Untraditional Christmas

Well, we've definitely had a Christmas out of the ordinary here so far. I spent Christmas Eve in the hospital, not for a baby related reason, but because I was the sickest I have ever been in my life (I will spare you the details, but those of you who suffered the same fate... sorry, mom, your attempt to food poison us didn't work :)... you know what I'm talking about). I had to have 2L of IV and a nice shot of gravol in the "hip." Thankfully I was released Christmas morning, though Isaiah missed out on our intended plans to have Christmas together at home. Thankfully he'll still too young to remember.

Anyhow, feeling better enough to be up and whatnot today, though I've spent much of it sleeping and still haven't had much to eat or drink - sorry, docs, I'm making every effort to take small sips as you ordered, but I've had all of a glass of Sumol yesterday and some water and a small cup of orange juice this morning. Can't say this is what I envisioned for my holidays, that's for sure.

The other unexpected deal was the complete and utter death of our hard-drive, and having lost my USB just before Christmas at school means I've lost all my school work that I spent tons of time over the summer creating. I've got hard copies in my binders, but now if I ever need to go back and redo something, I'll have to redo the whole thing. Plus we lost what music we'd put on since April, which isn't that big of a deal, and then unfortunately about 3-4 months worth of pictures, because I'd yet to save them. That was a task I was going to do over the holidays. So that sucks.

Anyhow, I didn't really mean for this to turn into a rant, so I'm going to end this on a better note. What I do like about Christmas, food poisoning/bug catching aside, is being able to get together with family and friends and spend some quality time together. We had some great laughs, mostly as the girls were kicking the boys' butts at board games or playing Guitar Hero and such, and made some fond memories, and those can't be lost on a computer. Thanks to everyone for your generosity in gift giving as well, even the new baby was spoiled - and he isn't even born yet (despite my order for a Boxing Day deliver... though the day is not through). Anyway, off to make some more memories as Christmas isn't really done. Until next time...

Winter Wonderland

Surprisingly, the weather forecast was right on target for once, as we woke up to a winter wonderland, as predicted. And it hasn't let up yet. I'm thankful it is Sunday, because having to wake up and drive an hour's commute to work in this would not have been in the least bit enjoyable. In fact, I don't think it would have been possible, as our road is still not plowed out (and it's after 1 p.m.). Thankfully Greg's uncle Tony came to plow out our laneway, though I suspect it may be just as full by evening as, with very little protection due to a lack of trees, we've got both the falling snow and wind to contend with in our neighbourhood. That, and once they do finally get to our road, the plow will fill in the end of the laneway fairly full, I'm sure.

I did make the most of the wintery morning to test out Isaiah's sled from last Christmas once the driveway was semi-clear. Despite disliking the blast of snow in the face from the north, he quite enjoyed being outside this go-round (we tried it last year in weather like this and lasted outside all of 3 minutes, perhaps). His boots are still a little big, but he looked so cute bundled up in his snow suit. And I couldn't help but laugh at Raider having to jump through the snow in the backyard when we let him out this morning, because the snow was up past his legs.

But it has made my normal tendency to procrastinate marking worse (why I continue to leave it to Sunday is beyond me), as now that Isaiah is down for an afternoon nap, I much prefer taking in the snowfall that has yet to let up and watching my neighbour kids try to snowboard down the pile of snow (that's about the biggest "mountain" you'll get in Strathroy anyway).

We've really had a low-key December so far, to be honest, and Sundays around here are pretty typical: Greg watches football (though I'm not convinced watches conveys what it's actually like...), I get around to marking some English, eventually... Raider takes long siestas, and both of us watch Isaiah get in to just about everything, which has become worse since his new found ability to walk. For the longest time he was taking 4 or 5 steps, giving up and crawling the remainder of the distance, but just last week he began to motor.

Actually, last weekend we found it pretty funny that he could drive himself around the house on his motorized bike (by pushing down the button the handle - although he also didn't realize he had to let go, and would continue trying to ride it through walls, or whatever had obstructed his path), but really couldn't walk from A ot B. But now he's up and walking much of the time. I can only imagine what it will be like trying to chase him around when I'm nursing a newborn... although it's getting difficult as it is with this belly. Ahh the last leg... definitely down to the uncomfortable stage and wondering when this little guy will make his appearance!

Anyhow, not all weekends are uneventful. We did take him skating last Saturday, though by we I mean he coasted around the ice on a lap of luxury - my eight month preggo belly - while Greg stood at the boards and watched. Were it not for the fact that I can actually skate (though I'm going to have a hard time returning to compete with two years off from these back to back pregnancies), I think people would have been concerned that a preggo was carrying around a little boy on the ice. Actually, Greg did buy him some skates of his own that morning, but they're far too big. Anyway...

And we've had a few Christmas parties thus far as well, which I always enjoy this time of year. I hate that they tend to fall at the same time, such as last Saturday, when we fit in three in one day. But it's great to see friends and spend time with family, especially so we gals can compare pregnancies - and bellies!! And thus begins the festive season (though for me it means having to mark two classes worth of essays plus Gr. 12 ISPs because I need to stay on top of things should I go early this time).

So perhaps I should suck it up and pull out the assignments and the good 'ole red pen. I just figured an update was in order, and what better day to do it than this. Now if only I could get around to my Christmas cards... sorry everyone, but they may not show up this year!

FINALLY!

So I'm assuming that there is potential for this blog to get flagged by our government, but so be it! Last year, Nov. 17 to be exact, I ordered Isaiah's birth certificate online, a process guaranteed to be complete within a matter of weeks. We were heading to my brother & now sister-in-law's wedding in Miami, so I was happy to learn the process was promised quickly when I had heard from friends that it took much longer to process the information and had figured such myself. Point being, the birth certificate never did arrive. Instead we got a letter from town hall acknowledging that the birth had been registered, and that was, at that time, sufficient documentation to get ourselves across the border, and back thankfully!

Well, so then I played the waiting game, spending countless hours on hold with the Office of the Registrar General and never actually getting through to a person (you've got to love automated systems that continue to place you on hold after indicating that your call is of uptmost importance). Anyhow, it seemed I was having little success, and with frustration growing, mostly because I'd already been charged (Nov. 25) for the process, I logged on to the Service Canada (or Ontario, I can't remember which at this point, it was so long ago) site and emailed concerning my frustration and sheer annoyance. To no avail. I did not receive a response, nor did the birth certificate miraculously show up...

Until this past week. More than one year after it was initially ordered, with absolutely no apology or explanation for the delay. Granted, I am happy to finally have it, but knowing I have to go through the process again in a very short time from now (9 weeks, if you're counting... I am!), I can't imagine we'll luck out our second go around... and we're needing to fly out west in March, 2 months after the arrival (well, depending on his plans, as Isaiah came 10 days late), so I'd obviously like to have it in hand. Maybe that's the catch... it's because we've needed them.

Anyhow, so just wanted to express my frustration with our government. Particularly when they advertise quick service online as well as on their commercials, when that is obviously not always the case. Okay, more important things to do today than rant... until next time.

