Embrace Life

Reflection | September 2014

Cole was asked to step in and help out at orientation so he moved into boarding early - on September 1. Varsity camps started at school and Caden was thrilled to be back on the volleyball court, and by all accounts, the coach was happy to have him there. After much frustration I finally had my meeting with the doctor and all of the tests confirmed that my body is being eaten up by cortisol and my thyroid (with meds) cannot convert T4 to T3. I am now taking oodles of supplements and doing all I can to get healthy. I enjoyed a lovely lunch with my dad for my birthday - in a garden in the middle of the city of Toronto - it was such a wonderful setting and even better company. I was stuck in construction directly in front of one of my favourite childhood venues: the McLaughlin Planetarium which has been closed for at least 20 years, so very sad. After a bit of research, I decided to get myself a Canon 70D and hand off the 40D to Cole. My sister and kids came over to deliver a big pink package then we went to Jonathan's for a delicious lunch. The treadclimber needs assembly so has found it's new home in our front hall for the beginning of the month. Chloé and Caden are looking forward to the year ahead and enjoyed volunteering at the new student orientation as well as the welcome back barbeque at school. Knowing he couldn't be the "best boyfriend ever", Cole decided to break things off with Alex so she didn't feel like he wasn't giving her the attention she deserved. With much thanks to Warby Parker, Chloé is starting her year with a new accessory: many pairs of glasses! The insurance adjustor came to take a look at things in the new place. It's a miracle - the books came in before classes started! The great sock sort of 2014 was accomplished in record time and we have so many pairs none have to be purchased! I applied for, and was accepted (whoot!!), to be a member of The Desire Map Licensing Inner Circle and I am looking forward to where this new chapter takes me.  (What I hope is) The final piece of the puzzle was mailed off to Thunder Bay, now we wait. My friend Jill and her husband John, collected me to attend the Senior Two dinner at the school - my friends are now my "ride" to make sure I get where I'm going :) Crate & Barrel has been open for a while but I've never been to one in Canada - fear I'd like it too much - well, that was dead on! I went and bought two gorgeous couches for the family room and took full advantage of the big sale. After a long wait the tale of the travelling armoir is over and it is now in it's new home in the games room - damaged, but it's here! I'm back at coaching with Helen, and this session - from now through November - is all about the WooHoo! Caden was busy at varsity volleyball tryouts and town volleyball tryouts - he made both teams. I started my first IV treatment and it was odd and good. I missed an Angel Seminar I had really wanted to attend, but sometimes life gets in the way of our plans. More grade parties for the Upper One crowd - I didn't attend the one for Upper Two. Continuing to be helpful, Cole has really stepped up at school. I am so very proud of him - especially when he sent a quick text to assure me he was having "a blast" at Camp Pine Crest with the new international boarders. He then ended up in the infirmary at school for a 42-hour stay with bronchitis and thrush. Poor beast! Caden doesn't understand why the boys can't wear kilts to school so a note was sent asking about it - and he got a response! On the receiving end of a few phone calls from Claire which has been equally unexpected and fun. I enjoy hearing about all of the things she is learning. I continue to be surprised when a peer who trashes the reputation of a child cries victim - time to grow up! I love to sing, so I joined My Pop Choir - then decided not to join. Honouring my instincts. On that note - haha - Chloé and Cole are both signed up for vocal classes and Chloé is benefit from Cole's being so busy with his school responsibilities. I ordered my first vegan bag from Matt & Nat. Chloé is settling in and enjoying her courses, I think she's happy she's decided to stay. Caden spent his week in Temagami, and by all accounts, survived, arriving home with a need for a shower! While our kids were away, Jill and I met for dinner for a big 4-month catch up. Claire came home for Homecoming then went off to Waterloo to visit friends at Laurier then back again for dinner with Nanna & Grampy. Caden had been home only a few hours when he was off to play volleyball vs HSC - though they lost, he played well (though he would disagree). Paperwork is signed and cheque written and now Caden is playing Oakville Thunder 15U this year. Kundalini yoga is now TWICE a week and I am very happy about it. As the month ends, I'm working on a "quick" writing assignment which has turned into a bear because it was supposed to be quick and I couldn't just let it be :S

In the lives of the kids:

Claire | by all Facebook accounts it looks like she enjoyed her time as Gael (orientation leader) at school and her second year at university is off to a brilliant start. I just hope she's making it to all of her classes! I'm pleased that she seems to be making really good choices from a place of security and no longer from a place of scarcity.

Cole | is taking on quite a bit of responsibility at school this year as Health & Wellness Rep and Deck Captain and stepped in as Orientation Leader for the international students the week before school started. Now his focus is on recovering from bronchitis and catching up on all of his school work. Great lessons as he learns to adjust based on circumstance and expectation. A life skill for sure!

Chloé | helped out with new student orientation and is looking forward to the year ahead, while mindful of the social lessons learned last year. She's ROCKING her new Warby Parker glasses - and angling for more! The new haircut and the new smile are also adding to her confidence. She chose to take G11 math and so far, so good!

Caden | was also on hand for the new student orientation which gave him a chance to scope out all of the new students starting high school with him this coming year. He will have his days filled with school and volleyball as he made it onto the school jv team as well as the town team.

Life in general:

Weather | the summer that never was became the autumn that felt like summer. Unless you're in Calgary where my friends woke to a 15cm snowfall in the first week of the month! Our first week brought it the only "summer" weather of the season and by mid-month we were plummeted into a bit of a freeze. Though friends on FB were talking about fireplaces and snuggies, we're waiting until October!

News | With all of the terrible things happening overseas I wonder if Cole is reconsidering his desire to be a war correspondent! The (never ending) Toronto Mayoral race is heating up and at the start of the month I found it stunning that Rob Ford was still in the running - and then he wasn't due to health issues - and then his brother took his place. In the weird and wonderful land of Toronto politics the Fords have turned the Mayoral race into some kind of old-time Chicago political game. In South Africa, the judge ruled that Oscar Pistorius was not guilty of pre-meditated murder but he was of manslaughter. ISIS is freaking scary and someone needs to figure out that they don't play by Western rules! In fluff-land: as one website put it, "Internationally Acclaimed Barrister Amal Alamuddin Marries An Actor." - George Clooney.

Sports | Caden tried out for the school JV volleyball team and then tried out for the Oakville Thunder U15 team and made both! After some hemming and hawing, Cole was a member of the varsity cross country team but was forced to withdraw with the bronchitis preventing his participation. As for pro sports: There was so much more bad behaviour in the NFL in one week this month, it's clear there is a desperate need for leadership, I missed the Ryder Cup :( but heard about it and how well the Europeans handled themselves, the Derek Jeter retirement season is over.

Discovery | People do NOT want to share their cleaning ladies or the name of their housekeeper :( Crate & Barrel ROCKS. Celine makes nice bags.

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Create | Ever since I participated in the first Me: A to Z project a few years ago, I've wanted to re-visit the project - especially with all of the changes I've made in my life! I was happy to learn Cathy Zielske is offering a new course! Tons of new things on the go, projects abound!

Health | The bad news? I blew up my left knee and I've been advised to stop reformer Pilates for a while - at least until there is less stress (read: weight) on my knees. The good news? The tests are all back and my sugar is fine, my cholesterol is fine, my health is fine - all except the thyroid. Now I'm on a schedule for daily meds and supplements - and weekly cocktails of healthy boosts.

Home | LEAVES! They've been turning and falling for weeks. Happily I found a groundskeeper to remove them all when they fall. Still no sign of a closing date on the townhouse! I am hoping to get all of our stuff moved over to the house - in time for Thanksgiving next month, Hallowe'en at the latest.

Inspiration | I really enjoy Brian Henry's courses and his workshop this month did not disappoint.

Me | In my quest to stay out of my comfort zone and lean into fear, I applied to help beta test the Desire Map workshop and ended up simply signing up for one instead :) Timing is everything. I'm working on the behind-the-scenes of leecurrie.com and it's a ton of work! I've been upgrading my wardrobe and it's been more fun than I thought it would be :)

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Reflection | August 2014

Indicative of my summer: on the road. From this point on the 400, I know it's about 35 minutes to home!

Lots of movies were watched while we enjoyed a wet start to the month in Cape Cod: The Great Gatsby (1974), Mean Girls and The Help were all fabulous. (I am not a movie theatre person so often I wait forever to see a movie - I'm thinking I should change that.) I don't know if I can wait another year for Captain Parker's clam chowder! The drive from Cape Cod was uneventful and we got over the border quickly - the opposite experience from our departure. Upon our return home all of the rooms in the new house were painted and the kids felt way more comfortable with each mentioning that the new house now "feels like home". I managed to make it to watch a baseball game for Claire this season - and then later in the month made it to another, and the championship (loss)! Caden got his faculty advisor assignment and the trip and packing list came out for Temagami. The boys brought the pew (from my old boarding school chapel) and kitchen table from the storage locker and it really added a lot to the house. I wonder if I can convince Caden to ride his bike the 15km to his buddy's house in Milton? Claire's baseball team won a tournament in London! I think I've hit on a story idea that I really like - I really have to focus on carving out some dedicated writing time. Driving daily to-and-from Canlan Sportsplex in Mississauga is really not as bad as I had expected - and for one of the weeks I had three boys in the truck with me, fun! Cole was my date at a birthday party for friends. Chloé wrote honest-to-goodness-hand-written thank you notes to everyone who helped her get into NMH and told them she is staying put! I enjoyed participating in #augustbreak2014 because it got me using my camera (and photographic eye) again. Guardians of the Galaxy is the must-see movie for all of my kids - most seeing it multiple times (I am thankful for my Scene card!). Chloé had molds made and then the braces came off - the retainer does make her sound funny! My truck is in the shop for cosmetic repairs - again. Oh, and brakes are being replaced, too. Cole is very busy putting together much IKEA furniture - desks and bookshelves and dressers and tables. I'm enjoying "Boys in the Boat" which I received back in May. When Caden asked to buy a $10 download on iTunes I was hesitant until he said "yeah, I want to download Shane Koyczan onto my phone" to take to camp. Proud mama moment! Man alive are there A LOT of acorns landing on the back deck! I'm enjoying the COZI app and inputting everything for all four school schedules, we're all set and ready to go. Whoot! I finally got a monthly menu plan put together - plenty of computer-work was done as I caught a nasty bug mid month - totally landed me on my ass. Claire ran into a friend at the SOBA provincials - she knows everyone - everywhere! Even sick I marvel that I'm going to bed at the same time she's going out to a party with friends. My new FitBit Flex arrived in the mail and I'm looking forward to the accountability that comes with it. With our usual big-deal-meal - Chinese Take-Out from Red Chillie - we celebrated our last evening home as a family before Caden left for volleyball camp. I can't believe we won't be together again until Thanksgiving!  I drove to Barrie to deliver Caden and Braeden to the Volleyball Camp bus. I returned home to visit with Auntie Beth and family then off to Paradiso for dinner. Cole drove out to Kingston with Claire to bring out furniture and help her paint her room. We had one day (the 26th) over 30C and the humidity was off the chart which made me appreciate our cooler summer. We discovered some amazing crispy chocolate cookies at Whole Foods - knowledge I wish to forget! With just moments to spare, Cole got his new computer for school. We all settled around the television to watch the return of The Doctor it was all very retro and fun. Back up to Barrie to collect the boy. Enjoyed some Reiki with Helen, trying to clear this congestion any way I can - run armadillo's, run! We also set up sessions that will take us through December - I am looking forward to a re-start. Cole was asked to move into boarding 4 days early so he's been busy packing up and getting ready. My kids have decided my ribs are better than those at RibFest so to celebrate Cole's last day home, we're having BBQ ribs (with or without the actual BBQ :)

In the lives of the kids:

They were all nominated for, and participated in, the #ALSIceBucketChallenge: Claire (I can't seem to locate, but will add link when found!), Cole, Chloé and Caden.

Claire | enjoyed her all-too-brief visit to Cape Cod. Her Grampy secured tickets to a Red Sox game so she (and he and sibs) could see her favourite, Derek Jeter, play in his last season. Our wires got crossed and we left the Cape early so that she could be at work on time. With much upset, Claire and Myles have gone their separate ways with promises to remain friends. Baseball took her to tournaments in London and Etobicoke. Being primary caretaker of the house in the "student ghetto" in Kingston is really teaching her some valuable lessons. She is now in Kingston with no wireless, but unpacked and ready for her Gael orientation leader experience for the freshman class.

Cole | benefitted from our early return from Cape Cod. We were unable to visit Salem as was his hope, but by getting home early he was able to spend a few hours with girlfriend Alex before she left for cottage country. Cole has been a tremendous help moving and organizing and mowing and building. I suppose he's trying to make an indellible impression before he moves off to boarding in September. He is for sure! Cole is our country music fan and enjoyed going to the Florida Georgia Line concert with his girlfriend, Alex.

Chloé | sat me down upon her return from holidays and told me that she doesn't want to miss out on her/our life here at home. She outlined the lessons she's learned through the prep school application process and decided, bottom line, she can't run away from her problems, it's time to face the "mean girls" head-on. Heaven help us! I'm very proud of her :) A big month for Chloé in the accessory department, too - the braces are gone, a cute haircut and the funky Warby Parker specs are in! She's all set for the school year ahead.

Caden | is determined to be the best volleyball player - ever. He practices non-stop! His drive and determination is a delightful shock to his mama :) He went to-and-from Canlan Sportsplex with and without friends for a couple of weeks and then off to Madawaska with a buddy. I love his passion! I especially love his lack of complaining over bloody feet and pain in his legs. He mentions them, with a laugh, and then heads back to camp in the morning without complaint. This is very new and different - a very mature shift in behaviour.

Life in general:

Weather |it has been such a changeable summer. Hot and humid then dry then humid then torrential rains then cool and dry and it cycles through again. Mostly not humid and for that I am immensely grateful though today is a bit much for my liking.

News | While in Cape Cod, I was reminded that American news is awful: exaggerated tragedy or treacle. I'm happy to be home. Ours may still be very liberal and finger-pointy, but at least it is not screachy. The suicide of Robin Williams was very sad, as time went on, I was surprised at how often I cried over it. So, so tragic. Race relations in the United States have always been strained and getting worse all the time. The terrible events in Ferguson are a violent reminder that the racial divide is still alive and well south of the border.  The "Ice Bucket Challenge" to raise money for ALS (Lou Gherig's Disease) has been a bright spot - even as distorted as it has become. Even my kids participated - fun to watch their excitement over it all. With great relief our news chose not to show the beheading of American journalist, James Foley. Tragic. Maybe the Americans are going to figure out that the world does not play by their rules?

Sports | An all-Canadian final in a tennis tournament? Amazing! Rory McIlroy is on a tear - I do enjoy watching him. Incredible. The Jays had a 19-Inning (6.5 hour!) win vs. the Detroit Tigers - which was insane, and the only highlight for August. The Canadian Open tennis tournament had two upsets - Venus Williams and Roger Federer both LOST to unseeded competitors! The US Open (tennis) is underway and we're hoping Eugenie and Milos do well! Huh? Our amateur attention is turning from baseball to volleyball with lots of pre-season camps! Caden tells me he completed 78 hours of beach training in his week away.

Discovery | Nectarines are wonderful, unless you have braces. Zappos is brilliant and I wish they shipped to Canada. Bachelor in Paradise is our new guilty pleasure - it has plentiful teaching moments. I have a book or two or more in me - through the intensive creative writing course, I've learned this to be true.

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Create | I managed to write a 1,700 word piece just in time for my creative writing deadline. I really like this one, more in keeping with my style and interest - even a bit romantic. Hmm. It's time to put an editorial plan together for the projects that matter to me. Maybe I'd best start with figuring out what those projects might be and go from there. I participated in Susannah Conway's #augustbreak2014 and managed to catch up on my Wishcasting, too.

Health | While away I got a pair of Asics walking shoes - and I've been using them. Daily. Along with it is my new FitBit Flex which is making me walk and keeping me accountable. Well, except for a brutal summer cold. I'm constantly coughing. I cannot wait to get some sleep! In spite of it all, I started back at reformer Pilates and it feels good to move and stretch again.

Home | The house is painted and artwork is being hung. As each day passes it feels more like home. I just have to get used to all of the space! Now to get the John Street house sold so I can get my bed and finish off the transition! I'm on the hunt for matching sofas for the family room. As for outside, I'm starting to wonder what we're going to do when the many full-grown trees start shedding their leaves - this is going to be a big project.

Inspiration | Both Cathy Zielske and Ali Edwards have revamped and introduced new websites to focus on memory keeping and personal story telling. Their timing is (as always) perfect!

Me | Completely out of my comfort zone, I went to a 40th birthday party for friends. I had a blast watching them have a blast! I'm pushing my limits - going to parties, getting in front of the lens - showing up for my life. It's about time.

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Reflection | July 2014

Cruising down I-90. Kids. Snacks. Tunes. Vacation has begun!

The month started with Mercury moving out of retrograde and a pretty quiet house: Claire went to Windsor for baseball provincials, Cole was in Poland and Caden was in cottage country. Chloé and I were in a nice quiet groove. On the 2nd, Chloé started her Grade 10 math course to prepare for her to attend prep school in Massachusetts - we've learned that they're a bit ahead in math in the States so best be prepared! Lots of work was done around the house: locks were changed and I hired my friend Lynne's son and friend to fix up the gardens at the new house and a painter to fix up the old house and some new windows were installed. Caden arrived home with a broken iPhone which we replaced and then upgraded our family plan. My kids use too much data! I switched our online calendar to Cozi and it's working so well for all of us. A few of the ladies from the Desire Map Book Club met up for a quick catch-up - it's tough to get everyone together in the summer! My creative writing class started and it is a big leap, but a good one. It has dovetailed nicely with The Conscious Booksmith course I'm taking online. Along with Helen, I joined a writers Meet Up group and I don't think it's what I want - it doesn't seem to appeal to Helen either. Maybe we can have a writers group of just the two of us :) I'm looking for a photographer to take photos of me and the kids in the fall - it'll be my 50th birthday gift to myself. I (reluctantly) fired my cleaning service but it had to be done - you never want to come home and feel ripped off regularly. Claire got her full G license, I am so proud of her. My sister came out to the new house with her family to check it out and I'm happy she likes it! Both Chloé and Caden got their new computers for school. Not sure what is going on, but I'm constantly seeing 1:11 or 1:23 or 11:11 on the clock - to the point where I'm noticing it, all the time, every day. Caden went up to OELC just outside Orillia - all 4 of my kids have participated in the Intermediate Athletics leadership program in a row. I'm so proud of their collective accomplishment! I'm making an effort to get in front of the camera instead of always behind. Grampy and Nanna use their fax machine which is frustrating because we do not have a fax - so I signed up for eFax and I'm so glad I did! Another sister - Andrea - came over to check things out and I got another stamp of approval. I'm participating in #100happydays over on twitter and I'm happy to be still going strong! Chloé is still enjoying her softball and is making it to practice and games as often as her studies allow. Living on the cemetery is very quiet, every day except Friday where all you hear is the sound of lawn mowers by 8AM and continue for hours. I watched four seasons of "The Good Wife" in about 10 days. Holy binge watching! Claire and I waited at the walk-in clinic only for her to be told not to worry about the bump on the inside of her throat - she worries anyway :) On the 22nd I celebrated what I thought (last year) was the end of my marriage - at 2 years, 2 months and 2 days of the "official" process. Little did I know then that I'd actually have to wait for two more judges approval and it really being final in December! Live and learn. That's okay, the Veuve Cliquot was just as enjoyable the second time! Cole arrived home from Europe - he frequently got in touch while he was gone via Skype and FaceTime but it was nice to have him home in the flesh! Caden was finally around to play in a baseball game with his team. Chloé wrote her final math exam and we patiently await the results. The wait at the Queenston/Lewiston Bridge was over 90 minutes, but we did manage to make it to Cape Cod in good time. I agreed to not list our townhouse until the one next to us sold, with a deadline which arrived the exact day 157 finally sold. Up went our "for sale" sign at 155. Fingers crossed! It was A LOT of work, but the townhouse looks spectacular with everything cleared out. Many meals were enjoyed at the Oakville Club through the course of the month, every time we go I'm happy we joined. Claire stayed in Oakville to work and play baseball. Cole taught Caden the fine skill of "beer pong" - with ginger ale, though maybe root beer would be more appropriate? My kids, all of them, are finally eating seafood. It is wonderful for them to spend time with their Grampy and Nanna - and for their grandparents to get to know us all better.

In the lives of the kids:

Claire | is learning a ton about the daily grind of an 8:30AM - 5PM job: making lunches, time spent to commute, logistics of making it through traffic after work, exhaustion, time management. I'm hoping this experience will encourage her to stay in school (where she just chose her courses for next year) and learn as much as she can so she has more flexibility in her life. No settling!

Cole | returned from Europe with a ton of experiences and stories to share. He spent time in Warsaw (depressing), Krakow (nice but with an unsettling visit to Auschwitz), Prague (stunning), Dresden (meh), Berlin (where they watched the FIFA final game!), St. Petersburg (rude people but the Hermitage was amazing) and Helsinki (beautiful) while earning his Grade 12 World History credit.

Chloé | got word that she had been accepted to the prep school in Massachusetts but there aren't enough beds! She's on the wait list with her fingers tightly crossed! In the meantime, she prepared for her acceptance by completing her Grade 10 math course: trigonometry, quadratics, linear systems and analytical geometry. Every day for the month she woke at 6:30 and got to class for 8AM. I love her determination and drive!

Caden | enjoyed a couple of weeks up north with a buddy and has definitely been bitten by the Muskoka-cottage-bug. He loves boating and fishing (yay!). He was home for a few days then reluctantly off to OELC and equally reluctant to come home as he met some great people and enjoyed himself. He's growing like mad and eating us out of house and home.

Life in general:

Weather | lots of humidity, then rain, then cool, then hot. I've quite enjoyed the moodiness of it all. Though, I do prefer cooler and less humid moodiness.

News | There is some scary stuff happening in the world. Cole being in Russia at the same time the Malaysian airline was shot down was far too close to home! The events in the Middle East are becoming more tense. As a child of the Cold War I thought I'd be more relaxed about it all, but at this age and stage, with more understanding of what is actually happening I am gripped with dread.

Sports | We started the month watching Wimbledon and celebrating the great accomplishments of the Canadians (the surprise was Vasek Pospisil who WON the Gentlemen's Doubles with his American partner Jack Sock; media darling, Eugenie Bouchard who made it into the finals where Kvitova won; and, Milos Raonic who lost to the great Roger Federer in the Semi-Finals). I enjoyed watching Rory McIlroy win the British Open and watched the Canadian Open while in Cape Cod - weird! 

Discovery | I have really good instincts and I have to listen to (and act on) them more!

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Work | Its time to take a deep breath, sit down and figure it all out.

Health | I'm making good, consistent choices. I love nuts and seeds and grains so I've finally bought myself a cookbook so I can enjoy them at home in my own kitchen.

Home | Wow! The Honey-Do Boys are amazing. Talk about curb appeal! I love the way the new house looks like a cottage with all of the river rock and that we gained about 15 feet in the back yard clearing out all of the overgrowth. The perennial gardens shine and now we have a starting place for improvement :) Tony from Fel-Con Painting got all of the rooms painted and done while we were away and we will return to a new, new house - one that feels exactly like home. The old house is on the market and it was a ton of work - with everyone pitching in - to get it all done in time for the listing date!

Fun | I love people watching. The new "hot spot" in town is Harper's Landing. I'm not a fan of the food, but I'm a big fan of the clientele! Sometimes I go with the kids, other times I go with girlfriends. It is always entertaining.

Me | My life is full and I am rarely idle. Every day I am doing something - one project or another is often on the go or in the planning stages. Lately it's been dealing with the pressure of creating something "brilliant" for my creative writing class. The last couple of months had a lot of moving parts and I often felt as though things were running away from me. They weren't but when I look back I realize that within a matter of weeks I bought a house with no planning, no purcolating and no list. Talk about out of my comfort zone! I hit the ground running and have finally taken a chance to slow down. Now that I am idle(ish) I wonder: what's next?

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Reflection | June 2014

So many moving parts this month with activities starting while others were winding down, it was overwhelming and my introvert self just wanted to turtle for a while. Maybe next month? We started with the volleyball banquet, it was eye opening - on so many levels. Bloodwork was re-done and 15 vials should yield some answers, I hope! I drove Chloé to Massachusetts to interview with a prep school. Sixteen hours in the truck for two hours of interview/tour should be sufficient proof that we're serious! The first day of exams was on a Saturday and Cole had two! He actually managed to have SEVEN exams in three days - crazy. Claire had her first Whitecaps tournament in Dundas and it was made clear they need to communicate better as a team if they want to be successful. River Oaks diamond is still out of commission so Caden is attending practice in our backyard, Trafalgar Park. So convenient! Chloé and her grade 9 classmates survived ASCENT which consisted of long days filled with group activities in lieu of exams. Caden presented his POL and got rave reviews from his panel. I learned it's easier to deal with a "lost" child when she is not yours. After four months of healing, Cole has a new girlfriend and I'm happy he's happy. Mercury was in retrograde for most of the month and it made it's presence felt! Claire and I have become quite expert at using jumper cables. Every few months the radio stations in my truck get switched around - this time it must have been Cole since the new addition is the XM Country music station. The best part of no school for Chloé is binge watching shows she missed all school year! Netflix is going to get a workout. I ordered and received an EZ Pass in the mail - for our future trips to New York and Mass - no more waiting at toll booths! Painters, flooring repair guys, roofers, plumbers and electricians have been keeping me company through most of the month in one home or the other. Lots of heavy-duty non-sexy home work is happening! I enjoyed a writers workshop at the Oakville Library, Brian is such a great teacher. The boys enjoyed heading into Toronto to watch the Scotland vs Canada rugby match. We all went into Toronto to Mistura Restaurant to celebrate my nephew's recent graduation from high school. Father's Day was spent (back) in Toronto where we celebrated with Grampy and sisters and families. Caden attended the year-end dinner dance - I know he ate, but doubt he danced! He has become quite social, rounding off the time between the last day of school and closing ceremonies with a few parties and get togethers with friends. The move was perfect - completely uneventful! Well, until Caden had FIVE friends over for a slumber party! Over the course of the first few days it was so nice to have a few friends drop by to say "hi" during the chaos of it all. Chloé had a blast at a surprise party for a friend - and she was surprised at some revelations. I started Yoga for Beginners a 4-week course that has proven to be very infomative. Braces: Chloé's can come off and Caden had his lower hardware installed. We're all measured up for our Phantom Screens - and I was able to take advantage of Claire's employee discount :) Closing ceremonies came and went with little notice - next year is a big one. As Jessica's escort, Cole went to the Appleby Prom - what a difference having a son attend rather than a daughter. So a friend could go away with her husband it was "all hands" to care for her aging mother - and I'm pleased to say my kids enjoyed the experience! Chloé went to Kundalini Meditation for me and plans to return - I miss it and can't wait to get all settled to I can return to my routine. Caden represented by attending the beach volleyball bbq - he brought the burgers :) Report cards arrived and all of the kids did well - no suprises, thank goodness. Claire went skydiving! Cole got his bags packed and left for his World History course - in Eastern Europe. He's off to Poland, Czech Republic, Germany, Russia and Finland. Caden left for his first visit with friends to cottage country - off to Muskoka for a couple of weeks. Chloé and I found ourselves somewhat deserted when we were the only two left at home! She was able to fill her time with shopping, friends and endless Netflix. On that note, over a weekend I managed to watch "The Blacklist" and I really enjoyed it! The flooring guy was remarkably quick and now Tony the Painter has started "fixing" up the old house to prep for sale - he and his team are so good - now I'm choosing colours for the new place!

In the lives of the kids:

Claire | Claire got herself a job as a summer receptionist. I'm so proud of her and the lessons she's learning: "rush hour" is a new and frustrating concept as is the realization, lunch out every day is not cheap and time management is indeed an art. She's putting tons of mileage on Gandalf - taking care of the house in Kingston and all over for ball tournaments.

Cole | Is happily off with a group of teenagers to take his Grade 12 World History course in Eastern Europe. This is going to be a tremendous experience for him and I appreciate all of the Skype updates! It's a great distraction as he waits to hear whether or not he will get a leadership position at school next year.

Chloé | Completed her ASCENT (group activity evaluations) to get through her brutal Grade 9 year. The whole process of middle school was tough, and I never thought it could get worse. I was wrong. This year topped it all off so I'm glad she had a couple of years to test her resilience muscles. I'm so proud of her for grinding through the drama and mean of it all.

Caden | Started his POL with "The doctors said I wouldn't be here right now" - quite the attention-getter for my drama-free boy. He is off to Muskoka for his first time ever with friends to celebrate surviving middle school :) I look forward to hear what he thinks of the whole cottage experience. He has lots of things going on this summer and I know he's going to have a ton of fun.

There was a collective exhale as the school year came to an end.

Life in general:

Weather | We've had a very slow start to summer. We get these crazy hot and muggy days that seem to come out of nowhere. Most of the time things have been quite pleasant, but I do prefer things on the cool side :) With the unstable temperatures and humidity come some really violent weather - some far away, but much too close for comfort.

