Stop, Look and Listen -- That Means You City Hall!

In our house, Ben & FG call them the "big piano". The place where you stop look and listen, not just for your safety but alert drivers. My kids have known about "big pianos" since they could walk.

Apparently Andy hasn't.

If City Hall stopped to listen, they'd hear this city tell them we know a cross walk doesn't mean there won't be accidents no more than wearing your seat belt does. But what cross walks do, is put a little bit of safety and caution in place.

Bad Mom Hour

It's from 6-7.

That hour right after supper when I'm clearing the table, throwing in a load of laundry, picking up coats, boots and mittens blocking the porch door. That's when it strikes me the worst -- I'm a bad mom. I've been away from these guys all day and I know dusting and dishes can wait til tomorrow, children grow up to fast to our sorrow (I've seen the magnets at Hallmark). But for some reason, I like to let them watch Treehouse or Discovery Kids. I'm sure I'm supposed to be doing more; at least that's how I feel. But right now, when I do the daycare dash at 4:45, get them, get traffic, get home and get supper -- I just feel like letting the TV do a little child minding for 60 minutes.

No Island Princess? -- Bah Humbug!

Folks here don't seem to be so much with the marketing value of the Santa Claus Parade. Instead, in this year’s St. John’s Downtown Christmas Parade, there were lots of dogs in reindeer antlers (Beagle Paws, Greyhound Rescue, Daschunds and SPCA), cheerleaders from every school in the city and a bunch of service groups.

Not one commercial float.

I miss the Toronto Parade -- so wonderfully shiny and big business.

This year, they had the Coca-Cola’s Penguins and Polar Bears, Sears’ Hockey Night on a Frosty Pond, Scholastic’s Clifford in the Dog House and Mattel’s Barbie as the Island Princess. Even the descriptions on the Global broadcast are totally agency scripted. And why not? Those bloody floats cost an elf's annual salary to build.

Plus, around over 150 clowns were actually corporate types who pay up to $1000 for the privilege of putting on a clown suit! The Celebrity Clown programme has been running since 1983 and is a brilliant way of drumming up support for the parade.

I don’t know if the downtown businesses don’t see the value in the Parade or if they are simply just not in the Christmas spirit. Whatever the case, I suppose it doesn’t really matter. Ben & FG were just as taken with the guy in the ratty Winnie the Pooh costume from Walmart as he would have been with the giant floats rolling down Bloor St.

Pics: Ben dropping letter to Pere Noel to Canada Post Mail Carrier (btw, did I mention I love this program?; FG on Mama's shoulders; Santa on Duckworth)

Maybe Christmas doesn’t come in a box. Maybe it doesn’t come from a store. Perhaps Christmas means a little bit more – Dr. Seuss, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”

Bon news, bad news

Ben has always been a fussy eater. For the first 2 years, this drove me crazy but recently, I've found ways around the dinner table battles. Last night, I asked him what he ate at school.

"I had the snacks."

"And lunch?"

"Well, I have good news and bad news."

I waited patiently for his latest food tale.

"Bad news is it was soupe (soup in English). The good news is there was "nouilles de dans" (noddles in it)

Colour outside the lines

When Papa's away, Mama can be a bit slack. Picnics in the living room instead of supper at the table; popcorn in the afternoon or a TV show on Mama's bed.

Last night, Ben & FG decided they wanted a "camp out" in the pop-up tent. They loaded it up with pillows and blankets. I never thought for a second they'd sleep in there.

FG eventually went to her crib.

But Ben was too "cozy". He brought in his catalog and a few Rescue Heroes. I went back to check on him and covered him up with a blanket.

The little rascal slept there until 7 this morning and woke up with a smile on his face.

Sometimes its good to let them colour outside the lines.

Blah Blah Blah....Chill out!

Last night at dinner, Ben tested out a few new phrases.

"Chill out" (when I asked him to have 2 more bites).

"What does that mean," I asked curious to hear his explanation and a little taken aback.

"It means, stop talking."

"Do you have any other new words."

"Yeah, 'blah blah blah' means you don't know what to say."

Training Miss Frances

God love her. She caught on right away. I think the Dora underwear did the trick. That and the potty song (to the tune of Conga!) "Pee-pee dans le pot!" "Pee-pee dans le pot!" I remember nursing Frances and trying to train Ben 2 years ago. I nearly lost my mind! That year I think February had 128 days.

His own sandwich

From the child who eats very little, comes the unique, one-of-a-kind sandwich that only he come dream up. What's in it? Ben's reply:

Crunchy peanut butter, marble cheese stick (cut in chunks), pecans and dried bananas one side and strawberry jam and pineapple on the other.

He ate the works.

Say one thing, kids know what they like.

Sears Dream Book

Last year, it started right after Halloween. This year, it was early October. Ben doesn't want 3 stories or 3 lullabies -- he just wants his night light left on and "to be alone with his Catalog".



Most nights I go up after an hour and he's sound asleep, face stuck on the page with the ride-on Jeeps or the drum sets. I peel him off, pull up the covers and shut off the light.

But some nights, he wants me to stay there and tell him what everything is. "What's D?"

"Mega-rig Construction Truck"

"How about A?"

"Hot Wheels Dragon Fire Track Set"

"J?"

"Little Tykes Digital Drum Set".

He's already making his list and checking it twice. By Dec 24th, the book will be tattered and torn; some items circled other crossed out so "Santa doesn't get confused". And we all know, that this time of year, Santa needs all the help he (read: she) can get!

