WHAT I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS!

So I took my girls to see Santa at the mall the other day. Surprisingly, my four year old got right up on Santa's knee. It was surprising because for the last two years she refused to even get near the Jolly Old Elf, but this year she did it willingly. My 2 year old on the other hand needed to be convinced. So the three of us got up and sat with Santa on his bench. Santa asked my girls what they wanted for Christmas. My oldest said she wanted a choo-choo train but my youngest has big dreams. She asked Santa for a car. And when we clarified that it must be a toy car, she quickly corrected us and said" A REAL CAR. SANTA I WANT A REAL CAR."

Wow, imagine my surprise. That's a tall order for a 2 year old.

And if I thought that she would forget by the next day, I was wrong. A few days later and she is still insisting that she wants a REAL CAR for Christmas.

Can't imagine what she will ask for when she turns 16!

SNOW

Say HELLO to winter. It was a snowy day for us today. And it sure complicates things when you have to get your little one off to school. Who knew a hat, mitts and snow pants could slow things down so much.

SO SORRY!

I can't believe it has been so long since I last posted. Time sure flies.

Things have been a little crazy in my world these days. School started in September and ever since then it has been a whirlwind. School is a new thing in our world. "Special K" is only 4 and this is her first year. And of course, every parent knows what school means...SICKNESS. Yup, that's right. We have been busy in our house fighting off a very nasty virus...to no avail. First, "Special K" got sick, then me and then "M & M". And all I have to say is... it wasn't fun. We still haven't completely shaken it.

I have been working my full time job and still working on freelance articles on the side. And Dad, while he managed to escape the evil clutches of the nasty virus, is CRAZY busy with work.

I need a vacation. Can anyone help?? But enough of that, no excuses. More posts to come very soon. Promise.

MAKING FRIENDS

I always told myself I wouldn't be one of those moms who become obsessed about controlling my child's social life, especially since my girls are only 4 and 2. But I think I'm doing it. It's week two of full-day school, and I am becoming worried about my little one making friends. I, like all parents, want my daughter to make friends, be liked ( not necessarily popular, but liked, ya know), and generally be happy at school.

Soooooooooooooooooo, when my daughter came home saying... "E didn't want to play with me, she doesn't want to be my friend!" My heart ached. I immediately started to hatch a plan in my mind to make sure her social life flourished.

But the thing that I quickly realized is that I think I'm the only one who really thinks this is a problem. I mean my daughter doesn't appear to be traumatized by this. It just seems to have rolled off her back.

I think I need to use my daughter as my example...and learn by watching in her.

But, I have not totally abandoned my plan...it will remain on the back burner, always at the ready. Mom to the rescue!

BOB BOOKS

I signed up to review Bob Books: Set 1 Beginning Readers by Bobby Lynn Maslen for MotherTalk. This time it wasn't for my self. Although I'm sure there is some of you out there that might doubt me. Ha ha.
My daughter is 4 years old and just started school this year and I thought it would be a great series for her and my younger daughter who is only 2 years old.

I was very intrigued when the books arrived. Right from the start I noticed the colours. My daughter also liked the colours. She immediately wanted to open up the box and take a look. At first we decided that I would read them to her. We read ever little book. My daughter was amused by the word combinations and the pictures. She was even able to do a bit of reading on her own. She was very excited by that. And that makes the books worth any penny you spend...seeing your child with a smile on his or her face, reading on their own...so proud of themselves.

The words were simple, easy to read, and yet so effective. This was my first introduction to the Bob Books series. After seeing the joy on my daughters face when she was able to read on her own, I would definitely recommend this series and I would definitely pick up other Bob Books sets.

SCHOOL HAS BEGUN

I can't believe that my little girl is off to school. Our school has staggered entry for JK kids, so my girl hasn't gone for a full day yet but it's coming. Next week is her first full day of school.
Boy, kids grow up fast.

Maximum Ride:Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports
by James Patterson


Let me first start by saying this is my blog tour with MotherTalk. I am excited and a little nervous. This too is my first experience with James Patterson and Max and the gang.

Let me first say that I did enjoy the ride. Sci-Fi and fantasy are genres that I enjoy. I think the idea of getting lost in another world, or worlds away is what I enjoy most. It's always an escape for a brief moment. And this book definitely offered that.

