After our big blow up on Saturday, with some new rules in place, the days have been a bit smoother. We still have some moments but it's only been a few days so an adjustment for both of us. I think he's surprised I've been following through. Yesterday the landlord was bringing some fence guys by to get a quote because the fence is falling over. They were to be here at 7:15, which is just before bedtime, so I knew it would be tricky. But I also know my son loves this stuff, and would want to be there. At 6:50 we came in from playing out front and he was mad at me for not letting him have a fruit roll up thing, so he called me stupid. That's one of the rules, no name calling, bad language, it means the TV get turned off. So I told him no TV. He cried! A lot. He tried to get the remotes so I put them on the fridge. He said he'd get them down, I said I'd remove the batteries. He then begged to watch Netflix instead, I told him that's still TV. So he hit me. And I took him up to get ready for bed. He got his teeth brushed and we read his story. He apologized and I told him he could come out with the men to see the fence, but right after would be bedtime with no play time. He said that was ok. I didn't want to have to fight for 10 minutes to keep him in his room and into bed. So it worked, mostly.
Tonight at bedtime he wanted to play with his toy, but we had discussed if he would play with his toy or have "talk about your day time" and he chose to chat. When he pulled out the toy I told him, nope. Keep it up and no TV tomorrow (which is mostly an empty threat since we'll be out all evening at the school for the end of year Fun Fare). He still didn't listen and so I said, ok none on Thursday either. He kept at it so I told him I was leaving the room and he was to go to sleep. He got upset and put the game away, then told me it was an accident, that he was trying to turn it off, not play with it... yeah that's what happened! I guess we'll see if I can stick with it over the next two nights.
I have started to exercise again, only 3 days in but I feel better about it. I get up early and do some cardio, do some weights/tonight when I get home from work, and yoga after kiddo is in bed. The yoga is only 10 minutes but it makes me feel good! The rest, we'll see. So far I'm getting a bit sore, which I guess is to be expected. I am also eating mostly better, though once I get groceries tomorrow that will improve a lot. I have a big list of veggies and things to pick up. I can't wait really.
Tonight we were talking about something, I don't even remember what, and he mentioned he thought I should "go to that bank" I got the "seed" from that made him so he can be a big brother... I had pretty much given up that dream, so I guess we'll see what happens. I am 41 now, and I was enjoying the thought of travelling, and getting a smaller home when we buy (hopefully next year!). But he doesn't want to travel any more, he doesn't like flying. We talked about how he would be in grade 7 when the baby would be starting school. Which is a big gap. Also for me, since I hope to retire at 55, I'm not sure I'd be able to do that with a 14 year old at home. That is crazy! Any way, more thinking required, I am not sure I can handle another child, some moments I wonder if I can handle the one I have! But of course we are together a lot with little to break that up, perhaps another person would be a good dynamic.
I am still enjoying reading the parenting books. One is talking about respecting the developmental stage of the child, which I try and do but sometimes it's hard, he just seems to be older than he is. I wonder if that is my fault, I talk to him like he is older than he is sometimes. He uses words that are bigger than I think he should. I guess it is my fault, he probably doesn't really understand the words all the time. He is smart, and he really wants to be "good" and not get into trouble. We are working on it, and I hope over the summer we'll have some revelations to improve our situation. Especially once we are on vacation in August.
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Saturday, June 11, 2016
Tempers
I am not sure if it's his age, or something else, but lately Jackson has been quite quick to anger, and it has me on edge, which makes me quick to anger as well. Even on our trip we both got angry at one another. I try to give him choices in things, but of course things like bedtime and going to school are non-negotiable. He has been using some bad words, and speaking in mean tones, I am used to him calling me stupid or an idiot if he doesn't get his way but it seems more and just beyond what I can tolerate. We had a big blow up today, I ended up carrying him to his room and holding the door closed while he banged on it and yelled at me from the other side.
It ended when I told him if his behaviour continues I will take action. And it ended in cuddles. It started when he asked me to fix a toy, I tried and it didn't work. He called the toy stupid, hit me, threw the toy, called me names, and tried to kick me. I told him the next time it happens the toy he's upset over will be going away. And if I hear it happens at school or daycare, any type of temper tantrum like that, no TV for the night. Which is honestly as much punishment for me as him.
I also told him he had to eat dinner with me at the table, which caused another melt down. He likes to eat in front of the tv. I like to read while I'm eating. Neither are good habits of course, but I've always liked to read while I'm eating. So it's hard for me to enforce something I don't really want to do. But I did it. For at least a few minutes and mouthfuls any way. We will stretch the time until he's at the table for the whole meal. I hope.
I have been trying not to yell. I try and follow Dr Laura Markham's Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids. But somedays... oh somedays I just lose it and yell. I can hear myself saying things to him that I know are not the right choice. I am sarcastic, and I do sometimes say things to him that he doesn't understand. I know I need to work on my own response. I think it is harder because there is no other adult here to step in, so if I am losing it, there is no backup, no way for me to escape. I have tried to walk away, he follows me.
I think I need to take better care of myself. I am trying, but it can be difficult to spend the energy on myself when it takes so much to keep us on track. I have not been getting up early enough to exercise, I know I need to. It makes me feel better and of course could help me lose some weight. I have been taking time after work, before I go get him from daycare. I feel guilty about it but he enjoys playing at the park with the other kids, they get outdoor time after school. He tends to not eat the daycare offered snack, so then is starving by the time I get him, and it takes longer to get dinner on the table. A whole hour extra I leave him there. And still when I pick him up he doesn't want to go. I guess that hurts. Well I know it does but it shouldn't? Why do the other kids run to their parents, happy to leave, and mine has a fuss and wants to stay. I must be doing this all wrong, maybe he's right and I am stupid.
Then later he will be loving and want cuddles and to be close to me. He doesn't want me to leave at bedtime, wants to talk then. I believe we are lacking some connection, I try and maintain it and build it but I guess I need to do more. I find it hard, I love my son of course! He is smart and funny, he is also very active, and wants to be with me and talking, all the time. I am a quieter person, I like to read and relax. I do things for him because I know he likes to. Like going to the park, I hate it, he loves it, we do it. And I also know I need to get that exercise back on track, when I am active I want to be active. How silly is that, yet that's the way it works.
So I am trying, trying to not yell, to walk away instead of losing my temper. I am going to get active, and focus on eating better, for both of us. And there will be consequences for his losing his temper with me. I am tired of being yelled at myself, and I do not like who I become when he treats me like that. I know he's 6, and he doesn't really understand, but if he doesn't learn it now, when will he?
