I've work a lot this week, when I say a lot I mean a lot for me. I ended up picking up two shifts at job number 2 and it was a stressful week at job number one (teaching). So much so that for a while I was wondering how I could find another job. But right now I have a really good balance in my life. If I were to get a new job I would be working more and I don't want to work more. I worked full time this week and it was a lot. To all you moms who work full time all the time, more power to you. But in my usual life I have good balance, I work 4 days a week and one of those days is an evening shift, so I get to be with the kids for most of the day. Darryl is also great about letting me get some "me" time every week too, so I'm lucky. So my life is made up of equal parts of work and family time. I do get to sprinkle some me time in there as well as some relationship time. Sometimes for those hard times at work I need to grin and bear it because it allows me to have balance in the rest of my life.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Showing posts with label reflection. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reflection. Show all posts
Sunday, March 06, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Pause
This weekend Nathan got sick. It started on Friday with a fever and lots of sleeping and developed into throwing up all through Friday night. Saturday he got better, but still had a fever and was quite snugly. Both on Friday night and Saturday night, Darryl slept in the spare room while Nathan slept with me. It wasn't a weekend where we had lots planned, but anything I did have planned or did want to get done got put on the back burner. Shopping is left to next weekend, and getting rid of some baby toys. Our dinner party was delayed and the bathrooms are still a mess. But it was a nice weekend to remember what is the most important in life. Being with the kids. Making sure they are happy and healthy. Listening to the sounds of him breathing in and out, even while he is sick is so peaceful. Snuggling with him on the couch while we watch movies and he laughs at the funny parts makes me smile. In this busy world, a world I make very busy, it is nice to be forced to slow down.
Till next time
Jenn
Till next time
Jenn
Saturday, January 01, 2011
Happy 2011
Well compared to last year I am more so looking forward to 2011. Maybe because 2010 was so crappy I think we are moving up for 2011. So yes I'm looking forward to what lays ahead for this year. We don't have a lot of big plans as in previous years, no big house projects or vacations, but I guess we will just take what comes are way and enjoy it. As for the start of every year, lets see how I did on my resolutions and make some for 2011.
1. No pop.
Alexis inspired me with her no McDonald's in 2009 and I keep reading on the lulu lemon bag where we keep our recycling how bad it is for you. So no pop this year. Ice tea sure, but no coke or sprite or anything of the like.
I did awesome with this! I am very proud of myself. Not that it was super hard, but there were times I really could have had some pop whether it went well with what I was eating or I could have used it to pep me up. I think in general I'll drink less pop now, but I'm happy to have delicious coke at certain times.
2. Finish the basement.
This is kind of a Darryl and Jenn resolution. I couldn't do it without him, but I know he's on board with it as well.
Again check this off the list. We did great with this (really Darryl did great with it). I love the basement.
3. The added one and the one I'm always working on, pay down the debt and save for things before buying them.
This is one we are still working on this. We've started to stick more closely to a budget. I'll expand on this a little more in my resolutions for 2011.
4. Take more pictures. Not sure if it's because it's the winter or what but I haven't been taking that many pictures over the last month. I need get back into it again. Maybe Lesley and I can take a photography close together. =)
This is a resolution that sometimes is better and sometimes needs work... I still think a photography class would be a good idea. I really like the prime lens we bought this summer. This may be an ongoing one for a couple of years, or maybe forever.
And onto resolutions for 2011:
1. Have our debt paid down to 75% of what it is now. I've been reading the Simple Dollar website and he's been posting a lot about goal making and how to achieve the goals. In the past I've said pay down debt, which we did last year, but our line of credit and credit cards are still now paid down. This year I'm setting a number to it. We started at the end of last year with sticking more closely to a budget, giving ourselves a certain amount of cash to work with every week. We did good for the months of October and November and then December came and Christmas it kind of got blown out of the water, so in January we are jumping back on the cash only band wagon.
That's it, that's really all I have... With saving money I don't think we are going to do anything major in the house or in the yard this year. We are also not going on any big vacations this year. Darryl and I would like to go to San Francisco for our anniversary (we will have been married 10 years this year). Darryl also may take the boys to Ontario in the summer and of course we will go to Kelowna. I'd also like to go with Tammy on some sort of girls weekend/vacation. We will also have to make some decisions about Lucas's schooling and if Nathan will go to preschool this year. But hopefully there will be a calm and happiness about the year. Just enjoying the kids at the ages they are taking it all in.
What about you any resolutions for the year?
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
1. No pop.
Alexis inspired me with her no McDonald's in 2009 and I keep reading on the lulu lemon bag where we keep our recycling how bad it is for you. So no pop this year. Ice tea sure, but no coke or sprite or anything of the like.
I did awesome with this! I am very proud of myself. Not that it was super hard, but there were times I really could have had some pop whether it went well with what I was eating or I could have used it to pep me up. I think in general I'll drink less pop now, but I'm happy to have delicious coke at certain times.
2. Finish the basement.
This is kind of a Darryl and Jenn resolution. I couldn't do it without him, but I know he's on board with it as well.
Again check this off the list. We did great with this (really Darryl did great with it). I love the basement.
3. The added one and the one I'm always working on, pay down the debt and save for things before buying them.
This is one we are still working on this. We've started to stick more closely to a budget. I'll expand on this a little more in my resolutions for 2011.
4. Take more pictures. Not sure if it's because it's the winter or what but I haven't been taking that many pictures over the last month. I need get back into it again. Maybe Lesley and I can take a photography close together. =)
This is a resolution that sometimes is better and sometimes needs work... I still think a photography class would be a good idea. I really like the prime lens we bought this summer. This may be an ongoing one for a couple of years, or maybe forever.
