On this last long weekend of the summer, when people are sad about the season ending, I feel like everything is about to begin. My new life starts now. Well it started about a month ago, but I finally feel ready.
You see I was suppose to be getting ready for the hospital today. Labour Day how fitting. My twins were scheduled to be delivered via c-section tomorrow. But they had other plans. My water broke on July 29, yep just five days after I moved into my new house and my life has been a rollercoaster ride ever since. Here is the abbreviated version....
July 29 - 32 weeks pregnant and my water breaks at 5:30 a.m. I tiptoe downstairs past my sleeping inlaws to wake my husband who is sleeping in the basement. Triage here we come.....no labour so we wait. Later that day my Mom, Dad and sister fly in to visit me. I am so relieved to have them here.
July 29 - 31 - Hanging out on the 7th floor of Mt. Sinai, waiting for something to happen. Still no labour. My family keeps me entertained with regular visits between shopping trips. At least they look good and are having fun!
Aug. 1 10 a.m. - My Dad and sister decide to fly home. My sister is on vacation and has left her husband and son at my parents home. The nurses tell me if nothing happens in 48 hrs. of water breaking, I'm probably looking at another two weeks.
Aug. 1 - 11 a.m. - Baby "b's" heart rate is too high which indicates distress. Still no labour, but looks like it's showtime. We try and reach my Dad and sister before they get on the plane. No luck.
Aug. 1 - 2:23 and 2: 24 p.m. My boys are delivered via c-section just as my Dad and sister are landing in S.S.M. Everyone is healthy and happy. My husband and Mom were pros in the delivery room.
Aug. 4 - My Dad flies back and I get released from hospital.
Aug. 4 - 14 Travel back and forth to Mt. Sinai to feed babies.
Aug. 14 - Boys get transferred to Toronto East General Hospital. I was opting for St. Mike's where my daughter stayed, but no such luck.
Aug. 14 - 27 - Daily visits to TEGH to visit boys. Other than being in the middle of no where, this nursery is beautiful.
Aug. 28 - Sleep over at the hospital. A test run to see if I can feed them myself for 24 hours.
Aug. 29 - Welcome home.
Sept. 3 - As I walk back from the beach, I realise I missed summer completely this year.
Oh well here's to an exciting fall.
Monday, September 03, 2007
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
new digs
At the moment I am sitting on on my new deck, in my new backyard at my new house. It's kind of surreal. I should be doing a million other things like.....
unpacking,
cleaning,
organizing,
figuring out why my phone isn't working, but instead I'm dreaming up design ideas for birth announcements for my twins. Well techinically I'm writing this blog, but you get the picture.
Yesterday was super hectic. My parents flew in to help (they are the best, considering they we just here last week helping me pack!!!) with the move and even though I felt organized, we were still behind schedule. I guess once again I underestimated how crazy move day can be.
So far I like our new place. The main floor open concept is going to take getting used to though. Gracie is going to love this place. I am missing her terribly, but apparently she is having a ball at the cottage with her grandparents. But really would they say otherwise?
Yikes that's kind of a negative way to end this post. For that I must do an hour's worth of unpacking!
unpacking,
cleaning,
organizing,
figuring out why my phone isn't working, but instead I'm dreaming up design ideas for birth announcements for my twins. Well techinically I'm writing this blog, but you get the picture.
Yesterday was super hectic. My parents flew in to help (they are the best, considering they we just here last week helping me pack!!!) with the move and even though I felt organized, we were still behind schedule. I guess once again I underestimated how crazy move day can be.
So far I like our new place. The main floor open concept is going to take getting used to though. Gracie is going to love this place. I am missing her terribly, but apparently she is having a ball at the cottage with her grandparents. But really would they say otherwise?
Yikes that's kind of a negative way to end this post. For that I must do an hour's worth of unpacking!
Friday, July 20, 2007
better be home soon
Free time, spare time, alone time whatever you want to call it pretty much sucks for me right now. Being 30 weeks pregnant, huge and uncomfortable doesn't leave you with a lot of options on how to spend a free weekend. That and the fact that I'm moving in four days, so I'm up to my eyeballs in boxes...ahhhhh!
My husband and my daughter left this afternoon for a trip up north and I am heartbroken. Okay maybe lonely and miserable are better descriptions of how I'm feeling. To top it off Gracie is spending the week with her grandparents, which I am completely regretting now. I know in my head it is the right decision. Our nanny is on vacation and I can't care for her properly on my own seeing that I can't lift her or chase after her, so I do need the help. Sorry I'm babbling. It's just that this is the first time I've been away from her. Okay truth be told it's the second time, but the first time was for a night and my husband was with her. This is different. She's older and understands being away from her home and my inlaws well they aren't, how can I say this gently, well they aren't my parents. I know they will take good care of her, but they ....okay I'm going to stop and just try to be positive.