I'm also reading, a lot. I got a few books from the library and have a few more ordered. All about conscious parenting, simplifying, and I am hoping it will all work out. One step requires getting rid of toys... Jackson has a lot of toys. Way too many. I know this. I find it frustrating and irritating. So while he goes to my parent's in July, I will be boxing up toys. I know he will be angry about it when he gets home. I am not throwing them out (except the broken ones or ones he has outgrown), so they will be in boxes or bins, stored away and to be exchanged with the ones I leave out. He can choose to swap them or I can to mix things up. I hope it will help keep the house clutter free. I will also be trying to declutter my own things, it's only fair after all.
It ended when I told him if his behaviour continues I will take action. And it ended in cuddles. It started when he asked me to fix a toy, I tried and it didn't work. He called the toy stupid, hit me, threw the toy, called me names, and tried to kick me. I told him the next time it happens the toy he's upset over will be going away. And if I hear it happens at school or daycare, any type of temper tantrum like that, no TV for the night. Which is honestly as much punishment for me as him.
I also told him he had to eat dinner with me at the table, which caused another melt down. He likes to eat in front of the tv. I like to read while I'm eating. Neither are good habits of course, but I've always liked to read while I'm eating. So it's hard for me to enforce something I don't really want to do. But I did it. For at least a few minutes and mouthfuls any way. We will stretch the time until he's at the table for the whole meal. I hope.
I have been trying not to yell. I try and follow Dr Laura Markham's Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids. But somedays... oh somedays I just lose it and yell. I can hear myself saying things to him that I know are not the right choice. I am sarcastic, and I do sometimes say things to him that he doesn't understand. I know I need to work on my own response. I think it is harder because there is no other adult here to step in, so if I am losing it, there is no backup, no way for me to escape. I have tried to walk away, he follows me.
I think I need to take better care of myself. I am trying, but it can be difficult to spend the energy on myself when it takes so much to keep us on track. I have not been getting up early enough to exercise, I know I need to. It makes me feel better and of course could help me lose some weight. I have been taking time after work, before I go get him from daycare. I feel guilty about it but he enjoys playing at the park with the other kids, they get outdoor time after school. He tends to not eat the daycare offered snack, so then is starving by the time I get him, and it takes longer to get dinner on the table. A whole hour extra I leave him there. And still when I pick him up he doesn't want to go. I guess that hurts. Well I know it does but it shouldn't? Why do the other kids run to their parents, happy to leave, and mine has a fuss and wants to stay. I must be doing this all wrong, maybe he's right and I am stupid.
Then later he will be loving and want cuddles and to be close to me. He doesn't want me to leave at bedtime, wants to talk then. I believe we are lacking some connection, I try and maintain it and build it but I guess I need to do more. I find it hard, I love my son of course! He is smart and funny, he is also very active, and wants to be with me and talking, all the time. I am a quieter person, I like to read and relax. I do things for him because I know he likes to. Like going to the park, I hate it, he loves it, we do it. And I also know I need to get that exercise back on track, when I am active I want to be active. How silly is that, yet that's the way it works.
So I am trying, trying to not yell, to walk away instead of losing my temper. I am going to get active, and focus on eating better, for both of us. And there will be consequences for his losing his temper with me. I am tired of being yelled at myself, and I do not like who I become when he treats me like that. I know he's 6, and he doesn't really understand, but if he doesn't learn it now, when will he?
I'm also reading, a lot. I got a few books from the library and have a few more ordered. All about conscious parenting, simplifying, and I am hoping it will all work out. One step requires getting rid of toys... Jackson has a lot of toys. Way too many. I know this. I find it frustrating and irritating. So while he goes to my parent's in July, I will be boxing up toys. I know he will be angry about it when he gets home. I am not throwing them out (except the broken ones or ones he has outgrown), so they will be in boxes or bins, stored away and to be exchanged with the ones I leave out. He can choose to swap them or I can to mix things up. I hope it will help keep the house clutter free. I will also be trying to declutter my own things, it's only fair after all.
Saturday, June 4, 2016
May 2016 Trip - part 2 Disney!
Since the cruise was only 4 nights I wanted to add on something extra. I managed to get a good deal through a travel agency for a few nights at Disney. We left from Port Canaveral for the cruise, so we had to fly to Orlando. We opted to stay at POP Century and get two day tickets, they came with a "fun bonus" which we could use at a water park or Disney Quest. I knew it would take awhile to get to Disney after the cruise, and the water parks close at 5 so I thought Disney Quest would be great. Jackson always wants to play video games, air hockey, and things like that. Since it's all included I thought he would have fun.
We got off the ship by 9:30 and through customs and onto our shuttle by 10:30, we were back at Orlando airport shortly after 11 and had to walk through the airport to get to our Disney Magic Express. I had done online check in so when we got to the hotel it was quick to get checked in. We got our magic bands, mine in purple and kiddo's in red. Our room was actually ready so we went to drop off our stuff and unpack, then back to the food court for lunch. Jackson had been talking about the mac and cheese since the last trip so of course wanted that, but it was not the same and he refused to eat it. I had a cheeseburger and fries, he ate my fries. If he had said he didn't like the mac and cheese I would have had that and given him the cheeseburger, but of course he first says he likes it, so I put mustard on the burger.
It was almost 1 by then, and we then went to catch the bus to Disney Springs. The wait for the bus was a bit long, but the ride was pretty quick. We got off and went in search of Disney Quest. We found it pretty easily, walking past a few stores, including the Candy Cauldron. We used our fun passes and then we were off to play!
Kiddo was worried that he wouldn't be any good at the games, and wasn't excited to try them. I got him to try a few and he started to have fun. We played air hockey, but I won (not on purpose) and he was upset so we moved on to other games. We tried a river rafting game, it was pretty fun, and we stayed a few hours. After playing lots of games, we left and stopped at the candy store. He got cotton candy, and an icing covered rice crispie square, which he did not like. We wandered over to the Disney toy store, and he got a set of 3 little buses, just the ones we took! We went back POP Century, and then swimming. We picked up dinner at the food court to eat in the room. He got a cheeseburger this time, and I had pizza with Cesar salad.
After swimming and dinner it was getting late, I knew around 9 we would be able to see some fireworks over the buildings, so we headed up to the store to get a snack, juice, water and of course another toy, then back to look at the fireworks. That was really the closest we got to them the whole trip! After we went back to the room, got into jammies to watch TV and kiddo fell asleep (as I knew he would).
