Wednesday Words

"Is it coincidence that we spend far more than our parents ever did on the restyling and improvement of our homes - homes in which we spend less and less time because we are out earning the money to pay for French chrome mixer taps and stripped oak floors? It's as though home had become some kind of stage set for a play in which we one day hope to star."

from "I Don't Know How She Does It" by Allison Pearson


I had never even heard of this bestseller until I first saw trailers for the (scathingly-reviewed, SJP-starring) movie. When a friend loaned me the book, I expected a chick-lit equivalent of the chick-flick previews I had seen, but I was very pleasantly surprised. It's actually heavier and more thought-provoking than I ever would have imagined as it churns up all of the mixed feelings about motherhood, marriage and work.

The film comes out on DVD on January 3rd.

Christmas Wishes

"A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn!"

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Big City Family Getaway

Last weekend we took the girls for a little pre-Christmas getaway in Toronto. The highlights:

We stayed at the Marriott Renaissance Toronto Downtown Hotel (attached to the Rogers Centre) simply because we were looking for accommodations that were reasonably priced and reasonably close to the Sony Centre. We booked online and got an amazing deal. Our room was $139, and upon arrival we were told we had a $40 restaurant credit (which almost covered the Sunday morning buffet for the four of us). The room was huge: two double beds, and a separate area with a pullout couch and a second flatscreen TV. (This is where we put the girls. And where we were reminded that there is a reason they don't share a bed, or even a room, at home.) The bathroom was also spacious, with an unusually ample countertop perfect for beauty products. (Yes, it does take some help for me to achieve this look. Shocking, I know.)

The pool, shown below, was fantastic, and you can see the hot tub to the right. This is where I spent most of my time "supervising" as Daddy and the girls swam. Plus, it was unbelievably quiet. Except for a set of grandparents with a little girl whose visit overlapped a bit with ours, we were the only swimmers (using that term loosely for myself, of course) for over an hour.



Later in the afternoon we hit the Eaton Centre for a little bit of last-minute browsing. We even allowed the girls in the Disney Store, with very strict warnings that we would not be making any purchases, and any such requests would be met with removal from the premises. Of course Frannie found countless more items to add to her list, which is always oh-so-helpful when Mommy and Santa finished gift selections a month ago. We keep reminding her that Santa is so amazing, because he remembers things that kids ask for all year long, and has so many of his own great ideas too!

Decorations at the Eaton Centre

The girls took their first ever cab rides while downtown, and managed to entertain the drivers with their conversation.

Frannie (à propos of nothing): Do you have to be married to have a baby?

Cabbie chuckles.

Me: Um...usually people get married first, and then have a baby.

Frannie (yes, the five year old): Well, I want to have kids someday but I don't want to get married. Can I do that?

Cabbie laughs.

Me: Um...well, it is possible to do it that way, but...well, we believe...sometimes people...oh, let's talk about this when the time comes.

Maggie: Why is this man driving us? Where is our car? Why? Is this his car? Why are we in his car? Where is he taking us? Why? Is he going to wait for us? Why? Where does he live? Where are his kids?Why did you give him money??? (Thankfully the girls are now cultured enough that questions about skin colour and accents are far less common than they used to be.)

Then it was off to The Sony Centre for the Leahy Family Christmas. Yes, I grew up just country blocks away from the Leahy family (and shared their last name for the first 24 years of my life, which wasn't at all annoying. "Leahy, you say? Are you one of the ---?" "No. No, I'm not",) however we went all the way to the big city to catch their Christmas performance.

This band of 8 siblings (there are 11 in all, but 8 in this performance) is as good as it gets when it comes to their style of music, but I especially enjoyed all of the vocals and stepdancing to break up all of the instrumental (which appeals way more to my musician husband than to me). The highlight for me (and for our daughters) was when the grandchildren (as young as four years old) took to the stage to perform.

Frannie was particularly interested in comparing her own stepdancing skills to those of the six year old daughter of Donnell Leahy and Natalie MacMaster (catch my Momterview with her here), who is older than she is by three months. (Oh, who am I kidding, "comparing" was more what her mother was doing.)

I must admit that I made the mistake of telling the kids in advance that I had Smarties for later, which caused a few distractions throughout the first act, but generally speaking they were both captivated by the show until their bodies finally gave in to sleep near the end. (Frannie's snores added what I hope was a little 'je ne sais quoi' to a particular a capella number. She did manage to wake up for the fantastic two-generation finale.)

Leahy



Now, if this had been a girls' getaway instead of a family adventure, I would have made two other stops:

The Grace Kelly Exhibit ("From Movie Star To Princess: An Exhibition") at the TIFF Bell Lightbox

and

The Bata Shoe Museum, which I have wanted to visit for years. Perhaps I'll hit both during the holidays. (But not with my poor husband.)

(New readers, please note: despite what you may assume, I do not get paid by the parenthesis.)

Wednesday Words on Receiving

As Christmas approaches, we make it a priority to talk to our children (and students) about the importance of giving. On the flip side, here is an interesting thought about receiving:

"Receiving is often harder than giving. Giving is very important: giving insight, giving hope, giving courage, giving advice, giving support, giving money, and most of all giving ourselves. Without giving there is no brotherhood or sisterhood.

But receiving is just as important, because by receiving we reveal to givers that they have gifts to offer. When we say, 'Thank you, you gave me hope; thank you, you gave me a reason to live; thank you, you allow me to realize my dream,' we make givers aware of their unique and precious gifts. Sometimes it is only in the eyes of the receivers that givers discover their gifts."

