Saturday, May 31, 2008

Birthday Remembrance

Today would have been my brother's 42 birthday.
My brother was confident, a practical joker, a tease, tall and slim with dark, curly hair, a hard worker and played just as hard, he was a talented carpenter, good with horses, a charmer and could be equally difficult on the opposite end of the spectrum, he was protective of me although I never really knew it at the time, he was well-liked, athletic, strong-willed, and my older brother. I remember his birthdays when we were kids...one year we got our puppy, Chief, on Jim's birthday...there were several years that the party entailed a weiner roast, cake, jello, ice cream and me following his friends around hoping to be included and not ignored as all little sisters that are 7yrs younger are.
For the past several years, I would go horseback riding, often alone, sometimes with a friend, a sort of remembrance for Jim and his life. This year though I wasn't able to do that. So, here I am writing a little bit about Jim in hopes that he's not forgotten...not by me or anyone that knew him. And maybe I can make the time this week to spend some a moment or two outdoors in an activity that Jim would have enjoyed too...like baseball, or horseback riding, or camping or just barbequing with friends.

I do wish Jim could have met my husband and boys. They would have loved him, had so much fun with him. One day they'll know him through my memories, when they're older.

So, happy birthday brother, wherever you are.

Birthday Remembrance

Today would have been my brother's 42 birthday.
My brother was confident, a practical joker, a tease, tall and slim with dark, curly hair, a hard worker and played just as hard, he was a talented carpenter, good with horses, a charmer and could be equally difficult on the opposite end of the spectrum, he was protective of me although I never really knew it at the time, he was well-liked, athletic, strong-willed, and my older brother. I remember his birthdays when we were kids...one year we got our puppy, Chief, on Jim's birthday...there were several years that the party entailed a weiner roast, cake, jello, ice cream and me following his friends around hoping to be included and not ignored as all little sisters that are 7yrs younger are.
For the past several years, I would go horseback riding, often alone, sometimes with a friend, a sort of remembrance for Jim and his life. This year though I wasn't able to do that. So, here I am writing a little bit about Jim in hopes that he's not forgotten...not by me or anyone that knew him. And maybe I can make the time this week to spend some a moment or two outdoors in an activity that Jim would have enjoyed too...like baseball, or horseback riding, or camping or just barbequing with friends.

I do wish Jim could have met my husband and boys. They would have loved him, had so much fun with him. One day they'll know him through my memories, when they're older.

So, happy birthday brother, wherever you are.

Dump Doughnuts

Today, all the boys and I took our old dishwasher to the city recycling center (aka...the dump). On route, W started asking for food...Mcdonalds, fries, milk, juice, crackers, more Mcdonalds, more fries. By the time we had deposited our old dishwasher and were driving through the checkout at the dump, he was sobbing with big tears rolling down his litle red cheeks, barely coherent asking for McDonalds' fries. At the window to pay, the teller tried to cheer him up by talking to him, to which W responded by crying even louder & hiding his face. And then the magic began. The gentleman at the window asked me if W would like a sticky doughnut as he had a large box of them from Tim Horton's. B & I agreed it would be okay, and the tears stopped immdediately. Who would have expected this? Let me tell you though, there was peace in the land... and B & I were laughing heartily. Thank you generous gentleman!
So, this is the tale of "Doughnuts at the Dump."

Dump Doughnuts

Today, all the boys and I took our old dishwasher to the city recycling center (aka...the dump). On route, W started asking for food...Mcdonalds, fries, milk, juice, crackers, more Mcdonalds, more fries. By the time we had deposited our old dishwasher and were driving through the checkout at the dump, he was sobbing with big tears rolling down his litle red cheeks, barely coherent asking for McDonalds' fries. At the window to pay, the teller tried to cheer him up by talking to him, to which W responded by crying even louder & hiding his face. And then the magic began. The gentleman at the window asked me if W would like a sticky doughnut as he had a large box of them from Tim Horton's. B & I agreed it would be okay, and the tears stopped immdediately. Who would have expected this? Let me tell you though, there was peace in the land... and B & I were laughing heartily. Thank you generous gentleman!
So, this is the tale of "Doughnuts at the Dump."

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Hello? Is this the baker with the best buns in town?

