tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134064882011-04-21T17:48:22.356-06:00The antics and accomplishments of Brett and his parents Laurie and Randy.LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.comBlogger1581100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-19263018291547311452008-06-25T09:41:00.001-06:002008-06-25T09:43:22.797-06:00

Whose toes are these and why are they so dirty? Find out!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-9229960413420548422008-01-28T21:39:00.001-07:002008-01-28T21:42:44.457-07:00

Who's that hiding in my laundry?Go find out!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-27707467598272900512007-12-31T11:29:00.001-07:002007-12-31T11:45:05.660-07:00

Brett's first self portrait.That's our house on the left, with a front door, door knob and cat door (for when we had a cat. Which we don't now.) Upstairs are windows, one with curtains.My favourite things about the picture he drew of himself are the fingers and toes (one finger has a bandaid), belly button, eyelashes and hair. I was happy to see him draw a big smile on his face.The caption reads

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-31646240028225764812007-11-23T13:21:00.003-07:002007-11-23T15:46:32.095-07:00

Rather than try to remember long stories from the last month or so, I'll post some highlights.Brett, on his birthday: "You know, mama, I don't think I really feel 4."Brett, after the dentist said he was looking for sugar bugs: "You mean bacteria?"Us, after being told at the parent-teacher meeting that Brett likes routine: "Really?!"Brett, getting ready for Hallowe'en: "Trick or treat, smell my

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-62680303480552034102007-10-31T14:50:00.000-06:002007-11-05T11:04:09.805-07:00

I know I have to post about Brett's birthday, my parents' visit and our first parent-teacher interview, but in the meantime, here's an early Hallowe'en picture. More on Facebook (you should be able to see them even if you don't have an account).Thanks for the costumes, Trace!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-49502442555647830072007-09-14T12:55:00.001-06:002007-09-14T13:06:20.793-06:00

So far, preschool is a success. Brett sings us new songs he's learned there, and shows off new dances when he remembers them. He always has some artwork in his backpack, like this lovely pasta necklace I received earlier this week. My first one! (His teacher says some parents save them all year, then return them so the pasta can be reused!)Now we just have to figure out what to do with it all.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-67346755373851372022007-09-07T12:04:00.000-06:002007-09-07T12:13:45.292-06:00

We've done some stuff around the house (finally!), including new benches on our new deck. We actually paid someone else to do the deck, but Randy and I (mostly Randy) built the benches. A few more photos on Facebook, including the ways Brett helped. (This picture was taken through a screen, which is why it looks kinds weird.)The other thing we did was paint the front door, some thing we wanted to

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-57549825578607916432007-09-05T16:03:00.000-06:002007-09-05T16:06:10.283-06:00

Brett's first day of school is tomorrow, actually.He's gone for a short visit and met his teachers (two, for 24 kids). With that, and a week of day camp under his belt, I think he's ready.Tasks for tonight: decide on shoes to leave at school, pack a snack in his new lunch bag, and try to get to bed a little bit early. Wish us luck.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-84657014172122680402007-08-15T14:56:00.000-06:002007-08-15T16:05:21.867-06:00

Brett had lots of navigating to do as we showed Cousin Jordan many of the sights in and around Cochrane: hiking near Canmore, playing at Calaway Park, the Calgary Zoo, walking Cochrane's pathways, and shopping at Market Mall.I had the camera out for our hiking and walking stuff. No camera for the shopping or the zoo (I was at work -- boo hoo!). Maybe Jordan will post some.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-59639901226688745252007-08-10T13:53:00.000-06:002007-08-10T13:57:45.257-06:00

Brett came to visit me at work last week. I gave him some pens so he could doodle something to put on my wall.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-49210494879158879142007-08-01T14:13:00.000-06:002007-08-01T14:20:27.267-06:00

You're One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia MarquezLonely and struggling, you've been around for a very long time.Conflict has filled most of your life and torn apart nearly everyone you know. Yet there is something majestic and even epic about your presence in the world. You love life all the more for having seen its decimation. After all, it takes a village.Take the Book Quiz at the

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-39298370511254307192007-07-31T14:10:00.000-06:002007-07-31T14:23:22.016-06:00

So, I've been on Facebook recently.Frequently, actually, but I haven't quite got the hang of it. I click on Friends' profiles, read their stuff, then browse through their Friends. And I've noticed some things that may warrant further study. Feel free to run with this.In rough order of frequency (that I've observed, anyway):- younger people (younger than me, anyway), often use pictures of

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-62554939973839923632007-07-17T15:39:00.000-06:002007-07-17T15:44:10.350-06:00

Congratulations to Richard and Bushra, proud parents of Summer Sitara Dickson. Baby Summer arrived at 5:45 pm Monday, July 16.Richard says, "Mother and baby are both doing fantastic. Summer is 8lbs. 6oz. and 20 inches long. Ouch. She has lots of black hair and black eyes and purple skin. That last one we figure will clear up any time."

