Confessions and Conclusions

2013.  It is almost here.  A New Year brings about fresh starts.  And I want to begin the new year with a fresh slate. 

I want to begin the new year with a series of confessions so that in addition to knowing me (Grammar?) you know where I am in my journey to develop myself into a better mommy, wife, blogger, teacher and daughter, and friend.

1) I love fashion.  I consider myself to dress well, but feel like I have been in a rut.  And upon reflection over the past few years, I have realized that I have spent. Way. Too. Much. On. Clothing.

Way.  Too.  Much - Less than what I have previously spent before the babe, house and hubby, but still A. Lot.  But I have a solution to help this problem, which will be revealed.  Soon time.

2)  I am materialistic.  I know.  I love shoes.  I love sweaters.  I love boots.  I love shoes.  It is something that I am not super proud of. Sometimes I feel that it may be hindering me from life or from experiencing growth as a person.  And I (again) believe that I have found a solution.  Which will be revealed.  Soon time.

3) I love teaching.  I am trained as an elementary school teacher, but when that door was closed, another one opened up.  I could not find a job in that field of education :(  But I have an incredible job.  With incredible hours.  I can spend a LOT of time with my daughter.  I am so blessed.  I have been teaching at a post secondary institution for the past 5 6 years and LOVE. IT.  I really do.  Sometimes you just have to trust the plans that you so very carefully laid out, just might not work.

4) I am a Christian.  I believe I have been saved by Grace.  I try (TRY is the operative word) and live a life that makes people wonder why I am so different, why I make the choices I do, and why I try and love people for who they are and not what they have done (Or done to me).  John 3:16*  1 Corinthians 13:4-13* Holla.

5)  I am a nag.  I may (or may have not) posted this before.  I am trying to work on it.  I really am.

(At this moment, I may or may not have asked The Hubster to go down and pick up the laundry... 3... or 4 times...)

6)  I am creative.  I'd like to think that this is expressed by what I wear.  I like to think that it is expressed in my witty banter.  I like to think that it is expressed in my actvities with my daugter and in my conversation with my hubby.  Yeah.  I think I am creative.  I think.

7)  I am BEYOND in love with my husband.   BEYOND.  Do not roll your eyes.  Do not gag.  He has been specifically created for me.  Our meeting was orchestrated and the timing was perfect.  Sigh.   Sometimes I look at him and think, "You are so annoying"  Other times I look at him with dreamy eyes.  He has been an INCREDIBLE help with the baby.  He works BEYOND hard.  He stretches himself every. single. day.  Brag Moment** I do not even get up in the middle of the night anymore if baby wakes up.  Yeah. I am that lucky blessed.  You can have good or bad luck.  But a blessing is ALWAYS good.  And my  husband is always good to me, whether I think it or not. 

There I am.  In 7 (but certainly not limited to) bulleted points. 

In revealing myself in these 7 points, I have come to the conclusion that this year 2013, will be the year of change. 

What are some of your goals for this upcoming new year?

The New Year Approaches...

I remember watching the big ball with all it's light drop at the stroke of 12 midnight.  I remember being so excited to stay up late and ring in the new year with my family.  I remember going out all dolled up in sparkle and shine.  I remember getting engaged at a quaint Italian restaurant. 

I remember hearing about New Years Resolutions.  I remember making them and not being able to keep them.  Sigh and Fail.

But this year, I am going to make some goals for the new year and do my darnest to keep them.  What should my goals for the new year be?   The Hubster and I have been discussing and we have both decided that instead of having a incredible looooooooooonnnnnnnnnnnnggggggggg list, we should have a small and specifically selected handful of goals.  My list will most likelly include a decrease in shopping.  Or something like that.  Hopefully.

As I contemplate what my goals should be for the New Year, I am going to finish up my version of Italian Wedding Soup - I say my version, because I had a woman tell me that it was not authentic.. :(

I am also making some Mac and Cheese from scratch.  Cross your fingers folks.  It's a cooking-kinda-day.

Boxing Day and Blessings

This Christmas season has been different.  Busy.  And different.  The Gabster has been going through a ROUGH bout of teething.  She has never really been a sickly baby, but this time around her teething has been really mean.  I think its her molars.  Even the word, "Molars" sounds mean.  Maybe not as mean as, "Incisors", but mean enough.

We went to my aunts on the 23rd, Christmas Eve service on the 24th (Where Gabrielle wore her pink sparkle boots and leopard print cape... Oh yeah), My mom's that same night, where we slept over and Gabby woke up at 5:30AM with a fever (Poor baby), and my in-laws later that evening, returning to my mother's again that night.  Busy.  IKR? (I know, right?.. LOL.  Thank you Google.)

Needless to say, it has been uber busy this holiday season.  But even in the midst of all of this busyness, I wanted to make a list of how I have been blessed this Christmas time:


1) Grateful for a God who loves me, is teaching me (among many, many, many, many things) patience, endurance, saving, patience, and acceptance of who I have been created to be.  I am also learning that the circumstances I have been facing, are placed in my path so He can prove I am designed me to struggle and learn them.

2) I have an amazing husband, whom I believe has been specifically created for me.  We complement each other.  And even though I have a career as a teacher he often is the one who does the educating.  Darn.

3) At 15 months my daughter teaches me.  She pushes me to be patient, wise, creative, energetic, punctual, frugal, caring and loving.  I think I will be a life long learner in her class

4) My family is beyond incredible.  They are always there for me, and are terribly generous.  Terribly. Generous.

5) My friends are super amazing.  Even after months of not seeing them, we can always, ALWAYS pick up where we left off, as if zero time has passed.

6) I love my shoe collection.  (Hey.  Do not judge.  The title of this blog is "Psychology and Shoes")

7) I live in a country where I can freely worship what I believe.  I live in a country where I can contribute my vote and make it count.  I live in a country where education is valued and women are respected. 

8) I have a roof over my head.  And (especially recentlly.. Boo) even though it looks a tornado hit it at the  moment..We have a roof nonetheless

9) I have a job that I adore.  I love teaching. nuff said.  And my hours are.. well.. Heavenly. Brag Moment: 3 Day Work Week.  Nuff said (Again)

10) The opportunity to share my thoughts, (No matter how insignificant or superficial) with you.  Thanks for reading!

  

Why I love Chicken Stock..

Random. I know.  And I know I should be blogging about the holiday season, or something insightful, or even shoes!  But since my journey into domestication, I have made a few discoveries, one of these being the all powerful CHICKEN STOCK.  And, in keeping with my love of lists, I shall now list the reasons why I love CS.

1. It adds flavour (Duh)  

But it really does.  Add it to your parboiled rice.  Add it to your baked chicken after searing it on both sides.  Add it.  Go ahead.  Add it.

2. It helps you feel better when you are sick

Good ol' chicken soup always does the need when you are stuck in bed with a nasty cold.

3.  You look like a SEER-EE-US chef when you say that it is made from friggin scratch.

Someone:  This soup is great!  What brand of stock did you use?

Me:  Oh.. (Looks up nonchalantly... and batts Dior Showed eyelashes) I made it.. .From scratch...

Someone:  Wow!  You are a SEER-EE-US chef!

*Note:  I do not always make my stock from scratch, and there are some awesome brands out there...

*Note #2:  This dialogue never really happened.

4.  It is good for you.

When making stock from scratch, you know exactly what is in it.  The trinity (Onions, Carrots, Celery), A bay leaf, sea salt, pepper corns.. Sometimes I go ahead and add other veggies as well.. Corn makes it taste pretty good as well...

