DJ's First Ski LessonWednesday, February 13, 2008
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Celebrating Life
This weekend is all about celebrating life.We are having Madigan's first birthday party this afternoon. It is very hard to believe that she is one year old! Time has flown by.
It seems like just yesterday we were surprised, nervous, anxious, bewildered, excited and a bit shell-shocked that we were going to welcome a third baby into our family.
It seems like just yesterday we were told the sad news that our unborn baby had a large tumor in her belly.
It seems like just yesterday my waters broke, four weeks early, and we sat in the hospital waiting for seven hours before they could do the c-section.
It seems like just yesterday I held my princess for the first time.
It seems like just yesterday that we brought our little baby girl home.
It seems like just yesterday that Madigan made it through surgery with flying colours and that the doctors successively removed the enormous dermoid tumor.
It seems like just yesterday that the doctors confirmed that the tumor was not cancerous.
It seems like just yesterday Madigan smiled for the first time, laughed for the first time, sat up, crawled, cruised, stole a toy from one of her big brothers, clapped her hands, squealed at the cat, waved hello/bye-bye, hugged, and offered kisses all for the first time.
Mags is a special, funny, strong-willed, loving little babe. She is growing up so fast.
Today we celebrate Madigan's life and all it will bloom into and all the experiences she has had, and will have.
Sadly, today I also celebrate two more lives.
In November I found out a dear friend of mine was diagnosed with leukemia. It was a shock. I saw her just before Christmas. She looked tired, but she was optimistic, and ready to fight for her life. Danuta passed away this week. I am sad. I will miss her. She was such a wonderful, caring, supportive, vibrant, quirky lady. She and I became friends with a very special connection eight years ago. And while both our lives were hectic and very separate from each other, when we ran into each other at the mall, at the community centre or grocery store, we always stood and talked for a long, long time. Today, I celebrate her life and how much she touched me and many others.
Sadly, today I also celebrate my mother's cousin Paddy Madigan. I did not know him very well as he is in my mother's extended family. But I morn for his family, his three young daughters. How terrible it must be to come home from school and find your father unresponsive. How terrible it must be to have just lost your mother a few years ago, and now your father. Cousin Paddy was looking forward to walking two of his three daughters down the aisle this summer. How sad that he will not be there on his daughters' special day. How sad for my mom's cousin Susie, she lost her father a year ago this week, and now her brother. She is desperately trying to comfort her nieces and family. My heart goes out to all of them.
I am trying my best not to be sad. Paddy and Danuta lived wonderful lives, full lives, loving and happy lives. Madigan's whole life is ahead of her and I hope and pray that she has as wonderful of a life as Paddy and Danuta.
Madiginnie-Ginnie, I love you with all my heart, happy birthday sweetheart.
Danuta and Paddy, you will be missed. You were and are loved. I am sad for myself, and all the other people you both touched during your short lives. May you both be at peace in God's hands.
_____________
My google-reader is almost at double digits. I am so sorry that I am behind in posting and behind in reading all your wonderful blogs. I am too busy celebrating life...but once things slow down a bit, I promise to catch up. I miss you all!
If Annabelle is reading this...please know that I will contact you early this week. I am so happy we have connected. Hugs to Chloe.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Sunday, February 3, 2008
100th post!
Well, you asked, and I answered!
As is customary, I am posting 100 things about me since this is my 100th post.
Thank you everyone who posed questions....some were easy, some were hard, some were a bit odd and some where challenging...and all were fun!
Please excuse spelling mistakes as spell check is not working and I am too tired to double check and edit!
Here we go!
Heidi from Family Adventure asked:
1) What made you decide to start a blog?
Well, I have always kept a journal and this seemed like a natural extension of my personal journal. Plus, I wanted an easy and fun forum to share Trilogy stories with family and friends. I found my friend Andrea's blog and it knd of snowballed from there!
Sadly, some days blogging is my only interaction with adults! And I need adult interaction!
2) Does your family know of/read your blog?
Yes. I know my mom reads it on a regular basis - she even left a comment on my Christmas post! (YIPPPEEEEE) I have told other family members, but since no one leaves comment (hint hint, nudge, nudge, wink, wink) I am not sure who exactly reads it! I am pretty sure my hubby reads it (David, if you are reading this, meet me in the bedroom for a evening of fun as soon as the Trilogy is down for the night!) I think David enjoys most of my posts. I know that he told his friends about my blog. And whenever anything out of the ordinary happens, David will roll his eyes and say, "you're going to blog about that, aren't you?"
Emily from Wheels on the bus asked:
3) What makes you feel especially sassy?
hmmmmm....sassy, me???? Well actually I like saying "Sasss-ssssy" and that word makes me giggle! hmmmmmm.... I love feeling sexy and sassy with a new haircut...unfortunately, my Dorothy Hamill cut does not make me feel sassy!
Laura from That Grrl asked:
4) What does your blog design/ template say about you?
That I like green and lack resources for a cool layout and I am a bit boring! (note to self, revamp blog layout ASAP!)
5) What is your favourite colour and what was the last day you wore it?
I do like green and as I type this I have on a nice green top!
6) If you were given a $1000 (just for being you) how would you spend it?
I'm only worth $1000 - sheeeesh! I think I would hire one of those organizational gurus to organize my house....and whatever is left over (if anything) I would buy scrapbooking materials!