And onto resolutions for 2011:
1. Have our debt paid down to 75% of what it is now. I've been reading the Simple Dollar website and he's been posting a lot about goal making and how to achieve the goals. In the past I've said pay down debt, which we did last year, but our line of credit and credit cards are still now paid down. This year I'm setting a number to it. We started at the end of last year with sticking more closely to a budget, giving ourselves a certain amount of cash to work with every week. We did good for the months of October and November and then December came and Christmas it kind of got blown out of the water, so in January we are jumping back on the cash only band wagon.
That's it, that's really all I have... With saving money I don't think we are going to do anything major in the house or in the yard this year. We are also not going on any big vacations this year. Darryl and I would like to go to San Francisco for our anniversary (we will have been married 10 years this year). Darryl also may take the boys to Ontario in the summer and of course we will go to Kelowna. I'd also like to go with Tammy on some sort of girls weekend/vacation. We will also have to make some decisions about Lucas's schooling and if Nathan will go to preschool this year. But hopefully there will be a calm and happiness about the year. Just enjoying the kids at the ages they are taking it all in.
What about you any resolutions for the year?
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Monday, April 12, 2010
Love and Marriage
I mistakenly thought today was the wedding anniversary of two people I really admire. While thinking about them today I had this great post in my head about what a good representation of marriage should be, then I found out nope I had missed their anniversary it was 2 weeks ago. That's why this is not a post on the importance of remembering people's special dates, but on a marriage I look up to.
Some people seem to go through really big obstacles. Sometimes it's when you are young, or a teenager and sometimes it's when you are older. I think the time it would be the most challenging is when you are first married. It's a time when you are trying to blend your two lives and your two families. I remember it being a really fun time for Darryl and I, but also hard to learn each others quirks and getting over the things that drove each other crazy. But when you are faced with some of life's biggest challenges and when your dreams are taken away from you. I think it would be easy to walk away. But neither of them did. They stuck with it.
So in chatting with this couple about marriage here is what they think the key is:
We've always said that although everyone thinks love is the most important thing in a marriage, we disagree. We think you have to really LIKE each other, enjoy each others company immensely and be great friends FIRST...then if you also love each other, you'll probably stand the test of time.
There is an idea out there that marriage is always love and happy and roses. But as everyone in a marriage knows that is not the case. There are hard times. And most of us have average hard times. Darryl and I get upset over expectations or how our time is spent or seeing differently on an issue. But when it's life and death I can imagine it would be overwhelming. Of course sometimes there are times when it is better to leave, like if there is abuse. But usually most of the time I think people find something more appealing they are not getting from their own marriage and rather then putting the time into what they have they put it into what they think they can have.
So yeah, I think these people are admirable and I try to emulate them in my own marriage. Rather then focusing on the negative they put the time and the positive attitude into their own marriage. I think sometimes the hard choice can be to stay and I respect it when people do, through sickness and health.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Some people seem to go through really big obstacles. Sometimes it's when you are young, or a teenager and sometimes it's when you are older. I think the time it would be the most challenging is when you are first married. It's a time when you are trying to blend your two lives and your two families. I remember it being a really fun time for Darryl and I, but also hard to learn each others quirks and getting over the things that drove each other crazy. But when you are faced with some of life's biggest challenges and when your dreams are taken away from you. I think it would be easy to walk away. But neither of them did. They stuck with it.
So in chatting with this couple about marriage here is what they think the key is:
We've always said that although everyone thinks love is the most important thing in a marriage, we disagree. We think you have to really LIKE each other, enjoy each others company immensely and be great friends FIRST...then if you also love each other, you'll probably stand the test of time.
There is an idea out there that marriage is always love and happy and roses. But as everyone in a marriage knows that is not the case. There are hard times. And most of us have average hard times. Darryl and I get upset over expectations or how our time is spent or seeing differently on an issue. But when it's life and death I can imagine it would be overwhelming. Of course sometimes there are times when it is better to leave, like if there is abuse. But usually most of the time I think people find something more appealing they are not getting from their own marriage and rather then putting the time into what they have they put it into what they think they can have.
So yeah, I think these people are admirable and I try to emulate them in my own marriage. Rather then focusing on the negative they put the time and the positive attitude into their own marriage. I think sometimes the hard choice can be to stay and I respect it when people do, through sickness and health.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Damn It for Forgetting the Camera!!
Tonight Darryl and I went out for our 8 year wedding anniversary. It was delicious. I do love good food, although rarely will I ever spend 200$ on a meal (and wine) for both of us. I'm fine with the Keg or Olive Garden most of the time. But we had a gift certificate, so we splurged on an expensive meal. The lamb was melt in my mouth, the scallops were cooked to perfection, the wine was so smooth, like I said it was delicious. Unfortunately I forgot my camera, because I love to take pictures of food.
And as we were walking back to the car 3 deer ran across the pathway in front of us. Probably about 3 meters away. It was so cool they were so close. Again damn for forgetting the camera.
We went and pick up the kids from our best friends who were taking car of them and drove home. On the ride home I could only think about how lucky I was. I have an AMAZING life. Married to a wonderful, good looking, kind man. Have two happy, healthy, funny and sweet kids. Work part time, have some balance, have a beautiful home. Great friends and great family. I am so lucky. I live a wonderful, blessed life.
I hope you are all having a great weekend.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
And as we were walking back to the car 3 deer ran across the pathway in front of us. Probably about 3 meters away. It was so cool they were so close. Again damn for forgetting the camera.
We went and pick up the kids from our best friends who were taking car of them and drove home. On the ride home I could only think about how lucky I was. I have an AMAZING life. Married to a wonderful, good looking, kind man. Have two happy, healthy, funny and sweet kids. Work part time, have some balance, have a beautiful home. Great friends and great family. I am so lucky. I live a wonderful, blessed life.
I hope you are all having a great weekend.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Marriage Advice
At the wedding we went to this week we tried to find something meaningful to put in the card. We looked back at our marriage (of 8 years) and tired to come up with what makes our marriage work. We both have our roles that make the marriage work and the house tick. We both know that I can get mad and irrational about stuff and sometimes rather then talking it out I just need a night to sleep on it. So don't go to bed mad, is not good advice from us. I really like the idea that you always put the other person first, but I don't really do this. I try to and I often think of it. But sometimes, I am selfish.
