Rodney and I wish you all a very merry Christmas! What is a merry Christmas anyways? I think I would wish that inspite of the busyness of preparations and events, the stresses and emotion that often accompany family life, and the possibility that you may even be dealing with loss or loneliness this Christmas, that you can take a few moments and give thanks for what you have, make the effort to really look around you and drink in the beauty that is there (in the countryside as you're driving or in the faces of those around you), and savour good food and hopefully a few good laughs.
More... Sing. Light candles. Watch the snow fall. Lay on the couch and get mesmerized by the Christmas lights. Read a good book. Listen to music. Party. Watch a classic Christmas show. Make soup. Eat chocolate. Hold a warm drink in your hands and let it soothe you. Take a little extra care with one or two presents and make them a work of art. Use a little extra colour or glimmer as you set your table.
For me, I also hope to take a little time to reflect on the experience of Mary, on the wonder of that night, on the unusual ordinary-ness of a King born among animals and adored by sheep herders, and on the love that brought this story to life.
Maybe merry isn't the best word. Perhaps "wonder-filled" is better. The one conjures up red and green, deck the halls, ho ho ho, and let your heart be light (things I still enjoy). The other brings to my mind starry nights, the intricacies of nature, the faces of children, and a depth of feeling in both joy and sorrow. You can choose. May love, joy, peace, and hope fill your heart this Christmas.
The Brauns
Saturday
Monday
Things to be Happy About
- Chocolate Fondues -
We had our first-ever chocolate fondue in the Braun household during half-time. Lots of fun! (Sorry, honey...I'm sure your shots were much better).
Thursday
The Last Two Weeks
I can't believe two weeks has gone by since I last posted. It seems this juggler-mother isn't keeping all the balls up in the air.
Motherhood really has become this extraordinary juggling act, hasn't it? It's always been a multi-tasking job. Before technology, much of it was related to the necessities of life: obtaining food, preparing food, cleaning the home, washing the clothes, taking care of children and so on. Now, there's so many widely-diverse tasks that tug at our time: working outside the home, working at home, working on the home, taking care of children, taking children to daycare, driving here and there, and there's still community and church involvement, social commitments, travelling for work, and the multiple things within each category.
I was talking to Michelle from Tiber River about the many hats we each wear, and how many times we find ourselves changing gears (or hats). It's certainly challenging. My sister-in-law is currently facing the transition I think many mothers dread (and some welcome it): going back to work after maternity leave. There's nine months of anticipation and everything else that comes with pregnancy. Then, there's a period of intense adjustment and sleep loss within the first year of a myriad of changes as you get to know this new person in your life. And then, if you choose to go back to work or need to go back to work, you now are faced with the emotional adjustment of leaving your child with someone else, perhaps some new challenges with feeding and sleep, and the added responsibility of work on top of the existing home/mothering roles.
No wonder we're finding ourselves exhausted and irritable. But we, as mothers and women, often don't tend to look outward and try to change our circumstances (maybe because we feel trapped) and we don't even tend to look inward at our bodies' lack of resources to function. We just tend to blame ourselves for not measuring up. Tell me, when you're depressed and low on energy or easily-angered over every little thing, do you first look at it as a sign of change needed or do you assign guilt to yourself? Although I am learning (and it becomes easier when post-partum eases a bit), my first reaction is usually to get down on myself.
The other Saturday gave me a bit of hope for myself. I woke up after a not-so-great-night and everything felt hard, my chaotic house rangled my nerves, I was short with my kids, and I felt hopeless and alone in my situation. After an hour or so of just feeling crappy, I went upstairs to my bedroom to get some solitude and ended up ranting (and sobbing) to my husband. And then retreated to my closet to write. I expressed my feelings and frustrations and listed what I felt pressured to do and what I really wanted to do that day. Meanwhile, hubby and kids worked on cleaning the livingroom unbeknownst to me. I came down and went for a run with toddler in stroller because I physically still couldn't shake the stress inside me, we picked up some pizza from our local corner store, and finally things inwardly and outwardly felt a little better. This gave me hope because I could see the signs and make some changes rather than just beating myself up. And that's not a natural inclination for me.
Anyways, wherever you're at these days, I wish you peace. Peace in the midst of chaos. And when that peace is hard to find, may you discover new ways to find it again.
Motherhood really has become this extraordinary juggling act, hasn't it? It's always been a multi-tasking job. Before technology, much of it was related to the necessities of life: obtaining food, preparing food, cleaning the home, washing the clothes, taking care of children and so on. Now, there's so many widely-diverse tasks that tug at our time: working outside the home, working at home, working on the home, taking care of children, taking children to daycare, driving here and there, and there's still community and church involvement, social commitments, travelling for work, and the multiple things within each category.
I was talking to Michelle from Tiber River about the many hats we each wear, and how many times we find ourselves changing gears (or hats). It's certainly challenging. My sister-in-law is currently facing the transition I think many mothers dread (and some welcome it): going back to work after maternity leave. There's nine months of anticipation and everything else that comes with pregnancy. Then, there's a period of intense adjustment and sleep loss within the first year of a myriad of changes as you get to know this new person in your life. And then, if you choose to go back to work or need to go back to work, you now are faced with the emotional adjustment of leaving your child with someone else, perhaps some new challenges with feeding and sleep, and the added responsibility of work on top of the existing home/mothering roles.