Saturday morning we got up rather early, and got ready to head to Magic Kingdom. We had watched a lot of ride videos, and had fast passes for a few of the hard to get rides. We also had lunch reservations for Crystal Palace at 1 pm. We didn't feel like breakfast so I thought we'd get something in MK. Didn't really work out that well, we ended up with a smoothie and iced coffee at some point, then some waffle fries and water. We got to the park in time for the opening show, though we had to wait a bit, which kiddo was not good at. We got into the park and I said we'd head to Peter Pan, he said no way. So we ended up at Astro Orbiter. We also did the People Mover, and then the Tomorrowland Speedway. He did not like the car ride, he found it hard to stay on track and did not want help. After that we had our little snack and I suggested we go find some more rides. He wanted to leave. I managed to talk him into Dumbo and Barnstormer. He ended up loving both. I think after that we went to the Swiss Family Treehouse, and the Tom Sawyer Island. After that we stopped to buy me a hat, and him another toy, then we finally went for lunch. Lunch was good, expensive, but good. After that we left to the hotel again.
We swam, and had a little rest, then dinner, and he wanted to go back to the park. We got fast passess for Dumbo and Barnstormer, I switched some of the other ones we had and didn't use. So off we went back to the park! It was hot, and a lot of walking. We were there right before the parade but he didn't want to stay for it, so we ended up leaving right before that, and back to the hotel to sleep. A long tiring day with some frustration for me. I had expected to not get everything done but I was surprised by his reluctance to try many things. I think based on this we will wait until he is at least 9 to go back, perhaps by then he'll be more willing to try things.
Next morning we were going to Epcot. We stopped for breakfast this time, I had moved lunch up to 11:35 but wanted to get some food in him to hopefully help! While we were eating a little voice said "Is Jackson here?" And it was one of his friends from school! Can you imagine? Huge hotel, and she was there at the same time we were. Crazy. He was quite happy to see the little girl, they chatted for a bit but we were off to different parks so that was it.
We had fastpasses for a few rides, including coveted Test Track, which he was super excited about, until we did the Tomorrowland ride. Now he had no interest. I was able to trick him into going on the Nemo ride, which he enjoyed once we were on it. Then we looked at all the fish in the aquariums, and the manatees. He enjoyed all of that. Afterwards he wanted to see the World Pavilion but since our lunch reservation was at 11:30 I talked him into seeing some other areas first. I can't really remember what we looked at but he wasn't too impressed. We ended up early to lunch, and were seated right at 11:30. Lunch was great to me, but he was not impressed with the food. He didn't eat that much, but he liked the spinning of the restaurant, and meeting Chip and Dale.
After lunch we set out for the pavilions. We saw a few countries and did an Agent P quest. That was fun, and we got a pressed penny from doing it. We took a boat ride back from Morocco (I think) to near Canada, and then went back to the resort. We went swimming and relaxed, there was some thunder so the pools got closed for awhile, Jackson was not happy about that. I asked him if he wanted to go back to Epcot for dinner, we could go to one of the countries to eat. He wanted to have Chinese food, so we headed back around 5:30 and made our way to China. He had rice and plain chicken balls. I had some nice stir fry, and then we went to look around. They were just starting an acrobat performance and Jackson wanted to stay and watch. It was pretty neat, and he enjoyed the show.
Afterwards I wanted to get my niece a gift since she had stayed at our place to watch the cats, drove us to the airport and was going to pick us up as well. Jackson picked out some beaded earrings and a bracelet for her. I found him a little set of fossils which he loves. He is obsessed with dinosaurs and such, so this was perfect for him. After that I had managed to switch our Test Track fastpass to Illuminations! Great we'd be able to see some fireworks. It was getting close, so we stopped for some ice cream and then started walking to where I thought the FP area was. We got there and were waiting for them to let us all in when... boom! Flash! huge thunder storm rolled in. It started to rain, and Jackson was freaking out about being outside in that weather, we hid under an awning outside a store for awhile, but they kept postponing the fireworks, and since he was getting quite upset, we decided to leave. We saw the fireworks when we got back to the hotel... not quite the same.
The next morning was check out day so I packed in the evening and got everything ready. He fell asleep while I was doing that, I managed to get everything packed back into our suitcases, and somewhat organized. We got up around 7 the next day, we had to meet the shuttle at 8:25, so if we wanted breakfast I knew we had to get up there fairly early. We managed, and had toast for breakfast. I knew we'd eat at the airport so I thought that was enough.
We got the shuttle and were threw security and checked in by 9:30... it was crazy. Our flight left at 12:30, boarding started at noon. So we had lots of time. We had breakfast again at the Burger King, and I wish we had waited to eat until later. There is no service on Air Canada, well there is if you want to pay a lot for it. I had a can of chips but Jackson didn't like them, so he didn't eat anything on the plane. We had to change planes in Montreal, and the landing there was very rough. Jackson got sick, and then had to get changed. We ran through the airport to find our gate and it was down in the basement of the airport. There wasn't really anywhere to eat down there, other than a very expensive sit down restaurant, so he had some chips and juice. I felt bad but we had passed all the places to eat thinking there would be something near our gate!
We had to go outside to walk up the steps to our plane. Thankfully it was a very short hop, and we had an actual gate when we landed. My sister picked us up, apparently my niece was concerned about how to find us at the airport, where to wait, etc. We got home, and Jackson just wanted to play with his toys. He had a quick snack and was in bed by 8. He went to school the next day, and I stayed home to do laundry.
The trip was good, but difficult at the same time. I want to go again but am not sure we'll go again in 2017, perhaps we'll wait another year. I'm not sure. I also want to buy a house (if we ever get a contract at work... and the back pay to go with that!) so we'll have to wait and see what comes our way.
We got off the ship by 9:30 and through customs and onto our shuttle by 10:30, we were back at Orlando airport shortly after 11 and had to walk through the airport to get to our Disney Magic Express. I had done online check in so when we got to the hotel it was quick to get checked in. We got our magic bands, mine in purple and kiddo's in red. Our room was actually ready so we went to drop off our stuff and unpack, then back to the food court for lunch. Jackson had been talking about the mac and cheese since the last trip so of course wanted that, but it was not the same and he refused to eat it. I had a cheeseburger and fries, he ate my fries. If he had said he didn't like the mac and cheese I would have had that and given him the cheeseburger, but of course he first says he likes it, so I put mustard on the burger.
