My Bloggie Thingie

Would you believe that it's been 10 YEARS!?!

2010-08-18T08:31:00.000-04:00

I know, I can't believe it!

Sometimes it seems like it was just yesterday!

Other times it feels like TEN l-l-l-l-o-o-o-o-n-n-n-n-g-g-g-g years!

We did the church thing

We did the picture thing even if we felt like goofballs

We did the family thing

MacKenzie's

Wright's

We did the wedding party thing

...and then we did the celebrating!

Three and a half years later (to the day) we did the 'Our Family' thing

The World According to Geordie...

2010-04-14T09:16:00.003-04:00

4200ft, Saddleback, Maine

Geordie's new song (to the tune of Frere Jacques); "Obi Wa-an, Obi Wa-an, Obi Wan, Obi Wan, Obi-Obi-Wa-an, Obi-Obi-Wa-an, Obi Wan, Obi Wan"

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Walking to school I go to hold Geordie's hand, he says, "no thank you! It kind of gives me the creeps."

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Geordie decided to give Callum a hockey party during the Olympics (the Canada/USA game). We made him chicken nachos, wings and bread/dips; even brought him a beer. He decorated with balloons. Red & White. He found 2 blue; "Mummy, I'm going to put the blue balloons down in the basement cause those are USA colours and we don't want to see those."

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Geordie is on a bit of a nickname kick. If your name is one syllable, he makes it more. If it is more than one, he makes it one. The other day he decided to give Nana a nickname; he told her that he was going to call her Jake.

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We're having a little trouble with Geordie and girls. There are just too many of them! Don't even bother asking him about his girlfriend. Too many and they are all over the continent! There is one girl, in particular who is in grade 6. Her name is Jenna, although he calls her Jenny, I don't bother asking.

Well, he loves waiting around for her, and walking home with her. One day Geordie and Callum went out for a bike ride and when they drove past the park, people were calling Geordie's name. Jenna was one of them. End result, Geordie and Callum are at the park.

The next week, Jenna was walking home with Geordie. My mother and I were walking behind them. He's trying to impress her with various stories (yes, at this age!) Then she asks;

Jenna: "So, do you like to go to Ardmore?"

Geordie: "Yes, when you're there!"

I will remind you that we are right behind them!

When it was time to say good bye to Jenna, Geordie goes to give her a hug and while hugging her he says, "you know, we're like boyfriend and girlfriend".

Next day, we go to pick him up from school. In the school yard we suddenly hear from one of his classmates father's, "Geordie kissed you?!?"

You then see Geordie with this huge grin yelling out, "YUP!! I KISSED KEELY!!! RIGHT ON THE CHEEK!!!".

He was very proud of himself.

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Geordie; "Mummy, I know that you know everything. Then you tell me and Daddy"

*note; no coaxing here.

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Geordie's Grannie is very big on grammar. She knows her stuff. Unfortunately Geordie has his own ideas AND sticks to them;

Geordie: "...me and Daddy..."

Grannie: "Daddy and I"

Geordie: "no, me and Daddy"

Grannie: "the correct way is to say, Daddy and I"

Geordie: "why?"

Grannie: "you put the other person first, it's polite"

Geordie: "well, I say me and Daddy you can say that"

Grannie: "but it's not correct"

Geordie: " Me and Daddy..."

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Bunny Hill or Ski Bunny?!?

2010-02-23T15:44:00.004-05:00

Last week on what was 'Family Day' we all went skiing.

It was my first time.

Never really thought of skiing as being my thing. I have always been strong in sports just never really liked the idea of doing something that you can fall at. Fail, I do not have a problem with, fall...totally different story.

Same thing with skating. Although I can do it, and took lessons as a child. I remember not really enjoying it, I was timid because I was always afraid of falling.

Thing is we have a trip coming up, a ski trip, for March Break. We all know that Geordie can ski, remember?!? Well, we figured that I should learn so that Callum could have some time to do the trickier hills and Geordie would not have to stay off the hills at that time.

So, last Monday up to Martock we went...

Both Geordie and I had a lesson. Different instructors, of course. Geordie's lesson was on the big hill. Mine started on a very small hill; far away from the bunny hill. While Geordie was learning French fry turns and hockey stops I was learning pizza turns and snowplow stops.

So, here is Geordie. This is now our retirement plan...

Notice the backwards skiing, first time doing that. Wish we had filmed him by the end of the day. He could go front to back and back to front again and again in the blink of an eye.

Then there is me. Well, I do not have the NO FEAR of Geordie but I was much better than I thought I would be. When I put on the boots, I thought that I would hate it! Those are the most uncomfortable things to wear!

So I have my lesson, I do okay. I fell once...and you know what?! I didn't get hurt. Once I had the fall behind me I was fearless! Okay, maybe I wasn't but it makes for such a better story!

After my lesson Callum and Geordie joined me on the bunny hill and we all went down together. Well, Callum stayed by me, Geordie went down, back up and down again in the one time it took us to go down.

Finally, my third time going down after my lesson went great, or so I thought...

Here are the thoughts that were going through my head as I go down the bunny hill ;

- I'm AWESOME!

- I can't believe I'm going this fast...ALREADY!!!

- I'm a natural!!

- Why is this the first time I'm trying this?!?

- I'm too awesome to start so late!

- Sure, not as good as Jenn Heil but I'm sure she was just like me!

- The possibilities that I threw away by not skiing until now?!

- I could have been an Olympian!!

- The speed I am going is unreal!

- The hill is going to use me as an example to all

yes, all these thoughts, and more...

Now, of course I prefer to show my Princessy, gorgeous, totally put together side but here, for one time only, I will show my, well, spazzy side. Very few people see this...and yes, I am sharing it with y'all!!

When watching, please remember all the thoughts that were going through my head while this is taking place...and that the camera adds 10lbs! ;)

I have a problem with staring at my feet as I go making me look even more spazzy...

The next time I went down, again, the same thoughts were going through my head until Geordie passes me going much, much faster; does a hockey stop in front of me; turns around and starts skiing backwards saying, "Mummy!! You're doing great!! Come on!! You Can Do It!! Just follow me!!"

Bubble burst!

Then I see the video...now I question EVERYTHING I have ever done where I thought I did a great job and looked cool!! :(

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So! I Ran a 1/2 Marathon...

2010-02-08T18:46:00.008-05:00

...and lived!!! Although, let me tell you, it was very shaky towards the end!

The morning started out great. I was psyched that it was at 9AM! We usually have runs at 8:30AM and I am NOT a morning person. Could not do it to save my life! I'm totally one of those '5 minutes makes so much of a difference in the morning' type so having a whole half hour?!? Pure Heaven!

Anyway... it was said that it was -10C (14F). Although it felt cold, I did not think that it was THAT cold! The gals that I have latched on to all met up and then we went to the starting post.

You see us? We're in the back!

Doing something I like to call 'penguining' (see Happy Feet if unsure of that one!)

So...now do you see us?

Don't worry...neither do I! This is just here to give you an idea.

On to the run;

Started out great, there wasn't as much talk as there usually is but all was good!

It was a little annoying when the wind was against you. Then you think, great it will be behind us when we come back! Think again...this is Nova Scotia! The wind changes in the blink of an eye! Therefore, the wind seemed to almost always be against us!

Half way through I had to stop to un-stuff my socks that were bunching up under my toes. Let me tell you, THAT HURTS! Lesson learned; do not wear socks that you have only worn on shorter runs.

Then we're on the last bit... 0.6K left to be exact (0.372822 mi). Almost to the top of the steep hill that is at the end. I start to feel nauseous. I try to ignore it. It's getting worse. I mention it to my amazingly super understanding great running friend. Next thing I know I'm finding it hard to focus and all I'm hearing is, "Helen! Helen! Look at me!" over and over.

At this point here is what is running through my head;

1) I'm going to faint! Why am I going to faint?!? There's only .6 left!!

2) Kelly needs to leave me! I'm close I will be fine! She needs to go! I can't ruin this for her!

3) OH NO!!! I'm not going to make it!! I have come this far.

4) Okay...how am I going to finish it?!? Do you think I can crawl?

My friend squirts Gatorade in my mouth. I sit down, she stuffs jelly beans in my mouth. Seriously! She holds my face and stuffs them in! At this point I remember her saying, "they fell on white snow, it's okay!". In her haste to get the beans out for me they all fell out of her pocket. Would love to see how the dog acts who finds those.

A minute or two later we were walking out of the park and then running the rest of the way. At that point I felt great! We were at the end and what makes it even better is having the rest of the crew at the end yelling for you...and bacon!

THE END!

You don't seriously think that I got away with it that easily do you?!?

Finished the Half, gave out hugs, put in my popsicle stick number, went on about the 'about to faint' situation. Then, walking to the car, in the parking lot... slip on some ice and WHAM!, down on the ground!

Best feeling in the world! That cold ice and snow on my back and legs...well, I highly recommend it to anyone after a half marathon! :)

Here's to my first half and great running mates!

Next one is in May! :oP

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Helping a Parent Along...

2010-01-26T15:29:00.007-05:00

Canada is a little different than USA and we are using this to our advantage!!

Last week I was caught on the ice at Geordie's school. A couple of the father's had to help me out. One noticed the Georgia license plate and commented. I will admit to saying, 'yes' with a slight drawl.

But our real usage of the USA/Canadian difference is in parenting.

We have been known to say such things as;

"No, they do not allow that in Canada!"

"They do not have that in Canada!"

"Yeah, Canada, it's a little different and there are different rules"

So now, if we do not have something or say no to doing something Geordie automaticly thinks that Canada just does not have it;

Geordie was watching tv one day and needed to leave the room for a second;

Geordie: "Mummy, pause it please!"

Me: "Oh, sorry Geordie, there is no pause here."

Geordie: "UGH!!! They don't have pause in Canada?!?!"

So, are you happy to be home?!?

2010-01-22T09:13:00.008-05:00

That's the number one question we get!!
Seriously thinking of answering the question with, "NO!" just to see what kind of reaction I would get.

Yes, we are happy to be home.

The next question is; "Is it everything you hoped it would be?"

Ah, I guess. We didn't really know what to expect.

The last time we lived here, we were not married, Geordie was not around and we were students rather than professionals. Much different life! We could also go through the day without complaining about any aches or pains AND have more than one drink and wake up fine the next morning!

Here are a few things that we did expect:

The ocean, and how much Geordie loves it!

Walking/scooting to school... 1km (.6mile) each way

The culture... yes, that is a beer!

Wearing long johns under your Hallowe'en costume. Geordie wanted to be a skeleton, I went looking at all the costumes and they were horrible so...we made it! Less than $20 for supplies; horribly cheap looking pre-made costume $30! ...and this one glowed in the dark!

Snow in November!!!

by the way; while everyone else was cursing this snow Geordie and I were strolling in it, loving every minute of it!!

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HELLO WORLD!!!!

2010-01-20T08:55:00.003-05:00

It has been three months and fourteen days that we have been back in The Great White North, eh?! -and that is one of the only times that I have said "eh"! I will admit to making statements sound like questions though!

I'll take you back to October; the travel up was great! Callum's brother came down and helped us drive back. One 26ft Uhaul with trailer carrying our car and our other car driving in convoy. We broke up the drive over five days.

Day one saw not one, but two flat tires. Luckily it happened when we were parking the Uhaul at the hotel in the evening.