So there.  My attempt at being domesticated.

Now these.

Sometimes a "staycation" is enough...

The Hubster and I have a dreamy 2 weeks off together.  Instead of going away, we opted to have a staycation.  I am really looking forward to spending time with my family.  And cleaning out my closet.  And organizing all of my shoes, without baby attempting to lick my stilettos, since her father will be home, keeping one eye on our beautiful baby, and the other eye on his video game.

A list to celebrate why staycations are awesome:

1.   No need to pack
2.   The comfort of my own bed, without wondering if there are any critters making themselves comfy in my
      hair
3.   No travel time
4.   I already know where all the malls and outlets are
5.   Home cooked food.  Cooked my yours truly, but sometimes cooked my Mommy as well
6.   The Gabster does not need to warm up to anybody.  She is already warmed up.
      Like a delicious piece of homemade pizza I nuked the night before
7.   I still have access to my closet, and do not feel like I have over packed
8.   No need to buy souvenirs.  Unless you are that person that likes to buy an overpriced Roots fair        
      isle sweater in a lip smacking red and black motif.  Just saying.
9.   Babysitters are close by
10. I do not have to to piles of laundry out of suitcases.  I have to wash piles of laundry in the basement.

In any case, I love (x 100000.57845783499) staycations.  Don't you?

Longest Hiatus... Ever...

I have not been writing, 

Have not been updating.

School, Work and Baby,

Have really been taking,

Up all of my time.

I have not forgotten.

I will not forget.

To update this blog.

Do not worry, don't fret.

Still refining my skills,

As a writer, I'm sure

And poetry is not my strong suit.

So I will stop.

Updates soon.  

Promise.  But let me leave you with this small gift of shoe from my loving hubby.

More Activity Inspiration...

Reading week was wonderful even though I...

1) Did not complete my To-Do List
2) Did not get as far with my school prep as I would have liked to
3) Did not clean as much as I wanted to

I realized that...
1) I do not need the television to entertain
2) I LOVE spending real time with my daughter
3) We do not need to buy extra toys, or spend money to have a super time

This past has week has been so much fun.  I am sticking to the no television until "Dinner Time Prep".  G is learning that the Surprise Box will be waiting for her first thing when we get downstairs.  The box entertains her for quite a bit.  When she loses interest, she moves on to wandering around aimlessly, chases Stella, listening to the music, bouncing up and down, looks out the window, etc... She then will resort to her toys, or throwing the DVDs around the room.  Or shouting.  Or screaming. Or crying. LOL.

I LOLing right now, but in that moment, I am scurrying to prepare breakfast.

Anyways, here are 2 fabulous sites that hopefully will inspire you to play more...

Hands on As We Grow
Love and Lollipops

Non - Screen Activities: Day 3, Day 4, Day 5

Opening thought: The week is over?  (WHIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEE)

Next thought: My camera is temperamental. 

My apologies for not posting the last few days with the activities that G and I have been doing.  My camera has been acting funny lately.  Not to sure why... My Nikon is usually super easy to use.. Hmmm.. Maybe it's just my lack of technological savviness shining through.  So my apologies again for not posting, and for not sprinkling the post with pics of our day.


Day 3:  Ribbon Rope Romping

Materials:
Long stick of some sort (LOL...)
Ribbons of varying colours
Music (Slow, fast, classical, rock, N*SYNC (Sigh), Glee soundtrack (Yippee!), etc.... Anything works!
Instruments (Gabby and I used shakers, pots and pans, a xylophone, she used the wall... I stopped her...)
The picture below shows bells.. What an awesome idea!  Next time...

While G was exploring the contents of her Surprise Box (Wrapping paper, ribbons and gift bags - All of which she bit and threw around) I made the simple ribbon rope, tying one end of the stick with different colours of ribbon.  Now that I think about it, next time we do this activity, I will probably construct the wand similar to those of rhythmic gymnastics, so there is more movement....

I like to think that G and I looked like this while moving to the music...

Unfortunately, it is highly likely that we looked like this:

But G had a blast!

Day 4: Playing with Ice

Materials:
Ice (I made it myself!)
Food colouring
Large Container

G had a really super time  playing with the different cubes of ice.  At first I tried it with regular ice.   Then I tried it by colouring the ice cubes with food colouring and using different molds.  Oh yeah... points for creativity!  In any case G loved the ice activity.  She loved the feel of the ice on her hands, the way it kept slipping out of her grip, etc.. I also had a container of warm water next to the ice tub so she could feel the difference between the cold and the warm.

Day 5: Gramma's house

No activity today :(  I had to go to school and pick up some photocopies and get some stuff done.  Boo.  but G had a super time at Gramma's.  She always does.

I had an awesome time playing and spending some real time with by girl.  I know she appreciates it, and while my To Do list did not get shorter, I spent a fabulous week with my girl.

And I tried THREE new recipes!
Awesome am I.

And I want these Zara Ankle Studded Booties

But I will fight the temptation as I am on a shopping ban.  But that, (dramatic pause...) is another story..

*Cue Neverending Story Theme song.....

Non-Screen Activities: Day 2

Day 2 - Sensory Play

Materials:

Flour
Plastic spoons and small containers
Tray or cookie sheet - At first I used an old cookie container, but then realized
that it was too deep, so I just used Gabby's tray on her high chair

Gabby has been really into touching and feeling different textures lately.  She loves those books where she can lift the flaps, and feel materials.  And so I was inspired to do a sensory activity.

Initially, I wanted to use popcorn kernels, or an array of beans, but I didn't have any on hand, so I used plain 'ol baking flour.

And did she have fun.


She loved the feel of the flour!

And though G kept tasting the flour, I was really surprised that she only tasted it a few times before deciding that it was well, gross.
G sat and played with plain 'ol baking flour for 15 minutes!  Who needs television when we have the ever exciting but terribly plain and needs some colour baking flour!?!  Now.. I need to think of ways to colour it... Kool Aid, maybe?

I also started the "Surprise Box" every morning.  I just used an aluminum cookie tin (the same one used during our first attempts with flour play) and filled it with items that fit under a theme.

This morning I placed a black beaded necklace, a purple plastic bangle and a long rectangular jewelry box in the tin.

She loved looking at things that were not her everyday toys.  As she explored each item, I explained what each was, what I used it for, colours, etc.  Even before this non-screen adventure, I always tried to fill G days with a full lexicon.

I truly believe that G enjoyed herself today - We hope you did too!

Non-Screen Activities: Day 1

Has your child ever emptied out a tissue box?  Have they ever found enjoyment in pulling wipe after wipe after wipe out of its home?  G has.  I have found her amongst a sea of wipes, the couch soaked in its moistness (is that a word?) and bites taken out of random sheets everywhere.  So naturally I was super excited about this activity.

Materials:

Empty wipes box or tissue box ( I opted for the wipes box, since the Gabster is a biter)

Fabric strips

Forgive my crappy cutting job. 

Such simple materials, yet they provided a lot of fun for my G!  I introduced the box to her this morning while I made breakfast. 

She was curious at first.

G began pulling out the fabric.  And pulling the fabric.  And throwing the box.  And pulling the fabric.  Until she got frustrated that there was no end in sight!  LOL!  I laughed so hard while she cried in frustration.  So mean.  I know.  But so enjoyable.

I introduced the box to her again this afternoon.  G was in a much better mood by then.  She loved it!  She pulled out the fabric until she came to a knot that need a “Mommy” pull.  But instead of crying for help, G pulled the box around the room. 