No wonder we're finding ourselves exhausted and irritable. But we, as mothers and women, often don't tend to look outward and try to change our circumstances (maybe because we feel trapped) and we don't even tend to look inward at our bodies' lack of resources to function. We just tend to blame ourselves for not measuring up. Tell me, when you're depressed and low on energy or easily-angered over every little thing, do you first look at it as a sign of change needed or do you assign guilt to yourself? Although I am learning (and it becomes easier when post-partum eases a bit), my first reaction is usually to get down on myself.
The other Saturday gave me a bit of hope for myself. I woke up after a not-so-great-night and everything felt hard, my chaotic house rangled my nerves, I was short with my kids, and I felt hopeless and alone in my situation. After an hour or so of just feeling crappy, I went upstairs to my bedroom to get some solitude and ended up ranting (and sobbing) to my husband. And then retreated to my closet to write. I expressed my feelings and frustrations and listed what I felt pressured to do and what I really wanted to do that day. Meanwhile, hubby and kids worked on cleaning the livingroom unbeknownst to me. I came down and went for a run with toddler in stroller because I physically still couldn't shake the stress inside me, we picked up some pizza from our local corner store, and finally things inwardly and outwardly felt a little better. This gave me hope because I could see the signs and make some changes rather than just beating myself up. And that's not a natural inclination for me.
Anyways, wherever you're at these days, I wish you peace. Peace in the midst of chaos. And when that peace is hard to find, may you discover new ways to find it again.
Taking the Time
This week has felt like a blur of activity. I've been feeling a little bit like the trembling leaves outside in the biting wind. Today has been a bit of a slow-down day. Make some soup. Sit in bed reading Chatelaine while the kids play around me. Actually sit and play with my daughter and her new doll-house. Look out the window as the raindrops slide down. Make some art while I'm at it.
Life feels full and good one day, and overwhelming and chaotic the next. I think my soul was telling me to just slow down and rest a while.
Enjoy.
Life feels full and good one day, and overwhelming and chaotic the next. I think my soul was telling me to just slow down and rest a while.
Enjoy.
Family/Kids' Week November 3-7
I don't know if anyone is reading this yet (let me know if you are!!), but as part of our month-long celebration of Rodney's "Photographer of the Year", we are giving 50% off family and kids' sessions the first week of November (not including Saturday). So, in-studio sessions are $100 and on-location are $150.
I have a feeling I'm not giving enough notice for this, and for that I am sorry. We may be able to extend it into the following week. Please call if you're interested, but can't make it in the first week.
It's a good time to create a family photo to send out for Christmas, or kids' portraits for Grandma & Grandpa. We have lots of fun places in the studio to use...even a bed, a trampoline, a swing, and a bright red claw-foot tub (complete with bubble bath!)
Don't miss out! Call Rodney today at 221-8413 and find a time that works for you.
I have a feeling I'm not giving enough notice for this, and for that I am sorry. We may be able to extend it into the following week. Please call if you're interested, but can't make it in the first week.
It's a good time to create a family photo to send out for Christmas, or kids' portraits for Grandma & Grandpa. We have lots of fun places in the studio to use...even a bed, a trampoline, a swing, and a bright red claw-foot tub (complete with bubble bath!)
Don't miss out! Call Rodney today at 221-8413 and find a time that works for you.
Monday
Craziness
This morning was rough. My youngest (almost two) woke up at 6:40 just screaming, for reasons unknown. He continued to be difficult through breakfast, getting my oldest ready for school, and during my bath (with moments of manageability). It was so draining and stressful. I was ready to give up.
I managed to get in 20 minutes of exercise...a bit of a challenge with a toddler sometimes on my belly, but I felt much more ready to cope. I took three minutes to sit and just be and then I was ready to carry on with my day: able to make an important decision, able to take a little "me time" at the piano, and then early lunch and early to bed for my little guy. Aaahhhh....
We all have these days, don't we? What have you done to cope?
I managed to get in 20 minutes of exercise...a bit of a challenge with a toddler sometimes on my belly, but I felt much more ready to cope. I took three minutes to sit and just be and then I was ready to carry on with my day: able to make an important decision, able to take a little "me time" at the piano, and then early lunch and early to bed for my little guy. Aaahhhh....
We all have these days, don't we? What have you done to cope?
Love 'em!
Well, we decided to take our own advice and updated our kids' photos. Wasn't long, and wasn't even painful! Aren't they great?!
Friday
Family
Sorry, this photo is a little on the small side. I'm not the technical one in the family. I just wanted to put in a little plug for family portraits today. It's true that it always takes effort and there may even be a little resistance to the idea, but the end result is always worth it. This is my side of the family, taken this summer in my home town where, incidentally, my whole family lives except for me. It took some work making it happen (right from the clothing purchases to just getting everyone there), but it is very special to be able to see everyone together. My youngest is big into pointing to everyone and asking their names. It's quite cute.
If you've been toying with the idea of getting a family portrait done, but just haven't quite gotten around to it, I'd say, "Go for it". Make a plan. Come in for a consultation. Book a time. There may be a few more nice days left. If not, the studio has lots of neat spaces to do family work. The best time to get it done in time for Christmas greeting cards is by the end of this month, or for sure by November 7th, with orders being placed no later than the 14th. But, the sooner the better.
A good family portrait is so valuable. It can capture the heartbeat of your family, conjure up heartwarming feelings, and contribute to happy memories (I hope that doesn't sound corny). Particularly when your kids are changing so quickly, it's special to see "the way you were" at the different stages and freeze-frame your interactions with each other. Then you can flip through your album later or glance up at the wall and be reminded of the most important people in your life. Give Rodney a call at 221-8413 this week. He's at a convention this week-end, but will be in on Tuesday.