Maximum Ride ... the third edition in the series... tells the latest adventures of Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gazzy and Angel. A group of kids that have been created by a bunch of mad scientists. They are hybrids, part human and part bird. They all have some pretty special skills and talents. More bird than human really. Of course they can fly, but they also have super strength, hearing and even powers to read minds and change thoughts. Maximum Ride 3 chronicles the flocks escape from The School and their journey to save the world from the evil scientists and save themselves. Max is the leader of the group, Fang plays second in command but when the flock splits up both Max and Fang need to rise to the challenge and guide the others to safety and back to each other.

As I mentioned, I have not read the first two Maximum Ride books, but I liked the fact that I wasn't lost while reading this one. While I think I will go back to pick up the first two to find out how it all starts for Max, Fang and the rest of the flock, I don't think it is necessary in order to enjoy the book.

This book is geared to young adults, but I think most adults would also enjoy it. It was a quick read for me, and the story was fast paced. It is definitely a series worth picking up if you are into this genre.

There are a number of things I enjoyed. James Patterson used themes that many young kids are dealing with and familiar with. One of those is the need to be environmentally conscious and how important it is to work together, kids and adults, to save the planet. This topic is at the forefront for many people, especially since LIVE Earth rocked cities around the world. This book definitely empowers kids to do their part. It reminds the reader that kids have a voice, an important one, and that they do have the power to change the world.

James Patterson also uses technology in an interesting and familiar way for kids. The idea of telling part of the story through Fang's blog is great (check it out. It's a lot of fun and adds to the Maximum Ride experience). It really felt like the story was more than just a book, more like we were riding along with the characters. It gave me the sense of how Fang was reaching out to the kids of the world and how his honesty ( a way to rebel against the secrecy of the School and the scientists) had a real impact on other kids.

Of course, you could not ignore the whole mad science aspect in this book. It takes the idea of cloning and DNA to an extreme. I liked it. I think it could get kids really interested in science and what the future could hold. It also has the depth that a more mature reader could enjoy, especially when you start thinking about the ethics of mad science and where it could all go.

I also liked the subtle teen angst between Max and Fang. It really showed through. No doubt issues that most young kids have to deal with.

There was a lot of twists and turns in the book that kept me turning the page. I was intrigued by things that were revealed ...never sure if they were true or not. I felt like I was discovering things right along with the characters.

It look forward to going back to find out how it all started for the flock. And I look forward to the fourth book in this series to see the next chapter in the adventure for Max, Fang, Iggy, Nudge, Gazzy, Angel and Total ...and the rest of the characters. The Maximum Ride website is worth checking out too.

A SIGN OF THE TIMES

Kids grow up so fast. A saying that every new parent hears, over and over again, from veteran parents. And it certainly goes by in a blink.

My oldest daughter is going off to school this year. OK, so it's only a few days a week. It is a serious milestone. Go get em girl...sniff, sniff. :(

My youngest is learning to do things without Mom. One of her favourite sayings, " I do it, I DO IT!"

Cherish every moment...the good, the bad and the ugly. You can't get it again once it's gone...no matter how much you wish you could.

TEMPER, TEMPER

I have two sweet little angels. My two daughters. 2 and 4 years old. And they both have a propensity for what I affectionately call the FREAK OUT! It's the age...it must be I tell myself, because up until very recently it wasn't something that happened(OK, maybe on a very rare occasion) with my youngest. But then again, she has just entered into that terrible two zone.

Both my girls have become quiet skilled at the FREAK OUT. It doesn't happen often, but when it does, watch out. There is nothing spared. It goes full tilt. Crying, screaming, arms swinging in the air, feet stomping. There is no reasoning with either of them.

It calls for serious intervention. Right now, my tools of the trade to quell the angry FREAK OUT beast? Counting to 5. Because when I get to 5, I mean business. Take a deep breathe...not me...my girls(although, secretly I need to take a few deep breathes to remain calm).

Any other creative FREAK OUT intervention tools out there? Will gladly accept.

EMBARASSING MOMENTS

I think every mom has embarrassing kid moments. Things your kids do that embarrasses the heck out of you, but is just pure and true curiosity or innocence on the part of your child. Sweet moments that make you laugh.

I love these.

My 2 year old daughter did something very embarrassing the other day at the Y. We were getting dressed after swimming lessons. Inside a stall. And like every curious child, she wondered what was on the other side of the stall wall. So, imagine to my horror, she peaks her little head under the wall, to look at the people on the other side. YIKES! I was shocked at the time, telling her to stop doing that RIGHT NOW. But when I replay the story in my head I chuckle a little.