It was almost 1 by then, and we then went to catch the bus to Disney Springs. The wait for the bus was a bit long, but the ride was pretty quick. We got off and went in search of Disney Quest. We found it pretty easily, walking past a few stores, including the Candy Cauldron. We used our fun passes and then we were off to play!
Kiddo was worried that he wouldn't be any good at the games, and wasn't excited to try them. I got him to try a few and he started to have fun. We played air hockey, but I won (not on purpose) and he was upset so we moved on to other games. We tried a river rafting game, it was pretty fun, and we stayed a few hours. After playing lots of games, we left and stopped at the candy store. He got cotton candy, and an icing covered rice crispie square, which he did not like. We wandered over to the Disney toy store, and he got a set of 3 little buses, just the ones we took! We went back POP Century, and then swimming. We picked up dinner at the food court to eat in the room. He got a cheeseburger this time, and I had pizza with Cesar salad.
After swimming and dinner it was getting late, I knew around 9 we would be able to see some fireworks over the buildings, so we headed up to the store to get a snack, juice, water and of course another toy, then back to look at the fireworks. That was really the closest we got to them the whole trip! After we went back to the room, got into jammies to watch TV and kiddo fell asleep (as I knew he would).
Saturday morning we got up rather early, and got ready to head to Magic Kingdom. We had watched a lot of ride videos, and had fast passes for a few of the hard to get rides. We also had lunch reservations for Crystal Palace at 1 pm. We didn't feel like breakfast so I thought we'd get something in MK. Didn't really work out that well, we ended up with a smoothie and iced coffee at some point, then some waffle fries and water. We got to the park in time for the opening show, though we had to wait a bit, which kiddo was not good at. We got into the park and I said we'd head to Peter Pan, he said no way. So we ended up at Astro Orbiter. We also did the People Mover, and then the Tomorrowland Speedway. He did not like the car ride, he found it hard to stay on track and did not want help. After that we had our little snack and I suggested we go find some more rides. He wanted to leave. I managed to talk him into Dumbo and Barnstormer. He ended up loving both. I think after that we went to the Swiss Family Treehouse, and the Tom Sawyer Island. After that we stopped to buy me a hat, and him another toy, then we finally went for lunch. Lunch was good, expensive, but good. After that we left to the hotel again.
We swam, and had a little rest, then dinner, and he wanted to go back to the park. We got fast passess for Dumbo and Barnstormer, I switched some of the other ones we had and didn't use. So off we went back to the park! It was hot, and a lot of walking. We were there right before the parade but he didn't want to stay for it, so we ended up leaving right before that, and back to the hotel to sleep. A long tiring day with some frustration for me. I had expected to not get everything done but I was surprised by his reluctance to try many things. I think based on this we will wait until he is at least 9 to go back, perhaps by then he'll be more willing to try things.
Next morning we were going to Epcot. We stopped for breakfast this time, I had moved lunch up to 11:35 but wanted to get some food in him to hopefully help! While we were eating a little voice said "Is Jackson here?" And it was one of his friends from school! Can you imagine? Huge hotel, and she was there at the same time we were. Crazy. He was quite happy to see the little girl, they chatted for a bit but we were off to different parks so that was it.
We had fastpasses for a few rides, including coveted Test Track, which he was super excited about, until we did the Tomorrowland ride. Now he had no interest. I was able to trick him into going on the Nemo ride, which he enjoyed once we were on it. Then we looked at all the fish in the aquariums, and the manatees. He enjoyed all of that. Afterwards he wanted to see the World Pavilion but since our lunch reservation was at 11:30 I talked him into seeing some other areas first. I can't really remember what we looked at but he wasn't too impressed. We ended up early to lunch, and were seated right at 11:30. Lunch was great to me, but he was not impressed with the food. He didn't eat that much, but he liked the spinning of the restaurant, and meeting Chip and Dale.
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| Jackson's been eaten by a shark! |
After lunch we set out for the pavilions. We saw a few countries and did an Agent P quest. That was fun, and we got a pressed penny from doing it. We took a boat ride back from Morocco (I think) to near Canada, and then went back to the resort. We went swimming and relaxed, there was some thunder so the pools got closed for awhile, Jackson was not happy about that. I asked him if he wanted to go back to Epcot for dinner, we could go to one of the countries to eat. He wanted to have Chinese food, so we headed back around 5:30 and made our way to China. He had rice and plain chicken balls. I had some nice stir fry, and then we went to look around. They were just starting an acrobat performance and Jackson wanted to stay and watch. It was pretty neat, and he enjoyed the show.
Afterwards I wanted to get my niece a gift since she had stayed at our place to watch the cats, drove us to the airport and was going to pick us up as well. Jackson picked out some beaded earrings and a bracelet for her. I found him a little set of fossils which he loves. He is obsessed with dinosaurs and such, so this was perfect for him. After that I had managed to switch our Test Track fastpass to Illuminations! Great we'd be able to see some fireworks. It was getting close, so we stopped for some ice cream and then started walking to where I thought the FP area was. We got there and were waiting for them to let us all in when... boom! Flash! huge thunder storm rolled in. It started to rain, and Jackson was freaking out about being outside in that weather, we hid under an awning outside a store for awhile, but they kept postponing the fireworks, and since he was getting quite upset, we decided to leave. We saw the fireworks when we got back to the hotel... not quite the same.
The next morning was check out day so I packed in the evening and got everything ready. He fell asleep while I was doing that, I managed to get everything packed back into our suitcases, and somewhat organized. We got up around 7 the next day, we had to meet the shuttle at 8:25, so if we wanted breakfast I knew we had to get up there fairly early. We managed, and had toast for breakfast. I knew we'd eat at the airport so I thought that was enough.
We got the shuttle and were threw security and checked in by 9:30... it was crazy. Our flight left at 12:30, boarding started at noon. So we had lots of time. We had breakfast again at the Burger King, and I wish we had waited to eat until later. There is no service on Air Canada, well there is if you want to pay a lot for it. I had a can of chips but Jackson didn't like them, so he didn't eat anything on the plane. We had to change planes in Montreal, and the landing there was very rough. Jackson got sick, and then had to get changed. We ran through the airport to find our gate and it was down in the basement of the airport. There wasn't really anywhere to eat down there, other than a very expensive sit down restaurant, so he had some chips and juice. I felt bad but we had passed all the places to eat thinking there would be something near our gate!
We had to go outside to walk up the steps to our plane. Thankfully it was a very short hop, and we had an actual gate when we landed. My sister picked us up, apparently my niece was concerned about how to find us at the airport, where to wait, etc. We got home, and Jackson just wanted to play with his toys. He had a quick snack and was in bed by 8. He went to school the next day, and I stayed home to do laundry.
