eightfootsix

Blogpodium

2012-01-28T17:16:00.014-05:00

Yesterday I attended Blogpodium, a panel discussion on blogs and the media. I wasn't sure what I would get out of the morning, other than the opportunity to meet some fellow Canadian bloggers.

Shame and embarassment! When the media mavens* said, 'editing is important', I felt guilt over my poor use of punctuation**. When we heard 'be true to your brand' and 'stay on topic', I started to sweat, thinking 'what is my brand? do I have a brand? was blogging about my new boots offside?' The final blow was 'consider a writing class'... (shame) After Blogpodium I read some old posts and thought: 'Shannon, you sound like an idiot!!!!'

Last week, you may have noticed that I started to reformat the blog. I played with the template and took down the old dark banner. I took the first steps to (hopefully) making the blog better! I need to spend some time sitting at our computer trying to clean up the old, while producing more thoughtful content (do I have extra time?). I will definitely take more care in my photos and writing!

Anyways, here are three other takeaways from Blogpodium:
1- pin your own work: I created a pinterest board called 'at home' to pin my favorite photos
2- 'There are only two types of press: press, and no press' ... I will go for it!
3- 'Put your photo up, write a bit about yourself, show your personality' - ok!

Were you able to attend Blogpodium? Will it change the way you blog?
How do you feel about punctuation, or a lack of it!?

*They were intelligent, funny, and thoughtful women! I was so glad to be able to attend (with the baby) ...the discussion was lively and entertaining...however, I couldn't help but take notice of these comments....did I really need a magazine editor to tell me that re-reading a post before you publish is a good idea? I suppose it was exactly what I needed!
**I blushed the entire time I read 'eats, shoots and leaves'...yet I continue to abuse punctuation.

Felt Family

2012-01-26T12:41:00.004-05:00

Back to the felt board. We made a couple of new trucks and a little felt family - baba, mommy, and two boys! I'm not great with scissors when the pieces are teenie weenie...baba is only 3 inches tall!

Have you made a felt board? What shapes/characters/scenes did you create?

To do

2012-01-25T09:15:00.009-05:00

Pick up toys,
Make beds,
Fold socks,
and wash the kid's laundry...

and this is just upstairs!

What messes will you tackle today?

(I am trying out the 50mm prime lens)

***UPDATE***

It's 10:13am and no more mess! When I brought the clothes to the laundry room I nearly flipped out! I forgot we had all the little cousins here on Monday night and the basement was TOY BOMBED...with my preschooler's help, we cleaned up that disaster too!

Starbucks

2012-01-24T12:05:00.002-05:00

This is what I wore to meet another mom at Starbucks this morning*.

The top is from Modcloth. Size Medium. I thought it would be WAY more flattering than it is. It makes me look like a linebacker: widens my shoulders. That's why I wore the scarf (plus it's cold outside).

Do you buy clothing online? Any tricks to make online shopping more successful?

*According to the scale, I have 15lbs to lose. According to my jeans, the weight is sitting around my middle, butt and thighs. (Baby is only 2 1/2 months...I have lost 35lbs, yes - I gained 50lbs with both pregnancies! Don't judge!)

Gung Hay Fat Choy

2012-01-23T11:09:00.009-05:00

Happy Chinese New Year!

We are having my in-laws over for dinner tonight to celebrate Chinese New Year - of course I decorated!

First I hung some store bought lanterns from Walmart. Then I draped yellow and red crepe streamers and curly yellow ribbons over the curtain rod. I wanted to fill the window with streamers but this is all we had. Since we have quite a bit of red felt, and some red embroidery thread, I made a few DIY decorations - bumpy felt streamers, and dangling felt O's!!!

This is my first time decorating for Chinese New Year, did I do ok?

(I had to pull out the flash for these photos)

JELLO

2012-01-22T11:32:00.003-05:00

I hear my son down the hall, whining, "I want to play with Perla, I want her to stop vacuuming." Perla is a saint who comes by with her sister on Sundays and cleans everything. My floors are vaccumed AND mopped every week! I know - completely spoiled!

This week, I've been spending my spare moments cleaning out every closet, drawer and neglected corner of the house. Purging stuff, wiping clean, and organizing. I found (re-discovered?) some JELLO in the back of the pantry cupboard. What a treat!!

How will you treat yourself today?