What we gave as advice was to not keep score. I really try not to do this. I try not to do this in most aspects of life. As long as I don't feel taken advantage of, I don't mind doing extras for people. But I try to do things because I know it will make Darryl happy, not because he had done something for me.
What about you? What is your marriage advice?
Jenn
What we gave as advice was to not keep score. I really try not to do this. I try not to do this in most aspects of life. As long as I don't feel taken advantage of, I don't mind doing extras for people. But I try to do things because I know it will make Darryl happy, not because he had done something for me.
What about you? What is your marriage advice?
Jenn
Friday, January 16, 2009
First Day At Work
Today I went back to my hospital job for an orientation shift. It was great. I am the kind of mother that is a better mother when I go away for a bit and then come back. I think it was good for the boys as well. Nathan was such a happy guy when I got home and Lucas loved being with his grandma.
And although I did miss having the smiles all day, but what I really missed was the mornings. I love getting up when the boys get up, there is no rush. We move at our own pace. We watch some TV, we eat breakfast. Soon it will be rush, rush in the morning. I will cherish the mornings most in the last of the 2 1/2 months of my maternity leave.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
And although I did miss having the smiles all day, but what I really missed was the mornings. I love getting up when the boys get up, there is no rush. We move at our own pace. We watch some TV, we eat breakfast. Soon it will be rush, rush in the morning. I will cherish the mornings most in the last of the 2 1/2 months of my maternity leave.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Bathing Suit Shopping
So I'm sure the title makes every woman out there cringe. I needed a new bathing suit for the cruise. My bathing suits from the yearish don't fit. I am weaned Nathan so my chest has gone from a D to an A, with lots of work in between. Although the nursing caused the small, sagging chest it also caused weight loss. Anyway... on with the story.... bathing suit shopping...
Swimsuit shopping was quite good. I went to a bunch of places (old navy, gap, zellers, sears) but couldn't really find anything that tickled my fancy. So I decided to bite the bullet and go to swimco. I've been in there once but found the bathing suits so expensive! But it was my last option. So I went in and told the lady what I wanted (bikini) and what I was self conscious about. Small on top, large on bottom. She found a bunch of suits for me (most of which were on sale) and they fit well and did a good job of making me look great. So I got a cute top and a little skirt bottom. It was great.
I remember being so self conscious about my body when we went to Jamaica (and that was before I had even had kids-who knows what I was thinking) and then seeing all kinds of people topless or old wrinkly skinned walking around and it made me feel better about myself. No one really cares what you like in a bathing suit. I think the fact is that the person who thinks you look the worst is usually yourself.
Wear bikini's be proud, take strippercise, love your body.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Swimsuit shopping was quite good. I went to a bunch of places (old navy, gap, zellers, sears) but couldn't really find anything that tickled my fancy. So I decided to bite the bullet and go to swimco. I've been in there once but found the bathing suits so expensive! But it was my last option. So I went in and told the lady what I wanted (bikini) and what I was self conscious about. Small on top, large on bottom. She found a bunch of suits for me (most of which were on sale) and they fit well and did a good job of making me look great. So I got a cute top and a little skirt bottom. It was great.
I remember being so self conscious about my body when we went to Jamaica (and that was before I had even had kids-who knows what I was thinking) and then seeing all kinds of people topless or old wrinkly skinned walking around and it made me feel better about myself. No one really cares what you like in a bathing suit. I think the fact is that the person who thinks you look the worst is usually yourself.
Wear bikini's be proud, take strippercise, love your body.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Friends
In the first 6 months of Nathan's life I went out very rarely, as I'm sure most new moms do. You are on call 24 hours for food for the baby. But now that Nathan is getting a little older he can eat real food, sleep longer and is in a more regular schedule. So I've started up my social life again. It's great, nice to feel like a more well rounded person rather then heavy on the mom part.
So over the last week or so I have been out a bunch with different groups of friends. Tonight was some friends from my old neighborhood, last night I was out with some of my old work friends and earlier this week I was out with a new bunch of friends playing games. And although I am the same person I do act a little different based on who I am out with. Work Jenn is a little different then Home Jenn and Home Jenn is a little different then Mom Jenn. I've been working for the longest and thinking I'm quite good at my job, so I am the most relaxed when I have my work hat on. Home Jenn is a bit more reserved. I've known those people for a while, but I'm not as good at being a "homemaker" as I am an x-ray technologist. Lastly is my newest group people I've met is from being a mother, this is my newest thing, although I like to think I'm pretty good at it (certainly better then keeping a clean house). It is interesting to see myself in these different situations with different groups of friends, sometimes I'm loud and overbearing and sometimes I'm more reserved and a listener. As I grow and mature I am learning to be more reserved and listener, because I am usually loud and overbearing. Balance, both in life and my personality.
On a sad note, Malti, the elephant passed away yesterday. I shed some tears, she brought lots of joy to me, Lucas and lots of others.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
So over the last week or so I have been out a bunch with different groups of friends. Tonight was some friends from my old neighborhood, last night I was out with some of my old work friends and earlier this week I was out with a new bunch of friends playing games. And although I am the same person I do act a little different based on who I am out with. Work Jenn is a little different then Home Jenn and Home Jenn is a little different then Mom Jenn. I've been working for the longest and thinking I'm quite good at my job, so I am the most relaxed when I have my work hat on. Home Jenn is a bit more reserved. I've known those people for a while, but I'm not as good at being a "homemaker" as I am an x-ray technologist. Lastly is my newest group people I've met is from being a mother, this is my newest thing, although I like to think I'm pretty good at it (certainly better then keeping a clean house). It is interesting to see myself in these different situations with different groups of friends, sometimes I'm loud and overbearing and sometimes I'm more reserved and a listener. As I grow and mature I am learning to be more reserved and listener, because I am usually loud and overbearing. Balance, both in life and my personality.
