Hey folks - just managing to post a quick FYI here for those of you who haven't seen my note on Facebook: I am having teckie/computer issues and will be offline until we get it resolved. In the meantime, I hope you all have a fantastic weekend - Thomas Amusements is at Zellars on Stavanger this weekend (see earlier post with their complete schedule), and there is a YMCA Family event Sunday morning at the Ches Penny Y location (sorry, the calendar did not get updated today). The East Coast Trail hike is Saturday, and the Made Right Here Expo is this weekend as well - ask on my page if you need details, someone is sure to know. Also, Salmonier Nature Park opens tomorrow!
This is in addition to the programs at the Fluvarium and the St. John's Kid/Hava Java playdate. Lester's Farm and the St. John's Farmers Market are also now open for the season. Once I am back online, I'll update the calendar with these and other events, including details from Thre Rooms summer program, which just arrived in my inbox.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Trying to keep on top of everything.... and finding the FuN in it all!
2012-05-30
EcoParent (OR: What I Found Today!)
Today, in the doctor's office, I stumbled upon a new treasure: Eco-Parent magazine. What a wonderful, well written/edited, Canadian-made magazine!
The magazine's mission is to provide information that will allow parents "to make responsible, sustainable and {...} attainable lifestyle choices" for their families, and they succeed in doing it in the desired non-judgemental and inspirational way. Even from the little read I had in the office today, I believe they are headed for a future as an informative resource for the eco-conscious mom - or for any parent just looking for a fun, well written read :-). I am hungry for more and have already bookmarked their site ( http://www.ecoparent.ca ) and signed up for their newsletter!
In addition to great articles (i.e.: this issue had a nature theme with an article on the effect of nature on a child's development; others pertaining to family gardening, camping & hiking tips; and so much more - books, fashion, beauty, Q & A's...etc.), the magazine provides information on environmentally-friendly household and child/family- care products, PLUS some amazing recipes (I have to try the quinoa tabouli stat!). Now you get why I am so excited?!?!?!?!?!
The print magazine will publish 4 times a year - subscription information is available online and does provide a discount compared to single issue retail (website has a list of retailers as well). The plan for the year ahead looks just as amazing as the first issue: The Fall edition's theme will be "The Education Special' Winter: "Holiday Shopping"; Spring 2013's feature is "Home-Town Heroes" followed by "The Happiness Issue" next Summer!
And, the website also provides some great resources for the eco-conscious parent: forums, upcoming events, shopping guides.... I can't wait to browse it all ;-)
....OMG - All that said, I am exhausted just telling you about it ;-)
Visit them here and enjoy :-)
The magazine's mission is to provide information that will allow parents "to make responsible, sustainable and {...} attainable lifestyle choices" for their families, and they succeed in doing it in the desired non-judgemental and inspirational way. Even from the little read I had in the office today, I believe they are headed for a future as an informative resource for the eco-conscious mom - or for any parent just looking for a fun, well written read :-). I am hungry for more and have already bookmarked their site ( http://www.ecoparent.ca ) and signed up for their newsletter!
In addition to great articles (i.e.: this issue had a nature theme with an article on the effect of nature on a child's development; others pertaining to family gardening, camping & hiking tips; and so much more - books, fashion, beauty, Q & A's...etc.), the magazine provides information on environmentally-friendly household and child/family- care products, PLUS some amazing recipes (I have to try the quinoa tabouli stat!). Now you get why I am so excited?!?!?!?!?!
The print magazine will publish 4 times a year - subscription information is available online and does provide a discount compared to single issue retail (website has a list of retailers as well). The plan for the year ahead looks just as amazing as the first issue: The Fall edition's theme will be "The Education Special' Winter: "Holiday Shopping"; Spring 2013's feature is "Home-Town Heroes" followed by "The Happiness Issue" next Summer!
And, the website also provides some great resources for the eco-conscious parent: forums, upcoming events, shopping guides.... I can't wait to browse it all ;-)
....OMG - All that said, I am exhausted just telling you about it ;-)
Visit them here and enjoy :-)
 |
| source: http://www.ecoparent.ca |
2012-05-29
On T-shirts and Purses
Spring in Newfoundland... so fickle, hey? Back a few weeks ago, I actually had a sunburn; a few days ago the kids were begging me to set up the backyard pool; and a few hours ago I nearly froze to death on my walk! It snowed, People!
What to do on a day like today, then? There was no way I was gonna scrape the veranda & prep it for painting as I'd planned ;-) So instead, I had a nice warming cup of tea (lemon-ginger tea to be exact.... I usually have it on hand for nausea, but occasionally, on a cold, blustery day, it is akin to a cup of warm cocoa in its powers to warm the body & soul), and then I tackled the closet.
