Wow, I've been MIA for a few days and I have lot to say. However, this would be 10 pages long so I'll keep it to one topic.
Yesterday I was at a work Wellness Day in Woodstock. It was a good day. I taught my stamping class in the morning and I think it was rather successful. On Monday they told me I had 18 people signed up, Tuesday they updated that number to 20. In the end over 30 people showed up to my class! I was surprised and I somewhat flattered. I don't want to get too flustered over it because I heard someone say they chose stamping because it was the only non-work related session. Ahhh...you win some, you lose some.
As you may have guessed my class consisted of all women. They did quite well. I was pleased to see that some ladies took my idea and then put their own spin on it. One woman thought she had made a mistake and showed me her card. She said "What would you call this?" I replied "Creative license...there are no mistake in stamping." She turned away with a big grin on her face.
As I was demonstrating the projects, I emphasized the importance of cleaning the stamp before using another color ink pad. I told them "I won't yell at you if you stamp black flowers in my yellow ink pad. BUT you might have to pick me up off the floor as I cry." Well, you can only guess that is exactly what someone did. My brand new barely banana ink pad has the work *wish* perfectly stamped in it 3 times. One of the ladies pointed it out to me and I said "That's alright. Remember I said I would only cry not yell." as I smiled. I was actually okay with it. Jeanette - you can pick your jaw up off your keyboard now.
I used the stamp set Shapes and Shadows for our project. Shelley was kinda enough to lend me her set so I could have 2 stamping stations on the go. The stamps sets fared relatively unscathed. One of my stamps has some yellow on the wood. Excuse me for a moment while I feverishly sand the ink off the block while I rock back and forth in catatonic state
Okay,I'm over it...for now. Shelley I'll be over for counselling shortly.
All in all the class went well. I overheard people who didn't take my class commenting positively on the projects too. I was also approached to teach a few stamping/card making classes as part of the "Lunch and Learn" series at work. I said I would do it after the summer. Should be interesting. I should probably start building up a supply of valium now. With more classes my stamps are bound to get dirty. I'll be needing copious amounts of valium.
I've got one more thing to tell you about yesterday. We did team building exercises and one of the games was a chicken slingshot. It was a riot. One person held a hula hoop as a target. Two other team members each held an end of a long elastic type rope while the rest of us used the elastic to fling the chickens. I loved it!! In fact, I'm thinking of staring a petition to have it sanctioned as an olympic sport.
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Soccer...Take 2
Jillian had another soccer game last night. She plays on the "Kangaroo" team and they're a pretty darn cute bunch of kids. Our little kangaroos certainly won't be playing in the soccer World Cup any time soon but they are entertaining.
The coach, Coach Jamie, as Jillian calls him did some drills with the kids and then they played a game against the "Jays". Our kids vastly improved over last week. Last week, there was only one Kangaroo left on the field by the time the drills were over and the game started. This week we had probably five kids on the field. We had Nolan (and Robin - his mom) in nets. Jillian, Abbey, Keagan, and Cassandra (maybe 2 others) in the field. Well, thank goodness for Keagan. He's really our only *player*. That little guy runs like stink and has great control over the ball. I love watching him play.
My darling daughter was on the field but not really into the game. Numerous times she laid down on her back in the middle of the field with her feet behind her head. I can already hear all the comments comimg from cyberspace about her being like her mother. She finally stands up and then she stands there twirling her pigtails with her fingers. Next she decides to twirl around in circles with her tongue sticking out of her mouth. She kinda looked like a special ed candidate at that point. At one point, the balls rolls to a stop right in front of her. Eric, my mom, and I are all cheering for her to kick the ball...it could be her moment to shine. What does she do? She runs over to me and asks if she can give Coach Jamie a hug!! My suggestion was the she wait until AFTER the game to give hugs.
I've mentioned in the past that I'm not much of an athlete. I'm sure you're thinking that she gets her feet behind her head, spinning, and twirling skills from me. Well, I'll have you know that I was pretty good soccer player in high school. I didn't play on the school team but I played in the city league in the summer. I played forward right wing and I was always first string. I loved playing soccer. I'm thinking that next summer I might check to see if there is a women recreational league in the city. What do you think Robin? Are you up for it???
The coach, Coach Jamie, as Jillian calls him did some drills with the kids and then they played a game against the "Jays". Our kids vastly improved over last week. Last week, there was only one Kangaroo left on the field by the time the drills were over and the game started. This week we had probably five kids on the field. We had Nolan (and Robin - his mom) in nets. Jillian, Abbey, Keagan, and Cassandra (maybe 2 others) in the field. Well, thank goodness for Keagan. He's really our only *player*. That little guy runs like stink and has great control over the ball. I love watching him play.
My darling daughter was on the field but not really into the game. Numerous times she laid down on her back in the middle of the field with her feet behind her head. I can already hear all the comments comimg from cyberspace about her being like her mother. She finally stands up and then she stands there twirling her pigtails with her fingers. Next she decides to twirl around in circles with her tongue sticking out of her mouth. She kinda looked like a special ed candidate at that point. At one point, the balls rolls to a stop right in front of her. Eric, my mom, and I are all cheering for her to kick the ball...it could be her moment to shine. What does she do? She runs over to me and asks if she can give Coach Jamie a hug!! My suggestion was the she wait until AFTER the game to give hugs.
I've mentioned in the past that I'm not much of an athlete. I'm sure you're thinking that she gets her feet behind her head, spinning, and twirling skills from me. Well, I'll have you know that I was pretty good soccer player in high school. I didn't play on the school team but I played in the city league in the summer. I played forward right wing and I was always first string. I loved playing soccer. I'm thinking that next summer I might check to see if there is a women recreational league in the city. What do you think Robin? Are you up for it???
Monday, June 26, 2006
Dirty Purse Pole-Dancing Party
You got it! I'm going to a Pole Dancing Party!! The Princess is back in action! I went to dinner with some girlfriends last night and this type of party came up in conversation. Robin and I were telling Trisha about Fantasia parties and some of their products. We thought a Fantasia party would be in order for those girls who have never been to one. When Jill and Reiko arrived I commented on Jill's gorgeous purse. She tells me its a home party business that sells knock-offs. I hear the trumpets singing in my head and I'm think "Hot dog! A purse party! Woo Hoo!!" So, now we've talked Jill in to a purse party. Hell, may as well combine the 2 and have a Dirty Purse party.
Then Jill proceeds to tell us that there is a woman from Moncton who brings a pole to your house and teaches you and your friends to pole dance!! Holy crap, sign me up can she be here tonight??? From what I understand, you get dressed up all pole-dancerish and you each take a turn with the pole. You've got to be kidding me! Where has this woman been all my life?!? At this point my eyes are sparkling like the beautiful Saint John river, I'm all abuzz, and I might even have a glow of anticipation about me.
I want my outfit to consist of black ruffle panties and fishnets. Think The Pussycat Dolls outfit when they were a burlesque show instead of a singing group. I'll absolutely need a feather boa. And maybe some breast implants to really get myself into the roll.
Next, I'll need a good song to dance too. Hmmm....I like Shakira "My Hips Don't Lie" but on the other hand, The Pussycat Dolls "Don't Cha" (don't cha wish your girlfriend was hot like me, don't cha wish your girlfriend was a freak like me) seems like an obvious choice.
Whatever the case I'm going to OWN that pole. No, I'm going to ROCK that pole.
Okay, so today's post will involve some interaction from the viewing public. I'd like as many people as possible to leave a comment suggesting a pole-dancing song for me to use. Note, that the comments section allows for anonymous comments so you don't have to leave your name. Play nicely or I won't tell you about the actual event ;) Bring on the suggestions!!
Then Jill proceeds to tell us that there is a woman from Moncton who brings a pole to your house and teaches you and your friends to pole dance!! Holy crap, sign me up can she be here tonight??? From what I understand, you get dressed up all pole-dancerish and you each take a turn with the pole. You've got to be kidding me! Where has this woman been all my life?!? At this point my eyes are sparkling like the beautiful Saint John river, I'm all abuzz, and I might even have a glow of anticipation about me.
I want my outfit to consist of black ruffle panties and fishnets. Think The Pussycat Dolls outfit when they were a burlesque show instead of a singing group. I'll absolutely need a feather boa. And maybe some breast implants to really get myself into the roll.
Next, I'll need a good song to dance too. Hmmm....I like Shakira "My Hips Don't Lie" but on the other hand, The Pussycat Dolls "Don't Cha" (don't cha wish your girlfriend was hot like me, don't cha wish your girlfriend was a freak like me) seems like an obvious choice.
Whatever the case I'm going to OWN that pole. No, I'm going to ROCK that pole.
Okay, so today's post will involve some interaction from the viewing public. I'd like as many people as possible to leave a comment suggesting a pole-dancing song for me to use. Note, that the comments section allows for anonymous comments so you don't have to leave your name. Play nicely or I won't tell you about the actual event ;) Bring on the suggestions!!
Saturday, June 24, 2006
There's going to be cerkamony
Yesterday was the art show and completion ceremony at daycare. It was a very cute event. The children's art work was framed and labelled all over the yard at daycare. My mom, Eric, and I got there at 3:30. Jillian was happy to see us at first but we ceased to exist once she saw that Nana was with us. She paraded my mom all over the yard, pulling her by the hand and telling all her friends "Julia, this is my Nana!" "Rowan, this is my Nana!" It was cute. Nana only stayed about 15 minutes because she has to go back to work. Hehe...Mommy is now the centre of the world again.
