We're less than a week away from 3. I've enjoyed Matthew being 2. Mostly. I don't generally give in to the whole "terrible two's" theory. I can say that I 100% enjoyed 2 over the newborn stage and have often thought if I have a second child I would like to adopt a 2-year-old.
However ...
These temper tantrums.
Today we went through temper tantrum hell. I'm thinking, and hoping, it was Matthew's last two-year-old hurrah.
First we had gymnastics. The facility we go to is gigantic. And Matthew had a complete temper tantrum. He was on the floor kicking and screaming. I think every single person in the gym could hear his wails of wanting to play in the sponge pit.
I tried EVERYTHING to calm him down. Five minutes later he did calm down when I let him do a sommersault on a mat (ironically the temper tantrum was because he did not want to do a sommersault in the first place).
But, on went the day and it wasn't that eventful. Until I took Matt to the grocery store.
All I wanted to do was get stuff for dinner. We are fortunate to live across the street, so we just walk over and pick up what we need, visit the fish and head home. Matt enjoys it. I enjoy it. We kill some time and get some dinner.
But again, an easy visit was not in the cards. Why? Because Matthew DID.NOT.WANT. TO. GO. IN. THE. CART. okay. he also did not want to walk. Or be held. He wanted to scream. So, as everyone on a nice, busy Saturday afternoon was doing their shopping my son was wailing. and wailing. and wailing.
I finally took him over to the little coffee shop area. I tried to calm him down. I tried to compromise and I finally just let him cry. And, for the first time in ages I felt like a truly horrible parent. People were staring. One lady commented. But, now that I'm a veteran mom of a toddler I was able to block it.
And then just as suddenly as the temper tantrum started it stopped. And Matthew said to me
"Mommy. I am very thirsty. Can I sit in the cart and have a drink?"
Ooooookay.
And then it was fine. I got him a drink. He sat in the cart. We had a very productive shopping trip.
And I wondered to myself whether or not the temper tantrums will end next Friday. I'm kind of hoping they will. I'm kind of thinking they won't.
We're now debating ending the evening with a trip to Chapters ... I'm thinking I'll test out the promise of the store manager that my child is welcome ANY TIME. We'll see ....
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Wednesday Afternoon Randomness
Did you know I actually look forward to Wednesdays now because of America's Next Top Model? LOVE it. In an addictive kind of way.
What I also love is the slightly (more) obsessed people out there who enjoy writing the re-caps. I do not have the time or ambition or obsessive nature to write a re-cap. So here is a really good one. It's hilarious. What's also hilarious is in this week's recap the guy refers to someone as a Twink. And, though I never knew the meaning of the word until my good friend, who I nicknamed Twink explained it to me, I love the nickname.
So ... enjoy. It's funny.
---
And in more randomness, cause today is the day for it, a new Matthewism.
Last night I went upstairs to bed and Matt was in my bed. Wide awake. So I cuddled in next to him and he got all excited and gave me a hug.
And then said to me (while rubbing my face) "Mommy, let's make some deals."
The child is almost 3.
He was trying to convince me to
a) let him watch Treehouse
b) go downstairs for awhile
c) play some games.
I said "one deal. you go to sleep."
He said "No Mommy. Two deals. First I play. Then I go to sleep."
Oooookay.
Looks like 3 may be just as challenging as 2.
Who wants to make a deal?
---
And, finally, what is up with Facebook? I keep getting added. I love it. It's like all of my friends are suddenly appearing on Facebook. And, then Bloggers, like one of the coolest bloggers out there added me today. I know. Really. I'm a big dork.
What I also love is the slightly (more) obsessed people out there who enjoy writing the re-caps. I do not have the time or ambition or obsessive nature to write a re-cap. So here is a really good one. It's hilarious. What's also hilarious is in this week's recap the guy refers to someone as a Twink. And, though I never knew the meaning of the word until my good friend, who I nicknamed Twink explained it to me, I love the nickname.
So ... enjoy. It's funny.
---
And in more randomness, cause today is the day for it, a new Matthewism.
Last night I went upstairs to bed and Matt was in my bed. Wide awake. So I cuddled in next to him and he got all excited and gave me a hug.
And then said to me (while rubbing my face) "Mommy, let's make some deals."
The child is almost 3.
He was trying to convince me to
a) let him watch Treehouse
b) go downstairs for awhile
c) play some games.
I said "one deal. you go to sleep."
He said "No Mommy. Two deals. First I play. Then I go to sleep."
Oooookay.
Looks like 3 may be just as challenging as 2.
Who wants to make a deal?
---
And, finally, what is up with Facebook? I keep getting added. I love it. It's like all of my friends are suddenly appearing on Facebook. And, then Bloggers, like one of the coolest bloggers out there added me today. I know. Really. I'm a big dork.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Coffee & Keyboards Don't Mix
Have you ever had one of those moments where you just laugh.
Tonight was one of those nights for me.
My sister came over for coffee after we went to the gym. Matt was playing and being silly while my sister and I went on Facebook. (we both just recently discovered this). The one thing that really bugs me is when people don't put pictures on their profiles. And that's what Becky had. A BIG.GIANT.QUESTION MARK.
The thing is, Becky is stunningly pretty - so the question mark did not do her justice. (trust me - when we were younger we would go shopping together and people would stop her to complement her)
Since we couldn't find a really good picture, and since Becky is convinced she doesn't have a good picture of herself, I put this as her profile picture.
I forgot just how funny this picture was. And, the look of shock and horror on her face, combined with the moment, and just how funny the picture was I burst out laughing.
The only problem ...
My mouth was full of coffee.
Oops.
The shock turned to horror when the computer froze and we couldn't get rid of the picture.
It was hilarious. And, to add to the moment Matt chose that moment to hop up on a chair and bow and say "thank you. Thank you so much."
I haven't laughed that hard in ages.
----
On another note, several people have asked me why I haven't blogged about switching jobs. Truthfully, I'm happy and it's great and I like it. I just don't want to blog about work.
Tonight was one of those nights for me.
My sister came over for coffee after we went to the gym. Matt was playing and being silly while my sister and I went on Facebook. (we both just recently discovered this). The one thing that really bugs me is when people don't put pictures on their profiles. And that's what Becky had. A BIG.GIANT.QUESTION MARK.
The thing is, Becky is stunningly pretty - so the question mark did not do her justice. (trust me - when we were younger we would go shopping together and people would stop her to complement her)
Since we couldn't find a really good picture, and since Becky is convinced she doesn't have a good picture of herself, I put this as her profile picture.
I forgot just how funny this picture was. And, the look of shock and horror on her face, combined with the moment, and just how funny the picture was I burst out laughing.The only problem ...
My mouth was full of coffee.
Oops.
The shock turned to horror when the computer froze and we couldn't get rid of the picture.
It was hilarious. And, to add to the moment Matt chose that moment to hop up on a chair and bow and say "thank you. Thank you so much."