Tuesday
Babies Need Books
First of all, I must apologize for the lack of blogging lately. Has it been a month already?!! That's September for you, once you have someone in school. We've really kicked it up a notch in our business, too. But there's no excuses! I know that if I'm really serious about creating a blog that's worth coming to, I need to be more regular. I'm also hoping to make it a little less bland in appearance. If you have any feedback as to what would make this more interesting to you, please leave a comment or email me.
I've been reading a book from the library called "Babies Need Books" by Dorothy Butler. I'm finding it to be an excellent resource. Although the cover would suggest an outdatedness, the information inside is timeless. Basically, the author talks a little about why books are important for children from early on (if you haven't started yet, don't worry though!) and then she basically goes year by year talking about the different developmental stages and all the best books that are suitable for that stage.
What I love about this book is that I can take one of my kids' ages, look at her list, search for them at the library, and request them. This has a couple of benefits: I can just pick them up when they're in (either by myself or as part of a trip to the library with the kids), we get great books guaranteed, and we get access to books that aren't actually at our library.
I tried some from her 3-4 Book List. We discovered a new favorite author: Shirley Hughes. She's British, so there's some new vocabulary, but she has a fantastic understanding of children and ordinary family life. We enjoyed "Lucy and Tom's 123 and ABC", Alfie Wins a Prize, Annie Rose is my Little Sister, Ruby and the Parcel Bear, and Alfie's World among others. One of the funnest discoveries for my daughter and I was a collection of poems for Children gathered by Jill Bennett, called "A Cup of Starshine". We now have five or six poems we can say from memory together. Here's the craziest one:
No Harm Done
As I went out
the other day
My head fell off
and rolled away.
But when I noticed
it was gone,
I picked it up
and put it on.
Here's another one:
The Elephant
The elephant goes
Like this and that
He's terribly big
And terribly fat.
He has no fingers
He has no toes
But goodness gracious
What a nose!
I think my daughter will be an actress someday!
Some other books that I recommend: "Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak...a classic that seems just perfect for little boys. While I'm talking about boys, mine have loved Byron Barton books as toddlers and now as early readers. Our favorites are "Machines at Work" and "My Car". The pictures are bold and bright and there is one or two phrases per page...perfect for short attention spans. We have read them over and over. He also retells the Three Bears (and Goldilocks), has a book on being an astronaut, and a cute story about the "Wee Little Woman".
By the way, when you're searching for books, it seems to work best to search by author and sort by Title. If you've never requested books or used the website before, Winnipeg Library can be found here. Go to the first menu called "Find Books & More" and choose "Search Catalogue". Once you've found a book you want, you can "Add to my List" (which you can access later at the top of the page) or you can request it right away. When requesting, make sure you change the library to your branch so that you don't have to go the Millenium Library to pick it up (unless that's your favorite one). You'll need your library card to make any requests.
Happy reading! And if you or your baby just aren't ready to get into reading together, don't worry about it. My third took a lot longer than my others, but he's now hooked, too! If you're the one having trouble wrapping your mind around a visit to the library, maybe requests by computer will be your new favorite way. The only thing to keep in mind is that you will get a couple of phone calls likely, telling you when the books have arrived. You have one week to pick them up or you get charged $1.15 per book. Other than that, it really can simplify life. And that's always a good thing.
I've been reading a book from the library called "Babies Need Books" by Dorothy Butler. I'm finding it to be an excellent resource. Although the cover would suggest an outdatedness, the information inside is timeless. Basically, the author talks a little about why books are important for children from early on (if you haven't started yet, don't worry though!) and then she basically goes year by year talking about the different developmental stages and all the best books that are suitable for that stage.
What I love about this book is that I can take one of my kids' ages, look at her list, search for them at the library, and request them. This has a couple of benefits: I can just pick them up when they're in (either by myself or as part of a trip to the library with the kids), we get great books guaranteed, and we get access to books that aren't actually at our library.
I tried some from her 3-4 Book List. We discovered a new favorite author: Shirley Hughes. She's British, so there's some new vocabulary, but she has a fantastic understanding of children and ordinary family life. We enjoyed "Lucy and Tom's 123 and ABC", Alfie Wins a Prize, Annie Rose is my Little Sister, Ruby and the Parcel Bear, and Alfie's World among others. One of the funnest discoveries for my daughter and I was a collection of poems for Children gathered by Jill Bennett, called "A Cup of Starshine". We now have five or six poems we can say from memory together. Here's the craziest one:
No Harm Done
As I went out
the other day
My head fell off
and rolled away.
But when I noticed
it was gone,
I picked it up
and put it on.
Here's another one:
The Elephant
The elephant goes
Like this and that
He's terribly big
And terribly fat.
He has no fingers
He has no toes
But goodness gracious
What a nose!
I think my daughter will be an actress someday!
Some other books that I recommend: "Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak...a classic that seems just perfect for little boys. While I'm talking about boys, mine have loved Byron Barton books as toddlers and now as early readers. Our favorites are "Machines at Work" and "My Car". The pictures are bold and bright and there is one or two phrases per page...perfect for short attention spans. We have read them over and over. He also retells the Three Bears (and Goldilocks), has a book on being an astronaut, and a cute story about the "Wee Little Woman".
By the way, when you're searching for books, it seems to work best to search by author and sort by Title. If you've never requested books or used the website before, Winnipeg Library can be found here. Go to the first menu called "Find Books & More" and choose "Search Catalogue". Once you've found a book you want, you can "Add to my List" (which you can access later at the top of the page) or you can request it right away. When requesting, make sure you change the library to your branch so that you don't have to go the Millenium Library to pick it up (unless that's your favorite one). You'll need your library card to make any requests.
