Yesterday was great!
The first great part of the day was that one of my colleague's came back to work. She has been of for 10 months because she had breast cancer. I had just started working at my job when I met her. She's about my mom's age, so there is a significant age difference. But, it was just a very comfortable friendship. The kind where you can chat for ages on a quiet afternoon and really not even mention anything about work.
And then one day she just disappeared and we later heard she had bresat cancer. I was delighted to see her back. And, of course, when she came over to say I promptly gave her a hug and started to cry. (it's okay - she did too). And, she's doing really well. (and looks amazing).
Honestly, as I said to her, if I didn't know where she had been I'd have thought she'd spent the year off and ended it by going to a spa and getting a makeover.
I don't think there's a better start to the day.
But the day got better. Usually I eat at my desk, but yesterday I went out for lunch with several other "assistants" in my office. It was fun. We were laughing and joking around and having a good time. It was nice.
And then I left early and went shopping en route to pick Matty up from daycare. I had time to have a nice chat with his teachers and watch him play with his friends for a bit. One funny thing, he always talks about his friend Nathan. It's Nathan this and Nathan that. I was expecting someone really exciting. Nathan is the shyest quietest kid in the class. He just sort of watches Matt run around. Funny.
Anyway, so I took Matt to Starbucks where we sat and enjoyed chatting and watching the traffic. We don't do that enough. It was pretty fun. I love that my son actually is going for coffee with me now.
And, then we ended up at Toys R Us. So, there was a temper tantrum. I wouldn't buy something for Matt. He really really wanted a digger. But, it was expensive and we were getting another toy and I put my foot down.
In the middle of Toys R Us he started a big temper tantrum. Tears, screaming the works. And, I stood my ground. (I am really trying not to give in to the tantrum.)
But, instead of the usual stares a woman came up to me and said, "Good Work - my daughter is going through that too and she bites." And then she turned to Matt and actually said "You're cute and your mom is doing a good job."
And, shortly the temper tantrum ended and off we went.
I know it was a small thing but I really appreciated it and it was such a nice way to end a nice day.
Okay - I'm off to garage sales.
Vamanos!
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Friday, June 09, 2006
Open House Tomorrow
Tomorrow's the big day - an Open House at my mom's new office- the Oak Park Wellness Centre. Here are the details:
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, June 10
10 am- noon
Oak Park Wellness Centre
231 Oak Park Blvd.
Just a quick note:
My mom, Kate, has teamed up with someone named Peter West. They both offer life coaching, stress management, etc.
I first met Peter when I was 16 and going on a trip to Africa. He was the editor of a local paper and he came to interview me. When I eventually mentioned to him that I wanted to write one day he let me write a story upon my return. It was my first published article. He encouraged me and really pushed me in a direction I wanted to go.
He has since gone on from editing to do some amazing things in his life, and is now doing life coaching and running men's groups.
We've had chances off and on to meet and chat, and as my mom explored counselling they ran into each other and decided to become a team (professionally). When she told me I was thrilled. He's such a great guy, and has been such an inspiration to me.
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, June 10
10 am- noon
Oak Park Wellness Centre
231 Oak Park Blvd.
Just a quick note:
My mom, Kate, has teamed up with someone named Peter West. They both offer life coaching, stress management, etc.
I first met Peter when I was 16 and going on a trip to Africa. He was the editor of a local paper and he came to interview me. When I eventually mentioned to him that I wanted to write one day he let me write a story upon my return. It was my first published article. He encouraged me and really pushed me in a direction I wanted to go.
He has since gone on from editing to do some amazing things in his life, and is now doing life coaching and running men's groups.
We've had chances off and on to meet and chat, and as my mom explored counselling they ran into each other and decided to become a team (professionally). When she told me I was thrilled. He's such a great guy, and has been such an inspiration to me.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Where is my Gold Star??
Today we had the bus ride from h&*%.
Seriously, it was awful. It started when Matt refused to stay in his stroller. As the stroller is crap he can either a) climb out of it or b) look like he's strangling himself while trying to climb out. I am okay with B when I am alone, but when I am on a full bus with annoying leering strangers I am not so okay with it.
So, I let the toddler loose on a TTC bus in rush hour.
