tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86026623740403396752024-03-05T14:20:36.496-08:00A Year To ExpandNatalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-87988821277307980852017-04-02T10:09:00.000-07:002017-04-02T10:09:49.163-07:00What you need and what you want I've been going through a time in my life that I haven't had in a while.<br />
<br />
After a semester of so much craziness: going back to work at a new school with new courses, kids at school and daycare, a lot of chaos and emotion through personal events... all of this made for an overwhelming few months! Now, I'm working part time, teaching two of the same course, which I taught last semester (same course twice? woohoo!) and the kids are still taken care of for most of the day. I have the increased ability to be involved with my son's kindergarten class, have more time for my course development, and time for house things as well.<br />
<br />
One of the goals that I have for this time is to organize our home to help it function better. I've been waiting for a time like this, where I could have a number of hours with no one around (especially the kids) to focus on what this looks like. Some key concepts: only have the things we need and the things we really want, and establish long term homes for things so that we know where to find things and where to return them. These concepts and the help of a friend's services have empowered me to pick areas, flush them out, get rid of a LOT of stuff (feels so good!) and then effectively house the things that we're keeping.<br />
<br />
I'm already feeling the good effects of the places we've changed. We have a credenza next to our dining room table that was full to the brim, all surfaces occupied with stuff. Now, all of the superfluous items have been sorted and mostly donated or disposed of, and the new organization is totally working well for kids crafts and things are easily cleaned away. We have a recessed shelving area at the top of our stairs that just became a massive dumping ground for all sorts of things. I took a couple of hours while the kids were playing, emptied it out, sorted things, put some things away where they belonged and then re-purposed the space. Now, instead of being a home for clutter, we have a home for our calendar, little notes and keys, as well as a receiving area for mail and a place to hang backpacks. I'm sure I'm not the only one who get ridiculously excited about this kind of change.<br />
<br />
Next up on my list: my desk (full of office supplies from 10 years ago), our mass accumulation of tech related items (wires, adapters, etc), and hopefully more of the garage.<br />
<br />
Finally, considering my last post was in 2015 and I was just starting the boys lap blankets, I thought I'd post a picture of the finished project. Given to them Christmas of that year, and still enjoyed by them today, especially in the car on cold mornings.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-7823343312505882002015-04-11T22:26:00.001-07:002015-04-11T22:35:42.054-07:00Done! And just getting startedBlanket finished!! How satisfying it is to finish something, especially when there wasn't much left to do. It makes me wonder if that's why I put projects aside when I'm so close to being done. Actually, in some ways I think I'm hesitant to finish because I'm unsure if I'll like the result. Regardless, when I do finally finish I'm usually smitten with the final product and it is very satisfying for the final push to go so quickly!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjObHAG2x_fkBpj5JDiduy_0mf_wQ3wk92PuYVMujDIStjKUd4LzAKst6bGcwWg8UYA4GV_DDE0hFFJTld07RwvXyhkKzL31pFSncv8M5IPamYDiPJsKCVyuvrc7RSUo3haBybZ_DBigd0/s1600/quilt+finished.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjObHAG2x_fkBpj5JDiduy_0mf_wQ3wk92PuYVMujDIStjKUd4LzAKst6bGcwWg8UYA4GV_DDE0hFFJTld07RwvXyhkKzL31pFSncv8M5IPamYDiPJsKCVyuvrc7RSUo3haBybZ_DBigd0/s1600/quilt+finished.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2aa5vEJBtzCqLInSsnYPLEesmyphnpaKicqj6hl7HWghZ3t2qjvST3CNmVIR_hm0SP37Bp-OYKOzAPOvK7Ok1p3zk-ABwBwyZ6hNOd3iyqDeUe26ze3MG3OAO1F4fXuFHDxGJA52dPs/s1600/quilt+finished+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2aa5vEJBtzCqLInSsnYPLEesmyphnpaKicqj6hl7HWghZ3t2qjvST3CNmVIR_hm0SP37Bp-OYKOzAPOvK7Ok1p3zk-ABwBwyZ6hNOd3iyqDeUe26ze3MG3OAO1F4fXuFHDxGJA52dPs/s1600/quilt+finished+2.JPG" height="200" width="165" /></a></div>
<br />
On that note, I've been trying to be a little more impulsive in my crafting. I have been an over-thinker and a perfectionist, and crafting is a great way to practice doing things with less plan and more "let's just see what happens". On the other side of that, I've been enjoying letting things simmer in my mind passively and letting creative thoughts come. It's definitely a low pressure way of doing things, and that's good because with the amount of sleep I've been getting and the pace of chasing after two kids, I can't always string two thoughts together!<br />
<br />
I always feel like hobbies should be low stress, otherwise, why do them? Perhaps that's part of the reason why I put projects aside sometimes. I come to some sort of fork in the road, a design dilemma, and instead of dealing with it, I leave it alone for a while (*<i>ahem</i>* years). Funny thing is, once I pick it back up, whatever was bothering me doesn't seem to be an issue anymore. For this blanket, I remember the "issue" was the binding, and how working with such thick fabric (flannel) was starting to annoy me. I guess I just felt done! Well, I have to say, I really enjoyed finishing this project. I machine stitched the one side of the binding, and then hand stitched the other edge so that the stitching was invisible. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0EL-PxNMCIhyA4hG7GtauBLe2zP-KteT99xbsTg3KEE_GYzfO-lIzlynFBP6bhG9YljOA1CH4rNtZt7veJpFtHXhBAe81IQRe40SQLbywW49qAChre0PEZMDwI5PFHaooP3k6RljeRs/s1600/dino+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0EL-PxNMCIhyA4hG7GtauBLe2zP-KteT99xbsTg3KEE_GYzfO-lIzlynFBP6bhG9YljOA1CH4rNtZt7veJpFtHXhBAe81IQRe40SQLbywW49qAChre0PEZMDwI5PFHaooP3k6RljeRs/s1600/dino+2.JPG" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
It's a good thing I'm feeling favorable towards flannel, because my next project involves lots of it. In my last post, I shared a picture of these cute panels I bought on clearance at Fabricland. Well, I went to another fabric store and bought 2m each of bright blue and hot green flannel fabric to act as backing and binding. I'm planning on alternating the colours for each blanket and possibly doing an applique of the first letter of my sons' names on the back of each. Flannel top, flannel backing, and flannel binding. We'll see how far I get with this before I put it aside! Since there's no piecing to putting this together, my next dilemma is how to execute the quilting. Part of me, let's call her a sucker for punishment, is considering hand quilting to outline the features of the top panel. I would <i>maybe</i> consider that if there were only one, but there are TWO blankets to construct, and I would not put in that amount of work twice! I'll probably cut out the backing and sandwich it together and then let my mind mull on it a bit.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7w-solbUMNr1ZoG7Z8QyZqON9t_pn6Wz6Bmf0aCSaTqNcvb_4Mcgm-w6DN5C2i5U0ouxwZ5VssbWeRo6hjeDViiswE5QExxdZWu-paTe5uGvNfOqK6fBCn4Ox2oAU5xdEUxCx4ExS3k/s1600/152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw7w-solbUMNr1ZoG7Z8QyZqON9t_pn6Wz6Bmf0aCSaTqNcvb_4Mcgm-w6DN5C2i5U0ouxwZ5VssbWeRo6hjeDViiswE5QExxdZWu-paTe5uGvNfOqK6fBCn4Ox2oAU5xdEUxCx4ExS3k/s1600/152.JPG" height="249" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Last, but not least, I impulsively bought a ziplock bag of scrap fabric off of a lady who chops handwoven wraps (of the baby wearing variety) and (I'm guessing) turns them into things for the owners... possibly more structured carriers? I don't know, I didn't ask. Anyways, they really are a rag tag bunch of scraps, all shapes and sizes. I brought the bag with me to knitting the other night and my friend Michelle (of <a href="http://mprsdrose.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">mprsdrose</a>) helped me go through it and rip out any hems to maximize the amount of fabric. It feels soooooo nice on the fingers, handwoven. The baggie had some larger pieces of black and some gray. I'm thinking I could make some stuffed animals or something. The gals at knitting gave me some good ideas to mull over.<br />
<br />
Btw, since picking up this blog again, I've decided not to stress over how my pictures look. I simply do not have the time to get beautiful pictures, so I'm letting go and just snapping for the sake of documenting and moving on. Life is too short!Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-56990359232661912562015-03-30T23:02:00.000-07:002015-03-30T23:17:01.247-07:00Back in the SaddleWell over a year since I've posted in this blog, and I'm totally alright with that! I'm not even going to summarize all of the things that have happened in that time, except to say that our family has a new member: little R born in the summer of 2014. He's now 9 months old and about as mobile as a baby can get without independently walking. He's crawling, standing, squatting, and cruising using furniture and even moldings on the walls! Today, both hubby and I noticed him standing independently for a few seconds at a time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYGzb7lmscszMnFx2PR1TGn26kcFc4wOW8tfT4GAkd9r1euQjLJ8awvqwclxApVjMgCU7ZCxz7OYZMzx3GSYkA6uJzPJnoYWfUD5SleFpvmluQXxdlFCYa5RJXCEJawboUd-kM7nhzHE/s1600/boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYGzb7lmscszMnFx2PR1TGn26kcFc4wOW8tfT4GAkd9r1euQjLJ8awvqwclxApVjMgCU7ZCxz7OYZMzx3GSYkA6uJzPJnoYWfUD5SleFpvmluQXxdlFCYa5RJXCEJawboUd-kM7nhzHE/s1600/boys.jpg" height="320" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I made the decision, when I started this blog, not to share face pictures of my kids. I feel sometimes that it limits my ability to add visual interest to my posts, especially because they're so darn cute! I like to limit their online profile and let them dictate that for themselves when they're older.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXGGJw9chNgHPdSPWffHyeCgNK3msGXTAE7wICmMjSPJZ93EWazOJNndN3AbfPWLHEG2njhuuk-5GfiwKW89Va7ZCcmOfpXoRpAEJErELZ9kOpDb3Oot1Zcv5FpZpP9q2RTxE1UHwTrE/s1600/dino.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYXGGJw9chNgHPdSPWffHyeCgNK3msGXTAE7wICmMjSPJZ93EWazOJNndN3AbfPWLHEG2njhuuk-5GfiwKW89Va7ZCcmOfpXoRpAEJErELZ9kOpDb3Oot1Zcv5FpZpP9q2RTxE1UHwTrE/s1600/dino.jpg" height="206" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Instead, you'll get cute pictures of them in action from behind, and pictures of my crafting. Speaking of crafting, I recently picked up two panels from the clearance section of Fabricland. They were the last two, and the surprise was I thought there was only one! Such a great surprise at the til, since I've got two boys. I've decided to make them each a lap blanket, for snuggling on the couch when they feel sleepy or sick, or for long car rides. They'll be identical, except for the backing and binding. I bought some bright green and saturated blue flannels (not as good a deal, unfortunately, but what can you do?) and I'm going to alternate them for the backing and the binding for contrast and to distinguish them. I'm even thinking of doing an applique of the first letter of their names on the back of each quilt. Should be fun! (famous last words... I'm sure I'll be swearing during the applique process).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEXZ843pTGPNZku9XSEFUZ4UubOtBlJxTDcBLGvx6iSrqZWOdNHoe08x8IY6gur-QBAmawMguQBVLtsWZmd5LLnAPxQTgdT60HdedJeWhOYngTBJGN6hik7Cwwa0jt8WfVlPfIEvKamL4/s1600/IMG_4011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEXZ843pTGPNZku9XSEFUZ4UubOtBlJxTDcBLGvx6iSrqZWOdNHoe08x8IY6gur-QBAmawMguQBVLtsWZmd5LLnAPxQTgdT60HdedJeWhOYngTBJGN6hik7Cwwa0jt8WfVlPfIEvKamL4/s1600/IMG_4011.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artsy picture from two years ago</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