Henri J.M. Nouwen

One of My All-Time Favourite Books: "Before I Go To Sleep" by S.J. Watson

The jacket sums it up better than I could:

"Christine wakes up every morning in an unfamiliar bed with an unfamiliar man. She looks in the mirror and sees an unfamiliar, middle-aged face. And every morning, the man she has woken up with must explain that he is Ben, he is her husband, she is forty-seven years old, and a terrible accident two decades earlier decimated her ability to form new memories."

This was a page-turner that I found impossible to put down. My friend Heather brought it to book club to share, and am I ever glad I snatched it up first.

At the suggestion of her neurologist, protagonist Christine begins to record her daily events, and the doctor prompts her every day to find her journal and reread the past entries in an attempt to relearn her life and jog her memory.

Published this year and classified as a "thriller", I found Watson's story (which just happens to be his debut novel) both compelling and disturbing, and could barely stand the suspense as I searched along with Christine for answers to her growing questions.

I'm sure my friend was amused by my mid-book wild predictions (can't share them here, as it I don't want to spoil the first half of the book for you) but as much as I thought I had things figured out, I was wrong. There are lots of twists and surprises to this one. It's a must-read.

Visit the author's website at http://www.beforeigotosleep.com/.

Natalie MacMaster: The Momterview

Here's how Natalie MacMaster's website bio introduces her:

***

"Meet Natalie MacMaster: wife, mother of four and virtuoso Cape Breton fiddler.

You know her more as the latter than the former; an electrifying performer whose passionate proficiency on the beloved four-string amplifies the traditional East Coast sound for contemporary times.

It’s a signature sound that has resonated with world audiences through 10 albums, multiple gold sales figures and 27 years; numerous Juno and East Coast Music Awards; two honorary degrees (from Niagara University, NY, and Trent University) and an honorary doctorate (St. Thomas University); the Order Of Canada – and a reputation as one of Canada’s most captivating performers."

***

The gorgeous musician married fellow fiddler Donnell Leahy (of the all-sibling band Leahy) in 2002, and is now mother to Mary Frances (6), Michael (4 1/2), Claire (almost 3) and Julia (almost 1). No word yet on whether she's trying to compete with her mother-in-law's 11 offspring.

I recently had the opportunity to chat with Natalie about her brand-new CD, "Cape Breton Girl", as well as motherhood, house design, and her fashion fetishes.

This Mom: Do you think your music has changed since you've become a mom?

Natalie MacMaster: Yeah, I do. How? This is my 11th recording, and my mother said to me that the fiddling sounds more mature. It's been about six years since I've recorded in the studio, and incidentally my oldest daughter just turned six a few days ago. I'm sure as you go through more of life's experiences you're able to get deeper into things, but as far as me being aware of how my music has changed, there was a day when I was completely devoted to my music, and now I am completely devoted to my children. Music is something that happens because of the good for them and the good for myself, as opposed to it being all about the fiddle. It's not that way anymore. It's changed. I haven't gotten worse, my mother thinks I've gotten better. I think I'm just evolving.

TM: I hear you're homeschooling your kids. How is that going?

NM:  It's going pretty well. I'm a teacher, I actually have a teaching degree. I've never used it, ironically now I'm teaching my own. This is my second year, and I'm on the road now so I usually school my six year old and my four year old from 9:00 to 12:00, four mornings a week and it's ever-evolving.

Natalie and Donnell onstage

TM: You recently built a new house. What are some of your favourite features?

NM: Oh, that's a good question. We have stone on the front of the house and I love that. Also the function of the house. We put our laundry room on the second floor - we have a storey and a half- and all the clothing, bedding and towels are there. It's where we get dressed so it makes sense to have it there. It functions really well. I thought a lot about where to put the washrooms, so one would be accessible if the kids were playing outside, which drawer should the knives be in...and homeschooling, I took that into consideration as well. How to have homeschooling as part of my home, so I could put up the alphabet and things like that without it making the house look too much like a school. It's an open concept so you walk in and it's all right there, but this little room that jets off our main living space has all windows, so when you're standing in the centre you just see windows, but when you actually go into the room and look back, that wall is covered with alphabet, calendar, kids' art and all that, so you don't see it unless you're in there looking for it.

TM: I've already seen Mary Frances and Michael perform live with Leahy {the special appearances by the next generation always tend to steal the show}, and obviously they're exposed to a lot of music at home. My own daughter stepdances and I'm curious to know how much time your kids spend practising each day?

NM: It varies. The only one really doing that is my six year old daughter. We started my four and a half year old son on the fiddle at age four, but he's not really that ready for it. Not like our daughter was. So he's just playing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" and plays maybe three times a week for ten minutes. The dancing is much shorter; maybe two minutes twice a week. He dances all the time and I don't want to thwart his enthusiasm. He actually dreads me saying 'Okay, Michael, try this'. He doesn't like that at all, so I don't make him very often. He's just not ready for it yet.

Mary Frances does piano, fiddle and dancing, so she practises them all pretty much every day. Probably five days a week for half an hour each.

TM: Do you think there is one instrument that kids should learned before any others to give the best musical start?

NM: It all depends on the child and what they like. Start off with anything and go from there. I have no preference. I'm sure there are people who study that sort of thing, but my own opinion is play whatever they want. They have to start somewhere, and as they get older they may be drawn a certain way.

TM: I read that you went through a phase when you were younger when you were very nervous about being on stage. How did you push through that?