While we were waiting for the ceremony to begin, Jillie says she has to pee (hurray for telling Mommy!!) so I take her inside. For whatever reason, she is suddenly very excited about the ceremony. She begins telling everyone she sees "We're having a cerekamony! We're having a cerekamony!" Did I correct her?? Of course not!! For the same reason I'm never correct her when she says Pacaroni instead of Macaroni....I love it! I did take a picture of her telling someone so I can scrapbook it.
Finally, the cerekamony is set to begin. Jillian and Bailey, Melanie's daughter, are the first ones to plop themselves down on the ground to wait for it to begin. This isn't a huge surprise since both of them had been asking to go home since we arrived at the daycare. The whole time Carla is thanking the teachers and giving them flowers, Jillian is making faces like she's the devil's spawn. She wasn't making faces at Carla, she was just being 3 years old. Then I look over and she's bumming candy from one of the kids. She managed to get a small box of smarties and is happily munching away. Only my kid.
Carla starts handing out the completion certificates and Jillie's class is up first. They all walk up, get their certificate and a freezie. Jillian turns to me in front of everyone and says "I don't want a freezie, I want a sucker!" I say "Take the freezie and I'll get you a sucker on the way home." Who's the sucker now....MOMMY.
All in all it was a fun time. Oh, I gave Claudia a copy of the post I wrote about her. I explained what it was and told her it was in the card. She read it on the spot and then passed it around to the other teachers. One girl even got teary over it. I felt embarassed but I'm glad Claudia liked it.
While we were waiting for the ceremony to begin, Jillie says she has to pee (hurray for telling Mommy!!) so I take her inside. For whatever reason, she is suddenly very excited about the ceremony. She begins telling everyone she sees "We're having a cerekamony! We're having a cerekamony!" Did I correct her?? Of course not!! For the same reason I'm never correct her when she says Pacaroni instead of Macaroni....I love it! I did take a picture of her telling someone so I can scrapbook it.
Finally, the cerekamony is set to begin. Jillian and Bailey, Melanie's daughter, are the first ones to plop themselves down on the ground to wait for it to begin. This isn't a huge surprise since both of them had been asking to go home since we arrived at the daycare. The whole time Carla is thanking the teachers and giving them flowers, Jillian is making faces like she's the devil's spawn. She wasn't making faces at Carla, she was just being 3 years old. Then I look over and she's bumming candy from one of the kids. She managed to get a small box of smarties and is happily munching away. Only my kid.
Carla starts handing out the completion certificates and Jillie's class is up first. They all walk up, get their certificate and a freezie. Jillian turns to me in front of everyone and says "I don't want a freezie, I want a sucker!" I say "Take the freezie and I'll get you a sucker on the way home." Who's the sucker now....MOMMY.
All in all it was a fun time. Oh, I gave Claudia a copy of the post I wrote about her. I explained what it was and told her it was in the card. She read it on the spot and then passed it around to the other teachers. One girl even got teary over it. I felt embarassed but I'm glad Claudia liked it.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Soccer
Last night was our... I mean Jillian's first night of soccer. We registered back in May and Jillian was sooo excited to play. Our first game, last week, was rained out and I was fearful the same would happend last night but it was game on! Jillan did a great job! She was good at running and kicking the ball at the same time. I played soccer in high school so she must get her soccer prowress from me(cough, cough). She got bored eventually and ditched soccer for the playground equipment. Oh well, I think I got some great photos. I can't wait to see if the pic of she and Nolan talking face to face on the field turned out....it'll be adorable. Oh yeah, she also sat on the ball in the middle of practice and had a pee on the ball. What can you do? Clean the ball, clean the kid and send them back on the field.
Okay, so fast forward to this evening in the back yard. We were playing soccer at the Yard Ape's request and trying to teach her not to use her hands. She got bored so Eric and I decided to play our own soccer game. Now, this may come as a surprise to some of you...okay I'm done laughing now....but I'm a bit competitive...fine!...I'm alot competitive. I'm a about 5'6 tall and Eric is 6'5 tall. Ha! He doesn't intimidate me! I gave this game my full effort.....while wearing flip-flops. So we're runing around the back yard at full tilt, there is pushing going on, I got a really good kick to the shin from him, I dove for the ball, he dove, I got a goal on him, he got one on me. I must say we were both gunning for one another. I *may* have taken a shot at his head, maybe. Anyway, as I said we were really running hard. I had the ball and was making my way to his end. Can you feel the excitment?? He is behind me so I pulled my leg back to kick to get a goal and my other foot slides in dog crap!! I didn't fall in it but I slide half way across the damn backyard.
@%*&ing game over.
Okay, so fast forward to this evening in the back yard. We were playing soccer at the Yard Ape's request and trying to teach her not to use her hands. She got bored so Eric and I decided to play our own soccer game. Now, this may come as a surprise to some of you...okay I'm done laughing now....but I'm a bit competitive...fine!...I'm alot competitive. I'm a about 5'6 tall and Eric is 6'5 tall. Ha! He doesn't intimidate me! I gave this game my full effort.....while wearing flip-flops. So we're runing around the back yard at full tilt, there is pushing going on, I got a really good kick to the shin from him, I dove for the ball, he dove, I got a goal on him, he got one on me. I must say we were both gunning for one another. I *may* have taken a shot at his head, maybe. Anyway, as I said we were really running hard. I had the ball and was making my way to his end. Can you feel the excitment?? He is behind me so I pulled my leg back to kick to get a goal and my other foot slides in dog crap!! I didn't fall in it but I slide half way across the damn backyard.
@%*&ing game over.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
College?!?
Let me set the scene for you: I'm laying on Jillian's bed telling her it's time for bed. She is standing at her little table farting around playing with something trying NOT to go bed. I have my eyes closed and here is the conversation that takes place:
Jillian: Mommy, what are you doing?
Me: I'm waiting for you to get in bed so I can rub your back.
Jillian: Just a minute, you lay in my bed and watch me
Me: Mmm...hmmm
Jillian: Oh! My money. I'll put it in my piggy bank.
Me: No. Jillian it is time for bed
Jillian: But Mommy, I'm doing my business. (as she puts money in a cup)
Me: Now.
Jillian: But Mommy, I need more money for college.
Well, how can I argue with that??? Did I mention the child isn't even 3 years old yet? Ha! and you all thought I was a compulsive planner.
Jillian: Mommy, what are you doing?
Me: I'm waiting for you to get in bed so I can rub your back.
Jillian: Just a minute, you lay in my bed and watch me
Me: Mmm...hmmm
Jillian: Oh! My money. I'll put it in my piggy bank.
Me: No. Jillian it is time for bed
Jillian: But Mommy, I'm doing my business. (as she puts money in a cup)
Me: Now.
Jillian: But Mommy, I need more money for college.
Well, how can I argue with that??? Did I mention the child isn't even 3 years old yet? Ha! and you all thought I was a compulsive planner.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Potential for a Meltdown
The gov't department I work for is having a Wellness Day for our region in Woodstock next week. It will consist of multiple sessions we can choose to participate in....one in the morning and one in the afternoon. I was approached today about putting on a card making/rubber stamping session or a scrapbooking session. Secretly I was kinda flattered that they asked me but I played it cool. We have a ton of super talented artists of all types in our office...we even have an art hallway where we can display our work.
I told them that I didn't think scrapbooking would be a good session for a few reasons. The sessions are supposed to be 45 mins long. Even me, the windbag that I am, could not talk to a room full of people for that long about scrapbooking...unless they were already scrappers but that is not a guarantee. There isn't the time or funds available for me to help everyone make a layout. So scrap that idea...hehehe I made a funny.
We talked about doing a stamping demo and everyone could make a card to take home. I would precut the cardstock and all that stuff and the participants would only have to stamp their images and put the card together. I figured out the cost and gave it to the organizer. The plan is 25 people in each the morning and afternoon session so I'm not footing the cost for that. I said if they paid for the cardstock I'd provide the use of my stamps and ink pads. I'll find out tomorrow if it's a go.
So I started thinking about this tonight. Those of you who know me well can probably foresee the issues that could cause a potential meltdown here. First and foremost, WHAT IF SOMEONE GETS INK ON THE WOODEN BLOCK OF MY STAMPS?!?! For he love of god, kill me now. We all know how absolutely, fanatically anal I am about that. Can you imagine me jumping a co-worker and screaming at them because they got ink on the block? Oh, did I mention the participants will be my co-workers? Then I'd sit down, cry about it, and refuse to talk to anyone for the rest of the day. Should make me lots of friends, huh?
Next problem, I speak so ridiculously fast. Really, I sound like Alvin and the Chipmunks on speed...and that's on a good day. Add a large Tim's coffee, that I'll drink on the way there, to the mix and people just stare at me with a completely bewildered look on their face trying to figure out what the hell I've just said. By the time they realize, I've said "Good morning and welcome to Cardmaking 101", I've already gotten pissed that they haven't even been entheusiastic enough to say good morning back, told them all where to shove it, stormed out of the room and I'm telling my story to the poor sucker in the hall. Follow me here?