First Family of Halloween on Empire

It was our first Halloween on Empire and our neighbours certainly reminded us why we moved. Not only did they "ohh and ahh" over the kids costumes but our new neighbours were as excited about the spooky night as we were.

Ben said next year we have to start decorating earlier! Maybe now that we're a bit more settled we can.

Trick or Treat?

Let's get this straight -- I'm not anti-sugar. Everything in moderation. But if you've seen my (or your own) kids wigs out from too much chocolate, then you're probably also looking for a treat alternative this weekend.

Here's a few things to offer the smaller ghouls at your door.
- Playdoh. They make smaller tins. You can buy the Halloween-branded bag or just smaller containers.
- Dollar Store trinkets. They may only have the life-span of a McDonald's Happy Meal toy, but the Dollar Stores have everything from plastic skeletons on parachutes, sticky rubber eye balls, pumpkin-shaped bubble blowers, pencils and toothbrushes.
- Even though Unicef ended its Halloween oragne box program last year, you can still give gift certificates to close kids to McDonald's or Tim Horton's.
- Or you could do what Vimmy did and send us a box of 12 gourmet cupcakes from CupcakeLaine. What was I saying about sugar highs!

I remember at Halloween when people gave you apples. Then everyone got freaked out about people sliding razor blades in them so everyone switched to candy. I'm not suggesting that we get rid of those little packages of Rockets (PL would never forgive me), I'm just saying a little variety is good.

What are you thankful for?

On the whiteboard at the kid's daycare, Madame K has listed all the cihldren's names and what they are thankful for.

Some children said "Mama" others said "Papa". One child even said "le colouer bleu".

What did my two kiddos reply?

Benjamin - "Le dejuneur" (breakfast)

Frances - "le gauteau" (cake!)

Happy Thanksgiving!

A shril child's cry pierces the gray early morning air...

When I got them home from daycare yesterday, they were wild! Hitting, squealing, dumping of toys, demanding I make chocolate chip cookies -- I felt like a bullied mom.

No, they are not always like that. But sometimes they come home from daycare/pre-school so exhausted that there's no reasoning with them. And when I heard this old CBC Radio piece, I laughed out loud (LOL?). Not much has changed in 50+ years!

All I can do, is have a snack ready -- grapes, apples, raisins boxes-- and get supper on as quick as I can. Then clean that up, pull out the Playdoh or markers and construction paper; get them in the tub and in pajamas, read some stories, sing Mockingbird and them tuck them the bed. Oh yes, and in between, smother them in grand bizous...

Newfoundland ABCs?

"Frances do you know your alphabet?" I asked.

"Oui," she said between jumping up and down on our bed. "Great, Big, Sea, D, E, F, G..."

What would it take to have another baby?

I just appeared on Radio Noon Cross Talk about, what else? The baby bonus.

What would it take to have another baby? Let's see, 2 years mat leave with topped-up EI, a second bathroom, FG to already be potty trained, a guarantee that my blood pressure wouldn't go all wonky this time postpartum and freak me out.

For everyone, it's really complicated. I'm just glad we're talking about it.

Six String Nation

Yawner?

"Where's Papa?"

"Napa Valley,"

"Is he going to sleep there all the time?"

('Nap'a Valley, get it?)

Baby Bonus Boom, Bust, Echo

I had a roommate in university from the Cape Shore who always used to say, "Joey sold Churchill Falls for the baby bonus."

Danny's promise of the $1000 baby bonus is a bit like Smallwood's hand-out to post-depression parents with 9 or 10 youngsters. Hence, the Baby Boom.

But these days, Newfoundland is in the baby bust stage. Most families (still living here) have 2 kids, max. Last year, was the first year more of us died than were born. We need a little kick start.

So, is $1000 alone enough to make me have a third child? Likely not. I'd much rather see a child-care plan and better funded day-cares for the two I already have. But in the meantime, until we echo, there's nothing wrong with rewarding reproduction.

Stop, look and listen

We were out of milk.

And besides I always take the kids up the street to the park or the store. We've been in the neighbourhood a few months now. They both like to race up the sidewalk, speeding like motorcycles, galloping like ponies, running like kids out of school.

I let them get a few lengths ahead of me. They stop when I say stop. And they are good about waiting for me to cross at pianos (ie. crosswalk).

But at the corner of Circular and Bannerman, there is no "piano". So this evening, we stood there and waited for the cars to pass.

But in a fraction of a second, Ben stepped off the curb. And in that same fraction of a second, a car whizzed by. A sound came out of my throat, guttural, squelching. He froze. I grabbed his orange t-shirt in my hand, knuckles white and yanked him back on the sidewalk, safe next to me and FG. His scared eyes and tremorring bottom lip mirrored mine.

"You ok?" I knelt on down, holding his face in my hands, stroking his blonde hair over and over.

He nodded.

"I need you to hold my hand. Please hold me hand."

We hugged tight. We crossed the street and held hands all the way to the store.

***In light of what happened to Zachary Strong's family this week, we were lucky. Please check out your neighbourhood. Hard to believe there's nothing -- not even a crosswalk -- at Bannerman, one of the city's oldest parks. I've already called my counciller. Please do the same.

Grand Bizou

You can say a lot of things about my two skunks but one thing's for sure, they got personality!