Loaves, baby, best loaves in town!
Today my favorite husband called asking about the best buns in town, in the midst of my first bread making from scratch session. I finally swindled Mom's recipe out of her head. She had kindly loaned my her recipe binders and there was not a bread recipe to be found! Now, my mom was the queen of scratch cooking/baking...even crackers, mayo, etc. She has a recipe for cheese whiz! But the bread recipe was not there and she made bread every other week, at least. Anyway, after a phone call or two the recipe is mine and today was the first attempt. It's delicious, flax and whole wheat, but half the batch didn't rise very well, so there are some cute little loaves. Oh well, the house smells yummy and the little loaves are tasty. This may even become a regular occurence....we shall see.

(I'll post the recipe later...right now I need to get a certain 2.5 yr old off to "nap")

Bread from my Mom's Head
2 cups hot water + 1TB vinegar or 2 cups miok
1/4 cup sugar
4 tsp salt
1/4 cup oil
8-10 cups flour

1 cup hot water
2 tsp sugar
2 envelopes yeast

Mix the water and yeast together, sprinkle top with sugar. Let sit 10 min. Brisk with fork.

Stir first 4 ingredients. Add yeast mixture. Beat 4-5 cups flour. Mix with hands until smooth. Add another 4-5 cups flour until smooth. Brush top with butter, cover with tea towel.
Let rise in bowl 1 hr until doubles in size. Shape into loaves and place in greased pans. Cover and let rise another 1 hr.
Bake at 400 30-35 min. Brush with butter as soon as out of oven.
Note: For whole wheat use 1/2 and 1/2 WW four & White flour. Can add a couple of tablespons of ground flax seed as well.

Hello? Is this the baker with the best buns in town?

Loaves, baby, best loaves in town!
Today my favorite husband called asking about the best buns in town, in the midst of my first bread making from scratch session. I finally swindled Mom's recipe out of her head. She had kindly loaned my her recipe binders and there was not a bread recipe to be found! Now, my mom was the queen of scratch cooking/baking...even crackers, mayo, etc. She has a recipe for cheese whiz! But the bread recipe was not there and she made bread every other week, at least. Anyway, after a phone call or two the recipe is mine and today was the first attempt. It's delicious, flax and whole wheat, but half the batch didn't rise very well, so there are some cute little loaves. Oh well, the house smells yummy and the little loaves are tasty. This may even become a regular occurence....we shall see.

(I'll post the recipe later...right now I need to get a certain 2.5 yr old off to "nap")

Bread from my Mom's Head
2 cups hot water + 1TB vinegar or 2 cups miok
1/4 cup sugar
4 tsp salt
1/4 cup oil
8-10 cups flour

1 cup hot water
2 tsp sugar
2 envelopes yeast

Mix the water and yeast together, sprinkle top with sugar. Let sit 10 min. Brisk with fork.

Stir first 4 ingredients. Add yeast mixture. Beat 4-5 cups flour. Mix with hands until smooth. Add another 4-5 cups flour until smooth. Brush top with butter, cover with tea towel.
Let rise in bowl 1 hr until doubles in size. Shape into loaves and place in greased pans. Cover and let rise another 1 hr.
Bake at 400 30-35 min. Brush with butter as soon as out of oven.
Note: For whole wheat use 1/2 and 1/2 WW four & White flour. Can add a couple of tablespons of ground flax seed as well.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Plum Stumped

Help! One would think if you can buy pomegranate juice, that plum juice would be on the shelf as well. Not prune, but regular plum. Such as the Sunsweet Plumsmart brand. I cannot find it. Today I tried the two organic markets and neither had it in stock, even after calling one which advised me that they did and then upon arrival they did not...frustrating.

W is to be taken off dairy altogether and plum juice is recommended by the Drs to ensure that the ear infections don't flare up again as he's right on the cusp with a bubble in each ear. So close to a clean bill of health and at the same time so close to another infection.

So, I'm the plum juice hunt is on. If anyone has some insight into this search, any tips would be most appreciated.

Thanks!

Plum Stumped

Help! One would think if you can buy pomegranate juice, that plum juice would be on the shelf as well. Not prune, but regular plum. Such as the Sunsweet Plumsmart brand. I cannot find it. Today I tried the two organic markets and neither had it in stock, even after calling one which advised me that they did and then upon arrival they did not...frustrating.

W is to be taken off dairy altogether and plum juice is recommended by the Drs to ensure that the ear infections don't flare up again as he's right on the cusp with a bubble in each ear. So close to a clean bill of health and at the same time so close to another infection.

So, I'm the plum juice hunt is on. If anyone has some insight into this search, any tips would be most appreciated.

Thanks!

