Makson Mayhem

I'm an Auntie!

2010-01-03T22:52:00.000-05:00

On January 2nd at 2:37pm a beautiful baby boy was born to Ron and Lana Ferlin. His Mom is beautiful, strong, super organized and always welcoming. His Dad is strong, caring and protective. His cousins, Dakota and Amber are super excited to meet him.
I can't wait to see him grow (and maybe have a couple more nephews or neices? ha ha ).

Congradulations to Ron and Lana on their addition to their family! (Toby, you have a new brother!)

Here are some of the pictures I have.

Olympic Torch 2009

2009-12-27T22:01:00.000-05:00

On December 19th 2009, the Olympic torch came through Hamilton. We went down to Dundurn Castle all bundled up, and enjoyed all the festivities a historical moment like this has to offer! This picture was taken and we all got to hold one of the torches! Everyone around was excited and friendly! When the torch was near, everyone gathered closer together and shook our tambourines in anticipation. We stood at the side of the road, as the police escort cars, and Vancouver 2010 truck drove ahead of the torchbearers. At the last minute the torchbearer instead of continuing straight down Dundurn turned and ran right through the crowd!
We took pictures, enjoyed hot chocolate and were ready to call it a night. While getting Amber nice and safe in her Chariot, I turned my head to see Dakota holding the torch! One of the torchbearers that had just ran, gave his torch to Dakota to hold on to! It was a great night to see the Canadian pride in our community!

Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life:

2009-12-16T10:13:00.001-05:00

Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life:

Night Crawlers are at it again! Join or Pledge! Thank you for your support!

(just click above! The more teammates the better!)

Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life:

2009-10-19T11:08:00.001-04:00

Canadian Cancer Society Relay For Life:

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Back to School

2009-09-07T22:38:00.003-04:00

I don't know if I even have pictures to attach to this (I know, strange for me) But it's late, and school is back in session tomorrow. I am lucky to have tomorrow off. The plan is to get up, feed the kids a healthy breakfast (cereal saved for all the days that I am working) and walk as a family to school in the morning.

Dakota has had a packed summer. Unfortunately due to work commitments I feel I've missed most of it. He went to Waterworks (with school), African Lion Safari (I was working), Marineland, The Ex, Bronte creek, and rode bikes, and went for walks etc. I'm glad he has had a great summer. I don't think he is mentally ready for school to be back already. On the flip side, he seems to think that it would be appropriate for me to let him walk to school this year. He is 7. I say no. I'm not saying that being in grade 3 is too young, I think that's when I walked, and his school is just down the road. Maybe after he turns 8. I'm at work most of the time when he leaves for school, and not that I don't trust Rich or my mom. They are just not me.

So Grade 3 it is. The year he can join track and field and all those fun intramural sports. I am sad though, we were looking forward to him joining the swim team, but since the pool the kids would be practicing at closed down there is no swim team.

I'm betting that I'll take a bunch of back to school pics tomorrow, and may just have to edit this or add a new one.

Walking Away from Fat

2009-08-29T14:23:00.004-04:00

OK, so this is the official launch of me walking away from fat. Literally. As long as weather, and support prevails the plan is to walk at least 4.7 kms. 3 times a week. I was hoping to do the "official" launch with a weigh in, and all that fun stuff, however the batteries in the scale are caput so this is it.

Goal

: to lose 30 lbs

Gear

Shoes: Saucony "Excursion 4"

Clothing: Old Navy walking Capri's, and a workout bra on top of mine due to wanting the "assets" to stay where they are.

Ipod: My Gym remix that I don't actually listen to at the gym as I just seem to like paying my bi-weekly dues, yet seem to forget how to get there.

Camera: Canon SD1100IS

Weight this week

around 205lbs. will post properly once scale is in happy order.

My current route is the 4.7 km loop starting at Upper Paradise Rd and Scenic Dr. Today my mom joined me and we opted to go down the stairs first, and turn left at the Chedoke Golf course. By doing this we start at the bottom and while walking along a beautiful scenic trail we are actually going uphill ending at the top of the escarpment again at the Scenic Dr. parking lot.

At the end of the loop we are back to the parking lot at Upper Paradise and then go down the stairs once again so that we have to come back them. This set of escarpment stairs is 289 stairs.

There are 3 waterfalls on this route. Its shaded, has a mix of up and down hill and the stairs as a kicker. (you don't see this in no gym)

Birthday for Mom

2009-08-25T22:42:00.003-04:00

Oh Montana's. Yummy food, good times. It's always nice to get a picture of us together. Rich, Amber and Lana were with us too!

No party is complete without the Birthday person donning the fabulous Moose hat! You go mom! Hope you had a great time.

A visit at work

2009-08-19T22:51:00.000-04:00

Dakota and Amber got to come and pick me up after work! Just like everyone else, they LOVE the supermodelquins. Barker is the name of the dog.
Dakota posing with Christopher.
I can't remember this modelquins name. Amber loves her though.

Day Trip

2009-08-08T22:21:00.002-04:00

Bronte Creek!! Finally. I've wanted to check it out for a while now, but with the weather it's been hard to coordinate with a day off. Parking was expensive- $15. However tons to do if you go for the day. We hit up the Nature Centre first. It was reptile day. We walked over to the barn where they have cows, pigs, chickens, rabbits, goats, peacocks and such. Amber hates animals. Not in books or on TV, but up close and real, she freaks right now. Actually, I think its the same reaction she has with sand. She stands there as if her feet are glued to the spot she is standing and can't move. There is a hayloft that the kids played in. The upstairs is for kids 5-10 and the down is set up for 1-5. Wicked. We then decided since the clouds had mostly cleared up, to try out the pool we had heard so much about. It's $3 to get in and $2 for kids and seniors. Very Very cool. We brought our picnic lunch of Egg and Tuna salad sandwiches, cut veggies and deviled eggs and had lunch on the grass that surrounds the 1.8 acres of pool. Had a blast of course! Once the pool closed (6pm) we headed to the parking lot, and took Amber to a playground so the boys could ride bikes around. There are washroom facilities all over the park. Since Amber was a tad too small for the playground, we decided to go for our own walking adventure (dealing with the 'squiter bits today). We saw pear and apple trees, and started to follow a trail that said "scenic lookout". Forgetting that Amber gets tired way faster then I do when walking aimlessly, I ended up carrying her. Kids fell asleep before leaving the parking lot! I highly recommend Bronte as a day of family fun.

Our Stair Walk.

2009-07-30T22:11:00.002-04:00

This is the view from the fence on Scenic Drive. We took a detour to see the waterfalls. (picture didn't really turn out, but come for a walk and I'll show you.)This is right before we went back up the Chedoke stairs. It's not in order, but Dakota wasn't tired yet. I tried to explain we had another hour of walking back home once we got back up the stairs, but he ran them anyways.After going down the stairs (I think they are the "Dundurn" ones) at the bottom of Garth, we walked the rail trail to the Chedoke stairs that takes us to Upper Paradise. This is the Chedoke golf course. We walked down it after taking another detour to a look out. Hundreds of lightning bugs. I thought for a short bit that maybe someone had put twinkle lights out randomly. Once we walked down Garth, along Scenic, down the stairs, along the trail, and up the stairs, Dakota called Rich to pick us up as "There is no way I'm walking another 2 miles" ha ha. I thought he never got tired!