Baby Mania

Okay, so having recently lived through seasons of multiple weddings, it is to be expected (no pun intended) that numerous friends and family are expecting! I guess it really started last year, with the first set of three pregnancies, including one of my own. Now I'm on baby #2 who is due at the same time as two of my high school friends (again, a trio...). Just this past week, two of my friends welcomed baby boys to their families and come next May I know of three bundles of joy that will arrive. So it seems we're into baby fever now! :)

So far this pregnancy is going well, save for quickly transitioning to the highly uncomfortable and nightly wave of serious heartburn stage. I've actually been pretty lucky compared to friends of mine who have not been able to enjoy their pregnancies. Granted I'm getting to the "I'd really like this baby out any day" feeling, though I definitely still find it amazing how the human body works, nurturing a human inside of us! Interestingly, this baby is, despite being another boy, quite different; squirming and contorting in his tiny amniotic home, I think I must be carrying him differently. I'm actually measuring less than where I am - 30 weeks - but the majority of people comment "how big I am" - and you can imagine how that "compliment" goes over. I actually have this impending fear he will come early - say mid-Christmas holiday - because we're not really ready for him. Isaiah's new room has yet to be created, and no double stroller has been purchased. And so far I intend to teach until my "due date." Obviously we could make do with what we've got, and realistically an LTO could take over the few weeks of January teaching, but I just have this strong sense of not being ready!

Anyhow, congratulations to those of you who have recently welcomed new babies or who are looking forward with sweet anticipation to the arrival of their new addition! How life moves on...

Happy Birthday Isaiah!

Although it's not technically been a year, Isaiah celebrated his first birthday yesterday! He was spoiled rotten, of course, as the "Birthday Prince" (so cute...) and is now the proud owner of 5 ride-on vehicles (thank goodness we've a three-car garage), numerous noisey toys, and a ton of new outfits. Thank you to everyone for your generosity! Hope you had as much fun as he did (though I think he was slightly overwhelmed with everything, and of course it didn't help he was still sick from those nasty teeth). At least we've a month until Christmas, so by then the novelty of his new toys will have worn off... although he pretty much has everything now, so what in the world are we going to get him for Christmas?! Any why, might I ask, do boxes entertain him more than the toys do? Today when we were taking them out and putting them together, he was more interested in attacking the boxes! And, to be honest, his absolute favourite toy of all is Raider's kong. We can't take it away from him often enough... Ahh, Isaiah.

Anyhow, just thought I'd add a couple of pictures, of him blowing out his cake with daddy (daddy did the blowing, though) and of his high chair post- cake (he devoured it... hardly anything left but crumbs). We ended up getting a pretty cool cake from Sam's Club with his picture in the icing (and I couldn't bring myself to cut through it, so thankfully I didn't have to... yesterday at least).

Isaiah made it through his meal, enjoying the cake and a few licks of icing too... but slept through the opening of his gifts. Oh well... He'll be spoiled again at Christmas, so perhaps he can help tear into the paper and bows then! Well, if we do anything for his actual birthdate, I'll add some pics then... I had wanted to make him his own personal cake for the party, but just never got around to it (inconveniently, he was born at midterms so I'm amidst report card comments). So until then...

O Canada - Politically Correct?

Thursday our school held our annual Remembrance Day assembly, and somehow I was troubled with the lyrics of our national anthem... among other things (thank you to my Grade 11 class for allowing me to vent my random tangents, but our class is a great forum for discussion). I don't know why something I hear daily can normally go unnoticed, or how much I want to get into this yet again (because I then went so far as finding politically correct versions online before class Friday to "find some closure" on my issues with the national anthem). I think for now I might just leave it at sharing a spoof I found; even though I find much of it absurd, I seriously have a bone of contention with a couple parts.

A politically correct national anthem for Canada
from: http://www.superspoof.com/ocanada/

Our National Anthem is very offensive to everyone. It must be changed! We have identified 13 separate offenses in the National Anthem, as follows:

1. "our home and native land" - Some people are not originally from here, therefore not native. Also some people, such as servicemen and Canadian foreign diplomats do not have their home here either. They should be very offended.
2. "thy sons" - We know all about the ire these words raise with our "daughters"!
3. "glowing hearts" - This is offensive to the many Canadians with non-glowing organs.
4. "we see thee rise" - This is obviously an attack on those who live closer to sea level. The phrase was originally included because of demand from the leaders of Upper Canada. Their distaste was directed to those in Lower Canada. Quebec, therefore, should feel especially alienated by this phrase.
5. "the true north" - This offends scientists and navigators who rely more heavily on "magnetic" north.
6. "strong" - Now, talk about a jibe directed toward the most helpless of society. This is a malicious attack on the sick, children, and other Canadians who otherwise don't get off the couch enough to become "strong".
7. "free" - This phrase is very offensive to Canadian prisoners.
8. "and wide" - Persons of substantial girth should unite against the use of this word.
9. "God keep our land" - This is offensive to atheists, spiritualists and those who follow religions which are not monotheistic. I am certain they are not ready to give the land to "God", and certainly not to "keep"!
10. "glorious" - People from less glorious cities and regions might prefer "economically competitive" or "industrialized".
11. "and free" - There it is again!
12. "we stand" - Many Canadians are physically unable to stand. They should not be made to feel less Canadian because of this.
13. "on guard for thee" - Those not working in the military or other security-oriented positions (such as mall cops) are made to feel second class citizens because they are not actively fulfilling their duty of protecting Canada. Just to add insult to injury, we sing this line twice.

Our Proposed Alternative: Given that the national anthem is so offensive to so many, we should formulate a National Anthem without lyrics, perhaps replacing words with whistling or hand actions. Before this is done, hand-free Canadians who cannot whistle should be thoroughly consulted about their sensitivities (perhaps an alternative "eye-blinking" or "breathing" sequence could be introduced in place of hand actions).

Alternately, we could translate the National Anthem into a language that nobody speaks (perhaps Latin or Esperanto). Is it possible to offend someone when they don't understand what they are saying? To satisfy the Latin Scholars and those of the Bahai faith, an alternative might be developing a distinctly Canadian language. Some of the adjectives introduced by the Teletubbies children's television show could be just what we need to inspire the nation. What could Tinky-winky ever do to offend?

Finally, a more cost-effective solution would be to sing the words "O Canada" over and over again to the same music. It might be a bit choppy though:

O Canada! O Ca-na-na-na-da
O Ca-nada O Ca-na-na-na-da
O Canada
O Canada
O Ca-na-na-na-da
O Canada O Canada,
O Ca-na-na-na-da O Ca-nada,
O Ca-nada O Canada,
O Ca-na-na-na-da O Canada,
O Ca-na-na-na-da

Anyhow, thanks again to my students for allowing me the chance to get things off my chest - you're great at engaging in quality discussion and letting me laugh (I was seriously worried the baby might pop out in some of my giggling fits, though), and putting up with my random thoughts. Should any of you have found this (stalkers!!), I hope you know it's students like you that make me love my job! Looking forward to our video anouncement (no, seriously, I'll let it rest!)...