While looking for appropriate fabric in my stash (I didn't find any), I came across a blanket of sorts that I started for Z during that year off. It's made from flannel receiving blankets that I got as a shower gift which were never really a good size to use as receiving blankets. So, I did what anyone would do, I hummed and ha-ed for an eternity and then cut them into strips and turned them into a blanket. Except, I made it a bit interesting (challenging) for myself by placing the strips slightly off kilter. I did this to maximize the size of the blanket (it's still quite small... maybe closest to a crib blanket).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEeiUjnfHnLm31QI6y47pbhqrUo1VnUFi8V9FQoNN8SwaIXFXm6eg1T-fFIxOjEvZKYiZf2ta19qCn_JT-EkVcLHRsIBSw_lI-4lToDe-WhJbIvvbmUETBplF0x74o2tii8A1TM5aPRM/s1600/quilt2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYEeiUjnfHnLm31QI6y47pbhqrUo1VnUFi8V9FQoNN8SwaIXFXm6eg1T-fFIxOjEvZKYiZf2ta19qCn_JT-EkVcLHRsIBSw_lI-4lToDe-WhJbIvvbmUETBplF0x74o2tii8A1TM5aPRM/s1600/quilt2.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The back</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrwvaVEbE2JqvidghuH2oyhlJdcEIgSW4Izgts7WjNGNOQPAT7nfHjbZBV5SKCQBEZ-mKQKKAO83LBwL0Ge0ULhDp0IYUcOfSKMbloijN8jwM0z6sDn-_3T0zLfcDJammTMYRVC0ZDLM/s1600/quilt3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrwvaVEbE2JqvidghuH2oyhlJdcEIgSW4Izgts7WjNGNOQPAT7nfHjbZBV5SKCQBEZ-mKQKKAO83LBwL0Ge0ULhDp0IYUcOfSKMbloijN8jwM0z6sDn-_3T0zLfcDJammTMYRVC0ZDLM/s1600/quilt3.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front (standard bad cell phone pics)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3l0ta4VTDd-rDhQIWfRQq4wnVNd4dTkYqsViqoLJe-TKSKXKwdcdqwYuAHhevC8lfUiSFHdE1y-a-t3CM2yxqu5R2SsmaZj7Cqz4tHd09J3R30jCI5uxBNomy-T9wDg5Utww1JXrbZc/s1600/quilt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3l0ta4VTDd-rDhQIWfRQq4wnVNd4dTkYqsViqoLJe-TKSKXKwdcdqwYuAHhevC8lfUiSFHdE1y-a-t3CM2yxqu5R2SsmaZj7Cqz4tHd09J3R30jCI5uxBNomy-T9wDg5Utww1JXrbZc/s1600/quilt1.jpg" height="320" width="159" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Only a little bit left to go!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I think I originally thought Z could use it as a daycare blanket, but
in true ME style, I got about 85% done and then put it aside because I
was tired of it. That is so typical me when it comes to craft projects. I
don't know what it is about the finish line, but I seem to like to
avoid it, only to rush towards it with renewed vigor when I pick the
project up again years later. Regardless, I was pretty happy to come
across it and realize that I only had the two shorter sides of binding
left to do, one of which was already machine sewn on one side and pinned
and ready for hand stitching on the other. Woohoo!<br />
<br />
<br />
Anyways, I finished the hand stitching on the pinned binding the other night while watching a Miss Marple murder mystery that I had PVRed. I already have the remaining piece of binding (I did each side as a separate piece), so I just need to machine stitch that and then watch another movie and it'll be done and all ready for R to enjoy!! Good thing I found it when I did, otherwise it would have had to be a baby shower gift for someone else (which would have been nice as well).<br />
<br />
ETA: Just found my post about starting the above project... <a href="http://ayeartoexpand.blogspot.ca/2012/07/lately.html" target="_blank">July 2012</a>!!!! So, there you go... 2.5 years later and finally finishing it! Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-74692953133767844352013-10-02T14:21:00.001-07:002015-03-30T20:57:35.311-07:00Science and ScientistsI've had a lot of thoughts swirling around in my brain that I've been tempted to share here, though I've hesitated for many reasons. Timing, fear of sticking my neck out too far or perhaps standing on my soapbox to a crowd of none, these have held me back. But, right now I'm sitting in a Biology 12 class I'm covering for a friend, the students are working away in groups, and I find my brain resting on the topic of science.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ieUGvQnsDl2bIkguVEYjOYps4JDmX3f3UT6kkdtQeUDvVwvHrKgjH8Z6MRpcdrIgmk7GIaby9wPBcUB-r2IbQ8xxL53fQOuVVNKelL5Sa5oN7e6_1PX5-SYmDg7_TdHEg5dxoEw96WU/s1600/beauty.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ieUGvQnsDl2bIkguVEYjOYps4JDmX3f3UT6kkdtQeUDvVwvHrKgjH8Z6MRpcdrIgmk7GIaby9wPBcUB-r2IbQ8xxL53fQOuVVNKelL5Sa5oN7e6_1PX5-SYmDg7_TdHEg5dxoEw96WU/s640/beauty.png" height="158" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://xkcd.com/877/" target="_blank">source</a></span></div>
<br />
Oh, science... I love science. I have a chemistry and math degree, and I have always loved science. I remember thinking throughout school that scientists were pretty cool. And, of course, my idea of a career in science involved visions of tromping around in nature checking out ecosystems and newts, or perhaps wearing a lab coat and developing a new form of energy, or maybe being an astronaut out in space. So, while I'm thinking these thoughts, blissed out on the fun of learning science for the heck of it, I think about articles I've read lately (and some from a few years back). <a href="http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Scientists+protest+federal+cuts+muzzling+researchers/8921182/story.html" target="_blank">Articles talking about Federal cuts resulting in loss of jobs for scientists,</a> <a href="http://desmog.ca/2013/02/21/watchdogs-call-investigation-federal-muzzling-scientists" target="_blank">and muzzling of scientists.</a> Locally, we had the <a href="http://www.vicnews.com/news/212384661.html" target="_blank">recent closure of The Centre of the Universe</a>, which has done science outreach to local schools for years, but, you know, hasn't been making any money.<br />
<br />
I remember reading somewhere that the Harper government was only interested in supporting science that resulted in economic growth. Not sure if I can find the article, but I remember thinking, boy, that's short sighted. How often have I read or heard of scientific discoveries that came about from mucking around, or trying things for the heck of it. Stumbling upon a realization through trial and error or taking a fresh look at the picture. Yes, technology is important and extremely useful, and progress in science can be directed to an extent through specific funding and support, but science for the sake of science is what really gets us somewhere.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNdX_p8GoNyO06ylfpJVXxC3y0d3x-Hre7jYAug3YAGGhuH9VqTh7e9nRYKu6C5gwfjvrtNsRfDdqUSH0gsWsUuHnnWDHkVIu6cG984Vvg66oF2x0WUFlYCdjNNs7Yxh2qb14bYzKIY4/s1600/the_difference.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNdX_p8GoNyO06ylfpJVXxC3y0d3x-Hre7jYAug3YAGGhuH9VqTh7e9nRYKu6C5gwfjvrtNsRfDdqUSH0gsWsUuHnnWDHkVIu6cG984Vvg66oF2x0WUFlYCdjNNs7Yxh2qb14bYzKIY4/s640/the_difference.png" height="400" width="210" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://xkcd.com/242/" target="_blank">source</a></span></div>
<br />
So, while I sit here overseeing this Biology class, here's what I think: through all of these actions, we are telling kids in schools today something. We are telling them that instead of being led by their curiosity and passion, they need to be led by the economy. In essence, there are only certain fields of science that are lucrative, that are worth it, so those are the only ones you should learn. How messed up is that? Don't get me wrong, sooner or later you need to be able to sustain yourself as an individual and make a living, so to speak. Keeping sight of the economy and trends in job availability, etc, can be important. But, I also believe that if we value something, we will make it valuable. If we value science, truely, and the importance that it plays in our development as a society, and in our understanding and interaction with the world around us, then we won't just think about it as a lucrative tool.<br />
<br />
I call bullshit, Harper. I hope to still pass my passion for science on to my students. Hopefully, there are still avenues for these passions to exist, other than teaching.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-49627487184261304012013-08-23T14:04:00.000-07:002013-08-23T14:04:58.864-07:00Time for a change?I'm nearing 5 years in the teaching field, and this is how I'm feeling.<br />
<br />
There are a number of things bringing me to feel this way:<br />
<ul>
<li>My family. I love my son and my family time, and teaching can easily eat up all of your time, energy, and good graces.</li>
<li> Lack of job security. Every year, usually twice a year (every semester), I pray and hope that I have a job. I pray and hope that I have a good job... one teaching just the right amount of classes (not just one class a day, and hopefully not four completely new preps). I scan the district site all the time catching the contract postings as they come up, and then sit by the phone when they close hoping to hear that I got one. How many more years am I going to go through this? Some stability would be really nice. Knowing what courses I'll be teaching with more notice than just a few days would be nice. Being able to prepare (without futility) ahead of time instead of going about it like a madman would be nice.</li>
<li> Political climate. In my day-to-day interactions, I truly feel that the people around me value teachers and the job we do and see it as important and worth investing in. But, somehow that doesn't seem to trickle up to government. I don't feel valued by the government and I don't feel valued by my employer. I feel like I have to fight all the time to voice what we need and what our rights as workers and as professionals should be. I'm tired of fighting and it's only been five years. I also know myself well enough to know that I wouldn't be happy just laying down. Is there another option?</li>
</ul>
I love my job and it's challenges, but I sometimes wonder if I could
find something that provided me with the same dynamism without so much
cost. For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a teacher. I feel so passionate about what I do, and I feel energized when I'm working with students. I feel like I'm in my place. All of this has made the cost worth it so far, but now I'm wondering how much longer I'm going to be paying. Am I a sucker for punishment? Am I not thinking outside the box of teaching in public education? Am I missing some other opportunity, some other vision?<br />
<br />
Part of me feels that if I continue to press on, things will begin to fall into place. I do believe that will be the case eventually. Sooner or later I will get a continuing contract and sooner or later I will be senior enough to have some say in what I teach, and will teach courses that I have prepped already. I really am okay with working hard for something, with delaying my gratification because something is worth the investment. It's just that I'm beginning to question it all. If someone farther along than me could tell me that, yes, they had felt that way too, but then they pushed through and found a place to belong and settled and things worked out... I think I could focus on that light and get myself through this tunnel.<br />