The trip was good, but difficult at the same time. I want to go again but am not sure we'll go again in 2017, perhaps we'll wait another year. I'm not sure. I also want to buy a house (if we ever get a contract at work... and the back pay to go with that!) so we'll have to wait and see what comes our way.
Friday, June 3, 2016
Our 2016 Trip - part 1 the Cruise
We have been home for a few days. I needed some time to let this trip settle. It was a lot. We went on a 4-night Bahamas cruise then 3 nights at Walt Disney World. Over all, it was a good trip. We had fun and it was lovely to be away. There were far more good parts than bad. But travelling was not as fun this time as our last trip. I feel very tired and didn't really relax much.
We flew down to Orlando the night before the cruise, our flight left at 1pm and we had to change plans in Newark. That was ok. Jackson does not like flying (or landing) and by the time we got to Orlando he was feeling a little sick. He did not throw up, thank goodness, but wasn't himself. We traveled just with carryons so no need to get bags, just called the shuttle and went to wait. Got to the hotel, it was nice, sufficient for one night any way! There was a McDonalds in walking distance so we went there for supper. They serve 24 hour breakfast and Jackson was excited to get a sausage egg mcmuffin. Which did not "taste right" and we were off to a great food start... He barely ate dinner but did drink his OJ. When we got back to the hotel he wanted to go swimming so we did that. The water was nice, no one else was out there, and we had a fun time. Breakfast was free so we went down and ate. He had a muffin. He tried a few other things, but didn't like anything. We took another muffin back to the room and watched some TV while I repacked a few things and got us ready to catch the shuttle to the cruise!
The shuttle was great, picked us up on time, had two other pick ups after us but we got to the ship in great time. Made our way through a few lines. We did get bumped to the quick line for check in, but still had to wait for our number to be called. We cruise with Royal Caribbean this time, on the newly refurbed Majesty of the Seas. The process was different than on Carnival, not sure why, but we got on eventually and went to get some lunch. The buffet was nice, Jackson had a hot dog and fries, tried some lemonade. I think I had a hamburger, they were close to the hot dogs and I didn't want to wander too far with our carry on bags and everything.
We signed Jackson up for the kids club, then were able to go to our room. Our bags weren't available yet but we had our swim suits in the carryons so we got changed and went to swim! They have life vests on the pool deck which was great. I took his puddle jumper of course, he's not able to swim on his own yet, but this meant we didn't have to grab something else when we went up to swim. Before the muster drill we went to get changed again, one bag had arrived and we met the room steward, he was nice. We asked him to separate the beds, which he did before dinner.
The muster drill was actually fun because there were dolphins jumping around beside the ship, it was pretty cool! Then we went up to the pool deck to get a drink and sit and watch the land fall away. It was pretty nice. He was very excited and yelling at people on the shore who were waving at the ship. It was pretty funny. After that we got ready for dinner, our second suit case had arrived, and we went to dinner! We were sat in a corner at a table for 4 but no other people came. There was a lady at the next table on her own, so we invited her to join us the next night. Which she did. She was pretty cool. She works on the ships making costumes and was very nice. Jackson liked having someone else to talk to.
He had steak for dinner 3 of the 4 nights, the other night he had mac n cheese, with french fries. He tried dessert the first night and didn't like it so didn't have it again until the last night when they had the sorbet he likes. I ate well, I can't remember everything but I did get my escargot once and ate seafood of some sort every night. The lady we ate with mentioned that she gets the cold fruit soup everyday in a glass, it's like a smoothie! So I tried that as well and it was nice and refreshing. About an hour after dinner Jackson would say he was hungry so we'd go to the buffet. He'd have a cheeseburger, and I'd get a second dessert :-) We ate well on the cruise! Breakfast he had bacon every day, I had a full breakfast. He ate some fruit. And lunch was at the buffet most days as well.
Our sea day was good, we went swimming twice. It was very hard to get him out of the pool, there was a lot of attitude and I ended up picking him up and dragging him away. He refused to go to the kids club, so I had no down time, which was a little much. But he fell asleep every night watching the TV and without complaint. So that was good! He tried rock climbing on the first day and I think he'd probably try again in another year or two. He got a medal and was quite proud of himself. He is not a daredevil by any means.
We had two beach days, Nassau and Coco Cay. Both were great. He spent about 6 hours in the water in Nassau, but the day at Coco Cay was shorter. He got tired I think, and wanted to go back to the ship to eat lunch instead of eating the same food on the island. It was very fun, quite a bit of walking in flip flops, which was not comfortable. He got a lot of stuff in Nassau, that straw market, those ladies are good at selling to kids... and a mom who can't say no to that kid.
On our last night I packed up the bags and put them out in the hall way. We had a 9 am disembark time, which ended up being later. The shuttle was very crowded, and he couldn't sit beside me, but he had his own seat so it was ok. He fell asleep on the way back to the airport. We had to go there in order to get to the Magic Express. The shuttle was good, and quick. It was easy once we got to that point.
We flew down to Orlando the night before the cruise, our flight left at 1pm and we had to change plans in Newark. That was ok. Jackson does not like flying (or landing) and by the time we got to Orlando he was feeling a little sick. He did not throw up, thank goodness, but wasn't himself. We traveled just with carryons so no need to get bags, just called the shuttle and went to wait. Got to the hotel, it was nice, sufficient for one night any way! There was a McDonalds in walking distance so we went there for supper. They serve 24 hour breakfast and Jackson was excited to get a sausage egg mcmuffin. Which did not "taste right" and we were off to a great food start... He barely ate dinner but did drink his OJ. When we got back to the hotel he wanted to go swimming so we did that. The water was nice, no one else was out there, and we had a fun time. Breakfast was free so we went down and ate. He had a muffin. He tried a few other things, but didn't like anything. We took another muffin back to the room and watched some TV while I repacked a few things and got us ready to catch the shuttle to the cruise!
The shuttle was great, picked us up on time, had two other pick ups after us but we got to the ship in great time. Made our way through a few lines. We did get bumped to the quick line for check in, but still had to wait for our number to be called. We cruise with Royal Caribbean this time, on the newly refurbed Majesty of the Seas. The process was different than on Carnival, not sure why, but we got on eventually and went to get some lunch. The buffet was nice, Jackson had a hot dog and fries, tried some lemonade. I think I had a hamburger, they were close to the hot dogs and I didn't want to wander too far with our carry on bags and everything.
