Okay, I know I'm not quite a SENIOR yet, but the following headline grabbed me the other day:
"Before I turn 67, I would like to have a lot of sex..." quoted from an author who placed an ad in the New York Review of Books. The author, Jane Juska, is presenting at 2007 IdeaCity, an annual meeting of the minds in Toronto coming up in June. She apparently received quite a few responses. Her oldest responder was 84! She's written a book about her erotic adventures at her "advanced" age.
Well, I'm barely in my 40s, and after running after the kids, running the household (to a certain extent) and doing my requisite blogging, who has the time or the energy?! Honestly, I'm taking OC's right now primarily to improve my skin, and not really for the offchance that we might produce further offspring. No offence to my life partner, as we're both doing our darnedest to keep in shape and our marriage is very alive and well. We're not only working out to stay healthy for the kids, but also to maintain some semblance of attractiveness, at least for each other. Let's be realistic, the longer you're together, the harder it is you really should work at staying together. But the best quality couple time we get these days is getting into bed after the kids are tucked in, to read together in the quiet comfort of our king-sized bed. Who knew that all that (cover your ears now, Mom and Dad) hot and heavy pre-marital sex was supposed to last a lifetime?
I have to give kudos to her; senior sex is not exactly a "hot topic" these days. And she attributes it to the fact that most not-old people don't want to think about old people having sex. I know for myself, when we were first trying to conceive and not having much luck, my mom was trying to make me feel better by sharing details of certain positions that were best for trying for a boy, or trying for a girl, or just trying. From her own personal experience. All in the confines of a tiny elevator, while I was squished between her and my father. Yes, I know she was talking about when she was younger, but who really needs to hear and then picture in your mind ... well, it's just unthinkable. Pretty high on the "uncomfortable-o-meter" wouldn't you say?
Well, I have to admit that our relationship hasn't totally hit the platonic plateau and I have the tendency to exaggerate, more than just a little. I suspect that as the kids get older, we'll get more of our mojo back. I hope I feel as confident and can still embrace my womanhood when my kids have their children.
Now it's time for kiddies to cover their ears/eyes: One of my all-time favourite hilarious lines from "Sex and the City" was uttered by the fabulous Samantha Jones, played by Kim Cattrall, when she found her first gray pubic hair. "Nobody wants to f*&k Grandma's p%*sy!" Hopefully one Grandpa will.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Party Girl
This is Little G's favourite party dress:
And here she is pre-pirouette - though I think it's a little more modern dance:
And here she is pre-pirouette - though I think it's a little more modern dance:
Monday, May 28, 2007
This is Canada and we're bilingual
So get with the program, Mom.
G now wants to watch Caillou in English, "Mommy I want French" and flips out when it comes on in French, screaming "Turn off the Engle-ishhhh!!!!".
Now I'm thoroughly confused.
G now wants to watch Caillou in English, "Mommy I want French" and flips out when it comes on in French, screaming "Turn off the Engle-ishhhh!!!!".
Now I'm thoroughly confused.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Happy Birthday Mom
We took my mother out for dinner last night to celebrate her 70th birthday. Usually it's a Chinese tradition to have a huge banquet when one reaches this milestone year. And we kids were prepared to go all out and invite all her friends to a 10 course meal at a Chinese restaurant, for an event not dissimilar to a wedding banquet. But my mother wanted none of that - she wanted a low-key, family only event and suggested North 44 as her restaurant of choice. Which was fine by us (as my sis and I have been there separately only once before, and it was on the list of restaurants that my brother wanted to try). We couldn't really believe it as my parents generally tend to be more "splashy" when it comes to social matters. Just ask my brother, whose wedding 4 years ago was a major occasion that was pretty much run by my mom (I felt sorry for my brother's now wife, then fiancee, poor thing).
As we don't take my mother's initial comments at face value, between the three siblings we asked her at least a dozen times before we came to the conclusion that yes, indeed, she wanted a small dinner. She doesn't want to broadcast to all her friends that she's 70 years old. Come to think of it, I don't think I would either. I think it's a woman's prerogative to keep that information sacred.
We were fortunate enough to get the small private dining room which fit the 10 of us (including my two munchkins) very comfortably. We all dressed up a bit and G especially was excited. The kids made their Grandma special birthday cards, and G wore her mahjong print dress and her patent Mary Janes. It was quite funny as we got to the restaurant and were escorted through the beautiful dining room to our table. As we were seated, Giselle said, "Daddy, where the party go?" and you could see the disappointment written all over her face. She was looking for kids, balloons and cake and had to settle for boring adults!
But in the end it was quite an elegant, wonderful evening. I had ordered a delicious lemon raspberry cake from Noisette Pastry Works (Hannah uses real butter cream YUM...) which the staff plated for us after the lovely entrees.
And even better for me, I could actually drink this time - my sister and sister-in-law are both in their third trimesters of their pregnancies, so I could take their share - whoo, hoo! I've been so used to being DD all these years of trying to conceive and breastfeeding, it was a novelty that's for sure.
And most importantly I think my mother actually enjoyed herself.
But a major fringe benefit to parties is that it gives you a reason to shop for new outfits. So I had an excuse to pick up and wear my latest "classic" piece by Teenflo. A touch of Jackie K never hurt any wardrobe. My hubby noticed my legs for the first time in about 10 years and called me a "hot mommy", so it was worth every penny!
As we don't take my mother's initial comments at face value, between the three siblings we asked her at least a dozen times before we came to the conclusion that yes, indeed, she wanted a small dinner. She doesn't want to broadcast to all her friends that she's 70 years old. Come to think of it, I don't think I would either. I think it's a woman's prerogative to keep that information sacred.
We were fortunate enough to get the small private dining room which fit the 10 of us (including my two munchkins) very comfortably. We all dressed up a bit and G especially was excited. The kids made their Grandma special birthday cards, and G wore her mahjong print dress and her patent Mary Janes. It was quite funny as we got to the restaurant and were escorted through the beautiful dining room to our table. As we were seated, Giselle said, "Daddy, where the party go?" and you could see the disappointment written all over her face. She was looking for kids, balloons and cake and had to settle for boring adults!
But in the end it was quite an elegant, wonderful evening. I had ordered a delicious lemon raspberry cake from Noisette Pastry Works (Hannah uses real butter cream YUM...) which the staff plated for us after the lovely entrees.
And even better for me, I could actually drink this time - my sister and sister-in-law are both in their third trimesters of their pregnancies, so I could take their share - whoo, hoo! I've been so used to being DD all these years of trying to conceive and breastfeeding, it was a novelty that's for sure.