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-50333447876722044582007-07-13T16:32:00.000-06:002007-07-13T16:35:50.235-06:00

Brett was thrilled when he found a pencil in the drawer in my office. He came in with me last night after dinner to help hang some pictures. I needed the pencil to mark the spots for the nails.And it was a way to spend a half hour in air conditioning. Have you heard? It's hot here.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-34505609871735088242007-07-09T15:10:00.000-06:002007-07-09T15:15:17.574-06:00

So, last night Brett said, "When I get big, I'm going to be an artist."Randy and I shared a look and told him that was great. Then we reminded him that there are so many possibilities: he could be a doctor, lawyer, dentist -- anything he wants!He waved his hand in the air and said, "Hi! I'm Doctor Brett!"

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-13287343784178373542007-07-06T15:02:00.000-06:002007-07-06T15:11:29.998-06:00

Brett was grumpy when he got up on Tues. Then I told him Daddy would be home with him all day."Daddy? Really? Thanks Mommy!" he said and then ran up to jump into bed with him.Little does he know that that will the pattern of his summer days. I'll get up and get ready for work. If he gets up I'll give him breakfast. If not, he and Daddy will have breakfast later. Or go for coffee. Or one of any

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-49995147199611037542007-06-26T09:53:00.000-06:002007-06-26T10:01:54.640-06:00

No disrespect to other places I've worked, but the Town of Cochrane has its act together.When I arrived Monday morning, my boss was waiting for me. The first thing she did was show me the coffee room (complete with coffee maker burbling away). Then I got my computer login, name tag, voicemail password and schedules for upcoming publications. Then she took me on a tour of the entire office and

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-28035787249734092402007-06-13T21:23:00.000-06:002007-06-13T21:52:01.464-06:00

Unlike a few other people I know, I'm not neglecting my blog in favour of Facebook.The truth is that things have been in a bit of turmoil lately. They're settling down, but I'm not promising regular updates just yet.Tomorrow is my last day at work (which also means my last evening on the couch with the work laptop). I'm leaving the University of Calgary and taking on the challenge of

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-83444895418602929032007-05-27T16:29:00.000-06:002007-05-27T16:35:53.517-06:00

I know, I know. It's been two weeks.The weather is finally warming up; the snow that fell last week melted pretty quickly. We went to a friend's place yesterday and actually felt hot sitting in the sun. (Brett was playing at the sand and water table and got wet. Of course. He asked for dry clothes, but I told him the sun would dry him off. Since he was in long pants, getting wet actually helped

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-41339889566790732942007-05-14T21:57:00.000-06:002007-05-14T22:31:14.039-06:00

We went to Vernon last weekend to celebrate Mother's Day with Randy's family. While we were there I had a visit with my old kitty Rufie. He's been living with Randy's mom Dianne since Brett was about six months old.Anyone who knew Rufie had a word to describe him. For some it was cranky, for others, crotchety. Everyone agreed he was one of a kind. He survived falling out my apartment window;

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-78347896365500015562007-04-29T21:15:00.000-06:002007-05-01T21:12:05.513-06:00

The warm days continue here in southern Alberta, even if the nights and mornings are chilly (mere degrees above zero -- tough on the bare toes peeking out of sandals). It's still not warm enough to take the hard top off a jeep, however (right, Randy?)On my drive to work lately, I see all kinds of baby animals: calves and foals and the occasional prairie dog. The farm animals are safely behind

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-47357701024525796332007-04-25T21:28:00.000-06:002007-04-25T21:33:48.076-06:00

Ok, it's funny enough to see a couple of guys on horseback going through A&W.The truth is we saw these guys at one of our favourite coffee places earlier in the day. I was kinda disappointed I hadn't thought to take their picture. Brett thought it was hilarious that one of the horses kept trying to get his nose into his rider's hot chocolate. I wonder if he got any of his fries?