Ha ha I say to the snotty onlookers who leered. Watch me now.
So they watched as Matt ran around screaming, I tripped over my shoes, bag and stroller 3 times and Matt stood laughing saying "uh uh mommy fell and hit head, arm, leg"
That was all in the first 2 minutes.
We got to the first major intersection and Matt threw lego at the woman behind us.
Next major intersection a couple kindly offered up their 2 seats (the man had been holding my stroller for me).
So we sat and Matt spent the next 15 minutes jumping, climbing, pulling hair and singing "The Wheels on the Bus" while I tried to keep him calm and keep myself calm.
And then the end was in sight. I could see the stop where I press the button to get off.
So could Matthew. He wanted to pull the string right then and there.
I saw the gleam in his eye; I saw him reaching for the string.
But no. He is not allowed.
I stopped him.
Two stops away from our beloved home he had the temper tantrum to end all temper tantrums.
It was golden.
I too started to cry. Just a little. I could almost pretend it was sweat. Everyone stopped staring. They knew I was cracking. Just knew it.
And then we hit it. The beloved stop where we pull the string. I whispered to Matthew. He stood up and pulled it. The whole entire bus knew it was HIS turn. And some mean spirited person pulled it before he could get to it.
What did I do?
I stood up and in my best impersonation of a Bus bell shouted "DING"
Matthew started crying, temper tantrum ended and he climbed back into his stroller and we got off the bus all the while shouting "ding ding ding".
Please please let this not continue.
Seriously, it was awful. It started when Matt refused to stay in his stroller. As the stroller is crap he can either a) climb out of it or b) look like he's strangling himself while trying to climb out. I am okay with B when I am alone, but when I am on a full bus with annoying leering strangers I am not so okay with it.
So, I let the toddler loose on a TTC bus in rush hour.
Ha ha I say to the snotty onlookers who leered. Watch me now.
So they watched as Matt ran around screaming, I tripped over my shoes, bag and stroller 3 times and Matt stood laughing saying "uh uh mommy fell and hit head, arm, leg"
That was all in the first 2 minutes.
We got to the first major intersection and Matt threw lego at the woman behind us.
Next major intersection a couple kindly offered up their 2 seats (the man had been holding my stroller for me).
So we sat and Matt spent the next 15 minutes jumping, climbing, pulling hair and singing "The Wheels on the Bus" while I tried to keep him calm and keep myself calm.
And then the end was in sight. I could see the stop where I press the button to get off.
So could Matthew. He wanted to pull the string right then and there.
I saw the gleam in his eye; I saw him reaching for the string.
But no. He is not allowed.
I stopped him.
Two stops away from our beloved home he had the temper tantrum to end all temper tantrums.
It was golden.
I too started to cry. Just a little. I could almost pretend it was sweat. Everyone stopped staring. They knew I was cracking. Just knew it.
And then we hit it. The beloved stop where we pull the string. I whispered to Matthew. He stood up and pulled it. The whole entire bus knew it was HIS turn. And some mean spirited person pulled it before he could get to it.
What did I do?
I stood up and in my best impersonation of a Bus bell shouted "DING"
Matthew started crying, temper tantrum ended and he climbed back into his stroller and we got off the bus all the while shouting "ding ding ding".
Please please let this not continue.
He's not popular .. He's a bully!
So ...
Forget my post on popularity.
It seems that Matthew is not ruling the daycare with his friendly antics, but rather with an iron fist.
That's right. He's a bully.
Yesterday when I came to pick up my sweet adorable angel from daycare I was told that he has been having some issues with aggressive behaviour. In other words, he is bullying.
I was actually pretty upset about this.
Matty is a really sweet loving kid, but he is also big for his age and he would be quite a good bully. He's also really strong and so if he pushes another child he could really hurt them.
So ...
What do I do?
I asked the teacher who has been working with toddlers for years. She told me that this is pretty common with toddler boys, especially at this age when they are still really learning to communicate. It's easier to push someone or bite someone to get a toy than to ask them. So, she said that it's something they will work through, and are asking us to work on at home.
Of course I will.