Day two was a long day of driving but all were in good spirits and Callum's brother was a demon with the Uhaul! A demon in a good way...he left 15 minutes before us and we never caught up to him!

Day three we took out the brand new Nintendo DS...it was a quiet day.

Day four; Freeport...need I say more?!? -although when shopping Freeport do not go with 3 males!

Day five was the home stretch! We stayed the night before in Houlton, ME so that we would be fresh for the border crossing. All paperwork was in order, plus copies of everything just in case! Stopped on the US side to deal with the cars (one is Canadian the other American). That took about 15 minutes.

Then on to the Canadian side...lots of paperwork but we had everything that was needed. Finished in about 20-30 minutes then the Customs person smiles at us and says, "Welcome back!". That was it, we were done. They didn't even look in the cars let alone open the truck. Callum was mad! All that strategical packing...

Walking back to the cars;

Callum: "Well, we're Canadian again!"

Geordie: "I don't like Canadians."

An hour later he was back to being happy about being Canadian!

Now he is loving it!! First day of skiing, after one lesson he was ready for the big hill;

...although once in a while he will remind us that when he's 18 he is moving back to Georgia.

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Moving right along...

2009-10-03T20:36:00.004-04:00

Finally on the road;

Not without some drama;

On our way home;

Counting Down!

2009-09-21T16:39:00.004-04:00

11 more sleeps and we're gone!

Lots to do, trying not to get sidetracked. As well as packing and dealing with all the paperwork also trying to get resume up and at'em as well as looking for work. So, trying to stay away from my cute little computer...kind of...

Geordie's doing well. He goes back and forth between wanting to go and not wanting to go. Most of the time he is more for the 'wanting to go' side but once in awhile he gets a little teary-eyed at the thought of leaving his friends.

One afternoon within half an hour he called for his gurls 4 times. They were doing homework. Finally on the fourth time when they said that they couldn't come out he said, 'Fine then! I'm moving to Canada tomorrow and you will never see me again because I will be there until I die!!"

Drama Queen anyone?!?!?

Speaking of which. This was Callum just seconds a go when Geordie had a small toy up to his lips;

Callum: "Get that out of your mouth!! You don't put small things in your mouth. You could swallow it and choke then we will have to take you to the hospital and spend at least $500! Wait until we are back in Canada!"

Off to be somewhat useful!!! Be around soon!!

Busy Bees!! ...well, people!

2009-09-08T07:30:00.001-04:00

We have been crazy busy!

Trying to get everything together for the move.

This is not a complaint...AT ALL!!!

I am merely stating a fact!!!! :)

All summer Geordie has been talking about 'running a race' so we found a children's race for him. He did it this weekend. The US 10K Classic;

It was 0.5K (0.31 miles). There were 5 races for children and they were broken up by age, Geordie's race was for 5 & 6 year olds. Parents were allowed to run with the children, so Callum did. To be honest, I was more afraid for Callum running it than Geordie.

Look under the ( d's ) you will find Callum & Geordie

When the race started Callum was running behind Geordie but Geordie kept turning around to see where he was. So Callum quickly changed his strategy and moved in front of him;

Look at that form... and that hair...

Both 'boys' ran the whole race. I had told them both it's perfectly fine if you need to stop and walk. They had paced themselves well and did a lot of passing down the 'backstretch'. By the time Geordie thought about walking he could see the finish line.

If you ask Geordie he thinks that he came in second. The first 10 girls and first 10 boys receive a medal.

We just know that he was in the top 10 for boys and his time was somewhere around 3 minutes and 23 seconds;

...take note of the 'cheese smile'

The proud parents and the tired of pictures Geordie!

**update; Callum slept well that night! ;)

Sweet Home Nova Scotia...

2009-09-02T07:57:00.003-04:00

Well, it's final! We are moving home!

Kinda' crazy! As most of you know we have been here, in the south, for almost 6 years (OCt 24th will be our sixth 'anniversary'). Unfortunately, we have been trying to get out for four and a half of those years.

Since spring, Callum has been actually looking for a job outside the automotive industry, just like everyone else.

We had decided that we would go anywhere from Toronto to Halifax. We were also not going to totally rule out some countries in Europe. During the week I would weed through jobs and send them to him. On the weekend Callum would apply.

Skip to now. We are signed, sealed and about to be delivered!!!!

If Callum was to write down everything that he wants in a job, this would pretty much be it. It's a toaster bonus that it happens to be back home.

Now, it's my turn! Weeding through jobs for me and then applying. Meanwhile, getting everything sorted here. We have had 4 moving estimators come, and a quote from Uhaul.

Uhaul is looking pretty good right now.

...and just when I started liking grits!!!

I am SO going to heaven!

2009-08-27T07:48:00.005-04:00

A cute little 112 year old (not looking a day over 80, I might add!) arrived at the pearly gates;

St. Peter: "Yes my dear, what makes you worthy of entrance?"

Cute Little 112 year old: "I lived in rural Georgia for five years, 11 months, 5 of those years under the Bush Administration..."

...and with that the bells rang, the choirs sang and the gates burst open...

St. Peter: "Come in, come in, my dear. You have served your time in hell!"

What's really in a name...

2009-08-17T15:43:00.006-04:00

I was a single parent this weekend.

Callum was away so it was just Geordie and I!

It just happened that my brother's girlfriend was near by for the weekend so we went over to visit. It was a quick trip as she was here on business and didn't have that much time. We left Saturday around noon. Checked in to the hotel and then went swimming for a bit.

Geordie knew that 'my friend' was coming to meet us. He kept asking questions about her.

Finally when 'my friend' knocked on the door Geordie went and hid under the desk.

Tara walks in and as she talks Geordie peeks out. For 30 seconds he just stood there. He didn't know what to do. Then...the showman appears!

What a showoff he is!!! It's insane!!!

We had been in the hotel room for a bit and Geordie whispers to me; "what's her name again?" Of course, you know that a five year old whisper is the equivalent to an adult talking!

Geordie has the ability to remember EVERYTHING about someone...except their name! He can tall you what size shoe you have or what you ate when you were with him, but tell you your name...very unlikely!

So, we went out to dinner

This is Geordie's new 'cheese smile'.

When we were waiting for our table Geordie was even more rambunctious than usual. When I went to tell him to settle down I get;

"I know Mummy. It's just that I'm so excited that Tara's here. I can't help it."

Again, using the whisper!

After supper we took Tara to try a donut from Krispy Kreme as we do not have it back home...just the commercial!!

eat your heart out Greg!

Geordie enjoyed it too;

Geordie didn't stop talking about Tara for the rest of the night, and half the next day! aaaaahhhh...young luv!!

update: girlfriend is now soon to be sister-in-law!

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Wordless Wednesday - sk8er little dude!

2009-08-12T07:37:00.006-04:00

We Survived...with a phone call home of course!

2009-08-10T10:01:00.008-04:00

Well, we have 2 days of big school under our belt and now into the first full week.

Day 1; I picked him up and everything was great! The whole car line thing down here is definitely something to see! He enjoyed his first day. In his class is a girl (cute, blonde) who was in his class two years a go in nursery school. Back then she went back and forth between Geordie and his friend. Now she goes to church with Geordie's friend so she is his friend's girlfriend. We'll see if that's the same by the end of the week.

We have been told that he needs to look good everyday because she is in his class.

Before I tell about day 2 I will try and explain about the discipline system in his class.

Everyone starts with a green stamp. This is Groovy Green, it means you have had a good day.

Proud Purple - you had an exceptionally great day!

Okay Orange - you have been talked to once.

Watch out White (I think) - you have been talked to again and during play time after lunch you have to do laps of the playground.

Yikes Yellow - your parents are called.

Boo Blue - office!

Now...

Day 2; Callum dropped him off in the car line. Everything went fine. Around 1:oo I get a phone call from his teacher. Yup...Geordie was on Yikes Yellow!

He was 'cutting up' (didn't think it would be appropriate to ask what that was at the time, figured it meant messing around and asked a friend later on) not listening, etc...

The teacher said that usually there are a couple of children who test them in the first week of school (for us day 2!). They just want to get a handle on things right away. She was incredibly apologetic. As we all know, Geordie is beyond a tester (he had a letter home in his first week last year at nursery school as well, same deal...seeing how far he can go) and he needs to be put in his place right away or he will keep trying.

Then I had to talk to Geordie. He was upset;

Geordie: "Mummy?"

Me: "Geordie, what's going on?"

Geordie: "I don't know." (through tears)

Me: "Well, why aren't you listening?" Totally nice voice

Geordie: "I don't know. (again, through tears) I don't want to be here. I just want to be home with you forever!"

Me: "OKAY!!! I'll come and get you and you can stay with me forever! You'll never have to go to that bad school again!!!"

Seriously?!?! Do you think I said that?!?!

Of course I didn't!!!! But it didn't stop me from thinking it!!!!

Went on to tell him that going to school is like Daddy going to work and reminded him what he likes about it. Also the whole love you but disappointed, yadda, yadda, yadda...

When I picked him up an hour and a half later. All was well!

Callum and I discussed it and we felt that he was disciplined enough...this time! If it happens again, he won't be so lucky!

That evening when I was talking to Geordie;

Me: "Geordie, did you do laps during your play time outside?"

Geordie: "Oh yes, we ran them."

Me: "WE?!?! Who else?"

Geordie: "Me and 'the girl'!"

...and so it begins!!!!

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He's not ready for school...

2009-08-06T10:00:00.009-04:00

He's still my baby!!!!

Okay! Maybe it's not him! Maybe it's me! Callum tells me it's me!

Today was Geordie's first day at school, school. Not a nursery school, but an honest to goodness public school where they HAVE to take him!

The other night we went for orientation where we met the teacher, checked out the classroom, the school, etc...

There was quite a celebration going on with various inflatables and food. It was actually a great way to start things off. The only thing we found a little different was that they were giving out free Bibles, again public school ;

It ended up that the local church, where many of our friends go and work, were putting the whole thing on. They also donated all the school supplies, including back pack. Thanks!

Last night Geordie was in bed by 7:30, I had his lunch and bag packed by 7:45. At about 8:15 I heard some noise up in his room. After a bit I went up to check on him. There he was in his boxers and a t-shirt lying in bed. When we put him down he was in his cute little pyjamas. I asked him why he changed;

"I'm a big boy now, I'm starting big school tomorrow so I have to wear this to bed now. Just before I fall asleep I'll have to take my shirt off and just sleep in my boxers. Remember Mummy, I'm getting older now."

This morning when I went in to wake him up. He was a little awake and asked if it was time to get up. I told him he had a couple more minutes and laid down beside him. He told me he needed a little bit of alone time. *sniff, sniff*

As Callum pointed out, he is not making it any easier on us.

Look how far I went! I pulled a 'my father' and took a picture of him waking up.

Didn't even realize I was doing it until after it was done. It's like my father was sitting on my shoulder saying, "Princess, get your camera, go to the bedroom and call out 'Geordie', SNAP!"

To Geordie, I apologize...still putting it up though!

While Geordie got dressed, including gel and 'oderant so that he smells good! I worked on the breakfast. Whole grain flax seed waffle with smoothie. One of his favourites! Note; smoothie seriously takes 3 minutes to make (frozen bananas, yogurt, milk, orange juice, ice)

Lunch had been packed the night before. Homemade pizza pockets and fruit salad. Check out the spork! Love it!!