She wrapped the fabric around her neck.  She walked around and around the room, frequently looking back at the box that followed her.  She looked like she was having a great time.  At one point she tripped, and cried and I panicked because I thought that she was choking herself.  But she was just being dramatic.  But if you decide to do this activity, keep a keen eye on your beloveds.

We also went outside and blew bubbles.  This is something we did during the summer, but when the cooler weather came, we stopped.  I decided that bubbles would part of our day.  G had a blast.  Running.  Chasing the bubbles.  Falling.  Making these weird gurgling sounds when she saw the bubbles.

It was awesome. 

I didn't use the television until I began to prep my paella this afternoon (which was super yummy, by the way.  I am actually checking some items off o f my reading week checklist. Oh yeah.)  Gabby happily watched the Wiggles, while I cooked our dinner.  I did notice, that she still played with the magical wipe box instead of being zombified by the 4 grown men dancing around singing catchy children’s songs.

So today was a success.  I was really proud of G and of myself as well.  The house was a little more disastrous, but it was a fabulous day. 

Tomorrow – We get messy. 

Non-Screen Activities: The Inspiration

Tomorrow kicks off our first day of Reading Week!  Whoo hoo! :)
G and I are going to attempt to have some real quality time.  Usually I put her in front of the television (DVDs of choice include "The Wiggles", "Blues Clues" "Toopy and Binoo" and "Oswald and Friends") when I need to cook dinner, and I try (TRY is the operative word) to keep the screen time to a minimum.  But lately I have been using the television more and more as a babysitter.  And people, the girl loves her some television.  So this week I decided that I would try and have some more REAL QUALITY TIME with my girl.  Quality time that does not involve any screen of any sort.

I have been scouring the internet for some fun ideas for the G and myself to do this week.  I have committed myself to try AT LEAST 1 non-screen time activity with my beloved daughter.  This site has an awesome list of 50 Toddler Activities that G and I will attempt. 

Our days (Hopefully) will be filled with fun, and the evenings/naptime (I am hoping) will be filled with school prep, and house stuff

I am praying that I don't freak out when the flour for a sensory activity goes awry.

I am praying that I don't have a level of expectation for how G should behave when we are attempting an activity.

I am praying that I enjoy the time I am spending with her. 

Wish us luck - Tune in tomorrow for the gory details. :)

Reading Week - The Beginning

Well - We made to the half way mark.  I love reading week.  I LOVE reading week.

Sigh.  I will attempt to catch up on my prep, marking and house projects.

Attempt is the operative word.

But in addition to catching up on school and house work, I have made a promise that I will spend some real, non-screen quality time with my daughter.

She has been so inquisitive lately.  So I have been looking for some age appropriate activities for G to do.  I am discovering she is quite the high maintenance child (Where she gets it, is beyond me. *Wink) She loves books, has developed a new affinity for stickers, and using instruments while listening to music.  Recently, while on a shopping trip G spent 10 minutes looking at the sparkly, pink necklaces on display at the Children's Place.  I placed few on her and she happily gazed at herself in the mirror, laughing and touching the jewellery on her neck.

This is my monster of a list that I am going to ATTEMPT to tackle.  Remember, ATTEMPT is the operative word.

1) One fun, non-screen, (non-shopping) activity with G everyday
2) Organize closet
3) Organize Gabrielle's closet and drawers
4) Prep and Mark
5) Try at least 2 new recipes for dinner

Everyday I try to make life interesting for both my husband and baby (Or toddler...Sigh).  The moment I stop trying, I know I am stuck in a rut.  I refuse to be stuck in a rut.

So this reading week, I will be trying.  And breathing.  And trying again if I fail - Wish me luck!

Pink soles.

Leather.
Free shipping.
Camel.
$40
Flat = Practical.
Uber comfy.
And the best part?
After a conversation comes the walk away.
With the walk away comes a glance at my feet, because you can' t help but realize....
Pink soles.

Nap Times = Productivity

I adore naptimes.  When G goes down for a nap, I realize how unbelievably productive I am.
I realize that in 1-2 hours I can do the following:

1) Prep and cook dinner
2) Sweep, vacuum and swiffer the living room floor - Our homebase for the day...
3) Wash the dishes - Sometimes put away if I am ambitious.  But I will usually prioritize - Is there enough time?
4) Mark tests - Get some prep done for the next class
5) Sweep the kitchen floor - Probably for the umpteenth time.
6) Check FB and email.  Multiple times. Usually in between the sweep, vaccume and swiffer process.
7) Think about the laundry that has to be done.  Contemplate whether clean socks and underthings takes precedence to putting the previous loads away..  Clean unthings usually wins.
8) Take a quick (mega quick) shower.
9) Sit down. Relax.  Enjoy writing this blog just in time for G to wake to up all smiles.

Why can't I be this productive all the time?

And why can't I stop thinking about these amazing Sam Edelman beauties?   

Time Flies...

Time really flies. 
Before I knew it - School started again.
Before I knew it - She was one. 
Before I knew it - She was walking.
Before I knew it - Fall arrived.

I have a few confessions.

1) My last challenge to myself - To wear every item in my closet has sadly failed.  I have made a few purchases.... Including an awesome dress with a bird print for $10, polka dot purple jeans for less then $30.  Sigh.  I did complete a large purge, though. 

2) Blogging while working is harder - Much harder than I thought it was going to be.  Every second is precious now.  After G is put to bed, cleaning done, lunches made, laundry folded and school work
complete, I. Am. Pooped.  But I will try much harder to keep this blog updated.  I am aiming for at least once a week.

3) I am discovering real life.  Real life is hectic.  I am sure that you all already know.  I totally appreciate mothers.  Mothers of one, two, three, or (gulp) more.  Great Grandmothers.  Aunties.  Cousins.  Dads.  Uncles.  Grampas.  Anyone who has taken the time to love my family - Thank you for getting me this far.

4) I have discovered a love for second hand and sewing.  Oh yeah.

So back to the "Before I knew it"s... (Punctuation???)

Before I knew it - I was blogging again.

:)

See you all soon.

The Most "Wonderful" of the Year...

School is only 1 day away. 

Seriously?!?!?!?

To get us in the mood...

Almost one and Thankful

She is almost one.  We did it! 

And in the middle of all this crazy party planning, and prepping I have decided to make a list (And an ode to my previous blog,) of the things I am thankful for this past year.

1) My Husband:

He gets up with me when she wakes up during the night.  Deals with daily drama - from both G and I.  Deals with the days I don't want to cook meat for dinner.  And still in the midst of it all, still has time to be romantic and loving.

2) Lululemons and sweatpants.  And pants with elasticwaist bands. And T-Shirts. 

Gone are the days of taking my time getting ready in the morning.  G and I get up.  She feeds, I change her diaper, Get her our of her jammies, "Brush" her teeth (All 5 or 6 or 7 of them), wash her face and then place her in her crib for a whopping 5 minutes so I can shower, brush my teeth, throw on something that is clean and pick up up again so we can start out day.  And did I mention it is probably 6:30 AM.  Five-thirty AM if I am lucky.  If I am really, really, lucky, 7:00 AM.  Although today, G got up  and went back to bed until 7:45 AM.  Oh yeah.  Where was I going with all of this?  Oh yeah.  My appreciation for gym clothes.  Easy to put on.  Everything always matches.  But not everything is stain free.  Especially now that I have been wearing my gym clothes for my daily uniform.