A Marinland snapshot

2009-07-19T23:08:00.000-04:00

The End of the Patio Chronicles

2009-07-19T22:06:00.002-04:00

It's done. The patio, not the backyard. As you can see I finally got my gazebo. Real Canadian Supercenter in Grimsby for $99 bucks including the mosquito netting. (those who have been talking to me, know my story on finding a gazebo).

We broke in the patio last night with my good friends Lisa, Paul and Kristen. It was fun had by all!.

It started with a hole, and ended with a new fence, a new roof and a gazebo, but I'm glad it's done and we did it.

In case I didn't mention in my earlier posts, when we started moving the dirt from my hole by my massive tree, the fence was down. It was already needing replacing, but my neighbours and I were trying to wait. Then once all the patio stones were down, I got up on my ladder and cleaned my eaves troughs. While I was doing that I found that where the ice damming from this year had melted into my backyard facing walls, the shingles were all messed up. This is after 2 roofers had "gone up and had a look" and said it was all fine. Shawn's roofing from Oakville did the roof. (we weren't even home and they had delivered, installed and cleaned up before we got back from Niagara Falls.)

Next up in the backyard project is, adding 1x6 boards along the bottoms of the fence on the opposite side of the patio and leveling out my backyard as it's up and down everywhere. This will hopefully take alot of the extra dirt from the hole. Then it's a new shed (Thank goodness for credit). On the side of the patio with the new fence we left about 3 and a half feet which we are going to build up with pavers to just below the window level and put either a shade or rock garden.

That stuff will be done as there is time, I plan on enjoying my new patio at every chance and have eaten outside on it my whole vacation week (when i've been home). There will be many bbq's to come!

Patio Chronicles continue

2009-07-05T19:18:00.007-04:00

So again with the rain, but any "dry" time was time to work. This is after I had laid down the 4" of gravel and was tampering it down.

Next came the 2 inches of travel bond. Rich got me a bunch of 2x2`s so that we could `scrape`down and keep it level.

Then it was time to finally set the patio stones. Anytime away from work has still rained. But Rich found this very cool way for him to set the stones by himself while i`ve been at work.

The next pictures you see will be the finished patio, as there are currently only 5 stones left to lay!!

The Patio Chronicles

2009-06-28T13:49:00.002-04:00

So this is the delivery day. Note- there is a huge bag of red ceder mulch if anyone needs some. Amber sat and watched the whole thing. Kids love dump trucks.

On Saturday, I was able to leave work a little early. There was not a cloud in the sky and Rich and the kids were at African Lion Safari. After a snack and a coffee, I started wheel barreling the gravel into my pit. After 8 or 9 walks with the wheel barrel, Paul my neighbour came out and decided he could help me so I could start raking it in the pit. Then Lisa came over and did a barrel full and then she became my Tampering partner.

After leveling and tampering and leveling and tampering all the gravel was in. Unfortunately (as you can see by the picture) Daylight came to an end and now it's Sunday. I was able to finish the tampering this morning before the rain. Since it's raining right now Rich is going to get some 2x2's so I can lay them a few feet apart in my pit so I can "easily" do the screening.

I have 1 more day off before Canada day, and with my morning booked on Tuesday, hopefully the afternoon will show promise and I'll be able to to get the Patio stones on.

note to self. I forgot to get cement sand for in between the cracks afterwards.

Patio Chronicles

2009-06-28T13:30:00.003-04:00

So I wanted a patio. So I'm making one. (who says girls can't do this stuff). It's kinda fun, my mom hopped in the hole and dug some, and helped to empty a few wheel barrels for me, same with my hubby;). Unfortunatly, once I finally got the 12x18 hole dug 8" deep mother nature felt it her right to turn the weather. Every day off since I started has rained.

Behold. When one has a 60' maple tree in their backyard, one should assume there might be a root or two. This is just a small example of what I dug up. I needed Rich to use his chainsaw on a few so I could keep digging. Also found two of the roots that caused the crack in our foundation that we got fixed this winter.

On Thursday just past I spend a crapload on 2.5 yards of travel bond, 1.5 yards of screening and 54 patio stones that were delivered in the am. Richard helped me set the grade away from the house and I began my tampering.

About 30 minutes into my tampering, it starts to rain and lightning. I'm being stubborn of course and refuse to go in because I wanted to get as much done on my days off as possible.

Then it began to pour. My neighbour and Rich went and hid in the shed with Amber and I started getting pinged in the head by hail.

I finally give up, mother nature winning this round. I grab my coffee cup and we all head for the house. Doesn't a hailstone land smack dab in the middle of my cup splashing me with coffee.

No more work for me. I must wait till my next day off (which btw it is supposed to rain)

Count down to Vegas Baby!

2009-04-30T20:58:00.002-04:00

Still no sight of my camera battery charger. I think I'm going to have to suck up the 90 bucks and get a new one. Those of you that know me, know I won't make it without my camera on our first really real vacation!

Still trying to figure out if it's better to hang out in buffalo over night before our 6am flight, or leave really really early in the morning!

I've picked up 2 books for the flight, one of which I'll definitely finish before we even leave. (hooked on the Outlander series). Other than that I don't really know what I need.

speaking of that, off to continue reading.

The MRI experience

2009-04-21T20:34:00.006-04:00

Today Amber had her very first MRI. Because she is still young, she was asleep for the process.

I was not anxious of the MRI, but of the aftermath of Amber being sedated based on our experience after her eye surgery last April. Last April, the recovery and 2 days following the surgery resulted in a big vomit mess anywhere she could and dark eyed cranky tired sleepless mess of a 2 year old.

This was way different. We arrived at McMaster for her 8am appointment. Amber, only mentioned the fact that she was "really hungy" 2 times. She proceed to play with the toys, and waited for her turn.

(Before, waiting with the toys)

A woman came in and introduced herself and asked Amber if she wanted to watch a movie and of course she picked Shrek. Then using a doll she showed Amber what would be happening for the sedation. She had an example of the stretchy band, the "drinking straw", the "water with sugar" etc.

(Fancy robe)

Once everything was ready Amber went into a prep room where she put on her little robe, and had the IV put in. The numbing cream on her hands was removed, and while they set her IV up to go in, the lady that showed her the doll, blew bubbles for her to count, and after a couple "ouchs" we were done and waiting again.

(drinking straw)

They took her over to the bed that she would be on going into the machine, and had Rich sit with her on his lap while they put the sleepy potion into her IV. This part I was upset about, only because this was happening while I was signing the consent. I wanted to have Amber on my lap. I think it took Rich by surprise too, as they both had to happen at the same time, when I think the consent could have been signed and then she could have gone to sleep. it would have been a difference of 20 seconds. They said the "potion" would burn going in until she fell asleep. she cried while dad sang "There were 4 in a bed and the little one said...." that's as far as he got in the song and she was out.

We had coffee and breakfast in the cafeteria, as Amber was scheduled for an hour of pictures. we went back after 40 minutes just in case.

About 10 minutes after getting back, "Cheryl" the pediatric anesthesiologist, told us Amber was waking up, and we went to her.

Amber greeted us with "I'm awake" and we instantly knew it was different from when she woke up from her eye surgery. she was alert, hungry, thirsty and said she had a "very good nap".

She only complained a bit while they took the "drinking straw" out of her hand, but that was quickly remedied with a "Dora" bandaid.

After about 30 minutes we left. Not bad since we were told to be prepared to be in recovery with her for a couple hours.

(recovery)

7-10 days the results will be sent. now we wait.

Botox day

2009-04-17T10:36:00.002-04:00

After scaring ourselves by over-reading articles on the effects of botox when used as therapy in CP kids, we decided to go through with it. (There were no death cases in Canada).