When we talking about going to the zoo in Quebec, Frances was always giving us big kisses -- we just thought she was excited about elephants. Turns out, while we were saying Granby Zoo, she was thinking it was Grand Bizou (Big Kiss!).

Time to Move Home

Peter Walsh's story in today's Telegram sent me back to our time to move home in December 2004.

We packed up our "slit" in Roncesvalles Village and moved back with Ben (20 months old)and FG on the way. And same deal as Peter -- we left two jobs in Toronto for one here. PL has since started Ignite and its going like gangbusters! So, as they say in NL, we came home to take a job and to make one!

There have been plenty of adjustments to living back home — the biggest one was having left our friends and work connections behind. Thank god for Facebook.

Hopefully Peter's article will goose a few more Newfoundlanders in Exile home to roost.

I didn't miss you until I heard you on the phone

It's the longest time Ben's ever been away. Almost 10 days, with one little visit back home for a change of clothes and to grab his sleeping bag.

He was camping (read: playing spotlight, making sand castles, catching snails, roasting weiners and chasing waves) with Nana and Poppy Hynes in Northern Bay Sands.

When I spoke with him on the phone, he was more and more giddy each day.

"Guess what mama! I have 6 snails in my jar!" "Guess what mama, Liam let me ride his scooter and I didn't tip over once!"

I was happy for him; a little sad for me. This summer has been so wacky with crazy house projects I feel like I let it (and Ben) slip by.

On the night before he came back, Ben prattled off to me about his adventures. I wondered if he would want to come home.

"I miss you Ben"

"Mama, I didn't miss you until I heard you on the phone."

Humble Radiant Terrific: CW PIII

In Gr 2, our class went to the Bay Roberts Cinema to see Charlotte's Web. I remember crying at the end, just thinking about Wilbur and how wonderful he was to look after Charlotte's babies. My mother later gave me the E.B. White hardcover (I still have it).

4 years ago this weekend, we read a passage from the Last Day at Ben's naming ceremony:

"Your future is assured. You will live, secure and safe, Wilbur. Nothing can harm you now. These autumn days will shorten and grow cold. The leaves will shake loose from the trees and fall. Christmas will come, and the snows of winter. You will live to enjoy the beauty of the frozen world, for you mean a great deal to Zuckerman and he will not harm you, ever.

Winter will pass, the days will lengthen, the ice will melt in the pasture pond. The song sparrow will return and sing, the frogs will awake, the warm wind will blow again. All these sights and sounds and smells will be yours to enjoy, Wilbur—this lovely world, these precious days…”

Charlotte's Web Cam - Part II

It may not be as popular as BC's Bald Eagles (yet) but On the Go is already taking names for her.

Charlotte's Web Cam

25 years after E.B. White's wrote Charlotte's Web, Charlotte has landed on cbc.ca. At least that's what I'm calling her.

Check out the web cam on the left side. I found her here this afternoon. I'm convinced its a female.

Grands Vents

Desperately seeking a new director for our Daycare. Ben & Frances (and Papa too) were media darlings again: http://www.radio-canada.ca/regions/atlantique/2007/07/12/006-TNL-grandsvents.shtml.

The piece will be on Here & Now in English tonight.

Real Woodswoman (Week 6)

Yesterday, one of the contractors asked me how I've been doing the dishes (note: Still no running water in the kitchen. My swishy stainless steel computerized dishwasher can't be hooked up without the sink!

"Boiling the kettle and washing them in my Green Dominion grocery bin."

"You're a real woodswoman!"

I took it as a compliment.

My grandmother did just fine with 9 youngsters, a woodstove and a well out back. She didn't have too much Royal Chinet. And my grandfather was in the lumber woods as a cook for 11 months a year!

Every day, the dust literally settles a little more on 38 Empire Ave. This week, Ches poured the concrete, finished the basement electrical, and put in the stairs. Countertops and butcher block are installed in the kitchen and my washer and dryer will be hooked up today (Please God!).

I'd post pictures... if I could find the camera.

Hyper Reno - Week 5 (aka Money Pit Part Deux)

The move this weekend went smoothly. That is after we hired movers at the last minute. The painting and trim is almost done (thanks to Justin, his girlfriend, mother & Dale). And despite the fact that there was no washer/dryer and no running water in the kitchen (the porcelain sink was scratched and needs to be returned), we're good.

We even got to the lake for Canada Day fireworks.

But yesterday morning we had a bit of a hiccup. We woke up to water dripping on the dining room table and a sewer backup. So last night I took the kids to Donna's and claimed reno refugee status. We all slept in the same bed.

Ben & FG are pretty tossed around these days but they're hanging tough. Yesterday, when I got them from school Ben asked, "Whose house are we going to for supper?"

Today, a little Kubota tracker is digging up the backyard. Hopefully we'll be back on track this weekend.

Hyper Reno -- Week 3/Rainy Hump Day

Ivan the Plasterer is sanding today and we're hoping to start painting this weekend.

I booked a babysitter for Saturday night so that I can strip for PL (wallpaper, that is). One of these days we go on a date to one of those big, dark rooms where they show moving pictures on a wall and you eat popped corn.

For now its DIF wallpaper remover, crushed stone (yes, we're trying to pour the basement), grout and brick pointing. All sorts of finishing touches that I wish were finished. Ready to make another run for it, if inspections don't slow the hyper reno down!