3)  Baby Bullet

I have taken on the mission of making G's food.  And while she is now eating the food we eat, I still have to make sure that it is baby-friendly in terms of the proper consistency.  I love the bullet.  It is amazing. 

4) Barney, The Wiggles and The Big Comfy Couch

G loves these shows.   On the days that she is impossibly squirmy, I pop in one of these DVDs and she gives me enough time prep dinner and/or clean, and possibly pee.  I try and limit her exposure to television, but every now and then Mommies need a break too...

5) Shoes and strings

G loves strings and shoelaces.  The beginnings of a shoe addiction?  I hope so.  I also hope that we have the same size feet.  Whenever G gets an itch to get out of her carseat or stroller, I give her this blanket that has stroller ties.  Or I give her any toy with strings.  Or I give her one of her shoes.  And.. Tada!  Distracted for a glorious 5-10 minutes.

6) Blistex and Burts Bees.  And Waterproof Mascara.

I have never been a crazy makeup lover.  It may be because I look like a smattered abstract painting when I attempt to veer away from the "makeup routine" that I believe I have.  I know these items.  Blistex.  Burts Bees. Clear mascara.  On a fancy date to church or wedding waterproof black mascara and Spring Sheen Mac Blush.  Call me crazy, but using said lip products make me feel like I am still trying to look decent for the rest of the world.

7) Shoes

Need I say more?  Want to hear a shoe-a-holic's secret?  On days that G has extra long naps, I take out a few pairs of shoes in my beautiful tupperware containers and try them on.  And I remember my addiction hobby.

8) Other mothers.

My next door neighbour is awesome.  My own mommy and MIL top the list as well.  I value the opinion of other mothers with young children.  Why?  Now I have to use a sub-list within my list:

8a) They know what is going on. 
8b) They tell me what has worked for them.  It may or may not work, but I am willing to try!
8c) I feel like I am supported and not alone. 

9) Google.

Hit and miss with this one.  But I frequent reliable sites: Baby Center, Todays Parent... Town Shoes...

10) Our diaper party

We only recently began to buy diapers.  What an amazing blessing a diaper party is.

11) G

She pushes me to be better.  She reminds me that I need patience and endurance.  And while sometimes she is the core of my frustration, she is also the reason why I wake up in the morning and try harder.

You are almost one...

I love you. 

A Life of Lists...

I am a firm believer in setting goals and trying your best to achieve them. 
I love lists.
The best way to mash these 2 worlds together?  A Bucket List.  Or as I like to call it, A Life List.

Vanessa Strickland author of the terribly fabulous blog, "I am Strickly Speaking" had a link about lists, and it has inspired my writing today. 

And I love rainy fridays.  Especially those rainy ones when I know that The Hubster is on his way home, H is taking her morning nap, and I am listening to The Wiggles in the background. ("Go Captain Go... Go Captain Feather Sword Ahoy...)

I have always had a list of things that I have always wanted to in my life.  I made the list whilst in the first or second year of univeristy.  The edges of the paper are curled, there are spots of coffee, or tea from early morning reflections.. My beloved list.

I keep it in my journal, and often look at it thinking whether I will be able to accomplish them.  Maybe I don't give myself enough credit.  Taking a look at the list, I have already acheived some of them.  Some items I never thought I would attain. 

Why make a life list?  As mentioned earlier, I am firm believer in setting goals and trying your best to achieve them.  A life list forces you to think about the future, what you may be or who you will or aspire to become.  A life list should push you out of your comfort zone, drive you to follow a dream or make you attempt things you wouldn't otherwise do. 

Then....when you accomplish one of the never-would-have-thought-it-would-or-could-happen-goals... You realize you have it in you do the rest of the items on your list.

My life list includes but is not limited to.. (As that is another post..)

- Going back to school for a PhD
- Sing at my wedding
- Public Speaking engagements (Maybe a TED talk.. One day... maybe??)
- To have children
- A shopping-less season.. (A Feat that has yet to be accomplished.. :( )
- Sing with a band in front of an audience
- Dance lessons with The Hubster
- Travel to Europe
- Learn to sew.. Sew my childrens clothes.. By recycling my own...
- Cut my hair short (To the chin maybe?)
- To write an article in a  magazine
- Write a children's book
- Learn to cook vegetarian meals that The Hubster will actually enjoy
- Be part of a an organized sport
- Go camping.  Real camping...
- Do ten consecutive push ups
- Crossfit
- Learn to play a new piece on the piano

Looking back at my list I can proudly say that I have accomplished some of these goals.  Upon further reflections, I can recall the details of each moment.

It is a great feeling of accomplishment. 

But I have other lists as well..

- Favourite books
- Favourite quotes
- Teaching ideas
- Places to visit
- Fun things to do with G
- Couple to-do list.. (Again another blog for another day..)
- Books to read

And the list goes on and on...

I think that my love for lists reveals my

1) Compulsive need to be organized
2) Compulsive love for making lists
3) Obsession for notebooks and post-its
4) How over-organized I am on paper, but terribly disorganized at home. Sigh.
5) Shoes.  (Just had to add that in - Don't you love these?? - Got'em on sale at Winners once upon a time.  Now to find the perfect outfit...  )

Sometimes you have to remember to hold hands...

As mentioned many-a-time, I adore long weekends.  The Hubster is home, the house is clean(ish) and G is always is a superb-ish mood. 

Yesterday morning we all went for a walk to Timmys.  I love that Timmys is but a short(ish) walk away.  We piled G and a wide brimmed pink hat, Minnie and Sippy Cup in the wagon and set off.

It was early on Saturday morning.  As many of  you already knew, yesterday was a scorcher.  And at 7:45AM it was already starting to get hot. 

Then the best part of my day happened. 

The Hubster took my hand.  As he took it he said, " I don't remember the last time we held hands."

And it was true.  Our days fly by.  Monday to Friday he gets up at 5AM, and we usually dont see him until 5PM later that day.

When he gets home he cleans up, we eat dinner (sometimes together, sometimes not, sometimes standing up, sometimes on paper plates..) then he gives G a bath and we start her bedtime routine.

G is a product of routine.  Unless she has had a later nap, she gets cranky for her crib right around 6:00ism PM.  We watch a video, give her a bath, read her a story or two, overload her with cuddles and say a prayer with her.   She then has her last feeding and is put in her crib.

She still gets up once, usually around 12AM (and The Hubster always is up with me), G then wakes up at 6:00 AM.   6:30AM if I am lucky.  Or, if I am really lucky, 5:30AM.  Or, if I am really, really lucky 7:00AM.

After she is in bed, The Hubster and I clean up the tornado of a mess that has been made throughout the day.  Clean up the kitchen, fold the laundry, make lunch for tomorrow.  He usually has a game or two before bedtime. 

Bedtime = 9:00 PM.

Since life has changed dramtically, we need a reminder to slow down.

I need to give a hug, and kiss.
I need to write a note  (since Gabby and I often get notes first thing in the morning.)
I need to laugh and joke.
I need to go to bed later, so that we have time together and talk.

Sometimes you have to remember hold hands.

Another one of those days. Sigh x 2

Yesterday was another one of those days.

Actually the morning was pleasant.  Visited my mother, did some grocery shopping and bought a tutu.

Just a regular morning. 

Then the afternoon came. 

Burnt plastic stinks.  I burnt a slotted spoon.  The house was filled with smoke.  Gross.

Needless to say, G and I sat outside and played for a bit.