Sunlife came through on Monday, so 80% of the $400 vile was covered. We arrived at McMaster, and went upstairs to a very quick and efficient check in. Actually, we got prime parking, got on the right elevator (the first time) and had time to spare! Amber played in the playroom, which is better than some of the daycares we had seen when we were back looking long ago.

Once she was called, a PT, a PT student and an OT came in first and "played" with amber. Asked us many questions as far as if there had been any changes etc. Since her appointment prior to this was in December, there were TONS of changes. The talking for one. Then 2 more Dr.s came in, and after the OT had taken her look at her, she voiced her opinion that Botox wouldn't really be helpful at this time in her arm, due to the advances Amber has already made.
Then Dr. Mesterman came in, and talked to us again, made sure we didn't have any questions and asked what we thought about doing our arm. We decided not to do it at this time. Amber has another 2 appointments booked, so it will be re-visited at those times.

Next, Amber sat on my lap facing forward while they injected the Botox in 2 places in her calf muscle. She said "ow, it hurts it hurts" and didn't even get a tear out. (I however, was already through half the tissue box).

She was fine right away, didn't even complain about pain in the injection spot. As we were walking out of the hospital, Amber had her sunglasses on, and sounded all "Hollywood" as she announced that she "got the Botox".

Yesterday morning, Amber said "I'm walking funny, pick me up" but that's been it for her complaints. Apparently in 2 weeks it should have it's full effect (deadening the muscle) and will wear off within 3 months.

Next, her MRI is scheduled for Tuesday. She is getting put under for that. She does NOT react well to being put to sleep (as I remember from the recovery room after her eye surgery). Then on Friday she has another appointment to check her fitting on her leg brace.

I'll post the MRI experience next week.

Easter 2009

2009-04-17T10:29:00.003-04:00

Amber knows about the Easter bunny now. Doesn't help that she has the sweetest tooth i've ever seen.

Dakota lucked out and was brought this giant kite that is a pirate ship when flying. got some good wind at Babcia Ann's on sunday and got that thing going. Amber was all about dressing up and seeing her uncles.

Over all a very fun day.

More fun with pictures

2009-03-18T21:53:00.000-04:00

Fun with pictures

2009-03-18T19:56:00.000-04:00

little skating man!

2009-03-01T22:19:00.002-05:00

a couple pics from Dakota's winter spirit school trip to Mountain arena. Dad didn't take pics of the after math (scraped up chin, bruised elbow and knees etc).

Dynamite Duo

2009-02-15T13:40:00.004-05:00

I have good kids. They get along most of the time. Right now it's sort of funny, because Dakota didn't have to share before, and Amber knows what's hers. The rest of the stuff she just thinks is hers so there is alot of "MINNNNNEEEE" going around these days.

Amber is becoming quite independant. Shown here, is the result of her showing Gramma how she can put on her own shirt. The face is what she did when I said "make a model face while mommy takes a picture"
Dakota, well right now his big thing is waiting for the weekend so that he is allowed to play his video games. Because he isn't allowed during the week, sometimes it seems that he only comes up for food.

Where To Stay in Niagara Falls Canada

2009-02-14T13:34:00.005-05:00

As many people know, we (my family and I) take frequent trips to Niagara Falls. it's only 35-45 minutes away from our house, depending on traffic, has tons of free stuff you can do with the kids, and a giant waterfall!!

Here is a list of the places we've stayed overnight, and what we thought of them. There are still many places we haven't stayed. But as you can see, we've covered quite a few.

America's Best Value Inn- Chalet Inn and Suites

5577 Ellen Ave

It's about 300 steps to Casino Niagara (which we love) and 1 block away from Clifton Hill. Has an indoor and outdoor pool. We stayed for our Honeymoon in 2005 in a hot tub/fireplace suite which was in our budget, but awesome. It's family run, there is a family/non-smoking side, which doesn't even allow smoking on the balcony. They have rooms that are connected by the balcony which was great, because we could leave the balcony doors open, and still have the hotel locks on the room doors. You can access the inside pool via the non-smoking building.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. we've paid between $89 and $129 the higher being the fireplace during winter. Motel category

Blackstone Inn

5643 Ellen Ave

Motel. Clean, and they have 2 bedroom rooms. Not much to say about it. We would stay again as it was convenient and cheap, and they have an outdoor pool for the kids in the summer.

Paid about $69 in the summer.

Days Inn and Suites by the Falls

5046 Centre St.

Hotel. Pool is nice, Parking is free, but limited. There was a little fridge in the room which was fabulous. We've only stayed there 1 time, but it was great. The location is great, and the rooms were clean and comfortable. The only reason we've only stayed 1 time, is the big variance in rates. we paid $89 the time we stayed, but find it usually over $100 when we are doing our searches.

Diplomat Inn

5983 Stanley

Motel. Older motel, friendly front desk. If you are on a budget and want a clean safe room, definitely stay here. We most likely will in the summer again this year. Has one of those parking lot pools, which is kept exceptionally clean with this cute little 2 ft deep pool right beside it which was great for my toddler. The best thing? $49 a night.

Doubletree resort and spa

6039 Fallsview Boulevard

I'm in love. Stayed there February 12th 2010. Reception was warm, you are greeted with a Double Tree chocolate chip cookie warmed in their cookie warmer. The rooms were large, and comfortable. We were upgraded upon arrival because they wanted to. Took a swim in the pools which are salt water pools with heated ceramic floors. There is an adult only pool that is ideal for a few laps with a family friendly pool area all together! The lobby area has a coffee venue, gift shop, UPS store, art gallery as well as a full service Aveda spa. Buchanan's Chop House is the onsite restaurant. Room rates did not include $12 parking. I really can't wait to go back again, hopefully partake in some of the services Aveda has to offer! With the CAA discount, rate was only $85 for the night.

Fallsview Plaza Hotel (formally the Renaissance)

6455 Fallsview Blvd

Despite many changes since becoming the Fallsview Plaza from the Renaissance, it's still being billed as a 5 star hotel. Don't get me wrong, it's splendid. the beds are the most comfortable i've stayed in, the decor is awesome, the pool is warm, the hot tub is hot, the sauna is great. Has a fabulous workout room with TVs above each of the cardio machines. Which are the same versions as at my Goodlife.

There is now an East side Marios in the lobby, which brings in more outside traffic to the hotel, and after the renovations, the entrance to the pool is right beside the restaurant. (in the lobby). I have problems with that. So we went the old way, down to the floor with the fitness room and then up. There have been renovations there for over a year now. This is where we stayed this Thursday night. They used to have a walkway adjoining it to the Hilton and the Fallsview Casino. That was the best feature. The Hilton has an awesome gift shop and drink stand, and then you could just walk over to the Fallsview Casino for some shopping without the hassle of your winter boots, and other famous Canadian winter gear. They failed to mention on the website this time, that the walkway was torn down. (again with the reno's and doesn't look like it's going back up).

Now, if I hadn't stayed in this hotel 3 other times, non of this would have bothered me as I wouldn't have known better. But I did, and I knew better so I was disappointed.

I still recommend this hotel for sure. Watch the rates, they vary dramatically, we paid $69 for Thursday night which is fantastic, even if you add the mandatory $20+ tax for "valet". (again, renovations, there is no more parking lot, so who knows where my van was going).