Monday, May 26, 2008

Pampered Bottoms

Little baby bottoms. They've got to be the cutest & most sensitive. So, with the effort to keep them fresh and excema free I have begun making baby wipes. It's inexpensive and easy, easy, easy. A neighbor friend, Mrs. Smith, shared her recipe with me and she swears by them...that her girls have never, ever had a diaper rash. Well, it's worth a try right?
Here's the recipe I used today although you could make them even more skin friendly by using a natural oil, such as sweet almond or olive oil and maybe Castille's soap instead of baby shampoo, or a more natural brand of baby shampoo at any rate.

Homemade Baby Wipes
2 Cups boiling water
1 TBsp baby oil
1 TBsp baby shampoo
1 roll quality paper towels (It's Bounty in our house)
Folger's coffee container, not the tall one or I have a Tupperware canister that works fabulously.
Mix together the liquids. Cut paper towel roll in half. Only use one 1/2 so you'll have another for future use. Place 1/2 paper towel in container and pour mixture over top. Now pull the cardboard center from the roll. It'll be hot from the boiling water so be careful, however it will remove easily.
Seal and use.

Pampered Bottoms

Little baby bottoms. They've got to be the cutest & most sensitive. So, with the effort to keep them fresh and excema free I have begun making baby wipes. It's inexpensive and easy, easy, easy. A neighbor friend, Mrs. Smith, shared her recipe with me and she swears by them...that her girls have never, ever had a diaper rash. Well, it's worth a try right?
Here's the recipe I used today although you could make them even more skin friendly by using a natural oil, such as sweet almond or olive oil and maybe Castille's soap instead of baby shampoo, or a more natural brand of baby shampoo at any rate.

Homemade Baby Wipes
2 Cups boiling water
1 TBsp baby oil
1 TBsp baby shampoo
1 roll quality paper towels (It's Bounty in our house)
Folger's coffee container, not the tall one or I have a Tupperware canister that works fabulously.
Mix together the liquids. Cut paper towel roll in half. Only use one 1/2 so you'll have another for future use. Place 1/2 paper towel in container and pour mixture over top. Now pull the cardboard center from the roll. It'll be hot from the boiling water so be careful, however it will remove easily.
Seal and use.

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Creative Processes

What is on your creativity plate as of late?
I once commented to a friend that I felt like doing something creative...would she be up for that and her response was something like..."Well I'm pregnant...with twins! How's that for creative?!" lol
No we're not pregnant.
Okay, back to the topic at hand.
What's on your creative plate?
Moi?
Well! This week I received by mail a lovely little pattern for a sweet apron & am looking forward to creating it. It appears that all people in the workforce have some sort of uniform....that may come in the form of a suit, coveralls or lovely fast food attire,etc. Why not a SAHM uniform if you will that does not include dirty shirts covered in all sorts of goo? So, aprons will be IT at the H residence. Flirty little functional aprons, not of the French version. Miss Emmeline will be gracing my work attire one day soon.
Then there's the knitting. Currently I am working on a soft, red poncho for a friend who is moving out of province. This is the knits-up-slow poncho which is too bad as I really enjoy the knits-up-fast anything. Ah well...it will be lovely...eventually.
And guess what else arrived this week? Creative Family courtesy of Soule Mama. Wonderful, inspiring fun book. The birthday banners are the first on my list....I think.
Which inspired me to think about creating a song book for each of my boys. We sing alot. Before bed, around the house, while driving etc. Wouldn't it be fun to have a book of these songs, even if just for posterity's sake? But if it had song themed pictures that were child appropriate, wouldn't the boys just love them? So that's my plan and on my list as well.
That's it.
For now.
Let's just hope for creative accomplishments since the juices are flowing. How about you? What's going on in regards to thoughts of creation?