Jumping on the Holiday Bandwagon

Call me Scrooge, but I think it far too early to be decorating for the Christmas season so soon after Hallowe'en. I mean, I came to work the day after the gouls and goblins were out in full force to see wreaths hung from every lamppost and ribbons streamed from each business doorway in the downtown of Woodstock. Sure I contemplated exchanging the decorations when I packed away the orange and black for another year - solely because finding time to decorate for the season with an adventurous 11 1/2 month old interested in investigating every new thing is a challenge - but that thought quickly passed when I realized I prefer to savour the holiday when it comes. I think we're far too quick to jump from one holiday to the next, so I am refusing to jump on the holiday bandwagon just because we're into November and will relish in holiday fever come December instead. I know we've technically had the first snowfall - if you can call slushy white rain snow - and that warmer weather makes for an easier go of stringing Christmas lights on rooftops, but to avoid going overboard well in advance, you can bet you won't see my tree up until Christmas is actually around the corner! Afterall, November means time to pay respect in remembrance... and a certain one year old's birthday needs celebrating. Need we steal the thunder from those events?

Happy Hallowe'en!

Happy Hallowe'en!

So Hallowe'en was a busy night... transporting Isaiah around to relatives. In fact, we didn't even make it home in time to hand out candy at our house, save for the last few stragglers roaming the neighbourhood - which means we've a full stash to devour between the two of us (how will I ever do it, what with my chocolate obsession?!?!). Not sure what next October will entail, because it was pretty exhausting to make the many stops, for Isaiah and for us. And next year there will be two little dragons to dress up and parade around town!

Anyhow, he did really well in his costume and even scored his first "treat" when he went over to my mom's neighbour's house! But thankfully he wasn't too spoiled - we've got to keep those new teeth as pristine as possible, especially after I've heard how much Stacey's dentist charges for work on children!
So yes, the little munchkin has four teeth now, the last of which is just coming through the gums. So sleep has been disrupted, especially as the top two teeth came immediately following an ear infection, which means that for over a month now we've not been sleeping through the night in this house (well, Raider has been). And he's acquired a liking for chewing wood (as in coffee tables) and other random household objects rather than the teething toys he's had for many months. Between he and Raider, our house - only a year old now - has signs of "love." Oh well, I'd rather it be a home anyway, although I can't say I love the scratch marks from Raider on the wall in the front entrance...

Anyhow, teeth aren't the only new thing for Isaiah. He finally mastered waving hi and bye (I was getting worried), can say "uh-oh" and fake cough on command like a champ, and is oh-so-close to taking his first steps (technically he has, but three steps from Greg to me doesn't exactly classify as walking). In fact, his sense for adventure has definitely come out in full blown glory (hence the bruises on his face in the pictures). He's always climbing or jumping off things, and so far he's even managed to climb out of his crib unassisted by anything (yes, with the mattress at the lowest possible position). Perhaps he should've been a little devil for Hallowe'en rather than a dragon! So things are ever changing here with him.

And me too. I'm growing bigger and bigger (why did they have to tell me this was already a bigger baby?) and, at 28 weeks now, am wondering just how big I'm going to get. There's not been waddling down the hall on my part as of yet, but the inevitable discomfort of the last trimester is soon approaching, I know it! So much for not gaining the 43 lbs. I did with Isaiah... I'm already over 20. Just as long as it eventually comes off... otherwise, I'll have to have a supersale of clothes! Besides the rapid growth, though, I am feeling pretty good. Definitely tired (because last pregnancy I could get as much sleep or take naps whenever I felt like it) and finding my weekends busy with Isaiah and therefore getting behind in school work, but c'est la vie. I'd far rather play with my son than do marking any day - my kids will just have to deal!

Otherwise, not a great deal new around our household. I'll be sure to post some pics of the one-year birthday just around the corner (can you believe it's been a year already?!). So likely until then...

Football is running my life!

Football is running my life. Our dog, sadly named after a losing team in the NFL, was the first sign. Then came an endless obsession with football pools for my husband - one that even I found contagious enough to partake in one year (and, might I add, I not only won a week, but placed better than Greg). Countless hours are spent online researching the latest football news each week, and TSN seems to be the channel of choice at this house. Ever since I can remember, Sundays have been completely devoted to football, from the pre-game discussions through the 3 different time slots for games. And we watch them all. Well, not so much me anymore. I slowly came to realize the power football had over my husband when he nearly came right out and said I'd better not go into labour on a Sunday with my last pregnancy! And with the second one due within the season, you'd better believe that should I happen to be delivering a baby on game day, he'll be requesting a t.v. in the labour/delivery room! Especially if the Raiders play. Anyhow, most recently came the trek to watch an NFL game live (though a fantastic experience, clearly an indication of the football craze living on). And why I write about this at all is because, just this past week, we found inspiration in football yet again for the name of our second son. And so I leave you in suspense...

A New Thanksgiving Tradition?

So Turkey day has truly fallen by the wayside in my family, though I plan to remedy that in the future... with some time to improve my cooking skills, namely, but also when Isaiah and Baby Rebelo 2 are old enough to build memories of it. Instead, we shuffled off to Buffalo to watch the Monday night football game against Dallas. It was nice to take a break from a life that has of late been one in which I am completely immersed in school!

Stacey & Ermal had purchased the tickets for Greg's birthday, so we decided to make a semi-weekend of it and went down to Niagara Falls (though didn't actually go to see the falls) on Sunday before crossing the border Monday for the game. We enjoyed five tours 'round the Skywheel, much to Greg's delight, and a haunted house attraction on the main strip... and of course some shopping at the outlets. The boys enjoyed a night at the casino while we girls had a pedicure at the spa in our hotel... since we're both preggo, we couldn't exactly live it up!

The game on Monday turned out to be a great one, rated one of the best actually. We had some pretty good seats and despite much of the crowd being completely drunk before the game even began, the Buffalo fans weren't as crazy as I'd heard them to be. Thanks for the game, Stacey and Ermal!

So, apparently we're embarking on new Thanksgiving traditions, though I must admit I really do miss the family get together of the typical feast. One day...

Milestones

Isaiah and daddy have a new game of catch - yes, Isaiah has mastered the fine art of throwing toys and, to his delight, daddy picks them up so he can toss them again. And again. And again. It's sort of like when he learned that if he dropped something it was bound to be picked up for him, although this has an added bonus because he can sense it's a game. To be honest, I can't wait for him to learn how to play catch with a ball in the back yard.

I know, I don't want him to grow up too quickly, but we humans are funny creatures. It takes us a significant amount of time to learn how to do things. 10 months old and though stable on his feet, Isaiah rarely trusts himself to stand for lengthy periods without holding on to an object... unless he doesn't realize he's standing alone. He scoots along furniture and pulls up to stand on and against anything and everything. His most recent discovery has been the realization that cupboard doors actually open, and there are things inside to get into! That'll be a fun one; our house isn't truly baby-proofed in that sense. So development is happening, but compared to other animals we're relatively slow at the whole process.



