No Cookie Cutter Life

Why I Know I Must Be Part Leprechaun

2009-03-17T15:26:00.006-04:00

• I have devilishly mischievous moments of evil intent. For example, my husband was speaking to me about nothing in particular and I was listening intently when suddenly into my head popped a thought – “I could reach out right now and sucker punch you right in the face.” There was no reason for the thought, but it made me laugh. Please note that I did not act on the impulse.
• I have taken several major life leaps (ie. Take a flying leap off the cliff) and risks that appealed to me – like starting 2 business’, shopping for first home while husband was chronically sick, etc – and, with some positive vibes and inspiration, everything will work out in the end. You have to trust that you are exactly where you should be. A little devil-may-care or a sound life philosophy?
• I like green. I’m currently writing this blog entry while sitting on my apple green couch, wearing my lime green t-shirt, etc. It’s not an overwhelming colour in my life but it does consistently wind its’ way into it.

• I like a good joke (practical or spoken) as much as the rest of them. (See blog entry October 5/08) In fact, I can clearly remember relishing the times spent with my extended family (paternal) as they were all great jokesters and I found great glee when I began to express my own inner comedienne.
• Short pants and a pipe…I’ll let you draw your own conclusions.

Emotions Bigger Than Your Body

2009-03-13T11:24:00.006-04:00

On days when your emotions are bigger than your body – what do you do? Does parenting life allow for a “mental health day”? (I heard your sarcastic guffaw over there). Parenting doesn’t permit the more common “sick day”, let alone a I-need-a-moment-alone-before-I-completely-freak-out. So what do you do?

There are a thousand reasons for an I’m-going-to-lose-it days: no sleep, unreasonable demands from your child(ren), the dog vomit at the bottom of the steps that you didn’t see when you were going downstairs in the middle of the night to get an advil for the splitting headache that woke you up, the spaced-out demeanor of your pre-schooler while you ask over and over again for simple tasks like “open the door” to be complete while you are all standing in front of it to go out to the car for school. Honestly, we would still be standing at the door waiting for it to open itself if I hadn’t finally got to the point of “honey, push the handle!!! Push the handle!!! Push the handle!!!” In short, there is a whole series of little irritations that lead to your fast-paced call to your husband after you’ve dropped off the kid to tear a strip off him for absolutely nothing – you simply needed an outlet to vent off some of the pressure that was building in your head!! Poor man. Poor, poor man.

Here’s the “it” moment though – in mid-rant to my targetted spouse I had a moment of clarity. This was not about him and the fact that he had not left the five-dollar bill on my purse like I was hoping he would (this is what I was ranting about) because he did not read my mind last night when I thought to myself “I need that fiver for the morning for a coffee”. So when I called him after walking away from the vomit rug, dropping off the dopey preschooler and scrounging under the floor mat for change for coffee, he had no idea what the hell was wrong with me, what he’d done to contribute to it and what to even say! This was not fair to him – honey, I am sincerely sorry. My moment of clarity as I was working myself up to a fevered pitch in my tirade was this – my emotions are bigger than my body. Simply put, I was over reacting to most everything and it didn’t make sense, nor, did it feel good. Was I PMSing? Was I simply needing the sleep that I’d missed? Was I in need of a quiet morning to regroup and refresh without stressful demands and frustrating life events? Yes to all of the above. We’ve heard it before but we often ignore it so I’ll say it again. Only you know best what it is that you need. People can not help you if you yourself don’t know what it is that you need. Whether you can see clearly what your own thoughts and behaviours are telling you depends on how willing you are to listen and put that attentiveness to regular practice. You will be a happier, less stressed, person for doing so and, in turn, your family will not feel those stresses piled onto their own stressed out shoulders. In theory, when each family member puts this into practice (ie. Hubby, don’t dump your junk on me either) then your family takes a collective breath, relaxes their shoulders and better supports one another through the hard moments. Referring back to my telephone tirade with my husband who was in the process of talking faster and getting more and more stressed out by my overloading rant, as soon my overhead light bulb clicked on and I said to him “you know what!? I’m stressed and I’m certain it is all because I’m tired and PMSing so please don’t take any of this to heart, just let me vent” then I actually heard him sigh and take a moment to digest that. And then he said exactly what I needed to hear “Babe, you’re going to be alright. Try and put this stuff out of your head and go get yourself a nice coffee”. My rant did an immediate shift from I-want-to-kill-someone to I-could-burst-out-crying-right-now and it was all back in perspective again. At least one crazy had been replaced by another. My emotions were still bigger than my body but I was at least on my way to recovery, a tall latte and a much needed quiet morning. Cheers.

2009-01-08T16:37:00.001-05:00

I Can Confirm The World Is Flat

Happy New Year Everyone! I have just climbed my way back onto the face of the earth. I was just minding my own business – about a month ago – and wham-o! I fell off! For years – nay, decades at least – scientists have been telling us that the world is round and safely traveling along its’ own orbit so you can imagine my surprise when I fell off!!

Have you ever been broad-sided by life? Completely knocked off your course and didn’t see it coming? If you’d asked me a month ago if I could see myself where I am today, only a few weeks in future, I’d have laughed and assumed that YOU were crazy but here I am. Life has taken a profound change in direction with a high, a low and a grand dose of sanity. Welcome to a fresh start in 2009.

Parents beware – you are people too, individuals with identities independent of your family, your children, your favourite TV Show – and if you ignore this fact for too long you might find yourself falling off the edge too. Have you had a life changing experience this year? Do you have a fresh start planned for the New Year? I’d like to kick off this year’s blog with your stories and an open discussion to be shared on Gingerbread Families – No Cookie Cutter Life! This is your invitation to join that forum and hear about my stories from the edge.

Gingerbread Trivia Question #1

2008-11-23T19:54:00.006-05:00

Which would you choose?
1) A good night's sleep for 1 night

2) Dinner prepared - shopping, preparation and clean up - for 3 nights

Post your choice in comments below - I'm definitely curious...

Lullabye...and good night...

2008-11-15T21:45:00.006-05:00

Today, my DD - age 3 - was again helping me fold laundry. We had two basket-fuls splayed across the bed and one of our chihuahuas was sunk in a pillow watching our activity. Both DD & Dog have been slowly establishing a friendly relationship but it is still fraught with occasional turbulence - like DD bugging him while he sleeps and Dog barking at her to leave him alone. Well, despite this new-found camaraderie, DD still has urges to antagonize the dog and a sleeping dog sitting unawares while she is tossing about laundry - er, I mean folding laundry - is just too tempting. She threw a sock at the dog.

To Dog's credit, he actually just opened his eyes and peered at her to ensure there was no further garments heading right at him. I remonstrated DD with a gentle "hey, treat Dog nicely, he's not doing anything to bother you. Now, go get that sock and apologize". DD moved tentatively toward Dog and was fully expecting him to lunge at her in retaliation - instead, he blinked and held her eye contact. DD moved ever so slightly closer and tried to figure out how she was going to retrieve the offensive sock that was draped just behind Dog on the pillow. Dog sighed. DD gingerly stretched out her hand to see if Dog might make a move but promptly withdrew it when Dog moved his tail an inch to the left. DD was nervous... She paused in contemplation then (get this) ... begins to sing "lullabye, and good night..." I can't believe that she came up with that idea. Sing the dog to sleep and then get the sock. Brilliance!

The New "S" Word

2008-11-12T20:24:00.005-05:00

by Andriana Mantas of Collaborative Minds

Coping in a stressful world can be tough on all of us, especially children. As our times are changing and we enter a fluctuating economy, adapting to environmental initiatives, and balancing work-time with family-time.
There are many 'stress contributors' that affect each and every one of us in a different manner.

In 1990, my second child who was 4 years old at the time began to blink excessively. Nothing had changed in our lives, but there was something that had changed in our world - 'operation dessert storm' had begun. Even though, the conversations in our home were limited, as was his exposure to any media coverage, he still required more information about this event. We provided him with certain details in order to give him a sense of reassurance that was necessary for him to cope and understand. He didn't want to know about the fighting in the other country; instead he wanted to know how this event would impact his family.

There are many books at the bookstore about stress - one of my favourites, which I often reference, is David Elkind, The Hurried Child, in his book he states that "stress is the wear and tear on our bodies that is produced by the very process of living." Elkind also states that one of the factors that contribute to stress in children's lives is the hurries - to get ready, to go from one place to another, to do well and to grow up. Family disruptions due to death or divorce, health problems, tension and conflict in the home may cause children to develop fear, anxiety and emotional overload, and may contribute to chronic stress.

Children display 'stress signals' that can sometimes go unnoticed and without their own or even our awareness. The more obvious signs are continuous complaints of headaches, tummy aches or neck pain. Nervous habits may become apparent (nail biting, hair twisting, thumb sucking). A child may exhibit a difference in their sleep patterns or excessive energy and trouble relaxing. Subtle signs are a child becomes lethargic, daydreaming and not want to participate in activities. They may also become a little introverted. If you ask your child what's wrong, they may not be able to connect their stress to their actions, or you may have to play detective and look for clues.

So let's look at some 'stress relievers' that can help alleviate the stress for both you and your child. One of the most effective reliefs is to hug your child; this relaxes them and builds self-esteem. It's important to listen to them and when doing so, make a mental note to track changes in moods. Use words of encouragement whenever possible; applaud your child's effort - all of it; help yourself and them to identify their strengths. Be as honest as possible and promote open dialogue for them to express themselves. Insert humour in your daily routine and allow for quiet time, where all you just sit and hang out.

Is stress really the new "s" word?

For more information, please contact Andriana Mantas of Collaborative Minds at 416-803-5321 or collaborativeminds@sympatico.ca

Jump In

2008-11-05T21:17:00.005-05:00

Metaphorically speaking, this is an invitation – listen closely and you’ll hear it…”Jump in, dear reader, jump in”. Children bring an exuberance to our lives that we often ignore. I’m guilty of enticing my daughter outside just this past weekend with intention to rake the leaves into a pile and snap photos of the resulting mayhem. But as I search about for the rake, I begin to collect the toys off the lawn and this leads to gathering up the bigger things for packing away for the season, which leads to sweeping off the deck because, hey – now it’s empty, and this leads to, at most, a push on the swing for my daughter…but no great big leaf pile to blow apart with glee because mommy got too distracted by all the things I-want-to-get-done. Moment lost. We came inside then because we were starting to feel chilly (we’d been outside awhile!) and no leaf pile has been built in or around our home. I feel a little tap on the shoulder from the Guilty-Mommy Fairy and could really work this one into a full self-flagellation. My inner therapist is hard at work to keep me from wandering this road again. I’ve been down it enough since giving birth.

With that said, I think there is merit in reminding ourselves that we do need to pause and really be in the moment. Yes, I have been unusually busy and having even 30 minutes outside to tidy up and prep for the cooler weeks ahead was nice BUT that was not the reason I went outside in the first place! My daughter was quite content to amuse herself and sing songs along with me while we both tottered about outside BUT she would have been over the moon to land kerplunk into a waist high pile of leaves. I believe I lost my ‘moment’ and I implore you to not do the same. It’s what life is made of, these moments that come to mind when we are reflecting on happy times with our kids. When we might have actually created a memory for them to reflect on of their own.

Life is like this – my inner therapist won out in convincing me to not spend gobs of energy in the self-loathing department and rather look for (or create) the next moment to remember. It came today with the washable markers and the bath-time approaching disbursement of clothes. Without great detail, we’ll suffice it to say that it is a hoot to draw happy faces where happy faces are not normally seen and then jump into a mile high bubble bath to wash it all off. Too fun! My daughter was giggling like crazy and so was I and it was not lost on me that she, in fact, jumped into a pile of something – even though it was bubbles…

Why I'm So Glad I Taught Myself to Knit Again

2008-11-02T20:54:00.002-05:00

by Guest Blogger Margot Stevens of A Party Shade of Green

My grandmother was a prolific knitter. In every one of my aunts' and uncles' homes, you will still find her afghans in daily use. In every one of my cousins' keepsake boxes, a sweater knit especially for us. When the local paper in Port Alberni ran a story on her, and how she took in more than 20 foster kids, some of whom I now count as aunts, there are her knitting needles sticking up in the bottom of the photo. She didn't even put them down for the interview.

But like so many things, I didn't treasure her skills until she was gone. I could only remember the knit stitch she taught me, but not how to cast on or off, and without a beginning or an end, I had nowhere to go. So a few years ago I set out to re-teach myself the skill of knitting, and re-connect with my Granny's gift.

I started with The Complete Idiot's Guide to Knitting, which provided a very strong foundation for the skills I have built over the years. From this really excellent book, I re-taught myself to cast on, knit AND purl, how to increase and decrease stitches, the basics of lace and cables, and finally, how to cast off and construct a garment. After completing a few washclothes and scarves, I decided to try some more complicated projects, and learned how to knit lace shawls and mittens at a yarn shop in Kensington Market. I experimented with hats and baby sweaters, and even a stuffed animal or two.

Once I felt that I could produce knitted items nice enough for gifts, I started knitting mitts and scarves for family members, and I finally realized what drove my grandmother to knit. I have found nothing more satisfying than knitting gifts for others, because it is so much more than just buying a gift at the store. I carefully pick the right pattern for them. Then I choose a yarn that I think would suit them. Then as I knit it, I find I spend a lot of time thinking about the person for whom I am knitting, and this is such a wonderful way to spend the little spare time I can find in my day.

One of the most satisfying moments I had was last winter, when my father-in-law told me that he had been out looking for a new scarf, but could not find one that fit his needs. They were all too scratchy, too colourful, too thin, or too short. So together we designed a scarf that was in essence a very long tube, so that it was always double-thick, and it was knit with two strands of a very soft acrylic in a neutral tone. It took me weeks to knit, but once he had it, he wore it every day for the rest of the winter.

I also found, during my first year of motherhood, that knitting brought me some solace when I was afraid I was losing my mind. There is nothing like the exhaustion, overwhelming anxiety and paranoia of being a new mom, in addition to feeling like you've completely lost your identity in your new role and responsibilities. I found that having a simple knitting project that I could pick up in those few quiet moments, or when I needed to focus on something else so that I wouldn't completely lose my mind, was extremely helpful and relaxing.

If you are interested in learning, or re-learning, how to knit, or just want to find some other knitters to share a cup of coffee with, join us in November of Friday mornings at Gingerbread Lane. Starting Friday, Nov.7th, and then for the next 3 Fridays, I will be facilitating a beginner's knitting project class, along with an intermediate knitting motivation.

For more information on Margot's knitting club, launching Friday November 7th, email info@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

Margot is the found of A Party Shade of Green, providing parents with environmentally-friendly alternatives for kids' parties.

The Night of Crazy, Make Believe

2008-10-30T21:18:00.002-04:00

I feel as though I’ll fit right in. Running about like a maniac – last minutes costume touches, groceries for the night, party supplies prepared at-the-ready (work requirement), laundry so there is clean gitch to even put on under the costume, tidying the front foyer for those intrusive neighbours who step-inside-for-candy, etc, etc has me wishing to clutch my hair in both hands at the root and run hell-bent down the street while screaming and/or drooling with a glazed non-sugar-induced look in my eye! People, I hope, will just assume I’m putting on a show for Halloween night and not be fully aware that I have, in fact, lost my mind…

Happy Halloween everyone.

Halloween Fun - Trick It! Treat It! or Eat It!

2008-10-27T20:57:00.000-04:00

By Guest Blogger - Andriana Mantas of Collaborative Minds©

As Autumn is upon us, there are many events and activities that take place including apple picking, Thanksgiving, Halloween, raking and jumping in leaves etc. So let's get into the Dos and Don'ts of Halloween.