Oh damn, the closet. It was at the point where you couldn't see the floor, dust bunnies were threatening to come to life, and DH hadn't hung up his pants in weeks because he couldn't contemplate climbing over all the clutter to get to the rails. I can't say I blamed him....
Though, I did have to roll my eyes at him several times.... what is it with guys not throwing out ratty old t-shirts? DH had 47 in the closet alone!
Yes... 47. And, to boot, this does not include those in the wash or hamper or his dresser! WTF?!
Seriously, its not like a t-shirt is a purse or a pair of shoes ... a tee's function is pretty much limited to one use a washing ...whereas a bag or shoes could go with several outfits and set the tone, you know what I mean? And, even then, I don't think I have 47 bags & shoes combined.... not that I counted... 'cause what if I'm wrong and then I'd have to get down off my high horse ;-)
All that said though, it feels pretty good to have a sparkling clean closet. It feels brand-spankin'-new, even. Almost makes me want to tackle another spring cleaning decluttering project tomorrow....
What to do on a day like today, then? There was no way I was gonna scrape the veranda & prep it for painting as I'd planned ;-) So instead, I had a nice warming cup of tea (lemon-ginger tea to be exact.... I usually have it on hand for nausea, but occasionally, on a cold, blustery day, it is akin to a cup of warm cocoa in its powers to warm the body & soul), and then I tackled the closet.
Oh damn, the closet. It was at the point where you couldn't see the floor, dust bunnies were threatening to come to life, and DH hadn't hung up his pants in weeks because he couldn't contemplate climbing over all the clutter to get to the rails. I can't say I blamed him....
Though, I did have to roll my eyes at him several times.... what is it with guys not throwing out ratty old t-shirts? DH had 47 in the closet alone!
Yes... 47. And, to boot, this does not include those in the wash or hamper or his dresser! WTF?!
Seriously, its not like a t-shirt is a purse or a pair of shoes ... a tee's function is pretty much limited to one use a washing ...whereas a bag or shoes could go with several outfits and set the tone, you know what I mean? And, even then, I don't think I have 47 bags & shoes combined.... not that I counted... 'cause what if I'm wrong and then I'd have to get down off my high horse ;-)
All that said though, it feels pretty good to have a sparkling clean closet. It feels brand-spankin'-new, even. Almost makes me want to tackle another spring cleaning decluttering project tomorrow....
...almost.
.
2012-05-24
What To Do This Weekend - Visit the Botanical Garden
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| source: MUN Botanical Garden |
There are a couple of things I am looking forward to this weekend:
- I love the Family programs at Botanical Garden - this Sunday the theme is Signs of Spring (10AM-4PM). There will be variety of crafts, stories, activities, nature hikes and excursions to Oxen Pond to feed the ducks will be provided throughout the day. All children must be accompanied by an adult. General admission fees apply. Free for children 5 years and younger, MUN students and members of the Friends of the Garden.
- Also at the Botanical Garden this weekend: The Newfoundland Horticultural Society Spring Flower Show, Saturday (12-5 PM) and Sunday (10AM-4PM). Admission is free :-)
- Speaking of flowers, why not pop into Lester's Farm on Brookfield Road? See what they have in the works for your gardens, visit the barn to see if there are any babies....
- If you love animals, head to the NL Pet Expo at the Remax Centre, Saturday and Sunday, to celebrate your furry and feathered pets! Free for 5 and under.
- Don't forget the usual suspects: Kid's Program at The Fluvarium; St. John's Kid/Hava Java Playdate; Mount Pearl biweekly Handmade Craft Market; and the CLB Sunday Market :-)
Have a fun one!
2012-05-23
Baby & Child Gear for Travelers to Newfoundland
Every now and then, I'll get an email from someone planning to travel or move to our area and they will ask for local resources to meet their needs.