And most importantly I think my mother actually enjoyed herself.
But a major fringe benefit to parties is that it gives you a reason to shop for new outfits. So I had an excuse to pick up and wear my latest "classic" piece by Teenflo. A touch of Jackie K never hurt any wardrobe. My hubby noticed my legs for the first time in about 10 years and called me a "hot mommy", so it was worth every penny!
Saturday, May 26, 2007
I am a mouse, really I am
I grew up being a very typically shy, quiet, Chinese girl, who only spoke when she was spoken to, especially with adults. During kindergarten, when my teacher would take attendance and call my name I wouldn't say a thing... then she would look up and say with exasperation "Karen, you're supposed to say PRESENT". But I just didn't like to open my mouth. I suppose it didn't help that I spoke only Cantonese until I started school, so it was difficult to communicate with my teacher and other kids around me. And I started school in a new city, away from my Grandma and everything that had been familiar to me.
So I've always considered myself on the quiet side, "mousy" if you will. I know a lot of my friends told me their first impression of me was that I was snooty - which wasn't the case, I just felt awkward and chose not to say much or interact. It's only when people really get to know me when I totally open up and don't really shut up.
To remedy this, my mother enrolled me in all sorts of lessons, and whenever there was a speech contest at school she would make sure I participated. She really wanted to beat that shyness right out of me. And I suppose it worked, if two recent incidents are any indication.
Incident 1
I was shopping for a little outfit for our friend's new daughter, and I found the cutest dress with matching pants and socks. We were the only people in the store (me and little G) so when I went to pay I figured it would be pretty quick. The sales girl took the merchandise from me and commented on how nice the outfit was, and I concurred. Then I asked whether the sizing was right for a 15 month old, as it was a gift for a friend. She said it was perfect, but she said they could always exchange it if it didn't fit. So we continue to pleasantly chit-chat while she folds the clothes into the tissue paper and she says to me "so you don't need gift receipts, right?" Uh, what do you think the first clue was lady? But anyway, I said, "Actually, I do as it's a gift." And then she proceeds to check the bar codes, and request my phone number, to see if I'm on the customer list.
While she does this she offhandedly says to me again, "Do you need gift receipts?". And I patiently say, "Yes I do." But then my telephone number comes up with another customer, so she does what she needs to, takes my credit card and puts the purchase through. I sign the chit, she gives me the bill and I say, "So you put the gift receipts in the bag?" And she says, "Oh, you need gift receipts? You didn't say you did." UH, EX-SQUEEZE ME??!!!
I felt my "shiny, happy, shopping" face drop quickly to be replaced by my "WTF, you dopey girl" annoyed face in a millisecond. My next words, dripping with ice:
"Yes, I did say I needed gift receipts. You asked me TWICE and I responded YES I NEED THEM, BOTH TIMES."
So then she spent the next ten minutes trying to re-do the transaction. An awkward ten minutes. I felt a bit bad for her as she apologized, but only sort of.
Incident 2
I hate telemarketers. Especially the ones who call right at 6:02 PM while I'm trying to get dinner on, and it's much later than I planned (as usual). Normally when the phone rings at that hour, I don't answer it, and I don't let my kids answer either. But Hubby was away, so I let L pick it up in case it was his Dad. Big mistake. L listens a bit, then he hands it to me, "For you, Mom".
"Hello there, we're in your neighbourhood and are pleased to offer you a free estimate on all windows and doors" this voice on the other end says. Well, I would hope it would be a free estimate, why would I pay?
I respond, "I'm sorry, we're not interested". So trying again he says "We're in your neighbourhood and there's no obligations". To which I reply, "Well, we're not in the market for windows right now, so no thanks". Then he says, "When can we call you back?" and I say again: "Sorry, as I said we're not interested."
This is what he comes back with: "Well, let me speak to your mother"
WHAT?!!!
By this time, my patience is gone and I YELL into the phone, "I am the mother and I've already told you no thanks GOOD BYE!" and I hang up as I hear him sputtering. Liam says to me, "Are you OK mom?" I guess it was quite uncharacteristic of me, I can only imagine how red and foul my face looked.
Don't you think I did my mama proud?
So I've always considered myself on the quiet side, "mousy" if you will. I know a lot of my friends told me their first impression of me was that I was snooty - which wasn't the case, I just felt awkward and chose not to say much or interact. It's only when people really get to know me when I totally open up and don't really shut up.
To remedy this, my mother enrolled me in all sorts of lessons, and whenever there was a speech contest at school she would make sure I participated. She really wanted to beat that shyness right out of me. And I suppose it worked, if two recent incidents are any indication.
Incident 1
I was shopping for a little outfit for our friend's new daughter, and I found the cutest dress with matching pants and socks. We were the only people in the store (me and little G) so when I went to pay I figured it would be pretty quick. The sales girl took the merchandise from me and commented on how nice the outfit was, and I concurred. Then I asked whether the sizing was right for a 15 month old, as it was a gift for a friend. She said it was perfect, but she said they could always exchange it if it didn't fit. So we continue to pleasantly chit-chat while she folds the clothes into the tissue paper and she says to me "so you don't need gift receipts, right?" Uh, what do you think the first clue was lady? But anyway, I said, "Actually, I do as it's a gift." And then she proceeds to check the bar codes, and request my phone number, to see if I'm on the customer list.
While she does this she offhandedly says to me again, "Do you need gift receipts?". And I patiently say, "Yes I do." But then my telephone number comes up with another customer, so she does what she needs to, takes my credit card and puts the purchase through. I sign the chit, she gives me the bill and I say, "So you put the gift receipts in the bag?" And she says, "Oh, you need gift receipts? You didn't say you did." UH, EX-SQUEEZE ME??!!!
I felt my "shiny, happy, shopping" face drop quickly to be replaced by my "WTF, you dopey girl" annoyed face in a millisecond. My next words, dripping with ice:
"Yes, I did say I needed gift receipts. You asked me TWICE and I responded YES I NEED THEM, BOTH TIMES."
So then she spent the next ten minutes trying to re-do the transaction. An awkward ten minutes. I felt a bit bad for her as she apologized, but only sort of.
Incident 2
I hate telemarketers. Especially the ones who call right at 6:02 PM while I'm trying to get dinner on, and it's much later than I planned (as usual). Normally when the phone rings at that hour, I don't answer it, and I don't let my kids answer either. But Hubby was away, so I let L pick it up in case it was his Dad. Big mistake. L listens a bit, then he hands it to me, "For you, Mom".
