Caity has very fine hair.  Any time she lies down for a nap/bed time/cuddle on the couch/whatever, her hair sticks out in one big matted mess at the back of her head.  Every. Single. Time. 

Without fail.

It looks like she’s never seen a hair brush in her life.

She’s now almost three, which is something I both love and hate at the same time.  She is my baby and my last baby, yet she’s quickly becoming a big girl (potty training notwithstanding).

She’s usually the most easy-going person I’ve ever met.  The house could be burning down and Cait would simply shrug her shoulders.  Must be the Aquarian in her.

One thing I absolutely love about her is when she gets into a groove, she never gets out.  For example, the other morning I was brushing the rat’s nest formerly known as her hair, or trying to anyway.  She had something sticky in her hair, presumably from daycare (or last night’s dinner). 

Caity:  “Owwww Mummy!”

Me:  “Sorry Caity, but you’re the one who got the knots in your hair.”

Tugging, trying to untangle, getting stuck on something in her hair….

Me:  “Cait.”  I stop brushing and look at her.  “What did you get in your hair?”

Caity:  “Donuts.”

She says that straight-faced.  Every. Single. Morning.

No matter how many days in a row, I ask her what she got in her hair, she says the same thing … “Donuts”.

Doesn’t matter that she hasn’t had a donut in ages.  Somehow, magically, donuts keep winding up in her tangled, matted hair.

I’m sure tomorrow morning, when I attempt to detangle her hair again, if I ask her what’s in her hair, she’ll simply say “Donuts”.

You’re cute kid.  You make me laugh.  Thank you.

The girls and I got vaccinated this afternoon.  We went to my Doctor’s office at 1:00 and we were out by 1:05.  Much more civilized that having to wait in line at the clinic.  We were very fortunate  and thankful that our Doctor was providing this service.

So far, to dispel more rumours:

a) My head hasn’t fallen off.
b) I’m not walking/talking backwards.
c) I did not feel the needle (I actually felt the cotton swab of alcohol more than I felt the shot).
d) I did not feel the fluid entering my system.  There was no pain.  The vaccine was not thicker than normal.
e) I did not get dizzy.

I’m also fairly confident that the Government did not put any mind controlling drugs into the shot.

For those of you who haven’t heard about our situation either personally or through this blog, the reason we chose to get the shot for our family is simple.  My Husband has a compromised immune system.  He is in the high-risk catetgory.  He could die if he caught the H1N1 Flu.  I’m in a position to prevent transmission of this virus to him, as are my children. 

It has nothing to do with the mass hysteria that is currently encompassing the world.  It is a simple matter of choice.  I choose to keep my family safe.  I don’t think there is anything wrong with that.  I don’t think it makes me a bad parent.  I think what would make me a bad parent is if I didn’t take the health and welfare of my children seriously.  I have it within my power to protect those who are closest to me.  It is my right. 

One thing we have in this wonderful country is the freedom to choose.  My choice was to vaccinate.  I respect others’ decisions to not vaccinate.  It’s your choice. 

I am reminded of a line in one of my very favourite movies:  Choose wisely.

We’re off to the hospital in a few minutes.  Alex is having his PD Catheter removed because the silly thing never worked and it got infected.  They want him healed before he has the transplant.

Tomorrow I’m taking the kids to the Doctor’s office to get their H1N1 shots.  My doctor is holding a ‘clinic’ for his patients only on Wednesday (for high risk) and Saturday for the rest of us.  I’ll go on Saturday.  I’ll likely have to bring the kids too because Alex has Dialysis on Saturdays and Lord knows how long we’ll be at the office.

My Sitter’s daughter is really sick, fever, sore neck – don’t think it’s H1N1 but I’m kind of worried about her being there with the wee ones running around … She even has one of the babies sleeping in the sick girl’s room … eek.

Other than that it’s been three days I think since I’ve last visited Facebook.  Apparently that’s the right amount of time to get over an addiction.  I no longer think about having to check it all the time.  Finally some peace.