<br />
Any takers? <br />
<br />
I've said it a few times to various friends. I just don't want to be having this same conversation with myself 5 years from now, or 10 years from now. Life is too short.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-68430121009724596812013-03-14T12:54:00.003-07:002015-03-30T21:18:57.665-07:00CherishThere are days when I remind myself: this is what I'm here for, this is why I do it. I get to play with my son, have fun with him, be patient with him and instruct him (or at least try). I get to love him unconditionally and watch as he figures things out, gets excited by things and frustrated, I get to watch him be sneaky and hide around corners. This is why we had him... to be present with him and enjoy (or at least experience) the moments as they come.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
As I mentioned in my last post, I'm off on Spring Break. The combination of that and my daycare provider being sick has thrown upon me the opportunity to hang out more with my son. I was looking forward to that during my two weeks off anyways, though I must admit that I originally intended to send him to daycare for part of the first week so I could get some projects done. But, life throws little bumps, including, for him, a double ear infection. Poor little bean. He's definitely been wanting me more, so it's good that I haven't had to work. Today, we went to Canadian Tire to pick up a few things, and it basically turned into a session of follow the adventurous toddler around, and try not to lose the shorty. Honesty, my arms were so tired from carrying the not-so-light little guy, that I didn't really mind. We found a bin of inflated balls, and task transformed into chase-around-the-balls he kept dropping (he did most of the chasing). It wasn't that taxing... he was really just playing, and not running, and he was having so much fun. And in the process, his attention was fixed (so he wouldn't take off) and I was able to scope out most of the store! I managed to sneak the balls back to the bin before we left. We picked up one of these for Z. I think it'll be a great addition to our yard as the weather gets better.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.homehardware.ca/products/300/64113491.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.homehardware.ca/products/300/64113491.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The moments, they slip by one by one. I chose to be in them as often as I can, because I know they are precious. I'm really hoping I will remember them, because I don't always record them... choosing just to enjoy them instead. When he kisses us (or the phone, or his bear), when he dances a jig in one place to music, when he sports his playful "angry" face and I do it back and we touch foreheads. I just love him so much.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-89839709006377147582013-03-09T13:25:00.001-08:002013-03-09T13:25:18.891-08:00Coming out of hibernationThe sun is out, and I am on day one of a two weeks Spring Break. Hallelujah! Yesterday, some of the staff and I went out for lunch, and as a fellow teacher and I walked from the school to the pub (yes, a pub is the best place to go, because you're guaranteed NOT to run into any students, as long as they're diligently checking IDs) we both breathed a sigh of relief and instantly felt lighter at the thought of not teaching for two weeks straight. I took some marking home with me. I may or may not get to it... we'll see how the time goes. I'm not setting it up as an actual task on my to-do list because I don't want it hanging over my head. Marking is always hanging over your head when you're a teacher... it's like homework that never goes away.<br />
<br />
Instead, I've made a little list of appointments and trips already planned (we're going to Vancouver for a friend's wedding - sans baby!), so I can see where my time lies (I think it's <a href="http://grammar.quickanddirtytips.com/lay-versus-lie.aspx" target="_blank">"lies" and not "lays"</a> because "time" is not a direct object... please correct me if I'm wrong). As for the rest of my time, I have visions of spending extra time with my little one, organizing around the house, <i>maybe</i> some gardening, and hanging out with friends. Because one of our weekends will be spent away, I'm planning on leaving our other weekend free so that we can have some unadulterated family time. I'm really looking forward to having some playdates with friends and their kiddies. Having a little one means you can only plan so much for a day, and it's hard to fit it all in on a weekend when you're working the rest of the week and you need to get laundry, meal-planning, grocery shopping and general tidy-up to happen. I'm looking forward to not being so rushed for these next two weeks, and I'm planning on keeping that in mind as I set up my expectations.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-91357805594490138012012-11-29T19:18:00.002-08:002012-11-29T19:31:13.713-08:00Keep on Truckin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzFvfHrkuktSbYijfK20Zj4UzxImk3qT33M5BCFOnI6P41f-nU7hNejVV9BWwj71Y2H8gMyAi5hzeNmO2-r7OggAMBQN12PyZ3lXTGRO1chmflcVw-oBbJeD-9xluo2pUcH9zsVVMJtc/s1600/walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinzFvfHrkuktSbYijfK20Zj4UzxImk3qT33M5BCFOnI6P41f-nU7hNejVV9BWwj71Y2H8gMyAi5hzeNmO2-r7OggAMBQN12PyZ3lXTGRO1chmflcVw-oBbJeD-9xluo2pUcH9zsVVMJtc/s640/walk.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I haven't added to this blog in a while, and there has been good reason. A lot has happened in the past two months. The most major occurrence was a student of mine passing away. He was struck by a truck as he crossed the street, was in the hospital for a few days, and then passed away. He was young, and vibrant; very impulsive (what 13 year old isn't). Two of his brothers (including his twin brother) are in my classes as well. It was a very sad experience, one that left me and the school with a lot to deal with, and a lot that we're all still dealing with. I had occasions where I considered expressing myself about it on this blog, but it just didn't seem right at the time. My first student to pass away. Horrible milestone.<br />
<br />
Our little family is doing well though. The picture above is of me and my son, out for a walk with my momma. I recently bought him a Muddy Buddy suit, or as I like to call it, the baby hazmat suit. Best $37 I ever spent! It rains a lot here on the West Coast. I mean, that's pretty much the substance of our winter, though we usually get a few snowy days in every year. Even when it's not raining, the ground it still wet. And, like any other 15 month old, even though Z is fairly good on his feet, he still tumbles or intentionally sits in the wet grass or mud from time to time. This way, I don't even have to worry about it! Plus, he looks super cute in it! Z is a very adventurous and curious toddler. I still like to refer to him as my baby, but he's pretty much entered into the realm of toddler-hood now. No longer can I plop him down on the front lawn and still run back inside to grab a forgotten item. The little dude books it fast, and usually for the road. He doesn't quite understand "stop" yet (or maybe he does, but chooses to ignore). We're working on getting him to hold hands when we're close to traffic. Like everything, it's a process!<br />
<br />
I am so excited that it is almost December. For one, I love Christmas, it means time with family (especially a certain brother who lives out of town), and time off from work to relax at home and spend time with my hubby and son. It means Christmas songs long ago memorized, twinkly lights, and rich foods. I am so excited about it this year with Z being 16 months old instead of 4 months old. Only three more weeks of school before Christmas break!<br />
<br />
Oh crap, I better get knitting. Oh, and I'm planning on sewing up some stockings this year!Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-59419346918669799962012-10-14T18:35:00.000-07:002012-10-14T18:40:56.065-07:00Parapraxes (Freudian slip)Oh-ho-ho...<br />
<br />
So, I just started this new job two weeks ago. It's a doozy, teaching at an alternative high school where the majority of the student body don't work well in a traditional school setting. I'm finding myself teaching students that would normally be kicked out of my classroom, and having to manage their behavior and their abilities in a more flexible manner. Every day I walk the fine line of balance, trying to help motivate students and work with them where they are, while still trying to maintain (or establish) a respectful working environment in the classroom. It is trying. I come home mentally and emotionally exhausted every day. For the past two weeks I've focused on building relationships with my students, learning the ropes of what I do through trial and error (no training here!), and documenting, documenting, documenting! Because of the nature of the work that we do, everything needs to be documented for communication purposes, legal purposes, and in case we get audited in regards to our funding. It is crazy.<br />
<br />
Needless to say, I have not done a whole lot of marking since my contract began two Tuesdays ago. I teach the self-paced math class. Normally math is not that bad for marking - students check their answers for homework assignments, I mark those for completion, as well as quizzes and tests. But the way the class is currently set up (and because I'm coming in partway through the school year, I'm keeping it as it is, at least for now), workbooks have been photocopied for students, and when a student has completed a package they hand it in and I am the one to check all of the work. Considering I have 5 different courses running, and students working within the same course are at different places, my marking load is very broad. Anyone who is a teacher knows that this is a huge time suck. For those of you who have never marked anything, I'll give you this one key point: <i>it is far more efficient to mark 50 papers of the same assignment by marking page 1 all at once, and then page 2, etc, than it is to mark separate assignments in their entirety</i>. As the marker, you start to form what is an acceptable answer, what you will give part marks for, and you're able to mark with consistency and be very quick. I look at my pile of marking and all I can think is, this is going to take me two whole days :P And, by a whole day I mean 8 hours of uninterrupted marking.<br />
<br />
So, on Friday afternoon I got all my marking piled into one container. I placed on top my special colourful marking pens (hey, you got to make it enjoyable somehow) and my marking guide binders. Then I got my things together and left with only my lunch kit. The realization that I left behind my marking didn't hit me until 930pm that night, and I don't have after hours access to the school yet. Can we say Freudian slip?<br />
<br />