"Hello there, we're in your neighbourhood and are pleased to offer you a free estimate on all windows and doors" this voice on the other end says. Well, I would hope it would be a free estimate, why would I pay?
I respond, "I'm sorry, we're not interested". So trying again he says "We're in your neighbourhood and there's no obligations". To which I reply, "Well, we're not in the market for windows right now, so no thanks". Then he says, "When can we call you back?" and I say again: "Sorry, as I said we're not interested."
This is what he comes back with: "Well, let me speak to your mother"
WHAT?!!!
By this time, my patience is gone and I YELL into the phone, "I am the mother and I've already told you no thanks GOOD BYE!" and I hang up as I hear him sputtering. Liam says to me, "Are you OK mom?" I guess it was quite uncharacteristic of me, I can only imagine how red and foul my face looked.
Don't you think I did my mama proud?
Thursday, May 24, 2007
OBSESSION by k
The Hubster commented on my behaviour the other day. “Why don’t you go get some implants and be done with it?” Apparently I’ve been obsessing more frequently than usual about my body. Pushing flesh into the airspace that should be occupied by boobs, and pulling at the lovely muffin tops that hang over the low slung pants that I got tricked by comfort into wearing since I had baby G. I’ve been tempted but there are few things holding me back:
1) It’s pretty major surgery.
2) You’ve got to get the implants replaced every so often (ewww!)
3) It seems so vain and heaven forbid that I be called vain.
I probably wouldn’t get a lot of sympathy from people, as for most of my life I’ve been blessed with a fairly athletic, dancer-type body. I was toothpick-thin growing up, could out-eat anyone and still not gain an ounce. I didn’t really start gaining weight until after we started trying to have a family. It could have been the hormone treatments, but even with the weight gain I’ve never been over a size 7. Any fat, however, never goes where I want it to. I’ve never had a chest. Thank God for the miracle bras they have these days with all the uber-padding and push up architecture. Or little G would be pointing at me instead of the checkout girls and asking “is that a grrr-al or a buoy?”.
I remember when I was about 12. I had quite severe acne and nothing was happening in the boobage department. My mother took me to an endocrinologist to see if I had a hormonal imbalance. Unfortunately (to me at the time), everything checked out normal. “This is just you, but you can do something about it when you’re older, if it really bothers you” was the verdict. Thanks, Doc. My piano teacher always extolled the virtues of having a small bust as well. She said it made those pieces where you had to cross one arm over the other so much easier to play. And there would be no problems nursing. So thanks to my piano teacher for making things so much better by having that oh-so embarrassing conversation with me when I was 13.
While I was self-conscious about it, I never really let it hold me back too much through my dating years. I guess I was lucky that most of the guys I dated were “ass”-men. Although Asian women apparently have flat asses (or so my reliable sources, The Bachelor message board posters, tell me). So they were technically all “flat-ass” men. Including the hub. He doesn’t think I need anything done, but it’s my body and he tires of me complaining every few cycles about it.
And complain I do. Probably because I’ve had a taste of it. Yes, along with the lovely 40 lbs plus I gained during my pregnancies, I also developed size C breasts. I managed to breastfeed my girl until she was 19 months old in a not-so-desperate attempt to hang on to those mammaries. But to no avail. After 2 babies and a combined 25 months of nursing, I shrank to smaller than pre-pregnancy size. There is no justice!
Well, one fringe benefit of being off is the opportunity I have to get to the gym on a fairly regular basis. So at least now I’ve lost all the baby weight, and then some. The aforementioned muffin tops are here to stay. I would never contemplate a tummy tuck – major ouches!! I’ve been able to clear my closet of a lot of pants that will hopefully continue to be too big for me. To make room for more shopping, I suppose. Perhaps for larger shirts as well if I do finally choose to artificially grow my mommy tops.
1) It’s pretty major surgery.
2) You’ve got to get the implants replaced every so often (ewww!)
3) It seems so vain and heaven forbid that I be called vain.
I probably wouldn’t get a lot of sympathy from people, as for most of my life I’ve been blessed with a fairly athletic, dancer-type body. I was toothpick-thin growing up, could out-eat anyone and still not gain an ounce. I didn’t really start gaining weight until after we started trying to have a family. It could have been the hormone treatments, but even with the weight gain I’ve never been over a size 7. Any fat, however, never goes where I want it to. I’ve never had a chest. Thank God for the miracle bras they have these days with all the uber-padding and push up architecture. Or little G would be pointing at me instead of the checkout girls and asking “is that a grrr-al or a buoy?”.
I remember when I was about 12. I had quite severe acne and nothing was happening in the boobage department. My mother took me to an endocrinologist to see if I had a hormonal imbalance. Unfortunately (to me at the time), everything checked out normal. “This is just you, but you can do something about it when you’re older, if it really bothers you” was the verdict. Thanks, Doc. My piano teacher always extolled the virtues of having a small bust as well. She said it made those pieces where you had to cross one arm over the other so much easier to play. And there would be no problems nursing. So thanks to my piano teacher for making things so much better by having that oh-so embarrassing conversation with me when I was 13.
While I was self-conscious about it, I never really let it hold me back too much through my dating years. I guess I was lucky that most of the guys I dated were “ass”-men. Although Asian women apparently have flat asses (or so my reliable sources, The Bachelor message board posters, tell me). So they were technically all “flat-ass” men. Including the hub. He doesn’t think I need anything done, but it’s my body and he tires of me complaining every few cycles about it.
And complain I do. Probably because I’ve had a taste of it. Yes, along with the lovely 40 lbs plus I gained during my pregnancies, I also developed size C breasts. I managed to breastfeed my girl until she was 19 months old in a not-so-desperate attempt to hang on to those mammaries. But to no avail. After 2 babies and a combined 25 months of nursing, I shrank to smaller than pre-pregnancy size. There is no justice!
Well, one fringe benefit of being off is the opportunity I have to get to the gym on a fairly regular basis. So at least now I’ve lost all the baby weight, and then some. The aforementioned muffin tops are here to stay. I would never contemplate a tummy tuck – major ouches!! I’ve been able to clear my closet of a lot of pants that will hopefully continue to be too big for me. To make room for more shopping, I suppose. Perhaps for larger shirts as well if I do finally choose to artificially grow my mommy tops.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
A Special Visitor
We had friends over for dinner last night, friends who we hadn't seen since before Christmas. The last time they were over, they were telling us of their plans to finally travel to China, where they would pick up their little adopted daughter. They were so very excited and almost in disbelief that it was actually going to happen. They had started the adoption process before I found out I was pregnant with G. In fact, I think at one point we thought that the girls would be about the same age, but with all the bureaucracy and delays, baby Emma ended up being just over a year younger than G.
