, or maybe there is and I don't work in the right industry to understand.
Had an experience this weekend that reinforced how every day with kids you are learning stuff. Had made your own pizzas on Saturday night, and I guess I loaded B's and mine with too much cheese. And then we had some ice cream later on. Way too much fat content for the little guy's tummy and he woke up in the middle of the night, chatting up a storm, and about an hour later, we wore his dinner. At least we had had a similar experience just before Christmas with some really rich pasta, so I could at least understand what happened - too much fat and cheese and rich food = evacution from belly at a later date. Aside from talking about himself puking in the night and having a shower, B was no worse for wear on Sunday - I think I missed the extra hours sleep more than he did! First time this happened, I was half freaking out, this time, at least I knew what to expect. Coming full circle - I guess this is why it is so much easier the second time around with kids, you have already been through a trial by fire and you have a better idea of what to expect, even if it totally different.
I am enjoying a few hours to myself before I pick up B from daycare - ended up taking the day off for appointments, and it is just nice to fritter, and read my book, and do paperwork. The time is going by so damn fast though!
Welcome last trimester!!!! All in all, I must say that I have been feeling pretty good. Weight gain has been reasonable, no crazy swelling, and baby is doing well.
I think my plan of not buying any maternity clothes this time around will be almost difficult - I am planning to wear all my loose skirts, but the weather is staying DAMN COLD. Remnants of winter have been kicking around way too long, and now that we have spring, at least my daffodils have made their appearance. Aside from a few sunny hours yesterday, it has not been skirt weather. So I may break and get something - or even just bigger pants. I can still fit in to some of my stuff, but the button gets popped (and I cross my fingers my zipper doesn't drop!).
Not sure when is the time to start preparing for bubs - although prep will consist of getting bag of age appropriate clothes, setting up the crib, and getting a few odds and ends - diapers, formula (just in case we run in to the same production issues as last time and need to supplement), more crack cream, and baby washing soap... there isn't much to do, but watch the weeks tick off. It is easier in a lot of ways than waiting for Brandon, and harder too, since you know how the first went, and you have no idea how this time will go. It is almost as mysterious as the first. Doc isn't expressing any major concerns, so I'm not either.
So what is up with gas prices? If you happen to fill up in the morning, you pay between 3 - 5 cents more than if you fill up at night. It is brutal. I can understand some price fluctuation, but since I have been paying more attention, the price changes from morning to night, every DAY! Especially on weekends - on Saturday almost got gas at 99.5 a litre, and last night, about dinnertime, it was at 94.9 a litre, and now today, it is back at 99.7 a litre. It is bizarre. I now won't buy gas before 5pm. What is the point? They get you on your way to work... What really gets me is that there isn't really consistency, or a real reason why for the variations, or maybe there is and I don't work in the right industry to understand.
Had an experience this weekend that reinforced how every day with kids you are learning stuff. Had made your own pizzas on Saturday night, and I guess I loaded B's and mine with too much cheese. And then we had some ice cream later on. Way too much fat content for the little guy's tummy and he woke up in the middle of the night, chatting up a storm, and about an hour later, we wore his dinner. At least we had had a similar experience just before Christmas with some really rich pasta, so I could at least understand what happened - too much fat and cheese and rich food = evacution from belly at a later date. Aside from talking about himself puking in the night and having a shower, B was no worse for wear on Sunday - I think I missed the extra hours sleep more than he did! First time this happened, I was half freaking out, this time, at least I knew what to expect. Coming full circle - I guess this is why it is so much easier the second time around with kids, you have already been through a trial by fire and you have a better idea of what to expect, even if it totally different.
I am enjoying a few hours to myself before I pick up B from daycare - ended up taking the day off for appointments, and it is just nice to fritter, and read my book, and do paperwork. The time is going by so damn fast though!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
My belly... at 26/27 weeks
This picture is from 26 weeks pregnant... so, about 6 months along. You can see my baby belly filling out, just about to pop! Ken and I were all dressed up to go out for a nice dinner at the Cannery and then to a Giants game... it was an awesome night!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
cute kid
Funny how our kids manifest stuff we do.
This morning Ken went in to wake up Brandon. His first words were "five more minutes please".
HYSTERICAL. And only 2 and 1/2!!!! I came in, and he said the same thing. He was so cute, I totally understood where he was coming from because I am tired today. It feels like it has been a long week.
So, 26 weeks, here we are. I am doing my gestational diabetes test this weekend after I go for a massage. Should make for a relaxing hour, then a bit of stress, then hanging out in the lab for another hour with a book. Third trimester is slowly sneaking up on us....
It's snowed up at work most days this week, and now the rains have started. St. Paddy's Day was good - wore green and had a sip of guinness! Our routine shifted on Monday and Tuesday nights, and the house went from looking pretty damn good to not so good. Or just scattered. We traded tv's with a friend of mine (she upgraded and we got lucky) and I learned that old tv was "only" 27 inches. I thought it was bigger, until we measured it. We now have a 36' tv and it seems so BIG! It is cool. Will be more cool once I stay up long enough to watch some movies on it.. LOL.
This morning Ken went in to wake up Brandon. His first words were "five more minutes please".
HYSTERICAL. And only 2 and 1/2!!!! I came in, and he said the same thing. He was so cute, I totally understood where he was coming from because I am tired today. It feels like it has been a long week.
So, 26 weeks, here we are. I am doing my gestational diabetes test this weekend after I go for a massage. Should make for a relaxing hour, then a bit of stress, then hanging out in the lab for another hour with a book. Third trimester is slowly sneaking up on us....
It's snowed up at work most days this week, and now the rains have started. St. Paddy's Day was good - wore green and had a sip of guinness! Our routine shifted on Monday and Tuesday nights, and the house went from looking pretty damn good to not so good. Or just scattered. We traded tv's with a friend of mine (she upgraded and we got lucky) and I learned that old tv was "only" 27 inches. I thought it was bigger, until we measured it. We now have a 36' tv and it seems so BIG! It is cool. Will be more cool once I stay up long enough to watch some movies on it.. LOL.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Strange day.
Today has felt like a bit of a comedy of errors at times, and then hurry up and wait, and yet, all in all, it has been a fine day.
Funny how when the sun is shining, it helps.
Success. Brandon actually has fallen asleep for a nap without me laying next to him, waiting for hours, hoping he would fall asleep. I went and sat at the computer, frittering away time and trying not to give in and go see him, and waited him out. I talked back to him, told him I would there in a sec, and then, all of a sudden, silence. It was strange. I went to check on him and he was flaked out, on the edge of his bed, like he fell asleep mid-sentence. BEAUTIFUL!!!!! No fight, just some stalling, and he's asleep. This is a big deal for me/us.
All good at my check in appointment (6 months, O M G) at the docs, and Brandon is also doing really well too (he saw his neurologist). Apparently he is awesome, we are winning, and well, it is somehow between him being really bright and motivated, and apparently, I am a pretty strong advocate whom has been doing the right stuff with him. Some days it doesn't feel like I do enough, but whatever we are doing is working, and he is more than ahead of the game. It's a big deal. There are so many unknowns, and so much the doctors can't tell you, and what we have gone through - well, they have no answers just that it truly is a random thing that cannot be easily explained, you just deal. Which really sucks, because human nature is that you want answers, but they aren't forthcoming. So, you deal, move on, and do what you can. Which is what we do. Kind of like money, have your freak out here and there, do what you can, and move on.
Funny how when the sun is shining, it helps.
Success. Brandon actually has fallen asleep for a nap without me laying next to him, waiting for hours, hoping he would fall asleep. I went and sat at the computer, frittering away time and trying not to give in and go see him, and waited him out. I talked back to him, told him I would there in a sec, and then, all of a sudden, silence. It was strange. I went to check on him and he was flaked out, on the edge of his bed, like he fell asleep mid-sentence. BEAUTIFUL!!!!! No fight, just some stalling, and he's asleep. This is a big deal for me/us.
All good at my check in appointment (6 months, O M G) at the docs, and Brandon is also doing really well too (he saw his neurologist). Apparently he is awesome, we are winning, and well, it is somehow between him being really bright and motivated, and apparently, I am a pretty strong advocate whom has been doing the right stuff with him. Some days it doesn't feel like I do enough, but whatever we are doing is working, and he is more than ahead of the game. It's a big deal. There are so many unknowns, and so much the doctors can't tell you, and what we have gone through - well, they have no answers just that it truly is a random thing that cannot be easily explained, you just deal. Which really sucks, because human nature is that you want answers, but they aren't forthcoming. So, you deal, move on, and do what you can. Which is what we do. Kind of like money, have your freak out here and there, do what you can, and move on.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
In like a lion
So far March is living up to the old cliche - "in like a lion"... I just hope we get to see the "out like a lamb". It's been a true winter down here on the coast - I can't remember ever being tired of snow before. I am though. Yesterday had to be one of the most stupidest commutes I have ever had to work. A 12 minute, pleasant drive turned in to close to 2 hours of gridlock, slippery, crazy drivers with bad tires skidding all over the place, jack-knifed buses, a true hellish time on the road. At the point where I made the decision to pull a U-turn, an accident of the bottom of my hill happened and the traffic to work in front of me opened up and all of a sudden it became pretty clear sailing the rest of the way in to work.
I was totally frazzled when I got in to work. Attention span - what attention span?
Today dawned cold and clear, and now that I am sitting at my desk, I prefer the static electricity in my hair to wondering how I am going to get home in the snow!
What's interesting? This baby seems to be a mover - I am not sure if it is just a different awareness, or perhaps not having as much going on in my life, but this baby seems to move around a lot, which is cool. It is a hard feeling to describe, as you can feel your baby shifting around, or when your belly muscles contract with a huge baby shift, or when you look at yourself naked, and you can see that bump starting to assert yourself. It's a neat time of wonder, what are you going to be like baby, what are you going to look like, and for Brandon, hopefully it is cool to be a big brother.. other than that, settling back in to routines - and time continues to fly (most of the time).
I was totally frazzled when I got in to work. Attention span - what attention span?
Today dawned cold and clear, and now that I am sitting at my desk, I prefer the static electricity in my hair to wondering how I am going to get home in the snow!
What's interesting? This baby seems to be a mover - I am not sure if it is just a different awareness, or perhaps not having as much going on in my life, but this baby seems to move around a lot, which is cool. It is a hard feeling to describe, as you can feel your baby shifting around, or when your belly muscles contract with a huge baby shift, or when you look at yourself naked, and you can see that bump starting to assert yourself. It's a neat time of wonder, what are you going to be like baby, what are you going to look like, and for Brandon, hopefully it is cool to be a big brother.. other than that, settling back in to routines - and time continues to fly (most of the time).
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
The Pregnant Ego
The last morning of flying solo dawned crisp and clear. B slept in (yay), got my shower in with no fuss, Ken called, B woke up, morning started to roll.
I was pretty much on time to get B to daycare, until I had a "what the hell do I wear today" moment, standing in front of my closet. I foolishly decided to try on a few of my old maternity tops. I think my body has shape-shifted a bit since B, and well, I am lighter than I was with him (not by much, but enough) that putting on the old tops instantly added about 20 pounds, and thrashed my ego.
Why do they make plus-sized maternity tops the same length as a dress? Hmm. Cover your belly, your ass, and the top part of your thighs. Ah yes, make the pregnant belle feel like a beached whale, or in the very minimum, worse about herself than shopping for a bathing suit. Lets cover everything big with draping material and see how she feels. I quickly went through three tops, and then grabbed an old, non-preggers top that is pretty flattering. Instant 25 pound weight loss. Whatever, who knows if I will ever wear those tops again. Too bad, they look good on the hanger...
Can't say I am a big fan of maternity clothes. I may buy a few loose skirts, or maybe a few bigger sized t-shirts, but that will be it. Maybe spring for some nice flats to wear with those skirts, but I am not going full-out on the maternity wear.
Shortly thereafter, B flooded the bathroom counter top when we were brushing our teeth. I can't say it was a stellar start to my day, I sat my ass back down and thought, I think I am about a have a moment, but it passed pretty quickly since I had just put on some mascara, moments like this makes great stand up comedy... hitting the grocery store on the way home, grab some dinner, and then back to the family unit once again.
I was pretty much on time to get B to daycare, until I had a "what the hell do I wear today" moment, standing in front of my closet. I foolishly decided to try on a few of my old maternity tops. I think my body has shape-shifted a bit since B, and well, I am lighter than I was with him (not by much, but enough) that putting on the old tops instantly added about 20 pounds, and thrashed my ego.
Why do they make plus-sized maternity tops the same length as a dress? Hmm. Cover your belly, your ass, and the top part of your thighs. Ah yes, make the pregnant belle feel like a beached whale, or in the very minimum, worse about herself than shopping for a bathing suit. Lets cover everything big with draping material and see how she feels. I quickly went through three tops, and then grabbed an old, non-preggers top that is pretty flattering. Instant 25 pound weight loss. Whatever, who knows if I will ever wear those tops again. Too bad, they look good on the hanger...
Can't say I am a big fan of maternity clothes. I may buy a few loose skirts, or maybe a few bigger sized t-shirts, but that will be it. Maybe spring for some nice flats to wear with those skirts, but I am not going full-out on the maternity wear.
Shortly thereafter, B flooded the bathroom counter top when we were brushing our teeth. I can't say it was a stellar start to my day, I sat my ass back down and thought, I think I am about a have a moment, but it passed pretty quickly since I had just put on some mascara, moments like this makes great stand up comedy... hitting the grocery store on the way home, grab some dinner, and then back to the family unit once again.