Happy reading! And if you or your baby just aren't ready to get into reading together, don't worry about it. My third took a lot longer than my others, but he's now hooked, too! If you're the one having trouble wrapping your mind around a visit to the library, maybe requests by computer will be your new favorite way. The only thing to keep in mind is that you will get a couple of phone calls likely, telling you when the books have arrived. You have one week to pick them up or you get charged $1.15 per book. Other than that, it really can simplify life. And that's always a good thing.
Off to School!
Tomorrow is my eldest son's first day of grade one. We went to visit his teacher today and she asked (along with his old kindergarten teacher) how I was feeling about it. The truth was, I haven't even thought of that yet. The biggest thing on my mind was how we were going to give him enough time to keep our relationship strong in just the after-school and week-end hours. I haven't even contemplated missing him! I guess the two others at home and our business will keep me more than busy...but still I wonder how I'll feel in two weeks.
It was six years ago when I was in the throes of early motherhood for the very first time. And our first gave us quite an initiation. This boy was like a bright light that never quite completely turned off. Sleep deprivation was normal for a veerrrrrryyyy long time. Actually, we're just starting to come out of it...I think. He wouldn't accept anything but us for his soothing (and to be honest that's the way we wanted it...most of the time). He's still very good at getting what he needs...and if tonight was any indication, he still doesn't like to shut off easily. But he's a keen student and a bright kid. We love him and will look forward to his return at 3:12 every afternoon.
I'm contemplating starting to bake my own cookies now that I have a child in school full-time. Something about fresh-baked cookies after school that just makes you feel loved. Well, we'll see how often that happens, but it's worth a try, right? It would give me something to do with my little girl when her little brother is sleeping (and I'm not catching up on sleep or working on the computer!)
Happy mothering! The years fly by too quickly.
P.S. If you want to find one way to commemorate that special bond with your kids and support a mompreneurial business, I encourage you to read the Free Press article in today's paper on Enamoured Heart owner, Lori Bettig. She actually came in for a newborn session with her youngest, when we were still a home-based business.
It was six years ago when I was in the throes of early motherhood for the very first time. And our first gave us quite an initiation. This boy was like a bright light that never quite completely turned off. Sleep deprivation was normal for a veerrrrrryyyy long time. Actually, we're just starting to come out of it...I think. He wouldn't accept anything but us for his soothing (and to be honest that's the way we wanted it...most of the time). He's still very good at getting what he needs...and if tonight was any indication, he still doesn't like to shut off easily. But he's a keen student and a bright kid. We love him and will look forward to his return at 3:12 every afternoon.
I'm contemplating starting to bake my own cookies now that I have a child in school full-time. Something about fresh-baked cookies after school that just makes you feel loved. Well, we'll see how often that happens, but it's worth a try, right? It would give me something to do with my little girl when her little brother is sleeping (and I'm not catching up on sleep or working on the computer!)
Happy mothering! The years fly by too quickly.
P.S. If you want to find one way to commemorate that special bond with your kids and support a mompreneurial business, I encourage you to read the Free Press article in today's paper on Enamoured Heart owner, Lori Bettig. She actually came in for a newborn session with her youngest, when we were still a home-based business.
Thursday
Thankful
We are extremely thankful to God in the Braun household today. As Rod was headed down Main Street on his way to a meeting this morning, a man accidentally ran a red light at Logan and broad-sided our van on the passenger side with such force that the van was tipped onto its side. Many thoughts raced through Rod's mind as he was skidding along down Main, face inches from the pavement with his window open.
Construction workers came to rescue him immediately. An off-duty police officer quickly assessed the situation and told Rod he was concerned about fluid leaks and getting him out as soon as possible. A bunch of guys got the van back on its wheels and Rod was able to get out. Miraculously, he has the mildest of skin abrasions on his cheek and chin (not even really visible) and a tiny cut on his forehead (from a shard of glass I assume). There were some glass shards in his shoe. Of course, his left shoulder and hip are getting increasingly sore and stiff. But it could easily have been so much worse. The car following him ended up somehow in between both vehicles with minor scratches. Also a miracle. The driver of the other car is also "okay". Rod had a chance to talk to him...a very nice guy who just happened to miss the light change as he was adjusting his sun visor. Traffic was blocked off for a four-block radius for about an hour.
So many phone calls today already. We will be replacing three car seats (as a precaution) and looking for a new vehicle. Rod just went to pick up a rental and will be heading to the chiropractor after that. Lots of decisions and uncertainties ahead, but we are so grateful that Rod's life was preserved and that no major injuries were sustained. The accident will probably be in the news...lots of cameras and reporters. I don't even know if I want to see the aftermath.
Life is precious. It is good to be reminded of the fragility of life. Each day we have with those we love is a gift. So enjoy today. Give your babies and your honey a hug. And be thankful. I sure am.
Construction workers came to rescue him immediately. An off-duty police officer quickly assessed the situation and told Rod he was concerned about fluid leaks and getting him out as soon as possible. A bunch of guys got the van back on its wheels and Rod was able to get out. Miraculously, he has the mildest of skin abrasions on his cheek and chin (not even really visible) and a tiny cut on his forehead (from a shard of glass I assume). There were some glass shards in his shoe. Of course, his left shoulder and hip are getting increasingly sore and stiff. But it could easily have been so much worse. The car following him ended up somehow in between both vehicles with minor scratches. Also a miracle. The driver of the other car is also "okay". Rod had a chance to talk to him...a very nice guy who just happened to miss the light change as he was adjusting his sun visor. Traffic was blocked off for a four-block radius for about an hour.