Oh, who am I kidding?? Given my track records, I lost them the moment I walked in the room with my skirt stuck in the back of my thong. They're all laying in the aisle laughing and didn't even hear my say good morning.
I told them that I didn't think scrapbooking would be a good session for a few reasons. The sessions are supposed to be 45 mins long. Even me, the windbag that I am, could not talk to a room full of people for that long about scrapbooking...unless they were already scrappers but that is not a guarantee. There isn't the time or funds available for me to help everyone make a layout. So scrap that idea...hehehe I made a funny.
We talked about doing a stamping demo and everyone could make a card to take home. I would precut the cardstock and all that stuff and the participants would only have to stamp their images and put the card together. I figured out the cost and gave it to the organizer. The plan is 25 people in each the morning and afternoon session so I'm not footing the cost for that. I said if they paid for the cardstock I'd provide the use of my stamps and ink pads. I'll find out tomorrow if it's a go.
So I started thinking about this tonight. Those of you who know me well can probably foresee the issues that could cause a potential meltdown here. First and foremost, WHAT IF SOMEONE GETS INK ON THE WOODEN BLOCK OF MY STAMPS?!?! For he love of god, kill me now. We all know how absolutely, fanatically anal I am about that. Can you imagine me jumping a co-worker and screaming at them because they got ink on the block? Oh, did I mention the participants will be my co-workers? Then I'd sit down, cry about it, and refuse to talk to anyone for the rest of the day. Should make me lots of friends, huh?
Next problem, I speak so ridiculously fast. Really, I sound like Alvin and the Chipmunks on speed...and that's on a good day. Add a large Tim's coffee, that I'll drink on the way there, to the mix and people just stare at me with a completely bewildered look on their face trying to figure out what the hell I've just said. By the time they realize, I've said "Good morning and welcome to Cardmaking 101", I've already gotten pissed that they haven't even been entheusiastic enough to say good morning back, told them all where to shove it, stormed out of the room and I'm telling my story to the poor sucker in the hall. Follow me here?
Oh, who am I kidding?? Given my track records, I lost them the moment I walked in the room with my skirt stuck in the back of my thong. They're all laying in the aisle laughing and didn't even hear my say good morning.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Claudia
Have you ever had someone come into your life and you realize very quickly they are going to be special and have an impact on you? I have. Her name is Claudia and she has been Jillian's teacher at daycare this past year. In my short 29 years, I've had a number of special people come in, and out, of my life. But for me, when it involves my daughter I really take notice.
I think we are so lucky that we've had Claudia in our lives this past year. She is so amazing as a teacher, care provider, and as a person. She does so much for our children that I don't know where to start. I know that Jillian just loves her and I know that Claudia really loves the kids too. Every day on the way home from work Jillian talks about the things she has done that day with Claudia and her friends. At home, if she does or says something new I'll ask her "Who taught you that?" and 99% of the time the answer is the same "Claudia!" Jillian also really likes Claudia's husband and her 2 sons.
Jillian is not yet 3 years old and she know tons of spanish words, she knows her ABC's, she can count to 20, she knows her colors, she knows the names of every animal we ever see in a book, she is always suprising me by naming items. Most of this comes from Claudia at daycare.
All the stuff she learns is great. But you know what I love the most? The relationship Jillian and Claudia have. I love the fact that they hug and say I love you to each other. I love that Jillian tells me at night that she loves Claudia. I love that Claudia disciplines her much the same as I would.
Side note - one day Jillian was freaking out when I picked her up to go to an appt. Claudia helped me try to calm her down. Jilian continued to freak and eventually Claudia said "Enough.", put her coat on her and carried her to the door all the while Jillian is screaming and writhing like she's growing a second head. I love the fact that Claudia and I were on the exact same page for that incident.
I don't get to see Claudia every day because she gets there shortly after we drop Jillian off and she leaves shortly before we pick Jillian up. But she still keeps me informed. She calls to let me know if anything significant as happened during the day (JJ bit someone or someone bit her, JJ cut her hair etc). But she also calls to tell me funny stories about Jillian. Jililan was sick last week and Claudia called me to tell me of events that were coming up and also to see how Jillian was feeling. She even called me one evening this week at home just to tell me Jillian had a good day. How can you beat that...I couldn't ask for anything more.
More than being Jillian's care provider, I really like Claudia as a person. She is friendly, kind, energetic and fun. Have I mentioned she has the patience of a saint? She cares for 6 kids under the age of 3 every day. She has a helper but Claudia is the main care provider. Can you imagine having 6 kids at various stages of potty training, 6 kids all trying to establish their independance, 6 kids all wanting you to look at their art work, needing naps, needing lunch, needing their noses wiped, needing help with boots and snowsuits. Yet she always makes time to talk to me if I call and she always has a smile on her face.
I've been thinking about this stuff because Jillian is moving to a different class, at the same daycare, on July 4. I'm excited for Jillian knowing that she will have new experiences, new adventures, and a new bond with her new teacher. But I'm also sad that she won't be with Claudia every day. Lucky for us we will have Claudia at the daycare until she goes on maternity leave in December. You know what? I feel bad for the person who replaces Claudia because boy will they have some big shoes to fill. I hope that every child and family has the opportunity to have "their own Claudia" come into their lives.
I wish I could tell Claudia how much she means to us but how do you do that? I'd really like her to know. These aren't the kinds of hhtings I can just bring up in a conversation - I'd feel dumb. I could give her a copy of this but it seems egotistical to give her a copy of my own writing. Oye...this is hard.
I think we are so lucky that we've had Claudia in our lives this past year. She is so amazing as a teacher, care provider, and as a person. She does so much for our children that I don't know where to start. I know that Jillian just loves her and I know that Claudia really loves the kids too. Every day on the way home from work Jillian talks about the things she has done that day with Claudia and her friends. At home, if she does or says something new I'll ask her "Who taught you that?" and 99% of the time the answer is the same "Claudia!" Jillian also really likes Claudia's husband and her 2 sons.
Jillian is not yet 3 years old and she know tons of spanish words, she knows her ABC's, she can count to 20, she knows her colors, she knows the names of every animal we ever see in a book, she is always suprising me by naming items. Most of this comes from Claudia at daycare.
All the stuff she learns is great. But you know what I love the most? The relationship Jillian and Claudia have. I love the fact that they hug and say I love you to each other. I love that Jillian tells me at night that she loves Claudia. I love that Claudia disciplines her much the same as I would.
Side note - one day Jillian was freaking out when I picked her up to go to an appt. Claudia helped me try to calm her down. Jilian continued to freak and eventually Claudia said "Enough.", put her coat on her and carried her to the door all the while Jillian is screaming and writhing like she's growing a second head. I love the fact that Claudia and I were on the exact same page for that incident.
I don't get to see Claudia every day because she gets there shortly after we drop Jillian off and she leaves shortly before we pick Jillian up. But she still keeps me informed. She calls to let me know if anything significant as happened during the day (JJ bit someone or someone bit her, JJ cut her hair etc). But she also calls to tell me funny stories about Jillian. Jililan was sick last week and Claudia called me to tell me of events that were coming up and also to see how Jillian was feeling. She even called me one evening this week at home just to tell me Jillian had a good day. How can you beat that...I couldn't ask for anything more.
More than being Jillian's care provider, I really like Claudia as a person. She is friendly, kind, energetic and fun. Have I mentioned she has the patience of a saint? She cares for 6 kids under the age of 3 every day. She has a helper but Claudia is the main care provider. Can you imagine having 6 kids at various stages of potty training, 6 kids all trying to establish their independance, 6 kids all wanting you to look at their art work, needing naps, needing lunch, needing their noses wiped, needing help with boots and snowsuits. Yet she always makes time to talk to me if I call and she always has a smile on her face.
I've been thinking about this stuff because Jillian is moving to a different class, at the same daycare, on July 4. I'm excited for Jillian knowing that she will have new experiences, new adventures, and a new bond with her new teacher. But I'm also sad that she won't be with Claudia every day. Lucky for us we will have Claudia at the daycare until she goes on maternity leave in December. You know what? I feel bad for the person who replaces Claudia because boy will they have some big shoes to fill. I hope that every child and family has the opportunity to have "their own Claudia" come into their lives.
I wish I could tell Claudia how much she means to us but how do you do that? I'd really like her to know. These aren't the kinds of hhtings I can just bring up in a conversation - I'd feel dumb. I could give her a copy of this but it seems egotistical to give her a copy of my own writing. Oye...this is hard.
Name Theory
I know you all love my theories so here is another one. I mentioned the Name Thoery in my 100 things about me list. I decided to write about it before I forget.
This theory is specific to female names and it goes like this. I think that names fit into 2 categories, they are either lawyer names or hooker names. I find this theory particularly useful when naming babies. It doesn't matter how cute Tallulah Bluebell sounds and how much it makes you giggle, it is not suitable for a 30 year old woman. If I met a 30 year old woman named Tallulah Bluebell I think I would instinctively want to beat her up. :) Anyway, this is how it works, pick a female name and ask yourself - Is this a hooker sounding name or a female sounding name. I'm going to give a few examples but before I do, I apologize profusely if I use a name belonging to you or your loved ones...it's not intentional. Okay here we go...