Let's begin with the excitement of a choosing a costume. This can either be a very quick decisive process or it can be 'tricky' - and by tricky, I mean that your child may change their mind over and over again. If your child is at an age where you can discuss likes and dislikes favourite characters, heroes, sport teams and players this allows you to create a short list. By narrowing things down and prioritizing, certain items can be hand-made or produced from home. If a trip to the costume shop is necessary, have fun with it and make it adventurous. Now that you have the costume ready to wear, be prepared to see your little one dress up and down over the days or weeks before and after Halloween.

Candy is also a big part of Halloween; in fact there is too much candy just before Halloween, that evening and of course the days following. What to do with all that junk-food? What else can we 'shell out' besides candy to our 'trick-or-treaters'? Some ideas include bubbles, stickers, washable tattoos, pretzels, gift certificate, and beach balls. Other options to help keep the amount of sugar from entering the house is to keep trick-or-treat outings short. Planning an activity helps to get them home quicker without them feeling like they are missing out! Encourage your child to sort through their bags of candy and be selective about which pieces to keep. This provides an opportunity for you to examine the treats and toss candy that may be unsafe. Allow your child to select one or two treats on Halloween night, then find a spot for the excess candy - the location should be out of the child's reach and not easily accessible.

Have a fun and safe Halloween and enjoy all the tricks and treats. To get you into the spirit, below is a song about the 'five little pumpkins'.
Five Little Pumpkins
Five little pumpkins sitting on a gate
The first one said "Oh my, it's getting late"
The second one said "There are witches in the air"
The third one said "But we don't care!"
The fourth one said "Let's run and run and run"
The fifth one said "I'm ready for some fun!"
WOOOOOO, went the wind
And out went the light
And the five little pumpkins rolled out of sight!

For more information, please contact Andriana Mantas of Collaborative Minds at 416-803-5321 or collaborativeminds@sympatico.ca

Daughter-ism Classic

2008-10-25T21:32:00.003-04:00

My daughter (age 3), for reasons not entirely yet defined, woke very early this morning - and couldn't re-settle to sleep. First hubby spent some time trying to settle her - she was still tired! - but he needed to rise to get ready for work before she had returned to slumber. I took the next shift with her - starting first rocking with her in her chair then moving quietly to her bed. Throughout this time, I had been gently tickling her arms and back - something she's always enjoyed, even as an infant.
In moving to her bed, I'd quietly negotiated in whispered tones - "mommy will tickle for one more minute, then we'll sit quietly for 5 minutes". This forewarning proves quite effective with our little tart in most situations and faced no resistance in these wee morning hours either. A minute later, the gentle tickles stopped and a moment later I hear in a tiny little whisper..."will you tickle my arm pit?"

"No baby, it's time to settle quietly for 5 minutes."

"Mommy, can you tickle my arm pit?" - she's now draped her appendage across my face & neck to encourage this motion.

This entire dialogue could not be heard by the dogs...it was that hushed.

"No baby, I'm not discussing this...we had a deal...5 minutes quiet".

Next, and without pause...she responds with...

"This is ridiculous..."

Toddler, Toddler, Get Off My Leg!

2008-10-22T21:32:00.005-04:00

There was a woman walking down the street, minding her own business and appearing to enjoy the view of a beautiful day and peaceful surroundings. She was moving along at a comfortable pace when her toe caught on something and she fell directly to the ground with no time even to break her fall. She skinned her chin and was splayed about across the ground for several moments before she actually realized what had happened – one moment she was moving along and enjoying the moment and the next she was bloodied and sore. I saw this woman fall – and in my own split second moment opted to join her on the ground rather than simply lend her a hand because I thought it was a rare opportunity to see the world from a different angle.

Dear reader, have you scrolled back and re-read that first paragraph wondering if you are over tired or, perhaps, inebriated? You have not lost your mind, it is gibberish but, I implore you to see the hidden message in it. It offers a means of finding joy in life when there may be times that it seems as though joy doesn’t exist – like when your toddler goes from content-normal to demon-aggressor while you wasted your time on a necessary blink, or when you can’t seem to recognize that you are happy in your home despite that fact that it is never clean!!!

Let’s look at the world from a different angle every now and then. I can remember clearly a day in which my then-toddler would not relent – she had to be on me, near me, of me for every-second-of-the-day and I needed to prepare her meal or visit the loo or – most likely – leave the room to stomp, kick and curse my way out of the frustration box that I found myself in!!! No matter how I reasoned – be it calmly one moment, through clenched teeth the next, or in an elevated tone of voice with waving arm accompaniment – she would not relent. Then I had a split second of wisdom (I was even shocked by this) that told me to simply sit still. Clearly nothing that I could do as a parent was going to push her through this cling-on day so I had to admit defeat, I mean, realize and accept that there could be worse curses to my day than to hold my child through the times that she needed that security. Perhaps, if I got down on the ground (see above gibberish) I could actually turn this into a ‘different angle’.

In that moment, life slowed down – as did my heart rate and stress – and I took it for what it was. Nothing else would get my attention – only this time it was by choice rather than by force. And you know what – that was ok. We spend our time giving supportive advice to our friends / family / shadow that we so rarely adhere to ourselves! Take it easy on yourself. When you find yourself in a series of dead-end, head-against-the-wall moments just stand still and ask yourself which will cost the bigger price – the ranting, raving and no-win or the roll with it and be-damned approach. Not easy to put into practice admittedly but you have to try – new ideas or ways of being can't get through the door if you don’t open it first.

Next time you see someone fall to the ground - and these opportunities don't happen often so grab it when it does! - why not lay yourself down and see the world from that angle. It's an opportunity for a different view that you may never have had otherwise.

Let me know if you try it - either laying on the ground or, more practically simply stopping the rant and accepting – and what was the result. Good or bad, I want to hear it…post a comment below.

Happy HallowGRE'EN

2008-10-17T19:30:00.002-04:00

by Guest Blogger Margot Stevens of A Party Shade of Green

I've been tossing around in my head what would be the greenest option for a costume for my son for this Hallowe'en. I have found an endless list of options for homemade costumes on the internet. I have found the best options for homemade costumes to be those that take advantage of clothes the child already owns, or can be purchased second-hand, and modified. Last year, I was able to put together a scarecrow costume with clothing he was already wearing, a plaid shirt and overalls, to which I sewed patches and yarn "straw", all of which could be removed without damaging the clothes. The great thing about making him a costume out of his own clothes was that he was very comfortable, and barely realized he was wearing a costume.

This year, however, I was just not finding any inspiration this year in the clothes he already wears. So I went to a children's second-hand store, Kaleidescope Kids, and was able to get him a fuzzy dolphin costume for around $13. While I may bemoan the lack of creativity that may go along with store-purchased costumes, I very much appreciate the fact that many of them take the late October weather into mind, and come as warm jackets or one-piece, fleecy outfits. And since it is second-hand, and will be passed along to another friend next year, I think this is as environmentally-friendly as you can get for a costume. I just hope he likes it.

One of my most vivid Hallowe'en memories from when I was a kid was the last minute scramble for working flashlights. We lived in a rural area, and they were a necessity on Hallowe'en, but we never remembered this until after we were already in our costumes, and kids were already knocking at the door. I somehow remember my family having something like a dozen flashlights of various sizes, half of them completely dead, a couple with a little bit of juice, and then another couple that would start out bright, and then wain along the way, and the four of us kids arguing over who should have which one. This year, I'm planning ahead, and I will be stopping by Canadian Tire to pick up a Noma LED Shake Flashlight. No batteries, less than $20, shock resistant, waterproof, lifetime warranty, and it looks like it has received good reviews. I also think my 2 1/2 year old son will enjoy it as well, since for once I will be saying, "this adult-sized thing with lights and buttons - ya, shake it and push the button!" which I'm sure will be followed quickly with "No, not in my eyes!!"

For the other 364 days of the year, it will go in our emergency kit. Who am I kidding, for the rest of the year it will be in my son's toy cupboard. Maybe I should get two.

So next comes the candy - oh, so much candy. I don't think there is a way to stop it, and I don't really want to be the mom handing out raisins and sunflower seeds. Yet. Maybe I'll hand out toothbrushes. One option I have been using in goody bags are Yummy Earth lollipops, which are organic, naturally coloured and flavoured, and free of gluten, tree nuts and peanuts, so they are safer for people with allergies. And as product research, I tasted them all, and yes, they are very yummy. Since I ordered them bulk over the internet, they were much less expensive than buying Hallowe'en candy retail. There is still all the wrappers to go in the garbage, but I'm not sure there is a way around this, until corn-based, biodegradable plastics make it into the wrapper business.

The last thing I plan to do to keep Hallowe'en as green as possible is to convert a reusable grocery bag into my son's candy carrier. I'll be using one of Loblaw's black bags, since it is a good size for a 2 1/2 year old to carry, but also comfortable for me to carry over my shoulder when he gets tired. I'm sure he will be coming home with a number of Hallowe'en themed crafts from day care. I plan to take one of them, mount it on a piece of cardboard and trim it to 7 inches square (just big enough to cover the grocery bag's logo design), attach a couple loops of string to the top of it, and tie the strings to the bag's handles, so the picture hangs down over the logo. Voila, mobile art, a sturdy candy carrier, and a bag that is being reused, and will be reusable again.

Margot is the founder of A Party Shade of Green, providing parents with environmentally-friendly alternatives for kid's parties.

Tots & Tuna A.K.A. I Hate Cooking

2008-10-15T14:34:00.010-04:00

I hate cooking - truly, hate cooking. I cook out of necessity and not for joy. I cook because my daughter is hungry. I cook because it's a hard task to ignore.

In my previous life - otherwise known as pre-child days - I could get away with a lovely take out, or a make-it-yourself attitude. My husband often obliged because he prefers his meal to be edible. His own family were quite at ease in the kitchen - creating, with ease, simple and tasty masterpieces that would amuse his senses. I am not of his family. For almost 20 years his mother has been supportive and enthusiastically advising me of culinary creations and for almost 20 years, it has been going in one ear and out the other (sorry Marlene).

In truth, my disinterest in cooking stems from a life-long lack of kitchen confidence. My own mother was a "chef" (definition of chef = can make a lump of stale bread into a steaming and delectable casserole) and I could not EVER compare. My own bumblings would pale next to hers and her discreet and kind pieces of advice and direction, to me, only pointed out my shortcomings. I'll see a therapist some day.

Now, in having a child who requires nourishment - I have become an avid recipe collector. I may or may not do anything with the recipe once I've collected it - but the option is there. I do enjoy taking an interest in recipes whereas I used to rifle past them and only note the picture. Now, I might pause - review the "Time to Prepare" and scan the ingredients list. If the "Time to Prepare" exceeds 30 minutes - my attention is already lost. If it meets my attention deficit, then the ingredients list is the next thing - all items must be familiar to a commoner like me. If there is an ingredient list that I must google to identify - that recipe is NOT being torn from it's current housing.

My pile of recipes grows each month - there is no rhyme nor reason for it - simply a pile that boasts only the accolade that it is "Recipes". Not "Main Dish", not "Fun For Kids" - just "Recipes". Once a month, I'll sit on the floor with my pile and flip through it like a deck of cards - pulling out a dozen that look appealing for that season, that meal or, frankly, my mood. From that dozen-or-so, I put one or two on the fridge for the week - setting my chef-goal at the "try-this-one-out" level. A goal, I'm proud to say, that is often reached. One or two recipes is not too intimidating and having already screened these offerings for "Time to Prepare" and "Familiar Ingredients" factors, they are approachable and safe for me. Life is a lot easier - I don't beat myself about the head with shame - for not creating meals or, if created, not presenting meals that are edible without wincing. In fact, my husband has become an active player in this adventure - engaging in dialogue throughout the meal regarding that recipes attributes or deficits. He has learned, good man, to phrase the deficits in a kind and supportive manner -

Husband: "Honey, what do you think of this recipe? Are you enjoying it too?"
Me: "Well, for a first run, I find it a bit bland. I think next time I'd jazz it up with some more seasonings etc"
Husband: "I agree - it's a good foundation, but would definitely benefit from some of your famous TLC"

Overall, a conversation that is well-phrased and does not invite a launch from my seat to tear off his face and then slap him with it.

I am very pleased to feed my daughter - whether she eats it or not is another post - because I do believe that nurturing your children includes the food you feed them. I want her to enjoy her meals - for the company as much as for the quality - and be physically healthy and happy. I will continue my pattern of recipe collection on her behalf and face my kitchen demons silently inside my head. Both my therapist in future and my MIL will be happy.

On a side note, I do enjoy a good egg-on-the-face gag as well as anyone even when the face dripping the egg is my own and the origin of the gag is my also mine. Therefore, I must admit that the event that precipitated this post topic is, in fact, taken from my own life last night – because I believe that I’ve reached a never-to-be-repeated low causing both embarrassment, as well as, gagging. I was shocked and appalled to realize I was seated across from my hubby at the dinner table last night while he munched...tater tots and tuna. In all honesty, I have to seriously review the evening to trace the path that led to such an atrocious meal. Can you call it a meal? Please consider in my explanation 4 facts – after-school swim lessons, my hubby’s birthday-the-next-day-shopping-to-do, an empty pantry (I have no idea where the tater tots in the freezer came from because I’ve never purchased them???) and a sense of deep exhaustion. The tater tots were my first effort to create a “Brunch-like” dinner – omelets, tots and crusty loaf but I had to run out of the house to get the birthday shopping done while the tots were toasting. By the time I returned from the speed shopping, I could care less about creating an omelet and opted to ignore the tots entirely. Did I mention that my stomach was in knots? A possible oncoming flu?

So I browse my empty pantry and thank my stars for the foresight I had last week in purchasing that can of tuna – for no reason other than “it can’t hurt to have a spare can of tuna” and I decide to make a toasted tuna sandwich. Did I mention exhaustion? Mid way into opening the tin, my energy drained out through my feet and took what little appetite along with it so I left the tuna half-prepared on the counter and walked away. Being as I’d fed my daughter when we arrived home from swimming – an appropriate and well-rounded meal I might add – and I assumed and/or trusted that my husband could fend for himself to find something, I opted to forget a meal for myself and trust that my appetite would bring me downstairs for a late-night bowl of cereal in a couple hours. Don’t worry, I checked to ensure there was milk in the fridge. So…I’m not eating but I sit down at the table with my hubby who has scrounged something onto a plate. I come out of my lethargy long enough to focus on his selection…cold tots, half-prepared tuna and a slice of crusted toast. Now that, good people, is fecking awful.

In times when there is no dignity, laughter can often be heard…

Hey, if you feel up to it...send me a recipe you like, I'd love to try it - or, perhaps, you've your own dinner disaster - blogentry@gingerbreadlane.ca

Happy Thanksgiving Advice Column

2008-10-08T17:51:00.002-04:00

The Canadian Thanksgiving weekend is upon us and are a big part of the weekend. Do you enjoy a holiday dinner? Travel to visit family? A day off with the kids?

We found this neat site that explains the holidays origins - if you ever wondered about it - Kidzworld: Canadian Thanksgiving - a fun sight for our older kids to explore a little as well, perhaps while you're cooking turkey!