When was the first time you were away from your child? And how did you survive?
My husband and my daughter left this afternoon for a trip up north and I am heartbroken. Okay maybe lonely and miserable are better descriptions of how I'm feeling. To top it off Gracie is spending the week with her grandparents, which I am completely regretting now. I know in my head it is the right decision. Our nanny is on vacation and I can't care for her properly on my own seeing that I can't lift her or chase after her, so I do need the help. Sorry I'm babbling. It's just that this is the first time I've been away from her. Okay truth be told it's the second time, but the first time was for a night and my husband was with her. This is different. She's older and understands being away from her home and my inlaws well they aren't, how can I say this gently, well they aren't my parents. I know they will take good care of her, but they ....okay I'm going to stop and just try to be positive.
When was the first time you were away from your child? And how did you survive?
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
new house nerves
Only 23 days until the closing date on our new house. While I am looking forward to moving and settling in to our new place before the twins arrive, I'm kinda sad. When I came back from vacation, I realised how much I like our current house. Sure, it's a small, two bedroom house with an unfinished basment but it has character, and I'm going to miss that. It's also walking distance from some of my favourite shops , restaurants and parks .
I think I'm just feeling nostalgic. We went to our new house yesterday and it just seems, well, too new. It's actually an oldish house that the sellers never lived in. I think they just updated it to a blank canvas of hardwood floors and white paint. Don't get me wrong I'm happy with this, it just doesn't seem to have a lot of character. With our current place we had to uncover the hidden beauty which was fun.
My husband keeps reminding me (as does my family) that with the impending arrival of twins and my busy daughter, I don't have time for a fixer-upper house. And they are right, I need move-in-ability. That doesn't stop me from visiting here for inspiration. Anyone have any other suggestions?
I better start packing.......
I think I'm just feeling nostalgic. We went to our new house yesterday and it just seems, well, too new. It's actually an oldish house that the sellers never lived in. I think they just updated it to a blank canvas of hardwood floors and white paint. Don't get me wrong I'm happy with this, it just doesn't seem to have a lot of character. With our current place we had to uncover the hidden beauty which was fun.
My husband keeps reminding me (as does my family) that with the impending arrival of twins and my busy daughter, I don't have time for a fixer-upper house. And they are right, I need move-in-ability. That doesn't stop me from visiting here for inspiration. Anyone have any other suggestions?
I better start packing.......
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
radio silent no more
After a couple of months of radio silence I'm back. I've missed this world. I've been reading some of my favourite blogs whenever I've had the chance but haven't commented, so I guess I've been kind of lurking. But now hopefully I'm back and fully committed. It's not like I haven't had much to say, my life has just gotten crazy busy over the last little while. I'd like to say it is going to calm down, but with the pending arrival of twins, I doubt my life will ever be described as calm! Here's some highlights of the last few months......
got our house ready to put on the market - no easy task with a busy 18 month old
looked at a million (okay slight exaggeration) open houses
finally bought a house the week before we put ours on the market
sold our house in less than a week - thank goodness
got pnemonia - who gets pneumonia, especially when they are pregnant????
decided after much encouragement from colleagues, family and friends to take an early maternity leave
enjoying some much needed r&r up north with my family
So there you have it, not the most interesting post, but at least I'm back.
got our house ready to put on the market - no easy task with a busy 18 month old
looked at a million (okay slight exaggeration) open houses
finally bought a house the week before we put ours on the market
sold our house in less than a week - thank goodness
got pnemonia - who gets pneumonia, especially when they are pregnant????
decided after much encouragement from colleagues, family and friends to take an early maternity leave
enjoying some much needed r&r up north with my family
So there you have it, not the most interesting post, but at least I'm back.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
great expectations
There are some things in this world you can count on....
I expect there will be traffic during rush hour,
I expect spring to follow winter,
I expect to get paid every two weeks,
but I was not expecting to become pregnant and let alone be expecting twins!
And I really wasn't expecting go back to work after a year long maternity leave pregnant. (Either was my boss - thank god he's such a good guy). These last three months have been quite unexpected. Now I know it sounds odd, when you hear that someone is surprised to learn they are pregnant. Was I taking any precautions not to get pregnant...well no, but still, who thought it would happen so fast? I sure didn't.
We wanted to have our children close together, that was the plan. But truthfully I'm not a planner, I'm a kinda a fly by the seat of my pants girl. Yeah, well those days are gone!!
So here's how we found out about our great expectations. I was just getting used to the fact that I was having another baby. And getting over the nausea and complete exhaustion. We were at an ultrasound appointment. My husband wasn't even going to come with me, but showed up at the last minute. There we were confidently sitting in the waiting room, looking at all the newly pregnant people, and thinking "they don't know what they're in for." We were calm. We'd been through all this before...old hat to us.