Today I received one such request. Jennifer in Alberta was looking for venues where she could get baby gear for a month long stay here on the Island.... Now, back in the day, I would have recommended Baby Gear to Share, however, they recently stopped accepting new orders in April. Therefore, I had to put a bit of thinking into this one ;-)
So, I have posted my suggestion to her below, in the event that it may be useful to others planning a visit here. I can not guarantee what services these resources can provide, but hey, its a start ;-)
And for my fellow Newfoundlanders, if you have any other ideas or suggestions, please feel free to comment to this post.... I'm sure the Folks From Away would be grateful ;-)
Today I received one such request. Jennifer in Alberta was looking for venues where she could get baby gear for a month long stay here on the Island.... Now, back in the day, I would have recommended Baby Gear to Share, however, they recently stopped accepting new orders in April. Therefore, I had to put a bit of thinking into this one ;-)
So, I have posted my suggestion to her below, in the event that it may be useful to others planning a visit here. I can not guarantee what services these resources can provide, but hey, its a start ;-)
- Bellies and Bundles - maternity/baby store -email is info@belliesandbundles.ca
- Family ChildCare Connections - FCC trains and licenses home based daycares and support mothers/childcare givers of children 0-6. They have a lending library for members & may be able to help - email is lynn@nfld.net.
- Frenchy's - second hand store - 709-579-7390
- Brighter Futures Coalition - email is emails@brighter-futures.net. Brighter futures runs a number of playgroups in the area and might have equipment or suggestions.
- Baby Friendly NL - primarily a breast feeding info/support group but may know of organisations/people that can help you: email is babyfriendlynl@gmail.com
- Big Brother/Sisters - email is info@helpingkids.ca
- Eastern Health Public Health Nurses - can provide information on regulations/guidelines, and may know of additional resources.
And for my fellow Newfoundlanders, if you have any other ideas or suggestions, please feel free to comment to this post.... I'm sure the Folks From Away would be grateful ;-)
2012-05-19
Thomas Amusements 2012 Schedule
You know summer is coming when...Thomas Amusements starts comin' around ;-)
From their website, ThomasAmusements.ca, the Thomas Amusements 2012 Schedule!!
The calendar will be updated with the St. John's area listings over the next few days :-)
From their website, ThomasAmusements.ca, the Thomas Amusements 2012 Schedule!!
2012 Calendar
| Town | Location | Start Date | Finish Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kelligrews | C.B.S Stadium | May 17 | May 21 |
| Bonavista | Cabot Stadium | May 24 | May 25 |
| Placentia | Unity Parc Arena | May 28 | May 29 |
| St. John's | Zellers Stavanger Dr | Jun 01 | Jun 03 |
| St. John's | Zellers Stavanger Dr | Jun 05 | Jun 10 |
| Goulds | Goulds Race Track | Jun 13 | Jun 17 |
| Marystown | Peninsula Mall | Jun 20 | Jun 24 |
| Paradise | Paradise Community Centre | Jun 27 | Jul 01 |
| Clarenville | Event Centre | Jul 04 | Jul 08 |
| Grand Falls | Old C.N. Property | Jul 11 | Jul 15 |
| St. John's | Zellers Stavanger DR. | Jul 18 | Jul 22 |
| Bay Roberts | Bay Arena | Jul 25 | Jul 29 |
| Gander | Community Centre | Aug 01 | Aug 06 |
| Corner Brook | Pepsi Centre | Aug 10 | Aug 12 |
| Corner Brook | Pepsi Centre | Aug 14 | Aug 19 |
| Stephenville | Kincourt | Aug 22 | Aug 26 |
| P.A.B | P.A.B High School | Aug 29 | Aug 31 |
| Deer Lake | Power Sports Field | Sep 04 | Sep 05 |
| Baie Verte | Tommy Ricketts Arena | Sep 07 | Sep 09 |
| Lewisporte | Town of Lewisport TBA | Sep 13 | Sep 15 |
| Harbour Grace | S.W Moores Stadium | Sep 18 | Sept 23 |
| St. John's | Zellers Stavanger Dr | Sep 26 | Sep 30 |
The calendar will be updated with the St. John's area listings over the next few days :-)
2012-05-18
Build-A-Brick Club Discontinued
Passing along the following FYI from the operators of Build-A-Brick Club:
Hi Everyone.
This is the latest update concerning Build A Brick Club. I'll give a short version and then provide a more detailed version for those who would like to know more and have the time to read.
The short for those who do not have as much time to read:
WE will be cancelling the Build A Brick club and would like to reimburse those who still have unused-sessions purchased. Please let us know how many of your 4-sessions you've not utilized so we can match against our records and refund that amount. Please email at your earliest convenience so we can connect with you.
The detailed version for those who would like to read:
Thank you to those of you who have suggested a venue for us to check out. We have checked out a number of them. Generally speaking most all the venues we checked out were not cost effective for us and/or were not of a preferred location and also in some cases could not provide the consistency of use that we had hoped for. After much consideration we have decided to cancel the Build A Brick Club. We had initially planned to keep the club going on a weekly basis at the Admiralty Museum as was mentioned to the before-management of the Admiralty Museum. Things have changed since our initial agreement as the new management under the direction of the Chairman of their board dictated newer rules that did not accommodate the same for us. This coupled with the many-week-search for a new suitable affordable venue has led us to make a decision to discontinue the club.The added challenge of trying to keep up with Lego pieces from the Lego-sets proved not to be as cost-effective as originally hoped for as well. Considering the combination of some of these facts has brought us to the decision to cancel our build a brick club.
