tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79404799489324884102012-02-26T23:34:21.199-05:00Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.comBlogger2071100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-33158919577680671942012-02-18T17:19:00.000-05:002012-02-18T17:19:09.809-05:00

It's been a while. I needed a break from a lot of things... but I promise I'll be back soon with a real post.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-30694515492278071992012-01-18T12:40:00.002-05:002012-01-18T13:14:29.317-05:00

About a year ago now I was inspired to review my tea stash and I realised I had some old teas that really never get used. My count was a whooping 33 different kinds of teas. Fast forward to today and here is an updated look at my tea collection. Instead of weeding out the old ones I've added some new teas (Bah!). I now count 44 different teas (from boxes, cans, or bags of loose leaves).

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-84810667962602730322012-01-16T16:08:00.002-05:002012-01-16T16:08:35.730-05:00

Ever since I gave each of the boys their own camera the house has become somewhat photo crazy. Although, the 2 year old's camera doesn't really take any photos, but the flash works so he "thinks" he's taking photos. I know it's a trick, but it keeps him happy and I don't have to worry about him damaging yet another camera [he smashed one up by violently throwing it to the ground and then giggled

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-64260778448918297742012-01-11T11:37:00.000-05:002012-01-11T11:37:05.934-05:00

I know many will read this and say, "Yea, I did that!", but it really never dawned on me to try making a tent until this past weekend. I've seen different variations at friends' houses or in other blogs but I still didn't think about doing it at home. It just kept slipping my mind. But last weekend we were housebound [because EJ, the 2 year old, has a strong cold] and I had exhausted our home

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-90866531511564155582012-01-10T13:07:00.000-05:002012-01-10T13:10:02.873-05:00

Last week was extra quiet at work. In fact, the office was like a ghost town and I could hear the tumbleweed rolling in the empty hallways. After I made the mistake of actually going in to work [what was I thinking?], I quickly packed up and headed back home and decided to work from home the entire rest of the week. I saved about $32 a day in parking, lunches and snacks (or lack

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-37423305242146942452012-01-05T01:26:00.000-05:002012-01-05T01:26:51.304-05:00

[This isn't didn't start off as a real post in that I was writing more to be able to remember my thoughts than to really create a well thought out blog post. But it got longer than I expected.] As I was getting ready for bed I was thinking back on the day that passed, as I always do, and I remembered a magical little moment the 4 year old and I shared as he headed to bed a few hours earlier. I

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-76260118618105887692012-01-03T01:27:00.000-05:002012-01-03T01:27:00.401-05:00

This is what happens when you give the 4 year old a digital camera and tell him he can do whatever he wants with it. There were 354 pictures and each one was more awesome than the next [Yes, I am biased]. We also ended up with great pictures like the one I posted yesterday. It's fascinating to see the world through his eyes, even if it means I have to tolerate a few pictures of me

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-45054632324387404112012-01-01T23:57:00.002-05:002012-01-02T01:56:03.406-05:00

"You must be the change you wish to see in the world." ~ Gandhi I just finished reading an inspirational blogpost over at Almost all the truth where Brenna discusses her word for the year, one word that represents her hopes and dreams for the new year. Here's a snippet of her post: "So, my word of the year this year is: fight.  I will fight for what is right.I will fight for what is true.I

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-35841451421013106642012-01-01T00:00:00.000-05:002012-01-01T00:00:10.001-05:00

My drink of choice for the countdown... Cheers to new beginnings and to an amazing 2012!!!

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-40213064524840755792011-12-30T23:33:00.000-05:002011-12-30T23:33:53.184-05:00

When we were looking for a house we were very picky about the fact that it had to have a backyard large enough so the kids could play outside. I've raved about our weathered deck this past summer since the boys and I practically lived there 24/7 but I'm not one for outdoor living in winter. However, I know the kids will go stir crazy if they spend too much time indoors (and so will we). So I'm

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-2152591469861738962011-12-28T00:03:00.000-05:002011-12-28T00:03:57.514-05:00

One of the highlights this Christmas is a bookshelf my dad built for us. The boys have a lot of books and we never had a good place to put them. I basically used a small rolling rack thing and all the books were piled up in a huge mess. Then we went to Edmonton back in May and I saw a great built-in bookshelf at Uncle J's and Aunt A's new house and I knew it was exactly what we needed [I've been

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-27439762625659998972011-12-24T08:59:00.001-05:002011-12-25T00:14:37.548-05:00

This year I decided we'd finally get a Christmas tree, but I had no idea what to get. Real? Fake? Both have their own Pros and Cons. Though, it seems the consensus would be that real trees are far better for the environment [and your own health] overall. But I didn't grow up with a real Christmas tree and the thought of having to clean up all the falling needles really did not appeal to me. So,

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-70058888029030819292011-12-24T01:12:00.000-05:002011-12-24T01:12:26.052-05:00

Sorry I've been M.I.A. lately. It's been torturously busy at work and the kids must have sensed my stress so they were all over me at night. Which means, no time for me. Like, none-at-all! But I plan to get back on track starting now... There's something about being asked to write about myself that makes me procrastinate endlessly. I have a really hard time writing a post all about me, which is