Monday, March 2, 2009
I am not going to win awards for supermom of the year
Hats off to you Nej for having to be the everything for your boys and straddling two households. I know your kids are older, but man, it still takes a lot of energy and a lot of attempts at some kind of balance to keep a handle on your sanity when your hubby is not in town..
This weekend went by a lot faster than I thought it would. Definitely got in a lot of quality time with B, had a few moments, such as him filling his swimming diaper with a mighty poo on the way to the wave pool yesterday (thankfully we had extra pants) so he a thorough cleaning and shower and a new swimmer prior to even entering the pool, and then having to clean out the somewhat stinky car seat once we got home, to him being the energizer bunny and not taking a nap yesterday, to him falling out of bed (at the end of it, not the side) and scaring the crap out of me on Saturday, to me catching his finger in the gate at the top of the stairs when I had him helping me wash some clothes and him screaming in pain and shaking and me worrying about breaking his poor finger (he's okay)... to not getting my baking done, or housecleaning, or laundry (had a load going at 6am today). Bah. It'll get done later. The gals from my bookclub are coming over tonight, and I think I will start with the caveat that "what you see is what you get" since I want to attempt grocery shopping on the way home since we are down to but a few diapers, a little fruit, and milk (a few staples in other words).
We did have fun at the aquarium, and the train, and getting ice cream (little duffer can consume an adult sized scoop with a huge smile and little wastage), and then eating pasta and hanging out, and hitting the pool, and being a good shopper, and reading books in bed. So much for trying to connect with a few gals on the net, I was more than likely asleep.
Officially six months along today - wow. Most days, the time is flying. It feels like the weeks are just clicking along. I still wouldn't say that I look obviously pregnant (in most of my clothes) and I am glad most things fit. I haven't quite figured out what I am willing to spring for when it comes to maternity wear. I am half thinking that for work I will ride it out in a bunch of loose skirts. Maybe just invest in some good flats... I am feeling good, just not all that energetic after 9pm. I haven't had any big cravings, but I would say that my complexion hasn't been great this time around. I have been half tempted to try on my wedding dress - this is pretty much where I was at when I was preggers with Brandon when we got married. Later on this month, it will be three years! Woo woo!
I am now reading at a snail's pace. Nights just aren't that long.. I had a few good things to rant about over the weekend, but they seem to have escaped me on this monday morning. If they come to me, I shall post again.
This weekend went by a lot faster than I thought it would. Definitely got in a lot of quality time with B, had a few moments, such as him filling his swimming diaper with a mighty poo on the way to the wave pool yesterday (thankfully we had extra pants) so he a thorough cleaning and shower and a new swimmer prior to even entering the pool, and then having to clean out the somewhat stinky car seat once we got home, to him being the energizer bunny and not taking a nap yesterday, to him falling out of bed (at the end of it, not the side) and scaring the crap out of me on Saturday, to me catching his finger in the gate at the top of the stairs when I had him helping me wash some clothes and him screaming in pain and shaking and me worrying about breaking his poor finger (he's okay)... to not getting my baking done, or housecleaning, or laundry (had a load going at 6am today). Bah. It'll get done later. The gals from my bookclub are coming over tonight, and I think I will start with the caveat that "what you see is what you get" since I want to attempt grocery shopping on the way home since we are down to but a few diapers, a little fruit, and milk (a few staples in other words).
We did have fun at the aquarium, and the train, and getting ice cream (little duffer can consume an adult sized scoop with a huge smile and little wastage), and then eating pasta and hanging out, and hitting the pool, and being a good shopper, and reading books in bed. So much for trying to connect with a few gals on the net, I was more than likely asleep.
Officially six months along today - wow. Most days, the time is flying. It feels like the weeks are just clicking along. I still wouldn't say that I look obviously pregnant (in most of my clothes) and I am glad most things fit. I haven't quite figured out what I am willing to spring for when it comes to maternity wear. I am half thinking that for work I will ride it out in a bunch of loose skirts. Maybe just invest in some good flats... I am feeling good, just not all that energetic after 9pm. I haven't had any big cravings, but I would say that my complexion hasn't been great this time around. I have been half tempted to try on my wedding dress - this is pretty much where I was at when I was preggers with Brandon when we got married. Later on this month, it will be three years! Woo woo!
I am now reading at a snail's pace. Nights just aren't that long.. I had a few good things to rant about over the weekend, but they seem to have escaped me on this monday morning. If they come to me, I shall post again.
Friday, February 27, 2009
My jeans are getting tighter..
Well, it looks like I may have another week (or two if I push it) in my jeans. I pulled them on this morning, and straight from the dryer they were not exactly all that forgiving. I was wondering if I could pull it off still, but they have stretched out and I haven't had to pop my button open yet.. (yet being the key word in that sentence, I haven't had lunch yet).
Ken's in Vegas for the NASCAR race and I am keeping the hearth fire burning. He left in the wee hours on Wednesday, and then I worked all day yesterday, and had to pick B up late from daycare... long work day, and then a weird night since our routine was completely off, B was up several times in the middle of the night, so my sleep was disjointed at best.
The snow is finally melting (again), the skies are clear, and I have no idea what we are going to do for dinner tonight. I figure keep it simple, be a bunch of big kids together. It will be a weekend of kid stuff, hitting the wave pool, maybe the aquarium, going for ice creams together... should be fun. Just strangely quiet without my other half.
Another week has blitzed by and I am closing in fast on 6 months. I have been feeling good, earlier mornings and earlier nights... some clothes aren't fitting so well, but I figure at 6 months and I am starting to whine now.. well, that is not so bad. I can't think of anything outstanding or truly interesting to say... so... adios
Ken's in Vegas for the NASCAR race and I am keeping the hearth fire burning. He left in the wee hours on Wednesday, and then I worked all day yesterday, and had to pick B up late from daycare... long work day, and then a weird night since our routine was completely off, B was up several times in the middle of the night, so my sleep was disjointed at best.
The snow is finally melting (again), the skies are clear, and I have no idea what we are going to do for dinner tonight. I figure keep it simple, be a bunch of big kids together. It will be a weekend of kid stuff, hitting the wave pool, maybe the aquarium, going for ice creams together... should be fun. Just strangely quiet without my other half.
Another week has blitzed by and I am closing in fast on 6 months. I have been feeling good, earlier mornings and earlier nights... some clothes aren't fitting so well, but I figure at 6 months and I am starting to whine now.. well, that is not so bad. I can't think of anything outstanding or truly interesting to say... so... adios
Thursday, February 19, 2009
There goes another week
Apparently that brief period of waxing poetic has already ground to a halt and I back to posting once a week.
We had a good v-day weekend. We kept it fairly low key - we hung out at the Granville Island market in the morning, and it was a bit of an illuminating experience for us. Yes, it was cool. In a way. Neat to see all the foods, and the fresh fish, and the exotic items to purchase. Not so cool, the prices. Everything is double what we would normally pay, even when not shopping at our local favourite big box grocery store. I guess we aren't cut out to be west enders, forking over those prices to be a cool dude shopping on the island.
As a tourist it would be cool, like us, being tourists for the morning, but I still stand by going down to Seattle and exploring Pikes - it is grittier, cheaper, and just seems to have a greater variety of wares, and corners, and really cool stores (like comic book stores, and little places to eat, and old nic-nacs), and everything isn't upper end. Maybe that is more us, I can see us next time heading back to Steveston to buy our fish from the back of a boat and soaking in the smells and sights of a working marina that heading to the city.
Ah, the truth eh. Give me flea markets, and hand me downs, and making my own crafty stuff and shopping at the outlets over big name prices any day.
Aside from that, week 22 is blitzing on by and I am "thickening" around the middle but not really showing. I am still falling asleep bloody early at night, and then waking up between 4 and 5am. Which really sucks. I should just get up, but I just don't want to at that time. Maybe tonight I will really try to make it to 10pm. LOL. There are some good shows on TV tonight, so that should help.
Hmmm... Nej has a great rant the other day... and I must agree with her about the octomom. Watching those t-zines at night, she is plastered all over the place, with more dirt coming out every day. Skeeves me out too. Sad. Poor kids. People have enough barriers to get through to have a normal life at the best of times.
We had a good v-day weekend. We kept it fairly low key - we hung out at the Granville Island market in the morning, and it was a bit of an illuminating experience for us. Yes, it was cool. In a way. Neat to see all the foods, and the fresh fish, and the exotic items to purchase. Not so cool, the prices. Everything is double what we would normally pay, even when not shopping at our local favourite big box grocery store. I guess we aren't cut out to be west enders, forking over those prices to be a cool dude shopping on the island.
As a tourist it would be cool, like us, being tourists for the morning, but I still stand by going down to Seattle and exploring Pikes - it is grittier, cheaper, and just seems to have a greater variety of wares, and corners, and really cool stores (like comic book stores, and little places to eat, and old nic-nacs), and everything isn't upper end. Maybe that is more us, I can see us next time heading back to Steveston to buy our fish from the back of a boat and soaking in the smells and sights of a working marina that heading to the city.
Ah, the truth eh. Give me flea markets, and hand me downs, and making my own crafty stuff and shopping at the outlets over big name prices any day.
Aside from that, week 22 is blitzing on by and I am "thickening" around the middle but not really showing. I am still falling asleep bloody early at night, and then waking up between 4 and 5am. Which really sucks. I should just get up, but I just don't want to at that time. Maybe tonight I will really try to make it to 10pm. LOL. There are some good shows on TV tonight, so that should help.
Hmmm... Nej has a great rant the other day... and I must agree with her about the octomom. Watching those t-zines at night, she is plastered all over the place, with more dirt coming out every day. Skeeves me out too. Sad. Poor kids. People have enough barriers to get through to have a normal life at the best of times.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Perhaps I am expanding.
21 weeks! Our ultrasound was a roaring success, and all clear on my blood work. YAY! My weight is also starting to creep up - I guess it was bound to happen. I am starting to show, but subtly. My moods have been all over the place - last week was trying. My goal is not to hit the same end weight I hit the first time around...
Things are better (more or less) this week. Van is on the fritz. Took it in today with a shopping list of complaints. Some stuff will be taken care of now, and some in a month when parts come in. Thank god for warranties, but what a pain in the ass that you have a brand new vehicle and after a year you have a shopping list of complaints to work through and not just routine maintenance.. that half pisses me off. You buy new for a reasons, and I guess that is a reason to get the extended warranty. Evil Socratic argument on that one.
What is up with the snow? Every time I have to go and work at the satellite campus, it snows. I am now three for three and it is getting annoying. Especially since I take the train across. Standing on the platforms is damn cold.
What else? Ongoing stuff with my mom. I just don't get how she thinks and processes stuff. I think I could go back to about this time when I was pregnant with Brandon and see complaints about exactly the same thing. Apparently my mom is stressed, and is dealing with issues (that no one else seems to know a damn thing about, usually means work, and she tends to create unreal drama where there shouldn't be any, weird weird weird...) and if you say anything negative about my brother, she is immediately on the defensive. Last night I saw her momentarily, and frankly between her mood and mine, I should have just "run away" but we got in to a few words, and as I said, I just don't get the drama, or the issues. Life is pretty damn good from the outside. And from what I know... shouldn't be that many issues happening either. In the course of our conversation, she said she has "higher expectations" of me than my brother.. hmm, I wonder why??? But bottom line is, why do you expect your daughter to be superwoman and not need support? That your son needs to be supported all over the place and is 30?
Now I am on another rant. Then I usually get the "I am not as articulate as you because I didn't get to go to university" line from my mom. I have never lorded it over anyone that I am (over) educated. Education doesn't make a man or woman, it is what you do with your life, the experiences you expose yourself too, how open your mind is - what you choose to do with your time and energy. Being able to articulate yourself doesn't come hand in hand with a post secondary education. Bah. So that is lame. Sometimes a blog is all about processing, and conversations like that with my mom leave me feeling empty of bereft. It makes me feel distant, like I don't want to open up or expose myself to the latest rant or threat of what I don't know that is causing her issues. I don't understand why during both pregnancies, and then with Brandon's early months, she was emotionally (for lack of a better term) absent because of her own "stuff". WTF? That's the time your daughter could actually use the strong support. It seems like the tables are turned and it is my mom that needs the support and to lend an ear for, but it means that I close off about myself, becuse I don't think she can handle anything beyond herself, and I guess I don't really trust what happens after I open up - what will come back at me later on , and I think that is a shame. Her loss, not mine since I think I have done enough "work" on myself to get beyond that - or at least I hope so. I try to be honest and transparent. I don't have anything to hide. I am still just learning, just like the other upright folks. I make mistakes, I ram my feet in myself, but doesn't mean I can't learn from it, or retract.
So, on another note, our hedge has been cut back today. We have a behemoth laurel hedge that was about 15 feet across at the top, and it has been trimmed back so much you can see a lot of daylight through it. It is a good thing, but it looks naked out there now. I know, give it a few months.. everything will grow.. LOL
Things are better (more or less) this week. Van is on the fritz. Took it in today with a shopping list of complaints. Some stuff will be taken care of now, and some in a month when parts come in. Thank god for warranties, but what a pain in the ass that you have a brand new vehicle and after a year you have a shopping list of complaints to work through and not just routine maintenance.. that half pisses me off. You buy new for a reasons, and I guess that is a reason to get the extended warranty. Evil Socratic argument on that one.
What is up with the snow? Every time I have to go and work at the satellite campus, it snows. I am now three for three and it is getting annoying. Especially since I take the train across. Standing on the platforms is damn cold.