So many phone calls today already. We will be replacing three car seats (as a precaution) and looking for a new vehicle. Rod just went to pick up a rental and will be heading to the chiropractor after that. Lots of decisions and uncertainties ahead, but we are so grateful that Rod's life was preserved and that no major injuries were sustained. The accident will probably be in the news...lots of cameras and reporters. I don't even know if I want to see the aftermath.
Life is precious. It is good to be reminded of the fragility of life. Each day we have with those we love is a gift. So enjoy today. Give your babies and your honey a hug. And be thankful. I sure am.
Wednesday
Amazing family
I recently had the pleasure of photographing a client who is an acquaintance and his new family. Colin was such a proud daddy and looking at his beautiful wife and amazingly good looking child no wonder he was proud. I don't know that I can ever really express how much of an honour it is to be a part of photographing a child for the very first photoshoot of his/her life, and this session was no different.
Thank you Colin & Jeannette for involving me in your special occasion.
Friday
Grocery Shopping Turned Disaster
It's good to laugh at what could otherwise make us cry. Here is the story of my shopping trip with my youngest today.
Oh my goodness! Grocery shopping over the lunch hour turned into disaster today. Thankfully, I only had J2 with me. Even so, I had my hands full.
It started out with me getting distracted by school supplies and other such sundries. I kicked it up a notch when I remembered that I had a lot of groceries to pick up and another stop after that.
J2 did really well for the most part at Superstore. We had the chips, the canned goods, the cereal, the cookies (in hand and mouth, of course), the milk, the fruits and veggies, and then it started to get interesting.
J2 started standing up in the bulk section. I would temporarily acquiesce him with a hug and some extra attention and ply him to sit down again. After the bread, we backtracked for pizza and chicken. (Oops, never did pick up the bacon!) The standing up was becoming more frequent.
Finally we were at the check-out (not without dropping my list and retracing some steps first), and for the second time in two weeks, had a delightful soul take an interest in J2 and even give me a hand with a couple things. The drinking box had just come out and this early 40's mom discussed the flavor of the juice with J2 and the benefits of using the straw, and then congratulated him on getting the straw back in the hole. She even offered to put the out-of-reach chicken onto the conveyor after I pulled the cart too far in to get at it.
I was throwing things on the counter, checking on J2, trying to start bagging and boxing things, coming back to pay, trying to keep him from pressing the buttons, realizing I'd forgotten to ask for a subtotal after the bar, and having to re-swipe my card and enter my pin and keep little man out of the interac machine yet again in order to pay for the household and kids' items.
By this time it was 1:00. Neither of us had eaten lunch and it was already nap-time. We drove to IGA. The van was sauna-like.
I knew there was no way I could persuade J2 to sit in a cart again--he wouldn't even be carried into the store--so I did the unthinkable. I took a tired, hungry 19-month-old boy into a grocery store and let him run.
At first, he was enamoured with his very own basket. But that didn't last long when tantalizing plums and pears were within reach. There's a real problem when produce shopping with a toddler who is not contained. You need two hands for picking and bagging and you can't hold your baskets much less your escapee's hand. I managed to pick up five pears before we moved on.
Waiting at the deli seemed absurdly impossible at the time, so off we went in search of other meat. "Hmm, what's the price on this roast...come back here big guy...sirloin tip...why not....ah, J--, oh, it's bloody on the bottom---what the hey--we gotta go! This way, J--, over to the farmer sausage. Okay. Ah--wait for me!"
Back to the deli and produce. By this time, he's really getting out-of-sorts: sitting down, throwing himself down and oops, his pants are down! I had already tried to hike up his shorts and super-saturated diaper several time as he was developing severe plumber's butt. But in the chase to the deli, his bottoms had worked themselves to his ankles. I checked to see whether anyone had noticed. No one seemed to be smirking, so I breathed a sigh of relief, undid the diaper and tried to fasten it more securely.
Then I tried to explain how much shaved corned beef I needed to an 18-year-old male while I intermittently chased and scooped up my little protester. I managed to pick up a bag of apples after that--how, I don't know. Then, it was a basket in each hand working as little tugboats trying to steer an unwieldy ship to harbour--the cashier.
Oh, oh...total meltdown. His shrieks had already garnered the disturbed gazes of several, but here was a little 75-year-old woman giving us the evil eye. I grab him off the floor, pull a burnt almond dark chocolate number off the shelf and rip off the wrapper in desperation, all the while explaining he's tired and hungry and hoping I don't look like I make a habit of bribing my children with sugary treats.
The wrapper is off and we split it 50/50. I need this chocolate every bit as much as he does. We each take a big bite and visibly relax as the smooth sweetness soothes and satisfies. We walk down to the express lane, me clutching my purchases and he tightly holding his wrapper in one hand and the melting chocolate in the other. I think mine is already devoured at this point.
I panic momentarily when I see no one at the checkout. Then, I let out a sigh of relief as one of my favorite cashiers, a forty-something Aboriginal woman takes her place at the till. She recounts an equally harrying story of her daughter and grand-daughter going shopping recently. Ah, someone who understands! There is a moment of concern as J2 resists handing over the wrapper to be scanned, but he complies and is quickly given it back.
Groceries are bagged. Card is swiped. J2 takes off for one more mad dash. I find him half-way down one the aisles and snatch up the gleeful little chocolate monster. Thankfully, IGA isn't very busy and no one is breathing down my neck for holding up the line.
