Kindergarten

Have I ever mentioned on the blog that we are holding off a year before putting Cooper in Kindergarten?  I don't think I have.  Since I am suffering from a mild case of writers blogger block, today was the perfect opportunity to tell you about our decision.

When you are trying to get pregnant, for the most part, you don't take the time to think about the birth date of your child should you get pregnant, you just want to have a baby.  Grady is perfectly positioned with the school year and started Kindergarten right in the middle of the pack.  It was a no brainer.  Cooper on the other hand, with a November birth date, was more of a grey area.

While many think that since the cut off is Feb 28 - i.e. you must be 5 by Feb 28 the year you start K- that Cooper should start school, we wanted to weigh our options.  Back in my day, if you met the cut off, you went to school.  Very few people opted to hold their children back.  Fast forward 30 years and the norm seems to be shifting and more and more people are waiting to send their kids to school.

My friend Carmen blogged about this issue about 2 year ago as she decided whether to send her December born child to K or hold off.  One of the things that always stood out for me in one of her posts or the comments was 'If you could keep your child a child for one extra year, why wouldn't you?'  I liked that theory.  Truthfully, it helped me make my decision.

I really wanted the kids to be 2 years apart in school.  My brother and I were 2 years apart and I loved that we got to be in high school together and be what felt 'closer in age'.   While I wanted to push him forward and put him in I had to think of him.

While I know that technically Cooper is ready for school, I just don't think that it is the best decision for him.  Over the last 4 years I noticed that Cooper is the youngest at everything he does.  At preschool, he is attending a party for a boy turning 5 in a few weeks.  My baby is barely 4.  In sports, he will always be the youngest as it goes by year of birth.  I just decided that for school, I'd like him to be the oldest.

I thought about the fact that if more parents are waiting to put their kids in school and I decided to let Cooper go, he could potentially be a year younger than some of the other kids in his class. While I think that he would be fine in theory being the youngest like he always has been, I really hope that by being the oldest in the class it will give him more confidence and that he will excel in the years to come.

Next year will be a difficult year for him as he returns to a preschool where none of his friends will be.  One of his neighborhood friends is heading to K which leaves Cooper on his own 2 days a week.  We've already started thinking about things he can do to fill his time.  We will enroll him in some activities so that he has something every day.  This is our social kid who isn't afraid of doing things on his own or meeting new people.

So as Kindergarten registration came and went a few weeks ago I wavered on our decision once again.  Although I know deep down that it is the right decision for Cooper and our family, there was that little peice of me that felt sad that he wasn't starting K in the fall with some of his peers.

As parents do we ever stop questioning ourselves?  Really, I don't think we do.  We all want what is best for our children and I hope that this is one of those decisions I look back at in the years to come and pat myself on the back for a job well done.

Midweek Randoms

1.  I moved offices this week.  It has really started to sink in that I have a new job.  New people, new office, new everything.  It was an overwhelming day.    Not bad, just overwhelming.  I hope things settle down by weeks end.

2.  This past weekend was spent in banff celebrating the upcoming marriage of a friend.  It was so fun and so needed.  There were so many laughs, many stories shared, and plenty of food and drink to go around.  The only thing it was missing was sleep.  Everyone knows when you sleep in a room (or bed!) with Gina that you wake up early!

3.  Grady has recently become obsessed with Pokemon cards.  I don't get it.  They have funny looking creatures on them, we don't play games with them, he just collects them.  And they are expensive.  Useless and expensive as far as I am concerned.  But the boy loves them so we buy them anyway.  Now I feel your pain Deena!

4.  Cooper is in to dress up.  Grady never showed any interest, but Cooper is all over it.  He takes them on and off over and over.  If only he didn't need any help putting them on....  I must admit he makes an adorable nascar driver, vet, police officer, and monster, just to name a few......

4.  The Bachelor.  I know, I know, trash TV.  But I love it and just can't make myself stop watching.  This season has been so entertaining.  Prince Farming has been making out with all the ladies, they have been calling him out on it, and some even appear to have gone crazy.  I read the spoilers so I know who won.  Don't worry I won't share, but in all seriousness, how he will find a potential wife in this bunch is beyond me.

Have a great day!

Brain Reading

Last week we went to the library. The kids love the library so I'm not sure why we don't go more since it is right down the street from our house. Oh, I remember, because in November while we were on our vacation, I forgot to return the library books and got charged $30.  For reals.  I argued with that librarian last week and she reduced it to $15, but she would not write it off.  James said the books were late and I should just be grateful she reduced it at all.  I digress...