NM: I guess just by knowing that nervous energy is an energy and thinking of how to make it something positive. If you're half asleep when you go onstage, that's no good. If you're nervous you have intensity running through your body. It's mind over matter I guess. Prayers too!

TM: What do you want people to know about your brand-new CD, "Cape Breton Girl"?

NM: I want them to know that I very much like it, and it is what I hoped it would be. It's very Cape Breton, which was the point, so it's for the hard-core Cape Breton fiddle enthusiasts.

TM: And was that always going to be the title?

NM: No, in fact I was going to call it "Our Water Runs Deep". I was convinced of that, and really liked the title. The reason why I changed it was because I was trying to find a title to suit the cover picture {see photo above}, and I could find all sorts of analogies about water running deep, like my roots, the blood runs deep, all of that. But the music on the record is so happy and light-hearted that to me the title didn't match. Cape Breton Girl is a title I've had for a long time and haven't used on anything, and it kind of resurfaced at the last minute after all the artwork was done.

TM: How would you complete the sentence "This Mom Loves..."?

NM: Well, the first thing I thought of was This Mom Loves tradition. I'm not just talking about the music. I love "traditional": furniture, the way we live our daily lives, Christmas, holidays, anything. Other than that, more materialistic things...This Mom Loves being blonde. I guess that would mean highlights. Can't get along without those. I do love shoes, and I like them with a heel. Nothing unique there! This Mom Loves the farm. The whole farming lifestyle. And I have a bit of a coat fetish. I love coats and jackets!

***

The new CD "Cape Breton Girl" is available now at your music retailer, through Natalie's website or on iTunes, and would be a perfect surprise under the tree of any Natalie MacMaster fan. {The great thing about my family is that my 78 year old Grandma and 5 year old daughter would be equally happy to find this gem in their stockings...and they both just might!}

Natalie's favorite place was also the theme of the book she put out last year, "Cape Breton Aire" which can be purchased online, at her live shows, and at some boutique shops.




Find out more about Natalie MacMaster on her website.

More Great Books For Kids (For Home and School)

The Flying Canoe by Eric A. Kimmel, illustrated by Daniel San Souci and Justin San Souci


A French Canadian legend, "The Flying Canoe" tells the story of a group of lonely fur traders on Christmas Eve, far away from their families at home in Montreal. A stranger appears and claims he can get them home, but they must not speak until they get there. They climb into an enchanted canoe...and the rest is history.

There are many versions of this story, but this Eric A. Kimmel does an excellent job retelling it, and the beautiful illustrations draw children into the tale.

A nice seasonal treat.

If You Lived Here: Houses of the World by Giles Laroche

This one fits perfectly with the Grade 3 unit on Structures (and also ties in with Urban and Rural Communities). "Step into homes from around the world and discover the many fascinating ways people have lived and still live today. Uncover the reason why each home was constructed the way that it was, from houses built on maze-like streets (to confuse invaders) to homes built on wheels (to be able to travel in your home at any time!)"

The illustrations in this book are intricate bas-relief cut-paper collages, and provide a springboard for art lessons as well. Quality nonfiction isn't always easy to find, and I'd recommend adding this one to your collection.


Just a Second by Steve Jenkins

I'm always thinking like a teacher, and this book is perfect for teaching the concept of time. Did you know that:

In one second...a hummingbird beats its wings 50 times,
In one minute...a skydiver in a free fall plunges 3 1/4 km, and
In one hour..an adult takes about 900 breaths?

The book gives examples for each of these, as well as one day, one week, one month and one year. Some neat graphs and timelines are included at the back of the book. I'll be pulling this one out when I teach time later this year.

Winners...Many Winners!

Congratulations to the following winners of the Christmas Extravaganza:

Secret Gift Basket: Jessica of Burlington, ON

Moonjar Moneybox: Bev of Winnipeg, MB

Rubbermaid Set: Valerie of Minto, NB

Rubik's Race Game: Lisa of Vineland Station, ON

My Friendship Bracelet Maker: Jonathan of Edmonton, AB

My Ribbon Barrette Maker: Lorie of Foxboro, ON

$50 Posterjack Voucher: Pam of Moncton, NB

Swagger Tags: Candace of 100 Mile House, BC and Bob of Longlac, ON

Very Cranky Bear Set: Angela of Beaver Bank, NS

Skechers Shoes: Kirsten of Calgary, AB

I am sorry to say that a couple of winners were notified by e-mail and given 48 hours to reply, and after several days went past without a response, new winners were chosen...so be sure to check your e-mail regularly!

And the winner of the KitchenAid Food Processor: Pauline of Saint John, NB

Enjoy your prizes, and thanks to everyone for entering!

Christmas "Treats" From Hallmark

These treats may not be edible, but they're a sure-fire bet to spark that festive feeling! A couple of weeks ago, I received my latest Hallmark goody box, thanks to my role on their Press Pause Panel.

My two favourite items, for home and classroom use:

Merry-Okee Micro Karaoke (Christmas Karaoke Microphone) $19.95


This battery-powered microphone (3 AAA batteries ARE included) works like a normal mic, or changes your voice so you sound like an elf! A favourite with my students and my daughters, it also comes prerecorded with six favourite holiday songs, and is accompanied by a songbook with both original and silly lyrics. It's not super-loud, but still a good laugh for a small group (and a great way to encourage students to make oral presentations. How can you feel pressure when you sound like an elf?)

Rockin' Talkin' Santa Hat $19.95

Press the button on this adult-sized hat to make it move back and forth in sync with the words and music to "Santa Claus is Comin' To Town". A great way to make an entrance this holiday season!