The interesting thing about this is who he is picking on. At home, he attacks Mike way more than he attacks me. He often bites Mike and hits Mike and pushes Mike. He's aggressive with me but not nearly as much. It's like the Pomeranians who take on the Pit Bulls. What's with that?
He's like this at daycare also - he is way rougher with the boys than the girls (unless the girl is aggressive too).
There are a million books on the issue. My favourites include "teeth are not for biting" and "feet are not for kicking".
It's just so frustrating. Mike read online that toddler boys are more aggressive than wild animals. This seems pretty accurate judging by the bruises we are both covered in.
But, then he is also really sweet. It's like he has mood swings. One second loving the next second attacking.
I'll have to do more research. My goal is to raise my son so that he can stand up for himself when necessary but also treats people with kindness and respect. Is this too much to ask for? I hope not.
Forget my post on popularity.
It seems that Matthew is not ruling the daycare with his friendly antics, but rather with an iron fist.
That's right. He's a bully.
Yesterday when I came to pick up my sweet adorable angel from daycare I was told that he has been having some issues with aggressive behaviour. In other words, he is bullying.
I was actually pretty upset about this.
Matty is a really sweet loving kid, but he is also big for his age and he would be quite a good bully. He's also really strong and so if he pushes another child he could really hurt them.
So ...
What do I do?
I asked the teacher who has been working with toddlers for years. She told me that this is pretty common with toddler boys, especially at this age when they are still really learning to communicate. It's easier to push someone or bite someone to get a toy than to ask them. So, she said that it's something they will work through, and are asking us to work on at home.
Of course I will.
The interesting thing about this is who he is picking on. At home, he attacks Mike way more than he attacks me. He often bites Mike and hits Mike and pushes Mike. He's aggressive with me but not nearly as much. It's like the Pomeranians who take on the Pit Bulls. What's with that?
He's like this at daycare also - he is way rougher with the boys than the girls (unless the girl is aggressive too).
There are a million books on the issue. My favourites include "teeth are not for biting" and "feet are not for kicking".
It's just so frustrating. Mike read online that toddler boys are more aggressive than wild animals. This seems pretty accurate judging by the bruises we are both covered in.
But, then he is also really sweet. It's like he has mood swings. One second loving the next second attacking.
I'll have to do more research. My goal is to raise my son so that he can stand up for himself when necessary but also treats people with kindness and respect. Is this too much to ask for? I hope not.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
These Boots Were Made for Walkin'
My little cowboy. These boots were too cute to pass up. We taught him to say "giddy-up"
Popularity
Is it possible that my son is popular?
I know it’s wrong to play the popularity game. But, let’s be honest. Most of us want our kids to fit in, be liked and be productive members of society.
I’m not saying that I want him to be invited to every high school party, but at the same time I do want him to feel like he is surrounded by lots of friends, and feel a part of the social scene.
In other words, I want my child to be liked. And, yes, popular.
And, I think he is.
The other day I was bringing him to daycare and some of the older girls (like, I think they were a good 3 years older than him) said “Hi Matthew!”
I was kind of surprised. I mean, I thought his classmates may know his name by now, but the older kids? That surprised me.
And, another time I arrived at the daycare quite early and there he was leading his friends around the play yard like the pied piper, except that instead of carrying a flute and attracting rats he just kept yelling “come on” and holding everyone’s hands.
I was so proud.
And the friendships continue. Last night when we were leaving, there were a bunch of kids playing in the second storey playground (There’s a rooftop playground. Weird, I know, if you live in the suburbs, but to me it’s very
I tried to hold back on thinking about how nice it was that he is so popular among his friends. But, honestly, why should I?
So many kids growing up long to have lots of friends. Matt is pretty outgoing. By that I mean he talks to everyone. If there is another child in a stroller he will usually start to talk to that child. Or play a game or do something.
I have to admit that I think it is way easier to go through life in the “popular group”. I’ve been popular and I’ve been not as popular. I think it’s a cyclical thing. But when it comes to being honest about it, it’s way easier being the kid that everyone likes than being the kid who is picked last for the softball team.
Though, I’m sure it’s different for guys. I’ve seen my husband with his friends. They kind of grunt at each other. It’s not the same mind game behaviour as girls have. So, maybe I’m looking at it wrong. Maybe for boys it’s not all about being popular.