News | Sometimes I wonder if it's a good thing to have 24/7/365 access to the news. It's so often violent and inconceivable to me. I didn't mind having no cable for the better part of a week. I get my news via television and I had to wait for Claire to hook it up for me. Even with it hooked up I've been busy watching sports - so I'm completely out of touch, and that's not a bad thing.

Sports | Seasons winding down: basketball has the Spurs beating the Heat and the LA Kings took home the Stanley Cup. FIFA World Cup is creating a stir in Brazil with many upsets - as well as violence in the streets. We watched the French Open and have enjoyed Wimbledon, so far. In less elite play, Claire has been enjoying her baseball season - well, seasons as she's on two teams; Cole has really improved as a volleyball player; Chloé is fun to watch play softball and Caden is really becoming a great hitter (except he's somehow managed to lose his equipment bag!) at baseball and is all arms and legs at volleyball - now to get him on the golf course!

Discovery | I can do just about anything.

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Work | Everything is on hold until the move is complete and things have settled enough to focus on other things. Though, I find I come up with ideas at the weirdest times - while folding, while re-arranging furniture, while hooking up electronics - so I have a pad of paper set up in the kitchen (centre of my universe) so I can keep a running list of things that flitter through my mind. Who knows what will come of it! Though, I'm keeping myself "in the game" by taking a creative writing course, first assignment is due today!

Health | I started a Yoga for Beginners course up at Zenbar and am finally starting to "get it". Blood was drawn (again) and I'm tracking my eating (again).

Home | I'm doing all I can, as quickly as I can, to make our new house a home. There is a revolving door of kids coming and going so I'm glad I knew this was going to be a Mama-project from the outset!

Fun | Choosing new paint colours! Window shopping for new furniture! Purging and keeping only things I love, things that are useful or that I know to be beautiful :)

Me | I worked really hard for our volleyball team and organization and ended up being the only manager not thanked by the team coach at the big awards banquet. I have to admit, that really hurt. The team parents and players were great and all very kind and went out of their way to "make up" for the ommission for which I am truly grateful. Lesson learned? I won't be saying "yes" next season!

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Reflection | May 2014

Every year for the last decade, May is crazytime: tons of activity for everyone in the family! I'm pretty sure at the beginning of the month I took complete leave of my senses: for many reasons we're now in search of a Havanese puppy. I finished up B-School - and by that I mean barely started, but the course is over! Transcripts have been secured, SSAT test taken and results submitted and essays written - we are prepared and well-armed for new education adventures. I am so incredibly grateful for old friends who have become new friends in a new context. A new house? Well, when my dad called after seeing a listing in the Globe & Mail Claire and I went to take a look - we did not buy that one. With a friend, I headed into Toronto for a MedCan forum and ended up on the QEW for 2+ hours then unable to make it into the city due to a marathon. Sometimes the universe speaks. Claire has mastered her VW manual transmission and is buzzing around town (I have to admit I liked it when she didn't enjoy it so I got to drive it!). Allergies! The Milton Music Festival was missed due to allergies and no one had their voice :( Claire tried out, and made, the Whitecaps (select) baseball team. Cole and Caden are playing beach volleyball at Coronation Park and having a blast! My sisters and I enjoyed our Dad & Daughter lunch in Toronto - always lots to learn. After many dresses tried and rejected, shoes tried and rejected, I was ready to head to the Appleby Gala. My purpose? Have fun and get a tent for Cole's graduation in 2015. With thanks to my host, Lisa, mission accomplished. And more! Softball season started for Chloé and she's looking forward to the season ahead. I'm enjoying the #1 Morning Glory and #3 Get Up and Go juices from Tree of Life. Mother's Day was celebrated in Toronto and with the kids getting so big it was the first time the big house felt small! I gave my camera - and photography duties - to my niece for the occasion. Windows need replacing - my home is officially the money pit. Cole had Prefect interviews, he'd like to be considered for Arts, Community, Upper School and Head. Fingers crossed! Oh the RAIN! Buckets-full rendering the beach volleyball courts and ball diamonds unusable. My two courses: writing memoir and art therapy have been fabulous, I'll be sad when they end. By mid-month, the side mirror on my truck was replaced. Out with girlfriends for lunches and dinners through the month is always a pleasure. Caden can really hit the ball! After a tornado delay, Chloé went on the music trip to Cleveland and enjoyed the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and other spots. A quick but wonderful trip that included Cedar Point! Claire was off with Myles to Chatham for the long weekend. My friend Meg makes wicked Marguaritas! Back in to Toronto to see The Lion King which was a spectacle - beautiful costumes and music, too bad the leads couldn't sing - or act :( The day improved with a BBQ at my sister Beth's place with everyone. Canada's Wonderland is open and Caden went on the Leviothin FOUR times. Crazy! LOTS of time spent in Toronto this month. Goodbye townhouse, hello house! A now-busy summer lies ahead. Rehearsal crunch-time for The Little Mermaid - though rugby games are interfering with preparations. Blyth orientation at The Old Mill went well and history will come alive for Cole this summer, for sure. Now to organize the paperwork for his Russian visa! Caden and his rugby team made it into the finals at TCS - yet another trip to Port Hope :) Sadly they did not win. Sign, sign, sign. Notarize, notarize, notarize. I'm delighted to finally find a local place to notarize documents for a reasonable price and no appointment hassle! Hello Tuesday evening crazy with two baseball practices, one beach volleyball game and a softball game all happening simultaneously! We got early news that Caden is in Powell's House next year - with his big brother and a few of his good friends. I cannot wrap my brain around Caden going INTO HIGH SCHOOL in September! We had a fun, spontaneous, dinner out at the OC followed with the kids going to the movies and a sleepover. With much stubborn effort Claire has learned that her baseball schedule and part time work will simply not coexist this summer. Caden turned 14 and we have entered that awkward time of year when I have two children the same age for three weeks as we wait for Chloé to turn 15 in mid-June. We went as a family to watch Caden as King Triton in the Middle School production of The Little Mermaid and it was fabulous - we were the loudest four audience members in Willis Hall :) With a quick turn-around he was off to Ottawa on the Middle School trip. I love my Suburban, but it's a beast: by the end of the month was regular maintenace: an oil change; and irregular maintenance: new brakes. A month into the season I was able to go and watch Claire's house league team play. Relay for Life had Cole and Chloé busy at school for a full day of luminary lighting, preparing and walking - no studying or exam prep :) One of the families hosted the rugby year-end party and it was so much fun getting to know the parents and the boys better. The big de-clutter is well underway. So happy we've made an effort to keep things flowing in and out so the project is not overwhelming.

In the lives of the kids:

Claire | Claire learned that it is not easy to find a part time job that would accomodate her baseball and tournament schedule. As an alternative, she is engaging her entrepreneurial spirit and is taking care of kids - chauffeuring, supervising, organizing - for friends over the summer, and had a few bumps during her first job, but all ended well. For $20 an hour she will drive your kid wherever they need to go, keep them entertained and well supervised! She has also learned that maintaining a home away from home - and collecting everyone's share of the rent - is not glamourous or fun or easy.

Cole | Rugby was ever-present this month. Cole got a gash over his brow at a tournament in Quebec that kept opening but is now finally on the mend - because rugby is (finally) over! The last game they played was versus the indominable St. Mike's team. There was little expectation by our boys that they would win. Out in the mud they did just that. Probably the best rugby game I've ever witnessed. So good!

Chloé | This was a big month for my girl. Once she decided (and it was overwhelmingly confirmed) it was time for her to head to a different school we did everything we could to research the schools to determine the best fit; wrote endless essays; completed the SSAT in St Catharine's; completed forms and submitted paperwork - all of this done and complete in two weeks. Now the waiting begins. The beauty of the wait? She's been distracted with summatives and course study for ASCENT and the fun of the Arts trip to  Cleveland - high stress, but lots of fun.

Caden | Caden is my most laid-back lovely child who has entered the throes of adolescence with a bang. Touchy, touchy, touchy. We've all been put on notice :) He did manage to get his New Zealand project done - he embraced a minimalist approach - as well as some kind of geometric-shape-mouse. My job? Go to Michael's and Staples for supplies. I refuse to do any more than that. Within hours of his (fabulous) performance as King Triton in the Middle School Musical production of The Little Mermaid, Caden was off with his schoolmates for the annual trip to Ottawa. And, my baby is growing up. Not only did he turn 14, but he has himself a girlfriend. Oh my!

A full month was had by all.

Life in general:

Weather | I don't remember a slower entrance of spring with the exception of the year we moved to Oakville in 1997. Not one tulip or daffodil spotted until mid-to-late in the month. It has been slow to see, but the kids have been chewing Reactine since April. So . much . rain . With it has come a very slow start to ball season! By the end of the month came soaring heat and humidity, no one wanted to complain, but the house was shut tight and the air put on.

News | Even in rehab Rob Ford manages to be in the news. The kidnapping of 200+ girls in Nigeria captured international attention. Prince Charles on part-of-Canada tour with wife Camilla - visits Manitoba, Nova Scotia and PEI. The Ontario provincial election is well underway. There seem to be a general feeling of international unrest: Ukraine, China, Thailand - tense months ahead. Looks like a Conservative MP is pushing for the Turks & Caicos to become our 11th province. #yesallwomen vs #notallmen represents a huge disconnect of entitlement in our patriarchal society - and deserves serious consideration. The U.S. seriously has to reconsider it's disgraceful gun and incarceration situation and do something about it. We lost a great woman with the passing of Maya Angelou (1928-2014).

Sports | Watching hockey and cheering the HABS through the Stanley Cup playoffs. Okay, the kids have been cheering and I've been in the room. And, the Blue Jays are off to a good start - maintaining the success throughout the season will be, as always, the challenge. The French Open is my preferred mid-day television fare.

Discovery | I am not a "cleanse" person, expecially in this cold climate, BUT I have discovered some green juices to supplement my daily diet. I've been supporting a local business: Tree of Life. So good!

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Work | Traditionally my work has been 100% my kids with the occasional dabble in photography and writing. This month was exactly that and amped up to the point of craziness! Puppy, house, identities, school ... I long for the simple days when all I had to do was wonder about what to make for dinner. Much will be put on the back burner until September!

Health | With better weather came a fully charged FitBit and many steps each day. My health is forever a work in progress and always at the forefront of my thoughts and choices. It's exhausting (read: discouraging) when there are no noticeable results - at least, on the outside.

Home | In my world nothing stays static for long. Again, things are changing. Purge, purge, purge. Pack, pack, pack. Paint, paint, paint. Love it! Loathe it!

Fun | I've started #100happydays challenge. Here at Day 10, I'm 1/10th done and 100% happier than when I took up the challenge :D A pretty good ROI, I'd say!

Me | Traditionally May is the start of the season I call "exhaustion". This year the month brought so much more than I could have ever planned or expected. I am being mindful that I have to pace myself and though I have not given up: my writing class, my art therapy class, lunch/dinner/drinks with girlfriends, meditation, reformer Pilates x2 a week, I realize there may be a time something "has to give". I just know that with lots going on and tons to look forward to attending and doing, I will never lose sight of myself and what I need for me, again. I am so grateful for this journey.

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Reflection | April 2014

green cleats + goggles + dirty knees = Caden plays rugby

April is our time of transition: old activities come to an end and new practices start. I finished with my final metabolic pod at Zenbar. After plenty of practice and endless rehearsal, both Cole and Chloé participated in the Peel Music Festival with much success. Reformer Pilates continues and I've even added a day! Volleyball Provincials were held in Waterloo and our boys did well. I was sad to miss the last day, but not sad to have missed the drama! I missed it as I was on a flight to Tucson for my annual visit to Canyon Ranch with my sister, Beth. It was a wonderful week of relaxation and hard work with 2+ classes each day in the pool and a ton of walking, too. While away the kids had a giant sleepover and had a blast. I returned to a home with all of the confining columns on our first floor all gone - the result is so open and lovely. Cole attended the varsity rugby rookie party with the team - the host provided the entertainment and breakfast the next morning. Ah, growing up! All of the missing papers were found and now the kids files contain the treasures from 2002-2007, the River Oaks years. Happy (and generous) surprise, my brother-in-law got a brand new Audi and as a result Claire gets his VW Rabbit! After years of resistance I got myself a Costco membership and picked up some fun things. Cole was in the Senior Music Night at a new venue this year - they are such talented kids. I met with the school about finding a more suitable faculty advisor for Chloé. I drove to Kingston to collect Claire and her belongings after her English exam. She was sad to leave and happy to come home! I am delighted to have her back. Really enjoyed the company of Braeden who stayed with us overnight. Easter was low-key and quiet. Easter Monday was spent in Toronto with auntie Beth, cousins, and Grampy and we shared another wonderful meal at Grazie. I started an awesome writing course, on memoir. It is so very good! Help me, Caden has a girlfriend. The Desire Map ladies met in Port Credit for a raw meal, my first and probably last. I ordered a dress for the upcoming Appleby Gala - it is way too sheer - time to find something else! While parking in the garage Cole managed to remove the mirror from the side of the Suburban. I started an Art Therapy class in Burlington and I'm looking forward to the rest of the course. Josh was over for a sleepover and it's clear I have to plan for more. Chloé enjoyed her time with Nanna and Grampy's and the movies and art gallery. Applications have been started - we're too busy to be nervous. I got myself a new MacBook Air 11" strictly for writing - it has no other application - no distractions! We've received the baseball schedules for the season and the kids have been assigned their teams and coaches. Claire went to a Jays vs Red Sox game with Caden, Josh and Myles. Dance & drama night was held at the school and Chloé told me not to attend - so I did not. Claire is helping to coach the varsity softball team. In light of all the crazy changes and activity I sadly, and reluctantly, cancelled our Desire Map trip to Cape Cod. We (well, I) continue to await marks from Queen's and Claire's freshman year - just one left to come in. I plan to end my month with a lovely lunch with an old, er, veteran friend, Tammy has been with me since my arrival in Oakville. Love her! 

In the lives of the kids:

Claire | Managed to survive her first-ever university finals. I was so happy to pick her up and bring her - and her truckload of stuff - home for the summer. Her resumé is written and job seeking has commenced! Now that we have her baseball schedule things are falling into place. Claire is forever busy with something: she watched all of Scandal in about 4 days!

Cole | Is playing 8-man this year on the varsity rugby team. They played their big tournament in Sherbrooke, Quebéc. He has a 3cm gash over his right eye as proof of a hard fought final vs UCC. Against my concerns, he applied for four prefect positions for next year. We'll see how it goes.

Chloé | Went for a weekend visit with Nanna and Grampy in Toronto and really enjoyed her time with everyone - aunts and cousins included. Lots of BIG life decisions are being made and a new route is being followed. This is going to be an interesting ride!

Caden | Wrapped up his volleyball season at RIM in Waterloo. The team ended 16th which is an improvement of 2 rankings over their entry into the tournament. They have so much potential! Now it's onto baseball season with a bit of beach volleyball thrown in for variety! He also enjoyed a few sleep-overs and *gasp* a girl is in the picture.

Life in general:

Weather | Early in the month the ice and snow finally melted not just out the front of the house but down in the underground parking where the driveway has been slick and full of ice all winter. There have been bright days and wet days and everything in between. At least we're consistently on the plus side!

News | Sanctions leveled against Russia for actions in Crimea have proven ineffective. Swift action was taken against the owner of the NBA Clippers when recordings surfaced with his reprehensible racist comments. A ferry sank in South Korea with hundreds of students on board, so many lives lost - tragic.  

Sports | Things are winding down for volleyball and winding up for baseball. I have to tell you I'm happy to celebrate another year of not having to deal with rabbid hockey parents and the memories of those awful times is starting to fade.

Discovery | Raw food really should come with a side of salmon or chicken. Not my thing. Tasty enough, but as a portion of a meal, not the whole thing :)

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Work | Plans and paperwork have to be put on hold while I manage Chloé's new direction and all of the moving parts!

Health | Juices from Tree of Life here in Oakville is a new practice - to add to my daily walks (love good weather, even when it rains), reformer Pilates and general mindfulness.

Home | I'm looking forward to the next month and the promise of container plants in the front and on the back deck!

Fun | Baseball season is here! The folding chair and blanket is permanently located in the truck for the season. Good stuff!

Me | I imagine this is the start of the season I call "exhaustion".  Lots going on and tons to look forward to attending and doing.

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Reflection | March 2014

Most of March was "break". All of the kids who live at home had break from school from March 7 to March 24. They were (of course) thrilled. Caden started his month at a volleyball tournament that brought us to Welland. It's a good luck facility for our boys as they fared very well and came in 4th! Even more fun was coming home to dinner with friends at the Oakville Club. Big Brother Canada started and the kids are enjoying it almost as much as they did the first season. My Desire Map book club has changed format somewhat with one meeting each month and one "field trip". Great group! Cole went to the Young The Giant concert in Toronto with his friend (nope, not that kind) Charlotte. We headed back into the city for Caden to go to "The Two Worlds of Charlie F" at the Princess of Wales Theatre with Cole while the rest of the family hung out at Auntie Beth's place mid-town. That was followed by a fabulous dinner at Scaramouche with Grampy. Chloé had her very first pedicure. Pretty pink toes hopefully make up for painful ingrown nails. I had my final "sleep" pod and am now enjoying "metabolism" pod sessions. Well, not so much enjoying as I can't imagine anyone actually liking 80*C for 40 minutes at a time! We were back to Auntie Beth's to deliver Caden for a sleepover. He and his cousin left for Florida the next morning with Grampy. While Caden was gone I went into a "file frenzy" collecting every scrap of paper in my home and putting it in the right place. HUGE project, glad it's done. Well, almost done, paper is always a work-in-progress. The truck was DEAD! So happy to have a great relationship with our mechanic (Caden's former hockey coach) and he bailed us out with a new battery. I managed to watch all three seasons of Scandal via internet - and almost hit our bandwith limit! Cole, Chloé and my friend Jill, joined me at Art Battle 103 at Q. E. Park Community Centre at Claire's suggestion. It was fabulous and Chloé bought a painting! Cole and I watched "To Sir With Love" and it is he who thinks it should be mandatory watching at school. Good idea! Chloé had a great lunch in Burlington with girlfriends she met at OELC last summer. We went to collect Caden in Toronto and Cole went off via VIA Rail to visit Claire at Queen's for St. Patrick's Day in Kingston. A bit of a change of pace had Auntie Beth and family visit us out in the 'burbs. So fun! I am proofreading resumés for Claire and Cole who hope to finding jobs this summer. Sad news was received that a new friend is moving due to a business transfer. Plans are in the works to stay in contact. Caden managed to spend HOURS on one game system or another and had friends keep him company :) Cole started P90X and all I know is he's a sweaty mess each evening. I admire his dedication and ability to self-motivate. Chloé is a beautiful girl and has (finally) fully embraced that she is not like other girls and that's okay. A huge bag of clothes was donated. Spring is almost here! You know how I know? Baseball evaluations were held and Caden participated. I adore my kids, but no one was happier than I was to have them back in school and my return to some semblance of routine. A singing recital with Chloé and Cole performing, was held at Walton United in preparation for the Peel Music Festival. Upon his return to school, Caden was given the "Little Mermaid" script - he has been cast as King Triton in the middle school production in May. This is going to be great! All of the blog for 2013 was "slurped" to Blurb and I'm in the process of turning it all into a book. 306 pages so far! Further proof was provided that "school colours" - the equivalent of MVP - is an arbitrary award and has nothing to do with merit. Disappointing. The last tournament before Provincials was in Stouffville and I can hope it means they've worked out all of the kinks for the upcoming tournament in Waterloo. It took some convincing to get me there, but I did enjoy attending the World Accord Gala at LeDome. There was enough of a thaw, finally, that the Christmas lights were finally put away. Up to Brampton for the first Peel Music Festival performance. Lots of work on the calendar to juggle new rugby, new softball, and new pilates schedules.

In the lives of the kids:

Claire | Played host to Cole for St. Patrick's Day in Kingston. No one can know how incredibly proud I am that my kids get along with each other. I know that this concept is normal in most families, but not in mine. It makes my heart happy.

Cole | A misplaced passport, not seen since his return from the Senior Arts Trip to New York City in November made for a busy break getting photos taken and forms filled. He's off to Europe this summer and needs his paperwork completed and ready to go!

Chloé | She finally agreed that wearing a uniform all day then changing into sweats once home is just not working for her. So? After a bit of research, she decided GAP was the look she wanted so we went to Mapleview and I waited TWO HOURS in the change room for her to pick out new clothes. So cute!

Caden | Sings when he's on his computer. He sits at the dining room table doing work (or playing games) and all of a sudden you hear riduculously low, kind-of-melodic-droning sounds. It takes a while to recognize the song, but when you do it's clear he is singing at least an octave lower than the song was written.

Life in general:

Weather | Late in the month we finally climbed into positive temperatures. We had freak storms dropping 15cm+ of snow upon us the day after Caden few to Florida. The underground garage is still slick, covered in ice.

News | Our Canadian loonie dropped below 89 cents U.S. for the first time in years. Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine and we're waiting for the fallout. Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 went missing. Seriously. The resulting "search" just proves how big the world really is and how much fiction is the ability for security forces to really keep an eye on everything. Kind of comforting. Olivia Chow entered the race for Mayor of Toronto. Huge mudslide in Washington State. Heartbreaking.

Sports | Appleby won silver at the OFSAA hockey tournament which is amazing given that they won only one game the whole regular season - the girls won bronze at their tournament. March Madness is not a big thing in our home, but for Mercer to beat Duke? That was a big deal. Watching a lot of golf and using the telecasts to warm our souls.

Discovery | I can order from Staples online and have big file boxes and other office supplies delivered directly to my home. Fantastic! I can manage to acclimate myself to 40 minutes in 80*C without gasping for air. I will never live without a wireless printer ever again.

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Work | March Break was not condusive to getting much done! I'm looking forward to dedicating real and productive time to Marie Forleo's B-School in April since no time was spent on it in March!

Health | I'm in a pretty good practice: eat well, drink plenty of water, metabolic pod, daily meditation, pilates 2x week. Now I need to add in some walking once the sidewalks are less icy! Daily stretching is also something I have to do.

Home | Its coming together as the decorative columns are (finally) scheduled to be removed!

Fun | With the better weather should come more opportunity for fun outside. Certainly it brings lots of sports to watch and cheer: softball, rugby, baseball, and dragonboat.

Me | My theme lately has taken on a "let go" and "get real" vibe. I'm liking it! Thoughts and beliefs that no longer serve me are being left behind without explanation or apology. 

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Reflection | February 2014

Can there be more snow? Forget I asked. Of course there can! We started the month with oodles of it and we are ending it with more on the ground!

We crammed a ton into a short month and hit the ground running - er, slipping! My month started with a dreadful cold that even the oil of oregano could not help. I know the key to weight loss is taking care of myself and to do that I need to get sleep, to that end I'm now enjoying the sleep pod Zenbar. It is divine! I managed to transfer domain names to a preferred carrier, Go Daddy. So very proud of myself! Lots of good stuff planned :D Not that it is a race, but I managed to complete my One Little Word on the day it was assigned. Finally enjoying light on the main floor of the house, a contractor was hired to drywall the holes left by the electrician - and take out the columns! Sometimes the lack of consistency and common sense displayed by academic bureaucrats can be so very frustrating. Life | Scripted, the Kal Barteski course at Studio Calico started and I have all of the materials and am enjoying this new creative outlet. Cole took off as JOL (Junior Outdoor Leader) with the school trip to Temagami. It was weird having him gone for almost a week! Oh how I love the ladies of my Desire Map Book Club. What a spectacular and vulnerable experience. Caden got braces! Well, on top, the lower braces will be installed in March. SNOW! Within the first week events were being cancelled due to weather. Ugh. I signed up for Susannah Conway's upcoming "The Sacred Alone" course -it seems fitting. Deliriously proud of Claire for her reaction to the NEK nominations. The winter Olympics in Sochi brought lots of scary drama and fear of terrorism which tapered off by the end. The kids have been registered for school next year. Best to just get it done the day registration opened! The Peel Music Festival competition schedule was released and April is going to be full of singing around here. As much as I thought I was prepared to embrace Mercury in Retrograde, I was not prepared. Not at all. Reformer Pilates is a practice firmly entrenched in my life - as is Kundalini meditation. Breath of fire, baby! I attended my first yoga flow class - um, yeah. I joined Bettina and other eager students for her teaching "Introduction to the Enneagram" course. It was amazing. So enlightening! DAYS were spent coordinating and purging the ephemera in my room in an effort to make it more a sanctuary than a holding room for kid crap, paper and laundry. Papers and files were sorted and purged. With Karen, Helen and Jill, I enjoyed a fun ladies night at the Irish Temper. Chloé sprained her ankle running in her Uggs through the dining room at school - her participation in the play was off and she was put to work building sets. Claire came home from university to go to the Justin Timberlake concert. Cole made sure Hanne had a lovely Valentine's celebration. I attended a workshop on "How to Write a Bestseller" at the Oakville Library. It was very informative even if it isn't something I'm planning on doing it's nice to understand the process and links to other ideas. PANIC! The evening before we were going out of the country, we realized Claire had left her passport in Kingston. She and Cole gassed up the truck and they were off - and back - in time to get to the airport! With the kids left in good hands, Claire and I headed to the Bahamas for a few days of sun and salt water. Olympics mania - especially hockey - was evident even in the tropics. The annual Middle School Science Fair has arrived and Caden spent HOURS preparing his project. I watched Frozen with the kids, I now understand their love of it and agree that Caden is, indeed, Olaf! Claire, rested and looking great, headed back to Kingston to prepare for midterms. This was all for nothing as upon her arrival back to school she was wound right back up again. :( . Chloé is rocking tech crew! She put away the crutches and is now back in the play. So proud of my talented girl. Thanks to friends, I found an accountant! After weeks, months, years of consideration, I joined Marie Forleo's Bschool program. I'm looking forward to learning what she's teaching. For the first time in 20+ years, I went on a date. I had an early morning meeting with a huge resource for the store - enjoying the process. Months of hard work and peparation culminated in a brilliant all school musical - I'm proud of all the performers and participants (especially mine)!

In the lives of the kids:

Claire | Is learning to stick up for herself! So empathetic and kind, Claire often absorbs the negative energy of those who would rob her of her good nature. It is affecting her health and she is starting to realize it.

Cole | Lots of talk around here about University options. Right now Cole is keen on RMC (Royal Military College) and is, of course, researching the opportunity thoroughly. The goal continues to be war correspondent. Scary for most, but not considering who Cole is and wants to be.

Chloé | What a month! Between social fallout from the semi-formal, mean girls, square peg syndrome and a sprained ankle, my girl had a rough go. I'm glad she is finding her social niche with the drama/artsy crowd. It's where she belongs.

Caden | He keeps growing and his voice keeps getting deeper. I'm finding it odd looking UP at my baby! Every day he seems to grow taller!

Life in general:

Weather | Flood warnings! We've had no break this winter so no thaw. As much as we want warmer weather it will bring a lot of water - more than our system is developed to handle. Keeping an eye on the catch basins and checking the basement.

News | Toronto (and other) City Halls raise rainbow flag rather than Canadian flag to honour Olympics. (Help me - I agree with Rob Ford!) More unrest in Turkey. Another wild winter storm hits eastern seaboard of US and Canadian maritimes. Syrian peace talks fail. After chaos and violence, President of Ukraine flees his residence. Drug kingpin was arrested in Mexico - not looking forward to the fallout.

Sports | Olympics! I am a self confessed junkie. I loved that CBC had 24/7 coverage of all the sports - big and small. So proud of how the Canadian athletes performed and behaved. Well done! Plenty of gold, lots of great stories, tons of effort and great sportsmanship. Of particular note was the Gold medal for both men and women in curling and in hockey. So good!

Discovery | I am an 8w7 on the Enneagram and I'm okay with it :) AND by way of my sister, Beth, I discovered a way to buy furnace filters online and have the delivered directly to the house - no more awkward lugging from Canadian Tire.

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Work | I have a few fun ideas rattling around. It's time to execute!

Health | This month I'll focus on drinking more water. Significantly more water. Every day.

Home | Time to settle into a writing and creating routine that works around kid's schedules and the focus on my health. I miss it!

Fun | This term is short but draining. March Break is coming up and we're making plans!

Me | I am feeling frustrated with adults who don't seem to understand accountability. Especially those who spend their time outside the arena and still have something to say. At the same time, I continue to be incredibly joyful and at peace. The only time that calm joy is interrupted is when someone hurts my kids and I have to figure out how to handle that - effectively and with grace.

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Reflection | January 2014

All months are full and January is no exception. It may be even more full than most.