Lunch is packed. Last week I had ordered some new products for lunches from One Small Step. Great new company that have amazingly great service. I was going back and forth between the lunchbots and another product. I ordered the other product and when it arrived I was very unimpressed with it. They had no problem exchanging it and within less than a week I had lunchbots.

Sorry about the picture, totally bloggers fault! :oP

It is going to be interesting to hear how many other children bring their lunch. When we asked the teacher and teacher's assistant about Geordie bringing his lunch, we kind of got the feeling that they thought that, that was not normal! You can get lunch at the cafeteria for $1.65.

We decided last night to start the first day exactly as it will always be. Callum will be driving Geordie to school so we didn't want to freak him out and have me go as well. Although I really wanted to go. We just thought that having me go would be more for me than for Geordie. Since the orientation was the other night and we knew what teacher he was getting, had met her and checked out the classroom we figured all was well.

Here is Geordie's 'camera' pose.

First time in his new seat.

Before this we had just been switching off cars because we were so close.

Truth, didn't want him to go! He is telling me to close the door.

There they go. Here comes the sniffles.

Callum called me after he dropped him off.

That's where Callum learned that he wasn't ready either.

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Wordless Wednesday; and so it begins...

2009-08-05T10:06:00.001-04:00

Child Labour?!?!?

2009-08-03T11:45:00.006-04:00

Last weekend Geordie asked to have a lemonade stand. Conversation went like this;

Geordie: "Mummy, can I have a lemonade stand?"

Me: "Sure, you can have it tomorrow (Saturday) morning in front of the house."

Geordie: "Oh no, that wouldn't be good. Nobody comes down our street. We need to find another place."

Me: "People will be coming down tomorrow. There are yard sales going on throughout the neighbourhood so there will be a lot of traffic."

Geordie: "okay." not totally convinced!

So Saturday morning...well before 9 AM this was the scene outside our house;

Of course...it was slow moving at first and someone was just as excited to have access to non-stop lemonade.

The first car came down and Geordie stood beside his table and waved. The car turned around in the cul-de-sac and came up, stopped and gave him some money. He was okay with that! He quickly figured out that, that was what he needed to do; stand up and wave. His next customer was a very southern woman. He tried to only fill her glass up half way to which she responded, "oh no baby! you need to fill that up!".

So, little by little business picked up. Some just gave money. Others did buy a glass. Most people asked if this was the only thing that we were selling. The yard sale down here is a way of life! It's crazy. I am positive that some people make their living from it. You would not believe the amount of vehicles that drive around with trailors behind them going from yard sale to yard sale.

Well, in the end Geordie made $7.78. He was very happy;

What did he do with the money?!?!? He bought 'checkmarks'!

Sounds weird, huh?!? Or should I say, "eh"?!?

This idea started from a friend. Her children do various 'chores' to get checkmarks. Each checkmark is worth a dollar. They work their way up to the amount they need, to get what they want. For example her 8 year old (who was 7 at the time) got a Wii this way.

Geordie wanted the Lego Star Wars game which was $20 so he had to get 20 checks. He would do various things like clean the garage, help with laundry, vaccuum. We do not give checks for the regular things that he has to do such as clean up his toys. Once or twice we gave him a check just because he was incredibly well mannered somewhere or did a good deed.

Once he had the money from his sale we thought, why not let him buy some checks as well?!?

So, 7 check marks he bought! ...and is he ever happy!!

What do you do to teach your child that not everything comes for free or when they want it?

--------

Maybe those NRA guys aren't that bad...

2009-07-23T13:47:00.006-04:00

Recently we have been having many phone calls from the NRA. Usually we have not been home to answer, or I did not get to the phone in enough time.

Today I did;

me: "Hello"

NRA: "Hello, could I speak to Mr Wright please?"

me: "I'm sorry, he's not here right now. Can I take a message?"

NRA: "No, that's okay, we'll call at another time."

me: "Can I ask who is calling?"

NRA: "This is the National Rifle Association"

I will admit, hearing that was a little weird.

me: "Oh, is it possible for you to take us off your list? We're Canadian!"

NRA: "Sure, I'm sorry. We did not know of your circumstances. I will take you off the list right now!"

I never realized that being a Canadian was a circumstance!

I will say that the representative I talked to was incredibly polite and did not push anything. I still would not like to meet up with them for some 'fun' though!

Wordless Wednesday - My Rednecks!

2009-07-22T00:00:00.000-04:00

Please summer just end...

2009-07-20T10:28:00.003-04:00

While everyone back home is just beginning their summer (or quarter of the way into it) I have had it with summer. March/April here is like June back home; May is like July/August. There is such a thing as having too much of a good thing!

School gets out here at the end of May, for the first two weeks the children on our street are outside all day long playing. It's great! and takes me back to my childhood (*sniff*) when we would go out for the whole day and play. Well, as I said, that happens for approximately two weeks, then it's too hot for them to go out. Some are then in all day camps and others stay in their house ALL DAY LONG!

This week is our first week without any classes or lessons. At this point I am so tired of summer I am ready to just stay in the house all day and do nothing. Luckily the last couple of days have had a nice breeze (usually there is no breeze what-so-ever at all!). But the 2 weeks before that it was hot and humid and I was just tired of it! I found that I didn't want to do anything, especially make supper at the end of the day. We had one week where we ate out three times!!! For us, that's huge!!!! We might eat out once or twice a month.

So for me, I am done with summer. Although give me the chance and I would love to enjoy some of the summer back home... with the breeze and wearing shorts with long sleeve shirts/jackets (a popular fashion of the eas' coast). All I know is that when the time comes and we are finally back in Canada...I will never complain about the cold again!!

COLD!!! BRING IT ON!!!!

We have to find a lot of indoor activities...here's one!

Geordie loves the Chipmunks although he calls them Simon and the Chipmunks. His reasoning; "Simon is the smartest, and my favourite so he should be in charge!"

If I Want It, I Get It!!!!

2009-07-14T16:18:00.001-04:00

This weekend past was pretty big back home!

Sir Paul McCartney played Halifax, in his only Canadian show!

Now my Father is an incredibly huge McCartney fan and believes that they have some kind of bond as they are both left handed (remember my bubble and that bubbles do not fall far from the sky). So, the 'children' (a.k.a. The boys, Callum, and I) got Dad tickets.

In the end it was the 3 MacKenzie Boys that went. **

They said that they had a great time.

Now, as I am in Georgia, I was not there. Of course this killed me. I actually have seen Paul McCartney in concert and he's amazing!!!! If you ever get the chance...GO!! So it wasn't entirely that, what bothered me is the fact that they were all doing something together and I wasn't there. Me?!?! Princess?!?! Seriously?!?! How can they have fun without me?!?!?

Yes, my friends I suffer from F.O.M.O. (Fear Of Missing out).
Unfortunately, I have passed this fear on to Geordie as well.

Since, in my bubble, I get everything I want...

WE HAD A GREAT TIME!!!!!!

**Nobody leaves Sissy out!

----------

Why Was I Not Warned?!?!?

2009-07-13T15:00:00.006-04:00

Geordie has always been a sweet easy going child.

Sure he has bad ass tendencies, a stubborn streak so long it might get me home, and negotiates till the cows come.

...but he has pretty much been a go with the flow kind of guy!

Don't get me wrong...he still is that way, for the most part, but a couple of months ago once in a while we get this child who looks like our sweet, adorable easy going, non tantrumy Geordie but instead we get a tantrum throwing, talking back, demanding little bugger!

At first we were worried. I had never heard of this 'stage' we thought it was just us! Luckily, mum's talk, and I found out that everyone was having the same problem!! One friend even referred to it as, "the f-ing fives".

We are dealing with this 'phase' using 'time outs', alone time (which we know is the worst thing for Geordie), and taking things away. We have been doing well (yes, I'm patting ourselves on the back). We are following through (99% of the time, okay maybe 92%..but still!!!), and we are not raising our voices.

...but, how much longer will this last?!?!? how much longer will we last?!?!?

Why did I not know about this stage?!?
Did you go through it? Are you going through it?
What did you do?

If you have yet to get to this stage, be warned!!! This makes me want to go back to those 'attitude threes'!!!

---------------

Wordless Wednesday...almost

2009-07-08T10:33:00.004-04:00

2009-06-26T11:06:00.003-04:00

So, I did it! 5K in high 30's C / almost 100 F... in the shade!! Let me tell you though...there was not much shade. Way too hot for this Canadian Girl, but I did it. As you can see my time is to the left!

Now...off to find a 10K! Preferably in the fall...and preferably in Canada! :oP

Meanwhile, would you believe that our child is a s*@t disturber?!?!?

Hard to believe, isn't it?!?!?

The other day at Karate, there is another child who is exactly 2 years older than Geordie and has taken a liking to him. Geordie doesn't really want to have anything to do with him. So, he says hi to the child but tries not to sit by him. To be honest, I can see why Geordie wants to stay clear of him.

Yesterday, this child kept coming up to me to 'tattle' on Geordie. First the "he said he won't be my friend" then a couple other things then finally he came up to me and told me that Geordie just punched him. Guess what?!?! Geordie wasn't even near him when he said it happened.

Five minutes later the boy went to sit next to Geordie, next thing I know that child is whining about having red eyes. He came over to his mother and asked her about his red eyes and she told him that they were not red. He went back and sat next to Geordie;

Annoying child: "my eyes aren't red"

Geordie: "Yes they are. I can see it! It's really red!"

Annoying Child: "really!??! but my mother said they weren't" starting to freak a little

Geordie: totally calm "Nope! They're bright red!"

Unfortunately, the apple does not fall far from the tree. BOTH Callum and I love pushing other people's buttons!

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1/2 Fish

2009-06-19T08:31:00.007-04:00

Summer is coming along meltingly! Seriously! I am melting away...in more ways than one!!! Tomorrow is my 5K. The weather is saying, 'feels like' 38 C. Here's hoping the route is shaded!!

The swimming lessons are going great! Here's Geordie in his first session of swimming lessons.

Front crawl (or what they call free style); back crawl; breast stroke and play time at the end! Would you believe that the water is 12ft deep here. He knows that it's "2 Grandad's" long and thinks absolutely nothing of it! Our philosophy...what's the difference between 12 ft or 4 ft for him?!?!?

Wordless Wednesday - Summer Fun!

2009-06-17T08:24:00.000-04:00

Unclear & 'Misread-able'

2009-06-15T09:26:00.008-04:00

So I received a comment the other day by anonymous. I did not take it as 'trolly', but I do feel that it is one for discussion.

In my post last week; 'Thoughts on moving...by Geordie'.

I wrote how I had told him, 'We are a lot different than most of the people here, we think and believe in different things and we want to be with other people who are more like us.'

I realize now that it was unclear and could be misread. I have also discussed this with Geordie.

My new friend Newt from the Tyler, Texas area pointed this out to me by commenting;

Anonymous said...: "we think and believe in different things and we want to be with other people who are more like us"

Are the "people who are more like us" those who are into diversity and who appreciate other people with different lifestyles, outlooks, etc.?

Newt

So, to answer your question Newt, and to expand on something I should have in the first place;

Yes, 'the people who are more like us' ARE into diversity and appreciate other people with different lifestyles, outlooks, etc... That is why we want to be surrounded by them.