I wanted to pick a book for my spa outing next weekend with Stacey.  I'm getting 3 treatments.  In one day.  Not sure if I will even have time to read but you need to bring a book to the spa.  Stacey tells me that she never gets to read her book when we go to the spa together. Does that mean I talk too much? Ha!

So I picked my book, What Alice Forgot, which I started reading on the family room floor as soon as we got home.  I am loving it thus far!  The kids each grabbed one of the 20 books we took from the library and laid beside me on the floor and started 'reading'.

Grady grabbed his pokemon reading book that he could actually read himself.  Cooper took the book he chose about motorcycles.

Setting the scene: I'm reading my book, Grady is silent reading, and Cooper is 'reading' out loud.

Grady:  Cooper read with your brain!

Cooper:  I am.

Cooper continues to 'read' his book out loud.

I explain quietly to Grady that Cooper doesn't know what silent reading is.

Cooper continues to read.

Grady:  Can you at least whisper when you read Cooper?

Cooper tries to whisper and does for about 2 seconds and then reverts back to reading out loud.

I thought Grady was going to lose it.

Needless to say our reading session was cut short.

I loved how Grady watched me read my book and would interrupt my reading to tell me what page I was on and to ask how many pages were in my book.  He even reported back to James that there were 488 pages in my book.  He also asked why I was reading a chapter book.  I swear I've read in front of him before, but this was the first time since he started reading more frequently. I am more of a vacation reader.  Let's be honest, I watch to many trashy TV shows to squeeze in any reading during the week!

So from now on, we will be doing 'brain reading' around our house!  Or trying to anyway....

2015 Wish List: What are you coveting

This week we are talking about things we are currently coveting.  Which is super easy because I am always coveting something.  Right now I am obsessed with updating my workout wear.  On a budget.  I don't need new workout, trust me or ask my husband, but I really want it, hence why I am attempting to do it thrifty.  Easier said than done.  Have you seen the price of lululemon!

Since I've been going to classes I noticed that many people 'dress' the part.  It is like a lululemon fashion show at the barre/spin class.  I used to tend towards working out in tight tanks with built in bras, but I've started coveting strappy sports bras and loose tanks that show the straps on bras.  I have very few of this style so I have been scouring the Internet to find some that are reasonably priced.  I was recently introduced to Onzie workout wear, I love that it is unique and I don't have to be scared that someone in the class will be wearing the same outfit as me.

I love this one from Nordstrom but it is $60.  I don't need these sports bra so it is a little more than I want to spend.

This one is pretty awesome to.

To give you a little flavor for the types of patterns that onzie sells, check these out.

It is not 'blend in' type of workout wear.   I have the print in the middle in pants and love them.  When in San Diego I saw the peacock ones to and am regretting not snagging those up to!  The only place that sells Onzie in my city as far as I know is Nordstrom, but their selection is low as is the online selection.  But if you are in the states be sure to keep a look out.  I found mine randomly in a spa.  For reals.

So while I was researching for this post I discovered that F21 has active wear, I had no idea.  It is very reasonably priced.  I may have done a little shopping in the creation of this post.

I bought this open back tank for $10.  Now that is a steal and I love it.  I ordered an M since everyone knows that old navy fits small.  Well it turns out that their active wear is not consistent.  I think the shirt is too big.  While my initial instinct was to return it, I think I'll give it one more try before making the final decision. I think it would be great for date night spin class.  Not to mention it was only $10!!!

This one, also $10, was too big.  And I didn't love it.  So it is going back.

Ironically, I ordered this sports bra in S and it is too small.  I like it though.  Had it fit, I would have kept it for $18.

That is the downside to online shopping.  Without trying it on you never know if it is going to fit.  F21 doesn't do money back so I will keep looking for other 'active' shirts that are a little different and cheap.  Covet on!!