I haven't laughed that hard in ages.
----
On another note, several people have asked me why I haven't blogged about switching jobs. Truthfully, I'm happy and it's great and I like it. I just don't want to blog about work.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
You Can't Make This Day Up
There are some days where at the end of it you realize that maybe you should have just stayed home. Like today.
When Matt got up we decided to skip gymnastics. He has a cold, and I didn't really feel like chasing him around gymnastics when he's extra cranky. And, he didn't want to go.
I should have planned a quiet day in. You know, Matt is sick. I have a cold.
As if.
Since I'd be promising Matthew a trip to Toronto on the GO Train I decided to take him. He was excited. By about 10 we were ready to go. Mike had checked online and was sure there was a train leaving the closest station to us (I didn't think there was weekend service). When we got there it was locked up. And we had about 12 minutes to get to the GO station 11 minutes away.
The fact that Matthew kept saying "where's the GO station" and I kept saying "we'll never make it" did little for Mike's driving skills. And in our hurry he hit a car.
We missed the train.
No one was hurt. Thank goodness. In my rush I'd already taken my seatbelt off.
One fight, one bathroom break and one hour later we got to the train.
Mike dropped Matthew and I off while he went home to paint.
The first couple of hours went well. We took the subway. We took 2 streetcar rides. We went to the Disney Store and spent forever.
Then we had lunch. Lunch was great fun. Matt decided that he wanted to have ice cream for lunch. I did try to get him to eat something else, but considering it was our fun day and I really didn't care, I let him have a banana split and orange pop for lunch. The waiter thought I was crazy after I explained that no, we weren't splitting first the entree and then the ice cream, but that I was having a sandwich and my toddler was having a banana split.
To make it seem better I said "don't worry - the bananas are pretty healthy." He rolled his eyes. Seriously.
And, while we were waiting for our lunch we played cars. I got pretty into it.
Once we were done lunch (for the record, my roast beef sandwich sucked, but the banana split was really good). We did a little more wandering around the Eaton Centre. I'd promised Matt that we'd go and look at the big fountain.
The strangest thing happened. While we were sitting there all of the power in the mall went out.
No one knew quite what to do. All the stores closed and everyone just sort of sat not quite sure what to do. I took a couple of pictures, and then thought that maybe we should get going.
The plan was to take the subway, but I was worried about getting caught underground, and since it's actually a quick walk from the Eaton Centre to Union (I would normally walk it anyway, but Matt loves the subway ride) we went outside. Matt was really disappointed that there was no subway ride until ...
We saw several fire trucks go roaring down the street. It turns out that the power had gone out because there as an underground fire. So, we skipped our scheduled train to watch the excitement of the fire. There was a lot of smoke and then at one point a huge lot of flames. I think we watched for about 20 minutes. Twenty long minutes since Matt was on my shoulders the whole time.
When we finally figured out our timing with Mike we made our way back to the train.
I was pretty happy to see the train pull in because I was tired, Matt was cranky and I really wanted to sit. Matthew had other ideas though.
First he asked me for candy. I opened not one but 3 different bags of orange pop soaked candy. Each time the candy flew through the air. And then when it landed on the floor Matt tried to pretend he was a dog and eat it off the floor.
And then, since my feet were up on the seat across from me Matt decided to walk across "Mommy's Bridge". The thing is he walked over the bridge and knocked the emergency strip. Ooops.
There's a big rule in our house that you don't touch emergency stuff, and Matt knew he was in trouble. But, the poor kid was so tired and freaked out that he looked at me and burst into tears. And, then the GO train people came running and he got hysterical. So, there we were stopped at the station, they are trying to determine the emergency, Matt is freaking out and I am trying my best not to giggle and/or cry (or both).
Once I convinced them it was a mistake, that the black eye had nothing to do with the emergency strip and that it wouldn't happen again we were on our way. Matt cuddled up with me and fell asleep, and the Japanese tourists who happened to be on the same car as us came over and took pictures. (Thank goodness I had my hair done!!!)
After that we made it home in one piece.
When Matt got up we decided to skip gymnastics. He has a cold, and I didn't really feel like chasing him around gymnastics when he's extra cranky. And, he didn't want to go.
I should have planned a quiet day in. You know, Matt is sick. I have a cold.
As if.
Since I'd be promising Matthew a trip to Toronto on the GO Train I decided to take him. He was excited. By about 10 we were ready to go. Mike had checked online and was sure there was a train leaving the closest station to us (I didn't think there was weekend service). When we got there it was locked up. And we had about 12 minutes to get to the GO station 11 minutes away.
The fact that Matthew kept saying "where's the GO station" and I kept saying "we'll never make it" did little for Mike's driving skills. And in our hurry he hit a car.
We missed the train.
No one was hurt. Thank goodness. In my rush I'd already taken my seatbelt off.
One fight, one bathroom break and one hour later we got to the train.
Mike dropped Matthew and I off while he went home to paint.
The first couple of hours went well. We took the subway. We took 2 streetcar rides. We went to the Disney Store and spent forever.
Then we had lunch. Lunch was great fun. Matt decided that he wanted to have ice cream for lunch. I did try to get him to eat something else, but considering it was our fun day and I really didn't care, I let him have a banana split and orange pop for lunch. The waiter thought I was crazy after I explained that no, we weren't splitting first the entree and then the ice cream, but that I was having a sandwich and my toddler was having a banana split.
To make it seem better I said "don't worry - the bananas are pretty healthy." He rolled his eyes. Seriously.
And, while we were waiting for our lunch we played cars. I got pretty into it.
Once we were done lunch (for the record, my roast beef sandwich sucked, but the banana split was really good). We did a little more wandering around the Eaton Centre. I'd promised Matt that we'd go and look at the big fountain.
The strangest thing happened. While we were sitting there all of the power in the mall went out.
No one knew quite what to do. All the stores closed and everyone just sort of sat not quite sure what to do. I took a couple of pictures, and then thought that maybe we should get going.
The plan was to take the subway, but I was worried about getting caught underground, and since it's actually a quick walk from the Eaton Centre to Union (I would normally walk it anyway, but Matt loves the subway ride) we went outside. Matt was really disappointed that there was no subway ride until ...
We saw several fire trucks go roaring down the street. It turns out that the power had gone out because there as an underground fire. So, we skipped our scheduled train to watch the excitement of the fire. There was a lot of smoke and then at one point a huge lot of flames. I think we watched for about 20 minutes. Twenty long minutes since Matt was on my shoulders the whole time.
When we finally figured out our timing with Mike we made our way back to the train.
I was pretty happy to see the train pull in because I was tired, Matt was cranky and I really wanted to sit. Matthew had other ideas though.
First he asked me for candy. I opened not one but 3 different bags of orange pop soaked candy. Each time the candy flew through the air. And then when it landed on the floor Matt tried to pretend he was a dog and eat it off the floor.