Hyper Reno - Week 2

Plumbing, electrical, drywall are done -- we're plastering now and hope to have painters in by Wednesday. Kitchen and bathroom are still unfinished. PL hopes to tile this weekend and the kitchen floor and cupboards "should" be here by Friday next week.

Basement is a mound of dirt with a trench for the plumbing. Hopefully, that will be poured next weekend. Ches has been a Renovation God!

I'm slowly starting to believe we are going to be seeing fireworks from the back garden on Canada Day!

The kids are excited about the move - don't seem to be phased at all about leaving Greenspond Dr. Only question Ben had was "Mama, will we take our remotes?"

Paging Dr. Bob - I need an answer

On Sunday morning, Ben wanted to sit on a new bench in Bowring Park. He hadn't seen this one before and there was a plaque on it.

"In Memory of Dr. Robert Burden Bartlett" It had his date of birth and death.

"Read it Mama"

I did. Then the questions came "Who is Dr. Bartlett?" "Why is his name on a bench?" "Why does it have his birthday on it?" "Why do people die?"

The answer (at least the one I gave) "Sometimes people get too sick and they get really tired. It's better for them if they go to sleep for a really long time."

"Is that what happened to Dr. Bartlett?"

"Yes"

"Where is he now Mama?"

"Somewhere nice and cozy where he can sleep."

"Can we go feed the ducks?"

For now, my answer seems to work.

Juggling

Beni Malone says to juggle, you "simply need more objects than hands." Well Beni, I think its safe to say we're juggling...on speed!

Today started like every other morning -- I peeled FG's grip back from my neck at daycare and she screamed as if she was left with wolves. I cried 2 minutes in the parking lot; grabbed a double double; went to work; sped to Home Depot at lunch to rent a recipocating saw; tore down from one work event, set up for another; back to work for two conference calls with Corporate and then raced up to daycare, grabbed the kids and headed home. Roll in the grass with the kids. Dinner. Roll in the grass with the kids. Bath. Stories. Bed. Groceries. Home Depot. Peel wall paper. Kiss Papa. Goodnight.

I Wanna be your Sledgehammer! - Day 1

I want to be your sledgehammer/why don't you call my name/oh let me be your sledgehammer/this will be my testimony

Demolition on Empire Ave started today! Special thanks to Morne "the crowbar" Van Antrep and Steven, Craig, Alex and Nick from Cowbell.

"I'm Ready Now" (or am I?)

At 7:30am she was standing in kitchen in her pink winter jacket and yellow rain boots (gotta love spring in NL).

"I'm ready now!" she squealed, dragging her backpack down the stairs.

Even when we gave her and Ben a hug and a kiss at school, we (meaning me, PL and FG) were fine. Ok, I sobbed a little at Tim Horton's over a double double with PL. But I was pretty proud of myself. I've thought this moment over and over so many times in the last 6 months -- she's too little; she's not ready; I'm not ready; Brenda loves them so much; we love Brenda so much. But we made the choice based on a whole bunch of things. Then, when today came and off she went to Grands Vents Daycare with big brother Ben at her side -- I was starting to feel alright.

When we checked in at lunch time, she was eating, smiling and getting ready for her nap. I exhaled.

I picked them up at 4:30. FG wrapped her arms around my neck and squeezed tight. She ran her fingers through my hair and rubbed my face, as if she couldn't believe I came back. I asked Madame D & Mlle R how she did when I left. "Excellent - she only cried for about an hour." "What?!" Oh god. To them it was normal, to me it was horrific! Please let it be better on Day 2.

Working Mom's Guide to the 100 Mile (a minute) Diet

Think local, act global.

When you're running a 100 miles a minute, its not eay to pass Dominion and head to the farm (not to mention the farm isn't open on Sunday night's at 9pm when I realize we're out of milk!). Might be easier in Toronto or Montreal where Keningston or Atwater Market is lined off with "grown right here" greens. But what do you do when you live in Newfoundland?

Here's a few places to consider if you and your kids are trying to make a smaller footprint on the planet.

Grandpa's Garden. (for us, that's Placentia Junction)
If you are lucky enough to have grandparents around, you know they love gardening. My parents have been growing root vegetables for years. Put in a little sweat equity on the weekend and enjoy some of Poppy's potatoes, carrots, onions. Kids love pulling them up too!

Lester's Farm. (Brookfield Rd.)
We love this place. They have great local produce, a petting farm, local baked goods and even ice cream. In the Fall there's a corn maze and a Pumpkinfest.

NL Organics. The idea of food co-ops delivering green boxes to your door is popular in Ontario & BC but is just coming to NL. I haven't ordered yet but plan to. I know, I might end up wit a lot of kale in July but its worth it for the Fall goodies.

Windy Meadows Farm & Market. (1 Lundrigan's Rd, Kilbride). Where's the beef? Organic meat, chicken and sausage all at Windy Meadows. Great burgers for summer too.

Moo Moo's Ice Cream.
Local ice cream made right here!

FG Turns 2

FG. Lulu. Lucy. Miss Moo. Mrs. Murphy. My Scallywag. With the same spunk that she came into to the world, feet first, Frances Grace continues to charm us and amaze us. She a funny little creature. A real old soul. Sometimes, she strolls around te house, hands on hips asking "Who made this mess?" Other times, she is hopping and squealing in franglais"I love to saute!" translation: I love to jump!" She loves shoes, purses and it full of hugs and kisses. I know, you don't have to tell me. I have my hands full.
Happy Birthday, baby.

