Yes, you read the title correctly. I haven't quite decided if it is entirely accurate yet or not. I have had a wonderful weekend surrounded by sunshiney lakefronts, roasting smorish fires and great company. It was very relaxing. There were boats to be paddled and chug around the lake in. Children were covered in sand and the bears were on hiatus. It was gloriously gorgeous. To the point that I didn't really fancy coming back to unpacking of the van, nor the putting away of the camping gear, nor of the last minute "holy crap I have to have peanut free snacks for school lunches" grocery shop, or the "what do you mean McDonalds is cash only tonight" line up...
I am having a slight problem with the end of summer as you might gather. I love it. I am also noticing that I really dislike changes in routine. With back to school, you have to adjust to the new schedule of afterschool activities. We have added some and subtracted some. These mean yet more changes to routines. People move away and people come back and this means more changes. I am finding that some of these adjustments are difficult.
Motivation is a critical thing in developing relationships. There is the motivation of thoroughly enjoying people's company. That is ideal. There is that of family, work, school and acquaintences and some of these do not necessarily qualify in the above statement, although it is nice when it happens like that. Right now, I am trying to find the value in changing relationships. I liked my routine last year and this year, it will be completely different. Already, I am noticing the shift and I don't like it altogether.
Having said that, with the summer came new friendships and new relationships that I have also thoroughly enjoyed. Not all change is bad. I have an old friend moving back which is also fun and adds more to the mixture. I have learned to share my stories and experiences with outsiders and have had them appreciated. I have also learned not to talk when it will only cause disruption. (Except for the neighbors whose language needed a bit of adjustment.)
However, with the autumn comes change. New teachers, new bus stop, new schedule and new chaos. I just hope that I can keep up with it. I hope that I can make time to make it work. I hope I can be motivated by the positive changes and ignore the negative. But in that hope I wonder: Does everyone feel this? Do you feel like insanity is just about to be unleashed? Are you dreading that meet the teacher? Dreading the wake up routine? Bus stop shuffle? The DARK?
Anyway - working towards being more positive =
I will make time for those that matter
I will make time for those who need
I will make time for those that love
I will make time for those that heal
I will make time for those that spread happy
I will make time for me and
I will make time for you
But I won't make time for the "negative blue" ...that box is being shelved until the next time it falls off, and then it can be shelved all over again. Yep...the seasonal change panic button...perhaps that should go in the box too.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Hooliganting: Back to School
Hooliganting: Back to School: It would appear to be that time of year for adults and students alike. The wind has cooled amid the summer sunshine that still attempts to w...
Back to School
It would appear to be that time of year for adults and students alike. The wind has cooled amid the summer sunshine that still attempts to warm our skin. However, like most these days, I am progressing through that inevitable to do list that September brings. I used to adore the approach of September. I love the colours of the autumn leaves and the crunch of leaves underfoot. That smell of chill in the air, with the frosty morning breath. I enjoy having the darkness arrive at bedtime so that sleep comes that little bit easier. These are the things that I love about September...but I am learning to dread the approach.
I have been mindmelded by the back to school shopping lists provided by the schools. Can anyone explain to me realistically how a Grade 3 student is going to use 60 pencils this year? Really? And she is really going to need 5 glue sticks plus two large Elmer glues? Are the permanent markers for her or the teacher? How many students am I really buying supplies for is what I want to know. Does my Grade 1 student need two boxes of pencil crayons for the entire year? A binder with a zipper is mandatory? What is she going to do with that and she requires 4 black erase markers and and and.
OK. I have already understood that I am purchasing supplies for my children. I get that. But, I feel like I am charitably donating to the underpriviledged children without the added benefit of the tax receipt. I feel bamboozled by the school district, and I am paying $500 in school fees already. It smarts a bit. Add to that the bins for school supply donations and it all gets to be a bit much.