And then, since my feet were up on the seat across from me Matt decided to walk across "Mommy's Bridge". The thing is he walked over the bridge and knocked the emergency strip. Ooops.
There's a big rule in our house that you don't touch emergency stuff, and Matt knew he was in trouble. But, the poor kid was so tired and freaked out that he looked at me and burst into tears. And, then the GO train people came running and he got hysterical. So, there we were stopped at the station, they are trying to determine the emergency, Matt is freaking out and I am trying my best not to giggle and/or cry (or both).
Once I convinced them it was a mistake, that the black eye had nothing to do with the emergency strip and that it wouldn't happen again we were on our way. Matt cuddled up with me and fell asleep, and the Japanese tourists who happened to be on the same car as us came over and took pictures. (Thank goodness I had my hair done!!!)
After that we made it home in one piece.
Six Degrees of Separation
It's no secret that I wasn't the biggest fan of my last hairstyle. Really, I didn't love my highlights. I liked the idea of being blonder. I just didn't like how they were done. They weren't even and I didn't totally like the colour. Or the experience.
So, since I'm going to see my beloved Bill in a couple of weeks, I decided that I would try to get these highlights fixed.
I was trying to think of a good place to go to.I finally picked one that I drove past all the time. It looked nice, it was an Aveda salon and most importantly they were able to put me in at the time that I wanted.
When I met the colourist I had a good feeling. She was friendly, cool (but not uber cool) and east going. And when I tried to explain what I didn't like about the highlights she knew exactly what I meant and said she could fix it up. Great!
I liked her immediately.
So, we got on to the topic of why I only wanted highlights not a cut. She was cool with just highlighting. And then she asked me who cuts my hair.
I told her.
She knew him. Seriously.
THEY WENT TO SCHOOL TOGETHER.
I almost fell off my chair. My colourist went to hairdressing school with my Bill. Wow! No wonder she was so good.
And, she idolizes him also. She watches him on Cityline. And, she said that he's always had that "thing" that I describe. Even in school people would watch him and want to see what he was doing. Apparently one time he told her that she looked good with bangs and she has always had some sort of fringe since. (He would have been about 25 when he made this comment).
She told me some funny stories about him. I told her some funny stories. It was a pretty cool conversation. And,I was totally relaxed. It was the type of hair experience you want. I trusted her completely.
The finished product is pretty cool. I have no more big gold streaks. Instead it looks like I've been in the sun. I'm thinking I should go get a spray tan just to complete the look. It's so springy.
I can't wait for Bill to see it.
So, since I'm going to see my beloved Bill in a couple of weeks, I decided that I would try to get these highlights fixed.
I was trying to think of a good place to go to.I finally picked one that I drove past all the time. It looked nice, it was an Aveda salon and most importantly they were able to put me in at the time that I wanted.
When I met the colourist I had a good feeling. She was friendly, cool (but not uber cool) and east going. And when I tried to explain what I didn't like about the highlights she knew exactly what I meant and said she could fix it up. Great!
I liked her immediately.
So, we got on to the topic of why I only wanted highlights not a cut. She was cool with just highlighting. And then she asked me who cuts my hair.
I told her.
She knew him. Seriously.
THEY WENT TO SCHOOL TOGETHER.
I almost fell off my chair. My colourist went to hairdressing school with my Bill. Wow! No wonder she was so good.
And, she idolizes him also. She watches him on Cityline. And, she said that he's always had that "thing" that I describe. Even in school people would watch him and want to see what he was doing. Apparently one time he told her that she looked good with bangs and she has always had some sort of fringe since. (He would have been about 25 when he made this comment).
She told me some funny stories about him. I told her some funny stories. It was a pretty cool conversation. And,I was totally relaxed. It was the type of hair experience you want. I trusted her completely.
The finished product is pretty cool. I have no more big gold streaks. Instead it looks like I've been in the sun. I'm thinking I should go get a spray tan just to complete the look. It's so springy.
I can't wait for Bill to see it.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Real Moms ... Can Laugh
Today I got tagged by the wonderful Haley. And, this is a great Meme. The point of it is that you are supposed to answer the question Real Moms ... then explain it and add a picture. I'll tag people at the end. So ...
Real Moms ... Can Laugh! They know that being ridiculous and silly and not taking yourself too seriously works.
You think I'm kidding? Clearly you have not heard my Harold the Helicopter impression, haven't watched my lame attempts at bellydancing or caught me playing with some of the cooler McDonald's Happy Meal toys.
I took the whole parenting thing very seriously for about 3 months. There was no laughing till I cried. I was totally serious and focussed on nursing and nutrition and all of that. And, then my friends got me to smile, and eventually laugh. I'll never forget Salina putting her teeny tiny newborn in the puppet theatre while the serious moms watched in horror (she was supporting his head). I'll never forget Ginny's wheel falling off her stroller on our walk home from the grocery store with 3 kids and tons of groceries. (It wasn't funny at the time)
As Matt has gotten older I've learned that really it's a million times easier to laugh over spilled milk or giggle at a silly temper tantrum. It's more fun to run around playing tag with the toddlers instead of standing on the sidelines with the cooler parents. I've learned that there's nothing quite like laughing hysterically with your toddler over a dumb joke. And I can't tell you you the enjoyment I get when Matt says something ridiculous and my husband and I laugh about it for days. (like yesterday he told us that for lunch he had macaroni, french fries and monkeys. Monkeys??? )
I'm quickly learning that sometimes when you can't change your situation and it seems a little dire - that you may as well put a positive spin on it because being mad won't fix a situation. We've all heard the saying "Laugh and the world laughs with you. Cry and you cry alone".
Life isn't easy. Parenting often sucks. Babies and toddlers take it out of you.
But, from me to you, here's permission to be silly.
Go ahead, do your best Dora impression (even if people stare), laugh at a silly joke, make up some gibberish just for fun and see what happens. You never know. You may just start laughing too.
Here are my tags:
The person who taught me about motherhood - My Mom
One of the coolest moms out there (whom I aspire to be like ) - Multitasking Mommy
Her Husband - because I KNOW he'll have a really good one - Sci Fi Dad
My friend who is amazing to watch in Action - Natalie
And of course - my husband - because he shares this craziness with me
Real Moms ... Can Laugh! They know that being ridiculous and silly and not taking yourself too seriously works.
You think I'm kidding? Clearly you have not heard my Harold the Helicopter impression, haven't watched my lame attempts at bellydancing or caught me playing with some of the cooler McDonald's Happy Meal toys.