What else? Ongoing stuff with my mom. I just don't get how she thinks and processes stuff. I think I could go back to about this time when I was pregnant with Brandon and see complaints about exactly the same thing. Apparently my mom is stressed, and is dealing with issues (that no one else seems to know a damn thing about, usually means work, and she tends to create unreal drama where there shouldn't be any, weird weird weird...) and if you say anything negative about my brother, she is immediately on the defensive. Last night I saw her momentarily, and frankly between her mood and mine, I should have just "run away" but we got in to a few words, and as I said, I just don't get the drama, or the issues. Life is pretty damn good from the outside. And from what I know... shouldn't be that many issues happening either. In the course of our conversation, she said she has "higher expectations" of me than my brother.. hmm, I wonder why??? But bottom line is, why do you expect your daughter to be superwoman and not need support? That your son needs to be supported all over the place and is 30?
Now I am on another rant. Then I usually get the "I am not as articulate as you because I didn't get to go to university" line from my mom. I have never lorded it over anyone that I am (over) educated. Education doesn't make a man or woman, it is what you do with your life, the experiences you expose yourself too, how open your mind is - what you choose to do with your time and energy. Being able to articulate yourself doesn't come hand in hand with a post secondary education. Bah. So that is lame. Sometimes a blog is all about processing, and conversations like that with my mom leave me feeling empty of bereft. It makes me feel distant, like I don't want to open up or expose myself to the latest rant or threat of what I don't know that is causing her issues. I don't understand why during both pregnancies, and then with Brandon's early months, she was emotionally (for lack of a better term) absent because of her own "stuff". WTF? That's the time your daughter could actually use the strong support. It seems like the tables are turned and it is my mom that needs the support and to lend an ear for, but it means that I close off about myself, becuse I don't think she can handle anything beyond herself, and I guess I don't really trust what happens after I open up - what will come back at me later on , and I think that is a shame. Her loss, not mine since I think I have done enough "work" on myself to get beyond that - or at least I hope so. I try to be honest and transparent. I don't have anything to hide. I am still just learning, just like the other upright folks. I make mistakes, I ram my feet in myself, but doesn't mean I can't learn from it, or retract.
So, on another note, our hedge has been cut back today. We have a behemoth laurel hedge that was about 15 feet across at the top, and it has been trimmed back so much you can see a lot of daylight through it. It is a good thing, but it looks naked out there now. I know, give it a few months.. everything will grow.. LOL
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
555
I have always liked the number 555. I am hitting that milepost in posting today!
Wow. I looked back the other day, there are 5 years of postings here. Life has certainly changed over these last few years...
A final rant for at least a few weeks. I am tired of hearing about the incident at YVR. Seeing it on the news every day, hearing about it on the news, every day, has completely desensitized me to the event. I think the outcome is atrocious. How anyone could have been left wandering around that area for 12 hours is bizarre. Every where along the line the "system" broke down and failed the family. From my own perspective, having worked in a form of customer service all the way along, how you could ignore, or just not "see" someone like that for so long is unreal. Hearing people say they did their job seems a farce when you see the outcome. I am sure there are more stories than are being told, but bottom line is that it never should have gotten to that place.
We don't need to hear about it all the time. The coverage is unending. Merciless. Almost to the point where I am sure I am not the only one tuning it out. Changing the channel, trying to get away from those images. We all need to be aware, but the public has been bludgeoned with it. What aren't we hearing about if this is what the media is fixated on? What is being swept under the carpet?? What new issues are being quietly laid to rest while this is flogged? I can't help but wonder.
I know the last few points have been rants, bordering on just things that have tweaked me, that are seemingly never ending issues that keep coming up with no resolution in sight. Or just something different to whinge about here, so you don't get tired of all the pregnancy stuff.
Whoot!
Wow. I looked back the other day, there are 5 years of postings here. Life has certainly changed over these last few years...
A final rant for at least a few weeks. I am tired of hearing about the incident at YVR. Seeing it on the news every day, hearing about it on the news, every day, has completely desensitized me to the event. I think the outcome is atrocious. How anyone could have been left wandering around that area for 12 hours is bizarre. Every where along the line the "system" broke down and failed the family. From my own perspective, having worked in a form of customer service all the way along, how you could ignore, or just not "see" someone like that for so long is unreal. Hearing people say they did their job seems a farce when you see the outcome. I am sure there are more stories than are being told, but bottom line is that it never should have gotten to that place.
We don't need to hear about it all the time. The coverage is unending. Merciless. Almost to the point where I am sure I am not the only one tuning it out. Changing the channel, trying to get away from those images. We all need to be aware, but the public has been bludgeoned with it. What aren't we hearing about if this is what the media is fixated on? What is being swept under the carpet?? What new issues are being quietly laid to rest while this is flogged? I can't help but wonder.
I know the last few points have been rants, bordering on just things that have tweaked me, that are seemingly never ending issues that keep coming up with no resolution in sight. Or just something different to whinge about here, so you don't get tired of all the pregnancy stuff.
Whoot!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
The rant continues.
It is one of those days that it is really hard having an office mate.
The crowding, the loud conversations, the not being able to have a private phone conversation unless I time it around their breaks, the smell of cigarettes and stale coffee.
Some days it doesn't bother me, other days. Well, it adds another dimension to my work day.
She is nice enough - this is just damn close encounters to be dealing with every day.
I also found out I don't get to go on the yearly trip to Victoria. I guess going on a mat leave precludes me from needing to participate. Bah. It is the one big perk of the job.
Needless to say, I think I am having one of those "moments".
/rant done for now.
The crowding, the loud conversations, the not being able to have a private phone conversation unless I time it around their breaks, the smell of cigarettes and stale coffee.
Some days it doesn't bother me, other days. Well, it adds another dimension to my work day.
She is nice enough - this is just damn close encounters to be dealing with every day.
I also found out I don't get to go on the yearly trip to Victoria. I guess going on a mat leave precludes me from needing to participate. Bah. It is the one big perk of the job.
Needless to say, I think I am having one of those "moments".
/rant done for now.
bitch, rant. moan.
A few things are bugging me this morning. The first being about the teachers in BC whom are refusing to administer the FSA testing. I am sure that this is a loaded topic, and everyone has their own opinion about it, and I know my kid(s) aren't school age yet, BUT, right from birth kids go through all kinds of assessment testing to see if they are on track. Even the (not so) simple stuff, gross and fine motor skill functioning, language skills, hearing, sight, all the basics. Those foundational skills and the testing of them is pretty important to see if there are any obvious shortfalls. Early intervention is truly the best way to cut these kinds of things off at the pass. I believe people enable and disable themselves all the time, and there is something to be said about knowing where you fit on the spectrum of things, doing an honest assessment, and then following through with what needs to be addressed. None of us develop equally, but hey, if you are ahead in some areas, and falling behind in others, what can you proactively do to give yourself the best chance?
Now, these tests for our kids. The teachers say it isn't in their job. WTF? Why are you so paranoid about your one corner of each individual kid's learning that you are scared of what the tests reveal? What about for the kids themselves? What if kids are slipping through the cracks in our system that doesn't really want to come out and say "your kid needs to be in this grade another year??" or, you didn't really put an effort in, but we'll reward what effort you did put in because it was better than last time. I want to know how my kid is doing - how is their reading and math skills, etc, and what do I need to be proactive about. I have worked in post secondary long enough to see what kind of skill sets kids are graduating with and they need all the help they can get!
And then the other thing. Our hockey team. You can hear the thumps of people jumping off of the bandwagon from miles away. I must admit, I am pretty lackadaisical about how I feel about the 'Nucks. I am thinking that the Giants kick ASS and are a way better product that the "big guys" in town. Much more entertaining, more charisma, more heart, and way way cheaper.
The walls are getting painted that the obvious head to roll is the coaches'. Everyone is lining up with their opinions, and what has happened to the team, and should we have gone for the big Swede. Well, it's farther than that. This team hasn't had charisma for a while. It isn't exciting to watch. Yes, there are sell out crowds, but is that crowd having fun? They are pretty damn quiet if they are! I laughed when I watched the interview from #55 last night -he spoke his mind and I am sure he will pay by warming the bench for a few games after coming out and calling out the coach. Then the big Swede - well, it is like when we brought the Moose in before he headed over to NY. Not really the next big saviour we expected him to be was he? I don't know. What do we need? Passionate coaching. Players that feel passionate about playing, and play for themselves and for the coach. Gritty play, following through with checks, consistency, and not relying on just one guy to make that difference. You win and lose as a team, and this team seems to have forgotten about it.
Now that I have that off my chest, I can continue on with my day.
Now, these tests for our kids. The teachers say it isn't in their job. WTF? Why are you so paranoid about your one corner of each individual kid's learning that you are scared of what the tests reveal? What about for the kids themselves? What if kids are slipping through the cracks in our system that doesn't really want to come out and say "your kid needs to be in this grade another year??" or, you didn't really put an effort in, but we'll reward what effort you did put in because it was better than last time. I want to know how my kid is doing - how is their reading and math skills, etc, and what do I need to be proactive about. I have worked in post secondary long enough to see what kind of skill sets kids are graduating with and they need all the help they can get!
And then the other thing. Our hockey team. You can hear the thumps of people jumping off of the bandwagon from miles away. I must admit, I am pretty lackadaisical about how I feel about the 'Nucks. I am thinking that the Giants kick ASS and are a way better product that the "big guys" in town. Much more entertaining, more charisma, more heart, and way way cheaper.
The walls are getting painted that the obvious head to roll is the coaches'. Everyone is lining up with their opinions, and what has happened to the team, and should we have gone for the big Swede. Well, it's farther than that. This team hasn't had charisma for a while. It isn't exciting to watch. Yes, there are sell out crowds, but is that crowd having fun? They are pretty damn quiet if they are! I laughed when I watched the interview from #55 last night -he spoke his mind and I am sure he will pay by warming the bench for a few games after coming out and calling out the coach. Then the big Swede - well, it is like when we brought the Moose in before he headed over to NY. Not really the next big saviour we expected him to be was he? I don't know. What do we need? Passionate coaching. Players that feel passionate about playing, and play for themselves and for the coach. Gritty play, following through with checks, consistency, and not relying on just one guy to make that difference. You win and lose as a team, and this team seems to have forgotten about it.
Now that I have that off my chest, I can continue on with my day.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Ye Haa. It's monday.
Well, I got a great night's sleep last night but it feels like my motivation has up and gone. Left me high and dry.
There's more snow on the hill. It's getting old. I am really looking forward to spring. It's nice because all of a sudden if feels like the days are getting longer since when I leave work it isn't dark out!
We went to the island for the weekend, and it is amazing how much easier it is to catch that crack of dawn ferry on the way there. Yup, you are dragging your ass but there is no line up to get on the ferry, and no traffic, and when you get to the other side, it actually feels like you have had a day over there, especially if you leave early on Sunday to get a bit of a catch up in. My gran is doing remarkably well for her age (94) but cruising through the "care campus" is disheartening when you look at the older folks who are just sitting there in their chairs, slack jawed, not saying or doing anything, just waiting. My gram is somewhat with it, and looking pretty good. She is getting tiny. I feel like an amazon next to her. This visit went well, for that I am grateful since it is hard to predict when we will get over there next.
Officially half way there. 20 weeks. I can feel my body shape evolving, but I don't think I look obviously pregnant yet. I have had the joys of random back pains in the last week - first my shoulder area, then my hips, and this morning it is my neck.
There's more snow on the hill. It's getting old. I am really looking forward to spring. It's nice because all of a sudden if feels like the days are getting longer since when I leave work it isn't dark out!
We went to the island for the weekend, and it is amazing how much easier it is to catch that crack of dawn ferry on the way there. Yup, you are dragging your ass but there is no line up to get on the ferry, and no traffic, and when you get to the other side, it actually feels like you have had a day over there, especially if you leave early on Sunday to get a bit of a catch up in. My gran is doing remarkably well for her age (94) but cruising through the "care campus" is disheartening when you look at the older folks who are just sitting there in their chairs, slack jawed, not saying or doing anything, just waiting. My gram is somewhat with it, and looking pretty good. She is getting tiny. I feel like an amazon next to her. This visit went well, for that I am grateful since it is hard to predict when we will get over there next.
Officially half way there. 20 weeks. I can feel my body shape evolving, but I don't think I look obviously pregnant yet. I have had the joys of random back pains in the last week - first my shoulder area, then my hips, and this morning it is my neck.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Body Image
It is easier in many ways being preggers the second time around. Some of the mystery is gone (not the awe) but some of the worries aren't.
Over the last year, I have slowly watched my weight creep down. When I got preggers this time around, I was actually 15 pounds less than the first time. Not huge numbers, but rewarding nonetheless. Now it is strange watching the number on the scale slowly start to creep back up again.
I don't think I will gain huge weight this go around, I didn't the first time. I figure it was somewhere between 32- 35 pounds. This time around, I would be happier around 25 pounds, but I am not stressing that much about it, since I am about 6-7 pounds at 19 weeks. So far, so good. But is still strange watching the weight go up, and it isn't really that noticeable because all my work clothes are big on me now. And everything does indeed shift before, during, after, and then again during baby. Things are different now too - I walk more, I actually go to the gym, even if that for me means just using a machine for a 1/2 hour. I think I eat a little different, although I still have my vices and it seems at work there are always snacks kicking around.
But how do I feel knowing I am gaining weight again? Mixed feelings. As long as it is reasonable and I am not gorging myself - great. Everything in moderation I say, and it means that after it should come off pretty well too. It is part of the motherhood journey, your changing physical self and coming to terms with it.