With my husband, we found that once our daughter was born, we really wanted to begin our own set of traditions that was meant just for her. My husband and I enjoyed our parents traditions for us and didn't have the whole holiday spent traveling - let us repeat this for our own child. This meant, in turn, that traveling to each grandparents house to feast was not feasible. My parents are divorced and that makes 3 families to visit! My husband and I decided that our own holiday 'day' was to be reserved for only the 3 of us - to enjoy some valued time together (in our pajamas if we wished!) as our hectic lives don't really allow for such quiet time very often. The additional days of the holiday weekend can then be spent visiting 1 or 2 of the 3 respective grandparent families. Whichever family was omitted from this particular holiday's visits, gets first dibs on the next one. Fortunately, we have family that is fairly understanding of this arrangement - albeit occasionally disappointed when it's their turn to sit-it-out. It has proven successful in decreasing our holiday stress - the stress that comes from trying to do too much out of obligation / desire but not really fully enjoying it because you are tired/exhausted/"fill in the blank". We do the same at Christmas - Christmas day is ours alone (definitely pajamas this day!) and we spread family visits over Christmas Eve Day, Boxing Day and the week between Christmas and New Years. It's working out quite nicely and makes for fewer and fewer guilt-inducing conversations with grandparents requesting each year to have everyone at their place. They know that we divide the holidays according to our own abilities and fairly to their wishes.

With all this said, as always, I'm keen to share advise on "how to..." - and would love to hear your stress-relief plans for this Thanksgiving. Post your comments below and we'll call it the Thanksgiving Advice Column - GBL-style!

Kids Recipes - Blueberry Pancakes

2008-10-07T21:25:00.005-04:00

Can you picture yourself in an apron? Or perhaps, dusted lightly with flour or cocoa? Whatever the outcome, it's fun baking / cooking with your kids and it sets the stage for helpful tots in the kitchen if they are made comfortable and confident now. No pressure! I speak from a kitchen-resistant background - I really do cook out of necessity versus a desire to create from scratch any culinary delight. In order to make anything even remotely edible, I use recipes...love 'em...would be doubled over in gastric agony without 'em...

So, I found this sight for kids recipes that I think is pretty grand - Kids Health, Recipes for Kids

and one such recipe enjoyed from here which also made for a slow-paced and thoroughly engrossing Saturday morning with my daughter was the Blueberry Pancakes. Recipe seen below:

Blueberry Pancakes (Home Made)
Prep time: about 20 minutes

Ingredients:

* 3/4 c. flour
* 1 tbsp. sugar
* 1 tsp. baking powder
* 1/2 tsp. salt
* 1 tbsp. margarine
* 1 egg
* 3/4 c. milk
* 1/2 c. blueberries, washed and drained
* extra margarine for the pan

Utensils:

* stove (You'll need help from your adult assistant.)
* large bowl
* mixing spoon
* saucepan
* medium-size bowl
* whisk
* measuring cups and spoons
* spatula

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set the bowl aside.
2. Melt the margarine in a small saucepan.
3. Crack the egg into a medium-size bowl, then add the milk and melted margarine.
4. Whisk until everything is well mixed.
5. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture. Whisk again until both mixtures are blended together.
6. Put extra margarine in the saucepan and heat it on the stovetop on medium heat. It is hot enough when the margarine starts to bubble.
7. Use a measuring cup or a small ladle to spoon the batter into the pan. Put some blueberries on top of each pancake.
8. Cook your pancakes on medium heat until small bubbles appear on the top.
9. Use a spatula to see when your pancakes are light brown on the bottom. When they are, flip them over with the spatula.
10. Cook for another few minutes until the pancakes are light brown on the other side.
11. Remove your pancakes and put them on plates to enjoy!

Serves: 2

Serving size: 3 or 4 medium pancakes

Please note, that this will leave your kitchen an absolute disaster and it's advised that you save your daily shower until after - you've made the pancakes. Don't be deterred - the best kind of fun always has a light dusting of flour...

Humour Your Children

2008-10-05T18:22:00.002-04:00

Knock, knock…
Who’s there?
Banana…

Some of the happiest and most memorable times I’ve spent with my daughter are those in which we’ve been laughing – over the crazy, little, silly things that fill up our day – like, bum quacks and pizza beards. I grew up in a family in which my father’s side of the family were all jokesters – loving a good egg-on-the-face, twist-of-the-words laugh and I hold many fond memories of get-togethers with them. I also remember reaching an age in which I not only laughed at their quips but began to experiment with throwing a few of my own back at them and receiving a laugh in return. I was so happy and proud of myself for causing a laugh!!

This joviality only grew as I did and I learned to enjoy spreading a laugh to my friends, to my teachers and, truthfully, for myself. The world seemed a lighter place if I could find the humour in it. This foundation served me very well when, as a young adult, I entered into the field of Child & Youth Work – working directly with some very behaviourally challenging teens. When there were many an escalating situation, there were times that I could successfully diffuse it with a fun retort or observation. I’m also certain that humour is a large part of why my husband married me – I’ll let you draw your own conclusions to that statement.

Now I find myself as a weary parent of a three-year old daughter who has been witty even before she had expressive language. I recall a day very clearly when she was an infant and nursing on the breast. Often, when nursing, I found myself simply watching her – observing her expressions, and noting every single little body part – ‘what an adorable little ear’, ‘look how she hugs in real close’, ‘can you believe how big her feet are?’ In developing this habit of staring while she ate, I hadn’t realized that she’d grown accustomed to being observed and one day, my attention drifted away from her cozied form and began gazing around the room instead. Didn’t I hear a little ‘humph’ and I looked down to her to see her smile and squirm with glee for having successfully called my attention back to her! Too funny! She was used to being observed and I laughed out loud when I realized what she’d done – this only caused further smiles and squirms from her in response. Well, I’ll be darned – my infant has a sense of humour!!

In my daughter’s toddler years, I must admit, humour was often lost on her. For example, the term “bum quack” came from a rather duck-like sound discharged from her posterior – I laughed and said that sounded like a bum quack. Didn’t she immediately turn around with a look of terror! She thought there was a duck behind her! I did not wish to terrify my daughter, but I had to laugh even harder and I continued to use the term ‘bum quack’ with all future incidents of toddler flatulence and I’m pleased to say it’s paid off. Quincy can ever so gently break wind and chuckle with “excuse me, I quacked’ and honestly, this is a lot less embarrassing in the grocery store than other obvious statements.

Now, let’s leave the inconsequential and move into the – how-does-this-help-me-as-a-parent realm. As she moved headstrong into her preschool years her fierce sense of independence and pride developed much more. It became beneficial to give or, quite honestly, take a time out for certain challenging situations. What I found though, in doing so, is that my daughter inherited equal portions of stubborn from both my husband and myself – poor tart. This could make a time out both lengthy and tedious. Enter humour. Once the angst has safely passed and your tot is now sitting there simply out of spite, humour can be a very cathartic and healing quality to move the situation forward from frustrating to memorable. An example from my very own home – Quincy (and I) take a time out on the bottom step as it is visible from all angles but far enough away from stimulus as to prove effective. She has spent at least 3 times the necessary beneficial time on the step but was unwilling to move past her pride and return to any other fun task. I didn’t wish to make it another power struggle and I’d rather simply move into our chat about “what was that all about anyway?” Well, the cat sauntered into the room and I promptly disguised my voice into a rather mickey mouse sounding likeness and asked “Quincy, I’m tired and my kitty bones ache, can I have my step back? I’d like to rest there” as though our cat was making a personal request. Quincy looked at the cat, then looked at me – was that a smirk I saw? I didn’t stick around to find out as I sensed her pride would have won out and she’d replace the smirk with an almighty frown if I paid it too much attention. My use of humour and my respect for her pride allowed for her to take a moment to enjoy the joke, then rise from the step unprompted and join me in the kitchen chirping in her own mickey mouse voice “could I have a drink, my kitty mouth is dry” and we proceeded to play-cat throughout dinner prep – a day that I continue to remember fondly.

Parents, I implore you to take a moment and crack a joke with your tots. At the end of our day, we’ll remember those moments best and be able to overlook all the other moments in which we were red-faced and frustrated. Your little one may also learn methods in which s/he might manage her own life frustrations or stresses a little better – whenever possible laugh it off! I know when life hands me lemons, I try to bite in and make a funny face…and that has made all the difference.

PS. Pizza Beard Definition – when you have inadvertently left a piece of your pizza slice on your chin. Most humorous when you are completely unaware of it.

Share a story of your own family fun - either as a comment below or submit your own story to blogentry@gingerbreadlane.ca and we'll post it here

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-02T18:23:00.004-04:00

by Guest Blogger Sharon Devellis

October is here with its crisp mornings, a crispness that reminds me of that first bite into a freshly picked apple. The trees stand tall filled with bright coloured leaves like a proud peacock spreading its tail and slowly they start to fall to the ground reminding us of the winter that is to come.

It's also the month that makes me break out in a cold sweat and lay in bed at night fearful of sleep because of the nightmares that will come. Halloween is quickly approaching and lying in his bed on the level below me, sleeping and happily dreaming of the mounds of candy soon to come is my son, The Asker of Impossible Costumes.

It seems like a simple concept. Ask your child what they would like to be for Halloween, they give you an answer and you go to your local big box store and buy it. From the stories I've been told, this is how it actually works in most families.

Well Most Families - I've got a word for you. Two actually. Terry Fox.

This is what Adam wants to be this year. Terry Fox.

Terry Fox?

What the hell is that? What six year old asks to be Terry Fox? What happened to being Superman or a Ninja or a policeman? I'd be happy to dress him up as Michael Myers complete with hockey mask and knife if it would allow me to buy his costume. Because this isn't the first year he's asked for an impossible costume. Oh no - we're now approaching year three of Costumeous Impossiblitus.

Three years ago, it was a pick-up truck. Specifically a yellow pick-up truck with working doors. It took me a month to come up with the idea, sketch it, get the materials, assemble it and paint it - late into the night silently cursing the mothers of children with plastic masks and capes. I managed the yellow. He's still getting over not having working doors. He reminds me of this quite often.

The following year, I was smart and asked him in August what he would like to be. Ha! I am a mother! I will not be beat! Two months is enough time to complete any costume!

What would you like to be Adam?

Either a light bulb or a smoke detector but I think I'd prefer to be a light bulb mum.

What the fuck? Seriously. I need to repeat that. What the fuck?

I wasted the first two weeks of August trying to convince Adam that he would make the most awesomest, coolest, bestest, bad-ass, catch every bad guy who ever lived, super policeman in the whole wide world!!!!!! He could even carry a gun! A gun! Mummy never lets you play with guns! And for Halloween, this one special day, you can carry one! So whaddya say Adam? Wanna be a policeman?

Hmmph - well that was a complete waste of time.

Once I accepted the fact that Adam was going to be a light bulb, I got to work on a plan. And I must say, it was a beautiful plan. One that involved large pieces of sponge, glow-in-the-dark paint and tinfoil. A masterpiece that would have made Thomas Edison proud. Only Adam came to me a week later to say he would prefer to be a smoke detector. One with a green light and siren. Oh, and it must be round mummy. Not a rectangle one.

Sometimes I wonder how frustrating it must be for the 40 year old man trapped inside Adam's little body.

And that brings us to this year. To Terry Fox.

I'm all for encouraging Adam to raise money for cancer - he's raised $300 so far and I'm his biggest cheerleader. But how the hell am I supposed to make a fake leg? Because when Adam asks for a costume, it needs to be detailed. "How can I be Terry Fox if I don't have a fake leg mummy?

So I'll leave it with you dear readers - how does one go about creating a fake Terry Fox leg?

Feel free to email me at sharond@cogeco.ca if you have any ideas 'cause I'm at a loss and the clock is ticking.

And next year, let's discuss why there are only slutty Halloween costumes available for women. Ladies - we need to revolt. No woman over 30 should need to squeeze her body into a Vixen Pirate Wench costume.

Visit Sharon's Blog - Motherhood: The Ultimate Survivor and Sharon Devellis: The Inside Scoop

Can We Make a Pumpkin Pie Mommy? (Recipe Included)

2008-09-22T16:22:00.006-04:00

I have discovered that, as my child ages (she's now 3) her expectations of me also increase. It is fall and along with these cooler days comes seasonal decorations that include pumpkins. Gorgeous little pie pumpkins that are a perfect size for my daughter to hold. Accompanying this gesture of veggie affection is a a complementary vocabulary - for example "can we make pumpkin pie Mommy?" Imagine, if you will, my facial expression the first time this is uttered... Make pumpkin pie...hmmm...sure honey!

What am I thinking? I'm no baker and am quite honest about this culinary deficit but when your own child looks you in the face with such glee and you, yourself, have very fond memories of your own mother baking up sheer masterpieces, you wish to give this same dessert foundation experience to your own offspring. "Sure honey - let's make pie!"

Then comes a good 5 to 7 days of frenzied requests to friends for a recipe and/or a frantic search through your own mental rolodex of "can't-do-it" excuses. No excuse seems sufficient and you've got to keep the "big ones" for situations that truly merit them (example - "no we can't have Christmas at Grandma's house this year - how will Santa know where to deliver surprises?")

Alas, if any of you are crazy enough to commit to such obligations, I thought I could at least provide you a recipe. Let me know how your pie turns out...

Pumpkin pie (from fresh pumpkin)

Ingredients:
2 cups mashed cooked pumpkin
12 oz Carnation milk
2 eggs lightly beaten
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp each cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt

Preparation:
PREHEAT OVEN TO 400F 1/2 pumpkin, scoop out seeds and stringy portions. Cut into chunks and boil in about 1 inch of boiling water, Drain, cool and remove peel. Mash, drain well again. Roll out crust and transfer to pie pan. With mixer on medium, beat pumpkin with evaporated milk, eggs, brown sugar and spices. Mix well. Pour into crust. Bake 40 minutes or until knife inserted 1 inch from edge comes out clean

Servings: 8

Thank you to http://www.canadianliving.com/food/pie__pumpkin_pie_from_fresh_pumpkin.php for providing the recipe :)

Random Marble

2008-09-20T22:07:00.002-04:00

I just stepped on a marble as I was walking across the floor and I’m not sure if it’s one that my daughter left behind or, perhaps, one of the few remaining ones lost from my own head. Either way, I picked it up and put in my pocket. You can never be too safe.

I Miss My Period

2008-09-16T17:15:00.004-04:00

What!? What??? Does this imply good news? A great surprise? A sick sense of self-loathing..?? Close that thought - wipe your mind clear of any preconceived notions - and consider this. I miss the period at the end of my sentences.

What?! This woman's ticking nuts - what the pink twill does she mean?

I waited a long time for my toddler to talk. At least it felt like a long time because she came out of the womb frustrated that she didn't have full expressive language! Until she could begin to express herself verbally she was a wailing, screaming dervish and once she began to articulate words, her dervish dropped off significantly and a collective breath of relief passed through our household instead.
Throughout this extended phase, a number of veteran parents would say - "first you are praying for them to talk, then you are praying for them to be quiet". Yes, indeed.

Now, my daughter is a toddler - in fact, moving into her "preschool" years and her chatter is welcome but incessant. There are whole days in which I've not heard the end of a single sentence that I've started - and I miss my period. I would find that punctuation-of-pause a relief - "yeah, a finished thought!" My daughter's mind, and now her mouth, runs from thought to thought enthusiastically and it's not so much about the individual thought itself but more about the opportunity to explore so many thoughts in toddler "real time". "Toddler real time" is - for every one adult second, there are 4.2 toddler seconds and for each toddler second there is an independent and unique thought. Within our one second or one effort to speak or respond, our toddler is already onto another thought - or 4.2 several. We are left with our mouth hanging open or our tongue bit in frustration and a slightly louder voice with our next barely-there response. Sigh...

It's fun to sit back and simply watch our little one's brain at work...wow!! Slow down!! Child, you're going to self-destruct with the infinite possibilities playing tennis in your head! In the meantime parents, know that you will (eventually) and with great patience and repeat interuptions, teach your child social graces - like allowing a person to finish their sentence - period!

Know what I mean? Leave a comment below - I won't interrupt I promise.

How Do You Recharge?