Most of the month was spent re-establishing good habits and introducing some new ones. I decided my new year should start mid-January, there is just too much chaos in my house before the kids are back in school. My search for an accountant continues. I used my new Daily Planner and put on paper my goals with soul. I feel like I've got a good handle on the year ahead because goodness knows the universe does not allow real control! I got Claire back to Queen's in one piece though the ice gods did conspire against us. I made an blog writing plan and put it on the calendar. All but Cole are signed up for base/softball starting this spring. The Desire Map Book Club got off to a fantastic start and I'm thrilled to learn from the participants. I started back with my life coach, Helen, as there is always more work to do. Four weeks of Project Life 2014 have been completed, I'm off to a good start! I went to my reformer Pilates classes and am so happy for the increased flexibility - Jackie is even increasing the weights. I started a reading challenge and am enjoying the challenging material. I ate breakfast (whether it be left over Chinese take-out, Greek yogurt with almonds or simple oatmeal) every morning. My amarylis bloomed - and then fell over! I cut my wine consumption in half or more as things got a bit out of hand during the holidays. I had a new crown fitted. The garage door, not clearing the roof rack of the Suburban - was fixed in a few seconds, a quick twist of a knob resulted in a $150 bill. A mindful morning was enjoyed at iGita with Lisa Forwell and friends. A meeting was held at Appleby to promote the idea of a digital portfolio for each of the students. Semi-formal prep was enjoyed (?) at Oakville Place mall getting Cole a new sport coat and tie and a few things for Chloé. Helped out a friend and drove her daughter to the semi-formal, held at school. Plans made and tickets booked for the Bahamas, Florida, Arizona and Cape Cod. Mapped out plans for summer camps and started booking a few - Caden is actually on a wait list! Watching playoff football with Caden is a joy - he is such a rabid fan. A morning was spent at the school judging the Interpretive Reading competition for the Upper One students - so good. Big mid-week drive to Kingston to visit with Claire. Thank goodness for my sister who kept me talking over the bluetooth most of the 3+ hours there and 3+ hours back! Lunch was enjoyed with Robin and our project plans are fun to discuss. Dad's who step up for men who won't are endearing. A Pampered Chef evening was spent up at Elaine's place. I introduced Jill to Yame. All signed up for Life Organizer Navigation course with Jennifer Louden. Some personal maintenance to offset the onset of midwinter cabin fever: cut, colour, wax, pedicure - the works! Caught a wicked cold. Sadly had to give into my cold and postpone a meeting with someone who may supply product for the store, listening to the universe - and my body. In the most polite - though honest - way possible, I turned down a volunteer opportunity keeping in mind the addage: "when people show you who they are, believe them the first time." The electrician came and gave an estimate, I accepted, and he showed up and did the work. This is a miracle! We went out to our favourite restaurant to celebrate Cole's birthday. We finished watching all five seasons of "Chuck", such a wonderful show, it will be missed! I enjoyed the New Moon Goddess Celebration up at the new Zenbar studio.

In the lives of the kids:

Claire | Enjoyed her time at home and returned to Queen's with a new sense of purpose. In Kingston, we went to the mall, Loblaws and enjoyed dinner with mama and friends. She took a quick trip to Ottawa to see a friend in a production of RENT at Carleton. Lesson learned: taxis are unreliable only when you need them to be reliable. Claire sourced and signed a lease for a house next year with six friends - her priority was a washer and dryer in the house. No laundromat for my girl :) Lots of learning is happening for Claire!

Cole | Varsity rugby training has started in the bubble at school. The Semi-formal was enjoyed - with a before party at PJ's and after party at Nick's. Not sure how much time was actually spent at the dance? As much free time was spent with Hanne as was humanly possible either at her house or ours. Preparations and purchases were made for an upcoming trip to Temagami - brr! Cole just turned 17. We enjoyed a lovely mid-week dinner at his favourite restaurant. As is his way, plans are already underway for a new sport for first term next year: volleyball.

Chloé | On Chloé's behalf a meeting was had with Dr. Fasken and Dr. Aliki and it has been decided that the braces will be off a year early. Dr. Mungar took her through her paces and Chloé now have a 6-month supply of "daily" contact lenses. The semi brought with it some unkind girl drama and I'm proud of Chloé's response. The Upper School Cabaret was wonderful - even though the "mime" makeup was a "pain"! Play rehearsals keep the school days long.

Caden | Rep volleyball is keeping Caden busy outside of school and squash is his co-curricular choice for this school term. Summer camp plans are made and confirmed, with one camp already having a wait list - he's #8, it's not looking promising! Science Fair experiments were started and finished. With his buddies, Caden participated in a Leadership Workshop - in his onesie, as it was the required attire. Trip to London with Braeden and his family for a volleyball tournament that ended up cancelled due to blizzard conditions. In preparation for braces, the spacers have been installed. He ended the month with Service Day which took him to the Metro Toronto Zoo - a nice day away from desks and computers.

Life in general:

Weather | Flipping cold. The ice and wind kept us in the deep freeze for the first week of the month well into the second, third and fourth. I think we had three days of relief all month, though the cold temps has brought much sunshine. The phrase "polar vortex" is now part of our daily language. Canadians enjoy talking about the weather, but it was truly dangerous and the top national news story for weeks! I am beyond tired of the cold.

News | The weather. Pearson shut down and people waiting for days to collect their luggage. The upcoming Olympics and terror threats. PM Stephen Harper made historic trip and speech in Israel as part of a Middle East trip. Heartbreaking fire at seniors home in L'Isle-Verte, Quebec leaves 30+ dead. Value of our loonie (dollar) is sliding - this is good and bad. Justin Beiber - deported? not?

Sports | Everyone is looking forward to the Olympics. Much discussion about the Canadian hockey team being sent to the Games. Super Bowl! I'm watching golf in an effort to at least feel like I'm warming up! Eugenie Bouchard made it to the semi finals of the Australian Open, the first for a Canadian woman in 30 years.

Discovery | Cigdem Kobu has been very inspiring and I've joined her Progress Lounge. And, it looks like the year ahead should be active and illuminating. Zenbar is a lovely new spa, making plans to return.

Looking forward, goals I want to keep at the forefront include:

Work | I have to find a good accountant to clean up my taxes so I can start fresh moving forward. I also have to get a business tax number so I can get the online store all set up. I'm all signed up for a writing workshop and hope to focus on novel writing in the next few months.

Health | I'm getting a bit off track and have to start getting more sleep each night - a consistent 8+ hours. I also have to make a more mindful menu to follow each week. A menu that works in our schedule and not one I wish I could make if I had a better after school schedule.

Home | Sort through and organize all of the kids papers, files and ephemera into the boxes purchased for the purpose. Everything is in piles in my bedroom and they just have to get out of there! 100%.

Fun | Most of the supplies for the Kal Barteski class were picked up at Curry's and the rest ordered from Dick Blick. Class starts tomorrow! I am so looking forward to learning this process!

Me | I am feeling content and fulfilled. Completely calm and accepting. I have clearly defined expectations and desires. It is a strange juxtaposition of being present and engaged while still feeling somewhat "out of body" - lovely, scary and real. I am incredibly joyful and at peace for the first time in a very long time.

* * * * *

A couple of years ago I consistently wrote up posts summing up the month that had just past. Then life got both complicated and overwhelming, so much so I was just going from day-to-day in complete survival mode. With this new year I'm getting back into the practices of my past that I have missed.

Year in Review '13

Last year I wrote up a "year in review" post. I enjoyed it enough that I'm doing it again! Even with a full reflect and manifest project, it's fun to do a quick summary.

Dateline: Oakville, Ontario on Monday, December 30, 2013 at 7:23PM

1. What did you do in 2013 that you’d never done before?

I started to put me at the top of the list. The safety of my children was put first and Caden was pulled out of football - and I didn't give in when he begged to go back this spring. I went to, and enjoyed, guided meditation. I recognized old patterns and course corrected, immediately. I encouraged my kids to test themselves and face their fears. Reformer Pilates classes are a cornerstone of my new practice - a "skinny bitch" activity I never thought I'd enjoy but have to admit I love! When you appreciate someone, tell them; better, when you love someone, tell them. My home is smudged - what an incredible difference happy energy makes! Don't keep your positive and constructive comments to yourself! Share the good stuff - get comfortable in the goo.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

For a long time now, I have elected to choose a word to guide my year rather than making resolutions. I'd rather set myself up for success than deal with the inevitable failure found in a list of resolutions I'd never keep. Goals are always set, but they are often within the framework of my "one little word". This year I chose "grace".

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

My step-sister had a baby boy! In my family that makes him grandchild #12. Wow.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Fortunately, no, no one close to me. Though, my children lost their paternal grandfather. The hard part? They had virtually no relationship with him and we had to navigate their feelings of abandonment, antipathy and longing. It was a difficult time. My step-sisters also lost their father. It was a very sad time and my heart hurt for them.

5. What countries did you visit?

United States - Arizona, Florida, New York and Massachusettes. Bahamas. St. Thomas. St. Maarten.

6. What would you like to have in 2014 that you lacked in 2013?

This has not changed one syllable from my answer from last year: A more organized home, focused exercise, engagement with other people, fewer but better clothes, a book outline, adult male companionship.

7. What dates from 2013 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

When Claire made the decision to change all of her plans and re-apply to universitites to go for an Arts degree rather than Kin. The day my sister decided to move back home. Receiving the official paperwork confirming that I am sole custodian of my four children - legally as well as obviously. Watching Claire grow up with poise and grace: graduate from Appleby, head to prom and the drop-off and first term at Queen's. Cole on stage, both as Perchik in "Fiddler on the Roof" and when he recently earned his music scholarship. Listening to Deepak Chopra - and actually understanding much of what he had to say, certainly not all! Chloé having a blast on stage as The Genie in "Aladdin" and enjoyed a first summer of softball. Caden as fierce rugby player - even without glasses on the middle school team and now as fierce volleyball player. The day I had to cancel a much anticipated trip to attend something frivilous. Being chosen to lead the Desire Map Book Club here in my town. The start of our Dad & Daughter lunches. The official seal on my final divorce papers.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

I reinstated long abandoned boundaries and a belief system that serves me and my highest good; one that does not destroy or sabotage me. Within that context I remembered my sense of humour, to trust my intuition and instincts, and rediscover my imagination which had been so long away. Sticking to and practicing meditation and pilates and still going strong. Finalizing my divorce. There is not one single achievement other than simply coming back to myself which was made up of many small victories.

9. What was your biggest failure?

Not keeping on top of Project Life, again. Not always staying true to myself to accomodate the feelings of others - or maybe it was simply my not willing to deal with the fight or guilt.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

I overdid the 10,000 steps a day and, as a result of compensating, hurt my foot and my hip - on opposite sides! Sigh. After weeks of going to the osteopath with short-term results each time, I was super frustrated. Jill got me to go to reformer Pilates and I discovered relief through stretching. I've decided that until we can figure out the chemical reasons for my weight issue, I'd rather be fat and flexible than just fat - so though I still suffer illness and injury, I've changed my attitude toward it and will do the best I can with what I have, now.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

A new mattress for my bed - and bamboo sheets! Bliss. That "best thing" is closely followed by my Life Coach sessions, weekly meditation and private reformer Pilates classes.

12. Where did most of your money go?

This was a second year of unsexy spending - and the kids are not cheap!

13. What did you get really excited about?

I was excited to witness Claire start her life. I was excited to join the Oakville Club. I was excited to become more proficient at Photoshop Elements. I was excited to discover Danielle LaPorte's Desire Map. I was excited to take cooking class to realize all I need are my Barefoot Contessa cook books. I was excited to organize and host parent gatherings for the middle and upper schools. I was excited for all of my kids to explore their independence by traveling to downtown Toronto via GO train - without me. I was excited for Claire to get her G2 and for Cole to get his G1 - and motorcycle permit, too! I was excited for a trouble- and drama-free U1 trip for Chloé to Temagami. I was excited for Cole to discover NYC - THREE times! I was excited to receive my new "Cape Cod" inspired living room rug. I was excited to make my very first dream board. I was excited for Caden to challenge himself by joining the school swim team. I was excited for Chloé to get her braces. I was excited to watch Cole perform as Perchik in "Fiddler on the Roof". I was excited to take the kids on their first cruise - maybe the last for some! I was excited for Claire to go to see her much loved JT with her friends. I was excited and grateful to be back in Arizona at Canyon Ranch. I was excited to share time with many girlfriends over lunches and dinners and walks and coffee. I was excited to watch my dogwood bloom for the first time. I was excited to watch all of my kids participate and learn new things. I was excited to have a new bathroom installed - no more leaks! I was excited to visit Claire in Kingston. I was excited for Caden to make the volleyball team - town and school. I was excited to host Thanksgiving for many! I was excited to attend Optimates dinners - plural! I was excited to make my first book of my own creating. I was excited to experience meditation and life coaching and all that came with it through the year. I was excited to have a big party at my home to thank all of the women who have been supportive of my kids and me over the last couple of years - it was a blast! I was excited to have a weekly format to foster smart investing. I was excited to get a functioning range before Christmas. I was excited to smudge my home and purchase my first pendulums. I was excited to develop my first product for sale in my new shop, opening soon! I was excited to have all of my kids at home for our low-key Christmas holidays.

14. What song(s) will always remind you of 2013?

Hold On To Your Heart | Man Man
Royals & Team | Lorde
Same Love | Makelmore & Ryan Lewis
Temple & Wait for Me | Kings of Leon
Babel, I Will Wait & Lover of the Night | Mumford & Sons
Best Day Of My Life | American Authors
Unbelievers & Diane Young | Vampire Weekend
Let It Go & Sweater Weather | The Neighbourhood
Pompeii & Bad Blood | Bastille
Hurricane | MS MR
Feels Like We Only Go Backwards & Elephant | Tame Impala
You, The City & Chocolate | The 1975
Come A Little Closer & Ain't No Rest For The Wicked | Cage The Elephant
The Wire | Haim
The Mother We Share | Churches
Little Talks, King and Lionheart & Dirty Paws | Of Monsters And Men
All I Want | Kodaline

15. Compared to this time last year, are you:

– happier or sadder? Happier. So much happier.
– thinner or fatter? Exactly the same :(
– richer or poorer? Richer - in spirit!

Seems to be the status quo as my responses were the same last year :)

16. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Slept. Paced myself. Took more "artsy" photos.

17. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Lose my patience.

18. How did you spend Christmas?

We have our big family dinner in Toronto with the Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Grandparents. We've been doing this since my kids were in high chairs. It is a wonderful tradition. To me, that is our big Christmas. The morning of the 25th is simply a nice lazy day spent with the kids. This year we changed it up a bit by being hit with an ice storm which made things a bit wonky. We followed thorugh with our plans to go to Toronto for Christmas Eve dinner and in the process forgot to pick up our dinner for the next day. No traditional roast - we had pasta instead!

19. What was your favorite TV program?

I am enjoying Hostages and The Blacklist and even though they have both been on for years, I've started watching and really enjoying Person of Interest and Scandal. I haven't been watching much of the others, though the DVR is filled with episodes of The Good Wife, Elementary and Grimm just waiting to be watched. I keep thinking I'll watch them during the day, but I never do! I'm considering just watching via Netflix a season at a time. The kids and I just finished binge-watching Chuck. Fantastic!

20. What were your favorite books of the year?

I enjoyed "The Desire Map" by Danielle LaPorte. While on the cruise I caught up on all of my unread Barbara Erskine books - too heavy to carry so I had them on my Kindle. By far and away the best book I read was "The Rosie Project" by Graeme Simsion - I smiled through every page. As always, I didn't read anywhere near as many books as I'd have liked to - but managed to collect a bunch!

21. What was your favorite music from this year?

I am a fan of alternative rock - which I find is a fun mix of folk and edge. I did find it distracting during the day when I was creating and writing so I discovered on Cogeco Galaxy, Channel 327 "The Spa" which is all melodic instrumental with the occasional ocean waves or thunderstorm. One Sunday in early December, while the kids were studying for exams, they each commented separately on how they enjoyed it and we left it on.

22. What were your favorite films of the year?

I have to admit, as much as I thought it might be possible, I did not go to one movie - in a theatre - this year! I have a list, though. I'll have to catch up over the holidays - or while I'm in Cape Cod this summer.

23. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

We had a full house - of kids! Pizza and vanilla cake :) It was my favourite kind of birthday, filled with friends and laughter.

24. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

A bit less teenage angst and attitude would have been lovely. Other than that, I can't say anything could have made my year much better than it was. I'm happy for all of the connections and lessons it contained.

25. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2013?

Laura Plus sale rack. I need new clothes and (until recently) I refused to buy anything at full price until I have a body that can wear it well. My recent purchases included a dress for Christmas - yes, a dress! And a couple of Eileen Fisher tops that are fabulous!

26. What kept you sane?

As always, my sanity depends on: My children. Photos + Words. My sister, Beth. Music. TED talks. My friends. Wine. My Life Coach. Trips to Cape Cod. Walks. Lunches with friends. PC Power Fruit Blend Smoothies. Meditation. Reformer Pilates classes with Jill and Jackie. Always having something to do.

27. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2013.

Never settle - keep your personal standards high.

Reflections | December 2011

Interesting fortune.
Enjoyed our "new" tradition of Chinese take out, board games and togetherness watching Ryan Seacrest.

All I wanted was some peace and quiet. I really needed a peaceful month. I think my first mistake was to send out into the universe my proclamation in November: "bring it". Yep. Got it.

Just in case you're not following along with my December Daily posts, and even if you are, here is the "fill in" and why my project this year is so ... hmm ... shall we say, bare? non holiday-ish? The irony that this would be the month when each day would be documented fully is not lost on me. At all.

• Caden had his "shadow visit" at school and ended up fainting in the dining hall at lunch. Nothing like leaving an indelible first impression! He's rescheduled for another visit in January.
• I spent most of the first week of the monthpacking up 7,000+ square feet of old house for the closing on December 6. Thanks to friends and family who helped during the whole process!
• Just when I was getting used to the slower hockey pace in my house we ended up in a tournament that had Caden dragging me to the rink for 5:30AM (we had to be there for 6AM). Gotta love having one kid who will wake me up and not the other way around.
• Chloe enjoyed her second school dance. This time no costumes were involved. She really is such a social creature and enjoys her down time with classmates.
• The first Saturday of the month was insanely busy with the big furniture move, hockey games, dress rehearsals, friends sleeping over, missed concerts, dinner with friends ...
• No time to decompress. More packing.
• Meeting with the lawyer to sign papers and hand over keys. Fingers were crossed the process of selling would be far less complicated and smoother than purchasing process. (It was. Thank goodness!)
• A full moving truck to our new house, a full moving truck to my storage, a full moving truck to his storage.
• A full day packing up what was left and cleaning the old house. Seven trips to the dump. Three trips with boxes to the new house. Two trips to storage. One good girlfriend helping with vacuum duty. One good girlfriend to take and distribute unwanted scrapbook supplies.
• After a night of exhausted sleep, I was all set to tackle one VERY FULL townhouse. I got home from taking kids to school to find Cole very uncomfortable. We proceeded to visit our family doctor who sent us to the Emergency room. A viral infection? A pulled muscle? Appendicitis? We were sent home for "observation".
• He felt a bit better upon our return home and headed over to babysit for some friends. He really enjoys it and they really enjoy him.
• In the meantime everyone continues to be busy with school, volleyball, hockey, choir and the other activities that fill our lives. That and eating, of course. The food preparation seems to be never ending!
• The next morning had us back at the hospital for another long day of tests the results of which landed Cole in surgery for 5PM. A laparoscopic appendectomy.
• I have very independent kids, for which I am grateful. Even with very little reception at the hospital (rendering me unable to micromanage their every move) they managed to get to activities, take buses and make meals all by themselves.
• Unpacking? Well, that is not part of their current skill set. Sigh. By the 10th, I was still unable to park in the garage, but learned to move the truck off the street to avoid more tickets!
• Yes, parking tickets. Turns out there is no parking between 2AM and 6AM whether you live on the street or not.
• Caden loves his buddy Sam, and as a break from household participation, he spent a whole Sunday with him. He really did not want to come home. They play computer games ALL.DAY.LONG. I don't know how they do it!
• Cole was more than a little frustrated that he was unable to participate in the rugby training program due to the surgery. It may have had a small incision (3 of them), but it was still a huge event.
• Exams started on the 13th. Cole was exempt which he was not happy about. Claire was not exempt which she was not happy about. It was not a good day. It got worse.
• Dr. Bill, our chiropractor and the guy who had, over the last few months, stepped up to co-parent with me (and take me out to very expensive lunches - because it's fun) had the nerve to go and die on me. At 41. Seriously? Okay, seriously. One of the dearest men I've ever met in my life, for no known cause, died and his absence has left a gaping hole in the lives of my children - and me.
• Though emptier in spirit, life continues. Exams continue. Hockey practice and games continue. School continues. Laundry continues.
• Brene Brown and her Power of Vulnerability was voted one of the top TED Talks this year. I wholeheartedly agree.
• It was a nice break from everything to spend an evening in Toronto with my family at our annual Christmas dinner. All the kids are growing up! Too fast.
• I've re-discovered the easy choice of using the GO train and will remember to do so more often through the year.
• The bully at school continues to bait Cole. It's exhausting. But it may just be over. (Furiously knocking wood.)
• In anticipation of our trip to North Carolina, the kids and I cleared out the garage and put everything away so the truck can now park in the garage. In order to leave, so I wouldn't be distracted by things left undone, I had to have the house in some semblance of order. We all worked very hard. It was perfect!
• Claire turned 16. With it came her G1 (learner's permit). I'm excited and scared for her.
• Those plans to head to North Carolina and Virgina for Christmas week? Cancelled. On the 21st this was declared, officially, the worst December, ever.
• Report cards are always a challenging conversation around here. That streak continued. One in tears, one with a plan, one with boastful confidence. Sigh.
• Chloe was invited to a "thank you" event at Planet Laser given for all of the kids who helped a classmate who had broken her foot earlier in the term. It was an unexpected - and welcome - gesture of gratitude. Such a lovely family.
• A good friend asked, er, lovingly insisted, we join them for Christmas dinner at their place. I'm so happy we agreed. Not only was the food and company fabulous, but my children discovered the fun of games and they really enjoyed one in particular. Made even more fun by the level of how inappropriate (and funny) they could be!
• We returned home to find our friends from North Carolina had DRIVEN TO OAKVILLE TO SEE US! Holy smokes. Merry Christmas, indeed - what a wonderful gift. Truly special. Speechless. Joyful. So thrilled to see them.
• All of a sudden our "no plans" were filled and we had hockey sticks out and boys playing in the street, boys sleeping over and parents laughing and enjoying the company of everyone.
• And then it was quiet again. We were so sad to have them leave, but so grateful for their time, their thoughtfulness, their presence.
• While the kids settled on laptops, iPads and on the DS3, I took the time to put together the starting elements of Project Life, MMEW, One Little Word and got my creative calendar for the year outlined.
• We headed up to my sister Andrea's place for a simple holiday gathering which included pasta and ice cream. After all, MMEW doesn't start until the 1st, right?
• I went through every single piece of paper in the house and it has been paid and/or filed. Quite an undertaking, but done. Yay! Starting 2012 with a clean slate.
• Well, except for the boxes. By the 30th, I still didn't have time to unpack any of them! We have two stacks of boxes - a total of 23 - to be unpacked and put away. Right now they are not in the way, just a visual distraction in the living room and dining room!
• Finishing up the year with an evening of Chinese take out, board games and watching New Year's Rockin' Eve with the three who are home with me. Claire has made other plans ;)
• We will be starting the New Year with warm weather, a full fridge and plenty to keep us occupied and engaged.

January? And all of 2012? I've learned my lesson. I'll not challenge. If anything is brought let it be in the form of gentle kindness and generosity of spirit.

Onward.

(Normally I would post this on the 1st or 2nd of the month, but in all honesty, I want all of 2011 left in 2011, so here we are just a couple of hours before we ring in the New Year with a blog hop scheduled for 5AM! But it's done. HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!!)

Reflections | November 2011

Photo taken November 25, 2011. A few things to note: short sleeves and no jackets being worn; Cole is, again, lifing Caden; Caden is starting to get big enough he may be unliftable soon!

Another full month has come and gone. This one overflowing with more than the usual dose of drama, joys, disappointments and genuine acts of kindness:

• Auditions for the school musical, Grease, started early in the month. Both Claire and Cole were asked to participate. They loved every minute of it. In the end, Claire has elected to play volleyball next term, and Cole got the part of Teen Angel (Frankie Avalon). I can't wait to see them both in their chosen activities.
• The time changed kicked us all. Well, me anyway. I've been pooped all month! Maybe it's just the lack of daylight.
• Cole is participating in the Upright Rugby Program and enjoying every minute of it. Especially his time at ATC with Rich. Rich is a hardass, perfect. (Cole has elected not to play hockey anymore. Indeed, at this point he would still not be cleared to play with his shoulder a painful mess. I think it was the best choice. Hopefully he's healed by Spring so he can fully partipate and employ all of the lessons learned this winter at rugby!)
• Caden is loving every minute of playing for Coach Andrew and Coach Hess of the Predators. He's a defenceman this year and enjoying learning all these men have to teach. I think they are enjoying his passion and commitment to the game.
• Chloe continues to attend voice lessons on Monday afternoons. Janet is amazing and always encourages Chloe to be her very best. I think we might even convince my girl to learn the piano. We must be subtle :)
• I am really enjoying my time at the Barn at the kids' school. The ladies are lovely and the experience of purchasing is really getting me back into a groove. A buyer/retail mindset I've missed the last decade, or so.
• Claire performed in two big nights: "Appleby Rocks" and the Cabaret Night. What wonderful experiences. The students are so incredibly talented. I am left in awe.
• It's about time I took better care of myself - in a pamper way. Civello is "the" local salon to visit. Given that I am not embracing "mo"vember, it was time to deal with things!
• Contradictory to my "scrapbook" ways, I am not much of a lover of "things". I love stories. But sometime those two things become one. I was crushed when, due to the utter lack of consideration of someone, I lost a very dear gift from my late grandmother. A ceramic Christmas tree. I know it sounds silly, but I was well and truly shaken by it's destruction.
• Pub night. We love it!
• There are a couple of young teachers at the school who have been, at different times and unpromted, wonderful to my children. I was so happy they were able to attend the Maple Leafs game on a day there was no chance we could. I'd love to do more. They are wonderful young men.
• Cole attended his first house party. Years of being a "hockey boy" had prevented him from participating in this particular rite of passage. Dropped him off at 8PM and picked him up at 11PM - with no arguments - he was none the worse for wear.
• Maintenance of the Highlander is a priority (thank you ALC Automotive!) It is the only way we get around hell's half acre and more every day. With the lease coming up it's time to consider a new vehicle. We definitely need something bigger. I never thought I'd do it, but a Suburban looks like the choice!
• Claire's bed arrived from Sleep Country. Soon thereafter we left for IKEA to finish off her room. Now if only she'd put the pieces together!
• Cole is learning good lessons. Specifically: you can only control your reactions and when you don't react well there are consequences. Accountability is key. Good thing he's learning young. Some men never learn, ever.
• Our first snow? November 17. Nothing stayed on the ground, but it was still a bit of a shock to the system! The weather has been so incredibly warm - in the mid teens - all month long.
• Chloe was scheduled to perform at the school "Dignitas" Open Mike night. She was AMAZING singing both Katy Perry's Firework and Adele's Rolling In The Deep. Then we were treated to Claire singing the Maroon 5 She Will Be Loved to close out the evening. My girls are very different and that includes their voices, but boy is it nice to see them on stage loving every minute of it! Chloe was spotlighted in an all-school e-mail and got a special pin for her effort. Another PMM (Proud Mama Moment).
• There is a Spring Break opportunity to go to Europe. I hope Claire enjoys every minute of London, Paris, Florence, Rome and Pompeii. I've already asked if they need an extra chaperone, and alas, they do not.
• Caden's first tournament of the season was up at the Nottawasaga Inn. For the most part it was a lovely weekend, though the boys ended up leaving after only three games. We were home early on Saturday. Not what we expected.
• My children are not perfect, not by any stretch. I think it's better that they are raised by someone who sees them as human as opposed to some parents who believe their children are flawless. Sigh. Especially when those children are known stinkers.
• Claire walked with her friends in the Santa Claus parade in support of the annual Courage Polar Bear Dip. I love her attitude and enthusiasm.
• We were home in time to help with the annual neighbourhood decorating. We got a ton of help from our lovely neighbours and ended the day at Bill and Sandy's for cookies and hot chocolate. I'm enjoying the twinkle lights, and will more when our outside outlet works properly!
• With the help of those neighbours they helped Cole figure out where the water shut off is located for the front and back water supply. In a million years we wouldn't have found them without assistance. Crazy.
• A bit of disappointment at the Appleby Hockey Tournament. Mind you, if the rink were a bit more inviting - metal benches in an arena are not comfortable! - it may have been more appealing.
• I really enjoy the ladies at the College Shop. So nice to engage on a regular basis with adults rather than being perpetually surrounded by pre- and full-teens!
• Cole has been busy with Chapel services at the school - 5 holiday services in a row! It turns out that not only is he in the Chapel Choir and the Cantus Choir - he had two solos he neglected to mention to me! He said he'd be too nervous if I had been there - especially with my perpetually present camera.
• As much as 6:30AM volleyball practice stinks for the kids, I think it may just stink more for the parents who have to get the girls to the school at the crack of dawn. Claire's having fun though, and that's all that matters, right?
• Claire celebrated her Sweet 16 at our old house a month early. December 20 is a bad time for a birthday, so I figured why not? After all, it's totally cleared of all valuables and there's plenty of space. It was a great evening. She was very happy with the simple evening of loud music, pizza, ice cream cake and plenty of friends!
• How do you spell relief? S.O.L.D. As in, the house is SOLD. I found out just as we were putting everything in order for the party. Bonus: a quick closing of December 6. Things are going to be a bit hectic around here for the next little while.
• The morning after the big party we had to get Cole off to Pickering for a Rugby Ontario event, Caden off to a friend's birthday party and then Chloe off to an Oakville Children's Choir performance. It was a really busy day!
• This is an overwhelming time with all of the big "projects" and essays being completed in advance of exams and testing. My job? Maintaining a sense of humour, making lots of food and enforcing bed times.
• I continue to hear "banana poke" every time we pass a yellow car. It started this summer and drove me crazy ... still does! You'd be amazed how many yellow vehicles are on the road.
• Caden destroyed his first pair of glasses - truly mangled them. He just got another pair. Lets hope this pair lasts longer than three or four months!