Being here for almost 6 years we have taken in the culture, we now say grill instead of BBQ. We do not regret the move here as it has taught us a lot. Unfortunately, though, where we live there is not much diversity, different lifestyles and/or outlooks. There is also not a lot of appreciation of other cultures. As always, I will point out that this is not everyone. We have surrounded ourselves with some great people, who do think differently than us and yet, we still love them! ;)

So, I probably should have said something like '...we want to be surrounded by diversity and appreciation of many cultures...'

Does that sound right?!?
Have you ever been unclear and/or misread?

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Virginia is for Lovers...

2009-06-12T10:48:00.011-04:00

That is actually Virginia's claim to fame. I find this extremely funny as Callum and I have only ever been there with Geordie in tow AND HIS PARENTS!!!!!

Last weekend at a glance;

Race wise...good quali, horrible first race, found out something happened to the carbor-thingie, had to work for a while fixing it; race final next am went extremely well.

The beginning... we're the orange car. I think they call it a Lola but truthfully I don't know if that means the type (like sedan), the company (like Honda), or the make (like Accord)...and again, I think that it's a Lola.

The middle...

Geordie's "Grandpa just passed someone" dance.

The End

1st in class, 3rd overall!

Driving from the track to the podium (picture by Geordie)

'The Team'

Driving back to the garage from the podium

...and, as always, he was catered too;

Here's the view from my chair, where I was more than excited that there was WiFi for me and my little friend. I asked if they needed any help once or twice...well, maybe I just thought of asking; As they say, it's the thought that counts! ;)

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Wordless Wednesday - Graduation of a Pre-schooler Prt II

2009-06-10T10:11:00.004-04:00

*** If you missed it, here's Graduation Prt I!

Creative Conversations...

2009-06-08T13:31:00.006-04:00

Although Geordie is going through a huge, "I don't like girls" phase he has a few that seem to be void of this rule.

There are his 10 year old twins across the street, and of course N.J. , then there is Tara!

Tara is my brothers girlfriend and Geordie is more than smitten...still...and he has not seen her since Christmas!!

A couple of weeks a go when we were in Wilmington. We were sitting around Callum's parents table having lunch discussing something or other that had absolutely nothing to do with anything Tara!;

Grandpa: "...the little blonde one?"

Geordie: (who was not even involved in this conversation) "who? what? Do you mean Tara?!?"

Grannie: "Who is Tara?"

Me: "Greg's girlfriend."

Geordie: "Who's Greg?!?"

Yes, my friends...complete denial!

-------
A couple of weeks a go Callum and I were discussing a 'project' that Geordie needed to do for his graduation;

Me: "Oh, it says that he can draw us, we don't need to get a picture, we'll just get him to draw one."

Callum: "He can draw us?!?!?!"

Me: "Yes! That's what it says."

Callum: "Okay?!?! But I'm telling you now...it is NOT going to look like us!!"

--------
Callum called home, Geordie answered;

Callum: "Did you call?"

Geordie: "No."

Callum: "Did Mummy call?"

Geordie: "No"

Callum: "Are you sure?"

* this from the guy who you have to ask 'did the phone ring while I was gone? did you answer it?' too!

Geordie: "Daddy, I know that Mummy did not call you!"

Callum: "Is Mummy sitting right beside you?"

Geordie: "No, she's in the shower, that's how I know she didn't call you. Can you call back later please?"

Callum: "Yes" ...feeling a little silly.

--------

Graduation of a pre-schooler (part I)

2009-06-04T09:38:00.004-04:00

Here is the beginning of Geordie's 'graduation'. He is front row middle. He is the loud voice that you can hear clearly until there are words that he is unsure of...although, that didn't stop him from belting it out loud and clear! It's possible that he is the only child in his class who did not know this song until he was taught it here. ;)

Anyone care to bet money that Callum rolled his eyes at the chorus of 'aaaaahhhhhsss' from the parents!??!!!

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Thoughts on Moving...by Geordie

2009-06-02T14:00:00.003-04:00

* This is all talk, there is no moving...yet!*

Geordie has been talking a lot about moving lately. A couple of weeks a go this conversation came up;

Geordie; "Why are we moving?"

Me; "Mummy & Daddy are not from here and we only came down here to live for a bit and experience a different 'culture' and we feel that our time is more than up."

Geordie; "But I like it here. I don't want to leave my girls! Why do we have to leave?"

Me; "Well, it's kind of hard to explain but this is not exactly a great fit for Mummy and Daddy. We are a lot different than most of the people here, we think and believe in different things and we want to be with other people who are more like us. Plus, we like winter. Remember Mummy & Daddy are Canadian."

Geordie; "But I'm from here."

Me; "Yes, you were born here but you are also a Canadian citizen because Mummy & Daddy are. Just like Daddy is Canadian but he is also Scottish because that's where Grannie & Grandpa are from."

Geordie; "I like it here though."

Me; "I know, but you'll like it there too. You'll make more friends and there will be things to do there that you can't do here...like skiing and snowboarding."

Geordie; "But I don't have ski boots."

Me; "Well, we can get some. There is also skating."

Geordie; "OH YEAH!!!! ...and then I can do hockey.
Okay...I'm ready, let's move to Canada!"

Since then there has been much talk about moving from Geordie, although nothing has come up yet!
Only problem is that he thinks that moving to Canada means moving to Halifax. We have had to explain that, that might not be the case. Just hoping that wherever we end up they have a skate park as good as Halifax's. He talks about it all the time... to the point where he only goes to the one in Carrollton to practise for the one in Hali!

Here was the conversation the other day;

Geordie; "Will we live with Nana & Grandad?"

Me; "Remember Geordie we might not be moving to Halifax. There are other places in Canada too."

Callum; "...but yes, we would probably stay with Nana & Grandad for a bit and then move to our own home."

Geordie; "But I want to live with Nana & Grandad forever!"

Callum; "Yeah?!?!? Well Mummy & Daddy DON'T!"

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Mumbles on a Monday!

2009-06-01T13:43:00.006-04:00

We have had a crazy couple of weeks. In the last week of school I was trying to get out and do things that I can't do when I have a five year old trailing behind. We had Geordie's graduation (pictures to come soon). Took a trip to Wilmington and spent some great days on the beach! Water at just over 20 degrees Celsius...in May!!! Who can complain!?!?! Does water EVER get that warm back home at any time?!?!?

Then we get back and try and get into a regular routine for summer.

So...this is what we are up too! Mornings consist of yoga for lumpy parts, work (reading, math, geography) then off to swimming lessons. Afternoon some quiet time, then some kind of experiment, finish with an outing (today we are signing up for Karate, we checked out a class last week and Geordie loved it!). Each Wednesday afternoon we have a playdate with friends. Really it's for the mother's sanity but the children think it's totally for them! ;)

This coming weekend we are off to VIRginia for a crazy race weekend. Then back to the 'schedule' next week. We will be spending 10 days at the end of June/beginning of July in Wilmington as Geordie will be going to camp there and Lynn is coming down. We will be able to celebrate Canada Day (July 1st) as well as the 4th of July there. We're looking forward to a laid back beach vacation!! Although, I might drive Lynnie nuts with touristy things. I'm psyched for a ghost walk! Love those things!!

Note; this means that out of 45 days I will be spending 19 with my in-laws.

That's just over 42%...you can now call me Saint Helen! ;)

I have also signed up for a 5K. On June 20th at 10am I will be running in Chandler Park in Atlanta. Do you know how hot that's going to be?!?!?!?! I know I can, I know I can...

So, have you made your plans for this summer?

---------

Bang! Bang! Let's Play.

2009-05-15T14:34:00.009-04:00

I have a few questions before I allow my child to come to your house;

#1 Do you own a gun?

#2 Is that gun under lock?

People might think that I'm crazy but in the first three weeks that we lived here there were at least 6 shootings where a child shot the gun. Yes, they were 'playing' with a gun that they had 'found' that was not under lock and key I'm not even going to mention the fact that it was loaded!

There have been 2 times that I have not asked. Luckily those households ended up fine. But it is something that I will not do again. I'm not chancing it!

Unfortunately we have neighbours who not only have a gun loaded in a shoebox, "but it's okay because it's up high in the closet" they also allow their 9 year old to play with a BB gun out in the middle of the street and yard. They have allowed this since he was 6. Now, please tell me, what do you think will happen when he comes across that 'real' gun?!?

I know people try and tell me that it's about freedom, that they have The Right to Bear Arms but due to my upbringing I fail to see the freedom in any of it.

One bloggie friend mentioned a little while back about how stores are running out of ammunition because people are buying it up like crazy for fear of the Obama administration putting a tax on it. Have I mentioned lately how much I love taxes?!?!

I have been told numerous times that there are laws about guns here and you do have to go through a screening...but I guess there is a loophole. One can buy a gun at a gun show without a background check. Now, how safe does that make you feel?!?!

Georgia also passed a law a couple of years a go allowing you to have a concealed weapon in your car. Again, it's freedom.

So, what do you need to know about a family/house before you allow your child, or yourself to visit?

Many friends were surprised when we allowed Geordie to have a gun with his costume this past Halloween.
It's a toy, he knows this. He also knows that real guns are extremely dangerous.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-05-13T16:12:00.003-04:00

It's A Cultural Thing...

2009-05-12T09:36:00.007-04:00

As Reese Witherspoon's character in Sweet
Home Alabama says, "People need a passport to come here!"

We have found many cultural differences between here and home. Truthfully, we didn't think that we would see as many as we have American television as well as books, magazines, etc...

But alas, there are. Starting with the graduation situation (yes, I realize that rhymes in a weird way... and I'm keeping it!). As soon as the notice came out for the pictures Callum and I were laughing our heads off! Pre-schoolers?!?! Cap & Gown?!?

Back home you do not get a gown until high school graduation (grade 12) but there is no cap. When you graduate from University with an undergrad, again, there is a gown but no cap. When you receive your Masters, during the ceremony at the time you receive your 'papers' they put the cap on you for a second and then take it off. I'm almost positive you have a cap for the ceremony when you receive your PhD. These same 'rules' exist for your grad photos.

Now, as funny as we think this is... HOW CUTE IS THIS PHOTO?!?!?

Yes, I am afraid I have turned into one of those parents!! ...and just wait, the ceremony is this coming Monday evening!

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Wordless Wednesday - Could one be any happier?!?

2009-05-06T13:37:00.001-04:00

Remember my cute little listener?!?!?

2009-05-05T15:30:00.006-04:00

There is a rule in Geordie's class about listening;

-First time you are spoken too you are put on 'green'
-Second time you are spoken too you are put on 'yellow'
-Third time you are spoken too you are put on 'red' and a note goes home to your parents that needs to be signed by one of them.

In the first two weeks of school this year, we had one. Now, in the last two weeks of school we have another.

Truthfully, I'm kind of proud that we have only (knock on wood) had two. Thought that there might be more due to his negotiating skills and stubbornness that could give his Uncle Greg a run for his money.

Here are the 3 this time;

(1) Green - Had to be asked several times to sit up during circle time.

(2) Yellow - Yelling on the way back from the bathroom, after he was told that quiet voices were to be used.

and finally, the one that does not surprise me what-so-ever at all...

(3) Red - Using the building blocks in the classroom as a skateboard immediately after he was told that was not what they were used for and that he was to put them away.

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Possilby too observent!!