It was so incredible to finally meet her and to see her with our friends. We always knew they would be fabulous parents - they're great people, and they've always been so wonderful with our kids. We were both struggling with infertility at the same time for a while, but we were lucky with our journey down the path of treatments. For our friends, adoption was their preferred option, and we thought it was wonderful.
Emma is such a little character, a very cheerful baby who delighted in seeing our kids. Every time they came into the room, she would giggle and point at them, legs and arms flailing away until they came up to her to play. It was so sweet. I look forward to seeing her get close to our children, especially G as I'm sure they'll be great friends, being only one year apart.
And it was so very obvious that she has totally bonded with her parents. She would always keep an eye out for them when she was playing, and although a friendly child, if we were holding her a little too long for her liking she would motion to her mom or dad to take her. Amazing, what happens in a couple of short months.
There is some irony to this story. After they came home from China they were all suffering a little from the time difference/ culture shock/ colds that they had picked up during the trip. But my girlfriend couldn't shake it, and she felt particularly bad in the MORNINGS. You guessed it, she found out she was 2 months pregnant! After years of trying, and only when they finally brought their daughter home, they learned that they would be having another baby. Imagine going from being a couple with no children, to having two under the age of 2 within 10 months!! After the shock wore off, they are happy - it may not have been their plan to have them so close in age, but it will work out for them -- I'm sure their children will be closer because of it. That's what I told them about me and my sister, best friends while growing up and still to this day, born 20 months apart. They know that they are indeed blessed -- that's just the way life is!
I just thought I'd share that happy story during this happy long weekend.
It was so incredible to finally meet her and to see her with our friends. We always knew they would be fabulous parents - they're great people, and they've always been so wonderful with our kids. We were both struggling with infertility at the same time for a while, but we were lucky with our journey down the path of treatments. For our friends, adoption was their preferred option, and we thought it was wonderful.
Emma is such a little character, a very cheerful baby who delighted in seeing our kids. Every time they came into the room, she would giggle and point at them, legs and arms flailing away until they came up to her to play. It was so sweet. I look forward to seeing her get close to our children, especially G as I'm sure they'll be great friends, being only one year apart.
And it was so very obvious that she has totally bonded with her parents. She would always keep an eye out for them when she was playing, and although a friendly child, if we were holding her a little too long for her liking she would motion to her mom or dad to take her. Amazing, what happens in a couple of short months.
There is some irony to this story. After they came home from China they were all suffering a little from the time difference/ culture shock/ colds that they had picked up during the trip. But my girlfriend couldn't shake it, and she felt particularly bad in the MORNINGS. You guessed it, she found out she was 2 months pregnant! After years of trying, and only when they finally brought their daughter home, they learned that they would be having another baby. Imagine going from being a couple with no children, to having two under the age of 2 within 10 months!! After the shock wore off, they are happy - it may not have been their plan to have them so close in age, but it will work out for them -- I'm sure their children will be closer because of it. That's what I told them about me and my sister, best friends while growing up and still to this day, born 20 months apart. They know that they are indeed blessed -- that's just the way life is!
I just thought I'd share that happy story during this happy long weekend.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Dangerous
There's a new book being talked about particularly around parenting circles and it looks like it will be a best seller. "Dangerous Book for Boys" is its title, and that in itself certainly makes it intriguing. From the description (and I haven't yet read it) it's a salute to the "young boy" sense of adventure, the natural curiosity and quest for that taste of danger that lives within each one of us (yes, girls too). Who doesn't want to know how to cartwheel, or make the perfect waterbomb?
I like the concept of it, probably because of its pure simplicity. Things that may now seem somewhat "dangerous" were really just fun and games and activities of the innocent back when I was a kid. Not that I partook in that type of behaviour - no, my childhood pursuits were more academic and artistic in nature. More befitting of a girl, dance and piano lessons were what kept me busy. Any athletic pursuits were in very controlled settings ie. the swimming pool and skating rink for figure eights. I was forbidden to do any skiing (snow or water) or anything else that would have the potential for injury. I consider myself quite a cautious, reserved person, and it's hard to know if it was nature or nurture that made me this way.
My husband, well he lived almost the polar opposite type of childhood. His days were spent running and tripping around, riding his bike, hanging from trees in his Speedo swim trunks. He made a game of counting all his bruises every time he had a bath, proudest when he had a new crop surface. When he describes his childhood, it sounds picture perfect. Even now as an adult, he isn't afraid to try new things -- he loves to travel, doesn't really like to stay at the same place more than once as there's just so much more to experience in life, and he doesn't fret much about things that aren't in his control.
Now that we have a little boy (and a littler girl), we're trying to encourage them to explore the world, be open to new experiences and to try not to be held back by unfounded fears or fear of the unknown (especially when they are fears that we as parents harbour for them). It seems to be a more dangerous world now, though, and it is our natural inclination to want to protect them. It is a fine balance.
I can't wait to get my hands on this book, perhaps even more for myself. While I feel that I did have a nice childhood, there should always be more time for play in life. It's never too late for that.
I like the concept of it, probably because of its pure simplicity. Things that may now seem somewhat "dangerous" were really just fun and games and activities of the innocent back when I was a kid. Not that I partook in that type of behaviour - no, my childhood pursuits were more academic and artistic in nature. More befitting of a girl, dance and piano lessons were what kept me busy. Any athletic pursuits were in very controlled settings ie. the swimming pool and skating rink for figure eights. I was forbidden to do any skiing (snow or water) or anything else that would have the potential for injury. I consider myself quite a cautious, reserved person, and it's hard to know if it was nature or nurture that made me this way.
My husband, well he lived almost the polar opposite type of childhood. His days were spent running and tripping around, riding his bike, hanging from trees in his Speedo swim trunks. He made a game of counting all his bruises every time he had a bath, proudest when he had a new crop surface. When he describes his childhood, it sounds picture perfect. Even now as an adult, he isn't afraid to try new things -- he loves to travel, doesn't really like to stay at the same place more than once as there's just so much more to experience in life, and he doesn't fret much about things that aren't in his control.