I took the whole parenting thing very seriously for about 3 months. There was no laughing till I cried. I was totally serious and focussed on nursing and nutrition and all of that. And, then my friends got me to smile, and eventually laugh. I'll never forget Salina putting her teeny tiny newborn in the puppet theatre while the serious moms watched in horror (she was supporting his head). I'll never forget Ginny's wheel falling off her stroller on our walk home from the grocery store with 3 kids and tons of groceries. (It wasn't funny at the time)
As Matt has gotten older I've learned that really it's a million times easier to laugh over spilled milk or giggle at a silly temper tantrum. It's more fun to run around playing tag with the toddlers instead of standing on the sidelines with the cooler parents. I've learned that there's nothing quite like laughing hysterically with your toddler over a dumb joke. And I can't tell you you the enjoyment I get when Matt says something ridiculous and my husband and I laugh about it for days. (like yesterday he told us that for lunch he had macaroni, french fries and monkeys. Monkeys??? )
I'm quickly learning that sometimes when you can't change your situation and it seems a little dire - that you may as well put a positive spin on it because being mad won't fix a situation. We've all heard the saying "Laugh and the world laughs with you. Cry and you cry alone".
Life isn't easy. Parenting often sucks. Babies and toddlers take it out of you.
But, from me to you, here's permission to be silly.
Go ahead, do your best Dora impression (even if people stare), laugh at a silly joke, make up some gibberish just for fun and see what happens. You never know. You may just start laughing too.
Here are my tags:The person who taught me about motherhood - My Mom
One of the coolest moms out there (whom I aspire to be like ) - Multitasking Mommy
Her Husband - because I KNOW he'll have a really good one - Sci Fi Dad
My friend who is amazing to watch in Action - Natalie
And of course - my husband - because he shares this craziness with me
Thursday, March 22, 2007
ANTM - My LIttle Critic
For those of you who have been reading this blog for awhile, you will know one thing about me - of all the tv I watch, America's Next Top Model (ANTM) is one of my favourite shows.
I know it's dorky. I know some people think that Tyra is annoying (just kidding!) but really, there's something really enjoyable about the show to me. I love watching the Jays and how mean they are. I love the girls. I love the catfights. I love the pictures. I love guessing who will be kicked off.
It's the one show I don't miss during the week.
But I'm realizing that Matty likes the show also.
Last night was an odd evening. I went to the gym nice and early and then got home before Matt's bedtime. But, I hadn't had much dinner and I suggested to Matt that we eat popcorn and watch Mommy's show.
Usually he says no to watching Mommy's show. But the popcorn, the models, Tyra - it was too much for him to resist.
So, at 8pm we curled up on the couch and watched ANTM.
It was adorable. He was excited by the challenges and I had him pick his favourite model. He chose Miss Jay. (the one on the left) Miss Jay isn't even a model, but whatever. (FYI I like Mr. Jay on the right)
We laughed, we chatted, we ate popcorn. We critiqued. I loved it.
I'm hoping to raise him to understand the importance of a good reality show. Besides, watching ANTM beats Dora any day. Not to mention that the other shows I watch, like House, are a little too frightening for Matt.
Besides. I would be soooo proud if Matthew grew up to be a fashion expert.
I know it's dorky. I know some people think that Tyra is annoying (just kidding!) but really, there's something really enjoyable about the show to me. I love watching the Jays and how mean they are. I love the girls. I love the catfights. I love the pictures. I love guessing who will be kicked off.
It's the one show I don't miss during the week.
But I'm realizing that Matty likes the show also.
Last night was an odd evening. I went to the gym nice and early and then got home before Matt's bedtime. But, I hadn't had much dinner and I suggested to Matt that we eat popcorn and watch Mommy's show.
Usually he says no to watching Mommy's show. But the popcorn, the models, Tyra - it was too much for him to resist.
So, at 8pm we curled up on the couch and watched ANTM.
It was adorable. He was excited by the challenges and I had him pick his favourite model. He chose Miss Jay. (the one on the left) Miss Jay isn't even a model, but whatever. (FYI I like Mr. Jay on the right)
We laughed, we chatted, we ate popcorn. We critiqued. I loved it.I'm hoping to raise him to understand the importance of a good reality show. Besides, watching ANTM beats Dora any day. Not to mention that the other shows I watch, like House, are a little too frightening for Matt.
Besides. I would be soooo proud if Matthew grew up to be a fashion expert.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Ouchie Ouchie Ouch!!!
Today when I picked up Matthew I was greeted with this looking back at me.
Ouch! This picture just doesn't show well enough how purple his eye really is.
It turns out that he ran into a table at daycare.
I know, I know. Boys will be boys. And Matty is most definitely a boy through and through. But, still ouch!
The thing I love about our daycare is that they are pretty relaxed about this stuff. I didn't get a frantic middle of the day phone call or anything. There was an accident report when Mike picked him up. They'd given him ice and TLC and watched him at naptime. We couldn't have done anything more.
Truthfully, I feel horribly guilty about it all, but I know this could have happened under my watch. Truthfully, I don't know how it hasn't!
So, perhaps the modelling career will be put off a couple of months. There are worse things, I know, than him having a black eye for his 3rd birthday.
As I type this Matt is doing sommersault off the couch and balancing on a table. Yes, boys will be boys. And mommies will forever feel guilty when they hurt themselves in the process.
It turns out that Matt is just fine. My nerves - a little frayed.
Ouch! This picture just doesn't show well enough how purple his eye really is.It turns out that he ran into a table at daycare.
I know, I know. Boys will be boys. And Matty is most definitely a boy through and through. But, still ouch!
The thing I love about our daycare is that they are pretty relaxed about this stuff. I didn't get a frantic middle of the day phone call or anything. There was an accident report when Mike picked him up. They'd given him ice and TLC and watched him at naptime. We couldn't have done anything more.
Truthfully, I feel horribly guilty about it all, but I know this could have happened under my watch. Truthfully, I don't know how it hasn't!
So, perhaps the modelling career will be put off a couple of months. There are worse things, I know, than him having a black eye for his 3rd birthday.
As I type this Matt is doing sommersault off the couch and balancing on a table. Yes, boys will be boys. And mommies will forever feel guilty when they hurt themselves in the process.
It turns out that Matt is just fine. My nerves - a little frayed.
Apparently ... I'm conservative
| Your Political Profile: |
| Overall: 60% Conservative, 40% Liberal |
| Social Issues: 75% Conservative, 25% Liberal |
| Personal Responsibility: 50% Conservative, 50% Liberal |
| Fiscal Issues: 50% Conservative, 50% Liberal |
| Ethics: 25% Conservative, 75% Liberal |
| Defense and Crime: 100% Conservative, 0% Liberal |
Okay ... So I did this poll.
What????
I'm conservative. According to this I'm apparently completely conservative. Interesting. Check it out.
Just an FYI - I don't really agree with this. But, it's fascinating. I have to say, though. In Canadian politics I'm not so sure that this is totally accurate. Just a thought.
Eye Spy
Lately my eyes have been bugging me.
Don't worry. It's not a big deal. It's just that I've owned glasses since I was 10 years old. I used to wear them infrequently. In fact, my 5th grade teacher accused me of wearing them for fashion purposes only. (Me? never)
But, as I've grown up, I've been using them more. I don't really think this is an aging thing, since I am not too terribly concerned about aging right now. But, lately it's been really bothering me. I can't drive without glasses. I can't go shopping without glasses. I can't go anywhere without putting my glasses on.
