I have not abandoned you, or dissapeared into CYBERSPACE. Although, as you can see many hours, days and weeks have passed since my last post. But it is for a good reason. Instead of being all smart, and swanky with awesome technical skills moving one blog into another ('cause let's face it, I am pretty small potatoes in the blogger world, so I can do what I want without fear of losing too much face) I just started a brand new blog that matches my new business. Same look and feel but easier to manage 1 page then 2!
So stop what you're doing and mosey on over to www.fitmomdurham.blogspot.com and keep up with me if you are so inclined. I'd love to see you there!
Your friend,
Jen
Friday, November 5, 2010
Are you up for the challenge?
This week my mom has been participating in a challenge to bring awareness to our community about living in Durham Region and receiving support from the local food bank. Over 30 people picked up their standard food hamper from Feed The Need in Durham and will be documenting their experiences through a variety of social media outlets.
I thought I would share a few of her observations with you, as I thought that they were profound.
Most of us have supported the local food banks by giving items during food drives, but how often do we really think about what we are giving? The nutritional value that is derived from the items and how difficult it can be to make nutritious meals from them.
From reading about my mom's experience this is what I have learned so far. A standard food hamper that can support a single person typically includes the following items:
2 packages of pasta, 2 cans of pasta sauce, 2 pkg KD, 1 can tuna, 1 can salmon, 3 can of veggies, 2 canned pasta, 1 jar Peanut Butter, 2 cans of soup, 1 box of cup of soup, box of crackers (that was her extra), box of cereal, pkg of powdered milk, 1 can of peaches, 4 small apples, 4 small potatoes , 2 onions and a loaf of bread.
This is suppose to last 13 meals. However, for many people who rely on the help and support of Food Banks, they may have to make these items last even longer.
If a single person on welfare collects $578.00 per month, and the average rent for a room is $400. 00, that only leaves $178 for the rest of the month. Fresh fruit, vegetables and meat are likely not an option, and very few food banks are able to provide these items to the men, women, and families who access the food banks.
After reading some of the blogs from the participants of the challenge (including my moms) I couldn't help but notice that there were several common themes: lack of energy, inability to focus on tasks, feeling hungry, headaches, hungry, hungry, hungry, missing fruit and vegetables and having choice. Chosing to eat what they want, when they want and having a healthy budget to be able to purchase those items.
I encourage you to check out Feed the Need Durham and read up on some of the participants experience with the challenge, and if you have the time complete the Do the math challenge. The quiz only takes 6 minutes to complete and it will show you how dramatically your situation would change if you had to rely on social assistance. Would you still be able to live a healthy lifestyle?
I thought I would share a few of her observations with you, as I thought that they were profound.
Most of us have supported the local food banks by giving items during food drives, but how often do we really think about what we are giving? The nutritional value that is derived from the items and how difficult it can be to make nutritious meals from them.
From reading about my mom's experience this is what I have learned so far. A standard food hamper that can support a single person typically includes the following items:
2 packages of pasta, 2 cans of pasta sauce, 2 pkg KD, 1 can tuna, 1 can salmon, 3 can of veggies, 2 canned pasta, 1 jar Peanut Butter, 2 cans of soup, 1 box of cup of soup, box of crackers (that was her extra), box of cereal, pkg of powdered milk, 1 can of peaches, 4 small apples, 4 small potatoes , 2 onions and a loaf of bread.
This is suppose to last 13 meals. However, for many people who rely on the help and support of Food Banks, they may have to make these items last even longer.
If a single person on welfare collects $578.00 per month, and the average rent for a room is $400. 00, that only leaves $178 for the rest of the month. Fresh fruit, vegetables and meat are likely not an option, and very few food banks are able to provide these items to the men, women, and families who access the food banks.
After reading some of the blogs from the participants of the challenge (including my moms) I couldn't help but notice that there were several common themes: lack of energy, inability to focus on tasks, feeling hungry, headaches, hungry, hungry, hungry, missing fruit and vegetables and having choice. Chosing to eat what they want, when they want and having a healthy budget to be able to purchase those items.
I encourage you to check out Feed the Need Durham and read up on some of the participants experience with the challenge, and if you have the time complete the Do the math challenge. The quiz only takes 6 minutes to complete and it will show you how dramatically your situation would change if you had to rely on social assistance. Would you still be able to live a healthy lifestyle?