7) Where would you go if you could take a month long trip (all expenses paid) anywhere in the world?
In 1999 I took a month off and camped through six countries in Africa. It was amazing and life-changing. Before I met my hubby I was planning my next hiking and camping trip through Asia. So, I think I would make that dream happen!
8) Do you like your name? I'm a Laura too.
Oh yes! I love my name. I was named after my Great Grandmother. She was a firecracker!
Funny story is that my Grandmother told my Grandfather, and everyone in her town, that my name was Heidi. To this day, when I visit, someone will ask if I am Heidi. It was not until 36 years after my birth that my grandfather shared the story behind my name change. Apprently, my Grandmother did not think that my Grandfather would appreciate having a grand daughter named after his mother-in-law!!! So, she made up a name!
10)What are some things you would like to change about yourself?
I wish, oh how I wish that I did not procrastinate - I am terrible about getting mail out in time. I would also like to get a bit less lazy when it comes to keeping a clean, organized house.
11) What is your favorite all time movie?
This is tough. LOVE Breakfast Club. LOVE The Red Violin. LOVE the Rocky series!
12) What do you do for fun?
When I am not blogging I am either playing soccer or golf or scrapbooking!
13) If you could have any career what would it be?
Professional athlete - soccer or golf
14) What is your favorite vacation destination?
hmmmmmm still looking to discover a favorite destination. I plan on visiting lots of exotic and wonderful places in order to figure this out!
15) What 3 things (not people) would you want with you if on a deserted island?
-My scrapbooks
-The complete works of Bryce Courtenay
-Life supply of licerice
16,17,18) Do you do anything regularly to pamper yourself? If yes what? If no why not?
Twice a year I go on a scrapbooking weekend get-away and it is the best! I am not into pedicures or manicures or the such...but I do routinely espcape with a long, hot, bubbly bubble bath!
Kelly from Don Mills Diva had this inquiry:
19) If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Still trying to figure that out! Sorry my answer is so lame!
Barry Summy would like to know:
20) Where was your best vacation?
I travelled through Africa, visiting 6 different countries. I hiked and camped the entire month except for one hotel night in Zanzibar. This trip was life changing for me and I hope to blog about it one day.
Laura from A Day in the Life of a Mom of Six asked:
21) How did you meet your husband?
We met on a soccer pitch - the Nortel Co-ed Parti Soccer League. (a very cute story that I plan on sharing Feb 14th!)
22) What do you want to do when you grow up?
Foreign Diplomat or a engineer/designer of prothestic limbs
23) What are some things you would NEVER change about yourself?
That I am outgoing, caring and hardworking.
Kathryn from Seeking Sanity wants to know:
24) What is your favorite thing about yourself?
I love being a mom!
25) Your least favorite?
As mentioned before, I procrastinate and am not very good at keeping my house cleaned and organized!
A Bun's Life asked:
26) Do you have family nearby or a great babysitter that helps out with the children so you and your hubby can go out on dates and spend time alone with each other?
When my second son turned 2 my parents moved to be closer to us. Up to that point immediate family was about a 5 hour drive away. Now they are 55 minutes door-to-door! They will not babysit for an evening...but better than that, every couple of weeks they will take to boys so David and I can spend a weekend doing what we want or what we need to do. We also have a great 16 year old we met at church. She adores all 3 kids and has even babysat all three.We are very lucky to have my parents near by and a great babysitter!
27) What did you do before blogging to help maintain your sanity with 3 small children?
The fact that we have 3 little ones so close together may hint towards an "activity" that helps! Let's call it quality time with my hubby! I also play soccer in a fairly competitive league. This is an amazing outlet for me. I also scrapbook, read, do needle point and cross stitch. All of which helps me keep my sanity!
28) Were your parents good role models for you to follow in how you want to parent your children?
My parents are amazing role models - in their relationship, in how they live their daily lives and how they reared me. My father is a retired high school teacher and a wonderful and caring man. My mom balanced life, career and family. She is my best friend - we talk at least once a day, every day! In addition, I have a great mother-in-law and father-in-law. They are very caring and loving people.
29) Do your children eat their vegetables? :)
Usually...especially if it is "trees" or peas and in DJ's case orange peppers!
30) How old were you when you officially were living on your own completely independent of your parents?
This is acutally difficult to say. I went away to University, but lived with my Grandmother for two years to help look after her. And after a freak volleyball accident, I went home for a summer to recover. So, technically, I would say 20.
Tara from If Mom Says OK wants to know:
31) Is there any topic you won't blog about?
hmmmmm...I do not think I would blog negatively about anyone in my family - immediate or extended. Some topics are best discussed in private.
Mrs. Schmity from It's A Schmitty Life had these 5 questions:
32) What do you like most about being a mom?
Too many things to list. I love watching and seeing my kids grow and learn. It is amazing. I love seeing my hubby interact and connect with the kids. I love giving my love and being loved. I love the smiles, giggles and hugs and kisses.
33) What do you like the least about being a mom?
The pressure I put on myself to be perfect. The expectations placed on all moms. Seeing my children hurt in anyway.
34) How do you and your hubby spend special time?
We love to ski, golf and hike. Date nights usually include dinner, movie and a trip to Chapters. Occassionaly we will play euchure or snuggle up to a good movie.
35) Do you have a group of friends that you can fall back on when times get rough?
Yes. I have a wonderful circle of friends.
36) What do you do for yourself to relax?