It's getting restrictive because sometimes I don't want to always make sure I have my sunglasses (the prescription ones) at all times. I'd really like to have a pair for my car and for my purse and for a million other places. But, when they are prescription this is not feasible.
So ...
I'm looking into contacts. I know lots of people have them. And I know I'm a bit of a wimp for holding out this long. But really. I'm not sure about touching my eyeballs and all of that.
I've been assured that it's not that bad. That you get used to it.
So, my fingers are crossed that at my appointment today I'll be ready to go. And, then I'm going sunglasses shopping. Yay!!!
Don't worry. It's not a big deal. It's just that I've owned glasses since I was 10 years old. I used to wear them infrequently. In fact, my 5th grade teacher accused me of wearing them for fashion purposes only. (Me? never)
But, as I've grown up, I've been using them more. I don't really think this is an aging thing, since I am not too terribly concerned about aging right now. But, lately it's been really bothering me. I can't drive without glasses. I can't go shopping without glasses. I can't go anywhere without putting my glasses on.
It's getting restrictive because sometimes I don't want to always make sure I have my sunglasses (the prescription ones) at all times. I'd really like to have a pair for my car and for my purse and for a million other places. But, when they are prescription this is not feasible.
So ...
I'm looking into contacts. I know lots of people have them. And I know I'm a bit of a wimp for holding out this long. But really. I'm not sure about touching my eyeballs and all of that.
I've been assured that it's not that bad. That you get used to it.
So, my fingers are crossed that at my appointment today I'll be ready to go. And, then I'm going sunglasses shopping. Yay!!!
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Top of the Mornin' To Ya!
St. Patrick's Day is kind of big deal in our family since my grandmother (who has passed away) loved this holiday. It was the day she always celebrated her Irish roots - she was a feisty red head who loved her Shamrocks (in fact, before she died she gave me her beloved shamrock ring).
So, Nana, Cheers!!!
The St. Paddy's celebrations continue to your great-grandchildren!!!
See how Irish my sister looks. Her un-Irish looking baby is compensating by wearing Shamrocks on her head.
Steve, my brother-in-law, combines his love of St. Paddy's Day with his love of Star Trek. Steve, you're sooooo cool.
Of course I got into the spirit as the Shamrock headband made the rounds. The only green thing I had was a tank top. Brrrrrr. Paige already thinks I'm crazy and she's not even 2. Oh dear (I love her expression here!)
Paige wanted to try the green beer. Yum yum.
Yummmm ... green beer.
Kyla and Matt were delighted to clink their own "green beer" (it was green juice) Wisely we provided them with plastic cups.
This picture is in honour of Multi-Tasking Mommy who always has pictures of her festive foods on her blog. I was inspired to make something green. So I came up with this jello pie. It was a little weird. But ... so is drinking green beer.
I know, I look like I had way too much green beer! (okay, it was maybe a little too much beer the night before - love the Irish pubs with friends). It's our group shot. Minus Mike who was taking pictures.
Finally, Miss Kyla, the princess. The words are spelled out in green shamrocks. Too cute!
So, Nana, Cheers!!!
The St. Paddy's celebrations continue to your great-grandchildren!!!
See how Irish my sister looks. Her un-Irish looking baby is compensating by wearing Shamrocks on her head.
Steve, my brother-in-law, combines his love of St. Paddy's Day with his love of Star Trek. Steve, you're sooooo cool.
Of course I got into the spirit as the Shamrock headband made the rounds. The only green thing I had was a tank top. Brrrrrr. Paige already thinks I'm crazy and she's not even 2. Oh dear (I love her expression here!)
Paige wanted to try the green beer. Yum yum.
Yummmm ... green beer.
Kyla and Matt were delighted to clink their own "green beer" (it was green juice) Wisely we provided them with plastic cups.
This picture is in honour of Multi-Tasking Mommy who always has pictures of her festive foods on her blog. I was inspired to make something green. So I came up with this jello pie. It was a little weird. But ... so is drinking green beer.
I know, I look like I had way too much green beer! (okay, it was maybe a little too much beer the night before - love the Irish pubs with friends). It's our group shot. Minus Mike who was taking pictures.Finally, Miss Kyla, the princess. The words are spelled out in green shamrocks. Too cute!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Bedtime Success ... Kinda
We made it through our tough love parenting night just fine.
Last night Matthew was kind of tired. Because we had to bring the car in to get the tire fixed Matt got a lovely excursion around Canadian Tire. He then got to run through the mall, eat food court food and basically burn off some energy.
All evening we talked about the evening plan - brush teeth, use toilet, go to bed.
By the time we got home and he had his bottle of chocolate milk (no comments on the bottle at age 3 ... I know though in fairness he didn't take a bottle until his first birthday) he turned the tv off, at my prodding, and headed upstairs.
Brushing teeth time was great. He even used the toilet. And then he went to bed. After a few cuddles (and no book, but I don't know why) he went to bed. And stayed there.
He was there for an hour while I did some stuff. He was wide awake.
As is my custom, when I was ready for bed I hopped in with him, as he has taken to sleeping in our bed. You see, our bedroom has no monsters. So I cuddled up with my wide awake child and proceeded to drift off at which point he bonked me on the head, said "I don't like sleeping with you, Mommy" and went off to find Mike who put him in his big boy race car bed. We didn't hear a peep from him after that.
So let's review. After months of struggling with Matt in one night he:
Knock on wood. Last night was great.
I know. I know. It's all about the routine.
Last night Matthew was kind of tired. Because we had to bring the car in to get the tire fixed Matt got a lovely excursion around Canadian Tire. He then got to run through the mall, eat food court food and basically burn off some energy.
All evening we talked about the evening plan - brush teeth, use toilet, go to bed.
By the time we got home and he had his bottle of chocolate milk (no comments on the bottle at age 3 ... I know though in fairness he didn't take a bottle until his first birthday) he turned the tv off, at my prodding, and headed upstairs.
Brushing teeth time was great. He even used the toilet. And then he went to bed. After a few cuddles (and no book, but I don't know why) he went to bed. And stayed there.
He was there for an hour while I did some stuff. He was wide awake.
As is my custom, when I was ready for bed I hopped in with him, as he has taken to sleeping in our bed. You see, our bedroom has no monsters. So I cuddled up with my wide awake child and proceeded to drift off at which point he bonked me on the head, said "I don't like sleeping with you, Mommy" and went off to find Mike who put him in his big boy race car bed. We didn't hear a peep from him after that.
So let's review. After months of struggling with Matt in one night he:
- Does not fight with us when we say it's bedtime
- Uses the toilet (commenting that's what big boys do)
- Brushes his teeth happily
- Decides to sleep in his own bed
Knock on wood. Last night was great.