Sunday, September 26, 2010
The Battle of the Baby Bulge
Tips to help you improve your shape in the post-partum period:
After 9 months of waiting patiently and doing all the right things to maintain a healthy pregnancy, you are finally holding your precious baby. Whether your labour was long or short, challenging or easier than you expected, you are probably tired and relieved that your pregnancy is over and labour behind you.
After a few hours of cuddling, feeding and falling in love with your baby, your thoughts turn to a nice long shower to rejuvenate you and ease the muscle soreness you are experiencing after giving birth. You pad your way to the bathroom, either with the support of a partner, or the wall (because your legs are still shaky and tired) and you undress to get in the shower. When you look up and see yourself in the mirror for the first time, you are shocked. For 9 months you had a growing, but firm tummy, and although all the books tell you that you can expect to look 4-5 months pregnant after the birth of your baby, you really aren’t prepared for what that actually looks like: the saggy, baggy elephant. The taunt skin that once enveloped your baby now resembles a bowl of Jell-O, and perhaps you notice that you have a few stretch marks or badges of honor, as I like to call them. Later, as you emerge from the shower feeling refreshed and relaxed, you make a secret pact with yourself to lose the weight, tone your tummy and fit back into your jeans in record time.
Before you get started on your new post-partum workout routine, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Set realistic expectations:
As determined as you are to lose your baby weight, remember that it is better and safer to lose weight gradually. You can expect to lose about 10-15 lbs. in the early days after giving birth (this weight loss is represented by baby’s birth weight, placenta, amniotic fluid, uterus and water retention), but it takes most women 9 months to 1 year to regain their shape and return to their pre-pregnancy weight. Remember that this is just an average; some women may take less time, and others, longer. It took you nine months to grow that big, beautiful belly, it won’t disappear overnight.
Eat Small Frequent Meals:
It is important to continue to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eating a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains and meats will ensure that you get the appropriate vitamins and minerals needed in your daily routine. Try to avoid overly processed foods, as they are higher in fat content and may make you feel more tired. If you are a breastfeeding mom, you will need to increase your caloric intake by up to 500 cal/day (more if you are also exercising regularly). Your body is working hard all day long producing milk for your baby. Also by having a lot of variety in your diet, you introduce new flavours and tastes to your baby through your breastmilk. This may make the introduction of solid foods (after 6 months of age) easier as your baby will have already experienced a wide variety of flavours.
Get Sleep:
Sometimes that is easier said than done! However, it is important to realize that 1) your body will store fat for longer periods of time if you are not well rested and 2) without adequate sleep you may not have the energy to exercise on a regular basis. Also, when we’re tired we are more likely to reach for junk food and caffeine to boost our energy, which in the short term is great, but counter-productive in the long run. So, although you may have heard it 100 times before, “sleep when your baby is sleeping”. Cat naps during the day will benefit you.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink water. This is especially important for breastfeeding moms who need to ensure that they are drinking enough fluids so that they can make breastmilk. Also, it’s possible to mistake thirst for hunger, so reach for the glass of water before reaching for a cookie.
Start Slowly:
It may take you several weeks before you are ready to workout again, and even when you are ready, it’s important to take it easy. FITMOM™ recommends that you complete your 6 week post-partum check-up prior to starting a new exercise routine. Light walking, pelvic tilts, kegal exercises and gentle stretching are things you can do in the early post-partum period. When you are ready to increase your intensity, remember that the hormone relaxin can be found up to 9 months post-partum. This means that joints are still loose and injuries are still possible. Injury prevention is top of mind for FITMOM™ coaches so you can rest assured that modifications, postural reminders and safety checks are part of the FITMOM™ experience. Go slow, listen to your body and modify your activities to meet your current physical conditioning. In time, as you build strength and stamina you will find that you can do more and last longer.
Treat yourself:
It can be very frustrating and un-motivating to stand in front of your closet and feel as if you have nothing to wear. Most of us are eager to toss the maternity pants aside and yearn to put on pants with real buttons but your old wardrobe may still be out of reach for a few months. Take the time to invest in 1-2 pants and tops that fit your current body and shape. It will make you feel better, boost your self-confidence and have you feeling like a yummy mummy in no time. You do a lot for your family, so it’s important (and recommended) that you do something nice for yourself.
The last tip is to relax, have fun, and enjoy the ride. You are taking all the right steps towards leading a healthier and more active lifestyle. The pants will come in time!
After 9 months of waiting patiently and doing all the right things to maintain a healthy pregnancy, you are finally holding your precious baby. Whether your labour was long or short, challenging or easier than you expected, you are probably tired and relieved that your pregnancy is over and labour behind you.