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-66278382413413392042011-12-14T12:52:00.000-05:002011-12-14T13:02:47.169-05:00

Having kids means being part of some really great and unexpected conversations. Like this one that came about as I was rushing to get the kids ready and out the door one morning [so pretty much status quo for us EVERY SINGLE DAY! *sigh*]. Me: "Ok guys. Let's hurry up. We need to go". {silence... crickets... then sounds of toys clanking around} Me: "J! EJ! Come eat your breakfast. We really

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-2731612779323963272011-12-12T15:37:00.000-05:002011-12-12T15:37:00.394-05:00

My little boy is two today and he's no longer a baby. Sigh. He runs around the house finding new and inventive ways to amuse himself, creating tornado like chaos in his path. I never realized how emotional birth days are for mothers. But they are. So take this as a warning, it's going to get sappy! A year ago today I wrote this: "At 3:37 pm on December 12th, 2009 EJ was born.  He was serene

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-80055946243028499502011-12-08T18:03:00.000-05:002011-12-09T10:14:19.174-05:00

I know that if I had money I'd likely be a little more inclined to spend it on items we don't really need. But there are some things that just leave me wondering what the Flock were they thinking and who the heck buys these things? Like this rather unsightly item that recently made waves on facebook:   http://themonki.com/design/louis-vuitton-68-condom/ It's a Louis Vuitton condom. That's

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-70627597747225760812011-12-05T23:39:00.000-05:002011-12-05T23:54:13.274-05:00

Sometimes life gets so busy that days, weeks, and months pass by in a flash. It's already December and the year is almost over. How the heck did that happen? Brings to mind a quote from one of my favourite movies: "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."  I love taking walks. Unfortunately it isn't something I get to do much of anymore. But

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-88498695791108048242011-12-04T12:48:00.000-05:002011-12-09T10:23:48.578-05:00

I had hoped to spend some time with friends today but when kids are involved plans are never set in stone. Especially when your 4 year old wakes up complaining about feeling tired and then you find him like this... He started off curled up on the chair and I was really worried he would fall off, but then he does have a tendency of falling asleep in odd positions. When I went to check up on

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-87047420801349240712011-12-02T11:44:00.000-05:002011-12-14T12:53:53.968-05:00

This morning as I groggily woke up from yet another not so restful night, my 4 year old leans next to me and whispers in my ear: "Mommy, do you want to hear about my dream?" I was in a rush [I'm always in a rush] but I couldn't possibly resist such a sweet offer. "I dreamt that we were in an elevator and then you got out and the door closed and I lost you..." It wasn't a dream after all. It

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-68415064810812709862011-12-01T14:40:00.001-05:002011-12-01T14:40:48.604-05:00

 This year I turned 38. It's a good age, I guess... I'm not too sure to be honest. See, that's kind of the point. My physical age is 38, but that's meaningless to me because I don't feel 38. Normally I struggle to remember how old I am when people ask me and it's not because I'm trying to be evasive. Far from it. It's because I feel 16 [ish] most days, but wiser and less rebellious [ok,

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-29341595521377425472011-11-30T12:33:00.000-05:002011-11-30T12:59:51.049-05:00

As the hubby looked over yesterday's post, his comment to me was "You are soooo running out of ideas, aren't you!!!". To which my instinct was to reply with a GROWWWLLLL! But I laughed instead. Mainly because it's true [and because he added a "but, nice pictures" after his comment]. I am sooooo running out of ideas. But it's ok, because today is the last day for NaBloPoMo. And

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-41423379051986460932011-11-29T22:39:00.000-05:002011-11-29T22:43:51.565-05:00

I love everything about Christmas lights. There's just something magical about them and that's why we've made a tradition out of driving around on Christmas eve searching for the best lit houses. For me this has very little to do with religion. It's more about the beauty of the lights themselves. So every night when I leave work and see the downtown core all lit up it just makes me smile and the

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-13378132549277369432011-11-28T13:20:00.000-05:002011-11-28T13:24:08.691-05:00

When I entered NaBloPoMo I knew there were prizes. Though that's not the reason for my taking on the challenge, it still was a sweet bonus to "possibly" look forward to. There are different prizes being awarded on a daily basis but I never expected to be chosen. So, I was thrilled when I saw this e-mail last night: "NaBloPoMo Prize - Congratulations! You won the Saturday Professional Blogging

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-11245373814007399012011-11-27T17:39:00.000-05:002011-11-27T17:39:16.626-05:00

Tonight I'm feeling uninspired plus I just can't find the time to write or think of writing anything remotely decent. So, I'll leave you with some recent pictures of J at tennis. You should see his swing in action!

