CLB

...nearly 3!

2012-02-12T18:41:00.000-08:00

Just a couple of days away until Max is officially 3 years old. He waited patiently all week for The Party and we had fun getting ready for the festivities. Max decided that he wanted a Rainbow Cake and fortunately, I had come across the 6 layer rainbow cake that has been appearing in blogs and also Martha Stewart. It looks daunting but actually it was a lot of fun to make.

The balloons were a hit - Carmon and I put them out when Max was in bed last night, when he came downstairs this morning and saw them he was so excited. "I LOVE my balloons!!" he squealed.

Take-out nuggets and fries for the kids...a good way to keep kids interested and the food contained!

Birthday weekend

2012-02-01T18:58:00.001-08:00

Really? Another year older?! It was my 32nd on Monday. We celebrated by taking a mini vacation in Canmore and signed ourselves up for a Dog sledding trip while we were there. It took Max some time to 'warm up' to the idea. He was not thrilled at all as we stood in the cold for 1/2 an hour getting a bit of a tutorial on how to operate the sleds, commands for the dogs etc...I only half listened, trying to keep him entertained/warm and somewhat enthusiastic about getting in a cold sled and being pulled through the bush.

"This is NOT going to be fun", "I want to go home" oh and, "I want to go play in the sand!" were a few memorable quotes before we got going.

Once the lesson was over, we got bundled in our sled and he was much happier...no squeals of delight or anything like that, but when we finished he said he wanted to go again. We hit the pool in the afternoon, found a good spot for dinner and were all in bed by 7:30!

Halloween Fun

2011-11-03T20:20:00.000-07:00

Halloween was so FUN this year!! Max had it all figured out, loved that he could ring stranger's doorbells and get...CANDY!

After each house, Max would say with excitement "...and now we get to go to another house!!"

Thanksgiving Weekend

2011-10-11T19:04:00.000-07:00

We had an awesome weekend! Besides buying a house, and a second vehicle (all in one day) we were able to fit in a morning at Heritage Park on Sunday. It was really cool when we arrived, but we warmed up in Gunn's Dairy Barn with a pancake breakfast and then hopped on the steam train for a ride around the village. This is an excellent place to be with kids, especially if you have a train, boat and tractor lovin' little boy!

Impulse Buy?

2011-10-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

So we bought a house yesterday! We have been on the hunt since our visit to Calgary in July and it had been pretty underwhelming so far. We were thisclose to cancelling our Saturday bookings with our agent, as we were feeling rather gloomy about the whole house hunting process. Good thing we didn't. This little lady came on the market earlier this week, it is located in an area called Bridgeland in the inner city's NE. It is a great area, lots of redevelopment going on, a few good spots to eat and there is a Starbucks! I know I sound like a total weirdo city person but seriously...would you turn down a Sunday morning pumpkin spice latte if it's a block and a half away?
We walked in and instantly had a good feeling about the place, the layout on the main floor is almost identical to our last house in Toronto, which made it very easy for us to visualize living there. It has a sweet little front porch, nice high ceilings, it is light filled and bright, it has squeaky original hardwood and cozy bedrooms. So we put in an offer immediately and learned a few hours later that somebody else had also put in an offer - we were now in a bidding war. WHAT??! I thought that only happened in Toronto! We improved our offer and waited at a park nearby while the deal went down. I guess they liked that we were able to move in asap and that helped us in the end...So it's ours on November 8! I feel inspired again! Can't wait to start planning some projects and settling in. This is really going to help us feel at home in our new city. So here it is!

The Move

2011-09-27T19:57:00.001-07:00

There is something to be said about having movers...everything was packed up and out of our house over 2 days, our car was put on the train and there we were, left with a few suitcases and an empty house. Our little house was just a shell and I kept wondering if the people who bought it would be disappointed when they moved in...it just looked so different once everything was packed up. We had a full week of saying Good-bye to all of our dear friends, it was very tough but we were excited about reconnecting with our family and friends in the West.
We've been here for 3 weeks now, but in different places. I am settling in with my new job and Carmon and Max have been working hard on the farm. Max is loving every minute of it. I miss them, it's been too long now and I am ready for us to be together and to start exploring this new city. So far I like it though - it feels great to be back.

Cracking Up

2011-09-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

Max cracking up to Toy Story out-takes.

Sold!

2011-08-27T11:53:00.000-07:00

1 week, 3 offers - we are very pleased to have sold so quickly. Calgary, here we come!

On the Market

2011-08-21T17:46:00.000-07:00

That's right! We are moving to Calgary...in 3 weeks! Our house went on the market Monday and we have been on the edge of our seats all week - this is stressful stuff! I hope somebody likes it as much as we do, it will be very sad to leave our humble first home.

Summer Holidays

2011-08-10T18:26:00.000-07:00

Hello there! Just back from Alberta - we had a great time. LOTS of news to share...more to come!

Growing Like a Weed!

2011-07-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

...I wish I had the same enthusiasm for yard work!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T18:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to all of the wonderful Daddy O's in our lives!

2011-06-06T06:41:00.000-07:00

Checking In

2011-05-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since we've checked in. It has been another very busy few months...lord, will things ever slow down? I have moved categories at work and I am now Product Developer for TOYS! Oh my, wait until Max finds out! I headed off to China right after Easter and then almost as soon as I returned, Carmon headed home to help his family with the spring planting at the farm. Max and I were solo for about 10 days and then my mom flew in for a short visit. We had lots of fun as always and Max enjoyed playing with Grandma and of course he had lots of new tricks since he had last seen her.
We have had a very soggy spring but have been getting outside to play whenever the sky is clear. Max just loves the park and he is so independent and brave on the playground now - it is amazing to me what this two year old can do. Every day is full of surprises, funny moments, new words, silly faces and giggles. We love having this little boy in our lives.
This weekend was rather soggy again but we got out this morning and went to Port Credit for our usual Starbucks and park fix. But today there just happened to be a fundraising event at the park and there were these HUGE inflatable slides and bouncy houses all over the place!

We had a ball...until it started to rain! On the way back to the car we came across a Police car and an Ambulance - it was actually harder to pull Max away from the vehicles than the bouncy houses! A nice Police man saw the pleading look in Max's eyes as he ran over to the car, and he asked if Max wanted to sit inside...Lucky Boy!

This was Easter

2011-05-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

That look of wonder in his little eyes! It's too much! We had such a fun day - brunch with friends and an Easter egg hunt for the little ones. William, Kylee and Max scurried all around the house searching for eggs and they had a ball.

Big Boy Bed

2011-04-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

I will admit, I was dreading this transition, but it was time...Max is not a baby anymore (sob!). The first couple of nights were a bit of a challenge as he discovered his newfound freedom and tried to 'escape' repeatedly.

He is settled in now and we look forward to a cuddle and a story before it's time to say goodnight.

We weren't sure if he needed a guard to keep him from falling out of bed and we thought we would see how he did without it before going out and buying one. Each night we surrounded his bed with pillows. He didn't roll out for the first 4 nights but then after that we would find him on the floor around 2 am snuggled up in the pillows! We bought the guard...

Spring has Sprung...In Yellow and Green!

2011-04-12T17:09:00.000-07:00

Spring is finally here! We are super excited to get out in the yard, play at the park and feel the sun again. We enjoyed a spring visit from Katrina and Mike and Baba and Uncle Ben - Max has changed a lot in the past few months so it was fun for him to show off all of his new tricks. He is quite the little man - very independent, very assertive...even a little bit bossy, but that's OK. Carmon says he gets that from me...what?? Impossible.

Trucks and tractors are still the centre of the universe and he always wants to 'drive' our car - we let him open and close the doors, that's about it - poor child. But he does get to drive his little truck in the back yard - it is very funny to watch him get in and out, open and close the tail gate and wheel around. We also have a John Deere fan on our hands...in case you haven't noticed!! He loves his new cap as it is just like Daddy's.

We are looking forward to Easter next weekend and are planning an Egg Hunt on Friday - holidays are so much fun now!

Winter Helper

2011-02-27T11:22:00.000-08:00

We woke up today to a beautiful blanket of fluffy snow. By 9 am it was already starting to get heavy and wet so we had to hurry and get the driveway shoveled. Max was eager to help so he grabbed the extra shovel and went to work...