On a sad note, Malti, the elephant passed away yesterday. I shed some tears, she brought lots of joy to me, Lucas and lots of others.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Monday, March 10, 2008
Appriciation
Tonight I was watching Lucas fall asleep and I felt and overwhelming sense of happiness. I don't know if it's lack of sleep from the daylight savings time or being at the end of the pregnancy but I was so happy. I had to fight with Lucas to have a little "me" time while he fell asleep. I would go up and check him and he would tell me I love you too, and rub my arm, when I'd leave he'd cry and want mommy. The last time I went up he was just drifting into sleep and I sat up their and watched him sleep. While watching him I couldn't help feel that I am living the best time of my life. Your heart is so full of the love you have for your kids. Of all the things I have experienced in my short life, nothing has made me as happy. You feel such pride when they can read letters on the ketchup bottle or they sing songs with you. I'm so looking forward to doing that all again with our new one. I worked this weekend and was talking to all the single ladies about traveling, which I love to do and was feeling a little envious of the travels they have planned. But watching my angel sleep made me realized to not wish my life away and know that I am living the best time of my life.
Cheers to the best times of my life.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Cheers to the best times of my life.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Things to Accomplish in 2008
My only real resolution for the year to to try to be on time more. Which may be a losing battle, with a baby coming. But my tardiness in this past year has gotten bad, so I'd like to try to plan better so I am not as late.
There are other things I would like to accomplish as well. In 2008 I would like to make it through the newborn stage again. I don't expect it to be better then the last time or worse, I just hope to make it through.
I hope to put up a fence and sod in the back yard. Possibly even some play equipment for Lucas. Along with that I would like to decorate both the babies room and Lucas's room. Give them some sort of theme
I would like to go on a winter vacation. I'm thinking an all inclusive. Baby will be atleast 6 months old. Playing in the sand with Lucas. Swimming in the pool. Something for all of us to look forward too.
I'm hoping to be as good of a mom to the new one as I am to Lucas, although I'm worried about it, but that's all for another post.
I hope to flourish during my year off, somehow figuring out a schedule and fun things for me to do with my little munchkins.
I hope to reinstate date night with Darryl, especially after there are two children. I think it will be so easy to get caught up in being a mom, I need to remember that one of the best examples to set for my children is to have a good marriage.
Learn 3 new songs on the guitar.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
There are other things I would like to accomplish as well. In 2008 I would like to make it through the newborn stage again. I don't expect it to be better then the last time or worse, I just hope to make it through.
I hope to put up a fence and sod in the back yard. Possibly even some play equipment for Lucas. Along with that I would like to decorate both the babies room and Lucas's room. Give them some sort of theme
I would like to go on a winter vacation. I'm thinking an all inclusive. Baby will be atleast 6 months old. Playing in the sand with Lucas. Swimming in the pool. Something for all of us to look forward too.
I'm hoping to be as good of a mom to the new one as I am to Lucas, although I'm worried about it, but that's all for another post.
I hope to flourish during my year off, somehow figuring out a schedule and fun things for me to do with my little munchkins.
I hope to reinstate date night with Darryl, especially after there are two children. I think it will be so easy to get caught up in being a mom, I need to remember that one of the best examples to set for my children is to have a good marriage.
Learn 3 new songs on the guitar.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Reflection on 2007
Over the past week I have browsed through the blog for the past year to reflect on what 2007 held for us.
Generally it was a good year. Although I am the eternal optimist. Some of the major highlights were watching Lucas grow. It's amazing how in a year he has gone from saying single words that you can barely understand to full sentences that he is able to tell us how he is feeling. I have really enjoyed this year with my boy, and I'm sure I'll enjoy most years, but this age is particularly fun.
Another big thing that happened to our lives this year was getting pregnant. Honestly it took longer then I expected. With Lucas it was quick, this one took a couple of months of trying. Although I'm not complaining as I know many people who have tried for many times. The important thing is it did work for us, and in 3 more months there will be a new person in our lives.
The year did go by with it challenges, the house of course being the big one. I will be happy to not move for a very long time. In the end it all turned out okay, which I guess it always would have, everyone was healthy. But it was very hard on our marriage and I don't know how good of a mother I was during that time. Like I said we all made it through, there were tears, but we made it through and everything worked out.
Personally the other really challenging this for me was work. One of the people who I started the x-ray program with resigned, I got in trouble a fair number of times, have had to deal with a very challenging class. I am so grateful to live in Canada and have a year off coming up. Yeah for maternity leave.
Of course highlights as I read through the blog always include the vacations we took. There is a tie for first place. The vacation Darryl and I took to New York City was amazing, good food, great company, seeing so many new places. It was great. But also the family trip we took to Victoria was amazing. It was great to get away as a family, Victoria was a blast and it was fun to travel with Lucas and see new things through his eyes as well. No offense to Ontario or Kelowna. I also really enjoyed both of those vacations. Summer was great time to vacation.
One of the biggest surprises of the year is the relationship that Darryl, Lucas and I have developed with his sister and her family. We stayed with them when we went in Ontario and it was great to get to know them better. Ever since then we talk to them every couple of days through g-mail. Even if it's just hello, how are you. It wasn't something I was expecting this year, but it has been a great addition to our lives.
Like I said all in all it's been a good year. Ups and downs, just like most years and life should be...
Tomorrow, some hopes and resolutions for the new year.
Jenn
Generally it was a good year. Although I am the eternal optimist. Some of the major highlights were watching Lucas grow. It's amazing how in a year he has gone from saying single words that you can barely understand to full sentences that he is able to tell us how he is feeling. I have really enjoyed this year with my boy, and I'm sure I'll enjoy most years, but this age is particularly fun.