Oh, and I left my knitting at my parents this afternoon. I think this evening I'll bake some muffins and cast on a new project. Goodness knows once tomorrow comes I'll be using any spare time to chip away at that marking!Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-71364186803206303772012-10-08T21:04:00.001-07:002012-10-08T21:04:41.887-07:00Grocery Fun!Little Z is getting bigger and bigger and has now entered into a whole new stage: the Toddle Stage. He is walking, more than ever, tottering around with his hands waving to help keep him steady. He is oh so very cute, as all who spend time with him will attest. But, with this new stage has come the standard headstrong will. Now when we go grocery shopping, he does not want to sit in the cart (there's no action there!). No, he wants to walk, securely between mom and the grocery cart, pushing the cart around with such strength for such a little guy. We literally walk laps around the grocery store, me grabbing items from the shelves as we pace by, trying to keep him from running us into other patrons. Every once in a while when I need us to stop, I lodge him into a corner, which he has quickly adapted to by pulling the cart back and turning it a bit and then pushing again... repeat until that works! The alternative is me lodging my foot under the cart wheel so it can't go anywhere, which results in Z pushing with all his might (think practically horizontal baby) and crying out in frustration. Part of me thinks that he sees pushing the cart as his very important job in our grocery shopping endeavor. Unfortunately, he just doesn't know when to stop, and things always go south when we reach the check out line and the time for pushing has come to an end. Then, I'm stuck juggling pulling items out of the cart, while making sure Z doesn't shove the cart into the person in front of us, or while holding a squirming, very unhappy little boy. Yup, checkout cannot go fast enough. We may have reached the stage where little Z will have to stay home with one parent while the other shops... at least until he's old enough to run down the isle to fetch items for me - another adventure I'm sure. I must say though, it is pretty cute seeing him put all that effort into pushing the cart. So much gumption for such a little person!<br />
<br />
<br />Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-45698932107735843972012-09-10T19:16:00.001-07:002012-09-10T19:18:59.285-07:00Goodness, gracious!Yes, that is all I can think to say. It has been QUITE the week! Last week marked my first one back to work after maternity leave, and Z's first week at daycare. Our little boy fared very well adjusting to daycare. He was quite tired the first day, came home with puffy eyes after only an hour's nap, but has progressively slept more and more and is now having a standard 2+hr nap (though was pretty much forced to drop the morning nap). For what it's worth, we're still keeping the morning nap at home during the weekends, and he seems okay with that!<br />
<br />
Hubby and I are finding our groove, working together to get ourselves and the little one ready in the morning so that we can be out the door on time. I do find that I'm more consistently early for work than I have ever been, entirely because I drop Z off at daycare by a particular time. I've given myself over to focusing on making dinner and just hanging out and playing with the little guy until he's ready to go to bed. I'm coming to terms with not doing a great job at prepping and sometimes paying the consequence for it the next day. But, you know what? That's what happens when you get hired the day before you start teaching and you have absolutely no time before hand to prepare! I still find myself working 2-3 hours a night sometimes, marking and prepping, but even that I'm trying to balance. Today, I took up a teacher on an offer to just use his math notes for two of my classes instead of creating my own from scratch. I won't even know if I get to keep the job I'm covering until the postings are filled next week. Such is the life of a teacher.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DzQnifoKcN0sQDQ7et1q158VMQlIq441GWtW7L25isQPq9VAkf4Y5FjHYKju2_YI0hyBhTgfSaljkur6rIB5QALnW4p8hRTFFkav7gJ38O9ZH_9z35NtTQIj3kwOX2ZQ2H4l9JEsIZ0/s1600/090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DzQnifoKcN0sQDQ7et1q158VMQlIq441GWtW7L25isQPq9VAkf4Y5FjHYKju2_YI0hyBhTgfSaljkur6rIB5QALnW4p8hRTFFkav7gJ38O9ZH_9z35NtTQIj3kwOX2ZQ2H4l9JEsIZ0/s400/090.JPG" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">me and my little guy at the Saanich Fair</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My mind has been on my pension a lot lately. I know it sounds ridiculous to be thinking about such a thing when I'm not even 30 (soon!!), but there are so many implications with my profession to my pension; many of them I still need to figure out. I just don't want to find out I'm supremely screwed when I retire. First, my year off on maternity leave (for which I didn't even get top-up - bah!), I believe I need to pay into that year to make sure it isn't missed. Sure makes a case for not having too many kids! Second, every part-time contract I get only partially contributes to my pension, at least that's my understanding. Considering full time contracts are very hard to come by, even continuing contracts (when they become available) are usually part time. How in the heck do I go about figuring out where I'll be when I want to retire?<br />
<br />
I've been driving my husband mental with these questions! I've promised him I'll hold off on freaking out with the need for answers until Christmas, when we have a bit of down time to look into things. It definitely makes me wonder though, how do all the momma's who stay home with their little ones manage when they get old? Hope that they stay with their husbands so there's that additional income to live off of? I've always thought that as a teacher I would love to only work part-time while my kiddies (plural one day) are little, have the flexibility to focus some of my efforts and energy on our home life. But, how much of an effect would this have on my security when I'm old? Hope I'm not freaking to many people out with my questions... I wonder if the google search count on pension related questions will go up!<br />
<br />
On a much more pleasing note, I made spaghetti sauce tonight, and I used fresh tomatoes from my garden! The romas are especially prolific.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-86095196396675770322012-09-01T09:19:00.003-07:002012-09-01T09:20:41.275-07:00September 1stThe day of new beginnings.<br />
<br />
I know for most New Year's Day is the day of new beginnings, the day for reflections, resolutions, for starting over, but for me these feelings have always come in the fall, with the start of September (I know, I know, not technically the fall yet). My birthday is in the fall (the reason my mother believes I love the season,
whereas she loves the summer months in which her birthday falls). I <i>love</i> the fall; the smells of decay, of leaves starting to turn, a slight crispness to the air, autumnal harvest, the start of the school year. It is a time of renewal, of work starting again.<br />
<br />
These feelings are only strengthened this year with my maternity leave coming to an end and Z about to have his own little beginning with his first day of daycare around the corner. I think about many things: about how he'll do transitioning, how I'll do, how he'll sleep and eat, but most of all I think about the new little friends he's going to make, hanging out with each other every day. I'm kind of excited for him.<br />
<br />
Another new beginning: little Z took his first steps the other day. I haven't managed to catch him doing it on camera yet - he's still very shaky on his feet and isn't doing it too frequently yet, and he also has the tendency of lunging for the camera the moment it comes out. He and I have been going for walks every morning. I put his little shoes on his feet, carry him out to the road, then place him on his feet and hold his little hand and off we go! He tottles and I dutifully hold his hand, lightly when he gets a spurt of stability and firmly when he wobbles. This morning he was waving at his shadow... so cute!<br />
<br />
I feel it my civic duty to plug the <a href="http://www.saanichfair.ca/" target="_blank">Saanich Fair</a>, Western Canada's oldest fair! This year marks their 145th year... they're older than the country! I go every year with my father (except last year, when I had Z), and it's a great way to get out and experience the agriculture that makes up the lower Island. Go check it out!Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-47942411794753521202012-08-31T09:00:00.001-07:002012-09-01T08:56:17.180-07:00WaitingThey say that waiting is the hardest part. I feel this is very true, though I have a good amount to distract myself with!<br />
<br />
I'm returning to work on Tuesday. Little Z will have his first day of daycare. Z actually took his first steps yesterday - I can barely believe it! He's been cruising like crazy for a while now, and he can walk <i>fairly</i> well even just holding onto one hand, but it still completely caught me by surprise. My mom was over, having dinner with us before a trip to go see family, and all of a sudden noticed that Z was standing, not holding on to anything. He stood longer than he's ever stood and then, suddenly, took a couple of steps! The look on his face wasn't one of pride, but more of just concentration. And then, he sat down and didn't do it again (no matter how much we tried to coax it out of him). I'm keeping my camera close at hand for when he does it again. I have to say, it is so amazing as a first time parent watching these developmental milestones happen before your very eyes. I remember the day when he first started bopping things with his fists (not even his fingers yet) while laying on his little playmat. We have been so blessed by this little guy.<br />
<br />
As for work, it has been a major mental dilemma for me. There's no real decision to be made, the dilemma is more one of how do I handle this? What kind of perspective do I take that will help me through this? My husband keeps telling me to enjoy the time I have left with Z, and I am, and (as he pointed out) that's exactly what I would say to him if he were in my situation. But, I'm really not finding that it helps; I'm still anxious. I just don't know how to adequately prepare!<br />
<br />
I'm a teacher, so my return-to-work scenario is a little bit different than someone returning after a standard maternity leave. First off, I don't actually have a job to return to. The temporary contract that I had before my leave ended with the end of the school year. I didn't secure a contract out of the summer postings (well, that's not entirely true... I was offered one, but turned it down because I felt it just wasn't right for me). I called around and emailed a few of the high school principals to let them know that I was available to TOC (substitute teach) in the event that they had to open up some extra classes at the beginning of the year. This is very common, and these positions will be posted mid-September, so I'm hoping to get something at that time. So far I haven't heard anything back, and it's the Friday before the long weekend, before school starts.<br />
<br />
So, here are the potential scenarios I see before me for my first day back to work (in no particular order):<br />
- I get a frantic call from a high school looking for a teacher to cover a new class. I walk in blind and have to make curriculum, etc, up on the fly. Not ideal, but I've been in such a situation before, and I can handle it.<br />
- I get a frantic call from a <i>middle/elementary</i> school looking for a teacher to cover a new class. I have virtually no training or experience teaching middle school or elementary, and, to be frank, they are not an age group I feel the <i>most</i> confident working with.<br />
- I get a one day TOC callout for a teacher. The likelihood of this happening on the first day of school is so beyond zero, it's practically negative. No teacher books the first day of school off.<br />
- I get nothing. I take Z to daycare and come back home and tinker around keeping the phone near me at all times just in case.<br />
<br />