We signed Jackson up for the kids club, then were able to go to our room. Our bags weren't available yet but we had our swim suits in the carryons so we got changed and went to swim! They have life vests on the pool deck which was great. I took his puddle jumper of course, he's not able to swim on his own yet, but this meant we didn't have to grab something else when we went up to swim. Before the muster drill we went to get changed again, one bag had arrived and we met the room steward, he was nice. We asked him to separate the beds, which he did before dinner.
The muster drill was actually fun because there were dolphins jumping around beside the ship, it was pretty cool! Then we went up to the pool deck to get a drink and sit and watch the land fall away. It was pretty nice. He was very excited and yelling at people on the shore who were waving at the ship. It was pretty funny. After that we got ready for dinner, our second suit case had arrived, and we went to dinner! We were sat in a corner at a table for 4 but no other people came. There was a lady at the next table on her own, so we invited her to join us the next night. Which she did. She was pretty cool. She works on the ships making costumes and was very nice. Jackson liked having someone else to talk to.
He had steak for dinner 3 of the 4 nights, the other night he had mac n cheese, with french fries. He tried dessert the first night and didn't like it so didn't have it again until the last night when they had the sorbet he likes. I ate well, I can't remember everything but I did get my escargot once and ate seafood of some sort every night. The lady we ate with mentioned that she gets the cold fruit soup everyday in a glass, it's like a smoothie! So I tried that as well and it was nice and refreshing. About an hour after dinner Jackson would say he was hungry so we'd go to the buffet. He'd have a cheeseburger, and I'd get a second dessert :-) We ate well on the cruise! Breakfast he had bacon every day, I had a full breakfast. He ate some fruit. And lunch was at the buffet most days as well.
Our sea day was good, we went swimming twice. It was very hard to get him out of the pool, there was a lot of attitude and I ended up picking him up and dragging him away. He refused to go to the kids club, so I had no down time, which was a little much. But he fell asleep every night watching the TV and without complaint. So that was good! He tried rock climbing on the first day and I think he'd probably try again in another year or two. He got a medal and was quite proud of himself. He is not a daredevil by any means.
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| Almost at the first bell |
We had two beach days, Nassau and Coco Cay. Both were great. He spent about 6 hours in the water in Nassau, but the day at Coco Cay was shorter. He got tired I think, and wanted to go back to the ship to eat lunch instead of eating the same food on the island. It was very fun, quite a bit of walking in flip flops, which was not comfortable. He got a lot of stuff in Nassau, that straw market, those ladies are good at selling to kids... and a mom who can't say no to that kid.
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| Ready to swim!! |
On our last night I packed up the bags and put them out in the hall way. We had a 9 am disembark time, which ended up being later. The shuttle was very crowded, and he couldn't sit beside me, but he had his own seat so it was ok. He fell asleep on the way back to the airport. We had to go there in order to get to the Magic Express. The shuttle was good, and quick. It was easy once we got to that point.
Over all the cruise part was lovely. I think another sea day at the end to relax a bit more would have been ideal, perhaps a 5 night cruise? If he'll agree to go again I may try that. I think I would pick either Carnival or RCL, both were more the same than different. I may lean towards Carnival simply because he preferred the kids club and it is a nice break for me. I have to say that the RCL ship was a little more kid friendly, with the splash area and the pools seemed bigger and more family friendly. There was no problem getting a chair on deck any day. I think it would come down to price and where the cruise is going. There are some ports I want to visit, many in fact, but we have time, we'll get there! I will note that I did not feel the ship move at all on Majesty, either we had really smooth seas or the captain/ship did a great job with the stabilizers. I saw some waves and felt nothing, anywhere on the ship. Neither of us was sea sick as we had been on Carnival.
next... Disney.
Sunday, April 10, 2016
April Showers... or snowstorms
The weather has sure been terrible this April! We have had more snow this month than in December. Crazy. It's been cold and not very nice. I am hoping it will warm up this week. I want to get out on the bikes! Get out walking more, to the park more, all of that nice spring and summer stuff. We did get to the park one night after dinner, two of his friends were there too so that was nice. He ran around a lot, and fell asleep quick when he finally got to bed. But the next day it snowed, again. Yuck.
This weekend he had a friend over, pretty much his first real play date. It was kind of funny to me. Jackson has a lot of toys, like way way too many toys. The other kid was all about the video games. Jackson does have a Wii and about 3 games. They played two of them, and played a bit of hide and seek, which is tricky with two kids. Also a round of Mouse Trap. That's it! All these toys and the only comments from the other boy were on the fact our TV is so much smaller than his, and that the toys were no fun. I guess I am very happy my kid does love to actually play still. He uses his imagination and plays with toys. Mind you he uses all the toys, makes a huge mess, but he does do it.
We went to another open house today. Lovely house, one of the ones I really like. I was happy to finally see the inside of one. But of course I can't buy just yet. And it wasn't perfect. It needed some updates, new appliances I think, a few other things. It was also on a busy main street, and a little over priced I think. I still can't tell if I want to buy an older place or something new. I have time.
Back to work and school tomorrow. I had a sort of interview for a position on a new team, they'd be doing some projects and interesting stuff. I hadn't heard anything last week. Hopefully this week! At least just say no if that's the answer. I am planning to take August off again, and in July will probably be covering for someone else. I hope I will have something new by the end of summer any way.
Jackson is still learning a lot at school. He loves to learn new things, and it's pretty cool to see how well he's doing with the reading, and math. They are starting their health education, learning all the proper names of body parts and such. I'm not sure how indepth it will be. Should be interesting though, since he has the story of his creation (nice man who gave mommy a seed to plant in her belly... may need to update that if he learns too much this year!).
We have 6 weeks until our trip, I cannot wait! Four night cruise and 3 nights at Disney, it is going to be so great. I hope it's relaxing, and fun, and everything. I do wish I'd lost some weight before we go, but I am still happy to be going. At the rate this spring is going we may still have snow...
This weekend he had a friend over, pretty much his first real play date. It was kind of funny to me. Jackson has a lot of toys, like way way too many toys. The other kid was all about the video games. Jackson does have a Wii and about 3 games. They played two of them, and played a bit of hide and seek, which is tricky with two kids. Also a round of Mouse Trap. That's it! All these toys and the only comments from the other boy were on the fact our TV is so much smaller than his, and that the toys were no fun. I guess I am very happy my kid does love to actually play still. He uses his imagination and plays with toys. Mind you he uses all the toys, makes a huge mess, but he does do it.