After a few hours of cuddling, feeding and falling in love with your baby, your thoughts turn to a nice long shower to rejuvenate you and ease the muscle soreness you are experiencing after giving birth. You pad your way to the bathroom, either with the support of a partner, or the wall (because your legs are still shaky and tired) and you undress to get in the shower. When you look up and see yourself in the mirror for the first time, you are shocked. For 9 months you had a growing, but firm tummy, and although all the books tell you that you can expect to look 4-5 months pregnant after the birth of your baby, you really aren’t prepared for what that actually looks like: the saggy, baggy elephant. The taunt skin that once enveloped your baby now resembles a bowl of Jell-O, and perhaps you notice that you have a few stretch marks or badges of honor, as I like to call them. Later, as you emerge from the shower feeling refreshed and relaxed, you make a secret pact with yourself to lose the weight, tone your tummy and fit back into your jeans in record time.
Before you get started on your new post-partum workout routine, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Set realistic expectations:
As determined as you are to lose your baby weight, remember that it is better and safer to lose weight gradually. You can expect to lose about 10-15 lbs. in the early days after giving birth (this weight loss is represented by baby’s birth weight, placenta, amniotic fluid, uterus and water retention), but it takes most women 9 months to 1 year to regain their shape and return to their pre-pregnancy weight. Remember that this is just an average; some women may take less time, and others, longer. It took you nine months to grow that big, beautiful belly, it won’t disappear overnight.
Eat Small Frequent Meals:
It is important to continue to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eating a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, grains and meats will ensure that you get the appropriate vitamins and minerals needed in your daily routine. Try to avoid overly processed foods, as they are higher in fat content and may make you feel more tired. If you are a breastfeeding mom, you will need to increase your caloric intake by up to 500 cal/day (more if you are also exercising regularly). Your body is working hard all day long producing milk for your baby. Also by having a lot of variety in your diet, you introduce new flavours and tastes to your baby through your breastmilk. This may make the introduction of solid foods (after 6 months of age) easier as your baby will have already experienced a wide variety of flavours.
Get Sleep:
Sometimes that is easier said than done! However, it is important to realize that 1) your body will store fat for longer periods of time if you are not well rested and 2) without adequate sleep you may not have the energy to exercise on a regular basis. Also, when we’re tired we are more likely to reach for junk food and caffeine to boost our energy, which in the short term is great, but counter-productive in the long run. So, although you may have heard it 100 times before, “sleep when your baby is sleeping”. Cat naps during the day will benefit you.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink water. This is especially important for breastfeeding moms who need to ensure that they are drinking enough fluids so that they can make breastmilk. Also, it’s possible to mistake thirst for hunger, so reach for the glass of water before reaching for a cookie.
Start Slowly:
It may take you several weeks before you are ready to workout again, and even when you are ready, it’s important to take it easy. FITMOM™ recommends that you complete your 6 week post-partum check-up prior to starting a new exercise routine. Light walking, pelvic tilts, kegal exercises and gentle stretching are things you can do in the early post-partum period. When you are ready to increase your intensity, remember that the hormone relaxin can be found up to 9 months post-partum. This means that joints are still loose and injuries are still possible. Injury prevention is top of mind for FITMOM™ coaches so you can rest assured that modifications, postural reminders and safety checks are part of the FITMOM™ experience. Go slow, listen to your body and modify your activities to meet your current physical conditioning. In time, as you build strength and stamina you will find that you can do more and last longer.
Treat yourself:
It can be very frustrating and un-motivating to stand in front of your closet and feel as if you have nothing to wear. Most of us are eager to toss the maternity pants aside and yearn to put on pants with real buttons but your old wardrobe may still be out of reach for a few months. Take the time to invest in 1-2 pants and tops that fit your current body and shape. It will make you feel better, boost your self-confidence and have you feeling like a yummy mummy in no time. You do a lot for your family, so it’s important (and recommended) that you do something nice for yourself.
The last tip is to relax, have fun, and enjoy the ride. You are taking all the right steps towards leading a healthier and more active lifestyle. The pants will come in time!
Sunday, September 5, 2010
I am an ox·y·mo·ron
Ox-y-moron
noun, plural
A figure of speech by which a locution produces an incongruous, seemingly self-contradictory effect, as in "cruel kindness" or "to make haste slowly".
Or in my case, the oxymoron is "works from home".