Now that we have a little boy (and a littler girl), we're trying to encourage them to explore the world, be open to new experiences and to try not to be held back by unfounded fears or fear of the unknown (especially when they are fears that we as parents harbour for them). It seems to be a more dangerous world now, though, and it is our natural inclination to want to protect them. It is a fine balance.
I can't wait to get my hands on this book, perhaps even more for myself. While I feel that I did have a nice childhood, there should always be more time for play in life. It's never too late for that.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
I want EN- GLE-ISHHHH!
Faced with the possibility of a very long plane ride with a cranky 2 year old, we succumbed and purchased two portable DVD players for the kids for our trip to Jamaica back in March. I managed to find one for each child, pink for the girl and black for our Ninja/Vader. They loved them of course. I hate to admit it, but they've been used for some daily distraction, particularly for our little one who must always watch "her show" on her "DV pay-ler". It certainly helps when they're duelling for the big TV (literally, with light sabers), while I'm trying to make dinner. Ironically, we haven't used them in the car more than once.
I find it utterly amazing how quickly children learn the different technologies and how to work their toys. She knows which button to press to play the DVD, and is starting to understand the "skip" button. G's DVD of choice has been Caillou, since she was about 18 months old. We call him her weird, bald 4-year-old French boyfriend. I don't really get it (although there's something about the French maybe?) , but there are some interesting lessons to be learned in most of the episodes. Most of the time he gets in a little trouble for doing something "bad". G hasn't really picked up on mimicking any of his behaviours yet, she's just busy watching Rosie and laughing at the antics of Caillou and Gilbert the cat.
The funniest thing these days is that she's been requesting to watch the FRENCH version of the DVD - only she calls it ENGLISH!! So when we turn on the DVD for her she yells "I want EN-GLE-ISHHHHH" in a panicky voice while we're frantically trying to push the button to select the language feature. And all is right with the world as soon as the French theme song comes on - she's all giggles and pointing at her hero.
We've been trying to tell her it's French, but she argues and says it's English. Oh well, maybe she'll pick up some of the language while she's watching. There's no negotiating with a 2 year old!
I find it utterly amazing how quickly children learn the different technologies and how to work their toys. She knows which button to press to play the DVD, and is starting to understand the "skip" button. G's DVD of choice has been Caillou, since she was about 18 months old. We call him her weird, bald 4-year-old French boyfriend. I don't really get it (although there's something about the French maybe?) , but there are some interesting lessons to be learned in most of the episodes. Most of the time he gets in a little trouble for doing something "bad". G hasn't really picked up on mimicking any of his behaviours yet, she's just busy watching Rosie and laughing at the antics of Caillou and Gilbert the cat.
The funniest thing these days is that she's been requesting to watch the FRENCH version of the DVD - only she calls it ENGLISH!! So when we turn on the DVD for her she yells "I want EN-GLE-ISHHHHH" in a panicky voice while we're frantically trying to push the button to select the language feature. And all is right with the world as soon as the French theme song comes on - she's all giggles and pointing at her hero.
We've been trying to tell her it's French, but she argues and says it's English. Oh well, maybe she'll pick up some of the language while she's watching. There's no negotiating with a 2 year old!
Monday, May 14, 2007
The Sweetest Day
There's nothing quite like waking up to the careful shuffle of not-so-little feet sidling up to my bedside at 6:50 in the morning. As I groggily peeled open my eyelids I saw the cutest thing - my 7 year old holding a bowl of Honey-Nut Cheerios, filled almost to the rim with milk.
"Happy Mother's Day, Mommy" he whispered, so as not to awaken his 2 year old sister snoring softly next to me. "I've got a glass of milk that I can bring up for you too when you're done."
That was how my Mother's Day 2007 began. And then he let me and my daughter sleep-in until 8:30.
I think that was the first time I ever got breakfast in bed! So even though Dad was away, my little guy had all the bases covered, including a lovely bouquet of tissue flowers and a card that made me cry.
There's a very lucky little girl out there who's in for a treat in about 20 years.
Friday, May 11, 2007
Bicycle, Bicycle!
After being banished into a dark corner of the basement for almost 2 years, L's bicycle was allowed to surface into the daylight. It was a cherished 5th birthday present for him, and it came complete with training wheels. When he first got it, he could only sit on it with his tip-toes touching the ground. He loved it and rode it a few times that spring, but it didn't get much action that summer.
Last year we suggested to L that he take it out without training wheels. He was 6 and most of his friends were riding their two-wheelers with ease. However, he wouldn't go anywhere near it, had a fit every time we brought the subject up. So last summer was a summer without a bike. He was just terrified of losing those training wheels.
This year, we brought up the subject again. And we met up with a lot of resistance yet again! I was lamenting the fact that he would not be able to have that sort of fun with all his best friends. They're all very confident on their bikes now - I didn't want him to feel left out. For his birthday this year, we got him a scooter, which he has been racing after his friends with. Amazing how fast he gets going on that. But perhaps it just wasn't cutting it.
On Tuesday, he suddenly told Ian that he wanted to learn to ride without the training wheels. So Ian sprung into action. He went down to the basement, brought up the bike and his wrench, loaded up the van with L and off they went, heading to the empty school lot. About 10 minutes later they returned - L came in saying "Dad forgot the wrench" (yup, figures - there it was on the garage floor). And then he refused to get back in the van! Great!! He said that he would only learn if he could practice on the driveway. Well, that wasn't going to work, as there wasn't enough room to manoeuver. Another mini-tantrum, which is very uncharacteristic of him. Then he suggested that he could try riding on the sidewalk across the street. It was an easy compromise. The sidewalk was bumpy, but not busy, so it would do.
I watched as they crossed the street. L got on his helmet and then sat on the bike. Wow, what a difference 2 years makes! Even at the highest seat setting, L's legs were bent, and as he pedalled he couldn't straighten out his knees! The other thing I couldn't get past was his dad, who was holding onto the seat trying to keep the balance, while wearing his -- dress shoes ?!? Okay, I guess he had to seize the moment, but it was freakin' hilarious watching him try to keep up with L pedalling. Such a Dad thing to do.
Anyhow, down they go along the sidewalk and around the corner. Then I don't see them anymore. About 30 seconds later they come back around my way -- and it's L on his own, with Ian chasing him. And that was it! L had figured out how to ride without his training wheels in less than a minute!
Now all he wants to do every day is come home and ride his bike. We've also promised him a new bike, complete with gears because after all, he is a little giant now. Turns out he wanted to practice close to home in case he fell and got injured - much easier access to the band-aids than if he were away in the van.