Trixie - hooker
Katherine - lawyer
Candy - hooker
Julia - lawyer
Mitzie - hooker
Sophie - lawyer
Now if anyone tries to comment and say these names aren't hooker names I'll say you're on drugs.
As much as we'd like to think our society judges people fairly, it's just not true. Here is part 2 of the theory - If you were looking for a lawyer, and for the sake of arugment, had no references...you just have to open the phone book and choose a name. All other things being equal, are you going to choose Katherine Woodford or Candy Cain???
I know you're all nodding your head in agreement over this and if you feel you want to nominate me for some sort of pretigious genius award, who am I to try and stop you. If the shoe fits.....
This theory is specific to female names and it goes like this. I think that names fit into 2 categories, they are either lawyer names or hooker names. I find this theory particularly useful when naming babies. It doesn't matter how cute Tallulah Bluebell sounds and how much it makes you giggle, it is not suitable for a 30 year old woman. If I met a 30 year old woman named Tallulah Bluebell I think I would instinctively want to beat her up. :) Anyway, this is how it works, pick a female name and ask yourself - Is this a hooker sounding name or a female sounding name. I'm going to give a few examples but before I do, I apologize profusely if I use a name belonging to you or your loved ones...it's not intentional. Okay here we go...
Trixie - hooker
Katherine - lawyer
Candy - hooker
Julia - lawyer
Mitzie - hooker
Sophie - lawyer
Now if anyone tries to comment and say these names aren't hooker names I'll say you're on drugs.
As much as we'd like to think our society judges people fairly, it's just not true. Here is part 2 of the theory - If you were looking for a lawyer, and for the sake of arugment, had no references...you just have to open the phone book and choose a name. All other things being equal, are you going to choose Katherine Woodford or Candy Cain???
I know you're all nodding your head in agreement over this and if you feel you want to nominate me for some sort of pretigious genius award, who am I to try and stop you. If the shoe fits.....
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Challenge
I accept Nicole's challenge to do a 100 Random Things About Me list. And I challenge everyone else reading this to do the same! I share quite a bit already so it'll be challenging to come up with new info.
1. I like my job and co-workers
2. I've had grey hairs sprouting since I was 12 years old
3. Given my family history, I'll likely be complety grey by 40 yrs old.
4. I have a phobia of snakes and can't even touch a picture of one.
5. I was accepted to pilot school in 1996
6. I had an Air Force recruitment officer follow me through high school
7. The Air Force contacted me again in university to try to recruit me
8. I hate milk and butter
9. I love all cheese accept blue cheese
10 Cooked carrots make vomit
11. I have serious learning issues involving math
12. I played the clarinet and bass clarinet in the Jr High band
13. My favourite christmas carol is O Holy Night
14. I'm very unsure of my religious beliefs but have strong opinions about 1 very mainstream popular religion
15. I wish I could go back to school to become a social worker
16. I want Jillian to be musical
17. My grade 4 teacher was my 2nd cousin
18. My aunt was my grade 8 supply french teacher
19. I was very close with my grandparents on my mom's side
20. I was extremely shy as a small child - don't choke while reading this one
21. I sometimes listen to the same song over and over if I like it
22. I don't like 80's music at all
23. My longest continuous friendship is 23 years
24. I believe in ESP and psychics
25. I stopped believing in Santa Clause at age 7
26. I have about 3 friends who I instantly "clicked with" the moment we met
27. I've never been the type to excel in anything
28. I never got a mark higher than 65 in high school
29. I graduated university with a 4.0 GPA
30. I have poor eye hand coordination
31. I hate confrontation
32. My favourite colour is red
33. I prefer to clean the house on Sunday
34. I collect bathing suits
35. I don't tan...I turn red and then white again
36. I'm a thrill seeker
37. I've been para-sailing, jump off a 60 ft cliff into the ocean, climbed waterfalls, jumped off waterfalls all while travelling
38. I'm a closet eater
39. I'm afraid of open/glassed in heights (ie. ferris wheel, glass elevators)
40. Eric and I dated for 6 years before getting married
41. I have an unnatural pull to help people
42. I'd have my tattoos removed if I could
43. I like to watch cooking shows
44. I'm happiest at the beach in Shediac
45. I'd love to visit Newfoundland some day
46. I love to discuss human rights and charter of rights issues
47. I majored in Criminology in university
48. I'd like to do a masters degree some day
49. The 3rd toe on my right foot sits under the 2nd toe. My grandfather and cousin have it too and we call it our "funny toe".
50. I have a line across my nose that everyone thinks is from me wiping my nose. It was there when I was born.
51. I have a very specific personal space bubble
52. I pick up on other people's grammar and speech errors very quickly. But I keep it to myself.
53. I was so bad in math, the school/teacher "allow" me to give up on advanced math (why did I enroll it that???) I just showed up to class and worked other things.
54. My parents weren't strict about marks
55. I sang in a girl's choir from grade 6 to grade 12
56. I only take showers. Baths leave me feeling dirty when I'm done
57. I've always wished I had a southern drawl (accent)
58. I cry every time I go to Stanley because my grandparents are no longer living. This particularly sucks since I only go there for work now
59. I'm very proud to be Canadian
60. I've been to the Canadian War cemetary in Holland and it had a profound effect on me
61. I have conversations with myself out loud when nobody is around
62. I'm fiercly protective of certain people
63. I'm probably never have another dog when Oliver is gone because I can't imagine being lucky enough to have another dog like him
64. We used to have Oliver's sister too, Abbey, but had to put her down because she had a brain tumour
65. Sometimes when working I'm too stupid to be afraid for my safety.
66. I'm good at talking my way out of sticky situations and gaining people's trust quickly. Lucky for me given #65
67. I won't wear white shoes
68. I can't see myself ever living outside of city limits
69. I'm a car snob (hanging my head in shame)
70. I love BBQ'd roast beef but don't like it cooked in the oven
71. I love ethnic food...particularly lebanese, greek and italian
72. When I was pregnant, I hoped Jillian would be a girl
73. I have ALOT of little cousins under the age of 10 and I have 2 particular favourites...but won't way who
74. I have one sister
75. My parents have always supported my sister and I unconditionally. I got into alot of trouble in jr high school but was always honest about it with my parents. So if I said I didn't do something they always backed me up
76. I could never be a vegetarian
77. I like my name
78. I probably won't have any more children
79. I really really want to take my daughter and husband to the Sesame Street Carribean adventure at the Beaches Resort in Jamaica
80. I think I need to listen more and talk less
81. My favourite sandwich is mayo, mustard, cheddar cheese, dill pickles, and plain chips
82. I love A&W rootbeer
83. I'm very time oriented and freak out about being late for any thing
84. I wish the media would stop giving attention to Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan
85. I like to play Jeopardy
86. I can't just watch TV. Most of the time I have to be doing something else at the same time
87. I'm a very fast reader
88. I've read Cane River by Lalita Tademy at least 15 times in the past 4 years. It's my all time favourite book
89. My husband is 8 1/2 years older than me
90. I'm a germaphobe when it comes to public places. I won't use a payphone unless I absolutely have to
91. I never stay up past 11 o'clock on a work night
92. I can't *not* read an email if I know it's there
93. I'm so much like my aunt Lisa that my mother and grandmother use to say I should have been Lisa's child
94. I'm not much of a movie watcher
95. My co-workers are the ones who nicknamed me the Princess Spy
96. I have a theory about whether names are "hooker" or "lawyer" names. I'll blog about it someday. Someone remind me. I think you'll nod your head in agreement when you read it
97. When I can't sleep I try to remember a book from begining to end to try and get to sleep
98. I dream ALOT every night
99. I love the smell of my dog
100. I don't like that my smile is so gummy
1. I like my job and co-workers
2. I've had grey hairs sprouting since I was 12 years old
3. Given my family history, I'll likely be complety grey by 40 yrs old.
4. I have a phobia of snakes and can't even touch a picture of one.
5. I was accepted to pilot school in 1996
6. I had an Air Force recruitment officer follow me through high school
7. The Air Force contacted me again in university to try to recruit me
8. I hate milk and butter
9. I love all cheese accept blue cheese
10 Cooked carrots make vomit
11. I have serious learning issues involving math
12. I played the clarinet and bass clarinet in the Jr High band
13. My favourite christmas carol is O Holy Night
14. I'm very unsure of my religious beliefs but have strong opinions about 1 very mainstream popular religion
15. I wish I could go back to school to become a social worker
16. I want Jillian to be musical
17. My grade 4 teacher was my 2nd cousin
18. My aunt was my grade 8 supply french teacher
19. I was very close with my grandparents on my mom's side
20. I was extremely shy as a small child - don't choke while reading this one
21. I sometimes listen to the same song over and over if I like it
22. I don't like 80's music at all
23. My longest continuous friendship is 23 years
24. I believe in ESP and psychics
25. I stopped believing in Santa Clause at age 7
26. I have about 3 friends who I instantly "clicked with" the moment we met
27. I've never been the type to excel in anything
28. I never got a mark higher than 65 in high school
29. I graduated university with a 4.0 GPA
30. I have poor eye hand coordination
31. I hate confrontation
32. My favourite colour is red
33. I prefer to clean the house on Sunday
34. I collect bathing suits
35. I don't tan...I turn red and then white again
36. I'm a thrill seeker
37. I've been para-sailing, jump off a 60 ft cliff into the ocean, climbed waterfalls, jumped off waterfalls all while travelling
38. I'm a closet eater
39. I'm afraid of open/glassed in heights (ie. ferris wheel, glass elevators)
40. Eric and I dated for 6 years before getting married
41. I have an unnatural pull to help people
42. I'd have my tattoos removed if I could
43. I like to watch cooking shows
44. I'm happiest at the beach in Shediac
45. I'd love to visit Newfoundland some day
46. I love to discuss human rights and charter of rights issues
47. I majored in Criminology in university
48. I'd like to do a masters degree some day
49. The 3rd toe on my right foot sits under the 2nd toe. My grandfather and cousin have it too and we call it our "funny toe".