2008-09-12T14:39:00.016-04:00

I'm wondering if that is actually my own drooping eye-bags that I feel resting against my cheeks...

It's been a busy two weeks of transitioning back to school along with all the normal "crazy-ness" and I'm wondering where I'll find a moment to recover some of my waning energies. Each day feels as though I am beginning a packed-full day on a half-full tank. It is not a complaint - I lead a full and productive life. I am merely pondering - as my lower eyelids rest comfortably on my face - what can I cram into an already busy lifestyle that is purely self-indulgent. A hobby perhaps...

It's got me thinking - why not think something so simple as a hobby to death - that I wonder what other people do for fun, to unwind, or to give yourself a moment (or several) of simple pleasure.

Do you scrapbook?

Enjoy a glass of wine?

A nice cup of tea?

A jog?

Some rock wall climbing?

Read a good book?

Catch up on some blogs?

My mind literally becomes overwhelmed with possibilities and I'm left unmotivated to start any one of them...where would I begin? I'm seeking a way to form a new habit that is purely meant to sooth and nurture my spirit, so I can appreciate this life's journey a little more - feel like I have a say in it rather than feel that I'm being pushed around by it. How do you begin a new hobby? Give me some ideas...

I'm a firm believer (read previous posts) that breaking tasks down into simple steps is an easy way to get things done - without excuses that "there's no time!". But I need some inspiration so I ask you - the reader - this...

1) what can you suggest as indulgent hobbies? something you've enjoyed or, perhaps, something you've always been curious to try?

2) what has stopped you from finding and participating in a hobby?

3) what advise would you give me to get started?

I'd like to see your comments. This could be a grand starting point as a motivational tool in all of our crazy, overworked lives!

I gently push my saggy eyelids back into their rightful place, take a deep affirming breath and click "post"...

Cheers to the Apple Season - Recipe

2008-09-08T10:04:00.002-04:00

In the 'Spirit' of Apple Season
Did you think it was going to be a back-to-school lunch box or dinner time recipe? We've enough of those I think - now, let's raise a glass to the season and a couple more gray hair earned in the transition -

Sour Apple Martini Recipe
3 oz. Lemon Lime Juice
3 oz. Apple Juice
1 oz. Dekuyper Sour Apple Pucker Schnapps (R)
1 oz. Absolut Vodka (R)

Directions: In a tall glass with ice, add two alcohols and then the apple juice and soda. Stir and enjoy!

Have your own martini recipe? Send it to info@gingerbreadlane.ca and we will post it on the blog

Transition Back to School

2008-09-05T16:45:00.002-04:00

Guest Blogger - Andriana Mantas, Collaborative Minds

September brings along many changes with children attending schools or child care programs. Whether this is your child’s first year of school or re-entering the same school in a different classroom, many emotions and events are occurring both for you and your child. Some of these might be: will he/she socialize? Will the teacher be receptive to my child’s needs? Will he/she be able to acclimatize? Children naturally gravitate to other peers as part of the stages of play development. Having open dialogue with your child’s teacher is important. This can occur at the end of the day or you may choose a communication book. Regardless of their age, prepare your child and allow them to bring a favourite item from home.

How to ease the transition from summer holidays to school mode? It is important to create a consistent routine or schedule of events. First and foremost, establish routines that can be easily implemented for you and your family. Routines cater to the needs of the family offering good communication, identifying items of importance and promoting a sense of togetherness. Routines help families to organize themselves as in morning drop off or evening pick up. Children appreciate the consistent activity and predictability that routines provide. Begin by setting up an after-school routine which ends with bed-time. Try to include low key activities towards the end of the day and provide warnings as the family moves into the next activity. For example, “after this game, it’s bath time.” Keep routines consistent and follow them daily, even on the week-ends.
And if you have yet to find suitable child care arrangements, what options do you have? First decide if you prefer a location close to home or place of work. Some options are a child care centre or nursery school, home care provider, and nanny.

When deciding upon a child care centre or nursery school, conduct telephone interviews, inquire about availability, age range, teacher-child ratio, teacher qualifications, understanding the program schedule outlining the schedule in more detail, nutrition, number of years in service, licensing and hours of operation, then go out for a visit. More information can be found at www.children.gov.on.ca If a home care provider is preferable, the search can be made via an agency or on your own. By visiting the home and meeting the provider, ensure that the learning environment is supportive and conducive to your child. Having a Nanny could also pose a viable solution. There are agencies that represent Nannies or the selection can be done independently. Once again take the time to meet and interview all potential nannies who will be able to meet the needs of your child.

Knock, Knock...Socks Here

2008-09-02T12:57:00.005-04:00

Perish the thought - am I jumping ahead a little? I packed my daughter for her first day of school today and, fortunately, it is a beautiful sunny day and sandals were our footwear of choice. As I was strapping up, a moment of forethought brought the realization that our sandal days are numbered. Soon, fall and, perish the thought, winter will be upon us, and sandals will be retired or, if worn as intensely as mine, discarded entirely. Sock drawers will be rummaged through - a sigh exhaled over the tired selection and shoes will be withdrawn from their closeted hibernation. Subconsciously, as I write this, my toes have stretched themselves in unusual directions as though already escaping the confines of sock and shoe. Let's pause for a moment of reflective, toe-polished silence...

Now, I believe in getting my life organized in small reasonable chunks. In fact, I have learned this method through years (and years and years) of watching my mother, myself and most friends that I know, experience intense and heart-pounding moments (ney, days) of frustrations because we "can't get it all done", "can't get caught up", "can't get enough help", "can't ________(you place your own complaint)". We can go for years, perhaps our entire lifetime, of not realizing that it's not, in fact, the time/help/circumstance factor that is causing such chaos and disorder in our lives - it is only us. Yes, you. Know that this is no criticism - I don't believe in kicking someone when they're down - it is meant to be the pep talk that I think we've all needed at some point in our lives - as we weep over the mountain of laundry that appears to clone itself, as we curse over the piled up bills that won't file themselves and as we wail to any victim passing within earshot and yet unable to hear. My suggestion, as it pertains to the transition from sandals to socks is this - don't go into the closet believing that the closet needs to be "cleaned up", that the winter clothes shopping needs to be done 'right now!" (save that as a reward for later) and that the bag of donations must be delivered today or the poor sods will freeze - otherwise, this simple transition has already taken on astronomical proportions and your heart rate has already gone up in a non-positive fashion. Busy families can grab 5 minutes at a time, at best, so work with that...

Enter the sock drawer and purge. I am laughing out loud as I realize I knowingly wore mismatched socks last year. A charcoal gray and a light gray pair each lost their respective partners but I said to myself "there's still plenty of wear left in these close friends" and I kept the darn things. With a summer's worth of distance between myself and that stupid decision I can now enter my drawer, locate the not-quite-right pair and toss 'em. But don't stop there - bring the garbage can with you - purge the unsightly, holed, mismatched socks from each drawer in your home. It shouldn't take you more than 5 minutes if you keep yourself focused. Don't even think about opening the t-shirt drawers or, heaven forbid, your undies. Keep your eyes on your feet and plod on...

When you are finished, walk away - know that you have completed a part of the seasons preparatory tasks in a very reasonable time frame.

Break each step of this foot-garnishing ritual into 5-minute challenges. Get the kid(s) involved (if it will help the process rather than hinder it). Set a timer to add extra motivation to keeping it to five minutes and whether the task is done or not, walk away when the timer dings. I enjoy a favourite song rather than a timer because I find myself singing / dancing along and quite enjoying the moment - I walk away when the song is done. If you hit 'repeat' on the stereo, consider that you may have an obsessive-compulsive flaw and should possibly seek professional help.

Suggested 5-minute challenges to get the 'big task' done:
* Empty current closet of all summer wear discarding those too-worn sandals (please don't make me look at them again next year - are you trying to evoke pity from friends?) and keeping the in-good-shape ones in the closet still (gotta wear something until you pull warm shoes out, right?
* When you are next out on errands and anywhere near a clothing retailer (ex. getting diapers at Walmart) then swing around and pick up the socks that you need for the family. Don't get distracted - this is only supposed to add five minutes to your errand.
* Pull out warm footwear and purge too-ratty pairs from each member of the family - make mental note of what needs to be replaced. Give a vacuum or a sweep from their seasonally ignored location.
* When it is now consistently too chilly to hang onto the sandals, grab a laundry basket, pile the summer gear into it and dump about 2 feet away from the winter gears home. Transfer the winter gear into the basket, play a game of toss and match in that deep-closet location with the summer stuff and take the basket of the winter stuff to the most active closet and deposit it. Unless, your family is vigilant about lining things up (again, consider professional help) leave the darn things in a reasonable pile. There is a good chance that is the same pile you will see - and successfully retrieve - your own shoes from for the upcoming season and everyone else seems to do just fine too. Really, you must pick your battles and learn to let the small things go...

For the sake of variety in a day, you can incorporate a couple five-minute challenges from different parts of your home - winter clothes, packing away the outdoor furniture, clearing out the no-longer-used toys, etc so that you feel as though you are making progress in a few areas. As long as progress is made, stop beating yourself up over your unreasonable desire to get-it-all-done. Recognize your strengths - that you are attending to everything in an organized and do-able fashion - pat yourself on the back for that success and grab a coffee.

Send your sock drawer pictures to blogentry@gingerbreadlane.ca or post a comment below - and why not send in your own 5-minute challenge idea?

The Gingerbread Book Club

2008-08-30T15:37:00.004-04:00

I am a loyal fan to a good book - will tell everyone I know (within reasonable conversational opportunity) about a good read or a well-written thought. As part of our monthly Gingerbread Book Club I get to expand this conversation within a group and would like to bring that forum to you - our Gingerbread Lane Family Community. I keep posted on this blog the upcoming Book Club selections and would be thrilled if you would share your thoughts for any of the upcoming selections. I will keep posted a blog entry re: the Gingerbread Book Club to keep the conversation going. You are invited to comment - about the book posted or any that you see have been "clubbed" or will be "clubbed". Or, perhaps you have a recommendation of your own? Let me know - I love a good read...

Read It - Read It - Read It

For the month of September, I'm keen to share "A Thousand Splendid Suns" by Khaled Hosseini. Mr. Hosseini has the ability to tell a story with maturity and detail that I find refreshing. The story provides a personal connection to the main characters that develops into a close bond by the end of the story. Truthfully, I often found myself hesitant to pick the book up at night (I read at bedtime) as I had a preconceived notion that the content was dry and slow-moving. How pleasantly wrong I was!! I had to admit to myself by about mid-novel that despite my hesitancy to engage, once I began reading - within the first paragraphs in fact - I was drawn back to the story and continued enthralled much longer than my weary self would have/should have permitted.

The characters are 'full-bodied' people who you can see with greater physical and emotional clarity as Mr. Hosseini shares their story. You find Mariam and Laila's story overlapping in the most tragic and obvious of ways - are you thankful that they did? I am angered by the circumstance and history of the story - the brutal war and social situation that the characters lived throughout - it's a story I was naively unaware of. I found a unique respect and sorrow for Mariam and still think of her in the days following the completion of my reading.

I greatly appreciate when an author tells a story intelligently without the over-the-top hype that spoon feeds readers (and more commonly move-goers) the small details of the story. Mr. Hosseini allows the reader to develop their own emotion or attachment as he unfolds details, history and personality. I encourage you to read this book - at some point in your life - to enjoy a truly intelligent and compelling read.

Please post your Book Club comments below:
Did you like this book? Didn't like it at all?
Have a book you'd like to recommend?
Want to offer your own thoughts about A Thousand Splendid Suns?

The Momoir Project & Motherhood Revelations

2008-08-25T09:28:00.010-04:00

A couple hobbies of mine are to read and to write - I enjoy seeing how writers string their thoughts together in creative ways. That why this posting in the Today's Parent September Issue caught my attention. I wondered how many other parents have recorded their child's and perhaps, their own parental, experiences and wondered about sharing them - perhaps even more formally than a blog-amongst-family. Here are two ideas to get the ideas flowing...

Are you interested in putting your motherhood experience into writing? Then the Momoir Project is for you. These writing coursed, currently held in Vancouver and Toronto, are led by established writers, including Today's Parent contributors Randi Chapnik Myers and Cori Howard. Not in Toronto or Vancouver? There are also online courses. For more information about schedules and courses, go to themomoirproject.com

Thank you to Today's Parent for this exciting suggestion!

Also, we've been keen to promote this funny gal and Ginger Mail contributor - Sharon Devellis, blogger (Motherhood: The Ultimate Survivor) and writer.

"I’m tired. I’m tired of reading books written by experts that tell me how I should be raising my children. I’m tired of reading about these so-called “Mommy Wars” and how we’re all competing against one another. I’m tired of judgements. I’m tired of comparisons. I’m tired of reading about who’s better…the mother who works outside the home or the mother who stays home full time. What I want and what I think other mothers want, is a book written about mothers, by mothers. What I want is the truth. And I want you to help me."

To read more about Sharon's Motherhood Revelations project please read on...

And, of course, our own Gingerbread Lane Family Community blog welcomes guest bloggers on any topic family-related - send your post to info@gingerbreadlane.ca

Green is the New Back-to-School Colour

2008-08-21T20:41:00.006-04:00

It seems that each direction we turn, we are being reminded to minimize our environmental footprint to become more eco-friendly and aware. In addition to this repetitive (and necessary!) message, we're also being bombarded with back-to-school marketing "got to have ____", "can't do without ______", "get your kids this ______".

As I was standing in line with my own child's school clothes clutched tightly I had a moment of that eco-awareness and I thought I would share it with all the clothes-purchasing-parents out there...leave the hangers behind. Most times, childrens clothes are displayed on small plastic hangers and more often than not, the clothes are packed into your bag with the hangers along with them. Ask to leave the hangers behind, to be reused by the store. Do you really use them at home? Admittedly, I have a few in use in my daughter's closet but don't need a perpetually replenishing stock. I left the hangers behind.

Do you have any eco-friendly suggestions for back-to-school preparations? Post a comment below.

Unique Children

2008-08-18T22:42:00.003-04:00

by Guest Blogger Andriana Mantas, Collaborative Minds

As with any child, a child with special needs brings joy and challenges into each and every family situation. Whether this is your first, second or third child, know that each and every one of them is unique. The fact that we are all different, each of us with individual personalities and learning styles impacts our interactions -as a parent, how you interact with each of your children is highly dependant to a particular child and his/her needs. As you bond with your child and learn from one another, you will laugh, cry and play together- these foundational moments will help you better understand your child's needs and will make the relationship stronger between you and your family.

Upon learning that your child has special needs, you may experience of range of emotions, many of which are the result of venturing into the unknown. Allow yourself to feel the emotions that come forth. Parents commonly feel happiness, sorrow, relief, doubt, compassion, shame and acceptance. Do your best to look at the silver lining and embrace a sense of humour.

Treat your child like everyone else; make accommodations as necessary and try to remain balanced in your approach. Providing too much coddling can lead to unwanted behaviours. Ensure that your expectations are geared to developing your child's potential. Always celebrate every accomplishment, make a big deal out of every achievement.

In caring for your child, it is also imperative to take care of yourself, beginning with your weekly routine. Schedule time off for yourself as well as time with your spouse and do this without guilt or regret. Recruit help; involve grandparents, friends and neighbours. It's important to educate yourself and always remember that each child develops on an individual basis, so refrain from generalizing the information you obtain to your situation. The internet is a valuable source of information, but it can also be a tricky device overwhelming you with a vast amount of information that is very general. Take one day at time, as Anne Lammott said "You don't have to see where you're going, you don't have to see your destination or everything you will pass along the day. You just have to see two or three feet in front of you."