Another big thing that happened to our lives this year was getting pregnant. Honestly it took longer then I expected. With Lucas it was quick, this one took a couple of months of trying. Although I'm not complaining as I know many people who have tried for many times. The important thing is it did work for us, and in 3 more months there will be a new person in our lives.
The year did go by with it challenges, the house of course being the big one. I will be happy to not move for a very long time. In the end it all turned out okay, which I guess it always would have, everyone was healthy. But it was very hard on our marriage and I don't know how good of a mother I was during that time. Like I said we all made it through, there were tears, but we made it through and everything worked out.
Personally the other really challenging this for me was work. One of the people who I started the x-ray program with resigned, I got in trouble a fair number of times, have had to deal with a very challenging class. I am so grateful to live in Canada and have a year off coming up. Yeah for maternity leave.
Of course highlights as I read through the blog always include the vacations we took. There is a tie for first place. The vacation Darryl and I took to New York City was amazing, good food, great company, seeing so many new places. It was great. But also the family trip we took to Victoria was amazing. It was great to get away as a family, Victoria was a blast and it was fun to travel with Lucas and see new things through his eyes as well. No offense to Ontario or Kelowna. I also really enjoyed both of those vacations. Summer was great time to vacation.
One of the biggest surprises of the year is the relationship that Darryl, Lucas and I have developed with his sister and her family. We stayed with them when we went in Ontario and it was great to get to know them better. Ever since then we talk to them every couple of days through g-mail. Even if it's just hello, how are you. It wasn't something I was expecting this year, but it has been a great addition to our lives.
Like I said all in all it's been a good year. Ups and downs, just like most years and life should be...
Tomorrow, some hopes and resolutions for the new year.
Jenn
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
The Snow is Melting
Yes literally the snow is melting, it snowed here last night and the snow outside is melting. With the help of Lucas and Emma playing in it.
But also figuratively. I made a new CD for the car last week and on it I put Landslide by the Dixie Chicks. One of the lines in that song is "Can I handle the seasons of my life" The past summer/fall has been very hard for my little family. The stress of the house, thinking about having to borrow money from my parents, was very hard for me. We were in a big pickle and I am the type of person that wants to get myself out of it and not depend on anyone else. Which I know can be a downfall, but just the way I am. Even though it was warm outside it was the winter of the year for me.
I guess the thing about life is that if there are not hard times. Times that make you cry and frustrated. Then the good times don't seem as good. Today has been great. It's probably just a plain old day, but with Lucas cold on the weekend and the stress we had been feeling this fall, it makes it seem so great. We snuggled in bed this morning, had pancakes for breakfast, played outside in the snow, tickled and made Lucas laugh. Then we headed out to Walmart and bought a 24 piece puzzle and Lucas loved it. We must have done it 5 times before nap time. Then when I said it was nap time, there were no objections or crying. Now I'm drinking tea and having an excellent chocolate bar.
I know the battle is not over with the house, there is still lots to do. But with a happy, healthy kid things seem manageable. Plus compared to trying to sell a house atleast I have control over all that needs to be done.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
But also figuratively. I made a new CD for the car last week and on it I put Landslide by the Dixie Chicks. One of the lines in that song is "Can I handle the seasons of my life" The past summer/fall has been very hard for my little family. The stress of the house, thinking about having to borrow money from my parents, was very hard for me. We were in a big pickle and I am the type of person that wants to get myself out of it and not depend on anyone else. Which I know can be a downfall, but just the way I am. Even though it was warm outside it was the winter of the year for me.
I guess the thing about life is that if there are not hard times. Times that make you cry and frustrated. Then the good times don't seem as good. Today has been great. It's probably just a plain old day, but with Lucas cold on the weekend and the stress we had been feeling this fall, it makes it seem so great. We snuggled in bed this morning, had pancakes for breakfast, played outside in the snow, tickled and made Lucas laugh. Then we headed out to Walmart and bought a 24 piece puzzle and Lucas loved it. We must have done it 5 times before nap time. Then when I said it was nap time, there were no objections or crying. Now I'm drinking tea and having an excellent chocolate bar.
I know the battle is not over with the house, there is still lots to do. But with a happy, healthy kid things seem manageable. Plus compared to trying to sell a house atleast I have control over all that needs to be done.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Perks
I'm sure I've mentioned it on this blog before, but generally there are not alot of "perks" to working in healthcare. It's not like there are extravagant Christmas parties or summer picnics that are all payed for. No freebies, or free flights, really other then being able to have a barium enema the next day if one was ordered there are no real "perks".
Although sometimes when I am working, I can come up with a few. Today was one of them becuase we get free CPR training, but I'll get into that in more detail later. On a day to day basis I have a pretty good idea of how sick you need to be to go into a hospital. I hope to never spend some unnecessary time waiting in an emergency room. I know that if you can walk on your ankle it's probably not broken. Or if you have time to shave your knee, its probably a torn ligament and not a break. I also know that if your abdomen ever feels big and hard as a rock you probably have an obstruction. But if you haven't gone poo for 5 days and you have a tummy ache that you should probably take a laxative, not sit in emergency for 6 hours waiting to see a doctor, who will order and x-ray to prove yes, in fact that lack of pooping is a problem. I also know that for chest pain always go into see a doctor, especially if you are having trouble breathing. Experience has taught me a lot about emergencies.