Then I burnt the carrots I was making her for dinner.  I also burnt The Hubsters very expensive Royal Doulton stainless steel pot.  Oops.  The house was filled with carrot smoke.

Again.

G and I stayed outside for quite a bit that afternoon.

I am thankful for a supportive neighbour. (God Bless you Tracy!) and a forgiving hubby.

And the day was right again.

Planning...

I have been diligently planning for G's first birthday party.  I have been planning for the past four months.  Today was the first day I actually started taking some action. 

I love, love, love planning. 
It stresses me out - But in a good way.
Sites like Stumble Upon, Pinterest have really made my planning easier.
Easier to make her party over-the-top... Sigh.

I love planning. 
I have a Word document that outlines every detail of the party.
I have a Power Point presentaion that I will show to the major financial contributors of G's party.

I love planning...

Details about the DIY to come. (*Which actually never came.. Sor-E)

One of those mornings...

1.   Woke up at 5:00 am.
2.   Fed G.  She went back to bed.  She has been doing that lately!  Whoo hoo!
3.   Slept in. Until a very late 7:00 am.  Yes.
4.   Showered. Dressed.
5.   Fed  G breakfast.  She really adores breakfast. 
6.   Sat G down to play with her morning toys.  I alternate the toys from AM to PM. 
7.   Began to make my breakfast. 
8.   Open the fridge
9.   Box of Cheerios drops on my head.
10. Box of Cheerios falls in the fridge.
11. Box of Cheerios falls on the floor.
12. Cheerios. Are. Everywhere. 

One of those mornings.... Sigh.

** And I can not figure out how to upload pictures here.  Double sigh.

Mommy Brain 1, Mommy 0

July is a busy month. 
Two weddings.
The first one was this past Saturday. 
Mommy Brain won again.

I truly believed the wedding started at 3.
By the time I realized that I actually started at 2... Well.. I missed the entire ceremony.

I was an am really upset. 
She was a gorgeous bride.  Lenny was a handsome groom.
The Hubster was a dreamy groomsman.
And I was upset that I missed the entire ceremony.

On the upside, it was a beautiful reception at a gorgeous venue.
Yummy food, awesome music and questionable dancing.

And overall an amazing time.

Thank you for having us...

D and K. You are next.

Summer Semester - Done and Done.

The summer semester is finally complete.  I still have the final exam to mark, and compile the students final grades, but I like to think that the semester is finally done.

Yes. 

I opted to work one class this summer, and for some reason it has been more difficult than when I was teaching an almost-full schedule this past Winter semester.  It may have been because G started to crawl, cruise and get into everything... Or maybe its because I am getting out of the house less... In any case, I am done. PTL.

Yet even though I had a harder time teaching this semester, the group of students I had were amazing.   They really were.

They were interested.
They were attentive.
They asked questions, and gave answers.
They worked together well. (Most of the time)
They thought I was funny.
They liked me.  They really did.

I have been teaching at this college for about 5 years, and have discovered what a long way I have come.  I am more confident.  I am more assertive.  And I truly believe that I am becoming a better teacher with each semester I complete.

I enjoyed working this semester. 

And I enjoyed the applause I received at the end of the class.

It's too bad I didn't have a speech prepared.

Happy Days!

We had a great long weekend.  Barry gutted the basement, and continued his work on the backyard.

Its amazing how much I appreciate simple things.

We had our own little fam jam.  We bought food.  Amazing food.

Mussels in butter and white wine sauce.  Sun Dried Tomato Bread.  Steak. Salmon.

Barry ate the salmon. I am allergic to fish.  But it looked great.  He marinated it in EVOO, dill, salt, pepper and some other stuff.  I really wanted to try it.

I almost did.

Zucchini and Corn on the Cob.

I know. Amazing.  Barry and I had a picnic. 

It was awesome.

Today we went and bought Gabby a wagon.  This wagon.  She loves it.  I love Kijiji.

We went for a walk up and down the street.

Another amazing long weekend.

Progress

Who would have thought that I would be so excited to see Gabrielle grow into an actual person.

I have adored seeing her progress and develop into who she has been created to be.
With every smile, roll, creep, crawl, assisted step and booty schooch I have grown to love my daughter more and more every day.

I love how she has the ability to slowly grow into her personality. 

And boy, does my girl have personality.

We are discovering that Gabrielle is driven. 

When she want to get to that pile of DVDs, she will find a way.

When she wants a Mum-mum (rice cookie) she lets me know, with a grunt or a squeal.

When I am not shoveling her sweet potato into her mouth fast enough, she lets me know.
Boy. Does she let me know.

I used to be worried about whether I was raising her right, whether I was entertaining her enough or if I was giving her enough stimulation for her quickly developing neurons. 

I have a ton of books. 
Books about sleeping. Books about eating.  Books about play.  Books about everything.

And I google like a champ.  I believe I have increased my WPM.  But I still don't type properly - I don't use the ASDF-JKL; way. 

I still google.  I can't help it.

Baby Center.  Baby Gaga.  Baby Bump.  Todays Parent. Parenting Today. The list goes on and on.

And in the daily tidal wave of information, the best lessons I have learned are these:

I will parent the best way I can.
I will make mistakes because, sadly, I am not perfect.  Sadly.
I will love my girl unconditionally.
I will forgive and ask for forgiveness.
I will read to her.
I will let her dream and use her imagination
I will trust that I have raised her right, and
trust that my parenting skills will drive her to make good life choices.
I will appreciate every hug, kiss, snuggle, and picture that my daughter gives me.
I will show her how I love my husband and make an effort to make everyday special for him.
I will show her how we try hard to work at our relationship everyday.
I will support her, even when I don't agree with it.

I will try. 
And when I mess up, I will try again.

And while neurological stimulation, physical development and discipline are at the top of my list, I am trusting that Barry and I will do the best we can.

I love her. I love watching her progess into who God has created her to be.

And I am getting better at not-being-perfect.

Sorta.

And I am better at not-shopping.

Sorta. ;)

Long Weekend! Whoo hoo!

It has arrived. :)

Summer is here - So why am I complaining?

In a previous post, I asked rhetorically, "Summer.. Where are thou?"

Now I complain as it is SO hot.

But I love heat.  Sorta. 
But I do not love humidity.
It does terrible things for my hair.
And I am discovering that Gabby is a sweater.   Rather she sweats a lot.

Yet in spite of all of this, I am enjoying my first summer with Gabby.

Enjoy the heat people.  Before you  know it - It will be winter.  And we will be back to complaining.

But with the fall and winter slowly arriving, so is boot season.

The Joy of Cooking

I am very proud of myself.
I have accomplished the (almost) impossible.
I am cooking.  And I am cooking well.
And not "well" in the sense that  no one has gotten sick, but actually "good".  
"Good", like the food tastes good.

I am very proud of myself.  Barry is also very proud.

Among the different recipes I have tried these two have been my favourites.

Korean Bulgogi Beef (and I added garlic sauteed sugar snap peas)

Chicken Tortilla Soup 

If you ask Barry, I have come a long way with my cooking.  A very long way.
I laugh when I think of all the disasterous escapades in attempting to cook:
- My famous "foot" pasta.  It really tasted like a foot.  Burnt gorganzola  = Foot
- Pushing mashed potatoes through a cheese grater, in attempts to make them "creamy and smooth"
And my personal favourite,
- Burnt chicken ala Kristina.  Real burnt. Unsalvagable. Pan was ruined.  I cried.