I know. I know. It's all about the routine.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Cause Monday is Always a Good Day to Start NEW Routines
We've been a little remiss in the bedtime routine lately.
Matthew is really stubborn. And this makes bedtime really difficult. We were kind of in a routine up until December, and then when we moved things got rough.
In order to get Matt to sleep we've been (collective gasp) been letting Matt have a bottle of chocolate milk. I know.
It started as a one time thing and then gradually increased.
And then I read an article on tooth decay and kids. The truth is that he doesn't sleep with chocolate milk in his mouth, but the lack of teeth brushing is really getting to me. I'm not saying that we DON'T brush his teeth, but still.
Plus, we've been in a little slow in the toilet training department.
So tonight we're changing up the routine. We're letting Matthew go to bed later than normal (8 instead of 7:30). We're having Treehouse and chocolate milk. Then teeth brushing. Then toilet. And then bed with water only.
I get that other people have figured this routine. We've just gotten into the rut of doing what's easiest. It's just that we're beginning to learn that what seems like and easy way out isn't always an easy way out in the long run.
I HATE being this tough. It sucks.
But, at the same time it's really working to be tough. Like, I am being really firm about Matt listening. Tonight Matt was running around the upper level of the mall and he saw the elevator doors open. He was about to go in (with a stranger) and from the other side of the mall I shouted "Matthew STOP!"
AND HE DID!
I was amazed. Is it possible that strict Mommy is paying off? I guess so.
So we shall see how tonight's bedtime routine goes. If I'm extra tired at work tomorrow at least everyone will know why.
Matthew is really stubborn. And this makes bedtime really difficult. We were kind of in a routine up until December, and then when we moved things got rough.
In order to get Matt to sleep we've been (collective gasp) been letting Matt have a bottle of chocolate milk. I know.
It started as a one time thing and then gradually increased.
And then I read an article on tooth decay and kids. The truth is that he doesn't sleep with chocolate milk in his mouth, but the lack of teeth brushing is really getting to me. I'm not saying that we DON'T brush his teeth, but still.
Plus, we've been in a little slow in the toilet training department.
So tonight we're changing up the routine. We're letting Matthew go to bed later than normal (8 instead of 7:30). We're having Treehouse and chocolate milk. Then teeth brushing. Then toilet. And then bed with water only.
I get that other people have figured this routine. We've just gotten into the rut of doing what's easiest. It's just that we're beginning to learn that what seems like and easy way out isn't always an easy way out in the long run.
I HATE being this tough. It sucks.
But, at the same time it's really working to be tough. Like, I am being really firm about Matt listening. Tonight Matt was running around the upper level of the mall and he saw the elevator doors open. He was about to go in (with a stranger) and from the other side of the mall I shouted "Matthew STOP!"
AND HE DID!
I was amazed. Is it possible that strict Mommy is paying off? I guess so.
So we shall see how tonight's bedtime routine goes. If I'm extra tired at work tomorrow at least everyone will know why.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Driving Error
Crunch!Here's something you may not know about me. I do not excel at driving.
The Ontario Graduated Licensing System came into effect the year I turned 16. For those who don't know, this is a system where to be fully licensed you have to take 3 tests - one written and two driving. The first driving test is comprised of the basics such as driving on city streets, parking, parallel parking etc. This is considered the easy test. The second test is the highway driving test where you are tested on more advanced skills such as merging onto the highway and yet another parallel park. This is considered the hard test.
A lot of people complained about graduated licensing. For me (and those who share the roads with me) it was a good thing.
I passed the written test with flying colours. That is where my driving success ended.
I went on to attempt 5 G1 exit tests. Yes. That's the "easier" of the tests. I won't get into details. They will scare you. I will say that in one test I actually freaked out the teacher so much that he asked me to pull over so he could drive back. However, he did complement me on my parallel parking skills.
It wasn't just a series of errors. I was horrible. I took driver training with 2 different teachers. Neither were successful in eliminating my fear of other drivers, merging into traffic or pretty much driving in general.
My parents took me driving on many occasions. Though they swore they were clear headed, if they secretly had a few drinks before getting in the car with me I would not have blamed them. It was scary.
My brother-in-law made a concerted effort at teaching me. Though I have to say he was the most calm instructor he could not manage to help me get through a test.
Finally, when I got engaged, I secretly went out and took tests. The only people who knew were my Young Drivers teacher, Mike (my then fiancee) and Sabrina (one of my closest friends). For the first time in my life I had a teacher who made me feel confident behind the wheel. He would shout at me when I wasn't aggressive enough, tell me that pedestrians weren't royalty - so don't give them so much space, and would get pissed off if I didn't go through a yellow. In fact, when it came time to teach me highway driving, he took me on a lesser known entrance to the DVP and told me to speed up because I was on a highway.
I loved the guy. He was not going to teach me if I was going to be afraid. I got rid of my fears, hopped in the car and drove.
In between lessons Mike would let me drive his car. My big issue was parallel parking and backing up. So for weeks on end we spent hours in the car. Mike had his headphones on and closed his eyes and I would sob and wail and scream and cry and try my best to back up. Eventually I mastered it.
And then I took my driving test. AND PASSED. Fifth time was a charm, I guess.
In fact, I got a perfect test. When the instructor told me that I was so shocked and excited and proud that I started crying. I could not stop crying. He went in and found my instructor who tried to comfort me. But, I had to explain these were happy tears. He had to take me in and to the correct lineup because I was so emotional.
Of everything I've done in life, this was the one thing that I was unwilling to fail on no matter how much effort it took.
I drove Mike's old car for a few months and then we bought a nice shiny new car. It was kind of a dumb move, since I still wasn't that great a driver, but I was proud.
My second test was not that exciting. When I found out I was pregnant I booked a test, grabbed my mom (since our shiny new car had a huge dent on it which I thought would hinder my passing abilities) and I passed on the first try. I think my giant stomach helped matters. And there was no traffic.
However, I am still a pretty crappy driver.
I'm lacking in hand-eye coordination. I sometimes speed and sometimes drive under the speed limit. I listen to the radio too loud. I talk on my phone and use my blackberry while driving. I am not horrible, but I would not rate myself perfect. By any means.
I've never gotten a ticket - except for parking.
I've never been in an accident. That is, I've never had an accident with another person/car. I've driven into parking garage pillars, posts, garbage cans, etc.
But then today ... I drove into a curb. Or kind of into and over it. Who knows. It was the loudest thing I've ever heard. I completely destroyed my front tire.
WHO DOES THAT????
Matty inspects the damage ... "Mommy broke the wheel."I was so excited to take Matthew to the park today. But, he started to scream when I was driving into the playground parking lot. I looked back at him and accidentally drove over the curb. Holy crap. It was the loudest noise ever. I'm kind of accustomed to doing stupid things like this, but today I actually broke my tire.
I didn't think I'd done any damage until I went to get out of the car and realized that I was a lot closer to the ground than normal. Hmmm ...