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-22521904540077437002011-11-26T23:31:00.000-05:002011-11-26T23:38:34.953-05:00

This morning as the boys were taking a bath and I was watching them play together, I realized that we (the hubby and I) haven't joined them in the bath in a long while. When J was a baby, one of us always took a bath with him. It was our way of keeping him company otherwise he would get bored and not stay in for very long. But it was also a lot of fun as we splashed around, played with bath toys

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-90686957447041811642011-11-25T08:48:00.000-05:002011-11-25T08:48:32.423-05:00

{this moment} – A single video – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-9360930966765139572011-11-24T12:44:00.000-05:002011-11-24T14:24:18.957-05:00

I admit that the title of my post is a little misleading. I have never felt "mighty" about practicing elimination communication (or EC). It's just what felt right. We've definitely had our ups and downs, especially when kids have been sick. However, I was also very happy to not have dirty diapers very often, for many different reasons. The other thing was that I didn't really use a potty,

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-75093355262408179132011-11-23T13:56:00.000-05:002011-12-02T11:45:30.859-05:00

We are lucky. And lucky in more ways than one... but the lucky part I am referring to in this post is that our kids aren't necessarily early risers. Yay! [It may have something to do with the related fact that they don't go to bed too early either, but that's a subject for another post]. Most times they will sleep in... The hubby doesn't perceive it the same way as I do, but then he doesn't

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-38771322339807267422011-11-22T07:50:00.000-05:002011-11-22T07:50:00.461-05:00

I love me some warm oatmeal. I had stopped making it for a while because J is so picky that he wouldn't even try it. I think it's a texture thing. The consistency makes him gag. But, being the stubborn mom that I am [hey, he must get it from somewhere] I recently stocked up on steel cut oats and decided to try again. The only issue with steel cut oats is that they take a heck of a long time to

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-40010064346016931432011-11-21T13:06:00.000-05:002011-11-21T13:06:12.879-05:00

Remember when I first got this mask and hoped J would like it as an addition to his Halloween costume? Turns out he likes it so much he isn't willing to part with it. He brings it to school and wears it in the car. His primary goal is to startle people. The higher they jump, the more he giggles. So when we went downtown yesterday and were waiting for his brother to wake up from a car nap [

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-44971430171299651382011-11-20T20:47:00.000-05:002011-11-20T20:47:00.768-05:00

I am so glad I live where I do. This city is vibrant and fun, especially if you have young kids. There's always something to do or see. This weekend was crazy busy for us, which is why I am posting sooooo late. But weekends like these is what gets me energized. This is how I find my balance, by spending time with my family. We went to see "Dinosaurs unearthed" at the science center,

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-52504038007102453332011-11-19T07:32:00.000-05:002011-11-19T07:32:00.579-05:00

Since J turned 4 this summer I've had plans for him learning to skate. It's a staple. No Canadian child should suffer through these miserable cold winters and not be awarded with the joy of learning to skate [though, luckily, J seems to relish the idea of the weather getting colder and he's anxiously awaiting our first real snowfall of the season]. So when I received our city's fall program I

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-22809548736617031622011-11-18T09:17:00.000-05:002011-11-18T09:17:00.152-05:00

{this moment} – A single photo 2 photos – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-20531802638131439102011-11-17T11:42:00.000-05:002011-11-17T11:43:00.228-05:00

Do you ever have those days or moments where it seems any little thing can push you over the edge. I'm there right now. It isn't something I can explain or even justify, it just is. There are days where nothing seems right. Where the loneliness and isolation just gets to me. Where watching the news or reading another dreadful headline is more than I can take. So, I'd like to ask you a favour.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-57950936221819670222011-11-16T13:18:00.000-05:002011-11-16T13:18:57.573-05:00

Almost a year ago I wrote about my son (then 3.5) starting to write letters. But just as soon as he started he also suddenly stopped. For some reason his curiosity about writing faded, and we just let it be. I have no concerns over this boy's ability to learn what he needs to know. He's deeply motivated to explore and discover and always has been. So, I'm happy just going with the flow. But I

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-14073636036282809162011-11-15T00:24:00.001-05:002011-11-15T15:16:35.748-05:00

Have I mentioned how much I love going to the hardware store? I know, kind of different... but it's by far my favourite store to go shopping at. I know, again, different. I remember going shopping with my parents at the mall and when they'd split up to go in separate directions I'd love to go with my dad to the hardware store. Just being there brings back a nice "homey" kind of feeling. I could

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-38236817491439177142011-11-14T23:15:00.000-05:002011-11-16T12:33:43.666-05:00

What do you do when you go grocery shopping and unexpectedly get a lot of FREE [ripe] bananas... banana bread of course.  Although banana bread is by far one of my favourite cakes; I had never made it before. Luckily I had a little helper. He was eager to assist in the process. Maybe a little too eager because I think he ended up eating too many of the mashed bananas as he was "helping" me

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-7368228489274314672011-11-13T00:22:00.001-05:002011-11-13T10:02:53.850-05:00

Here's a quick update on the hubby's Mo-challenge this month... His Mo is coming in nicely. Though, he's more of a beard guy so it's a little odd for me to see him grow a Mo. I took a picture of his lack of Mo on day 1 of the challenge. And then took another photo on day 7 [though by his count, it would be day 6... I call that cheating, but whatever]. I'd like to think of it as growing in

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-25768773688923136402011-11-12T13:01:00.000-05:002011-11-12T13:01:00.340-05:00