As I said one of the other perks is free training on how to save people's lives. Sometimes I'm amazed that the hospitals pay for it because I've never had to give some chest compressions at the hospital. If they stop breathing I call a code and a bunch of experienced people come out of the walls (at least that's what it feels like they get there so fast) and take over. But they spend half a day with us each year reviewing CPR for an adult, child and infant. I consider this a perk because if I ever need to do full blown CPR it won't be in the hospital but on one of the my parents or grandparents. And we don't give people food or anything they could choke on in the hospital but I know exactly what to do if Lucas chokes on his lunch tomorrow. I do recommend everyone take an oppurtunity at least once in your life (if not once a year) to take a CPR course. Although I may not get free flights at least I'll get to take my dad on a flight if I ever need to save his life. I know that sounds mellow dramatic and I know that only 1% of the time does CPR "save" a persons life, but it does although there brain to continue to get O2 while paramedics come. As an optimist, I consider CPR training to be a real perk.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Although sometimes when I am working, I can come up with a few. Today was one of them becuase we get free CPR training, but I'll get into that in more detail later. On a day to day basis I have a pretty good idea of how sick you need to be to go into a hospital. I hope to never spend some unnecessary time waiting in an emergency room. I know that if you can walk on your ankle it's probably not broken. Or if you have time to shave your knee, its probably a torn ligament and not a break. I also know that if your abdomen ever feels big and hard as a rock you probably have an obstruction. But if you haven't gone poo for 5 days and you have a tummy ache that you should probably take a laxative, not sit in emergency for 6 hours waiting to see a doctor, who will order and x-ray to prove yes, in fact that lack of pooping is a problem. I also know that for chest pain always go into see a doctor, especially if you are having trouble breathing. Experience has taught me a lot about emergencies.
As I said one of the other perks is free training on how to save people's lives. Sometimes I'm amazed that the hospitals pay for it because I've never had to give some chest compressions at the hospital. If they stop breathing I call a code and a bunch of experienced people come out of the walls (at least that's what it feels like they get there so fast) and take over. But they spend half a day with us each year reviewing CPR for an adult, child and infant. I consider this a perk because if I ever need to do full blown CPR it won't be in the hospital but on one of the my parents or grandparents. And we don't give people food or anything they could choke on in the hospital but I know exactly what to do if Lucas chokes on his lunch tomorrow. I do recommend everyone take an oppurtunity at least once in your life (if not once a year) to take a CPR course. Although I may not get free flights at least I'll get to take my dad on a flight if I ever need to save his life. I know that sounds mellow dramatic and I know that only 1% of the time does CPR "save" a persons life, but it does although there brain to continue to get O2 while paramedics come. As an optimist, I consider CPR training to be a real perk.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Monday, August 13, 2007
Rain=Slump
So I have been spending lots of time in bed lately. It has been raining here for the past week and something about the rain makes me want to stay in bed. The grey clouds and lack of sun are not good for my cheery attitude. Lucas had been sleeping in, so I was enjoying lazy mornings too. I was treasuring the last few days of our summer vacation and maybe subconsciously Lucas was too. Even in the evenings rather then being on the couch I would head up to bed. It may also be this problem that is wearing on me. All the sudden house cleaning, trying to find a place to spend an hour. It may also be that I had to go back to work today after having 6 weeks off. Which I know I shouldn't complain about, but it was still not fun.
Retiring to bed early. Hopefully tomorrow the sun will shine.
Jenn
Retiring to bed early. Hopefully tomorrow the sun will shine.
Jenn
Monday, July 09, 2007
9 and 10
I don't know why I am so crazy about Lucas having a relationship with Darryl's family but it is very important to me. It's one of the main reasons I started this blog and one of the reasons we videoconference with the family once a week, is my need for Lucas to have a relationship with Darryl's family.
Going to Ontario this week was a great opportunity for Lucas to get to know his family and he totally did. Even today driving home in the car Lucas wants to go to the pool. Uncle Ian too, Lori too. Sweet that even though he hasn't seen them in a day he still wants to include them. It was great because Lori would come in and hang out with Lucas while he was tubbing and Kenzie was always showering him with kiss and hugs. Ian taught him all about John Deere and that "Nothing Runs Like a Deer". They recognized that they only had a week to spend with him. I think they enjoyed having a two year old around again.
The other interesting thing about going back to Ontario is the feeling that you are in the Twilight Zone. Things are familiar, but not really. I saw movie stores or gardening stores, that I remember going to, but don't necessarily remember when or why. Also everything seems a little bit smaller, even the roads seemed more narrow. We went back to the beach were I spent lots of summers as a kid. It seemed all grown up now. There's a bar on the beach and a big fence where the "public" can't walk. I guess the important things stayed the same. My favorite restaurant and family. Driving around roads seem familiar but not like I know them. A weird feeling.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Going to Ontario this week was a great opportunity for Lucas to get to know his family and he totally did. Even today driving home in the car Lucas wants to go to the pool. Uncle Ian too, Lori too. Sweet that even though he hasn't seen them in a day he still wants to include them. It was great because Lori would come in and hang out with Lucas while he was tubbing and Kenzie was always showering him with kiss and hugs. Ian taught him all about John Deere and that "Nothing Runs Like a Deer". They recognized that they only had a week to spend with him. I think they enjoyed having a two year old around again.
The other interesting thing about going back to Ontario is the feeling that you are in the Twilight Zone. Things are familiar, but not really. I saw movie stores or gardening stores, that I remember going to, but don't necessarily remember when or why. Also everything seems a little bit smaller, even the roads seemed more narrow. We went back to the beach were I spent lots of summers as a kid. It seemed all grown up now. There's a bar on the beach and a big fence where the "public" can't walk. I guess the important things stayed the same. My favorite restaurant and family. Driving around roads seem familiar but not like I know them. A weird feeling.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Investment Dude
69%
A cool quiz for all you other bloggers.
So tonight we had an investment "dude" come over and present us with some ideas for how to "catch up" with our investing. Darryl and I are in our late 20's and don't have very much invested. Less then 10,000. We need to start doing it again, so when investment dude called a bit ago, we decided to get together and look into it. I call him investment dude, because he's a young guy, pretty fresh out of school, with a girlfriend and a car with a big spoiler on the back. Not a shopping cart, but a noticeable spoiler. He is very nice and very knowledgeable, but still a dude. He gave us some "plane reading" for our plane ride this weekend with our toddler. He obviously doesn't have a toddler. He presented us with some very interesting ideas. It's amazing how much information is out there on how to get tax savings that common people don't really know about. For example, if you borrow money to invest there are tax savings on the interest. You can borrow enough money to decrease us into the next tax bracket, and save us more money. I guess that's why people have investment "dudes". They keep up to date on that kind of stuff. What about you guys, do you have an investment person, or do you keep up to date on it yourself, or do you not invest at all? Also is it crazy to increase our mortgage to invest money. Of course investment dude made it look like it made total sense, it just seems unnatural....., but on paper it makes total sense......