Back to the hot van and off to pick up the other two from the studio. As I strap my little charge in, I try to figure out how to minimize the mess. I end up with some of his chocolate in my mouth, bemoan the fact that the other kids are going to feel ripped off with no chocolate for them, and grab a Kleenex to wipe off the thickest chocolate from his little hands.
As I drive off the parking lot, I marvel at what I have just survived and brace myself for the next challenge: unloading, making a late lunch for over-hungry kids, and making it through the afternoon with no naps. I remind myself that I'll have an extra-long evening to myself, and somehow I make it through.
Oh my goodness! Grocery shopping over the lunch hour turned into disaster today. Thankfully, I only had J2 with me. Even so, I had my hands full.
It started out with me getting distracted by school supplies and other such sundries. I kicked it up a notch when I remembered that I had a lot of groceries to pick up and another stop after that.
J2 did really well for the most part at Superstore. We had the chips, the canned goods, the cereal, the cookies (in hand and mouth, of course), the milk, the fruits and veggies, and then it started to get interesting.
J2 started standing up in the bulk section. I would temporarily acquiesce him with a hug and some extra attention and ply him to sit down again. After the bread, we backtracked for pizza and chicken. (Oops, never did pick up the bacon!) The standing up was becoming more frequent.
Finally we were at the check-out (not without dropping my list and retracing some steps first), and for the second time in two weeks, had a delightful soul take an interest in J2 and even give me a hand with a couple things. The drinking box had just come out and this early 40's mom discussed the flavor of the juice with J2 and the benefits of using the straw, and then congratulated him on getting the straw back in the hole. She even offered to put the out-of-reach chicken onto the conveyor after I pulled the cart too far in to get at it.
I was throwing things on the counter, checking on J2, trying to start bagging and boxing things, coming back to pay, trying to keep him from pressing the buttons, realizing I'd forgotten to ask for a subtotal after the bar, and having to re-swipe my card and enter my pin and keep little man out of the interac machine yet again in order to pay for the household and kids' items.
By this time it was 1:00. Neither of us had eaten lunch and it was already nap-time. We drove to IGA. The van was sauna-like.
I knew there was no way I could persuade J2 to sit in a cart again--he wouldn't even be carried into the store--so I did the unthinkable. I took a tired, hungry 19-month-old boy into a grocery store and let him run.
At first, he was enamoured with his very own basket. But that didn't last long when tantalizing plums and pears were within reach. There's a real problem when produce shopping with a toddler who is not contained. You need two hands for picking and bagging and you can't hold your baskets much less your escapee's hand. I managed to pick up five pears before we moved on.
Waiting at the deli seemed absurdly impossible at the time, so off we went in search of other meat. "Hmm, what's the price on this roast...come back here big guy...sirloin tip...why not....ah, J--, oh, it's bloody on the bottom---what the hey--we gotta go! This way, J--, over to the farmer sausage. Okay. Ah--wait for me!"
Back to the deli and produce. By this time, he's really getting out-of-sorts: sitting down, throwing himself down and oops, his pants are down! I had already tried to hike up his shorts and super-saturated diaper several time as he was developing severe plumber's butt. But in the chase to the deli, his bottoms had worked themselves to his ankles. I checked to see whether anyone had noticed. No one seemed to be smirking, so I breathed a sigh of relief, undid the diaper and tried to fasten it more securely.
Then I tried to explain how much shaved corned beef I needed to an 18-year-old male while I intermittently chased and scooped up my little protester. I managed to pick up a bag of apples after that--how, I don't know. Then, it was a basket in each hand working as little tugboats trying to steer an unwieldy ship to harbour--the cashier.
Oh, oh...total meltdown. His shrieks had already garnered the disturbed gazes of several, but here was a little 75-year-old woman giving us the evil eye. I grab him off the floor, pull a burnt almond dark chocolate number off the shelf and rip off the wrapper in desperation, all the while explaining he's tired and hungry and hoping I don't look like I make a habit of bribing my children with sugary treats.
The wrapper is off and we split it 50/50. I need this chocolate every bit as much as he does. We each take a big bite and visibly relax as the smooth sweetness soothes and satisfies. We walk down to the express lane, me clutching my purchases and he tightly holding his wrapper in one hand and the melting chocolate in the other. I think mine is already devoured at this point.
I panic momentarily when I see no one at the checkout. Then, I let out a sigh of relief as one of my favorite cashiers, a forty-something Aboriginal woman takes her place at the till. She recounts an equally harrying story of her daughter and grand-daughter going shopping recently. Ah, someone who understands! There is a moment of concern as J2 resists handing over the wrapper to be scanned, but he complies and is quickly given it back.
Groceries are bagged. Card is swiped. J2 takes off for one more mad dash. I find him half-way down one the aisles and snatch up the gleeful little chocolate monster. Thankfully, IGA isn't very busy and no one is breathing down my neck for holding up the line.
Back to the hot van and off to pick up the other two from the studio. As I strap my little charge in, I try to figure out how to minimize the mess. I end up with some of his chocolate in my mouth, bemoan the fact that the other kids are going to feel ripped off with no chocolate for them, and grab a Kleenex to wipe off the thickest chocolate from his little hands.
As I drive off the parking lot, I marvel at what I have just survived and brace myself for the next challenge: unloading, making a late lunch for over-hungry kids, and making it through the afternoon with no naps. I remind myself that I'll have an extra-long evening to myself, and somehow I make it through.
Monday
Another easy crockpot recipe...