And... for the <i>NEXT</i> day, repeat! Doesn't that sound like fun? Quite a few teachers are in this boat every year. It's pretty much par for the course, so I'm not feeling sorry for myself, BUT, like any normal human being, I would much rather know what I was doing. I'm a teacher, and under that a damn good student. I like to prepare before stepping into a situation. Aside from not knowing which of those four scenarios might happen on Tuesday, I don't even know what subject(s) I would be teaching even IF I got called in. I've got this strong urge to start prepping curriculum, but with my teaching areas I could do any level of math or any junior science or senior chemistry, or I could get called in for something completely outside of my teaching area. It would be a complete waste of time to prep anything before I needed to.<br />
<br />
Anyways, I just need to get over it. In the mean while, the house is getting pretty clean and organized... at least there I've got the locus of control.<br />
<br />
Update: about 20 minutes after posting, I got a call for a two week subbing job - yay! Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-78302745083171160112012-08-19T20:02:00.002-07:002012-08-19T23:03:35.638-07:00In which I go to Fibrations 2012....and forget to bring my camera - FAIL!<br />
<br />
BUT, I had a great time, hanging out with my sister-in-law and also my friend Melissa from <a href="http://www.misocraftyknits.com/" target="_blank">MisoCraftyKnits</a>. <a href="http://fibrationsvic.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Fibrations 2012</a> was once again held on the <a href="http://www.stannsacademy.com/" target="_blank">St. Ann's Academy</a> grounds in their beautiful orchard. I must say, I was really impressed with the number of booths; quite a few Bees were representing as vendors (Emma from <a href="http://everything-old-crafts.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Everything Old</a> and Linz, who I'm not sure if she has a website, but is one of the fastest crochetters I know!). I also finally got to meet in person Rebecca from <a href="http://www.inanook.blogspot.ca/" target="_blank">Nook</a>, and her lovely handknit monsters (I so need to pick one of those up for Z for Christmas!), as well as Shannon from <a href="http://www.luvinthemommyhood.com/" target="_blank">Luv in the Mommyhood</a> fame ;). I met Jane of <a href="http://www.janerichmond.com/" target="_blank">Jane Richmond</a> patterns, though not for the first time as I met her a few years ago at the once annual Victoria Fiber Fest, which is now no-longer running (hence Fibrations). Oh, how I <i>wish</i> I had my camera with my today to snap photos of everyone's great booths! Jane had this great line hanging above her booth with all of her pattern cards attached and fluttering in the breeze, it looked great! Plus she had all of her patterns on cards kindof how you would see a paint sample deck, with the bare details (ie yarn requirements, etc) on the back... genius idea!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvtQXswy00RtnYyChBWgLa920uwTHXeqOYNSyWCVyOZst7-LRuke0oXoQGpL0ZA9MfgqRfPTIjFjG5-fPJeETqZ8gRO0FLLFJ3ij0LZHHSpi8KGGvb_Ls6MJbLbXJ-NVQDhKLgIAz_Fk/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTvtQXswy00RtnYyChBWgLa920uwTHXeqOYNSyWCVyOZst7-LRuke0oXoQGpL0ZA9MfgqRfPTIjFjG5-fPJeETqZ8gRO0FLLFJ3ij0LZHHSpi8KGGvb_Ls6MJbLbXJ-NVQDhKLgIAz_Fk/s400/028.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
One of my favorite finds this year was <a href="http://www.kattikloo.com/" target="_blank">Kattikloo Fibre Studio</a> which my friend Melissa pointed out to me. Oh my goodness, what beautiful yarn she had on display. I was immediately drawn to this gray merino mulberry silk lace blend. It's tonal variegation was stunning going from a soft light dove gray to a darker graphite. I squished it with my hand and it felt cool to the touch. Turned out it had just been dyed last night and was still drying! You can't get much fresher than that! I bought a skein (over 800yds at $20, what a steal!), my friend Carol bought another, and when we swung by the booth only 45 minutes later the other two skeins were gone! Popular colourway indeed! Kattikloo also had stunning felted silk scarves. I would have loved to have purchased one, but I had to draw the spending line somewhere! Fiona Duthie (the artisan of Kattikloo) was very lovely. I'm so glad I got to meet her and enjoy her beautiful creations!<br />
<br />
So, that was today. Yesterday the hubster and I (and Z) trucked it to home depot to get supplies for a little home improvement project. HD was disappointing, so we went instead to Lumberworld and were very impressed with their selection (and their customer service... plus I've been told that they're locally owned, so let's support them!). What did we buy? Well, our gutters have been failing at the corners (ah, homeownership), so we needed some caulking to fix those. We also needed another downspout as we only have one for the entire stretch of the back of the house. We also decided to buy a rain barrel to tie the new downspout into! So, with no more further ado, meet our new rain barrel!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSbbJFpqObiiCf8P2VgvZnpQrXv5r91SfYh6lTIUd5CWVLph-H-y94H9cc_r4G3cuvqfUabme2RXOaHHVpR5COuvtNpmPIn5GnQ61ExVgKPaq79dea6NEma2rk_o7Yeel6gGPY5lQp2lI/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSbbJFpqObiiCf8P2VgvZnpQrXv5r91SfYh6lTIUd5CWVLph-H-y94H9cc_r4G3cuvqfUabme2RXOaHHVpR5COuvtNpmPIn5GnQ61ExVgKPaq79dea6NEma2rk_o7Yeel6gGPY5lQp2lI/s400/008.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrJWUshyphenhyphenr5VsrLKSZQPnzQ-uzFZL_EfNMm3l_YKFnh8gDr0xhkvvYJCQ4Ym9fBHQtMY_nBHSwYaHuqSjvwC1wutxqTM2YCqD-JMU6LIaJ-hZ-SolaDttBsDw-tAwtXfgLEgXeaK23es0/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrJWUshyphenhyphenr5VsrLKSZQPnzQ-uzFZL_EfNMm3l_YKFnh8gDr0xhkvvYJCQ4Ym9fBHQtMY_nBHSwYaHuqSjvwC1wutxqTM2YCqD-JMU6LIaJ-hZ-SolaDttBsDw-tAwtXfgLEgXeaK23es0/s400/010.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
Any name suggestions? And, of course, it wouldn't be a true update without a snapshot of my tomato plants. We're just starting to get some ripe ones (though hubby gobbles them up pretty quick!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMgdbXNExu1PxnZpy3IvY-FzdUuqpxLXv09vhCkAc2sqkKolujUb6XkK7KWE-VEK2EHGbxh0Cpo1DLZvaQjrY4Vz-0IYZR-XuMI1vHXJVArLVSJEo6Nwe-WeVQUU-QPwOjoMVy0dNrtU/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlMgdbXNExu1PxnZpy3IvY-FzdUuqpxLXv09vhCkAc2sqkKolujUb6XkK7KWE-VEK2EHGbxh0Cpo1DLZvaQjrY4Vz-0IYZR-XuMI1vHXJVArLVSJEo6Nwe-WeVQUU-QPwOjoMVy0dNrtU/s400/022.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcmpXX8jvlqhPlS2Zd-WMooWTU-90WSmR4087XoYe7lrWwt6CLeoG_JM0im0ms76rVkppVRDolOxGnZrPTn5MO4N7e9qNxb6htwODIKsOxv13w6Nddf51oKP9xalhDaNp9X-mK2UvDoek/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcmpXX8jvlqhPlS2Zd-WMooWTU-90WSmR4087XoYe7lrWwt6CLeoG_JM0im0ms76rVkppVRDolOxGnZrPTn5MO4N7e9qNxb6htwODIKsOxv13w6Nddf51oKP9xalhDaNp9X-mK2UvDoek/s400/014.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-28169068412186248562012-08-04T17:44:00.001-07:002012-08-19T23:00:53.684-07:00Pie pornBecause I didn't include any pictures in my last post, here's what we've been up to this weekend:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoKW3iT0RC5qj7RnmygLG6G4hXv7EwDMUidhqXv_zNqfTL39FVfue58I-o73uBkSqvjBTNLVWR7jBGjTnEiJW3U5wdwqOuw-hPxdoGkr-aMYwUY3hZPQEpmGeQLR0vRdPeXwlY85Wl1A/s1600/095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoKW3iT0RC5qj7RnmygLG6G4hXv7EwDMUidhqXv_zNqfTL39FVfue58I-o73uBkSqvjBTNLVWR7jBGjTnEiJW3U5wdwqOuw-hPxdoGkr-aMYwUY3hZPQEpmGeQLR0vRdPeXwlY85Wl1A/s400/095.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9celRl8i3rBj082AYRFiKzcsQETMX95pez6TtzjOP_Za1sjA1TdFof47hcy947v1K69Ni0dLXC3iS0a0v0gq-CZuSLwoGBdp9dDIA1YkUc50Kkk-EBXwwK8nGNgANT67YU7jIbcBxc-s/s1600/097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9celRl8i3rBj082AYRFiKzcsQETMX95pez6TtzjOP_Za1sjA1TdFof47hcy947v1K69Ni0dLXC3iS0a0v0gq-CZuSLwoGBdp9dDIA1YkUc50Kkk-EBXwwK8nGNgANT67YU7jIbcBxc-s/s400/097.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-29165171810842296182012-08-02T18:32:00.002-07:002012-08-19T23:02:33.397-07:00The good lifeOh, how much better one feels after a full night of sleep! Z has been giving us a little grief during the night time as of late, either waking up around 330/4am looking for a feed, or deciding that 530am is a great wake up time. At just shy of a year old (it's only a matter of weeks now!) I know he can go the whole night without a feed. Anyways, last night we ate spaghetti (that kid can pack it away!), and then I took the little one for a walk along Willow's Beach. It was such a beautiful night; we started at Estevan Village, walking past Willows Galley Fish n Chips on our way down to the beach. That reminds me, I need to get a fish n chips meal in before the end of summer; it smelled so good walking past that place! Z kept his little sunglasses on the whole time and we had a nice peaceful walk, seeing all the other families and groups of friends enjoying the beach and the playground.<br />
<br />
I want to highlight the dinner I made last night. I decided to try something new with my tried and true spaghetti recipe. First, I added zucchini to the sauce; I've been trying to get more veggies in where-ever I can. Second, I decided to make spaghetti squash to cut some of the noodles out. This was the second time I had spaghetti squash. I was pretty impressed the first time I made it, with the ease of prep (I seriously just poke some holes in it and microwave it whole for 8-10 minutes, turning it over every couple of minutes), how tasty it was, and how much it actually resembled noodles... so cool! Anyways, it turned out really great... I think it helped that we also had some fresh baked (not by me) focaccia bread to go with it.<br />
<br />
Tonight we caught an outdoor show of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/towersandtrees" target="_blank">Towers and Trees</a>. They're a new local band, of which my brother is a part. Also, my sister in law, his wife, sings vocals sometimes. It was such a wonderful night. The show was early enough that we actually both got to go and bring Z. Normally we kindof flip a coin to decide who gets to go, and who stays home to watch the munchkin. You couldn't ask for better weather, and the food on the patio at the <a href="http://www.canoebrewpub.com/" target="_blank">Canoe Club</a> was so tasty. It was pricey, but we both agreed, it was a great evening. Plus, little one did a lot of cruising around with all the patio chairs that were available as anchors.<br />
<br />
I'm looking forward to this long weekend. My hubby is off tomorrow, and Monday is a civic holiday, so we'll enjoy a good four days of family time. I'll leave you with a debut video from Towers and Trees.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://2.gvt0.com/vi/w_A3w3VNV6o/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/w_A3w3VNV6o&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/w_A3w3VNV6o&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br />Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-45959404118172440052012-07-22T13:42:00.002-07:002012-08-19T23:04:57.862-07:00Breath before the endAllow me to explain my MIA status - I have been teaching summer school. This has made me a tad busier, especially with the onset of Z cutting his baby molars. So far the bottom two are in, and the top two are mercilessly trying to break through as well. Whoever said being a baby is easy hasn't dealt with a baby going through some serious teething. It's been interesting going back to work. I like to think that I fell back into the swing of things fairly naturally. There are parts that I had missed, and parts that I think no teacher misses. Regardless, it's been a good way to see what it'll be like in the fall when I go back, potentially full time, and Z starts daycare full time. For now, it's one more week and then back to normal time at home with Z for the month of August.<br />