Then there is the sting of after school activities. There is the YMCA membership that is now due. Dance fees, gymnastics, swimming, piano and art. All have September due dates. Ouch again, but our winters are not pleasant in the north, so I feel that it is better to make sure they stay active during the winter. After all, there is all those studies that point to childhood obesity and so on. Meanwhile, I have my own activity agenda as well.
Now, add to that the nefarious car repairs that September typically brings and the back to school clothing. What child doesn't outgrow absolutely everything that they own about a week prior to school starting? It seems to be the rule around here.
All I have to say is that I had a paid off credit card two months ago. Now...not so much...
Sunset over Vancouver Island...a side trip from the summer...it was a great night.
The post box was from the Duncan Forest Museum - just to prove you can still get educated while on holidays. Summer doesn't have to end....it doesn't ...
Lastly, I love having the kids at home to play with, camp with and bake with. I get a kick out of listening to their plays and creativity. I am not ready for back to school. I just got into the swing of this summer thing. Got a pause button anyone? Anyone? Make time stop!
I have been mindmelded by the back to school shopping lists provided by the schools. Can anyone explain to me realistically how a Grade 3 student is going to use 60 pencils this year? Really? And she is really going to need 5 glue sticks plus two large Elmer glues? Are the permanent markers for her or the teacher? How many students am I really buying supplies for is what I want to know. Does my Grade 1 student need two boxes of pencil crayons for the entire year? A binder with a zipper is mandatory? What is she going to do with that and she requires 4 black erase markers and and and.
OK. I have already understood that I am purchasing supplies for my children. I get that. But, I feel like I am charitably donating to the underpriviledged children without the added benefit of the tax receipt. I feel bamboozled by the school district, and I am paying $500 in school fees already. It smarts a bit. Add to that the bins for school supply donations and it all gets to be a bit much.
Then there is the sting of after school activities. There is the YMCA membership that is now due. Dance fees, gymnastics, swimming, piano and art. All have September due dates. Ouch again, but our winters are not pleasant in the north, so I feel that it is better to make sure they stay active during the winter. After all, there is all those studies that point to childhood obesity and so on. Meanwhile, I have my own activity agenda as well.
Now, add to that the nefarious car repairs that September typically brings and the back to school clothing. What child doesn't outgrow absolutely everything that they own about a week prior to school starting? It seems to be the rule around here.
All I have to say is that I had a paid off credit card two months ago. Now...not so much...
Sunset over Vancouver Island...a side trip from the summer...it was a great night.
The post box was from the Duncan Forest Museum - just to prove you can still get educated while on holidays. Summer doesn't have to end....it doesn't ...
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Hooliganting: Friendship
Hooliganting: Friendship: "Over the summer, I have had time to reflect on my friendships. I have had some amazing friendships over the years and feel very blessed. Thi..."
Friendship
Over the summer, I have had time to reflect on my friendships. I have had some amazing friendships over the years and feel very blessed. This summer it was absolutely fabulous to drive and reconnect with people that I don't have the ability to see all the time. Yet, I was sad to have not seen many that I would love to see. You know you are missed in my life, but I had to think of the driving times and the children.
So, why the blog? I am fascinated by the twists and turns of friendship. Having driven for hours, I was welcomed by friends that dropped their busy schedules to make time to see me. I don't really have a overinflated ego, but it was flattering to know that I mattered enough for people to make time for me. I was also forgiven freely for not making my way to Victoria to see those folk there. The amazing part of going home is knowing that the threads are there to be picked up. The sights and sounds are familiar, but what makes home real and brilliant to the memories are the people that you connect with. Why bother if that is not the case? So, know that you my friends are appreciated.
I am also fascinated by the way that I can pick up the conversations and blend into the landscape as though no time has passed. I appreciated being able to feel like I had never been absent. These are the real friendships of which people speak. I could catch up on the gossip, and see growth and development. Within that is the fabric of timeless art, the words that don't need to be spoken and are just understood. Yes, going home has joy.