Here's a recipe that calls forth images of summer:
Lemonade Chicken (from flylady.net if I remember right)
9 chicken thighs without skin (half of a club pack I think)
1 Tablespoon Balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup ketchup
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 can or so of frozen concentrate lemonade
Brown chicken in oil (you can dredge in flour and 1 tsp. salt if you like first). Put chicken in crockpot. Mix lemonade, brown sugar, vinegar (use regular vinegar if you prefer) and ketchup and pour over chicken. Cook on high for 3-4 hours (or low 6-8). When ready to serve, remove chicken to (warm) platter and thicken sauce with 2 Tbsp. cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (I skip this part), and serve along with chicken. This is EXCELLENT and quick and easy.
Serves 2 adults and three small children fairly well unless one adult has a larger appetite/does hard labour etc.
Notes:
I make it with brown rice and peas. You can make the rice any time during the day and reheat it for supper.
I've also used bone-in thighs. You can use any chicken pieces really. I used to only buy chicken breasts, but now that I know a few good recipes for thighs, I rarely buy them. Usually quite a bit cheaper.
Quick salad idea:
coleslaw from a bag (Dole colourful is one)
sliced apples (well, diced almost)
creamy poppyseed dressing
Rodney updated the EveBaby.ca site recently...check it out!
Lemonade Chicken (from flylady.net if I remember right)
9 chicken thighs without skin (half of a club pack I think)
1 Tablespoon Balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup ketchup
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 can or so of frozen concentrate lemonade
Brown chicken in oil (you can dredge in flour and 1 tsp. salt if you like first). Put chicken in crockpot. Mix lemonade, brown sugar, vinegar (use regular vinegar if you prefer) and ketchup and pour over chicken. Cook on high for 3-4 hours (or low 6-8). When ready to serve, remove chicken to (warm) platter and thicken sauce with 2 Tbsp. cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup water (I skip this part), and serve along with chicken. This is EXCELLENT and quick and easy.
Serves 2 adults and three small children fairly well unless one adult has a larger appetite/does hard labour etc.
Notes:
I make it with brown rice and peas. You can make the rice any time during the day and reheat it for supper.
I've also used bone-in thighs. You can use any chicken pieces really. I used to only buy chicken breasts, but now that I know a few good recipes for thighs, I rarely buy them. Usually quite a bit cheaper.
Quick salad idea:
coleslaw from a bag (Dole colourful is one)
sliced apples (well, diced almost)
creamy poppyseed dressing
Rodney updated the EveBaby.ca site recently...check it out!
Wednesday
Great Stain Remover
Just a quick post to say we're back in the province and to let you know of a stain remover especially made for the "biological" stains of babyhood. It's OxiClean Baby, in a clear blue spray bottle, available at Superstore and other places I'm sure. Fragrance free, dye free and chlorine free.
Saturday
Summertime
Summertime...and the livin' is easy. Ahhhh, that it were so. Actually, we're really looking forward to summer. Our firstborn is done school, we're taking off to Saskatchewan to visit family and do some family sessions in the great outdoors, and then we're planning lots of BBQ's, some beach days and some family outings as well as some work in the yard. And of course, we continue to build Eve Baby into a thriving studio where more and more women can celebrate the beauty and wonder of motherhood and new life with one of Manitoba's best (I can brag about my hubby, right?!!).
In other news, Rodney just spent a busy couple of days preparing for and teaching at the first ever Manitoba Photographic Artist's Exposition at the Forks. His two seminars (Glamour/Art Nude Photography and Child Portraiture) were some of the first to sell out. It's still going on...workshops, galleries and things. It also happens to be National Aboriginal Day with celebrations there and on Selkirk Avenue. We might try to take a little of that in if the kids wake up in time.
Enjoy your summer. Mosquitoes and sun aren't the easiest for life with little ones, but a walk mid-morning or late afternoon can be so life-giving. Plus there are lots of little sun/wind shelters you can get for the beach. Maybe you'll only be there for 1 1/2 hours instead of 3 or 4, but it's still nice to get out. We'll be back soon.
In other news, Rodney just spent a busy couple of days preparing for and teaching at the first ever Manitoba Photographic Artist's Exposition at the Forks. His two seminars (Glamour/Art Nude Photography and Child Portraiture) were some of the first to sell out. It's still going on...workshops, galleries and things. It also happens to be National Aboriginal Day with celebrations there and on Selkirk Avenue. We might try to take a little of that in if the kids wake up in time.
Enjoy your summer. Mosquitoes and sun aren't the easiest for life with little ones, but a walk mid-morning or late afternoon can be so life-giving. Plus there are lots of little sun/wind shelters you can get for the beach. Maybe you'll only be there for 1 1/2 hours instead of 3 or 4, but it's still nice to get out. We'll be back soon.
Tuesday
Tasty and Quick
Part of the challenges of having a baby is figuring out how to care for this oh-so-dependent-and-unpredictable one and still get meals on the table. For many new moms, this can be even more challenging coming from a full-time work background and all that entails for meal preparation (whether it be shared, very quick prep, later meals, take-out or pre-packaged). Going from that to being home all day and having a fussy baby close to supper time changes things drastically. At Eve Baby, we know the many facets of motherhood and seek to help moms in as many ways as possible (besides giving them the most beautiful memories we possibly can!)