<br />
But, enough about work, I want to focus instead on what I always seem to come back to in this blog - my garden! Allow me to present my tomato plants! They're <i>HUGE</i>!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjCAISWDsWZBCPhrBwYrW6mDAMPNtz1sF3KGeyeJoQjGqE7d0cSp7Xle_LJ_nivDiMXXpXi06pmSINpj1WtTErMHxHoX8I94bkNF2VZdzVIn7EIdafaQtZq3t9q_napabgQ8JWWd6sRk/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDjCAISWDsWZBCPhrBwYrW6mDAMPNtz1sF3KGeyeJoQjGqE7d0cSp7Xle_LJ_nivDiMXXpXi06pmSINpj1WtTErMHxHoX8I94bkNF2VZdzVIn7EIdafaQtZq3t9q_napabgQ8JWWd6sRk/s400/022.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I look out my living room window and they're there, more than halfway up! The hubby and I like to think of them as our tomato hedges. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3P6JBfmfWPMjCDp0iIyDS85RcG1kFL3unB7hNUPu_YyxalhMD0s_CRACYQtSikV1NeuElCoaCId2EAioItql25Qfhu_fdCrSYboAiJwxxlMooMpx8jawOpiyMfjrQoTkNgeaEckPbByE/s1600/023.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3P6JBfmfWPMjCDp0iIyDS85RcG1kFL3unB7hNUPu_YyxalhMD0s_CRACYQtSikV1NeuElCoaCId2EAioItql25Qfhu_fdCrSYboAiJwxxlMooMpx8jawOpiyMfjrQoTkNgeaEckPbByE/s400/023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">cutesie little cherry tomatoes... this plant is called Sweet Million</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdB0IBe0GjBDC04zmrygVWhic4NKt1FXn9tfyjnuSi6zT4Z4-UMndZ1gBnEqzVAWXP4yv3Pmwq4kGdtaLSCq5w8TFpvt4v0H-4z5XSF3OK6yCvqLuqzbnUhcoIrjlD64n_IdjO9YkfJoM/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdB0IBe0GjBDC04zmrygVWhic4NKt1FXn9tfyjnuSi6zT4Z4-UMndZ1gBnEqzVAWXP4yv3Pmwq4kGdtaLSCq5w8TFpvt4v0H-4z5XSF3OK6yCvqLuqzbnUhcoIrjlD64n_IdjO9YkfJoM/s400/027.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
As you can see, there are lots of green beauties on the vine, and a ton of little yellow flowers still in production. I actually pruned a couple of the plants today, as per a suggestion from my father that it may help the plant focus its energy on fruit production rather than growth. It makes me happy to see the plants so happy! I think this really is the perfect place for them.<br />
<br />
Funny thing is, I've never been a big tomato eater. My husband loves them, but I always order my burgers and sandwiches sans tomatoes, and I don't like them in salads. I think this may be a good opportunity to change that. I have canning plans (I'm practically giddy about using my own canned tomatoes during the year), and may try my hand at making salsa. Aside from that, and making many tomato-based recipes once they're ripe, friends and family will probably be recipients as well!Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-37546683634551049542012-07-02T10:46:00.000-07:002012-08-19T23:04:14.842-07:00LatelyLately I've been sewing and not knitting. I've been feeling this shift for a while now, not really being "in" to my knitting. I'll be at my weekly knit night, and someone will comment that I've hardly knit at all, just been sitting there enjoying the conversation. This, I should point out, is never actually judged upon at my group, and even if it was, what would I care? No, sometimes it's just nice to sit and not <i>do</i> anything, just enjoy the conversations and partake a little in them yourself.<br />
<br />
But, to get back to sewing... I've been making a crib blanket for Z. I had this idea quite early on after having him. I had quite a few new receiving blankets, presents via baby showers, that just weren't quite big enough for what I tend to use receiving blankets for (covers for his crib mattress, covers for his changing pad) and too lovely and fleecy for the other common use (burping pad!). So, I had this idea to use them as sort of really big fat quarters to make a quilt from. When I had this idea the weather was just starting to get colder and I thought, perfect, I can make two and use one in the crib, and one as a stroller blanket. Well, as nice as it is to think that I would get straight to work and a quilt would just appear, these were not the old days of having entire days to myself to sew away. Babies keep you busy, and sleep deprived, and I was well aware that I didn't want to be cutting fabric while sleep deprived (hello? recipe for disaster!) especially as I was essentially making a quilt from "free" fabric and didn't want to ruin it beyond repair. Oh, I should mention that I had just the right sized piece of left over batting from another project... see? free!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOUwvZoo3pUzaLlZCppew1g4S_xtiw_k69ED_cfeOuHtRd0evy2m6rISeiA0fIeWMh9P6xyDyR_9XM2OVZ9iafyl7pVM8SICpIYxC7BOtYarAZ2Mq8A7c-zNEri6uvqZiOJJtrkSp4gQ/s1600/IMG_4011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOUwvZoo3pUzaLlZCppew1g4S_xtiw_k69ED_cfeOuHtRd0evy2m6rISeiA0fIeWMh9P6xyDyR_9XM2OVZ9iafyl7pVM8SICpIYxC7BOtYarAZ2Mq8A7c-zNEri6uvqZiOJJtrkSp4gQ/s400/IMG_4011.JPG" width="400" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So, I went easy of myself (something I've learned to be better at since becoming a momma), chose the moments when I really <i>felt</i> like working on it. Over the months, I came up with a design, something simple yet different enough to be a bit of a challenge (humph... should have left it at plain simple). I decided to do plain stripes of alternating three fabrics, no sashing, with the binding done in a fourth fabric. I made things a little more interesting by placing the fabrics on a slight diagonal. This is what actually gave me the most grief, or challenge, however you decide to place your perspective. Being the perfectionist that I am, although I tried to approach this quilt sans hardfast plans, more of an improvised and quick-sew, if you will, the diagonal slant created challenges with the length of the fabric strips being inadequate (or at least not generous) and so I found myself ripping out seams and re-placing the strips to get the optimal coverage. Oh, how that is me to a tee! We must <i>optimize</i>!! More like cue swearing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_4KcA6vfqnQFnEiJcMU2wCxNr1KLfuYKUQ5LUz0dUScDQ3YIBXi3o03Xt2RffFCUc-OWQ4TlA_cD45W6Jmu3GxfqoifG6TKXc5ENOeL75Qt2M08CpdDSgoqzuikd5rFUE1hmsyfy7Fw/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ_4KcA6vfqnQFnEiJcMU2wCxNr1KLfuYKUQ5LUz0dUScDQ3YIBXi3o03Xt2RffFCUc-OWQ4TlA_cD45W6Jmu3GxfqoifG6TKXc5ENOeL75Qt2M08CpdDSgoqzuikd5rFUE1hmsyfy7Fw/s400/004.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Plus, let's be honest, there is tension when things are slightly off the horizontal. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You constantly feel like your head's not on straight.</div>
<br />
I found the backing fabric (I hadn't planned that far ahead initially... see? improvise!) at a local fundrasing rummage sale (<a href="http://www.victoriagrandmothersforafrica.ca/" target="_blank">Grandmothers for Africa</a>). It was an oddly shaped piece, but fleecy and the right colour, and I think I bought it for a couple bucks (definitely the right price). I made it work by placing a striped panel (<b>not</b> on a diagonal, thank you very much!) partway down the back. That made me feel special, as I'd admired that style on numerous other quilts... kindof gives extra interest.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEU3lduj5ssjgx7tuC0x7wjVgL3zDD-AjzZMMUk9_UxZ7rvHqrp8kIueq8olzuRtHIdLznLtyp_pUbIhjxVKKLjWM1zf9OqO45VkMw_G5Y6LcXLGPJyixWrH2JHaD9jROZJWgjsAOraE0/s1600/001+%282%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEU3lduj5ssjgx7tuC0x7wjVgL3zDD-AjzZMMUk9_UxZ7rvHqrp8kIueq8olzuRtHIdLznLtyp_pUbIhjxVKKLjWM1zf9OqO45VkMw_G5Y6LcXLGPJyixWrH2JHaD9jROZJWgjsAOraE0/s400/001+%282%29.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Now, I am working on the binding. This is my second time binding a quilt, and the first time using a separate fabric, not just wrapping the backing around. The lady we bought our house from left me her craft supplies and stash of crafting books (you should have heard me when I opened <i>that</i> box!), included in was <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Quilting-Machine-Singer-Reference-Library/dp/B000MCCK9A" target="_blank">Singer: Quilting By Machine</a>, something I turn to whenever I make a quilt as there is always something I need a refresher on or have never done before. I've chosen to machine sew the binding on the front, but hand-stitch it on the back, as I like the idea of the stitches being invisible. So far, one long side is entirely done, and the opposite long side has been machine stitched. It's great work for tv watching (or sitting with friends or on the patio). I've chosen to do the <a href="http://turningturning.com/tutorial-invisible-ladder-stitch-for-quilt-binding/" target="_blank">invisible ladder stitch</a>, which you can find a tutorial for here. My progress is by no means fast, though I'm sortof enjoying that at the moment... taking my time with the very last step of this quit. I've decided that this will be Z's daycare quilt. I'm going to place it in his crib for the month of August (or whenever I manage to finish it) so that it can take on the scent of his room, and hopefully it'll give him some familiarity and comfort when he starts daycare in the fall.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-69151458999001118412012-06-19T09:43:00.002-07:002012-08-19T23:04:48.186-07:00In which stress is just a state of mind<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
That is what I keep telling myself. I find it so easy to get stressed
out, even when things are going wonderfully, somehow there's a way to
find stress in the situation. A friend of mine recently shared a cartoon
on facebook and I so identified with it:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/282905_375815012480335_1014065812_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/282905_375815012480335_1014065812_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=375815012480335&set=a.158951464166692.33313.158810777514094&type=1&theater" target="_blank">via</a></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I just found out yesterday that I got a position teaching summer school. This is a good thing; this is a great thing! This will be a good way for me to get back into teaching, to dip my toe in, so to speak, to have a trial of leaving Z with someone else before the big go-back-to-work move in September. Plus, this will be excellent for our finances, considering that my EI runs out at end of June.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, why am I feeling anxious? Because, I haven't taught in an entire year. Because, I've never taught this course before (let's face it, that's always the case, so that's nothing new). Because, I've never had to leave Z before on a regular basis. Because, I'll have to figure out childcare for him, and I'm worried about someone else taking care of him... taking the same care of him that I feel like I'm an expert in now. Because, I only have a couple months left before I really return to work, before crazy, hectic life change begins, and I love him so much, and I cherish my time with him, and I NEVER WANT IT TO END!!!!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And yet, there are days when I wish I was working again, days when I feel I'd like that different challenge. I've been tutoring and I certainly enjoy teaching, it's something I feel is a true passion of mine. But, being a mommy is a true passion of mine as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In all of this, I am trying to shift my perspective, because, really, what is the problem? That I have a job? That I have a wonderful baby and a wonderful family that I love spending time with? All of these things are blessings. I'm trying to process this looming change in a way that doesn't disable me, in a way that allows me to savor the moments (like the morning walks I take with Z in the carrier, held close to my chest). I'm trying to allow myself to have the feelings, and to ride them for the natural things they are, the natural life changes. To see and acknowledge them as what makes life so precious... but, let's be honest, it's still shitty - the year is almost done!</div>