But I guess my cooking has been a reflection of my journey to beI want coming domesticated. 
It's a slow progression.  And now I have real motivation to cook.  I want Barry to come home to meal, even when it means starting dinner before I eat lunch.   I want my daughter to see that there is real food, outside of the convience of quick and easy-pick-me ups. 

But most of all I want my family to know that I cook out of love, not obligation. 

My mother is an amazing cook and baker.  I aspire to be like her.  Cooking and baking from scratch.  Growing up, I never really understood how much work it is to make 3 good meals a day.  I never understood why she never just popped quick and easy in the oven.  It was out of love and an internal joy to provide delicious food made with joy for us. 

I get it now. 

And I keep trying to get there - Even with the hovering horror that a repeat of "Foot" pasta may arise again.

A wild ride...

The past 8 (almost 9.. Yikes!) have been a roller coaster ride...
The pregnancy was a slow build up... We excitedly anticipated for baby, we knew she was coming and as the date drew closer our heart rates also accelerated...

Then the first drop -The labour.  A wild ride of crazy of emotions and physical angst.  She was here and we were literally thrown into the world of parenting, with our hair blowing in the wind of the rush.

From then on it has been an up and down journey.  The drops of sleepless nights, teething (which continues), frustrations ("What does she want?!?") and the highs of smiles, crawling, laughing and the very slow growing of hair.

On a roller coaster, the ride slows to a halt.  We get off but soon enough there will be another...

G is turning 1 in only 3 months... It has and continues to be a wild ride.

Thanks G.. Our life will never be the same :)  And we are better for it...

xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Rainy Friday

Rain. Shine.  Fridays are amazing.

Well, Thursdays are amazing too.  I am realizing that taking a break for me is totally worth it.  I work on Thursdays for a whopping 3.5 hours - And I ADORE every second of it.  Being away from the house gives me a nice break.  When I get home, I am in a better mood, I feel refreshed and ready to take on another 7 days. 

But back to Fridays.  It's a rainy one today.  Earlier this morning, Gabby and Stella were looking out the window.  It was super cute, and of course I had to document it.  Tripping over her toys, I managed to get this shot -

Cute, huh?

Right now Gabby is taking her morning nap (YES! Fist pump.  Not the Jersey Shore kind, but the type where you look like you are pulling your stop on the bus, or signalling a trucker to honk their horn), and I am blogging, drinking a lovely cup of coffee.

I love the cool breeze that greets me through the window whilst on the computer. 

I love the warm hug that coffee gives me in the morning - The coffee is usually re-heated at least twice.

I love that on rainy days Barry comes home early.

Just a random post for today.  Happy Friday everyone.

Shopping

It has been almost 4 weeks since my last shopping escapde.  Sigh.  While I am very proud of myself, I truly believe that I am also experiencing withdrawal.  Accelerated heartbeat.  Chills.  And high blood pressure, if I am not mistaken.

On the flipside, I have organized my closet, read some good books, and gone on possibly one thousand walks. 

Well, my closet is almost organized.

4 weeks is a long time for me.  But I am very proud of myself.

But I think that I may have been replacing clothing with groceries. 

A girl has gotta eat though.

Long Weekend: The Finale

It was the last of our beloved and long awaited May 2-4 weekend.

Sigh.

Had a lazy day. 

Breakfast.  Walk.
Landscape & Garden. 
Lunch. Nap (Baby + Barry).
Did some school stuff. 
Played in the backyard.
Dinner

Don't you wish every weekend was classified as "Long"?

Hope you all had an amazing time as I did.

At least it's only a 4 day work week.

Happy Long-But-Not-Long-Enough-Weekend Everyone!

xo

Long Weekend: Part 3

Long weekend are not long - The weekend is, in fact, extended to an extra day, but it seems like the actual time has been accelerated.

Still.. I love long weekends.

It was another scorcher of a day today.  It was great.  I transitioned my closet into my summer wardrobe.

*Update:  I am still in the process of purging.  It is a slow and sometimes painful process.  But shopping in my own closet is actually really fun.

After church, we stopped over at my parents house to have lunch and celebrate the official dual birthdays of my mom and dad.  Yes.  They were both born on the same day.  And they lived across the street from each other as children.  That is romance.  Or strategic planning.

Anyways, the spread was amazing as usual.  My mother always outdoes herself.  Even on ther own birthday.  That is love.

Following our delicious lunch we made our third stop for the day at Barry's parents house.  They graciously gave us a gazebo to put out on our patio, and even stated that they would stop by and help up set it up.

:)

While the men were setting up the patio, and my mother-in-law was watching Gabby, I made dinner - Homemade pizza.  I love pizza, and am realizing how amazing it is when it is homemade.  *Drool

While the family was eating, I tried putting Gabby to bed, but her teeth must have been really bothering her (She was screaming in agony.. Poor girl).

We don't usually pull her away from her bedtime routine, but tonight was kinda special.   We took her downstairs, gave her a frozen washcloth to gnaw on and sat on the patio. 

We watched the sprinkler.
We gave Stella cuddles.
We walked the perimeter of our backyard and discussed the plans for our backyard oasis..

 
Gabby started to get sleepy... And finally went to bed...

Another great day.

Long Weekend: Part 2

What a fabulous day.

This morning I woke up at the crack of dawn (well....Gabrielle woke up at the crack of dawn and I followed) and started to cook and clean for an early birthday brunch I was having for my parents, whose birthday is tomorrow.

We had a awesome spread - a zucchini sundried tomato tart, a bacon cheddar quiche, small stuffed red and yellow potatoes,  sticky cinnamon buns (courtesy of my mommy), corn on the cob, corn fritters, and perogies (also courtesy of my mommy).

As a perfectionist, I critiqued the entire menu (except what my mother brought, of course). 

"I should have used more salt"

"Maybe if I woke up earlier, I could have decorated the table better"

And so on and so on...

I am learning.  Barry LOVED brunch.  Nothing makes me happier than when he enjoys my food.

Except maybe shoes.  Like these... I can still dream right??

But I had such joy cooking for my family. 

I truly feel that this is the beginning of something my transition into becoming domesticated.

Later on that day The Hubster, G and I stopped by the mall to get The Hubster a new telephone.  And I shall proudly say, "I did not feel the call of the mall"

Yes ladies and gents, I did not purchase anything. :)

I am changing...Slowly but surely.

After the mall we went to Barry's favourite place, (Lowes) and bought some screening (just learned what this was today)  for the flagstone pieces my dreamy hubby was re-arranging

When we got home, The Hubster continued his landscaping, while G napped.  She woke up had some milk and we went outside to keep her Daddy company.  He is doing an amazing job..

I also took the opportunity to get her used to her diva hat and new hippo folding chair.



It was a great day.

Let the long weekend finally begin...

It is finally here.

He does not have to work - Whoo hoo!
We can finally spend some well deserved family time together..

But tonight - we shall celebrate with going to bed at 9:45pm.

And that is late for us.

Good night!

Plans

I am now offically 31.
It feels good.

Life is good.  Tiring, but good.

She loves to get up at 6 AM. Every. Morn. Ing.

But she wakes up smiling. So it's okay.

I am at a great place in life. 
Great job. 
Fabulous and hardworking hubby.
Fabulous and makes-me-work-hard baby girl.

I was a planner. I still am.
Whilst still in high school I had a "plan". 

1) Graduate high school
2) Attend university
3) 4 years later, graduate university
4) Teachers College
5) Work (@Elementary School) for 1 year
6) Marriage
7) Travel
8) Kids (After 2 years)

All by the age of 25. Ha!