I suppose it is so we sit and enjoy each moment, each milestone. We move so quickly through life, that perhaps this is just another reminder to slow the pace down and appreciate the little things!

The Verdict Is In: It's A...

Boy! Yep, another boy! I know you were waiting in deep anticipation, exhausting your patience as was I and all, so I won't hestitate in providing the details we received along with the fact that it is a baby brother for Isaiah (whose heartrate was 160 today, so again - like Isaiah - quite high, which typically indicates girl).

It looks to be another large baby, particularly as I've gained significant belly within the past two weeks (seriously, it just blossomed of its own accord and has been growing rapidly).

Ultrasound due date says Jan. 28, 3 days past the initial one, so the baby may be born on his god-mother-to-be's birthday, which would be special.

Name is not yet set in stone by any means, but we've been tossing around Miguel, which would fit into the 6 letter pattern we've somehow established if we choose to keep that going! Greg gets to choose the first name this time, so Miguel is the best one he's come up with (if you know him, you know the alternatives and are crossing your fingers to keep him from following his true name desires...). I've got to start considering middle names, but probably not until we settle on the first - Miguel I actually like, even if it will be a very fair-skinned, possibly blue-eyed Miguel.

Anyhow, so be sure to suggest a guess in our online baby pool at www.expectnet.com (game name: BabyRebelo2). You can access it via the link provided here or to the side as well. Can't wait to see who will win this round!

And last but not least, congrats to the new moms-to-be, whom I'd identify but I don't know if they've okayed that, so hopefully they know who I mean! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that at least one of you has a girl, because I'm desperate to buy dresses and such (if the third isn't a girl for us, it is at least going to wear pink!). And that's all for this evening...

Patience is a Virtue

As many of you know, I am anything but patient. And in circumstances like having an ultrasound when you are anxious to know the gender of your future child and not being able to know immediately from the technician is a test of my patience. I have to wait until next Wednesday, when next I visit my family doctor, to hear the news. But I can share these images anyway (and to anyone who can decipher the coding, please feel free to tell me male or female before next Wednesday - I honestly don't think I can wait that long).

Anyhow, what is important is that baby #2 (what a name... see, and that's just another reason why I'd like to know, so I can refer to "it" as "him" or "her") is healthy... ten fingers, ten toes! The technician was even able to zoom in on a high five! So cute... That hand is, however, likely getting ready to make a fist and punch through to my stomach; I've definitely been more attune to the moving and shaking of this fetus more so and much earlier than with Isaiah. But, knock on wood, this trimester is passing with little negative effect. Here's hoping it continues!

So, back to school work (which, by the way, is already piling up - I haven't quite figured out a routine whereby I spend quality time with Isaiah when I come home and get some productive work done too). Just wanted to share our excitement of the day!

I Survived!

Well, I made it through the first day of the much dreaded return to work! Though quite exhausted, despite really teaching (it's more so a passing out of information necessary to the course and the class), and feeling the onset of a headache, I made it through! It was nice to see familiar faces of students and fellow staff, I'll admit, and though I pined to be with Isaiah quite often, it was nice to have a different change of pace. A very fast change of pace - we tend to hit the ground running - and I think it's much easier to swallow knowing I'll be off again in February. So, here's to day #2... let's see how I'm feeling Friday!!

My Little Man

Following a snip-it discussing housecoats earlier today (what one's conversation will lead to...), I decided to put Isaiah in his robe after his bath this evening (which came earlier than expected due to an explosive mid-meal mess). He was shivering by the time I'd drained the water from the tub, so after I got him dried off, massaged with lotion and in pajamas, on went the housecoat. I couldn't resist a picture, and since I haven't posted a blog with one in some time, I figured I'd do so - isn't he so cute! I'm going to have a hard time leaving that face every morning in only one week's time...

Back to Life, Back to Reality

Okay, so this is not my final weekend before returning to school (though I have been in twice already, putting in two full days worth of work), but I cannot believe that I return in such short time. I only have one last week at home with Isaiah, then the Labour day long weekend... and then it's back to the grindstone. I have put in a ton of work over the summer, so I'm hoping to reap the benefits of working so hard. And yet I still have so much to do for the first day! Five years in and I can't say it gets much easier.

Ahh, reality. But I'm definitely excited to know that I'll be home again in five months, even if it means I'll be doubly busy compared to now! And next September will feel strange, as my usual routine of getting ready for the school year will not happen. I'll be home on that first day after Labour Day! But not this year! It's back to work in 9 days...

What's in a Name?

So, for interest's sake, I thought I'd throw it out there for you guys to suggest names for the baby (you've got five months to think of a good one!). I had my students offer their thoughts our first go, and I'll likely do it for fun again when I return in 2 1/2 weeks. I figure I'd expand the suggestion pool this pregnancy, so feel free to give a name or two in the comments. FYI: If I keep a trend started with the first, all names are 6 letters in length (Isaiah Joseph Rebelo... as is our dog: Raider). If you didn't know - as in if you aren't from Ilderton where you've known all your life - three 6s = the devil. Though so far that hasn't proven true with Isaiah! Anyhow, you can wait until the ultrasound if you'd like, which is when we hope to find out the gender - that way you only need to suggest one or the other! Looking forward to reading what you've got to say!

In Sympathy

Strangely, this weekend I learned of three different people who passed away and it really made me stop and think how much I take life for granted. The one death, in particular, has touched on my heart strings because it is the teacher I originally was hired to cover when she found out she had cancer. Well, after a long-fought battle with it, she is no longer with us. I knew her intermittedly, and not well enough, but what I did know of her I will carry with me. She was exuberant, cheerful, and ever-optimistic in her outlook on life, despite being handed such a devastating blow so young. My heart goes out to her family and friends, and to her husband especially; she was truly an angel on earth and may she live in your memories as strongly as she did in your lives.

The Stork Is Coming Again

My presence in the blogging world has been interrupted with a recent and rather lengthy bout of illness. First, I suffered from a serious migraine, which lasted a few days. Then, newly mended from the pounding head I had actually grown used to, I caught a pretty bad cold from Isaiah and was in bed for days. I have not been this sick in eons. However, I am convinced that I am finally on the mend for good, despite being so stuffed I still sound like a man, and thus have returned to my blog.

And I've returned with news to share! We'd been keeping this one "mum" for quite a while, and still most family outside of our immediate members aren't privy to this knowledge (though should you read my blog, cousins, aunts & uncles, you'll soon find out for yourselves... pardon the impersonal aspect), but you are now all going to be in the know: we are pregnant! Isaiah is going to be a big brother (to what, we don't know yet... but we plan to find out this time)! The baby is due Jan. 25, 2008 (and yes, though I'm no math teacher, I am fully aware that means I won't even be returning to work for a full semester).

We're pretty excited, though a little nervous about how busy we'll be. Isaiah will be just nicely 14 months, 11 days if the baby actually arrives on time - so they'll be incredibly close. That was how it was between my brother and I, though, so from my experience I think it will be great! Anyhow, we just wanted to share the news! We'll keep you posted!