Radio Noon Cross Talk

I'm no parenting "expert". All I have is 4 years of sleep deprivation. Ok, that's a small badge of honour I suppose. Strangely, the week Benjo turned 4 and FG turned 2, I landed a spot on Radio Noon Cross Talk.

Michelle Lester, owner of Coo Chi Coo (LOVE that store) and 2 1/2 year-old, Max chatted about tantrums, fussy eating (alright, I'm an expert there) and nighttime routines.

Thanks to Ramona & Gerry for the oppportunity.

Yabadaba..YUCK

"YUCK!" Bam-bam shot out of his mouth like a spit-ball. "This tastes as sour as a lemon."

You know you have a picky eater when he won't even eat sugary Flintstone vitamins!

Foiled again.

Billy Blazes Look Out - Ben turns 4

Things have been a bit crazy lately with the house and work but I wanted to do something special for Ben for his 4th birthday. For months (that's a long time for a preschooler) he's been crazy about Rescue Heroes. So, when he jumped out of the car and realized he was at a real firestation and screamed "I can't believe my mind!", I nearly cried.

He even met a firefigther named Benjamin. Special thanks to everyone at Central Fire Station for an incredible birthday suprise.

Pebbles, Bam-Bam and Dino - Oh My!

Supper-time battles are a regular thing at our house. We've done it all - "just try 3 bites", "eat this or have nothing", "eat this, get ice cream". But nothing seems to work. Ben is a fussy eater. Despite his limited diet, he's a happy, vibrant, busy boy. That said, there's only so much buttered wacky mac pasta a mom can cook before you really start to lose it.

Last night, I started to worry though (mom's are good at worrying). And I bought some multi-vitamins -- the Flintstone ones. And just to make sure they didn't taste like cod liver oil, I popped one. Yup, tasted just like I remember -- pure sugar. Yabadaba-doo!

If it wasn't for the label I'd be convienced it was just that. I haven't given up on trying to make him get his veggies. But this eases some of the mom guilt... for now.

When I Am 8

"When I am 8," Ben said "I will go to motorcycle school and ride a Harley or a 'crotch rocket'."

"Do you know how old you have to be to ride a motorcycle," Mama said.

"No"

"Sixteen," said Mama.

"Oh. Then when I'm 8 can I have a bicycle?"

Mother's Day at the Junction

PL is in Toronto this week taping Dragons' Den so, I took the kids to Nana's and Poppy's for the weekend.

I was pretty proud of myself -- packed the car the night before and worked through lunch so I could be out of town by 4. The minute we got there the kids jumped out of the van like hyper Labrador retrievers! They love it up there. It is always so amazing to see them run around in the garden chasing Lucy the cat or throwing rocks over the trussel with Poppy ("That one's a real sowzo".) I remember the first time I saw my parents with Ben and later with Frances. It was such a gift. They just squeal and giggle together like old buddies.

One of the main reasons we moved home 2 1/2 years ago was for the kids to know their grandparents. I love it that my parents are also taking time to know the kids. Happy Mother's Day.

Insider's Guide to St. John's

If you're planning a trip to the "Far East" this summer, here's a list of must see/dos.

Lighthouse Picnics My friend, Jill Curran moved back home from Scotland and along with her friend Sonia, started Lighthouse Picnics in Ferryland. One of the province's best kept secrets, its worth the short hike for the fantastic food and view. See pics above from the Lighthouse Picnics.

Iceberg Finder
If there are any, here's where you'll know where to find them.

Puffins & Whales
Depending on the time of year, you'll see both. There's plenty but check out O'Brien's

The Rooms
Some aren't fussy on the modern arcitecture, calling it the "box the Bascilia came in". Others, like me, love it. The home of the provincial museum, archieves, art gallery and a great cafe - the Rooms is stunning. One of the best views of the harbour and narrows. Not to mention the crab cakes!

Ches's
Ask for "fi & chi with d & g" (fish and chips with dressing and gravy). You get a certificate one your first visit.

East Coast Trail
Take in as much of this incredible trail system as you can. Maps available.

Middle Cove Beach
Just minutes from downtown, it's worth the trip out Marine Drive. During the summer evenings, folks go to the beach for bonfires. And in June, you can even scoop up a few capelin.

Hiking at Cape Spear Lighthouse
Cape Spear is the most easterly point on the continent. Be there at dawn and be the first in North America to see the sun rise.

Moo Moo’s Ice Cream and Rennie’s River Trail
Get an ice cream at the family owned Moo Moo's (88 King's Rd). Try blueberry sorbet or the sinfully rich turtle-cheesecake ice cream. Then, take a stroll to Rennie's River (part of the Grand Concourse. This is the winding trail runs right through the heart of the city.

Auntie Crae’s on Tuesday for Lunch (272 Water St)
That's when the Auntie Crae's band comes in for an impromptu concert (free!) in the common room. Bring your own lunch or grab something from the great deli counter.

Georgestown Bakery (60 Hayward Ave at Maxse St)
A quaint, family bakery in the heart of Georgetown. Perhaps the best bagels east of St-Viatuer.

Fred’s Records (198 Duckworth Street)
If you have an interest in music, both local and global, the folks at Fred's will point you in the right direction.

Hava Java (216 Water St.)
Great coffee. A perfect morning stop.

The Ship (265 Duckworth St)
Evening entertainment covers all the bases; expect everything from poetry readings to live jazz, blues or reggae. Wednesday are Folk Night.