Creative Processes

What is on your creativity plate as of late?
I once commented to a friend that I felt like doing something creative...would she be up for that and her response was something like..."Well I'm pregnant...with twins! How's that for creative?!" lol
No we're not pregnant.
Okay, back to the topic at hand.
What's on your creative plate?
Moi?
Well! This week I received by mail a lovely little pattern for a sweet apron & am looking forward to creating it. It appears that all people in the workforce have some sort of uniform....that may come in the form of a suit, coveralls or lovely fast food attire,etc. Why not a SAHM uniform if you will that does not include dirty shirts covered in all sorts of goo? So, aprons will be IT at the H residence. Flirty little functional aprons, not of the French version. Miss Emmeline will be gracing my work attire one day soon.
Then there's the knitting. Currently I am working on a soft, red poncho for a friend who is moving out of province. This is the knits-up-slow poncho which is too bad as I really enjoy the knits-up-fast anything. Ah well...it will be lovely...eventually.
And guess what else arrived this week? Creative Family courtesy of Soule Mama. Wonderful, inspiring fun book. The birthday banners are the first on my list....I think.
Which inspired me to think about creating a song book for each of my boys. We sing alot. Before bed, around the house, while driving etc. Wouldn't it be fun to have a book of these songs, even if just for posterity's sake? But if it had song themed pictures that were child appropriate, wouldn't the boys just love them? So that's my plan and on my list as well.
That's it.
For now.
Let's just hope for creative accomplishments since the juices are flowing. How about you? What's going on in regards to thoughts of creation?

Suburbia

We have arrived!
Yes, we have lived in "the burbs"....Pleasantville really...for a few years, but today we finally succeeded in passing the true testament to suburban residency. We hosted our first ever garage sale!! In the monsoon. Starting at 650am! It was a success! Rock bottom prices. For example, we let go of a precious Princess House dining table center piece valued at $75 for a whopping $10!! Wuhoo!! Not to mention a Pier One Margarita Set for $5 and on and on. Then there's the WWF Hulk Hogan, Jake the Snake and some other famous wrestler cookie tin for 50 cents! (LMAO!) ala favorite husband before stunning wife came into his life....that was a big breakthrough moment parting with the WWF tin...and it wasn't even my idea!
And can I just say that it was really quite fun and humorus and that it feels as if a giant weight has been lifted from us by releasing these unnecessary items. Oh by the way Peter Walsh, does all this new found space make my butt look skinny?

Suburbia

We have arrived!
Yes, we have lived in "the burbs"....Pleasantville really...for a few years, but today we finally succeeded in passing the true testament to suburban residency. We hosted our first ever garage sale!! In the monsoon. Starting at 650am! It was a success! Rock bottom prices. For example, we let go of a precious Princess House dining table center piece valued at $75 for a whopping $10!! Wuhoo!! Not to mention a Pier One Margarita Set for $5 and on and on. Then there's the WWF Hulk Hogan, Jake the Snake and some other famous wrestler cookie tin for 50 cents! (LMAO!) ala favorite husband before stunning wife came into his life....that was a big breakthrough moment parting with the WWF tin...and it wasn't even my idea!
And can I just say that it was really quite fun and humorus and that it feels as if a giant weight has been lifted from us by releasing these unnecessary items. Oh by the way Peter Walsh, does all this new found space make my butt look skinny?

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Happy Birthday "Almost Twin"


Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday Sweet E.Girl!
We can't wait to see you,
Happy Birthday to you!


Look at these little lovelies...all grown up & 1 yr old now!

Happy Birthday "Almost Twin"


Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday Sweet E.Girl!
We can't wait to see you,
Happy Birthday to you!


Look at these little lovelies...all grown up & 1 yr old now!

Conversations with W


As mentioned previously, our W is a talker and his speech becomes more clear and interesting daily. Here is a snippet of some chats with W. They always prove to be interesting.

"Oh! I burped."(Ah, this means he's passed gas)
"Excuse me.I smell poop."
This conversation took place at 3am when I was desperately trying to get him to sleep. If it wasn't so frustrating because of the time and that we had been up since midnight, it would have been hilarious at the time.

"Mommy, you have lots of dark hair."
"Daddy got bald on top. He has hair on backwards! He's silly!"

"Mommy you have baby in your tummy."
"Not anymore W, you were in my tummy & now you're out."
"Oh yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I was!"

And then there was the afternoon when W was supposed to be napping. I could hear him talking & a little thumping in his room. Upon peeking in, the scene showed W sitting in a little yellow chair at his table with Lucy, the giant stuffed dog, sitting at the other. Upon opening the door, W exclaims in a happy, happy voice, "Hi!. Lucy is eating bones & water". It was too cute & sweet for me to be stern. So, we discussed Lucy's meal as I re-tucked him into bed. After all, an imagination is a wonderful thing and sometimes a mom just needs to enjoy their children's childhood antics.

And there's many more conversations that surprise me and bring smiles to my heart, but at the moment they escape me. Documenting these better will be a goal & way to savour W's childhood.

Conversations with W


As mentioned previously, our W is a talker and his speech becomes more clear and interesting daily. Here is a snippet of some chats with W. They always prove to be interesting.