Never Enough

Apparently one to state the obvious, it's become increasingly evident that there's just never enough time. Greg has been hard at work on various jobs around the house - lately in relation to the sand point and getting the pump to successfully work (without flooding the basement!). And now he's got to tackle fence construction because our neighbours put in a pool and, by law, need to have the fence put up. However, we had also had plans to go away this weekend, which would have been ideal time for building a fence; in order to accommodate both, we're trying to do it after Greg works this week. So there's been no time to go for walks with Raider, or just enjoy family time. (Though apparently there's enough time for me to come on and blog!) So, hopefully August affords both time to relax and enjoy one another's company before I go back to work, and time to tackle the never-ending list of jobs-around-the-house!

Just a Motorin'

Well, as expected, Isaiah is just a motorin' these days. Not only is he quite the swimmer already (seen here up in Muskoka in the lake), but he cruises from one end of the house to the other in seconds, and rarely stays put. I read somewhere that babies will only somewhat allow themselves to be out of mommy's line of vision at first, something of a comfort thing on their part... but not this guy. Isaiah is an adventure addict, and he doesn't even have a sense of fear... he'd crawl right off the bed if we let him. Hence why I came online today - to search for an area rug as our first floor is entirely hardwood and tile (not so nice on the little knees). I'll get to searching for that when I'm done writing this...

So we've had to make a couple of changes around the house lately as not only can he crawl but he can climb like nothing. He's definitely a little boy - he's already managed to get a few bruises. Actually, today he also has a pretty serious rash that he seemed to have developed last evening on his bum and it has rapidly spread all over his body. My in-laws are certain it is directly related to teething, but he sprouted his two bottom teeth will little effect and the top two are nowhere in sight yet this rash has come. So we're off to the after-hours clinic tonight (can't wait to wait for hours in line...) because the doctor couldn't fit us in. I think I might look up typical baby rashes to determine a prognosis of my own too, as he's had his routine vaccinations and I'm doubting the relation to teeth simply because he doesn't seem to be getting any right now.

Not only does he have a rash, but last night, for the first time, he refused to eat his final meal. He took maybe three sips of milk and a couple bites of cereal and then would have nothing more to do with food. Unfortunately he would also have nothing to do with sleep, so it was a rather difficult night for us. He likely annoyed everyone watching Greg's game because he cried almost non-stop, then seranaded Stacey and I in the car with his cries and then again at home when I took him out of the car seat. Don't get me wrong, he's usually a fantastic kid... but when he gets going, he can be a little devil!

Anyhow, otherwise, he's pretty good. I find him pretty advanced in terms of what he's capable of doing, and incredibly strong. He's gripping the steering wheel of his Grandpa's truck pretty tightly! As per usual, my blog entries seem to be centred around Isaiah, but hopefully one day I'll write about other things too - it's just that he's pretty much our lives right now! So, stay tuned for what he's up to next!

How Quickly I Forgot...

...just how much work teaching is. Yes, I am well aware that we get summer holidays, 2 weeks at Christmas, March Break - all of it. But we really do a lot of work, if you didn't know. Rarely do I come home without marking or planning or some peculiar thing-to-do. In fact, I've not been blogging because my draw to the computer as of late has been to hunker down and get some school work done because, come fall, I predict I'll be rather busy juggling work and motherhood.

And so I've planned, in detail, two of three courses (though I did the worst thing possible and left the worst one until last - worst solely because I've never taught it and haven't got much to go on, so it will be the most work). I hope to get them all done eventually so that I have less to do when I return to work - as English already means a ridiculous but inevitable marking load... but if I can avoid having to plan lessons simultaneously, so much the better.

The challenge is that I've been trying to get this done whilst still being mom to Isaiah (hence the predicament come fall - I bow to all working moms, teachers or otherwise). And even more challenging is that recently Isaiah learned to crawl AND climb, and he refuses to stay in one spot and play with the toys I so carefully select. My little adventurous explorer doesn't exactly let me get much work done, so I've been trying to do so during nap times (which are roughly 20 minutes, 3 times a day... yes, no word of a lie) or after he goes to bed (so last night I was working until 1 a.m. and then up at 6:30 with him again).

And unfortunately Greg has been busy himself with work - overtime when he can and here at the house like a madman lately - so he can't exactly watch Isaiah either. Too bad Raider isn't so good a babysitter!

Anyhow, so I suppose I felt compelled to explain my absence, although I'm not entirely sure as to who or how many bother to read our blog! Hopefully some of you are! I'll be sure to post some pics next go, which will (cross your fingers) be sooner than later. For now, it's back to ENG 4C! Adieu.

No, I Didn't Fall Off the Face of the Earth...

...in case you were wondering where I've been as of late. I've actually been enjoying some well deserved R & R, though not technically. Mr. Isaiah is desperately longing for physical freedom, so I've been pretty busy chasing him around and answering his calls, but I've been doing so up in Muskoka so that counts as being on holiday!

So, obviously an update on the little man is to be expected. Since last posting, he's changed significantly. He now sports two front teeth on the bottom, though the left is more advanced than the right. Therefore he's been slightly fussy and a tad cranky, and no longer will he be put down to bed awake at night but prefers to be cuddled and rocked to sleep. Not sure who's in control these days! Thanks to grandma, he's tasted some pretty sweet treats - strawberry jam and syrup - but he's not quite that close to feasting on adult food in actuality. Grandma just gave him a quick taste test on the end of her finger! Actually, we have been giving him small morsels of certain food, though he's still doing the off-the-tongue-down-the-hatch deal rather than any sucking or chewing. So, like I said, real food is still in the distant future.

He's grown a little more hair - enough to finally cover the bald spot on the back of his head. He's also grown slightly more lean - I think due in large part to his increasing mobility - and his shorts that once fit snuggly are actually quite loose. He's not quite crawling (as in textbook crawling form), but he gets around well enough and is definitely building strength because he maintains "table pose" for a substantial amount of time. He can crawl a little, but tends to get his ankles crossed and either plummets to the ground head first or rolls into a seated position.

He's growing tired of his toys - imagine that - and prefers red plastic beer cups (good thing we've got tons left from our stag and doe years ago) and strings from blinds. Really, these things can entertain him for a good 20 minutes. He babbles to himself constantly, and even does a new trick whereby he makes noise when you pat his lips. He's definitely a character!

Well, there's other stuff to update you on besides Isaiah, but I've got to finish laundry so I can pack up my stuff yet again. This time we're off to Bayfield for our annual family reunion (on the Rebelo side). So, perhaps early next week I'll find time to blog again!

A Mover and a Shaker

Just as predicted, Isaiah has fast become a mover and a shaker. Though not yet crawling, he is quick to get up on his knees and rock back and forth (until his forearms give out). He hasn't quite yet discovered the moving of the knees motion necessary to actually crawl, though he has long since learned to sort of slither backwards. He's definitely desperate for his independence, and few of his old toys keep him happy and content. In fact, the exersaucer is the only thing remotely on his list of "okay things to keep me occupied" but that's about it. I can only imagine the challenge of squeezing in a shower once he's actually on the go. Once a anti-belly boy, he spends countless hours propped up on his arms these days. I'll keep you posted as to when he finally succeeds at the crawling business!