Another mom came over. And asked if I was okay. Considering Matthew was singing away and none of the air bags had gone off I was. I said "I just don't know why the car is so low."
She was like "well, your tire us flat."
Crap.
This is the real reason we were here - not to fix the carSo, I called Mike and he came over in our borrow Saturn (thanks, Beck) to observe the situation.
While we were waiting we actually did play in the park. It was warm. We had fun. And then Mike arrived.
He wasn't mad at all. (used to me perhaps?)
It turns out that he has changed flat tires before, so it was fine. Our car actually had a jack and spare tire. I didn't know cars came with all that stuff. So, Mike changed the tire while Matt said over and over again "Daddy is fixing the wheel. Mommy broke it. She crashed our car."
Thanks, Matt.
So ....
I'm now a little traumatized by my stupid driving experience, but thankfully all is well. We'll get a new tire the tire will get fixed and I will watch out for curbs. Fun fun Sunday afternoon.
The funniest part of all of this is that Matthew thought the whole thing was planned for his enjoyment. He loves fixing things, and what is more fun than a broken car and a playground at the same time??
How great is it that Mommy brought her camera for such an occasion. "Stand next to the broken car and say Cheese!"
Friday, March 09, 2007
My Revelation
Part of my angst yesterday, in addition to being sad about my friend, is a bit of a guilt issue. I've written about guilt before. I'm a person who feels guilty about a lot of things, who says sorry a lot and who cries at the drop of a hat. You could say I'm overly sensitive or that I wear my heart on my sleeve.
I don't think that's a bad thing.
It's who I am.
But add a child to the mix, which I did about 3 years ago, and guilt can be an overpowering emotion.
When I first went back to work I felt incredible sadness for leaving my child. I also felt incredible guilt. This post isn't about that. I'm proud of my decision. Matthew is fine in daycare. We're happy.
But there are times when I'm not.
And, sometimes, work sucks.
In fact, someone mentioned to me the other day that they don't call work "work" because it is fun, but because it is work. That kind of bummed me out. I mean, you spend the majority of your day there. Sure, you're there to do a job, but really.
I do kind of like work sometimes. In fact a lot of the time.
And today, I was feeling pretty good about things at work. It was bonus day (yay!) and it was Friday (yay!)
So back to my original point. I was still feeling pretty guilty for going to work and leaving my child. I was going down that path of wondering what my priorities were and whether I should be working.
And I realized something.
I have to choose to be happy.
That sounds pretty simple. But it's true. If I'm going to make the conscious choice to leave Matt everyday and go to work, even though it's out of necessity, I'm going to stop being so negative. The stuff I don't like I'm going to put up with. And then stuff I like I'm going to enjoy it.
I remember thinking when I first went back how nice it was to sit for extended periods of time, to have the luxury of a quiet cup of coffee if I needed it, and to have a conversation that was not centred on all things baby.
I've forgotten about that lately.
So from now on I'm going back to being positive, to looking for the good in my day, and meeting the challenges head on. I know they aren't all wonderful and fun, but onward we go.
PS This will be one of the posts I look back on and think wow. I was really dorky that day!
I don't think that's a bad thing.
It's who I am.
But add a child to the mix, which I did about 3 years ago, and guilt can be an overpowering emotion.
When I first went back to work I felt incredible sadness for leaving my child. I also felt incredible guilt. This post isn't about that. I'm proud of my decision. Matthew is fine in daycare. We're happy.
But there are times when I'm not.
And, sometimes, work sucks.
In fact, someone mentioned to me the other day that they don't call work "work" because it is fun, but because it is work. That kind of bummed me out. I mean, you spend the majority of your day there. Sure, you're there to do a job, but really.
I do kind of like work sometimes. In fact a lot of the time.
And today, I was feeling pretty good about things at work. It was bonus day (yay!) and it was Friday (yay!)
So back to my original point. I was still feeling pretty guilty for going to work and leaving my child. I was going down that path of wondering what my priorities were and whether I should be working.
And I realized something.
I have to choose to be happy.
That sounds pretty simple. But it's true. If I'm going to make the conscious choice to leave Matt everyday and go to work, even though it's out of necessity, I'm going to stop being so negative. The stuff I don't like I'm going to put up with. And then stuff I like I'm going to enjoy it.
I remember thinking when I first went back how nice it was to sit for extended periods of time, to have the luxury of a quiet cup of coffee if I needed it, and to have a conversation that was not centred on all things baby.
I've forgotten about that lately.
So from now on I'm going back to being positive, to looking for the good in my day, and meeting the challenges head on. I know they aren't all wonderful and fun, but onward we go.
PS This will be one of the posts I look back on and think wow. I was really dorky that day!
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Sending Love
Last night over dinner my parents told us that a friend of the family has breast cancer.
The sad thing about this is that her son is about a year younger than mine. I can't imagine going through something like this knowing you have a young child, hoping for the best and fearing the worst.
I haven't seen her in awhile. In fact, it's been more than a year. We had dinner and chatted about breastfeeding vs. formula and sleep issues. It's one of those friendships you can drift in and out of - and catch up with the person when you see them.
I didn't really expect that the next e-mail would be announcing breast cancer.
Part of me is sad and worried. The other part of me feels kind of guilty. I realized that I trust way too much that people will just always be there when I want to hang out. I'm so guilty about letting friendships go too much, focusing on the people who are close at the time (distance wise in many cases) and saying "maybe next weekend we'll go see ..."
Luckily most of my friends are okay with this. Maybe part of this is due to the fact that I ama bit of a high intensity person and so sometimes Laural in small doses is a good thing. Or, maybe it's cause people know that if they are my friend I LOVE them.
But my point is, this is something I'm going to change.
So, please, go out. Call someone you haven't talked to in a bit just to say hi. It's totally worth it.
And, while you're doing something nice, say a prayer, think a good thought or do whatever it is you do to wish my friend luck. Her name is Lisa, and right now I think she needs whatever hope we can send her way.
The sad thing about this is that her son is about a year younger than mine. I can't imagine going through something like this knowing you have a young child, hoping for the best and fearing the worst.
I haven't seen her in awhile. In fact, it's been more than a year. We had dinner and chatted about breastfeeding vs. formula and sleep issues. It's one of those friendships you can drift in and out of - and catch up with the person when you see them.
I didn't really expect that the next e-mail would be announcing breast cancer.
Part of me is sad and worried. The other part of me feels kind of guilty. I realized that I trust way too much that people will just always be there when I want to hang out. I'm so guilty about letting friendships go too much, focusing on the people who are close at the time (distance wise in many cases) and saying "maybe next weekend we'll go see ..."
Luckily most of my friends are okay with this. Maybe part of this is due to the fact that I ama bit of a high intensity person and so sometimes Laural in small doses is a good thing. Or, maybe it's cause people know that if they are my friend I LOVE them.
But my point is, this is something I'm going to change.