By accessing services, early intervention will enhance your child's development, provide assistance and support to your family and ultimately having your child participate in the community and schools just like everyone else. In the words of Marsha Forest - "There is only one criterion for inclusion. Breathing, life itself"

For more information, please contact Andriana Mantas of Collaborative Minds at 416-803-5321 or collaborativeminds@sympatico.ca Andriana is a writes the column "Pass Me An Issue" in the monthly Ginger Mail Newsletter. To receive Ginger Mail email info@gingerbreadlane.ca with your request.

Phenomenal Woman by Maya Angelou

2008-08-16T14:32:00.001-04:00

Phenomenal Woman

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It's the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can't touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them
They say they still can't see.
I say,
It's in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I'm a woman

Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

Maya Angelou

Family Life - Laundry

2008-08-13T22:10:00.004-04:00

Laundry – feel like a slave to it?

I’ve felt that my weekends have been consumed with laundry as I try desperately to see the bottom-of-the-basket if only for a sense of relief or “catch up”! Underneath this desperation is a low-grade anxiety and low-simmering resentment. I’d rather be outside. I’d rather be spending time with my daughter in a fun way. I’d rather be getting a root canal…

Having a child did NOT decrease the load – figuratively or literally – and rather than yelling at my toddler for being so messy (I’m a realist, and I realize they are messy!) I’d often turn my angst either overtly or passively against my spouse. Clean your own eff-in’ socks! Put your own freakin’ clothes away man! I’m not YOUR mother! To be fair, we have a reasonably equitable distribution of household tasks and the laundry is mine by choice. All the same, I feel like laundry’s bitch and I’ve yet to see the bottom of the damn basket!

Insert deep sigh here

I’ve developed, through no long term planning but entirely by fluke, a system that seems to be working and I thought I’d share it. Here it is in a few shorts steps:

a) DON’T do laundry on the weekends. You really need to commit to this – NO LAUNDRY ON WEEKENDS! The absolute only task for weekends is to ensure that all dirty laundry is gathered into laundry baskets. These said baskets can remained wherever they are stationed – in the closet, in the hall, in the way…

b) Starting Monday morning – bring the laundry baskets to your laundry room/area and dump. Sort into darks / lights piles and put first load into the washer to wash. Now, get on with your day – don’t look back – the laundry is not going anywhere and it will happily wait for your return later today.

c) Now, whether you are a working-outside-the-home mom or a working-inside-the-home mom you each have something (many somethings!) that seems to require all of your attention and most, if not all, of your minutes throughout the day. Attend to that stuff. At the end of that day – before you begin whatever you’ve planned for dinner – return to the laundry site and pop the washed (and patiently waiting) load of wet laundry into the dryer. Now walk away again…

d) After you’ve settled for the evening – kids are tucked in, house is quiet – fold that load, sorting into appropriate piles. You don’t have to put it away tonight. It can wait until the folded piles get a little higher and then you’re not packing away folded laundry over and over and over.

e) Next morning, repeat by putting next load into the washing machine – and walk away –

f) Your loads will very likely run out before the end of your week arrives. As part of the final efforts – when there’s no further loads in the morning or no further loads to fold, use the next step to put it all away at once and return the baskets to their stations. Now, the weekend is around the corner – commit to NO LAUNDRY – and get outside, spend some time fun time with you kid(s), book that root canal…

Random Tips:

• ensure you have more than enough laundry baskets. Nothing makes you feel like you MUST DO LAUNDRY when your one and a half baskets are full and you’re only on Tuesday. Get a 3rd, 4th or 5th basket – it’s worth the investment.

• Ensure you have enough underwear and socks to last 8 days. Nothing precipitates a resentment-filled laundry frenzy than an absolute need to good personal hygiene. Don’t stress, be realistic and allow yourself a week’s worth of clean gitch without the bitter resentment.

• Pay attention to laundry habits of your housemates and ask, without fingers wagging, for changes where it is appropriate. For example, I noticed that my hubby would remove his pj pants and tshirt and dump both in the dirty pile each day. Could he get another night (or two) wear out of the pants? Or, perhaps, the jeans that he wore that day are still in reasonable shape for another wear before laundering. Ask him to be more conscious of those things. He’s often asked “what can I do to help decrease your stress?” well, my dear, this is one small thing you can. How about the kid. How many outfits are worn / changed in a day? Did it all really need to be tossed in the laundry in exchange for spotless garb or could that tshirt from this morning with the spot of chocolate pudding on the front also be happily worn through the manic crafting session this afternoon also? Frankly, I think a splotch of pudding and a dollop of glitter could be considered ‘artistic’ and a healthy means of accounting for the days activities visually.

• Take a look – an honest I’m-not-making-excuses look – at your own compulsions. What has you determined – without success – to do it, do it, do it?? Really, does the stress feel good? Are you willing to let it go?

Get you thinking a new system for your house / life? I found it reiterated here: http://www.flylady.net/pages/FlyLaundry3.asp

Leave a comment – I’d love to hear from you!

Frozen Banana Pops & Banana Fudge Smoothie Recipes - Yummy Summer Snacks

2008-08-04T11:04:00.005-04:00

Banana Fudge Smoothie
Creamy and delicious, this smoothie is great for breakfast or a midday pick-me-up.

* 1½ cups fat-free or low-fat milk
* ½ cup soft silken low-fat tofu or yogurt
* 2 ripe medium bananas, frozen and cut into 1-inch chunks
* 2 tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder
* 1 teaspoon agave nectar or dark honey

Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. Serves 3.

Frozen Banana Pops
Yield: 12 servings

* 6 Firm ripe bananas
* 12 oz Semisweet chocolate pieces
* 6 tbsp Oil
* Colored sprinkles OR grated coconut OR coarsely ground nuts

Cut peeled bananas in halves crosswise.
Impale each half on wooden skewer
and place in freezer 1 hour or until frozen. (Coatings will run off if
fruit is at room temperature.)
Melt chocolate in top of double boiler over
hot, not boiling, water.
Add oil and stir until smooth. Keep warm over hot
water while dipping.
Remove bananas from freezer a few at a time.
Dip and roll bananas in melted chocolate, making sure all banana
surfaces are completely covered.
Gently shake or twirl banana before removing from pan
to remove excess coating.
While chocolate is still soft, roll covered
banana in colored sprinkles, coconut or nuts.
If coating becomes too hard to hold decorations,
apply a little warm coating to pop.
When covering sets, place pops on squares of foil,
wrap securely and store in freezer
until ready to eat.

Book Club "The Golden Compass" Trilogy & "The Secret Life of Bees"

2008-07-28T07:33:00.003-04:00

Another opportunity to chat about this lovely book...please join us on Wednesday August 6th to enjoy a comfortable chat about this grand story and fantastic author.

Or we have been enjoying the Golden Compass Trilogy...or have we...? Having just complete the final 20 pages last night, I am left with a sense of curiosity and relief. Curiosity about what it detailed and relief that I can now move onto a lighter book...

What did you think?

"Time For Bed"

2008-07-20T12:41:00.002-04:00

by Guest Blogger Andriana Mantas of Collaborative Minds

"Brush your teeth", "Read a book or two", "Take a bath" What do these snippets of conversation have in common? These tasks are all part of a cycle which we call the "bedtime routine". Sleep is a vital part of a child's growth and development, the proper amount of sleep gauges your child's overall happiness for the day. Children who do not get enough sleep often become irritable and may have temper tantrums. When a child is lacking sleep, they may find it difficult to interact with others and participate in their daily activities. Some children may view sleeping as an activity without any fun or purpose and will often feel like they are missing out.
The following are guidelines that can be tailored to meet the needs of your child and family: create a specific routine to follow every naptime and bedtime; follow your child's lead in creating bedtime routines, some children like a story and massage, whereas another child may prefer a story and lullaby; consistently follow the bedtime routines established with clear communication; develop simple, reasonable consequences if your child doesn't stick to the routine, for instance, we will read only one story instead of two; create a calming atmosphere prior to bedtime, eliminate distractions, and keep things low key once in bed; and let them have a favourite blanket, pillow, stuffed animal or doll as this may provide them with a feeling of security and assist to self soothe.

There has been much controversy around the issue of bedtime, including parents feeling guilty and inadequate. So it's 2:00 am and you have gone to comfort your child for the third time due to a nightmare. What do you do?
We begin to look for 'quick fixes' so that we can get back to our much needed sleep. Whether you decide to have your child join you in your bed or if you're jumping in to their bed, be prepared to follow through on many more nights after that as your child will expect this quite regularly. If possible, soothe your child without taking the next step of sleeping in each other's bed.

Exceptions to sleep routines should be rare even during the summer. Many changes to routines are occurring, school has ended, camp is starting, vacations will take place, trips to the cottage, family reunions and so on. You may ask yourself, how do we adhere to our bedtime routine? Keep it consistent, your children will appreciate it!

For more information, contact Collaborative Minds at 416-803-5321 or collaborativeminds@sympatico.ca

This article was composed for the Gingerbread Lane July Newsletter "Pass Me An Issue" Column to which Andriana is a in house contributor. To receive future Ginger Mail Newsletter, please forward your request to info@gingerbreadlane.ca

Baby Bookworms FREE Storytime STOPs

2008-07-13T14:21:00.004-04:00

Baby Bookworms, is a gorgeous children's book shop located in Streetsville Mississauga that offers FREE Storytime STOPS every Thursday night at 7pm. It's a BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket) event and offers grand stories, beautiful atmosphere and fun for everyone.

Gingerbread Lane is proud to support such a wonderful event and keenly support the shops proprietors Jane Parent and Marilyn Panton in their pursuit of literacy and family reading. Well done gals - we'll see you Thursday!

www.babybookworms.ca

The Joys of Being a Kid In the Summer

2008-07-06T13:23:00.002-04:00

The Joys of Being a Kid In The Summer
Guest Blogger - Sharon Devellis

Every year as summer approaches, I am hopeful and enthusiastic. What fun we'll have! I'll take the boys to the zoo, to the beach, to the museums. We'll play at parks and have picnics. Oh, the memories we'll create. They'll remember this summer as the Greatest! Summer! Ever!

But by about mid-July, having to entertain two young, energetic boys while enduring hot, humid weather meant to be found only in the Amazon jungles and removing sand imbedded in crevices that were clearly intended to be sand-free, my enthusiasm has waned and I'm left yearning for the good old days when doctors handed out valium like candy. There have been summertime days when I would ahve given my left arm for a visit from someone in the Pan family: Cousin Clonazepan, Auntie Lorazepan, Uncle Diazepan.

Last summer was one of the hottest summers on record, making it a challenge to take the boys places where they could: (a) have fun, (b) run around and burn off enough energy to drop into bed by 8:00pm, not to awaken until the next morning, and (c) not shrivel up to the size of a raisin from dehydration.

I woke one morning and was running through my head what I could do with the kids. We were on Day 17 of humidex advisories and the park was about as appealing as driving a nail through my forehead. The splash pad was out of the question simply because they don't like to get splashed. They will, in fact, complain if they happen to get "splashed" at the "splash pad" and since they haven't learned irony or sarcasm (are these kids really mine?), they don't quite appreicate my witty response to their dilemna. Hmmmph!

Why I ever thought the lemonade stand would be a good idea I'll never know. Take this opportunity to learn from my lesson. Lemonade stand with one boy, age 5 - good. Lemonade stand with two boys, age 5 and 2-1/2 - bad.

The three of us sit down at the kitchen table and start making signs which takes up 45 minutes (hooray!). Yeah, yeah, I know - I'm supposed to be enjoying this time with my kids. Yadda yadda. I'm on my sixth summer with tow boys whose idea of fun is farting on each other. Go ask any mother and she'll tell you that summer is all about wasting time and 45 minutes is a big chunk-o-time wasted. Score one for Mummy!

We get the table set up outside, tape on the signs, get out the charis, cups, lemonade and bowl of change. Within two minutes, things start to go downhill. A steep hill. With a slalom course. And me crashing into all the flags. It's 35 degrees with the humidity and very windy - sort of like selling lemonade in a furnace or, perhaps, hell. Which, I think, is actually where I am. This is hell. Hell is a lemonade stand with two boys in 35 degree weather. Anyway - back to the stand.

Liams' hat keeps blowing off and both of them are drinking all the lemonade. To stop the lemonade drinking, I offer them their very own bottled water! (note the exclamation point as I try to make the bottled water sound as exciting as possible). They aren't buying it. One car stops and buys some lemonade - even overpaying because it's for charity. Adam is ecstatic, Liam could care less - he's pissed off that he can't have any more lemonade and has proceeded to dump his bottled water all over the ground and crush it with his foot. Even though there is a water ban where we live, I send Liam to the backyard to fill up the small swimming pool Some people will think this is wrong but if the Water People knew Liam, they would indeed understand the urgency of the situation and agree it was the right thing to do.

Liam runs off happy as a clam and starts filling the pool. Adam is happily selling lemonade to our neighbours and everything is running smoothly. I love my life! I'm such a great mother! I should have some sort of award for being such a great mother! I'm going to write a book on good mothering. I'll be on Oprah! I'll -

Oh crap. At some point during my Oprah fantasy, Liam finished filling the pool and spotted the bowl of change. I watch in horror as he runs over to the table and grabs it. Adam FREAKS out and tries to grab the bowl of change
back while yelling "LIAM - THAT'S MINE!". Liam retaliates by pulling harder and screaming "IT'S MINE TOOPID ADAM". This would be the point where the bowl of change containing over $12.00 including 85 pennies goes flying into the air.

Which brings me back to my yearning for the good old days when Valium was handed out like candy.

Happy Summer Vacation!

Note: The author would like you to know that she has had many a successful outings with her two boys and she does actually enjoy spending time with them in the summer, even when they are farting on her.

www.gingerbreadlane.ca

Company Fruit Salad Recipe

2008-06-30T15:17:00.001-04:00

Company Fruit Salad Recipe

This recipe is fantastic for breakfast, lunch or dinner. With apples & grapes, it tends to be a child-favourite and is super easy to prepare. I often make it on a Friday and munch it all weekend long - would be great for a cottage visit!

* 4 medium golden Delicious apples, diced
* 4 medium Red Delicious apples, diced
* 2 cups seedless green grapes, halved
* 2 cups seedless red grapes, halved
* 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chungs, drained
* 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained

Dressing:

* 1 package (3 oz) cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup sugar

In a large bowl, combine the first six indredients. In a small mixing bowl, beat the dressing ingredients until smooth. Pour over fruit; toss gently to coat.

Yield: 16-20 servings

Do you have a yummy salad recipe? Send it to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca and we'll post it on the blog!

OPEN Canada Day (9:30-1:30p)

2008-06-25T22:01:00.007-04:00

LONG WEEKEND HOURS

Monday June 30 - Open 9:30-4:30p
Tuesday July 1 - Open 9:30-1:30p HAPPY CANADA DAY!!

With every paid admission, kids will receive a red helium balloon to celebrate Canada Day!

We'd love for you to join us for some Canada Day fun - and good coffee!

Thank You for the READERS CHOICE Nomination!

2008-06-20T18:23:00.003-04:00

Thank you to our Gingerbread Lane community for nominating us at "Best Bakery" in the Mississauga Readers' Choice Awards! We'd love if you would cast your vote!

Visit:
http://www.readerschoiceawards.ca/

Log in and cast your vote for Crumbs / Gingerbread Lane in the category "Best Business & Service", sub-category "Bakery".

Thank you everyone for your continued support & Gingerbread enthusiasm! We're so excited!

"You're Not The Boss of Me!" Seminar - Registration Due!

2008-06-17T10:00:00.002-04:00

Monday June 23 (6:30-8:30p)

Join Terry Carson, M.Ed., ACC - TheParentingCoach.ca for a two-hour presentation.