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-82617574151685636502007-04-25T10:25:00.000-06:002007-04-25T21:28:44.683-06:00

Now that snow seems to be gone (yes, even the stuff that fell last week), the practice here is to clean the streets of what they call "winter debris." This is what the notice on the City of Calgary website says:This year Spring Clean-Up takes place from mid-April until mid-June and will see around 37,000 tonnes of winter sanding materials, dirt and other debris removed from our roadways.In

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-9220203049032759662007-04-19T20:31:00.000-06:002007-04-19T20:36:13.064-06:00

It's April 19.Two days before the official start of spring.This is not spring.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-47397066636601845462007-04-11T10:55:00.000-06:002007-04-13T13:23:38.028-06:00

Bret met (or re-met) a total of ten aunties and uncles, 13 cousins and numerous friends in Toronto. Wow!Auntie Wendy and Tante Anne at the seder Monday night.Blair looking pensive at home; Lesia and their youngest Katya behind him.Brett and cousin Emily at Auntie Anna and Uncle Dave's house, playing with the same mini bricks we used as kids. Cousin Sheldon is in the background.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-62043716393497221802007-03-30T14:14:00.000-06:002007-03-30T14:17:37.292-06:00

Tomorrow morning at 9 we jet off to T-dot, the centre of the family universe. The clan is gathering to break not bread, but matzah, as the annual Passover holiday begins.As with many Jewish holidays, this one's about the food. Maybe I'll even post some pictures.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-19443442624278651192007-03-18T14:48:00.000-06:002007-03-18T14:51:52.323-06:00

This might be the pattern here for all I know. Tease us with a few nice days, then dump some more snow on us. Oh well, when life hands you snow, make snowmen!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-2332497128255062272007-03-12T15:34:00.000-06:002007-03-12T15:55:28.749-06:00

We're still weathering this weekend's early switch to daylight savings time. Combine that with a three-and-a-half-year-old transitioning out of afternoon naps and you're got a recipe for fatigue. And not just his!Lately, Brett skips naps for a couple of days, then has one, then skips a few more. He napped on Saturday, so I figured with the time change, we'd keep him too busy to nap on Sunday so

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-74997231894283420412007-03-08T21:27:00.000-07:002007-03-08T21:31:52.008-07:00

On a walk through our neighbourhood:"Look Daddy. That Jeep is just like yours, only it had square lights on the front and you have round ones."(Thanks to Dread Pirate Robert for the title idea!)

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-53745999931174563772007-03-06T14:28:00.000-07:002007-03-06T14:32:01.586-07:00

Overheard at work:Habib: I got your voicemail message from earlier today. Ummmm, I can't remember what it was.Ann: Ummmm, I can't remember what it was about either.Habib: You said you'd be in your office until noon, then over here for meetings.....Ann: That's right. But I still can't remember what I wanted to ask you.Habib: Just call me later if you think of it.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-54841883290996538762007-02-26T09:54:00.000-07:002007-02-26T10:14:12.702-07:00

I've considered Brett toilet trained for some time now. He won't poop in a public place after an unfortunate incident in a campground outhouse, but he pees everywhere without complaint -- sitting, standing; toilets urinals -- the boy's practically a pro.He still wears a Pull-up at night, which, quite frankly, I don't care if he does until high school. I don't think it makes that big a difference.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-29797994414015948622007-02-22T11:30:00.000-07:002007-02-22T11:38:03.786-07:00

While Auntie Wendy was here, we made a trip down to MEC for some shopping. Wendy and I tried stuff on while Brett had a visit with Daddy on his break.Daddy went back to work and Brett joined us in the change rooms, running in and out, opening and closing doors. He sat in one change room for a few minutes by himself. Then I heard a small voice say, "Mommy, I want to try on new underwear and pants

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-53258479182300313862007-02-16T12:46:00.000-07:002007-02-16T12:51:36.823-07:00

We went to the Telus World of Science and Brett couldn't get enough of the music and sound area in the Creative Kids Museum section. This is his turn at the microphone, practicing his stage presence. In that outfit, I'm thinking he's more a grunge rocker than anything. (Daddy dressed him for the day, I'm sure of it.)We might be going back there this week while Auntie Wendy's visiting.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-51927371684357014532007-01-31T09:05:00.000-07:002007-01-31T09:10:26.598-07:00

In the bathroom this morning:Brett: What are you doing, mommy?Me: Going to the bathroom.Brett: Oh. [pause] Do you want me to read you a book?