Thus I bring you our first meal ideas: French Beef Dip and Easy Spinach Salad
French Beef Dip (Crockpot Recipe) from "Cooking Con Brio" (Sask Music Teachers' Assoc)
3 to 4 lb beef roast (I use Outside Round Roast just because it's a mid-range price)
1/2 cup soya sauce
1 bay leaf
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp rosemary
1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 cup of beef broth)
6 peppercorns
Place all ingredients in slow cooker. Add water to almost cover roast (for large crockpots this makes a lot of au jus!) Turn slow cooker on low for the day. Slice meat (or fork apart) and put onto buns. Serve with juice for dipping.
Easy Spinach Salad (courtesy of my sister after one of my babies was born)
Spinach from a bag
Mandarins from a can
Sliced almonds from a bag
Creamy poppyseed dressing.
Mix. Done. Yum!
Variations for toddlers: cut roast into fry-sized pieces for finger food (dip into ketchup if necessary), put butter on the bun, set aside some mandarins for them...
Thus I bring you our first meal ideas: French Beef Dip and Easy Spinach Salad
French Beef Dip (Crockpot Recipe) from "Cooking Con Brio" (Sask Music Teachers' Assoc)
3 to 4 lb beef roast (I use Outside Round Roast just because it's a mid-range price)
1/2 cup soya sauce
1 bay leaf
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp rosemary
1 beef bouillon cube (or 1 cup of beef broth)
6 peppercorns
Place all ingredients in slow cooker. Add water to almost cover roast (for large crockpots this makes a lot of au jus!) Turn slow cooker on low for the day. Slice meat (or fork apart) and put onto buns. Serve with juice for dipping.
Easy Spinach Salad (courtesy of my sister after one of my babies was born)
Spinach from a bag
Mandarins from a can
Sliced almonds from a bag
Creamy poppyseed dressing.
Mix. Done. Yum!
Variations for toddlers: cut roast into fry-sized pieces for finger food (dip into ketchup if necessary), put butter on the bun, set aside some mandarins for them...
Friday
Diaper Rash Tips
If you're looking for a simple way to prevent diaper rash and even treat it, use grapeseed oil (sometimes, not always in Superstore) in a little squeeze bottle and apply at every diaper change. It replaces the oils that are stripped away by wipes and protects the skin. Add a few drops of lavendar essential oil and the anti-inflammatory/anti-bacterial properties bring healing to even quite bad rashes. Tiber River Naturals is one place you can find essential oils (I'm quite sure they carry lavendar). Grapeseed oil could probably substituted by other oils, but I've never tried them. You could ask a massage therapist for ideas. Alternately, you could try Tiber River's Bottom's Up cream which can be used all over and contains calendula among other things.
Click on the wikipedia links to learn more properties of grapeseed oil, lavendar and calendula. They each have many uses!
Click on the wikipedia links to learn more properties of grapeseed oil, lavendar and calendula. They each have many uses!
Tuesday
Breastfeeding Help
Just wanted to do a quick post on help for early (or otherwise) breastfeeding challenges. If you are having trouble with breastfeeding (whether with supply, latch, pain, let-down, thrush, or whatever), the most important thing is to get help as soon as possible. Don't suffer without finding support. And remember that it is very common to have a few obstacles to overcome. It doesn't just happen...but most problems can be resolved with good help. And actually having a person come and see what you're experiencing and assist in finding a different position etc. is extremely helpful.
One place to call in Winnipeg is the 24-hour breastfeeding hotline: 787-1166. It is done through Women's Hospital. Lactation Consultants are available there from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Another resource is your public health nurse. They may not be breastfeeding experts per se, but they have some helpful handouts they can bring you. Doulas (BirthRoots Doulas is one) and La Leche League can also be good resources.
Here are two websites I found: http://lactinv.com/breastfeeding_qna.php?page=index and www.kellymom.com.
As well, if you're looking for cream for sore/cracked nipples, Tiber River Naturals has some (pure lanolin) for $7.95 at their store on Academy.
That's it for now. Again, if you have anything to add or if you'd like to become a regular contributor, please feel free to email (see top). We'd love to have you become an active part of our community!
One place to call in Winnipeg is the 24-hour breastfeeding hotline: 787-1166. It is done through Women's Hospital. Lactation Consultants are available there from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Another resource is your public health nurse. They may not be breastfeeding experts per se, but they have some helpful handouts they can bring you. Doulas (BirthRoots Doulas is one) and La Leche League can also be good resources.
Here are two websites I found: http://lactinv.com/breastfeeding_qna.php?page=index and www.kellymom.com.
As well, if you're looking for cream for sore/cracked nipples, Tiber River Naturals has some (pure lanolin) for $7.95 at their store on Academy.
That's it for now. Again, if you have anything to add or if you'd like to become a regular contributor, please feel free to email (see top). We'd love to have you become an active part of our community!
Bottoms up
Starting Thursday, our studio will be featuring a line of products for baby from Tiber River Naturals, called "Bottoms Up". If I'm not mistaken, there is a diaper cream, a baby lotion, and a hair/body wash. All very healing and natural.
So when you're in next, ask to see/sample them. They're one-of-a-kind.
So when you're in next, ask to see/sample them. They're one-of-a-kind.
Friday
Happy Mother's Day!
As mothers, we give give give. There is always another diaper to change, a meal to make, a child to comfort, schoolwork to help with (and the list goes on). The list changes somewhat as children grow up, but the list never goes away...
Rodney and I want to take a moment to say to all our clients who are mothers: "You're doing a very important job and we honour you for all you do every single day. Don't give up! And take a break today and soak in the attention. Happy Mother's Day!"
Rodney and I want to take a moment to say to all our clients who are mothers: "You're doing a very important job and we honour you for all you do every single day. Don't give up! And take a break today and soak in the attention. Happy Mother's Day!"
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