Shoes to Shiraz | Two Teens and their Mama | A Lovely Little Wardrobe | R Squared 

Confessions of a Frumpy Mommy | Family Love Inspiration Education  

The Mishaps and Mayhem of Solitary Life | The Blondissima | Positively Learning | Quilty Joy Joy

 Daily Style Finds | Sheila's Potpourri | Puppies and Pretties | She thought She Could 
 Foxy's Domestic Side | Once Upon a Time & Happily Ever After | Sprinkled Just Right

                               

My Fitness Inspiration

My Mom is my inspirtation to be fit and healthy,

As long as I can remember, my mom has always been active.  When we were little she taught aerobics at the gym.  She would practice her routines in the hallway while James and I were going to bed.  We even got to watch her classes from the back of the room if we were lucky, or unlucky.

She played racquet ball, windsurfed, played on a softball team, biked, ran and mostly recently took up cross fit.  My almost 60 year old mother is a regular at the Crossfit gym where I grew up.  I am so proud of her.

The year I turned 17 I decided I wanted to lose weight.  My mom supported me by buying me anything I needed fitness related.  I got a new step for aerobics, and eventually we bought a second one so we could do the tapes together.  She bought me runners, workout wear, and even made me one sports bra.  My husband made me throw it out not to long ago.  Ha!

My mom was always my biggest supporter.  She didn't just watch from the sidelines, she participated.  We did aerobics together, went for long walks, and ate fruit for dessert countless times. She was my cheerleader.

Now it is my turn to be her cheerleader.  My mom has been doing cross fit for the past couple years and through it has gotten to be the most fit person I know.  She is strong.  She can lift more weight than I dream of lifting and will be the first to point out if your form is bad.  She always tries to teach James something new about exercising and is more than willing to tell you all about her food challenges.  It isn't just a gym, it is a lifestyle. 

While my brother will argue that it is a cult (lol), I have seen so many positive changes in my Mom, not only in the way she looks but also in the way she feels.  She is strong and confident.    The picture below was taken by me in Hawaii.  She did a handstand competition and wanted to take a photo doing a handstand against a palm tree.  My mom looks better in a bikini than I do!

Through this crossfit journey she has encouraged me and my family to make small changes that can make a big difference.  

My Mom was named crossfit member of the month in May 2014 and just recently voted member of the year via social.  Through the help of many of you via facebook she managed to get the most votes.  Thank you for helping my mom earn the title that I know she deserves.

Congratulations Mom on a job well done!

Paulette is very dedicated and is a great asset to everyone at Saskpro. She loves to think, process and share with others! Amazing!! Keep up the great work Paulette!

Here is what Paulette had to say about her time at Saskpro:

When did you first start CrossFitting? Feb, 2012

Favourite WOD/Movement: Let’s just say 2 most memorable moments so far that put a “ I feel like a kid again” smile on my face were: first time I tried a 20” box jump instead of a 12” and doing a handstand. Who knew that would be possible for me. I’d love to bottle that feeling.

Least Favourite WOD/Movement: That’s easy, Turkish getups and/or burpees. Why oh why is it so hard to pick yourself up off the floor.

Tell us about your sports & fitness background: My claim to fame was back in 1984 when I approached the City of PA and started a noon hour aerobics class at the Rec Centre (now Margo Fournier Centre). I actually taught aerobics for about 4-5 years back in the day.

How did you first get exposed to CrossFit? Take us back to your first WOD… what was it, and how did it feel? I googled CrossFit and on a whim dropped in and decided to go for it. First workout in my log book: SWOD Snatch & Power Cleans 5 sets of 3 used 11# Bar. WOD 2min on/1min off for 20 skips, 7 box jumps(12”box), KB swings 10#. Did 10 2/3 rounds

OMG hadn’t looked at that in awhile. What was memorable was coming home and saying “ DO YOU KNOW WHAT I JUST DID!” 77 jumps onto a 12” box! Told everyone I could.

What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health and fitness since starting CF? Lost weight, lost body fat, lost inches – gained strength and lots of knowledge!

What sort of changes in your life have you experienced out of taking on something like CrossFit that were totally unexpected? The unexpected thing is CrossFit is not just about “exercise” It becomes a lifestyle.. We do goal setting, nutrition seminars, awareness of giving back to the community, charity fund raising, celebrating successes. I’ve learned “Life is about balance”. It’s about making the best choices for ourselves given the choices in front of us.

Any advice for people just getting started? Yes. Welcome and I hope you enjoy your time here. Focus on technique, strength will come. Remember we were all beginners at one time.

What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit? I like to dance but mostly do so in the privacy of my own home, like to sing but can never remember all the words so I hum a lot.. I’m happy to say I have motivated my kids to step outside the box and be willing to try something new and my grandkids to realize you are never too old to hop skip and jump!