We thought we may like to keep it going to a degree with birthday parties and events but again have decided that perhaps with the ongoing costs involved regarding set-pieces and adding sets, it would be best if we did not follow through as we have been operating at a loss. Perhaps if we increased pricing we could do this but we feel we would have to charge more than we should to make it possible and did not think this to be a better decision.A reminder to those who have purchased the 4-session build a brick club and have not used all the sessions, to please contact us to let us know what sessions you have not used so we can match against our records and refund your money for those sessions.
Thank you for the many kind words and friendships along the way,
Sincerely,
Carl, Christopher & Kelly
contact:
carl@buildabrickclub.ca
ctktcmt@live.ca
=============
Hi Everyone.
This is the latest update concerning Build A Brick Club. I'll give a short version and then provide a more detailed version for those who would like to know more and have the time to read.
The short for those who do not have as much time to read:
WE will be cancelling the Build A Brick club and would like to reimburse those who still have unused-sessions purchased. Please let us know how many of your 4-sessions you've not utilized so we can match against our records and refund that amount. Please email at your earliest convenience so we can connect with you.
The detailed version for those who would like to read:
Thank you to those of you who have suggested a venue for us to check out. We have checked out a number of them. Generally speaking most all the venues we checked out were not cost effective for us and/or were not of a preferred location and also in some cases could not provide the consistency of use that we had hoped for. After much consideration we have decided to cancel the Build A Brick Club. We had initially planned to keep the club going on a weekly basis at the Admiralty Museum as was mentioned to the before-management of the Admiralty Museum. Things have changed since our initial agreement as the new management under the direction of the Chairman of their board dictated newer rules that did not accommodate the same for us. This coupled with the many-week-search for a new suitable affordable venue has led us to make a decision to discontinue the club.The added challenge of trying to keep up with Lego pieces from the Lego-sets proved not to be as cost-effective as originally hoped for as well. Considering the combination of some of these facts has brought us to the decision to cancel our build a brick club.
We thought we may like to keep it going to a degree with birthday parties and events but again have decided that perhaps with the ongoing costs involved regarding set-pieces and adding sets, it would be best if we did not follow through as we have been operating at a loss. Perhaps if we increased pricing we could do this but we feel we would have to charge more than we should to make it possible and did not think this to be a better decision.A reminder to those who have purchased the 4-session build a brick club and have not used all the sessions, to please contact us to let us know what sessions you have not used so we can match against our records and refund your money for those sessions.
Thank you for the many kind words and friendships along the way,
Sincerely,
Carl, Christopher & Kelly
contact:
carl@buildabrickclub.ca
ctktcmt@live.ca
=============
Recall - Safety 1st Sure Fit Toilet Locks and Cabinet Slide Locks
The following recall notice is from HSW and applies to both the U.S. and Canada:
Health Canada and the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (US CPSC) report of a recall involving Safety 1st Sure Fit Toilet Locks and Cabinet Slide Locks. Locks can fail posing a risk to young children.
See HSW Product tab for specifics on the affected items (including additional photos).
Dorel Distribution Canada and Dorel Juvenile Group (DJG) have received reports of hundreds of locks failing. In one of the reported incidents, a 13-month-old boy swallowed small, toxic beads from a craft kit. ▲The child was admitted to the hospital overnight and released the next day.
More than 500,000 locks were sold at various retail stores across Canada from January 2002 to January 2012.
Corrective Action:Consumers should immediately remove the recalled locks and contact DDC for a free replacement lock of a different model.When removing the recalled locks, consumers are urged to immediately store dangerous items out of reach of children and to prevent unsupervised access to bathrooms.
For more information, consumers may contact DDC toll-free at 1-877-416-8105 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website.
See HSW Product tab for specifics on the affected items (including additional photos).
Dorel Distribution Canada and Dorel Juvenile Group (DJG) have received reports of hundreds of locks failing. In one of the reported incidents, a 13-month-old boy swallowed small, toxic beads from a craft kit. ▲The child was admitted to the hospital overnight and released the next day.More than 500,000 locks were sold at various retail stores across Canada from January 2002 to January 2012.