"Oh! I burped."(Ah, this means he's passed gas)
"Excuse me.I smell poop."
This conversation took place at 3am when I was desperately trying to get him to sleep. If it wasn't so frustrating because of the time and that we had been up since midnight, it would have been hilarious at the time.

"Mommy, you have lots of dark hair."
"Daddy got bald on top. He has hair on backwards! He's silly!"

"Mommy you have baby in your tummy."
"Not anymore W, you were in my tummy & now you're out."
"Oh yeah! Yeah! Yeah! I was!"

And then there was the afternoon when W was supposed to be napping. I could hear him talking & a little thumping in his room. Upon peeking in, the scene showed W sitting in a little yellow chair at his table with Lucy, the giant stuffed dog, sitting at the other. Upon opening the door, W exclaims in a happy, happy voice, "Hi!. Lucy is eating bones & water". It was too cute & sweet for me to be stern. So, we discussed Lucy's meal as I re-tucked him into bed. After all, an imagination is a wonderful thing and sometimes a mom just needs to enjoy their children's childhood antics.

And there's many more conversations that surprise me and bring smiles to my heart, but at the moment they escape me. Documenting these better will be a goal & way to savour W's childhood.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Birthday Boy




Our R is 1yrs old! O-N-E!
We partied yesterday in style like all little boys should, with an Elmo cake, balloons, pizza, fish crackers, blue jello "fish tanks" with little blue fishies swimming within, other treats and back yard play with friends. It was a hit.
R devoured a whole piece of cake. Not a crumb was spared. Of course, when we were singing to him he had a look of "What are you people doing?!" on his face, until he was given his piece of cake. Then it was all worth the wait through the serenade. R's cake was a Sweet Potato Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese icing, thanks to Julie's recipe, and as mentioned above, decorated in Elmo style. Which was done freehand and it turned out pretty good all things considered, except that the red was more fuschia than red. Sorry my little man!
Besides the cake, R's other highlight of the day, was the slide. His first time going down the slide and he loved it. Seeing his little face light up with a full smile at the top of the slide was delightful.
We're proud of our little birthday man. This past year has gone altogether too quickly and it even makes me a little sad...nostalgic...that my baby is leaving babyhood behind...too quickly....he's our last baby and this special time is vanishing. I think of where we were a year ago with this tiny baby, so vulnerable and sweet and where we are today, with this robust, sweet little boy....it's all amazing, really.
W was thrilled to share this celebration with his brother. When he woke up in the morning and saw the decorations, he exclaimed, "Oh yeah! It's Present Day!"
So, a fun birthday was had by all.
Happy Birthday R.

Birthday Boy




Our R is 1yrs old! O-N-E!
We partied yesterday in style like all little boys should, with an Elmo cake, balloons, pizza, fish crackers, blue jello "fish tanks" with little blue fishies swimming within, other treats and back yard play with friends. It was a hit.
R devoured a whole piece of cake. Not a crumb was spared. Of course, when we were singing to him he had a look of "What are you people doing?!" on his face, until he was given his piece of cake. Then it was all worth the wait through the serenade. R's cake was a Sweet Potato Cake with Lemon Cream Cheese icing, thanks to Julie's recipe, and as mentioned above, decorated in Elmo style. Which was done freehand and it turned out pretty good all things considered, except that the red was more fuschia than red. Sorry my little man!
Besides the cake, R's other highlight of the day, was the slide. His first time going down the slide and he loved it. Seeing his little face light up with a full smile at the top of the slide was delightful.
We're proud of our little birthday man. This past year has gone altogether too quickly and it even makes me a little sad...nostalgic...that my baby is leaving babyhood behind...too quickly....he's our last baby and this special time is vanishing. I think of where we were a year ago with this tiny baby, so vulnerable and sweet and where we are today, with this robust, sweet little boy....it's all amazing, really.
W was thrilled to share this celebration with his brother. When he woke up in the morning and saw the decorations, he exclaimed, "Oh yeah! It's Present Day!"
So, a fun birthday was had by all.
Happy Birthday R.