Hilton

6361 Fallsview Blvd

If you have the spare $$ or like me search for deals year round, when you find one, stay here for sure!!!

super comfy beds, clean.

the pool is wicked with a 3 story water slide inside and a water fall you can see from the lobby and go under in the pool! There is an on site gift shop with little cereals and such. Walkway attached to the Fallsview casino, so you can take the kids over for lunch or shopping or even just to walk through to the other side by the falls and watch the fireworks in the summer. They have also been going through renovations for a long time. It looks like they are adding on a new tower. We've stayed 2 times, the most we've paid is $129. Felt like a rock star.

Howard Johnson by the Falls

5905 Victoria Ave

The first time we stayed it was great. it's more like a 2 star hotel. Has an indoor/outdoor pool with a water slide for the kids which is nice. We stayed in a family suite for the portion of our honeymoon that we had Dakota with us for. That room faced Victoria which Dakota thought was great cause he could see the "dinosaur place" from the balcony (he was 3 at the time). Had a little fridge, the one bedroom was separated by a full wall, and our bed was in by the door, so we felt safe. Unfortunately the second time we stayed the family room was separated by a half wall. Traveling with a baby at the time, it wasn't enough to keep it quiet for her naps etc. Wasn't as clean the second time, and the last few times we've looked into it, it's been $149 or more a night to say, and closer to $200 for the family rooms. Now we just choose to have 2 hotel rooms then pay that for 1 with little privacy. Hojo is going down my dear. Not recommended any more. Too expensive for what else we can get now.

Kings Inn near the falls

5525 Ferry St

It's a motel. clean and fair priced. unless you NEED to be right at Clifton hill, either pay the $10 more and stay at the Chalet Inn, or pay $20 less and stay at the Diplomat. I'm neutral.

Ramada Coral Resort

7429 Lundy's lane

Don't do it. looks nice from the outside, room setup is great. and you'd think being a Ramada it would be good. Not worth it. Let's just say there wasn't even a latch on the bathroom door to keep it closed. The front desk didn't think that was a problem. The advertised Internet, didn't work. Normally not a problem, but the only way we could get our mom to spend the weekend there with us, was if she could get in a few hours of work each day. She had to pay to sit at an Internet cafe. The pool??? Only if you like scary movies, and participate in the Arctic swims. Just don't do it, no matter how cheap they end up making the rooms. I can see them closing down. (hopefully)

Quality Inn (now the Travelodge)

it's on Victoria across from the Keg

When it was the Quality, it was our hotel to stay at. Walking distance to everything, wicked pool and hot tub, rooms were big and we could afford them. The staff were nice and it was great. Now it's the Travelodge. I know the pool, and rooms are the same. just way more $$ now so we haven't stayed since. Again, I can get a way better deal at a fancier hotel for the same $$.

Lodge Inn and Suites near the Falls

5234 Ferry St

I can never find them on the website I use for my hotel/motel bookings. We've stayed there 3 times, all on walk in basis. Each time they have renovated, and it's been even better. The front desk is super nice, the pool is clean, and re-done, bathrooms, showers in the pool area, hot tub, and a deck. Walk in and ask what the rate is, when it's good it's great and I recommend it!

Econolodge

5781 Victoria Ave.

Always seems to be the same $99 price. Central, clean. Not so quiet. apparently has a pool somewhere. I'm neutral on this one too. Can find a better deal somewhere else.

Oasis Inn

5107 Centre Street

Older motel. Clean and reasonable. It's amongst other motels on the street, far enough away from Clifton hill to be quiet at night, close enough to walk. Nice when you want to be right near the action. pretty decent price.

I think that's it. Once we find a place we can afford, we usually stick it out till we find a better deal, or something that is convenient.

Top place for a "nice nice" hotel= Hilton (around $129-$200)

Top place for super cheap clean motel= Diplomat ($49)

Top place for the in between motel/hotel= Chalet Inn ($89-$129)

About the kids of course

2009-01-19T23:28:00.002-05:00

I finally got some of the pictures of Rich's camera, so here are some quick updates. This one here is after Amber negotiated "pop-corn" and "movie" after being told it's time for bed for them. (used the cute factor with her brother)On a rare trip to Limeridge mall, we stopped by the Build a Bear Workshop and Amber found her bear to hug and kiss. Surprisingly, not that expensive if you don't buy all the accessories, we could have walked out of there with only spending $12 before tax

Once the new bear found it's way home, Dakota expressed his desire to build one. Because we had been taking him past the bear store since he was a toddler, we decided that for his birthday we would let him have the run of the store. This trip was expensive, however Dakota has for some reason, taken very good care of the stuffed animals that are important to him. He was very proud of his monkey.

2008

2009-01-08T23:31:00.004-05:00

What a year! Dakota went from a 6 year old in grade 1 to a 7 year old in grade 2. Amber went from a little girl who had just started walking, that couldn't talk, to a sassy little toddler, fluent in signed english and that runs behind her brother!

In 2008, both of my children got to witness the U.S election that will change the world, and in 2009, we'll watch the inauguration of Obama in January.

Dakota got his first "A" on his report card and is starting to get the whole "study" thing. Not without a struggle now and then.

So far this year, Amber started to talk. We were told that "if" Amber were to talk, that there was a good chance that she would skip the baby talk and just start talking. So today she asked if we "go Lococo's, open or closed? I walk." Other words in the last 5 days include: Horrible, toilet, buffet, bank, sugar, egg, bedroom, blanket, pinky, thumb, and the list goes on. I guess she feels she has some catching up to do! Luckily she is still using her sign with some words she hasn't gotten her mouth to figure out yet!

Yesterday and today she used the potty for the whole day, with only 1 miss both days (here's to hoping it's not another faze and it sticks).

Dakota got a Nintendo DS and knows way more about it already then I'm sure I'll ever know. We had a fabulous New Years at our neighbours, and Dakota cleaned his room (ha ha)

Here is to a great 2009 that I am sure will bring us many adventures and stories to tell.

actually maybe

2008-11-30T22:28:00.003-05:00

Actually maybe, I think I might have one or two pictures in my library of the kids updated a bit.

let me see....

haha, didn't realize the last picture with both kids was the one with amber picking a winner. oh well.

This is for you

2008-11-30T22:20:00.002-05:00

So I'm sitting here reminiscing about the most fantastic family Christmas party I was at on Saturday and thought hey, why not write about it?
Unfortunately I am without a fancy camera at my finger tips and my lacking of taking pictures of every waking minute (which I can be known to do) can drive me a little crazy sometimes.

Santa this year was awesome!! I think he was really happy, and Amber just loved him. "ho ho ho" she said as he went to sit down. I also loved when she tried to take Zylaa's hand to help her go to him.

I got to use my TomTom finally for the trip to Newmarket, however didn't realize that TomTom came with the co-pilot named Bonnie! ha ha (just kidding;))

There were only 4 little kids this year which was weird. We've decided that all the cousins need to get on the breeding bus.

Every year after leaving my Aunt Ilva's and Uncle Norm's I go onto MLS to see if I can win enough from the lottery to move to Newmarket and then find a job. There are 2 houses listed right now... hmmm

Anyways being a retail worker at this time of year, I must head to bed so I can run myself down this week coming. No more weekends off till the 20th (my birthday), although that does sound ickey, it also means I'll have days off during the week to avoid the rushes when doing my own holiday rushes.