50. I have a line across my nose that everyone thinks is from me wiping my nose. It was there when I was born.
51. I have a very specific personal space bubble
52. I pick up on other people's grammar and speech errors very quickly. But I keep it to myself.
53. I was so bad in math, the school/teacher "allow" me to give up on advanced math (why did I enroll it that???) I just showed up to class and worked other things.
54. My parents weren't strict about marks
55. I sang in a girl's choir from grade 6 to grade 12
56. I only take showers. Baths leave me feeling dirty when I'm done
57. I've always wished I had a southern drawl (accent)
58. I cry every time I go to Stanley because my grandparents are no longer living. This particularly sucks since I only go there for work now
59. I'm very proud to be Canadian
60. I've been to the Canadian War cemetary in Holland and it had a profound effect on me
61. I have conversations with myself out loud when nobody is around
62. I'm fiercly protective of certain people
63. I'm probably never have another dog when Oliver is gone because I can't imagine being lucky enough to have another dog like him
64. We used to have Oliver's sister too, Abbey, but had to put her down because she had a brain tumour
65. Sometimes when working I'm too stupid to be afraid for my safety.
66. I'm good at talking my way out of sticky situations and gaining people's trust quickly. Lucky for me given #65
67. I won't wear white shoes
68. I can't see myself ever living outside of city limits
69. I'm a car snob (hanging my head in shame)
70. I love BBQ'd roast beef but don't like it cooked in the oven
71. I love ethnic food...particularly lebanese, greek and italian
72. When I was pregnant, I hoped Jillian would be a girl
73. I have ALOT of little cousins under the age of 10 and I have 2 particular favourites...but won't way who
74. I have one sister
75. My parents have always supported my sister and I unconditionally. I got into alot of trouble in jr high school but was always honest about it with my parents. So if I said I didn't do something they always backed me up
76. I could never be a vegetarian
77. I like my name
78. I probably won't have any more children
79. I really really want to take my daughter and husband to the Sesame Street Carribean adventure at the Beaches Resort in Jamaica
80. I think I need to listen more and talk less
81. My favourite sandwich is mayo, mustard, cheddar cheese, dill pickles, and plain chips
82. I love A&W rootbeer
83. I'm very time oriented and freak out about being late for any thing
84. I wish the media would stop giving attention to Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan
85. I like to play Jeopardy
86. I can't just watch TV. Most of the time I have to be doing something else at the same time
87. I'm a very fast reader
88. I've read Cane River by Lalita Tademy at least 15 times in the past 4 years. It's my all time favourite book
89. My husband is 8 1/2 years older than me
90. I'm a germaphobe when it comes to public places. I won't use a payphone unless I absolutely have to
91. I never stay up past 11 o'clock on a work night
92. I can't *not* read an email if I know it's there
93. I'm so much like my aunt Lisa that my mother and grandmother use to say I should have been Lisa's child
94. I'm not much of a movie watcher
95. My co-workers are the ones who nicknamed me the Princess Spy
96. I have a theory about whether names are "hooker" or "lawyer" names. I'll blog about it someday. Someone remind me. I think you'll nod your head in agreement when you read it
97. When I can't sleep I try to remember a book from begining to end to try and get to sleep
98. I dream ALOT every night
99. I love the smell of my dog
100. I don't like that my smile is so gummy
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Another Theory
I'm back at work but I feel like a transport truck has run over my head, then run over it again as it backed up, and then over it again going forward. To sum it up, I feel like death warmed over. But I haven't been to work since last Wednesday because Jillian was sick so I didn't feel like I could call in sick for yet another day. My plan is to sit her quietly and drink copious amounts of coffee until lunch time. Then I will go get some Advil cold and sinus and maybe a magazine. For the afternoon, I plan to do much the same as this morning.
I'm not exactly sure why I don't feel good but I have a theory. My symptoms are: my head is pounding, my sinuses are so full and sound like Fran Dresher (the tv show The Nanny) so when I talk I sound really really sexy (insert eye roll here). I also have a few zits on my face which I don't usually get. Oddly, I started to feel badly when the started to get the zits. So I think that maybe they are causing the pain. I have one large one on my forehead and one large one beside my nose. Coincidentally, those are the spots causing me pain...headache and sinuses. I think that perhaps the zits are growing roots inside my head and sinuses...burrowing into my sinuses and brain...deep into my brain. Now this could result in a few things. 1) the burrowing could continue to cause pain and eventually I will die as the zit takes over my brain function or 2) the burrowing could cause me to develop telepathic powers. Remember the John Travolta movie "Phenomenon"? Yup, I'm going with option number 2. Frankly, it sounds like more fun.
So if you need me today, I'll be sitting quietly at my desk wish and waiting for 4:30 to arrive quickly. Unless of course someone takes pity on me or Nicole posts that a big ol order came in at the store.
I'm not exactly sure why I don't feel good but I have a theory. My symptoms are: my head is pounding, my sinuses are so full and sound like Fran Dresher (the tv show The Nanny) so when I talk I sound really really sexy (insert eye roll here). I also have a few zits on my face which I don't usually get. Oddly, I started to feel badly when the started to get the zits. So I think that maybe they are causing the pain. I have one large one on my forehead and one large one beside my nose. Coincidentally, those are the spots causing me pain...headache and sinuses. I think that perhaps the zits are growing roots inside my head and sinuses...burrowing into my sinuses and brain...deep into my brain. Now this could result in a few things. 1) the burrowing could continue to cause pain and eventually I will die as the zit takes over my brain function or 2) the burrowing could cause me to develop telepathic powers. Remember the John Travolta movie "Phenomenon"? Yup, I'm going with option number 2. Frankly, it sounds like more fun.
So if you need me today, I'll be sitting quietly at my desk wish and waiting for 4:30 to arrive quickly. Unless of course someone takes pity on me or Nicole posts that a big ol order came in at the store.
Monday, June 12, 2006
The Big Picture
Have you read Stacey Julian's book "The Big Picture"? It was a book we did for scrapbooking bookclub back in March I think? Anyway, I keep finding myself drawn back to this book. Oddly, I don't even like Stacey's scrapbook style per se. What I mean is that I don't really care for her layout-actual-paste-things-down-on-cardstock style. I like clean linear lines and that woman just throws things down and calls it done. Kudos to her! Everybody has their own style. What is important is that you are happy with your albums. FYI - this is the one and ONLY topic where it's not just because "The Princess Said So".
Stacey has a unique way of organizing her albums but that is too long to get into here. You can check her out at http://stacysbigpicture.typepad.com/ which is her blog or here http://www.bigpicturescrapbooking.com I'm not really a particular scrapbooker. I'm not hung up on getting "caught up". I scrapbook because I like it...so why stress out? It's supposed to be a hobby not a punishment. I don't get my panties in a knot over which album my layouts go into. I just pick a pretty album and put them in. When it's full I buy another one. Easy as pie.
So what keeps me coming back to this book? I don't really know. I don't necessarily go to it for inspiration. This morning I was reading it because I am bloody tired of watching Dora's Christmas Adventure. I'm soon gonna tell she and Boots where they can stick their damn adventure.
One thing I got from this book is Stacey's take on journalling. She says you don't necessarily have to journal what the picture is about. For example I did a layout of Jillian playing in the cupboards when I was packing to move from our old house. Instead of stating the obvious - Here is Jillian playing in the cupboards. Boy did she have fun - I wrote about how those pictures reminded me of all the changes that took place during that time in our lives. Jillian started daycare, I went back to work after maternity leave, we moved, Jillian was cutting all four molars at once, and Eric got layed off 2 weeks after I went back to work.
I already take pictures and do layouts of every day things but this book reminded me to do it more often and gave me different ideas of every day things to document. I'm not going to rush out and do an album of the foods we eat like she did. However, I like the idea that she did a one month scrapbook where she documented one month of her life. Not every little detail but the highlights and her family's routines. I might try that because 20 years down the road it'll be a cool snapshot of our lives in 2006.
Given the past puke filled 5 days....I think I'll wait and start in July.
Stacey has a unique way of organizing her albums but that is too long to get into here. You can check her out at http://stacysbigpicture.typepad.com/ which is her blog or here http://www.bigpicturescrapbooking.com I'm not really a particular scrapbooker. I'm not hung up on getting "caught up". I scrapbook because I like it...so why stress out? It's supposed to be a hobby not a punishment. I don't get my panties in a knot over which album my layouts go into. I just pick a pretty album and put them in. When it's full I buy another one. Easy as pie.