Are you struggling to get your child to listen?
Are you a parent who is tired of the temper tantrums, bedtime hassles, not getting out the door on time, back talking, arguing, etc?

If you answered YES to either of these questions then this presentation is for YOU!

Learn...
* What's behind the power struggles
* How you might be making the situation worse.
* 17 tips for preventing them

For more information or to register, email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

A Play for Father's Day

2008-06-13T07:21:00.004-04:00

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY GINGERBREAD DADS!
We wish for you a day of peace and smiles!
From Angie & Tracey

Come in for a play - we're open Sunday June 15 from 9:30-1:30p.

Open for Public Play Saturday June 7 (9:30-1:30p)

2008-06-07T05:54:00.002-04:00

Come on in for a cooled-off way of enjoying some family fun. There's a coffee waiting for you!

Child Resistant

2008-06-01T21:56:00.003-04:00

I'm not actually talking about locks, cabinets or medicine here. I'm actually referring to dads. Those incredible creatures who have stepped into the role of "dad" with equal mixture of fear and enthusiasm. As we approach Father's Day this month, I thought I would share a few things that I find most incredible about my own 'child-resistant' husband.
1) each and every day when he arrives home from work, he smiles from ear to ear and rushes to kiss our daughter hello, telling her how much he missed her today. I love that she hears her importance every single day.
2) despite the long-term fear of commitment that having a child induced for him "no, I'm not ready!" - 2 years later "no, I'm not ready!" - 2 years after that "no, I'm not ready!" - and 12 years so on (this was just about marriage by the way) - when our daughter arrived a sub-surface shift occurred for him as strongly as it did for me. His daughter became his reason to do better - not attain more and achieve more - but simply be a happier & healthier person each day because he wanted to be that person for her. Life changed profoundly with that fundamental shift.
3) I've worked a lot over this last year and that meant that Daddy became more 'primary' in his parenting. Naturally, I was often (read always) present when my husband and our daughter were together - that's family time - but as I began preparation for Gingerbread Lane and then the day-to-day function of it, my husband was left to parent solo more often than ever before. It was a difficult change for me but I now see the positive effect that having more "daddy time" has had for our daughter. She will turn to him as readily for consolation or a hug as she would to me. She has a relationship building with her dad that may lead to a stronger communication and comfort as she grows older. I watch that with comfort and contentment and am thankful for the opportunity that life presented me so this could happen.
4) I write this with the monitor on in the background and what I'm hearing is not only my daughter's settled breathing but my hubby's snoring...she relaxes with him and I listen to my two most important people sleeping - at peace and in each other's company. This is my sentimental view. My reality is also - "hey, it's really nice to have this quiet moment" - I am a tired mom after all - lol.

Nothing can help us predict our children, our relationship with them or our response to parenting but I believe even the "child resistant" people - we can all admit if we were one of them - will have an incredible opportunity to be the parent you wish to be for your child. Simply because you want to and looking your child in the eye, how can you resist?

Tracey

If you have your own thoughts about "dad" - your own, your mate, or what that role is all about - send them to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca and we'll post them in honour of Father's Day. All comments welcome below.

The Secret Life of Bees - Poignant Statements

2008-05-27T21:36:00.007-04:00

"The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd

I've wrested this book from my mom, who had borrowed in on the promise to have it returned to me in time to read - and appreciate - before the June book club. Having only just begun, I am thoroughly enjoying Sue Monk Kidd's ability to define ideas in a manner that made me realize I'd not only not "thought of it that way" but also "didn't realize I was thinking of it at all". Her ability to define a piece of your spirit has me intrigued and I'm curious to read more. I'll entice you with two of the quotes that I read last night and continue to dance in my mind today.

"I think there must be a place inside of us where dreams go and wait their turn."
--as a mom, this one truly speaks to me

"I worried so much about how I looked and whether I was doing things right, I felt half the time I was impersonating a girl instead of really being one."
--so eloquent! I did not know I had felt the same as a young girl, until she put the very thought into words

Oh, I'm eager to read on and feel the story develop. I am already on edge about T.Ray....

Perhaps you'll join me for the June Book club - Tuesday June 17th (7-9p) - email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca if you are interested.

Set Goals & Dream Big - Living Your Best Life

2008-05-24T22:05:00.004-04:00

"Set Goals & Dream Big - Living Your Best Life" Seminar
Presented by Carly Cooper of Listen In Coaching

Friday June 6 (11-12:30p) OR Saturday June 7 (11-12:30p)
We’ll talk about what you’d like your future to look like. We’ll uncover your passions and set personal, career and family goals. We’ll rediscover who you are as a woman, outside of being a wife and a mom and you’ll learn how to live
your best life.

Cost: $25/participant + gst

To register, email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

Great Big Play Activity Series - Just Announced!

2008-05-20T07:33:00.002-04:00

"Great Big Play!" Fun Series
Mon June 16 to Fri June 20
(9:30-10a) - Ages 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 years
(10:30-11a) - Ages 2-1/2 to 4 years

Monday June 16 - "Have a Ball!"
Will we be bowling, throwing or bouncing them around? Join us in this activity to find out how many balls will be in the air!

Tuesday June 17 - "Music & Movement"
Shake, rattle and roll. This will be an activity all about the movement makers!

Wednesday June 18 - "Happy Feet"
Two feet, ten toes - find out where they will take you! Toe painting, sand walking and tracing!

Thursday June 19 - "Ready, Set, Go"
Join us for this obstacle course and relay race.

Friday June 20 - "Hip, Hoop, Hurray!"
Hula-hoop tug-o-war, hula-hoop target, hula-hoop maze! What else will we do with the hoops? Join us in the big hoopla event!

You can register by single day or the whole series.

To check availability, for more information or the costs of the series - email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

OPEN This Long Weekend

2008-05-12T22:45:00.003-04:00

As we head into our first holiday weekend, we plan to offer your family a fun option to keep the kids busy and you happy. Come in for a visit - we'll have a coffee waiting for you!

Saturday May 17 - OPEN (12-2:30p) only, otherwise closed for birthday parties
Sunday May 18 - OPEN (9:30-4:30p)
Monday May 19 - OPEN (9:30-1:30p) Holiday Hours

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-10T15:16:00.004-04:00

A heartfelt "Happy Mother's Day to every mother and mother-to-be from all of us at Gingerbread Lane!

Guess What We're Having For Breakfast

2008-05-08T21:57:00.000-04:00

French Toast Casserole

1/2 regular loaf challah or egg bread, roughly torn into 1/2-inch bits (about 6 cups); day-old or slightly stale is fine here

6 eggs

2-1/4 cups milk

1/3 cup brown sugar

1-1/2 tsp vanilla

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp butter

Generously grease an 8 or 9-inch square baking dish.

Dump the torn bread bits into the baking dish, spreading them out into an even layer. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla and cinnamon. Pour over the bread in the dish and pat down lightly so that the bread begins to absorb the egg mixture. Dot the top with the butter, cover with foil and refrigerate over night.

In the morning, place the foil-covered baking dish into a cold oven, then turn the oven on to 350F. Bake, for 30 minutes. Remove the cover and continue to bake for another 30 to 35 minutes or until puffed in the middle and lightly browned. Serve immediately, drizzled with maple syrup.

Makes 4 to 6 servings

**Thank you to Today's Parent magazine for providing this yummy recipe!**
http://recipes.todaysparent.com/tprecipe/tp/article.jsp?recipeId=5829

"Who's In Control Around Here?" Seminar - Don't Miss It!!

2008-05-04T18:42:00.000-04:00

Who's In Control Around Here? Seminar
A "must attend" seminar by Terry Carson - The Parenting Coach

Saturday May 31 (9:30-11:30a)

Kids today have more freedom than any other generation before them.

HOW DO YOU RAISE THEM SO THEY'RE NOT SPOILED?

Join Terry Carson, M.Ed., ACC - The Parenting Coach for a two-hour presentation

Learn how to parent democratically using respect without sacrificing control or your child's happiness.

Learn the five most important steps for developing a child's self-esteem.

Learn the #1 MISTAKE good parents make.

Cost: $35/person or $65/couple (+ gst)

For more information or to register, email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

http://www.theparentingcoach.ca/

May Book Club "The Memory Keeper's Daughter"

2008-04-24T22:36:00.001-04:00

Oh what a moral quandry this book presents - do you feel anger or empathy for David? Do you feel a sense of loss for Norah? Is there any way that you could see this complicated situation being amended?

I have found, in reading this story, that mid-way through I could very easily put it down and walk away from it. Having the book club discussion coming up, obviously I picked it up again and am glad I did. The story, despite its' emotional "stop" mid-way, picked up again quite nicely. I have learned from one book clubber that she experienced that same "stop". Did you?

Please join us for "The Memory Keeper's Daughter" May Book Club - details listed below. For more information or to register - email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

**Don't miss our Book Exchange April 30 - Bring Your Books In and Take Home Some Great Summer Reads - FREE!**

Where Are All The Baby-Wearin' Mamas?

2008-04-20T21:52:00.000-04:00

Where are all you baby-wearin' mammas out there? We're about to start Boot Scootin' Baby and we need you to come out and dance! What better fun than to snuggle your babe in his/her carrier while you scoot your boot line dance to some of today's popular tunes. We're aiming our sights on 8 stompin' ladies to join us for some fun. Classes start on Thursday May 1 (9:15-10a) and run for six weeks. All levels of fitness and dance are welcome - don't be shy! Enjoy the Gingerbread Lane experience with a play and/or beverage from our own cafe - coffee/tea is free with each visit. We're waiting for you - email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900 - can't wait to get the scootin' started!

FREE ADMISSION at The Oak Park Moms & Tots Show

2008-04-17T10:29:00.000-04:00

Gingerbread Lane is happy to participate at the Oak Park Moms & Tots Early Learning & Childcare Fair this Saturday April 19 - we hope you'll come out and join us!

Where: Oakville Town Hall
When: Saturday April 19 (10-1p)
What:
* Preschools
* Early Learning Programs
* Performing Arts
* Support Programs
* Childcare Providers
* Literacy
* Learning Resources
* Children's Specialty Items

**FREE ADMISSION**

For more information please contact: Oak Park Moms & Tots 905-257-6029

Welcome Baby Time Show Parents!

2008-04-11T22:05:00.001-04:00

Gingerbread Lane would like to welcome the families who visited the Today's Parent Babytime Show at the International Centre this April 11-13th. We hope you enjoyed your visit as much as we did and we're really happy you noticed our ad in the Baby Guide. As our website is being built we thought we'd introduce ourselves here!

Gingerbread Lane is a family community that houses an indoor playground, cafe, gift shop, activity space and quiet room. We host a number of mom-group get-togethers and, if you don't yet have a mom-group, we also create them for you. When you visit GBL, your admission for children under the age of 1 is free and you get to enjoy a complimentary coffee from our own Crumbs Cafe & Nut-Free Bakery. We like to take care of the parents who take care of the kids :) With adjoining quiet room, we're the perfect place to stop.

We have a lot of workshops, seminars and activities to participate in which make us a great place to gain some information, enjoy some recreation and relax with friends - both current and new. To receive updates on Gingerbread Lane news and happenings, you are welcome to join our Ginger Mail list - send your email address to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca and start receiving Mail today!

Thanks again for stopping by - please check back for the full web-site in the next couple weeks - we've got lots to share with you! We're looking forward to your visit - there's a coffee waiting for you :)

Kindly,
Tracey Ibrahim, Founder

2008-04-08T14:26:00.000-04:00

Mad Cap Summer Hats Have Arrived!!

We've sprung into summer with the arrival of our Mad Cap canvas sun hats - too cute and completely durable! Colourful hat bands and patterns to choose from, as well as, a new rain hat option. These durable, fun caps have been a favourite of Tracey, our founder, as she continues to wear (and wash and wear and wash and wear) her Mad Cap purchased in 1997!! Don't miss this fun selection - come check out our Gingerbread Gift Shop today.

And Not To Be Missed!!

Our Popos Ponchos are also here in time for the season. Cute ponchos for your little one in adorable ice cream flavours. Try our Chocolate Raspberry Truffle or our Cotton Candy - so many to choose from, it's hard to decide! Available in sizes 2, 3 or 4.

Gingerbread Summer Mini Camps - Registration Has Begun!

2008-04-03T15:00:00.000-04:00

Gingerbread Lane's Summer Mini Camps are ideal for the family who wants some fun summer activity without the distance of a sleep-over camp. It is perfect for our youngest children (Age 3-8) as our camps are structured in half-days and booked by the week. Ideal for summer fun and complementing time commitments to other programs, your busy work schedule and/or your child's developmental level.

We have created a camp itinerary that includes music, arts & crafts and game activities, and each Mini Camp ends with an indoor camp-out - a unique and memorable experience for every child to cherish.

Our camp staff are Early Childhood Educators or Child & Youth Workers by profession and they bring to the Mini Camp experience a professional and appropriate supervision that gives you peace of mind.

Our camps are booked by the week and each are half-day only. Each camp hosts up to 5 participants per session, providing optimum care and engagement. You can book multiple sessions and for the weeks in between camps, we offer Happy Help Child Minding for that whole-summer service.

Weeks Available:
June 23-27 - Morning (8:30-12:30a) or Afternoon (1:30-5:30p)
July 7-11 - Morning (8:30-12:30a) or Afternoon (1:30-5:30p)
July 21-25 - Morning (8:30-12:30a) or Afternoon (1:30-5:30p)
August 5-8 - Morning (8:30-12:30a) or Afternoon (1:30-5:30p) - 4-Day Week
August 18-22 - Morning (8:30-12:30a) or Afternoon (1:30-5:30p)

Full roster of activities, costs, options available by request - email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

An Excerpt From "Water For Elephants" - Book Club April 14th

2008-04-02T22:15:00.000-04:00

An excerpt - P118, Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen
I open the orangutan's door and set a pan of fruits, vegetables, and nuts on the floor. As I close it, her long arm reaches through the bars. She points at an orange in another pan.
"That? You want that?"
She continues to point, blinking at me with close-set eyes. Her features are concave, her face a wide platter fringed with red hair. She's the most outrageous and beautiful thing I've ever seen.
"Here," I say, handing her the orange. "You can have it."
She takes it and sets it on the floor. Then she reaches out again. After several seconds of serious misgivings, I hold out my hand. She wraps her long fingers around it, then lets go. She sits on her haunches and peels her orange.
I stare in amazement. She was thanking me.
***********>

Why do I like this passage so much? It speaks to me metaphorically - I'll tell you about that at the Book Club - I'd love if you could join us. Send your registration to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

Tracey

Brunch Recipe - Apple & Cheese Grills

2008-03-31T07:37:00.001-04:00

Apple and Cheese Grills
A Nice Mother's Day Breakfast-In-Bed

* 2 small red dessert apples
* 4 thick slices whole-wheat bread cut from a large loaf
* 5 oz (140g) Cheddar, Cheshir, or Emmental cheese
* Butter for spreading
* 8 sage leaves
* Black pepper

1. Preheat the grill to the highest setting. Rinse the apples, then quarter, core, and slice them finely.
2. Toast the bread on one side under the grill. Meanwhile, finely slice or grate the cheese.
3. Turn the bread over and spread the untoasted side with butter. Arrange the apple slices on top and cover with cheese. Grill for 4-5 minutes, until the cheese melts and the apples heat through.
4. Meanwhile, rinse, dry, and finely chop the sage leaves. When the grilled dishes are ready, sprinkle them with the chopped sage and black pepper and serve immediately.

Time: 15 minutes
Makes: 4

Do you have any yummy brunch recipes? Send them to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca and we'll post them on the blog!