And with that we start December which promises to be filled with more adventure.

Bring it.

 

Reflections | October 2011

I think I simply have to give in and just get used to our months being of the whirlwind variety! Our October had us going here, there and everywhere, every day packed full of opportunity and change.

• I really enjoyed heading up the Scott Kelby photo walk here in Oakville. It was a cold and blustery day, but a few hearty souls joined in and many wonderful photos were taken. I learned a lot through the process and should I lead things next year, I'll plan my time better as it seems to slip though my fingers!
• Claire is a rock star! Really. At her homecoming (and then at Walkathon) she got up on stage and rocked out singing with the band. She knew all of the words, all of the notes, everything!
• I am not a shopper. The idea of spending a Sunday - 11AM to 5PM - in a mall is outrageous. And I did. With four kids. Save me.
• Typical of Caden: his class was expecting a foreign student to attend. He was arriving from China. What did Caden do? Downloaded the "Mandarin" podcast and spent a day studying so the new student would feel welcome. He really is that thoughtful.
• Warming my heart? Claire is now studying potential universities to attend. I sit in the living room listening to her talking with Cole about their plans for the future and which schools should go onto the "short list".
• My Uncle Bud passed away early in the month. I will always remember his voice, humour and frequent bursts of laughter; that he taught me to play solitaire when I was about 7 or 8 at a summer cottage in Shediac; that he barbequed the most tasty lamb chops; that he happily (I think) played chauffeur on a couple of occasions when I was at university; shared more than a few bowls of vanilla ice cream and nuggets of advice while watching the weather channel late at night; and, that he and my Aunt Beth were married - happily - for 64 years. Wow.
• Hockey season is underway for my little guy. He is so keen he shows up at least an hour before his practices so he doesn't miss out on anything. I love his enthusiasm. Hockey season has ended for my older guy who has elected to hang up his skates and put on cleats instead. The kindness and understanding of his coach really made me think there's hope for hockey!
• We enjoyed (?) a crazy warm Thanksgiving weekend in New Brunswick - it was 30C+. Not condusive to the velvet and cashmere finery I had packed! It was lovely to see so many of my family and family friends. It was a jam-packed few days.
• Chloe is on the school basketball team and got to play in her first game - ever. The Middle One's do a lot of bench warming. She was very good and for a kid who has never played before this year, and did a great job understanding her position and cheering on her teammates.
• I feel somewhat vindicated in my firm belief that you learn more from your mistakes than from your successes with the publication of this New York Times article.
• Mid-month Cole received an invitation from Sport Oakville to attend a Recognition Ceremony. His Crusaders team had been nominated by the Oakville Crusaders Rugby Club to receive a "medal to honour excellence, perseverance and dedication in the area of sport development, performance and contribution to the community." It was a lovely ceremony and nice to see many of the boys and their parents.
• Caden is very happy to be #6 on his Predators team - sharing the same number as his favourite NHL hockey player, Shane Weber. Too bad they aren't coming to the ACC this season. But who knows, he may change favourites mid-season. Fickle, that boy can be fickle!
• So, it turns out I'm on the Parent Association at school now. This should be interesting.
• Cole suffered from hypothermia while away at Temagami with his class. It is never a good thing to get a call from the program director while your kid is away: immediate panic. Cole was fine, but the next time he packs he should be more prepared than cocky ;) otherwise he'll end up back in the silver burrito!
• While Cole was away we, Claire and I, attended the big fundraiser for his team. I was given strict orders from Caden to bid on the big barbeque. I did. We're now waiting on a deliver of a big barbeque! So happy to be able to help one last time and grateful to those guests of ours who attended even knowing Cole was no longer a member of the team.
• I volunteered at two of the four Picture Days at school and it was so nice to put faces to the names that I've heard for years. There are some really wonderful kids, and some real stinkers. I had forgotten how hard it can be to navigate high school. What I did enjoy was some really great conversations with the other mums there with me for the day.
• Claire has caught the first cold of the family. It has really effected her ability to sing and she is so very frustrated. A lingering cough is not helping matters.
• Over half of the blogs in my Google Reader were purged and things are now manageable. Until I add more!
• Nothing beats a quiet tea - following a lovely lunch - with a girlfriend in a quiet corner. Especially if there are peanut m&m's nearby!
• I don't sleep well when my kids are out of the house. This really felt like the month of the sleepover with all of the kids away overnight at one point or another. Maybe if I could coordinate that it all happens at one time?
• Broadway look out! Claire has joined the cast of RENT and attends weekly rehearsals with a new group of friends. She really enjoys it. Cole has auditioned for the school play and hopes to get a part in the school musical, Grease.
• For those four people on earth who didn't know, Appleby hosted Harvest Colours and the middle school baked many delicious treats. Our kitchen was busy with a few dozen vanilla and chocolate cupcakes made ... and eaten!
• Caden was invited out with a teammate to the new family shinny night at Kinoak. The dad was thrilled to have my guy so keen to learn. Big lesson: it's easier to teach someone else's kid. Bigger lesson: there are some really kind people out there - just get out there.
• I met a girlfriend who was in town - well, Burlington - for a tennis tournament with her little guy. So good to see them both and watch him play "my" sport.
• I love that a mandatory part of the Upright Rugby program is yoga.
• Our weekends, for the first time in a decade, are now far more open than ever before. We actually have an opportunity to sleep in and catch up on much needed rest - by all of us. What an amazing change. Good for all of us!
• Now that Cole's hockey season has *poof* gone away, so also has all of the tournaments and commitments. However will we fill that time?
• Parent/Teacher conferences were held at school over two nights. I only made it to the first night so I'll have to catch up on the phys. ed and art teachers along the way! The good news is the kids seem to be thriving with their studies.
• Caden attended his entrance interview. There was laughter coming from the office, so I think that's a good sign. Fingers crossed.
• Claire has started her varsity volleyball practices on the weekends - well in advance of the season. They are a very dedicated group of girls. I'm looking forward to seeing her play this year.
• I'm really enjoying my photo walks. I'm learning a lot about my camera and learning a lot about my emerging photography "style".
• Caden was our only trick-or-treater this year. He went out as Luigi (of Mario Bros. fame) with his buddy Sam. A huge haul, but unlike other years there were no Tootsie Rolls and lots of Bubbles and juice boxes.
• We are all stunned over all the snow in the North East. Nothing here ... yet.
• For the first time ever we are contemplating a road trip - south - for Christmas break. We have 20 days to fill and no hockey tournament. Yes, that's right, NO HOCKEY TOURNAMENT. Hello dolphins and sunshine :)

October reinforced a number of lessons, one key reminder being "if you want something done, do it yourself". And I am. It's exhausing but good. November will be busy with the kids getting to and from activities, rehearsing for performances and studying for exams. I thrive in routine and November seems to be the one month a year where all of it comes together. One variation will be adding Maple Leafs games to our rotation!

Reflections | September 2011

[no photo, seriously]

 

Just when I think we cannot possibly get more busy ... we do! September was met with enthusiasm and the cooler weather embraced, by all of us.

• Hockey season started before school season with a series of friendly games in London, Ontario (a 90-minute drive away). Cole is still unable to play with his shoulder seemingly not improving. At all.
• Early in the month I celebrated my middle age by not celebrating at all. It was lovely.
• Caden is at school - sibling free - and was thrilled to be put in class with his favourite teacher and a bunch of buddies. I think he's going to have a great year!
• Chloe has started Middle School and, after months of complaining that she didn't want to leave her friends and start at a new school, she's settled in nicely and loves the new environment. It looks like it loves her too!
• Cole has started High School and by all accounts is happy with his course choices. It will be a year of transition for him as he moves to a more academic-based experience. Not that he won't be involved in athletics, but his "sport" for the first term is fitness - with the girls. Funny boy. This shoulder injury might do wonders for his social life!
• Claire is now in Grade 11 and has a full course load. Early on she dropped French replacing it with a Media English course. She will probably take French over the summer - one month of pain rather than nine. I get it. She's also a Home Form leader for the Middle School and that keeps her focused on bringing the younger members into the fold. Yes, Claire is helping molding young hearts and minds.
• I've been writing Morning Pages this month. Encouraged by Jamie Ridler, then reinforced by my taking the brilliant Chookloonks Pathfinder course, I've been pretty good. Sometimes my pages are written at night, but hey, 750 words a day for a month is a lot of writing. And, 750 Words is a wonderful place to hold my thoughts - even though I've had to re-start three times this month!
• The Ontario Championships were held at Fletcher's Fields in Markham and Caden's Crusaders team made it to the quarter finals. They played very hard and they've really come a long way since last May! Cole's Lancers team are now officially Ontario Champions after a perfect season and two wonderfully executed games. Too bad my boy didn't play!
• I've started "barn duty" at the kids' school. There is a small shop that sells athletic equipment, socks, ties, candy and other goods through the year. I'm looking forward to it. Thanks to my friend, Gisele, I am now fully emersed in the volunteer fold at school. This should be a fun challenge this year! I'm taking over the apparel purchasing. I already have a ton of ideas swirling in my head.
• Chloe was asked to be Lead Alto in the Intermediate level of the Oakville Children's Choir. She is so thrilled to be invited. This should be a great year for her.
• We got new carpet!
• Our hockey association has spearheaded a new concussion protocol. Cole took the test and gave a review for CBC Radio. All it did was leave Cole with the impression that he's dumb :( Caden has to take the same test.
• Claire has been very busy with her girlfriends - lunching, shopping and trips to Toronto via GO train. She's growing up too fast!
• I've come to the conclusion that taking a 5-week course is really a 5-month course as it takes me at least a month to finish the first week of assignments!
• Chloe decided since she was taking so much vocal training this year that she would do something different at school. She's been placed in percussion. Sounds good to me, but I wonder what the neighbours are going to think? (It will still be better than the other choice - the tuba!)
• Cole broke the news to the Appleby hockey coaches that he would not be playing hockey again. Full stop.
• A young man has started school with Claire and he is proving to be quite a distraction. He is (apparently) a beautiful sight, though other aspects of his character leave a lot to be desired. I'm glad my girl can distinguish between good looking and good people.
• I really enjoy good television and can't believe I've missed so much Modern Family! My schedule just doesn't allow it. My kids have informed me that though we no longer have "time shift" via satelite we do have "on demand"!
• I might not be able to get any time away from parenting 24/7 but I am learning to incorporate mini-holidays into my days in the form of lunches with friends. So nice to explore new and old spots with new and old friends.
• Chloe had her first time away from home with no siblings and no parents when she went to Camp Pine Crest (in Torrance, Ontario - 2 hours north) with her class. She is such a courageous and outgoing kid, I'm so proud of her. I might have liked a kiss or hug goodbye, maybe even a wave, but she was anxious to be with her friends. It's all good!
• Cole's hockey team won their first tournament this year, the Mississauga Early Bird Tournament - they are the Bantam Champs! Cole and another player were very good cheerleaders!
• We are finally set up with our new family doctor. It's great and such a wonderful change to be cared for - we actually got a call about some test results. We've NEVER received a call in 10+ years, we've always had to do the calling. A welcome change.
• After much discussion and hemming and hawing, the kids were convinced that Queen sized beds were the way to go and with their delivery everyone (but mama) is sleeping better :)
• Claire is attending a number of University presentations. She has had her heart set on Western and I was surprised when she came home and mentioned that Laurier (in Waterloo) is the current front runner. There is still plenty of time and I'll support any decision she makes.
• Nanna and Grampy came out to visit our new home and take us out to a wonderful chi chi restaurant for dinner. They seem pleased with our choice in a home, the location is fantastic, and the dinner was, as always, wonderful!
• Cole's Ranger team went on a Bottle Drive and they earned over $400 to help offset the costs of their upcoming trip to Regina. We have a big fundraising evening planned but it was time for the BOYS to participate in some fundraising of their own. I think they did well, even if it was out of their comfort zone all of that walking up to neighbourhood doors and introducing themselves!
• Claire is the lead singer in a rock band. Yep. And she really can sing! It is her "art" elective this year and she's really enjoying it.
• The girls are not the only singers in the house, Cole has joined the Cantus Choir at school. They are more a "Glee Club" type group. He's spent a lot of time rehearsing and really enjoys it.
• Caden shocked me as only he can. While watching Canada AM before school one morning, he caught an interview with an author. It was such a great interview it left my boy is begging that I purchase the book for him! So I did: The Night Circus.
• Cole is now fully immersed in Physiotherapy and taking Naproxen. My fingers are crossed for a relatively quick recovery. An inactive Cole is not a good thing!
• Caden participated in his school's Terry Fox Run coming in the Top 30 for the whole school! Wow. Who knew he could run? Love it when my kids surprise themselves.

Hmm. The month felt way more full than that!

I'm hoping to get organized enough to get some creative projects started - and finished - in October. Oh, and I'd love to start blogging, more regularly, again. But, in the meantime it's all about hockey, choir and, of course, school. Bring on the chilly weather. I'm ready to become creative in the kitchen!

What about you?

Reflections | August 2011

 

We left the lawyer's office with the keys. The kids were beyond excited to get into our new home!

As all my months are, of late, August was full. Many ups and downs and all around. Many sighs. Now that it's over I'm amazed at how much we managed to accomplish. I'm officially pooped ;)

• One of the highlights included many lunches were enjoyed with Stoney's and J-Bistro being regular spots - great food and wonderful company, the perfect combination.
• Did you know that you can be in breach of contract and have no repercussion? The older couple selling us our new home decided they didn't like the terms of the deal and simply said "no". We were unable to move into our new home as scheduled on the first of the month.
• It turns out, for some reason, Cole had a different cellular plan than the rest of the family. How did I find out? The texting bill in excess of $700 for the month of July. One month. $700.
• The lake house has had more than a few showings and a few nibbles, but nothing serious yet. If it's not on paper, it's not worth considering. The house remains on the market. It will stay there, happily, until someone wants to love it. Until then, I am content to wait. My kids are settled, that is the only thing that matters.
• Cole continues to suffer the ill effects of the Rugby Tournament in Ottawa in July. He got hurt during a hit, but didn't complain as he was determined to participate in the tournament in BC. He had a GREAT time with Team Ontario - but now he has a possible tear in his rotator cuff made worse because he "sucked it up" and played anyway. If confirmed that means no activity until October!
• Chloe got her new computer for Appleby next year! Cole came with both of us to the orientation and he has been a great help to Chloe navigating her new machine. It's a PC and I use a Mac, so I'm happy for the help.
• I signed up for, and was chosen, to lead the Scott Kelby Worldwide Photo Walk in Oakville. I'm so excited! If you haven't signed up, do it! Click here for the site :)
• My property lawyer, Stuart Henderson, was lovely and had me sign all of the paperwork for the new house mid-month. I signed with one hand and crossed my fingers on the other. Eventually we got the keys, but it wasn't without a lot of fear and worry! I even had to sign a document that I wouldn't sue because of their being in breach. Crazy.
• "Banana Poke" is heard far too often in the car. Every time we pass a yellow car, someone yells - and pokes - "banana poke". This game has become tiresome for the chauffeur, but the kids love it so they continue to poke.
• Claire and Cole finally made it to the optometrist. Claire? Perfect 20/20 vision. Cole? Not so much. So he is now sporting a really gorgeous pair of frames. All of the kids with glasses are near sighted. 
• The separation/divorce story is not my own. I'm so happy to have found a small, but mighty, sisterhood of seven others in various stages of the same process. Not one story is the same with the exception of one theme: we all initiated the process. 
• Poor Caden is suffering at rugby. He has come home early from the last few games and practices covered in hives and short of breath. Clearly an allergy. A severe one. Our naturopath saw him and cleared him of a severe ragweed sensitivity. If I ever had any doubt about whether or not the natural hocus pocus works they have been placated. No more hives. No more wheezing. Caden is back on the pitch!
• By the time mid-month arrived, I was in fully "over it". Summer that is. I thrive in routine and summer always has me scattered. As much as I love having my kids at home, them going here, there and everywhere more than a bit exhausting!
• Our movers arrived - early! Oh, how I love early. We moved half of the house to the new place. Since we're still on the market a lot of the furniture remains - it is just far less full and more "staged". At this point I'm really missing my bed!
• So the cable company was to show up sometime between 9AM and 5PM on the day we moved in. Good thing the movers were long gone by the time the guy showed up at 4:45PM. Sigh. With the wrong equipment. Double sigh.
• My month gets better. Something happened, a traffic matter, in the beginning of May. As a result I needed to meet with a criminal attorney. A lovely guy who let me know that as far as criminal matters go, I'm not looking at hard time, but it did necessitate some hoops to be jumped through.
• I have some incredibly wonderful friends. For them I am incredibly grateful. Every day.
• Claire and Cole went to the CNE in Toronto, via GO train, with friends, to see what I've come to learn is a tremendous Canadian band: Marianas Trench. Good stuff! They are at the age where I have to show that I trust them. So with heart in throat, I drive them to the GO station and send them, with fully charged cellular phones, to an evening of fun and adventure.
• When we moved into our new home we discovered an incredible stain on Claire's carpet. It could not be cleaned, it really is terrible. Measurements have been taken and new carpet ordered. While we did that, I had the second floor measured, too. In for a penny ... and many, many, more.
• Chloe attended a computer camp from 9AM to 12Noon for a week. She can now do just about anything on her new school computer. Help us all! It was a great experience. In her class were a couple of Cole's friends as well as her cousin, Justin. It was a great week getting familiar with the school and some of the other new kids.
• Spending time in both houses. Decided to run a wash in the new place. Guess what? Dryer doesn't work. The knob (carefully placed on the dryer) is broken. Can't start. Sigh. I quickly went online and ordered a replacement. In the meantime had to go out and buy some tools. Somehow I was left with a hammer and a pseudo screwdriver. No pliers or a million other things of which I used to have in triplicate. Pliers purchased, dryer works. Sigh.
• First weekend in the new house and we had a huge leak in the kitchen. Something happened with the faucet. Lots of water. So it was shut off. Saturday and Sunday and most of Monday with no water in the kitchen - and four kids. It was not pretty.
• Yes, Chloe's door has been removed. More sigh.
• Tired. So very tired. I cannot go to sleep at night. Then I cannot wake up in the morning.
• I'm embracing a new colour scheme in the new house. I am normally very good at choosing colour from a 2" square paint chip. This time, not so much. The gray I chose turned a bit blue. Hmm. Instead of changing it, I've embraced it. While we're changing things we may as well go all the way.
• While I was painting the first floor, each of the kids painted their own rooms. Friends came over and helped out. Much chaos and fun. We actually managed to get some paint on the walls and not just on the carpet and clothing!
• The death of Jack Layton really hit hard. We are hardly supporters of the NDP but we did admire Jack's energy and knack for getting at the truth of the matter. He was voted as the politician we, the public, would most like to go out and have a beer with - he was that personable. May he rest in peace.
• Claire got her first job! She is now training as a cashier at Metro, a large grocery chain out of Quebec. I remember my days on cash. I think she will love it. I know I'm looking forward to the stories. So far they've been about meat - chicken leaking and a save of some ribs that came out of the package. I've resisted the urge to visit the store - I really don't need to, so many of our friends do it for me!
• So glad that a serendipidous conversation with some mums at rugby has provided a young couple with a couch and two chairs for their new place. And less for me to store!
• Even more changes! I know I voiced my disappointment with my doctor a few months back and knew I had to find a new one. So, on top of this month being about the busiest in my life, I've had all four kids in for a meet-and-greet and follow-up appointments have been made.
• All of the school books were ordered and have arrived - already. Whoot!
• I signed up to write a guest post on a blog I greatly admire. It's been submitted and approved and published today. Yay! It's a topic near and dear: finding the bright side. And I've heard from another, so I'll be doing some more writing. So happy.
• Claire recently told me that she's noticed that I'm starting to get really gray. She also mentioned it really suits me. Hmm. Not sure I like the process, but the results are great!
• Bachelor Pad has provided a remarkable number of parenting moments. Who knew?
• I enjoyed a wonderful afternoon walking through our new neighbourhood with 3 out of 4 kids. Kerr Village really is a special place and I'm so happy to be here and show my kids what it's like to live in a diverse area with plenty of neat people, great restaurants and fun energy.
• Pub Nights continue. I'm really enjoying checking out all of the pubs in the area. Sometimes we have all of the kids with us, other times it's just the adults. A very easy-going ebb and flow. I have to say, O'Finn's Irish Temper is, so far, my favourite of them all.
• We braced ourselves for the arrival of weather created by Irene, but it never arrived.
• Taking stock and know I really have to get back to work. I spent the month attempting to reconnect on LinkedIn. Who knows? Do I want to go back to what I did, what I know to do, what I can do in my sleep? Do I want to embrace the creative and writing? Time to work it out and decide.
• The kids all continue to push. With four children 15, 14, 12 and 11 there is never a dull moment. I wouldn't have it any other way.

It seems August was the month of "Le Sigh". What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, right? Well, if I could survive August 2011, bring it on. I can handle anything. Anticipating some more battles ahead.

I'm looking forward to September for a few reasons: I've joined the course at Chookloonks, I'll be celebrating my birthday and welcoming the return of routine mid-month when school starts on the 12th and hockey season starts soon thereafter. Oh, and cooler weather will be most appreciated!

I hope you had a lovely August and will enjoy your September!

Reflections | July 2011

Are you getting tired of hearing that we were busy? Well, this month things did slow down ... a tad. The pace was a little different with more spontaneous days and complete lack of structure. I have to say, for a control freak like myself, it was a challenge!

Adding to the slower pace: our annual holiday in Cape Cod!

The kids really enjoyed the freedom the month had to offer with requests to go here, there and everywhere. Pushing boundaries and rules every minute of every day. With all that going on, we managed:

• Cole participated in the training camp for Rugby Ontario. He was chosen in the position of lock for the U14 team. Plans were quickly underway for tournaments in Ottawa and BC!
• Both Chloe and Caden needed to get new glasses. They look fabulous in their new frames! Even better? They can see.
• I finally got in with our naturopath with my blood test results. He switched things up a bit and things are all working together now. Feeling better every day.
• Passports were collected and consent papers were signed. We were all set for our annual drive to the seashore.
• Claire has re-joined rugby this year and she is enjoying herself.
• Caden is a hooker and a very aggressive rugby player. He really enjoys tackling! He's pretty good at is as he's had plenty of practice over the years with Cole as his teacher!
• There were a number of pool parties - planned and unplanned. Tons of fun! Thank you to our many friends with refreshing water in their yards.
• Cole managed to keep up a crazy pace of Rugby playing for his local Crusaders club as well as the Ontario Blues. He's being injured regularly, but he loves it. The worst injury was a questionable concussion right before we left on holiday. Good timing! Not.
• We took care of him with regular visits to the chiro and RMT. The boy has to find a sport that doesn't regularly turn him into a pretzel.
• Caden loves his hockey and has managed to run away with the penalty title at 3on3 over at Canlan. You just have to roll your eyes. He's so mild mannered off the ice - and off the pitch :)
• Chloe continues to sing up a storm. We're organizing singing and piano lessons in the fall. Any recommendations are welcome!
• I'm also looking for a math tutor, for all of them :) Confidence is key, right? They are good, but not confident, so I need someone to bolster that aspect. Recommendations?
• My very social teenagers are enjoying life as teenagers. There is a ton of drama, lots of questions, tons of laughter, some very off-colour and crude humour, more spontaneity than I can handle, and I now think I know every neighbourhood in Oakville! There really should be a gas subsidy for mothers of teens.
• Someone has to tell my kids that I really do not need to go onto match.com or any other type of coupling site. Really. (But they are so funny about getting me "out there" and dating. Cracks me up. They are so lovely and concerned and funny.)
• Caden took me by surprise suggesting his ideal change in my domestic situation - which made me react with an extreme "throw the baby out with the bathwater" knee-jerk response. I've now relaxed and realized he's only just eleven and he's entitled to his outlandish ideas. I, on the other hand, am not.
• Claire and her good friend Nikki headed into Toronto via the GO train to see Hugh Jackman in his one man show. They were overwhelmed with how wonderful it was - going on and on about how lovely he was - and how they were the youngest members of his audience! Gotta love girls that recognize good looks and talent no matter the age :)
• Disappointed that Cole was unable to attend the Mini Chowder Cup in Foxboro. We were 90 minutes away, with his equipment, but we didn't want to risk his "possible" concussion and turn it into a more serious issue. Lounging at the beach was better for his recovery than a hockey tournament.
• In order to not disrupt the seaside holiday of all my kids, I took Cole home early to make it to the rugby gams vs Lindsay then on to the Ottawa tournament. Often, due to Cole's athletic success - and previously, Claire's athletic success - sacrifices have had to be made. This time around, with much thanks to a helpful community, the only one disrupted was me!
• We received an impossibly low offer on our house. Insulting, really. What are people thinking? At least offer what we paid for the place!
• Our holiday was wonderful. HOT and sticky, and wonderful. So nice to see Grampy and Nanna in such a relaxed and low-key environment. Lazy days were spent at the beach; playing croquet on the lawn; learning to drive (Claire); learning to play pool; listening to new summer music; eating watermelon, ice cream and seafood; mall shopping (ugh); reading summer fluff; napping and lounging around. It was a bit too hot for a few things - tennis or go carting, but fun nonetheless!
• While away I was featured on the Simple Aussie Girls blog. So honoured!
• We were so happy my sister Beth and her family made it up early so we could have a BBQ with them before we had to leave for home.
• I am amazed at the number of people on the road talking, texting, even using their computers in their cars! And speeding. Sigh. Caden observed this behaviour and commented that it was only mums with kids in their vehicles that seemed to drive the speed limit with few distractions. (Little does he know how distracting the kids can be!)
• I participated in the Ali Edwards-lead A Week In The Life project and it's slowly being put together. I went 100% digi this year. LOVE the results! Now just have to find the right printer.
• It seemed much like the month-without-Cole with him being so involved in his rugby. The Ontario Blues U14 team did well in Lindsay then on to Ottawa for the U16 tournament to prepare them for the competition in British Columbia. All I know is there is a big difference between a U14 rugby player and a U16 rugby player - and that is usually around 40 pounds of muscle!
• The end of July has Cole (still) in British Columbia with his team. They are representing themselves well and Cole has fallen in love with BC.
• Much of our time is spent doing very little inside or outdoors, in order to keep the house spotless. The hot and humid was gone - and now it's back. So tired of summer!
• Upon our return we were right back into rugby. Oh, how I prefer the character of this sport to hockey. It is far more brutal but it is also far more honest. I'm thinking I'd love to see some of those SOBs from hockey try to survive a season of rugby - if they did, they'd no longer be SOBs, of that I'm sure.
• I also returned to some drama regarding the new abode. Turns out the sellers want to back out of the part of the deal that made it a deal. Holy smokes! Heaven and earth has now been moved and we're back on track. Though 15 days delayed. Some stress I just don't need.
• I am reading! Fiction! By chance, when walking through Barnes & Noble I found The Girl Who Chased the Moon and it was lovely, enchanting. Once done with it, I ran out and got Garden Spells and will be on the look out for any and all books by Sarah Addison Allen in the future!
• I may have lost a son for a couple of weeks, but Nikki has filled his spot and I still have four to look after, and I'm happy for it. She's a lovely girl.
• Chloe started private singing lessons with her OCC choir director, Janet. She loves it and I love that she has a passion for it.
• Through summer our Pub Nights are a bit few and far between, but the last evening of the month saw us over at the Abbey Arms. I haven't been there in 10+ years. It was good - as long as they can pour beer and wine it's a good pub experience, right?

And with July finished that brings us to August. We still have six weeks before the kids get back to the routine of school and I desperately miss having a routine! This summer has been far more hectic than most and I'm feeling a bit discombobulated. The kids are loving every minute of it with no structure to our days and the embrace of lazy!

Reflections | June 2011

You would think with June being a "wind down" month that things would have been calm and slow. WRONG! This has to be one of the busiest of a year of busy months! This was a month of transition with a whirlwind of changes for everyone. The pace is certainly not sustainable for the whole family going at a break-neck pace - with the high stress demands of exams and deadlines, but a whole lot got done! Some planned, most not.