We went to another open house today. Lovely house, one of the ones I really like. I was happy to finally see the inside of one. But of course I can't buy just yet. And it wasn't perfect. It needed some updates, new appliances I think, a few other things. It was also on a busy main street, and a little over priced I think. I still can't tell if I want to buy an older place or something new. I have time.
Back to work and school tomorrow. I had a sort of interview for a position on a new team, they'd be doing some projects and interesting stuff. I hadn't heard anything last week. Hopefully this week! At least just say no if that's the answer. I am planning to take August off again, and in July will probably be covering for someone else. I hope I will have something new by the end of summer any way.
Jackson is still learning a lot at school. He loves to learn new things, and it's pretty cool to see how well he's doing with the reading, and math. They are starting their health education, learning all the proper names of body parts and such. I'm not sure how indepth it will be. Should be interesting though, since he has the story of his creation (nice man who gave mommy a seed to plant in her belly... may need to update that if he learns too much this year!).
We have 6 weeks until our trip, I cannot wait! Four night cruise and 3 nights at Disney, it is going to be so great. I hope it's relaxing, and fun, and everything. I do wish I'd lost some weight before we go, but I am still happy to be going. At the rate this spring is going we may still have snow...
Saturday, April 2, 2016
April Showers
We had a lovely Easter at my parent's place. Jackson enjoyed it, and Easter itself. The weather Thursday before the long weekend was horrible so we didn't do the drive until Friday morning, at which point there was a lot of traffic! But we made it there, and back, and had a few days of enjoyment. Jackson did well finding all the candy filled eggs, no chocolate for my boy! I got a bit of chocolate though. Jackson also got Disney Oceans and the Good Dinosaur DVDs. He loves the documentary, he loves water and the oceans. The weather wasn't that great but he did get one day to play outside, and one day we went into town. My parent's got him a few "muscle" shirts, a really nice suit for the cruise, and a couple pair of pants. He also got some cool socks which he really likes. We went to lunch as well and he enjoyed that a lot.
For April, our budget is very tight, even for us. I have told kiddo that we are on a No Buy month, nothing but what we absolutely need. So only groceries, gas for the car and cat food. So far I think we'll be ok. But who knows what will happen I guess! I do know we have little flexibility this month. But our trip is paid off in a week with my next pay cheque, and otherwise, we don't really need a whole lot of stuff any way.
I have been dreaming of a house. Our union negotiations didn't lead to a contract but we do have a next date in April to go back, so I am very hopeful that within 3 months I will be getting some back pay and a payout, which will be a home down payment. With that I have to decide what to do. We went to look at model homes, again. I think we've seen these ones at least 4 times. I love them. But I cannot decide what to do. Part of it will depend how much money I get, and what mortgage I qualify for. At that point, if I can, I will get the bigger house I really really want. And if not I will get the ones I should get, that is more affordable, and doesn't have a big yard to take care of, has just enough space for us. And I can't figure out how to layout. It's open concept with only one wall to really put the TV on, so where does the couch go? Do I need to get a new couch? I really like my electric reclining sofa and love seat. They would fit better in the bigger house. So I guess I wait and see, and keep dreaming and pinning things I like. Like an undermount sink.
One thing with the houses, the smaller one comes with AC, all 5 appliances and hardwood on the main floor. The bigger house comes with the hardwood, and the 5 appliances, but no AC. I guess I'd better figure out how much that will cost too. They are both in the same school area for Jackson's school, so no need to change school or daycare. Both also have lots of wall spaces to create a cat area, I want to catify the house I buy, put up shelves and such for the kitties to use. Two of the 3 I have now love to climb, the other ones likes to as well but he's a bit big and has a harder time doing so. I'll need to figure out litter boxes too. Right now there are a couple in the basement and one on each floor in the powder room and guest room, places that don't get used much. I think we'll have to upgrade, perhaps to some type of automatic one, and perhaps some kind of hidden box.
I've been trying to be more active, walking to get kiddo after school, trying to get some basic body weight training in. So far it's going ok. The walking is good, it also helps him burn some more energy off, and get us both some fresh air. The problem of course is the weather. We have a polar vortex coming in, so it's cooled off again, and supposed to rain/snow whatever a few days this week. But as long as we get at least two days, and I'd really prefer 4, I think we're doing ok. I have been stopping for groceries and whatnot on my way home, I think it's all helping me use less gas for the car too, I don't know that it's a huge difference, but it is helping!
I've been angry more lately too. I'm not sure if it's all work stress, I don't care for my job right now, or something else. I lose my temper a lot, especially at kiddo's bedtime. I hate bedtime. Tonight was a little better, but he stayed up a lot later, so I get much less "me" time. And I am an introvert by nature who needs that alone time. If I have to push his bedtime later, I'll have to get up much earlier, or something, I don't know! I guess I'd better figure something out, stay up later, get up earlier, something. I do take about 30 minutes after work before I leave to get him, but it's enough time to start dinner, clean up the kitchen a bit, maybe get the groceries. I am hoping the sunshine, fresh air, and exercise, will help. Also vacation, it's coming up. Seven weeks tomorrow we fly down. I cannot wait.
Tomorrow we clean the main floor, I am tired of tripping over toys and not being able to see the floors. At least that's what it feels like. I hope he will agree to pack some up. Perhaps we will have some kind of garage sale this spring or summer, we have a lot of stuff we could get rid of. Baby stuff, kid stuff, even other stuff. We'll see. I normally sell stuff on line but some things would be better in a garage sale. Hopefully we'll get lots of stuff boxed up tomorrow and get this place cleaned up.
For April, our budget is very tight, even for us. I have told kiddo that we are on a No Buy month, nothing but what we absolutely need. So only groceries, gas for the car and cat food. So far I think we'll be ok. But who knows what will happen I guess! I do know we have little flexibility this month. But our trip is paid off in a week with my next pay cheque, and otherwise, we don't really need a whole lot of stuff any way.
I have been dreaming of a house. Our union negotiations didn't lead to a contract but we do have a next date in April to go back, so I am very hopeful that within 3 months I will be getting some back pay and a payout, which will be a home down payment. With that I have to decide what to do. We went to look at model homes, again. I think we've seen these ones at least 4 times. I love them. But I cannot decide what to do. Part of it will depend how much money I get, and what mortgage I qualify for. At that point, if I can, I will get the bigger house I really really want. And if not I will get the ones I should get, that is more affordable, and doesn't have a big yard to take care of, has just enough space for us. And I can't figure out how to layout. It's open concept with only one wall to really put the TV on, so where does the couch go? Do I need to get a new couch? I really like my electric reclining sofa and love seat. They would fit better in the bigger house. So I guess I wait and see, and keep dreaming and pinning things I like. Like an undermount sink.