Next month recipe theme: cake recipes - in time for home-made treat for Mother's Day. Send your cake recipe to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca

Child Minding For The Summer at Gingerbread Lane!!

2008-03-27T22:24:00.000-04:00

Gingerbread Lane is pleased to announce our summer Happy Help Child Minding service. We will provide fun and secure child minding option for your busy summer. Providing half-day child minding, booked by the week, your child(ren) will be cared for by a professional who will be supervised and supported at all times. Each child minding session will be organized with a general schedule of activity that will include play, snacks / meals (provided by family or in addition) and basic activity.

Booked by the half-day - mornings (8:30-12:30p) or afternoon (1:30-5:30p) it is ideal for the young child (age 1-7) and only 5 children are booked per session - allowing for optimal care and interaction.

A few unique advantages are:
1) the indoor playground - promoting gross and fine motor play each day
2) we are a nut-free facility and bakery thus ensuring peace of mind for our allergic families
3) your child does not need to be potty trained - diapers are welcome
4) snacks / meals can be provided by us (additional cost), alleviating additional worries for you
5) morning sessions are ideal for the toddler who can return home for their afternoon snooze
6) afternoon sessions are ideal for the older preschooler and/or primary schooler to enjoy some play and activity

If you would like more information or would like to book your summer Happy Help session, please contact info@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

Water For Elephants Has Begun

2008-03-25T22:30:00.000-04:00

I have (finally) jumped into this book and have been drawn onto the train with Jacob. A metaphor for life - if you take that leap, you might just find yourself a circus. What a grand escape. I love it already. Now, Chapter 3...

Who's joining us for the Book Club this month?

Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen has already begun a tale that I find myself eager to return to at bed time. What a fantastic story to get lost in. If you would care to join the Gingerbread Book club on April 14th - I would enjoy your company. Email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca for more information.

First 3 July Birthday Bookings To Respond To This Post, Gets A Free Balloon Cluster For Their Party

2008-03-22T22:46:00.000-04:00

We have kick started our July & August Birthday Party bookings (see previous post) and want to throw in a little more excitement. For the first 3 July bookings that we receive in response to this post, we will provide a free 10-balloon cluster to brighten your party and celebrate your birthday child. Mention this post when you call - 905-271-2900 or email info@gingerbreadlane.ca - to qualify. Don't miss out! $25 Discounts (previous post) and free balloons - what are you waiting for? Let's celebrate!

OPEN Good Friday March 21 (9:30-4:30p)

2008-03-19T13:54:00.000-04:00

We are happy offer public play on Friday March 21 (9:30-4:30p). Come out and join us for some family fun!

Parenting Wordshop - Another Chance

2008-03-13T22:22:00.001-04:00

How often do you get the chance to write with a writer? Ann Douglas, author of the "Mother of All..." Parenting Book Series and President of Mom Media is inviting you to join her for a Parenting Word-shop. March 30th is the first of a two-part series in which you can explore your own writing interests in a comfortable and supportive environment with the guidance of your group and Ann herself. You need not be a perfect writer - or a perfect parent! - to apply. Ann would enjoy your company - join us!! Email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900 for more information.

$25 Off July & August Birthday Parties!!

2008-03-09T08:52:00.000-04:00

Why worry about the weather? Space? Cleaning?
Book Your Gingerbread Party Today!

Offer Expires: May 30, 2008

We Need Your Opinion

2008-03-07T22:47:00.000-05:00

We would like your opinion - as a member of our community and, perhaps, a member to Gingerbread Lane specifically - about a scenario that we hold two views on. I'll lay out a scenario and ask a couple questions afterwards. It is about responsibilities and expectations pertinent to a birthday party booking. Let me present a couple facts first:

1) When you book a birthday party at Gingerbread Lane, it is required that you place a $75 non-refundable deposit. This is standard practice with any party-hosting establishment.

2) Gingerbread Lane has a fully scheduled birthday calendar - often completely booked each weekend - with many of our customers coming to Gingerbread Lane by word-of-mouth.

3) Gingerbread Lane tries to ensure that the full party experience is positive and supportive to the family that has booked a party while maintaining a professional service

Now - here's the scenario - all details are hypothetical.

A family has booked a birthday party at Gingerbread Lane for a Saturday in February but the week before the party, the birthday child has developed a highly contagious virus and the family can not host the party as planned. Gingerbread Lane, offers to book an alternate date and shift the deposit to the new date rather than have the customer lose the deposit entirely. Because of the short notice, Gingerbread Lane is not able to book a replacement party in the now-empty time slot and no party occurs on on that Saturday in February. As the upcoming weeks are heavily booked, the customer is disappointed to learn that they can not reschedule to a date / time that is already booked and is upset that this request is not accommodated. Gingerbread Lane offers 5 alternate dates/times within three weeks - at least one of which is during the customers preferred time slot. The customer books a the second date and proceeds with party plans.

The date of the rescheduled party arrives and the day before it, the weather is calling for snow squalls and poor weather. The customer asks if she cancels the party due to weather, does she receive her deposit back. There are 3 other parties the same day as this rescheduled party and none have inquired about canceling. This is where your opinion is required -

a) should Gingerbread Lane provide a refund to the deposit?
b) is Gingerbread Lane responsible for the circumstances leading up to both cancellations?
c) would fair policy be to provide another rescheduled date? a credit on file?
d) what is your understanding of "non refundable" when detailed in booking descriptions?

With all of this said - I'd love to hear your comments / thoughts / feedback to this scenario. Your input will help us to best understand how to meet the needs of our customers while not compromising professional standard. Please post comments by clicking "Comments" below. I will post a follow-up email in the next while to let you know the direction we might have taken with this scenario. Thanks all!

Soup and Cheese Biscuits Recipes

2008-03-04T10:30:00.000-05:00

Thank you to Marny Burke - mom of two and a Gingerbread Community member - for submitting such yummy recipes!

Marny's Old Fashioned Chicken and Rice Soup

1/2 c. butter or margarine
2 stalks of celery, finely sliced
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, halved sliced finely
2-3 broccoli florets (just the heads, not the stems), finely chopped
2-3 chicken breasts, cubed
1/3 c. flour
1 large box Campbell's low sodium chicken broth (or your own homemade stock)
* I usually add 2-3 packages of powdered Oxo. I find it adds more flavour.
salt and pepper to taste
2c. milk
1 c. cooked rice

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Melt butter/marg. in large soup pot over medium heat.

2. Add all of your veggies and cook until tender and fragrant.

3. Add chicken and cook just until it looses it's raw appearance. * I usually add just a tiny bit of my chicken stock at this point to keep everything from sticking to the bottom of the pot*

4. Add 1/3 cup of flour. Brown slightly.

5. Add chicken broth (and Oxo if you prefer).

6. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes.

7. Add milk and bring to a boil.

8. Add rice. Lower temp. and simmer for 10 min. or until ready to serve.

*** Great when served with homemade cheese muffins (recipe to follow)***

Marny's Cheese Muffins

1 3/4 c. flour
1/4 c. sugar
2 1/2 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp. salt
a good amount of cheddar

1 well beaten egg
3/4 c. milk
1/3 c. vegetable oil

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees

2. Stir dry ingredients together in a bowl

3. Add cheddar and toss to mix

4. Make a well in the middle of the dry ingredients

5. Combine egg, milk, and oil. Add all at once to dry ingredients.

6. Stir quickly by hand just until mixed and moistened.

7. Fill greased muffin tins.

8. Bake for 25 minutes.

Ok, Book Clubbers...

2008-03-03T23:01:00.000-05:00

Good Club-people - I implore you to explain the constant concealment of Snow Flower's family / history?! I am well into the book (Snow Flower and the Secret Fan) - greatly enjoying the progress and cultural story. I am developing this itch - like the one on the bottom of your foot while your shoe is on so you can't properly scratch it - about Snow Flower's history. It has me curious - I will read on...

Anyone else know what I mean? Post a comment - is your foot itchy too?

A Slice For Ellen

2008-02-29T22:45:00.000-05:00

We were really excited that our first cake from the Buy-A-Slice program went to celebrate the 104th birthday of Ellen at Tyndall Estates Retirement Home. Could there be a better cause for celebration? Happy Birthday Ellen, Tove, Eileen, Nancy & John - all celebrants and all thrilled to receive the attention from the Gingerbread Lane community - thank you everyone!

Our next recipient is the Sunshine Children's Centre who will be receiving their cake this next week. Can't wait to add some cake crumbs to the kids smiles!

If you know of any senior or children's program that you feel would be a grand recipient, please post your suggestion in the "comments" below or email to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca

Snow Flower and the Secret Fan

2008-02-29T22:36:00.000-05:00

Ok now I'm well into this book and can't seem to find the time to read more than a page or two with each go. I'm in awe of how Lisa See can tell such a cultural tale with such humanity and personality. Really enjoying it - but what are you thinking of it so far? Post a comment below - tell me your thoughts - add a flower to the fan.

March Break Is Fast Approaching - Don't Miss Registration!

2008-02-25T20:54:00.000-05:00

Hard to believe that March is only a few days away - have you made plans?

Gingerbread Lane is excited to be organizing our first March Break session - packed full of activities. We'd love to see you - and remember that whenever you are registered for an activity - even multi-day activities - it includes free play that same day!

We have a cafe on site that has mini tortilla pizzas and juice or milk for the kids. What more do you have to think about - here's your list of options. To register, email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

Monday March 10 -
St.John's Babysitting Course (Age 11+) - 9:30-4:30p (5 spaces left)

Tuesday March 11 -
Mad Science: Science of Magic (Grade 1-6) - 9:30-10:30a (12 spaces left)
Treasure Hunt (Ages 2-4) - 10-10:45a (6 spaces left)
Beadology for Kids (Age 6+) - 11-12p (6 spaces left)
Scrapbooking for Kids (Age 8+) 5-Day Series - Day One - 1-3p
Treasure Hunt (Ages 5-8) - 1-1:45p (10 spaces left)

Wednesday March 12
Mad Science: Kitchen Chemistry (Grade 1-6) - 9:30-10:30a (12 spaces left)
Paint-Your-Own-Pottery for Kids (Age 6+) 4-Day Series - Day One - 11-12:30p (5 spaces left)
Scrapbooking for Kids (Age 8+) 5-Day Series - Day Two - 1-3p

Thursday March 13
Mad Science: Detective Science (Grade 1-6) - 9:30-10:30a (12 spaces left)
Paint-Your-Own-Pottery for Kids (Age 6+) 4-Day Series - Day Two - 11-12:30p (5 spaces left)
Scrapbooking for Kids (Age 8+) 5-Day Series - Day Three - 1-3p

Friday March 14
Mad Science: Slime Time (Grade 1-6) - 9:30-10:30a (12 spaces left)
Treasure Hunt (Ages 2-4) - 10-10:45a (10 spaces left)
Paint-Your-Own-Pottery for Kids (Age 6+) 4-Day Series - Day Three - 11-12:30p (5 spaces left)
Scrapbooking for Kids (Age 8+) 5-Day Series - Day Four - 1-3p
Treasure Hunt (Ages 5-8) - 1-1:45p (10 spaces left)
Get-together for Families With Special Needs - 6:30-8:30p

Saturday March 15
Paint-Your-Own-Pottery for Kids (Age 6+) 4-Day Series - Day Four - 11-12:30p (5 spaces left)
Scrapbooking for Kids (Age 8+) 5-Day Series - Day Five - 1-3p

For costs, descriptions or to register for any of the above - email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

We'll have drop in play all week too - you don't have to registered in an activity to enjoy a visit! We look forward to seeing you!

A Place To Gather

2008-02-25T17:22:00.000-05:00

What better way to build a sense of community than to gather together with neighbours. We have begun our calendar of Get-Togethers and gatherings and welcome you all to join us. As a community Family Centre, we aim to meet the needs of all families in our neighbourhood - for fun, for learning, for making connections. Please join us for any of the following and pass the information along to your friends:

• Mom 2 Two Get-Together (bi-weekly, Monday mornings)
• Gripe Water Get-Together For Guilt-Free Belly-Achin’ (monthly)
• New Mom Get-Together (bi-weekly, Friday mornings)
• Family Nights (monthly, Friday evening)
• Get-Together for Families with Special Needs (monthly, Friday evening)
• Book Club (monthly, M,Tu or Wed evening)
• Get-Together for Families with Multiples (monthly, Thursday evening)
• Get-Together for Adoptive Families (monthly, Tuesday evening)

For upcoming dates or information on any of the above - please email info@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900. If you are looking for a place to host your own gathering - we could be the perfect space - give us a call!

Eaten Prayed Loved It...

2008-02-21T21:05:00.000-05:00

Ok, I loved the chat we enjoyed last night at the "Eat Pray Love" Book Club - a really nice group to discuss a grand book with. Thank you all for such great company and wonderful conversation! I realize I did not get everyone's emails for the Book Club mail-outs - please forward to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca Anyone else out there interested in joining us for our third Club in March? The book is Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See - we'd love to see you there! Email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca for more info. Thanks all!

Book Club - It's Almost Here!

2008-02-18T21:28:00.000-05:00

Ok good people - can I tell you how much I'm looking forward to this Wednesday's Book Club?? I've been eagerly awaiting this get-together since the beginning of January (alright, not forever but it feels like it!) and I'm currently buzzing through the book a second time and enjoying it just as much repeated. This is the first book that I've read back-to-back like this. I've enjoyed many conversations already about it - ranging from "is this for real?" to "loved Italy, loved India, loved Indonesia!"

I think it'll be a grand conversation - will you join us? You may not be finished the book - or even started it - but the book's got enough buzz to get you involved.

Here's a thought to leave you with...loving Elizabeth Gilbert's personification of Depression and Loneliness, describing them as a very real presence in her life.

"Depression and Loneliness track me down after about ten days in Italy...They come upon me all silent and menacing like Pinkerton Detectives and they flank me - Depression on my left, Loneliness on my right...Then they frisk me. They empty my pockets of any joy I had been carrying there. Depression even confiscates my identity; but he always does that...he just gives me that dark smile, settles into my favourite chair, puts his feet on my table and lights a cigar, filling the place with his awful smoke. Loneliness watches and sighs, then climbs into my bed and pulls the covers over himself, fully dressed, shoes and all. He's going to make me sleep with him again tonight, I just know it." (pages 46-48)

If you'd like to join us on Wednesday, we'd love to see you - email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca for more info or to register your participation

Happy Valentine's Day & Family Day!!

2008-02-13T21:02:00.001-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day everyone - from your Gingerbread Lane family :) We hope have a moment to pause and show some love to those who matter most - starting with yourself - why not have a truffle? LOL

We have lots going on between Valentine's and Family Day - here's your possibilities:

Valentine's Day - Cookie Activity (full), Card Activity (3 spaces left - email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca to join in), general play all day

February 15th - Happy Help Child Minding has 3 spaces left - why not book an hour or three to get out with your sweetie, your friends or your shadow! Email info@gingerbreadlane.ca for info or to reserve your spot

February 15th - Lovin' Ya Family Night (5:30-8:30p) Why not bring the gang in to enjoy some fun time together - order a pizza perhaps - and leave with a red balloon for your little Valentines

February 18 - Family Day - Of course we're open - we're a FAMILY centre, the holiday was practically made for us! Open (10-3p) - come on in!

Recipe Share

2008-02-10T19:02:00.000-05:00

In the spirit of the recent changes to our Ginger Mail Newsletter, introducing the Recipe Share in the "From The Audience" column, here's a soup recipe that I tried tonight - yummy!