So, please, go out. Call someone you haven't talked to in a bit just to say hi. It's totally worth it.
And, while you're doing something nice, say a prayer, think a good thought or do whatever it is you do to wish my friend luck. Her name is Lisa, and right now I think she needs whatever hope we can send her way.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Tag!!!
Gotta say, I love tag! I play it with Matthew. I play it on the internet. I'm actually one of those people who will fill out the e-mails that are 100 questions that you have to send to all your friends. LUV them (when I have time).
So, being tagged by Haley is super cool. In case you don't know who she is check out her blogs. What's not to like - she loves America's Next Top Model and blogs about celebrities.
Anyway ...
THE TAG: FIVE REASONS WHY I BLOG
FIVE REASONS WHY I BLOG:
So, being tagged by Haley is super cool. In case you don't know who she is check out her blogs. What's not to like - she loves America's Next Top Model and blogs about celebrities.
Anyway ...
THE TAG: FIVE REASONS WHY I BLOG
FIVE REASONS WHY I BLOG:
- I LOVE the comments. Sometimes they make me cry (in a good way). Bloggers are very supportive people.
- It's cool to know that people care what goes on in my life
- It encourages me to keep writing
- It's nice to have a forum to talk about things that are important to me.
- Matthew is my favourite topic, and I love writing about him and seeing how he is growing.
And I tag ...
Multi-tasking Mommy, My husband, Ruthie, and Leece (who I hate since she's in Mexico!)
Monday, March 05, 2007
No No No
Our conversation tonight:
Matthew: "Mommy. I want my show. I want Treehouse."
Me: "Nope. Mommy's show is on."
Matthew: "No. I want my show. I want Treehouse. I WAAANNNT TREEHOUSE."
Mike and I together: "No. No Treehouse."
At the time we had on Entertainment Tonight which was being drowned out by his screaming.
"OK."
He looked right at us, walked over to the tv, and turned it off.
Wow!
If only I had the nerve to be so outspoken.
Part of me wants to tame this toddler. But part of me wants to let him be like this, because that's what's going to get him ahead in life.
(and we really didn't need to watch ET anyway.)
Matthew: "Mommy. I want my show. I want Treehouse."
Me: "Nope. Mommy's show is on."
Matthew: "No. I want my show. I want Treehouse. I WAAANNNT TREEHOUSE."
Mike and I together: "No. No Treehouse."
At the time we had on Entertainment Tonight which was being drowned out by his screaming.
"OK."
He looked right at us, walked over to the tv, and turned it off.
Wow!
If only I had the nerve to be so outspoken.
Part of me wants to tame this toddler. But part of me wants to let him be like this, because that's what's going to get him ahead in life.
(and we really didn't need to watch ET anyway.)
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Painting ... Not for the Faint of Heart
Today was supposed to be our "do nothing day." I promised to sleep in and have no plans for the day.
The sleeping in part worked. I didn't get up until 7:30 and then had no mad panic to have a shower. I came downstairs and even made us all breakfast - something I never do. And then I was sitting, and trying to figure out what was bothering me. This ...
I HATE this colour of green. Every time I walk down the hall I want to scream. So, despite our plans for a quiet day I pulled out the primer and the green painters' tape and went to town.
Notice how similar the greens are: (the walls were also dirty and filled with old smoke from the previous owner)
When our big container of primer came out Matthew realized what was going on and asked to paint as well. Why not? I found him a little paintbrush and thought I'd let him do some painting which he thought was a lot of fun.
It was a lot of fun so Matthew painted and painted and painted.
He soon realized that the crappy little paintbrush I had given him was not nearly as effective as the large roller that I was using. When I said no to him using the roller he took matters into his own hands...
LITERALLY!!!
We tried to stop him, but every time I tried to say no he smiled and I started to laugh. I ran for the camera and Mike had to leave the room because he was finding the mess so stressful.
But the truth is, he was actually doing a great job of getting the wall covered, and we were having fun, so what was the big deal? He was being helpful, and the paint was water-based.
At the end of it all it turned out very well. Matty was very proud if his masterpiece. A nice bath and he was fine.
I had told Mike we'd just prime it all then leave it for a bit and decide on a colour.
As if.
Halfway through I left Mike painting and Matt watching Cars and went off to Home Depot to choose my paint colour. I went with a taupe - called "Designer White" which is a pale taupe. (for the record - not remotely white, so I don't understand the name) It is growing on me. It's the colour of my skin. Strange. I think I would blend into my wall if I tried. So that's a little weird. But it's soooo much nicer than the horrible green.
I know that the colour is a little bit boring, but I'll take light, airy and boring over that horrible dark hospital green anytime.
My favourite part of it all is the little footprint Matt left on the floor. I know, it's hardwood and we need to clean it off, but part of me would like to keep this momento forever.
Oh! What am I saying. We have every intention of flipping this house and moving on up. So, the footprint will go. Thank goodness for digital cameras :)
The sleeping in part worked. I didn't get up until 7:30 and then had no mad panic to have a shower. I came downstairs and even made us all breakfast - something I never do. And then I was sitting, and trying to figure out what was bothering me. This ...
I HATE this colour of green. Every time I walk down the hall I want to scream. So, despite our plans for a quiet day I pulled out the primer and the green painters' tape and went to town.Notice how similar the greens are: (the walls were also dirty and filled with old smoke from the previous owner)
When our big container of primer came out Matthew realized what was going on and asked to paint as well. Why not? I found him a little paintbrush and thought I'd let him do some painting which he thought was a lot of fun.
It was a lot of fun so Matthew painted and painted and painted.
He soon realized that the crappy little paintbrush I had given him was not nearly as effective as the large roller that I was using. When I said no to him using the roller he took matters into his own hands...
LITERALLY!!!
We tried to stop him, but every time I tried to say no he smiled and I started to laugh. I ran for the camera and Mike had to leave the room because he was finding the mess so stressful.
But the truth is, he was actually doing a great job of getting the wall covered, and we were having fun, so what was the big deal? He was being helpful, and the paint was water-based.
At the end of it all it turned out very well. Matty was very proud if his masterpiece. A nice bath and he was fine.
I had told Mike we'd just prime it all then leave it for a bit and decide on a colour.
As if.
Halfway through I left Mike painting and Matt watching Cars and went off to Home Depot to choose my paint colour. I went with a taupe - called "Designer White" which is a pale taupe. (for the record - not remotely white, so I don't understand the name) It is growing on me. It's the colour of my skin. Strange. I think I would blend into my wall if I tried. So that's a little weird. But it's soooo much nicer than the horrible green.
I know that the colour is a little bit boring, but I'll take light, airy and boring over that horrible dark hospital green anytime.
My favourite part of it all is the little footprint Matt left on the floor. I know, it's hardwood and we need to clean it off, but part of me would like to keep this momento forever.
Oh! What am I saying. We have every intention of flipping this house and moving on up. So, the footprint will go. Thank goodness for digital cameras :)
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