Other great items for the kids:

"Jingle" Interactive Storybook and Story Buddy $29.95

 

My girls have the similar Watson the Raccoon Storybook and Story Buddy and just love it. Frannie can read the book now, and Maggie has memorized the key phrases so that they both can make the raccoon talk (without requiring an adult to read the book). This toy responds to certain spoken phrases and the recorded voice adds to the story. A Hallmark favourite and winner of two Dr. Toy awards, "Jingle The Husky Pup" is ready to bark, whimper and even sing when he hears the magic words.

Make-A-Wish Recordable bear $24.95

This adorable white plush has simple "Record" and "Play" buttons so you can leave a message for someone special! And even better: when you buy a specially-marked product like this bear, Hallmark will donate 25% of the sales to help make children's wishes come true all year round.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Recordable Storybook $19.95

Always a great idea, these recordable books are a nice way to read to love ones even if you can't be there. This one is a special Hallmark Edition of the Holiday Classic, featuring music. Join Charlie Brown and the whole Peanuts gang as they learn the true meaning of Christmas. Last year my parents recorded one of these Hallmark books for my girls ("The Very First Christmas"), and as soon is got pulled out this year with the Christmas paraphernalia they snatched it up again.

Wayne Gretzky Edmonton Oilers Keepsake Ornament $24.99

His Oilers sweater may be long retired, but true hockey fans will never forget. This might be the perfect gift for a not-so-little-one on your list, and is sure to find a prime spot on the Christmas tree.

Disclosure: I received the above-named items for review purposes as part of my role on the Hallmark Press Pause Panel. My students and daughters are enjoying a few, and the others were door prizes at our school's annual Family Movie Night. Opinions are, as always, my own.

Frannie's Spy Club: The Official Rules

The following are the rules for my five year old daughter's "Spy Club". The members of the club fluctuate frequently, depending how they treat Frannie on any given day (there is an ever-changing list on her door where she crosses out and adds names accordingly) and I don't believe they actually hold meetings or do any real "spying", but the club is nevertheless of high importance (e.g. "Be nice to my cousin or you're out of the spy club," "Let me play with the puzzle and I'll let you in the spy club"). Membership has temporarily replaced the valuable currency of birthday party invitations, and related promises and threats.

Despite the random nature of the group, the rules are clearly posted in Frannie's bedroom (for her eyes only), and have not changed since first written:

1. Hans to yourself (I think this is a spelling error, and not a coded message to a secret Scandinavian member of the club, but I can't be sure)

2. No hrting uthrs felings (Trouble with vowel sounds, but seems to have figured out "ing")

3. Stic with a techr (Even for spy club, teacher supervision is apparently very important!)

4. Be gud (Better than "Be God". Wouldn't it be ironic if Rule #4 conflicted with Commandment #1?)

5. Duw good things (How she learned how to spell "good" between Rule 4 and Rule 5 is a Spy Club mystery)

6. Good to othrs (Enough said)

Now I have to go make snack or else I'm kicked out of the club.

Companies That Give Back: Crorey Creations, the Choose Friendship Company

Earlier this fall I put out a call to companies, offering to post about any products donated to my school's annual Christmas Toy Drive.

The first takers: Crorey Creations, makers of My Friendship Bracelet Maker and My Friendship Bracelet Maker. (Two of each of these products have already been deposited in the Toy Drive Donation Bin.)

My Friendship Bracelet Maker

My Friendship Bracelet Maker's design innovation loom lets you create friendship bracelets quickly and easily! Includes 56 precut threads in 14 different colours, and the slide-out tray with inside storage keeps strings organized. This product has a travel-ready design, and comes with easy to follow instructions. You can even access bracelet patterns and free video tutorials online! Find more information on their website.

 

My Ribbon Barrette Maker

This one's a blast from the past! Girls can design and create their own 1980's retro-style braided ribbon barrettes! The box includes a ribbon loom with barrette holder, 8 barrettes, 16 ribbons in 8 colours and 128 tri-beads. The website has more info as well as an instructional video. I can clearly picture the light-pink and white versions of these barrettes that I had as a little girl. Definitely something to share with your daughter!


Thanks to Crorey Creations for helping make the Christmas mornings of four local girls a little brighter!

Wednesday Words on Miracles

"There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle."


Albert Einstein

Hot New Gift Idea: Teacup Piggies and Piglets

This Christmas morning, my girls will both be finding a Teacup Piglet (retailing for approximately $10) under the tree. These little baby pigs (toy, of course: no mess, no smell,) come with names, birth certificates and accessories, and speak (25 responses, available in English or French) when their noses are pressed. If it says it’s tired, that means time for a rest in the teacup or tote. If you ‘wake’ it up too early, however, it may whine: “Why are you waking me up?”

You can also buy larger Teacup Piggies ($20) which also respond when you pet them, and sneeze when you touch their noses! Each toy has its own personality and is equipped with touch point sensors to encourage imaginative play through life-like interaction. Of course, you can also purchase fashion wardrobes separately.


Considered one of the hottest toys of 2010 by Chris Byrne, “The Toy Guy,” Teacup Piggies and Piglets are the latest craze in collectibles, and based on last year's success in the US, they are expected to be a hit in Canada. Apparently, they are not only taking the place of real-life pets for kids, but they’re also considered a hot, new collectible item by adults as well. (I'm not one of those adults.)

Check them out...available at retailers nationwide.

Disclosure: I was provided with the above-named items for review purposes. Opinions are, as always, my own.