Wednesday, May 7, 2008

ER

We experienced our own hit show today as it was spent at the Children's Emerg. Both boys handled it well...all things considered....it was a L-O-N-G day.
W's health hasn't improved so the three of us experienced our first visit to ACH Emerg. There was no George Clooney, no John Stamos, nope. Just W & R and me among other families....Oh yes, and the security staff, the maintenance staff and a couple of sooty smelling fireman...all there at W's request, so to speak.
R enjoyed exploring and making new friends. He's a master at peek-a-bo these days so watching him play through the window of the examining room door with another little girl was quite cute.
Those Pediatric Emerg Physicians are amazing! Their ability to draw out a sullen, scared child is show stopping really. Our Dr. G today was a master at getting W to talk and be calm while being examined.
So, the hunger strike continues as does the drought and therefore lack of voiding. Once every 24hrs since Sunday is a tad disconcerting as are the rest of his sypmtoms. Hopefully their suggestions in conjunction with the family docs and naturopath's will result in a healthy happy boy in the very near future.
It's a nice reprieve to have W want to sit on my knee all day long, but it really doesn't bode well for accomplishing anything including attention for Rhett and I just want our healthy boy back. This couch potato, knee-sitter is not it. Nor is the boy who fell asleep sitting upright on the hospital bed today reminiscent of my W.
So, the boys (all 3!) are tucked in for the night, hopefully ALL NIGHT, and here's hoping for a happy, healthy new day.

ER

We experienced our own hit show today as it was spent at the Children's Emerg. Both boys handled it well...all things considered....it was a L-O-N-G day.
W's health hasn't improved so the three of us experienced our first visit to ACH Emerg. There was no George Clooney, no John Stamos, nope. Just W & R and me among other families....Oh yes, and the security staff, the maintenance staff and a couple of sooty smelling fireman...all there at W's request, so to speak.
R enjoyed exploring and making new friends. He's a master at peek-a-bo these days so watching him play through the window of the examining room door with another little girl was quite cute.
Those Pediatric Emerg Physicians are amazing! Their ability to draw out a sullen, scared child is show stopping really. Our Dr. G today was a master at getting W to talk and be calm while being examined.
So, the hunger strike continues as does the drought and therefore lack of voiding. Once every 24hrs since Sunday is a tad disconcerting as are the rest of his sypmtoms. Hopefully their suggestions in conjunction with the family docs and naturopath's will result in a healthy happy boy in the very near future.
It's a nice reprieve to have W want to sit on my knee all day long, but it really doesn't bode well for accomplishing anything including attention for Rhett and I just want our healthy boy back. This couch potato, knee-sitter is not it. Nor is the boy who fell asleep sitting upright on the hospital bed today reminiscent of my W.
So, the boys (all 3!) are tucked in for the night, hopefully ALL NIGHT, and here's hoping for a happy, healthy new day.

Monday, May 5, 2008

Midwifery

We need midwifery to be covered by our health system in this land of plenty province.
I could get on a total soap box, rant here but will hold back. So just check this out and sign the petition if you will.
Happy birthing!

Midwifery

We need midwifery to be covered by our health system in this land of plenty province.
I could get on a total soap box, rant here but will hold back. So just check this out and sign the petition if you will.
Happy birthing!

Relationship SOS

Do you ever get the feeling that you and your husband/significant other/life partner are a little disconboobulated? (Technical term) That children, and household stuff and sickies and work and stuff is kind of getting in the way? What do you do about it? Besides slapping him/her on the back with a "Hi Roommate! How are you enjoying our business partnership, houskeeping etc relationship?". There are a few books on my shelf that I could read, such as Men are from Mars...., Love Languages, Covenant Marriage and Children Change a Marriage, but the SECRET is to not buy the book, stroke it's lovely, sleek, jacket and then place it lovingly back on the closet shelf out of sight. Trust me that is not the secret to making the Secret work (another book on the shelf).Now, I realize this is such a normal part of marriage and parenting, but I don't want it to become "the norm". So, please do tell (even if it's an Anonymous comment, what do you do to stay afloat and not feel like two colleagues or roommates passing in the hall while on to the next meeting/class?

Relationship SOS

Do you ever get the feeling that you and your husband/significant other/life partner are a little disconboobulated? (Technical term) That children, and household stuff and sickies and work and stuff is kind of getting in the way? What do you do about it? Besides slapping him/her on the back with a "Hi Roommate! How are you enjoying our business partnership, houskeeping etc relationship?". There are a few books on my shelf that I could read, such as Men are from Mars...., Love Languages, Covenant Marriage and Children Change a Marriage, but the SECRET is to not buy the book, stroke it's lovely, sleek, jacket and then place it lovingly back on the closet shelf out of sight. Trust me that is not the secret to making the Secret work (another book on the shelf).Now, I realize this is such a normal part of marriage and parenting, but I don't want it to become "the norm". So, please do tell (even if it's an Anonymous comment, what do you do to stay afloat and not feel like two colleagues or roommates passing in the hall while on to the next meeting/class?