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-51136981786958347942007-01-24T21:22:00.000-07:002007-01-24T21:24:43.016-07:00

This is not a bagel.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-52101282253151869332007-01-22T20:01:00.000-07:002007-01-22T21:35:28.327-07:00

Some random pix because my posts lately have been so very lame. Not promising to get better, just posting these so I won't feel so bad.We had a couple of our neighbours over to decorate festive cookies the week before christmas. This is Brett proud of his decorating skill. Granma (Randy's mom) is standing beside him.Brett grabbed all his "stuff" to pose in front of the fireplace. With him: red

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-90848803458341904142007-01-11T20:58:00.000-07:002007-01-11T21:13:58.394-07:00

Is three too young for video games?This is the scene that greeted me when I got to Linda's to pick Brett up today. I have to admit: it doesn't surprise me. In the last month, Brett has learned how to use the touch pad on my laptop to play his "letter games" (on Starfall.com -- thanks, Trace!) and games on Kids CBC. He not only plays the games, but navigates between them. He even knows how to get

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-37668028306665219692006-12-24T20:47:00.000-07:002006-12-24T20:53:01.018-07:00

... to yours:Best wishes for a yummy, happy festive season and a healthy, prosperous year ahead.Love, Randy, Laurie and Brett(BTW, if you usually get a festive photo card from us, this will have to do for a while. It's been a busy year.)

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-75399932045899982442006-12-12T19:24:00.000-07:002006-12-12T19:26:23.655-07:00

"Knock, knock.""Who's there?""Bobbin.""Bobbin, who?'"Bobbin in the water! Hahahahahahahahaha."

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-9481896959549381732006-12-06T21:48:00.000-07:002006-12-06T21:54:59.939-07:00

Who knew the search for a preschool would be so difficult. If I did, I thought the challenge would be more along the lines of scheduling or transportation. The truth is I have those challenges, but the biggest one is not so much logistic as ideological.We have a friend with a daughter just a little younger than Brett. She’s eager to send Paje to the francophone preschool attached to the

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-84645168534913915642006-11-28T11:49:00.000-07:002006-11-28T12:05:37.465-07:00

Huge cold snap here in southern Alberta. Huge. Deep. Cold. Like, wind chills of -40. That's minus 40.Brett has a new winter coat (from MEC, where else?), which he hates. Why? Well, he basically hates anything new. His old winter jacket was too small and being uncomfortable in it made him cry. Every morning since we've had the new jacket he asks to put the old one on instead. Then he whines and

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1163801003991277222006-11-17T14:55:00.000-07:002006-11-17T15:03:24.126-07:00

Recently, we got Brett a tune-up. We made appointments to get his eyes checked, his first dental check-up, and last week, a doctor appointment.Eyes were fine --– more or less typical for his age. He has 20 healthy-looking teeth; again, typical. We got his official height and weight at his medical check-up: 31 lbs and 37 inches. Not just typical, but downright average: both put Brett in the 50th

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1162173239699362332006-10-29T18:51:00.000-07:002006-10-29T19:03:43.476-07:00

Brett's reaction: Yay! Snow!My reaction: Oh, [the opposite].

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1161570325051240652006-10-22T20:22:00.000-06:002006-10-22T20:25:25.053-06:00

Me (to Randy): How does this look?Brett: Distinguished.Brett, after I tossed him over my head in the ball pit at gymnastics: Oh! I didn't expect that!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1161565403518923772006-10-22T18:56:00.000-06:002006-10-22T20:22:25.220-06:00

I wrote about the party but haven’t mentioned Brett’s accomplishments now that he’s three. First, the basics: he’s 36 and a half inches tall and probably weighs 32 pounds or so (haven’t weighed him since May, but he doesn’t see a whole lot heavier). He can wear anything from a size two to four, depending on the garment and the make. He wears a toddler size eight shoe.One of his favourite shows

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1160945549968879702006-10-15T14:40:00.000-06:002006-10-15T14:59:13.716-06:00

Brett's having a nap. I think I need one too.He was so excited about his party that he was up at 6.30. Yes: am. But he had a great time playing with his friends and got covered with green, purple and blue icing from the cupcakes. (L-R: Jennifer, Page and Brett in the ball pit; Jennifer and Paje help Brett open presents) (Cupcake cake before, during. No picture of him blowing out the candles

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1160621534998336702006-10-11T20:51:00.000-06:002006-10-13T21:05:39.646-06:00

This picture was taken a few days ago, less than one week before Brett's third birthday. So much to do before then.The party is on Sunday. We've booked the place (Gymaniacs), ordered the cake (cupcake cake from Safeway; they jam all the cupcakes together on a plate and ice them as if they're one big cake), and bought stuff for loot bags. Tomorrow Brett and I will decorate the loot bags and fill

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1159814476361374072006-10-02T12:39:00.000-06:002006-10-02T12:41:49.980-06:00