It was finally our turn for the ultrasound. No big deal. I'm lying there with my eyes closed, getting some rest. My husband is on his blackberry (bad I know). The technican asks me how I got pregnant. Ahh what? I stumble... I'm thinking the old fashioned way. She confirms my age and that I'm not on fertility drugs. We don't pay much attention. Then she makes reference to two babies, to the resident in the room. I agree thinking, "yes Gracie will still be a baby when the new one comes and so I will have two babies." Then she says, "No, I see two babies."
What??? This grabs our attention. My husband moves closer and says "check again." I can't speak.
"Yes, I'm seeing two babies. Twins"
I try to speak but I can't. I'm just stammering.
The resident asks what kind of car I drive.
"A volkswagen jetta."
"Not anymore," he laughs "You're getting a mini van."
The techician shows us the two babies and prints out some pictures. Yep, this is real. We are in shock. We go back to the waiting room in silence. No talking, just blank stares. A half hour ago, we were the confident couple now were are terrified.
That was eleven days ago. While I am no longer in shock, the news quite hasn't sunk in. Don't get me wrong I am not unhappy, just overwhlemed.
I was not expecting this.
I expect there will be traffic during rush hour,
I expect spring to follow winter,
I expect to get paid every two weeks,
but I was not expecting to become pregnant and let alone be expecting twins!
And I really wasn't expecting go back to work after a year long maternity leave pregnant. (Either was my boss - thank god he's such a good guy). These last three months have been quite unexpected. Now I know it sounds odd, when you hear that someone is surprised to learn they are pregnant. Was I taking any precautions not to get pregnant...well no, but still, who thought it would happen so fast? I sure didn't.
We wanted to have our children close together, that was the plan. But truthfully I'm not a planner, I'm a kinda a fly by the seat of my pants girl. Yeah, well those days are gone!!
So here's how we found out about our great expectations. I was just getting used to the fact that I was having another baby. And getting over the nausea and complete exhaustion. We were at an ultrasound appointment. My husband wasn't even going to come with me, but showed up at the last minute. There we were confidently sitting in the waiting room, looking at all the newly pregnant people, and thinking "they don't know what they're in for." We were calm. We'd been through all this before...old hat to us.
It was finally our turn for the ultrasound. No big deal. I'm lying there with my eyes closed, getting some rest. My husband is on his blackberry (bad I know). The technican asks me how I got pregnant. Ahh what? I stumble... I'm thinking the old fashioned way. She confirms my age and that I'm not on fertility drugs. We don't pay much attention. Then she makes reference to two babies, to the resident in the room. I agree thinking, "yes Gracie will still be a baby when the new one comes and so I will have two babies." Then she says, "No, I see two babies."
What??? This grabs our attention. My husband moves closer and says "check again." I can't speak.
"Yes, I'm seeing two babies. Twins"
I try to speak but I can't. I'm just stammering.
The resident asks what kind of car I drive.
"A volkswagen jetta."
"Not anymore," he laughs "You're getting a mini van."
The techician shows us the two babies and prints out some pictures. Yep, this is real. We are in shock. We go back to the waiting room in silence. No talking, just blank stares. A half hour ago, we were the confident couple now were are terrified.
That was eleven days ago. While I am no longer in shock, the news quite hasn't sunk in. Don't get me wrong I am not unhappy, just overwhlemed.
I was not expecting this.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Sunday, March 18, 2007
perfect ending
Organized. Calm. Relaxed.I like this feeling. It's been far too long since I've felt like this. A perfect ending to the weekend and the right way to meet a new week.
Clean house.
Stocked fridge.
Fresh, crisp sheets.
Sleeping baby.
Happy husband.
Sometimes it's just the simplest little things that make all the difference. Ahh, I could get used to this. Oh and I did the most amazing yoga class today. Just what the doctor ordered.
All rewarded with beautiful flowers.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
almost spring cleaning
I had to change the title of my post because I just looked out my window and saw a winter wonderland. I love snow, but I was starting to let myself dream of snowsuit-free bundle ups and boot-free mornings. Oh well. For all intents and purposes spring will spring in our house this weekend.
Slipcovers are getting washed and ironed,
winter sweaters are getting packed away,
front hall pictures are changing,
drawers are getting organized,
closets are getting de-cluttered and
all will be rewarded with fresh flowers.
It's sad but I need treats to motivate me to clean. I so wish I was a clean freak, but I'm not. I'm more like "oh no someone is coming over", better make the place sparkle. And this little place does need to shine this weekend. You see if I post it I will feel compelled to do it. That and the fact that our real estate agents is coming over to take a peek. Oh and the biggest reason, my mother. She's flying in tomorrow evening and staying to watch Gracie this week.
Yikes, I better get started!
Slipcovers are getting washed and ironed,
winter sweaters are getting packed away,
front hall pictures are changing,
drawers are getting organized,
closets are getting de-cluttered and
all will be rewarded with fresh flowers.