One thing with the houses, the smaller one comes with AC, all 5 appliances and hardwood on the main floor. The bigger house comes with the hardwood, and the 5 appliances, but no AC. I guess I'd better figure out how much that will cost too. They are both in the same school area for Jackson's school, so no need to change school or daycare. Both also have lots of wall spaces to create a cat area, I want to catify the house I buy, put up shelves and such for the kitties to use. Two of the 3 I have now love to climb, the other ones likes to as well but he's a bit big and has a harder time doing so. I'll need to figure out litter boxes too. Right now there are a couple in the basement and one on each floor in the powder room and guest room, places that don't get used much. I think we'll have to upgrade, perhaps to some type of automatic one, and perhaps some kind of hidden box.
I've been trying to be more active, walking to get kiddo after school, trying to get some basic body weight training in. So far it's going ok. The walking is good, it also helps him burn some more energy off, and get us both some fresh air. The problem of course is the weather. We have a polar vortex coming in, so it's cooled off again, and supposed to rain/snow whatever a few days this week. But as long as we get at least two days, and I'd really prefer 4, I think we're doing ok. I have been stopping for groceries and whatnot on my way home, I think it's all helping me use less gas for the car too, I don't know that it's a huge difference, but it is helping!
I've been angry more lately too. I'm not sure if it's all work stress, I don't care for my job right now, or something else. I lose my temper a lot, especially at kiddo's bedtime. I hate bedtime. Tonight was a little better, but he stayed up a lot later, so I get much less "me" time. And I am an introvert by nature who needs that alone time. If I have to push his bedtime later, I'll have to get up much earlier, or something, I don't know! I guess I'd better figure something out, stay up later, get up earlier, something. I do take about 30 minutes after work before I leave to get him, but it's enough time to start dinner, clean up the kitchen a bit, maybe get the groceries. I am hoping the sunshine, fresh air, and exercise, will help. Also vacation, it's coming up. Seven weeks tomorrow we fly down. I cannot wait.
Tomorrow we clean the main floor, I am tired of tripping over toys and not being able to see the floors. At least that's what it feels like. I hope he will agree to pack some up. Perhaps we will have some kind of garage sale this spring or summer, we have a lot of stuff we could get rid of. Baby stuff, kid stuff, even other stuff. We'll see. I normally sell stuff on line but some things would be better in a garage sale. Hopefully we'll get lots of stuff boxed up tomorrow and get this place cleaned up.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Spring?
For a few weeks the weather turned very nice. Snow melted, it rained, robins came around singing. It was lovely. We even went out for some walks, and I walked to pick him up from daycare. I've been trying to be more active, so for 5 days in a row I got my 60 minutes of walking. Mind you some of it is not so quick walking, but still it's better than nothing. I would like to do C25K, but not in the cold, and perhaps once I get some good running shoes.
Today, winter returned! Snow, freezing rain, cold. I can hear the wind blowing out there. Normally on Easter long weekend we go down to my parent's place on Thursday after work but today we didn't. Hopefully the weather will perk up tomorrow morning so we can get there, early enough to enjoy the day. We haven't been down since the summer so I am sure Jackson will be happy to get all the attention. I just hope the weather cooperates.
Our trip is mostly paid for, still have a bit of Disney to pay off but that should be done in 2 or 3 weeks. I am really looking forward to it. 59 days to go! I'm not sure if we are more excited to cruise again, or spend more time at Disney. I like the mix of the two I guess. Jackson is looking forward to the mac and cheese at Disney, and the beaches. April is going to suck for money though. We'll survive, and bills will all be paid, but it is going to be frustrating, no eating out, no toys. Someone in the house will be very sad, and there may be some arguing. We will get through it though. And have a wonderful trip, making wonderful memories, and hopefully relaxing.
Jackson goes to a Catholic school and every month they focus on one Catholic value. For March it was Justice, and Jackson won the award for Justice! So I took a couple hours off to attend the assembly and watch him get his award. He was so cute, he wanted to get dressed up so he wore a button up shirt over his t-shirt and put on a clip on tie. I took him home after the assembly so it was a longer evening for us. Now if only I could convince him to get a haircut.
On the work front, after 3 1/2 years without a new contract our union is finally back at the table... hopefully things are looking up and there could be some raises (and almost 4 years of back pay!) coming this summer. I had a discussion with my boss about moving up, and I know the main thing I need to do is learn French... sure no problem, that'll be easy I'm sure! I will probably sign up for language training through work in the fall. And go from there. I know I have at least 14 years until retirement, so I have plenty of time to work this all out, and learn the language.
Today, winter returned! Snow, freezing rain, cold. I can hear the wind blowing out there. Normally on Easter long weekend we go down to my parent's place on Thursday after work but today we didn't. Hopefully the weather will perk up tomorrow morning so we can get there, early enough to enjoy the day. We haven't been down since the summer so I am sure Jackson will be happy to get all the attention. I just hope the weather cooperates.
Our trip is mostly paid for, still have a bit of Disney to pay off but that should be done in 2 or 3 weeks. I am really looking forward to it. 59 days to go! I'm not sure if we are more excited to cruise again, or spend more time at Disney. I like the mix of the two I guess. Jackson is looking forward to the mac and cheese at Disney, and the beaches. April is going to suck for money though. We'll survive, and bills will all be paid, but it is going to be frustrating, no eating out, no toys. Someone in the house will be very sad, and there may be some arguing. We will get through it though. And have a wonderful trip, making wonderful memories, and hopefully relaxing.
Jackson goes to a Catholic school and every month they focus on one Catholic value. For March it was Justice, and Jackson won the award for Justice! So I took a couple hours off to attend the assembly and watch him get his award. He was so cute, he wanted to get dressed up so he wore a button up shirt over his t-shirt and put on a clip on tie. I took him home after the assembly so it was a longer evening for us. Now if only I could convince him to get a haircut.
On the work front, after 3 1/2 years without a new contract our union is finally back at the table... hopefully things are looking up and there could be some raises (and almost 4 years of back pay!) coming this summer. I had a discussion with my boss about moving up, and I know the main thing I need to do is learn French... sure no problem, that'll be easy I'm sure! I will probably sign up for language training through work in the fall. And go from there. I know I have at least 14 years until retirement, so I have plenty of time to work this all out, and learn the language.
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| My dressed up boy |
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