Caity’s sleeping in her big girl bed now, has been for the past two nights.  On Sunday night, we couldn’t wipe the smile off her face, she was so proud and happy to be in the bed.  It was very cute, seeing her all snuggled, clutching her blankets to her face, smiling.  She looked so little in the single bed, like a little baby in a crib.  My baby’s growing up – she’ll be three in February.  Eeek!

Lexy has decided that since Caity has a new bed, she wants one too.  She tried to tell me that she’s nearly outgrown her current single bed (not likely).  She said “look Mommy, my feet almost touch the bottom” … yeah almost touch the bottom in another two feet … nice try kid.  You’re keeping that bed for a bit.  At least until we get enough money to buy you a proper bedroom set.

***UPDATE***

Before reading my rant below, it should be said that this isn’t directed at the circle of friends infamously known as “da boys”.  It’s targetted at a different group of people I know and everything I’ve heard from people all around me.  As I’ve said to a few people already, maybe I’ve finally lost my mind.  I apologize to that circle of friends for the misunderstanding, your friendship and opinions are valued and I hope I haven’t hurt anyone because of it.

——————

I’ve deactivated my Facebook account. I don’t understand why people feel the need to post the fact that they’re in the bathroom having their daily constitutional via Facebook Mobile.  I’m getting so sick and tired of that silly site and everyone’s soapbox.  The only thing worse than Facebook is Twitter and all those Twitheads who care about this crap.  Really, who cares about what super expensive and ugly shoes Kim Kardashian “tweeted” about buying five seconds ago?  I’m more concerned about being able to pay the bills and keeping a roof over my kids’ head when my husband will be off work for three months, post surgery.  What really annoys me the most is all the alarmists out there who have heard the latest scare about H1N1 and continue to listen to, and spread the propoganda.  The reliable sources (i.e., mainstream media) have said there’s no truth to the neurological problems created by the H1N1 vaccine, yet even my MIL has been harping about it, frightened that she will be “the one” that it happens to.  Give me the proverbial break, you’re not that lucky. Play the lottery if you believe in odds like that.  Read this:  http://www.healthzone.ca/health/newsfeatures/swineflu/article/718829–vaccine-phobia-runs-deep.  Yes, it’s not the New England Journal of Medicine, but mainstream nonetheless.

The only reason to not get the shot is if you have an allergy to eggs or metal.  Zip.  That’s it.

You have a greater risk of dying in an airplane crash than from receiving the H1N1 Flu shot, yet people still fly … funny isn’t it?

And thank you to all of you assholes who refuse to get the shot because of some propoganda you read in the Enquirer for putting the rest of us who haven’t received it yet at risk.  Just because a story is in print, doesn’t make it the truth.  Elvis does NOT live in your neighbour’s refrigerator!

I’m so fucking sick of all the drama.

There are enough real problems in the world that we have to deal with that we don’t need this bullshit on top of it.

I’m sick of “if you get the shot you’ll die/become paralysed/have your head fall off (insert flavour of the day here)”.

I’m sick of “if you get the shot, you’ll harm your kids”.

I’m sick of “if you don’t get the shot, you’ll harm your kids”.

I may not be university educated but I certainly don’t need a lecture on how to live properly from those who are or who think they are.

Can’t wait to hear the outcome of this one…

I received this email in my inbox this morning.  Last year when a co-worker’s infant son passed away, I made a donation in his name to the Sunnybrook Foundation and I guess I’m still on their mailing list.  I’m kind of glad I am.   Printed in its entirety, as I received it:

“Dear Sunnybrook supporter,

The shear volume of, and sometimes conflicting, information about H1N1 that you’re receiving through the media may be leaving you a bit confused about what to do next.  We can help you.

Dr. Mary Vearncombe, the medical director of Infection Prevention and Control at Sunnybrook, has some straightforward and simple advice for you. She gave a public presentation on the subject last week at Sunnybrook. If you missed it, or if you’d like to see it again, we have posted it online so you can view it in the comfort of your home or office.