As pretty as the snow was today, I hope this winter business will be over soon. I am so ready to throw the gear in storage and move on to rain boots and bright yellow rain coats. Max's warm jacket has bit the dust - the zipper just keeps ripping open and out pops his little tummy! Yep, that's right old man Winter, it's time to move along now...

Birthday Party!

2011-02-13T10:18:00.000-08:00

Today we had Max's 2nd Birthday Party with his best buddies - it was a really fun day. We started off at the hill with a little sledding. And then back to the house for brunch, cake and lots of playing. Max is 'getting it' now and was pretty excited yesterday when we told him we were having a birthday party. He loved the Happy Birthday banner that we hung up for him and was thrilled with all of his beautiful gifts. Cards and gifts have been arriving at the house this past week and Max gets so excited when he sees a colorful envelope in the stack of mail - he is very proud of his cards that say how special he is - I am sure Max thinks 2 is pretty cool...

Max, I promise that I won't decorate with hearts forever...I just can't help myself!

Thanks William, Kylee and Reid for a special day - Max was sorry to see everyone go.

ABCDs

2011-02-01T17:51:00.000-08:00

Puppy Fever

2011-01-24T17:48:00.000-08:00

Max stayed home with Dad today. We all just got over a terrible flu last week and Max was running a fever this morning - again?! Honestly. As usual though, you would never know that this little peanut was sick, he is still a chipper little guy even when he is feeling a little under the weather. So he and Daddy-o stayed inside and played today. Max has all sorts of toys, big noisy trucks, tiny little trains, John Deere tractors all of which he loves but lately he has been quite attached to this adorable hand knit puppy dog. He loves to make the puppy bark and lets his puppy help him pick up toys...and sippy cups...

Thank you to my mom's talented friend, Gwen who lovingly made this puppy for Max - he is very special!

Mr. Fix It

2011-01-02T09:39:00.000-08:00

Hi there! It's been a week of building, painting, fixing over here. I am SAD to be going back to work tomorrow - we have only chipped the giant iceberg that is our To Do List. Max had a great week - I am sure tomorrow's daycare drop off will be dramatic as it always is after too many days away.

We are anxious to get into our bathroom again - right now our beautiful tub and tile are in but today is painting day and we are currently without a bathroom sink. Carm is losing patience with the entire process and wants to "burn our house down" as he so eloquently put it yesterday...yikes. Max just wants to be like his daddy and build things too - he had a great time this morning putting his new step stool together. Hope everyone had a happy New Year and good luck getting back to the grind tomorrow!

Christmas Was...

2010-12-28T17:09:00.001-08:00

- Our first fake christmas tree...no needles, no watering

- A little boy just learning about Santa and all the magic of the season

- A new fir scented candle

- Minimal mall madness and simple wish lists

- Cups and cups of wassail

- Parcels from the mailman, even on a Sunday

- Cookies

- Mischief, climbing, jumping and tumbling

- No airport madness, no luggage for us this year

- More ham than we know what to do with

- Toy Story 3

- A bathroom reno - white subway tile and a deep soaker tub

- An unexpected visit from Ian and Holly

- Early mornings

- Baking with a special helper

- Eric's Christmas eve arrival

- Skype chats with Grandparents and siblings

- Snuggly new PJ's

- Play dates and catching up with Toronto friends

- Planning for 2011 and pondering some big decisions

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T17:45:00.001-08:00

Wishing everyone a wonderful Christmas Day!

Good Night, I Love You!

2010-11-25T17:00:00.000-08:00

It can't get much sweeter than that!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T16:44:00.000-07:00

It was a year ago today that we donned the Star Wars costumes and made our Halloween debut as a family. This year was a bit more hurried. I just returned from 10 days in China on Thursday and the thought of putting my (jet-lagged) self in a costume was a little tough to bear (I think Carmon was happy with this too). Max on the other hand was totally game for a day of fun and quite adorable in his dinosaur costume.

This afternoon we headed over to a neighborhood restaurant that was hosting a kids Halloween party. Max and Reid had their usual squeals of delight when they saw each other. These two are serious BFF's!

Max must have known he was going to have Cheezies at the party...could this be why he refused to eat lunch before we left?

Happy Halloween! Hope you had a spooky day!

Fall

2010-10-07T17:07:00.000-07:00

Fall is perfect in Toronto - it really is. The leaves are turning and the air is crisp, the lake sparkles and the sun seems brighter and happier these days. Max likes to stomp through the piles of leaves and say "crunch!".

new shoes

We are doing just great over here - it's been awhile since we've checked in. Max and I are flying solo at the moment as Carmon is busy at home with Harvest. Max has been on his best behavior and has been such a good little guy while daddy is away. He put on a very brave face for the first 10 days, but the last few days he has been asking frantically for "Daddy!" Carmon has been sending little video messages to us from his phone. Max and I have been watching them over and over again. His face lights up every time he watches and he blows kisses - it is adorable. Although, this is making me panic just a wee bit as I am scheduled to fly to China in about 8 days. I am not sure who will be more traumatized, Max or me...

September 1 - first day in his new daycare room

September was a flurry of activity - Max graduated to the Junior Toddler room at Daycare, it's official, he is a big boy now. That transition was not without some drama - it took him a few weeks to adjust to the new drop off but now we can really see that he is enjoying his new group and is making lots of friends. He has a few BFF's - Aiden, Sasha and Christian.

On the weekends he loves to play with Reid, Kylee and William. We had a great time at William and Kylee's birthday a few weeks ago and now his new favorite song is "Happy Birthday". We sing it a lot!

horsing around with Reid

a delicious birthday party

My mom also visited in September - Max calls her Gra'kra. She stayed for a week and it took Max a few days to stop from running down the hall to the spare bedroom in search of Gra'kra once she had gone.

We enjoyed the Cabbagetown festival and even sat and watched the parade. Max had his first balloon - we had to tie it to his hat so that it didn't fly away.

anxiously awaiting the fire trucks at the Cabbagetown festival parade

anchoring his new balloon

Riverdale farm is always a hit - but lately the animals are not the draw, it was the John Deere tractor that stole the show.

lovin' that John Deere

a paparazzi shot of Max and Grandma

We are looking forward to Halloween - this will be such a different experience from last year - I often stare at that picture of our first Halloween and wonder how that little baby morphed into this big handsome boy!

mmm...corn!

2010-09-24T17:11:00.000-07:00

A Summer Wedding

2010-08-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

While we were home in July, we also celebrated the marriage of my brother, Ian and his new wife, Holly! It was a perfect Friday afternoon - we are so very excited for you two!

Don't they look lovely?

Max did his best to stay still...a little snack held him over for a few minutes...

The wedding took place in my mom and dad's yard - where Carmon and I were married 3 years ago. It is the most perfect spot with its big trees and their leafy branches, the sun twinkles through them ever so nicely. And then there is the barn. We ate our meal in the loft of the red barn after the ceremony. We shared a delicious feast at one long table, big paper flowers hanging from the wooden rafters. A lovely spot for a celebration - fortunately the festivities didn't stop short that night as there was a whole lot of stompin' going on the next evening...more about that soon!

A Belated Happy Anniversary

2010-08-11T17:02:00.000-07:00

Oh my dear! Our 3 year Anniversary has come and gone and I have yet to write a poetic little note about how much I adore my lovely husband. Happy 3 years! This has been a full year - and everyday I am thankful that I came across you, one sweet day...

Hooray! Hudson is Here!

2010-08-11T16:48:00.000-07:00

While on holidays we anxiously awaited the arrival of our first Nephew. It was so exciting to be at home and get the call that they were in labour - everyone was on the edge of their seats...and finally! He was here!

Sebrina and AJ welcomed Hudson Aaron on July 19th.

We happily drove to Calgary to meet Hudson and catch up with Sebrina and AJ. What a lovely little bundle - congrats you two!

One Trac(tor) Mind

2010-08-01T17:41:00.000-07:00

We are back from two weeks holidays in the Alberta Prairies, ah what a good time it was. Max is officially tractor obsessed - not sure I can blame him. It was heaven for a little boy - there were tractors, trucks and machinery everywhere. Max would happily announce "trac-tor"! at every sighting...there were a lot...I should have counted how many times we heard that word in a day. One night, fast asleep he muttered "tract-or", and the next night "bye bye tract-or". In the mornings he would stand up in his crib, point to the bedroom door and call "tract-or"! As we drove down the highway he would frantically wave at anything with 4 wheels and proclaim "tract-or"! We spent a good part of our days climbing in and out of vehicles and heavy machinery allowing Max to have his fix. It was worth every minute.