My older daughter, now 4, has done so many funny and embarrassing things. When I think of her, I remember a long list of embarrassing moments. She has always been a bit shy, especially when she meets people for the first time. One of her favourite things to do was hide between my legs. What's so embarrassing about that you say? Well, when your daughter sticks her head up your skirt, the only one not laughing is MOM.

Oh, I could go on. Maybe I will share a few more later. Feel free to share your embarrassing kid moments.

WEEKEND FUN

It's Sunday night. And I am exhausted. It's not that we did anything special this weekend. The usual.

Saturday @ 9
nail appointment(not as posh as it sounds...the kids were with me) followed by a trip to Nanny and Grampy's house. A few hours there. Drive home. One kid falls asleep. Thanks goodness for that. Home @ 1 o'clock. Hang out at home. Both girls are up. Dinner. Visit with neighbours. Home. Bed @ 8:30.

Sunday @ 9
Coffee...ah. Thank goodness for that. Breakfast. Playtime outside. Walk in the neighbourhood. Special K and M & M meet their little friends...off to the park we go. Play. Get wet. Drink. Walk home @ 12:30. Lunch. Nap for one. Break for Mom. Play time for Special K. M & M gets up. Dinner. Dress up time outside. Go for a walk. Visit our friend. Stay for a pop and conversation. Walk home. Bath time. Bed @ 8:30. Phew...I'm tired.

More fun to come tomorrow. We are going to the CNE...taking the train. The girls are so excited. Pictures and stories to come.

WHEN CRAFTS GO HORRIBLY WRONG

MOMMY GUILT

Boy, it sucks!!!

Not the most eloquent way to say it but I think it says it best.

I leave for work every day at about 4 o'clock in the afternoon. It's great because I get to be home with my girls all day but it's hard when I have to leave. Monday is particularly hard. My girls have had Mommy home all weekend and then I up and leave them. But luckily I am leaving them with Dad. That doesn't make it any easier.


"Mommy don't go. Don't leave me.", says my 4 year old.
Sometimes she cries, sometimes she even grabs my leg. Some days are better than others.

When does it get easier? Anybody?

COTTAGE MEMORIES

The girls and I have been home from the cottage for a few weeks now. It feels like forever and a day ago.

Back to running around and work for me.

It is amazing the change in the girls when they are up at the cottage. Such freedom.
When they are up at the cottage they are up early and in their swimsuits. They hit the lake, coming out only to eat and when it gets too dark to swim.

They got to see frogs, fish and even a mink...of course, Buddy, my parents dog chased it away. It has yet to return.

The days are endless up a the cottage.

Oh, to be young and carefree again...but at the cottage that's exactly how I feel. Too bad Daddy had to work. Next time...we will make sure of that.

We are so lucky to have a family cottage. My parents are giving a gift to my kids that is priceless. Life long memories of special time with family...there is nothing better.

SUMMER FUN

It feels like forever since I posted anything. The girls and I have been enjoying the summer and have spent a few weeks up at the family cottage. There is nothing better. There is so much freedom for kids at a cottage. Sun, sand, swimming and just all around relaxing.

Stories from the cottage to come. Stay tuned.

ATTITUDE

My little angel with attitude

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

It was two years ago...July 18, 2005...that I laboured to bring my second little angel into the world.

Hard to believe 2 years have gone by already. Before I had children, everyone always said to cherish every moment because it goes by in a blink. Wow, does it ever.

A LITTLE TIGHTER

Hug your kids a little tighter.

I have been thinking about this since last week.
I am a news editor at a Toronto news radio station. And I was working last week when a horrific story came in. A woman, walking with her young son...both were hit by a car. A suspected drunk driver. Police say the van mounted the curb and hit the woman and her son. She died. And he continues to fight for his life in hospital.

This one stuck with me. Just one of those stories you never forget.
It could have been anyone. I have two little girls about the same age.

It reminded me...you got to HUG your kids a little tighter...EVERY DAY.

WORKING MOM

I wondering if leaving for work ever gets easier?

Today, like every other work day, I got ready to leave. Most days are a little emotional with "Special K". We get a few moments of crying, whining, and overall unhappiness. But today was particularly hard for me.

Hearing " Mommy please don't go. Don't leave me." just tugs at my heart.

How do you all you other Moms handle this one?

CAN'T STAND THE HEAT

I think you feel the heat more the older you get.