Topics covered include:

• What is a pandemic and why is it causing so much stress?
• What are the symptoms of H1N1?
• Who is most likely to get sick?
• When is it time to call a doctor?
• Who should get a vaccination, and when?
• How you can protect yourself and your loved ones?
• Behind the scenes planning at Sunnybrook

 The video presentation can be viewed here.  Just click on the title “H1N1 and You.”  You can use the controls to watch the presentation at your own pace.

 For Sunnybrook breaking news on H1N1, visit our website.

 Please note that Dr. Vearncombe’s presentation was made possible thanks to Roche Pharmaceuticals, whom Sunnybrook thanks for its support.

 Sincerely,

 Kevin Goldthorp

CEO

Sunnybrook Foundation”

I’ve heard arguments from both sides of the fence.  My daycare lady was waffling because she said the last time she got a flu shot, she got really sick with the flu.  I reminded her that she works with little kids.  She did some research and decided to get the shot.  We’re getting the H1N1 shot and the Seasonal Flu shot too.

I hope the link to the presentation above will help you come to an informed opinion.  The only thing scarier, in my mind than getting the H1N1 shot, is not getting it.

I’m interested in hearing your opinion on why you would or would not get the shot.  We’re still waiting to hear if Alex should get it.  “They” recommend overall that people with renal issues should get the vaccination, but the clinic where he has his dialysis done are waffling. 

Alex’s PD Catheter has become infected at the exit site so they moved his surgery to remove it up to next Tuesday (from mid-November).  It will be so much better for him without that thing there.  It hasn’t worked since they put it in for whatever reason.  It’s too bad he had to go through that in the first place, all the pain and suffering.  It held such promise though, the promise of an easier lifestyle. 

Now we’re waiting for the transplant, which if all goes well with the final tests the surgery could take place in the early new year … keep your fingers crossed and your good wishes coming – they seem to have helped

Have you seen this commercial?  It’s hilarious.

The first time I saw it, I’m sure I was thinking “where’s the clicker?”, then it changed and became a Subaru commercial.  I laughed so hard.  I thought at first I was seeing things.  The tag line is brilliant too.  “Maybe you should get out more”.  I couldn’t agree with you more.

I wonder how much Subaru had to pay to defile the Snuggie commercial – great job though

Does anyone know anything about this ad(s)?

“Frère Jacques-a,
Frère Jacques-a,
Salmonella Dina
Salmonella Dina
Ding Dong Ding”

Caity is trying to sing the nursery rhyme “Frere Jacques”.  She doesn’t quite have it.

Earlier she was doing the “This Little Piggy Went to Market”, it went something like this:

“This l’il piggy went to mwarket,
Dis l’il piggy stay home!
Dis l’ll piggy had woast beeeef!
Dis l’il piggy had none.
what’s dis piggy name Mommy?”

“This little piggy cried wee wee wee, Caity”

“Dis little piggy cwied weeeeeeeeeeee all da way home Mommy!”

I always enjoy a good show with my dinner.  It’s pretty high on the cute scale

Sorry I haven’t written in a bit, been a lot going on lately.  Last Thursday was my husband’s 30th birthday.  I don’t think he was particularly looking forward to the great event.  I tried to surprise him by taking him to Dave and Busters with our friends Candace, Greg and Sib, but he claims he “knew”.  I think he knew something was up, I mean how could I forget his big birthday?  Why on earth would I want to go to the Bass Pro Shop (that’s the line of bull I fed him)?  I can’t imagine this is what he thought it was though.  Our other friends (Scott & Jessi, Brian & Sophie and Paul & Kelly) were waiting for us when we got there and it was so nice to see everyone.  Some of our group couldn’t be there because they were working, but they were thought of nonetheless.  We hadn’t been together in a long time, too long I think.  It was a wonderful night, good conversation, lots of games and too much to eat and drink!  By the way Paul, where is my Stella glass??

On Saturday, Alex and I will have been together for ten years.  A huge milestone, especially when you consider that the longest relationship I had prior to meeting Alex lasted a total of 8 months …

In those ten years:

• We’ve had two beautiful babies.
• We’ve bought a house together.
• We got married.
• We’ve loved.
• We’ve cried.
• We’ve laughed.
• Most of our friends have careers.
• Most of our friends had either gotten married or engaged.
• Most of our friends now have children.
• Most of our friends have homes of their own.
• Most of our friends have just turned/will soon turn 30.  1979 was a popular year!