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1159219552586395932006-09-25T15:19:00.000-06:002006-09-25T15:26:15.840-06:00

Brett's latest favourite song is a Willie Nelson tune:Shotgun Willie sits around in his underwearBitin' a bullet, pullin' out all of his hairShotgun Willie has got all of his family thereWhen Willie says "underwear" Brett laughs and laughs.Randy has a customized version:Shotgun Brett sits around in his underwearSuckin' his thumb, pullin' out all of his hairShotgun Brett has got all of his family

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1158866623334974842006-09-21T13:13:00.000-06:002006-09-21T13:23:43.350-06:00

This is Brett looking between the postal superboxes while I get the mail. And I'm doing a lot of reflection this month, mostly about all the changes over the past year.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1158341908591282562006-09-15T11:16:00.000-06:002006-09-15T12:13:42.290-06:00

Monday I wore sandals to work. And a tank top under a jacket. Tuesday I was digging through a box in the basement for sweaters and boots.Last night we put the heat on for the first time in months. And today there was snow on the ground (a dusting, but still), but I also saw vehicles with several inches of snow on them.Let me point out the things that are different from this time last year:- last

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1157735108809490482006-09-08T10:54:00.000-06:002006-09-08T11:05:08.836-06:00

The first episode of the original Star Trek aired 40 years ago. Happy birthday Star Trek, from an "ugly bag of mostly water."Got a favourite quote? Share it!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1157037412900619972006-08-31T09:10:00.000-06:002006-08-31T09:17:15.830-06:00

Four days in Vernon with Grandma, GG, Auntie Cathy and Cousin Jordan were not enough, as you can imagine. One story for now; pix coming as soon as I take them off the camera.Brett and daddy were kicking Brett's Tigger ball around GG's backyard. After a particularly strong and accurate kick, daddy said to Brett, "That was great! Where did you learn to kick like that?"Brett said, "I don't know,

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1156019815743801782006-08-19T14:24:00.000-06:002006-08-19T14:36:55.760-06:00

The painting is finally finished. Now Randy can go back to spending his days off doing laundry and cutting the grass (just kidding, sweetie!).The plan was always to have the blue stripe across the middle, but it was going to be purple both above and below. When we saw how dark it was, we decided most of the walls (except where Randy had already started) could stay white on top. Turns out the Cars

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1155225299202053762006-08-10T09:50:00.000-06:002006-08-10T09:57:20.893-06:00

We're listening to the Indigo Girls on the way into town yesterday.Indigo Girls: I don't wanna talk about it/How you broke my heartBrett: Why she don't want to talk about it?Me: She's sad. Someone broke her heart.Brett: Why someone broke her heart?Me: I don't know, babe. Things like that just happen.SilenceBrett: I think someone should say to her, "sorry I broke your heart."

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1155064811947363372006-08-08T12:58:00.000-06:002006-08-08T13:22:34.540-06:00

Brett has a new love object and it's all my fault.We went to the river to throw rocks yesterday. As we were leaving I suggested that maybe he wanted to take a rock home. I talked about getting a box for special stuff and putting the rock in it. By the time we got home, he was so attached to his new rock that he decided he was going to sleep with it.See: all my fault.So last night, the rock

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1154375400403192492006-07-31T13:48:00.000-06:002006-07-31T13:54:02.660-06:00

I came home with a new haircut the other day.Brett: Mommy, why you're not wearing a hat?

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1152828849060668442006-07-31T13:46:00.000-06:002006-07-31T13:54:19.916-06:00

Brett is really starting to pee like a big man: he stands up, takes aim and gets it all over the floor.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1153258644357431712006-07-18T15:27:00.000-06:002006-07-18T15:39:38.136-06:00

Let's just say that Brett's first real pony ride was less than an overwhelming success.He was, however, impressed with Daddy's cowboy hat (even though he doesn't look it).

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1152565505308719222006-07-10T15:00:00.000-06:002006-07-10T15:09:48.670-06:00

Brett spent most of the day Sunday with uncle Jan, out from Toronto, on his way to Poland and other European destinations for the summer. (Jan's wife -- my sister Cindy, however, is in Thailand. The two of them were in Toronto together for a grand total of a couple of months. And now, even though they work for the same company -- Butterfield and Robinson -- she's based in Bangkok while he'll be

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1152198484470009202006-07-06T09:05:00.000-06:002006-07-06T09:43:04.863-06:00