I myself am keeping busy with, sadly, sights on my courses come fall. I was into the school yesterday to get some resources so as to spend some time planning this summer (as I'm full time English in first semester, I'll have a ton of marking as it is). I can't quite sink into school-mode, but I hope to not procrastinate as per usual. Ideally, I'd like to plan a large portion of each course in detail so that I can come home to spend time with Isaiah (and Greg, too). I can't believe how quickly my maternity leave has flown by. Now I have what everyone else has left... a measley 9 weeks of summer which will be gone in no time (yes, how dare I grumble, you non-teachers... but if you knew the work I do after hours through the 10 months I do work...).

So, I'd best be off to play with the little man... we're off on holidays in a few days, so don't expect a new post for some time (though hopefully I'll have some great material when I return to blogging world). We're going to spend a week at my dad and Carol's cottage with my grandma and her husband and my brother and his wife, so it will be some new firsts for Isaiah (like swimming in a lake). Hopefully lots of stories to share... so until then.

Happy 50th Birthday, Dad!

Just wanted to take a minute to wish my dad a happy 50th birthday! Seems like just yesterday you were getting a pie in the face on your 30th, and yet so much has happened since then (I was just a youngin'). I know you probably don't want the world to know your age, but too late! Hope you had a great day, and we're looking forward to seeing you on the weekend for dinner to celebrate another year! Love you!

Flip that House

For those of you who don't know, we own a rental house (our old home on Campbell Street). Anyhow, we recently lost the upstairs tennant and have since been in search of someone to replace him. Not any easy feat in Strathroy. So then we decided to get slightly ambitious, as really the apartment could use some work. The carpets in all but one bedroom definitely needed to be replaced, so we ripped them up on Monday night.

Low and behold, beautiful hardwood floors lay underneath, waiting to be discovered. Now they need some TLC, particularly as some paint has been spilled in certain sections (and a small print has even been preserved); overall, they're in fairly decent condition, and the living room area is actually looking quite well without any work.

That being said, it'd be ideal to really get in there and "flip" the house. It is extremely outdated and has potential to earn us far more income than it does now (now it basically pays for itself... for now). I was envisioning stainless steel appliances, new hardware, a completely new bathroom... in time. For now we have a few potential people interested to rent as of July 1st, which saves us from a bind a so-called friend put us in (I'll spare the details, but we had a "friend" sign to rent as of June 1st only to back out a few days later).

Though hey, if anyone ever knows of anyone who needs a 2 bedroom or 3 bedroom apartment in Strathroy, be sure to let us know!

Swimming, swimming, in my swimming pool

What with the hot and sunny weather we've been having, we bought Isaiah his own baby pool (though I'm still hoping one day we'll put in a real pool as well). So far he's been in it twice (and soon three times, as again it's quite humid today). He's doing well "swimming" on his belly, but he isn't all that stable sitting on his own quite yet (I'm hoping any time soon). Still, it seems he likes to be outside, so I'm going to try to take advantage of every opportunity I have to get him outdoors. Afterall, summer really does seem to be the shortest season.

In fact, as I'm heading back to work in the fall, my maternity (well, technically now parental) leave is almost over. Isaiah is now almost 7 months and I'll be returning to work when he is 9 and 1/2. Anyhow, here's to enjoying warm days in the backyard until then!

Tricky Tricky

I figured out a trick for Isaiah to eat some meat... as either no one reads this blog or just no one had advice to give me on that subject. Now I give him a little bit of meat - which is still a huge battle - and then quickly follow with veggies. So far it has worked both times I've fed him. What a difference between the two - he turns his head and clamps his mouth shut for the meat but then as soon as he knows the spoon has vegetables he leans forward, widens his mouth, and licks the spoon clean. What an oddball!

He is, however, feeling under the weather (due to the soon-to-erupt teeth, I believe - I can see the white under his gums), so I'm not going to force the issue. If meat doesn't happen all the time, it's not the end of the world. Like I said, he's very healthy and continuing to grow like a weed. He's been wearing 12 month clothing for the longest time, and is now even into some 12-18. If he's anything like his daddy, he'll be an eater (but also long and lean). Good thing we put a full stand-up fridge and freezer in this new house - I can only imagine just how much food will be consumed. Pray for a girl next time (though that doesn't necessarily mean she won't eat just like Isaiah and daddy).

Anyhow, I'll try to get into more intellectual discussions at some point, it's just that my life at present revolves around feeding, changing and playing with Isaiah, so my blog tends to do the same!

Premonition

Greg had some freaky foresight today because just as I was leaving for my soccer game he said I'd score (and I did!). Weird. Though he also said he had a feeling he'd score as well, and he didn't (though apparently he almost did). I'm still incredibly out of shape, but I'm feeling better with each game (and obviously because I helped us to win today, which puts our season at 2-0-2 thus far). And good thing it didn't thunderstorm, though some rain would have been nice - it was muggy and the air was thick. Congrats to my teammates on playing well together - let's keep the winning streak going! :)

Blame the Vegetarian

I never thought I'd see it, but the time has come when Isaiah has proven to not like food. Don't worry, he still devours his vegetables and practically inhales his cereal - I can't seem to get the spoon in his mouth fast enough - but he does not like meat. Now everyone's first response has been to blame the vegetarian mom (so please don't leave a comment according to that belief - which I don't think is true - as I'd rather have some helpful advice). I have tried strained meats alone and as of late in combination with vegetables, thinking that would perhaps hide the taste of the meat. No luck. Guess he's not a meat 'n potatoes man... It's a real challenge to get him to give it a fair chance, and never before have meal times been such a battle of wills - me trying to provide nourishment, him puckering his lips and clamping his jaw shut tightly so as not to allow the spoon entry. Any helpful hints would be appreciated, as I'm not actually imposing my personal choice of being vegetarian on my son (and I've actually been trying to expand my meals to include meat, since that was my new year's resolution). At least there's no question of whether or not he looks healthy!!

See, he's only 6 months here and he's 30 inches long and likely by now about 19 lbs.! And cute as ever, if I do say so myself... even if he won't eat meat! :)

Isaiah's Special Day

Isaiah had his baptism this past Sunday in the Roman Catholic Church (which, yes, seems odd if you know me at all, but it is important to Greg so that is what matters). He now has (officially!) two wonderful godparents, Candice & Altin, to help lead him through life. It really was a big day for him, and he was such a good boy all day! And of course he looked absolutely handsome in his suit, as did Greg (who wore a suit for the first time since sporting a tux for our wedding!). And though he received some rough treatment when blessed with the holy water, he didn't even make a peep! And he did an excellent job of hanging out with everyone - far better than me (for which I apologize, but I was too darn busy) - and even spent some quality time with his Uncle James!

Anyhow, so that's actually why I've been absent from the blogging world lately - I was busy last week doing prep work for the baptism as we hosted a reception following church. It was almost as though I was planning a mini-wedding! Thanks to family and friends who helped us out in way of setting up and decorating, bringing desserts, cleaning up, and everything in between! We couldn't have done it without you!