Run, run, run, run, run.... that's what [I feel] I'm always doing. Like I'm running downhill, and my legs get the better of me, and they just run faster and faster until I can't manage anymore, and I start tripping over my own feet until I finally fall flat on my face. S-P-L-A-T! Whether physically or mentally, either way, I'm always running to go somewhere or trying [unsuccessfully] to catch

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-53427905995848497632011-11-11T00:28:00.000-05:002011-11-11T00:28:05.720-05:00

I thought I'd post this before it snows and it's no longer relevant... though it's already way past apple picking season. Year after year I heard friends talk about taking their little ones apple picking and I wondered when would be the right time to go with my boys. The timing just never seemed to work. There was always one of them that was too young to go and since I am often alone with

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-33340543550333352202011-11-10T06:00:00.000-05:002011-11-10T06:00:06.727-05:00

How do you get up, help the kids get ready and show up to work on time when you've barely had 2 hours of sleep? How do you wake up with a smile and not be crabby all day when you've been up all night with a snotty crying toddler? How do you stay awake at work when your child woke up at midnight, with an aching mouth from his growing molars, and screamed all the way through until 4:07

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-67833479864324043692011-11-09T07:00:00.000-05:002011-11-09T07:00:27.093-05:00

Car fun after breakfast, while we waited for the hubby to come out of the restaurant... What does this do? Yeehaaaaaa! And then I wonder why my car doesn't start sometimes ;)

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-28592185928379272212011-11-08T06:00:00.000-05:002011-11-08T16:14:37.113-05:00

Welcome to the November Carnival of Natural Parenting: Kids in the Kitchen  This post was written for inclusion in the monthly Carnival of Natural Parenting hosted by Hobo Mama and Code Name: Mama. This month our participants have shared how kids get involved in cooking and feeding. Please read to the end to find a list of links to the other carnival participants. I'm not the best baker

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-58614955387485474442011-11-07T10:25:00.000-05:002011-12-14T12:55:01.323-05:00

Conversation with my 4 year old last night as I’m tucking him into bed. 4 yo: "Mommy you’re a cow." Me: "I’m a what?" [looks at me and repeats it slowly and deliberately... apparently I'm also old and deaf.] 4 yo: "You’re - a - cow." Me: *Silence* [debating whether to ask... alright, I’ll bite] Me: "Why am I a cow?" 4 yo: "Well... all sorts of cows make milk and YOU make

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-66623250217381780002011-11-06T07:00:00.000-05:002011-11-06T09:43:54.885-05:00

After I posted about BLW yesterday I realized there was a lot I really didn't address. The truth is that infant feeding is such a vast subject that I don't think I can truly cover every single aspect. But, I thought I'd at least broach some of the common questions and share some tips based on my experience. 1- What do you feed the baby if you don't puree or mash up the food? Simple. Ditch the

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-71250375313046257802011-11-05T07:00:00.000-04:002011-11-06T01:32:08.561-05:00

The introduction of solid foods did not go well with my 1st son. It was a problem from the start. I was naive and much less informed than I am now. I also wasn't very confident in my own instincts and I followed other people's recommendations instead of following my little boy's lead. So I tried those (god awful, over-processed, nutritionally deficient, not any better than a cardboard box) baby

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-69540867767768735942011-11-04T07:00:00.000-04:002011-11-04T07:00:02.344-04:00

{this moment} – A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-25641464321555746992011-11-03T08:00:00.001-04:002011-11-03T08:00:04.548-04:00

I bought a poster recently and I find it so inspiring that I just had to share. I hope you enjoy it too. Instructions for Life Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk. When you lose, don't lose the lesson. Follow the three R's: Respect for self Respect for others and Responsibility for all your actions. Remember that not getting what you want is

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-26209582573190591332011-11-02T08:00:00.000-04:002011-11-02T08:00:13.311-04:00

In honour of Halloween I thought I'd share our visit to the Pumpkin exhibit at the botanical gardens. J, the 4 year old, was sick the day his class went there and I know he was very disappointed. So last Sunday we rushed to visit since it was the last day of the event. This annual celebration is a contest where people decorate pumpkins in any way they desire and then submit them to be

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-61377577899291334062011-11-01T08:00:00.003-04:002011-11-01T08:19:49.542-04:00

Hey, guess what... I've been blogging for a year now. Actually a little over a year, I missed my blogiversary which was October 14th. [Yay, me!] Anyway, the only reason I realized that it's been a year is because it's November again. Woohoo! [Yes, I'm aware that it's a month that recurs annually]. Last year, after only blogging for a few weeks, I participated in NaBloPoMo for the 1st time. It's

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-19049206312021861432011-10-28T12:29:00.001-04:002011-10-28T23:16:16.788-04:00

Step 1 - Ask child what he wants to be for Halloween. Step 2 - Hold your breath in anticipation of child coming up with something really hard to assemble. [I made a mistake in my earlier post, this year he wants to be a knight in shining armour, skeleton, bird. Yes, all three because that's how he rolls.] Step 3 - Ponder for a moment & wait for the light bulb moment - aha! Step 4 - Discuss