As stated before, I am big into soccer, scrapbooking and other hobbies.
Melissa from Hope for the Hopeless asked:
37) Would you rather be Paris Hilton or Britney Spears?
Good Lord, which is the lesser of two evils????? Britney's recent activiteis scare me, especially since young children are involved. So, by default, I want to be a ditzy, rich, spoiled millionaire!
38) What is your favorite room in your house?
The room that currently has the least amount of toys spewed around!
39) If you could change one thing in your life what would it be?
Increase our disposible income
40) If you could go back in time and change one decision you've made what would it be?
There was one night in 1998 that I really regret...but I am over him, errr I mean it!
41) Do you pick your nose?
I choose my friends, and yes, I pick my nose! EWWWW how disgusting!!!
Karen at Snips & Snails & Puppy Dog Tails asked:
42) If you could spend a day with a male and female movie star, who would you chose?
Alan Alda
43)What makes you laugh out loud?
My kids!
44) Do you sing out loud when you are in the car alone?
Hell ya! Rock on Baby!!!
45) What's the best present (material) that you have gotten?
After DJ was born my hubby gave me the most wonderful pendent and necklace. I wore it everyday from December 10, 2003 to April 22 2007. I was in a conference centre and Madigan was colicky and cranky, she must have broken the necklace. I am sooooo sad I lost that wonderful gift.
Erin over at Life in the Nuthouse asked:
46 & 47) What I want to know is why you live where you do and where would you live if you could live anywhere?
I moved to Ottawa Ontario Canada after university. I was a Canadian Studies major with hopes of landing a job in the Foreign Diplomatic core.
My husband comes from Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I love that in the winter we can ski in the morning and golf in the afternoon and play soccer in the evening...my type of place!
Alf over at I Shot a Man in Reno asked"
48) If you were burried in a mountain of food and had to eat your way out of it, what food would you be burried in?
Licrice and sour candy with the occassional chocolate bar and bag of jalepeno kettle chips!
Amanda inquired:
49) If you could reasonably have either an elephant or a giraffe as a pet, which would you choose?
I've seen and stepped in elephant dung... I am leaning towards a giraffe, though even that is a long stretch!
50) What does you favorite shirt look like?
I do not really have a favorite - though I have been wearing a comfy purple v-neck long-sleave cotton job I bought on boxing day for $3.99!!!
WHEW! half way done...anyone still reading????
Pregnantly Plump wanted to know:
51) Who do you root for, Wile. E. Coyote, or the Roadrunner? (You can substitute Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd or Tom and Jerry, whichever one you watched as a child.)
Wile. E. Coyote all the way!
Heck, I even dreamed of working at the ACME Company to help create better stuff for him!
That's Life v 2.0 asked the following 5 questions:
52) Are you and optimist or a pessimist?
optimist
53) Have you ever met anyone who is famous?
Tom Cochran, Corey Hart
54) What cities have you lived in?
In Ontario: Windsor, Tecumseh, Port Lampton, Guelph, back to Windsor, Hamilton (for one summer) and then Ottawa. I also did two French exchanges to La Pocatiere Quebec.
55) Can you wiggle your ears?
Nope!
56) What side of the bed do you sleep on?
When you are standing and facing the bed, my spot is on the right.
57) What was your first job?
My first salary job was working with 900 numbers...I should blog about those days!
Jenni at Just Chicken Feed wants to know:
58) Go back 10 years, are you where you thought you would be?
I am where I hoped I would be...but, not where I thought I would be. I had broken off a 7 year relationship and was very worried I would never find my Mr. Right.
59) Where will you be in 10 more?
I hope to still be as happy and blessed as I am right now - with 3 healthy and wonderful kids, a fabulous hubby. I hope by then I can still have a wonderful balance between work and family. Perhaps by then I will be working full time, not just part time.
60) What do you eat on your pizza?
My favorite pizza is at Pub Italia: artichoch hearts, black olives and feta with sundried tomatoe!
Slouching Mom at Slouching Past 40 wants to know:
61) Salty snacks or sugary ones?
Usually sugary snacks with salty ones coming into play once a month!
62) What's your favorite decadent food?
I love a good chocolate cake...a real good decadent chocolate cake.
Janet over at Three and Holding inquired:
63 & 64) What is was the best date you have ever been on? What was the worst?
The first date with my hubby...I did not want it to end. I told my girlfriend that evening I would marry David...and I did!
My worst date was through a dating service. The guy had the personality of a dead fish.
Jenlo at Thinks By Me asked the question I get so often!
65) Did you meticulously plan to have your [kids] so close together or was the timing a big & crazy surprise (albeit a good surprise, of course)?!
Well, with Anderson, we did not take any precautions. We wanted the second child to be close, but we never thought he would arrive less than a year from the first. We were shocked when we found out we were 13 weeks pregnant!
Tot's Mom at Mom.Dad.Chat asked:
67) What is your favorite color?
Green
68) Were you a popular girl at school?
My father taught at my high-school...boys were a bit intimidated by that! Plus, I was more of a well-rounded gal. I had friends from many different clicks and groups. Plus, I was very busy with my athletic endevours.
Forgetfulone asked:
69) How long have you been blogging?
My first post was on Monday August 13, 2007.
70) What is your favorite blog, other than yours?
That is unfair...there are so many out there...they are all great! I love this blogging community!
71) Where do you go to get mom advice?