International Flavours (4 Quidi Vidi Road)
Chicken or Vegetarian? That is the question— the answer is the best curry you have ever had.

Devon House Crafts (59 Duckworth St)
Great local artisan crafts, visual art and handmade gifts.

Newfoundland Weavery (177 Water St.)
Perfect for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Johnny Ruth (166 Water St.)
Great selection of women's clothes and jewelry from Canadian designers.

Nuts about Brazil!

This week, a wonderful lady from Brazil named Denise came and stayed with us. It was a part of a Rotary International exchange program. The kids adored her. FG, who is normally very cautious, went to her with open arms. I told Denise that there is a saying that "children and dogs are the best judges of character". It was great to get to know her and a fun way to teach the kids about new places and language. Last night, we made flags of Brazil and Canada and looked both countries up in the Atlas. Thank you Denise for the great visit. We only wish we had more time to spend together.

What He Sees

Yesterday, Ben took my camera for the first time and shot some pictures. Here's some of what he saw. The rest are on my Facebook. Note: After it was done, we made a slide show of it with his favourite song - 867-5309 (Jenny) - as the soundtrack.

Moving Out!

At the end of the month, we're moving (fingers crossed). Things have gone very quickly these past 3 days but tonight we sold Greenspond Dr. and are bracing ourselves for the reno ahead of us at Empire Ave. Unnerved by the inspection report and in love with the location and the backyard (1/2 acre backing on Rennie's River) we are optimistic that the reno gods will be with us.

I worry about Ben & FG though. I know they will be very happy to spend a week (or three) with Nana & Poppy in the Junction while we demolish the basement, put in a kitchen and bathroom. But I want them to have a safe, clean house to come back to. ie. running water, electricity, kitchen. Funny, though. They will be the ones who will likely mind the least if we slept in a tent all summer.

Bottomed Out

We’ve started a new stage in this parenting adventure.

As of this week, we’re officially at the part where Ben tests his limits. We’re at the part where I say, “Ok, 5 minutes to bed time” “Don’t throw it or you’ll go to your room” “Just one show after supper” and he runs away and throw it; or worse – he pushes me and turns the TV back on.

With PL in Toronto, I admit last night I lost my patience.

After a long evening of supper hour battles (“Just one mouthful of rice!”) and 2 time outs – I was done! I picked him up (not easy now that he’s nearly 4 and 45 lbs), carried him up the stairs and straight to bed. He kicked. He screamed. He woke FG. I said, “I’ll slap your bottom.” He kicked and screamed and I did it. I slapped his bottom – one straight flat hand tap -- and I walked out.

I calmly went into the bathroom, brushed my teeth put on my pajamas and looked at myself in the mirror. My head was buzzing. I was sad, angry and exhausted all at the same time. I cried a little and then I heard his voice.

“Mama, Are you there?”

I went in his room and without saying a word he sobbed: “I’m sorry. Mama I didn’t listen to you. I’m sorry now.” I hugged him back and wiped his tears.

“Why are your eyes red, Mama?”

I didn’t tell him I was crying too.

It Takes a Village

We put an ad in the paper: Wanted Loving, Energetic Nanny to care for a vibrant 20-month-old boy. Must love walks in the park, Dr. Seuss, and afternoon snacks. That’s how Brenda found us.

2 ½ years (and 1 Frances Grace) later, she has done more than prepare afternoon snacks. She has taken care of our children. They have gone to the Lieutenant-Governor’s Tea Party, visited the seals in Logy Bay and ridden on the Double Decker Bus. She plays basketball, restaurant and makes a mean wacky mac with butter.

For a mom, going back to work is never easy. But Brenda was always there to come early, stay late; cuddle children; keep the house tidy and me sane.
Today, we made the hard decision to put both Ben & Frances Grace in Grands Vents daycare full-time on the 1st of June. Right now, I’m not sure what life will be like without her. There’s an old saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” I think it just takes Brenda. I’ll miss her.

Crazy for Crocs

There's a great 22 Minutes sketch called Dorks. Maybe so, but my guys love these!

Ode to a Slow Cooker

Thou still unravish'd bowl of casseroles,
Thou foster-child of leftovers and slow Time,
Culinary great, who canst thus express
A savory tale more sweetly than our thyme:
What lentil-borne legend haunts about thy shape
Of carrots or potatoes, or of broth,
In my Kitchen or the cuisine de Bisaillon?
What hungry husbands or youngsters are these? What working moms would not get a meal on the table without you?
What mad gastronomic pursuit? What steam struggles to escape?
What pots and pan? What wild ecstasy?

Dinner is served - with apologies to John Keats.

SLOG Remakes

Hate is a really strong word. I use it sparingly. Except when I’m talking about music remakes.

I hate remakes. With a passion. On the rare occassion, one or two float to the top; sounding crisper, clearer than the original. When they do, I put these on my SLOG - Short List of Good Remakes:

Sexy Back
Original: Justin Timberlake
Remake: Rock Plaza Central

Good Morning Starshine
Original: Raspberry Alarm Clock
Remake: Serena Ryder

Landslide
Original: Fleetwood Mac
Remake: Dixie Chicks

Lovers In a Dangerous Time
Original: Bruce Cockburn
Remake: Barenaked Ladies

Inside and Out
Original: Bee Gees
Remake: Feist

Easter Egg Hunt

Looking for an alternative to hiding eggs? Every year we hide plastic eggs filled with riddles

eg.
I'm a place to bake and a place to cook
Come in the kitchen and take a look

FG & Me, Easter 2006

That takes them to the stove where they find the next riddle. It all leads to a little chocolate and a present. Very Blue's Clues/Dora. Last year Ben got a toy skateboard and FG got a rag doll. Simple a (nearly) sugar-free.