So what keeps me coming back to this book? I don't really know. I don't necessarily go to it for inspiration. This morning I was reading it because I am bloody tired of watching Dora's Christmas Adventure. I'm soon gonna tell she and Boots where they can stick their damn adventure.
One thing I got from this book is Stacey's take on journalling. She says you don't necessarily have to journal what the picture is about. For example I did a layout of Jillian playing in the cupboards when I was packing to move from our old house. Instead of stating the obvious - Here is Jillian playing in the cupboards. Boy did she have fun - I wrote about how those pictures reminded me of all the changes that took place during that time in our lives. Jillian started daycare, I went back to work after maternity leave, we moved, Jillian was cutting all four molars at once, and Eric got layed off 2 weeks after I went back to work.
I already take pictures and do layouts of every day things but this book reminded me to do it more often and gave me different ideas of every day things to document. I'm not going to rush out and do an album of the foods we eat like she did. However, I like the idea that she did a one month scrapbook where she documented one month of her life. Not every little detail but the highlights and her family's routines. I might try that because 20 years down the road it'll be a cool snapshot of our lives in 2006.
Given the past puke filled 5 days....I think I'll wait and start in July.
Wallowing...
in self-pity for these reasons:
Jillian is still puking.
Jillian still poops when she toots
Jillian puked on me 15 mins ago as I was getting out of the car to come to work for an important meeting this afternoon - luckily it was only on arm
I'm now battling a cold
I'm so tired I want to cry
And that's all I have to say about that.
Jillian is still puking.
Jillian still poops when she toots
Jillian puked on me 15 mins ago as I was getting out of the car to come to work for an important meeting this afternoon - luckily it was only on arm
I'm now battling a cold
I'm so tired I want to cry
And that's all I have to say about that.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Tired but Happy
After 2 days at the Puke Palace, I went out to a scrapbooking event today. I'm exhausted after getting very little sleep for the past few nights but I had a good time. I made a journal and journal jar (thanks for the idea Nic!) and got a few layouts done. Nicole's mom took care of the meals and the food was great!!! We had beef tacos and salad for lunch, and chicken fajitas, spanish rice, and brownie sundaes for supper. The hot fudge on the sundaes was like super thick hot chocolate. I'm sure the fact that I stuffed like a Christmas Turkey is part of my ridiculous tiredness.
All the regular girls were there. You can always guarantee a good time and lots of laughs with that crew. A few of the girls are close friends that I see on a regular basis. Others I've just met/started hanging out with recently but I would consider to be good friends. I'm thinking of 2 people in particular that need to start coming to crops (Hi Shelley, Hi Robin). I'm sure if they come once they'll be hooked. I think this was the last "formal" crop Nicole is having until after the summer. But surely we can organize some scrapbook nights for us hardcore scrappers.
For anyone who was at "Scrap Camp" in April, I'm afraid I have some disturbing news. It seems Melanie has fallen off the wagon again. We found not one but THREE empty scope bottles in mixed in with her scrap supplies today. And then I noticed she was doing a layout of her drinking the scope. I'm afraid she really needs help.
I just realized I made it through the day without any drama. Unless you count Kelly eating a Whoopie Pie the size of my head and me wanting to cry because I didn't have one. Sigh....
All the regular girls were there. You can always guarantee a good time and lots of laughs with that crew. A few of the girls are close friends that I see on a regular basis. Others I've just met/started hanging out with recently but I would consider to be good friends. I'm thinking of 2 people in particular that need to start coming to crops (Hi Shelley, Hi Robin). I'm sure if they come once they'll be hooked. I think this was the last "formal" crop Nicole is having until after the summer. But surely we can organize some scrapbook nights for us hardcore scrappers.
For anyone who was at "Scrap Camp" in April, I'm afraid I have some disturbing news. It seems Melanie has fallen off the wagon again. We found not one but THREE empty scope bottles in mixed in with her scrap supplies today. And then I noticed she was doing a layout of her drinking the scope. I'm afraid she really needs help.
I just realized I made it through the day without any drama. Unless you count Kelly eating a Whoopie Pie the size of my head and me wanting to cry because I didn't have one. Sigh....
Friday, June 09, 2006
OYE
Jillian started vomiting Wednesday night around 10:45 pm. She threw up a few times until 12:30 am and then went to sleep with me in my bed. Around 4 am, she wakes up vomiting again. From that point on she threw up every 20 - 30 mins. That was until she started vomiting every 15 mins and had the runs. Boy was that fun. We were vomit free from 11:30 until 2:30 on Thurday. I thought we were on the upward swing. Was I ever wrong...things went to hell in a hand basket. She was puking every 15 mins again. But now she was wretching so hard that it caused her too poop every time she barfed. Poor little thing, by the time I got her cleaned up from the vomiting, cleaned up her bum, and set her "bed" on the couch back up she had 5 minutes before the whole cycle started again.
She wanted to sleep in her own bed last night. But I put an end to that when she choked on her vomit. She wasn't sick in the night but she wanted a drink of water every 30 minutes or so. I'm exhausted from that but glad she was drinking. Today she only threw up 3 times but she's very under the weather and lethargic. She's still drinking but won't eat.
I'm supposed to go scrapbooking with my home girls tomorrow. I contemplated staying home but quite frankly, I need a break from the Puke Palace. Hubby thinks I need a break too...god love him.
I've disinfected every surface of this house this afternoon. I even did the door knobs outside. I would have dipped myself in bleach if I didn't think it would hurt like crazy.
Yesterday I got puke in my hair around 7 am. I rinsed it out but couldn't get in the shower to wash it until 5 pm. I wouldn't even shower when Jillian had a nap because she wouldn't even turn her head to throw up. I was terrified she choke. A bit too graphic? Try living it.
She wanted to sleep in her own bed last night. But I put an end to that when she choked on her vomit. She wasn't sick in the night but she wanted a drink of water every 30 minutes or so. I'm exhausted from that but glad she was drinking. Today she only threw up 3 times but she's very under the weather and lethargic. She's still drinking but won't eat.
I'm supposed to go scrapbooking with my home girls tomorrow. I contemplated staying home but quite frankly, I need a break from the Puke Palace. Hubby thinks I need a break too...god love him.
I've disinfected every surface of this house this afternoon. I even did the door knobs outside. I would have dipped myself in bleach if I didn't think it would hurt like crazy.
Yesterday I got puke in my hair around 7 am. I rinsed it out but couldn't get in the shower to wash it until 5 pm. I wouldn't even shower when Jillian had a nap because she wouldn't even turn her head to throw up. I was terrified she choke. A bit too graphic? Try living it.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Humility
Humility....I have none left. I got over that tiny details years ago! When you do stupid things as often as I do, you learn to get over yourself fast. If I couldn't laugh at myself I'd be up the proverbial creek without a paddle. Here are today's events.
I wore a pretty new white skirt today for the first time. It's a bit more girly and frou-frou than my usual style but I put it on and off I went to work. I got a few compliments when we dropped Jillian off at daycare and then a few more when I got to work. My skirt had pleats all around the whole thing. I noticed that it had stitches in the bottom hem holding all the pleats in place and that made it kinda wrinkle funny when I got up from my chair. Anyway, I went for lunch with my mom and as we were paying for bills she says "Sweetie, your skirt is very pretty but you need take out the tacking at the bottom." I said "Oh, I thought those held the pleats in." She took them out for me and lo and behold the pleats didn't fall out!! So I headed back to work.
I now work for the regional office for my department but I used to work for central office. I know lots of people at central and, in fact, hubby started working there in April of this year. So I'm walking past central office saying hi to people outside. Next I see the deputy minister (who I've met once or twice) and one of the directors, Bill (who I know quite well) walking towards me. As they get close to me I get ready to smile and say hello. Just as they are in front of me....MY SKIRT FLIES UP AROUND MY WAIST!! Effing lovely! I calmy push the skirt down and turn my head in the other direction. I'm a fun girl but that wasn't exactly the "howdy-do" I wanted to give senior management. I mean, yeah, I want them to know who I am but not exactly that way.
When I got back to work I was laughing my ass off. What else could I do? I told my supervisor and 2 co-workers what happened and they laughed but weren't exactly surprised. My hubby probably heard the rumours around work this afternoon about the girl in the white skirt who flashed the deputy minister at lunch hour. Then he probably had his head in his hands saying "Oh god, please don't let it me my wife this time." Surprise Honey....it was me!
I wore a pretty new white skirt today for the first time. It's a bit more girly and frou-frou than my usual style but I put it on and off I went to work. I got a few compliments when we dropped Jillian off at daycare and then a few more when I got to work. My skirt had pleats all around the whole thing. I noticed that it had stitches in the bottom hem holding all the pleats in place and that made it kinda wrinkle funny when I got up from my chair. Anyway, I went for lunch with my mom and as we were paying for bills she says "Sweetie, your skirt is very pretty but you need take out the tacking at the bottom." I said "Oh, I thought those held the pleats in." She took them out for me and lo and behold the pleats didn't fall out!! So I headed back to work.