Health Please

Our W is sick....AGAIN. Seriously, no exaggeration, this boy has been sick at least every two weeks since September when it all started as he had a cold for 6 weeks before I took him to the doctor in an attempt to NOT be one of those mom's who rushes to the doctor with every cough only to find out that he had a major ear infection, etc....SO, sick again, still. Recently I have been able to stop the colds from becoming full blown by using Hylands Vitamin C Plus (marshmallow vitamins as W calls them) and child dosage Echinacea. *HUGE SIGH* This time my little cocktail hasn't worked. As I write this W is sitting on the couch watching the "Chickmonks" (Alvin & the Chipmunks movie) for the upteenth time today, with bright scorching red cheeks, glassy half opened eyes, an incessant dry cough and a wet, runny nose. My poor little man. He's really not feeling well as most of the morning was spent sitting on my knee either reading books or watching TV, and he's been pretty loving and kind to his baby brother today...really not well!:) The hunger strike is on again. Even juice isn't too appetizing. The throat coolers we thought would be a treat and help his throat aren't being ingested, even when the Cepicol throat spray is offered as an alternative, it's a blatant no.
So, late this afternoon we are off to the doctor and tomorrow we are seeing a naturopath for the first time. Something has got to work. This child needs his immunity boosted. Yes, they're not fully functional until age 7 or thereabouts, and children are supposed to get more colds than adults but this is ridiculous, let alone worrisome.

Health Please

Our W is sick....AGAIN. Seriously, no exaggeration, this boy has been sick at least every two weeks since September when it all started as he had a cold for 6 weeks before I took him to the doctor in an attempt to NOT be one of those mom's who rushes to the doctor with every cough only to find out that he had a major ear infection, etc....SO, sick again, still. Recently I have been able to stop the colds from becoming full blown by using Hylands Vitamin C Plus (marshmallow vitamins as W calls them) and child dosage Echinacea. *HUGE SIGH* This time my little cocktail hasn't worked. As I write this W is sitting on the couch watching the "Chickmonks" (Alvin & the Chipmunks movie) for the upteenth time today, with bright scorching red cheeks, glassy half opened eyes, an incessant dry cough and a wet, runny nose. My poor little man. He's really not feeling well as most of the morning was spent sitting on my knee either reading books or watching TV, and he's been pretty loving and kind to his baby brother today...really not well!:) The hunger strike is on again. Even juice isn't too appetizing. The throat coolers we thought would be a treat and help his throat aren't being ingested, even when the Cepicol throat spray is offered as an alternative, it's a blatant no.
So, late this afternoon we are off to the doctor and tomorrow we are seeing a naturopath for the first time. Something has got to work. This child needs his immunity boosted. Yes, they're not fully functional until age 7 or thereabouts, and children are supposed to get more colds than adults but this is ridiculous, let alone worrisome.

Contradictory Recipes

Hachacha!
Thai Style Iced Coffe & Fruit and Nut Chili. These were my new recipes of the week. As I sit down to enjoy my "nacho toast" [salsa & cheese on bread, microwaved with a side of sour cream & a diet coke (I'm in NEED of caffeine these days...mind altering drug that it is, I know)...such an epicurian lunch, isn't it?], the Chili is brewing in the crockpot and I'm almost drooling over the Thai Style Iced Coffee.
What site I found the coffe on eludes me at the moment, so here's the recipe. One could definately use decaf coffee & skip the cayenne pepper. It's kicky! Unfortunately, for me caffeine has become the suburban mom's drug of choice these days...as my heart speeds up and palpitates....the habit will be kicked as soon as the babes are back to good sleeps again. Anyway, give the coffee a go. It's lovely on a hot May day.
Thai Style Iced Coffee
4 cups water or brewed coffee
5 tsp instant coffee (if not using brewed)
1/3 - 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (I'll add the recipe for that too!)or 1 can Carnation milk + sugar
1/4 tsp cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg
1/4 tsp cayenne

Pour 4 cups water into a pot on high heat.
Add instant coffee, bring to a gentle boil. IF USING COFFEE, pour into pot, boil.
Add spices. Stir well.
Lower heat to a minimum, add sweetened condensed milk.
Pour coffee into a pitcher, refrigerate.
Stir well before serving. Add ice if you wish.