It's sad but I need treats to motivate me to clean. I so wish I was a clean freak, but I'm not. I'm more like "oh no someone is coming over", better make the place sparkle. And this little place does need to shine this weekend. You see if I post it I will feel compelled to do it. That and the fact that our real estate agents is coming over to take a peek. Oh and the biggest reason, my mother. She's flying in tomorrow evening and staying to watch Gracie this week.
Yikes, I better get started!
Thursday, March 15, 2007
things I learned from my nanny
It's been forever since I've been here and so much has happened since my last post. Ah where do I begin? Well for starters Gracie is no longer a baby, she's a full fledged walking, babbling, getting into everything toddler. I can't believe she's 15 months old today. Yikes!
The biggest change is that I am now a working mom. That's kind of a silly term isn't it? I mean all mothers whether they've gone back to their jobs or not, work their asses off. In fact I think it was much harder being at home then going to work. But being at home with Gracie, as difficult as it was at times was so much more fun and way more important. Which brings me to the title of my post - all the things my nanny has taught me in the last 3 months.
First off I love my nanny. It was a fairly long process trying to find her, but she was well worth it. I was so concerned about having a stranger in my house and more importantly caring for my daughter. And so many people (mostly my nosy mother's group) all had very strong opinions about the nanny vs daycare. Personally I don't care what you choose for your child, if it's right for your family great. Anyway enough of that rant.
five things my nanny has taught me.....(or why I love my nanny)
1. mismatched socks, crazy-coloured outfits and even staying in pajamas all day can ma your kid look even cuter
2. It's okay to let people see the real you, you know the one that's late for a meeting, crabby with her husband
3. Kids are messy. Even people without kids are messy and it's okay if other people sometime see this.
4. You can't control everything. Perfectly behaved child throws temper trantrums at inopportune times, it happens.
5. My nanny knows how to roll with the punches, and has taught me this valuable lesson (well sort of according to my husband) I still have a long way to go.
The biggest change is that I am now a working mom. That's kind of a silly term isn't it? I mean all mothers whether they've gone back to their jobs or not, work their asses off. In fact I think it was much harder being at home then going to work. But being at home with Gracie, as difficult as it was at times was so much more fun and way more important. Which brings me to the title of my post - all the things my nanny has taught me in the last 3 months.
First off I love my nanny. It was a fairly long process trying to find her, but she was well worth it. I was so concerned about having a stranger in my house and more importantly caring for my daughter. And so many people (mostly my nosy mother's group) all had very strong opinions about the nanny vs daycare. Personally I don't care what you choose for your child, if it's right for your family great. Anyway enough of that rant.
five things my nanny has taught me.....(or why I love my nanny)
1. mismatched socks, crazy-coloured outfits and even staying in pajamas all day can ma your kid look even cuter
2. It's okay to let people see the real you, you know the one that's late for a meeting, crabby with her husband
3. Kids are messy. Even people without kids are messy and it's okay if other people sometime see this.
4. You can't control everything. Perfectly behaved child throws temper trantrums at inopportune times, it happens.
5. My nanny knows how to roll with the punches, and has taught me this valuable lesson (well sort of according to my husband) I still have a long way to go.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
fa la la la la
lala la la. It's here. Not sure if it was the....
cold weather
burl ives in rudolph the red nose reindeer
gracie's santa pjs
hearing Paul McCartney's "simply having a wonderful Christmas time..."
gingerbread lattes
8 foot Christmas tree on our porch
Or it could have been all the Christmas cocktails I had last night. (Gracie's party isn't really the only party - but definitely the most n.b.) Whatever it was I am finally in the Christmas spirit. And it feels good. That and the fact that I'm not hung over. The Christmas elves must be smiling on me.
Time to trim the tree......
cold weather
burl ives in rudolph the red nose reindeer
gracie's santa pjs
hearing Paul McCartney's "simply having a wonderful Christmas time..."
gingerbread lattes
8 foot Christmas tree on our porch
Or it could have been all the Christmas cocktails I had last night. (Gracie's party isn't really the only party - but definitely the most n.b.) Whatever it was I am finally in the Christmas spirit. And it feels good. That and the fact that I'm not hung over. The Christmas elves must be smiling on me.
Time to trim the tree......
Friday, December 08, 2006
deck the halls
Not too long ago December was all about Christmas parties. Office parties, the staff party at our local pub, get togethers with friends...but this year there is only one party on my calendar. The most important party. Gracie's turning one and we're going all out.
I've created the most adorable invitations, ordered a fabulous cake, planned the menu and the loot bags, I'm even making "g"gingerbread cookies. I've been in serious prep mode for the last week and next week will be jammed packed getting all the little details ready for the big day. I love this stuff. It also keeps my mind off the fact that my mat leave is quickly coming to an end and the fact that my baby is well not quite a baby anymore.