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-17160834985307723412011-10-25T00:18:00.001-04:002011-10-25T00:18:33.139-04:00

Be forewarned, I'm in somewhat of a pissy mood. No real reason. I just am - I'm quirky that way sometimes. So, this here is somewhat of a rant... or rant-like post... or rant-ish... I have now been back at work 2 1/2 months and I realize there are a lot of things about being at the office that I really didn't miss. And maybe it's because of my unusually unchipper mood today (Ha!), but some of

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-26100872394582768272011-10-15T23:49:00.002-04:002011-10-16T00:05:51.323-04:00

I know all kids do this, but it still fascinates me. I get that it's normal. They see you getting ready and making a fuss over what you look like. Choosing a necklace, then changing for another. Trying on one, two, three pairs of shoes until you're finally ready. Of course they're going to be fascinated by the entire hoopla. Who wouldn't be? Especially since they're just discovering about the

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-75174046732217439592011-10-12T15:36:00.001-04:002011-10-12T15:44:43.318-04:00

You already know that one of my concerns is my children's intake of processed foods, which includes white sugar. I've accepted that they will have small amounts of it over time, but Halloween is all about white sugar overkill! Which, for someone like me, is almost torturous to deal with. Almost... I do enjoy the costumes and figuring out how to accommodate J's desire to be many things at once.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-64999706346220878722011-10-10T08:43:00.002-04:002011-10-10T20:49:27.043-04:00

Have you heard of the "Free range kids" movement? It's a term that was coined by a mom from NYC, Lenore Skenazy, after receiving a lot of flak for letting her 9 year old son take the subway home alone one day. Her boy was asking for the chance to "find his way home" and he was ready to do it. So, one day, she brought him to Bloomingdales and left him in the handbag department. The decision to

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-53110520946447060942011-10-03T13:01:00.000-04:002011-10-03T13:01:39.408-04:00

The other day, as I was dropping off the boys and EJ (the 22 month old) was crying and all snot-nosed because he was desperately trying to cling to my shirt and I just kept repeating "ok, mommy has to go now", I had to stop and take a moment to breathe. I tried to calmly hold and console him but my head was racing a thousand miles an hour. All I could think of was the deadline I wasn't going to

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-63098884978555602362011-09-26T23:49:00.000-04:002011-09-26T23:49:26.195-04:00

I never thought I'd be any good at things like science and math. I was never fond of science. Well, actually, it's possible that I may have been fond of it at some point, but the school I went to really wasn't very good at keeping my interest in science alive. In fact, I don't remember truly being interested in any subject matter in school... high school that is. However, once I got into college

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-68020458806860938002011-09-25T00:49:00.000-04:002011-09-25T00:49:14.245-04:00

After EJ was born I realized that J and I stopped all of our "mother-son" activities. Suddenly, we were a trio all the time, and I'm not sure J was really ready for that kind of drastic change. He was always used to (and demanded) constant undivided attention and I wasn't able to give it to him in the same way anymore. That's slowly changing... This week was full of great quality time together.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-79846891946283656772011-09-21T15:51:00.001-04:002011-09-25T01:06:01.782-04:00

Here's a quick snippet of what we've been doing a lot of lately... Spending time at the great new aquatic centre that opened up just a few short blocks from our house. This year, one of my goals was to get the boys into swimming. They both love taking baths, but getting J to wet anything above his neck has been a real struggle. The kid used to have a full-on screaming fit whenever I

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-22540442088322545762011-09-15T18:04:00.002-04:002011-09-15T18:04:38.695-04:00

Most recently some of my friends posted on Facebook about a bank robbery that took place and the police chase that followed into the neighbourhood. As I read the news article I was brought back to my own experience like this, over 15 years ago. In my previous life, I worked as a bank teller, and on one fateful morning we were robbed. The three men were armed and wore masks but I don't remember

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-22634556327151373732011-09-13T00:01:00.000-04:002011-09-13T12:51:38.228-04:00

Throughout the summer I read countless of posts from people growing their own garden. Some with large gardens and others with tiny little plants on their balcony. Either way, the theme was always the same. - Pride - And justifiably so. There is a lot of pride that comes with growing your own food - no matter how little you succeed in making. It is definitely rewarding. EJ loves to

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-4436759465258678252011-09-11T23:36:00.000-04:002011-09-12T10:41:42.266-04:00

Yesterday, the boys and I spent some much needed time together, just the three of us. I knew the hubby would have work to do so I took the initiative and took the kids out with me. The day didn't start off that well. J was defiant and slightly hard to deal with. But eventually things fell into place and then it was fun. So much fun! The boys were hungry and it was a beautiful sunny fall day so

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-49832419830259913272011-09-10T16:35:00.000-04:002011-09-10T16:35:14.750-04:00

It's been a month since my return to work and everyone wants to know how I'm adapting to the change. To say that I was dreading being back at work is a clear understatement. However, it really wasn't that bad... for the first few weeks. Actually, it was kind of unexpectedly nice... for the first few weeks. Then things changed, and it wasn't so great anymore. The boys started giving me a hard