Speech Graduate

I looked back and couldn't believe that I hadn't blogged about Cooper's speech development since June!  Wow.  A lot has happened since then, let me tell you about it.

In September like our public speech gal promised, I got a call from J.  She was so sweet, very interested in Cooper and his development.  After telling her the whole story and we went to book an appointment, we realized that she didn't work Monday, the only day I was able to go.   Even though I specifically asked for a SP (speech pathologist) that worked Mondays....

I was frustrated.

The plan was for bi-weekly sessions and her last appointment of the day was at 330, which meant leaving work by 230 every second week to get Cooper and get him to speech on time.  Boo to that.  She sent out an email to see if anyone else had an opening on a Monday and of course no one responded.  As a solution, we booked an assessment appointment and then we'd re-evaluate our game plan after meeting.

The day before the appointment J called me and said she found some one who would take Cooper on Mondays.  J2 had been on holidays for the past 2 weeks and didn't get the email until that day.  My prayers were answered.  Cooper was in and we were going to get assessed the very next week.  This was October I believe.

When we arrived, J2 was so sweet with Cooper.  She sat with him at a little table him and I got to watch.  She did a little formal assessing based on what our SP in June had reported.  She retested his trouble areas and said he had improved in all areas.  Score!  At the end of the appointment we decided that he didn't need regular appointments after all and that we would meet once more at the end of the block, December.

Cooper and I bundled up on Dec 22 and headed back in for what would be our final assessment!  After doing some informal assessing and consulting her notes, she concluded that all of Cooper's problem letters were age appropriate and unless I had any concerns he did not need to return.  That is music to any speech mom's ears.

Don't get me wrong, he still has trouble areas.  He struggles with L and V in particular.   Just last night Cooper was telling me something about his grubs.  I had no idea at first then realized that he was talking about his gloves.  The word had his 2 trouble letters and I couldn't understand!

These days, that doesnt' happen often.  He talks often, and he talks well.  I can understand him and so can everyone else.  Like I said, his speech isn't perfect, but it is lovely to hear.  For a social guy that made friends even when he couldn't be understood.... I can imagine how his friendships will blossom now.

I often sit back and just listen to him talk, remembering where we were 2 years ago and far we have come.  I feel like we have R and our fantastic benefits to thank for his rapid improvement in the spring.  I fell so happy that she was part of our lives for 18 months and so grateful for her work with Cooper.

I am so proud of Cooper for how far he has come and love hearing his little voice, especially when he is using it to tell a joke!

Five on Friday

1.  It is going to be a busy weekend.  We have 3 ice times, an art class, a birthday party and 2 family dinner dates.  After a few quiet weekends, I am ready, bring it on!

2.  Work is going really well.   Getting those first days/weeks out of the way always feels good.  I'm in for a busy January but should be smooth sailing from there.  I hope.  

3. I was happy to be back at the gym last week.  After a week of holiday eating and limited exercise it ft great to be back to my regular classes.  It has been exactly a year since I started doing exercise class.  I have exercised for well over a decade but always on my own, on the treadmill, runs outside, and all on my own.  Then I discovered group exercise.  There is no going back.  I love it!  I feel stronger, I am stronger.

4.  It is mid month and I haven't bought anything for myself.  Well, I bought some tights and a few $6 tanks.  Does that count?

5.  Today is Latte Friday!! The day of the week where I treat myself to a Nutella Latte and sometimes even a muffin.  Friday is always a good day!

Have a good weekend!

Cooper

Cooper is a little spit fire with a huge personality.  He loves to tell jokes, make funny faces, and say funny words.  He is the first to tell you when you said a bad word (usually James) or called someone a bad name (usually Grady).  Like any younger sibling, Cooper likes the same things as his older brother, including hockey.    The hockey programs around here start at 4, so once he hit the magical number, it was time to find him a hockey program for preschoolers.

I wanted to do the Grassroots, the outdoor program Grady did last year.  I was so well, Canadian.  Yes, it was cold, but standing around an outdoor hockey rink is just a cool thing to do.  James vetoed it and we chose to do the program at winsport, the same one Grady did in the spring.

Ironically, Cooper got to be a really good skater from going to watch Grady in his outdoor hockey.  There was a regular skating rink around the hockey rink and Cooper brought his skates each week and practiced.  Even on the freezing cold days!