One thing I'm learning about my son is that you can't push him to do anything he really doesn't want to do. He's a stubborn one. But when he's ready, that's it. That's just the way he is.
"I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my bike
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride it where I like "
Last year we suggested to L that he take it out without training wheels. He was 6 and most of his friends were riding their two-wheelers with ease. However, he wouldn't go anywhere near it, had a fit every time we brought the subject up. So last summer was a summer without a bike. He was just terrified of losing those training wheels.
This year, we brought up the subject again. And we met up with a lot of resistance yet again! I was lamenting the fact that he would not be able to have that sort of fun with all his best friends. They're all very confident on their bikes now - I didn't want him to feel left out. For his birthday this year, we got him a scooter, which he has been racing after his friends with. Amazing how fast he gets going on that. But perhaps it just wasn't cutting it.
On Tuesday, he suddenly told Ian that he wanted to learn to ride without the training wheels. So Ian sprung into action. He went down to the basement, brought up the bike and his wrench, loaded up the van with L and off they went, heading to the empty school lot. About 10 minutes later they returned - L came in saying "Dad forgot the wrench" (yup, figures - there it was on the garage floor). And then he refused to get back in the van! Great!! He said that he would only learn if he could practice on the driveway. Well, that wasn't going to work, as there wasn't enough room to manoeuver. Another mini-tantrum, which is very uncharacteristic of him. Then he suggested that he could try riding on the sidewalk across the street. It was an easy compromise. The sidewalk was bumpy, but not busy, so it would do.
I watched as they crossed the street. L got on his helmet and then sat on the bike. Wow, what a difference 2 years makes! Even at the highest seat setting, L's legs were bent, and as he pedalled he couldn't straighten out his knees! The other thing I couldn't get past was his dad, who was holding onto the seat trying to keep the balance, while wearing his -- dress shoes ?!? Okay, I guess he had to seize the moment, but it was freakin' hilarious watching him try to keep up with L pedalling. Such a Dad thing to do.
Anyhow, down they go along the sidewalk and around the corner. Then I don't see them anymore. About 30 seconds later they come back around my way -- and it's L on his own, with Ian chasing him. And that was it! L had figured out how to ride without his training wheels in less than a minute!
Now all he wants to do every day is come home and ride his bike. We've also promised him a new bike, complete with gears because after all, he is a little giant now. Turns out he wanted to practice close to home in case he fell and got injured - much easier access to the band-aids than if he were away in the van.
One thing I'm learning about my son is that you can't push him to do anything he really doesn't want to do. He's a stubborn one. But when he's ready, that's it. That's just the way he is.
"I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my bike
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride it where I like "
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Welcome to our Art Gallery
While cruising the blogsphere the other day, I came across a great idea for all those wonderful art projects that come home from school and preschool programmes. Rather than keep everything stuffed in rubbermaid boxes in the basement, ready to be dusted off when the kids clear out their stuff when they get married, why not just take digital pictures of them, and then you can recycle away. This way you can enjoy the work on a more permanent basis and declutter the house at the same time. What a concept!
So let's go on a tour of a small area of our Art Gallery, and lucky us, today we have one of our artists-in-residence next to a couple of her newest masterpieces:
Now the following is supposed to be the tooth-fairy. Mommy sort of goofed and gave the fairy a bra instead of wings - I need to take Anatomy 101 over again:
This is a recent contribution by big brother - wouldn't the world be a better place if we all remembered this ?:
And then we have the requisite daily monster drawing:
We actually have some artwork that we commissioned from our professional artist friend Jonathan in our humble abode as well. We treasure these pieces, as they capture the essence of our kids at such a wonderful age, when they were really just starting to discover the world around them. Both kids were about 18 months old at the time of the paintings:
So let's go on a tour of a small area of our Art Gallery, and lucky us, today we have one of our artists-in-residence next to a couple of her newest masterpieces:
Now the following is supposed to be the tooth-fairy. Mommy sort of goofed and gave the fairy a bra instead of wings - I need to take Anatomy 101 over again:
This is a recent contribution by big brother - wouldn't the world be a better place if we all remembered this ?:
And then we have the requisite daily monster drawing:
We actually have some artwork that we commissioned from our professional artist friend Jonathan in our humble abode as well. We treasure these pieces, as they capture the essence of our kids at such a wonderful age, when they were really just starting to discover the world around them. Both kids were about 18 months old at the time of the paintings:
Sunday, May 06, 2007
MORE ABOUT ME - A meme from overseas
Here's some more gory details about yours truly, courtesy of my blogpal Curiosity Killer:
INSTRUCTIONS: Remove the blog in the top spot from the following list and bump everyone up one place. Then add your blog to the bottom slot, like so.
1) So a Blonde Walks into a Blog
2) Pointless Drivel
3) Shelli's Sentiments
4) Curiosity Killer
5) A Day in the Life (aka gliks)
Next select five people to tag: (if you haven’t done it already)
1) Dina
2) Danielle
3) beachmama
4) Jill
5) Trudy - take a break from the construction!
What were you doing 10 years ago?
Trying to get pregnant; applying to an MBA programme; looking for a new job.
What were you doing 1 year ago?
Enjoying being at home with my kids; getting ready for a family vacation to Vancouver.
Five snacks you enjoy:
1) Popcorn
2) Chips
3) Cheese and crackers
4) Chocolate cake,
5) Apple crumble
Five songs to which you know all the lyrics:(just off the top of my head)
1) Itsy Bitsy Spider
2) Save a Prayer (Duran Duran)
3) Dancing Queen (Abba)
4) Bohemian Rhapsody (Queen)
5) If Everyone Cared (Nickelback)
Five things you would do if you were a millionaire:
1) Set up trusts and educational funds for my kids
2) Buy vacation home abroad (multi-millionaire, right?)
3) Help out my parents and siblings
4) Travel
5) Take writing courses at university
Five bad habits:
1) I can be impatient
2) Not letting people finish their sentences
3) Worry wart
4) Talk loudly when excited
5) Procrastinate
Five things you like doing:
1) Play with my kids
2) Shop
3) Blog
4) Work out/dance
5) Drink alcohol
Five things you would never wear again:
1) Leggings (although tempted)
2) Mid-riff baring tops- tummy rolls meant for my eyes only
3) Satin track suit
4) Jodpur-like pants
5) Pom pom socks
Five favorite toys:
1) My cellphone
2) My computer
3) Digital camera,
4) Portable DVD player (keeps the kids busy)
5) TV
INSTRUCTIONS: Remove the blog in the top spot from the following list and bump everyone up one place. Then add your blog to the bottom slot, like so.