Little Swimsters

2008-03-10T21:25:00.003-04:00

Amber has finished her first set of swimming lessons that she took with her Nana. This is her showing off a bit, she loves to throw her legs back, although I don't know why, I've had water up my nose and it doesn't feel very nice!
She won't jump in yet though, the first thing they teach the toddlers is how to turn around and slide in on your belly, and then how to climb out. Each time it was her turn to "jump" in, she would dutifully turn on to her belly and slide on in! Can't wait to sign her up again!
Dakota has passed his "swimmer one". I am still old school and miss the "red, orange, yellow" etc. At the end of the class they all swam front crawl across the width of the pool!
So we took him out for dinner to Chan's buffet. yummy, and he saved plenty of room for his dessert!

Amber's 2nd Mini Party

2008-03-09T14:13:00.002-04:00

Apparently I cannot put pictures on my Blog today, but Amber ended up with a mini party depite the snow storm.

Check them out here!

Guess Who Turns Two on Saturday???

2008-03-06T22:55:00.003-05:00

In this past year amber has walked, and grown some hair (ha ha) and learned lots of signed english, beat up her brother, taken swimming lessons, gone to school, danced, cried, laughed, laughed some more, had a girls weekend, been to a wedding, gone potty and most of all Just was!!

(pictures from January 2008)

Time for Two!!

2008-03-06T22:26:00.003-05:00

In anticipation of Amber's 2nd birthday on saturday it's time to again think back to her milestones!

Amber walked before the dr said she could.

She is growing hair!! (trust me that's a biggie ha ha)

She has almost the same vocabulary in signed english a toddler her age has in vocal words

She has taken her first set of swimming lessons

She loves her big brother more than anyone else it seems

she can colour

she is starting to use her right hand

she dances

she loves books

she LOVES food!!

Amber thinks she is 30 sometimes, and also feels that she is incharge of giving big brother heck

Her first birthday!

Easter 2007

Summer 2007

November 2007

And finally January 2008!! Of course there is a snow storm booked for her birthday! so Cake and snow it will be! (and more pictures;)

What?

2008-01-16T19:43:00.001-05:00

Are you kidding me? September 25th was my last post? crazy I tell you.

Amber (who is currently protesting from her room my decision to put her to bed), is getting quite the signed english vocabulary. Dakota is being the helpful big brother, setting the example (both good and bad) all the time! Christmas was a blast, we were all spoiled rotten! Spent our first Christmas day since we had the kids at someone elses house. We went to my brother's place and had a fabulous dinner, exchanged gifts and chatted with the extended family. New years was fun, spent it at home with the kids. Amber made it to 10:30 while Dakota did the count down by hour and minute till midnight. We thought that with the neighbours out for New Years this year that he'd be the only one out banging pots and pans, but you could here in the echos some kids down the street answering his bangs!

We went to Calgary just before Christmas for my brother-in-laws wedding which was fantastic! Never have I seen such beauty! I tell you, if I won the lottery, moving to the mountains would definatly be a possibility.

As the leaves change.

2007-09-25T18:32:00.000-04:00

It's been some time since I found any time to sit down and post my cute pics of my kids, or rant or rave about anything. It's amazing how much can change in a month and a half.
Amber started saying some words.. "mama, my baba.... kee caaa (kitty cat)... Da ca ca (Dakota) Da da" etc. that lasted about a month and Amber has apparently decided that she doesn't have to talk anymore. Too late Amber... we already know better! ha ha. As for her walking, the flexible time frame I was given in December is coming up. "She will probably walk, and maybe even by 2 years old. Even if she needs to use a walker, she'll walk." As things always have to go their funny ways, and in true Amber style, we go to her physio appointment and she is doing her normal "I can't stay still, if you want to work my muscles you have to catch me" moves. We proudly show that Amber can now stand for a bit without the support of anything. I come home from work 2 days later for my mom to show me that she is taking 4 steps towards mommy all by herself!! Again in true Amber fashion that was the first and last time she has done that. She does walk with the coolest little walker toy my mom bought for her though. If she wasn't such a speed... um whatever it is she does I'm sure her stubbornness to get places would result her her walking.

Dakota started Grade 1 this year. Yup full-day school. We have finally figured out how to pack for his meal breaks. Gone are the times of 1 lunch hour and recess times. 2 40 minute lunches is how it works now. 20 minutes eating, 20 minutes playing. The kids all have their own desks and lockers. LOCKERS! He is having is first big kid birthday party at the bowling alley in a couple weeks and my troublesome 5 year old will soon be a troublesome 6 year old!. He had some big responsibility these last couple of weeks though. He was the non-ring carrying ring boy in Ron's wedding.

That's right! One of the Ferlin boys have gotten married. Lana is wonderful and we couldn't be happier that it was her that he chose. It was a great reception. I'm sure the ceremony was nice too, but I couldn't' really see through the glassy blur in my eyes after I saw Ron's face as Lana came around the corner, and then my other brothers ( they were both in the wedding party) eyes go red. Yup, I cried.

So other than having our house up for sale right now, my mom moving in with us, brother getting married, Son starting Grade 1 that's about it with me for now.

A day with Supie

2007-08-02T23:48:00.000-04:00

The inside of my house was at 91 degrees by 11am this morning. So off to the park with the splash pad and Supie. Today at Supie the Fire Department made a visit. Each of the kids got to go in the truck, front and back as well as get to make the fire hose go! What a treat!
The little one, who likes to pretend that Mommy is evil when she tries to put her near water decided that when it is this hot out, it's time to give up and get wet! After watching the kids for a bit she was right in there in the splash pad.... One down side to her not walking... Mommy had to go in too- not that I minded, it was incredibly refreshing, but I was not dressed for it;)

Our Summer Vacation

2007-07-14T19:49:00.000-04:00

I found myself without anyone to watch my kids at the end of June till middle of July. I knew this might happen when I came back to work, so I let them know before I started. I still found myself waiting till the last minute to find out if I got approved for vacation. I decided that we would stick to our tradition of going to Niagara falls, and found a kick-ass rate for the Renaissance. I've stayed there before, and I highly recommend it as one of the higher end hotels. They provide playpens and little tiny blankets and have a great swimming pool and arcade area for the kiddies. Above, Amber shows off her bed that she thought was the coolest!
This is us leaving the hotel, I surprised them with another night but at a different hotel as I decided this while eating breakfast. The second night we stayed at the Lodge by the Falls. It's the former Travelodge on ferry street. Newly renovated I was taken back at how nice it was now. We had stayed there before the reno, and what a difference. Very family friendly, great indoor pool, with a washroom and change room in the pool area, refrigerators in the rooms and they also provided a playpen for the baby to sleep in! It was great value for the money!
Dakota has been asking to go to the beach non-stop since the last day of school. Now because this vacation time was not by choice (timing wise), other than those few days we had all together, Rich had to go back to work so it was just me and the kids. I took them to the park to play in the splash pad, and Dakota and a few other kids decided to make their own beach. That pool of water is actually in the stones in the play area.
This is amber after 20 minutes of sitting beside the pool crying because she was near water. Took another 20 minutes to get her out of the little pool once she was done. The rest of my "vacation" is being spent purging the basement and getting things in order to sell our house. I'm hoping that once all this house selling/moving business is taken care of I can spend more quality time with my family and ANY time with my friends. Till then it's make believe days at the beach and swimming pools in the front yard.