Showing is a funny thing when you aren't a bone rack - I know I won't get that "basketball belly" that some women get, I will just fill out a little more, and probably look pregnant in month 7. First time around I looking like I was "gaining weight" for the longest time before it became truly obvious. The joys of a taller, big-boned body type eh?
This go around - it is a different kind of bodily awareness. I think because I am caring more about my physicality, and perhaps because I know deep down that two would be the ideal amount for us. I feel little titters inside, it is like a great secret, knowing that it will probably be another month before someone else will be able to feel the baby - or maybe even just a matter of weeks.
Then again, first time around I was what weeks, if not days away from a wedding? Different time, different place. Self-hood is an interesting journey.
Over the last year, I have slowly watched my weight creep down. When I got preggers this time around, I was actually 15 pounds less than the first time. Not huge numbers, but rewarding nonetheless. Now it is strange watching the number on the scale slowly start to creep back up again.
I don't think I will gain huge weight this go around, I didn't the first time. I figure it was somewhere between 32- 35 pounds. This time around, I would be happier around 25 pounds, but I am not stressing that much about it, since I am about 6-7 pounds at 19 weeks. So far, so good. But is still strange watching the weight go up, and it isn't really that noticeable because all my work clothes are big on me now. And everything does indeed shift before, during, after, and then again during baby. Things are different now too - I walk more, I actually go to the gym, even if that for me means just using a machine for a 1/2 hour. I think I eat a little different, although I still have my vices and it seems at work there are always snacks kicking around.
But how do I feel knowing I am gaining weight again? Mixed feelings. As long as it is reasonable and I am not gorging myself - great. Everything in moderation I say, and it means that after it should come off pretty well too. It is part of the motherhood journey, your changing physical self and coming to terms with it.
Showing is a funny thing when you aren't a bone rack - I know I won't get that "basketball belly" that some women get, I will just fill out a little more, and probably look pregnant in month 7. First time around I looking like I was "gaining weight" for the longest time before it became truly obvious. The joys of a taller, big-boned body type eh?
This go around - it is a different kind of bodily awareness. I think because I am caring more about my physicality, and perhaps because I know deep down that two would be the ideal amount for us. I feel little titters inside, it is like a great secret, knowing that it will probably be another month before someone else will be able to feel the baby - or maybe even just a matter of weeks.
Then again, first time around I was what weeks, if not days away from a wedding? Different time, different place. Self-hood is an interesting journey.
Friday, January 23, 2009
The beautiful side of the fog cover from above
This is a picture making the email rounds taken from Cypress Bowl the other day... the view from my office is similar at sunset.. only add a few more trees interrupting my view to the left...
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Above the clouds
Well, we didn't win the lotto last night, as far as I can tell so I am back at work for another day.
The weather has been mighty strange around these parts. Aside from having a real winter, off the hill (AKA where I work) the world is enveloped by freezing fog.
My view from my office is much like what you see flying - except that I can see the snow outside of my offices and the treeline, and the rest is just fluffy clouds. No lower mainland, no island mountains, just a beautiful, endless stream of white that slowly dissolves in to blue sky.
Today just hasn't been a great day. A few things completely out of my control, and I am left behind to mop up the messes. Blech. Of course there are good moments sandwiched in between the frustrating ones, but it just seems like an uphill battle today.
On a total aside, the Canucks are totally sliding. It is almost amusing that with the Great Swede, the goaltender return, and the return of Finn, all hopes are pinned on these guys' shoulders. It is just bizarre, bandwagon jumpers, how the media plays up some elements - one guy isn't a team. What the team is missing is charisma - we went to the Flyers game at the end of December and there as no excitement at GM place. Why is that? People are dropping a lot of money to see a game and they just sit there and drink beer. Cheer, yell, enjoy... Bring back the organ player!!!
We saw almost as many Flyer's jerseys as we did Canuck's jerseys. This makes me way more excited to get out and watch something like the Giants (junior hockey)- where there is energy in the stands, and the game feels a bit more dynamic and the kids are hungry and trying to make it to the show, and you can go to a game and not spend $200 bucks for a good night out.
I am glad that the week is almost done... it's been a long week.
The weather has been mighty strange around these parts. Aside from having a real winter, off the hill (AKA where I work) the world is enveloped by freezing fog.
My view from my office is much like what you see flying - except that I can see the snow outside of my offices and the treeline, and the rest is just fluffy clouds. No lower mainland, no island mountains, just a beautiful, endless stream of white that slowly dissolves in to blue sky.
Today just hasn't been a great day. A few things completely out of my control, and I am left behind to mop up the messes. Blech. Of course there are good moments sandwiched in between the frustrating ones, but it just seems like an uphill battle today.
On a total aside, the Canucks are totally sliding. It is almost amusing that with the Great Swede, the goaltender return, and the return of Finn, all hopes are pinned on these guys' shoulders. It is just bizarre, bandwagon jumpers, how the media plays up some elements - one guy isn't a team. What the team is missing is charisma - we went to the Flyers game at the end of December and there as no excitement at GM place. Why is that? People are dropping a lot of money to see a game and they just sit there and drink beer. Cheer, yell, enjoy... Bring back the organ player!!!
We saw almost as many Flyer's jerseys as we did Canuck's jerseys. This makes me way more excited to get out and watch something like the Giants (junior hockey)- where there is energy in the stands, and the game feels a bit more dynamic and the kids are hungry and trying to make it to the show, and you can go to a game and not spend $200 bucks for a good night out.
I am glad that the week is almost done... it's been a long week.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
It is that good.
A friend from work said that she found the book was a bit long, and in some ways, not up to the hype since she read it when everyone else was apparently reading it, so for her, it was hard to live up to her expectations.
I just finished reading The Time Traveller's Wife and it was all that for me. I guess I read it with no expectations, and no hype, it was just a book that I heard was good.
It was great. I am almost sorry that the story is now done. It is a truly marvelous book and I hope that the movie they are making out of it does it some kind of justice. It is a hard book to describe to someone who hasn't read it, it is about time traveling without the science fiction element to it, about love and romance, and life, and all the bits that collect to it. It is about sadness, and waiting, and great joys, and the fantastical. If you have a few moments to spare and are looking for a great read, definitely worth your while.
Damn, what the hell do I read on the skytrain ride home? Just relax, and stare out? What a novel concept.. LOL
I just finished reading The Time Traveller's Wife and it was all that for me. I guess I read it with no expectations, and no hype, it was just a book that I heard was good.
It was great. I am almost sorry that the story is now done. It is a truly marvelous book and I hope that the movie they are making out of it does it some kind of justice. It is a hard book to describe to someone who hasn't read it, it is about time traveling without the science fiction element to it, about love and romance, and life, and all the bits that collect to it. It is about sadness, and waiting, and great joys, and the fantastical. If you have a few moments to spare and are looking for a great read, definitely worth your while.
Damn, what the hell do I read on the skytrain ride home? Just relax, and stare out? What a novel concept.. LOL
Monday, January 19, 2009
Just a random monday
I can't believe I am already 18 weeks along. Where the hell has the time gone? I am well entrenched in to the second trimester, and I must admit, the second time around is mostly easier, because you have an idea of what to expect. The harder part is that you know more, and the wait after all your blood work gets done and that first dating ultrasound moving to the past is a big deal because then you can (hopefully) breath a huge sigh of relief.
I am cooking in my office. The sun is glaring off the snow, and the heat is full on. Having a slightly open window is not making a difference at all. I have the blinds down, am sweating, and it feels like I should be on a beach somewhere south. I am only complaining a little - it is nice to finally be on the right side of the temperature inversion and not be wondering how the hell I am going to get down from this hill in a blizzard.
So yes, I will try to return to semi-regular postings again. It was hard in December with being so busy, and well, having some fairly big news that I wasn't quite ready to break yet.
Our computer also rolled over last month- more than likely not a virus but some lovely bit ended up corrupted. It is amazing the amount of time you can spend reinstalling programs to get your computer back to where it was before any of the chaos started. I think we have things running better, and well, we had a big backlog of shows to watch on the ol' PVR so losing them probably isn't a bad thing. Starting fresh. It is kind of nice.
I felt like a bit of a shit this weekend because I ended up adjusting some plans with friends. Aiming to get together and eat after 8 just wasn't working for me. So, I made a comment about it and wasn't popular because then a few other folks were baulking at eating later on. Everything ended up working out in the end, and I was really glad.. but when I am starting to consider making more dinner for my sitters (thanks folks) and Brandon and then some for myself and I am heading to eat at a buffet.. something is wrong... we still ended up eating at 8, but we weren't starting in the line at that point (which made a huge difference).
At this point I figure it is fair to say this is what works for us making the plans, and then you can say what works for you, if you need to make changes, and then see if it works to meet in the middle - if it doesn't, maybe next time! It isn't all or nothing, and I think if someone says... well, that doesn't quite work, how about this, that is ok, you have to honor yourself and yours, and hopefully make things work.
I am cooking in my office. The sun is glaring off the snow, and the heat is full on. Having a slightly open window is not making a difference at all. I have the blinds down, am sweating, and it feels like I should be on a beach somewhere south. I am only complaining a little - it is nice to finally be on the right side of the temperature inversion and not be wondering how the hell I am going to get down from this hill in a blizzard.
So yes, I will try to return to semi-regular postings again. It was hard in December with being so busy, and well, having some fairly big news that I wasn't quite ready to break yet.
Our computer also rolled over last month- more than likely not a virus but some lovely bit ended up corrupted. It is amazing the amount of time you can spend reinstalling programs to get your computer back to where it was before any of the chaos started. I think we have things running better, and well, we had a big backlog of shows to watch on the ol' PVR so losing them probably isn't a bad thing. Starting fresh. It is kind of nice.
I felt like a bit of a shit this weekend because I ended up adjusting some plans with friends. Aiming to get together and eat after 8 just wasn't working for me. So, I made a comment about it and wasn't popular because then a few other folks were baulking at eating later on. Everything ended up working out in the end, and I was really glad.. but when I am starting to consider making more dinner for my sitters (thanks folks) and Brandon and then some for myself and I am heading to eat at a buffet.. something is wrong... we still ended up eating at 8, but we weren't starting in the line at that point (which made a huge difference).
At this point I figure it is fair to say this is what works for us making the plans, and then you can say what works for you, if you need to make changes, and then see if it works to meet in the middle - if it doesn't, maybe next time! It isn't all or nothing, and I think if someone says... well, that doesn't quite work, how about this, that is ok, you have to honor yourself and yours, and hopefully make things work.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
I like to drop big news in a meme.
1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?
Played hockey with my son… went to the Harrison Hot Springs Sand Castle competition.
2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I haven’t really been making resolutions for a few years – I always can lose weight, be nicer to myself, etc.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes, my friends Cheryl and Kelz.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Not this year.
5. What countries did you visit?
United States (the shopping is good) and Calgary. Does Alberta count???
6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
Greater financial stability.
7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
The day we found out we were having a second baby.
The day Brandon took his first steps.
The day Ken, Brandon and I stood under the waterfall outside of Hope.
The day I found out Brandon was doing a-ok, and see you next year.
The day I got hired at my new job, after finding out the old job wasn’t so good for becoming a parent again.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Starting to go to the gym and working out – even if working out is ½ hour on the elliptical trainer.
9. What was your biggest failure?
It’s funny, I don’t really think of anything as being a failure, when things don’t happen the best way, it is a learning experience.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nothing really stands out.
11. What was the best thing you bought?.
Our new campstove, even if we haven’t used it yet.
The new aerobed.
The XOBX 360 to connect to our computer and Media Center.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
Depends on what day, what time, the cycle of the moon, yadda yadda yadda. Everyone could be on this list at some time.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Behaviour of the media? I don’t really give anyone that power to make me appalled and depressed in the way it will have an impact on my life. Sad, perhaps, wishful perhaps that things could have been different, but I try not to live with any regrets.
14. Where did most of your money go?
If I knew that, I would be really happy. Bills. Bills. More damn bills. Daycare.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Brandon is walking and doing really well!! That we have another surprise coming June 22nd.
16. What song will always remind you of 2008?
Move it Like This – Baha Men, because Brandon likes to hear it again and again in my car.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder? Happier. Things are much more even keeled.
b) thinner or fatter? A little thinner but that will change in the next few months.
c) richer or poorer? A little of both. More assets, more debts.
18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Spent time outside – at the beach, at the park, in the woods, camping.
More little getaways with Ken and Brandon.
Spent more time with a few girlfriends who don't live nearly close enough.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Work.
20. How did you spend Christmas?
With family, wondering when the snow would stop.
21. Did you fall in love in 2008?
I fell a long time ago.
22. What was your favorite TV program?
CSI:Miami when I have a chance to watch it.
23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
Hate takes a lot of energy, and I just don’t have any to spare. That’d be a no.
24. What was the best book you read?
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan
25. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Some older Flogging Molly? Didn’t really get a lot of chances to enjoy a lot of new music. That if you just give up and sing, your kids adore you for it.
26. What did you want and get?
New PJs and some more books.
27. What did you want and not get?
To be debt free, LOL.
28. What was your favorite film of this year?
WallE, and the movies Ken and I got to see on date nights… and then Toy Story and the short films from Monsters Inc for the joys they brought Brandon.
29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 35 and I believe that we had a really nice dinner with the family. We didn’t do anything too exciting.
30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Job stability and actually liking my job.
31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
Classical and comfortable, while learning to get more flattering shoe types...