Corrective Action:Consumers should immediately remove the recalled locks and contact DDC for a free replacement lock of a different model.When removing the recalled locks, consumers are urged to immediately store dangerous items out of reach of children and to prevent unsupervised access to bathrooms.
For more information, consumers may contact DDC toll-free at 1-877-416-8105 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website.
2012-05-17
What To Do This Weekend - Explore :-)
OK, Folks, a confession: I wondered if there was even any point to posting this today, it being May 24th weekend and all. I mean you are all going out of town, right?
Whatever you do.... have a great May 24th Weekend!
Then, I remembered I am not going camping, so perhaps, like me, you aren't either....
I looked at the calendar, and to be honest, it is kinda bare.....
So, just what is a townie supposed to do on May 24th weekend?
Well, here's a thought or two:
- Go shopping! Saturday brings another Handmade Market at the Hotel Mt. Pearl, House To Home has a tax free savings event on now through Sunday and Stella & Dot has a 50% off sale online. Or - and here is my favourite shopping idea - head downtown and pop in and out of every little store that catches your fancy :-) When you need a break, pop by the War Memorial to let the kids hang out and tell them any family military history while you are there. Or bring them to Harbour Side Park and let them climb on the Newfoundland & Labrador dog statues there :-)
- Take a walk in Victoria Park (brave souls can roll down the hill!), Bannerman Park (play on the swings!), Bowring Park (feed the ducks! Birdseed, not bread - available at Bulk Barn :-), or at Pippy Park (where the trails will lead you to believe you did go out of town, plus you can pop into the Fluvarium for their Kids Program at 1:30 both Saturday and Sunday to boot!). Or stroll though the Botanical Garden - a beautiful, cheerful place for young and old alike!
- Head to Topsail Beach or Middle Cove Beach and marvel at the beauty of the ocean.
- Go iceberg hunting - Iceberg Finder show several "active" 'bergs on the Avalon right now!
- Want a little day trip? Try a walk through Manuels River Park, or the boardwalk in Holyrood (visit the marina or the old train car while you are there), or pack a picnic and visit the day-use area of Butterpot, situated near Big Otter Pond.
- Or, keep it uber-simple: Bust out the hockey sticks, soccer balls, bubble wands and bikes and head to your neighbourhood park! Once you get back home, have a BBQ ;-)
Whatever you do.... have a great May 24th Weekend!
 |
| source: The Weather Network, submitted by Connie Duffett |
Safety Notice: Crib Tents and Play Yard Tents Made by Tots in Mind, Inc (U.S. recall)
The following recall notice is from HSW:
Note: This specific recall is by the US CPSC and the retailers involved. Health Canada has not issued any information about this recall at this time, though they did in 2010 (see below). Because the recalled items were sold in Canada, HSW elected to post this information prior to any official notice from Health Canada, and I am passing it along FYI.
See HSW Products tab for specific on the affected items (including additional photos).
▲CPSC is aware of 27 tent failures including one fatality and one serious injury that occurred between January 1997 and April 2012 from crib tents and play yard tents made by Tots in Mind, Inc. In 2008, a two year old boy died after becoming entrapped between the bottom rail of a play yard tent and the top rail of a play yard. The fatality was reported in a prior recall with the firm in July 15, 2010. Health Canada also issued a recall in 2010. See Hazard tab for more information.
HSW Comment: At the time of posting this Event, Health Canada had not issued any information about this recall. Because the recalled items were sold in Canada, we elected to post this information prior to any official notice from Health Canada. If additional information becomes available, we will update this Event. JA
Note: This specific recall is by the US CPSC and the retailers involved. Health Canada has not issued any information about this recall at this time, though they did in 2010 (see below). Because the recalled items were sold in Canada, HSW elected to post this information prior to any official notice from Health Canada, and I am passing it along FYI.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and five retailers are announcing a voluntary recall to provide refunds to consumers who own crib tents and play yard tents made by Tots in Mind, Inc.
CPSC is warning parents and caregivers who own these products that infants and toddlers are at risk of serious injury or death due to strangulation and entrapment hazards presented by these products. Tots in Mind recalled the play yard tents in July 2010 and offered a repair kit that is no longer available. The company is no longer in business and has stopped all sales. CPSC staff urges parents and caregivers to stop using these crib tents and play yard tents immediately. Do not attempt to repair these products.
See HSW Products tab for specific on the affected items (including additional photos).▲CPSC is aware of 27 tent failures including one fatality and one serious injury that occurred between January 1997 and April 2012 from crib tents and play yard tents made by Tots in Mind, Inc. In 2008, a two year old boy died after becoming entrapped between the bottom rail of a play yard tent and the top rail of a play yard. The fatality was reported in a prior recall with the firm in July 15, 2010. Health Canada also issued a recall in 2010. See Hazard tab for more information.