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-61745070833242820552011-08-19T00:01:00.002-04:002011-08-19T00:01:02.686-04:00

It's Friday again. Isn't it great when it just creeps up like that  (well, it did for me anyway). I've had such fun posting my Friday songs of the week for the past 2 weeks (that one and this one) that I thought I'd make it a regular feature. So, here is today's Friday song of the week selection: Hopefully you got to see the video... it's hilarious. If it doesn't work just click the link

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-66474753707944486132011-08-17T00:01:00.000-04:002011-08-17T00:01:03.024-04:00

Onion Rhapsody - By EJ  Look ma. Look ma... look what I have! He, he. It's fresh from the garden. Food I can play with. Mhmmm, I wonder if...  Yea, I wonder what it tastes like? Let me take a bite and see... Ugh! Oh - Geese! Spit, sputter, bah!!! Why, oh why did YOU let me do THAT!?!?! Take it mom. YOU taste it. It's really not as bad as you think ;)

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-9394923314530933252011-08-15T00:01:00.000-04:002011-08-15T00:01:04.657-04:00

In her recent book, Bossypants, Tina Fey shared this poem that she wrote for her daughter (published on Sheknows.com). It has all the humour, intelligence and passion which is Tina Fey (fuelled by motherhood). Let me know if this rings true for you too... well, I hope the words don't all ring true, but the sentiment behind them does. The Mother’s Prayer for its Daughter First, Lord: No tattoos.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-72159042588991689222011-08-14T00:04:00.001-04:002011-08-14T23:39:37.684-04:00

I keep saying that J has loved books from the very first time we introduced them to him. I guess it still amazes me. Everything about them seems to fascinate him. No matter what the subject matter is, he'll sit there with intense focus whenever we read together. So, when I went to the bookstore to get myself something new I couldn't pass up the opportunity to get him some new reading material

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-74552523674516105772011-08-12T02:29:00.000-04:002011-08-12T02:29:55.381-04:00

I have a confession to make and It's really silly. Are you ready? Ok, here goes... I like Katy Perry *runs to hide* It's true. I do. I just realized that I've liked every song of hers that I've heard on the radio. I don't know what the rest of her music is like, and I wouldn't necessarily go out and buy her albums [yes, I still call them albums - sue me!], but I find her style very

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-75631726398324915252011-08-09T23:23:00.000-04:002011-08-09T23:23:07.814-04:00

The boys have been sleeping since eight, which is an anomaly because it usually takes all my energy just to get them into their pyjamas by nine. Not tonight though. Tonight, everything went like clockwork. It was supper, then bath then sleep. Easy Peasy kids are sleepy!!! **I know that was cheesy but I couldn't resist ** EJ fell asleep in 7 minutes flat and I found J asleep on his bedroom floor.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-66955829195389697822011-08-08T23:29:00.000-04:002011-08-08T23:29:07.452-04:00

The hubby has finally started teaching J how to play chess and I am insanely thrilled. It's one of those games that I never learned how to play but that I have the highest respect for... probably because I have no clue how to play.  I wouldn't mind learning as J learns, but for the moment I'm enjoying watching the boys play ;)

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-76560060756339052122011-08-05T13:00:00.002-04:002011-08-12T02:30:48.152-04:00

Hopefully when you read the title of this post you didn't break out into the "It's Friday" song... if you did (and I know at least one of you did) please do me a favour and slap yourself back into reality. Good. Now, let's put that ugliness behind us and talk about my week... My "existence" issue got worse before it got better. Isn't that always the case! I ended up not being able to use the

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-32379432567485242092011-08-01T15:45:00.002-04:002011-08-01T23:53:54.647-04:00

It's my 1st day back at work after my extended maternity leave and so far it's going rather well... but I forgot my jacket at home, which isn't such a big deal except that the jacket makes me look professional, and I already have a hard time doing that so I need all the accessories I can get my hands on. In fact, this is what I was thinking as I was taking the escalator ride into hell this

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-29960888241651190552011-07-27T02:05:00.000-04:002011-07-27T02:05:20.866-04:00

These days I'm not as "girly-girl" as I used to be. This is mainly because I lack the time to be girly. Though, I also stopped caring about a lot of the superficial stuff that makes a girly-girl girly. There are much more important things for me to focus on. I couldn't care less about going to the salon and sitting for an hour (or more) with a stranger to get a manicure or pedicure. I don't want

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-44579502151810903832011-07-25T23:17:00.000-04:002011-07-25T23:17:23.507-04:00

It's Monday. The last Monday of my extended maternity leave. I've been lucky to be able to stay home for 19 months after EJ's birth. Yay, Canada! Not all of it was paid of course, but it was still well worth it. One of the hardest things will be leaving my kids behind as I head into the office everyday. That will be excruciating for me to do. How can I leave these sweet faces everyday? But

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-14335339556529994622011-07-18T00:01:00.001-04:002011-12-02T11:46:49.930-05:00

Here's another reason I love our family bed... makes a great start to the morning ;) Reading a book with Papa

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-20619086842424802422011-07-16T07:05:00.001-04:002011-07-16T07:06:18.518-04:00