Bloody Wednesday

2010-07-14T18:38:00.000-07:00

Mistake #1 - going to the mall on a perfectly beautiful summer's evening
Mistake #2 - allowing our child to have some fun
Mistake #3 - wearing a white shirt

...Max was getting antsy, it was time to let him free. All of the other kids were playing in this lovely, empty common area - nobody hangs out there except for children who need to blow off some steam and their exhausted parents. Max joined in on the fun and promptly tripped, and crashed face first onto the floor. By the time we scooped him up, there was blood gushing from his mouth and nose, poor little guy! I was very prepared - I had 2 tissues which seemed like the size of a postage stamp - good god, that wouldn't do! We managed to get the hell out of there, Max hysterical and both of us covered in blood. The evening didn't improve and Max went to bed with a fat lip and a sore little mouth. Perhaps we skip the mall from now on?

Hello Shadow!

2010-07-12T17:38:00.000-07:00

Early Saturday morning...Max was introduced to his Shadow! We had a great time waving and making puppets on the wall. Now Max can spot his shadow wherever we go and will always wave and say hello.

Good-bye June!

2010-07-01T16:53:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile - I know. Father's Day has come and gone and Carmon's birthday was yesterday - it is time that I got in gear! We have had some busy weeks - nothing new or even that exciting has been going on - just a whole lot of playing! We are enjoying the summer weather and we are spending our time outside as much as possible. If we are in the house, Max will look longingly out the back door into the yard and then he gets persistent, digging out our shoes and dropping them at our feet! It's hard to say no to this sweet little face.

As 17 months is nearly upon us, Max is really a little boy now. Running everywhere, making truck noises, chasing balls, chatting at every dog that passes him on the street. He is saying words like 'ball', 'duck', 'bye bye', 'dad', 'mom', 'nose', 'eye', 'book', 'car', 'tractor', and lot's of animal noises. He is a lot of fun, constant entertainment, and a whizzing little ball of energy. We spend a lot of time at the park and Max is getting very brave as he explores the great outdoors - sometimes a little too brave, resulting in a few spills lately. Today he fell face first into the sand - it was glued to his drooly face, up his nose, in his mouth and down his pants!

We are excited for July! There is a lot going on for us, heading home soon to celebrate my brother's wedding, stomp the night away at a barn dance, and welcome a new niece or nephew as Carmon's sister is ready any day now! Can't wait!

Where's Max?

2010-06-08T16:53:00.000-07:00

Tonight - between the rush to get some dinner into this little boy's tummy and tidy up before bath time, we delighted in a little game of hide and seek...

Back Yard Play

2010-06-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

Today is Saturday - the best day of the week. I appreciate the weekend even more now that we have Max. Although we miss sleeping in, (this little rooster 'cock a' doodles' at 5 am!) our weekends now revolve around F-U-N. Our back yard has been especially popular, however we were light on outdoor toys. I know many people (um, mom and dad) will read this and say - "but kids don't NEED a lot of toys"...I know, I know. But how could one resist this super cool mud pie making kitchen set? Come on now!

Max loves it...he was also very interested in the packaging it came in...

...next time, perhaps we dig through a dumpster and just give him some old boxes.

Actually once the novelty of the crinkly packaging wore off, he was quite enthused with his new play set.

For the Love of Dog

2010-06-02T17:53:00.000-07:00

Max loves dogs. When he spots one, he will point frantically and squeal, we make lots of friends at the park. We found this one at Old Navy - too bad we couldn't take him home...

Busy Bees

2010-05-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

We have been busy bees lately, um can you tell? ...last blog post April 24th...I am feeling the guilt, trust me. Max is RUNNING everywhere, being a little boy and enjoying the great outdoors. We had a great visit with Grandma last week - a wonderful way to celebrate mother's day!

Carmon was away for two weeks - did we ever miss him!

Things are back to normal now and we are looking forward to a relaxing long weekend. Max has his final swimming lesson for the season, our first summer BBQ with friends, and I am sneaking away tomorrow night to see David Gray in concert!

First Haircut

2010-04-24T13:33:00.000-07:00

We decided it was time to take Max for a haircut - Carmon kept saying that he had a mullet and just about cut Max's hair himself when I jokingly put it in a ponytail the other day. So off we went, to this fun place called Melon Head...

First a pony ride...

...a tentative glance...

...and then into his pink Cadillac!

There were no tears, no fits - he was such a good boy.

Now just look how handsome!

Easter Long Weekend Part 2

2010-04-06T17:15:00.000-07:00

Saturday. We had a big day planned - we were off to meet the Easter Bunny! First, we got dressed up and headed out for Easter brunch - just the three of us. Max was a good boy at the table and even kept his new shirt clean.

Then off to see the Easter Bunny! There was a long line up for pictures...

...we opted to not wait in line and I quickly snapped a pic without Max. Besides, I think he would have cried if he got too close to this fellow...wouldn't you?

After that we headed to the park and chilled out for the rest of the afternoon.

Sunday was just a total bonus, god I love a long weekend. We went for a run, puttered around the house and got a lot of things done that had been looming - like washing windows, planting new springy flower pots etc. BUT the most exciting part was when we got to Skype our families - what fun to see everyone and they were able to see Max playing and walking around the house. We were jealous of the elaborate meals that we were missing - my family even picked up the computer and showed us the long buffet line of food that they were ready to dig in to! Lucky!

Easter Long Weekend Part 1

2010-04-06T16:54:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite things to do on the weekend is head downtown, yes, that's right, downtown...to Riverdale Farm. Toronto has this wonderful old farm in Cabbagetown, just East of the city center. This has been one of our favorite spots to visit since we moved to Toronto and even more now that we have Max. The weather was beautiful and the farm was a flurry of activity, Max loved every minute of it...

Weekend Wonderful

2010-03-29T17:12:00.000-07:00

We had such a good weekend - ahhhhhhh. Finally none of us were sick and Max has newfound independence now that he is walking everywhere. Yep, finally! He was managing with the 8 or so steps but then would want up or sit down and was becoming pretty frustrated. Well let me tell you, he mastered his technique on Friday at Daycare and was in perfect form to show off his new skills by the time we picked him up later that day. What a happy camper! He toddles around all over the place and chats away - so pleased with himself. Carmon and I have a bit more freedom now that he doesn't have a constant grasp on our finger in fear of falling. It is fun to see where his little feet take him and what places he likes to explore.

Our sweet little man also napped for 2 straight hours on Saturday and Sunday! I can't tell you how greatful I was to be able to hop back into bed myself.

We are excited about Easter weekend coming up - the sun is supposed to shine and it is meant to get as warm as 20 degrees. We are venturing out on Saturday to meet the Easter Bunny - we will be sure to share!

New Pics

2010-03-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

First Steps

2010-03-04T16:30:00.000-08:00

It's happened!

So Close!

2010-02-24T18:14:00.000-08:00

Max is so close to walking. He is perfecting his technique before his big debut but we are starting to see moments of bravery.

He leads us around the house constantly with a tight grip on one of our fingers...

...stops to pick up something interesting off the floor and becomes so distracted that he lets go and stands on his own!

Then he falls.

Back up again and off in another direction...

...and there he goes! A few steps on his own! I bet Carmon that Max would be walking by the weekend - we'll keep you posted.

Meet Mackenzie!

2010-02-22T17:40:00.001-08:00

Little Mackenzie Kelly Jones was born on Feb 1st - Welcome to the world little girl - we can't wait to meet you!

I am lovin' all of the pink...Chris and Jeff are going to have a ball with this sweet little muffin!

A Three Day Weekend

2010-02-17T16:05:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love the three day long weekend - no Sunday night panic, no scrambling to get the house in order all weekend long - this Monday off was such a bonus. I can't tell you how much I appreciate this now that I am back at work.

We enjoyed a Family Day brunch at Mildred's Temple Kitchen. Max had croissant and roasted potatoes.

Baba flew in for a weekend visit to celebrate Max's birthday and Max had a great time playing and showing Baba all of his new tricks. Baba spoiled us all rotten!

An angelic smile after another long night - not the best little sleeper these days!

'One' Love

2010-02-14T16:30:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a happy, happy one year little boy!