32. What kept you sane?
My husband, my kid, my animals, my books, and my friends.
33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Fancy? Can’t say any are at the top of my list right now.
34. What political issue stirred you the most?
The US election and the excitement it caused worldwide.
35. Who did you miss?
My mom’s mom (grandma).
36. Who was the best new person you met?
Not sure.
37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
Which one?
Learning how to let go more, be more authentic, be true to yourself, all that self-actualizing stuff, be true to those you love, say what you mean... etc.
38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
I always make up my own lyrics since I can never remember the words so I am not going to waste much time trying to think of something prolific to put here.
Played hockey with my son… went to the Harrison Hot Springs Sand Castle competition.
2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I haven’t really been making resolutions for a few years – I always can lose weight, be nicer to myself, etc.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes, my friends Cheryl and Kelz.
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Not this year.
5. What countries did you visit?
United States (the shopping is good) and Calgary. Does Alberta count???
6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
Greater financial stability.
7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
The day we found out we were having a second baby.
The day Brandon took his first steps.
The day Ken, Brandon and I stood under the waterfall outside of Hope.
The day I found out Brandon was doing a-ok, and see you next year.
The day I got hired at my new job, after finding out the old job wasn’t so good for becoming a parent again.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Starting to go to the gym and working out – even if working out is ½ hour on the elliptical trainer.
9. What was your biggest failure?
It’s funny, I don’t really think of anything as being a failure, when things don’t happen the best way, it is a learning experience.
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nothing really stands out.
11. What was the best thing you bought?.
Our new campstove, even if we haven’t used it yet.
The new aerobed.
The XOBX 360 to connect to our computer and Media Center.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
Depends on what day, what time, the cycle of the moon, yadda yadda yadda. Everyone could be on this list at some time.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Behaviour of the media? I don’t really give anyone that power to make me appalled and depressed in the way it will have an impact on my life. Sad, perhaps, wishful perhaps that things could have been different, but I try not to live with any regrets.
14. Where did most of your money go?
If I knew that, I would be really happy. Bills. Bills. More damn bills. Daycare.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Brandon is walking and doing really well!! That we have another surprise coming June 22nd.
16. What song will always remind you of 2008?
Move it Like This – Baha Men, because Brandon likes to hear it again and again in my car.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder? Happier. Things are much more even keeled.
b) thinner or fatter? A little thinner but that will change in the next few months.
c) richer or poorer? A little of both. More assets, more debts.
18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Spent time outside – at the beach, at the park, in the woods, camping.
More little getaways with Ken and Brandon.
Spent more time with a few girlfriends who don't live nearly close enough.
19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Work.
20. How did you spend Christmas?
With family, wondering when the snow would stop.
21. Did you fall in love in 2008?
I fell a long time ago.
22. What was your favorite TV program?
CSI:Miami when I have a chance to watch it.
23. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
Hate takes a lot of energy, and I just don’t have any to spare. That’d be a no.
24. What was the best book you read?
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan
25. What was your greatest musical discovery?
Some older Flogging Molly? Didn’t really get a lot of chances to enjoy a lot of new music. That if you just give up and sing, your kids adore you for it.
26. What did you want and get?
New PJs and some more books.
27. What did you want and not get?
To be debt free, LOL.
28. What was your favorite film of this year?
WallE, and the movies Ken and I got to see on date nights… and then Toy Story and the short films from Monsters Inc for the joys they brought Brandon.
29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 35 and I believe that we had a really nice dinner with the family. We didn’t do anything too exciting.
30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Job stability and actually liking my job.
31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
Classical and comfortable, while learning to get more flattering shoe types...
32. What kept you sane?
My husband, my kid, my animals, my books, and my friends.
33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Fancy? Can’t say any are at the top of my list right now.
34. What political issue stirred you the most?
The US election and the excitement it caused worldwide.
35. Who did you miss?
My mom’s mom (grandma).
36. Who was the best new person you met?
Not sure.
37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
Which one?
Learning how to let go more, be more authentic, be true to yourself, all that self-actualizing stuff, be true to those you love, say what you mean... etc.
38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
I always make up my own lyrics since I can never remember the words so I am not going to waste much time trying to think of something prolific to put here.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
catching up on some good reads
After not being able to read much for early December, I was finally able to get through a few books over the holidays. Funny how a few feet of snow will help enable a person for that!
I read a few of my favorite escapist novelists, and also managed to pick up a few not so light reading materials.
Although it took me nearly three months to read, I finally finished Madame Proust and the Kosher Kitchen by Katy Taylor. It felt like a book I would have read back in the day of doing my English degree. It was good - one of those novels that gets better upon reflection but it wasn't an easy read or a page burner. It was one I struggled through, not because I wasn't interested, I just didn't find it easy to read. Comparing it to some of the Canadian Lit I have read, this was a great read! LOL Well worth a perusal, three stories about three women in different times with interwoven historical threads. It was a very subtle and good read.
I just finished Walking After Midnight by Katy Hutchinson. Wow. What a compelling novel. One of the ladies in my book club mentioned it, and it was nothing like what I expected. It is a story about being true to oneself, moving through an unbelievable tragedy (the murder of your husband), and the power of restorative justice. It is a true story, and a local one at that, Squamish. Well worth a read, not always easy, but very powerful stuff.
I am now working my way through the Time Traveler's Wife and it is enchanting in its differences. I have heard nothing but good things about this book - and so far it is living up to the hype, we shall see as the pages unfold and the love story develops over "time".
I read a few of my favorite escapist novelists, and also managed to pick up a few not so light reading materials.
Although it took me nearly three months to read, I finally finished Madame Proust and the Kosher Kitchen by Katy Taylor. It felt like a book I would have read back in the day of doing my English degree. It was good - one of those novels that gets better upon reflection but it wasn't an easy read or a page burner. It was one I struggled through, not because I wasn't interested, I just didn't find it easy to read. Comparing it to some of the Canadian Lit I have read, this was a great read! LOL Well worth a perusal, three stories about three women in different times with interwoven historical threads. It was a very subtle and good read.
I just finished Walking After Midnight by Katy Hutchinson. Wow. What a compelling novel. One of the ladies in my book club mentioned it, and it was nothing like what I expected. It is a story about being true to oneself, moving through an unbelievable tragedy (the murder of your husband), and the power of restorative justice. It is a true story, and a local one at that, Squamish. Well worth a read, not always easy, but very powerful stuff.
I am now working my way through the Time Traveler's Wife and it is enchanting in its differences. I have heard nothing but good things about this book - and so far it is living up to the hype, we shall see as the pages unfold and the love story develops over "time".
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Huh?
I have no sparkling and valid excuses for why I have dropped off of the face of the blogisphere.
I have just been damn busy.
Snowed in like the rest of everyone else - and fighting winter colds, almost flus, midnight runs to the hospital to make sure the little dude was alright, getting ready for Christmas, procrastinating about our Christmas cards... they will be belated cards, I have them somewhat prepared, but I have been saying that for a few days now.
Christmas was good - a quiet affair this year.
New Years was good, another quiet affair. A little time with the core family group with a great dinner, some family time, some friend time, some banging on pots at midnight time.
The great snow falls, and then the great melt has had a huge impact on just everything.
It's been strange experiencing a true Canadian winter - snow. More snow. More snow. A little clearing, then more snow. Now rain, and there is what looks like to be some breaks in the clouds and I went outside at lunch and I didn't freeze! Who knew?
So, it's a new year, and I won't make any promises, but it shouldn't be another month before I decide to appear again. There are a few things on the horizon that I suspect will take up a few inches of space on here. Plus I have read a few interesting books in the interim too.
So, hello. I am back.
Happy New Years and all the rest!
I have just been damn busy.
Snowed in like the rest of everyone else - and fighting winter colds, almost flus, midnight runs to the hospital to make sure the little dude was alright, getting ready for Christmas, procrastinating about our Christmas cards... they will be belated cards, I have them somewhat prepared, but I have been saying that for a few days now.
Christmas was good - a quiet affair this year.
New Years was good, another quiet affair. A little time with the core family group with a great dinner, some family time, some friend time, some banging on pots at midnight time.
The great snow falls, and then the great melt has had a huge impact on just everything.
It's been strange experiencing a true Canadian winter - snow. More snow. More snow. A little clearing, then more snow. Now rain, and there is what looks like to be some breaks in the clouds and I went outside at lunch and I didn't freeze! Who knew?
So, it's a new year, and I won't make any promises, but it shouldn't be another month before I decide to appear again. There are a few things on the horizon that I suspect will take up a few inches of space on here. Plus I have read a few interesting books in the interim too.
So, hello. I am back.
Happy New Years and all the rest!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Girls night...
It been eons, but last night, instead of meeting up and discussing a book, my book club went to the movies. We saw the Secret Life of Bees... it was poignant, and I think a fairly faithful rendition of the book. It was a total chick flick, and not the type that I will twist my DH's arm to watch at a later date. Aside from the five of us, there were 2 other couples of women.
Definitely a woman's movie, LOL.
Brandon was channeling his inner two year old this morning. Gawd Forbid. I cut his toe nails this morning and that set him right off. The crying. The whining. The whinging. Ah, I love that boy but he was a bit trying this morning. Only a few minutes late for work, but it is amazing how mercurial his moods can be at times. No, he truly not a terrible two (I think that parents control a lot of that with feeding and naps) but there are moments, where their moods are all over the board, and you just have to ride it out.
I have a bunch of books on the go - I am reading the latest Reichs book. I still really enjoy them, but you can tell that she has a sharper wit in her books. I laugh, but I also find it more crafted than her earlier books. I am also in the middle of the Twilight series... Yes, I am enjoying them as good escapist literature.. and then for my literary side I am reading "Madame Proust and the Kosher Kitchen" which is interesting, but definitely not a fast read. It is my work read, so I am plodding my way through it since I haven't really been getting the chance to take proper lunches in the last few weeks.
Definitely a woman's movie, LOL.
Brandon was channeling his inner two year old this morning. Gawd Forbid. I cut his toe nails this morning and that set him right off. The crying. The whining. The whinging. Ah, I love that boy but he was a bit trying this morning. Only a few minutes late for work, but it is amazing how mercurial his moods can be at times. No, he truly not a terrible two (I think that parents control a lot of that with feeding and naps) but there are moments, where their moods are all over the board, and you just have to ride it out.
I have a bunch of books on the go - I am reading the latest Reichs book. I still really enjoy them, but you can tell that she has a sharper wit in her books. I laugh, but I also find it more crafted than her earlier books. I am also in the middle of the Twilight series... Yes, I am enjoying them as good escapist literature.. and then for my literary side I am reading "Madame Proust and the Kosher Kitchen" which is interesting, but definitely not a fast read. It is my work read, so I am plodding my way through it since I haven't really been getting the chance to take proper lunches in the last few weeks.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Well, I guess it's a good thing I didn't sign up...
I had high hopes of participating in NABLOPO this year...I figure that I love following the few friends that valiantly post every day for the month, and it is just nice to return the favor. If I would have attempted it this time around, I would have been abusing my time stamps on a daily basis, which pretty much defeats the whole spirit of the thing.
Maybe next year :D
It's been another damn busy month. Lots of history made. Lots of days I can't believe that the markets are still free-falling or that our dollar could be getting hammered like it is.
It's also joyous paying less than a dollar for gas. At $50 bucks a barrel, I wonder what kind of a rude awakening we are in for when the market readjusts itself.
I have been bloody tired this month with the longer nights and just bloody busy at work. I acquired more work, and now I have to learn to give up some of my work too. Before I do that, I have to get procedures manuals done... a never ending cycle of to dos.. and the word gets out I am here, and it seems that I am a popular person to seek out. So much so the newest on board made a comment about it this week.
Brandon had a follow up appointment this morning for his hydrocephalus and we officially got the all clear, life is good, and we'll see you in a year. What a huge weight off of our shoulders. Then again, I knew this. As a mother you do develop a sixth sense for when your kid is just not "right" and when something is "wrong". He's doing awesome. Or to quote my little dude:
me - "Hey Brandon, you are so my baby"
Brandon - "Hey Mom - I'm not a baby, I am a ROCK STAR."
Enough said. Cheeky bugger. Fits right in. And he is healthy as hell!!!! YAYAYAYAYAYA!
Maybe next year :D
It's been another damn busy month. Lots of history made. Lots of days I can't believe that the markets are still free-falling or that our dollar could be getting hammered like it is.
It's also joyous paying less than a dollar for gas. At $50 bucks a barrel, I wonder what kind of a rude awakening we are in for when the market readjusts itself.
I have been bloody tired this month with the longer nights and just bloody busy at work. I acquired more work, and now I have to learn to give up some of my work too. Before I do that, I have to get procedures manuals done... a never ending cycle of to dos.. and the word gets out I am here, and it seems that I am a popular person to seek out. So much so the newest on board made a comment about it this week.
Brandon had a follow up appointment this morning for his hydrocephalus and we officially got the all clear, life is good, and we'll see you in a year. What a huge weight off of our shoulders. Then again, I knew this. As a mother you do develop a sixth sense for when your kid is just not "right" and when something is "wrong". He's doing awesome. Or to quote my little dude:
me - "Hey Brandon, you are so my baby"
Brandon - "Hey Mom - I'm not a baby, I am a ROCK STAR."
Enough said. Cheeky bugger. Fits right in. And he is healthy as hell!!!! YAYAYAYAYAYA!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Not winning the housekeeper of the year award
I blame my mother.