Plans changed.  Obviously.  Plans always change.

Real life looked like this:

1) Graduate high school
2) Attended university
3) 4 years later + 1 victory lap, graduate university
4) Work
5) Teachers College and Masters of Ed.
6) Teach psychology at college level
7) Marriage (Sigh)
8) Baby (<3) - After 1 year


But thinking back, I wasn't ready.  I was still getting ready to meet him.  I was still learning about who I was.
Strategically, he was placed in my life.  If I had gone away for school I would not have met him.  It was actually  perfect timing when we discovered we were pregnant.  Working at the college level gives me the flexibility to choose my hours - And as a result I can optimize my time with her.

Maybe I didn't get the job I thought I needed. 
Maybe we didn't travel as much as we wanted to. 
Maybe plans do not always follow through. 
Maybe I don't know what lies ahead.

But I don't have to.  It's comforting to know that I don't have to worry or lay out plans.

I need to enjoy the moment.

"Life is full of surprises and and serendipity. Being open to unexpected turns in the road is an important part of success. If you try to plan every step, you may miss those wonderful twists and turns. Just find your next adventure-do it well, enjoy it-and then, not now, think about what comes next." 

Condoleeza Rice

It's my "Mirthday"!

*Posting one day early

Today I was born.
Today I am celebrating almost 8 months of being a mother.
Today I am 31 years old.
It's a special day. 

Today I am celebrating a "Mirthday"  - I am having a "Happy Mother Birthday"


Here is a list of 31 reasons to celebrate:

1.   A beautiful pregnancy!  No morning sickness! :)
2.   A beautiful-ish labour! 
3.   An amazing daughter. A.MAZE.ING.
4.   An amazing hubby.  A.MAZE.ING.
5.   I love my job - Which I hear is a luxury...
6.   We spent our first year in our home...
7.    I finally got a dining room table (Thanks Brother!) - In the garage, but finally in my possession!
8.    Summer is just around the corner!  (Hopefully)
9.    I am learning to cook!
10.  I am learning to cook successfully!
11.  I am learning to cook successfully, and The Hubster loves it! (Phew!)
12.  I have survived 8 months of caring for my daughter
13.  I am successfully wearing every item of clothing in my closet at least once.. Shopping in my own closet!
14.  I still look young-ish! With the exception of the crows feet I feel are starting to grow..
15.  G is growing hair! No teeth yet, but we have hair folks!
16.  2 sets of grandparents who support Barry and I
17.  The Hubster gutted the garden!  Finally!  No flowers yet, but it looks so much better than it did before!
18.  Neighbours!  To the left, a family with 4 kids - to the right a young fam  w/ a son 1 month younger,than G
19.  Back to my pre-baby weight! (Sort of...)
20.  Stella our cat!  The most loving feline I have ever met...
21.  I have been successful in getting The Hubsteer to eat more veggies!  An astronomical feat in itself!
22.  "  " 
23.  "  "  
24.  "  "  
25.  "  "  
26.  I am learning to control my shopping!
27.  I am learning to control my shopping successfully!
28. Raising G has forced me to be reflective in my actions and to be pursuit of developing into
      mother who tries hard for her family every day. 
29.  I am learning that I can't be perfect... And as a perfectionist this is a very hard lesson to learn.
30.  Finding my affinity for writing... With a purpose.  I am discovering that writing is therapeutic.
31.  Seeing God's grace and faithfulness in my life.  It is amazing to know that prayers are heard and
       answered - The answers are not in my time, or how I expect, but they are answered nonetheless.

It has been an adventure getting to the 3 tens plus one and I can't wait see what is in store for me this year!

This year I am learning what it really means to be a mother. 

Mothers work hard. Every day.

Sometimes the work goes unnoticed - More often than not we often expect that the work is done, not giving reverence or appreciation where it is due.

Mothers  find that second wind to comfort a sick child in the middle of the night.

Mothers can function on 4 hours of sleep - And still look like she had eight.

Sometimes it's hard.  Sometimes it's draining.  And honestly sometimes I am frustrated.

But then it happens. 

She leans into my chest.  She smiles that toothless grin.  She laughs. 
She sunggles into the space where my shoulders meet my neck.

And I realize that I love her more than life.

Even more than shoes. 

Thank you mothers.  Thank you for the work that you do and the love you give.

This commerical gets me every. single. time.

Happy Mommy's Day

You're doing okay, Mom. <3

31

Coming soon...

31.
30 + 1.
Thirty - One.
Trienta y uno.
Trentuno.

Beautiful Feet

Who doesn't love baby feet? 

Tiny toes and tinier toenails.  I love kissing and tickling G's feet.
And sometimes I wonder -Where will her feet take her?  What will she be when she grows up? 

My 7-almost-8-month old baby has transformed before my eyes.  And I believe that the next years will be a blur.  Sometimes I need to take a step back and soak my daughter in. 

I love my girl.

I hope that my daughter's feet take her  places that will contribute to her development as a woman.

I hope that G will gain an appreciation for beautiful footwear. 
A controlled and reasonable appreciation.

I hope that my daughter's feet will bring people joy in both her actions and words.

I sit and watch G play.  She makes me smile.

She rubs her heels together and in one swift movement she removes her socks.

And then she puts them in her mouth.

Charming.

"How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" Romans 10:14-15

Nice and Amazing

It is nice when...

1) The weather is amazing and G and I can go for a beautiful walk outside.
2) The Hubster comes home from work early and he can spend some more time with G
3) I can start on my laundry
4) G goes down for a nap
5) I sleep in until 7:00 AM!

It is AMAZING when...

1) I can walk outside and not be tempted by the lure of "stuff" at the mall
2) The Hubster comes home from work early and greets me with "just because" treats - Cookies and flowers!
3)I can start laundry and finish it - Wash, Dry AND Fold - In the same day!
4) G goes down for a nap - For 3 hours! :)
5) I sleep in until 7:15 AM!

It is nice when I realize that my life has changed.

It is amazing when I realize that my life is changing and I am changing as well - And to realize that I am okay with being changed.

Cleaning Out My Closet...

Now that the semester has drawn out to a close I finally have a little time to do some spring cleaning..  A few nights ago I started out on the adventure of cleaning out my closet.  Staring into the face of a beast, I prodded ahead and began to organize my winter clothing into piles.


Hers

*Yes.  The contents of my closet are modified according to the season. It is a daunting task, but one that must be done.  For it were not so, everytime I opened my closet it be as such.

And this is his closet.  He does not need to change with the seasons. Neat and Tidy

His

After a tiring 15 minutes I came to a conclusion.  I need a bigger closet.  I have too many articles of  clothing. Too many purses, and sadly (although I don't like to admit it) too many pairs of shoes. 

So I purged.  All I have to do to make more room in this closet is get rid of some items that I no longer use.  I read in an article about organizing, and it was said that if you did not wear an item for over two years, then you should get rid of it.  So I began to go through my piles.  Am I really going to wear this red organic cotton cowl neck sweater?  Am I really going to these wide leg linen pants with the adorable buttons on the side? How about this gorgeous oversized purple leather clutch?

This might be harder than I thought.

And so I gave myself another challenge.  In addition to cleaning out my closet,  I will also wear every piece of clothing, accessorize with every purse and use every shoe that I own BEFORE I purchase something new.