I now work for the regional office for my department but I used to work for central office. I know lots of people at central and, in fact, hubby started working there in April of this year. So I'm walking past central office saying hi to people outside. Next I see the deputy minister (who I've met once or twice) and one of the directors, Bill (who I know quite well) walking towards me. As they get close to me I get ready to smile and say hello. Just as they are in front of me....MY SKIRT FLIES UP AROUND MY WAIST!! Effing lovely! I calmy push the skirt down and turn my head in the other direction. I'm a fun girl but that wasn't exactly the "howdy-do" I wanted to give senior management. I mean, yeah, I want them to know who I am but not exactly that way.
When I got back to work I was laughing my ass off. What else could I do? I told my supervisor and 2 co-workers what happened and they laughed but weren't exactly surprised. My hubby probably heard the rumours around work this afternoon about the girl in the white skirt who flashed the deputy minister at lunch hour. Then he probably had his head in his hands saying "Oh god, please don't let it me my wife this time." Surprise Honey....it was me!
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
You're the Best Cooker!
"Mama, you're the best cooker!" This is what my sweet, sweet, angel of a daughter told me last night at supper time. Nevermind that fact that her lasagna came out of a box in the frozen food section. I thanked her up and down, gave her a kiss and then I said "Even better than Leonora?" She said "Yup!" with a grin from ear to ear. Leonora is the cook (but she's so much more than that) at daycare and believe me this is a compliment to my cooking. Even if it did come from a 2 1/2 year old.
I'm a pretty good cook now but it hasn't always been that way. When I lived at home I used to pay my younger sister to make Kraft Dinner for me. I did attempt it once myself but it didn't go so well and I ended up with an injury. Did you know that you shouldn't hold a strainer by hugging it with your arm while you pour boiling water and pasta into it? I quickly learned....Oye.
When Eric and I first go together he did all the cooking. Well, that's not entirely true. When we first go together, we ate out for every meal, every day. But when we started cooking at home he did all the cooking for the first little while. After trying every god forsaken kind of Hamburger Crap Helper I decided to take matters into my own hands and started cooking. That was 10 years ago and I still want to vomit at the smell of Hamburger Helper. I don't remember much from those first days. I know I lost some weight but I've pretty much blocked out the rest. I do remember the nasty aroma of burned garlic...it haunts me to this day.
I once thought cooking bacon over a campfire sounded like a fine idea. Well, one very serious burn on my arm later, and I've seen the light on this one. Please cook all bacon in a pan. Mmmmm....bacon. I love bacon. Bacon makes everything better.
Fast forward to today, I've come a long way in the cooking department. I make things like roasted red pepper penne with chicken, beef enchiladas, homemade soups (split pea, cuban black bean, cream of broccoli) and even my own spagetti sauce. I've had some bombs too. FYI - tofu cannot always be substituted for meat. Or should I say you can't always fool our family into thinking the tofu is meat. But I get points for trying, right?
Baking is a totally different story, I'm extremely challenged when it comes to baking. I never have anything turn out edible when I try to bake. It's doesn't matter how closely I follow the recipe it's always a bomb. The problems are very diverse...cookies that are flat as pancakes, sometimes things just plain ol' taste like crap, I burn things, or I under cook them, or they have a nasty consistency. Once, I forgot to add the baking soda, or is it baking powder..whatever, in the cookie dough. I had already put one batch in the oven and THEN tried to add the missing ingredient. FYI - that doesn't work.
Oh well, I least I keep trying. My family is good about trying the meals that I cook. But when it comes to baking, Eric is a very, very leery customer. I can't really blame him...I bake crap! Oh! once I made a pumpking cheese cake that was good! My mom helped me with it. It was going to the daycare for the teachers and I didn't want to take a chance with it.
So, anyone want to come over for some homemade cake???
I'm a pretty good cook now but it hasn't always been that way. When I lived at home I used to pay my younger sister to make Kraft Dinner for me. I did attempt it once myself but it didn't go so well and I ended up with an injury. Did you know that you shouldn't hold a strainer by hugging it with your arm while you pour boiling water and pasta into it? I quickly learned....Oye.
When Eric and I first go together he did all the cooking. Well, that's not entirely true. When we first go together, we ate out for every meal, every day. But when we started cooking at home he did all the cooking for the first little while. After trying every god forsaken kind of Hamburger Crap Helper I decided to take matters into my own hands and started cooking. That was 10 years ago and I still want to vomit at the smell of Hamburger Helper. I don't remember much from those first days. I know I lost some weight but I've pretty much blocked out the rest. I do remember the nasty aroma of burned garlic...it haunts me to this day.
I once thought cooking bacon over a campfire sounded like a fine idea. Well, one very serious burn on my arm later, and I've seen the light on this one. Please cook all bacon in a pan. Mmmmm....bacon. I love bacon. Bacon makes everything better.
Fast forward to today, I've come a long way in the cooking department. I make things like roasted red pepper penne with chicken, beef enchiladas, homemade soups (split pea, cuban black bean, cream of broccoli) and even my own spagetti sauce. I've had some bombs too. FYI - tofu cannot always be substituted for meat. Or should I say you can't always fool our family into thinking the tofu is meat. But I get points for trying, right?
Baking is a totally different story, I'm extremely challenged when it comes to baking. I never have anything turn out edible when I try to bake. It's doesn't matter how closely I follow the recipe it's always a bomb. The problems are very diverse...cookies that are flat as pancakes, sometimes things just plain ol' taste like crap, I burn things, or I under cook them, or they have a nasty consistency. Once, I forgot to add the baking soda, or is it baking powder..whatever, in the cookie dough. I had already put one batch in the oven and THEN tried to add the missing ingredient. FYI - that doesn't work.
Oh well, I least I keep trying. My family is good about trying the meals that I cook. But when it comes to baking, Eric is a very, very leery customer. I can't really blame him...I bake crap! Oh! once I made a pumpking cheese cake that was good! My mom helped me with it. It was going to the daycare for the teachers and I didn't want to take a chance with it.
So, anyone want to come over for some homemade cake???
Monday, June 05, 2006
Impromptu
Sometimes unplanned events are the most fun. Those opportunities seem to be far and few between since I became a mom. So when they come along you have to take them with gusto. Friday evening, Melanie and I had planned to show up at our daycare unannounced with some refreshments for the teachers since they were working late to get ready for a yard sale the next day. We filled my PINK AND WHITE beer tub with Fuzzy Duck and ice and we were on our way. (Side note - my husband thinks its a crime againt beer that I have a pink and white beer tub.) We got to the daycare but the girls and finished up early and had gone home.
We had made some impromtu plans to meet up with Nicole after we went to the daycare anyway so we went to my backyard with the drinks. We called a few people on our way home but it only ended up being Melanie, Nicole, Jeanette and I. We had a great time laughing and chatting. Between the 4 fo us I think we know just about everyone between Fredericton, Minto, Stanley, Tay Creek, North Tay, and Zealand.
We invited Eric out to join us and he did come out. But he only lasted a few minutes before and disappeared back in the house. He's a good sport. Toward the end of the evening, Melanie and Nicole started talking "computer talk" with him so he liked that. Me? Not so much...oye. It was Nicole's first time at my house so I had to fill her in on the one rule we have - If you want something, get it yourself. No need to my shy at our house...you'll starve or be thirsty otherwise.
I got some compliments on my high-faluting art over my couch. It was done by an artistic master that goes by the name "Princess". That Princess is a darn good painter if I do say so...and I do.
I rent out an apartment in my basement and I think my tenants are rather religious people. I wonder what they thought when they came home and saw the patio table littered with empty bottles. I went out to clean it up the next morning just has their parents were bringing their baby back from an overnight visit. I heard one of my tenants commenting that it looked like a big party but there were really one a few people....LOL. I cracked up over that one.
We had a good time Friday night. But from now on, we have 2 rules at our house - 1) If you want something, get it yourself 2) There is a 5 minute time limit on computer talk. Break the rules and suffer the consequences. I'm not sure what they will be yet but keep in mind that my almost 3 year old likes to poke people with sticks....and when JJ is happy, Mama is happy.
We had made some impromtu plans to meet up with Nicole after we went to the daycare anyway so we went to my backyard with the drinks. We called a few people on our way home but it only ended up being Melanie, Nicole, Jeanette and I. We had a great time laughing and chatting. Between the 4 fo us I think we know just about everyone between Fredericton, Minto, Stanley, Tay Creek, North Tay, and Zealand.
We invited Eric out to join us and he did come out. But he only lasted a few minutes before and disappeared back in the house. He's a good sport. Toward the end of the evening, Melanie and Nicole started talking "computer talk" with him so he liked that. Me? Not so much...oye. It was Nicole's first time at my house so I had to fill her in on the one rule we have - If you want something, get it yourself. No need to my shy at our house...you'll starve or be thirsty otherwise.
I got some compliments on my high-faluting art over my couch. It was done by an artistic master that goes by the name "Princess". That Princess is a darn good painter if I do say so...and I do.
I rent out an apartment in my basement and I think my tenants are rather religious people. I wonder what they thought when they came home and saw the patio table littered with empty bottles. I went out to clean it up the next morning just has their parents were bringing their baby back from an overnight visit. I heard one of my tenants commenting that it looked like a big party but there were really one a few people....LOL. I cracked up over that one.