Growing up, my mom was a fastidious cleaner. I think I started rebelling against her extreme cleanliness standards young, channeling my inner pack rat and having a messy room. It seemed at times having a perfect house was more important than enjoying life. You can read all sorts of psychology in to this, but in many ways my mom claims this was one way that she felt she had control over her life, was controlling her environment to the nth degree.
Weekends are my big clean up day. I hate to admit it, some nights, cleaning the kitchen is the last thing I want to do. So, things get cluttered. Sometimes life happens, and I can't say that making sure my house is picture perfect all the time is ever going to happen. Hell, I am proud when the house stays semi-tidy for my work week... normally it is "big clean up day" around the house on Saturday.. or if I push it.. Sunday. Working full-time, juggling home life, is one helluva balance.
Growing up, my mom was a fastidious cleaner. I think I started rebelling against her extreme cleanliness standards young, channeling my inner pack rat and having a messy room. It seemed at times having a perfect house was more important than enjoying life. You can read all sorts of psychology in to this, but in many ways my mom claims this was one way that she felt she had control over her life, was controlling her environment to the nth degree.
Weekends are my big clean up day. I hate to admit it, some nights, cleaning the kitchen is the last thing I want to do. So, things get cluttered. Sometimes life happens, and I can't say that making sure my house is picture perfect all the time is ever going to happen. Hell, I am proud when the house stays semi-tidy for my work week... normally it is "big clean up day" around the house on Saturday.. or if I push it.. Sunday. Working full-time, juggling home life, is one helluva balance.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
I even got in early today.
Must have been something in the air this morning, not only did the right candidate win last night for the folks down south, IMH, but I got in to work early today.
I have beaten the paper monster back from half of my desk, but I still feel like there are a lot of outstanding bits and pieces. Makes me feel half anxious - knowing there is stuff floating around my desk I haven't gotten to and there are only so many hours in the day - even when I skip lunches and breaks, and just work my ass off to get it done. I hate the missing breaks, etc (we don't get paid OT, just time off) but they also give a little, giving me time off for appointments when I need it.. so, at the end of the day it all comes out in the wash.
Life seems busy, busy. I can't believe it is November, with Christmas around the corner. It really feels like it is sneaking up on us this year.
I have beaten the paper monster back from half of my desk, but I still feel like there are a lot of outstanding bits and pieces. Makes me feel half anxious - knowing there is stuff floating around my desk I haven't gotten to and there are only so many hours in the day - even when I skip lunches and breaks, and just work my ass off to get it done. I hate the missing breaks, etc (we don't get paid OT, just time off) but they also give a little, giving me time off for appointments when I need it.. so, at the end of the day it all comes out in the wash.
Life seems busy, busy. I can't believe it is November, with Christmas around the corner. It really feels like it is sneaking up on us this year.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
the next Harry?
I have jumped in to a new series, but it is taking me a while to really get in to it.
A few people had mentioned the Twilight series, about vampires and werewolves, that seemed to come out of nowhere and is all of sudden really popular with a movie coming out this winter (don't quote me on this).
I am on Book 2 - New Moon and it is more what I would call an easy read, totally escapist literature with a bit of an occultist bent. The characters took a while to warm up to, and I do care, but it is one of those reads that I can power through 50 pages in a 1/2 hour break. Not that deep, but interesting enough for a break at work. That said, I am sure I will finish the series off (being able to borrow and not buy them helps) but I don't feel as drawn in to the magic as I was with Harry and his gang. I can't wait for the next movie to come out. Hell, I would love to get out for a movie, although nothing has really caught my fancy for the last few months...
A few people had mentioned the Twilight series, about vampires and werewolves, that seemed to come out of nowhere and is all of sudden really popular with a movie coming out this winter (don't quote me on this).
I am on Book 2 - New Moon and it is more what I would call an easy read, totally escapist literature with a bit of an occultist bent. The characters took a while to warm up to, and I do care, but it is one of those reads that I can power through 50 pages in a 1/2 hour break. Not that deep, but interesting enough for a break at work. That said, I am sure I will finish the series off (being able to borrow and not buy them helps) but I don't feel as drawn in to the magic as I was with Harry and his gang. I can't wait for the next movie to come out. Hell, I would love to get out for a movie, although nothing has really caught my fancy for the last few months...
Monday, November 3, 2008
Broken sleep
It's been a long haul over the last week. I guess just over the last week. B went through a minor surgery last week (planned, nothing major) and recovery has been steady, just slow. When your little guy is hurting, nothing in your world is right.
It amazes me when you have a little one how important the basics are - are they drinking? are they eating? are they crapping? how is their temperature? overall mood? are they sleeping enough? Are you? You watch these things like a hawk...
When things start to ease off, it is like a weight off of your shoulders, and then you just keep on marching forwards.
I took today off work - wasn't planned, but I figured my little guy should have another day at home, with just mom.
It's amazing how important it is when folks just "check in". The little kindnesses - like asking how is your dude doing (those that knew, I wasn't that vocal about what we went through in everyone's defense)and my dad just hanging out with us - not doing much, bringing timbits (my son is a true Canuck. He lurves his timbits) to the moments where B cuddles in and says he loves me.
It amazes me when you have a little one how important the basics are - are they drinking? are they eating? are they crapping? how is their temperature? overall mood? are they sleeping enough? Are you? You watch these things like a hawk...
When things start to ease off, it is like a weight off of your shoulders, and then you just keep on marching forwards.
I took today off work - wasn't planned, but I figured my little guy should have another day at home, with just mom.
It's amazing how important it is when folks just "check in". The little kindnesses - like asking how is your dude doing (those that knew, I wasn't that vocal about what we went through in everyone's defense)and my dad just hanging out with us - not doing much, bringing timbits (my son is a true Canuck. He lurves his timbits) to the moments where B cuddles in and says he loves me.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Hallowe'ening...
Why give up on being a big kid?? Check out my tiger..
Would not have believe it, but some of those patterns you can use are really cool!
Saturday, November 1, 2008
do I?
Do I attempt the whole NaBloPoMo event again this year?
I enjoy the continual posts from my friends that participate - especially since it seems that over the years my ability to post regularly seems to hit some real slides.
I haven't gone and signed up yet, I haven't posted the patch.. I want to give it a few days and see what I can come up.
There are always interesting tidbits running around my head that I can comment on, those thoughts don't always make it from my head to the page.
So, I shall give it a shot - ramble on and on for the next month. See where we end up.
Halloween was quiet for us this year - took B around to a few houses, and then spent a quiet night on the couch. No hockey, the folks bailed and hopefully I can play next week. The hardest part is finding sitters for our weird hockey times on friday nights.
I enjoy the continual posts from my friends that participate - especially since it seems that over the years my ability to post regularly seems to hit some real slides.
I haven't gone and signed up yet, I haven't posted the patch.. I want to give it a few days and see what I can come up.
There are always interesting tidbits running around my head that I can comment on, those thoughts don't always make it from my head to the page.
So, I shall give it a shot - ramble on and on for the next month. See where we end up.
Halloween was quiet for us this year - took B around to a few houses, and then spent a quiet night on the couch. No hockey, the folks bailed and hopefully I can play next week. The hardest part is finding sitters for our weird hockey times on friday nights.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
I got the better book this go around...
This month for book club, we are going to be reading "Running with Scissors" by Augusten Burroughs... which I read well over a year ago. It was definitely an interesting book, made my family life seem bland, and made my eyebrows go up a few times at just how different a life can be - not only that, what is normal but what you happen to know?
Well, I discovered that his brother had written his own memoir, which I jumped at the chance at reading instead. It is called "Look me in the Eye" by John Elder Robinson and what a read it was! Probably just as unusual and off-beat as Running.. but I enjoyed this read more. I liked his style, and perhaps I connected better with John's tale than Augusten's tale. Whatever the case, I laughed out loud a few times in this book... I really enjoyed it right up until the very end.
I admit it, sometimes I like to read reviews of books that I have read on the big book sites... and well, one of the comments about this book was that it wasn't what they expected, and that reading this wouldn't give clear insight to all Aspergians. No shit. I think Elder makes the case that if you have met one Aspergian, you have met one Aspergian. Isn't that like life? Yes, you can generalize to your last breath, and there may be similarities, but no two of us are alike. We all have our own story, and this is what this was.
And in that, a great read.
Well, I discovered that his brother had written his own memoir, which I jumped at the chance at reading instead. It is called "Look me in the Eye" by John Elder Robinson and what a read it was! Probably just as unusual and off-beat as Running.. but I enjoyed this read more. I liked his style, and perhaps I connected better with John's tale than Augusten's tale. Whatever the case, I laughed out loud a few times in this book... I really enjoyed it right up until the very end.
I admit it, sometimes I like to read reviews of books that I have read on the big book sites... and well, one of the comments about this book was that it wasn't what they expected, and that reading this wouldn't give clear insight to all Aspergians. No shit. I think Elder makes the case that if you have met one Aspergian, you have met one Aspergian. Isn't that like life? Yes, you can generalize to your last breath, and there may be similarities, but no two of us are alike. We all have our own story, and this is what this was.
And in that, a great read.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Election day
It's amazing I can be hungry again after a big, successful turkey dinner hosted by yours truly last night. I even voted before I got to work!
This election feels strange - like it came up quickly, out of the blue. It is hard to feel passionate about this one, I felt a little undecided right up until I marked my X on the spot.
I brought a cedar tree in to work today. It will fill the space between me and my new office mate's desk. We are calling the tree "George" and we will decorate for Christmas. It has been amazing how many people have stopped by to check him out - definitely attracting a bit of attention. I am slowly bringing in some plants and making the office mine - it took me forever to do that in my last job, but I have a feeling I may be here for a while..
Well, I believe the truth sets you free and I had a good chat with the foot shuffler on Friday. I half feel bad to refer to them that way, but it works for these purposes. We had a great chat, cleared the air, and I felt so much better at the end of the day, and I think that they did too. I really needed that to happen. It was getting under my skin and wasn't good. Not letting things fester is a good thing. Today was better. Getting to come in late so I could vote was even better. I just don't understand why a shorter day all of a sudden becomes a longer day for practical purposes. It has been a long time since I have clock watched as bad as I have today.. and for no real reason.. weird.
October is blitzing by. I need to work on Brandon's Halloween Costume... and I think a trip to the Pumpkin Patch is in order for this weekend...
This election feels strange - like it came up quickly, out of the blue. It is hard to feel passionate about this one, I felt a little undecided right up until I marked my X on the spot.
I brought a cedar tree in to work today. It will fill the space between me and my new office mate's desk. We are calling the tree "George" and we will decorate for Christmas. It has been amazing how many people have stopped by to check him out - definitely attracting a bit of attention. I am slowly bringing in some plants and making the office mine - it took me forever to do that in my last job, but I have a feeling I may be here for a while..
Well, I believe the truth sets you free and I had a good chat with the foot shuffler on Friday. I half feel bad to refer to them that way, but it works for these purposes. We had a great chat, cleared the air, and I felt so much better at the end of the day, and I think that they did too. I really needed that to happen. It was getting under my skin and wasn't good. Not letting things fester is a good thing. Today was better. Getting to come in late so I could vote was even better. I just don't understand why a shorter day all of a sudden becomes a longer day for practical purposes. It has been a long time since I have clock watched as bad as I have today.. and for no real reason.. weird.
October is blitzing by. I need to work on Brandon's Halloween Costume... and I think a trip to the Pumpkin Patch is in order for this weekend...
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
the foot shuffler
I am trying really hard to see the silver lining of a coworker.
Thankfully, not the coworker that I will soon be bunking with. I can't believe that I am in a "better" job and now, after nearly a decade of flying solo, I will be sharing an office. At least we are on the same page, both weirded out by having to share, and are going to do our best to make it work.
But one of my other coworkers is a bit of an odd duck. Definitely humming along at a their own frequency. They are a "nice" person.. but that is almost right up there with calling a guy "cute". I just don't feel a connection with them on a personal or a professional level. I don't particularly like how they conduct their business. Not because it is different from me - but there are things I just don't get - like the never looking in your filing cabinets in your "inherited" office and cleaning stuff out. Like having stacks all over the place and really coming off unprofessional because of it. Ok, maybe some of these are my own biases, and I am trying to work through them and keep an open mind - but it is hard.
Then there is the foot shuffling and sniffling.
They will be moving in to the office vacated by my new buddy, so I think it will help so I don't have to hear the sniffling all the time. The foot shuffling gets me. You can hear them at about 20 paces, shuffling their feet down the hallway like a calling card. It feels like a Seinfeld episode! I guess right now I am fighting irritation as I am helping them to do some of the records management, and the little quirks get under my skin. We've been given the week to clean stuff up.. and well, I seem to be a lot more concerned about it than they are!! Which is just crazy, as far as I am concerned. I am not their supervisor, so I am truly only going to concern myself with my purview.
Ah well. Can't always like everyone... all you have to do is get by and figure out how to limit contact to the necessary. That being said - perhaps they are a diamond in the rough and I need to be patient.
Ah the high road, I see you.
Thankfully, not the coworker that I will soon be bunking with. I can't believe that I am in a "better" job and now, after nearly a decade of flying solo, I will be sharing an office. At least we are on the same page, both weirded out by having to share, and are going to do our best to make it work.
But one of my other coworkers is a bit of an odd duck. Definitely humming along at a their own frequency. They are a "nice" person.. but that is almost right up there with calling a guy "cute". I just don't feel a connection with them on a personal or a professional level. I don't particularly like how they conduct their business. Not because it is different from me - but there are things I just don't get - like the never looking in your filing cabinets in your "inherited" office and cleaning stuff out. Like having stacks all over the place and really coming off unprofessional because of it. Ok, maybe some of these are my own biases, and I am trying to work through them and keep an open mind - but it is hard.