2007-06-05T19:53:00.000-04:00

Today was Amber's last day of preschool for the season. The wonderful teachers at the CRDC put together a folder of all her artwork over the last 6 weeks as well as a photo album!. She loved it. her Physio and Occupational therapists came for visits now and then during her "gym" time. Mommy got time with the social worker during circle time on a couple occasions. I think I am going to miss pre-school till September as much as she is.
Now the question going through my mind is what to get Daddy for Father's day? Dakota wants to be like dad, and Amber, as you can see above is a Daddy's girl and it appears her first "real" sounding words are...Egg head. She uses this in reference to Dad. So next week I am going to start the search for the perfect father's day gift. Any ideas?

Victoria Day weekend

2007-05-23T21:19:00.000-04:00

As apparently I was lucky enough to be off this weekend from work, Richard decided that Monday would be my Mother's Day since I was working the whole Mother's Day weekend.

It started out by me taking the kids to wake up Daddy. Amber jumped on him and kissed him at least 10 times. I am thoroughly convinced that she believes this is the only way to wake up Daddy. Once Daddy got up, he went to the store and got the necessary ingredients to make a breakfast fit for a Queen (that would be me). Scrambled eggs and croissants! Yippee.

Following Breakfast I got the kids ready, and then myself and off we went to Niagara Falls. I had been talking about how I wanted to get this picture of Amber by the tulips. I have one I took of Dakota when he was about her size in the same place. The weather was gorgeous. It was a bit cool, but nothing a sweater and spring jackets couldn't fix. Dinner was at the UFO restaurant on Lundy's Lane. They have yet to disappoint us.

Since something came up at work, my schedule got changed and I had Tuesday off as well. We spent a lovely few hours at the park and tried to go through the forest by our house. A fire had knocked down a huge tree across the path, so we didn't get more than 100 ft in. Maybe next time we can go without the stroller.

Modern Girl

2007-04-26T22:45:00.000-04:00

So I get this link to a website and think, "Oh dear, here we go again with another rant and rage, or family based web page". I know hypocritical when here I sit, writing about the little things that are happening in my life for all to see.

This website was quite refreshing, sort of like a mix of fashion, home decorating and celebrity news magazine without the awful ads, and high school gossip feel. The other wonderful thing about it was I was able to read the daily post in under 15 minutes. I don't have a stack of magazines hanging around after one read either. I recommend it to any "Modern Girl" that needs to take a few minutes out of her day for her.
http://www.moderngirlstyle.com/

Sunday at the Falls

2007-04-23T22:41:00.000-04:00

Since it was so incredibly nice out we ventured up to our favourite place- Niagara falls. Unfortunately the day started out with a tumble down the stairs for Amber, who went from taking 5 minutes to go 5 feet the day before to actual crawling. No bumps or bruises and we were on our way!

Although it was at least 24 degrees out there, there was still HUGE ice blocks under the American falls and beside the Canadian.

Any good trip to Niagara Falls starts with a stop at the Welland canals. There was a boat in it while we took these pics, but the kids were more interested in the anchor. Dakota's favourite part of the Canals is the park and the ice cream!

The News in In.

2007-04-21T21:21:00.000-04:00

On Friday the 13th, of April they confirmed Amber with Cerebral Palsy. It looks as though it is affecting 3 of her limbs, her left arm not affected.
That being said, she has also decided that "who cares" and has been pulling her self to a standing anywhere there is the tiniest of ledges. She has decided that she will try to use her right hand anyways, and has also decided that although it is way faster for her to "bum scoot" (seriously if there were bum scoot Olympics she'd get gold) she will try to crawl. Took her 5 minutes to go 5 feet yesterday, but she did NOT cheat.
She still loves physio, and starts with a Partners in Play and Learning program on May 1st.
She will walk. Might take her longer to learn, but well, honestly how many of us walk once we get our driver's licenses!
That is my update- I just realized that I haven't taken pictures since Easter, and well that is just not acceptable!!! Especially when Dakota was being Mr. Gardener today!

The Easter Bunny Cometh.

2007-04-09T21:42:00.000-04:00

The Easter Bunny made a visit to our house again this year. This year instead of hiding too much chocolate, he put quarters in little plastic eggs for Dakota to find.
Mr. Bunny brought a stuffed bunny for Dakota, as he is still a sucker for such things. After the "hunt" and the post hunt fight about him getting to eat all the chocolate at once, we got cleaned up and headed to Babcia Ann's for Brunch.
The Easter Bunny made an appearance at Babcia's house too. Yes, for some reason Mr. Bunny felt that it was appropriate for a 1 year old to receive chocolate confections. After threatening to turn him into stew he agreed that less is more.
This adorable dress is compliments of Adriana from work.

Fashion Baby

2007-04-06T11:09:00.000-04:00

This "G-Unit" ensemble is courtesy of Ron and Lana from Christmas. It's just big enough to fall off her bum showing her diaper a few inches... but that's the style right?
SOOO CUTE. (my opinion is not biased at all!)

She can get up.

2007-04-03T14:29:00.000-04:00

I haven't been updating due to the awful return to work. Kids are adjusting to daycare way better than I am adjusting to work. This pic was taken on morning as we were getting ready for work/daycare. Amber decided that it was time to pull herself up to a standing position. Has she done it again? no, she hasn't felt the need to torture her brother lately. She stood up, grabbed his milk and spilt it and then was down again after this picture was taken. Dakota's festive get up is due to it being "tropical" day at school. He has his bathing suit under his pants, but didn't take off his pants at school. He just told Dad after school that mommy made him wear his bathing suit but didn't know why. Hmmpf.

Like a Fish

2007-03-12T23:50:00.000-04:00

Swimming lessons are over for the time being. Dakota didn't get his badge this session but I think it might be fore the better. There were 9 classes, and I do believe I watched him have the sillys and not listen so well at around 5 of them. I think we might wait till after the summer to put him in again so he can get his sillys out. He did have fun though! I'm not too upset that the only thing my 5 year old didn't pass on was swimming front crawl for 7 meters with 1 breath!! He is definitely part fish. I'm so proud of him. I'm going to try to get him out for a family swim when I am not at work.

party time!

2007-03-12T23:40:00.000-04:00

Amber was feeling a bit better for her party. There was a small attendance which was good because she was still sick. Ron and Lana got Amber this thing called a Bumbo. At first I thought Amber was too old for it since it's only recommended till 14 months but let me tell you it's the only way I've been able to get her to sit in one spot! She sat in it today while Dakota played his video games! ha ha Dakota likes to push her around the house in her car. She LOVES her car. The pink outfit you see her wearing was from Ryan and Rob. She is such a spoiled little girl!

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-08T21:43:00.000-05:00

It came and went!! Ambers very 1st birthday! I took her picture this morning before even taking her out of bed. Naptime was followed by cupcake time. Nana came by on a surprise visit and we went SHOPPING! a new beach towel, pretty dress, new outfit and the peter pan movie all for our spoiled little girl!!. She's going to have a blast at her party on Saturday!

Good morning birthday girl!

yes, it's a stupid hat, but you have to wear it.

It's called a what?

who cares what it's called! I love it.

Cupcake all gone. Time to clean me up!

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-07T14:20:00.000-05:00

Who loves you? I told you there were lots!!

Babcia Ann

Nana

Big Brother Dakota

Daddy

And of course, Mommy
Tomorrow you are 1!!

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-07T14:10:00.000-05:00

Who loves you? I will have to do this one in a couple of posts because there are just so so many! There are even more people that love you that I don't even have pictures of!!

"Uncle Robbie" (I think that became his nickname after you were born!)