In other words, we’ve grown up.

In those ten years, I finally learned what our friends’ real names were (having being introduced and only ever referred to by a nickname:  Bear, Sib, Shrigs, Suddes, Whopper, Fox).

The best part of the last ten years is that no matter what happens, no matter how long it’s been since we’ve seen each other last – if you really need them, they will be there for you.  They truly are friends and they’ve never shown it more than over these past few months that we’ve been dealing with Alex’s illness.  Thanks again everyone!

I have a good husband.  He is an amazing father.  Our children adore him, as do I – even when he’s bad

*I let Alex read this post and his only comment:  “I’m never bad” … my reaction:  pfffttt!*

Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary Mom & Dad.  You have reached a significant milestone that I only hope to reach one day.  I know you won’t be reading this, because, well you wouldn’t know the first thing about turning on a computer, let alone how to find this blog.  Mom, I know the journey you and Dad started back in the mid-50’s has taken you down many roads and you have weathered many storms.  You always made us feel loved and valued in our home.  We didn’t have much when we were growing up, but we always had delicious food and warm hugs.  Dad, you always made us feel safe.  You have always been my Superman.  You were always willing to teach us something new, help us with homework or play with us in the snow.

I am so glad that my children haven had the chance to get to know you, love you and learn from you.

I think the story goes that when Mom and Dad went on their first date, when the night was over, my Dad asked my Mom if he could see her again.  She said “No”.  He asked, “Why not?”.

She couldn’t think of an answer, so they went out again and now they’ve been married for 50 years.

They have received a certificate of congratulations from Prime Minister Harper, and Queen Elizabeth.  There’s a third one too but I can’t remember who it’s from.  They are hand signed, framed and I’m sure they’ll have a place of honour in their home very soon.  A sure conversation piece.

We’re looking forward to our dinner on Sunday with our friends and family.  Another night to create more memories.  Memories for the next generation.

May you have fifty more wonderful years together.  We love you.

Alex and I had dinner tonight later than the girls. We made Spaghetti and the girls had grilled cheese sammies. Naturally they were still hungry and wanted to mooch some of what we had.

I made a small plate up for Lexy and I shared my dinner with Caity.

We were chatting, the four of us, while we ate.  Lexy was trying to teach Caity the “proper” way to sing the “A-B-Cs”, Caity mooched most of my dinner like she’s never eaten before.

I said to Caity that when she’s a teenager, she was going to eat me out of house and home.

Lexy said, “Who Mom?”

“Both of you.” I said.

“I’m older.” Said Lexy.  “When Caity’s a teenager, I’m going to be a parent!”

As the math calculation was quickly formulating in my head, I realized that when Caity turns 13, Lexy will only be 16.  Her Dad and I looked at each other and eyes wide I said, “NO YOU’RE NOT!”.  Obviously not realizing what she had just said, Lexy looked confused.

“Lex, you’re not even allowed to start dating until you’re 30!”

I know her comment was innocent.  I know 6 is the new 15, but really why are kids in such a hurry to grow up?  Slow down please my darling girl.  Your sister is almost 3 and you’re both growing too fast as it is.  Earlier in the evening when Lexy and I went to the store, she asked how old she had to be to sit in the front seat.  I said 12.  To her, the front seat is the power seat.  It means you’re an adult because only big people get to sit in the front.  Even at 6 years old, she understands the concept.

She’s desperate to sit up front, and I’m desperate to keep her in the back.  I wonder where the time’s gone.

Tomorrow is my Parent’s 50th Wedding Anniversary.  If I make that milestone with Alex, I’ll be 89 years old.  My Mom tells me all the time stories about when I was Lexy’s age.  I know she wonders where the time’s gone.

Next week is Alex’s 30th birthday.  I bet his Mom wonders where the time has gone too…