The recalled products were sold at numerous retail stores including Bed Bath & Beyond/Buy Buy Baby, Burlington Coat Factory, Toys R Us/Babies R Us, Walmart and online on websites including Amazon.com, for between $60 and $85.
Consumers should contact the store listed below where the crib tent was purchased to receive either a refund or store credit, depending on the retailer. If consumer is unsure of where the crib tent was purchased, see return policy for individual retailers below on their website:
- Amazon.com [Amazon.com]
- Bed Bath & Beyond / Buy Buy Baby [bedbathandbeyond.com orbuybuybaby.com or (800) GOBEYOND]
- Burlington Coat Factory [burlingtoncoatfactory.com or (888) 223-2628]
- Toys R Us/Babies R Us [toysrus.com or babiesrus.com or (800) 869-7787]
- Walmart [walmartstores.com or (800) 925-6278]
HSW Comment: At the time of posting this Event, Health Canada had not issued any information about this recall. Because the recalled items were sold in Canada, we elected to post this information prior to any official notice from Health Canada. If additional information becomes available, we will update this Event. JA
2012-05-15
United Nations' International Day of Families
Today, I've had song lyrics on the brain.
"Sure, I kinda missed them, I just don't wanna kiss them....yeah"
Ummmm, why? I hear you ask, Why are you singing Tom Petty Christmas tunes - from the 90's - in May??
Well, dear People, because today is the United Nations' International Day of Families! And, let's face it, whether they are our best friends, or they drive us cRaZy, family is family, and we love them all anyways!
This years theme for the International Day of Families is "Ensuring work family balance". It is something I have struggled with - very likely we all have. The best advice I've heard on the matter is the Be-present-wherever-you-are route: if you are at work, concentrate on work, but at the end of the day, go home to your family, disconnect from the office, and really engage with your loved ones. (I know - easier said than done, isn't it? ). I thought of this recently though, at one of the children's skating lessons, when I noticed a friend of theirs skating and looking to his father in the stands. His father was lost in his Blackberry, never once looked up or checked on his son. I pointed it out to my husband and he said the gentleman was always on his phone, that he never sees him watching the kids. My heart ached for his son - what would it mean to him to look up and see his father watching him, give him a smile and a thumbs up?
That to me is what be-present-wherever-you-are means - when you are at a family dinner, immerse yourself in the dinner conversation; when you are at the park, run wild and free with your children; when you are at their events, be their biggest fan :-) Sure, emergencies come up, but if we strive for this, then we are one step closer to work/family balance!
What about you - how do you find work/family balance in your life?
"Sure, I kinda missed them, I just don't wanna kiss them....yeah"
Ummmm, why? I hear you ask, Why are you singing Tom Petty Christmas tunes - from the 90's - in May??
Well, dear People, because today is the United Nations' International Day of Families! And, let's face it, whether they are our best friends, or they drive us cRaZy, family is family, and we love them all anyways!
 |
| source |
That to me is what be-present-wherever-you-are means - when you are at a family dinner, immerse yourself in the dinner conversation; when you are at the park, run wild and free with your children; when you are at their events, be their biggest fan :-) Sure, emergencies come up, but if we strive for this, then we are one step closer to work/family balance!
What about you - how do you find work/family balance in your life?
2012-05-14
On Motherhood
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| source |
What about your day? Did you chill out at home? Get visits from the world? Do some major socializing or get to sleep in? Change dirty diapers or wipe noses? Wonderful!!! The thing I like about Mother's Day is that no matter how simple or elaborate it is, it is always special (yes, even cleaning poop and wiping snot - to be able to care for our children is a blessing in itself :-). Folks talk about all the hype and commercialism, and that is true, but what they miss is that for a Momma, that hug, that kiss, or that I love you from a child is worth more than anything else and is truly priceless. I got earrings, books, and gift cards yesterday, but my favourite gifts were the book of poems written and illustrated by Mario, and the hand print flower and book About Mom (Me!) from Toad. They were amazing! I will always treasure them. And, yes, all that stuff above was fun, but the be-all-and-end-all highlight was spending time with my boys (while silently reflecting on the miracle of their existence and just how absolutely incredibly beautiful they are ;-). And I thought how lucky I am, not just to have these two amazing boys, but also to still be blessed to still have my mother and MIL when many loose their mothers all too soon, or mourn the loss of their children.... there is so much to be grateful for!