This month, Cooper's discover hockey kicked off!  Cooper is in the white jersey with the green laces.

Just like when Grady did it, there are about 30 kids on the ice with 8 instructors.  The program is so well done.  It is the same group of teachers that also do the skating lessons and the power skating.  Most of them are students I am guessing as they look young and the hours are ideal.  They are great with the kids.  Look at that big smile on Cooper's face!

When Cooper skates onto the ice, his former skating instructor from the fall skated right up to him and got down to his level to talk to him.  I have no idea what he said since Cooper couldn't remember, but I know it was super sweet of him to remember and acknowledge Cooper on the ice.

Cooper is the youngest kid in the class as it is 4 and 5 year olds.   I wasn't sure if he would stand out as the youngest, the shortest, and maybe not a great skater.....  but he fit right in.    I love how his jersey covers his shorts!

They were playing a game called Submarines, tanks, and fighter jets.  Apparently in this picture they are fire jets, looks like a hockey graveyard to me...
`

Cooper seems to following in the same athletic direction as his older brother.  In the fall, Cooper played soccer and we didn't register for the winter session, we should have.  When we tried to register in December, they couldn't get a team that needed 2 players and 2 coaches, so we opted to take a break from soccer until the spring.

After we decided not to continue with soccer i started thinking of what else we could put Cooper in on Saturday mornings.  To my delight, there were 2 opening in an art class at 4Cats where Grady has done his art class.  I love that place.  While Cooper is not into art like Grady, I'd really like to get a few art pieces of Cooper's to display proudly on the wall along side Grady's.  So we registered him and are hoping he likes it.

Cooper is also lucky to have Nana take him to Gymnastics each week after school.  This is his second year and he really enjoys it.

Cooper is such a social young man.  Just last week he went on his first drop off play date at a friend's from school.  What a big boy!  Grady didn't do that until Kindergarten.  Next week he is going to a little girls house to play.   He tells me he is going to marry her and the feeling is mutual her mom tells me.   He is a lady's man as well!

Having 2 active boys keeps us busy but as most of you know, I am not good at sitting at home so it works for all of us!

Grady

It was brought to my attention today that I hadn't posted in a long time.  What do you mean, I posted twice already?  Apparently, I didn't hit publish.  Ooops, my bad.   

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It seems like with all this fashion talk lately, I haven't really given a serious update on what the kids have been up to.  So here we go.

We are still a hockey loving family.  Grady love to play, practice, and talk about hockey.  How many games he played, how many medals he has, and when his next game is.  He loves it.  And I love that he loves it.

He gets the puck.

He shoots.

He scores!

He continues to be one of the strong players on his team.  He started power skating in the fall and although it isn't his favorite, it has really helped with his skating.  He can out skate me hands down.  It is crazy how quickly they learn and how they have no fear.  None at all.

We really overbooked Grady in the fall.  He had swimming on Monday, climbing on Tuesday, power skating on Wednesday and by Thursday we were all exhausted.  Then we had weekend hockey.  We decided to take it easy this winter and stick to Hockey and power skating.  That is it.

Grady loved his climbing class so he will start again in April.  Craft Climbing... right up his alley.  A little rock climbing, a little crafting.  In the spring, Grady will put his skates away for the summer and put on his soccer cleats.  Both James and Grady are looking forward to another season on the outdoor field!

Grady is clearly a sporty kid.  And competitive.  I love it.  I like watching him play sports more than I ever expected and so proud of the confidence he displays at the rink and on the field.  While he is starting to come out of his shell in the classroom, he is still our timid, shy kid.  I love seeing that confidence and go get em attitude when he is on the rink.

 Something tells me I am on my way to being a full fledged hockey mom.....

From my Closet: Old, New, Borrowed, Blue

Shoes to Shiraz | Two Teens and their Mama | A Lovely Little Wardrobe | R Squared 

Confessions of a Frumpy Mommy | Family Love Inspiration Education  

The Mishaps and Mayhem of Solitary Life | The Blondissima | Positively Learning | Quilty Joy Joy

 Daily Style Finds | Sheila's Potpourri | Puppies and Pretties | She thought She Could 
 Foxy's Domestic Side | Once Upon a Time & Happily Ever After | Sprinkled Just Right

                                 

The Style Me Bloggers are at it again with a new list of topics for the next few months.  Today we are venturing into our closets.....