Sweetened Condensed Milk
There are a few different recipes, I tried this one and it turned out well.
1/2 cup boiling water
1 cup nonfat dry milk
2/3 cup sugar
3 TB melted butter
Few drops of vanilla
Blend at high speed for 30 secs or until smooth. Use immediately or store ina covered container in fridge. Equivalent to a 14oz can.

Now onto the chili. I hope it's as tasty as it looks, which is rich & flavorful.
This recipe I have adapted for the crockpot by not adding the two cups of water.

You may NOT want to try the official Nacho Toast idea. It's not all that fancy or official. Just easy & gooey.

Contradictory Recipes

Hachacha!
Thai Style Iced Coffe & Fruit and Nut Chili. These were my new recipes of the week. As I sit down to enjoy my "nacho toast" [salsa & cheese on bread, microwaved with a side of sour cream & a diet coke (I'm in NEED of caffeine these days...mind altering drug that it is, I know)...such an epicurian lunch, isn't it?], the Chili is brewing in the crockpot and I'm almost drooling over the Thai Style Iced Coffee.
What site I found the coffe on eludes me at the moment, so here's the recipe. One could definately use decaf coffee & skip the cayenne pepper. It's kicky! Unfortunately, for me caffeine has become the suburban mom's drug of choice these days...as my heart speeds up and palpitates....the habit will be kicked as soon as the babes are back to good sleeps again. Anyway, give the coffee a go. It's lovely on a hot May day.
Thai Style Iced Coffee
4 cups water or brewed coffee
5 tsp instant coffee (if not using brewed)
1/3 - 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (I'll add the recipe for that too!)or 1 can Carnation milk + sugar
1/4 tsp cinnamon
pinch of nutmeg
1/4 tsp cayenne

Pour 4 cups water into a pot on high heat.
Add instant coffee, bring to a gentle boil. IF USING COFFEE, pour into pot, boil.
Add spices. Stir well.
Lower heat to a minimum, add sweetened condensed milk.
Pour coffee into a pitcher, refrigerate.
Stir well before serving. Add ice if you wish.

Sweetened Condensed Milk
There are a few different recipes, I tried this one and it turned out well.
1/2 cup boiling water
1 cup nonfat dry milk
2/3 cup sugar
3 TB melted butter
Few drops of vanilla
Blend at high speed for 30 secs or until smooth. Use immediately or store ina covered container in fridge. Equivalent to a 14oz can.

Now onto the chili. I hope it's as tasty as it looks, which is rich & flavorful.
This recipe I have adapted for the crockpot by not adding the two cups of water.

You may NOT want to try the official Nacho Toast idea. It's not all that fancy or official. Just easy & gooey.

Friday, May 2, 2008

Bisphenol A...is graded an F.

There's been much talk in the media about BPA. However, this isn't a new concern. Last September it was in the news and the message was to stop buying bottled water and reusing the bottle due to the risks of BPA.
This is a good quick fact sheet in regards to plastics in the home and of course there are many sites with much detailed information. Basically, bisphenol A "leaks" into the product and mimics estrogen causing many health risks & problems. Our children aren't worth the risk. Neither are we. So our AVENT bottles and other products are hitting the trash. There are some companies such as Canadian Tire who are accepting product as returns, I think. Best to call and check before you show up with yours to elliminate hassle. Next, we'll be on our way to Community Natural Foods for a Kleen Kanteen or the BPA free sippy cups.

Bisphenol A...is graded an F.

There's been much talk in the media about BPA. However, this isn't a new concern. Last September it was in the news and the message was to stop buying bottled water and reusing the bottle due to the risks of BPA.
This is a good quick fact sheet in regards to plastics in the home and of course there are many sites with much detailed information. Basically, bisphenol A "leaks" into the product and mimics estrogen causing many health risks & problems. Our children aren't worth the risk. Neither are we. So our AVENT bottles and other products are hitting the trash. There are some companies such as Canadian Tire who are accepting product as returns, I think. Best to call and check before you show up with yours to elliminate hassle. Next, we'll be on our way to Community Natural Foods for a Kleen Kanteen or the BPA free sippy cups.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Free Money

Attention all stay at home parents! Did you know there is a subsidy program to help cover costs of early development & learning for children aged 0-7 yrs and not yet in grade 1?
Check out this link
See you at pre-school!

Free Money

Attention all stay at home parents! Did you know there is a subsidy program to help cover costs of early development & learning for children aged 0-7 yrs and not yet in grade 1?
Check out this link
See you at pre-school!