Apologies for the long absence everyone - it has been a little nutty over here. Max has officially started Day Care and after just a few days, caught a nasty cold with a sore throat and fever...a few days later, Carmon and I had it too. We have all recovered, just in time to pull together a low key celebration for the big day.

a curious little man.

vanilla cupcakes with white chocolate cream cheese icing....

sweet gifts and wishes from home...

a little help from dad...

a cool new bib from the Heystek girls...

a parcel from Grandma and Grandpa lovingly wrapped with cowboy paper...

make a wish...

sweet!

an attempt to get a cute group shot of Max with his buddies...this was the best we could do!

hurriedly unwrapping...

the coolest party hats!

Max you were the best Valentine's Day gift - thank you for one special year our little love!

Being Brave

2010-01-29T16:42:00.000-08:00

This week was transition week for Max - we took him to Daycare on Wednesday for a little introduction. Carmon and I were able to stay and play with him, get him comfortable with his new environment and meet the other kids. On Thursday and today, we dropped him off for 2 hours and left him there alone...gulp. Max did fine. Carmon and I? We are trying to be brave...

TGIF everyone! I can't tell you what a relief it is to see this week wrapped up. Tomorrow is my big 3-0 so I am signing off to enjoy a few more hours of my 20's.

Eleven Points to Share

2010-01-18T16:47:00.000-08:00

We wish Max a happy eleventh month, this is the last month in a year of milestones - amazing how we saw a different little person almost every week...after this sweet boy, you are one year old! Today, I feel it is important to report about what Max is up to these days - eleven points to share with you:

1. hanging out with daddy - solo, for one whole month

2. zero teeth

3. up and down on the furniture, in and out of the cupboards

4. roasted sweet potatoes are still #1, grilled cheese may be a close second...

5. calling us from his crib at 5 am "ma!"..."da!"

6. watching 'Old McDonald Had a Farm' on You Tube

7. a fluttering fool in the swimming pool

8. squeals with glee when he sees his buddies

9. has shared a french fry or two

10. walking is imminent

11. starting day care in one week

p.s. these photos were taken around the nine month mark - I came across them again today and couldn't resist including them...isn't he just the cutest??

Anxiously awaiting Baby Jones

2010-01-10T17:29:00.000-08:00

We were very lucky to have spent some time with Chris and Jeff over the holidays as well. They are two of our oldest and dearest friends and we are thrilled that they are expecting a wee one any day now...eek! So excited for you two!

We had such a good time catching up and Max loved playing with their sweet new puppy, Berkely. I am at the edge of my seat - will it be a boy or a girl?? Can't wait to welcome you to the world Baby Jones!

Max's Christmas Adventure - Part Two

2010-01-10T16:54:00.000-08:00

On Christmas day, we headed to my parent's house. Everyone was anxiously awaiting Max's arrival...

a welcoming front porch

Max with Great Grandma and Grandpa Goad

Max and Grandma

at this house it wasn't the tupperware cupboard that had Max's attention...it was the recycling collection

a great day for a sleigh ride with Katrina

furry hats and rosy cheeks

lots of cows

an attempt to take a nice photo...Max was not having it, and ripped his hat off just seconds before this was snapped

with uncle Eric...hat back on...

...hat off again...with uncle Ian and Holly

It's amazing how fast 10 days go - we are never able to fit everything in. This was a very special Christmas and we are so lucky to have such wonderful friends and family. Thank you everyone for spoiling us rotten!

Max's Christmas Adventure - Part One

2010-01-08T18:24:00.001-08:00

We headed back to Alberta on the 19th of December - geared up for 10 days with friends and family. I think we were all really excited to have Christmas with a little one this year - it has been a long time since we've experienced the joy of a little one rummaging around under the tree and tearing christmas wrap to shreds. Max didn't really understand what all the excitement was about but he was certainly game for the festivities!

We began our stay at Carmon's parents first...

out in the quiet country

loving Baba's tupperware cupboard

outside, looking in

up high on uncle Dan's shoulders

bouncing on Grandpa

Mennonite Carolers...yes, people still Carol!

back in that cupboard again

a friendly face-off with cousin Dylan

a perfect view

Max with Great Baba, Great Geddie and Great Grandma Blacklock

Max and Baba

with Auntie Brookelyn at Great Grandma Blacklock's 80th birthday bash

twinkly lights

delight on Christmas Day

New Year...New Job!

2010-01-03T18:06:00.001-08:00

We have settled back in after a wonderfully wintery trip to Alberta - details and pics to come soon, I promise.

...I have a lot on my plate starting tomorrow - gulp! I will now be working as a Product Developer for President's Choice (PC) Home and have an entire Christmas 2010 assortment to plan and execute in a VERY short amount of time...I can already feel the stress level starting to rise. I am also a little sad as I will miss my days at home with my boys. Max will be kicking back with his Dad for one month and then it is off to Day Care in Feb. It is remarkable to think that almost a whole year has gone by - what a wonderful, memorable year it has been - I am blessed to have such a beautiful and healthy little family and an exciting work opportunity. Now...how do I juggle it all?

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

2009-12-15T16:47:00.001-08:00

This was the year that we opted not to put up a tree - initially I was kind of disappointed that we were not truly embracing the holiday season with a jazzed up twinkly tree. Then reality sunk in and the thought of a busy 10 month old making a mad dash for every brittle glass ornament, made me realize that having a tree was not as important as having our sanity. Instead we had little shots of Christmas throughout the house - all breakable and sparkly far from reach...

...a festive front door wreath...

...a sparkly snow globe...

...cozy little booties...

...perfect red latte mugs...

...birds nesting in the chandelier...

...earthy front door urns...

...a silver candy dish and the best fir tree scented candle...

...a cozy quilt and soft pillows...

...a lantern and a pretty owl...

...and shimmery glass ornaments in a woven basket - high up on our dining table...

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year we are looking forward to an exciting 2010. Lots of Love, CLB.

Our 10 Month Old

2009-12-15T16:41:00.000-08:00

The Count Down Is On

2009-12-12T16:03:00.000-08:00

Just one week until we are back in Alberta. We are looking forward to seeing everyone, catching up and celebrating our first Christmas with this wee one!

Fishing with Santa

2009-12-02T17:36:00.000-08:00

Carmon's parents were visiting this past weekend - Max had a great time with Baba and Grandpa and I think they enjoyed catching up and seeing how grown up this little man is. We toured around the city hitting some of our favorite spots and of course what tour wouldn't be complete without a trip to Bass Pro Outdoor World!? According to Carmon, this place is heaven on earth...I could think of a few more enticing places, but we did have fun. Max loved all of the stuffed animals - that's right folks, real animals that are stuffed - not the fuzzy plushy kind.

We also introduced Max to Santa that day - what fun.

This Santa was all outdoorsy in his fishing boat.

Max helped him catch a fish.

Once the fishing excitement was over, Max realized that he was not with us and was on the verge of a meltdown. It was a very sweet moment and I am so thankful that he didn't pull Santa's beard!

Great Granddad's Oatmeal Cookies

2009-11-25T17:03:00.000-08:00

I called grandma awhile ago for this recipe and the first time I tried to reinvent this childhood favorite, I was not happy with the results. I got out the recipe again tonight and made another attempt with a few modifications - tonight they are perfect.

2 cups white sugar

5 cups oatmeal

2 cups flour

1 cup buttermilk

1 1/2 cups butter

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

cream butter and sugar, add milk and then all remaining ingredients. drop onto parchment lined cookie sheet and flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. bake 350 degrees for 12 minutes.

Brown Butter Icing

1/2 cup butter

3 cups icing sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

water

heat the butter in saucepan over med heat until golden brown, stirring occasionally. remove from heat, stir in sugar and vanilla. stir in enough water to achieve desired consistency to drizzle.

drizzle or spread icing on warm cookies.

Dear Soother - a letter of termination

2009-11-19T16:04:00.000-08:00

Dear Soother,

It is with great regret that we must inform you of your termination as of November 16, 2009.

You have been an asset to our 'team' and most importantly to our son Max. You have been there for us in the hard times of sleep training, and a true friend in moments of panic, over-tiredness, boredom, and hunger. Unfortunately your role has become redundant and you are becoming no more than a crutch. More often than not, you are hiding in the cracks of the crib, or tossed on the floor attracting dust bunnies and god knows what else. With germ fighting being high on our new list of priorities, having to scramble to disinfect and immediately reinsert into an anxious little mouth is becoming a real drag, and has taken a toll on our team. We ask that you leave our premises quietly, without commotion and would appreciate it if you did not linger while saying your last goodbyes to our dear son.

We wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors and if you would like a letter of reference, we would be more than happy to oblige.

Yours Sincerely,

CLB

10 Honest Thoughts

2009-11-15T16:51:00.000-08:00

Good old Kat was chosen by Ivy as an Honest Scrap award winner, well done dear friend! As an Honest Scrap award winner, Katrina must share 10 honest thoughts on her blog and then pass the award along to 7 other bloggers who then have to do the same. One of the 7, is moi. Oh Katrina, you are so good at forcing me to look inward, express myself and share it with the world. It was she that introduced me to this whole blogging phenomenon, inspiring me to find joy in the day to day and sharing it with friends and family. It took me awhile to get used to the idea of having snippets from the life of CLB posted for anyone to see but it has been such a wonderful creative outlet for me and a great way to document a really exciting time in our lives.

OK...perhaps I am stalling...I did a great amount of inner reflection over the last few days and I think I have come up with my 10...

1. I do enjoy saying a swear word of two, but I am trying to say them more sparingly these days, wouldn't it be sad if S--- was Max's first word!

2. It takes me forever to write an email and even longer to muster up a blog posting. I go over and over and over each sentence obsessively checking spelling, grammar etc. I am mortified if I see an error after the email has been sent or the blog has been posted.

3. I will not eat meat on the bone. Nor will I eat skin, innards, fat, slimy or crunchy bits of animal either.

4. I often burst into a fit of giggles in the most inappropriate places or they will become so out of control that I will have to leave the room to regain composure. Sooo awkward.

5. Not a fan of french kissing - eww squishy!

6. I like change.

7. I have an irritating need to correct people if they pronounce something incorrectly. Sorry! I just think, gosh if I kept saying a word wrong over and over, I would really want somebody to tell me.

8. Scary movies make me uncomfortable - you will never see me standing in line at Blockbuster with a copy of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, ever.

9. I have a heck of a time falling asleep after watching an evening's worth of HGTV shows. I get inspired and then can't help thinking about our house, what to work on next, what color to paint this and where to get that...

10. I am a homebody and can't think of anything better than snuggling up indoors with my two boys.

Nine

2009-11-15T15:51:00.000-08:00

Max is now 9 months old, holy cannoli. We have been enjoying the last couple of days with my dad, who flew in for a long weekend baby fix. The timing was just right as the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is on right now so I think he felt right at home in the big city!

Max and Grandpa

...sporting his best 'cow lick' hair do

Gag-er-iffic

2009-11-13T16:22:00.000-08:00

It seems that someone is developing a charming gag reflex for anything that does not resemble sweet orange vegetables or fruit. This evening I began with zucchini, that did not go well. Then lentils mixed with potato and carrots, nope. Option #3 a jar of Heinz chicken dinner, I tasted it and I gagged! #4 was a mix of flavored cereal with a touch of applesauce, down the hatch...and right back up again...drama.

The menu options were running out, but fortunately I had one lonely jar of apples and apricots in the pantry which was polished off in mere minutes.

While I am glad that tonight our little one has gone to bed with a full belly...what the heck am I going to feed him tomorrow?!

knock knock

2009-11-05T18:47:00.000-08:00

who's there?

orange

orange who?

orange we glad Max likes sweet potatoes, squash and carrots!

Oh my god we need to restock the veggie drawer!

Max has a preference for the orange veggies, can't you tell? Just look at that little nose!!

happy halloween! may the force be with you...

2009-10-31T09:10:00.000-07:00

"...Max...I am you father..."

a puppy for max

2009-10-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

I remember saying that I didn't want a lot of toys taking over our house, particularly toys that are loud and sing grating little tunes that become ingrained instantly and play over, and over, and over again in your head...well friends, I will admit that while this new toy is exactly 'all of the above' it doesn't matter when you get a reaction like this.

Oh how we love our little man!

a little too quiet

2009-10-24T16:09:00.000-07:00

Oh nap time, how I love you in the middle of our day. This is my time, an opportunity to tidy up, prep dinner and maybe even flick through a magazine and write an email or two. Our house feels cozy and hushed for this hour. Today, however, things felt just a little too quiet, a little too quickly so I had a peek to make sure all was well with Max in his little nest...

Busted! Sitting up no less! He burst into a fit of giggles as soon as he was discovered.

Can you see the mischief in his eyes?

After a few more giggles, I managed to settle him and get him lying back down again - this is how I left him...

...I was convinced that my hour would soon be up and there may not be an afternoon nap in store for us today. After a few minutes though I went back up, peeked in the door and phew! he was fast asleep.

month 8...just a day late!

2009-10-15T16:04:00.000-07:00

Here we go again...another month down - holy. We were much too busy for blogging yesterday - here is a little glimpse of what Max was up to on his 8 month Birthday.

A car ride...

hide...

and seek!

Home again, practicing crawling techniques.

Reading.

Playing. Wait a second, that camera looks much more interesting...

just about got it...

On to a new game! I can see that this bin is going to be very handy...not too much mischief in here!

This little man is getting busy - let me tell you! We are looking forward to seeing him crawling for the first time...but really, not in a huge hurry for this folks! We will have to make a mad dash to Toys R' Us for baby gates when the time comes...oy. Teeth have yet to surface, maybe we will see little fangs on Halloween! Speaking of Halloween, we are looking forward to celebrating this holiday with a little one and maybe, just maybe, Carmon and I will have costumes this year so stay tuned!

Enjoy this beautiful, colorful autumn everyone!

happy thanksgiving!

2009-10-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

it's frustrating figuring out this crawling thing

2009-10-06T16:31:00.000-07:00

Every time we put Max down for a nap he tends not to fall asleep right away but rather practices his crawling. We love to peek in and watch him usually without him knowing we are there, but when he does see that we are watching, he loves the audience and starts laughing and putting on a show.

Bad camera angle...head tilting is required to view this one!

Daddy's Home!

2009-10-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

Am I ever glad to have my hubby home again! Carmon was in Alberta for 2 weeks helping his family with Harvest. Max and I certainly missed him!

Max and I had a few days on our own and then my mom came for 10 days - it was just great to have her here again. As always my mom was totally on board with projects and boy, do we always seem to have projects! um, like the roman blind for the bathroom that she made last time, that still was not hung up...oops! Mom whipped up some very cute floor pillows for Max's play area and completed 5 more roman blinds - amazing!

We also went and cheered on my friend Jackie, at the Toronto Lakefront Marathon last weekend - it was such fun to see all of the athletes accomplish such an amazing feat - 42 km people! It really inspired me and maybe next year I will be running instead of spectating...we'll see.

Carmon and Max hung out for most of the day today as I had to sneak away for a few hours and boy did they make a mess!

We have a busy weekend ahead with swim lessons, brunch and a walk in Trinity Park with my friend Kathleen and her new puppy Moo. Have a great blustery, fall weekend everyone!

Birthday Celebrations

2009-09-26T15:45:00.001-07:00

Two of Max's buddies turn 1 this week, so we were invited to a joint birthday party today for Kylee and William. These two look so grown up, it is amazing to see how different they are from Max, standing on their own, crawling everywhere, pulling themselves up, eating grown up food...oh my, we have lots to look forward to!

We had such a fun afternoon! Max enjoyed playing with William's toys...

...but was even more interested in the cupcake that was made just for him - except I ate it!

Little Reid managed to get his paws on his cupcake, just look at it oozing through his fingers!

Magic Tricks

2009-09-14T17:24:00.000-07:00

There are mornings that Carmon and I are convinced that Max has changed overnight. Some days he feels a little bigger, his hair is thicker, or his eyes a different color than the day before. Month 7 is now upon us and never mind the subtle changes while we were sleeping - take a look at the amazing transformation!

Life is magic, let me tell you - it is difficult to imagine Max as such a tiny little creature so new to the world. Today he is 20 lbs of babbling joy, what fun it has been to watch his magic tricks right before our very eyes.

Back 'To Do'

2009-09-08T18:29:00.000-07:00

Ah September, how I love the feeling of getting back at it, after a blissful summer of doing as we pleased. For us, yesterday was not the start of school, but we are certainly going back to our 'To Do' list, yessiree we have one too many projects that have been pushed off for long enough. Our list seems endless, but boy did it feel great to cross off a few things this past weekend.