Our first Stampede and there's so much we don't know. For instance, jeans, boots and hats are acceptable -- no, expected -- at work for the duration of Stampede (not the Stampede, just Stampede). It's ok to be late for work every day if you've stopped at a Stampede breakfast (which happen all over town and often involve a choice of high-test or low-test orange juice).I also didn't know that I

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1151614461561963092006-06-29T13:49:00.000-06:002006-06-29T14:54:21.686-06:00

Brett has now perfected standing up nice and tall to squeak by the Calaway Park height meter onto some of the slightly scarier rides.And he cries. But not because he's scared. No, when the ride is over he cries because he doesn't want to get off -- he wants to go again! His latest fave: Adrenaline Test Zone. It's like a version of the USS Enterprise (remember: from the Ex in Toronto). He laughs

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1150213074721894502006-06-13T09:33:00.000-06:002006-06-13T09:37:54.743-06:00

Brett's first roller coaster: the kids coaster at Calaway Park. He loved it so much he went on it twice. Then after a snack, he went on it again. He also loved the swings, airplane, spinning strawberries, merry-go-round and log ride. Including the part where we got wet. His least favourite part? Waiting in line. No kidding.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1149872715821369722006-06-09T11:03:00.000-06:002006-06-09T11:05:26.930-06:00

Last night during dinner, after making Grandma laugh."I'm cute. Awwwwww."

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1149630927947245342006-06-06T15:51:00.000-06:002006-06-06T16:10:47.566-06:00

Thanks to Auntie Linda for forwarding these.(l to r): Bat Mitzvah woman Mira and Bar Mitzvah man Matt pose proudly with their parents Linda and Marvin outside the synagogue after the service. The immediate family enjoyed dinner under the very festive Mira! Matt! backdrop (which Brett happily yelled out periodically during the meal). Incidentally, it was about the only place Mira's name came

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1149544570041698372006-06-05T15:53:00.000-06:002006-06-05T15:56:10.060-06:00

Auntie Cindy and Uncle Jan have more pix on their blog.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1149025023366450122006-05-30T15:09:00.000-06:002006-06-01T11:45:25.323-06:00

Since we've been in Toronto, aunties, uncles and cousins abounded, with grandparents and friends in regular attendance. Uncle Gordon, Auntie Helen and cousins Chana, Leah, Avraham, Nachy and Tzippy; along with Auntie Cindy and Uncle Jan, Auntie Wendy and Tante Anne and the three of us ALL stayed at my parents place (you do the math: I get 14 but it's hard to count people when they all keep moving

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1148678749124013462006-05-26T15:20:00.000-06:002006-05-26T15:42:33.583-06:00

In Baba and Zaida's bed in Toronto (L to R):cousins Leah, Brett, Tzippy, Nachy, Chana.No one rolled over so no one fell out!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1148506301246388502006-05-24T15:26:00.000-06:002006-05-24T15:31:41.250-06:00

Is it a coincidence that we live in Alberta and Brett suddenly loves horses? At the Cochrane Children's Festival on the long weekend, he asked the face-painting lady for a horsey. I know it looks like he's not sure, but he was actually pretty thrilled to have a horse on his arm.Oh gawd! Does this mean he's going to want tattoos?

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1148505985056129552006-05-24T15:25:00.000-06:002006-05-24T15:26:25.076-06:00

Barry may have tied, but he hasn't passed him yet.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1148071624720050842006-05-19T14:42:00.000-06:002006-05-19T14:47:04.740-06:00

My prediction: Barry Bonds will get injured before he hits the Big One. And then he won't come back.Whaddaya think Rob?

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1148051452037698502006-05-19T09:02:00.000-06:002006-05-19T09:11:32.116-06:00

This bunny, outside the building where I work, was snapped by my co-worker Caroline. Judging by his apparent hurry, he must be on his way to finish getting ready for the long weekend. I know he wasn't at work today.We've had the most amazing weather this week -- nearly 30 degrees, sunny and even a bit humid, with the threat of thunderstorms. Of course, with the long weekend just about here, you

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1147462836191425272006-05-12T13:31:00.000-06:002006-05-15T16:04:15.783-06:00

Brett is "telling" knock-knock jokes to daddy. I'm watching his profile: morning light coming in through the window beside him, blue waffly pyjamas with one button undone, face mere inches above his cereal bowl, spoon in hand and milk on chin."Knock knock, who there, daddy?""Chicken.""Chicken who?""Chicken Little""No, Chicken Little Brett!"Wild laughter."Knock knock, who there, daddy?""Boo.""Boo

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1147109304759074732006-05-08T11:07:00.000-06:002006-05-08T11:28:24.900-06:00