A challenge.  But I think its something that I know I must do.  This is a year of changes, rearranging, and learning.  For those who know me really well, know that this will be terribly difficult for me.  But this shopping fast and clothing purge will help me to focus on what is really  important in my life, and force me towards goals and tasks that I want to complete.

Who knew that cleaning out my closet would lead to deep philosophical contemplation? 

See?  Shoes have a psycholgical effect on people. 

Running shoes vs. Sneakers

Last year at this time I was 4 months pregnant.  And still wearing heels.

  This year I am wearing these:

Running Shoes

*I love my floors.

Last year, when I went to the gym I wore sneakers.  This year my sneakers became running shoes.  Don't get me wrong, I ran on the treadmill. And when I wanted to feel pain, I ran with The Hubster.  But this year, I am learning what running around really means.  These are the shoes that I do everything in.  These are the shoes that take me to the grocery store, and to the mall for my early morning laps with G when its too cold outside.  These are the shoes that I wear in and out of my house because I have forgotten something again.  I wear these shoes before I put on my black suede, stacked heel, almond toe pumps to work.  I put these shoes on again when I am done teaching.  I should probably wear these shoes inside the house (although hubby would not be pleased to see shoe prints all over the beautiful floor).   Running up and down the stairs, getting the laundry, sprawled out on the floor with G, taking her out of the swing, putting her back into the swing, vacuuming, quickly shoving something in to my mouth to eat before she wakes up, and on and on and on....  These shoes help me get on with my day and complete the tasks I need to do with and for my family.

These shoes are comfy and practical.  And this year, they make me feel just as good as my hot pink peep toe stilettos do. <3

Simple Things...

I slept in on Saturday April 21, 2012.  It was glorious.  This was also my hubby's birthday.  And he let me sleep in.  It was slumberous.  I slept in until 8 AM.  Hubster - How I love thee.

By the time he got home from work, G was bathed and in bed snoring.  He gave her a kiss as she slept and we had a romantic quiet dinner.  We watched a few of our favourite television shows, and went to bed at 10PM.  It was beyond perfection.

The next day The Hubster and I spent the afternoon together, sans baby.  And while I missed her terribly, it was nice to have a break and him all to myself.  We bought some furnishings for our newly renovated bathroom ( I LOVE Homesense), went grocery shopping and cleaned the house.  It was a flawless afternoon.

Tonight the three of us had a quiet dinner, and watched some HGTV.  While The Hubster  bathed G, I marked some papers.  We usually wind G down after she has her last feeding - We read her stories, listen and watch her aquarium, (which she adores), speak quietly to her about our day, smother her with hugs and kisses and put her to bed.  She recently learned how to put herself to sleep, which is much easier than bouncing her for what seemed like a ga-gillion hours.

Simplicty is amazing, and in the midst of a very busy life the simple things make me painfully happy.

Summer, where art thou?

Summer. Where are you? That is all.

Learning

The past few years have transformed me.  I have morphed from being a gym partner to a girfriend to a fiance to a wife and finally a mother (which is a continual reconstruction).  It has not been easy.  Beginning a journey with the love of your life isn't all sunshine and rainbows.  When The Hubster and I first moved in together we were excited.  We would get to spend every waking moment together.  In theory, this was an amazing concept.  In theory.  In reality it was a struggle between  neat and tidy.  It was an arm wrestle with the definition of "clean".  It was a collision of personalities and clothing - And only one closet space. One. Very. Small. Closet. 

He transformed into my husband - Who listens, cooks, cleans, and apologizes.  He was always attentive and caring, yet somehow he continued to develop these characteristics.  He is continually refining his craft of becoming a husband.  I wish I was as quick to learn the art of being a spouse.

I am stubborn. I like tasks to be done my way.  I love to show him the "right" way of doing things.

"You have fold towels like this."

"Face all of the shirts in the same direction."

"Separate the laundry."

"Sweep then wet swiffer"

"Separate the laundry."

My name is Kristina, and I am a nag.

I am discovering how hard it is to be a mother and and a wife.  Throwing psychology teacher into the mix also throws a wrench in the machinery.  But I am trying - Everyday I remind myself how utterly blessed I am to have such an amazing husband who has been strategically been placed in my life.  I am blessed with an amazing daughter and supportive family who love me to bits.  Life is great.

I am learning to appreciate that the laundry is done - Even when the clothes have been in the dryer for almost a week.  I am learning to say thank you when he decides to "organize" my closet.  I am learning to give hugs of appreciation when he decides to go grocery shopping without me.... And returns with $10 dollars worth of M&Ms.  He is an amazing inspiration.  He exemplifies humbleness and continual love even when I am tired and make poor decisions.

How quickly the teacher becomes the student. 

But - He always asks me what he should wear on Sundays.  I still have that going on, Ha.

Mommy Brain and Mommy Love

Today I found a garlic clove on my nightstand.  Sometimes I reach into my pocket at work and find a pink baby towel or lace trimmed sockie.  In my purse I found that stapler I am looking for.  I trip over a nude peep toe t-strap stiletto in the kitchen.  In Gabby's diaper bag I pull out a Starbucks K-Cup.  Welcome Kristina, to the world of "Mommy Brain".  I have been forgetting, misplacing and losing everything.  I have always considered myself organized and prided myself on an excellent memory.  While the randomness of it all is humorous, I can't help but wonder if I will ever get my old "Pre-Mommy-Full-Functioning-Brain" back.  Life has become a whirlwind of events that quickly mesh together.  It's amazing how busy life gets, and while I may never get my neurology back in check, I will gladly embrace my "Mommy Brain" with pride.  For with that label comes the duty of  caring for my daughter and this has been an amazing journey.

Maybe tomorrow I will find some cheese on the dryer.  Hopefully it will be ON the dryer, and not IN it.

This is work?!?!?!?

I have been back to work (part-time) as of January.  It is not as bad as I thought it would be - I actuallly only work 9 hours a week teaching only a few classes - I can't complain (That much).  I love my job, the people I work with and the fact that I can wear whatever shoes I deem fit on that particular day. The students last semester actually nicknamed me the "Psychology Shoe Lady"  Today I wore colour block wedges.  :)


I bought these online for only $25, after seeing them in Lou Lou Magazine!



Anyways, it was presentation day today.  I love presentations - Watching even the most cocky and loudmouthed students feel uneasy as I "randomly" shoes (choose..LOL) groups to come up and present.  The looks on the students faces as they confront their peers, and the stuttering that occurs from time to time.  I love it when I hear the mumbling in the background, "I hate presentations!"  and "I'm sweaty... Can you tell?"  One time I actually heard a student mumble, "I think I have to fart..."  Little do they know that teachers (amongst other awesome talents) have an superhero hearing.  This superhero hearing makes work worth while.  Yes folks, presentation day makes me happy.  And in the midst of me enjoying all this anxiety, I always tell my students that they have done well, once the presentation is completed.  I tell them that their powerpoints and Prezis were worth all the hard work, sweats and farts.  I remember what it was like to present in front of my peers.  I hated it, I was a nervous wreck and dreaded every second of my moment in the  spotlight.  I understand the angst that accompanies presentations.  But what I also understand is the importance of affirming the abilities of my students, especially when I know they are nervous.  I make it a point to thank them for presenting.  Thanking students is important - It makes them feel that respect is reciprocated.  And it is.  I appreciate my students - For without them I am only a woman with fabulous shoes and a lot of head knowledge.... but no one to share it with.

I love my job. 

Though I would  also love to be a buyer for a certain department store with an iconic magenta bag...

Just kidding.  Kinda-sorta but  not really.