<br />Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-89657048838101874212012-06-13T09:43:00.001-07:002012-08-19T23:05:26.919-07:00A study in eatingMorning snack... fresh bread and jam<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucGI6qAHPY8wSJBnofLMa_lhlDvewRMa02OiaF3iyFvA6ZAcBe3DXC5UioyPRj0RjfqROpg5iuf03hfitb73wgjYiyowQFSgFJt9jY26EQ5QWfHhwB6UQix_ROvbSdAgSXWcd4w1v-vg/s1600/029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucGI6qAHPY8wSJBnofLMa_lhlDvewRMa02OiaF3iyFvA6ZAcBe3DXC5UioyPRj0RjfqROpg5iuf03hfitb73wgjYiyowQFSgFJt9jY26EQ5QWfHhwB6UQix_ROvbSdAgSXWcd4w1v-vg/s640/029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7CREZ-xW0tW-qcqvymaMWg-SWbhtu4iYyBhIXkSZBxB7T8VQUzcxeoOZOaTPNNbjUK-dNViWZ84OsAzMWhtAROETg3gdcEEPG6llJT3rCvzXrCwFWEbPiwi9iWA97Zb4Ru3LBtPgSHFI/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7CREZ-xW0tW-qcqvymaMWg-SWbhtu4iYyBhIXkSZBxB7T8VQUzcxeoOZOaTPNNbjUK-dNViWZ84OsAzMWhtAROETg3gdcEEPG6llJT3rCvzXrCwFWEbPiwi9iWA97Zb4Ru3LBtPgSHFI/s640/026.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUd_E-maa_eqAD77dRzTYgtWqielMiaTEAto9-vvLdGgDTFlpZmUbU8UggA28swqHQe0AwJQHkeXXLxWNlyaf5d-QBAjiv46rC-q7zj6pnESSTl-6bS_qiP5ZHOUxzRja9hwphjeh62zg/s1600/023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUd_E-maa_eqAD77dRzTYgtWqielMiaTEAto9-vvLdGgDTFlpZmUbU8UggA28swqHQe0AwJQHkeXXLxWNlyaf5d-QBAjiv46rC-q7zj6pnESSTl-6bS_qiP5ZHOUxzRja9hwphjeh62zg/s640/023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Mmmmm...Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-4429211266078002172012-06-12T14:48:00.000-07:002012-08-19T23:05:47.666-07:00Sleep retrospectLast night we lowered Z's crib. For you non-parents out there (or perhaps parents who didn't use a crib), a crib typically has two settings for the mattress, a higher setting and a lower setting. We've been pretty lucky, being able to keep it at the higher setting for so long, as the little man is now 10 months old. I should also say that he is a big baby boy, weighing in around 25lbs, and the same size as some 1-1.5 year olds. Needless to say, if the little guy were to pull himself up, the crib rails would only come to his waist at the higher setting, and we think it won't be too long before that happens, so it was time. It's a bit of a sad time for me though. I used to nuzzle him with kisses when I laid him down, as he nuzzled his blankie and bear getting his dozzie self ready for sleep. Now I can't reach that far down! *sad face* I think it seems like a whole new bed to him as well, being that much closer to the floor and having a slightly different view of his room. Oh little man, you're growing up!<br />
<br />
All of this, and a trip down facebook memory lane (perhaps the one pro of FB's timeline) had me thinking about the past year and how much my sleep has changed. It's quite dramatic, having a little one, it instantly changes everything. But, before that fateful day when the baby enters this world, it's pretty common for the bursting pregnant momma to have troubles sleeping.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #0b5394;">
<i><b>June 16, 2011: so tired... I think I've reached that lovely stage in pregnancy where a full night sleep just doesn't happen anymore</b></i></div>
<br />
I would have been 7 months pregnant around that time, which is almost and entire year ago!That's right, an entire year of shit sleep... hahahahaha... it hasn't been all bad, actually I feel like my little guy has been a pretty good sleeper, and for those rough nights it has helped to have some perspective, maybe a little help, and a nap!<br />
<br />
When my little guy came along in August, my sleep was completely redefined. Suddenly, two hours of sleep seemed like a good chunk, and four or more was absolute heaven! (well, maybe not heaven, but pretty amazing nonetheless). Babies don't begin to produce their own melatonin until 6 weeks, so it follows that night sleep doesn't start to organize until that time (therefore, to the baby, day and night are not that much different!). I remember during that first month, Z would always be awake around 3/4am for a good couple of hours. It was tough, but I always felt it was a blessing that it was the height of summer, so the night didn't really last that long. I used to say that my baby gave me the gift of a sunrise, because I never missed a single one during that time.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #0b5394;">
<i><b>August 21, 2011: My baby doesn't like to miss a sunrise</b></i></div>
<br />
Now, little one has dropped his last night feed (yay!), but is also getting up earlier (boo!) I guess because he's that much hungrier once the morning hours roll around. I'm not gonna lie, I'm looking forward to the day I actually get a continuous night of sleep again, and not an early morning wake up time. But, until that day comes (because I know that's still a ways away), I have my sweet little baby boy.<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #0b5394;">
<i><b>October 19, 2011: Feels blessed that after a rough night of "sleep" I have that cute smiling face to look at</b></i></div>
Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-15094600074997848762012-05-30T11:50:00.002-07:002012-08-19T23:06:19.316-07:00Garden UpdateIt's a rainy day today in Victoria; a perfect day to take a few picture of my garden. I am so proud of how our tomato plants are doing (cue the deer eating them all up). I planted them right underneath our living room window in a bed that gets a lot of sun (south facing) but is very protected from the elements (including the rain). I made sure to really saturate the soil with water before planting them, and took the advice of another garden store patron and snapped off the lowest branches and planted them a little lower. He said that it would help them establish their roots. I think it has helped us remember to water them in that they are right out front and we pass them multiple times daily (plus the hose is right there).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSHQ-cwcf8AcRXgPBM7LDcxcipvEzarMV7qdk6rf4ocK8ukNnYyzByG1dlMVdPjtum0vTlMNiV8lxOXlla34Djep5IfFplXnStBcFjRYzM6X442c-8aVaQnyK2HSXUcG-GZx295EtVrtA/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSHQ-cwcf8AcRXgPBM7LDcxcipvEzarMV7qdk6rf4ocK8ukNnYyzByG1dlMVdPjtum0vTlMNiV8lxOXlla34Djep5IfFplXnStBcFjRYzM6X442c-8aVaQnyK2HSXUcG-GZx295EtVrtA/s320/005.JPG" width="233" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
My hanging baskets have also expanded from my original plantings. I decided to make my own baskets this year, as I always find them expensive and lacking in variety. I had two baskets left over from last year, and bought $20 worth of plants that I split between the two (so $10 a piece - not bad!). I'm really happy with how they've flourished. I also saturated the soil with water before planting them, and I've stayed up of watering them. I think the nasturtiums will be flowering soon; I've seen little buds!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlp43naQuJzmlfALYEaR7EZn2cyC6Q_lysi3XSA_cDaz7ce7HHhnj-cCMPRdoTAVJ2v5TMMe2c2dmcJVhPhWVreiDClhaALFVAKNGuZGzckurLiGl3kmk_Q8Ldiak7dJvoMQel8pseYI/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtlp43naQuJzmlfALYEaR7EZn2cyC6Q_lysi3XSA_cDaz7ce7HHhnj-cCMPRdoTAVJ2v5TMMe2c2dmcJVhPhWVreiDClhaALFVAKNGuZGzckurLiGl3kmk_Q8Ldiak7dJvoMQel8pseYI/s320/002.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sO2xnRcweCeFeS3DHRob4lWwGX68FX3AngUGitWH-a2zlrk1Kc-MsXjYDjC3b0blcg1-B4NRrNWa98TguGCQdl8zCt45u9T8DxN8-4_82lCj_6FjdWGRlDPpkfe53XDNiQ0J7_CiYnI/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-sO2xnRcweCeFeS3DHRob4lWwGX68FX3AngUGitWH-a2zlrk1Kc-MsXjYDjC3b0blcg1-B4NRrNWa98TguGCQdl8zCt45u9T8DxN8-4_82lCj_6FjdWGRlDPpkfe53XDNiQ0J7_CiYnI/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkFI8aRu03MnmSC-0eBh0Lyg3Wyt6uu0ClEj_HSZt5EiMWUeiHBHOYdarlH4CaVs2VqbK6QSJjVdt1872ke1VWw9TbYTAKbtp3TkyyYlop9SMtPZk6StAd7n8Brgjl1W_a7dlHsSFeig/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrkFI8aRu03MnmSC-0eBh0Lyg3Wyt6uu0ClEj_HSZt5EiMWUeiHBHOYdarlH4CaVs2VqbK6QSJjVdt1872ke1VWw9TbYTAKbtp3TkyyYlop9SMtPZk6StAd7n8Brgjl1W_a7dlHsSFeig/s320/006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I didn't take the chance to photograph the backyard, but the radishes are done now, and the kale, carrots and peas are growing well. We planted quite early this year, what did we have to lose? I think I will still plant some beans, just need to get out there and do it. We've got quite a few foxgloves, as usual, and welsh poppies of course, which have already started going to seed (and will continue to self-seed and grow throughout the summer), but none of the large poppies that we had last year. I remember collecting the seeds, and I think I may have been to efficient! I sprinkled some seeds around, but we may have been undiscerning in our mowing and chopped them all off.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-38783241681065365092012-05-26T14:57:00.000-07:002012-08-19T23:06:53.348-07:00How much is enough?Lately I've been thinking a lot about our lifestyle and how much we need to get by. It's been a fantastic year, being off on maternity leave, enjoying caring for my son, but it has come with some monetary sacrifices (we won't go into the sleep sacrifices, etc). It seems to be a common theme these days: how much do you need to get by?<br />
<br />
It's easy to look at the Jones' across the street and think that they have it so good. Maybe they are friends how are going on vacation, maybe they've bought a new car, or are doing some renovations. It's easy to look around and think that others have it good and you're the only one struggling, but I think if we actually had the chance to look at each others' financial pictures, it would probably be a sobering piece of art. It's funny, because finances is a topic that can be quite taboo, kind of like religion or politics, but I quite like hearing how people run their "operations!" I recently took a detailed look at our finances. I printed off our bank account and credit card statements for two months and categorized absolutely every expenditure (that's a great word I don't get to use that often!). It was very eye-opening to see how much we actually need to get by, even just for normal base-living costs such as the mortgage, insurances, utilities, food and gas.<br />
<br />
I'm turning 30 this year, and as I look around me I feel like a lot has changed in the past 15 years in terms of what is a necessity, and in terms of cost of living. It does make me wonder though, is the cost of living high or is it just our particular lifestyle? I think it's a bit of both. I'm on a Canadian Issues Debate forum where I have the opportunity to converse with people from across the county. I put the cost-of-living question out to them, and I was surprised to find that Victoria isn't that much different than across the country. I mean, there are variations in food and gas prices. I think the biggest difference (at least to me) is daycare costs (not subsidized in BC) and housing costs. It is very expensive to rent in Victoria and it is also very expensive to buy, at least it can be depending on the area.<br />