Now I know what you are thinking...she's only one. She won't remember a thing. There will be plenty of time for parties when she's older. I realize all this. But we like to entertain, and this party is for us, all of us. Celebrating becoming a family and how much our lives have changed over the past year.
And on that note it's back to party planning....
I've created the most adorable invitations, ordered a fabulous cake, planned the menu and the loot bags, I'm even making "g"gingerbread cookies. I've been in serious prep mode for the last week and next week will be jammed packed getting all the little details ready for the big day. I love this stuff. It also keeps my mind off the fact that my mat leave is quickly coming to an end and the fact that my baby is well not quite a baby anymore.
Now I know what you are thinking...she's only one. She won't remember a thing. There will be plenty of time for parties when she's older. I realize all this. But we like to entertain, and this party is for us, all of us. Celebrating becoming a family and how much our lives have changed over the past year.
And on that note it's back to party planning....
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
a few hours
Last night was date night. I was hoping for dinner and a movie, but we ran out of time. My husband's schedule is crazy and well there are only so many hours in an evening!
It was about a two and a half hour escape, but well worth it. Casino Royale. I am a big Bond fan and the latest version did not disappoint. The blonde Bond is sexy. And Audioslave singing the theme song....how perfect. Ahhh two of my crushes, Chris Cornell and Daniel Craig. I love them.....
But not more than my two new favourite girls Anna and Hannah. We have babysitters!! One of my good friends taught these girls and suggested I try them out. They are fantastic. Smart, cool, reliable and my daughter loves them.
I might actually have a bit of a social life this month after all.
It was about a two and a half hour escape, but well worth it. Casino Royale. I am a big Bond fan and the latest version did not disappoint. The blonde Bond is sexy. And Audioslave singing the theme song....how perfect. Ahhh two of my crushes, Chris Cornell and Daniel Craig. I love them.....
But not more than my two new favourite girls Anna and Hannah. We have babysitters!! One of my good friends taught these girls and suggested I try them out. They are fantastic. Smart, cool, reliable and my daughter loves them.
I might actually have a bit of a social life this month after all.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
what happens at the party...
Well the plan was to have it stay at the party, but that didn't quite happen.
You see Gracie and I were in Ottawa over the weekend to celebrate my nephew's first birthday. We had a ball. Her cousin, or the boy with every toy imaginable, is a lot of laughs. And his monkey-themed party, complete with all the trimmings was every one year old's dream.
Since it was a special occasion all the rules went out the window. No afternoon nap, eating way too many fruit kebobs, even eating cake, and staying up hours past bedtime. I don't think Gracie has had that much fun - ever. Smiling, giggling and so much attention, it was pure bliss. We decided we should get her a season's pass to "Rubyland" for her birthday. (Ruby's the dog - and Gracie adores her.)
But after all the toys, the treats, the cake, the dog and the attention the party weekend had to came to an end. Happily exhausted we flew back to Toronto.
We thought we were in the clear. What happened at the party stayed at the party, just like Grandpa's card said. But then the unexpected happened. First to Gracie, then to me. It would have been okay, but Daddy's smart.
Gracie got sick on Monday. Lethargic, feverish and just not herself. Kinda like a hangover. Then on Tuesday I was out with a twenty four hour bug. The jig was up. We had to confess everything to Daddy, especially since we passed on the flu to him today. Uh oh.
But now that the sickness is pretty much out of all of our systems, I think it is fair to say it was worth it.
You see Gracie and I were in Ottawa over the weekend to celebrate my nephew's first birthday. We had a ball. Her cousin, or the boy with every toy imaginable, is a lot of laughs. And his monkey-themed party, complete with all the trimmings was every one year old's dream.
Since it was a special occasion all the rules went out the window. No afternoon nap, eating way too many fruit kebobs, even eating cake, and staying up hours past bedtime. I don't think Gracie has had that much fun - ever. Smiling, giggling and so much attention, it was pure bliss. We decided we should get her a season's pass to "Rubyland" for her birthday. (Ruby's the dog - and Gracie adores her.)
But after all the toys, the treats, the cake, the dog and the attention the party weekend had to came to an end. Happily exhausted we flew back to Toronto.
We thought we were in the clear. What happened at the party stayed at the party, just like Grandpa's card said. But then the unexpected happened. First to Gracie, then to me. It would have been okay, but Daddy's smart.
Gracie got sick on Monday. Lethargic, feverish and just not herself. Kinda like a hangover. Then on Tuesday I was out with a twenty four hour bug. The jig was up. We had to confess everything to Daddy, especially since we passed on the flu to him today. Uh oh.
But now that the sickness is pretty much out of all of our systems, I think it is fair to say it was worth it.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
one year ago
Happy birthday W. J. One year ago today you had us all in a panic. You little trickster. We weren't expecting you until mid-January, but you had other plans. Big plans.