(KUDOS if you make it through this whole post! Hard to believe it was whittled down.)

Oh yeah, Athlete of the Year, again.

• Did you know you can walk through downtown Toronto underground? Well, I didn't. Totally new experience. Gotta say, the ScotiaBank offices are HUGE and intimidating.
• Both of my boys are conflicted: they don't know which they prefer, hockey or rugby. What?!? I didn't see that one coming!
• Caden enjoyed his trip to the salmon hatchery and regailed us with factoids for most of the first week of the month.
• I got a cute short haircut for the summer. It definitely fits my current mood!
• Cole finished up his course of allergy shots. I hope they work as well this year as in the past so he can see in September when the ragweed arrives. We're heading to our Naturopath, Dr. Jason Lee, to be on the safe side!
• The annual AGM for the MOHA resulted in the unfortunate re-election of the old regime. Disheartening. But the invested members have spoken so someone has to listen. Glad I'm not involved.
• The olders participated in the annual Relay For Life held at Appleby College. I went and "checked" on them and watched the start - the Survivor Walk. Took a lap around with friends, old and new, and then headed home to mind the youngers for the night. Weird not having everyone home! The Relay For Life goes overnight from 7PM to 7AM and Cole had to leave EARLY! He had a rugby game in Peterborough. Ugh. So up and on the road for 6AM. Happily he got to sleep in the truck and the Crusaders team WON! Claire, on the other hand, came home and crashed for the day.
• In preparation for the walk, I took the olders to a new chiropractor. Bill Nazar's practice is within walking distance from their school which is just what we need. I had met the doc at the "going away" skating party hosted by the Renneker's the week before. Cole even had his very first deep tissue massage. I figured with all of that hockey and rugby he was probably pretty tense - and he was. It is a lovely practice. So, if you're local and looking for a chiropractor, or a massage therapist (Lisa is great), give the Nazar Family Chiropractic Clinic a call at 905.337.9998 and Mary Lou will get you all set up.
• There is plenty of voice cracking going on around here. Sigh. I'm going to miss my baby when he's gone.
• I started a new morning routine. I drive myself over to the school - it's 50 acres of land on the shore of the lake - and I walk the perimeter. Over bridges, up hills, down hills, along the shore, behind a barn and an arena, along a rugby and soccer field. Twice. I have been going 4x each week. I have no idea how far it is, but I'm enjoying the 45 minutes of complete freedom and get lost in the music in my ears. Most of the time I feel like I'm dancing along the shore, I'm sure I'm a sight!
• Holy storms! You know it's crazy when the rain is teeming down and the lightening and thunder crash simultaneously above your house! It was spectacular!
• It was so nice to have dinner with my parents at Cucci in Bronte. Even better to have my sister Andrea, and her family, enjoy with us - they have a crazy busy schedule, too.
• Mid-month, the olders enjoyed a bit of extra freedom - movies and trips downtown - while managing the stress of exams.
• Chloe finished her choir year with a recording session. I can't wait to purchase the CD come September!
• Honest to goodness, I didn't think the rain would stop! Finally it did and the deck managed to be sanded and stained.
• Disappointed that some choices are just so poorly considered and selfish. Not in the least bit surprised, but truly disappointed. Happy, though, that they reinforce my decisions.
• Who knew "The Bachelorette" would have such meaningful lessons for my girls ... and my boys!
• 1000 Awesome Things arrives in my mailbox every day. Every day I smile.
• Going forward, I am determined to fill our lives with kind and positive people, things and experiences. The freedom of not having to deal with daily disapproval is so incredibly freeing and validating. I don't know what the hell I was waiting for ... this, all of this, is worth it.
• My children want me to be happy. I want them to be happy. I need to find a way to explain to them, in a tender and kind way, that though they are in the throes of adolescence and pre-adolescence, that my being with someone isn't necessarily the cure all. But I love that they believe it's possible.
• My girlfriends have to be told the same thing!
• I'm working on a series of mini-letters. It has been cathartic.
• Caden's best friend is moving away. Caden will miss him and I will miss his mum (and dad). We are in the process of trying to find "replacements" though it is an impossible mission. So, really, I suppose we're trying to find "distraction" and then the "replacements" will come. In the meantime we have Skype and Facebook!
• I am thrilled the same family who is moving away, managed to fit in a BBQ (and copious amounts of wine consumption) during the week of their departure.
• It turns out, during the Great Purge of 2011, my helpful kids threw out my old laptop. The place I stored my digital photos from 1998-2006, about 30,000 images. Sigh. Moving on. Realized there is always a way to remember people, places and things and it doesn't always have to be with photos (though it makes scrapbooking way easier!)
• Flabbergasted ... I'm still trying to understand how people can destroy their own city - the place they call home - in front of the eyes of the world.
• I have not spent much time on-line, but when I do I enjoy Pinterest. What about you? Any interesting distractions?
• Chloe's best friend, Kayla, threw a surprise sleep-over birthday party for our girl. So sweet!
• I bought a new house. Let's hope it is more manageable than what I have now. Just have to find someone to smudge it for me!
• We have entered a whole new dimension. Each of my kids now owns a BlackBerry - and they'd better pick up when I call! We are loving the BBM technology :)
• Mid-month, hell, late-month, my house looked like it had thrown up all over the place. I pulled everything out of it's cupboard and started purging. Big time. End-month, it's better but not yet perfect.
• It is amazing how fast, once you've made a decision, that you can move on with hope in your heart. No more anger, no more frustration, no more shame, no more negative. Life right now is lighter.
• Have I mentioned I have the best girlfriends EVER? I do.
• Saw so many friends and watched their children on stage at the Stage It year-end performance. Good to catch up with everyone and cheer - loudly! CC is a ROCK STAR!
• There was a bit of a passport panic - the NAPS tournament had Cole playing in the Buffalo area instead of our side of the border. All is well and he played with the Red Wings team with no border trouble. The trouble was in the rink where he managed to (clean) hit a kid hard enough his opponent had to be taken off the ice!
• You know how when you're getting a house ready for sale, something unplanned happens? Chloe got her first nail polish (received as a birthday gift) and decided to do her toenails in her room. That's okay. The spilled nail polish all over the rug? Not okay. Wall-to-wall replaced!
• Fortunately that should be end of the proverbial "3 Things". The tub that was going to come through the kitchen ceiling: FIXED and disaster avoided. The nail polish incident: FIXED. The computer in dumpster disaster: SIGH.
• Much fun was enjoyed at the Rangers hockey party. What a great group of boys on this, another, new team configuration. It should be a wonderful season with many plans already underway!
• Congratulations to my boy, Cole. He was selected to join the U14 Junior Blues Rugby squad representing Ontario. His first season playing! So proud :)
• Cucci is a lovely local restaurant - even at lunch time - as I found during my second visit of the month. I laughed for over an hour and a half. The food? The wine? The company? A must to do again!
• I took Chloe and Caden over to our new eye doctor. Glasses for all!
• Love that Caden has fully embraced a purge outlook rather than a hoard outlook. Or maybe it's just his new found entrepreneurial spirit!
• I will no longer have space for a studio and 99.9% of everything MUST GO!! It is a bit sad, but you know, I find I'm more creative with less. And then I read this article and felt so much better that it's part of this journey to hightened creativity by embracing minimal.
• I was tempted to try the 31 Strangers in 31 Days project I found over on Tina's blog - which she found here - and was originated here. Then I realized, over the course of the last month, I've met - with no blog, photography or writing agenda - more than 31 strangers. I have spontaneously gone way out of my comfort zone and I'm enjoying greatly talking and laughing with complete strangers. Soon they're not strangers at all!
• Chloe has a new full-sized bed. After years of loving her loft bed (a twin up top and a desk below) it was time to move along. The loft found a new home with a lovely - and very happy - 7-year-old who is loving it!
• The new full-sized bed was put together for Chloe by her big sister as her mother is not fluent in IKEA. Oh, and when Cole came with me to IKEA, you have to know we checked out with a bed. Nothing else. Miracles do happen!
• Inspired by their friends, the olders auditioned for RENT. I love that they are smart, athletic, and willing to get on stage!
• The last day of school was also the last day of the month. A full one. I need a vacation to recouperate from the last 30 days.

I am looking forward to July: anticipating the joys of the slower (?) pace of summer and keeping up with my kids - an oxymoron to be sure. Who knows, maybe I'll pick up my camera and start shooting again. Or even start writing again? Bonus: Not only am I embracing minimal in a very real and practical sense, I am participating in a "Clean Eating" challenge for the month of July with my friend, Jill Conyers. If you're interested, be sure to check it out: here. I don't know if I'll be able to do it, but if I don't try, I'll never know, right?

And with that? July? Bring it on.

Reflections | May 2011

It was a long time coming, but Spring has finally arrived. In years to come, when I look back, I'm sure this May will be remembered for huge decisions made. Big changes. Weight lifted. Stress reduced. Stress increased. Inhale. Exhale. Just breathe.

Translation: my month has felt like I was being pecked to death by a chicken.

• For the first time in a long time we have a majority government in Parliament, the NDP is the official opposition, the Liberals were annihilated and the Bloq no longer qualify as a party. Some surprises, but for the most part the pundits were *gasp* right.
• Sad news learning ABC had cancelled two of my "stories" from childhood, hell, I still watch them when I can: All My Children and One Life To Live. A real bummer.
• Cole took a field trip to the Credit Valley Conservation Area, I'm sure it was an exercise to see how much mud a bunch of children could gather onto their clothes rather than checking the spring foliage.
• With few exceptions, cops are arrogant and humourless.
• A bit of controversy: Ontario Hockey banned hitting in "recreational" hockey. A lot of players fall under the umbrella of "recreational". I understand the sentiment. I don't agree with it, but I get it. I'm hoping there is a way to make it work to make the kids, the parents and the organization happy. A tall order!
• "Someone" broke my Canon 50mm 1.4 lens! It never leaves my camera and since I'm so used to it, I'm having a hard time becoming comfortable with the kit lens. A whole month without it. Brutal. Definitely time to consider a replacement or upgrade.
• Plans are well underway for Cole's new AA hockey team and we are all looking forward to the year ahead (yes, year, not season) with relief and confidence.
• Upon my return from Canyon Ranch, every cupboard has been cleared out of the kitchen and replaced with less - but all good stuff. I am now able to find every single ingredient necessary to make any CR recipe my kids want to eat.
• Louis continues his endless hours of volunteering at the MOHA. So much so, he put his name in for Vice President of House League and was acclaimed. I'm pretty sure Louis spent half the evenings of the month in one meeting or another at the hockey office or at the town of Oakville. Either way, it was hockey related. Always.
• Caden enjoyed his field trip to the Carpet of Dreams, Persian Fairy Tales presentation and another trip to the Ontario Science Centre. Clearly we've entered field trip season!
• Cole had the yellow buzzed out of his hair and he resembles "Sonic", the hedgehog. Caden waited until after the Mother's Day festivities to get his hair cut.
• I did not get up at the crack of dawn to watch the Royal Wedding knowing I could watch it all day long whether I liked it or not - and I was right. Gotta say, I loved Kate's dress - exquisitely elegant -  and, with many others, I continue to be a huge fan of Harry.
• Cole and Caden both started their CRU rugby careers. Both really enjoy the sport, and we as a family enjoy the whole rugby vibe. Even without Claire playing this year, it is a family event. I'm hoping I can convince Chloe to join in.
• It was so nice to see my family at our annual Mother's Day event in Toronto. I took a ton of photos and everyone looked great!
• Caden is playing 3on3 with a bunch of buddies and the first time I went to watch he got himself ejected from the game. (If you get 3 penalties, you get tossed). He was devastated. The dads loved it - all big smiles and talking about how much "heart" my boy has for the game.
• Cole is enjoying his position as Captain of his school rugby team. Happy to have come in second in their league - only losing to Ridley in the final tournament.
• Claire is playing varsity softball and though she's not in a position she likes, she is playing a sport at which she excels. The team ended stronger than it started ending up third in their loop.
• I'm going to miss Oprah at 4PM weekdays. In the last few years I haven't seen many of her shows but I caught part of the very last one. The part that resonated the most: "I've talked to nearly 30,000 people on this show, and all 30,000 had one thing in common: They all wanted validation ... They want to know: 'Do you see me? Do you hear me? Does what I say mean anything to you?'" I hope I've learned, a little, to validate others.
• I've been very good about taking my thyroid medication and haven't missed a dose! Gotta say, I'm disappointed that my Canadian doctor was so put out by my going to get tests done in the US. Hmm, thinking I wouldn't have had to do it if he had listened to me in the first place. Frustrating.
• Cole was asked to try out for Team Ontario Rugby. Crazy. His first year in club rugby. What an honour. So good for him! The coaches are so incredibly good, tough, positive and validating. I'm totally "getting" the affection people have for these lovely men. Have I mentioned what a great vibe there is in this sport?
• Chloe continues to sing, sing, sing. We're setting it up that she will take singing lessons through the summer.
• The only time Cole is on the ice - until Training Camp in August - will be skating lessons on Tuesdays and the occasional game with a summer team. I venture to speculate that he will actually be a better hockey player come September than he is now. The skating has just started and I'm ready for it to end!
• I went on a wonderful photo walk through Bronte with some girlfriends. I'm hoping it is the first of many.
• Changes are still in progress on the eating and exercising front. Still a long way to go.
• Still trying to get used to Caden receiving phone calls from girls. Hard to wrap my brain around it. Sigh.
• Stripping the deck - hard work! Now it's up to the professionals.
• My most favourite scrapbook store, in the world, has announced that it will be closing at the end of the summer. It makes me sad that such a vibrant, meaningful and social activitity is no longer economically viable for those who provide such great service, encouragement and products.
• Sometimes the best decision for a family is the disollution of it.
• Now that school sports have ended it's time to crack the books with exams starting in a couple of weeks!
• If in doubt, rent a dumpster. What an efficient cleansing process!
• Just when I needed a hero, out of the blue, one stepped up. I am forever grateful. Even more grateful for others who have also stepped up and stepped in.
• We might complain (too often) of the cold and snow in the winter and the hot and humid summers, but I am happy not to live in an area prone to fire, floods or tornadoes. My heart goes out to those who have lost so much.
• LOVE my BlackBerry BBM application! Add me :) PIN: 20E28BE9
• Cole enjoyed strapping the skates on and playing in a local tournament even if it was only for the games played on the Friday.
• With his buddy, Sean, Cole helped friends coordinate a skating party by being on the ice and making sure nothing happened to the children. The adults were another story altogether with one of the goalies getting run over!
• I really enjoy looking at properties. Great perspective on value and some fun (and funky) decorating ideas.
• Due to injury my time was freed up and I was able to watch Chloe and the Oakville Children's Choir perform in their last concert of the season. Tremendous!

Wow. Lots going on around here. I have no doubt that things will be even more busy in the upcoming months! I'd prefer full, but I'll settle for busy. Enjoy your June!

Reflections | April 2011

Like every month, April was full. Unlike most months, it was highly emotional with many victories and an equal many disappointments. I am often left breathless with the disrespect and cowardice of some people and then overwhelmed with the inherent kindness and generosity of others. This month was one of extremes.

• A lot of technology changes around the house: no more voice mail, call waiting or mailbox; amped up the high speed and the digi capacity; and, changed the satellite services. Saved some money, paid some money. But finally got services that work, for us.
• Enjoyed a volunteer appreciation evening for the hockey association. So good to see hard work and dedication be appreciated and rewarded.
• Chloe joined the Oakville Children's Choir at the retreat centre in north Oakville as part of their recruitment efforts. It was a short visit, but fun.
• Early in the month, Cole's schedule opened up enough that he was able to head over to BTNL on a more regular basis. When they were around to open the door.
• Caden joined his friends for a sleepover and then a morning at their church. For Christmas they had given him a graphic novel bible and ever since he has been fascinated. He loves church.
• Pub nights continue. Love spending time with our friends.
• Caden had his end of season hockey party. What a great bunch of kids and parents. So many stories this season. Lots of laughs, too!
• Can I tell you how nice it is to live in a country that has an election campaign that runs for just little over a month - 36 days to be exact. Election is set for May 2nd. No exhausting American-style election bash and trash marathon.
• Not only that, but for one French debate, when the choice was hockey or politics? Hockey won and the date was changed for the debate. Only in Canada!
• I had my first real dose of pre-posting crazy. Hopefully everyone enjoyed what went up from the 11th through the 27th! I was also computer-free for much of that whole time. THAT was hard!
• Caden participated as the computer programmer in the Halton Skills Competition. His school team did really well! He's so pumped.
• Mid-month, Chloe and the choir spend 14 hours driving to, performing at, and coming home from a competition in Stratford. Chloe had a great time and was chosen as a soloist. She has a beautiful strong voice, and loves using it!
• More church for Caden! I wonder who will be recruited to take him when P and family move to North Carolina in the summer?
• I had a project featured over at Ella.
• The birds, holy smokes, are they ever LOUD. I swear every single bird in our town wakes up in my back yard. What a noise!
• I flew to Tucson with my sister and spent 10 Days and the world renown Canyon Ranch figuring out things.
• While on my way to my holiday, changing planes in Chicago, I got word that Cole - a day late - was cut from his hockey team and left with no options. Well, he had options, but that would have meant doing something mean to someone else, and that is really no option at all.
• It took a lot of effort to get on the connecting plane to Tucson.
• But I'm glad I did and a new journey has begun.
• In the meantime, back in Oakville, kids went to school, hung out with friends, did laundry, made meals and kept house.
• Tryouts continued and Cole is with one of his closest friends again - they had been together 2 years ago. Even better, his best buddy from last year is also on the same team. Always, always, look on the bright side of life. If I can give my children nothing else, I want them to learn and live in the knowledge there is always a bright side.
• The youngers were given, with many guidelines, Facebook accounts. 
• Chloe spent a lot of time with her buddy Kayla and Louis got to know her parents and learned how to manage her "playdate" logistics - and made plans for everyone else.
• Louis got a real dose of parenting in a quick 10 days mid-month. Claire and her boyfriend of almost a year called it quits - well, he did; Cole was blindsided; Chloe and Caden are social butterflies with lots of plans and places to go; there really was very little down time.
• I returned home with renewed energy and purpose - and a clean house!
• Claire attended a show choir with one of her good friends and she might join in next season.
• All of the house was disappointed the Habs did not beat Boston to advance in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Around here this does not mean they stop watching hockey! We're in for the duration.
• Looks like it's going to be a very stormy spring, though I'm hoping it won't be as devastating as the storms earlier in month down south. Scary stuff.
• Claire was in a big performance at school and it was lovely to watch and support her and her friends on stage. Bravo to them for doing such a great job!
• Everyone was up ridiculously early to watch the Royal Wedding. Lots of pomp and ceremony - a great history lesson without getting caught up in the history part.
• And wasn't Kate's dress ridiculously elegant? So lovely and understated.
• Caden decided to run for class Prime Minister - again. Apparently they do this every term. I wonder what crazy slogan he's going to come up with this time! His campaign is even shorter than the national one.
• We missed the deadline for a field trip, the first time ever the form wasn't handed in on time. Chloe will never forget! So I'm coming up with a field trip of our own.
• Caden is in the middle of try outs for the school track and field team. If the kids are chosen based on enthusiasm he'll make it for sure!

Holy smokes, that was a lot of stuff! Great stuff. Rotten stuff. Life is full. Life is good.

Onward into May which will bring my participation in StoryADay, LOAD, WholeHearted Living, May Merriment and One LIttle Word. Those are just the few things I can remember off the top of my head! I'm sure there is plenty more I'd like to do, if only partly, to gain the experience and embrace the inspiration.

The kids have tons of activities starting up!

I wonder how the great plans for May can go awry?

Reflections | March 2011

March came in like a lamb so the inevitable lion was expected - though I could have passed on the 10+ centemeters of blowing snow at the end of the month! Winter did start late, but it seems to have lasted forever.

• A lot of emphasis was put on math before leaving for break. The kids wanted a solid understanding and took it upon themselves to ask each other and learn. It was fabulous!
• The washer was finally fixed!
• Creative Conversations continued in my basement and on line. What a wonderful and talented group of women, I am inspired and priviledged to have them in my life.
• The master closet - and a few others - were completely cleaned out. I've since fallen behind on many of the Project Simplify assignments! We haven't been home much which seems to be key to project completion :)
• Received and read Blogging for Bliss in our virtual book club - it has been mailed out to the UK for another to enjoy.
• No one in this house adjusted well to the time change.
• Reading The Gifts of Imperfection - twice - is the best gift I've ever given myself. Thank you, Brene Brown.
• Chloe won the trifecta of school awards: Eagle Award, Honour Roll and Citizenship Award. She is a rock star student, that's for sure!
• We got nailed with snow early in the month. And we thought that would be the end of it. We were wrong!
• I gave Marilyn Dennis and her new show a couple of weeks and thumbs down. Back to watching Ellen - far more enjoyable.
• The first weekend of March Break was spent in Welland with Cole's hockey team who participated in the SCTA championships. The Rangers won! Which meant the next weekend, the last of March Break was spent in Kingston.
• This was the month of the Grandfather as my dad was able to come out to Welland to watch some great hockey and Guy, my father-in-law was able to come out to Kingston to watch some better great hockey.
• I went a little digi-crazy and got a bunch of "stuff". Now I have to figure out how to use brushes!
• The boys got "faux hawks" in solidarity with Cole's hockey team. Then when the team went blonde so did my boys! Crazy.
• The kids took the bus to Kingston, I was lucky and just drove. In silence. It was a wonderful 3 hours!
• The trip itself was a bit disappointing as the boys lost the bronze medal game - in triple overtime - to the previous year champs. Proof they can play with just about anyone. Winning seems to be an issue.
• Caden's team won their final game of the season. I convened the game. As it turns out some parents are constantly unhappy and obnoxious. Some executive members will not adjust their agenda even when they know they are wrong. Not the best end of the season.
• Claire went to St. Lucia with her best friend Marley and her parents. They had a spectacular time! She was well and truly missed but had a great adventure. She returned happy, rested and crispy.
• With hockey over it was a LONG break for Cole. He filled in his time getting up relatively early for his 10AM skating lessons with Kevin. We'll have to remember that some places that are supposed to open at noon - don't. Off ice training will have to wait!
• Chloe and Caden started their break in Welland and ended it in Kingston. Some day we'll take them south for Spring Break! I hope.
• Caden was asked to join the Lego Robotics team for his school! He LOVES both Lego and Robotics so I imagine he'll enjoy the challenge.
• Four stores visited and four stores in Kingston did not have a hockey stick to replace the one Cole broke at the tournament. Upon our return home it was off to Corbett's for new ones. And new skates. We've learned a lot about equipment this year!
• I was so fortunate to join a bunch of brilliant ladies to take a couple of Donna Downey courses in Kitchener. Now I know what I like and what I don't. Lots of needless questions of my own creativity have been addressed. Happy sigh.
• The final Rangers team party was fabulous even when I was reminded that I am desperately allergic to dogs. Thank goodness for neighbours with puffers - and a lovely hostess!
• Caden's best friend is moving to North Carolina. It was great to have Payton and his family hang out here at the house while theirs was open for viewing - and it sold! Glad for them. Sad for us.
• I've always loved Kirsty Alley. Her being paired with Maxim? LOVE!
• The glass was finally installed in our basement shower. We've only been waiting since last December!
• I am officially addicted to Pinterest.
• Dana Delaney's new show "Body of Proof" is really good. A bit contrived but I have a weakness for strong female characters.
• I'm suffering scheduling discombobulation! The idea of using a paper calendar for our family schedule, though nice in theory, does not work in practice. So? I'm embracing iCal and colour coding. I had to erase and rearrange too many things to make the Moleskine book practical. I'll be using it for creative ideas - and perhaps mapping out things for this here blog of mine.

My Month
inspired by Katie the Scrapbook Lady

What new things did I learn? Some people are unable to let bad things go. Some people don't know how to accept positive. There is always a negative spin. They want to live in negative. I can't let that affect me as I dwell in a place of positive. I have to embrace my own sense of self worth and leave them to their own destructive behaviour and not engage. Onward.

What fun things did I do? I indulged in creativity and lots of socializing this month. Completely unexpected and that was the best part!

What interesting people did I get to know? All people are interesting. So fun to get to know them better.

What important events occurred in the world? The disasters in Japan: earthquake, tsunami and nuclear reactor meltdown; UN air strikes in Libya; the space shuttle retired; not as important, but noteworthy: Earth Hour in our house was a bust.

What special purchases did I make? I am at the stage where I can not pick and choose product to aid my creative endeavours that are true to my likes and dislikes. I'm by no means a slave to the "latest and greatest" which makes choosing easier! It doesn't lower the bill though - I got a ton of stuff from The Art House while at my Donna Downey classes.

Any noteworthy accomplishments this month? The month was so crazy busy that my only accomplishment was simple survival!

What were my disappointments this month? I was sad for Cole and his hockey team. They work so hard and are so dedicated to excellence. They fought hard but just missed the mark. 

Anything else? I got away from my daily walks at the mall. I really have to start again. 

My Month in Pictures
Inspired by Rebecca Cooper

 

What about you? How do you document your months? In pictures? In words?

There was a lot going on in March and I do hope for a bit of a slow down. In order to make sure that happens, I'll be taking a holiday in April. So, though the life of my family will still be going full-speed ahead, I'll be enjoying some sunshine and quiet. Yay!

Life is good.

Reflections | February 2011

FEBRUARY 2011

• February had me off-kilter from the start. I never feel good when I have a child missing and Claire headed off with the first wave of students to survive the winter elements by camping - outside - up North at Temagami for a week, on the first day of the month. Character building I think is what they call it.
• That didn't mean we didn't have plenty to do without her home!
• Chloe had her "shadow" tour of school for next year. She was so excited before she spent the day and was even more excited upon her return!
• Caden and his Hound Dogs team played in a hockey tournament in Richmond Hill Tournament. They made it to the semi finals, as usual, but no further. His favourite part of the tournament? He got a goal. The other big news was he got a new mouth guard - in purple - to freak out his brother. It did.
• Over at Cameron's Brewery, Cole's Rangers team had a big fundraiser which brought in more money than I expected. Gotta say, four hours of sitting by a door with a blizzard raging outside? Brr.
• Superbowl was a complete non event in our house this year. I think it's because chili just cannot be enjoyed without shredded cheddar - so I didn't make it.
• A lesson in "all great plans": Cole was to go to Montreal for the LCC tournament: 24 Hours. 3 Hockey Games. He tore his hamstring (small tear) in practice just before they left. He played the first game and ended up in a knee brace and crutches for the rest of the trip.
• He returned from a 7-hour bus trip at 1AM to but instead of waking for practice then take another bus trip to Grey Bruce for a game he relaxed and was up and on yet another bus at 7AM to head off to Ottawa for the Middle School trip - with a stopover in Kingston for an outdoor camping trip. What is with all this dead-of-winter-camping? Ugh.
• Mid-month was a much welcome Family Day weekend. It was nice to have all four kids finally all together under the same roof! It had felt like months since such a regular thing had occurred.
• The boyfriend has his G1 and is learning to drive. Claire is green with envy and now motivated to organize lessons and learn to drive so when it's time she can get her qualifications and catch up to him. I'm not ready, but realize it will happen and there is nothing I can do about it.
• I'm still astounded how many things were cancelled over the month because the weather forecast was for bad weather - that never arrived. This is Canada people. Bad weather is expected! We can't hide from it. Geez! Yet one more example of judgement being taken away.
• Chloe won a proficiency award for her Volleyball serves this season. She loved every minute of her time with the team. I'll have to find her some place to learn more skills over the summer.
• Caden and his class went to Queen's Park (Provincial Parliament) in Toronto for a field trip. His conclusion: there were a bunch of gray haired men yelling and behaving badly.
• Plans were made to spend time (10 days!!) with my sister in April and I got my ticket to Tucson - I'm warmer just thinking about it :)
• Three of the kids were registered for school next year. They are growing up too fast with Claire starting Senior School (Grade 11), Cole starting in Upper School (aka Grade 9) and Chloe starting in Middle School (Grade 7). Caden stays where he is for one more year then will join the crew - the only year they will all attend the same school.
• Chloe enjoyed her field trip with the rest of the grade six kids - a day of snowshoeing. I wish I didn't have a conflict as those would have been great pictures to take!
• We booked our summer holidays - fingers crossed we won't have to change them this year!
• Claire continues her 7AM to 11AM timekeeping duties at Kinoak (coldest rink on earth!) every Sunday morning and she's making a lot of spending money. Lots of lessons there!
• The kids have been taking turns being sick during in the month which means I got very little sleep. Each time one of my babies is under the weather they climb in with me - it's been a revolving space and not much sleep for mama. I'm hoping for some rest in March!

My Month
inspired by Katie the Scrapbook Lady

What new things did I learn? Not new, but it was reinforced: the answer is an automatic "no" if you don't ask the question. So I asked and was surprised, delighted and humbled with the response.

What fun things did I do? I made mistakes - many of them. As a result, I learned a lot.