Favourite (and Not So) Favourite Things

When Benjo was just 3 months old, my brain was brimming with things I had learned as truths by the 4th trimester. Yesterday, I found an email I had sent out to a friend with my favourite and not so favourite things. Funny, not much has changed. Since those first days can be so overwhelming, I thought I'd post that email here. Here it is:
Hi Friend, Here are a list of some things that Pierre-Luc and found that made our first few months a little easier and some things we never needed so much. Who knows? You may or may not find the same works for you. But as you surely know by now, being pregnant and being a mom is an open call for advice! The best I was given after we came home with Ben was simple: "Why stand when you can sit? Why sit when you can lie down? Why lie down when you can sleep?"

Anyway, here's the shopping list in no particular order:

Breastfeeding: If you decide to breastfeed, get yourself a couple of good nursing bras and some breast pads because in the first few days while your milk is coming in, you'll leak like crazy (this might be too much information, but get yourself a mattress cover if you don't already have one). After that, things regulate themselves out with the "supply and demand" ;) For a pump, I use the AVENT system. Most everyone says its the best one. All the bottles fit the pump and when you're ready, you can change the nipple on the bottle for a sippy cup. Saves you from buying a whack of stuff you don't need. Others, however, swear by the electric pump which you can rent from the hospital or from a drug store. My opinion on this is use whatever works for you. I didn't use a breastfeeding pillow because my torso's so short. I tried one and it didn't work for me, but you might want to check one out.

Receiving Blankets and other Linens: People generally give you a lot of this stuff but have plenty (i.e. 10-12) on hand to start. You'll be surprised how many you'll go through in the first few weeks. Down the road when you're little person starts to move a lot in the crib, you might want to consider an infant sleeping bag. This is like a little bunting bag to sleep in where there arms stick out. It prevents them from kicking off all their blankets when they get out of the "swaddle me" stage. I picked mine up at Diaper-Eze (address below) but I'm sure you can get it at baby stores out your way.

Clothes: It has only been in the last month that Benjamin has been wearing real clothes. Before that it was sleepers and those little T-Shirts that snap on the bottom. Baby Bjorn: We really like this. It's likely the $$ of the carriers but Ben really enjoys it and now that he's older and can face outward its fun to use on Saturday's when the sidewalks are busy and too crowded for a stroller. The only down side is - as he gets heavier they become less comfortable. Since you're little peanut is coming in the Fall/Winter - you might pass on this and look to one of those Mountain Equipment Co-op backpacks to use in the spring. A friend of mine has one and loves it. Some people also swear by the slings. Ben never much cared for this but others love it.

Stroller Accessories: I have a few things I really like. It'll depend on how much you will use your stroller. I have the Jolly Jumper Plastic Weather Guard ($15-ish @ Zellers/Walmart) and the UV Screen. Both are pretty awesome.

Bath Tub: Never really used ours much past the first month. Now, PL baths with Benjamin. It's great Dad and Son time and it gives Ben more room to splash around.

Bassinets, Cribs, Pack & Plays: I think from what you said today, your nursery is all set. That's awesome (I believe we were doing our after Ben was home since we only moved in 2 weeks before my due date!). A couple of things on sleeping arrangements. Because his nursery was on the 2nd floor and our bedroom on the 3rd (and because the little people like tighter sleeping quarters), Ben slept in a bassinet in our room for the first few month of so. This made nursing in the night a lot easier. If you want/need a bassinet, feel free to come by and borrow ours. Seriously. We're not using it. If the nursery is close by, don't bother with one. Pack and Plays (those travel cribs) are also great. We have a Graco one. They are heavy as old hell to lug around but very convenient if you plan on visiting. Boy, gone are the days of our parents when they put the baby in the box the radio came in.

A Comfortable Nursing Chair for Mom: Of all the things you can do without, this isn't one of them. While nursing will get easier (I know, it will not feel like it on Day 2-3, but TRUST me on this one, it will) you should get a really comfy chair because you'll be spending a ton of time in it!! I didn't get a fancy rocker or anything although those are neat. Instead, I bought one of those Piong Chairs from IKEA (you know the ones that they have on display being tested this the machine pressing against it the back).

Bouncy Chair for Baby: Or as we call if in our house, the "Magic Chair" ("Chaise Magique" en francais). There's a number of different models that vibrate. We have the Kick & Play from Fisher Price, but there are others that will also do the trick. For a few weeks, this was the only way I could eat breakfast or PL and I could eat dinner. Now, he likes to sit in it and watch me unload the dishwasher.

Monitors: you likely already have one. But just in case, we really like the Fisher Price Sounds & Lights. Sometimes we do pick up our neighbour's baby on it (they have the same monitor) but for the most part we like it.

Blinds: Underneath Benjamin's beautiful roman blinds we installed those old fashioned roller blinds to block out all the light. It really helped in the summer to put him down for naps.

Diapers: Not sure if your going cloth or disposable but if you're considering disposable, check out www.smallplanetinc.com. They are a recycling program for disposable diapers. Several of us in the neighbourhood use them.