Aunt Mercedes

Auntie Lana

Uncle Ron

Uncle Ryan

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-06T13:48:00.000-05:00

Her favourite person is her big brother... But who can blame her?

getting ready for a party at Christmas time

After the first snowfall that stuck around (did you know they made REAL boots for babies?)

Hanging out in the megablock bucket

Boxes make the best boats.

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-05T12:19:00.000-05:00

The Holidays are always fun. They were made for kids... right?

Easter 2006, with her best buddy "elephant" given to her from Uncle Ryan.

Father's Day 2006, Hanging at a restaurant with Big Brother.

Halloween 2006- what else would she be?

Christmas party 2006

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-04T08:47:00.000-05:00

What is THAT on your face???

Chicken casserole

Oatmeal breakfast

This is the day after her accident and trip by ambulance to the hospital.

Chicken pox. These showed up the day after her scab fell off from her accident. what's next???

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-03T09:08:00.000-05:00

Favourite bathtime moments. (I know the first one is a repeat)
1 month old (april 6th 2006) first bath at home.

Starting to fill out the bathtub! (June 24th 2006)

9 and a half months in the big girl tub. (Dec 22, 2006)

11 months old- we couldn't walk on the bathroom floor
(Feb 11th 2007).

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-02T14:33:00.000-05:00

A soother for the ages. I just love these pictures of Amber with her soother. Shows how small she really was- First picture was when she was 3 weeks old (march 26th 2006)

This one is Amber at one month (April 4th 2006)

This one is Amber at almost 4 months (June 30th 2006)

I just liked this pic, she is 5 and a half months old here (Aug 19th 2006). Too cool for the soother during day, only at night at this point in her life.

A Look Back on the First Year.

2007-03-01T21:52:00.000-05:00

Everyday till March 8th I will post some memories froms Ambers first year. Below is Amber's birthday (March 8th 2006), Coming home from hospital (April 1st 2006), First bath in a bathtub, and not in a salad bowl (April 6th 2006), and hanging out with Nana (June 25th 2006).

Fashion Baby

2007-02-26T16:04:00.000-05:00

I try to take a pic of the special outfits friends and family get for Amber as I did the same thing with Dakota when he was a baby. I was asking Dakota to hold her up so I could get a pic of the whole dress that Scot and Sarah got her for Christmas, and he had to "ham" it up.
P.S, thanks Sarah (I know you're the one that picked it out) for the dress!

Story time

2007-02-26T15:58:00.000-05:00

Babcia-Ann came over for a short visit that ended up lasting like 4 hours. The kids enjoyed her reading of "Kat Kong". I enjoyed listening to her try to make the mouse voices.

Dakota was trying to act like a little man, and Amber was trying to get everything Dakota had.
Just another day.

megablock baby

2007-02-21T22:42:00.000-05:00

Ha ha mom, very funny, you can let me out now!

Yes this container USUALLY holds her giant legos. Her entertainment was emptying the bucket and trying to climb in, so I put her in.

This is the result.

A Cure for Boredom.

2007-02-20T16:20:00.000-05:00

First of all a BIG high-5 to the person whose idea it was to "spray paint" the snow with food colouring.(If you read this, you know who you are you genius you) This is as far as I got as I don't have snow pants and my jeans were soaked!!. There are a few more baby snowmen joining these two now. Trying to convince Dakota that the snow isn't going to last forever is like pulling teeth. "But it's winter!!" he says. Apparently he doesn't remember that he got his toboggan last year for x-mas and only finally got to use it this year due to lack of snow. It's melting quick and after some persuasion Dakota finally went outside. I think it's currently 2 hours he has been out there. YAY PACKING SNOW!!

OH that Amber.

2007-02-19T09:04:00.000-05:00

Phsio was fun for Amber again on Friday. The news this time was that Amber is definately behind in development by about 2 months from her corrected age. So she is 11 months old, and can do what a 7 and a half-8 month old baby can do. This week we are to work on her transistions. She has been able to sit for a couple months now, but still cannot put herself in that position. She can stand against her crib, but again, can't pull herself up. So we have to work with making her get into those positions by herself. What she CAN do is charm the pants of you!! Her first birthday is coming up March 8th. What a year she has had...

So far she has:

come out 6 weeks early and stayed in NICU for 3 weeks

went from a 3 lb baby to a 2.9 lb baby to an almost 20 lb baby!!

is pending diagnoses for Cerebral Palsy

has been run over by her mommy with the stroller

has had the chicken pox

has become VERY familiar with hospitals as she is visiting one at least once a month.

She loves her bathtime and her favourite thing to do is beat up her brother!! She has also discovered that just like her brother did (and still does) she LOVES getting her picture taken!

renovations galore

2007-02-18T16:32:00.000-05:00

The bathroom is almost done. It's been almost done for almost a week. Why do the little things take so much time? all we have to do now is baseboards and the casings, add a dab of caulking around the tub and "voila". Hubby is out getting bolts for his new work table. We've done all the other baseboards and the WHOLE bathroom floor without them, but we need them now.
I can't wait to post a pic when the bathroom is done, but I still need to figure out how to post them:)

Nuthin' much

2007-02-15T23:04:00.000-05:00

I've been neglecting this for a bit and I need to get back.
Snowstorm left a bit of snow- only pictures would do it justice and I haven't figured out how to do that yet. *(side note, thank you Laurel for telling me how to put pictures in)
The chicken pox are finally out of the house, and I was able to attend my waterfit class- yay!
We also met some other moms and had fun at an Early Years Centre. That was fun also!

That's pretty much it, nothing happened for our anniversary and nothing happened for Valentine's day. What are ya going to do?

Waterfit was Fun

2007-02-02T21:01:00.000-05:00

I went to a waterfit class yesterday. I had a blast! The only thing that dampered my evening was that I am directionally challenged and it makes me nervous. But instead of going to a pool that I was familiar with I figured it was time to find that pool that I have been told was sooo close to my house. Well it was. I still mapquested it.
Easy right? Turn right then left then right no. Turn right, then right, then right, then right, THEN left, then right, follow it around and you can't miss it.
So after circling this highschool three times I decide to stop an old old man that is walking alone on the dark street. I slow down to his walking pace, roll down my window and "excuse me? Is there a pool near here?" I didn't give him a heart attack and he pointed to the building right beside me and said "yup, it's right there, but there is no parking so try parking behind me"
I circle 2 more times and YaY, someone pulled out of a spot and I pulled in.
I make my way into the rec centre and there is this little desk just inside. I ask the nice lady behind this short little desk if this is where I can do the waterfit and she was soo nice. "of course" she says and takes my $3.25 and sends me around the corner to the lady's changeroom. "when you're all ready put your stuff in a basket" ??? um, ok.
I go in and rip off my clothes- I had my swimsuit already on as I knew I would be running late due to getting lost. I asked these 2 ladies who were obviously best girlfriends if (i pointed to these baskets behind a gated room with an attendent sitting there) those were the baskets I had to put my clothes in. They quickly informed me that I didn't have to if I didn't want to, and returned to their chit chat. I went to the pool area and joined the class.
Apparently I was the only one that didn't come with a friend. Oh well.
It was alot of fun, the old man I stopped on the street was also in the class. What a gentleman he was, passing me the noodles and such. My calves were killing half way through the class, and the instructor ended the class with a lighthearted "carlton" dance. HA HA HA.
Getting home was easy, I can't believe I got lost getting there.
Well here is hoping I get to go again, I would LOVE to go 2 times a week.

It's snowing and I'm sore!