I did have one final surprise before bed when I read a comment to my post from yesterday.... this blog was selected as the blog of the week by the NL Blog Roll! It was a lovely little treat at the end of a great day!
... and after that Sunday, my dears, I know it is going to be a truly Marvelous Week! ;-)
Happy Marvelous Monday!
2012-05-11
What To Do This Weekend ... and Next Week!
Quick! Get up and on the go.... the weekend's events have already started!
Today, there is free admission at MUN Botanical Garden in honour of National Public Gardens Day. They have a family nature program at 10 a.m., a gardening Q & A session at noon and a nature hike at 2:30.
Later today, you have choice of two special Mother's Day reading groups: beginning at 3:30 pm, at the Michael Donovan Library Story time, children can celebrate the special person in their lives (you!, lol!) with stories, rhymes, games, and treats and Marjorie Mews Public Library is hosting a similar event called My Mommy and Me where children can come to the library for stories, songs, and rhymes all about Mommy (also at 3:30 - please register, see calendar for contact information)!
OH!!! If you haven't heard, Etcetera 26 is ongoing at the Glacier now through Saturday (8 PM). You - and your pre-teen/teen kids - will be amazed at the local youth talent in this live performance of current and classic songs & dance!
On Saturday, there are several fundraising events: a flea market at St. Mary's church, a garage sale at Cowan Heights United, and M & M Meatshops is hosting a BBQ fundraiser for Crohns & Colitis from 10-4 at both St. John's locations. Get out and support some great causes! Plus, yesterday my son came home raving about his field trip to SportFest..... and, as luck should have it, SportFest is open to the public on Saturday 9-5 at the Techniplex in Pleasantville!
Would your child enjoy the opportunity to discover glow-in-the-dark crystals? Make slime? Solve puzzles? Explore microscopic pond life? All of the above? (Yeah, I thought so, mine too!) All this and so much more at the MUN's Science Rendez-vous, 12-3 on Saturday :-)
Sunday brings Mother's Day!!!!!!! I hope you are all spoiled :-) For some extra fun time with the kids, consider Family Fun at The Rooms - the theme is Mother’s Day Scrapbooking (Sunday 2-4). Or take a walk through Pippy Park, then head inside for their Kids Program: The 3R's in Nature (Sat & Sun at 1:30). There is also a Free Swim for Teens at the Mt. Pearl Pool that evening (8PM).
The coming week also brings a few events of note:
And, of course, this is all in addition to the regularly scheduled play groups and other events around town (see calendar for complete listings :-).
Have a good one :-)
Today, there is free admission at MUN Botanical Garden in honour of National Public Gardens Day. They have a family nature program at 10 a.m., a gardening Q & A session at noon and a nature hike at 2:30.
Later today, you have choice of two special Mother's Day reading groups: beginning at 3:30 pm, at the Michael Donovan Library Story time, children can celebrate the special person in their lives (you!, lol!) with stories, rhymes, games, and treats and Marjorie Mews Public Library is hosting a similar event called My Mommy and Me where children can come to the library for stories, songs, and rhymes all about Mommy (also at 3:30 - please register, see calendar for contact information)!
OH!!! If you haven't heard, Etcetera 26 is ongoing at the Glacier now through Saturday (8 PM). You - and your pre-teen/teen kids - will be amazed at the local youth talent in this live performance of current and classic songs & dance!
On Saturday, there are several fundraising events: a flea market at St. Mary's church, a garage sale at Cowan Heights United, and M & M Meatshops is hosting a BBQ fundraiser for Crohns & Colitis from 10-4 at both St. John's locations. Get out and support some great causes! Plus, yesterday my son came home raving about his field trip to SportFest..... and, as luck should have it, SportFest is open to the public on Saturday 9-5 at the Techniplex in Pleasantville!
Would your child enjoy the opportunity to discover glow-in-the-dark crystals? Make slime? Solve puzzles? Explore microscopic pond life? All of the above? (Yeah, I thought so, mine too!) All this and so much more at the MUN's Science Rendez-vous, 12-3 on Saturday :-)
Sunday brings Mother's Day!!!!!!! I hope you are all spoiled :-) For some extra fun time with the kids, consider Family Fun at The Rooms - the theme is Mother’s Day Scrapbooking (Sunday 2-4). Or take a walk through Pippy Park, then head inside for their Kids Program: The 3R's in Nature (Sat & Sun at 1:30). There is also a Free Swim for Teens at the Mt. Pearl Pool that evening (8PM).