1) So a Blonde Walks into a Blog
2) Pointless Drivel
3) Shelli's Sentiments
4) Curiosity Killer
5) A Day in the Life (aka gliks)
Next select five people to tag: (if you haven’t done it already)
1) Dina
2) Danielle
3) beachmama
4) Jill
5) Trudy - take a break from the construction!
What were you doing 10 years ago?
Trying to get pregnant; applying to an MBA programme; looking for a new job.
What were you doing 1 year ago?
Enjoying being at home with my kids; getting ready for a family vacation to Vancouver.
Five snacks you enjoy:
1) Popcorn
2) Chips
3) Cheese and crackers
4) Chocolate cake,
5) Apple crumble
Five songs to which you know all the lyrics:(just off the top of my head)
1) Itsy Bitsy Spider
2) Save a Prayer (Duran Duran)
3) Dancing Queen (Abba)
4) Bohemian Rhapsody (Queen)
5) If Everyone Cared (Nickelback)
Five things you would do if you were a millionaire:
1) Set up trusts and educational funds for my kids
2) Buy vacation home abroad (multi-millionaire, right?)
3) Help out my parents and siblings
4) Travel
5) Take writing courses at university
Five bad habits:
1) I can be impatient
2) Not letting people finish their sentences
3) Worry wart
4) Talk loudly when excited
5) Procrastinate
Five things you like doing:
1) Play with my kids
2) Shop
3) Blog
4) Work out/dance
5) Drink alcohol
Five things you would never wear again:
1) Leggings (although tempted)
2) Mid-riff baring tops- tummy rolls meant for my eyes only
3) Satin track suit
4) Jodpur-like pants
5) Pom pom socks
Five favorite toys:
1) My cellphone
2) My computer
3) Digital camera,
4) Portable DVD player (keeps the kids busy)
5) TV
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Love those showtunes
You're getting a warped sense of my social life with these posts, but here goes.
On Tuesday I saw the Canadian production of "We Will Rock You" with a girlfriend, actually the mother of Liam's best pal. It's wonderful what kids can do for you, in addition to bringing joy to your life, they can expand your social horizon tenfold. It was a great girls' night out. No kids, no husbands, just girl talk, a nice drink and dinner and then a musical. Husbands don't generally like musicals, (at least in my experience) so it worked out well that I didn't have to drag hubster to this show. He's not a huge fan of Queen's music, but he wouldn't have gone even if he were.
Notes about the show... it started out with probably my least favourite of Queen's huge array of hits - Radio Ga Ga. And they changed the lyric a bit too. It is also a tad surrealistic to hear a chorus sing Queen - it's not quite the same as listening to Freddie Mercury's distinctive and fantastic voice, bad song notwithstanding. There was a lot for me to get past in the first few minutes of the show, but the martini I had before helped a little.
After the first song, and the realization that I was actually out in downtown Toronto on a weeknight, I let myself go and in the end really enjoyed the production. It helps if you're a Queen fan, but even if not, the singing was absolutely amazing. The storyline was cute, nothing to write home about, but then I wasn't there expecting Death of a Salesman, or any of its associated acting. Choreography was pretty lame, although the dancers were good. We both noticed that a couple of the male dancers, wearing midriff-baring skin tight white shirts, were HAIRY - ugh, what a turnoff. That was the kind of distraction we didn't really need.
However, the rock band was out of this world - I actually thought it was pre-recorded until they showed them later in the performance. Unbelievable. So although there was plenty of cheese (bad puns, local references that were funny at the time but somehow lame when you think about them later), it was really a great experience. If someone got me another ticket, sure I'd see it again. The biggest disappointment was the Suzie McNeil, a finalist on Rockstar INXS who usually plays the character Oz, was not on that night. I'd heard awesome reviews about her performance, so even though the understudy was quite good, she wasn't Suzie.
The second spectacle of the week - the primary spring concert starring the one and only beloved firstborn child. The performers were from the Junior Kindergarten to the Grade 2 classes. Cute does not do this show justice! My boy did a great job singing "The world is a rainbow" and "This little light". I'm so glad we captured it on video. This was followed by some dancing by six grade- three girls, all in matching skirts and headbands. I took one look at them and said to Ian "Uh-oh, it looks like I'll have to learn to sew" to which he replied, "We'll make a good mother of you yet". Ha ha.
Just before the finale, there was major rustling in the audience, lots of jockeying for camera position ... it looked like the paparazzi at the Oscars. Then it hit me ... it was time for the kindergarteners to come on! Oh, I remember those days. Too funny! Gotta admit though, those little tykes were absolutely adorable!
Two great shows in one week. What more could a girl ask for?
On Tuesday I saw the Canadian production of "We Will Rock You" with a girlfriend, actually the mother of Liam's best pal. It's wonderful what kids can do for you, in addition to bringing joy to your life, they can expand your social horizon tenfold. It was a great girls' night out. No kids, no husbands, just girl talk, a nice drink and dinner and then a musical. Husbands don't generally like musicals, (at least in my experience) so it worked out well that I didn't have to drag hubster to this show. He's not a huge fan of Queen's music, but he wouldn't have gone even if he were.
Notes about the show... it started out with probably my least favourite of Queen's huge array of hits - Radio Ga Ga. And they changed the lyric a bit too. It is also a tad surrealistic to hear a chorus sing Queen - it's not quite the same as listening to Freddie Mercury's distinctive and fantastic voice, bad song notwithstanding. There was a lot for me to get past in the first few minutes of the show, but the martini I had before helped a little.
After the first song, and the realization that I was actually out in downtown Toronto on a weeknight, I let myself go and in the end really enjoyed the production. It helps if you're a Queen fan, but even if not, the singing was absolutely amazing. The storyline was cute, nothing to write home about, but then I wasn't there expecting Death of a Salesman, or any of its associated acting. Choreography was pretty lame, although the dancers were good. We both noticed that a couple of the male dancers, wearing midriff-baring skin tight white shirts, were HAIRY - ugh, what a turnoff. That was the kind of distraction we didn't really need.
However, the rock band was out of this world - I actually thought it was pre-recorded until they showed them later in the performance. Unbelievable. So although there was plenty of cheese (bad puns, local references that were funny at the time but somehow lame when you think about them later), it was really a great experience. If someone got me another ticket, sure I'd see it again. The biggest disappointment was the Suzie McNeil, a finalist on Rockstar INXS who usually plays the character Oz, was not on that night. I'd heard awesome reviews about her performance, so even though the understudy was quite good, she wasn't Suzie.