This is Brett taking time out from his new hobby to relax on a lawn chair. What's his new hobby? One word: "why?""Put your hood up, Brett. It's windy.""Why?""It's windy. I don't want your ears to get cold.""Why it's windy?""Well, there are air currents and the rotation of the earth, but it's too complicated to explain.""Why?""Go ask Daddy.""Why there are chloclate [not a typo -- that how he says

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1146511138865493222006-05-01T13:09:00.000-06:002006-05-01T13:18:58.893-06:00

Over the weekend our house became populated with creatures from Brett's imagination. These aren't tv or movie characters, not are they stuffed animals, toys, from books or jigsaw puzzles. I'm pretty sure, anyway. According to my darling boy, we have one horsey who lives in the backyard. His name is Blueberry and he's purple. We have another horsey who lives in the basement. He's named Grape and

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1145987023393747922006-04-25T11:40:00.000-06:002006-04-25T11:54:11.483-06:00

I can't help it, I like to ask Brett about his night over breakfast each day. The conversation usually goes something like this:Me: Did you have a good sleep, Brett?Brett: Yes, Mommy.Me: Did you have any dreams?Brett: No, Mommy.This morning, there was a little twist:Me: Did you have a good sleep, Brett?Brett: Yes, Mommy.Me: Did you have any dreams?Brett (looking out the window): I dream we in the

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1145555717265316642006-04-20T11:51:00.000-06:002006-04-20T11:55:17.283-06:00

Here's me on a bright, sunny Calgary day in the university Smart car. Maybe they'll let me borrow it for the weekend......

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1144857270340060002006-04-12T09:52:00.000-06:002006-04-12T09:54:30.363-06:00

"Look at my shadow, Mommy. It coming with me!"

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1143419517397184172006-03-26T17:29:00.000-07:002006-03-27T16:18:16.310-07:00

On Brett's last day of gymnastics, he got his turn up on the podium (with appropriately inspirational music playing in the background) to receive his certificate. To see the pride and excitement on his face, it might as well have been his first gold medal.He politely showed appreciation for all the other kids' efforts too.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1143220472499471752006-03-24T10:10:00.000-07:002006-03-24T10:14:32.520-07:00

Randy asked Brett if he could have some of his fruit chews. Brett said, "No Daddy. I don't think that's a good idea."Sometimes, if we're trying to decide what to do, Brett will turn to me with big eyes, one finger in the air, and say,"I have a big idea -- play on the 'puter!"If Brett likes one of my suggestions, he says, "Good idea, Mommy."

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1141426290426010442006-03-16T09:09:00.000-07:002006-03-16T09:11:51.530-07:00

Things overheard since moving to Alberta:"I got double air miles 'cause I spent $100 at the Safeway liquor store.""It's minus 25, but with all the sunshine it only feels like minus 10."Radio commercials for:crop insurancecattle auctions (for buyers and sellers)pesticides, herbicides and "crop nutrition"a funeral homesedation dentistry

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1142024056821569752006-03-10T13:36:00.000-07:002006-03-16T09:04:54.366-07:00

For the past couple of weeks, Brett has been crawling into bed beside me at some point during the night. Last night it was at about 2am. He wanted to chat and I couldn't curb my desire to kiss the back of his freshly shorn neck. He giggled a little and settled down. A little while later, I felt a little hand on my face. "I seeeeee you, Mommy." In the dark? While you're supposed to be sleeping? (

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1141922744851936342006-03-09T09:44:00.000-07:002006-03-09T09:45:44.870-07:00

Brett peed. On. The. Potty.Yay Brett!(Picture later if he lets me.)

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1141677151462660282006-03-06T13:29:00.000-07:002006-03-06T13:32:45.393-07:00

Demonstrating his ability to sort, or showing early signs of OCD?

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1141146085770933432006-02-28T09:59:00.000-07:002006-02-28T10:01:25.796-07:00

Yesterday's quote, from my Women's Quote of the Day calendar (thanks Trace!):"I don't have pet peeves like some people. I have whole kennels of irritation."-- Whoopie Goldberg.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1140728801016316712006-02-23T14:03:00.000-07:002006-02-23T14:06:41.053-07:00

I got the idea from Tertia's blog: it's a Johari Window, an opportunity to tell me how you see me, and how I see myself. Interesting stuff. Wanna play?

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1140640544969323882006-02-22T13:33:00.000-07:002006-02-22T13:35:44.986-07:00

Not Brett, this time I'm the one who invented a new word: celecrated. Any idea what it means? I'm thinking something to do with celebrating by destroying. Your thoughts?