TITP

So, as some of you know, I'm currently swept up in the teacher initiated transfer process, as I've been for the past few years. Now, I'm a believer in the "all things happen for a reason" philosophy, but I also find it discouraging that I've not yet been successful in transferring closer to home (though I've also not yet had an interview at SDCI, which is less than 5 minutes away, so maybe I haven't scored a job elsewhere because I'm meant to work there... let's say that). Anyhow, it's slightly frustrating in that I spend quite a bit of time tweaking cover letters to perfectly suit the job I'm applying for, and then another chunk of time to fax them off, and still have nothing to show for my efforts. And for those of you who know the process, it's a relatively small window of time to get all of this accomplished in. So I feel as though my efforts usually go to waste. I can't even claim the "at least I got the interview experience" line, because thus far I've only had one interview for a headship position and didn't land the job.

Don't get me wrong, I actually really like WCI, my current school, but the commute is horrendous and, come fall, I'm especially going to want to be home for my son rather than spend 2+ hours on the road a day. Why is our board so big? That shouldn't even be possible! And in the middle of winter, when I've got to drive through the snow belt at some point, I absolutely dread the commute. Not only that, but I'd really like to be teaching drama again, which I started doing there, but that is not entirely likely in the future (though I'm thankful to have had some experience, plus the lines of English I've taught).

Anyway, I just wanted to vent my frustration because, yet again today, I went through the second round. It's hard to keep your head up when you're not exactly sure you'll ever get to move. Although Greg has interviewed with Toyota for the Woodstock plant, so maybe I've not gotten a transfer because I'm meant to stay. Who knows? Sometimes I feel as though life is in someone else's hands...

Catch-up Catch-all

Well, I've nothing truly fascinating to reveal in today's blog, but I wanted to post nonetheless as I've uploaded some new pics on the computer (Greg had to dig out the software for our camera again). Anyhow, so here I am. Isaiah is taking his afternoon nap (he's really falling into a routine, finally) and I thought it best I take advantage of some me time (which I guess is really you time, since I'm posting this for those of you who check out my blog). Wow, he's got impeccable timing - I just heard him start to fuss. Just when I started to praise his regularity...

Okay, he's now coming out of sleep mode perched on my lap, so we'll see how long I can type! We've been practicing sitting lately anyway, so it will be good for him. Too bad he also loves getting his hands on phones, remote controls and keyboards, so this could prove quite challenging! Anyhow, Isaiah turned six months on Monday and he's changing every day. He's now clearly responding to his name and various noises, moving as much as he can (though not yet crawling) and enjoying solids. I think his hair is finally starting to grow in too, but he still has a mohawk on the top (good thing that's in style). And, just in case you're dying to know, he's still not sleeping through the night (though doing better on the whole).

Our house is also ever changing... I believe I posted that we got sod, so I also finally took a picture of the house, even though the driveway is not yet finished (that's next year's project). There are still a few rooms I've yet to hang things on the walls in, but that's mostly because I really don't think it will stay the way it is right now for good. So bare walls it is. And we've done no landscaping as of yet, but hope to get a little colour in the front this weekend if the weather cooperates. We'll see, I definitely did not inherit my grandfather's green thumb. I know how to pull weeds, and that's about it.

So other than that, things are relatively low-key our way. We're getting ready for Isaiah's baptism in a week and a bit, and hoping to enjoy the few months before I return to work. I can't believe how quickly maternity (well parental, technically) leave flies by. No baby #2 quite yet, though, so this is our family for now (plus Raider of course, the biggest sucky baby of all!). Hopefully I'll have less of a generic post next time I return to the blogging world!

Happy Mother's Day

Today is Mother’s Day, and as a new mom myself, I’d like to take the opportunity to thank the mothers in my life. They have truly helped to shape me into the mother I am today; I look to them for guidance and support, but I also take from them values, qualities, and lessons from which I now parent my son.

First, my mom. My mom leads a busy life, but she always makes time for us. She tends to have the foresight to know when she is needed. She has been patient and understanding with me as I’ve grown over the years. Oftentimes I look to her for guidance, especially in terms of my career, and she lends support in many aspects of my life. She is caring and her love is unconditional. Thank you, mom, for raising me.

I was also very fortunate to grow up having two other mothers in my life as well, my grandmothers. Each of them lived around the corner, so I saw them often and established a close relationship with both. My Grandma Herr is a rock, she has incredible strength and I have always admired her for that. She has taught me a lot about family, what it means to enjoy one another’s company and to make time for one another. She takes pride in our accomplishments and would do anything for us; I am grateful for her generosity and love.

Though I’m not convinced my Grandma Jaeger knows who I am any longer, due to the progression of Alzheimer’s, I have many a joyous memory of her from my childhood. My grandma taught me to enjoy life and to take time for the simple things. We’d spend countless hours outdoors, swinging in the backyard, going for walks, riding our bikes, or skating on the pond. She loved to sing to us and I now find myself humming a tune as I rock my son that she once sang to me. Thank you to both grandmas for having such a presence in my life.

I’ve also in recent years had the opportunity to establish a relationship with my step-mother, Carol. Many a time has she proven to be a sounding board for me, and though we’ve had our growing pains, I know she values the connection we’ve been able to build. She takes pleasure in time spent together, and it’s always nice to get together with her and my dad for a visit!

My mother-in-law, Alda, is another amazing mother in my life. I am absolutely astounded at all that she does for her family. So many times we’ve called last minute for her to watch Isaiah or Raider, and she does not for a second hesitate to accept. She is giving and kind, with a warm heart. Alda, I notice all the little things you do and I appreciate them.

Thank you again to all the mothers to me for everything you do, whether I touched on it or it went unsaid. You’ve been instrumental in my life and I am grateful for all that you’ve done and continue to do. Happy Mother’s Day! Be sure to enjoy the day, you deserve it!

Beans, Beans, the Magical Fruit...

Well, I finally broke down and tried out veggies with Isaiah - who, as I assumed, devoured them without much thought. Not sure yet if the green beans will affect his system (you know how the little song goes), but so far he seems to be pretty normal! He'll be having a fine two-course meal of milk and green beans for dinner again this evening, so we'll see how round #2 goes! So that means our little tank (practically 18 lbs. at the doctor's yesterday) is up to three two-course meals a day, with just a breakfast of milk. Not bad! Now if we can just get sleeping through the night down pat! Or growing some hair... any advice on that? Isaiah is still pretty darn bald (check out the "fine" mohawk in the pic below)!

Hairspray

Thanks Janice, though under unfortunate circumstances, for the tickets to see Hairspray last night! It was a really great show - incredibly humourous with some clever performances (Penny and Edna in particular)! I enjoyed mixing up my typical Wednesday routine of yoga and then home to watch ANTM and, save for a small incident with the host of ESM, had an excellent evening! Now if only I could convince Greg to come see shows with me (not that you weren't fantastic company, Stacey, I just miss going to see shows on a more frequent basis and wish my husband actually enjoyed it)!