A bit from friends, family, Dr. Sears, and all my new blogging friends!
Mighty Morphin' Mama asked these mighty questions:
72) How many siblings do you have and where do you fall?
I have one younger brother.
74) Does your birth order affect how you parent? ie. If you are the oldest, do you find you favour your oldest or are particularily hard on them?
I do not think so. My hubby, on the other hand is the eldest and I think it influences how he deals with our eldest son.
My hubby has just asked:
75) Are you done your blogging question-thingy yet and coming to bed soon???
Nope - but I am over 75% there!
Nissa from Nissa's niceties asked:
76) What's your favorite vice?
I had three kids in 37 months....pretty oblivous! heee heee! giggle giggle! blush blush!
Kristan from See Ya Tuesday asked:
77) Name one piece of advice that you always give to people.
Trust your instincts!
78) Name one that you always hear and could live without.
She has gotta learn, just let her cry it out!
Amy at A Family Story wants to know:
79 & 80) Who's your favorite Disney princess and why?
This past Christmas I went to see Enchanted with my niece, sisters-in-law and mother-in-law. I loved the princess in that movie.
Shay at Speilmoms Ramblings aksed:
81) Would you have more babies if you could?
Oh yes! But, unfortunately, cannot.
82 & 83) When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? Are you doing that?
When I was really little I wanted to join the circus and do the flying trapeze... and today, at times, I feel like I am doing that! Doing a high wire balancing act, while juggling a million balls and clowning around!
84) What do you do to get some 'me' time?
Apparently, I become a saddist and ask people to send me 100 questions! Whew, almost done!
Soaring Student wants to know:
85 & 86) What colour was your bedroom when you were a child? Why?
As a little gal I had pink - my mom did it! As a teenager I had an awesome room that was a bunt pumpkin colour with dark wood and a splash of white and blue in the drapes. It was an amazing room!
87) Gilligan or the Professor?
Little Buddy all the way!
88) What were you doing when the Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated?
I was packing for a 3 month French exchange program. My Grandmother was visitng and she was helping me pack.
89 & 90) Which housework task do you find the most enjoyable? Disgusting?
I usually enjoy folding laundry. I hate washing the floors and I find cleaning the toliet disgusting (4 yr old, 3 yr old little boys...enough said!)
mscooter44 asked:
91) What were the pros and cons of going to school where your dad was a teacher?
I loved it! My dad and I are close, so it was great. Best part was that I knew most of the teachers personally...and even had blackmail material from parties hosted at my house! Bad thing is that most guys would not date a teacher's daughter! And you could not really skip classes!
92)Do you worry about what the world will be like for your children?
Every day...it sure can be scarey out there. I hope that I can help my kids learn and grow into mature, caring, loving, smart adults who are able to tackle anything the world throws them.
93) How many children did you plan on having?
We knew we wanted 2, but had not really planned after that. Madigan was a very pleasant surprise and we are blessed to have her in our lives, and that the pregnancy and delivery were not as high risk as doctors had predicted.
94) What is the one thing you DO NOT want to pass on to your kids?
I hate that I can get a bit moody at times. I hope they are a bit more level headed.
95) Do you type without looking at the keys?
sone og the tome!
96) Do you allow your kids watch TV?
Yes. Not much, usually when I go make supper - the bewitching hour before Daddy gets home.
97)Did you or would you go to a high school reunion?
I missed my 20th reunion since I had just had a baby. With Facebook I have hooked up with some old higher school, so, maybe I will make an effort to go to the next one!
98) What would you want your high school friends to know about you now?
That I am happy.
As is customary, I am posting 100 things about me since this is my 100th post.
Thank you everyone who posed questions....some were easy, some were hard, some were a bit odd and some where challenging...and all were fun!
Please excuse spelling mistakes as spell check is not working and I am too tired to double check and edit!
Here we go!
Heidi from Family Adventure asked:
1) What made you decide to start a blog?
Well, I have always kept a journal and this seemed like a natural extension of my personal journal. Plus, I wanted an easy and fun forum to share Trilogy stories with family and friends. I found my friend Andrea's blog and it knd of snowballed from there!
Sadly, some days blogging is my only interaction with adults! And I need adult interaction!
2) Does your family know of/read your blog?
Yes. I know my mom reads it on a regular basis - she even left a comment on my Christmas post! (YIPPPEEEEE) I have told other family members, but since no one leaves comment (hint hint, nudge, nudge, wink, wink) I am not sure who exactly reads it! I am pretty sure my hubby reads it (David, if you are reading this, meet me in the bedroom for a evening of fun as soon as the Trilogy is down for the night!) I think David enjoys most of my posts. I know that he told his friends about my blog. And whenever anything out of the ordinary happens, David will roll his eyes and say, "you're going to blog about that, aren't you?"
Emily from Wheels on the bus asked:
3) What makes you feel especially sassy?
hmmmmm....sassy, me???? Well actually I like saying "Sasss-ssssy" and that word makes me giggle! hmmmmmm.... I love feeling sexy and sassy with a new haircut...unfortunately, my Dorothy Hamill cut does not make me feel sassy!
Laura from That Grrl asked:
4) What does your blog design/ template say about you?
That I like green and lack resources for a cool layout and I am a bit boring! (note to self, revamp blog layout ASAP!)
5) What is your favourite colour and what was the last day you wore it?
I do like green and as I type this I have on a nice green top!