2009-05-04T15:25:00.004-04:00

Many of my stories are usually at someone else's expense. Today, and hopefully only today, it will be at mine. This was told to me by Callum who had a hard time getting it out between breathing and wiping the tears away;

Geordie; "Mummy's doing yoga to make her parts long and skinny."

Callum; "What parts? "

Geordie; "You know, those lumpy parts!"

Callum; "What do you mean lumpy parts?"

Geordie; "You know the ones around here (as his hands hover around his belly/waist) that move around like this (then grabbed his belly and shook it up and down)."

Little does he know that those 'lumpy parts' are partially his fault!!!

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Wordless Wednesday - What happens when you snack while baking...

2009-04-29T16:06:00.003-04:00

Still Alive...barely!

2009-04-27T14:29:00.006-04:00

Took a little break! First due to exams, then due to catching up on everything I neglected while studying. On top of that we've been having huge problems with our computer/connection. Thank goodness we have our little friend!

One thing I have come to realize is that not only are we a 2 computer family, but, we are a family that NEEDS a computer. It is no longer a WANT. Can you believe that?!?!? Actually, I bet that most of you are as well. What would happen if your one computer broke down? How long could you go without it?

So, now, not including Callum's work computer we now have as many computers as we do televisions. Funny thing is we use both computers more than we do the television.

We have also been busy with Easter parties, Spring Break (yes, Spring Break for 5 year olds) and a trip to Wilmington. All were great times! Here are some pics of Geordie's school Easter party;

Here's the two 4 year old classes
(please notice the 4 gentlemen on the bottom right)

Here is what I like to call 'Geordie and his big brother, Bubba'!

Remember the Three wise monkeys proverb?!?
Geordie with his good friends;

Finally, on the hunt!
Sorry for the blurriness but I think it's a cute pic!

Through all this we had to deal with a more so than usual bratty phase. Would you believe that he started to yell at us?!?! I know!! I was dumb founded!! By the 3rd time he was in time out and after the 5th time (when he did it at a friends house where I had the back up of another mother who had been having the same problem at the same time...I know, we said hhhhmmm?!? as well) that was the last. Since then, things have been good!

As for me, really, still here. Some days I'm ready to pack the car and leave. More houses in our subdivision have gone up for sale, more houses are foreclosed. They keep saying it's going to get worse before it gets better. I think, it's possible that for once the media has NOT blown something out of proportion. Here's hoping our luck changes soon.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-08T14:27:00.003-04:00

Work to Live, Live to Work!??!

2009-04-07T09:39:00.004-04:00

A friend sent this to me recently. In her words, "Brilliant!"

It was made by a 20 year old and won second place at the

American Association of Retired Persons.

U @ 50

This week I received the Best Mummy Award...

2009-04-06T11:00:00.004-04:00

Seriously!!! Of course I gave it to myself; but still...!!!!

Geordie has once again been hounding us for lunchables, even though he does not like them! We have found it's because of the candy! You get a piece of candy in each lunchable. Therefore, he wants it!! We have had other experiences with Geordie and his pallet, see here, and here.

So, I've had to bring my 'A' game up!! Be a little more creative!! Actually I just checked out the lunchable aisle and got some ideas. So without further adieu...

Yes, those are mini hamburgers that I grilled. Ignore the white spots...I put oatmeal in my hamburgers, among other things. I cut up a dinner roll as well as some cheese and he put them together at school. The day before this he had a taco lunchable (which is actually a Hel-riginal).

This was a huge success and I will be more than willing to do it again!! Geordie didn't even comment that it was lacking a candy!!

Meanwhile I've been busy trying to figure out how to bake on the Grill (BBQ for you whitey's up north!). I have finally found success...

Using the instructions from here minus the box cake and can of icing. I am a bit of a snob and prefer to make from scratch. So I used my grandmother's chocolate cake recipe and my Aunt's icing recipe...

To begin you mix up the cake with icing;

You then roll it into balls and then shape them to your liking. As I was trying to make eggs this is what the result was;

Let them set in the fridge then put them on sticks with just a little bit of chocolate on the end of the stick to 'glue' it in. Again, let set in fridge (freezer if you're in a rush). Once set dip 'em in chocolate;

To the fridge they go to set once again;

Here's the final (for some reason blogger keeps making this picture vertical);

Really, they look pretty good and they are as easy as pie...or would that be cake?!?!

Do you know that during high school I worked at a movie theatre and I used to be able to get off early if I promised not to tell a joke for a week.

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Wordless Wednesday - Say hello to my little friend!

2009-04-01T18:08:00.000-04:00

Bubbles, Glasses and Racing...

2009-03-31T10:29:00.007-04:00

Geordie and Callum have been busy. Last weekend they went to Alabama and watched the Indy practice or something or other. They went with Uncle Vijay and had a great time!!! Although Geordie did admit that he likes Grandpa's races better!

This past weekend it was a rainy one. All indoor activities!! Here is their new addiction!!

(please ignore mess in back, this is our one room that we have not organized! we just recently started using it and this is what it is used for!)

As for me, what have I been up to on the weekends...

Hello, my name is Helen and I am addicted to House Hunters International!!

Seriously!!

I have been watching television less and less. Just not interested... then this show comes along!!

I blame my in-laws!!! When they were here they tied me down and made me watch it!! They also poured wine down my throat!!! YES!!! They are like that!!! ;)

So, it is now on my favourites list and I get to watch it on the weekend. Saturday morning I was all set for the 6th district in Paris; by Saturday night I was buying a cave house in Southern Spain. Sunday morning I changed my mind and had my heart set on a house on the Mediterranean in Italy. By that evening I was back to Paris...

We've discussed my bubble before and how it's a great place where everything goes my way! You think it's a joke, don't you!?!? Unfortunately It's not. There are a lot of times I really do live in this bubble and therefore think that I can do anything. For example, I think that we could go and live in one of these places...no matter the cost.
Where the money comes from?!? No idea! I don't think about things like that! That's just silly!!

I also think that if I played the lotto I would have a good chance of winning.

I blame my father for this. As my mother says, "Your father's glass half full is ALWAYS full!"

Now, before you start feeling bad for Callum and what he has to put up with...I do have my head on straight for some things!! Fortunately, they are usually the things that Callum lives in a bubble about.

Example, last year when Callum had to go to Germany for work. A couple of days before going he comes home freaked out about how we have to buy a new suitcase. To begin we have plenty of luggage and it's all in perfectly good condition! BUT...our bags were either too small or too big for what Callum wanted to bring. Therefore, in Callum's mind, we had to quickly run out and buy a $100 medium size piece of luggage for him to take this one trip to Germany!!
Needless to say, we did not buy a new suitcase!

I think everyone has a little bit of a bubble. I'm not talking about 'what if'...I'm talking about really thinking that you can do something!!!

What's in your bubble?

------

"I getting my cars!"

2009-03-27T11:02:00.006-04:00

We deal with A LOT of negotiating in this house. Geordie is NEVER without another plan! We get, "okay, here's the deal..." with hand motions and all!! Most of the time it's okay, once in awhile we have to walk away from him.

For the most part it's one of those traits that you want your child to have as an adult but as a child...not so much!

Geordie is also very stubborn (he could compete with Uncle Greg!) and sometimes we have to go to the extreme. For example; now, if toys are not cleaned up and we have to do it, they are to go to Goodwill. Fortunately, this has not happened yet but I also know that if it does come to that it would only happen once. Plus, really, do you seriously think that he does not have enough toys to spare?!?!?

Three years a go when Geordie was 2 if he did not clean up his toys they went in time out...up in the attic! It actually only had to happen once. This was the time...

You have to admit...he's a persistent little bugger!! ;)

Mean parents aren't we?!?! I know the bubble over all the Grandparent's heads are, "how can they do that to our poor wee Geordie!".

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-25T09:05:00.000-04:00

Guess what?!?! Your S#@T does stink!!

2009-03-24T09:43:00.001-04:00

So there is a big commotion going on up in Canada, eh!?!?

Has anyone heard about it?!? Probably not!
Unless you go out of your way in this country you don't know about anything that happens outside of it!

This was a couple of days a go...

There is really not much to say. I am not surprised by this at all!! We've been dealt with numerous ignorant words from people. It's not all their fault. Seriously! There are not many opportunities to learn about other countries here... unless you take the time yourself! Hopefully the new government will change that!

A little over a month a go this email was going around down here;

"We have just found out that hidden in the so called stimulus package is the creation of Universal Healthcare including the rationing of care for certain age groups. This Universal Health care plan is a duplicate of the Canadian system and will destroy healthcare as we know it. Please contact your Senators, Chambliss and Isakson, and tell them to take Universal Healthcare OUT of the stimulus package!! "

I would make a bet that 95% of the people that forwarded this off have never been outside this country. Have never experienced anything outside this country...so how can they criticize another's ways?!?

There is way too much to say about how this country sees itself and those outside of it. It does need to wake up! Here's an example of how some things can be done!

Meanwhile, Bill Maher (who, before moving down here I thought was a little too over the top, I now think is spot on!) says it best...and this was 2 years a go when many things were not as bad as they are now!

* on a side note...not all Americans are like this. It's just unfortunate that there are so many that are.
Also, just asking but what flag are American backpackers told to wear when traveling around the world?!?!?!

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This is why I am (almost) starting to understand why people home school here!!

2009-03-20T12:50:00.006-04:00

Dear Public School System,

Yesterday we 'registered' our son for grade primary (that's kindergarten down here!) where we filled out paper work and he was tested.

Now, before I begin, I understand the whole making the classes equal argument and everything... but really?!?! How equal can they be when they only test on certain things?!?! Or, what about the fact that my child is going off with someone new, to a place they have never been before and asked question?!? How comfortable do you think that made him?!?! Was he in the best frame of mind to be tested?!? I will refrain from talking about the fact that it was around noon and he was incredibly hungry.

During the interview with the head of that year. We were told that there are two tests that they do. The first one has to do with drawing shapes, alphabet, numbers, body parts and from what I got drawing a person. We were then told that on this first test the average mark is 70 - 85 and that Geordie received a 65.

Yes, we were told that our child was below average!!

The second test was more on reading and he was in the fourth of five levels. Above average!

Now, we know that when it comes to the alphabet Geordie sings K,K instead of J,K and B instead of V. He also, like all good Canadians, says ZED...which I have learned that people down here have no idea what that is. That being said he can tell you all the letters by sight.

As for body parts, I guess he was not sure on heel. He was not asked about the respiratory and/or digestive system. He can tell you all about that, including where 'parts' are!

We get to the drawing of a person that Geordie did. The 'interviewer' (because that was what she was! As we are outside the district and trying to get into this school she was 'interviewing' us to make sure that we were worthy) said that there wasn't enough detail in the drawing.

From what I could see there was a body, 2 legs, 2 arms, a head with eyes, nose and mouth with some hair. More details?!?! You more than understand that it is a person! Arts and crafts is not exactly Geordie's shtick! It is not a high priority for him! Believe me he has been encouraged and given every opportunity to do it, he would just rather go outside or play Lego.

The 'interviewer' then goes on to tell us what we should do to help him along...

1) "set the table, 2 forks..."
-Geordie knows how to set the table correctly, he was not asked that?!?!

2) "when you're driving talk about the colours"
-Geordie knows the primary colours AND what colours make what!! Now I did ask if they had asked about colours. He was not!