2007-01-28T09:27:00.000-05:00

Dakota's chicken pox are just scabs now, which means he is no longer contagious!! yes, that's right mommy gets to leave the house! So yesterday we all got dressed up in our warm clothes, the neighbour girls came over and we tried making our own little tobbogan run in my front yard.
I had finished re-shoveling the driveway and sidewalk not too much earlier so I was still warm.
we shovelled all the snow we could find into a little hill, we took it from the cars, filled the recycling bin with snow from the backyard and worked for about 2 hours and "VOILA!" our very own 2 ft high toboggan hill! I was in and out while the kids played outside, but Dakota was outside a total of 3 hours!! I had to go in and put amber down for a nap and I was only out for an hour with the little hill but OH MY am I sore today!!
I passed out in Dakota's bed while I was tucking him in. Woke up this morning still in my jeans and 2 sweaters from being outside. My poor husband was up till 2am priming our cupboards to be painted.

Well it's snowing again, so I'm sure the kids will want to add whatever little snow to our little hill! Where is my Rub A535?

Poxcorn Popping up

2007-01-22T19:56:00.000-05:00

Day 2 of the Chicken pox... My guess was confirmed by the additional pox that showed up this morning. I was sort of doubting myself, checking up on Dakota every few hours last night.

Here is my experience so far. Kids love chicken pox as long as it suits their needs. For example,
Dakota woke up early turned on his games and refused to get dressed. This is fine as he is obviously not going to school, at least not till I pick up the kids I watch after school. HOWEVER, the chicken pox are NOT cool when they start to itch or when mommy asks him to take a nap so that he won't feel bad as well. They are popping up like crazy now! it's almost as if some invisible person is drawing them on. He even has one right in the corner of his eye!! ICK.

I left him and his sister in the car at the school while I ran to meet the after school kids and saw a few of the parents I knew. I Greeted them with a "Dakota has the chicken pox!!" They welcomed me with a round of applause!! Apparently this vaccination thing hasn't become so popular yet. 2 of the mom's said their child got the vaccination and then still got the chicken pox.
We ran back to the van where Dakota and Amber were waiting, and another parent overheard me tell the kids why Dakota had to stay in the van while I picked them up and she laughed and said that her kids got them all 14 days apart! Oh joy! The chicken pox seems to be a "bonding" subject between parents that have already gone through it, this is great I have a plethora of sources for info and home remedies now!

That's pretty much it for my day, kids are in bed (sort of; Dakota has been out 3 times already) So after my tidy up time is all about me.

The Chicken Pox have arrived.

2007-01-21T14:41:00.000-05:00

Here is the recipe on how to get the chicken pox.... Have your child hang out with a kid who's sister has gotten the chicken pox. Then have your child hang out with the kid who has just gotten the chicken pox from his sister. Then 2 weeks later send your child who appears symptom free to a child's birthday party. The next day without fail your child should be showing up the red marks. SHEESH! Can you believe it? I thought we were free and clear! Oh well. I've sent my hubby to the store to stock up on Calamine, and Aveeno bath for when Dakota gets itchy. I'm not sure what to expect with this though, and what are the chances that his baby sister will be "poxed" in 2-3 weeks?
I've called the mom of the birthday party he went to yesterday, as well as leaving a message with the school. I wish I had the other contact info for the other kids that were at the party, but maybe the other mom has it. Maybe I should call the pool too, after all he did have his swimming lesson Saturday morning? Or will the chlorine be the sanitizer? I'll keep him from his lesson next Saturday for sure.

Maybe this is why Amber is getting tired so often? Dakota is still in denial. Doesn't want me to cut his hair either.
It's very weird, every time I look at Dakota there seems to be one more little mark on him. Started out this morning that I saw a pimple on his forehead.
who knew?

Sports Saturday

2007-01-20T11:45:00.000-05:00

Well it's Saturday, which means swimming lessons day. Dad is taking Dakota to his lessons by himself for the very first time ever. Last week Dakota was 5 minutes late and his class started without him, and then the Deck Guard told us that there was no C+ class scheduled and for us to go to the front desk. Can you imagine, taking a wet 5 year old (we follow the rules and make him take a shower before getting in the pool) around a recreation center in January? We were so mad. His class was in the water already and he didn't miss just the 5 minutes (that we were late ONLY because the rec centers clocks are all ahead) he ended up missing 15 minutes of a half hour class. Hopefully today goes better. I think I'm only bitter about the whole episode because it's so hard to get the kids into swimming here. You have to wait till a certain date to register for the lessons and if you choose not to do it online your registration form goes into a "pool" and they pull them and put them in at the same time as the onliners. I am an online registration mom. Last summer for the last session every class I wanted to get Dakota into filled up before I could register him. When I finally found a class at a pool in Stoney Creek, they ended up calling me the Friday before his lessons started to say that for that particular class there wasn't enough kids to continue it. Well no duh! I didn't even want that time slot, but it was the only one left. Dakota went almost all of 2005 without taking his lessons- which he loves might I add, because the few classes they had that I could negotiate around my awful work schedule would be filled up before we got in. The class he is in right now is the last class I could get him into before I have to return to work in March. How unfair to him that he doesn't get to take the Soccer he has been asking to play for the last couple years or any other recreational activity just because I don't work for a family friendly company. Last year we tried to get him into soccer, but didn't know how. Another mom from the school told me that there was a "super Saturday" coming up so we went to it. We were told to look for a table, and to have a check ready. Of course that day it was POURING rain, but there I was, infant in the stroller and Dakota beside me walking around this park that had no less than 6 games going on at once looking for a little table to register for 2007. Well after 45 minutes of walking around I found where the table was... there was a little 8x11 paper that said that registration was taking place in the gym of _____. So I went into the gym and guess what? In this tiny elementary school gym they were not only doing the registration, but they were also doing a raffle, registration for some other sports thing, and also doing the team pictures and handing out the trophies. I stood in line and found out that I was in line for the raffle, so then I took the kids and went into a second line and asked the person in front of me if this was the line for new registration. It was finally my turn (I'd been at the park now for a total of 2 hours) and asked for a registration form, and the lady said to me "Oh, this is the line for returning players, new players have to line up over there" and pointed to another long line. I lost it and left. How stupid was that? So now I'm crying because I'm cold and wet and Amber is crying because she is hungry and Dakota is crying because after asking to play soccer for 2 summers he could see that it just wasn't happening for him. So now apparently there is one last chance to sign him up for soccer in March but guess when I return to work? That's right, March. the practices are during the week and they get a set day for their games. I wonder if my work will give me the evenings off that Dakota would have practices if I were lucky enough to get him registered? hmmm and then there is the game days. Well we'll see how Old Navy feels about family together time and fitness.
So now it's 12pm, and Dakota and Dad should be arriving home any minute. I can't wait to see how today went:)

Getting Started

2007-01-19T22:24:00.000-05:00

This is my first "blog". It's 10:23 EST and I don't really know how this works. It's funny, I've read other people's blogs and they are so colourful. Some are long, some short. hmphf.
I'll probably end up writing mostly about my day, and kids.

Today we went tobogganing at this little hill by our house. Dakota and Daddy were hilarious trying to get up the slippery hill with the wind blowing them everywhere. I had Amber on this little hard sled for about a minute. Too cold and windy. I tried the stroller, but without tank-type wheels there was no way I was getting it through the snow. Into the van we went and watched the boys while warming up and listening to the radio. The boys lasted about 25 minutes total. I'm sure we'll get there again in the next week or so. I'll post a picture of it once I figure out how to do that:)