I'm on a roll this week with making great suppers. Tonight the main meal was ricotta & spinach cannelloni. I was so pleased with our spaghetti from yesterday that I thought I'd attempt making fresh pasta again. I'm very happy with the way it tasted, though the pasta was a little soft so I may have to do some research and see what I did wrong. I didn't bother looking for a recipe to make this so

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-22299112286987434112011-07-15T01:40:00.001-04:002011-07-15T01:42:24.100-04:00

Tonight I realized just how far I've come. Supper tonight was entirely made from scratch and did not use any processed ingredients. Therefore, ALL real food and that makes me happy! On the menu: Fresh homemade spaghetti in a garlic creme sauce Pizza with cheese, onions and olives Oven baked apricots with ricotta & maple syrup A few week ago, J and I watched some videos on Youtube about how to

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-52152569268436793222011-07-09T00:02:00.019-04:002011-07-09T00:02:00.565-04:00

Some people stress over their kids learning how to read and write, but not me. I am more concerned over his "real" life skills. So, we started the teaching process... Hey, don't judge me!... we all have our priorities ;)

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-79268632846838082472011-07-08T00:03:00.001-04:002011-07-08T00:19:22.831-04:00

My 4 year old, J, has a great sense of humour. He gets that from his dad. The kid is constantly making jokes or trying to surprise us in his own way. Sometimes it works and sometimes it backfires [and he gets into trouble]. But most importantly is that HE always finds HIMSELF funny. He gets that from his dad too. Anyway, the other day as I came down from settling the 18 month old for his nap and

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-12953275192268161432011-07-07T00:07:00.000-04:002011-07-07T00:07:31.459-04:00

There are days when they drive me absolutely crazy, and then there are these... The boys were playing hide and seek... from me! But they didn't tell me. I went looking for them (eventually) and found them waiting very quietly under an exercise mat and a large teddy bear. The other morning, I left them room to get something and returned to see them both sitting all cozy in our rocking chair (

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-75255140913341374412011-07-06T00:07:00.000-04:002011-07-06T00:07:01.785-04:00

Lilium 'stargazer' (oriental) Our newest perennials bloomed! We planted these beauties almost a month ago and have been waiting (impatiently) for them to bloom. They did not disappoint... Stargazer lilies are an oriental hybrid lily. The name Stargazer was given to this hardy lily because unlike other lilies, their blooms gaze up at the sky. A fragrant and versatile hybrid, Stargazer lilies

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-56876472897819086692011-07-03T00:55:00.000-04:002011-07-03T00:55:21.893-04:00

A few weeks back I wrote about how much fun we had when we happened to fall into an open house party at a new children's art studio. The experience enabled me to see how great it is for kids to use "real" art tools. Up to that point the boys had been playing with "child friendly" paints like gouache and using paper or cardboard only. I now realize that it just isn't the same art experience. It

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-89104781084257126882011-06-29T17:05:00.000-04:002011-06-29T17:05:28.343-04:00

As I sit writing this I have knots in my stomach and am at the edge of tears. I am not sad, but I am upset. I am angry and I don't even know who I'm angrier with... Today we passed by a shop to pick up something that was being made for us and the owner yelled at my 4 year old. I've never seen a stranger talk to my son in such a strong manner and it shocked me. Clearly it shocked J also because

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-42979891238203923022011-06-29T01:13:00.000-04:002011-06-29T01:13:16.337-04:00

Brothers sharing a treat The house is quiet. I have a moment of panic! It isn't normal to have a quiet house with two very energetic boys running around. I run into the playroom to see what they are up to and find a very pleasant surprise... The boys are sitting together at their play table, sharing an ice cream cone.  Sweet indeed ;)

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-45290471168942174262011-06-26T00:59:00.000-04:002011-06-26T00:59:56.918-04:00

The other day we decided to clean out our basement, or at least try to. There are still a lot of boxes and junk from our move here... ahem... 4 years ago. *Hangs head in shame*... And judging by how the cleaning went, we'll have junk there for many many years to come. *Hangs head in shame again* Ok, I confess. I keep things. A lot of things. I'm not a hoarder, at least I don't think I am, but

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-41264163607675978032011-06-24T00:57:00.001-04:002011-06-24T01:01:24.527-04:00

While we were away on vacation we ate well (that was a month ago... this post took a while to write...). We ate really, really well! It wasn't because we went to fancy schmancy restaurants, which would have been annoying considering the kids were jet lagged and not on their best behaviour. No, we ate really well because aunt A cooked up a storm for us every night we were there (Thank You!!!)