What interesting people did I get to know? Many, many, many in person; and an equal many on-line and a few surprises on television. I had no idea how much I would enjoy Steven Tyler or Jennifer Lopez - I am delighted by both!

What important events occurred in the world? The devastating aftershock in New Zealand, the ouster of Mubarak in Egypt, the unrest in Libya and as a result the ridiculous increase in our price of gas ($1.20/L!) - the powers-that-be are hedging, we welcomed the Chinese Year of the Rabbit. Very important discovery (aka can an animation make mama cry?) thanks to Elizabeth Dillow, I found The Girl Effect. Not important, but love, New York Fashion Week (though totally forgot this year to pick up the NYTimes to get the Fashion Magazine!)

What special purchases did I make? I'm not much of a shopper but my best purchase was my new Asics running shoes. Not just the purchase, but they are being USED!

Any noteworthy accomplishments this month? I engaged. This was the month of involvement for me. Met girlfriends for lunch, started walking with friends, engaged with many I admire on line, had ladies over in my home for a few evenings of laughter, food and goodness and pub night was revived and we were reminded we should do it more often!

What were my disappointments this month? I never thought I could be more astounded by the negative words and actions of adults, but this past month really hit the nadir of bad behaviour. Years ago when I was more involved in a volunteer capacity, I would tell Louis stories and he would "poo poo" me and claim that it was impossible, after all, they're adults we were talking about. Right? Now that he is one half of the acting VP of House League for our hockey association he is getting a full dose and even forewarned he's astounded! We are both hugely disappointed. The difference? I am (sadly) no longer surprised.

Anything else? I'm embracing the gray and got all of the residual hilights cut out of my hair - six inches cut off the back! For a time, my hair got so dark I had to hilight it to make me look less old and sickly. Now there is some brightness coming in - I'm curious what colour it will end up. 

My Month in Pictures
Inspired by Rebecca Cooper

What about you? How do you document your months? In pictures? In words?

I don't know that I could have handled any more days in the month. For a short one we certainly crammed a lot in!

Looking to March adventures ahead. Wonder if it will go out like a lion - it certainly came in like a lamb. Onward!

Reflections | January 2011

Formerly called my "lessons" which evolved to my "month in review" I'm going to continue this practice of summarizing the previous month to help me reflect on all that went on in our lives. All of this eventually ends up as the journaling on my monthly pages a la Cathy Zielske.

My summaries have always been about my whole family and our activities which have been perfect for my family album project. In addition to that, moving forward, I am adopting Katie's more orderly approach with some questions for me each month. I've adapted her questions to be more reflective of my life:

What new things did I learn?

What fun things did I do?

What interesting people did I get to know?

What important events occurred in the world?

What special purchases did I make?

Any noteworthy accomplishments this month?

What were my disappointments this month?

Anything else?

I have no idea what I'll do with these collections, but I know I'll be happy to have them.

So, onward ...

JANUARY 2011

• I chose my guiding word for 2011 - DO - and it has been awesome. Hopefully I'll be able to continue rocking the do through the whole year. This first month was fabulous!
• The kids were enamoured with their Christmas gifts through almost the first week of January. Not bad.
• A nasty bug made its way through the house. Not a fun start to the year, but inevitable with such an early start back at school.
• Cole was selected as a Chapel Beacon. Apparently this is a big honour. For me it is a big funny as I'm sure Canon Lenox has never had a student before who knows absolutely nothing about the routines of church.
• Cribbage has taken over the house. Everyone is playing it!
• The World Juniors hockey tournament had the whole household glued to the television for a couple of hours every day up to the big final game! Much to the disappointment to everyone in our home there was an epic breakdown and Canada lost to the Russians. Better luck next year in Alberta.
• Claire was selected Captain of her school volleyball team and it looks like she'll be called up to the varsity team on occasion. She loves the sport and she's very good at it.
• Lost, found and finished my December Daily album. Thrilled with the results. Not only that, but I managed to put together a #reverb10 album together. In the first week of the year. Done. Not waiting in a pile! Whoot :)
• Caden campaigned for Class Prime Minister with the slogan: Vote for Caden Not a Maiden. Hmm. He came in 3rd of 7 candidates - behind two maidens girls.
• Lobster always tastes great, but it tastes even better on sale.
• Squirrelly season has officially begun. Those of us in minor hockey know it's the time of year when playoffs start and new team selections begin - almost simultaneously. It's a bit nutty.
• We all have a "confirmed bachelor" in our lives, don't we? Ours is Pete who stood up with Louis at our wedding 16+ years ago. Congratulations to him and his new bride on their RECENT WEDDING. Whoot!
• Cole was invited back for a special leadership program at OELC. He didn't even look up the dates or considered a conflict, he had such a great time last summer he's determined to go back! We're happy to send him, what a tremendous experience.
• Chloe is playing for her school volleyball team. Though she has never played before she's learning quickly. She has a ton of power with great serves and bumping. We'll have to work on her finesse and control!
• Another Bauer Total One stick broken. My boy needs a sponsor! At almost $300 a stick it's crazy. He's now on a mission to find a stick that isn't as costly and performs the same. I'm thinking a $20 wood stick will work just fine!
• Caden finally got his first point of the season on an assist. He is not the last one in his age group - but close, there are four others still waiting. We keep telling him that being a defensive defenseman is a good thing and he'll not get a lot of points but it is the only measurement the boys have and he's been teased badly over his "lack of performance". It is what it is.
• Late in the month, Cole and his Rangers team headed off to Stratford to participate in the Nations Cup. It was such a good experience for everyone. The results were not as hoped, but they boys played exceptionally well short-handed. They were buoyed by the idea that games played against very stiff competition were manageable. They went to play hard and play hard they did!
• So nice to be joined by non-hockey friends at Caden's local hockey tournament. His best friend Payton brought his parents and brother to the rink to cheer Caden and Hound Dogs team on. So nice to see them!
• Chloe and I enjoyed watching the Golden Globes. She didn't "get" Ricky Gervais' humour - good thing (I loved it); and she loved all of the outfits and bling.
• Claire has started her "I want to learn to drive" mantra we are sure to hear for the next year. As our December baby finally turned 15, all of her friends started turning 16 in January which means G1 season is upon us and Claire has to wait almost a full year.
• Cole obtained a concussion during the Richard Bell Memorial Tournament. He was finally cleared 100% on January 18th. That was a lot of missed time, he picked up where he left off, but with his head up!
• Caden, our little foodie, discovered the sandwich press way in the back of the kitchen cupboard. He is now addicted to making tasty grilled concoctions!
• During the Stratford tournament, I took over 1,400 photos. By the following Tuesday I had them purged down to 101 photos AND cropped, edited, straightened and uploaded to Flickr. So happy!
• Claire has been struggling with time management and her math mark is reflecting her conflict. Once she buckled down, went to extra help and focused on the problem she surprised herself by getting a 100% mark on her geometry test. I think she surprised her teacher as well!
• Weather report: flipping freezing! We went from cold-ish and brown to snow covered and dipping into negative double digits. Brr.
• A lot of the month is spent single-parenting from 4PM to 9PM and later as Louis has been busy with MOHA business. It will only get busier through playoffs. I really should sit down and write out all of the crazy stories from this season. I'm sure looking back, in our old age, we'll laugh at the insanity of it all. 4,000 kids in the organization - all of them with a mum and a dad and sometimes more - makes for some interesting situations.
• Cole turned 14. How is that possible?

My Month

What new things did I learn? More do, less talk. It works. And if doesn't work, change it. Case in point: one of the most worthwhile projects I've ever done is the monthly 12 of 12, but I'm no longer participating with the original group. I am hugely disappointed that the blog is defunct and I feel a disconnect over at the Facebook page: zero sense of community, inclusion or enthusiasm. I encourage anyone who feels the same way to stick with it - just find a way that works best for you :)

What fun things did I do? Interacted with so many wonderful people. Watched some great hockey and volleyball games! Explored many creative ideas and can't wait to make them come alive, to that end, I came up with 52 Projects, a la Elizabeth Dillow, and I'm happy to be on track :) What is better than a list? One that has all of the items scratched off!

What interesting people did I get to know? This was the month of the hockey mum: I got to know better the mums on Caden's hockey team as we spent endless hours at the new 16 Mile Complex during  the Frank Sabatino tournament; and, I got to know Heather Luff (one of the mums on Cole's hockey team) as we drove to Stratford, back from Stratford and back to Stratford again - in blizzard conditions. Such lovely women, all.

What important events occurred in the world? Devastating floods in Australia; a terrible shooting of a child, a congresswoman, a judge and others in Tuscon, Arizona; a terrorist bombing in Moscow; historic vote in Sudan for the south to suceed from the north, taking it's oil riches with it; political uprising in Tunisia resulted in President fleeing the country; landslides killed many in Brazil and left over 14,000 homeless; complicated election stalemate in the Ivory Coast; Egypt has exploded in violence and the situation looks terrifying. Not important, but indicative of bigger issues: Ricky Gervais, a raunchy, rude, hysterical comedian was hired to host the Golden Globes and then reprimanded for remaining true to his stock in trade. Which begs the question: why was he hired?

What special purchases did I make? I bought the "Scrabble" application for my iPad, "World of Goo" and "Angry Birds" oh, and the Oprah app. The kids are happy for the new games as it makes the between-game-time in the rink less mind-numbing. I have been keeping my purchases to a minimum. It is far beyond time to use, and appreciate, what we have.

Any noteworthy accomplishments this month? A plan was put together and much is being completed: two albums, digi detox, thousands of photos sorted and shared, invitations sent for Cape Escape 2011 and A Creative Conversation, becoming more confident in my digi skills, and I continued many changes to my eating and drinking habits.  My very first article for LYM was published along with my very first article for Ella was published with the generous contributions of Francine Clouden and May Flaum. It was a lot of fun taking an article from concept to publication. I hope to do more!

What were my disappointments this month? Our basement bathroom is still not complete - the shower glass still needs to be installed. I did not exercise as much as I would have liked; err, honestly, no exercise would be precise. Sadly, trudging laundry up and down the stairs and folding does not count.

Anything else? I need to know what happens to our spoons. Really. I don't have one teaspoon left in the drawer.

In the meantime, since I'll not be sharing the full Cathy Zielske-based pages here on the blog,  I have an abridged version to share with you using the templates found on Rebecca Cooper's blog:

(Why no share? Our life is filled with people, integral to our story, who have no clue that I blog and I don't think they'd appreciate having their faces plastered on the www without their consent. Often I ask for permission, but a month's worth would be crazy!)

What about you? How do you document your months? In pictures? In words?

Looking to February ... chaos ahead!

November in Review

Rink, rink, everywhere a rink :)

I have to say, as busy as November was, our family life-flow was much better. At least, it was more manageable. I missed a couple of events I really wanted to attend, and totally blew NaNoWriMo, but life is filled with choices and always my kids will come first. As for the flow, I have no idea why it seemed easier, but I think I'd better pay closer attention and do it again in December!

• Claire survived, barely, "hell week" at school. It is the week where all of the term assignments are due prior to exams. She was so tired that she went to bed at 8:30PM on Friday and woke up sometime Saturday afternoon. Poor baby, I remember and wish I could make it easier for her - but that's part of the ritual called "growing up".
• At school there is a Nightingale "Star of the Month" awarded in Middle School. The first of the awards for the year were distributed in October. Cole was selected with three other students. Among other honours: he made the finals of the poetry recital with his rendition of The Charge of the Light Brigade; he made the school hockey team and on it he was elected Assistant Captain; he was also made a Chapel Beacon. Busy boy.
• November marked the beginning of singing season! So much rehearsal time has been dedicated to perfecting the performances. Chloe was disappointed not to be selected for "the" solo - it was given to another alto - but she really is the consummate team player. Happy to be a leader, keeping her section on key and in sync.
• The hilight of Caden's month was, of course, the Hound Dogs win of the Nottawasaga Tournament. The lowlight? The following weekend they were spanked - SPANKED - 9-0. We live in the land of the Toronto Maple Leafs, there is nothing surprising.
• Claire and Oskar are having a regular even-keeled relationship. I suppose, from what I hear from friends, that is irregular in itself. I'm thrilled at how respectful, kind and humourous it is and hope, with effort, they maintain an easy-going and drama-free friendship.
• For me this was the month of the sistah! I enjoyed lunch with Andrea and often see her (in the rink) on Saturday mornings, Beth came to visit overnight with her daughter and I saw Bryn when we all attended the family baby shower for Natalie and her new sweet baby. LOVED every minute of it :)
• Chloe donated a bunch of hair - after months and months of growth - and we are all so very proud of her!
• We are blessed, blessed, with a pair of men, brothers, who do the home maintenance in our neighbourhood. They're both retired and love putzing around in our homes. They are the go-to men for our neighbourhood from whole home renovations to clogged toilets. In our case they renovated our basement bathroom. Just in time for our Norwegian guests expected at the end of December. One thing off the never-ending-unfinished-project list.
• Who knew she wanted to sew? Claire is taking costume design and textiles with plans to make a dress for herself. We headed over to the local fabric store and got all of the materials. What an adventure! I can't wait to see it when she's done.
• Caden lead the parent/teacher meeting at school and was really, really good. It was fun to meet his teacher in a formal-yet-informal environment. What an improvement! At least with the kids there we knew how to get around the maze they call a school. (Parents are not allowed beyond the office, yet, during PA interview days there is no indication of how to find teachers. Not a guide, not an arrow, not even breadcrumbs. For a group, collectively dedicated to control and detail, you'd think they'd have solved this little dilemma quicker.)
• This was also the month of "OMG I was published"! In a real, honest to god, publication.
• After she started working this summer it was determined that Claire would not be paid, she would receive "service hours" instead. Unlike most students in Ontario who need to accumulate 40 volunteer hours between grades 9-12, our school requires more with a specific number per school year. Though, I don't know that Claire needed the 160 hours she was rewarded! Too bad they don't carry over to next year.
• Chloe loves volleyball. Chloe knows she is not, by any stretch, an athlete. Though she gets A+ for enthusiasm! She tried out for the school volleyball team and was not chosen. By some ridiculous set of circumstances (while Chloe was on a field trip) another girl who was not selected made such a crying stink over it that the principal intervened and declared that all who tried out would make the team. What?!? Undermining? You think? Anyway, Chloe is attending practices only at our insistence - and her agreement. I've found her a summer camp and that is where she'll learn how to play and perhaps make the team next year.
• Louis continues to be actively involved in our Minor Hockey Association. Though he was unable to attend the 50th Anniversary celebration - the organization of which he was an integral part (missed due to the Bauer Tournament in Chicago), he continues to give as much time as he can spare, and often time he cannot to make sure the children have a great season.
• The naturopath has really been effective. Though, Claire needs to learn to not put herself in situations that will exacerbate her eczema and asthma, she is slowly getting control over both. Dr. Jason has been very helpful. The most interesting of her sensitivities: worry. Hmm.
• It was also the month of really getting to know the mums, dads and coaches on my both boys hockey teams. I am fortunate that, this year in particular, the boys are on teams with some really interesting characters. I'm enjoying every minute of it. Louis went with Cole to Chicago and I went with Caden to Nottawasaga. A good time had by all!
• I've been thrilled to receive requests for the "specimen art" like that piece I made for Ava and gave to my sister at her shower. I'm happy to have produced 7 pieces so far with a few more being made for Christmas!
  
• Chloe loves volleyball. Chloe knows she is not, by any stretch, an athlete. Though she gets A+ for enthusiasm! She tried out for the school team and was not chosen. By some ridiculous set of circumstances (while Chloe was on a field trip) another girl who was not selected made such a crying stink over it that the principal intervened and declared that all who tried out would make the team. What?!? Undermining? You think? Anyway, Chloe is attending practices only at our insistence - and her agreement. I've found her a summer camp and that is where she'll learn how to play and perhaps make the team next year.
• The Upper School play was fabulous. A collection of three separate skits. Claire and her friends were fabulous. I admire her poise and fearless ability to get on stage and interact with her peers.
• As always, Cole finds himself in many rinks. This month had him in a few more! His team participated in the Bauer International Tournament in Chicago at which Louis attended and the Silver Stick (minor hockey equivalent of Stanley Cup Playoffs) in Whitby. There was also the regular practices, practices and more practices. Glad he loves it! If you are ever wondering (??) what's going on, you can check out the In the Rinks button on the right sidebar.
• The Moe was off to her first seasonal performances in Mississauga. Normally I am the parent who goes to support her and her efforts. In her way she let us know that she wanted her dad to attend instead of mama. Living in a house of divide-and-conquer stinks sometimes. Chloe got her way and not only did her Dad attend, but so did her big brother. She was beaming when she got home. Me? I'm proud of my men for supporting Chloe even though it wouldn't ever have been their first choice of evening activities.
  
• Caden loves, loves, bling. He's like a magpie. At his tournament he found the biggest, tackiest, necklace with a big dragon on it. For the $10 it cost, it was worth every penny. He loves it. I tease Louis that Caden is the only member of our little collective who has channelled the bling gene. I'm thinking it does not come from my rather dour Scots/Irish side :)
• My creative goodness continued as I also participated in my first blog article over at Ella Publishing Co. which was inspired by one of the new e-books Journaling That Matters. Do you have a copy? I was really impressed with it and got a ton of ideas from the ladies who contributed.
• It was wonderful to see my parents when they came out to see Cole and the Rangers play in the Silver Stick tournament. I was so happy they took the time to join us for lunch. Where else? Grampy's favourite Swiss Chalet! Not only that but we were also joined at the game by my good friend Char with Jonah, Cole's biggest fan in tow. I never realized how long it had been since I saw them last. Life is flying by far too quickly. They all should have stayed for the second game - quadruple overtime. Crazy!

As it is almost the end of the year, I am busy trying to organize my plans for 2011: creatively, domestically, parentally. All of which are so fluid, to think I have a handle on anything - except laundry - is ridiculous!

For December? I'll be participating in my first December Daily project. I've been skeptical and I've been hesitant, but experience tells me that the Ali Edwards projects I've completed have all taught me something positive. I look forward to this one doing the same. I signed up to take the Yesterday & Today course offered by Ali Edwards through Big Picture Classes - for the second time. I can only hope that this time round I DO IT! Not only that, but I've also signed up for Tracy Clark's Picture The Holidays course in an effort to improve my December Daily project. Fingers crossed :)

Oh and there's also a big family party followed by another big family party ... and Christmas ... and a hockey tournament ... and four kids home on holiday. My cup is overflowing. Happy December to you and yours!

October in Review

Typical of this month: someone is always doing homework at the kitchen table.

Every month I start my review post marvelling at how busy we have been - and then the next month we are even busier. I don't think I even took a breath until mid-month - since the beginning of September. October was more than a little nuts with the full flow of school and hockey underway.

• Chloe is so happy to be in the Oakville Children's Choir and enjoyed her time at the retreat. A full day of singing and getting to know each other. A great start to the season.
• Hockey logistics! Crazy. The first Saturday of the month, Caden played with his team, Louis convened, Cole was in Guelph with his team when they met with a nutritionist for a couple of hours before the game. He left with a friend from that game and met up with Louis, Caden and a buddy for the Maple Leafs game at the ACC in Toronto. I'd like to say this was not a typical day - but it was.
• Claire is enjoying her timekeeping of the Minor Atom group. She is up and at the rink for 7AM on Sunday mornings. Keeps her in early on Saturday nights. Yay!
• Our annual furnace-is-on-the-fritz happened, again. Thank goodness for our friend Bruce who got the heat going before the end of the month. Fortunately Mother Nature was kind and the weather stayed warm - for the most part.
• Claire was joined by Marley and "The Davids" at the Optimates Dinner. It was her first time being honoured for good marks. I was, of course, proud mama and thrilled for her.
• Our beautiful maple continues to hold her leaves. Such specacular orange and yellow leaves against the bleak gray skies. Glorious.
• Claire is still hanging out with Oskar, who appears lovely and treats her well. Can't ask for much more than that. Oh, and he has "good flow" so that's a bonus ;)
• While we were attending a presentation by a renowned Sports Psychologist, Cole announced his goal was to be drafted. Drafted? Since when? What? Clearly this hockey thing is not a passing phase.
• For the first time in two seasons Cole did not win a cross country race. He came in 2nd. Huge blow! But he realized he was unprepared and far too cocky. Next race, the finals, the plan is to be better prepared and more humble. Sometimes humility is a good thing, and he was. Not only congratulated the boy who beat him (by 40 metres) but started talking with him about the upcoming rugby season. Boys are funny.
• Much of the beginning of this month I was sick. So sick I would have rather had all four of my kids simultaneously with no anesthesia, sick. I'm happy to say I have completely recovered and will (sadly) never eat cheese again.
• A couple of the mums of the 2013 graduating class (gasp, too soon!) held a lunch at a lovely little restaurant downtown - as in our town, not the town. It was nice to get to know the ladies and hear some of the stories. This particular group of kids, it has been determined, is a bit wilder than past groups. Knock wood, Claire has not joined in with the wild crowd. In actual fact she is considered a dork. I'm thankful for small mercies.
• Claire has started to join Cole's teammates at Yoga on Friday nights. She loves it and has quickly evolved into the "teacher's pet". Girls are definitely more flexible than boys. I'm glad they are both enjoying the class and hope they continue the discipline.
• I headed out to Scrapfest in Oshawa. What a gorgeous drive - along the 407 to the end. The colours were spectacular and it was such a nice day. I met up with Sue Sykes (finally) and Lori Mancini (finally) and hope I don't have to wait long to see them again! I wish I could have stayed longer but had to get back for ... a hockey game!
• My friend and fellow hockey mum, Carey, had a Stella and Dot trunk show at her gorgeous home. So nice to meet such lovely ladies, she really knows how to throw a party and the merchandise was gorgeous!
• We had a rare Saturday afternoon hockey game at home which was quickly filled up with a team dinner at Philthy McNasty's during which Cole managed to "bond" with his team with more bonehead decisions: this time it was to eat a 24oz hamburger in 7 minutes. Thanks to (nurse) Shelley for holding the bucket. His first bonehead decision, to endear himself to his team, was to shimmy up to the roof of Chesswood Arena to retrieve a football this past summer - then shimmy back down. I spend much time rolling my eyes :)
• Caden and I had a grand adventure attending a Maple Leafs game in Toronto. Taking the GO train is very civilized! There is a special train that leaves just in time to make it to the game. I miss living in the hustle and bustle of downtown, but this works pretty well.
• I built a blog for one cyber-friend, which inspired me start building another for a local friend. It is a lot of fun. I might just do a few more.
• Cole is turning into a young man to be depended upon at school: he's had siblings "shadow" him for the day for potential entry into the school next year and late in the month he was chosen to be a Chapel Beacon. I often think he raises his hand too much (wonder where he gets that?) but he seems to thrive on the activity.
• We got news that the last of the confirmed bachelors is getting married! Pete stood up with Louis at our wedding - almost 16 years ago. So happy for him and his bride to be :)
• Life is changing and we're going with the ebb and flow of our kids - their needs and wants are changing - and Louis and I are enjoying how our little family evolves.

So now our attention is re-directed and I'll be focusing on digging out winter gear, upcoming teacher conferences, studying for exams, and many Ella assignments. It's always better to be busy :) What about you? How was your October?

* * * * *

Do you have a story to tell? If so, and you need a bit of inspiration, be sure to go to this post and enter to win the new "Journaling That Matters" e-book from Ella Publishing Co. I will be drawing for the winner TONIGHT at 10PM EST.

September in Review

Whew. September was BUSY! As much as we got done, I didn't accomplish anywhere near as much stuff as I wanted to around the house. Much of our time was dedicated to getting the school year off to a strong start, welcoming hockey and and getting into some new routines:

• September arrived in the middle of Cole's second week of Training Camp for his AAA hockey team. He amazes me and showed no signs of exhaustion at the end. I was exhausted just driving him to and from activities!
• Claire's rugby season slowed down and they played two games in the final tournament - losing both, but not losing their enthusiasm. A true lesson in "it's not whether you win or lose" these girls were truly inspiring. Bonus: Claire won rookie of the year.
• I hadn't been on a baseball diamond since closing up Frozen Ropes, 18 months ago. Cole wanted to watch some of his buddies play in the championships which were being hosted here in Oakville. In between hockey commitments we caught a game. It turns out, Cole doesn't miss baseball - at all. Neither does Caden.
• I turned 46 on the 4th. My kids asked if that made me "middle aged". Um. Okay. Yes, I'm officially middle aged.
• Claire went with friends to RibFest while Cole decided he preferred my rib recipe. So, we avoided the crowds and the noise and I taught the boys how to make ribs. Yum!
• My Highlander has one of those push button starts. If you are sitting in a parking lot for over an hour, push only ONCE. If you push twice you will drain your battery. How do I know? Argh.
• Chloe and Caden were thrilled to start back at school. They are both so excited to catch up with their friends. I too am thrilled they are back at school! Not only that ... they take the bus! No more trips up and down Lakeshore: school - home - school - home.
• The MOHA board was dealt a bit of a blow when the VP of House League resigned. I can't believe it took her as long as it did! In the meantime, Louis and a few others are picking up the slack. With the effort of these few 4,000 kids are guaranteed to play hockey this winter.
• Claire spent a full day volunteering for Mrs. Murdoch over at the College Shop. It was a crazy day when all of the computers went down and everything had to be done manually. Thank goodness there were adults around to show the kids how to use pencil, paper and a simple calculator!
• I think I can drive to Chesswood Arena in my sleep. I don't know how some people do that multiple times a week - every week. It's bad enough having to do it for a weekend tournament.
• Claire's eczema has become worse, neither of us believed it was possible. If anyone - ANYONE - has a non steroidal cure for this terrible condition, please let me know!
• We had 17 pairs of hockey skates collected in the garage. Louis took them over to the Skate Sale being held at Oakville Arena. Whatever wasn't sold was donated. We made about $200. Better than a kick in the pants, and one box is now permanently removed from the garage! Whoot. It's a start :)
• I enjoy thirteen year old boys. Such a change from thirteen year old girls. I've had a chance to pick up a couple of Cole's teammates and they are a hoot!
• Mid-month school started for Claire and Cole. They were seriously VIBRATING with excitement over going back. I love that they love school. Not just the social part, they really enjoy learning.
• Our new community rink opened: Sixteen Mile - and it is immense. A four pad complex with some hyper-vigilant town workers who make up "safety rules" on a daily basis. It might be nice, bright and new, but I have to say, I'm happy to never have a practice or game there again.
• I met my friends Elaine, Lindy and Lorraine at a little Vietnamese place in Mississauga for lunch. Our Survivor Pool lunch and summer catch up.
• A few of the Ranger boys helped Louis out at Goalie Evaluations. Cole had fun shooting on a number of kids he used to play against in house league. His shot has improved!
• Claire has a new boyfriend, Oskar. He is lovely, polite, huge and blonde. He treats her well and she is content to hang out with him and his friends.
• Caden has become a master Jello-maker.
• Keying in schedules is arduous and exhausting. Keying in schedules - practice and game - for 224 teams in insane.
• Cole's first season hockey game was in NIAGARA FALLS. On a Monday night. It started at 8:15PM. The boys played well, they won which is a great start! I never thought I'd be driving to Niagara Falls, on a school night, ever. It wasn't anywhere near as bad as I thought, but I hope we don't have many of those!
• I met my friend Kim who has started a Pampered Chef business. To support her, I'll be having a party here at the house in the next few weeks. Perfect timing for Christmas giving :)
• Chloe is thrilled that Choir has started for another year. Even better, Choir is thrilled that Chloe is back.
• Claire caught a cold which knocked her flat for a couple of days. I then caught the cold which nocked me flat for more than a couple of days. After a week it was still hanging on.
• Cross Country season has stared and Cole is enjoying the challenge. At the first meet at St. John's Kilmarnock in Woolwich he won the 2800M race; and a week later, at the second meet held at Earle Bales Park in Toronto he won the 3000M race. Who knew my boy who used to run like a duck could place, let alone win, a cross country race?
• I was invited to join Ella Publishing Co. as a creative contributor for the next year. I'm joined by 11 very talented ladies (you can meet all of them by clicking the link on the left). I look forward to their inspiration!
• Caden was drafted onto Coach Joe's team again this year. Caden is thrilled to be joining the Hound Dogs and seeing all his old friends and meeting a few new players. Joe's a smart coach and invited the boys to a bowling party for the players and the parents. I'm really looking forward to the season.

What a productive month! I hadn't thought a lot got done until I typed it all out. The first of the month seems so long ago. I'm looking forward to getting even more done in the coming weeks. I have a massive "to do" list which I hope to turn into a scratched out "ta da" list. Fingers crossed!

August in Review

 

Just after Louis had mentioned the lack of geese this summer ... surprise, they're back!

This month was filled with everything and nothing all rolled into one 31-day period. We have followed the brutally hot days of July with a glorious cool front and I was so thankful. I was hoping it was a sign of things to come, but this month is going out on a hot note, I feel like we're living in a convection oven.