The day before you were born, your Mom wasn't feeling so good. We should have known something was up, but we missed all of your hints. I even told your Mom to go to the U2 concert. Good thing she didn't take my advice!
Gramma called early Saturday morning to tell us your Mom and Dad were at the hospital. She said you were on your way. I couldn't believe it. It was too early, way too early for you to come. She was worried. So was I. Even Uncle M. was nervous.
I called your Mom. I just needed to hear her voice and make sure she was okay. She was so brave. While she was talking to me she had a contraction. Wow, this was real, you were on your way.
After hearing that, I had to be there. So we hopped in the car. It was the quickest drive to Ottawa. We didn't speak. We didn't even listen to the radio. We just drove. There was snow and sleet and we couldn't even use our phone. Finally, just outside the city limits we got the news, you had arrived. Everyone was fine. Big sigh of relief. First we were relieved, then happy and then so excited to meet you.
I ran up to your Mom's room when we got to the hospital. I was a bit nervous, I didn't know what to expect. Your parents looked fabulous. I have never seen them look so happy. They were over the moon. Your Dad told me your Mom was great and that she made your delivery look easy.
They gave us all the details of your arrival. What was your big hurry bud? Only three pushes and you were out! Your Dad said you must have big plans because you were in such a rush to meet everyone.
Next it was time to meet you. The NCIU is a serious place W.J. Nurses, doctors, worried parents, lots of machines beeping and of course the tiniest, most special babies. But none as special as you. Your Dad pointed you out and we just stood there looking at you. We didn't even talk. I couldn't believe I was looking at my nephew. Finally a boy in our family! I was so proud, and full of love. Now W.J. you are the cutest, most handsome, beautiful boy but you were pretty banged up when we first met. Your body was all newish- pink but your head was purple. Yep purple. Good thing you were so adorable, that it didn't matter.
Before I left I told you, you were a luckiest, little boy because you had such a special Mom and Dad. They were already head over heals in love with you. And so was I.
I love you W.J.
The day before you were born, your Mom wasn't feeling so good. We should have known something was up, but we missed all of your hints. I even told your Mom to go to the U2 concert. Good thing she didn't take my advice!
Gramma called early Saturday morning to tell us your Mom and Dad were at the hospital. She said you were on your way. I couldn't believe it. It was too early, way too early for you to come. She was worried. So was I. Even Uncle M. was nervous.
I called your Mom. I just needed to hear her voice and make sure she was okay. She was so brave. While she was talking to me she had a contraction. Wow, this was real, you were on your way.
After hearing that, I had to be there. So we hopped in the car. It was the quickest drive to Ottawa. We didn't speak. We didn't even listen to the radio. We just drove. There was snow and sleet and we couldn't even use our phone. Finally, just outside the city limits we got the news, you had arrived. Everyone was fine. Big sigh of relief. First we were relieved, then happy and then so excited to meet you.
I ran up to your Mom's room when we got to the hospital. I was a bit nervous, I didn't know what to expect. Your parents looked fabulous. I have never seen them look so happy. They were over the moon. Your Dad told me your Mom was great and that she made your delivery look easy.
They gave us all the details of your arrival. What was your big hurry bud? Only three pushes and you were out! Your Dad said you must have big plans because you were in such a rush to meet everyone.
Next it was time to meet you. The NCIU is a serious place W.J. Nurses, doctors, worried parents, lots of machines beeping and of course the tiniest, most special babies. But none as special as you. Your Dad pointed you out and we just stood there looking at you. We didn't even talk. I couldn't believe I was looking at my nephew. Finally a boy in our family! I was so proud, and full of love. Now W.J. you are the cutest, most handsome, beautiful boy but you were pretty banged up when we first met. Your body was all newish- pink but your head was purple. Yep purple. Good thing you were so adorable, that it didn't matter.
Before I left I told you, you were a luckiest, little boy because you had such a special Mom and Dad. They were already head over heals in love with you. And so was I.
I love you W.J.
Monday, November 20, 2006
nanny 911
I had a terrible sleep last night. And the night before and well ever since I came back from my parents house. Ahh I wish I was still there. Anyway the reason I'm not sleeping is STRESS. I have made the decision to go back to work. There I said it.
So now comes the gruelling task of deciding on childcare. It makes me tense up just typing childcare. Way back when Gracie was just a few months old I called a daycare and put her on a list. It was ridiculous. We had just visited friends and their new babe and they were told us about this great daycare, rated one of the top in the city that their daughter was going to. WHAATTT? So the stress started way back then.
Flash forward, I toured the daycare a few weeks ago. I must admit, it was lovely. Homey. Clean. Safe. And the owner was wonderful. But as nice as it was, it just didn't work for me. When she explained how scheduled the children were, I had made my decision. What if Gracie doesn't want to go play with blocks from 10 to 10:15 and go outside from 10 - 10:45? What if its a snowy day and she's feeling cozy and wants to read books all day? Or if she has lots of energy and wants to play at the park for an extra half hour? Why does she need a school-like or worse work-like schedule at 12 months? She is most likely spend the better part of her youth in school, so why start so soon. I don't want her to burn out by the time she hits grade one! Okay enough of my rant.....so daycare isn't for me. Enough said.