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1140638046458227022006-02-22T12:53:00.000-07:002006-02-22T12:54:06.533-07:00

"More tofu please Mommy."

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1140114274071893712006-02-16T11:18:00.000-07:002006-02-18T14:12:05.066-07:00

Look at the weather window on the left. It's cold. Bloody cold. As I write this, the temperature in Cochrane is -25. On my way in to work, the radio weather guy said that with the wind chill, it felt like -38 downtown.I knew the weather gods were being kind to me on my first Alberta winter, but their attention must be elsewhere at the moment.For those of you who haven't lived through an Alberta

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1139510719870123822006-02-09T11:37:00.000-07:002006-02-09T15:21:18.706-07:00

Brett suddenly has favourites. Last night, Toy Story 2 (which he had never seen before) was his "fav'ite movie." In the past week he's had "fav'ite" shirts, cookies, books and toys.I'm certain he doesn't know what it means. I mean, how could a movie he's never even seen be his favourite? And how could he have a favourite book one minute, and a different one the next?I fear I may have been the one

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1137969884842950012006-02-02T14:29:00.000-07:002006-02-02T13:31:54.766-07:00

I've been asked for more details about my job, but instead I'm going to tell you why I feel so at home here. The truth is, there are a few people who remind me of someone else I know.First of all, my boss Colleen, the one with whom I had my first interview, reminds me of my friend Heather. They're physically alike, but more than that, they're both very smart, respected and good at their jobs.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1138661864639875222006-01-30T15:48:00.000-07:002006-01-30T15:58:34.260-07:00

Brett seems fascinated with the bronze lady feeding the bronze chickens in downtown Cochrane. The statue was erected to honour the women who were instrumental in building the town. Of course, if "chicken lady" was alive, she'd probably tell Brett to get the hell off her chicken!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1138131399504422672006-01-24T12:35:00.000-07:002006-01-24T12:36:39.523-07:00

My comment on living in Tory blue Alberta: I still prefer the blue of the ocean.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1138050394915912462006-01-23T14:02:00.000-07:002006-01-23T14:06:35.113-07:00

Good thing there wasn't more than a centimetre or so or he never would've finished before it got dark. Kids!

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1137170137647972782006-01-13T09:30:00.000-07:002006-01-13T09:38:20.253-07:00

Some of you may know how thrilled I am at my job: the people are great, the work is interesting and best of all, they bought me a brand new Palm Treo 650. I swear I use it at work for work stuff, and only play with the toys after office hours (like taking the picture at left). Really.To prove I'm using my time well, here's the first article I wrote for OnCampus, the university's internal

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1136932743121340862006-01-10T15:29:00.000-07:002006-01-10T15:39:03.140-07:00

This morning as I was getting Brett for the day, I asked him if he wanted to sit on his chair or the bottom stair to put his shoes on. He looked at me and said very slowly, "sit... on... mommy...HEAD."

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1136484948979434802006-01-05T11:14:00.000-07:002006-01-10T14:48:02.053-07:00

My friend Suzanne invited me to join a group of her friends who get together at the beginning of each month to eat and drink and have a night away from being moms and wives. The other thing they do: give away money.Each participant contributes $20. In the case of our group of 9, that means the pot is $180. At each meeting, our names are thrown in a hat and the hostess picks one (past winners

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1136476990814799422006-01-05T09:01:00.000-07:002006-01-05T09:07:29.846-07:00

Don't have time to write about me, Brett or my new job, but I heard this on the radio and was shocked and appalled. Apparently, the US Chamber of Commerce is thinking of taxing hybrid vehicles because they're so fuel efficient they're not generating enough tax revenue.Sigh.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1135804045599692772005-12-28T13:57:00.000-07:002005-12-28T14:07:25.613-07:00

I try not to stress too much about what Brett eats. He usually eats well, and likes fruit and vegetables, along with pretzels and fruit leather. Anyway, the research says that left to their own devices, most kids eat a balanced diet over any given one- or two-week span. This time of year there is rather more opportunity to eat sweets than usual. In the spirit of not stressing, if Brett wants

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13406488.post-1135466370283354152005-12-24T16:09:00.000-07:002005-12-24T16:23:24.900-07:00

Wishing you all health, happiness and love, now, and for the year ahead. We've had a lot of change this year; even more changes ahead, I'll bet. We'll adjust, and with patience and love we'll have a good year too.Hugs and kisses to all.BTW Erin, I saw your tag. I'm getting on it.

LaurieDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16094762513574084316noreply@blogger.com1