6) If you were given a $1000 (just for being you) how would you spend it?
I'm only worth $1000 - sheeeesh! I think I would hire one of those organizational gurus to organize my house....and whatever is left over (if anything) I would buy scrapbooking materials!
7) Where would you go if you could take a month long trip (all expenses paid) anywhere in the world?
In 1999 I took a month off and camped through six countries in Africa. It was amazing and life-changing. Before I met my hubby I was planning my next hiking and camping trip through Asia. So, I think I would make that dream happen!
8) Do you like your name? I'm a Laura too.
Oh yes! I love my name. I was named after my Great Grandmother. She was a firecracker!
Funny story is that my Grandmother told my Grandfather, and everyone in her town, that my name was Heidi. To this day, when I visit, someone will ask if I am Heidi. It was not until 36 years after my birth that my grandfather shared the story behind my name change. Apprently, my Grandmother did not think that my Grandfather would appreciate having a grand daughter named after his mother-in-law!!! So, she made up a name!
I am glad my name is not David!
Vasquez3 would like to know:
9)What are the things you really like about yourself?
I like that I am usually happy, outgoing and friendly. I also like that I like to laugh and that I can offer a shoulder to cry on when someone is in need.10)What are some things you would like to change about yourself?
I wish, oh how I wish that I did not procrastinate - I am terrible about getting mail out in time. I would also like to get a bit less lazy when it comes to keeping a clean, organized house.
11) What is your favorite all time movie?
This is tough. LOVE Breakfast Club. LOVE The Red Violin. LOVE the Rocky series!
12) What do you do for fun?
When I am not blogging I am either playing soccer or golf or scrapbooking!
13) If you could have any career what would it be?
Professional athlete - soccer or golf
14) What is your favorite vacation destination?
hmmmmmm still looking to discover a favorite destination. I plan on visiting lots of exotic and wonderful places in order to figure this out!
15) What 3 things (not people) would you want with you if on a deserted island?
-My scrapbooks
-The complete works of Bryce Courtenay
-Life supply of licerice
16,17,18) Do you do anything regularly to pamper yourself? If yes what? If no why not?
Twice a year I go on a scrapbooking weekend get-away and it is the best! I am not into pedicures or manicures or the such...but I do routinely espcape with a long, hot, bubbly bubble bath!
Kelly from Don Mills Diva had this inquiry:
19) If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
Still trying to figure that out! Sorry my answer is so lame!
Barry Summy would like to know:
20) Where was your best vacation?
I travelled through Africa, visiting 6 different countries. I hiked and camped the entire month except for one hotel night in Zanzibar. This trip was life changing for me and I hope to blog about it one day.
Laura from A Day in the Life of a Mom of Six asked:
21) How did you meet your husband?
We met on a soccer pitch - the Nortel Co-ed Parti Soccer League. (a very cute story that I plan on sharing Feb 14th!)
22) What do you want to do when you grow up?
Foreign Diplomat or a engineer/designer of prothestic limbs
23) What are some things you would NEVER change about yourself?
That I am outgoing, caring and hardworking.
Kathryn from Seeking Sanity wants to know:
24) What is your favorite thing about yourself?
I love being a mom!
25) Your least favorite?
As mentioned before, I procrastinate and am not very good at keeping my house cleaned and organized!
A Bun's Life asked:
26) Do you have family nearby or a great babysitter that helps out with the children so you and your hubby can go out on dates and spend time alone with each other?
When my second son turned 2 my parents moved to be closer to us. Up to that point immediate family was about a 5 hour drive away. Now they are 55 minutes door-to-door! They will not babysit for an evening...but better than that, every couple of weeks they will take to boys so David and I can spend a weekend doing what we want or what we need to do. We also have a great 16 year old we met at church. She adores all 3 kids and has even babysat all three.We are very lucky to have my parents near by and a great babysitter!
27) What did you do before blogging to help maintain your sanity with 3 small children?
The fact that we have 3 little ones so close together may hint towards an "activity" that helps! Let's call it quality time with my hubby! I also play soccer in a fairly competitive league. This is an amazing outlet for me. I also scrapbook, read, do needle point and cross stitch. All of which helps me keep my sanity!
28) Were your parents good role models for you to follow in how you want to parent your children?
My parents are amazing role models - in their relationship, in how they live their daily lives and how they reared me. My father is a retired high school teacher and a wonderful and caring man. My mom balanced life, career and family. She is my best friend - we talk at least once a day, every day! In addition, I have a great mother-in-law and father-in-law. They are very caring and loving people.
29) Do your children eat their vegetables? :)
Usually...especially if it is "trees" or peas and in DJ's case orange peppers!
30) How old were you when you officially were living on your own completely independent of your parents?
This is acutally difficult to say. I went away to University, but lived with my Grandmother for two years to help look after her. And after a freak volleyball accident, I went home for a summer to recover. So, technically, I would say 20.
Tara from If Mom Says OK wants to know:
31) Is there any topic you won't blog about?
hmmmmm...I do not think I would blog negatively about anyone in my family - immediate or extended. Some topics are best discussed in private.
Mrs. Schmity from It's A Schmitty Life had these 5 questions:
32) What do you like most about being a mom?
Too many things to list. I love watching and seeing my kids grow and learn. It is amazing. I love seeing my hubby interact and connect with the kids. I love giving my love and being loved. I love the smiles, giggles and hugs and kisses.