Tortilla Soup

1-1/2 cups shredded, cooked chicken
8 cups chicken broth
1 diced tomato
1 minced large jalapeno chile
1 minced clove garlic
1 tsp kosher salt
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 peeled, diced avocado
4 thinly sliced green onions (white and tender green parts)
3 cups broken corn tortilla chips
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, minced

Cook the chicken in a pan with a small amount of the broth. Once cooked, shred chicken using two forks. Pour the broth into a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Add tomato, jalapeno, garlic, salt, and the shredded chicken. Reduce the heat to low and simmer until heated through, about 5 minutes. Stir in lime juice. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Divide avocado and onions evenly among 4 bowls. Ladle in the hot stock and garnish with tortilla chips and cilantro evenly. Serve right away.

Leave a comment below - did you like the recipe? hate it? add some of your own touches?

Any good soup recipes?? Send to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca

"Buy A Slice" Program Begins!!!

2008-02-08T20:10:00.000-05:00

We are excited to begin our newest program, based on community support and generosity. It's called the "Buy A Slice" Program and it will bring a fun and special treat for our community's seniors and children.

When you visit Gingerbread Lane, you will be given the opportunity to donate a dollar - one loonie! - to the "Buy A Slice" jar. We will post the program / facility that will be the lucky recipient of the cake that is currently being collected for and you will be offered the opportunity to sign a card with a generic greeting to the facility's residents or program's participants. We will deliver it personally to the seniors home or children's program throughout Mississauga and surrounding neighbourhoods. We welcome your suggestion of any such programs by posting a comment below.

With enough loonies collected, we will bake and decorate the nut-free treat (minimum half-slab cake) and deliver it to the lucky facility. The facility will be able to address or decorate the cake as they wish (ex. balloons, flowers, "To The Residents Of...", etc)and we will sign it "From The Gingerbread Community" making this a truly personal Gingerbread Lane gift - from you to your neighbours of all generations.

Please support the "Buy A Slice" program during your next visit. If you'd like to place a donation without visit, please email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca

Thank you everyone for being such a great community!!

Parenting Wordshop (Registration Due by February 15) by Ann Douglas - Author and President of Mom Media - Sign Up Today!

2008-02-06T14:10:00.000-05:00

Parenting Wordshop: A Chance To Tell Your Stories Your Way
(and, No, You Don’t Have To Be A Perfect Writer or a Perfect Parent to Sign Up)
by Ann Douglas
President Mom Media and
Author of “Mother of All…” Parenting Book Series

Session 1: Sunday Feb 24 (1-5p)
Session 2: Sunday Apr 27 (1-5p)

Parents have always shared their stories with other parents; and they have always made an effort to record the most significant moments in their parenting lives in diaries, in letter to far-flung friends and relatives, in cover- or margin-entries in treasured books.

They’ve written poems and the lyrics to lullabies; they’ve penned memoirs and short stories; they’ve authored mothering guides and mothering memoirs – and so much more.

They’ve also turned to art in an effort to convey the wide-ranging emotions and experiences of parenting: quilting, cross-stitching, scrap-booking, rock carvings, painting, photography, music, and theatre, and every other form and medium imaginable.

The Parenting Wordshop draws from that tradition by offering parents of all backgrounds, experiences, and literacy levels a chance to translate their experiences into stories.

The Parenting Wordshop consists of:
• two separate four-hour workshops held at three month intervals
• two e-newsletters sent out during the months in between to provide course participants with additional resources and inspiration so that they will stay motivated and on-track with their Parenting Wordshop projects

Cost: $80 + gst – includes 8 hours of instruction time plus two e-newsletters.
To register, email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900 – registration DUE BY February 15
The group will be limited to 20 participants to provide for an optimal group experience.

Session 1
2 Hours: Perfect Writers (and Perfect Parents) Need Not Apply.
You don’t have to be a perfect writer – and you don’t have to be a perfect parent – to tell your story. This session provides some tips on dealing with the pressure to create something perfect when you’re staring at that blank screen. We’ll also address related issues like finding time and space to be creative, deciding what to write about, and dealing with privacy issues when you’re writing about your nearest and dearest. Includes interactive workshop exercises
Break: 15 Minutes
2 Hours: Wired Parents, Arty, Parents, Bookish Parents: There are as many ways to tell your story as there are stories to tell. Experimenting with a variety of different types of media – text, images, videotape, digital recording, audiotape, paper, found objects, etc – can help you tell your story. Sometimes a different type of media will prove to be more effective in portraying a particular scene or chapter in your life as a parent than text alone. In addition to letting your instincts and imagination guide you in deciding what you want to write about and how you want to tell your story, you may find that you learn from and are inspired by other parents’ stories. This will include a list of places to tap into particularly inspiring examples of parents’ writing both online and offline: blogs, online zines, books, etc. Includes interactive workshop exercises.

Session 2
2 Hours: Parentspiration!
A quick recap of what Parenting Wordshop is all about, and a chance to catch up with other participants. Parenting Wordshop project participants share what they’ve been working on – online and offline: Prepare to be inspired. “How to” tips – e.g. great resources and techniques; what helped past and present participants to get started and to motivated; etc. This will serve as the project wrap-up. I like the idea of not having “perfect” finished projects but rather samples from projects that are at various stages of completion. It will be less intimidating for parents who are still mid-stream themselves – or who haven’t even started yet!
Break: 15 minutes
2 Hours: Inspiration and Ideas to Go 15 parent-proven ways to keep moving forward with your Parenting Wordshop project, including some fun new tips – e.g., create a photo blog while you’re on vacation and use that as a launching pad to write about family vacations past, capture a particular “chapter” in your child’s development or your family’s history: e.g., the move to a new house or a community project you’re involved with as a family. Resource exchange: What resources are you finding most helpful?

Something To Ponder before Eat Pray Love Club

2008-02-03T07:36:00.000-05:00

I came across this question in a review site for Eat Pray Love and it's one that I've wanted to ask ever since. Now that we are nearing the Club date, consider this...

Sitting in an outdoor café in Rome, Gilbert’s friend declares that every city—and every person—has a word. Rome’s is “sex,” the Vatican’s “power”; Gilbert declares New York’s to be “achieve,” but only later stumbles upon her own word, antevasin, Sanskrit for “one who lives at the border.” What is your word? Is it possible to choose a word that retains its truth for a lifetime?

This question might intrigue you, might bore you, might frighten you...I would love to hear your word, whatever your response :) If you'd like to join us on February 20th, and haven't already signed up, send your name to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca or call 905-271-2900

"Eat. Pray. Love" - The numbers are growing

2008-01-29T14:23:00.000-05:00

Hello good Book Club people!! We are having a really neat "pre" discussion regarding this book and can't wait until February 20th to gab about it collectively! A couple attendees have signed up a friend to join in with them which makes for a comfortable little gathering. I've started a Book Club mailing list to keep in touch with attendees who are interested in making this a "more-often-than-this-once" experience - if you'd like to be a part of this mailing send your email address to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca I also welcome book recommendations - any fantastic reads that you've enjoyed? Send 'em my way! See you soon!
Kindly,
Tracey

Crock-A-Doodle Doo!!

2008-01-26T08:27:00.000-05:00

Winter driving you crazy? Looking for something fun to do? Join us for the Paint-Your-Own-Pottery for Women on February 7th (6:308:30p). Your order for your selected piece has to be in by January 31 - that's this Thursday! - so it can arrive on time for the class. Cost is only $10+gst for provision of all painting materials and a nice coffee on the side (plus cost of selected piece) Let's get creative and get out of the house - email registry@gingerbreadlane.ca today to hold your spot. Looking forward to seeing you!

Can I Tell You How Great Our Customers Are?

2008-01-25T20:37:00.000-05:00

Hey you out there! Yes, you - the Gingerbread Lane customer - we'd like to say "thank you" and "you're the best"!! Many people comment on the 'feel' of Gingerbread Lane - warm, friendly - and we'd like to publicly voice our appreciation for being such a great 'family' to spend time with. We have the nicest customers, the friendliest parents and funniest kids I've ever met (and I've been working with kids and families for 15+ years!) As with any new business, we put in a lot of time, effort and emotion and it's all such a reward when we are received so warmly and with such support and enthusiasm. You all really do make it a pleasure to work each day and we look forward to our continued development - to bring you, and your family as much enjoyment, connection and fun as we can.

Let's Keep The Gingerbread Lane Environment Healthy

2008-01-23T10:45:00.000-05:00

This is the season of colds and flus - especially with the warm weather moving into near-frigid weather. We recognize that we can't prevent colds and flus from happening but we can try to keep them from spreading. It has been a concern to us since opening and a topic that we've hesitated to address because we don't wish to disclude anyone from being welcome at Gingerbread Lane or feel like that can't attend whenever they wish to.

I guess, what we are asking is this...if your child is actively ill (ex. mucus from nose, fever, cough, etc) please refrain from coming into play/visit until the illness has passed. We have had customers leave our facility after paying their own admissions because their child was playing alongside another who was visibly ill. Understandably, they were too uncomfortable to question the family directly, and opted to bring their concerns to us instead - we'd like to make sure that everyone, ill or healthy - feels supported by Ginberbread Lane and would ask you to post your comments / feedback below.

We clean our environment, toys, etc and disinfect as much as possible but many of the germs are air-born and can be contagious beyond these efforts. We would like to protect everyone's health and enjoyment and appreciate your consideration for your own benefit. We need your input - please tell us your thoughts - are we fair to ask this? are we imposing judgement? do you, as the customer, appreciate this request?

Book Club "Buddy"

2008-01-23T10:37:00.000-05:00

I had an idea! For those who are interested in participating in the Book Clubs - I offer the opportunity to "buddy up" with another participant. This would mean that you purchase one month's book and s/he purchase the next month's book, then you trade once they're read - alleviating the need to purchase every book. I will always post at least 3 months in advance the Book Club selections, to make this buddy-ing successful. What do you think? It's not mandatory and can be arranged amongst participants as you attend. Looking forward to the "Eat. Pray. Love." Club on February 20th - who's joining us? Send your name to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca

Busy Weekends

2008-01-20T19:43:00.000-05:00

We are always happy to have "public play" times on our weekends and have left a number of drop-in guests disappointed when you arrive for a play only to find that we are closed due to birthday parties. We're happy to host so many parties this month and are trying to find the best way to keep the public informed of the closures when, and as, they happen. We send out a weekly "happenings" announcement to our Ginger Mail members (receive Ginger Mail by request - email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca) and we post around the facility of upcoming closures. We also leave our "OPEN" sign off and note with our hours, that it is best to call in advance of weekend visits to see if we are opened/closed. Is there a better way for us to keep you informed? Our new web site will have the current week posted on the front page so you can drop in to the site any time and see what is going on that week but until the site is up and running - is there a better way? Please post your comments/suggestions below - click "comments" Thank you for any suggestions - all are welcome.

Family Nights

2008-01-18T21:43:00.000-05:00

We have just enjoyed our January Family Night this evening - thank you to the families who joined us :) Since our doors opened last July, Family Night has been one of the most talked-of offerings but, truthfully, that interest has not translated into attendance - some nights being busy while others being very quiet. Quite typically, in the days leading up to a Family Night, we receive a high volume of calls inquiring about it but when the night rolls around, only a small fraction are arriving to enjoy the extended service. Are we missing something? Is there something that would make the Family Nights a better plan for families to attend? We are still waiting to get our activity room set up with pillows and comfy seating so we can offer a movie night theme or to get a round of board games going or to have an activity planned. We've left these plans idle for a few reasons: one, we aren't sure if the community interest in Family Night is there, thus not sure we should invest in the materials, two, we are still young and adding items and features to the entire GBL community as our new-company budget allows and lastly, we're not certain that is what you - the families we aim to please - want in a Family Night? I suppose, in truth, the intention of this post is to ask for your input. Do we keep the Family Nights? Have you ever attended or been interested to? If you have attended, would you like more 'purpose' to them? (ex. movie night) If you haven't attended but thought of it, what stopped you from coming in? Any comments or input is most valuable - you can post in the comment link below or email your thoughts to info@gingerbreadlane.ca Thanks all - we look forward to your next visit!

Book Club - February "Eat. Pray. Love." by Elizabeth Gilbert

2008-01-17T19:55:00.000-05:00

Alright, I am so eager to discuss "Eat. Pray. Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert at our February Book Club! I finished reading it last night and wanted to immediately re-open to begin reading from the beginning again. I'd love to get the discussion started - tell me what you think of the story as you read it by posting a comment below. What was your favourite leg of her journey - Italy? India? Indonesia? If you've any questions of your own, post them and we can all give it some thought as we look forward to our get-together on February 20th - send your name in to tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca if you'd like to join us :) Kindly, Tracey

Boot Scootin' Baby is coming to GBL

2008-01-15T13:32:00.000-05:00

If you have either participated or considered participating in Salsa Babies or Salsa Tots - we've a new option for you! Boot Scootin' Baby is coming to Gingerbread Lane and we couldn't be more excited about it. Check out the description at http://www.bootscootinbaby.com/about.html - and send in your name to registry@gingerbreadlane.ca for information as soon as dates are set! Line dancing - gotta love it!!

"The Gathering" has Gathered

2008-01-15T12:43:00.000-05:00

Gingerbread Book Club met to discuss the first book selection "The Gathering" last night - with only two participants for this first Club, it was a nice discussion with the mood and plot of the novel being in general agreement - both of us felt there was something missing... Thank you to Ann Marie for reiterating that it wasn't just me...her reactions to "The Gathering" were quite similar and I quite enjoyed our chat about the book. Will more of you come out for "Eat. Pray. Love" in February? Lots have asked about the Club and I hope some will act upon your interest - we'd love to see you (call 905-271-2900 or email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca). As a 'start up' Club, everyone is coming out for the first time and we can make the groups whatever we wish. I'm almost finished "Indonesia" in "Eat. Pray. Love" - anyone reach this part yet? What do you think so far???

Tracey

January Book Club Selection "The Gathering"

2008-01-12T20:36:00.000-05:00

Greetings!
I believe you are visiting this blog out of interest for the new Gingerbread Book Club - thanks for checking us out! This month's book is "The Gathering" by Anne Enright. I am interested to hear what you are thinking about this book - in terms of content, mood and your own reaction and enjoyment of it. I've had a few conversations with some of you already and believe my own opinion of it is purely personal. For me, January is a time of new-energy, new-direction, new-possibilities and I find I gravitate to books that support this rejuvenation at this time of year. With that said, I found that "The Gathering" was a little too solemn in content for my January mood. With that said, I would really enjoy hearing your opinion so that I can assess whether it's just my own reaction to it or does it evoke similar responses from other readers - what do you think? Tell me directly at the Book Club on January 14 or email tracey@gingerbreadlane.ca or, better yet, just post here!

Next month's book is "Eat. Pray. Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert - let me know what your favourite leg of her journey was - I'm about to read Indonesia but thus far got to reminisce about my own travels-past throughout her stay in Rome. Hopefully, you'll get caught up in the buzz about this book and join us in February too.
Happy escaping to you!
Tracey

We're Blogging!

2008-01-12T15:41:00.000-05:00

Ok, I am sitting here in agitated excitement as I "kick off" our blog spot!! I feel like a fool navigating my way through academia - in other words, completely out of my league :) I like a challenge and about 15 minutes ago, the flutter in my stomache turned from nervousness to excitement. Is that what happens when you simply allow yourself to breath through anxiety?

Alas, welcome to Gingerbread Lane Family Community blog - a place for us all to keep connected, discuss thoughts, workshops, daily happenings and commnity input in a forum that is created to make the "community" of GBL even more prominent. I welcome your thoughts, reactions, comments - post a comment!

Welcome to Gingerbread Lane - again!