CDs: WARNING: There is a ton of really cheesy children's CDs out there. And while its not a priority to run out and get any (Tell your husband to start singing - Benjamin prefers that over anything), we have found a few that he enjoys and we can tolerate.

Check out Amazon for:
Golden Slumbers: A Father's Lullaby
For The Kids
Also, Play Time: Pottery Barn Kids Jazz CD is pretty good.

Ocean Wonders Aquarium: This thing is something else. I'm sure you've heard all the theories about hushing sounds and waves to soothe a baby, well this thing (you can see it on the Fisher Price site) is something else. Benjamin really enjoys it. The wave sounds and bubbling water can send him right to sleep in a few minutes. A great suggestion for a gift if the in-laws are asking!

Mobile: Benjamin also loves his mobile and his Gym. These are great, particularly when he could start to see things better and when I need to have him entertained so I could go to the washroom or answer the phone. We have the Tiny Love Symphony-In-Motion Mobile and the Gymini. Outside of that, we don't really have any "toys" yet except for a few stuffed animals which he is more or less interested in. Again, good grandparent things to ask for later on.

High Chair: We haven't bought one yet. Still doing my research on this one. Stroller: You may already have one. If not, there is a fantastic store in Roncesvalles Village called Macklem's. They have a ton of baby stuff but the most knowledgeable staff and best selection of baby strollers/car seats in the city.

Diaper Bags: Never had one of these. I have a little knapsack that works way better than one of these shoulder strap bags and can hold a ton more if I need to. Diaper Pail: We have a Safety 1st one not the Diaper Genie. The Diaper Genie is a little more $$ and takes special bags with the Safety 1st one we just use long Kitchen Catchers.

Change Table: You might already have one, but just in case - here's a suggestion. We just bought a chest of drawers from IKEA painted it up and bought a change pad for the top. Once they get really active, you end up changing them on the floor and besides. Also when your done with diapers you just remove the change pad and Bob's your uncle.

Other little tidbits - not necessarily product related but that might help make your first few weeks a bit easier:

1. Change your voice mail message to say, we can't come to the phone but our little one is all good. Then turn off your ringers and check messages once or twice a day.
2. Have your husband be the master scheduler for visitors. When they do come and they ask can they bring anything - say sure breakfast, lunch or dinner.
3. Don't let the nurses scare you about breastfeeding. Yes, it is tough starting out, but at the end of the day its all about healthy mom, healthy baby.
4. Keep laughing and sleep as much as you can. Well, this is a start of the new knowledge we've amassed in 4 short months.

I hope this helps. Call my anytime if you have any questions or want to know more about anything. I'm only happy to help. And of course, as Benjamin grows we'll learn more. :) At the end of the day, the most important thing we've figured out is all your little person needs is love, sweet love. And I know you and your husband have that to give him/her in spades. Congratulations my dear. Can't wait to hear your news... Take Care Sweetie and Enjoy the Ride! It's Amazing!!!! Deb

Canada Reads - Preschool Edition

CBC Radio recently wrapped up the All Star Edition. When I get time to read again, I'll weigh in on whether Heather O'Neill's Lullabies for Little Criminals was the best choice.

Until then, I'll have to stick with the short list at our house.
The Night Pirates by Peter Harris and Deborah Allwright
I Know a Rhino by Charles Fuge
Chicken Soup with Rice: A Book of Months by Maurice Sendak
Russell the Sheep by Rob Scotton
Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

Me Time

When you have two kids, a husband and full-time job, you have to work a little harder (ok, a lot harder) to find “me” time. Before children, I could spend an afternoon cuddled up with the Globe crossword or strolling around Kensington Market sampling new Goudas, sipping a latte. Today, it’s more like grabbing a cheese stick and then glancing at the flyers in the loo.

This month, I’ve found some me time. PL & I took the first time filmmakers course at NIFCO. A couple of weeks ago we shot the script on film. It’s a 5-minute piece called “Last Supper” loosely based on a true story about the last family dinner we had with PL’s aunt before she died of cancer (I know, not exactly hilarious material). Right now, we’re editing. Felt great to see people act out my script and of course be behind the camera.

If I Had a Hammer

I'd hammer in the morning
I'd hammer in the evening
All over this land
I'd hammer out danger
I'd hammer out a warning
I'd hammer out love between my brothers and my sisters
All over this land

Today, I signed up to build a house. Cabot Habitat for Humanity is having an Women Build (Aug 12-26). We're going to build a duplex for 2 deserving families in Mount Pearl. What better way to teach Ben & FG about "sharing" and "taking turns" than volunteering? My first time volunteering since they were born. Not sure where I'm getting the time, but I'm finding it!

I've signed up for plastering, drywall, landscaping -- wherever they can put me.
Can't wait for my pink hard hat!

Kissimmee Retreat

Florida is not my first choice for a vacation. But when you're buried in snow and its minus something foolish, spending a week in tacky Kissimmee sounds fantastic. And gawd love PL's parents for organizing the 2nd Annual Bisaillon Summit. The kids literally hopped for 7 days. No mittens, no hats, no heavy boots. Just swimsuits and sunscreen. My best toddler/preschooler tip -- skip Disneyworld and spend the day at Downtown Disney. It's free plus all the store have plenty of interactive things for the kids. Our guys loved the make-your-own Mr. Potato head Bar. And of course the big kids loved the Lego Store. Not sure who did more hopping that afternoon, PL or Ben!