<br />
This morning, the hubby and I went for a walk with our little one in the stroller around a local trail. We got to enjoy the crisp clear air, the warm temperatures and the sun on our skin. It didn't cost us a dime. I think it's so easy to see spending as an activity, or as a necessary part of getting through the day. I'm trying my best to shift more towards enjoying myself without spending money, and making purchases that are worthwhile, and not just random. And also, most importantly even, taking the time to enjoy the things I've already invested in.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-52059923530046816602012-05-23T07:08:00.003-07:002012-08-19T23:07:17.385-07:00Is it any wonderIs it any wonder that the teacher contract negotiations have gone the way they have? I've been thinking a lot about this whole issue lately, as I am a public school teacher, it directly affects me. Like any system, I'm starting to understand its intricacies the longer I'm a part of it. Here, to my knowledge, is how it works.<br />
<br />
There are three players in this game, the BC government (the Ministry of Education), the school districts (the employer) headed up by the school boards/trustees and superintendent, and the employees (ie teachers, EAs, and support staff). The contract negotiations that are currently ongoing are between the teachers and their employer, the school district. It seems so simple when you look at things in terms of the work that is done, the wage and benefits that are asked for, the working conditions that are required to facilitate a healthy state of education. But there is a third player in this game who is really holding all of the cards. The government. It is the government that determines the funding that school boards receive. The government has stated that funding has increased every year, while enrollment has decreased. But a closer look at the numbers reveals that funding has not kept up with inflation, has not kept up with the mandates that the government places on the schools for things like carbon offsets. Not only that, but funding was changed in 2002 from a program-and-cost based formula to a capped-student based funding formula. There is a certain cost associated with simply operating a system, regardless of enrollment. Funding has not kept up with this.<br />
<br />
I say this not because I want to educate you, or to sway you to care about the state of the public education system in BC, though believe me, I do. I say this because learning how the system works has helped me understand why my employer acts the way they do.<br />
<br />
The School Act, a piece of legislation that governs the way education works in BC, states that school boards must not present a deficit. Every year the government states how much funding each school district will receive, and every year the boards are required to submit a balanced operating budget to the Ministry by June 30. Boards who present a deficit risk being fired by the Ministry (don't ask me how that works, since the trustees are elected officials). This is what is currently at issue in the Cowichan Valley (news article <a href="http://www.vancouversun.com/news/thewest/Education+minister+says+will+fire+Cowichan+school+trustees+they+submit/6640909/story.html" target="_blank">here</a>). So, in order to comply with the funding that the Ministry determines, school boards are often left to make whatever cuts they can, be they education support workers, teacher librarians, or school psychologists, to name a few. If you ever wonder why it can take years for a student with learning needs to be assessed and receive the support they need to be successful, look no further than the school psychologist whose hours have been cut. You may argue, well why can't it be done without a school psychologist, or without a special education teacher? If the child is not assessed in the proper way, then there is no funding for their specific need. Things need to be done by the book - we have to account for the tax payer's money. Not that the funding will only go towards their needs. Maybe a balanced budget means that schools will run more classes at over capacity so that they can hire less teachers. After all, funding is determined by the number of students. This is why schools are trying to expand their international students programs - more money in the coffers. This is why schools try to attract students from other districts - more students, more money. It's a business.<br />
<br />
It's a business.<br />
<br />
<br />
Should education be a for-profit business? It's a public service. Is it any wonder that we, the employer and the employee, are told to do more with less every single year. And each year, even more with even less. Is it any wonder that teachers are so enraged by the current state of education, and are unwilling to back down? Is it any wonder that the employer stands quietly by when their hands are tied by legislation?<br />
<br />
ETA: my sources were drawn from my personal experiences, my conversations with teachers and admin, my critical reflection of the current labour dispute and various publications, including <a href="http://www.civicgovernance.ca/files/uploads/WhenMoreisLess.pdf" target="_blank">this report</a>, which I highly recommend reading. I have not even touched on the various legislation that has broken down the state of the classroom through the removal of classroom caps, etc.Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8602662374040339675.post-72318436923021016082012-05-07T14:13:00.000-07:002012-05-07T14:18:13.901-07:00Weekend Fun!I had a great weekend. On Saturday I met up with a dear friend at the <a href="http://www.victoriaquiltersguild.org/" target="_blank">Journeys Victoria Quilter's Guild Show and Sale</a>. It was absolute bliss to just walk around together, sans kids, and fawn over all the different fabrics and quilts. I should really save all my fabric purchasing for craft fairs and shows, the deals can be really good. Considering I still have fabric that I bought especially for Z, when I was still pregnant, waiting to be turned into a quilt, I was careful not to go overboard in my purchases. I ended up buying a panel of Halloween fabric from <a href="http://www.satin-moon.com/" target="_blank">Satin Moon Quilt shop</a> that will be perfect for turning into a trick-or-treat bag, and perhaps some decorative panels for the season. Z's first Halloween; I can hardly wait!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kOPMZtxgfkZ8RBgQMP7fNEOm8I922y2rnm_ppne9ydQfrFdmqXYOSiXxE3Uhek8839xOo-vABXuAvE-20YbGAntJHIibDo2ACEjyUfb2oqhOPN1kZH2czYFbHYDnqF-FPilQf2SNEBY/s1600/011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_kOPMZtxgfkZ8RBgQMP7fNEOm8I922y2rnm_ppne9ydQfrFdmqXYOSiXxE3Uhek8839xOo-vABXuAvE-20YbGAntJHIibDo2ACEjyUfb2oqhOPN1kZH2czYFbHYDnqF-FPilQf2SNEBY/s400/011.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I also bought a jelly roll (I think that's what you call them) of Ten Little Things by Jenn Ski for Moda (<a href="http://www.hamelsfabrics.com/" target="_blank">from Hamels Fabric and Quilting</a>). The colours are super cute, not too stereotypically boyish, and I think they would make the perfect bedspread for Zachary (or any other little kidlet that might be added to our family). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51eKl7Net6L._SX450_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51eKl7Net6L._SX450_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
That was Saturday. On Sunday the weather was absolutely fantastic. Hubby and I decided to take advantage of it, and as soon as the little one went down for his morning nap, we were outside. Hubby washed the cars while I worked on planting tomato plants. We have this planter right below our living room window. Since our house faces South, the planter gets a TON of sunlight, but very little water as it's protected by the roof overhang. It's also gets protected somewhat from any late-spring frost. We're hoping the heat will help produce some great tomatoes, as long as we keep it well watered, and hopefully the dear aren't keen on coming that close to the house (I'm not banking on it).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilluioce469pLvW6xw8rO7SQQe7KiOJ_CjjEyh1aaN1TogyoSTiYFlg9powSVj4SZYY8HsFwwGyhZ74IQJhblki9r7bcGzenq1kxqObYnAmjR_0KGFSAwDiy9CcShRynFs0etbMf4MPlw/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilluioce469pLvW6xw8rO7SQQe7KiOJ_CjjEyh1aaN1TogyoSTiYFlg9powSVj4SZYY8HsFwwGyhZ74IQJhblki9r7bcGzenq1kxqObYnAmjR_0KGFSAwDiy9CcShRynFs0etbMf4MPlw/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
As you can see, I need to get a couple more tomato cages. In other garden news, through the act of weeding our veggie garden, we discovered that we already had a crop of radishes for eating. Can I just say that there aren't a lot of recipes out there for radishes outside of the realm of salads? These grow great, not sure how the two of us are going to eat them all though!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSoVTESss9nphaJ8oPFn_P3wgVx7ub_OjjPq6uUSfPuenVG03VtnCrG6H8W8uBkQQP6J0Pu1B1sKlgMdhRCmdhKo-fcZCtqc5oupJkbJNoz46H0N_gMOmyl3SYlhNb4EeUMLfRGpK2K48/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSoVTESss9nphaJ8oPFn_P3wgVx7ub_OjjPq6uUSfPuenVG03VtnCrG6H8W8uBkQQP6J0Pu1B1sKlgMdhRCmdhKo-fcZCtqc5oupJkbJNoz46H0N_gMOmyl3SYlhNb4EeUMLfRGpK2K48/s320/001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
By this point, little Z had woken up from his nap, and was outside with us, under the protection of a beach umbrella, watching mom and dad huff and puff in the sun!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCVMSI_RKbr8FgQqHDEkF2DdFscarTR_9E8AgXJvNR7vCL_Tpzpg5M4iWl0KShFtAmAh2oU8oFqOBx1RxauLGimn3XtCEFBlIRD5yYD1BdAtu0Z7iEVqWI73qMF-iQFohXE_6Jt1h4owo/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCVMSI_RKbr8FgQqHDEkF2DdFscarTR_9E8AgXJvNR7vCL_Tpzpg5M4iWl0KShFtAmAh2oU8oFqOBx1RxauLGimn3XtCEFBlIRD5yYD1BdAtu0Z7iEVqWI73qMF-iQFohXE_6Jt1h4owo/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Aside from that, my brother stopped by for a visit, and helped me plant two bushes/vines that I bought during the week. The top one is Star Jasmine. We planted it by the fence, and I'm really hoping that with minimal training, it'll take over the side of the fence (there's not much nice over there at the moment. The bottom image is a shrub called Golden-Leaved Mock Orange. All I know is, I like the bright green foliage, it's supposed to bloom in the summer, it can grow to 2m x 2m in size, and it only cost me $12.99 at the garden center. Score!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Q965_HIWLWgPC71Fk1VkC2PtuF7pExRHyIjsLflXceqrTuDpi2U07DWOQOdC2k800JVs8wMfyzw9EORxIyyu-qcbCvYZAjqPNavQJC9k6OcS-RKM66Fk9na1Bk8azyF5r1mUMF99pvE/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Q965_HIWLWgPC71Fk1VkC2PtuF7pExRHyIjsLflXceqrTuDpi2U07DWOQOdC2k800JVs8wMfyzw9EORxIyyu-qcbCvYZAjqPNavQJC9k6OcS-RKM66Fk9na1Bk8azyF5r1mUMF99pvE/s320/006.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLnLhbA8s6QbqfZFQqPKUQ1d7QFXgse4fF5yaMyHxWWpuEQ65O_LlmIlF1LKQWwgSjxZG3JLrmhQ6K2rxdxo1mwz12aNzr39esP0koK2jHFyi_NoTBfmtD5I_PEWHFR6BfJyfnrYyJ27M/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLnLhbA8s6QbqfZFQqPKUQ1d7QFXgse4fF5yaMyHxWWpuEQ65O_LlmIlF1LKQWwgSjxZG3JLrmhQ6K2rxdxo1mwz12aNzr39esP0koK2jHFyi_NoTBfmtD5I_PEWHFR6BfJyfnrYyJ27M/s320/007.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Anyone else get up to some fun over the weekend?Natalie Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15007860288345698031noreply@blogger.com3