3) "repeat the alphabet after him the correct way"
-Yeah, we do that...he's just too stubborn and a know it all to listen!

He was not asked about;

-the periodic table of elements, as he is learning that! Sure, he only knows 2 so far...but still!

- geography. He knows where many places are on the globe (or map) as well as most of his continents and he has an amazing sense of direction and can lead you anywhere!

- how to put air into a tire, or change a tire...that he could tell you!

-time on a clock as he's been working on that.

- how to work a computer

-athletic ability; where he could tell you that since the age of 3 he was swimming on his own (without a flotation device) and riding a 2-wheeler.
Not to mention his skateboarding and soccer skills!

-any type of problem solving; because he excels at that!

-how to work TiVO and a radio helicopter.

-the water cycle

These are all things that Geordie could have easily told you about...and more! Believe me I could go on as we are trying to bring up a very well rounded child.

But, instead we are told that our child is below average.

Do you not see something wrong with this?!?

Sincerely,

Another parent who thinks that their child is above average!

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Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-18T16:35:00.002-04:00

A Scot's understanding of an Irish holiday...

2009-03-17T16:18:00.004-04:00

"...tonight we have to be home because it is green day and that means that the Hulk Incredible comes to your house and hides a treat for you."

Much To Say About Nothing

2009-03-16T12:12:00.004-04:00

It's been awhile since I really wrote. Even then, far in between each post. Just don't really feel like it. I think we are in a bit of a rut. We are at a stand still for moving. Callum is working hard on his studies for his PMP, I'm working on my class, plus checking out jobs which I then send off to Callum to put in for. Sometimes it just seems that the end is nowhere in sight.

We are signing Geordie up for school here. We figure it's a Murphy's Law thing and if we don't sign him up, we'll be here. We go in on Thursday, with Geordie to register. He goes in one room and is tested, we go in another and fill out paper work...or so we're told. As soon as I heard the word test I wanted to scream! I know this society is huge for it's testing but before you even start school?!?! I can sign Geordie up back home by faxing in a form...that's it.

The house has been up for over a month. We had one family come for a showing the other day. Just came up and knocked on the door. Unfortunately Callum was home sick so we couldn't show it. As the estate agent said, "we're not used to someone living in the house that is for sale". There are 14 foreclosures in our neighbourhood. Well, 11 and 3 you can tell are about to be foreclosed on due to all the notices on their door.

I know, I know, it could be worse!!
I could be in Bahrain without electricity or gas!! ;)

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Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-11T10:52:00.000-04:00

Fumbling on a Friday

2009-03-06T09:20:00.004-05:00

We have been up to a lot lately. It seems like I haven't had much time to sit down at the computer. I'm busy doing a course and Callum is studying his bum off working on his PMP, house is on the market (again) with an agent and last but not least we're just trying to get everything done!!

Meanwhile, Geordie is growing up!! I know, sounds silly, but lately some things have just been happening that make me a little sad. It's quite funny since he's always been incredibly independent.

Earlier this week Geordie decided that it was time to get rid of his booster seat (we have never used the cover!) at the kitchen table. I wanted to cry.

His mind is working at an incredibly fast pace and the thoughts that are coming out are crazy!
Like always, he misses nothing! and it seems to be even worse now.

Here was supper the other night...

Callum: going on and on and on and on (some might even say whine) for a little over a minutes about how he just wants to come home from work, sit down, talk, eat, not have to negotiate with Geordie...blah, blah, blah, blah...

Geordie: staring straight ahead and not look at anyone, "I guess everyone needs to go to bed early tonight because some people are cranky!"

Geordie actually jumped up to the bars by himself...I just missed it! :(

Luckily he still loves hugs and kisses!!!!

As for me, I have switched doctors and this office is great! Really enjoy them and they are doing tests and trying to figure things out rather than just tell me what might be happening.

So far things are good. Waiting to hear back from some blood tests but I did have a HSG and everything was normal.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-04T10:29:00.004-05:00

The World...according to Geordie!

2009-03-02T16:13:00.005-05:00

This conversation happens many times in our house...

Geordie: "Okay, I'm full! What's for dessert?"

Me/Callum: "How can you eat dessert when you're full?"

... usually we get a 'just cause' kind of thing. Well this weekend, everything changed!

Geordie has become incredibly interested in anatomy (get your minds out of the gutters!). He has a book that tells about the different systems in the body as well as how the body works. So, the other day when we had our regular 'I'm full, can I have dessert' question he finally had an answer...

Geordie: "My tummy is full but I have a tube, it's a green tube called INTESTININE-3-6-7. It's in my back, that's where all the treats go. The food goes in my tummy. That's why I can eat more."

above right; a quick sketch done by Geordie of the intestinine-3-6-7

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Since Geordie turned 5 a couple of weeks a go let's just say it's been a little 'hard'. He has found himself in time out way too many times. Finally this weekend;

Me: "Geordie, why have you been having such a hard time listening lately?"

Geordie: "Well, the other day you put something un-fam-liar in my lunch and I ate it. It tells my brain not to listen."

So, here's the question... are we in trouble?!?!?!?

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Wordless Wednesday - The Skatepark cake!

2009-02-25T12:16:00.004-05:00

Wordless Wednesday - 5 years old today

2009-02-18T08:14:00.007-05:00

How to bring up a Don Juan...

2009-02-14T15:39:00.005-05:00

Geordie celebrated Valentine's Day at school on Thursday.

We quickly went to the grocery store Wednesday evening to pick up some ingredients to make a treat for the party. As soon as you walk into the store there is a floral place. Due to Valentine's coming up they were stocked full of flowers and then some...

Gerodie went right up to the flowers, took a great big sniff and said,

"Oh Mummy, these smell beautiful! The girls will love them!"

He then picked out a bouquet of flowers and put them in his basket. I couldn't say no.
On the way home he named off who was going to get one. Starting with 'his (9 year old) twins' across the street and then girls in his class and his teachers.

So, on Thursday when he got to school he gave out the flowers one by one to 'the girls' and then that afternoon when we got home he washed his face, put gel in his hair and took the flowers over to 'ma girls'.

Walking up the steps

Ringing the bell

Peeping Geordie (we really have to work on this!)

Hugs and Thank You's!

He came back with a huge smile on his face!

Meanwhile, on Wednesday Callum called me at 2:50 saying that he had meetings in Michigan the next day and that his work was scheduling him on the 7:00 pm. flight that night. Can you say annoying?!??

So, on Thursday I received a phone call from a florist asking if I was going to be home for a drop off.

I was completely puzzled. Who would send me flowers?!? I knew it wasn't Callum. He did try and convince me yesterday that he has though... I don't believe him!

Can you guess who?

2009-02-08T20:42:00.002-05:00

The rules:

1. Leave me a comment saying you want to be interviewed. (I’ll take the first five or so, if there are that many of you interested.) 2. I’ll email you five questions of my choosing. 3. You update your blog with the answers to the questions. 4. You offer to interview someone else in the same post. 5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions. They will answer the questions on their own blog and carry on the process.

My questions are from Much More Than A Mom .

1. If you could have any job in the universe EXCEPT the one you have (and being a parent doesn't count - this job has to pay in actual money), what would you do? What do you think would be most rewarding about it? Do you see any negative qualities to your dream job?

I would like to be involved in nonprofit / fund raising. Specifically for the arts, cancer research and children's charities (that almost sums them all up, doesn't it?!?!). As well as liking the fact of doing it there would always be a new thing to conquer AND there would be a lot of last minute, down to the wire stuff that I just love!
Rewarding wise; I'm helping out others...'nough said!
The only negative thing I see is getting too involved and taking the time away from my family.

2. You are walking alone in the forest and come upon a meadow. In the centre of the meadow you find a box, about 6"x6"x6". Inside that box you find something you've always wanted but never thought you'd get, and it's not jewellery or money. What is it? Why did you think you'd never get it? How do you feel now that you have it?

Oh my stars! I have no idea with that size box. Does sanity count?!?

3. What do you see yourself doing in 20 years? You know, once the kids have moved out and/or are in post-secondary education (hopefully) and you can actually focus on yourself for a while.

Back to #1. At this point be in consulting, pick the jobs I want, take time for travel and still be playing!

4. Define failure, for you.

Not being happy.

5. Describe the very best friend you've ever had. We want to know everything. Are you as good a friend as he/she is or was? What makes you a good friend? What makes you a crappy friend?

You know the 'real' answer is your spouse...but that's kind of boring!
Never really thought about it before but when I read this question I sat down and did.
I have had 3 great (best) friends in my life. Lots of really good friends, but 3 that I would put into this category.

There's JP. Yes, a guy. I do believe that you can have (just) a friendship with someone from the opposite sex! We met in grade 2 and up until grade 12 went to the same school. What was great was that he was feminine enough (look up metro sexual and you'll see his pic!) to get things but he was not in to all the girlie annoying cattiness.
We hung out together, worked together, went to school together. We even noticed that if we were together it seemed that our parents would let us do more! Unfortunately, Callum didn't think that JP would look that good in a dress so for the wedding he was a groomsman.

Then there's Lynn. We met in grade seven. We shared many things, like our love for NKOTB (as well as Gerald and Chris!). Lynn and I are the exact opposite in many ways. We could go shopping and I would pick out a shirt thinking it was the ugliest thing...Lynn would love it, and vice-versa!
She's the thinker while I'm the jumper. She analyzes things (sometimes to death) while I could care less. I live in a bubble...she secretly does too.

...and last but not least, there's Alaina. We met when we were both brand new mothers (well I was about to be, she had been for a couple of weeks). Right away we developed a friendship much like you did back when you were a child. We were comfortable around each other. We were very different yet very much alike. I do believe that the reason why we moved here was for me to meet Alaina.

Thinking about these 3 they all have similar traits. Just to name one...they are all low maintenance friends. High maintenance friendships never last!

I hope I'm as good a friend as they are. I know that I learn from them and hope in return that they learn from me.
I do worry that I take more than I give...which is so in my personality. I know of some friendships that I know wouldn't last because I could walk all over them. I need to be told NO!

Creative thoughts...by Geordie!

2009-02-06T12:17:00.000-05:00

The other day Geordie took out his lawn mower and started to cut the 'grass'. He did the backyard and then came to the front. By the time he got to the front he was shirtless...

Me: "Geordie, why is your shirt off?"

Geordie: stopped, looked at me as if I was crazy,
"I'm cutting the grass Mummy!"...and went on with his work.

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To begin, all Geordie knows of adoption is that our good friends adopted from Guatemala. Thing is, I don't even think we really used the term adoption. So, a little confused as to where this came from...

Geordie; "...babies come from Mummy's tummy...that's how babies are made...they can only be made in Mummy's tummy's! Well, that and you can get babies from Chinese!"

Me: "I'm sorry, you can get babies from Chinese?"

Geordie: "Yeah... you can get babies from Chinese. You know, the place!"

Me: "Do you mean China?"

Geordie: "Oh yes, China, sorry."

Me: "So you are saying that you can only get babies from Mummy's tummies and if not there than you can get them from China?"

Geordie: "Yup!"

Me: "Where did you hear that?"

Geordie: "I just fingered it out, all by myself!"

The only thing that we can 'finger' out is that he thought of this after hearing everyone go on about how everything is made in China.

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The other night just before bath;

Geordie: "Daddy doesn't wash my hair on Tuesday's or Thursday's or...what's today?"