Hope you are enjoying your week
Jenn
Mingle2 - Online Dating
A cool quiz for all you other bloggers.
So tonight we had an investment "dude" come over and present us with some ideas for how to "catch up" with our investing. Darryl and I are in our late 20's and don't have very much invested. Less then 10,000. We need to start doing it again, so when investment dude called a bit ago, we decided to get together and look into it. I call him investment dude, because he's a young guy, pretty fresh out of school, with a girlfriend and a car with a big spoiler on the back. Not a shopping cart, but a noticeable spoiler. He is very nice and very knowledgeable, but still a dude. He gave us some "plane reading" for our plane ride this weekend with our toddler. He obviously doesn't have a toddler. He presented us with some very interesting ideas. It's amazing how much information is out there on how to get tax savings that common people don't really know about. For example, if you borrow money to invest there are tax savings on the interest. You can borrow enough money to decrease us into the next tax bracket, and save us more money. I guess that's why people have investment "dudes". They keep up to date on that kind of stuff. What about you guys, do you have an investment person, or do you keep up to date on it yourself, or do you not invest at all? Also is it crazy to increase our mortgage to invest money. Of course investment dude made it look like it made total sense, it just seems unnatural....., but on paper it makes total sense......
Hope you are enjoying your week
Jenn
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Life List
So last year I heard Ellen using the term "life list" basically it's a premise lots of people use but to have a list of things you'd like to do before you die. Over the last week a couple of things have triggered my thinking about this idea. Here are a couple of things on my list:
1. Own a convertible. Lesley from Life at the Becks was talking about getting a convertible. That is something that is definitly on my list of things I'd like to do in my life.
2. Travel to China: That is a country I've always wanted to go to. I think the culture there is amazing.
3. Play a Barenaked Ladies song on the guitar. A couple of years ago Darryl bought me a guitar for my birtday. I have put it aside since having Lucas, but is something I want to get back to. Especially now with the Bathroom Sessions.
4. See a Broadway Show. I love musical and would love to go and see a great musical in New York City
5. Read famous books: Last night I bought the book: To Kill A Mockingbird, becaseu I've never read it.
6. Complete a triathalon: This is kind of a lofty goal for me, but I love swimming and biking, so if I could get on board with the running. I may just be able to do it. Lucas and I were watching someone swimming laps today and it inspired me.
7. Life in another country: Another one that may be unlikely, but I have lots of years to life, so you never know. For the moment I'm thinking France or Italy. But anywhere would be fun.
8. Serve food to the hungry: I want to take my family and serve food in a soup kitchen one day a month for years.
9. Eat sushi in Japan. Maybe I could combine this with number 7 and number 10.
10. Do something good in another country. Whether it be giving books and toys to kids in Africa or building a school in Mexico, or teaching english in Japan.
11. Raise well rounded children. This is obviously the most important one, and the least about me. But I would like to do lots of these things with my kids, especially the traveling.
12. Take my mother, father, sister, Darryl and children to Paris and Rome. This is going to be hard one because this is not something they are interested in, but my parents have introduced me to so many great things, I would like to introduce them to something great.
13. Have these jobs: airplane stewardess (although I know that's not the proper term), work as a waitress, deliver flowers, work at a wine shop.
Are any of these on your life list? Do you have a life list? Have you done any of these and was it great?
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
1. Own a convertible. Lesley from Life at the Becks was talking about getting a convertible. That is something that is definitly on my list of things I'd like to do in my life.
2. Travel to China: That is a country I've always wanted to go to. I think the culture there is amazing.
3. Play a Barenaked Ladies song on the guitar. A couple of years ago Darryl bought me a guitar for my birtday. I have put it aside since having Lucas, but is something I want to get back to. Especially now with the Bathroom Sessions.
4. See a Broadway Show. I love musical and would love to go and see a great musical in New York City
5. Read famous books: Last night I bought the book: To Kill A Mockingbird, becaseu I've never read it.
6. Complete a triathalon: This is kind of a lofty goal for me, but I love swimming and biking, so if I could get on board with the running. I may just be able to do it. Lucas and I were watching someone swimming laps today and it inspired me.
7. Life in another country: Another one that may be unlikely, but I have lots of years to life, so you never know. For the moment I'm thinking France or Italy. But anywhere would be fun.
8. Serve food to the hungry: I want to take my family and serve food in a soup kitchen one day a month for years.
9. Eat sushi in Japan. Maybe I could combine this with number 7 and number 10.
10. Do something good in another country. Whether it be giving books and toys to kids in Africa or building a school in Mexico, or teaching english in Japan.
11. Raise well rounded children. This is obviously the most important one, and the least about me. But I would like to do lots of these things with my kids, especially the traveling.
12. Take my mother, father, sister, Darryl and children to Paris and Rome. This is going to be hard one because this is not something they are interested in, but my parents have introduced me to so many great things, I would like to introduce them to something great.
13. Have these jobs: airplane stewardess (although I know that's not the proper term), work as a waitress, deliver flowers, work at a wine shop.
Are any of these on your life list? Do you have a life list? Have you done any of these and was it great?
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Monday, April 02, 2007
Having Kids
Darryl has been a very happy camper over the last week. Our house has been a revolving door of his friends from Ontario. When I say that it sounds like I'm annoyed, but really I'm not. I love having people stay at our house. But those details are a whole other post. It's interesting because both of these friends were not very interested in getting married or having kids, when we were all teenagers and early twenties. That seemed fairly normal to me as most teenage boys are not interested in babies. I think as you get older and your life changes many people decide to get married and have children.