I may have mentioned that I have left the comfort and security of a regular paycheck for the 'we may not have much, but we have each other; everybody needs to make sacrifices, because mommy is working from home' option.
The tipping point that lead to my decision to leave my full time job and venture into self employment, came after a discussion with Big Daddy when he asked me if we wanted to leave Big in charge of the house at the age of 5. We had already seen a version of "Lord of the Flies" over the Christmas break when four 4 year olds ran around our place like the tazmanian devil, leaving a trail of destruction throughout the house. Would that display of wild crazy children be our future if I returned to work? More than likely, and we were in the unique position of being able to make the investment in our children to modify our work lifestyles. Most families aren't in the position to make those kinds of changes.
Also, my supportive (but blunt) mother described for me in great detail that should I return to work, my positive and healthy relationship with my sons would likely turn into a full fledge battle partnered with copious amounts of yelling at children who never seem to move fast enough to get out the door. This would of course cause extra stress, that would be followed by name calling (which I would later regret) and frustration for all parties involved. Some families are able to handle the stress of this push and pull of childcare arrangements, pressures of demanding jobs, friends and family better than others. We are not one of those families.
So after some long discussions and a lot of courage we jumped feet first into self-employment.
The home office is now the dining room table. The laptop I purchased is always on so that I can try to get 5-10 minutes of work done every 3-4 hours between nap times, play dates, laundry, snuggling babies, disciplining 4 year olds, feeding, changing and diapering. I work alot at night and drag the boys with me when I have an appointment. To make it up to them, we make lots of trips to local parks.
We are all adjusting to this new lifestyle.
I work from home, and sometimes, I even get work done.
Maybe I am not an oxymoron after all.
noun, plural
A figure of speech by which a locution produces an incongruous, seemingly self-contradictory effect, as in "cruel kindness" or "to make haste slowly".
Or in my case, the oxymoron is "works from home".
I may have mentioned that I have left the comfort and security of a regular paycheck for the 'we may not have much, but we have each other; everybody needs to make sacrifices, because mommy is working from home' option.
The tipping point that lead to my decision to leave my full time job and venture into self employment, came after a discussion with Big Daddy when he asked me if we wanted to leave Big in charge of the house at the age of 5. We had already seen a version of "Lord of the Flies" over the Christmas break when four 4 year olds ran around our place like the tazmanian devil, leaving a trail of destruction throughout the house. Would that display of wild crazy children be our future if I returned to work? More than likely, and we were in the unique position of being able to make the investment in our children to modify our work lifestyles. Most families aren't in the position to make those kinds of changes.
Also, my supportive (but blunt) mother described for me in great detail that should I return to work, my positive and healthy relationship with my sons would likely turn into a full fledge battle partnered with copious amounts of yelling at children who never seem to move fast enough to get out the door. This would of course cause extra stress, that would be followed by name calling (which I would later regret) and frustration for all parties involved. Some families are able to handle the stress of this push and pull of childcare arrangements, pressures of demanding jobs, friends and family better than others. We are not one of those families.
So after some long discussions and a lot of courage we jumped feet first into self-employment.
The home office is now the dining room table. The laptop I purchased is always on so that I can try to get 5-10 minutes of work done every 3-4 hours between nap times, play dates, laundry, snuggling babies, disciplining 4 year olds, feeding, changing and diapering. I work alot at night and drag the boys with me when I have an appointment. To make it up to them, we make lots of trips to local parks.
We are all adjusting to this new lifestyle.
I work from home, and sometimes, I even get work done.
Maybe I am not an oxymoron after all.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Thank you for calling.....
I love call display. We have just recently added this feature to our phone bill and I have thoroughly enjoyed screening all of those pesky sales calls that used to trap me prior to this glorious feature.
Well, imagine my surprise today when across the screen of the cordless phone were the words 'Government of Canada'. For a moment I thought it might be Steven Harper calling me himself, and I guess technically it was. Either way, I wasn't prepared to pick up the phone and let the call go straight to voice mail. If Mr. Harper really wanted to talk to me, he could leave a message like the rest of the world. Moments later, the words 'Voicemail' appeared on the display. I guess Mr. Harper had something he actually wanted to say to me. My good friend was over visiting and we conspired as to the nature of the call. Maybe it's a courtesy call thanking me for starting a new small business in Ontario. According to my friend, that was highly unlikely. The government's not really all that concerned about customer service, unless there is an election. Maybe that's it. Perhaps Mr. Harper is calling me to find out what I think of his fake lake, new tax structure and views on women's health.