Me: "Saturday"

Geordie: "...or Saturday!"

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Coming back from school the other day Geordie was telling me of an experiment with ice and salt.

Geordie: "...but if you eat a lot of salt you'll die and need to get flowers and put you underground."

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This is Geordie's hamper.
It usually 'lives' in his closet.
When it is full he takes it and puts it here.
To the left is his bedroom.
To the right is ours.
He used to put it right beside my bed.

"just to make sure you see it, Mummy!"

Wordless Wednesday

2009-02-04T16:27:00.004-05:00

This picture has made me start doing Wordless Wednesday!

How Rude Are Your Table Manners?!?

2009-02-02T10:59:00.004-05:00

When we were in Washington we experienced the 'Dinner Pig'. During meals The Gray's have a small pig that sits in the middle of the table. If someone does something rude, such as talk with their mouth full of food, and someone catches them, they say, "Excuse me everybody but _______ just spoke with their mouth full." The pig is then moved in front of the rude person. The person with the 'Dinner Pig' at the end of the meal has to clear the dishes.

Callum loved this! So I now introduce you to our 'Dinner Dino'. Geordie picked him out. We didn't have any pigs, and there are no shortages of dinosaurs in our house...
Please ignore Geordie's "cheese" smile;

On this particular evening, I got it first...

Then Geordie got it;

...and Callum had it at least once (he was camera shy). Either way, by the end of the meal, it was back in front of Geordie. So clear the table he did!

On top of the fact that it is helping out with manners it also has made us eat slower as we have to talk in between the bites.
Of course Callum and I thought that we had the table manners somewhat down. Some nights we can get it just as much as Geordie.

I invite you all to get a 'Dinner Animal' with children or without. See how well you do!!

Which leads me to my question...

How Rude Are Your Table Manners?!?

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25 Random Things About Me...

2009-01-30T14:11:00.005-05:00

This is going around on facebook. I did it there, so I'm killing 2 birds with 1 stone and pasting it here as well...

1. I cannot stand the colour red! I would go so far as to say I HATE IT!

2. I do/say, then think. I have small frontal lobes!

3. For the first 12 years of my life I thought that there were only 3 religions. Catholic, Protestant and 'study'. Those were the only 3 classes that were offered at school so I totally thought that was it. Can you tell that I didn't pay that much attention in class?!?

4. I would love to go to a psychiatrist/psychologist. Someone listening while you talk about yourself...how great is that?!?!?

5. I would like to live in Europe for a 'spell'!

6. My feet increased a whole size after pregnancy.

7. I am NOT a finisher. Sometimes I wonder what would have happened if Geordie did not have to be delivered by c-section!

8. I thrive in chaos! Love it!

9. I do much better in a male dominated 'situation'.

10. I love floorplans. Sometimes I think I should have gone into architecture.

11. Sometimes half way through a story I think, "why am I telling this"...and totally forget the point, as well as where I am in the story.

12. My nostrils flare when I drum. My mother thinks this is one of the funniest things.
Thing is I cannot flare them on command...only when I drum!

13. If I do not like you, you know it. I'm not good at hiding that.

14. I secretly categorize people into 3 categories; knowledgeable, intelligent or both. A lot of people who you think are intelligent are actually just knowledgeable...they couldn't work themselves out of a cardboard box!

15. I am bossy. My brothers call it something else though...

16. I will NEVER own a mini van. Callum knows this and he respects it! Grew up with one when they first came out. Needless to say, I only ONCE EVER drove the 'downtown route' in Hali. Christmas Day of grade 10 JP talked me into it. I think we were the only vehicle on the road, or people for that matter.

17. Speaking of JP, I "taught" him how to drive in the van...my father still doesn't know this. ;)

18. Callum has described my personality as, "it would wear bright pink to a funeral".

19. It freaks me out when people speak in Christianesse. I cringe when I am told to, 'have a blessed day!'. It just weirds me out...so not used to it!

20. When I first met Callum I used to get him and his best friend mixed up. They were both cute with 'not-so-perfect' teeth. ;)

21. Along with a couple of friends (I will leave out your name Leslie); we used to put googly-eyes on leaves and try and sell them for a quarter. Nobody ever bought them, one older man gave us money but refused to take one.

22. I would prefer to think, "I wish I HAD NOT done that" then, "I wish I HAD done that".
I have some of both.

23. I cannot get over how thick the eas'coast Canadian accent is.

24. Sometimes I forget that I have to give a little and not just take!

25. The smell of pot reminds me of St. Pat's dances.

Advice needed...and a few other things!

2009-01-28T08:45:00.000-05:00

Geordie's fifth birthday is coming up and we are having it once again at the gymanstics centre. We had it there last year and he asked for it again.

So, now I need some advice! One of his friends had it there a couple of weeks a go and some of the parents brought siblings...most without checking first. The way the centre works is you pay so much and you can have a certain amount of children, after that amount you pay per head. It's not exactly the actual payment that I have a problem with it's the fact that #1 Geordie does not know these other children and #2 having people just show up and expecting it to be okay.

I was thinking of putting something on the invitation asking for them to inquire about other children. But then, what do I say when they tell me that they have to bring so-and-so? Do I say no? Do I charge them? Does this mean I need to have extra snacks?!?! Extra take home gifts?!?

Where do I draw the line?!?

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Geordie is on a priBacy kick!! Everything he needs to do he needs priBacy to do it in.

He goes to the bathroom, he now wants to close the door, "I need my pribacy." Thing is the second he has his clothes off he streaks around the house. Does that make sense?!? He also has no problem walking in on someone else when they are trying to have some priBacy!!

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On to other news.... I'm a friendly blog!!!! How great is that!!! Hope my mother sees that one!!! See I'm not just evil! I was told I am friendly over here! Hop on over!

Washington Or Bust - prt II

2009-01-26T11:08:00.014-05:00

sorry folks this is just going to be a lot of pictures;

Geordie and NJ decided that they were going to clean the little ones...

For some reason Geordie took Vivi and NJ took Noble:

On Monday we all went downtown;

Geordie had been on the TTC when he was 2 but has no memory of it so taking the Metro he was incredibly excited (as seen here):

Noble, being sweet and quiet as always!!

Viviana, who is one of my most favourite people in the whole entire world! I gave her a little bit of lip gloss...this is what happened:

Team Awesomely Awesome!

The Carousel on The National Mall:

The Smithsonian; Geordie with the giant squid:

The Butterfly Pavilion:

We passed by the skating rink in The National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden on the way to the Smithsonian. Now Geordie has been bugging us for awhile to go skating. Recently when we were home at Christmas we took him to see his cousins play hockey. Guess what sport he wants to do now?!?

So we are sitting in the Smithsonian having our snack and suddenly both Geordie and NJ decide that today, right now, they are going to go skating for the first time. It was a year a go this week that they first learned how to drive a two wheeler (NJ just being four and Geordie not quite four). We couldn't say no! Even though my Canadian ways expressed the need for a helmet.

This is the end result...
Here Geordie is watching the Zamboni. Poor little southern girl NJ, when it first came out, didn't have a clue as to what it was! ;)

First out on the ice, neither Geordie or NJ had any fear... Callum had a little as he had never used figure skates! He was a little worried about 'the pic' situation!

Please click on this photo and look closer at their faces:

About to go:
...got right back up!:
By the end they were both skating on their own. I know Geordie skated halfway around the whole rink by himself and did not fall once. NJ was the same way!!

As exciting as it was to be there for history in the making, I was touched more by the history we made with The Gray's. You forget how great it is to have another family around that are somewhat similar to your own. NJ is always up for anything that Geordie is and vice versa... and both parental units allow them. They could both swim on their own by the age of 3, even in the deep end. They were both driving a two wheeler early on. When The Gray's heard that Geordie was hanging out at the skate park (at age 2) they thought that was awesome and checked it out themselves...and that's only to name a few!!

It is a little hard to realize that we will never live in the same place again. We shared so much in the first almost 5 years. Instead I look forward to the great trips we are going to have together. We'll definitely be back to see them and I know they can't wait to some to Canada.
All I can say is Thank God for social networking!!

As for the trip back to Georgia. We did it in approximately 10 hours and 20 minutes with 3 stops. The night before we came back Callum ran out to get a couple of new movies for Geordie. We allow a DVD player with any trip over 3 hours. Recently we had a couple of movies that Geordie was into (Kunk Fu Panda, The Clone Wars & another I can't remember right now) but they would not work on his portable player.

Previously when I would go through the list (Shrek, Wallace & Grommit, Clifford, A Bugs Life, Toy Story, The Incredibles, Fox & Hound, Happy Feet, A Sharks Tale, Surfs Up) he would always ask for one of the other 3 that did not work. Depending on the time during the trip sometimes this would be the worst thing EVER!!!

We're in the car, about an hour into the drive (we always wait as long as we can before taking it out) and he asks for a movie.

We show him the new ones. He's excited.

Callum; "so which one do you want to see?"

Geordie; "hhhmmm, Clifford!"

-------

Washington Or Bust - prt I

2009-01-23T10:45:00.011-05:00

Well, we made it to DC. We left Friday around 6:00 pm and drove 4 hours stayed in a hotel in N.C. and then drove the rest of the way on Saturday.

Geordie had no idea where we were going. On Friday after I told him that we will be staying in a hotel that night we were out running errands;

Geordie: "Mummy, I hope the hotel is in Washington!"

Me: "Why?"

Geordie: "Then we can see NJ!"

My mother is convinced he's psychic!

We get to The Gray's and Geordie does not recognize their car.

Geordie: "Is there a boy here?"

Me: "Yes, he's 2."

Geordie: "Are there other children?"

Me: "Yes, 2 girls, one is 2 and the other is 5"

We get up to the door, he's hiding a little behind me. The door is opened and it's NJ;

Geordie: "NORA JANE?!?!?!"

He was completely stunned. I'm not sure what we expected, we did think that he would dance around or something but he hardly did. He seemed to be more in shock. 30 seconds later they were playing!

Sunday Geordie went to church with The Gray's and Callum and I went down to The National Mall (which I will admit I thought was an actual Mall!). The Inaugural Concert was going on at The Lincoln Memorial, which was beside The Mall.

It was spectacular, spectacular!!!

The atmosphere was amazing. It was peaceful, friendly, and magical. Sounds lame, doesn't it?!?! But there is no other way to describe it.

Here are a few pics...

The arrival of the Obama's

Jon Bon Jovi

Herbie Hancock

Sheryl Crow

Will.I.Am

James Taylor

People were finding seats EVERYWHERE!

I actually enjoyed the Inaugural Concert more than the actual Inauguration. Don't get me wrong...both were spectacular but where the concert was less formal there just seemed to be a more laid back feel.

With Garth Brooks performance it was awesome to watch the crowd;

But this was my favourite performance! I love James Taylor and I'm beginning to really enjoy John Legend and Jennifer Nettles;

While the Inaugural Concert was very multicultural the Inauguration seemed to be mainly African American. One thing I noticed was how much people dressed up. Especially the older generation. Everyone was out in their Sunday bests, and they all looked GREAT! It really was a special time.

The Inauguration was crazy! So many people! Thing is, again, everyone was in such good spirits it was fine that you couldn't move, or that you were stuck behind a tree and could only see part of the screen. You were all there experiencing this great event together...you almost didn't feel the cold!