However …
Matthew also really like ballet and runs around the house “doing ballet” and part of me worries that we will not be signing him up for soccer we’ll be signing him up for ballet and figure skating. I’m okay with that (especially since he’s big and my nieve “pretty Paige” as he calls her is petite so they would be IDEAL figure skating partners, but I digress). My point is that if he ends up being around girls a lot he will have to worry about popularity.
This is all so confusing.
I thought boys were supposed to be easier!!!
Popularity
Is it possible that my son is popular?
I know it’s wrong to play the popularity game. But, let’s be honest. Most of us want our kids to fit in, be liked and be productive members of society.
I’m not saying that I want him to be invited to every high school party, but at the same time I do want him to feel like he is surrounded by lots of friends, and feel a part of the social scene.
In other words, I want my child to be liked. And, yes, popular.
And, I think he is.
The other day I was bringing him to daycare and some of the older girls (like, I think they were a good 3 years older than him) said “Hi Matthew!”
I was kind of surprised. I mean, I thought his classmates may know his name by now, but the older kids? That surprised me.
And, another time I arrived at the daycare quite early and there he was leading his friends around the play yard like the pied piper, except that instead of carrying a flute and attracting rats he just kept yelling “come on” and holding everyone’s hands.
I was so proud.
And the friendships continue. Last night when we were leaving, there were a bunch of kids playing in the second storey playground (There’s a rooftop playground. Weird, I know, if you live in the suburbs, but to me it’s very
I tried to hold back on thinking about how nice it was that he is so popular among his friends. But, honestly, why should I?
So many kids growing up long to have lots of friends. Matt is pretty outgoing. By that I mean he talks to everyone. If there is another child in a stroller he will usually start to talk to that child. Or play a game or do something.
I have to admit that I think it is way easier to go through life in the “popular group”. I’ve been popular and I’ve been not as popular. I think it’s a cyclical thing. But when it comes to being honest about it, it’s way easier being the kid that everyone likes than being the kid who is picked last for the softball team.
Though, I’m sure it’s different for guys. I’ve seen my husband with his friends. They kind of grunt at each other. It’s not the same mind game behaviour as girls have. So, maybe I’m looking at it wrong. Maybe for boys it’s not all about being popular.
However …
Matthew also really like ballet and runs around the house “doing ballet” and part of me worries that we will not be signing him up for soccer we’ll be signing him up for ballet and figure skating. I’m okay with that (especially since he’s big and my nieve “pretty Paige” as he calls her is petite so they would be IDEAL figure skating partners, but I digress). My point is that if he ends up being around girls a lot he will have to worry about popularity.
This is all so confusing.
I thought boys were supposed to be easier!!!
Monday, June 05, 2006
I'm a Loser!! Seriously.
Okay...
I am a loser. But, in a good way.
After 5 weeks I'm finally seeing a bit of a difference on the scales.
I weighed myself today and I lost 3.5 pounds this week - for a total of 13 pounds!!!
Last week I was a little disappointed because I was hoping to hit 10 pounds and I didn't. Today I was pleasantly surprised at what I saw. Well, in the context of losing weight that is. I can't say I was pleasantly surprised by the actual number. But, really, who is pleasantly surprised looking at the scale? I don't know.
But, the point is, I'm actually pretty proud of myself. I don't have that much willpower, especially when it comes to food. I'm an emotional eater - happy or sad, angry, stessed, joyous, excited or just hungry, I will eat. I also am not particular to certain foods - sometimes I want candy sometimes I want chips, but really either will do in a moment of frustration. So I am really trying to curb that behaviour.
I feel like a lot has changed about my lifestyle too. At work I've stopped going to Tim Horton's for cookies so much. Really, I don't miss them that much. I am bringing and eating all sorts of healthy foods, and the people who I am around the most at work understand this and encourage it. If we go for a coffee run we don't get treats.
At home I've been trying as well. I think it's better for all of us if we eat a little healthier. Matty loves the fruit I buy and if I tell him we're going for a walk he's thrilled. If anyone is dragging their heels it's not Matt. That's for sure.
So, onward and upward.