Then, there is the friend that is willing to travel to meet me in all my wayward travels. She and I have a compatible friendship that allows us to travel and converse freely about everything. Not all friends can or should travel together. There are arguments, hidden agendas, different interests and varied energy levels amongst some friends that travel together. I have been blessed to know a couple of friends that I can travel with and have that amazing relationship that is a compatible traveller that I know now, I could travel the world with. These are the friends that are compassionate, flexible and adventurous. Friends that know what you need prior to asking and fit into my world without me having to make an effort. Love you much...you know who you are.
Now there is the benefit of friendships within families. Having spent time with my family, it was lovely to rediscover how much we genuinely like each other and like spending time together. There is the way that we pull together in crises and how accepting we are of each other's likes and dislikes. Because we are family, there is no censored opinions either and yet, we all had fun. You are well loved.
Then, there are the friends that open their door and never make you feel like you are incoveniencing them. There was much food and wine, hot tubs and chit chat. Animals and mayhem... These friendships that have their roots in hospitality are very appreciated. I just hope that all my friends that cross my door feel as welcomed as I did when I crossed each of yours. There is the sense of family without blood ties. Fabulous.
Then, there are your friendships that intertwine with your daily life. I love the text messages, phone calls, visits and knowing that I can count on each of you to brighten my days and add the flavor. Each one of you has the ability to add a different dimension to my sense of self. I can be open and honest and share my life without feeling a need to be a different me. (People that ask that are not friends - they are spectators that don't get the play). I like knowing that I come back to a place where people care enough and are pleased that I blend into their world.
Facebook and social media have brightened my life as well. I have been able to connect with so many folks through this. Some people have become friends that I value after meeting them virtually. This is amazing, but I also have the opportunity to stay in touch with people that are far away. I enjoy this immensely.
Where am I going with this? I want all my friends to know that I love you and I appreciate you. I love what I can do for you and what you have done for me. Here's a toast "This Tim's is dedicated to you!"
So, why the blog? I am fascinated by the twists and turns of friendship. Having driven for hours, I was welcomed by friends that dropped their busy schedules to make time to see me. I don't really have a overinflated ego, but it was flattering to know that I mattered enough for people to make time for me. I was also forgiven freely for not making my way to Victoria to see those folk there. The amazing part of going home is knowing that the threads are there to be picked up. The sights and sounds are familiar, but what makes home real and brilliant to the memories are the people that you connect with. Why bother if that is not the case? So, know that you my friends are appreciated.
I am also fascinated by the way that I can pick up the conversations and blend into the landscape as though no time has passed. I appreciated being able to feel like I had never been absent. These are the real friendships of which people speak. I could catch up on the gossip, and see growth and development. Within that is the fabric of timeless art, the words that don't need to be spoken and are just understood. Yes, going home has joy.
Then, there is the friend that is willing to travel to meet me in all my wayward travels. She and I have a compatible friendship that allows us to travel and converse freely about everything. Not all friends can or should travel together. There are arguments, hidden agendas, different interests and varied energy levels amongst some friends that travel together. I have been blessed to know a couple of friends that I can travel with and have that amazing relationship that is a compatible traveller that I know now, I could travel the world with. These are the friends that are compassionate, flexible and adventurous. Friends that know what you need prior to asking and fit into my world without me having to make an effort. Love you much...you know who you are.
Now there is the benefit of friendships within families. Having spent time with my family, it was lovely to rediscover how much we genuinely like each other and like spending time together. There is the way that we pull together in crises and how accepting we are of each other's likes and dislikes. Because we are family, there is no censored opinions either and yet, we all had fun. You are well loved.
Then, there are the friends that open their door and never make you feel like you are incoveniencing them. There was much food and wine, hot tubs and chit chat. Animals and mayhem... These friendships that have their roots in hospitality are very appreciated. I just hope that all my friends that cross my door feel as welcomed as I did when I crossed each of yours. There is the sense of family without blood ties. Fabulous.