33) What do you like the least about being a mom?
The pressure I put on myself to be perfect. The expectations placed on all moms. Seeing my children hurt in anyway.
34) How do you and your hubby spend special time?
We love to ski, golf and hike. Date nights usually include dinner, movie and a trip to Chapters. Occassionaly we will play euchure or snuggle up to a good movie.
35) Do you have a group of friends that you can fall back on when times get rough?
Yes. I have a wonderful circle of friends.
36) What do you do for yourself to relax?
As stated before, I am big into soccer, scrapbooking and other hobbies.
Melissa from Hope for the Hopeless asked:
37) Would you rather be Paris Hilton or Britney Spears?
Good Lord, which is the lesser of two evils????? Britney's recent activiteis scare me, especially since young children are involved. So, by default, I want to be a ditzy, rich, spoiled millionaire!
38) What is your favorite room in your house?
The room that currently has the least amount of toys spewed around!
39) If you could change one thing in your life what would it be?
Increase our disposible income
40) If you could go back in time and change one decision you've made what would it be?
There was one night in 1998 that I really regret...but I am over him, errr I mean it!
41) Do you pick your nose?
I choose my friends, and yes, I pick my nose! EWWWW how disgusting!!!
Karen at Snips & Snails & Puppy Dog Tails asked:
42) If you could spend a day with a male and female movie star, who would you chose?
Alan Alda
43)What makes you laugh out loud?
My kids!
44) Do you sing out loud when you are in the car alone?
Hell ya! Rock on Baby!!!
45) What's the best present (material) that you have gotten?
After DJ was born my hubby gave me the most wonderful pendent and necklace. I wore it everyday from December 10, 2003 to April 22 2007. I was in a conference centre and Madigan was colicky and cranky, she must have broken the necklace. I am sooooo sad I lost that wonderful gift.
Erin over at Life in the Nuthouse asked:
46 & 47) What I want to know is why you live where you do and where would you live if you could live anywhere?
I moved to Ottawa Ontario Canada after university. I was a Canadian Studies major with hopes of landing a job in the Foreign Diplomatic core.
My husband comes from Vancouver Island, British Columbia. I love that in the winter we can ski in the morning and golf in the afternoon and play soccer in the evening...my type of place!
Alf over at I Shot a Man in Reno asked"
48) If you were burried in a mountain of food and had to eat your way out of it, what food would you be burried in?
Licrice and sour candy with the occassional chocolate bar and bag of jalepeno kettle chips!
Amanda inquired:
49) If you could reasonably have either an elephant or a giraffe as a pet, which would you choose?
I've seen and stepped in elephant dung... I am leaning towards a giraffe, though even that is a long stretch!
50) What does you favorite shirt look like?
I do not really have a favorite - though I have been wearing a comfy purple v-neck long-sleave cotton job I bought on boxing day for $3.99!!!
WHEW! half way done...anyone still reading????
Pregnantly Plump wanted to know:
51) Who do you root for, Wile. E. Coyote, or the Roadrunner? (You can substitute Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd or Tom and Jerry, whichever one you watched as a child.)
Wile. E. Coyote all the way!
Heck, I even dreamed of working at the ACME Company to help create better stuff for him!
That's Life v 2.0 asked the following 5 questions:
52) Are you and optimist or a pessimist?
optimist
53) Have you ever met anyone who is famous?
Tom Cochran, Corey Hart
54) What cities have you lived in?
In Ontario: Windsor, Tecumseh, Port Lampton, Guelph, back to Windsor, Hamilton (for one summer) and then Ottawa. I also did two French exchanges to La Pocatiere Quebec.
55) Can you wiggle your ears?
Nope!
56) What side of the bed do you sleep on?
When you are standing and facing the bed, my spot is on the right.
57) What was your first job?
My first salary job was working with 900 numbers...I should blog about those days!
Jenni at Just Chicken Feed wants to know:
58) Go back 10 years, are you where you thought you would be?
I am where I hoped I would be...but, not where I thought I would be. I had broken off a 7 year relationship and was very worried I would never find my Mr. Right.
59) Where will you be in 10 more?
I hope to still be as happy and blessed as I am right now - with 3 healthy and wonderful kids, a fabulous hubby. I hope by then I can still have a wonderful balance between work and family. Perhaps by then I will be working full time, not just part time.
60) What do you eat on your pizza?
My favorite pizza is at Pub Italia: artichoch hearts, black olives and feta with sundried tomatoe!
Slouching Mom at Slouching Past 40 wants to know:
61) Salty snacks or sugary ones?
Usually sugary snacks with salty ones coming into play once a month!
62) What's your favorite decadent food?
I love a good chocolate cake...a real good decadent chocolate cake.
Janet over at Three and Holding inquired:
63 & 64) What is was the best date you have ever been on? What was the worst?
The first date with my hubby...I did not want it to end. I told my girlfriend that evening I would marry David...and I did!
My worst date was through a dating service. The guy had the personality of a dead fish.
Jenlo at Thinks By Me asked the question I get so often!
65) Did you meticulously plan to have your [kids] so close together or was the timing a big & crazy surprise (albeit a good surprise, of course)?!
Well, with Anderson, we did not take any precautions. We wanted the second child to be close, but we never thought he would arrive less than a year from the first. We were shocked when we found out we were 13 weeks pregnant!