Here's to another few pounds and maybe just maybe not dreading wearing a bathing suit this summer. (Okay, I'm kidding about that one! I will always dread bathing suits)
I am a loser. But, in a good way.
After 5 weeks I'm finally seeing a bit of a difference on the scales.
I weighed myself today and I lost 3.5 pounds this week - for a total of 13 pounds!!!
Last week I was a little disappointed because I was hoping to hit 10 pounds and I didn't. Today I was pleasantly surprised at what I saw. Well, in the context of losing weight that is. I can't say I was pleasantly surprised by the actual number. But, really, who is pleasantly surprised looking at the scale? I don't know.
But, the point is, I'm actually pretty proud of myself. I don't have that much willpower, especially when it comes to food. I'm an emotional eater - happy or sad, angry, stessed, joyous, excited or just hungry, I will eat. I also am not particular to certain foods - sometimes I want candy sometimes I want chips, but really either will do in a moment of frustration. So I am really trying to curb that behaviour.
I feel like a lot has changed about my lifestyle too. At work I've stopped going to Tim Horton's for cookies so much. Really, I don't miss them that much. I am bringing and eating all sorts of healthy foods, and the people who I am around the most at work understand this and encourage it. If we go for a coffee run we don't get treats.
At home I've been trying as well. I think it's better for all of us if we eat a little healthier. Matty loves the fruit I buy and if I tell him we're going for a walk he's thrilled. If anyone is dragging their heels it's not Matt. That's for sure.
So, onward and upward.
Here's to another few pounds and maybe just maybe not dreading wearing a bathing suit this summer. (Okay, I'm kidding about that one! I will always dread bathing suits)
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Potty Adventures!!!
While shopping today I happened upon some Bob the Builder "big boy underwear" in Matthew's size and I picked it up.
I was pretty excited about it so I woke him up from his nap when I got home and tried to convicne him to put them on. That was a dumb idea because he was still pretty groggy. But after dinner he finally came around to the idea.
So, my little monkey decided to run around in bob undies. (wisely we put them on right after he had a wet diaper!)
This went really well. He didn't have an accident or anything.
So, before his bath I asked him if he wanted to sit on the big potty. Surprise surprise he said yes. And he sat and he peed.
I'm not sure who is more excited about this. Me or him. Mike is rather non-plussed about the whole thing.
I don't think we're going to push it till later in the summer. In the beginning of July we are going away to Vermont for a week (anyone want to cat-sit??? Our condo is air conditioned) and I can't imagine the 9 hour car ride with a child potty training, nor can I imagine wandering around the mountainous wilderness wondering where the next bathroom is. At the end of July his daycare is closed for 2 weeks and I don't think my babysitters are volunteering to help with the toilet training.
So, for now we will have fun with the potty and with the Bob underpants.
Though, I do find it a little creepy that Bob stands directly on the crotch of the underwear. It's funny and weird.
And ...
In other news of Matty.
We bought a Science Centre pass today and went for a visit. Matt loves it, so I think we have fun days ahead.
I was pretty excited about it so I woke him up from his nap when I got home and tried to convicne him to put them on. That was a dumb idea because he was still pretty groggy. But after dinner he finally came around to the idea.
So, my little monkey decided to run around in bob undies. (wisely we put them on right after he had a wet diaper!)
This went really well. He didn't have an accident or anything.
So, before his bath I asked him if he wanted to sit on the big potty. Surprise surprise he said yes. And he sat and he peed.
I'm not sure who is more excited about this. Me or him. Mike is rather non-plussed about the whole thing.
I don't think we're going to push it till later in the summer. In the beginning of July we are going away to Vermont for a week (anyone want to cat-sit??? Our condo is air conditioned) and I can't imagine the 9 hour car ride with a child potty training, nor can I imagine wandering around the mountainous wilderness wondering where the next bathroom is. At the end of July his daycare is closed for 2 weeks and I don't think my babysitters are volunteering to help with the toilet training.
So, for now we will have fun with the potty and with the Bob underpants.
Though, I do find it a little creepy that Bob stands directly on the crotch of the underwear. It's funny and weird.
And ...
In other news of Matty.
We bought a Science Centre pass today and went for a visit. Matt loves it, so I think we have fun days ahead.
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