Callum & Geordie

Obama!

The Swearing In!

Callum & Geordie making friends!

The Speech!

Getting back to The Gray's was a little difficult...

It was a little busy! What is usually a 30 minute travel time took 2 hours.

Usually I'm not into the paraphernalia but on this day it just worked!

...and Geordie got a new t-shirt!

This was the best last minute decision we have ever made...and if you know me well you know that I'm always making last minute decisions!!!!

Did you watch the events?

Can you be spontaneous?!?!

2009-01-16T13:19:00.005-05:00

It all started on the drive to the airport when we were going home for Christmas, on December 20th. Geordie started talking about how he couldn't wait to see Nora Jane. After more talk we found out that even though he knows where Washington AND Halifax are on the map he thought that everyone who wasn't in GA was living together in Halifax. Make sense?!?

Well, Geordie was incredibly upset that he was not going to be able to see NJ. To the point of crying so hard he was having trouble getting a breath in.

Skip to the last 2 weeks;

Talking about Geordie's upcoming birthday;

Geordie: "Mummy, there are no girls allowed at my party! I don't want any girls! ...I wish Nora Jane could come but she can't because she lives far away... we can still send her an invitation though, right?!?"

On another day;

Geordie: "I want to move to Washington! I want to live by Nora Jane! Can we move to Washington?"

Callum: "No, we can't move to Washington. I can't get a job there. We were thinking Canada might be better." this was said in a nice voice

Geordie: "Well, how 'bout Mummy move to Canada and we'll move to Washington?!?"

Callum: "How would we eat?!?!"

As you can see the last little bit has been all about Geordie and how much he misses NJ. This coincides with me coming back from being home for Christmas and really missing Alaina. I truly thought that by now we would have been up to visit but due to various things beyond our control we have yet too!

Skip to Thursday, yesterday. I was listening to the radio and they were talking about the inauguration coming up...this Tuesday! Totally didn't think...even though I have my trusty, 'The George W. Bush out of office countdown' calendar it never crossed my mind.

Well, here is something that we would like Geordie to be a part of. After all, he was born in this country. Even if I don't always like it! We too would like to experience it but I really put Geordie first. In years to come it will be great that he can say, "I was there!". Especially as it will probably be in a Canadian school that he does! ;)

So, put 2 and 2 together and you get...

WE'RE GOING TO WASHINGTON, DC!!!!

I will be truthful...I'm equally excited to see our great friends as I am to be there for the inauguration!

Meanwhile we think that we are going to try and keep it from Geordie. Luckily he's so low key that I told him we were going on a trip and will be staying in a hotel tonight and then more driving tomorrow and he was fine with that.

I so hope that I can keep it from him. I keep wanting to do a dance and tell him. But I'm trying to keep my excitment down so that I can see the look on his face when we get to the house and he sees NJ.

So, getting back to my original question; Can you be spontaneous?!?

Thursday Thirteen #12

2009-01-15T07:55:00.001-05:00

Here are thirteen things that have kept me away from blogging...

1) Going home for Christmas.

-what was supposed to be an eleven hour trip with 3 flights turned into a thirty-six hour trip with 2 flights, a hotel and a drive from Boston to Hali.

2) Just feeling blah...not in the mood

3) Starting my finance class.

4) Pouring over www.mls.ca and www.workopolis.ca

5) Researching real estate agents and property management companies.

6) Trying to find vegetarian recipes that will fill us up!!

- switching to 3 veggie meals for supper has become hard when what you eat doesn't fill you AND you're tired of chili like stuff or eggs! Any suggestions...please feel free!

7) Getting rid of 'the pot'!!

- okay, truth, I actually didn't! I was cleaning the fridge, I asked Callum to come here and as soon as he walked into the kitchen I shoved it into his hands and told him to take it outside. 10 minutes later it was just like new!! LOVE PADERNO!!! I have actually had my paderno pots for almost 9 years and they have just, in the last year, started looking used!

8) Knit 1 purl 2. Actually it's more of a knit 4 purl 4.

9) Making gifts...different from #8

10) Reading. Been reading A LOT lately! It's nice to get lost in that...

11) Playing games with Geordie....and I'll admit it! I don't let him win!!

12) Re-organizing; it's a never-ending-process

13) Just wanted to see if anyone would miss me!!! ;)

Much more to tell...we'll be catching up in the next little while!

Twas The Month Before Christmas...

2008-12-17T16:21:00.017-05:00

Twas the month before Christmas, when all through the house

Decorations were stirring, and playing was Strauss;

The stockings have yet to be hung by the chimney with care,

As we stopped before even getting there;

The 3 of us were nestled in boxes galore,

While I was in the kitchen cooking once more;

And Geordie in his mischief, and Callum in his zone,

Were about to butt heads right to the bone!

When out in the dining room there arose such a clatter,

I sprang from the kitchen to see what was the matter.

To the room, I flew, like a flash,

Frightened that someone was about to be mash!

The lights were not working and Callum was mad,

Geordie was off somewhere, probably being bad;

When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,

But a miniature man who was trying to drink beer,

With a swig of that, so lively and quick,

I knew in a moment he was going to be sick!

More rapid than ever the tree tried to be tame,

Callum whistled, and shouted and called it a name;

"Now, %$*#$& now, #$%^# now, $%*$#@# now, $%&#*!!

On ~@#$^% on $#@%$# on @#$%& and %&^#*%$!

To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall!

I am ready to throw you, just like a ball!"

As Geordie did the decorations like the wild hurricane fly,

When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky;

So up the stairs more boxes flew,

With ornaments, more lights and Frosty too!

And then, in a twinkling I heard the commotion,

The Geordie had found a new way of devotion!

As I drew in my hand, and was chewing my gun,

He had the Frosty singing and hitting his bum!

He was dancing and prancing, from his head to his foot,

And his voice was crying a great big "WOOT"

A bundle of ornaments he had found on the floor,

And he looked like a peddler just opening the door;

His eyes - how they twinkled! His smile, how merry,

His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!

His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,

While Callum was ready to throw him in the snow!

He had a sweet face and a little round belly,

That shook when he laughed like a bowlful of jelly.

He was jumping and bouncing like a jolly old elf,

And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself;

A twitch of Callum's eye and a twist of his head,

Soon let me know I had something to dread;

The tree was finished with a lot of hard work,

And Callum was just about to go berserk!

But Geordie was happy,
And the music was snappy;

So Callum jumped up and gave a whistle,

And away we all flew like the down of a thistle;

Our family was crazy, and oh what a sight,

Happy Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight!

-hemw

Merry Christmas

2008-12-07T21:35:00.001-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Sunday Song #13

2008-12-07T08:31:00.000-05:00

What I would have given for Susannah Hoffs hair!!!

Sunday Song #12

2008-11-30T20:31:00.001-05:00

20 more sleeps!!!

Back and With Pictures!

2008-11-25T11:52:00.004-05:00

So, I'm trying to get back into the swing of things. Have been out of it for about a month. First with everything happening and just not feeling like writing, Lynn being here and then due to a few craft fairs that I had to get ready for.

Meanwhile, Geordie had his Thanksgiving recital;

Matthew Geordie & Carson

Look at the posture, the attention to the director...I'm so proud!

Matthew, Carson & Geordie
Team Awesome
as Callum calls them, others might say Team Trouble!

Geordie has also started to read and can add and subtract... although he has no idea that he is doing it!

Recently Geordie had not really been himself. He was over tired, whiny, and seemed to not want to do anything. We put it up to not getting enough sleep AS WELL as not getting enough positive attention!

We had been so busy with ourselves and our problems that Geordie just kind of got pushed aside. So, quickly we changed things. Within 2 days he was totally back to himself...and he's been fantastic ever since!

One thing we decided on was taking him out of the lunch program two days a week. Normally Geordie goes to 'school' from 8:30 - 3:00. By the time we get home he does not want to do anything. So, on Tuesday and Thursday I pick him up at noon and we spend the afternoon together. Some days it just might be coming home and working together other days we go to the coffee shop and play games. He loves Domino's and Snakes and Ladders.

Of course a visit to the skate park is always an option!
He can now on his skateboard skate the length of the park. He is also practicing the halfpipe with the board.

Meanwhile we are all doing our countdowns... one more sleep until we go to Grannie and Grandpa's and twenty-five till we are home for Christmas!

Are you counting down to anything?

Sunday Song #11

2008-11-23T10:36:00.001-05:00

I'll Be Loving You...Forever!!

2008-11-17T09:57:00.008-05:00

So, a couple weeks back my BFF from back home came down for a visit.

This wasn't just any visit...

We were going to THE concert!

The one that we had waited 20 years to see.

You see, it all started back in 1988 when 'Sam's Pick of the Week' on Video Hits was this;

Lynn and I didn't even know each other. She had yet to be cool and come to my school!

But, we both saw this and it was love at first sight! A year later, we met!

Back at that time, nobody ever came to Halifax so there was no way we were ever going to see them in concert.

We enjoyed the albums, Hangin' Tough; Merry, Merry Christmas (holy Aria's basement); and Step By Step. After playing Step By Step in the school band our love fizzled a little for them.

Then came the day 5 years a go when I was watching MuchMusic and Joe McIntyre was to be on... I went and met him!

Move forward to Spring 2008.

The Reunion Tour! AND they're coming to Atlanta! The end result;

We had a blast!!!

Best concert I've ever been too!!

...and I've seen Paul McCartney!

Really, we were both expecting to be entertained but we weren't really expecting them to be, well, good.

They were!

Seriously!

Okay, there were a few not so good sounding moments. But look at them!!!

As for the audience... average age had to have been 32! Lynn counted 17 guys between our time in the arena and walking to the car and the place was sold out!! Many of the ladies sitting around us had to have been into their forties!

How did we react?

Well, for the first hour we both stood there with huge smiles on our faces! When they were just about to come out and old pictures of them were being shown on the screen Lynn placed her hand on my shoulder. Now, for those of you who know Lynnie you know that #1 the girl does not do any kind of touching and #2 it takes a hell of a lot to get a reaction from her.

As for me! I'll admit it!! I did a little screaming. But just a little!

We both did a lot of singing... if you listen closely you can hear;

I guess you can say we came full circle... please keep in mind that Joe is singing to me here!

Seriously!
He remembered me from when we met at MuchMusic five years a go and he hugged me!

32 Candles - complete with underpants fiasco!

2008-11-12T10:09:00.004-05:00

Today I am living Sixteen Candles + sixteen

Like Sam I have yet to receive a birthday wish!

Unlike Sam;

-who slept on the sofa so that her grandparents could have her bed.
I moved to the sofa in the middle of the night because a 4 year old was in ours!

- who gave her underpants to a 15 year old (who then made people pay a dollar to see them in the boys washroom).
I was rudely awaken by someone going on about not having any clean ones (my fault; but still...) and believe me...it went on, and on, and on! It's possibly still going on in his head!

The extra sixteen years made a little bit of a difference.

I thought I was about to get a 'Happy Birthday' when Callum came back upstairs. I was smile ready and this is what I got, "where's my lunch?!" (please use gruff, annoyed voice).

So! Seriously! Who wants to pay a dollar to see Callum's underpants?

November 11th

2008-11-11T12:33:00.005-05:00

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

— Lt.-Col. John McCrae

Sunday Song #11

2008-11-09T13:43:00.001-05:00