A Visit From Auntie Sebrina and Uncle AJ

2009-08-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

We just said good-bye last week to Sebrina and AJ, who flew in for the weekend from Calgary. It has been awhile since we had a big visit with these two - we had such a fun time.

A wicked storm hit the night they arrived - Tornadoes actually touched down just north of the city. Carmon had started BBQ'ing before the storm hit, but by the time he had to flip the steaks it was nasty out there. Never mind the lightning, he was more concerned about getting soaking wet - thus arming himself with a toque and a jacket...hmmm...

Uncle AJ is a baseball fanatic, so two baseball games to see the Jays play the Angels were in order.

We took a trip to Niagara Falls and made a stop in Niagara On The Lake for a winery tour at Jackson Triggs.

Our days were relaxed, the weather was just right, and I was able to enjoy a glass of wine once little Max was tucked into bed.

Thank you Sebrina and AJ for a fantastic visit - we enjoyed having you so much!

The Freedom of Summer

2009-08-27T17:49:00.000-07:00

I was shocked today when I realized that it was already August 27th. The summer is essentially over, kids are heading back to school and I feel lucky that I am not yet having to gear up for my own 'back to school' anxiety quite yet. Being off this summer was bliss. I am thankful to have spent time with family and friends, being shut off from work and the stress that comes with it. I am sure that at some point I will crave the intense pace again but for now, I just want to feel that freedom of summer for a little bit longer...

Delicious?

2009-08-18T18:08:00.001-07:00

'Intro. To Solids' continues and Max is tolerating this new form of eating. Some days are good, and then there are others where I can barely jam one bite into his little mouth before he turns his head and sighs, as if bored by this new menu option. I'll be the first to admit that rice cereal does look a little sad and I am looking forward to introducing some more colorful meals shortly. Perhaps mashed peas, runny applesauce, and lumpy sweet potato will pique his interest? I will continue to be persistent in offering these 'delicious' dinner options...just as long as I don't have to eat it!

It's no birthday cake...

2009-08-14T15:51:00.000-07:00

...but oh how cute to see Max enjoying his first bites of rice cereal. Six months today, our little monkey is getting very grown up - happy 1/2 year birthday!

The 20 Pound Hot Potato

2009-08-10T10:48:00.000-07:00

Our little mister is getting heavy! But that didn't stop anyone from taking a turn at a snuggle while we were home...

Auntie Brookelyn and the Paparazzi

Uncle Dan

Auntie Lola and Cousin Meriah

Emma Heystek

Great Geddie Victor and Great Grandpa Clifford

Great Grandma Eileen and Great Baba Susie

Great Grandma Gertrude

Grandpa Dean

Uncle Eric

...yes, we did get a turn too!

Uncle Ian

Grandpa Brent

Baba Cynthia

Grandma Rita

Auntie Brenda

Katrina Tuchscherer

Tara West

Uncle Vern

Happy 2nd My Dear!

2009-08-04T16:41:00.001-07:00

...2 years ago today, oh what a happy day that was. I sure do love you my husband!

Alberta and Missing Grandpa Barr

2009-08-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

We have just returned from a trip to Alberta to see family and friends. Before we left, I was ready to break away from our routine and looked forward to some home cooking from both Carmon's mom and my mom, oh and to not have to clean our house for almost 2 weeks - bliss. It is funny how just a little time away can rejuvenate you and by the time we were heading back to Toronto I was ready to get back in the swing of things again. Cooking, groceries, bootcamp, stroller walks, structured naps, laundry and even a little cleaning.

Unfortunately, while we were away, we had to deal with another death in our family. This time it was my Grandpa Barr. Grandpa was just about 80 years old and was still incredibly active and ambitious. He loved puttering around in his yard and his garden, woodworking, writing poetry and baking. Grandpa will be remembered for many things, but what I will remember most was his love for food.

Grandpa Barr and Max April 2009

Grandpa always grew the sweetest corn and when I was a child he would share it with family, friends and neighbours by hosting a corn roast at the end of the summer. The kids would sit by the fire anxiously waiting for our corn to be roasted to perfection, unwrap it and dip it in a tall tupperware container filled with melted butter. I can't imagine how many bricks of butter it took to fill that container but it was just the coolest thing to be able to plunge our cobs right into it - just like they dipped the soft ice cream in chocolate at the Ponderosa drive in.

Grandpa was famous for his fruit pies and I always loved to sample his pie of the moment, depending on which fruit was in season. His crusts were perfection, not too thick and wonderfully flaky.

Best of all was his dill bread - fluffy white bread with flecks of dill and the most delightful sweet egg wash on the top. Somehow Grandpa seemed to know when it was the right time to share a loaf and I always felt special when I was given my very own mini loaf to devour alone.

Grandpa was so happy to meet Max and we had a nice visit with him in April when we were home. He followed our blog and had sent me some wonderful emails over the past 6 months. The emails are full of spelling and grammar errors - which makes them seem more authentic somehow, I can just see Grandpa pecking away on his laptop...

This email was sent on Feb 14 - the day Max was born, before the news had reached home.

Just about a mother. You will never be quite the same. I can't wait to see the little guy .Have you got a name picked out. Alice and I could never agree on a name until the last day when we were to go home and we had to have a name to put on the birth certifate. We would get into the truck and the first thing I would do was light up a cegerete. They would hang me by the family jewels if it was today.I guess baby's were tougher in those days. More exciting to.No set belts and kids flooting around in the car from the front seat to the back. We never lost one. Times have sure changed .Maybe for the better -- maybe.We will keep watching your blog for any breaking news.We send you two our love and our wish that all goes well Your Grand dad Jim

Another email, later that day...

Your dad just dropped over to tell us the wonderful news .Congratulations. Max ,I'll have to get used to that name.Max ----'The most' and that is what he is right now.And in an atempt to be funny I could say you are Maxed out. I'm sure you are rather busy right now so I won't expect a reply for a while. Injoy your bundle of joy Your Grandpa .

March 5.

Your dad brought over some pictures of Max when we were having coffee with Helen and Goerge. Thanks they were great. New babys grow and change awfuly fast as you probably.have discouvered We had made dill bread and it was still warm so they had some with there coffee and we sent a loaf home with your dad . He was happy because he didn't have to share it with Eric. We check your blog and injoy watching Max change. Can you remember the old house or was it taken down? I have a lot of memories of your kids when they were babies in that house. Enough for now. Love your Grandpa.

March 13.

Hi Cheryl. On your latest blog I was over joyed to hear that Max is to carry on at least one of the Barr traites eg the noisey sometimes embarrassing release of gas. I myself have been ( for the quanty I posess) listed as a natural resource in case the gas wells fail to produce. No need to add a smell detection substence it comes free. I have heard it also burns with a blue flame. Tell Max to keep the good work and to carry on this great -tradition . One , it is said must choose their perents well and Max has done very well indeed. It is my hope that he doesn't take on some of my realy bad habits. Bye for now your Grandpa.

Of course now I wish that we had been corresponding by email earlier, that we had spent more time with Grandpa when we did get home, and that he would be able to watch Max grow and feel the joy from a smile from his first Great Grandchild. We will miss you Grandpa!

Has another month gone by already?

2009-07-13T15:49:00.000-07:00

5 months old!

Tomorrow, Max is 5 months old. Wow, I can't believe that it is already mid July - where has the summer gone? We are nearly ready to embark on a trip out west to see our family and friends again - we can hardly wait to show everyone how much Max has grown and changed since April.

A few highlights:

Max's preferred sleep position is now on his tummy! You can imagine our surprise when we discovered this and quickly tried to roll him back over (we were told countless times by doctors and nurses that he should always sleep on his back to prevent SIDS) - nope, he just kept flipping back to his tummy, nuzzling one cheek to the mattress. We have relaxed, and realize that he is just fine - after all, weren't our parents told to always put us on our tummies? We survived.

Although he is not sitting up by himself yet, he sure is getting strong. He is able to hold his head nicely now and can sit up with just a little bit of support behind him.

Max likes to work with Dad! I love this photo - both boys busy in their offices.

He is becoming more and more intrigued with what we are eating. He watches so intently as we eat our meals, and actually puts his hands up to his mouth and opens and closes his mouth like a hungry little bird!