As I punched in the password to collect my messages I held my breath. "Hello Jennifer, this is Nadia calling from Employment Insurance, can you please call me back at our toll free number?Thank you."
Gulp. Whatever they wanted, I was sure it wasn't going to be good news.
I was right.
Several weeks ago I met with my employer to tell them that I would not be returning to my position following the end of my maternity leave. They took it well, were dissapointed, but understood and supported my decision.
A few weeks after the meeting I checked my bank account only to find a large sum of money had been deposited. Hooray! Aren't I lucky? A mini windfall to boost the family's savings up as we head into our new business venture. I quickly moved the money to a savings account and did a money dance.
All is good.
And then came the phone call.
My employer being so totally on the ball had paid out my vacation pay, nice. Except that it screwed up my final EI payments. Not nice. You see, you can't earn extra money while you are receiving EI. If you do, then they deduct the amount from your assistance.
Crap.
So lovely Nadia gave me two options. I can a) continue receiving the final EI payments and then pay the government back or b) end payments immediately as the balance I would owe equals the amount I would receive for the final payment. How convenient.
I thought about the option for a split second and decided to part ways immediately with the government.
I know a few things in life, one of them is not to owe the government money. The other is not to mess with a Sicialian when death is on the line.
Well, imagine my surprise today when across the screen of the cordless phone were the words 'Government of Canada'. For a moment I thought it might be Steven Harper calling me himself, and I guess technically it was. Either way, I wasn't prepared to pick up the phone and let the call go straight to voice mail. If Mr. Harper really wanted to talk to me, he could leave a message like the rest of the world. Moments later, the words 'Voicemail' appeared on the display. I guess Mr. Harper had something he actually wanted to say to me. My good friend was over visiting and we conspired as to the nature of the call. Maybe it's a courtesy call thanking me for starting a new small business in Ontario. According to my friend, that was highly unlikely. The government's not really all that concerned about customer service, unless there is an election. Maybe that's it. Perhaps Mr. Harper is calling me to find out what I think of his fake lake, new tax structure and views on women's health.
As I punched in the password to collect my messages I held my breath. "Hello Jennifer, this is Nadia calling from Employment Insurance, can you please call me back at our toll free number?Thank you."
Gulp. Whatever they wanted, I was sure it wasn't going to be good news.
I was right.
Several weeks ago I met with my employer to tell them that I would not be returning to my position following the end of my maternity leave. They took it well, were dissapointed, but understood and supported my decision.
A few weeks after the meeting I checked my bank account only to find a large sum of money had been deposited. Hooray! Aren't I lucky? A mini windfall to boost the family's savings up as we head into our new business venture. I quickly moved the money to a savings account and did a money dance.
All is good.
And then came the phone call.
My employer being so totally on the ball had paid out my vacation pay, nice. Except that it screwed up my final EI payments. Not nice. You see, you can't earn extra money while you are receiving EI. If you do, then they deduct the amount from your assistance.
Crap.
So lovely Nadia gave me two options. I can a) continue receiving the final EI payments and then pay the government back or b) end payments immediately as the balance I would owe equals the amount I would receive for the final payment. How convenient.
I thought about the option for a split second and decided to part ways immediately with the government.
I know a few things in life, one of them is not to owe the government money. The other is not to mess with a Sicialian when death is on the line.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Friday Funny
I am not sure if this is funny or just sad.
Our Air Conditioner is broken. In the middle of a heat wave. The motor has blown; perhaps from overuse.
Excuse me while I rock in the corner and eat my sweat drenched hair.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Summer Daze
I used to love the summer, when my days were care free and my time was spent playing outside with my friends, seeking shelter in the shade and spending hours on end waterlogged in a pool or a lake. You would think that these activities I am reminiscing about took place in my youth; and of course they did. But today I am remembering the care free summers of my life with no kids. Oh those blissful days when I answered to no one, and had all the time in the world.
Weekends and weekdays were spent at cottages, swimming, boating, playing cards, having fires, laughing and making memories over beverages. In fact one weekend in particular I remember playing Monopoly for a solid 8 hours, and really, if I hadn't spilled my drink across the table we would still be at Long Lake taking over the world one street at a time.
Yes, I remember those summers.