Madigan ws a total surprise. We were told that due to delivery complications, that it was not safe for me to carry another baby. But, Madigan was meant to be! She beat all birth control thrown at her!
We are so happy that the kids are so close. It is fun, exciting and great!
Krissy at Firecracker Mom! asked:
66) What do you do for an escape?
This is a repeating theme...funny, us moms sure need a means to escape and like, you, I am interested in finding out how others escape and find balance. I am very lucky to have balance in my life - and that comes from having a wondrful and supporting hubby who ensures I get blogging, soccer, scrapbooking and me time!Tot's Mom at Mom.Dad.Chat asked:
67) What is your favorite color?
Green
68) Were you a popular girl at school?
My father taught at my high-school...boys were a bit intimidated by that! Plus, I was more of a well-rounded gal. I had friends from many different clicks and groups. Plus, I was very busy with my athletic endevours.
Forgetfulone asked:
69) How long have you been blogging?
My first post was on Monday August 13, 2007.
70) What is your favorite blog, other than yours?
That is unfair...there are so many out there...they are all great! I love this blogging community!
71) Where do you go to get mom advice?
A bit from friends, family, Dr. Sears, and all my new blogging friends!
Mighty Morphin' Mama asked these mighty questions:
72) How many siblings do you have and where do you fall?
I have one younger brother.
74) Does your birth order affect how you parent? ie. If you are the oldest, do you find you favour your oldest or are particularily hard on them?
I do not think so. My hubby, on the other hand is the eldest and I think it influences how he deals with our eldest son.
My hubby has just asked:
75) Are you done your blogging question-thingy yet and coming to bed soon???
Nope - but I am over 75% there!
Nissa from Nissa's niceties asked:
76) What's your favorite vice?
I had three kids in 37 months....pretty oblivous! heee heee! giggle giggle! blush blush!
Kristan from See Ya Tuesday asked:
77) Name one piece of advice that you always give to people.
Trust your instincts!
78) Name one that you always hear and could live without.
She has gotta learn, just let her cry it out!
Amy at A Family Story wants to know:
79 & 80) Who's your favorite Disney princess and why?
This past Christmas I went to see Enchanted with my niece, sisters-in-law and mother-in-law. I loved the princess in that movie.
Shay at Speilmoms Ramblings aksed:
81) Would you have more babies if you could?
Oh yes! But, unfortunately, cannot.
82 & 83) When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? Are you doing that?
When I was really little I wanted to join the circus and do the flying trapeze... and today, at times, I feel like I am doing that! Doing a high wire balancing act, while juggling a million balls and clowning around!
84) What do you do to get some 'me' time?
Apparently, I become a saddist and ask people to send me 100 questions! Whew, almost done!
Soaring Student wants to know:
85 & 86) What colour was your bedroom when you were a child? Why?
As a little gal I had pink - my mom did it! As a teenager I had an awesome room that was a bunt pumpkin colour with dark wood and a splash of white and blue in the drapes. It was an amazing room!
87) Gilligan or the Professor?
Little Buddy all the way!
88) What were you doing when the Space Shuttle Challenger disintegrated?
I was packing for a 3 month French exchange program. My Grandmother was visitng and she was helping me pack.
89 & 90) Which housework task do you find the most enjoyable? Disgusting?
I usually enjoy folding laundry. I hate washing the floors and I find cleaning the toliet disgusting (4 yr old, 3 yr old little boys...enough said!)
mscooter44 asked:
91) What were the pros and cons of going to school where your dad was a teacher?
I loved it! My dad and I are close, so it was great. Best part was that I knew most of the teachers personally...and even had blackmail material from parties hosted at my house! Bad thing is that most guys would not date a teacher's daughter! And you could not really skip classes!
92)Do you worry about what the world will be like for your children?
Every day...it sure can be scarey out there. I hope that I can help my kids learn and grow into mature, caring, loving, smart adults who are able to tackle anything the world throws them.
93) How many children did you plan on having?
We knew we wanted 2, but had not really planned after that. Madigan was a very pleasant surprise and we are blessed to have her in our lives, and that the pregnancy and delivery were not as high risk as doctors had predicted.
94) What is the one thing you DO NOT want to pass on to your kids?
I hate that I can get a bit moody at times. I hope they are a bit more level headed.
95) Do you type without looking at the keys?
sone og the tome!
96) Do you allow your kids watch TV?
Yes. Not much, usually when I go make supper - the bewitching hour before Daddy gets home.
97)Did you or would you go to a high school reunion?
I missed my 20th reunion since I had just had a baby. With Facebook I have hooked up with some old higher school, so, maybe I will make an effort to go to the next one!
98) What would you want your high school friends to know about you now?
That I am happy.
99) Do you judge people who use bad grammar?
I like it when people write and speak good. But, on blogs I think it is ok to just write. At work, it irks me to no end when people do not double check their work.
DM Tuff asked:
100) If money was not an issue what causes would you support?
Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Heart Institute, CNIB, Diabetes, Olympics, Special Olympics and Nelson House Woman's Shelter
WHEW!!!!! 100 questions...I did it....we did it!
Thanks to everyone who submitted questions.
I so enjoy blogging. Expressing myself, meeting new people, sharing experieinces. I am a true blogging addict.
Now onto post 101!
75+23+today+=99
Well, I am almost at 100 posts. WOW! I can hardly believe that!