Yeah, a Sidewalk!

We've been in our house for 5 months now, and we finally got our sidewalk today. Yesterday we were woken up at 8 by a ring of the doorbell from some town construction men who then quickly began framing the sidewalk. We figured they'd be back to pour cement at some point, but are just now doing so more than 30 hours later! I can't complain though, as I've been waiting for the sidewalk completion forever as it has made walking Raider with the stroller more challenging to have to off-road every few lots. Unfortunately they're still building on one lot down the street in the direction I always walk with the boys, so I'll still have to manoeuver around that for some time (though I'm glad a house is finally going in as it's the last in that section so it makes our street look more complete)!

Now we're just anxious to get sod, a fence, a driveway, and a deck... though most of those things won't happen this year. We drove around this morning after running some errands looking at flower beds to get some ideas, as we're both wishing the curb appeal of our house to be slightly better! I'm desperate to be able to get outdoors to play with Isaiah, and Raider has long been anticipating basking in the sun. Soon enough!

Anyhow, I'd best keep an eye on the work out front... school has let out and I'm sure the kids will be wanting to carve their initials into our sidewalk! :)

Rebelo cousins

Just wanted to post a pic of my new outfit from Greg that I mentioned in the blog (and Isaiah's, too)! This is a picture of the Rebelo cousins, though technically there are some girls missing (and the boys too), for those of you who have no clue who I'm standing with. Can you tell I'm the only non-Portuguese? And I'll cleverly segue into a quick thanks to them (all of them) for welcoming me into the family (yes, I know I've been in it for years, but I'm always thankful to get along so well with all of you); you've really made me feel like a "blood-related" cousin myself! And hey, I think we all look pretty darn good in the picture (thanks, Stacey, for posting it on Facebook because I stole it from you there!)...

Beautified

It may seem superficial, but somehow getting a new outfit feels pretty darn great. I quickly fell into mommy mode post-pregnancy whereby Isaiah comes first in the world of fashion. I haven't really bought much new at all since becoming a mommy, actually, though to be honest I think it's a fair bit to do with the fact that I'm still not at my goal weight (I should just get pregnant again, eh?). And in fact we bought Isaiah a new outfit today as well, but that's not the point! Greg treated me to the new outfit (shirt, pants and bracelet... no shoes or purse though)... which he claims is for Mother's Day! And not only does getting some new duds feel good, but fitting into a size four again feels even better. I've still got some serious flubber-age happening, and I'm beginning to realize that I may have to pack up anything smaller and maybe even part with it, but I'm becoming okay with my post-baby body. If only I could lose weight (well, tone up really) as quickly as Isaiah gains! I've been doing yoga and walking the boys religiously and am back on the field next Sunday, so maybe losing those last few pounds will become a reality, but should I not I think I'll live! Yes, I have superficial moments, dammit, and I even discuss them in a post on my blog!

So my second tidbit of superficiality is that I finally waxed my arms (yes, you all needed to know, I know). For the longest time I have had the hairiest arms - and it used to be funny when I'd compare them to my brother and joke that I had more hair on my arms than he has on his head. I always wanted to do something about them, I just never got around to doing it. Well, I did and I love it - my arms are so smooth and silky... and hair free! It's actually an interesting sensation to feel textures of fabric on my arm too - what I was missing out on! I am no longer ape-ish, hallelujah!

It's nice to treat myself sometimes and not feel guilty! So there.

M.I.A.

Sorry to have been missing in action as of late, but our computer caught a serious virus a few weeks ago and we finally took it in to be completely gutted. We've just gotten it back today, and as Greg is on afternoons he didn't have time to add any of our bells and whistles quite yet (basically all I can do right now is come online, we haven't even loaded Microsoft Office). So in case you were wondering if I'd fallen off the face of the blogging world, I didn't. I was just temporarily out of commission.

Anyhow, other than our computer issues, things are well with us. Isaiah has recently learned to roll over and has been refining his technique. I've even found him facedown when he wakes in his crib. He's still trying to get up for feeds at night (and we're trying to break him of his night waking, simply because we know he doesn't need to be fed but that he prefers the comfort of nursing). It's been tough, both having a 5+ month old who still wakes through the night, lately back to a 3-hour routine unfortunately, and also hearing him wail as a soother is by no means comforting in comparison to me. But last night he only needed one feeding, so if I can do that for a while, he may learn to eventually sleep through the night. I must admit, I am envious of those of you who have babies who sleep early on. I will say I think he is advanced in a number of regards, which definitely makes up for his sleeping problem. He's able to pass objects from one hand to the other and manipulate his toys eagerly. He's changing daily, that's for sure!

He finally got a little sun, too (though still incredibly fair) as we enjoyed a wonderfully warm weekend. He actually got a soother tan (yes, I know you're all envious) despite spending about 15 minutes out in the sun (apparently he's like his Tia Stacey who attracts the sun easily - she and I were both out and I'm still as white as snow). Isaiah also watched his daddy play soccer for the first time last weekend, and pretty soon he'll be coming to my games as well.

Raider is the same old dog, though he did learn a new trick. He decided to be adventurous the other evening and sneak under the snow fence to romp around in our neighbourhood. I went to let him in and he wasn't in the fenced-in area, so Isaiah and I had to go on a little dog hunt. Fortunately we found him and he actually came running when I called his name.

Greg has returned to work after a long bout of illness, and as aforementioned back on the soccer field too (hopefully he'll have a decent season as his knees don't afford him much usually). He recently got a new bike, so he's been enjoying treks through the "cons" (I was "schooled" in the SDCI lingo) and even riding to work (which really isn't too far, and since the Toyota is on its' last legs, it actually may become necessary).

Anyhow, there's an update in a nutshell... for now. Hopefully I'm back to blogging again sans interruption of viruses.

Making Me Think

As I've been reading blogs posted by friends lately who have really made me think, I'm inspired to comment on the tragic event of recent that happened at Virginia Tech. What I know is of course learned through the media, which quite well may be construed in some way or another; regardless, it has made me think. I take for granted that I live in a country where I feel safe, where I as a teacher have trust in my students to not bring such weapons to school with the intent of using them in this manner. We don't even have metal detectors as many U.S. schools do, for goodness sake. We don't feel like we need them. In fact, most people find it pointless to rehearse lockdown drills should something like this happen, but in reality it could.

And at times I think what if? What if it did happen? Would I barricade the door in protection of my students as the media mentioned one professor who lost his life did? Would I be that big? Or would I cower in the corner, hiding and hoping against hopes that my life might be spared. Would I run for life? What would I do in the moment? What kind of a person am I?

I would hope that no student of mine, friend of mine, relative of mine, child of mine could ever cause so much devastation, but the people who commit these crimes are someone's son, brother, friend.

And so I'm thinking, but what else can I do? I would hate to feel defeated as Rosie O'Donnell said on The View yesterday in her attempts to effect change in the U.S., which I just happened to catch, but what have I done to make a difference?

My heart goes out the people directly affected by this horrendous event, particularly the family, friends and schoolmates of those who perished. May you someday know peace.