The coming week also brings a few events of note:
- May 13-19 is Mt. Pearl Youth Week. There are several events planned. See the calendar for details - events marked with a "MPYW" :-)
- Monday at Marjorie Mews Library: It's Cool to be GREEN! - Recycling is cool and preschoolers 3-6 will enjoy this half hour program of fun and information! 2 sessions - at 10 & 11 respectively. Call to register.
- Wednesday Evening (7-9) at The Fluvarium there will be a discussion They Are What You Eat: The Relationship Between Maternal Diet and Child Health - enjoy some refreshments while learning how food choices during pregnancy can impact the health of mother and baby.
- And, on Friday, Dr. Kenny Handelman will be presenting a workshop at the Holiday Inn St. John’s entitled “Helping Kids and Teens with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder from a Strength Based Perspective.” For more information contact Keith Adey at 489-6481.
And, of course, this is all in addition to the regularly scheduled play groups and other events around town (see calendar for complete listings :-).
Have a good one :-)
For details on events in & around town, check my events calendar regularly - it is on the bottom of EVERY page :-) The Tely Go Guide published in Arts & Life section every Thursday is also a good source.
If you have something to add to the Calendar, please let me know! Complete details can be found here and I welcome being added to any "Events Distribution list" your facility might have :-)
2012-05-09
Scholastics Top 100 Greatest Books For Kids
So, yesterday I did a post featuring some of our favourite & read-so-often-we-know-them-by-heart books. Now today, for those of you who would like a second opinion, I found this list online of Scholastics Top 100 Greatest Books For Kids.
It is quite comprehensive - they take it a step farther than I did as I left out novels ....though, if I had mentioned chapter books, I would have listed anything by Roald Dahl, the entire Harry Potter series, and Scott O'Dell's Island of the Blue Dolphins as tops.... Just sayin' ;-)
Wanna know which books made their list? Click here or download the printable pdf here. :-)
It is quite comprehensive - they take it a step farther than I did as I left out novels ....though, if I had mentioned chapter books, I would have listed anything by Roald Dahl, the entire Harry Potter series, and Scott O'Dell's Island of the Blue Dolphins as tops.... Just sayin' ;-)
Wanna know which books made their list? Click here or download the printable pdf here. :-)
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| source: scholastic.com |
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2012-05-08
A Small Sample of Our Favourite Children's Books
Today, in light of the TD Canadian Children's Book Week, I thought I would share some of our favourite Children's books with you. To be honest, this was quite difficult as there are SO many!
Therefore, I decided to try to stay away from the "ones everyone knows about" - you know: Dr. Suess, Sandra Boynton, Beatrix Potter, Margaret Wise Brown, Robert Munsch, etc. - and instead share some books we love (i.e: can recite by heart ;-) that you may not necessarily have heard of.... sooooo....
Drum roll please....
Here are but a few of the books I have read over and over and over again with my Peeps :
Therefore, I decided to try to stay away from the "ones everyone knows about" - you know: Dr. Suess, Sandra Boynton, Beatrix Potter, Margaret Wise Brown, Robert Munsch, etc. - and instead share some books we love (i.e: can recite by heart ;-) that you may not necessarily have heard of.... sooooo....
Drum roll please....
Here are but a few of the books I have read over and over and over again with my Peeps :
- Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson - A kind-hearted witch provides a ride for some animals, who are later able to return the favour.
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| source: Chapters |
- Duck In The Truck by Jez Alborough - a cute tale with a catchy rhyme about a duck who gets his truck stuck in the muck!
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| source: Chapters |
- How Do Dinosaurs Eat Their Food by Jane Hyatt Yolen - OK - I might be cheating here as this series is quite popular! We have most of the How-do-dinosaurs books, if not all of them, but this one, the first that we read, remains our all-time favourite!
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| source: Chapters |
- Kitten's First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes - A curious, hungry Kitty tries desperately to reach the moon.
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| source: Chapters |
- Ten Little Fish by Audrey Wood - a fishy little counting story.
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| source: Chapters |
- Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb by Al Perkins - OK, maybe you know of this one too ... not only a favourite with my boys, but is also one of those books fondly remembered from my own childhood - I love the rhythm of the story.
- The Boat by Helen Ward & Ian Andrew - A grumpy old man and a menagerie of animals are in danger on their isolated hill top home during a storm. Makes me weep every time!
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| source: Chapters |
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| source: Chapters |
- Tikki Tikki Tembo by Arlene Mosel - about a boy who falls in a well and his younger brother's struggle to get help for him quickly! My ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE BOOK when I was a young child!
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| source: amazon |
Are any of these on your favourites list? I'd love your suggestions - leave a comment! :-)
Enjoy!
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