Thinking of Having Kids? The 11 Step Program

2009-07-05T14:18:00.000-07:00

I received this email from another mom - honestly, Carmon and I were in tears we were laughing so hard. For those of you who are parents, I am sure you will relate to some of the 'steps' and for those of you who are thinking of becoming parents...don't worry, it is really not nearly this dramatic!

Thinking of Having Kids? Do this 11 step program first!

Lesson 1
1. Go to the grocery store.
2. Arrange to have your salary paid directly to their head office.
3. Go home.
4. Pick up the newspaper.
5. Read it for the last time.

Lesson 2
Before you finally go ahead and have children, find a couple who already are parents and berate them about their…
1. Methods of discipline.
2. Lack of patience.
3. Appallingly low tolerance levels.
4. Allowing their children to run wild.
5. Suggest ways in which they might improve their child's breast feeding, sleep habits, toilet training, table manners, and overall behaviour. Enjoy it because it will be the last time in your life you will have all the answers.

Lesson 3
A really good way to discover how the nights might feel…
1. Get home from work and immediately begin walking around the living room from 5PM to 10PM carrying a wet bag weighing approximately 8-12 pounds, with a radio turned to static (or some other obnoxious sound) playing loudly. (Eat cold food with one hand for dinner)
2. At 10PM, put the bag gently down, set the alarm for midnight, and go to sleep.
3. Get up at 12 and walk around the living room again, with the bag, until 1AM.
4. Set the alarm for 3AM.
5. As you can't get back to sleep, get up at 2AM and make a drink and watch an infomercial.
6. Go to bed at 2:45AM.
7. Get up at 3AM when the alarm goes off.
8. Sing songs quietly in the dark until 4AM.
9. Get up. Make breakfast. Get ready for work and go to work (work hard and be productive)

Repeat steps 1-9 each night. Keep this up for 3-5 years. Look cheerful and together.

Lesson 4
Can you stand the mess children make? To find out…
1. Smear peanut butter onto the sofa and jam onto the curtains.
2. Hide a piece of raw chicken behind the stereo and leave it there all summer.
3. Stick your fingers in the flower bed.
4. Then rub them on the clean walls.
5. Take your favourite book, photo album, etc. Wreck it.
6. Spill milk on your new pillows. Cover the stains with crayons.

How does that look?

Lesson 5
Dressing small children is not as easy as it seems.
1. Buy an octopus and a small bag made out of loose mesh.
2. Attempt to put the octopus into the bag so that none of the arms hang out.

Time allowed for this - all morning.

Lesson 6
Forget the BMW and buy a mini-van. And don't think that you can leave it out in the driveway spotless and shining. Family cars don't look like that.
1. Buy a chocolate ice cream cone and put it in the glove compartment. Leave it there.
2. Get a dime. Stick it in the CD player.
3. Take a family size package of chocolate cookies. Mash them into the back seat. Sprinkle cheerios all over the floor, then smash them with your foot.
4. Run a garden rake along both sides of the car..

Lesson 7
Go to the local grocery store. Take with you the closest thing you can find to a pre-school child. (A full-grown goat is an excellent choice). If you intend to have more than one child, then definitely
take more than one goat. Buy your week's groceries without letting the goats out of your sight. Pay for everything the goat eats or destroys.

Until you can easily accomplish this, do not even contemplate having children.

Lesson 8
1. Hollow out a melon.
2. Make a small hole in the side.
3. Suspend it from the ceiling and swing it from side to side.
4. Now get a bowl of soggy Cheerios and attempt to spoon them into the swaying melon by pretending to be an airplane.
5. Continue until half the Cheerios are gone.
6. Tip half into your lap. The other half, just throw up in the air.

You are now ready to feed a nine- month-old baby.

Lesson 9
Learn the names of every character from Sesame Street , Barney, Disney, the Teletubbies, and Pokemon. Watch nothing else on TV but PBS, the Disney channel or Noggin for at least five years. (I know, you're thinking What's 'Noggin'?) Exactly the point.

Lesson 10
Make a recording of Fran Drescher saying 'mommy' repeatedly. (Important: no more than a four second delay between each 'mommy'; occasional crescendo to the level of a supersonic jet is required). Play this tape in your car everywhere you go for the next four years. You are now ready to take a long trip with a toddler.

Lesson 11
Start talking to an adult of your choice. Have someone else continually tug on your skirt hem, shirt- sleeve, or elbow while playing the 'mommy' tape made from Lesson 10 above. You are now ready
to have a conversation with an adult while there is a child in the room.

Remember, a sense of humour is one of the most important things you need as a parent!

At Play

2009-06-27T16:45:00.000-07:00

Suckers?

2009-06-27T16:18:00.000-07:00

...So, remember how I proudly proclaimed that Max no longer needed a soother to go to sleep? Well it has been 3 weeks of sleep training and he has greatly improved, however, he is still a basket case when we put him down for bed at the start of the night, as well as when we put him in his crib for naps during the day. We have been tough, but could only take so much crying before our hearts were melting...a soother was all it took to make him shut those little eyes, contently roll over and go to sleep...are we going to regret this later on? Does this tiny little man have us wrapped around his fingers already?

A Day For Daddy-O!

2009-06-21T16:10:00.001-07:00

Max was up bright and early to wish his dad a happy Father's Day!

We headed out in the morning for a walk along Lake Ontario - lots of families were out enjoying the gorgeous day. Usually after a long walk on a hot summer's day we can justify an ice cream cone at our neighbourhood home made ice cream spot, called Sweet Olenka's. Carmon ALWAYS hopes that they will have toasted marshmallow on the menu but it is not a flavor that comes up too often. Today, I suggested that we stop in just to see if maybe his favorite would miraculously be there - it sure was! I had special ordered 4 litres just for him. Now he can have toasted marshmallow ice cream any time he pleases - a nice treat for this sweet Daddy.

Happy 4 Months!

2009-06-14T16:12:00.001-07:00

Happy 4 Month Birthday Max!

Today was a beautiful summer day and we relaxed outside under our shady umbrella for most of the afternoon.

Sleeping has improved - although I don't dare say too much as it seems when I write brag blogs about the success of Max's sleep routine, I jinx the next few nights...I will say that we are doing much better and are feeling well rested today. Carmon has been the master at putting Max down for naps with very little protest - extra big father's day present for you hunny! It is hard to believe how fast Max is growing - these days you will find him putting just about anything in his mouth and drooling like mad...will we see teeth soon in amongst that gummy grin?

...A Failing Grade

2009-06-12T05:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Max, did you forget the curriculum? Last night was hellish...our little sleep student was up every two hours again and was very persistent with the crying - ouch. Just when we thought we had it figured out. We are committed to stick with our program - I see that it may take a little longer to catch on - stay tuned.

How can you get mad at a face like this?

Sleep School

2009-06-10T16:04:00.000-07:00

Max started sleep school this week...

Our Star Student

We implemented this whole sleep training program a little earlier than expected as a few bad habits were started to form - the most influential was the fact that little Max had begun to wake up every two hours in the night. Two solid weeks of that and we were all beginning to get a little cranky! I have been reading up quite a bit about sleeping and learned that many babies need to be trained to sleep through the night and the reason that Max was waking so frequently was because he hadn't yet learned how to soothe himself back to sleep. As we had just began putting him in his crib at night (happily co-sleeping before that) I was running to him at the first peep, feeding him and tucking him back into bed - this settled into a nice soothing routine for him and he would contently fall back asleep...for two more hours.

Last Friday I was reading the "Sleep Sense Program" and Carmon and I agreed that we would start the training that night. First, we implemented a bedtime routine which includes a bath, massage, PJ's on, a short story and then a nurse before tucking him into bed. His soother is a thing of the past - I read that it was a sleep 'prop' and would make it harder for him to self soothe. Soother gone - check. He fell asleep quickly without a fuss - but that had generally been the norm anyway...we needed to wait until his first waking - that is when the true challenge would begin. Like clockwork, he awoke two hours from the time we put him to bed - we were to now wait between 3 and 10 minutes (whatever we could stand) before we went to check on him...the crying persisted and Carmon went in to reassure Max that we were still here, we loved him and that it was time to go back to sleep. The crying went on for about a half an hour, he finally settled down and fell back to sleep. Amazing! We agreed that I would now feed him once during the night so I did my duty at about 1 am and then he actually slept a stretch of 4 straight hours! That was night #1 and things have improved vastly over the past 5 nights - last night he awoke once to eat and then at 4 am he cried for 5 minutes and was back to sleep until 7 am. I can't tell you how great it feels to be in control of our evenings now and to be getting some quality sleep again. Max - you are a star student, straight A's, bravo! Let's keep it up!