Today it is steaming hot outside. Boil an egg on the sidewalk kinda hot. The kind of day you don't go for a bike ride to the library. But what did we do with a friend from down the street today? Go for a bike ride to the library. It took us half an hour to get there. I think I lost five pounds just from sweating.

The library was fun...and cool. Thank goodness for air conditioning.

Word to the wise...never go for a long bike ride to a library on a disgustingly hot day. You only get exhausted cranky kids in the end.

Oh the little things you learn.
Oh well...the kids had fun and that's what's important in the end.

WRITING

I added a couple of links.

I do a bit of freelance writing for a few magazines. One of the magazines I have written for is Urbanbaby&toddler.
Check it out.

Holiday Weekend Fatigue

Is it only Wednesday?

I feel like I am still paying the price for letting the girls stay up to watch fireworks on Sunday night.

Bedtime at 11:00. Never a good idea.

Will we ever get back those precious hours of sleep?

Me and my girls.
An old picture..new ones to come soon.
My first photo posted. That wasn't too hard!

LONG WEEKEND FUN

Wow. The Canada Day long weekend is over. And frankly I am exhausted. It couldn't have come any sooner.
It was a jammed packed weekend with my two girls, "Special K" and "M&M". Nicknames they have inherited from Daddy.

Here is just a sampling of the weekend.

Sunday:

7ish...the girls wake up. And because Mommy and Daddy both work late(Mommy didn't get to bed until 2 am...after getting home from work at 12:30 am)...the girls come into our room. They watch a bit of T.V. ( I know...can hear some of you out there cringe. Then again some of you might recognize this routine) And we get a couple more minutes of snooze time.

8ish...Mommy finally gets up...after several dozen calls from the girls. Hop in the shower. Everyone gets dressed. Breakfast on the porch. Daddy goes upstairs to work.

Breakfast on the porch only lasts a few minutes. And then we are off. "Special K"...she just turned 4...hops on her bike. Riding up and down the sidewalk in front of our house. "M&M"...she will be 2 this month...follows behind. Running down the sidewalk in front of our house. The girls see and talk to friends...anxiously waiting to head down to the park for Canada Day fun.

10:30...Daddy is finished drawing for now. And we all head down to the park...or as "Special K" likes to call it, The Duck Pond.

10:35 (cuz it only takes about 5 minutes to get to the park) until about 4ish...we check out the fun at the park. We walk and walk and walk. Except when we are listening to the Burlington Teen Tour Band play. And then we dance and dance and dance. We meet up with friends. "Special K" is so happy. We walk. The girls play in the splash pad. We have strawberries and ice cream. Yummmmm!

Boy I'm tired. Wish I had the engery of my kids.

Time for a nap. For everyone. "M&M" is almost asleep on the way home. Thank you for a bumpy stroller ride home.

4ish...Nap time for one. Only about 3 hours late. Yikes! Meanwhile, I at least get "Special K" to lounge on the couch for a good movie. At least it's something.

6:30 Dinner. (I skipped all the domestic stuff this time...there was a little garden work, a little clean up, a little cooking...you get the picture.)

7:30 PJ time. This is usually bedtime too. But not tonight. Fireworks at 10 o'clock. We hope everyone can stay awake. Especially Mom.

9:30 Walk to the park for fireworks. The first time my girls get to see professional fireworks and not just the backyard variety.

10:00 Fireworks.
Now that was exciting. Nothing like seeing something for the first time. The girls were awe struck and a little scared at the same time.

Is it bedtime yet?

10:30 Walk home. We hurry. It's bedtime. Hurray!

10:45 "M&M" is in her crib. "Special K" is in her bed...and I am right beside her. ( again, I can hear some of you out there cringe at the thought of me lying down with my girl to get her to asleep. I say..ya do what ya need to do. Of course, again this is probably more than a little familiar to many of you.) And I think I fell asleep first. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzz!

Midnight-ish I am suddenly awake to the sounds of my husband calling my name. I stumble out of the girls' room. I hate when that happens.

The day is done...slumber at last. Not quite enough time to recharge for the next fun filled day.

Welcome

Hi everyone,

Welcome to my new blog.

Let me introduce myself.

I am a mother of two beautiful young girls. I am a wife. And I am a news producer and freelance writer. Sometimes in that order...and yet other times not. It all depends on the day I am having...which I know just about every mom out there can truly appreciate.

I will be posting regularly...just day in the life type stuff most days I'm sure. But ya never know. I may be more creative when the mood suits me. You will just have to wait and see.

Cheers...and bye for now

Christy
aka Freckles