• I greatly missed blogging during my self-imposed blogcation and will probably not go cold turkey again. Maybe a cut back, not a cut out.
• I have been enjoying podcasts and listening to so much wonderful stuff while going on my daily walks. So much good stuff out there!
• The kids have realized there is a HUGE LAKE outside and they have been enjoying some time cooling off in it. They always take a shower right after, even though it's been tested I'd rather have them play it safe!
• The month started with Claire's "internet friend" Cameron coming up to visit us, with his family, from Richmond, Virginia. We were happy they managed to include us in their holiday plans.
• Cole left for O.E.L.C. camp and it was a very quiet week here in the house. His presence was definitely missed. He had a wonderful time and made some great friends as well as solidified some long-standing relationships.
• The kids helped me take care of my sister's house while she was away on holiday. Good thing too. She has three budgie birds and they completely freak me out!
• I started to share some of the goodness I find on line and I think it's appreciated. I know I'm happy to have everything organized in one place!
• I met with our Treasurer to close up the MOMS account and ended up just writing a cheque to the MOHA 50th Anniversary celebration this year. The MOMS were an integral part of hockey here in Oakville for many years within that 50 and it is suiting that the remaining funds go directly to it's celebration.
• Pub nights with friends rock.
• Construction season has arrived in full force. It seems we get a couple of months of clear traffic movement along Lakeshore and then one morning BOOM there are big orange vehicles and construction signs. I know the expansion will be worth it in the end, but it's hard to maintain a clean car!
• Our little Saw Whet owl is busy in our tree. We must have some good food around here. I'm not much of a bird fan, but he's pretty cute :)
• Cole and Caden both learned how to iron. I'm pretty impressed with both of them - real attention to detail and respect for the power of heat and steam.
• Knock wood Louis will be making a daily drive to Caledon starting in September.
• My internal clock is all messed up. I don't know what's going on but some days I feel like I'm somewhere in the South Pacific, others in Europe and rarely in the time zone I'm in!
• I enjoyed finding the Kind Campaign and support any effort to end female bullying.
• There was major pruning and cleaning up of the trees and shrubs in our yard. Plenty of trees completely removed and everything pruned way back. Now the canvas is cleared and I can start making plans for next spring.
• Mid month we enjoyed two gorgeous foggy days. The layers of mist rolled in off the lake and enveloped us in a mysterious cloak of damp gray. Love me some fog.
• A very familiar back yard was featured in Canadian House and Home this month. Such a wonderful sanctuary. Also found in this issue? The perfect decor for both Louis and I. Much to think about!
• I am reading Twyla Tharp's Creative Habit and it is wonderful. I love a workbook and her exercises have proven to be very thought provoking.
• Many hours were spent organizing and tweaking the design of this here blog. I'm liking it so far!
• Cole went off to his second week of away camp. This was his first week of Training Camp with his new hockey team. They've been home a few days and we are getting a few stories leaking here and there. Though some of the mums are a bit put out by some of their antics, they were harmless and I'm glad they had a chance to gel as a team. Originally we were scheduled to be in Cape Cod for our annual holiday. I'm so glad we decided to change our dates and Cole didn't miss this wonderful once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Claire is a lovely, and forgiving, girl. A while back she was treated badly by a girl she liked. Recently this girl has apologised and acknowledged that my daughter was a "true friend". Claire is willing to give her a second chance. She's a good girl my daughter.
• Big, big stuff is happening and I cannot wait to share it here. I'm busting with excitement!
• Who knew when Louis was voluntold to get involved in hockey that he would end up being knee deep in the inner workings of the organization. So much - good and not so good - going on. The good? Over 3,000 kids who play in house league will play this season, they have no clue how close it came to not happening.
• I've submitted and now have my fingers crossed. I've come a long way in a short time! No more fear. After all, you can't be seen if you don't share your work.
• We considered taking Caden to the Arrowsmith School in Toronto for testing, but after much thought we decided against it. We've taken that journey before and are not willing to go to that place again.
• Chloe is reverberating with her desire to go back to school. She misses her friends who spend their summers away from home. The class lists go up on line later in the week and she has all of the codes and sites all set up and ready to go!

Is there more? Of course! Our lives are full to bursting each month. I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm looking forward to autumn: the structure and order of our daily routines, the start of school, the start of activities: choir and hockey, and of course the new television season will greatly add to my level of comfort. So will the promise of cooler weather!

 

July In Review

The kids were funny at the beach. This is their attempt at spelling LOVE for me :)

I have to say July was wonderful but I might be the only person on earth complaining about the heat. I really don't deal with it well. The thing that saved me is my igloo (aka, my basement studio) and the stand up fan in the kitchen.

It was a bit of a struggle to keep from blogging. I did make a few slips here and there, but for the most part, I recharged and I think without the self-imposed pressure of blogging daily, I had the time to better absorb some of the brilliance out there on the www. Wow, it's amazing. I've bookmarked a number of entries and hope to share them sometime soon.

What else did I do when I wasn't here on the www?

• July 1st was celebrated: Claire and Chloe was with Alex and family at RibFest in Etobicoke; Cole went with friends to Bronte Harbour and Louis let off sparklers for Caden in the back yard while watching the fireworks at the harbour. Me? I stayed clear of the bugs and read inside.
• There were two "not miss" shows this month:  Jillian Michael's "Losing It" and "The Bachelorette" Our family is Team Chris all the way. How can we not be? He is from our town in Cape Cod! Lots of lessons learned on each show.
• One of the young ('95) hockey players at BTNL, in town from Nova Scotia, needed a place to hang out one day so I voluntold my kids that they were going to hang out with him. He was tall and handsome which was great for Claire, and he was a very talented defenseman, which was great for Cole, and he was lovely. I'm glad we could help out.
• We enjoyed both Wimbledon and the British Open. It was so nice to have shows to watch in the morning, live from overseas!
• I participated in the Mondo Beyondo Dream Lab and on Angie Warren's Project Photography. Going away for a while with no internet was not helpful with keeping up, but I learned a lot at any rate!
• The kids are reading like crazy! Books consumed so far include: City of Bones, City of Ashes and City of Glass by Cassandra Clare; Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan; The Fallen Part 1 by Thomas E. Sniegoski; the Hunger Games and Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins; Chosen, Untamed, Hunted, Tempted and Burned all by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast; Graceling by Kristin Cashore; The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton; The A List, A Novel, by Zoey Dean; Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick; The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie; The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness (series of 7 books) by Michelle Paver. Claire and Cole are sharing many books, Cole is passing some down to Caden. Chloe is reading a ton of Archie comics. Sometimes she really is me. I hope it's a "phase" for her as it was for me!
• New computers are in the house! Cole and Claire both attended their roll-outs and got the new hardware loaded with new software. I quite like how they look and they seem sturdier than the Dell's.
• After a huge mail delay, and perhaps bad timing, my Scrapbook Sussies kits finally arrived and I was able to submit my designs. Better late than never. Though, I have to say, a 2-day turn around for me is miraculous! :)
• I was invited to participate in a creative project with a friend and I can't wait to show off what I created!
• Claire and Cole spent a lot of time hanging out with their friends. So did Chloe and Caden. It is a joy to watch them be so social and active. They are still plagued with bouts of insecurity, but that is natural for kids who have a built-in social system with a big family. We're working on it!
• Emmy noms came out! My favourite The Good Wife with the brilliant Julianna Margulies got a nod or two. I'm also thrilled for the recognition, finally, for Kyle Chandler and Connie Britton of Friday Night Lights.
• I arrived home one day to a big puffy envelope with Ali Edward's Life Artist inside. Whoot. Thanks to my lovely cyber-friend, Susan from Georgia. Another puffy envelope arrived while we were on holiday with my Sketchbook Project book. I love mail!
• Caden arrived home one day with a new iPod, he bought it with his birthday money. The other thing he brought home? A new iPad for me! I immediately loaded up iBook and Shazam and all is great in the world.
• Movies watched by some combination of children: Toy Story 3; Knight & Day; Get Him to the Greek; Twilight: Eclipse ...
• Caden had a wonderful 3on3 hockey season. I think maybe, just maybe, he's getting it. Well, except for being kicked out of the final game for "interference". Hmm.
• I really wish Cape Cod was closer, but then again, if it were, everyone we know would be there ... that would be like having a place in Muskoka! Anyway, we enjoyed another holiday in the Cape. We were able to fit in a mere four full days of holiday - with travel time there and back. It was too short, but it was, in Cole's words: "One day is better than none. I'm glad we had four." I'm glad all four of mine agreed. It was a long 20+ hours in the car, but worth every kilometre!
• The Berkshires are beautiful and next year we're going back to Lenox, MA to explore a bit more.
• I do not know who discovered lobster, but THANK YOU!
• Mel Gibson has lost his mind. Absolutely bi-polar or manic depression, but wow buddy, shut up!
• Cole may not be happy about being Corner Back rather than Linebacker, but he's good at it. As the "last guy" he's pretty good at bringing them down.
• Camps! Outrigger Canoe. Robotics. Theater. Day camp is the best. They are exposed to so many things they don't normally do. How fun!
• I love technology. Seriously. It has so much good. It brings things I'd never experience in person (the Louvre, Wikipedia, pick a library) directly into my home. How wondrous. How amazing! Given all of that, I have to say I'm tired of the cyber-bully-bullshit. I'm thrilled my kids include me in the "drama" at least to let me know. This month it was formspring - for which I have an account. But really? I can't even repeat here any (deleted) question asked of my 14-year-old daughter this last month. Disgusting.
• Have I mentioned how much I admire Cathy Zielske? Or totally tickled I am to be included with my friend Barb Wong in our mutual admiration?
• It appears the oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico has been capped. That took a crazy amount of time and it's heart-wrenching to think of the damage done.
• My step mum is really interested in Caden being tested at the Arrowsmith School in Toronto. He seems fine to me, but since his near-drowning and resulting coma in 2003, we might as well check him out completely.
• Re-entry is a bitch. Hello allergies! I need to buy a lifetime supply of kleenex. Argh. This summer sucks. Really. Bad.
• I'm already missing the routine and order of the school year. It must be the heat getting to me.
• And then, when I'm suffering the most, I get notification that a lovely someone - who is also an important someone - reads my blog, and recommended it. Specifically the Monthly Review Posts! Thanks Wendy!
• In keeping with my newfound confidence, I applied to be a contributor at a collective of creative women I really enjoy. Fingers crossed! (Note: I wasn't chosen, but who knows? I'm still confident!)
• I'm still trying to wrap my head around the idea that Claire is dating Alex and Cole is dating Nicole and as prepared as I thought I was for this eventuality, I'm not.
• Along with Caden, I met with my friend Barb Wong and her family in Markham while she was in town to visit with other internet friends. Our plans didn't quite work out, but we're flexible. It was just so nice to see her again!
• Chloe has announced she wants to play hockey again this winter. My friend Lindy took her, with Olivia, to the rink just to confirm her resolve.
• Though disappointed the Titans didn't advance any further than the regular season, Cole had a great time learning how to play football. Whatever will I do on Tuesday and Thursday evening with no practices? :)
• The basement projects are well underway. Even the garage has been purged!
• We're still waiting for our tree removal guys to get back so we can tidy up the property and make plans for replacement (read: live) plants and trees.
• We went for our last meal at The Big Smoke. What a disappointment. The food was dreadful and the staff was far too busy pounding shots at the bar than actually taking care of the paying clients waiting at their tables. Sad.
• Cole has kept up with his hockey: a bit of BTNL, Strong Hockey has opened in Oakville, lessons in Mississauga and shinny. Not too much, but more than nothing after all, Training Camp starts at the end of August! One day he had Outrigger Canoe Camp from 8 to 3, Strong Hockey training from 4 to 5:30 and Football Practice from 6:30 to 8. He LOVED it. Not all days were that intense - or diverse, but there were a few doozies this month.
• Lots of time spent chatting with sisters Andrea and Beth. Love catching up!
• I have become the project queen with many albums and mini's on the go. One thing leads to another and it is so wonderful. I've shared a few and look forward to sharing more!

For having no real plans we seem to be staying pretty busy!

We're just shy of halfway through summer and I think everyone has enjoyed the flexible schedule, hanging out with friends, reading tons of books, posing for and taking photos, eating barbeque and watermelon, having sleep-overs, joining friends for dinner, attending movies and, and, and ... I expect August to be more of the same, less one child as Cole is off to overnight camp for two of the weeks. As for me, I'm done with the heat and we haven't even entered the hot part of summer!

June in Review

A whirlwind month! When I sat to type out our events in June it felt like YEARS had gone past not just a mere 30 days. I cannot believe how much stuff was crammed into each day, though, I have to say that all the lovely weather makes busy far more bearable.

• Auntie Andrea with Uncle Steve and their little people moved to Oakville! We were so happy they joined us at Cole's performance as Chad in High School Musical. I was so thrilled to have them willingly attend! Cole was awesome as were all the other students.
• Chloe had her re-audition for the Oakville Children's Choir and she can't wait to get started again in September. Claire will also be auditioning to join the senior choir next year since she has no room in her school schedule to take music.
• Right after Cole "blew" his french exam, his word, we received a note from the school suggesting that he be evaluated to go into another class - the advanced course, for next year. I hope he blew all of his exams like that!
• I received an invitation to participate someplace wonderful. But it's a secret. I'll let you know all about it as soon as I'm allowed!
• Claire went to Lake Tamagami with a group of classmates. A week of wet, bugs and having to "pee in a hole" - judging from her photos on Facebook she had a wonderful time. She shared lots of stories and I have no doubt the best ones will be those we never hear :)
• Creativity Boot Camp was a wonderful experience. It was two intense weeks of virtually-meeting new people and learning new things. My brain is spinning with possibilities! Love me a good creative kick in the pants.
• Chloe had her last recording session at the Appleby College chapel - guess what everyone is getting next Christmas? :)
• Cole and his BTNL team played in the Ronald McDonald tournament in Toronto. So wonderful the experience of the boys playing with other elite teams. A joy to watch all of the boys.
• Caden had a project to do. Dugongs. What is with my kids and their love of marine mammals? He really wanted to do his project on Narwals but Ryan "stole" his idea.
• Claire and Cole really enjoy their new kayaks and I really enjoy watching them teach Chloe and Caden how to be comfortable in them on the water. It is so nice to know they can get along!
• I am enjoying a whole new hockey experience. Cole is thriving and learning. That's all I ever wanted.
• People who create jealous and petty children are really dangerous, not just to their kids, but to mine as well. Just give your head a shake, stop and grow up. Set a better example for your children.
• Cole is enjoying football. I'm just enjoying that his schedule has been reduced now that there is no rugby or play rehearsal through June. He is making the rounds - linebacker to half back to corner back. He misses being a linebacker - too much running and not enough hitting at corner!
• Chloe turned 11 mid-month. I still can't believe it.
• We finally celebrated Caden's birthday, better late than never! The original plan was to go to Marineland, but we didn't want to risk the weather, so we took the kids to Cora's for breakfast then on to the movies. Karate Kid for the youngers and the A Team for the olders.
• Louis accompanied Cole and the Titan team to Sarnia on a wet and windy day - well, wet and windy here, not there, thank goodness! Our team was "schooled" and lost a painful 55-14 trounce.
• Chloe enjoyed a full day at Canada's Wonderland with her forever friend Olivia. Olivia was celebrating her birthday and asked Chloe along. It was the day after Chloe's birthday and she was delighted to go. It turns out she is a roller coaster girl, a real daredevil, and loves the Behemoth!
• Marianas Trench is a favourite band in this house. Claire and her friends took themselves off to the Sound of Music Festival in Burlington where Cole met up with them after his football practice. A wonderful night.
• The commencement ceremony at Appleby was long and hot and fruitful. Claire finally earned her Optimates (honours) after much hard work and dedication; Cole didn't just win the Athletics award but the Arts award as well. We are so very proud of them both.
• Alex Corrance was a minor hockey player who died of a heart problem while on the ice at the age of 17, this was in 2006. BTNL sponsors a ball hockey tournament held in the parking lot at Ice Sports in support of his memorial fund. Cole and members of his hockey team participated this year. Cole's group was knocked out in the semi finals. All of the boys followed up the tournament with a pot luck and swim party at the Song's house. The perfect end to a wonderful day!
• I really do not like gossips, they really are unkind. 
• Our friends opened their shop in downtown Oakville. Gorgeous stuff!
• Father's Day was spent with Louis taking Cole to hockey lessons then off to watch Cole in Barrie playing football, I stayed in Oakville taking Caden to 3on3 and Claire to rugby. We then joined friends at the pub for a Father's Day dinner, fun!
• Claire played host to a number of friends at a Slip 'n' Slide party in our back yard. The kids were great and it was a fun afternoon with lots of water, lots of music, lots of voices and laughter ... oh and pizza, freezies and ice cream! And rain, but you know, wet is wet.
• Claire enjoyed her first rugby game, a total departure from playing baseball.
• We posted the "House Rules" after some negotiation. I finished reading "35 Things Your Teen Won't Tell You, So I Will" by Ellen Pober Rittberg. Scary stuff! With fingers crossed I hope I'm on the right path.
• Our gorgeous 3-storey blue spruce which was dead the top 10-12 feet was removed, and stumped. According to Chloe, who counted the rings, it was 28 years old. The thing with removing one problem is that it creates a whole new set of issues. We had the tree guy come in and they're going through the whole property to remove and prune. We'll see what's left in the fall!
• The G8 and the G20 were held in the GTA and area. It was a tense and distressing few days. I'm happy for anyone able to get themselves out of town and relieved that we have no reason to go to Toronto or cottage country.
• Report cards came through and the kids are all doing well with very strong marks. We are so proud of all of them. They really do represent four points on a compass and I'm always feeling like I'm going in different directions. They just choose different routes to their As and Bs.
• It was so nice to have Wimbledon tennis on during the day. And the US Open Golf at Pebble Beach? The best!
• Claire closed off the month taking care of Nicholas for 3 days. He is a lovely autistic boy, a child of a friend of ours who needs some help while she's a way and her husband is in charge.
• Louis spent his 48th birthday at a MOHA meeting where he raised his hand and is now the senior convener for Minor and Major PeeWee divisions. He has 2 years left on the board and he's already got it jam packed with stuff to do!
• As for me? Pick a project! Between Dream Lab, Project Photography, Frogs, Red Strings and 70-Days, my creative life has not slowed down. Indeed, it has picked up steam!

As I mentioned in this post a couple of days ago, I'll be slowing down the blog a bit in order to spend some time with the kids, and turn our massive "to do" into a big "ta da"! I'll pop in now and again when the mood - and time - strikes. In essence, the blog will slow, but life will not!

May in Review

 

Our flower pots are filled to overflowing with floral goodness!

Blur. May was a blur of activity.

• Mother's Day was celebrated at "The Big Smoke" which is a new BBQ restaurant. It replaced our much beloved Mixed Grill. The kids loved their southern ribs and pulled pork. Me? I loved my favourite roasted beet salad and crab cakes. Yum!
• Many many scrapbook projects were underway! I completed my Week in the Life project; LOAD and Scrapapalooza 6 where I was on the design team this time around. Such a wonderful month filled with creativity.
• Claire spent many hours practising singing with Marley as they were entered in a competition up in Milton, mid-month. They did very well, but I don't think Claire will be doing it again. It was a great experience - once.
• We had our introduction to elite hockey at the OTTF Spring Classic tournament at the start of the month. So wonderful to get to know the parents from our new team and a few more people too! Even better? A treat to have my dad come out and watch Cole.
• While at the OTTF Tournament in Downsview we took a bit of a trip north to visit Pro Hockey Life. I'd never heard of it before and I have to say WOW, was it impressive. A 'big box' all-hockey store. Amazing. We will continue to do most of our purchasing at CLP Sports, a small business in Clarkson, but WOW, Pro Hockey was overwhelming!
• Chloe's choir season wound down with one last performance over at Clearview Church on the 29th. She had such a great year and thoroughly enjoyed singing and learning theory. She has a rich and strong alto voice which will only get better in time and with practice.
• Mother's Day was celebrated a week late so that my step-sister Andrea and her family could join in the festivities. She and her family moved back to Canada from Chicago mid-month. I'm thrilled they've decided to settle here in Oakville.
• While we were at Mother's Day Redux in Toronto, Louis and Cole were at the FINALS of the Bauer Pro Hockey Shoot Out at the Westwood Arenas where Cole's BTNL team, against all expectation, won the whole thing! They managed to make it to the house to say "hi" to everyone and stay for a while.
• Caden makes us all smile. He lives in the land of happy. Never too serious for too long. He is a good student, just not a serious one. He is a good athlete, just not a serious one. He is a good kid, just not a serious one. Love him to bits :)
• The month was filled with logistic conflicts with Cole holding integral roles as lead in the school play (High School Musical); 8th man on the rugby team; 1st string linebacker on his football team and defenceman on his hockey team. Seasons starting and ending. I don't know how he manages to do it all so well.
• Chloe continues to grow out her hair - we need it to be long enough to cut off 10 inches and still leave some hair on her head! It could be a long wait this summer.
• Caden is on a summer 3on3 team over at Joshua Creek and continues to be the player covered with the most snow at the end of the game. Every game.
• The latest debacle in the Gulf, and the reaction, just further solidifies my belief that Obama is incompetent and out of touch.
• Claire came home from her first rugby practice referring to it as her "calling". She loves everything about it: the tackling, scoring tries, drop kicking. She came home and peeled off her new cleats and socks to reveal major painful blisters. Not a word of complaint. She couldn't wait to go out again. Rugby? Who knew?
• Cole thoroughly enjoys his training at BTNL and we can really see a change in his physique. He's growing up too fast! It is becoming more noticeable with every passing week.
• I found this brilliant idea for keeping these review posts ... with photos ... in an album. I'm going to try my hand at an 8.5" x 11" version as a nice challenge! Kind of incorporating both the 365 Project idea and make them tangible, hold-in-your hand-able. With some ephemera tossed in for fun!
• The G20 summit is to be held in Toronto. Chaos has already started. Expensive chaos.
• 100%. That's what Claire got on her song writing assignment. I love her passion.
• The Habs had a good run.
• Caden still insists on wearing white sweat socks - pulled up to his knees. Clearly some kind of fashion statement - devoid of any fashion sense!
• I love that Chloe is forever friends with Olivia. Things are a bit different now that we don't live five doors away from each other, but every weekend Chloe asks to play with her friend.
• Starting the Tuesday after Victoria Day, Claire was fully involved in ASCENT. I am so proud of her and her focus, determination and drive. Part of ASCENT includes Guidance and Service. Her service day took her and a group of kids to do yard work for the Kerr Street Ministries. She was covered in dirt from head to toe. She looked great and you could tell she was proud of a successful, and physically exhausting, day.
• Self-control and patience are not my strongest characteristics. But, I did forego purchase of an iPad when they went on sale in Canada on May 28th.
• HOT and STEAMY is what it's been like around here for the last half of the month. Auntie Andrea kindly invited us to their new pool to cool off a bit. Chloe, our mermaid, was more than thrilled. She's not a fan of the lake - too cold!
• Caden turned 10. I have no babies left!
• Cole and his Titan team had their very first football game. We all went into Toronto as a family to cheer the team as they played St. Mike's.The Titans beat the Argos 28-0 and Cole was recognized for his contribution. 
• Gardening has been a primary focus: a half dozen cedars are ready to be planted in the back yard; hours have been spent weeding; and we're still deciding whether or not to bring down the I-think-it-might-be-dead blue spruce in the front.
• Between hockey games, football games, rugby games, I took over 10,000 photos this month.
• We still have no cleaning ladies. I'd give us, as a family, a C+. Maybe next month there will be more time to focus on the house rather than our habit of drop-and-go. 
• I'm still working on the Boost Energy portion of my Happiness Project. I will using June to continue my efforts. Who says I have to do the project "by the book", right?
• Reality TV comings and goings. Goodbye Survivor, American Idol, Amazing Race and Dancing With The Stars. Hello Bachelorette, So You Think You Can Dance and Hell's Kitchen.

Since just about everything wound down in May, I anticipate very little activity in June. Or, less demanding, scheduled, intense activity. I'm thinking of buying a couple of kayaks so when olders get out of school (June 18) they can spend time on the lake. I'm planning a few picnics under the big tree. Taking the youngers to the park. Bike rides through the neighbourhood and down to the harbour. Playing with my camera and writing, a lot! All of those things will be part of our summer "schedule". Wonderful. The slower pace is welcome.

Life Lesson: Do Not Lend Books

I am so frustrated ... with myself.

For a couple of months I have been searching my house for this book:

You would think I would have it memorized, but I haven't read it in over a year and really wanted to have a quick peek. Inspiration, you know.

I know I own it.

And I lent it.

To someone I'll never see again.

Grr.

Then I had the bright idea to look for it online. I checked out Chapters and it is out of stock. I checked out Amazon and it is out of stock, but there are 4 used copies available. The kicker? The starting price is $98.11CDN.

Seriously?

Good thing Ali Edwards has a brilliant blog with a ton of inspiration. I love her, but I don't think I can cough up over $100 to have a book replaced!

Crazy.

April in Review*

April came in with unseasonably high temperatures and high drama. In this case it was mama-drama: I went on strike! For the first time ever. Now, my kids are not accustomed to my temper since, thank goodness, they see it rarely, but I'd had it with the condition of the house, the condition of laundry, the condition of cooking. Love laundry :: dread cooking. It all worked out and the kids are now living with significantly less rope. We'll see how it all works out.

• Many hours were spent creating layouts for the upcoming Sketchapalooza class over at Feeling Scrappy. Have you joined up? Have you joined the facebook group?
• As a result of my "on strike" flip out, I decided to let go my weekly cleaning ladies. As in let go, completely. We are all going to be accountable for our own spaces. Fingers crossed this experiment works!
• We discovered, thanks coach, some really fabulous and state-of-the-art hockey training and Cole thrived in an environment that challenged and praised him.
• The kids were registered for summer day-camp: outrigger canoe for Cole, theatre for Chloe and robotics for Caden. Claire will be junior counsellor for the Appleby outrigger canoe camp this summer. Very exciting!
• Who knew football would be so much fun? We really enjoy watching the practices and can't wait for the games to start. I have been very busy taking photos. THAT has been a ton of fun.
• I provided some entertainment for the whole family: I sent a "reply" rather than a "forward" with some choice words, totally honest, but sometimes that's not appreciated. Ah, well. You just have to laugh!
• The baseball season has started! I love the sport as does the whole family. I use baseball to teach many lessons to my kids. In April the lesson they hear most is "the pennant can be lost in April" even though they know the pennant race is not until September. Translation: always give 100% from start to finish.
• I managed to stay away from hockey tryouts. Until the last one. Cole very conveniently forgot to pack a shinguard which I had to run up to the rink. I got there just in time and then, of course, stayed!
• Caden was signed up for flag-football only for him to realize, at one of Cole's rugby games, that he'd rather play rugby. Now I have to sign him up for that instead!
• Louis and I are huge fans of golf and hope, someday, for our kids to have the same appreciation. In order to indoctrinate we made them join us to watch The Masters tournament. It was certainly marred by the Tiger coverage/controversy, but still worth the time watching, so happy for Phil Mickelson and his victory.
• I'm totally salivating over the new iPad (I do not care about it's unfortunate name) and hoping my family thinks it would be a brilliant Mother's Day gift!
• Got the kids registered for Appleby next year, that was a lovely cheque to sign! I can't believe Chloe will be writing her entrance exam in October. We already have the study book and she's been diligently reading and practising.
• Tiger Woods is the poster boy for insincere. And arrogance.
• The loonie and the greenback were on par for the first time in ages. I felt so much less guilty for having to purchase my Week in the Life project materials from the States.
• We let go of our weekly cleaning service. There are always many reasons for this: they weren't doing a great job (you actually have to move stuff to clean things!), they were arriving so late in the day I didn't even have 5 minutes to enjoy it before my kids got home and left evidence of their presence everywhere and my kids have to learn to clean up after themselves and this may be the only way it will happen.
• Artificial ice is Cole's latest request. We should "get some for the basement, mama. That would be cool." Um, okay. I think maybe instead we'll just clean out part of the basement and set up a gym since we have all the equipment!
• Louis and I have been walking the Loyola track while Cole is at practice. We're managing 10 laps. Not bad. And, I'm taking my daily hour when I watch "The View" to ride my recumbent bike and use the elliptical. It's been a bit of a shock to my system, but so good to start!
• Under Armour is too expensive.
• Louis and I greatly enjoyed a night out playing Euchre with friends. I had forgotten how wonderful a night of cards can be and hope to do it again.
• Unity Week at Appleby was far less dramatic this year for Cole's introduction than it was two years ago when Claire had her first Unity Week. Thank goodness!
• My friends are too busy! How is it the older the kids get the less free time we have? I have to make more of an effort in the coming months to get us all together.
• Cole was invited to join the Oakville Ranger '97 AAA team. He is still walking on a cloud. What a gracious and kind group, Cole was immediately embraced by teammates and parents alike.
• We bought a dozen books for both Claire and Cole to read over the summer. Claire read the first book, 300+ pages in four hours. They better get used to visiting the library at this rate!
• Jamie Oliver has a Revolution ... in my house. Thank goodness. And thanks Jamie :) What a tremendous experience for all of my children. I've made a few things from his cookbook and hands-down my family has decided the roast chicken is the best thing they have ever eaten. Yum.
• Cole is really enjoying rugby at Appleby and it's such a joy to watch him play. I'm also enjoying all of the new photo opportunities. The key: follow the ball :)
• If I do no other scrapbooking, ever, I will take a week every year/18 months and do a Week In The Life project. So, so good. Exactly why I scrapbook.
• Claire and her Appleby softball team won their first game of the season. Appleby 23 :: Branksome 4
• We had two lovely young men (10 years old) from the St. Michael's choir school in Toronto billet with us for a couple of nights. They were out the door for 8AM and back for 9PM. Not much time to get to know them!
• There is very little in life that holds as much promise as a huge six-storey maple tree only just budding.
• Giddy? That is how I felt when Aud asked me to guest blog for her. I'm still smiling. I also appreciate the kick in the pants it provided to get some projects d.o.n.e. Thank you, Audrey!
• The Habs beat the Caps and moved into the next round of hockey playoffs. The boys were crazy excited. It was fun watching the banter between my kids and my sister (who lives in D.C.) on Facebook. Just one of the many reasons I love Facebook.
• I'm getting used to being in the house alone during the day. On so many levels: YAY.
• The Spring Purge continues to be underway. Inside and out.
• Cole was determined that I would watch Avatar. I am a bit theatre-phobic, so the minute, the minute it was available on DVD he went out to rent it. He set up the whole den organizing chairs, pouring drinks and popping three huge bowls of popcorn. We then enjoyed a lovely evening with all six of us glued to the movie. It was lovely.
• Chloe and Caden are always on their bikes. They have been exploring all over the neighbourhood. We all love the freedom they are now enjoying. Though, closer to the end of the month, the temperatures got a bit cold. Hoping for things to warm up a bit.
• Two young friends had babies; one friend decided to divorce; two family members are moving - to Oakville from Chicago and from Virginia to Washington State!
• Glee returned!