Then, there are your friendships that intertwine with your daily life. I love the text messages, phone calls, visits and knowing that I can count on each of you to brighten my days and add the flavor. Each one of you has the ability to add a different dimension to my sense of self. I can be open and honest and share my life without feeling a need to be a different me. (People that ask that are not friends - they are spectators that don't get the play). I like knowing that I come back to a place where people care enough and are pleased that I blend into their world.
Facebook and social media have brightened my life as well. I have been able to connect with so many folks through this. Some people have become friends that I value after meeting them virtually. This is amazing, but I also have the opportunity to stay in touch with people that are far away. I enjoy this immensely.
Where am I going with this? I want all my friends to know that I love you and I appreciate you. I love what I can do for you and what you have done for me. Here's a toast "This Tim's is dedicated to you!"
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Hooliganting: Travel Guide for Vancouver Island: To drive or not...
Hooliganting: Travel Guide for Vancouver Island: To drive or not...: "I have my comfortable chair. I have my water and the TV is playing Tour de France reruns as I didn't get to see it while I was on holidays. ..."
Travel Guide for Vancouver Island: To drive or not
I have my comfortable chair. I have my water and the TV is playing Tour de France reruns as I didn't get to see it while I was on holidays. I have a weakness for watching athletes perform great feats in terrain that is stunningly mouthwateringly "I wish I was there". So...I haven't blogged. Not because I didn't have anything to say. I just didn't have time to say it.
Traveling with small children is no small accomplishment. From where I live, this road trip lasted 60 hours and two weeks in length. My children have learned how to occupy themselves in a vehicle for ridiculous lengths of time due to necessity. We really do live that far north. So, first lesson for the travel guide. What do you do to get there and back and still keep your sanity?
Things to have:
So, we had a great time visiting family and friends. We toodled up and down the island to see the sites and found some remarkable things to do. I think that we made some great discoveries without doing anything in Victoria. Family is of course, family and you enjoy your wonderful memories but if you were traveling to Vancouver Island, I thought I would give you my top 10 things of things to do on Vancouver Island.
And there you have it, the list of what was fun and gave great photo opportunities. So, it is late...but I am back and have more points to ponder at some other time.
Traveling with small children is no small accomplishment. From where I live, this road trip lasted 60 hours and two weeks in length. My children have learned how to occupy themselves in a vehicle for ridiculous lengths of time due to necessity. We really do live that far north. So, first lesson for the travel guide. What do you do to get there and back and still keep your sanity?
Things to have:
- A small case of movies for the DVD player and a cable long enough to plug in. These movies should be agreed on by all children watching it.
- A portable video game device - game time lasted an hour tops
- Coloring and small crayons in a holder that fits into the standard cup holder. Anything else will fall into the cracks of the van and will be lost until you unpack.
- Books
- Music that they will sing to.
- Soft pillows for the nap - and a blankie.
So, we had a great time visiting family and friends. We toodled up and down the island to see the sites and found some remarkable things to do. I think that we made some great discoveries without doing anything in Victoria. Family is of course, family and you enjoy your wonderful memories but if you were traveling to Vancouver Island, I thought I would give you my top 10 things of things to do on Vancouver Island.
- Tiger Lily Farms with a picnic at Englishman River Falls. I have done this every trip and they have pony rides, farm animals that you can interact with, and great staff. The Falls are just stunning.
- Duncan Forest Museum.
- Raptor Centre in the Cowichan Valley. This place was off the beaten path but was so worth it.
- Alberni Valley Train and Logging Museum. Amazing place. You can stop at Cathedral Grove on the way.
- Newcastle Island for a small boat trip, picnics and family friendly strolls.
- Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville...it is still the best for sandcastles.
- Wildplay in Nanaimo. My girls loved the ropes course.
- Minigolf in Parksville. Still the best course.
- Ice Cream on the Pier in Campbell River. Watching the fishermen was really fun. If you like sailing...a water trip would probably be better...but I get seasick.
- Bathtub races in Nanaimo. Very fun to watch...