So option number two.....the nanny. I was once the women who said I would never leave my child with a nanny. Well I've changed my tune a bit. My husband and I are considering nanny sharing with our friends. The great, top rated daycare didn't work for them either. We thought we had it all figured out. A nanny was becoming available on our street. I had seen this women in the neighbourhood and thought it would be simple. Unfortunately the nanny just got a job as a nurse - great for her, bad for us. She did suggest her cousin, but the interview was disastrous. The cousin looked 12 and didn't even talk to the children. I could go on and on with the horrible details but it's too depressing. So after that episode, the four of us decided to get serious. We had a big chat about what we wanted, needed and basically what we wouldn't put up with.
Yesterday my husband, Gracie and I met two potential nannies. I must admit I was impressed. Both loved children, were kind and are eager to work. I feel a bit better about the process now. But boy is this difficult. I know new parents go through this all the time, but it's very nerve-wracking.
Any suggestions or personal stories are greatly appreciated. Thanks.
So now comes the gruelling task of deciding on childcare. It makes me tense up just typing childcare. Way back when Gracie was just a few months old I called a daycare and put her on a list. It was ridiculous. We had just visited friends and their new babe and they were told us about this great daycare, rated one of the top in the city that their daughter was going to. WHAATTT? So the stress started way back then.
Flash forward, I toured the daycare a few weeks ago. I must admit, it was lovely. Homey. Clean. Safe. And the owner was wonderful. But as nice as it was, it just didn't work for me. When she explained how scheduled the children were, I had made my decision. What if Gracie doesn't want to go play with blocks from 10 to 10:15 and go outside from 10 - 10:45? What if its a snowy day and she's feeling cozy and wants to read books all day? Or if she has lots of energy and wants to play at the park for an extra half hour? Why does she need a school-like or worse work-like schedule at 12 months? She is most likely spend the better part of her youth in school, so why start so soon. I don't want her to burn out by the time she hits grade one! Okay enough of my rant.....so daycare isn't for me. Enough said.
So option number two.....the nanny. I was once the women who said I would never leave my child with a nanny. Well I've changed my tune a bit. My husband and I are considering nanny sharing with our friends. The great, top rated daycare didn't work for them either. We thought we had it all figured out. A nanny was becoming available on our street. I had seen this women in the neighbourhood and thought it would be simple. Unfortunately the nanny just got a job as a nurse - great for her, bad for us. She did suggest her cousin, but the interview was disastrous. The cousin looked 12 and didn't even talk to the children. I could go on and on with the horrible details but it's too depressing. So after that episode, the four of us decided to get serious. We had a big chat about what we wanted, needed and basically what we wouldn't put up with.
Yesterday my husband, Gracie and I met two potential nannies. I must admit I was impressed. Both loved children, were kind and are eager to work. I feel a bit better about the process now. But boy is this difficult. I know new parents go through this all the time, but it's very nerve-wracking.
Any suggestions or personal stories are greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
happy birthday gramma
Today is my mother's birthday. I won't reveal her age, but she's young and she looks even younger. She's a beauty. Great skin, great hair, great figure, great style. And that's just what you see.
She's also smart, funny, silly and kind. But I think the best thing about her is that she takes care in all she does. And I mean everything. From making gold angel wings for my grade three Christmas concert (when everyone else had silver), planting the prettiest window boxes, painting my living room and kitchen when I was pregnant to taking care of a sick friend, ahhh the list is never-ending. She always takes time to make things special. And we are all lucky to have her.
Have a wonderful birthday Mom. I love you.
oh and Gracie sends a special la, la, la for you........xoxo
She's also smart, funny, silly and kind. But I think the best thing about her is that she takes care in all she does. And I mean everything. From making gold angel wings for my grade three Christmas concert (when everyone else had silver), planting the prettiest window boxes, painting my living room and kitchen when I was pregnant to taking care of a sick friend, ahhh the list is never-ending. She always takes time to make things special. And we are all lucky to have her.
Have a wonderful birthday Mom. I love you.
oh and Gracie sends a special la, la, la for you........xoxo
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
this is happiness
driving home from Baba's house
good song on the radio
snow falling
I never want to leave.
good song on the radio
snow falling
I never want to leave.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
tick tock
Two months, eight weeks, 60 days...the countdown has officially begun.
Two months used to feel like forever, like remember when you were a kid and you had to wait two months for Christmas or your birthday. And in university a two month deadline was an eternity. Or that feeling in January of two more months of winter (I actually love that feeling - but you know what I mean).