One of the friends who stayed with us broke up with his long time girlfriend (5 year long relationship) and met a new girl. Within a short period of time they are engaged and they are he is excited about the propect of having children. The second friend of Darryl's has been in a relationship for a couple of years and no plans to marry or have children. So my questioning and line of thought goes to this..... are some people just not meant to have children or have they just not met the person they want to have children with? Or is it both?
I have a couple of girlfriends who this has happened to. When we were in highschool they were not interested in kids. Never knew if they would have them but once they were in relationships with their current husbands they knew they wanted to have children with this person. In my life it seems like a fairly common thing.
I always knew I wanted to have children. I wouldn't have married or dated someone for any length of time if they were totally against having children. As I re-read this post I don't mean to sound judgemental, I'm just wondering what others opionins are on the topic. What about you Dad, before you met me, did you want to have children? Lori what about Ian, did he always want children?
Anyway something to ponder on a Monday (or Tuesday or another day, depending on when you read it.)
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
One of the friends who stayed with us broke up with his long time girlfriend (5 year long relationship) and met a new girl. Within a short period of time they are engaged and they are he is excited about the propect of having children. The second friend of Darryl's has been in a relationship for a couple of years and no plans to marry or have children. So my questioning and line of thought goes to this..... are some people just not meant to have children or have they just not met the person they want to have children with? Or is it both?
I have a couple of girlfriends who this has happened to. When we were in highschool they were not interested in kids. Never knew if they would have them but once they were in relationships with their current husbands they knew they wanted to have children with this person. In my life it seems like a fairly common thing.
I always knew I wanted to have children. I wouldn't have married or dated someone for any length of time if they were totally against having children. As I re-read this post I don't mean to sound judgemental, I'm just wondering what others opionins are on the topic. What about you Dad, before you met me, did you want to have children? Lori what about Ian, did he always want children?
Anyway something to ponder on a Monday (or Tuesday or another day, depending on when you read it.)
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Monday, March 26, 2007
There is a new phenomenon sweeping the internet world. It's called Facebook It's an online listing of people. You add people as your friends and then you can view information about them or write on their wall. It's interesting because you can see picture of people you went to highschool with or find relatives that you haven't seen in a long time. It started as a university thing, but has really expanded. I heard Darryl say about 10,000 new people join every day. Here is the wiki article on it. Alexis showed it to me about a month ago and now Darryl has joined.
I am kind of so so on it, most of the people who I want to stay friends with I do, but it is interesting because I wonder where and what many of the people I knew have been up to. Darryl is quite fond of it and has added lots of people to his friends list. One of the people he has added to his list is someone he could have married. I'm not bothered by this, so Darryl don't feel like you should un-friend her, it has just consumed a lot of my thoughts this weekend about what your life may have been like if you had dated her rather then me.
Darryl and I started dating when I was in highschool and he was in college. When we first starting dating I remember thinking what a social life he had. He would go out and play pool when I was going to bed. I had a friends in highschool, but only really spent time with a select few of them outside of school. Darryl on the other hand had a whole group of friends from working at McDonalds. Darryl had also dated a few other people before me, whereas I didn't date anyone else (really I was only 15). Darryl was friends with this girl from McDonalds who was very nice. She kind of reminded me of me and if circumstances were different we may have been good friends. Darryl was never engaged to this person or even dated her, but if I wasn't in the picture he totally could have. This weekend I thought alot about what Darryl's life would have been like if he was with her and not me..... Really his family would have much preferred it, this girl still lives in our home town, she did not move across the country. (which I still have guilt about) And if Darryl didn't have a serious relationship with me he would probably still be in our hometown. I was the traveller , not him. It's weird because I don't have a person like this, a person who I could have married. And I do believe there are lots of people any one person could be compatible with and be married to their whole lives. Anyway it is weird to think about how your life could be so different if you had stood firm on something or taken a different bus one day.
I have babbled on long enough and should go to bed. But I am glad to get these thoughts down on paper rather then in my head, swirling around. We had a great weekend and I hope you did too.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
I am kind of so so on it, most of the people who I want to stay friends with I do, but it is interesting because I wonder where and what many of the people I knew have been up to. Darryl is quite fond of it and has added lots of people to his friends list. One of the people he has added to his list is someone he could have married. I'm not bothered by this, so Darryl don't feel like you should un-friend her, it has just consumed a lot of my thoughts this weekend about what your life may have been like if you had dated her rather then me.
Darryl and I started dating when I was in highschool and he was in college. When we first starting dating I remember thinking what a social life he had. He would go out and play pool when I was going to bed. I had a friends in highschool, but only really spent time with a select few of them outside of school. Darryl on the other hand had a whole group of friends from working at McDonalds. Darryl had also dated a few other people before me, whereas I didn't date anyone else (really I was only 15). Darryl was friends with this girl from McDonalds who was very nice. She kind of reminded me of me and if circumstances were different we may have been good friends. Darryl was never engaged to this person or even dated her, but if I wasn't in the picture he totally could have. This weekend I thought alot about what Darryl's life would have been like if he was with her and not me..... Really his family would have much preferred it, this girl still lives in our home town, she did not move across the country. (which I still have guilt about) And if Darryl didn't have a serious relationship with me he would probably still be in our hometown. I was the traveller , not him. It's weird because I don't have a person like this, a person who I could have married. And I do believe there are lots of people any one person could be compatible with and be married to their whole lives. Anyway it is weird to think about how your life could be so different if you had stood firm on something or taken a different bus one day.
I have babbled on long enough and should go to bed. But I am glad to get these thoughts down on paper rather then in my head, swirling around. We had a great weekend and I hope you did too.
Till Tomorrow
Jenn
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)