Something old - I have these old straight leg true religion jeans.  They were my very first pair of designer jeans and I was so excited to buy them on my first trip to NYC.  Actually my MIL bought them for me for Christmas because there was no way I could have forked out that kind of money while on maternity leave.  I loved those jeans.  I still do.  But I they aren't skinny so I find that I don't wear them.  I am holding onto them for one day they will come back in style and I'll pull them out.

Something new - I got this shirt from my MIL for Christmas.  Again, a present I chose for myself.  While some people like the surprise of not knowing what they are getting I love knowing that I will love exactly what is wrapped up for me and knowing I will love it.  Ha!  I found this great little boutique in Coronado when we were there in the fall and found 2 great blouses. 

Something borrowed -  I didn't think I had anything borrowed in my closet.  I decided to physically go in the closet and see if I could see something that someone at least gave to me.  Then I saw it.  Blaire lent me her Hitmen jersey since my future brother in law used to play on the hitmen.  How cool would that have been for the kids now?!?!?  Since she doesn't get any use out of it and I've already worn it twice this season, 

Something blue - Here is my new blue scarf.   I love it paired with the mustard.  I loved it so much I bought 2 and gave the second one to my step mom for Christmas.  She looks great in the earthy colors and I knew she could pull it off.

Out of interest sake, for my wedding I also did the old tradition.    Something old:  See something borrowed.  Something new, my dress.  Something borrowed: My mom gave me an old locket that I pinned in my dress.  She gave it to her grandma for making her wedding dress and she gave it back to her years later.  She tried to let me keep it but I insisted she take it back or it wouldn't be borrowed.  . Something blue: my garter.

Join in and tell us what you found in your closet!

An InLinkz Link-up

Learning to Ski

We decided almost a year ago that we were going to put the kids in ski lessons over the holidays for two reason.  First, we were staying home for the holidays and it would give us something to do and second, because we don't have time on the weekend to squeeze it in with the fluctuating hockey schedule and other activities.  It also helped that the kids loved watching skiing and snow boarding in the Olympics and actually asked to take lessons which made our lives much easier as no convincing was required!

We got an email a few days before lessons to tell us to arrive one hour prior to the start of lessons. What???  So we loaded in the van 1.5 hours before the 130 lesson and hoped we didn't have too much time to spare.  Boy were we in for a treat.  It took more than 10 minutes to find parking spots.  To top it off, we had arrived in 2 different cars since James and Grady were off to Hockey straight from the hill.  As if parking wasn't bad we had to wait in line to get the rentals.

It was so hot in there and everyone is bundled up in their winter gear.  I started to sweat.  I wasn't quite over my fly so I started to feel nauseous.  All in all not a great experience.  I was cursing under my breath the whole time that I hated skiing lessons and regretting singing them up for 4 days of lessons.

My less than pleasant attitude didn't dampen the kids spirits though.

For the record they carried the skis for all of 30 seconds.

Once we finally got the kids settled in their respective lessons, I really enjoyed watching them.  On day 1 I was in charge of the Coopster.  His group was the last of about 8 groups to actually leave the meeting area.  They played games, walked around with 1 ski, then 2 and just when I thought they were finally going to go on the hill, they stopped to play at the block station.  Are you serious?  This is skiing, not play group.  Meanwhile, some of the other kids had been on the hill the entire class.  Whatever, as long as he liked it I was OK with it. Some of the kids cried through the entire lesson.

Things have changed since I skied. While we used to ride a Tbar up the bunny hill, they now have magic carpets which is essentially a like an escalator that you ride up the hill.  The kids loved it!

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Before we knew it, we had skiers on our hands!  It is unbelievable how quickly the learn.

Aside from the start, day 1 was a huge success and while I dreaded going through the process again, I couldn't wait to watch the kids ski.  Then it got cold.  The good news was that the parking and check in process was SO much better.  The bad news was it was frigidly cold.  They cancel lessons at -20 and I'm thinking we weren't far from that.  Some of the kids were starting to get frost bite on their cheeks.  Let me tell you that the cold did not stop us from going to the hill, ski lessons are not cheap.  Who ever said hockey was expensive must never have skied!

While Grady eagerly put his goggles on for the second lesson, Cooper wanted nothing to do with them.  This is the only time he wore them and immediately took them off.

James and I were troopers staying outside to watch the kids even thought it was freezing. I figured if we made the kids go that we should be outside supporting them, but there were massive hot chocolates purchased.