Then there is the foot shuffling and sniffling.
They will be moving in to the office vacated by my new buddy, so I think it will help so I don't have to hear the sniffling all the time. The foot shuffling gets me. You can hear them at about 20 paces, shuffling their feet down the hallway like a calling card. It feels like a Seinfeld episode! I guess right now I am fighting irritation as I am helping them to do some of the records management, and the little quirks get under my skin. We've been given the week to clean stuff up.. and well, I seem to be a lot more concerned about it than they are!! Which is just crazy, as far as I am concerned. I am not their supervisor, so I am truly only going to concern myself with my purview.
Ah well. Can't always like everyone... all you have to do is get by and figure out how to limit contact to the necessary. That being said - perhaps they are a diamond in the rough and I need to be patient.
Ah the high road, I see you.
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Two year old molars.
Brandon is working on number 3 of the two year old molars.
Bloody hell. What a process for us all. Teething makes him miserable. The fingers in the mouth, the hurts in the ears and teeth, the irritability, the crying when we try to put him down for a sleep, the waking up.. the relief from baby tylenol and freezies and then you get your baby back.
I am so glad we are almost done, but man, my heart goes out to him. This molar is so close, I can feel it just under the surface... and then one final one. I am sure that when the baby teeth start falling out and adult ones come in, it will be nothing like this (I hope).
I guess teething makes us all miserable, and it got Brandon a free pass in to our bed tonight so I can watch over him and fret, and respond quicker if he wakes up a few times. Nothing like doing a freezie run at 3am and then wondering if he will get a sugar rush from it - what is the lesser of the evils?
Bloody hell. What a process for us all. Teething makes him miserable. The fingers in the mouth, the hurts in the ears and teeth, the irritability, the crying when we try to put him down for a sleep, the waking up.. the relief from baby tylenol and freezies and then you get your baby back.
I am so glad we are almost done, but man, my heart goes out to him. This molar is so close, I can feel it just under the surface... and then one final one. I am sure that when the baby teeth start falling out and adult ones come in, it will be nothing like this (I hope).
I guess teething makes us all miserable, and it got Brandon a free pass in to our bed tonight so I can watch over him and fret, and respond quicker if he wakes up a few times. Nothing like doing a freezie run at 3am and then wondering if he will get a sugar rush from it - what is the lesser of the evils?
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Still more paper.
The saga continues.
I am still doing records management at work. If it was just maintenance that I was doing, I would not be bitching about it. It truly feels like I have been reinventing the wheel in my new job. Six months later and I can finally say that I am almost to the end of this "wave" of updating, but I can't believe the files that I am still unearthing (not mentioning the other processes and publications that need some loving care and attention to as well... nothing like going to a presentation like the poor folk not having a spiffy powerpoint or free swag to give out and everyone else does.. somehow a hastily made up and photocopied sheet and business cards don't measure up as well).
I found a folder of information from 1971. Relevant to keep? I think not.
Binders from the 80's. Instant contribution to recycling.
That being said, my office is in pretty good shape. The rest of the office is in pretty good shape. I am being sent in to the final office that is a complete disaster to "assist" in cleaning up the old files. What I don't understand is why this person hasn't dealt with any of it up to now? It just strikes me as bizarre. When I took over my office, it was a disaster. Crap everywhere. Way too much irrelevant paper. Before I could really sink my teeth in to my job, I dealt with it. Once I got enough taken care of, and was settling in to my job, I still dealt with paper from the side of my desk. Said coworker has "never had the time" to open the files, deal with the files, or make her own space. I don't understand this, at all. I guess if I was a dog, I would have marked my places all over the place in my office, poking in to the all of the corners, and making it mine because I plan to be here for a while. And that is what I have done.
I can't help but be more aware of personality differences as I am getting older, and work styles, and what does and doesn't work for me. I guess that goes hand in hand with parenting styles too. I am getting more opinionated, but I am trying not to get too fixed in my own ideas either.
But I don't get the passive position of saying "I never had time to clean up the office" when it really doesn't have to take all that long... a little every day and viola, the job is done. It is YOUR space and you can barely get to your desk because of all the paper and crap.. and how can you project authority when you keep your space like that?? How can you invoke trust in the people you are advising when it looks like you are living up to Linus's standards (yes, Linus from the Peanuts gang).
Yes, it has taken me almost 6 months to get it all done, but I reached out and beyond my office in the scope of the records management I have undertaken. I have been smoking busy, but never too busy to just deal with the crap. I guess a different set of time management skills. I have always just wanted more... so I push more?? Who knows. I am just philosophizing why this path may be ok for someone.
Hopefully this post will be the last of my ranting about paper at work. It has baffled my mind. I have also found stacks of notes and documents squirreled away from a previous coworker. WTF? How the hell can you ever help someone if you can't find their file?? I am unearthing stuff from years ago. Makes me look at them with a different pair of eyes too, losing a little respect. Nothing like creating big messes and then hiding them for someone to deal with years later. Brutal.
I like transparency, I like order. I like knowing where to find things. Who knew?
What the hell? I sound bloody responsible.
I am still doing records management at work. If it was just maintenance that I was doing, I would not be bitching about it. It truly feels like I have been reinventing the wheel in my new job. Six months later and I can finally say that I am almost to the end of this "wave" of updating, but I can't believe the files that I am still unearthing (not mentioning the other processes and publications that need some loving care and attention to as well... nothing like going to a presentation like the poor folk not having a spiffy powerpoint or free swag to give out and everyone else does.. somehow a hastily made up and photocopied sheet and business cards don't measure up as well).
I found a folder of information from 1971. Relevant to keep? I think not.
Binders from the 80's. Instant contribution to recycling.
That being said, my office is in pretty good shape. The rest of the office is in pretty good shape. I am being sent in to the final office that is a complete disaster to "assist" in cleaning up the old files. What I don't understand is why this person hasn't dealt with any of it up to now? It just strikes me as bizarre. When I took over my office, it was a disaster. Crap everywhere. Way too much irrelevant paper. Before I could really sink my teeth in to my job, I dealt with it. Once I got enough taken care of, and was settling in to my job, I still dealt with paper from the side of my desk. Said coworker has "never had the time" to open the files, deal with the files, or make her own space. I don't understand this, at all. I guess if I was a dog, I would have marked my places all over the place in my office, poking in to the all of the corners, and making it mine because I plan to be here for a while. And that is what I have done.
I can't help but be more aware of personality differences as I am getting older, and work styles, and what does and doesn't work for me. I guess that goes hand in hand with parenting styles too. I am getting more opinionated, but I am trying not to get too fixed in my own ideas either.
But I don't get the passive position of saying "I never had time to clean up the office" when it really doesn't have to take all that long... a little every day and viola, the job is done. It is YOUR space and you can barely get to your desk because of all the paper and crap.. and how can you project authority when you keep your space like that?? How can you invoke trust in the people you are advising when it looks like you are living up to Linus's standards (yes, Linus from the Peanuts gang).
Yes, it has taken me almost 6 months to get it all done, but I reached out and beyond my office in the scope of the records management I have undertaken. I have been smoking busy, but never too busy to just deal with the crap. I guess a different set of time management skills. I have always just wanted more... so I push more?? Who knows. I am just philosophizing why this path may be ok for someone.
Hopefully this post will be the last of my ranting about paper at work. It has baffled my mind. I have also found stacks of notes and documents squirreled away from a previous coworker. WTF? How the hell can you ever help someone if you can't find their file?? I am unearthing stuff from years ago. Makes me look at them with a different pair of eyes too, losing a little respect. Nothing like creating big messes and then hiding them for someone to deal with years later. Brutal.
I like transparency, I like order. I like knowing where to find things. Who knew?
What the hell? I sound bloody responsible.
Monday, September 29, 2008
All grown up.
I had a coffee date with an old friend of mine today and I think I'm not a kid anymore. Of course, having my own child partially brought about this realization, but seeing my dear friend again after nearly a decade really brought it home that we aren't kids anymore.
We met back in the day doing our undergrad's in English lit, both bookish, and then life happened after our graduation, she went through her own growth and walked down a separate path, and I, well, I still had a lot of growing up to do. So, I returned to the scene of the crime (for lack of something more interesting to describe it as) six months ago and she started in September, as an Instructor.
Which means we both have offices here. And business cards. And people come to see us, for like, advice. Wow. It is surreal, to say the least.
Coffee was lovely, I really look forward to picking up the threads, it is interesting after a long period of time, what is pushed aside, and what you leap in to right away. Then the moments of introspection after, when you realize that you have moved a great distance away from your younger self, even if you are still her, you are more too. Whether it be more experiences, or differences, or shifts, or newer versions of yourself created from life, and reacting to life, and just being.. and all those positive and negative things we get to experience as we run the gauntlet.
We met back in the day doing our undergrad's in English lit, both bookish, and then life happened after our graduation, she went through her own growth and walked down a separate path, and I, well, I still had a lot of growing up to do. So, I returned to the scene of the crime (for lack of something more interesting to describe it as) six months ago and she started in September, as an Instructor.
Which means we both have offices here. And business cards. And people come to see us, for like, advice. Wow. It is surreal, to say the least.
Coffee was lovely, I really look forward to picking up the threads, it is interesting after a long period of time, what is pushed aside, and what you leap in to right away. Then the moments of introspection after, when you realize that you have moved a great distance away from your younger self, even if you are still her, you are more too. Whether it be more experiences, or differences, or shifts, or newer versions of yourself created from life, and reacting to life, and just being.. and all those positive and negative things we get to experience as we run the gauntlet.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Is this thing still on?
What the hell?
Where did the last month go??
I have written many posts in my head. I am tempted to say I am going to back a little and fill in some blanks between now and August (the last time I posted) but I am not going to promise anything at this stage of the game.
But you never know, look back in the next few days, maybe my posts will magically populate themselves.
September has been a sprint.
Work was nuts. We had a great semester start up, no major glitches, just fricken busy. Smoking busy. Paper bred in the middle of the night, I did more records management, managed a temp for a few weeks unexpectedly, got to watch us all get punchy by the end of each week, hyper-funny, and loving the fact that there is a good coffee shop in a stone's throw distance from my office. It is looking more and more like my time alone in my office is coming to an end. Eventually I will be sharing, but damn if I don't have a good space, and a good view, so really, sharing it won't be so bad.
I've read some great books, we moved my gran to a "care campus" (WTF - I really hate politically correct language, lets try to hide what is really happening in pretty words. Straight up can be really brutal, but at least you know where you stand), and Brandon has taken his first true steps, he is on his way, and he is learning all about balance. Hey, aren't we all?
At times, this last month has been overwhelming, and not neccessarily in a negative way, just a lot to take in and process, and grow from, and be honest about, and soul search about, and just be about. I know I am being vague, but it is getting close to my bedtime and I just wanted to throw some words out there, just to be here, say I haven't forgotten about this place to shout out from, and perhaps connect with my friends who don't live so close to the coast.
I am here! There just aren't enough hours in the day.
I am playing some hockey again, and it is great.
We are doing the Terry Fox run/walk tomorrow, and I think that's cool too.
Brandon is almost through the next round of teething, and it is cool he's been in bed a few hours and hasn't woken up.
I love having my wedding rings back and on my finger, looking good.
Going to the gym hasn't happened at all this week, but I am letting it go. Hell, I am just happy to eat lunch let alone get out for a lunch this week. Some weeks things come together, and other weeks, well, it is a struggle to keep everything rolling along as it should.
Where did the last month go??
I have written many posts in my head. I am tempted to say I am going to back a little and fill in some blanks between now and August (the last time I posted) but I am not going to promise anything at this stage of the game.
But you never know, look back in the next few days, maybe my posts will magically populate themselves.
September has been a sprint.
Work was nuts. We had a great semester start up, no major glitches, just fricken busy. Smoking busy. Paper bred in the middle of the night, I did more records management, managed a temp for a few weeks unexpectedly, got to watch us all get punchy by the end of each week, hyper-funny, and loving the fact that there is a good coffee shop in a stone's throw distance from my office. It is looking more and more like my time alone in my office is coming to an end. Eventually I will be sharing, but damn if I don't have a good space, and a good view, so really, sharing it won't be so bad.
I've read some great books, we moved my gran to a "care campus" (WTF - I really hate politically correct language, lets try to hide what is really happening in pretty words. Straight up can be really brutal, but at least you know where you stand), and Brandon has taken his first true steps, he is on his way, and he is learning all about balance. Hey, aren't we all?
At times, this last month has been overwhelming, and not neccessarily in a negative way, just a lot to take in and process, and grow from, and be honest about, and soul search about, and just be about. I know I am being vague, but it is getting close to my bedtime and I just wanted to throw some words out there, just to be here, say I haven't forgotten about this place to shout out from, and perhaps connect with my friends who don't live so close to the coast.
I am here! There just aren't enough hours in the day.
I am playing some hockey again, and it is great.
We are doing the Terry Fox run/walk tomorrow, and I think that's cool too.
Brandon is almost through the next round of teething, and it is cool he's been in bed a few hours and hasn't woken up.
I love having my wedding rings back and on my finger, looking good.
Going to the gym hasn't happened at all this week, but I am letting it go. Hell, I am just happy to eat lunch let alone get out for a lunch this week. Some weeks things come together, and other weeks, well, it is a struggle to keep everything rolling along as it should.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Lots of hockey.