Bath Time

A Relaxing Massage From Dad

...No Soother...No Problem!

Jolly Jumpin'

2009-06-01T18:30:00.000-07:00

We are loving Max's newest toy! What fun it is to watch him discover what those little legs can do...

A Spring Visit From Grandma

2009-05-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

Mom and Max at the grounds of McLean House in Toronto where we toured the Junior League Showhouse

Oh what fun we had with my mom here this past week! I think that she was amazed to see how much Max had grown since Easter. When my mom came to visit last time Max was only a week old - we were very much house bound and learning the ropes as new parents. We have come a long way in just a few months and Max is pretty game for getting out and about now. We were off to fabric stores, shopping on Queen St, lunch dates with friends, a tour of the Junior League Show Home and many stops at Tim Horton's for their new iced coffee's - which we learned on trip # 3 that they are made with cream, NOT 2% milk which we had so naively assumed! eeek!

Mom, Max and Jocelyn Kean at Bonjour Brioche Cafe

Mom is always up for a project when she visits and I am all too happy to have her make lovely things with my sewing machine! It has been far too long since I have sewed and I think I best ease in by watching over her shoulder! Roman blinds were at the top of my list this time, so mom did a quick study online and rigged up the most lovely blinds one for the dining room, kitchen and bathroom. She has reassured me that they are very easy to do and I could surely take on a few for myself...I may give it a go at some point...oh but she is just so much faster, and better...perhaps they won't be done by next visit and she could pick up the slack??!! tee hee!

We also put up the adorable alphabet decal in Max's room that was sent from Katrina.

we had to get that blue 'M' on there just right...

Oh how the week flew by! Thank you mom for all of your help and for the lovely visit - we can't wait to get home in July!

3 Months Old!

2009-05-14T17:36:00.001-07:00

Happy 3 month birthday little one!

It has been a whirlwind few weeks - holy!

Max and I joined mom and baby boot camp! I was so scared to go the first day as I knew I would be in for a serious butt kicking and wasn't sure how Max would hold up. He sat so nicely in his car seat for the whole hour. I think he was in awe watching me work out like a fool. We have signed up for 4 more weeks...
Max has made a few discoveries - his fist, his feet and some favorite toys - It is fun to watch him learn and play.

Carmon has been home in Alberta helping his dad with spraying and seeding in the fields - boy do we miss him!
Max is drooling and blowing bubbles.

My Dad, Ian and Eric were just here for a visit - we had a lot of fun and ate a lot of treats! I introduced them to the delights at San Remo Bakery and we were there three times in one weekend! The boys had a great time playing with Max - he was very happy to show them all of his new tricks.

I celebrated my first Mother's Day! Carmon and Max gave me a dozen white hydrangeas, my absolute favorite.
Max has been practicing holding his head up and is getting stronger every time we put him on his tummy. He REALLY wants to crawl but can't seem to get any traction with his little legs and he tries so hard...just grunting like crazy.
My mom is coming tonight for a week of visiting - looking forward to celebrating a belated Mother's Day with her - I think a special outing is in order!

Our Little Family Photo Shoot

2009-04-28T17:30:00.000-07:00

Bless Katrina - our talented friend, for insisting on taking some family photos. These will be treasured forever - thank you!

A Visit From The Tuchscherer's

2009-04-25T16:47:00.000-07:00

The Tuchscherer's

Katrina and I had been counting down for weeks and finally she and Brendan arrived last Friday. It has been awhile since we have had a good visit with our dear friends and we enjoyed 4 days with them - what a treat! We did lots of catching up, some shopping, too much eating and of course snuggles with Max...

We also took them to some of our favorite spots in Toronto like...

Terroni's

We each enjoyed a huge personal pizza and little dessert of course. Who knew that our dessert choices would color co-ordinate with our outfits!

Balzac's Coffee in the Distillery District

Katrina and I always say how much we wish we could just meet up for a coffee so we made sure to get in lots of that while they were here.

Vaughan Mills Shopping Center

I will be the first to admit that this is not one of my favorites places in Toronto, however Carmon absolutely loves the Pro Bass hunting and fishing store in the mall and he wanted to give Brendan a tour. Katrina and I discovered a few great shops that were not there last time I had visited such as Style Sense, Banana Republic and Gap outlet stores...OK so maybe Vaughan Mills has made it's way further to the top of my list after this visit. Oh! and my favorite part of the whole day was stopping in at Laura Secord and discovering our favorite Easter Cream eggs were on sale for 40% off! We stocked up!

...such piggies!

We had such a great time - We miss you two already!

V Day

2009-04-23T17:12:00.000-07:00

Today was V Day - vaccinations that is. To be honest it wasn't nearly as dramatic as the photo. Max got two little 'bee stings' (as Dr. Browne so nicely put it) - one in each leg. He had a little cry after each poke and then he was just fine. Phew!

He also had a standard check-up and promptly peed as soon as we put him on the scale to be weighed! So embarrassing! He is 13 lbs 10 oz - already a big boy!

Two Months Old In Alberta

2009-04-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Max's 2 Month Birthday in Alberta. It is amazing to think that this baby has already been on an airplane at 2 month's old, Carmon didn't get on a plane until his 20's and many people never get on a plane! We plan to get home 3 more times this year so what the heck - we might as well get this little man conditioned early. He did great! I thought that his ears may hurt during take off and landing but he was not bothered at all.

I have been on a plane a lot and always come equipped with lots of reading materials, music and headphones for the in flight movie. This time I didn't need any of that to pass the time - we just watched our beautiful little boy and the time flew by...

Max was welcomed with hugs, kisses and cuddles from both of our families. This was also his first Easter - he could only admire all of his chocolates...Carmon and I made sure to help him eat them!

Great Grandpa Gordon

2009-04-15T17:40:00.001-07:00

We just got back from a week in Alberta - we had not planned to make such an early trip back home with Max but unfortunately Carmon's Grandpa, Gordon Blacklock passed away on April 3rd. This was a sad week but a great opportunity to catch up with so many family members that we had not seen for a long time and to introduce Max to everyone. Max's middle name, Thomas, is actually Grandpa Gordon's first name - he had decided that he preferred to be called Gordon over Thomas early on. I am so glad that we chose to honour Gordon and we will be sure to tell Max lots of stories about his very special Great Grandpa.

Max - The Owner's Manual

2009-04-02T17:15:00.001-07:00

I am sure those of you out there who have children would agree that it would have been wonderful if an 'owner's manual' had promptly been delivered moments after the baby. This would eliminate so much of the guess work that tired, bleary eyed, new parents have to sort through. At 6 weeks I think we are starting to understand Max - but I sure wish we had had a manual from the start! I think it would have looked something like this:

1. During the day Max will eat every 1.5 to 2 hours

2. During the night Max will wake up 3 times to eat

3. Max is not keen on daytime napping and if he does go down it is for 30 minutes maximum UNLESS he is in his stroller, carrier or car seat - where you may get away with a full hour!

4. Max does not like shopping malls

5. Max will like his baths if you place a wash cloth on his tummy to keep him warm

6. When Max is fussy he tends to calm down when he is swaddled, sang to, patted on the bum and rocked while walking (Note: all of this must be done simultaneously)

7. Max prefers Dad's finger to suck on over his pacifier

8. Spitting up occurs often and in large volume so be prepared!

9. Explosive diapers usually erupt while out of the house and on a brand new outfit

10. Car trips are OK but keep them short

11. Max enjoys getting his diaper changed and will lie happily on his change table making a funny purring noise like a raccoon (I am not kidding)

12. Max is a noisy sleeper and will toss and turn all night - keep him swaddled and he is much quieter

13. Max has a different cry when he is hungry, tired or just plain fussy - it will take you 6 weeks to decipher the 3 - good luck!

...well it may sound like we have got it all figured out - I can assure you that this baby continues to keep us on our toes!

New Toy!

2009-03-24T14:10:00.000-07:00

Auntie Brookelyn and Uncle Damon sent me this new toy in the mail.

(Deep Sea Neptune Adventures)

Here is dad figuring out how to put it together.

Test driving it out!

Who invited him to the party?