The second spectacle of the week - the primary spring concert starring the one and only beloved firstborn child. The performers were from the Junior Kindergarten to the Grade 2 classes. Cute does not do this show justice! My boy did a great job singing "The world is a rainbow" and "This little light". I'm so glad we captured it on video. This was followed by some dancing by six grade- three girls, all in matching skirts and headbands. I took one look at them and said to Ian "Uh-oh, it looks like I'll have to learn to sew" to which he replied, "We'll make a good mother of you yet". Ha ha.
Just before the finale, there was major rustling in the audience, lots of jockeying for camera position ... it looked like the paparazzi at the Oscars. Then it hit me ... it was time for the kindergarteners to come on! Oh, I remember those days. Too funny! Gotta admit though, those little tykes were absolutely adorable!
Two great shows in one week. What more could a girl ask for?
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Officer and a Gentleman ...
and a doctor, an ironman and he's good-looking to boot! Yes, my guilty pleasure on Monday evenings is my time with "The Bachelor". This time, of course, is fully sanctioned by the spouse, who thinks this trivial TV drivel is absolutely hilarious. We usually start watching this show toward the end, when things get "serious". Last night's elimination left a final 4 girls standing. Or at least fawning. They've certainly raised the bar, upped the ante, shall we say, with this season's lucky man.
Dr. Andy Baldwin, although definitively fairly "hot" in his own right, doesn't really hold a candle to the original officer, that gorgeous young rebel with the hidden heart of gold, who swept the young factory girl off her feet to the orchestral wave signalling the end of the movie. Andy is a verified triathlete, so I must admit that during the kindergarten playground makeover segment of last night's episode (I know, don't you just love it, he adores kids too), when we got an occasional glimpse of his biceps I couldn't help but notice. And utter a soft "ahhh" under my breath which, although seemingly indiscernible was certainly loud and clear enough for Ian to comment on. (Funny, most times their hearing doesn't seem all there but at the worst times they pick up only sounds that dogs can catch). But something about Officer Bachelor seems too boyscout, too "nice", possibly his smile is just a tad too white.
What pubescent (okay, I'll admit- teenage) girl wasn't enthralled by that modern fairy tale which starred Richard Gere at his peak, and a young Debra Winger before she became bitter? I loved, loved, loved that movie. Who cares that at the heart of it the myth of Prince Charming was perpetuated, a myth that continues to exist courtesy of Disney and the folks that bring you this reality series. I think in our heart of hearts, we all want to find Mr (or Ms) perfect. The beauty of the movie was that it showed that Prince Charming and the girl had weaknesses, that even though he did "rescue" the damsel, he had come from some pretty dark places himself. Who was really being rescued after all? Rather than Mr. Perfect, it's about finding "Mr. Perfect for me". And Mr. Perfect for ME had a bit of an edge - at least when we first met. It's still hidden under Mr. Responsibility, but I know it's there.
We have another couple of weeks until the finale of this season. My money's on Tessa, the girl who's launched a new strategy this time around. She's not convinced that this process works and hasn't thrown herself at our bachelor. She's given him reason to stay interested, as they exchange in smart repartee and she certainly kisses him back, but she's never worn her heart on her sleeve (or in her wineglass - what's up with all the drinking in this show anyway?) Clever, clever girl! So it's up to Andy to convince her that it can work. It's working, girl. He's pursuing her like you wouldn't believe! And I'm probably biased, as I think she's of mixed race, much like my kiddos are. She's a beautiful girl and seems quite together. As together as a girl who's on this show could be, anyway.
I think "An Officer and a Gentleman" the movie is being released on DVD soon, if not already. Very timely. I'll have to go buy it to relive my own memories of that time in my life. Or recapture memories of a hotter, saner Richard Gere. What's up with these PDA's in India and charges of public indecency?!! Life was so much simpler in the 80's.
Dr. Andy Baldwin, although definitively fairly "hot" in his own right, doesn't really hold a candle to the original officer, that gorgeous young rebel with the hidden heart of gold, who swept the young factory girl off her feet to the orchestral wave signalling the end of the movie. Andy is a verified triathlete, so I must admit that during the kindergarten playground makeover segment of last night's episode (I know, don't you just love it, he adores kids too), when we got an occasional glimpse of his biceps I couldn't help but notice. And utter a soft "ahhh" under my breath which, although seemingly indiscernible was certainly loud and clear enough for Ian to comment on. (Funny, most times their hearing doesn't seem all there but at the worst times they pick up only sounds that dogs can catch). But something about Officer Bachelor seems too boyscout, too "nice", possibly his smile is just a tad too white.
What pubescent (okay, I'll admit- teenage) girl wasn't enthralled by that modern fairy tale which starred Richard Gere at his peak, and a young Debra Winger before she became bitter? I loved, loved, loved that movie. Who cares that at the heart of it the myth of Prince Charming was perpetuated, a myth that continues to exist courtesy of Disney and the folks that bring you this reality series. I think in our heart of hearts, we all want to find Mr (or Ms) perfect. The beauty of the movie was that it showed that Prince Charming and the girl had weaknesses, that even though he did "rescue" the damsel, he had come from some pretty dark places himself. Who was really being rescued after all? Rather than Mr. Perfect, it's about finding "Mr. Perfect for me". And Mr. Perfect for ME had a bit of an edge - at least when we first met. It's still hidden under Mr. Responsibility, but I know it's there.
We have another couple of weeks until the finale of this season. My money's on Tessa, the girl who's launched a new strategy this time around. She's not convinced that this process works and hasn't thrown herself at our bachelor. She's given him reason to stay interested, as they exchange in smart repartee and she certainly kisses him back, but she's never worn her heart on her sleeve (or in her wineglass - what's up with all the drinking in this show anyway?) Clever, clever girl! So it's up to Andy to convince her that it can work. It's working, girl. He's pursuing her like you wouldn't believe! And I'm probably biased, as I think she's of mixed race, much like my kiddos are. She's a beautiful girl and seems quite together. As together as a girl who's on this show could be, anyway.
I think "An Officer and a Gentleman" the movie is being released on DVD soon, if not already. Very timely. I'll have to go buy it to relive my own memories of that time in my life. Or recapture memories of a hotter, saner Richard Gere. What's up with these PDA's in India and charges of public indecency?!! Life was so much simpler in the 80's.
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