Anastasia's Picks: Books For Kids

Here are my ten year old niece's latest recommendations:

The Inquisitor's Apprentice by Chris Moriarty



This book is about a young boy who becomes a magic crimes policeman's apprentice, and goes on several adventures and tries to figure out who a master killer is. At the same time I liked and disliked the creepy parts. I like when I feel scared, but since I read it at night, I was a bit too scared. This book I recommend for 9 to 12 year olds, and I shall give it 3 stars.

The Chronicles of Harris Burdick by Chris Van Allsburg

I LOVE THE PICTURES IN THIS BOOK!! They are so beautiful and they inspired me to draw something of my own. This book is telling you about the illustrations of a man named Harris Burdick, and stories made up to go with them. This book is also a good writing tool, so teachers, take a look! I even made up a few stories. I didn't have any favourite parts, but I did have a favourite picture and story, "Oscar and Alphonse", with a picture of a girl staring down at two caterpillars. This book is for ages 7 and up. Five stars!!

Ivy and the Meanstalk by Dawn Lairamore

I really like this book because it's a twist from your average "Jack and the Beanstalk". This is a story about a girl who tries to get a harp back from a giantess, and keep her kingdom from being crushed by giant rocks. I like the jokes in this book. They made me laugh even though the story has a twinge of sadness. I didn't like the part where things go wrong. Although it's a book, I can't help thinking it's real. This book is for 8 to 12 year olds. I would give it three stars!!

The Cellar Door by Brett Gadbois

This is a story about a boy named Sam, who bumps his head and wakes up in a different world. There, a man named Franklin helps Sam out, and Sam makes friends with lots of people. He escapes from part-bird, part-people animals, and goes back home. I like the parts in this book where Sam changes into different things. I don't like the part where the evil crow-men capture Sam. This book is for 9 to 11 year olds. I would give it four stars.

Will Work For Food: Black Magic Chocolates and Two-Bite Pancakes

So last week I talked all about being a PR-Friendly blogger, and the high standards I uphold for product reviews.

Today, I am writing a whole post about two very inexpensive products I found on my doorstep...just because they're yummy.

Black Magic Chocolates, in their black box with red ribbon, are being re-introduced just in time for the holidays. Six bucks for a box, and handy as a hostess gift, or perhaps something for your child's teacher (hint, hint).

My favourites are the "Dreamy Fudge" and "Whole Hazelnut Praline", while I allowed my husband to indulge in the "Raspberry Parfait" and "Orange Sensation"...too fruity for my taste!

Another tasty new item is "Two Bite Pancakes", available in Morning Maple and Chocolate Chip Flavours. With real maple syrup baked right in, these were a fast favourite of my girls. However, since "sugar" is the first ingredient, I justify them more as a dessert (or a quick grab-and-go snack) than a meal. These would be a delicious addition to a holiday brunch, and taste even better when warmed in the microwave. They're also a nice portion-controlled sweet treat (portion-controlled if you eat one, not one package!)

Did I make you hungry?

Why I Can't Give Up Naptime

Every mom knows the importance of naptime. Even when the fog of sleep deprivation subsides, for some of us earlier than others, those precious hours still give us the chance to get something done without another human being attached.



When my girls were babies, the morning naptime was when I got on the treadmill and took a shower. Even before naps were well-established, I'd put the little one in the baby swing beside me, and she'd be out like a light. Experts strongly recommend against this, but I argue that it got them in the habit of taking a solid nap at that time.

When they took their afternoon snoozes, at first I'd follow the "sleep when the baby sleeps" adage, which never worked well for me, and then realized crossing something off the list was much more refreshing, so I would clean, organize, etc. (as much as I could without waking the baby. Vacuuming, of course, had to wait.)

If I was making appointments or running errands and leaving my kids with their Dad, grandparents or babysitter, I would always try to schedule things for the mornings, so I wouldn't lose out on those precious afternoon hours of repose.

During my second mat leave, the afternoon became my official freelance writing block, as I decided to start pitching parenting magazines, and ended up with a few contracts.

Between and after my leaves, there were (and are) still weekends and holidays with the girls at home for what sometime seem to be LONG days. Although the general practice at their daycare is to cut the afternoon nap around 3 years of age, Frannie has continued to have "quiet time" when at home for the past 2 and a half years while her sister naps, and I think it's one of the best decisions we ever made.

You just can't scrub the kitchen floor with a child around. Even at age five, you know she will feel the need to walk across it way too early. You can't wrap gifts (or attempt to throw out "precious" objects) with little eyes watching. You also can't catch up on great PVR like Blue Bloods and Grey's Anatomy with little ears listening. Plus, there's my schoolwork to consider. It's not recommended that you write report cards with your own children in the background, as you're bound to subconsciously type in a "mommy, mommy, mommy!" where it really shouldn't go. And there's the blog. If "quiet time" was not a rule in our household, "This Mom Loves" would cease to exist. Even if I weren't such a productivity-based kind of Mom, I still think having some time apart is healthy for all of us.

And really, what's so bad about spending two hours in a well-stocked children's room? Frannie has a wealth of toys, books, CD's, and drawing and colouring paraphernalia, and I think it's important for her to learn some independence, and how to keep herself entertained.

I share this tip with some people this and they react like I'm a child abuser, "locking" my child (as per her request, the door isn't even closed tight) in her room on weekend afternoons.

But seriously, wouldn't you love for someone to tell you that you absolutely must stay in your room alone for two straight hours on a Saturday afternoon? As long as I could have my reading material and toys (by which I mean Blackberry and Netbook; keep it clean ladies), I would absolutely be in heaven. I would also come out very refreshed for the remainder of the afternoon and evening, which often involve Mass, meals out, visiting, and later nights. (Despite the impression you might be getting, I really do cherish family time!)