April was full. We anticipate an equally fun and busy May. Why? 3on3 hockey starts for Caden; football and rugby continue, with some hockey thrown in for Cole; Chloe will finish up her choir season with a performance or two; Claire has her school softball where she participates on the varsity team and coaches the middle school team; Louis is busy working so I'll be busier chauffeuring; May heralds the start of my Happiness Project, LOAD and Sketchapalooza; my step-sister moves to Oakville with her family mid-month; our annual Mother's Day brunch will be held in Toronto and I'm so looking forward to seeing everyone. That is all I know at this point, but I'm sure there will be plenty more to include by the end of the month!

* I used to call these lessons, but over time this post has become a summary of my month. The good, the bad, the just plain crazy of it all. I no longer write about what was learned, just what was experienced and done with a few of the lessons thrown in. Sometimes just getting it documented is enough :)

March Lessons

The kids (in this case Claire and Cole) decided the kitchen was the best place for fun. Eek! You want to know double eek? Cole can now lift, with very little effort, his sister, up and over his shoulder. Crazy!

March was unseasonably snow-free and very busy; there was something happening every day and my Blackberry was constantly buzzing with reminders to go here, there and everywhere. The month came in on a viciously negative note which managed to dissipate as March wore on much to my relief. Our family handles things much better when common sense prevails and positivity reigns supreme. And it does now! Whoot!

• Cole got the part of "Chad" in the school production of High School Musical!
• Chloé and the Oakville Children's Choir enjoyed an afternoon performance at the Oakville Centre where Cadence performed.
• Caden had a wonderful season with the Red Knights and made many friends on his team. They didn't win the season, but he learned a lot this year. Thank goodness for patient and kind coaching.
• I'm enjoying the Feeling Scrappy Facebook Group. Have you joined? If not ... head on over, have some fun with us! I'm also posting on the blog. 
• Spring Break arrived for the Olders on March 5th and lasted a remarkably long time, until I took them back on March 23rd!
• Broke out the flip flops. I know Spring is not really here, but it feels like it is. Well, it did through the first of the month, we've been dipping below zero the last few days!
• Read, no ... ABSORBED The Happiness Project - as a book, as a website/blog, as a reading group.
• I have kept up with, though not posted (next project) all of my Photos-of-the-Day for 2010. This has been such a brilliant exercise, it's my second year in and I enjoy it more now than ever before.
• We so enjoyed the Oscars, LOVED Steve Martin, Alec Baldwin and Neil Patrick Harris. LOVED watching Sandra Bullock win. Sad for her current troubles but not in the least bit surprised. You know, that leopard-spots thing.
• LOVED being able to go to the park ... in MARCH! The kids really enjoyed the monkey bars, the swings and watching the skateboard boys.
• I am becoming increasingly mindful and certainly more focused as the days go by. Yay for productivity and having fun.
• Dancing with the Stars is fun; American Idol is not; Survivor and Amazing Race is on and I haven't seen either all month!
• Finally figured out Podcasts in iTunes and on my iPod. Just loaded up all of the Ted Talks. Yay me! Now to find the time to listen to them all.
• Claire wore me down ... side bangs. And she looks GREAT. Do you know why? Because she's 14 and looks great in anything with any haircut :)
• Not only am I participating on the Feeling Scrappy Facebook page, but I've managed to design 6 brand new sketches and layouts for Sketchapalooza 6 in May. Have you joined yet?
• Cole is now a certified babysitter. All day at a course with his buddy Aidan. And the class was mostly made up of boys. So much for meeting girls over March Break!
• The girls enjoyed a wonderful week in Florida with my parents!
• Claire really enjoyed the Marianas Trench concert with her friend Marley. Such a great band!
• Man Month was only a week, but it really felt like a whole month. Love my boys, but I like the calm (and the clean) the girls help provide when they're around.
• Cole and his Ranger hockey team won the Tri-County title and with that the season is over.
• I started planning my Week In The Life project. LOVE planning goodness!
• Chloé participated in the Toronto Choir Festival and had a wonderful time. The girls (and boys, but mostly girls) left Oakville at 8:30AM and arrived back at 9:30PM after a full day of singing and shopping.
• Earth Hour was a bit of a dud with half the kids away. It was nowhere near as much fun.
• My step-sister and husband bought a house here in town and will be moving their family up from Chicago by mid-May. I am thrilled to have family here in town for the first time in ever, and our kids are thrilled to see their cousins.
• Caden loves his new do, and I love the fact we now have our own clippers and I can clean him up anytime I want. Even better? He will let me.
• I re-introduced myself to my artsy-crafty side and it was kind of nice, more than kinda, it was energizing and such a thrill! I will have to do much more in the very near future. Plus, I'm determined to master that &*%#^ glue gun!
• Caden and Chloé attended a bunch of birthday parties. Was everyone born in March of 1999 and 2000?
• Cole is now a defensive lineman on the Titans football team, or at least, that's where they've put him right now. Other than the rugburn he gets from the turf, he really seems to be enjoying himself. Not only is he playing football and rehearsing for the school play, he's joined the U14 Rugby team as well as playing 3on3 hockey, hockey conditioning camp and dry land training. Busy, much? This kid thinks he's an only child :)
• We watched Up in the Air and it was incredibly, scarily, reminiscent of our lives then before our life now.
• Both Claire and Cole are required to earn volunteer hours each school year. Claire was well on her way, but Cole, with his crazy hockey and sport schedule was well short of his target. So to fix the problem, they spent most of Saturday and Sunday of MOHA Awards Week getting food donations and helping the on-ice activities over at River Oaks arena.
• So cool to be featured on a blog I love so much. Carolyn Rubenstein is such an inspiration.
• As part of an experiment I made an effort to get into a sleep/wake routine - 5 days in a row. Until I got sick, I was going gangbusters for two days :) I will endeavour to attempt the experiment again when this cold goes away with one change: I'll get up at 6AM rather than 5AM. I really need that extra hour!
• The boys enjoyed the Diary of a Wimpy Kid movie. Everyone enjoyed Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland!
• I love finding new songs on my iPod. I know they're there because I get an e-mail from iTunes telling me that my kids have downloaded and gives me my remaining balance. This month, I found and enjoyed: this song, this one and this one. It is so nice to share a love of music with my kids, er, Cole. Claire listens to much more edgy stuff.

April brings with it better weather, I hope, as I'm anxious to drive the convertible without a sweater! It also brings the deadline for tuition for the olders to attend their school next year and taxes. Conditioning camp will bring me to Canlan Ice Sports ... daily! I'm also starting a weekly photo challenge with my on-line friend Shirley. Even more fun? I've been asked to take photos for Cole's football team and I hope they move outside, I'm anxious to try my hand (or train my eye) at a new sport. Plenty of pleasant distraction. Distraction from what? With April we also welcome full-blown silly season where parents get NUTSO about their hockey playing kids. Yes, it is tryout season. This year I think I'll let Louis go to the tryouts and I'll just stay home waiting for the phone call!

February Lessons

Caden is so graceful ... not! He went down a few times while skating on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa with Louis mid-month. Obviously my suburban boy has been spoiled only skating on rink ice his whole life! Lesson: when you fall, you get up. Photo credit: Louis.

February was a short month, but it was jam-packed with activities, sickness, drama ... and HOCKEY! Filled with plenty of lessons, stories and experiences. The month started with a P.A. Day and it seems to have determined the pace all month.

• Chloe spent most of the month fighting a cold which spent plenty of time in her throat making vocal practice almost impossible. Valiantly she muddled through and performed on stage at the Oakville Centre with the rest of the intermediate choir.
• I was chosen to be on the Feeling Scrappy Design Team for Sketchapalooza 6 in May. LOTS of time is being spent preparing: designing sketches, perfecting techniques, exploring ideas.
• Without complaint (so far), Claire gets up at 5:30 on Sunday mornings to join her father at Kinoak Arena where she time keeps all of the Minor Atom Red games. She's learning a lot about hockey! Only a few more weeks and she'll get to sleep.
• I wish I could say I "participated" in LOAD, but really, I didn't. Not in any meaningful way. I did spend some time over on Flickr commenting on layouts and participating on the message board, offering encouragement, but only managed a few layouts. But, I did finish my Me: The Abridged Version project and that was HUGE! It would not have been done without LOAD.
• Cole and his Ranger team prevailed in the first round of playoffs moving on to play the Stoney Creek team. That series was not my first experience with poorly behaved parents but it is one that will stay with me, and Cole, forever. That being said, congratulations to the Stoney Creek team who moved on.
• Olympic fever and Canadian Patriotism is wild! I hope it sticks around ... well, the patriotism anyway. The Olympic stories are so inspiring and uplifting. I'm starting to learn, first hand, the lengths to which these athletes have to overcome obstacles.
• I finally got a haircut, I couldn't stand the weight of it any more. Seven inches cut off the back. I also made the decision to "embrace the gray" so, that's one more thing off my to-do list!
• I was a fill-in convener for Louis at a couple of Minor Atom and Bantam games, with Claire's help. I don't know how he does it game after game; week after week.
• Friends joined us for chili and pulled pork while we watched the New Orleans Saints win the Super Bowl. The kids and parents had a great time!
• Cole and Caden had to choose their summer activity out of: rugby, lacrosse, 3on3 hockey, football, kayaking, baseball and soccer. Their choice? Tackle football. Save me.
• I managed to accomplish a lot, but at the same time seemed to be playing catch up! I must use March to get back on track: Weekly Gratitude, Develop on Fridays and Ella and W.C.S. challenges!
• Caden continues to fill-in with George over at Ice Sports as Cole has been busy with his team. I don't know that these lessons are helping Caden at all - or maybe he's just taking his time "getting it".
• Family Day was wonderful. An extra day to hang out with my kids is always appreciated! Even with Claire sleeping the day away, it was just nice to have her here, resting.
• My baby took another step toward growing up.
• Claire is enjoying the music appreciation aspect of her vocal lessons at school. She tells me she's really liking "historical" music. They're studying music from the '80s. I'm feeling very old.
• The Oakville Children's Choir is, like most organizations, held together with volunteers. I really enjoyed my turn as attendant this month. Meeting the kids, mingling with the parents, listening to the singing.
• Cole left with a group of Appleby teammates to a tournament at Lower Canada College in Montreal. He had his very first experience billeting and really enjoyed himself. Another first? Pond hockey! He loved it and I think there is a backyard rink in our future.
• Louis took Caden to Ottawa where they skated on the Rideau Canal (Caden fell 3x and Louis 5x) and they were less excited about "natural" ice than Cole. They picked up Grandpapa and went to watch Cole in his tournament in Montreal.
• I met with my girlfriends for a much enjoyed lunch. We picked our names for Survivor and we've decided to form a book club. My very first one!
• By the end of the month, I was asked to join a second book club. Yay! This one is based on The Happiness Project and I'm thrilled to be included. I'm loving every single page.
• I made a painfully hard decision.
• Caden continues to provide me with amusement and his coach (and his father) with frustration being "the snowman" on his minor atom hockey team. He's always covered in snow at the end of each shift. Funny kid.
• I'm getting more than a little tired of Cole being the target of verbal venom. Have to shake my head and not engage, a test of patience to be sure. Still, disappointed in some so-called "adults".
• Months of preparation culminated in the Middle School Science Fair where Cole enjoyed presenting his Carbon Dioxide competition experiments.
• I purged over 5,000 photos from my iPhoto files; organized all of my digital elements; purged and organized bookmarks and my google reader. Housekeeping was primarily inside my computer, but magically it makes everything seem lighter and tidier!
• I continue to maintain my no-spend resolution: no clothes, no scrapbook supplies. I never promised not to buy books!
• Cole and his Appleby team participated in the CISAA finals at Upper Canada College and fared very well. Better than well. They WON!! A wonderful month of hockey accomplishment :)
• I know I mentioned the Olympics before, but they really have been all-encompassing with the games being "local" - even though Vancouver is 4412k (2742 miles) away - they were held here, in my country, Canada. They were tense, reflective, heart breaking, breathtaking and now, sadly, over. I am so proud of our Olympians, what an incredible accomplishment: exceeding the record and accomplishing 14 gold medals, the most ever by a host country - I think the most ever, ever! We heard our anthem 14 times - officially. Many more times in spontaneous outbreak of song. Weird. Fantastic! With glowing hearts, indeed.

Even with all of the good, and there was plenty, I'm immensely saddened that this will be remembered as the month of mean. I am tired of mean. Maybe this was just the month I reached my fill. Let's hope March is an improvement.

To that end, read THE BEST ARTICLE I found all of February. Laundry rocks. As does Karen Maezen Miller. Through daily practice of our shared beliefs and resolve, I hope to be like her when I grow up!

January Lessons

This was a month of hockey trophies for my boys!

The one thing about hockey games and tournaments, there are a ton of logistics to master. Timing meals is especially challenging and I'm very thankful that we haven't had to deal with any snowy weathah to interfere with our already split-second timing! There never seemed to be a dull moment, but we did manage to accomplish:

• Claire is really enjoying volleyball and it steadily improving and adding value to her team. Either Louis or I have attended all of her home games and she's really getting good!
• Indulging in The Bachelor on Monday nights, with all the kids. Realizing it is not supposed to be a comedy, but we laugh anyway :) I'm really enjoying the talking points and the conversations with the kids after each show.
• Cole managed to finish, though not yet present, his very first Science Fair project.
• I've managed to face my fear of digital and have made - and shared - a few layouts here and here.
• Hundreds of hockey photos have been taken and posted on Flickr to be shared with friends and teammates. I really enjoy taking photos, especially during tense games, as it provides some distraction.
• Dealing with Louis' determination to not cause any games to be scheduled outside of regular ice time, to make room for tournament play, (and not having teams incurring charges of over $200!) has made for long hours for him noodling the logistics. Better him than me! So far no one has had to buy ice.
• There is so little snow that it's hard to believe it is winter. We had record high temperatures at the first half of the month and now we are dealing with cold temperature warnings.
• Reminded, sadly, that some adults fight through their children by poisoning them into believing their own insecurities rather than gently guiding and considering that not everyone is out to "get their kid" in some kind of passive-aggressive game. Some people are genuinely pleased by the success of others and celebrate it because they are pleased. Jeez. The success of one child does not diminish the success of another. Get some therapy!
• Chloe is busy learning new pieces for upcoming concerts and can be often heard singing (I'm sure that's what it's called) in her room at all hours.
• I applied to a design team. Fingers crossed. I hear this week!
• Cole continues to enjoy a successful hockey season, both with his Ranger team and the Appleby team. There is still a lot of season ahead!
• Caden is the funniest kid in the history of the world. Really, really funny. Especially when he doesn't mean to be. But he's so easy-going he laughs along when he knows people are laughing at him. Such a delightful beast.
• Every day has been filled with Olympic Torch reports and the kids have received a real geography lesson all month long. We can't wait for the games to begin!
• Chloe is thrilled to be wearing Claire's hand-me-downs. The best line of the month was Chloe saying to me: "at least Claire has some fashion sense". I am equally relieved :)
• Cole turned 13. *Gulp*
• We managed to eat only one take-out meal all month and that was on January 30th. We had pizza and wings. Other than that, I've made every dinner - sometimes with Caden's help, most times without.
• We've sat down and determined which day camps the kids want to attend this summer. Claire and Cole have already started begging to attend sleep-away camps. Eek! We'll have to see.
• Getting into the groove of the new year has been a bit of an adjustment, but I'm finding I'm now able to keep up with my photo assignments for Project 365, Weekly Gratitude and develop : on fridays; as well as some sketch assignments and writing tasks, while still keeping up with the laundry. Yay me :)
• I'm sure there's a bunch I've forgotten! Just one of those months that went by far too quickly!

February has me looking forward to using my stash while participating in LOAD, watching the Olympics, the Amazing Race starts and hockey playoffs continue. That combined with life: homework, laundry, activities and housework, it should make for a busy short month.

How was your January? What do you look forward to in February?

Remiss: December Lessons

I have been remiss. On the now defunct Lemons2Lemonade, the precursor of this blog, I would do a monthly roundup of our activities. It has been brought to my attention that I neglected my December lessons. With all the activities lately, I completely forgot! So, thanks for the reminder my non-bloggy, now out-of-lurkdom friends.

December was completely snow-free. It was wonderful! Though, I do have to admit, it's hard to get in the holiday spirit with none of the white stuff blowing around. I suppose I was not anxious to write this post primarily because my mood through the month was one of bah-humbug rather than mistletoe and merriment. We did manage:

• This blog started on December 6, 2009. What a challenge learning Typepad and deciding on the format for it all.
• Claire was chosen for the D2 Volleyball team and is nervously learning this new sport. I don't think she anticipated being chosen. She's now learned how to do the basics and actually excels at serving.
• Cole was chosen to play on the Middle School hockey team with a couple of his friends. Not only is he enjoying the popularity of being on the team he's learning a lot from coaches who know hockey and have no familial distractions on the team.
• My parents came out to Oakville to watch Cole and his team. We enjoyed a lovely dinner with them and friends at Jonathan's - great place!
• Louis and I managed to survive our Eastview Parent/Teacher meetings. Chloe and Caden are so different from each other a few of the teachers are suffering whiplash. They're both doing well, but in such different ways.
• Grampy was able to see Claire play volleyball at a game she played at Havergal College and Cole play hockey at a tournament at Upper Canada College. It's so nice that he is involved with the kids.
• I managed to ruin Caden's hockey jersey. A pen was left in a pocket and there was ink everywhere. Also ruined all my white bath sheets. Argh!
• Chloe spent many hours practising and performing for the Oakville Children's Choir with performances all around town. Both Nanna and Grampy came out to watch one performance and we enjoyed dinner at Cucci's following the performance.
• Caden has been dubbed the "snowman" for all of the time he spends on the ice blocking shots. It's really quite funny to watch. He is so intense and competitive. Remarkable his version of Dr. Jeckyl & Mr. Hyde!
• After yet more unnecessary drama, Cole decided to take charge of his personal training and hockey future and listen to those who have his best interest at heart. We support him completely.
• The basement bookshelves are finally in order and I can find books! The key to organization: finding what you need when you need it :)
• Exam season was excruciating for Claire and fun for Cole. They handle the pressure so differently. Claire freezes up and Cole looks at it as a competition. Their marks relected these traits: Claire mid-70s and Cole high-90s. I have to say, I'm far more like Claire!
• Time was taken to make gifts for Cole's hockey team. Too bad we weren't able to attend!
• I had a wonderful tele-conference with a brilliant life coach. Only one more assignment. Who knows? Maybe I'll figure out what I want to be when I grow up!
• We enjoyed our family Christmas Party in Toronto. It is so nice to have all of the grandchildren around and having fun with each other. It's also wonderful to see my four sisters and their husbands.
• Louis continues to dedicate 4 hours every Sunday morning and 4 hours every Wednesday evening as convenor for the Minor Atom Red and Bantam Red hockey teams. In between, countless hours are spent organizing, communicating, authorizing and interpreting for coaches, parents, players and everyone else involved. I don't know how he does it.
• Caden and his Knights team went to see the St. Mike's Majors then played a game on the ice at the Hershey Centre. Louis helped out by getting back behind the bench.
• I finished a book! Really. Not just a book, a novel.
• Cole had more tests done and he will end up having more allergy shots this spring. The good news is that I can buy the serum from the doctor but it can be administered at school.
• Claire left for a Grand Adventure: a wonderful 4-day visit to New York City with Nanna and Grampy where she was exposed to fancy restaurants, great shopping, incredible hotels, amazing shows and big limousines. Pretty nice way to celebrate turning 14!
• Caden's hockey team had a fun holiday party - held outside! What a great group of kids and parents.
• Christmas break was filled in with a lot of sleep and a lot of hockey.
• I published my intentions and goals. It's all out there for everyone to read. This gets easier the more often I do it.
• Christmas Day was pretty low key. Santa maintained the 3-gift maximum, far harder than one might think so each stocking was considered one gift. Then Louis took all of the kids to see Avatar at the local theatre. Christmas Day movies have become our family custom. They go and I get a few hours of peace!
• Cole and his Ranger team went to Alliston and won the Regional Silver Stick tournament which qualified them for the International Silver Stick played in Pelham (St. Catharines) this past weekend.
• Order has been restored and a plan made to keep us all, as a family on track and focused on what we need to get done.
• A new era has begun, Claire went out with her friends and slept over to ring in the New Year. 

We didn't have to wait too long for snow. We had a nice white start to the new year. A lot has stayed the same but all of the work and planning in December has made the start to the year more focused and fun! I will definitely return with lessons learned in January! We're little over 1/3 the way through :)

Regrets? I have a few ...

Image found here.

It wouldn't be New Year's if I didn't have regrets.
~ William Thomas

To be frank, I will not be unhappy to see the end of 2009.

Though similar to my *8 Things post about Lessons Learned and Re-Learned, I was inspired by the quote above and thought to take a deeper look into the events - the regrets - of this past year. I am a great believer that you learn your greatest lessons through your greatest mistakes or errors in judgment, it depends on the perspective of the day. And every day changes, doesn't it? This last year was filled with many regrets, not the least of which were, in no particular order:

Often stereotypes really are true. As despised as they are, maybe when enough people, similar in size, conviction, colour, religion or whatever, behave consistently the same way, there is a reason to make a profile. For example: large men are generally teddy bears because they've always been big and realize their own strength, they would do anything before entering a physical confrontation. True for all? No. But you know, most of the big men I know are lovely as fierce as their facade may appear. The same "profile" making is true for the more distasteful among us. Regrets? I should have just moved on and not tried to believe the best in someone who lives their stereotype.

Business is easy, people are hard. You can have the best business plan in the world for the best facility around, but unless you have dedicated employees, dedicated clients and a stable economy, it doesn't count for crap. Closing the business, after holding on longer (by a year) than we should have - to the point where we can honestly say we ran a charity for the community in Oakville and the Golden Horseshoe - was excruciating. We lost far more, financially, than we may ever recoup. We lost far more emotionally than we may be able to bear. Regrets? I should have forced the closure earlier and not let the ego and confidence of another dictate actions. I should have insisted on common sense.

Liars are like mice. You may have caught one, but how many were there, and how many will there be in the future? Anyone who disrespects you enough to lie the first time will lie to you forever. If you can, purge them out of your life. If you can't, you're stuck. And that sucks. Regrets? I should have extricated myself after the first found lie.

Trust your instincts. Those who are out to screw you, or your children, really are out to do harm. Do not kid yourself into believing that an adult will not mess with your kid. That your friend will not betray your trust. That your system won't represent you in a way you do not expect. Do not judge others by your standards, learn to understand others by their standards. Act accordingly. Or, better, be patient. Regrets? I wish I could be more patient. I wish I trusted my situational evaluations and not get talked out of it by others.

Use your power. A combination of: wanting to make your loved-ones happy; not wanting to be an emasculating bitch; guilt about possibly hurting the feelings of close friends and family can be great deterrent to doing the right thing. If you know you are right, use your power. Your voice. Do the right thing. Always. Regrets? I doubted myself. Looks like a theme is happening here.

You are often your own greatest saboteur. You know the whole "road to hell" analogy? Well, maybe sometimes, in my case weight, you set false intentions. This year I learned that I'm afraid to lose the weight. I use my weight as a shield. It's a big shield. Regrets? Every time I look in the mirror I've become bigger and bigger. I want to hide all of the mirrors.

Details are important. They just are. I've always been a detail person forever in pursuit of excellence. Over the years I have suffered a great deal of criticism for my need to make things "right". I noticed this year that I really let it go. That was brought into focus this Christmas. I made up the list, but I let Louis do all the shopping. "Let" is the wrong word. "Made" is the right word. We never would have had Christmas without Louis facing the mall and doing all of the shopping and running around. Toys, clothes, food, ALL OF IT. I even let the kids do all, and I mean ALL, of the decorating in the house. Yes, in this case "let" is the right word. And, no, I never went and fixed anything. Regrets? The kids knew I wasn't into the holidays this year. I tried, but I'm no actress (and don't want to be!).

Authenticity is all you have. Given the hell of 2009, I lost myself. I never lost my beliefs, my judgment, my priorities, my logic. I did lose my spirit, my enthusiasm, my confidence, my zest. I'm looking to get it back. It's asking a lot of 365 days, but I think, if I make it a priority, my spirit will recover. Regrets? I have a few.

I'm not a fan of negative posts and tend not to read blogs which contain a bunch of bitchy, verbal vomit veiled in sarcastic humour; but, I don't live in a bubble, so every once in a while the natural negatives of life have to be addressed. I had a woman say to me, last year, how easy I make it seem to raise four kids who are, for the most part, well behaved, well adjusted and kind. I'm thrilled she believes those things of my children, and she's right about them, but easy? It is not. I don't want to give anyone the impression that my life is all sunshine, lollipops and rainbows! But I also don't want to spew a bunch of crap everywhere either, and believe me, 2009 was definitely spew-worthy.

Regrets? I have a few ...

Which really just means I have plenty of opportunity for challenge and change in 2010.

*8 Things: I've learned (or re-learned) in 2009

Years ago, before marriage and children, I was told that time would fly by when I had children, and fly by faster the older they got. How right they were! I cannot believe how quickly this year has passed, I have whiplash from all of the happenings in 2009! So many stories, so many opportunities, bright spots and disappointments, so much learned:

1. Your friends are your friends, they are not necessarily the people with whom you spend most of your time. Sometimes you are with people due to circumstance, not choice. It is wonderful when circumstance and choice are the same, but that is not often the case. Never confuse the two and be sure to support those who do and suffer the disappointment.
2. Automate at least two meals every day and make one of those meals breakfast. We are faced with too much choice, your brain cannot engage without energy. The answer? Eat the exact same breakfast every single day. You'll feel better. Thanks, Dr. Oz. I do!
3. You are the only advocate your children have, so advocate. Show them you support them. Things might not work out the way your child might like - the first time, or even the second time, but as long as they always see that you are their greatest cheerleader, the rest doesn't matter.
4. If given a choice, say "yes".
5. An oldie, but goodie: Anonymity is a cop out. If you're going to say it or write it, sign it. And please, if you cannot attribute comments, don't tell me. I don't want to know. Really.
6. You can't choose your children's friends. They'll figure it out. You can be there to advise, to nod, to hug and pick up the pieces. Oh, and just because you are friends with the parents does not automatically make the kids get along, in fact, often it's the opposite. But, surprisingly, if the kids get along, so do the parents. Interesting.
7. When your blackberry is just not working, remove the battery, wait a minute, put the battery back in and let it power up. I don't know why it works, it just does!
8. There is always a bright side. It is up to you to decide to see it. I'm learning that happiness is a decision. Smile, even when you don't feel like it. Who knows, someone might just smile back.

There was so much more; but, another thing I'm learning, those things that come naturally, ideas that rise to the surface (or finger tips) most quickly are the exact right ones. They represent your heart's desire most accurately and effectively. This list of things I'm learning and re-learning were the first that came to me. So there you have it.

Have yourself a wonderful New Year! Here's to all the new lessons to learn in 2010.

Cheers!

Rachelle, aka Magpie Girl, started *8 Things to quiet her "monkey mind" and I embrace it for much the same reason: therapy! If you're looking for a place to keep your lists, you might want to consider *8 Things.