Hockey, hockey, hockey.
That would describe my past weekend. And it was great! We played in a 4 on 4, coed tourney which involved 2 games Saturday, then party Saturday night, and then back at'er for another 2 games on Sunday. Then picking back up with life again and catching up on shopping, laundry, and some cleaning, while rediscovering muscles that you haven't used in a while because they are a little tender...
I haven't really played a lot since I stopped playing when I was about 10 weeks preggers, and I played a few times last year... but I think I played more this weekend than I have since fall 2005! I could still play - I don't feel like I was obviously the weakest link, my cardio wasn't too bad, and it was fun to be out there. I love playing. It is easy to not remember when you are caught up in life, but it is great getting out there and hitting the ice. We play with a cool group of peeps, and it is interesting, a lot of us are having kids later in life, so where there were no kids at our parties before... now there are many.
Now playing one a week in the fall will be a breeze. I think we have it somewhat organized between some nieces and nephews, maybe some friends that we can make it work for me playing... I committed to our team with a big "life happens" attitude, and that works, so it is all good.
Today I am stiff and achy, and I will be doing a yoga tape tonight. I have also been doing more records management AGAIN so I have been moving lots of boxes around and I am more tired than I was first thing this morning... at least I am starting to see the end of it, or at least we are getting to a manageable place. So close to having what I need in my office, and not just all this crap I really don't want to deal with (but am piece by piece this week in what will hopefully be the tail end of it all).
That would describe my past weekend. And it was great! We played in a 4 on 4, coed tourney which involved 2 games Saturday, then party Saturday night, and then back at'er for another 2 games on Sunday. Then picking back up with life again and catching up on shopping, laundry, and some cleaning, while rediscovering muscles that you haven't used in a while because they are a little tender...
I haven't really played a lot since I stopped playing when I was about 10 weeks preggers, and I played a few times last year... but I think I played more this weekend than I have since fall 2005! I could still play - I don't feel like I was obviously the weakest link, my cardio wasn't too bad, and it was fun to be out there. I love playing. It is easy to not remember when you are caught up in life, but it is great getting out there and hitting the ice. We play with a cool group of peeps, and it is interesting, a lot of us are having kids later in life, so where there were no kids at our parties before... now there are many.
Now playing one a week in the fall will be a breeze. I think we have it somewhat organized between some nieces and nephews, maybe some friends that we can make it work for me playing... I committed to our team with a big "life happens" attitude, and that works, so it is all good.
Today I am stiff and achy, and I will be doing a yoga tape tonight. I have also been doing more records management AGAIN so I have been moving lots of boxes around and I am more tired than I was first thing this morning... at least I am starting to see the end of it, or at least we are getting to a manageable place. So close to having what I need in my office, and not just all this crap I really don't want to deal with (but am piece by piece this week in what will hopefully be the tail end of it all).
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Big fuzzy moment
As crazy as life seems to get sometimes, life is rolling along pretty decent.
I got my rings back, and they are gorgeous. I love them. I keep looking at them, and they are everything I wanted them to be. How Ken gave them (back) to me was sweetly romantic and I had no idea how much of an impact it would be for me to be able to look down at my wedding rings, have them fit as they should, be totally unique, and be well, mine.
I like my job. We are still reinventing the wheel a fair bit, and catching up on reports that are years old, and finding records that are even decades old, but I am content here.
It makes such a difference to have a room with a view, and to have peers who are about your age and space in life (whether or not they have kids), being able to swap stories, and laughs, and be in a space where there is a gym that you can use for free at lunch, and a decent library, and lots of green spaces. Yes, I know like I am sounding like I am geeking out... but it's huge the difference a year makes. Last year I was just returning to work after my mat leave, back to a place where my office was literally a box within a box within a box, and I never saw daylight. The gym there sucked, and frankly... I was close a few people at work, but not all of them were in the same location as me (or any where close to my age with few exceptions), and well, where I worked was pretty isolated so you never really got a chance to chat, except those chance meetings in the hall going to the can. It has been different here for me - it's been unreal the records management, and learning new systems, and creating new systems, but now that things are evening out a lot more, and I am getting a real feel for working in my new digs, I am a lot happier, this place suits me.
How many places can you go to work, open your window, see the clouds cling to the trees and hear a piper playing?
I got my rings back, and they are gorgeous. I love them. I keep looking at them, and they are everything I wanted them to be. How Ken gave them (back) to me was sweetly romantic and I had no idea how much of an impact it would be for me to be able to look down at my wedding rings, have them fit as they should, be totally unique, and be well, mine.
I like my job. We are still reinventing the wheel a fair bit, and catching up on reports that are years old, and finding records that are even decades old, but I am content here.
It makes such a difference to have a room with a view, and to have peers who are about your age and space in life (whether or not they have kids), being able to swap stories, and laughs, and be in a space where there is a gym that you can use for free at lunch, and a decent library, and lots of green spaces. Yes, I know like I am sounding like I am geeking out... but it's huge the difference a year makes. Last year I was just returning to work after my mat leave, back to a place where my office was literally a box within a box within a box, and I never saw daylight. The gym there sucked, and frankly... I was close a few people at work, but not all of them were in the same location as me (or any where close to my age with few exceptions), and well, where I worked was pretty isolated so you never really got a chance to chat, except those chance meetings in the hall going to the can. It has been different here for me - it's been unreal the records management, and learning new systems, and creating new systems, but now that things are evening out a lot more, and I am getting a real feel for working in my new digs, I am a lot happier, this place suits me.
How many places can you go to work, open your window, see the clouds cling to the trees and hear a piper playing?
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Lament for a shoe
I was walking in from the parking lots this morning when I launched my sandal.
At least there aren't any students kicking around, otherwise I am sure that I would have pegged someone in the back of the head... I am sure that I had a dumb look on my face, as my shoe landed about 6 feet in front of me, with the buckle behind me.
I am now wearing my runners, and wondering whether or not I should try to fix my sandals.. they are docs, but they were cheap and I bought them online...then again, I think they may still have some life in them, if they had a new buckle. Then again, they were cheap and maybe this is a sign to jettison them.
It's strange wearing running shoes at work. I kind of feel like a dork.
At least there aren't any students kicking around, otherwise I am sure that I would have pegged someone in the back of the head... I am sure that I had a dumb look on my face, as my shoe landed about 6 feet in front of me, with the buckle behind me.
I am now wearing my runners, and wondering whether or not I should try to fix my sandals.. they are docs, but they were cheap and I bought them online...then again, I think they may still have some life in them, if they had a new buckle. Then again, they were cheap and maybe this is a sign to jettison them.
It's strange wearing running shoes at work. I kind of feel like a dork.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Ever vigilant.
How to articulate this? I find it so frustrating that I have to be a careful watchdog and go over forms and papers with a fine tooth comb. That even when I do, and I pepper people with questions, things still don't work out the way they should. I hate having to be that anal retentive and to double check other peoples work.
Like here at work, I ask one coworker to do stuff, and her time line for gettin'er'done is not anywhere close to what I would consider reasonable. Her concept of alphabetical order also leaves something to be desired. The whinging about her workload is getting old, if you want to see workload, come sit in my office for a few days...
Then there is a claim that I may be able to make through my bank for when my DH was off with his concussion. There is now questions about how the paperwork was originally completed and I have to follow up with my bank to find out who made what mistake.
Last week I called up my extended health folks to make a claim for Brandon, and was told I wasn't the primary health care person. Excuse me? Oh yeah, they had Ken's birthday wrong, so I had to follow up and get that fixed too.
If it just happened here and there it wouldn't be so bad, but where the hell is the accountability?
I've always gone by the "execute as you want things executed for yourself" motto, but man, so many people drop the ball out there.
So, I will remain ever vigilant, picking over papers and asking lots of questions (cumulative knowledge has got to help out somewhere along the line). Given to random rants.
Like here at work, I ask one coworker to do stuff, and her time line for gettin'er'done is not anywhere close to what I would consider reasonable. Her concept of alphabetical order also leaves something to be desired. The whinging about her workload is getting old, if you want to see workload, come sit in my office for a few days...
Then there is a claim that I may be able to make through my bank for when my DH was off with his concussion. There is now questions about how the paperwork was originally completed and I have to follow up with my bank to find out who made what mistake.
Last week I called up my extended health folks to make a claim for Brandon, and was told I wasn't the primary health care person. Excuse me? Oh yeah, they had Ken's birthday wrong, so I had to follow up and get that fixed too.
If it just happened here and there it wouldn't be so bad, but where the hell is the accountability?
I've always gone by the "execute as you want things executed for yourself" motto, but man, so many people drop the ball out there.
So, I will remain ever vigilant, picking over papers and asking lots of questions (cumulative knowledge has got to help out somewhere along the line). Given to random rants.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Books, books, and more books.
Ahhhhhhhhh. Summer reading. Almost as good as fall reading, lol.
I have been reading a hodge-podge of books in the last few weeks. I was eagerly awaiting the next Slade book, and it didn't disappoint. Crucified - a great title. I just wish the book was a little longer.. the last 2 Slade books have been action packed, great thrillers, but just not nearly as long as some of their predecessors and since I really like their writing, I find the last few pages almost sad since I am already finding my way to the end of the book.
I also read my first book by Gerritsen, and I really enjoyed it. In fact, it was one of those books that you pick up and then all of a sudden, a day later, you realize you need to find the next book you can by this author. I like her writing style, and I really enjoyed the story.
Yes, I really enjoy the forensic type novels.
Then there are the Rankin books I am working my way through. I like them, but I find that the reading for me doesn't flow as easily as some other authors, although I do enjoy them overall. I finished one called Mortal Causes and now I am working on the Ressurection Men. I have been damn tired when I have been falling in to bed lately, so that may be why I am having such a hard time finishing the second book... I like the characters, I just find that this current one is a little more convoluted so I guess I am spending more time thinking about it?! I don't know...
Soon I will start back on my slightly more academic books.
Ah yes, I am also working on a copy of Freakonomics... now this is an interesting read! A whole different look at economics and how the world works. Well worth a browse through, especially the chapter on why drug dealers live with their parents and what sump wrestlers and teachers have in common... you don't even need to be a rocket scientist to appreciate this one!
I have been reading a hodge-podge of books in the last few weeks. I was eagerly awaiting the next Slade book, and it didn't disappoint. Crucified - a great title. I just wish the book was a little longer.. the last 2 Slade books have been action packed, great thrillers, but just not nearly as long as some of their predecessors and since I really like their writing, I find the last few pages almost sad since I am already finding my way to the end of the book.
I also read my first book by Gerritsen, and I really enjoyed it. In fact, it was one of those books that you pick up and then all of a sudden, a day later, you realize you need to find the next book you can by this author. I like her writing style, and I really enjoyed the story.
Yes, I really enjoy the forensic type novels.
Then there are the Rankin books I am working my way through. I like them, but I find that the reading for me doesn't flow as easily as some other authors, although I do enjoy them overall. I finished one called Mortal Causes and now I am working on the Ressurection Men. I have been damn tired when I have been falling in to bed lately, so that may be why I am having such a hard time finishing the second book... I like the characters, I just find that this current one is a little more convoluted so I guess I am spending more time thinking about it?! I don't know...
Soon I will start back on my slightly more academic books.
Ah yes, I am also working on a copy of Freakonomics... now this is an interesting read! A whole different look at economics and how the world works. Well worth a browse through, especially the chapter on why drug dealers live with their parents and what sump wrestlers and teachers have in common... you don't even need to be a rocket scientist to appreciate this one!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
August.
The month of crazy breaks and get aways has finally drawn to a close.
It has been an helluva month - from San Diego to small town Alberta, and camping down south in an amazing State Park, we have seen and done some really cool stuff. Hopefully soon I will update with some pictures, but no promises.
I finally went back to the gym. I figured I was getting really good at procrastinating, and finding other reasons not to go and work out, that it was time. I think in my head I had an idea that once July had come and gone, I would get serious about it again. Or as serious as I get about working out - I am going to aim for either 4 days of cardio or 2 days on the elliptical and 2 swimming. We'll see how well I am able to stick to that. I was feeling so much better that I really noticed not getting out and adding that little bit to my day.
Work isn't quite so crazy, either that or I am getting used to it all.
And the weather is amazing again, really warm and clear. It's great to kill my appetite..
I'm getting my rings fixed. A friend of the family is doing the work, and we are getting it done right. I can't believe how aware I was of my rings, and how strange my fingers feel without them. I was definitely channeling my more feminine side when we were talking about what I wanted to have done, and the style, and how I felt about my rings. I can't wait.
It has been an helluva month - from San Diego to small town Alberta, and camping down south in an amazing State Park, we have seen and done some really cool stuff. Hopefully soon I will update with some pictures, but no promises.
I finally went back to the gym. I figured I was getting really good at procrastinating, and finding other reasons not to go and work out, that it was time. I think in my head I had an idea that once July had come and gone, I would get serious about it again. Or as serious as I get about working out - I am going to aim for either 4 days of cardio or 2 days on the elliptical and 2 swimming. We'll see how well I am able to stick to that. I was feeling so much better that I really noticed not getting out and adding that little bit to my day.
Work isn't quite so crazy, either that or I am getting used to it all.
And the weather is amazing again, really warm and clear. It's great to kill my appetite..
I'm getting my rings fixed. A friend of the family is doing the work, and we are getting it done right. I can't believe how aware I was of my rings, and how strange my fingers feel without them. I was definitely channeling my more feminine side when we were talking about what I wanted to have done, and the style, and how I felt about my rings. I can't wait.
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