Although three year old Maggie's afternoon nap has officially been cut at daycare, I still refuse to change our home routine (and she still falls asleep quickly every time I put her down). Even when she outgrows the sleep, she'll still enjoy quiet time just like her sister. It's nice to know that we can come and go in the afternoons for special occasions, and not have to worry about grumpiness or out-of whack routines, but if we don't have to be anywhere else, the girls have to be in their rooms.

Go ahead, call CAS on me right now. At least my floor is clean.

Want the New KitchenAid Food Processor?

Contest open to Canadians.

I know, I know: it's ironic that my biggest single-item giveaway yet is a cooking-related product. But man, what a product!

Up for grabs for one very lucky This Mom Loves winner is the new KitchenAid 13-cup Food Processor, perfect for holiday meals! Yes, you read that right. I'm giving one of these babies away, with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $399.99!

Key Features of the Food Processor:

• New external adjustable, stainless steel slicing disc provides ultimate versatility
• Dual shredding disc easily flips the disc from 2mm to 4mm to achieve ideal slicing thickness
• Large 13-cup (2.75L) leak-proof work bowl, plus chef’s bowl and mini bowl 
• Ultra Wide Mouth Feed Tube™ adjusts to 3 different sizes to accommodate foods of varying sizes, including whole potatoes and cucumbers
• 17 precise food processing options for speed-controlled slice, shred, chop and puree functions plus three maximized slice, shred and puree/chop blades and bonus dough, egg whip and Julienne blades
• 4 speed-controlled functions
• Comfort design side handle allows easy viewing while the food processor is in use
  
  
  




The Food Processor comes in Contour Silver, White and Onyx Black...and it's almost enough to make me want to cook. Almost. But it would look fantastic sitting on my counter...

I know many of you are absolutely in love with your KitchenAid mixers, and this new product will be added to your holiday wish lists, I'm sure!

To enter, please fill out the form below and click submit. Easy enough! Extra entries if you follow This Mom Loves publicly through Google Friend Connect or Twitter, or subscribe through e-mail (see sidebar to sign up). The contest will run until Tuesday November 29th at 11:59 p.m. EST, after which time a winner will be chosen through random number generation.

Good luck!

Are PR-Friendly Bloggers Sellouts? Discuss.

A friend recently sent me the link to a ParentCentral.ca article entitled: "Big brands are lining up to harness the clout of online moms". The piece discusses the incredible influential power that mom bloggers hold, and how companies are understandably lining up to partner with (or take advantage of) them.

For several years now the debate has raged over whether you're a "real blogger" if you review products, or accept paid advertisements. One blogger quoted in the article asserts: “I feel (blogging) is no longer democratic and I’m sad to say that. If I go onto a blog and I see they have ads or sponsors I don’t trust their voice."

As far as advertisers go, I am confident in my theory that when they pay for a piece of sidebar real estate, that's what they get, with no inappropriate affect on any of my other content. Another blogger mentions how hard this is, as when someone is paying you money, you do stop and think before mentioning them or their competitors in your posts. Stopping and thinking is, in my mind, seldom a bad thing. Letting that affect your actions (i.e. your writing) in the long run does, understandably, prevent you from being authentic.

When I started blogging, I couldn't wait to do reviews and giveaways, because in my mind, that meant I had hit the big leagues. Someone thought I was "good enough", or at least popular enough, to warrant using my blog as a promotional tool. But I can truly say that I have never accepted a product for review if I wasn't interested in it, and there have been a great many that I have sampled, and then refused to write about. Loyal readers know that I mention this often, because am very aware of the reputation some mom bloggers get as sellouts, and certainly don't want to be perceived in that light.

Things have evolved in the almost two years since This Mom Loves began. Now I find that I field 20-30 e-mails a day from companies and PR reps. Many are just press releases, some with the "contact us if interested in samples or further information" line...and the samples are never forthcoming. If the correspondence begins with "Dear Kate," I take the time to read it. One PR assistant really did her homework and mentioned something from one of my recent posts in her first paragraph, which certainly caught my attention. The "Dear Blogger" or "Hello Everyone" emails might get skimmed, but I don't take them nearly as seriously.

The part of the ParentCentral article that resonated the most with me was: “'Good writing deserves to be rewarded, and women have historically undersold themselves,' says May Friedman, assistant professor of social work at Ryerson University and co-author of the 2009 book Mothering and Blogging: The Radical Act of the MommyBlog."

I'm starting to assert myself a bit more in terms of working for nothing. For example, I'm too set in my cleaning routine to try out a new household cleaner and spend the time writing about it, just for the thrill of the free bottle.

Another motivator for me not to go overboard with PR is that I also want to keep enough of a mix of content that I'm not doing more product reviews than I am discussing parenting, education, and entertainment - the original pillars of my blog.

Running giveaways is a fantastic way to attract readers, and I find many sign up to follow me through Google Friend Connect, Twitter, or e-mail in order to get extra entries, and then remain on those lists. Are they loyal readers, passionate about my work, and anxiously awaiting each new instalment of This Mom Loves? Likely not. So some of my pride is strictly because of the popularity contest aspect. However, having your "stats" up increases your further opportunities. (On a completely unrelated note, be sure to enter my Christmas Extravaganza Giveaway, ending November 25th!)