Fast forward a few years and now my summers are so very, very different. Especially this one. The biggest change (other than the 2 kids!) is that I am officially a mom that works from home. What an ironic term. It actually implies that I get work done! The reality is that this is a HUGE challenge. As I try to get a new business off the ground I am still responsible for running a household,and I have already told you that I am no June Cleaver, but I do my best and try to keep up appearances. Basically I make sure that the really dangerous choking hazards are off the floor, feed family members, and entertain or provide entertaining activities for Big and Little. It's the entertainment part that is killing me. I often sit back and wonder how the rest of you manage to do it (if you have suggestions/tips please send them my way!). Of course, I knew that it would be a juggling act, and I do surprise myself when I get stuff done, but what I wasn't prepared for though was the whinning. And I have to tell you I HATE whinning. It is the most annoying sound in the whole world. In fact, I really wish there was a cure for whinning. At one point I thought the cure was Carona's, but the side effects (aka hangovers) were no longer acceptable.
At 4 years old, all day long all I hear is "I'm Bored" and "I wanna watch a mooovie" or "I wanna play Lego Star Wars Video Game". I thought I had a few years before these words would be on repeat. I know, I know- so naiive. The crazy thing, is that I am tempted. Tempted to just plop the monkey in front of the boob tube for the day so I can have uninterrupted work time. Of course I don't let him sit there for the day; but sometimes you have to use the 'babysitter' to knock off some items from the 'to do list' or nothing would ever be accomplished.
So, in my vain attempt to manage my house, get work done, have fun, connect and bond with my kids and enjoy the summer I made a schedule.
Summer Rules for Big & Little:
Weekends and weekdays were spent at cottages, swimming, boating, playing cards, having fires, laughing and making memories over beverages. In fact one weekend in particular I remember playing Monopoly for a solid 8 hours, and really, if I hadn't spilled my drink across the table we would still be at Long Lake taking over the world one street at a time.
Yes, I remember those summers.
Fast forward a few years and now my summers are so very, very different. Especially this one. The biggest change (other than the 2 kids!) is that I am officially a mom that works from home. What an ironic term. It actually implies that I get work done! The reality is that this is a HUGE challenge. As I try to get a new business off the ground I am still responsible for running a household,and I have already told you that I am no June Cleaver, but I do my best and try to keep up appearances. Basically I make sure that the really dangerous choking hazards are off the floor, feed family members, and entertain or provide entertaining activities for Big and Little. It's the entertainment part that is killing me. I often sit back and wonder how the rest of you manage to do it (if you have suggestions/tips please send them my way!). Of course, I knew that it would be a juggling act, and I do surprise myself when I get stuff done, but what I wasn't prepared for though was the whinning. And I have to tell you I HATE whinning. It is the most annoying sound in the whole world. In fact, I really wish there was a cure for whinning. At one point I thought the cure was Carona's, but the side effects (aka hangovers) were no longer acceptable.
At 4 years old, all day long all I hear is "I'm Bored" and "I wanna watch a mooovie" or "I wanna play Lego Star Wars Video Game". I thought I had a few years before these words would be on repeat. I know, I know- so naiive. The crazy thing, is that I am tempted. Tempted to just plop the monkey in front of the boob tube for the day so I can have uninterrupted work time. Of course I don't let him sit there for the day; but sometimes you have to use the 'babysitter' to knock off some items from the 'to do list' or nothing would ever be accomplished.
So, in my vain attempt to manage my house, get work done, have fun, connect and bond with my kids and enjoy the summer I made a schedule.
Summer Schedule*:
7:30-9:00 Breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth, FREE ACTIVITY
9-10:00 Little goes for a nap, T.V. for BIG (Mommy showers)
10:00-10:15 Morning Snack
10:15-12:00- Let's have fun (Park, outside play, play dates, crafts, reading, activity books)
12:00-1:00 Lunch
1:00-3:00 Quiet Activities, Little Naps, Mommy works
3:00-4:00 T.V. is okay with a snack
4:00-Daddy's home T.V. off; get ready for supper.
Summer Rules for Big & Little:
- T.V will be used in moderation. If mommy says you can't watch, you need to respect her choice and find something else to do; or, you can go in your room ( you can imagine what BIG has been choosing lately. Yup. His room!)
- Listen and respect each other (gawd this is soooo hard for both of us to do!)
- Everyone helps out with chores
- No Whinning (litterally, that is a rule I wrote, I know. Naiive)
- Try new things/activities
- Have Fun
- Wear Hats & Sunscreen
- Have Fun
Big of course hates my schedule. He thinks its dumb. He says I am not fun. We are no longer friends. Oh, and my rules are dumb too.
What do you think?
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