Into the Great Wide Open

That's what it feels like in our new backyard, yet there is a ton of privacy. Our previous backyard was a small lot (compared to this one) and had virtually no vegetation save for the 4 puny cedar trees we planted that quickly were killed (yes, killed) by Finn's daily bathroom trips to those trees. Due to the size and lack of trees, that backyard also had about 15 houses looming over it, so when you were eating outside you felt as though there were at least 6 sets of eyes on you. You just didn't know where they were.

This backyard is irregular shaped, and has much vegetation...maple trees, spruce trees, fruit trees, plants and flowers. It is beautiful. You also can barely see any of your neighbours' houses, it's lovely...it gives you a sense of peace of quiet. And since we don't have a cottage to go to, this will be our private getaway.

Recently the boys and I (including the dog) were able to enjoy a bit of time in the backyard. Easton is still not sure about the texture of grass, but is getting used to it! Calder loves the wide open space to run about and kick a soccer ball. In the Winter, it will serve as a hockey rink for Gary and Calder, and a year or two later, for Easton. Finn loves the backyard because it's a place to run again, where we can throw balls and frisbees to him, and he can get some exercise.

Here are some photographs of some time out in the yard with my two adorable sons.

Oh, how difficult taking a picture is!

I remember when Calder was a baby, like Easton is now, that it was so easy to take a picture. He smiled all the time, for fun, just because and on cue. Now, it's so much more difficult. While Easton is like his older brother was, apt to smile at anyone or anything, getting BOTH of them to smile at the SAME time is a task in itself. All I have to say is thank God for digital cameras, they are wonderful! I know that some of my family have said to me 'what a great picture!' - but do they know how many shots it took to get to that great picture? Here is an example of a picture that I love of the two of them and what it took to get there.

An acquired taste and other things

So in this new house we've put our dog's food and water bowl in a different spot. Before it used to be in the laundry room, and we were able to close the door so that baby couldn't get to it (also because there was a step down and baby already fell from that once, ouch). Now it is out in the open, by the back patio door and Easton finds it irresistible, let me tell you. Dipping his hand into water, picking up kibble. I have to watch him like a hawk, but that's one of the things about having children, isn't it? Eyes in the back of your head?

Well today I didn't get to him in time - I'm pretty sure he swallowed a piece of kibble. I know I scooped one out, but it seemed as though he found them pretty savoury! This afternoon he's enjoying splashing in the water bowl as though it's a tiny bath, every chance he gets. Ah, kids and dogs.

In other news, not so much going on here. We're on the hunt for daycare for Easton and there's not much out there. So I went with Wee Watch (www.weewatch.com), a company that oversees daycare providers, and does spot checks etc. on them. We had an interview today with a woman who is starting up her first daycare in September. She's literally a 2 minute drive away from us, so the location is ideal. She is also going to be taking care of another little boy who will also be 1 in September. Score! At least Easton will have someone his age to play with. I have a couple of other interviews lined up, I will let you know how they go! The only thing I am worried about is the cost of Wee Watch. They charge a higher rate, take a cut, then give the providers their pay, so it tends to be a bit higher. But there's something to be said for a daycare close to home and one that is governed by an agency, I think.

Anyway, here are some pictures to tide you over of my beloved boys. Enjoy!

Moving Day

Sorry to take so long to post something. Frankly, I haven't really taken many pictures of late, and I have been busy doing other things - besides taking care of the kids, unpacking, trying to set up rooms, plus keeping up (no, drowning in) regular day to day stuff, I rarely have time to go to the bathroom without a baby screaming on my knee, let alone be able to wrap my head around what I want to say about my darling children. Between you and me, I think I am on the verge of a nervous breakdown, but I guess as my mother says (which I don't believe sometimes) is this, too, shall pass. Whatever. We'll see!!

Here are some pics that I took of moving day - well, pretty much the only pics. Enjoy!

Our (almost) empty family room


Eat-in kitchen area


My mother-in-law graciously entertained Calder and Easton for HOURS while we were moving..thank you!


Easton finally got a chance to fall asleep at the new house - on his change table mattress pad - poor little guy was tuckered out


Our kitchen - 'scuse the mess!


Our 'new' family room


I hope to post some more pictures of the house at a later date (when it's more put together). Hope everyone is well!