My favourite part of blogging, as many of you know, has been the opportunity to conduct "Momterviews" with famous Canadians. While some (like the wonderful Marci Ien of Canada AM, who generously gave of her time to a beginning mom blogger) are kind enough to do me a favour, many of my Momterviews have been born through PR reps contacting me, as their clients had something (new show, book) to promote. If I had few readers, and just waxed poetic on the ins and outs of my daughters' days all the time, I wouldn't be sought out for that sort of opportunity. I'm also going to go out on a limb and add this: I have no interest in reading blogs solely about strangers' kids. My own two keep me busy enough. Entertain me or educate me, or I'm gone.

Some bloggers (and readers) believe that a quality blog is all about the (not-product-related) editorial content. As much as I would like to think that I am a font of wisdom with deep thoughts to impart on you all on a regular basis, there are days that Jack Handey* would have me beat, and I might as well just tell you about some good children's books (games/beauty products/shoes)  I've come across. The ParentCentral article states that three quarters of active online women rely on blogs for product information. Why not share what I know?

I deal with a few book publishers (Scholastic Canada and Thomas Allen Ltd. being two who are very supportive; no compensation was provided for a mention in this post) and as a teacher as well as a mother, I really don't understand what's wrong with free books, as long as I tell the truth about them. (Which I always do. I would wager a guess that I mention only 15-20% of the books that I receive, and my contacts are very clear on my interests and standards.)

Organizations have been created solely to link bloggers with advertisers, and my affiliation with Mom Central Canada means that I am provided the opportunity to apply for certain partnerships (I think I've only been rejected once, and I'm sure it's because they were looking for a Facebook presence that I don't have). Sometimes, this just means I get a free product in exchange for sharing the news, though usually there is compensation in the form of gift cards. Disclosure language is always required (which I use for all my reviews, not just those through Mom Central). But again, I only apply when it suits me. Right now I'm part of the "Barbie I Can Be" campaign, and while I know I will be compensated (I'm not sure if I was even given an amount when I signed on, but the gift cards are usually worth $25-100) I actually feel strongly about sharing the information or I really wouldn't bother.

Believe me, it's not worth the time it takes me to do the product testing or research associated with a campaign and then pore over the post just for a gift card. My blog is not a money-maker in any sense, nor do I need it to be. I have a well-paying full-time job, with overtime galore, so my hobby ("activity or interest pursued outside one's regular occupation and engaged in primarily for pleasure", ) has to actually bring me that pleasure inherent in its definition.

I would never trade the connections that I have made, in the blogging world as well as the corporate world, due to my PR-Friendly status, or the incredible knowledge I've gained about advertising, marketing, and small and big business.

I sleep well at night knowing that This Mom Loves is exactly what I want it to be. (Actually, I rarely sleep well, but it has nothing to do with the ethics of blogging.)

So, you tell me: am I a sellout?

*Deep Thoughts By Jack Handey: "Before you criticize someone, walk a mile in their shoes. That way, you'll be a mile from them, and you'll have their shoes."

New Parenting Website: Barbie I Can Be

I was thrilled to find out recently that I've been chosen to be part of the new "Barbie: I Can Be" campaign, to help promote a new website that will help Moms with the task of raising their daughters so that they are smarter, stronger, happier, and more fulfilled. You can find this great new site at http://www.bethevoice.ca/.

Computer Engineer Barbie

Leading Canadian Parenting Coach, Terry Carson (http://www.theparentingcoach.ca/) will provide perspectives, wisdom, and experiences with visitors who, like all of us, want to become better at parenting. Each month, she'll be sharing new themes and parenting tips and ideas.

(In case you think I'm ignoring the elephant in the room, I'd like to point out that on the website, one reader already commented on the whole "Barbie's-unrealistic-body" issue! You'll have to surf over to find out more.)

I'm sure we all second-guess ourselves in terms of how we're raising our daughters (or sons). I was lucky enough to have a fantastic mother to look up to, and I certainly followed in her footsteps. I've written before about how she inspired me and made me believe I could "have it all": a fulfilling career and a family.

I also had the example and support of two wonderful grandmothers and several special aunts. My mom's sister is only eight years older than me, and was more like my own sister than an aunt. I could count on her for hand-me-downs (I especially loved the magazines: Teen, YM and Seventeen) as well as advice. And of course I am very well aware of the impact that teachers can have on their students, and Mrs. Clancy (who taught me in Grades 3 and 4) definitely left a lasting impression with me. In fact, I'm pretty sure that I loved Mrs. Clancy so much that it made my own mother a little jealous!

I think the whole idea of the "I Can Be" theme is great, and when I look back on my childhood, I can recall exactly what my ambitions were: wife, mother (preferably of girls), teacher, homeowner and writer. (Yes, I was that boring. Although "movie star" made a fleeting appearance on the list.) What can you do when all of your dreams come true other than get down on your knees and thank God? I have to admit though that gratitude is unfortunately elusive sometimes, considering that each of those roles comes with strings (of varying thicknesses, lengths and entanglements) attached.

Although I often feel guilty (I've mentioned I'm Catholic, right?) for not being an in-house entertainment director or constant playmate for my girls, some of the important values that I want to instill in them (see website for more on values) are strength, independence, creativity and curiosity. I feel confident that they are on track with those, despite (or because of) my aversion to hovering.

I must be doing something right (or making things look too easy!) since my five-year old tells me regularly she wants to be a mommy, teacher and writer like me. She also insists that she will do all this while still living with me. We have time to negotiate that part.

Be sure to check out the new Barbie I Can Be website at http://www.bethevoice.ca/.