Before Gracie, when I was working two week vacations were luxurious. One week heavenly. Hell I felt refreshed after a long weekend!
And of course time does fly when you are having fun, but time has taken on a whole new meaning these last ten and a half months.
15 days - amount of time Gracie was in the hospital, it felt like forever
3 months - sleepless nights felt like a blur, what is time? 3 am wasn't that much different from 3:00 pm
2 - 5 days - between Gracie's weigh in appointments - it took forever for her to gain a pound
teething time - way too long to little Gracie
6- 7pm - witching hour during the week of teething - felt like an eternity until Daddy came home and Gracie fell asleep
Thanksgiving weekend - fun, fun, fun.....but sadly was over in a blink
10 am - morning nap, super short hour, never long enough to cram in laundry, blogging, shower, well everything
Time, where does it go and how do I seem to waste so much of it? I'm scheduled to go back to work in two months. This stresses me out. I wish I could just hit pause.
Two months used to feel like forever, like remember when you were a kid and you had to wait two months for Christmas or your birthday. And in university a two month deadline was an eternity. Or that feeling in January of two more months of winter (I actually love that feeling - but you know what I mean).
Before Gracie, when I was working two week vacations were luxurious. One week heavenly. Hell I felt refreshed after a long weekend!
And of course time does fly when you are having fun, but time has taken on a whole new meaning these last ten and a half months.
15 days - amount of time Gracie was in the hospital, it felt like forever
3 months - sleepless nights felt like a blur, what is time? 3 am wasn't that much different from 3:00 pm
2 - 5 days - between Gracie's weigh in appointments - it took forever for her to gain a pound
teething time - way too long to little Gracie
6- 7pm - witching hour during the week of teething - felt like an eternity until Daddy came home and Gracie fell asleep
Thanksgiving weekend - fun, fun, fun.....but sadly was over in a blink
10 am - morning nap, super short hour, never long enough to cram in laundry, blogging, shower, well everything
Time, where does it go and how do I seem to waste so much of it? I'm scheduled to go back to work in two months. This stresses me out. I wish I could just hit pause.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
walk this way
I had the best time Tuesday morning.
All bundled up, vanilla latte in hand, Gracie and I met the Moms in the City gang in the lobby of the Sheraton Centre for a walking tour. From there we made our way through the downtown core checking out the sky scrapers. It was so cool. I drive downtown all the time, but never get a chance to really take in the art deco design. Who knew there were so many interesting little nooks and crannies? I learned so much.
Picture this - a small group of strollers making our way through the hectic downtown sidewalks. I loved the contrast of us amongst the busy, stressed business men and women. I'm sure many of them are too focused on their cell phones and blackberries, rushing to meetings to notice the beauty of the lobby, ceiling or windows of their buildings. A few of them actually stopped to listen to our guide which was cool.
These walking tours have been the best "mother thing" other than blogging that I've done. I'm not much of a joiner. Actually no, I'm a lousy joiner. But Mom's in the City really have come up with a great activity for moms and their babies. It's so refreshing to do something adult with your baby.
At the beginning there is the small talk introduction,"how old is your little one, name, how do you like your stroller", but once the tour starts, there's very little baby talk. Not that there is anything wrong with baby talk but sometimes I get sick of the what's your baby doing, eating, sleeping conversations. That's the beauty of these tours. The guide is doing most of the talking about grownup things like design, architecture and history. Ahh, wonderful. I would do this tour even if I didn't have a baby.
Can't wait for the tour of Chinatown.
All bundled up, vanilla latte in hand, Gracie and I met the Moms in the City gang in the lobby of the Sheraton Centre for a walking tour. From there we made our way through the downtown core checking out the sky scrapers. It was so cool. I drive downtown all the time, but never get a chance to really take in the art deco design. Who knew there were so many interesting little nooks and crannies? I learned so much.
Picture this - a small group of strollers making our way through the hectic downtown sidewalks. I loved the contrast of us amongst the busy, stressed business men and women. I'm sure many of them are too focused on their cell phones and blackberries, rushing to meetings to notice the beauty of the lobby, ceiling or windows of their buildings. A few of them actually stopped to listen to our guide which was cool.
These walking tours have been the best "mother thing" other than blogging that I've done. I'm not much of a joiner. Actually no, I'm a lousy joiner. But Mom's in the City really have come up with a great activity for moms and their babies. It's so refreshing to do something adult with your baby.
At the beginning there is the small talk introduction,"how old is your little one, name, how do you like your stroller", but once the tour starts, there's very little baby talk. Not that there is anything wrong with baby talk but sometimes I get sick of the what's your baby doing, eating, sleeping conversations. That's the beauty of these tours. The guide is doing most of the talking about grownup things like design, architecture and history. Ahh, wonderful. I would do this tour even if I didn't have a baby.
Can't wait for the tour of Chinatown.
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