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-66287647964721480152011-06-21T01:22:00.003-04:002011-06-23T23:27:49.741-04:00

First they came for the communistsand I didn't speak out because I wasn't a communist.Then they came for the trade unionistsand I didn't speak out because I wasn't a trade unionist.Then they came for the Jewsand I didn't speak out because I wasn't a Jew.Then they came for meand there was no one left to speak out for me.- Martin Niemöller That statement is how I feel about the apathy I see

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-51384949324204389862011-06-20T01:29:00.000-04:002011-06-20T01:29:59.329-04:00

I spotted this during a recent walk with the kids. I was in a depressed mood. You now, the kind of day where you feel deflated and alone and just blah. Seeing this made me giggle a little and also made me think... It's true. You know it and I know it! Yes, the nose picking graffiti actually made me ponder about life. That's what happens when you're feeling depressed. It made me wonder just how

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-85826157062149975952011-06-19T00:52:00.000-04:002011-06-19T00:52:41.870-04:00

Today started out as an ordinary weekend day for us. We got up, got dressed and went out for breakfast. On our way to the restaurant we met a friendly lady that was handing out leaflets for a children's art party at a place called 4 Cats. We mulled it over during our tasty crepes breakfast and then decided to head over there. It turned out to be a great decision. Splatter painting at its best

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-64365200671854995602011-06-10T01:52:00.002-04:002011-06-10T08:46:13.205-04:00

Today, the boys and I went for a nice long walk. Actually, I walked, J rode his bicycle and EJ sat in our trusty wagon (which I still love using!). At some point EJ decided he didn't want to sit anymore and it seemed to me like he wanted to nurse. I looked around to see if there was a bench nearby or anywhere even remotely comfortable to sit on, but there wasn't. So, I decided that the best

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-75909675384566666822011-06-07T01:30:00.003-04:002011-06-07T01:37:37.079-04:00

I love summer. I especially love spending time outside in the summer and clearly the kids love it too. One of the things we had at the top of our list when we were house hunting was a backyard for the kids to play in. An added bonus would be to get a house with a backyard and a deck, and we certainly lucked out in that area. However, I can clearly say that for the 1st time since we bought this

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-60457873167826608042011-05-30T23:26:00.000-04:002011-05-30T23:26:39.945-04:00

I want my sons to be free thinkers. I also want them to feel that they can make their own decisions and have their own opinions... within reason, of course. There are some things that I am forceful about, like cutting nails or brushing teeth. Those are necessary in my opinion and I will not allow my kids to reason or whine their way out of them. However, some arguments are completely unnecessary,

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-87884049977798150302011-05-29T01:19:00.000-04:002011-05-29T01:19:41.488-04:00

Today was a busy day. We were out for most of it and the weather was warm but wet. And then, the weather turned, and it became quite pleasant outside. That's when J decided he absolutely needed to ride his bicycle. So that's what he did. He's been practicing with a lot of determination because I had told him that if he learned how to ride his bicycle we would get him a helmet - and he really

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-88083314157928012562011-05-27T23:59:00.001-04:002011-05-28T00:06:00.224-04:00

We just came back from a weeklong vacation with the kids. We went to visit uncle J and aunt A in Edmonton and it was wonderful. Traveling with kids is hard, but of you're prepared and keep an open mind, it doesn't have to be awful. In fact, the actual travel part really wasn't so bad. It helps that we started off on the right foot by meeting a really sweet airline employee that was thrilled to

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-73962150025402234912011-05-20T09:15:00.000-04:002011-05-20T09:15:27.031-04:00

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-28579074925350077512011-05-18T16:12:00.000-04:002011-05-18T16:12:45.021-04:00

I had a lone winter squash sitting around my kitchen begging to be used but I had no idea what to make & no time to look up recipes or shop for any ingredients. So, pretty much status quo around here. I started off expecting to make my mac n' squash dish, but I wanted something a little heartier [or, as J would say, heavier]. I took a quick look in the fridge and this is the mix of ingredients I

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-45963753606783609552011-05-17T01:05:00.000-04:002011-05-17T01:05:52.693-04:00

Lately J's been listening to a kids mystery TV show on the radio (Busytown Mysteries) while I take my morning shower. This was not a planned activity. Here's how it started... The boys like to play with the hubby's alarm clock [much to the hubby's dismay!] while they wait for me. They put it on, find some music, dance around to it, then turn it off. This goes on, over and over, while I am getting

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-404219910333947582011-05-14T08:51:00.000-04:002011-05-14T08:51:00.439-04:00

I have grey hair. Lots of it. Yes, it is natural. No, I am not trying to make a statement. No, I am not trying to be GREEN either. I went grey for one simple reason. Time. Well, ok, maybe there are two reasons. I'm lazy too. Actually, there are three reasons - genetics played a huge role in my grey hair. My father had a full head of white hair at an early age and both of my brothers are blessed

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-79554168873681381142011-05-13T17:04:00.000-04:002011-05-13T17:04:11.929-04:00

{this moment} – A single photo – no words – capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember. If you’re inspired to do the same, leave a link to your ‘moment’ in the comments for all to find and see.

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7940479948932488410.post-88676447365157438792011-05-13T16:33:00.000-04:002011-05-13T16:33:08.548-04:00

About a week ago, I took the boys to a "Birds of prey" presentation at the Homelearners group. The presenter brought along 2 live birds, a falcon and an owl. I always underestimate how much J actually listens or retains from these activities but he hasn't stopped talking about the birds since we went. Owl feather vs. Falcon feather - very different Little falcon Owl trying to escape EJ

Nadiahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02146716497605729745noreply@blogger.com0