I heard through the blog-vine that you are suppose to post 100 things about you when you hit 100. Hmmm....not sure if I have think of 100 things about me.
Then, I saw a neat meme floating around.
How about YOU, my wonderful blog friends, ask me questions and I will answer them. Here is the catch - I need 100 questions!
OK, fire away!
I heard through the blog-vine that you are suppose to post 100 things about you when you hit 100. Hmmm....not sure if I have think of 100 things about me.
Then, I saw a neat meme floating around.
How about YOU, my wonderful blog friends, ask me questions and I will answer them. Here is the catch - I need 100 questions!
OK, fire away!
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Scrolling Saturday - Stay in School Speech
Time for another Scrolling Saturday post. (Boy, the week flew by!)
Click HERE to learn more about Scrolling Saturdays. Better yet, dig out that old post, give it another chance for some blog-loving!
Well, keeping with my SCHOOL theme for Scrolling Saturdays, I hope you enjoy this repost from October 25, 2007. OK - gotta run to my French course. Au revoir!
Stay in School Speech
Is it ever too early to start giving the "Stay in School" speech? I do not think so...especially after walking DJ to the bus stop yesterday.
Here is the conversation I had with my son, the Junior-Kindergarten Attendee:
DJ: WOW mom, I like all the leaves. They are pretty colours. Why do they change colours in the Fall?
ME: Well, the tree knows that winter is coming and some leaves do not like the cold, so when the summer sun is not helping them stay green, they start to change colour and then they fall to the ground.
DJ: Oh. Cool. So, leaves fall so we know it is fall. What is that man doing?
ME: He is fixing his ditch drainage pipe. Maybe some dirt got into it and he needs to clear it out.
DJ: Oh. Cool. Look at the plane in the sky mom. How does it stay up there?
ME: The pilot knows how strong the engine needs to be and the right angle for the wings and the plane stays up with aerodynamics - or something like that.
DJ: Oh. Cool. Boy mom, you are really smart.
ME: Thanks DJ. You will get very smart too the longer you go to school. It is important to keep in school and learn all kinds of cool stuff.
DJ: Mom, I think kindergarten is enough for me. If I ever need to know anything, I can just ask my smart mommy.
hmmmmmmm....do I have him fooled or what!
Friday, February 1, 2008
i HEART u
February is heart month. I never knew this before I had my son David Joseph. But now, February is a special month... a special time to remember my son has a very special heart.DJ was born with Left Isomerism with Polysplenia. It is a strange heterotaxy syndrome that impacts where internal organs are placed. Simply put, DJ's body tried to create two left sides, instead of a right and a left side.
DJ is very lucky, while he has many anomalies regarding his spleen, intestines, lungs, stomach, and heart, most are congenitively corrected. Which means that they are different in size, location and function, but they are working well enough not to be a problem.
The major causes of mortality and morbidity in the heterotaxy syndromes are undoubtedly the cardiac malformations that typically occur in these conditions. In one large retrospective review from Canada, the 1-year mortality rate was 32% and the 15-year mortality rate was 49%.
We have been very lucky. While DJ's heart is very different, and should technically not work as well as it does, he has never had a heart surgery. (knock on wood) In the future, he may need a pacemaker - but for now, he is doing great.
Here is an image of a "ordinary" heart beside an picture of DJ's heart that the heart specialist gave us when he was 21 days old. I have stitched them together so that you can compare the differences.
Click image to enlarge
Here is the list of DJ's heart anomalies:
Dextrocardia - this means that his heart is in the right-side of his chest.Transposition of the Great Arteries - DJ has cognitively corrected TGA, this means that while the main arteries have switched, they are functioning on their own and no medical intervention is required.
Pulmonary Stenosis - this means that he has a heart murmur where a section of the pulmonary valve is blocked.
Interruption of the Inferior Vena Cava with Azygos Continuation - with DJ, the large vein that carries de-oxygenated blood from the lower half of the body into the heart is completely blocked. Technically, his heart should not work, and he should have passed in utero, but the azygos vein took over the function of the IVC. Incredible!
We like to tell DJ that his heart is perfectly imperfect! He is truly a very special medical miracle. It is rare to have this syndrome, but it is more rare to be so healthy, strong and cognitively corrected.
In the past few months I have written a little bit on DJ's medical condition, on how his uniqueness as impacted our lives and how I experienced my first Mommy Moment in the ER when he was just 9 days old.
I am not sure I will ever tire of writing about his medical condition. My fascination is partly due to the fact that I need a means to understand all the medical terms. Each entry allows me a reason to do more research. My fascination also allows me to raise awareness of congenital heart defects. My fascination also allows me to remind myself that while DJ is healthy and strong, I need to be prepared for anything. And finally, my fascination allows me to expel my energy in a positive way, instead of sadly dwelling on the many sad stories I hear about on a regular basis. I have become on-line friends with many other families who have children impacted by heterotaxy syndromes and very rarely do their stories have the hope, blessing and wonderful prognosis as DJ. Just last week a young girl, just 2 weeks older than DJ, died waiting for a heart and lung transplant due to having right isomerism. My heart goes out to every family faced with any congenital heart defect.
February is heart month. I hope with all my heart, that some of you reading this, or even just one other person reading this blog, will decide to donate any amount of money to the Heart Institute of Canada or to any foundation or charity that deals with heart defects or heart disease.
To my dear DJ, i HEART u with all my heart.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