The third day was cancelled because it was to cold but it was supposed to warm up for our last day.  It didn't.  It was just as cold as the second day.  Grady was a rock star and wasn't bothered by the cold at all. He even wanted to stay after the lessons to ski more.  Cooper on the other hand did great during lessons and cried as soon as he saw me after because he was cold.  He also refused to wear the goggles or neck warmer over his face, so partially his own fault!

I added these videos so you can see how quickly they progressed.  Both videos were taken just before the lessons on Day 2.  So after 1.5 hours of lessons they could already go up and down the hill on their own.  The password is 'pizza' because you heard many parents yelling pizza over and over to get their kids to slow down aka snowplow!!

Cooper skis from Christy R on Vimeo.

Grady ski from Christy R on Vimeo.

It was really important to me that they learn how to ski.  When I first moved here I tried to go skiing every year because I thought that living an hour away from so many great ski hills it should be mandatory. I tried, but each trip ended in tears and I stopped going.  While I was OK at green runs each time someone would convince me that a certain blue was easy and I would be in tears on the mountain to scared to come down.  I want the kids to learn young how to ski so they don't have that fear.  I will ski with them on greens and then I'll be a lodge mom with hot chocolate and baileys in my cup and a good book to read.  Any takers??

New Year, New Beginings

Tomorrow I am starting a new job.  Sort of.

Back when we were in Disneyland in November, my company announced that they had been sold to another company in the same line of business.  At first it was overwhelming and stressful, full of unknowns, but within a week, the new company came in and offered jobs to the accounting group.  So the stress levels decreased.  The industry is not great here as we all watch the price of oil plummet and jobs are being lost the longer the price stays down and capital budgets are slashed.  So we were all relieved to keep our jobs but also to stay together as a group.

For the next 6 weeks, I worked hard in helping close the deal.  I forfeited my Mondays off while my workload was heavy all while trying to prepare for xmas.  It was a stressful month.  Proven by the fact that the second I was on vacation I got sick and the illness lasted the whole time I was off.  Go figure.

It wasn't until the day the deal closed and my company ceased to exist that it started to really sink in.  I was officially changing jobs.  Changing offices, gyms, parking and the list goes on.  New co-workers, new roles, new duties.

Let me just start by saying that I loved my job.  It was the best job for me when I went back to work after Cooper was born.  At a time when my kids were just little tiny babies my boss gave me all the flexibility in the world.  Coming in late, leaving early, taking an extra sick day here and there because the kids were sick.  My boss was just so understanding of a young working mom who was choosing to work despite the challenges that being a working mom presents.  Yes, the job was good to, but it was the overwhelming support from my boss and my coworkers that made my transition back into the work a success.

Here we are 3 years later, my kids aren't itty bitty anymore but they are still my #1 priority and I hope that I can retain some of the flexibility that I've had the past 3 years.  For me, a job is the same anywhere I am, but it is the people and the corporate culture that really dictate whether I am happy.

Tomorrow, I go to work in my old office at my old job with most of the same people.  We move offices in about a month where there will be lots of office sharing until we move to our permanent spot in the spring.  There will be lots of change in the next 6 months, but I know I'll survive.  This type A accountant who doesn't like change is learning to adapt to these situations and make the best of it.

Wish me luck!

Our Spot @ Heritage Park

Looking back on my blog posts, I realized that we hadn't taken a picture at 'our spot since May 2013, over 18 months ago, YIKES.  So the perfect first post of 2015 is to show you that we did in fact take a picture art our special balcony in 2014.

Since Grady was born, ,Christmas brunch has been an annual outing for James side of the family, and I kind of love it.  We've been going to Heritage Park the past few years as it is very family friendly and if you are lucky you can even see Santa. Which we did.

While every year, we hope for it to be nice to stroll around and enjoy the festivities, it never is.  Except this year.  And I regretted wishing for it.  When it is cold, no one is out and about and you get Santa and all the craft tables to yourself.  When it is nice out, everyone and there dog is out and you start to sweat because there are so many people crammed into tiny places.

Next year I will be hoping for the cold to return and to give as the nice and empty visit to Heritage Park that we have had in the past.  Like being at the park on your own.

I love coming back to have our picture taken here.  It is where our life as a family started and has grown.  I love documenting is every step of the way.

Happy New Year!  Welcome 2015.