Disclosure: I am participating in the Barbie I Can Be campaign by Mom Central Canada on behalf of Mattel Canada. I will receive compensation as a thank you for my participation. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Winners: Skechers Shoes and Tween Titles From Scholastic

Congratulations to the two most recent This Mom Loves winners:

Skechers Shoes:

Tracy from Victoria, BC

Klutz Tween Titles from Scholastic:

Andalene from Eganville, ON

Congratulations, ladies...and be sure to enter the Christmas Extravaganza, everyone!

Christmas Extravaganza 2011: Hundreds of $$ in Prizes!

Giveaway open to Canadians. 

Let me be straight with you: you don't want to miss this contest. By filling out the form at the bottom of this post, you have the chance to win one or more of hundreds of dollars' worth of terrific products, just in time for Christmas. Enter now (extra entries if you follow This Mom Loves publicly through Google Friend Connect, e-mail or Twitter) and let your friends and family know about it as well! Sure, it's more competition...but you still could end up finding one of these great gifts under your tree! There will be a winner chosen for each prize, and all names remain in the entire draw.

Up for grabs:

Secret $100 Gift  Basket

This gift basket will contain approximately $100 worth of Secret's newest products (I reviewed their Fall line of hosiery recently here). The winner will receive a variety of coloured and patterned tights, as well as some of Secret's great shapewear.

Moonjar Moneybox Classic



My oldest has one of these, and uses it regularly. It's a fantastic way to teach your kids about money, and the important values of spending, saving and sharing. Find out more at http://www.moonjar.ca/. Retail value: $29.95.

Rubbermaid Goes Pink Collection

Last month, Rubbermaid went pink to help support the Canadian Breast Cancer society. Now just in time for Christmas, they're giving one lucky This Mom Loves reader a care package of their pink products worth $25. Included will be 1 Refill Reuse bottle and 16 food storage containers (4 each of 760mL Round, 1.2L Deep Square, 669mL Square, and 284mL Twist and Seal). Products are available for purchase at Loblaws and WalMart.

RUBIK's Race

You all know the RUBIK's Cube, and now there's the RUBIK's Race, bringing a retro twist to holiday giving. This ultimate face-to-face game challenges players to get their brain and fingers racing to match the given pattern of nine coloured squares faster than their opponent. Like the original RUBIK's cube, the game requires skill, speed and logic...but this time as a race against another player! RUBIK's Race is suitable for children ages 5 and up, and requires no electricity or batteries. Suggested retail price: $19.99.

My Friendship Bracelet Maker



My Friendship Bracelet Maker's design innovation loom lets you create friendship bracelets quickly and easily! Includes 56 precut threads in 14 different colours, and the slide-out tray with inside storage keeps strings organized. You can even access bracelet patterns and free video tutorials online! Find more information on their website. This prize is worth $30.

My Ribbon Barrette Maker

This one's a blast from the past! Girls can design and create their own 1980's retro-style braided ribbon barrettes! The website has more info as well as an instructional video. When my girls are older, I am so getting them one of these. This prize is worth $30.

$50 Voucher For Posterjack

Is there any better gift for loved ones than a photo gift? Posterjack.ca offers great Christmas ideas like posters, canvas, acrylic and metal prints, and collages...all created with your own photos! Upload your image and select a product and size...simple as that! Sophisticated technology and high-quality materials help capture a memory that will be treasured for a lifetime. One lucky winner will receive a $50 voucher to be used towards the product of her choice. Everyone else should check out their Photo Prints and other creative ideas, whether you're thinking of a gift, or a unique way to display your own holiday photos after Christmas!

3-Pack of hot new Swagger Tags (2 sets up for grabs!)

A SwaggerTag is an identification tag that reflects your personality and helps you keep track of your gear. By customizing SwaggerTag with your own photo, image or logo, you can let everyone know it’s your stuff. You decide what personal information to include and your SwaggerTag reveals the information only if it is opened. Water, weather and impact resistant, with strong attachment points and ties to ensure it will stay with your gear, SwaggerTags are available in six distinctive colours.

I received one of these for review, and it's a neat little gadget...and a perfect stocking stuffer! Whether you want to make sure your kids' backpacks or sportsbags are identified, or you have a family member or friend who's a frequent flier, there's sure to be someone on your Christmas list who would love to be surprised with one of these!

One winner will receive a set in "girl" colours (Gecko Green, Hot Pink and Mustang Purple) and another will receive the "boy" set (Dolphin Blue, Dragon Red and Spider Grey). Each set is worth $18. Find out more at http://www.swaggertag.com/.

The Very Cranky Bear Gift Set (2 sets to be won!)

My friends at Scholastic Canada are offering up two of "The Very Cranky Bear" gift sets. The set includes a mini hardcover copy of the cute story by Nick Bland and a cranky bear stuffed toy. (Each set is worth $19.99).

Skechers Shoes of Your Choice!

Yes, that says "of your choice"! One lucky winner will receive any pair of Skechers shoes selected from http://www.skechers.com/! You could go with the Tone-Ups or girls' Twinkle Toes, both of which I reviewed in the past couple of months, or maybe there's a special guy in your life who would love to find a new pair of shoes under the tree. The choice is all yours, and this prize is valued at up to $120!

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So, are you convinced that it's worth your while to take a few seconds to enter the This Mom Loves Christmas Extravaganza 2011? Simply fill out the form below, and click "submit". The Extravaganza will run until Friday, November 25th at 11:59 p.m. Eastern, after which time a winner for each prize will be chosen through random number generation. Good luck!