We had a good time Friday night. But from now on, we have 2 rules at our house - 1) If you want something, get it yourself 2) There is a 5 minute time limit on computer talk. Break the rules and suffer the consequences. I'm not sure what they will be yet but keep in mind that my almost 3 year old likes to poke people with sticks....and when JJ is happy, Mama is happy.
Friday, June 02, 2006
What Would You Do
What would you do if you won the lottery? I participate in an office lottery pool with 5 other people. Every Friday afternoon we collect the money and 4 of us go for coffee and buy the tickets. It's a fun way to break up a long Friday afternoon.
Now, they say you'll never win if you have the money spent. But after 6 months of no wins, I'm not too concerned. I was listening to the radio a few weeks ago and they were discussing the guy who won $34 million in Quebec. He told reporters he wasn't gonig to share the money with his family. So, the radio station I was listening to asked listeners to call in and say whether or not they would share with their families. This one lady calls in the says she "thinks" she would share with her family.
I would absolutely share with my family. Some members may only get a one way ticket to Siberia but at least I'm sharing. Let's go on the premise that I've won 34 million like the guy in Quebec. First thing I would do is take my friends and family on vacation somewhere to get away from the media scrutiny. I'm pretty close with even my extended family so I would definitely want most of them there....the others will be on their way to Siberia anyway. I'm not sure where the vacation will be but definitely a beach destination. So if you ever get a cryptic call from me telling you to pack a bag and be at a specific location just do it...you won't be sorry.
My next order of business would be to buy quite a bit of property in Shediac. My family has always spent alot of time in Shediac during the summer. I love Shediac. Some of my best memories are from time spent in Shediac. I would build a cottage each for Eric & I, my parents, and Jenn & Jon. I would also have 1 or 2 other cottages so friends and extended family could come and stay as well. Our cottages would be nice with all the amenities but nothing crazy like you see in the Hamptons, NY. I still want that cottage feel.
I would spend my summers in Shediac but I'll definitely need a winter place somewhere warm. I don't think I would pick Florida for my winter home because they have poisonous snakes, alligators, and high crime rates. This is a topic for another blog but in short those are my 3 main criteria for places I will visit or live. Odd but, seriously, this is me...are you really surprised?!?
I might build my winter home on a carribean island because $34 million I could afford to fly there whenever I want. I would again have accomodations for friends and family to visit as they please. You see, if my friends and family weren't around then I wouldn't be able to enjoy my homes anyway. It's a win win situation.
I would still maintain a home in Fredericton because this is my hometown and where my friends and family are. Besides, nothing beats the fall in New Brunwick. I would even stay on Jewett St. I would just do some renos and maybe buy out my neighbours on either side.
Next, would come the financial issues. First, of course, I would put money is trust for Jillian so she will be set for life. She WILL NOT be the next Paris Hilton so I need to figure some stuff out there. But I think I have some time...LOL. I would also set up something for my niece, Lauren. Next, I would make a very large donation to Jillian's current daycare. Not only to the daycare but to make sure all the girls there are set and comfortable. Again, it's a topic for another day but I can't begin tell you how much I love the girls who work at her daycare.
I haven't really thought past that point. I'd travel alot, I know I'd want to make a contribution to society both financially and thru volunteering, I might take some courses at the university and maybe get my masters in Criminology. Who knows maybe I'd go on to get my PhD.
Of course, I'd have the best scrapbook studio on the east coast with lots of room for my friends. Oh, and I'd leave plenty of time for pedicures with my peep...my treat!
Now you tell me....what would you do with $34 million?
Now, they say you'll never win if you have the money spent. But after 6 months of no wins, I'm not too concerned. I was listening to the radio a few weeks ago and they were discussing the guy who won $34 million in Quebec. He told reporters he wasn't gonig to share the money with his family. So, the radio station I was listening to asked listeners to call in and say whether or not they would share with their families. This one lady calls in the says she "thinks" she would share with her family.
I would absolutely share with my family. Some members may only get a one way ticket to Siberia but at least I'm sharing. Let's go on the premise that I've won 34 million like the guy in Quebec. First thing I would do is take my friends and family on vacation somewhere to get away from the media scrutiny. I'm pretty close with even my extended family so I would definitely want most of them there....the others will be on their way to Siberia anyway. I'm not sure where the vacation will be but definitely a beach destination. So if you ever get a cryptic call from me telling you to pack a bag and be at a specific location just do it...you won't be sorry.
My next order of business would be to buy quite a bit of property in Shediac. My family has always spent alot of time in Shediac during the summer. I love Shediac. Some of my best memories are from time spent in Shediac. I would build a cottage each for Eric & I, my parents, and Jenn & Jon. I would also have 1 or 2 other cottages so friends and extended family could come and stay as well. Our cottages would be nice with all the amenities but nothing crazy like you see in the Hamptons, NY. I still want that cottage feel.
I would spend my summers in Shediac but I'll definitely need a winter place somewhere warm. I don't think I would pick Florida for my winter home because they have poisonous snakes, alligators, and high crime rates. This is a topic for another blog but in short those are my 3 main criteria for places I will visit or live. Odd but, seriously, this is me...are you really surprised?!?
I might build my winter home on a carribean island because $34 million I could afford to fly there whenever I want. I would again have accomodations for friends and family to visit as they please. You see, if my friends and family weren't around then I wouldn't be able to enjoy my homes anyway. It's a win win situation.
I would still maintain a home in Fredericton because this is my hometown and where my friends and family are. Besides, nothing beats the fall in New Brunwick. I would even stay on Jewett St. I would just do some renos and maybe buy out my neighbours on either side.
Next, would come the financial issues. First, of course, I would put money is trust for Jillian so she will be set for life. She WILL NOT be the next Paris Hilton so I need to figure some stuff out there. But I think I have some time...LOL. I would also set up something for my niece, Lauren. Next, I would make a very large donation to Jillian's current daycare. Not only to the daycare but to make sure all the girls there are set and comfortable. Again, it's a topic for another day but I can't begin tell you how much I love the girls who work at her daycare.
I haven't really thought past that point. I'd travel alot, I know I'd want to make a contribution to society both financially and thru volunteering, I might take some courses at the university and maybe get my masters in Criminology. Who knows maybe I'd go on to get my PhD.
Of course, I'd have the best scrapbook studio on the east coast with lots of room for my friends. Oh, and I'd leave plenty of time for pedicures with my peep...my treat!
Now you tell me....what would you do with $34 million?
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Trace It Back
So here is my first entry by request. Taycreek Cropper commented that I think too much...this is not the first time I've heard that. Can't help it...I'm analytical by nature and curious to boot. We were talking about my thought process last night and she said I should write about it. I'm somewhat known for jumping from one conversation topic to another completely out of the blue. Although the jumps may seem illogical on the surface, the jumps actually make sense...to me anyway. Have you ever taken the time to think back as to how you arrived from one topic to another? As I mentioned before, I spend alot of time thinking in the car. I sometimes surprise myself at how I can go from thinking about one subject to another that seem completey unrelated.
I'm home from work today (mental health day) by myslef so I've had some time to think. So I'm going to try to explain my thought process. I'll start with my most recent thought and trace it backwards. Here it goes:
- I decided to write a blog, I was scrapbooking and thingking about Nicole's crop next Saturday , I was wondering if Nicole had emailed me the sketch from book club that KimMartha submitted, was giggling about KimMartha's thought of the day yesterday, was thinking about Jillian picking her nose and eating it the other day, was thinking about the fly bite on Jillian's nose, was thinking about my doctor's appt tomorrow to get Epi-pens for everyone, was thinking about Shelley and her nut allergy, was thinking about the granola bars being guaranteed nut-free, was thinking about eating a granola bar, was thinking about making supper, was thinking about Eric getting me an Ipod today, was thinking about the Dixie Chicks/George Bush controversy, was thinking about Canada/US free trade dabacle, was thinking about my niece Lauren (she looks like Jean Chretien when she tries to talk...too cute), was thinking about Jeanette and her blog, was talking to Shelley on the phone about putting our girls in dance next year. Whew, there you have it my thought process. See?? It's not so scattered afterall.
I'm home from work today (mental health day) by myslef so I've had some time to think. So I'm going to try to explain my thought process. I'll start with my most recent thought and trace it backwards. Here it goes:
- I decided to write a blog, I was scrapbooking and thingking about Nicole's crop next Saturday , I was wondering if Nicole had emailed me the sketch from book club that KimMartha submitted, was giggling about KimMartha's thought of the day yesterday, was thinking about Jillian picking her nose and eating it the other day, was thinking about the fly bite on Jillian's nose, was thinking about my doctor's appt tomorrow to get Epi-pens for everyone, was thinking about Shelley and her nut allergy, was thinking about the granola bars being guaranteed nut-free, was thinking about eating a granola bar, was thinking about making supper, was thinking about Eric getting me an Ipod today, was thinking about the Dixie Chicks/George Bush controversy, was thinking about Canada/US free trade dabacle, was thinking about my niece Lauren (she looks like Jean Chretien when she tries to talk...too cute), was thinking about Jeanette and her blog, was talking to Shelley on the phone about putting our girls in dance next year. Whew, there you have it my thought process. See?? It's not so scattered afterall.
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