Baby Essentials

2012-01-20T10:23:00.013-05:00

Here are five things for baby I couldn't live without*!
1. A toy hanging down next to his change table. Mr Whoozit really entertains my boys. You can change baby's diaper while they play.
2. Seventh Generation baby wipes. Normal baby wipes seemed to give both of my boys diaper rash. We used baby face cloths and warm water with my older son. However, finding disposable wipes to do the dirty work is AWESOME!
3. Bounce Chair. Baby caught a cold week one of his life. Baby couldn't lie flat so we tried letting him sleep in the bouncer. AMAZING! He slept in bouncer for the next 5-6 weeks.
4. Aden and Anais Swaddle Blankets. These are the ULTIMATE. Yes, pricey, but they breathe, they swaddle tight, and they are large!
5. Maman Kangourou Wrap. I mentioned the wrap before. It is essential! During the day, baby will only sleep in the wrap. Yes, this is a bit tiring - but you know what is more tiring? When baby doesn't sleep! We also have the ergo - it is great for going out, and when baby gets bigger.

What things do you consider absolutely essential for baby?

*Actually, these are five things I did live without the first time around - having them from the beginning made a huge difference!...

Cougar boots

2012-01-19T21:26:00.006-05:00

Today I was walking down the street and KA-POW! I saw this girl wearing these boots:

Limited Edition Cougar boots - Pillow Boot

WHY DIDN'T I KNOW ABOUT THESE MAKING A COME-BACK? (besides the fact I never go to retail stores, and I have been a little busy bringing new life into the world - still)

I am worried that now I am too late. It's the end of January people!! I know they are gone. Sold Out.... Just the same I am about to search for them online. My size 8 feet are hoping and praying!

Agh....only 900 pairs produced...KILLING ME...
Oh well...

*************** 15 minutes later*****************

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

They are coming home to mama! Schreter (out of Montreal) had one pair of size 8's left! I hope they fit! But if they are too small I will give them to my mom...who had these boots in the 70's/80's and totally inspired my wanting them now!!!! Or maybe I will keep them and give them huggies every night!

Closet

2012-01-19T16:24:00.013-05:00

I started to clean out my half of the master bedroom closet (getting ready for Chinese New Year!). Actually, all I did was fold my clothes and put them away. You see that pony hair ottoman (from Craigslist - Score!)? Well, that's where a huge pile of tried on or fresh out of the laundry clothes usually rests.

I will be honest with you, in approximately two days, there will be another stack of laundry on that ottoman.

Most of my jeans STILL don't fit. I noticed that TNT kids at Avenue and Eglinton is now TNT outlet. I went in the other day to try some jeans on but The baby woke up and started to fuss. I will go back in this Saturday.

(I might wear that poncho (on top of the pile) to Blogpodium. Yup I am going! I will be the lady with the baby. Say hi!)

FOGO

2012-01-16T15:11:00.003-05:00

Thank you for your comments on my last togo post. I am going to pursue this further. I really want a sectional in the basement. We can't afford the actual Togo (we can't justify owning an iconic masterpiece when it is more than likely to be barfed or pooped on, multiple times). So I am looking into a FOGO, a fake-togo (Yes I'm cheesey!)

The Waverunner Modular Sectional Sofa is another knockoff Togo...can a sectional really only cost $1500 (before taxes and shipping)? Anyways, the Waverunner has a smaller footprint than the Downlow, and only comes in Red.

Chair dimensions & price
Togo: H: 27.5'' x W: 34.25'' x D: 40.25' Price $1700-2600
Downlow: W34" x D40" x H27.5" Price $450
Waverunner: 34" W x 36" D x 26" H Price $349

Notes:
- Does this make it a little more OK to buy a knockoff?
- I have not found a supplier of the Downlow in Canada (I contacted the manufacturer, we will see if they get back to me)
- Red is growing on me, but I would need to see a fabric sample first.
- Wave runner is smaller, and therefore more likely to fit down the tight stairway (old home).
- I would prefer to sit on the sofa, at least once, before buying.
- My husband is not interested in vintage anything that is upholstered.
- If we can connect with a retailer (why is that so difficult? shouldn't be!), then we will sell the KIVIK, and most likely the West Elm jute rug too! Just sayin'!

If you know where I can purchase a FOGO (not a real term, see above), PLEASE LET ME KNOW!

UPDATE: I am so indecisive. Since it is TOGO I love, not FOGO, I may have to walk away from this...Besides, I don't think I can handle red - ever *sigh*

May the Best House Win

2012-01-14T19:39:00.003-05:00

Have you heard about this new HGTV show?

Are you interested in applying?

Here's the scoop:

HGTVCanada and Proper Television are creating a new home decorating series called"May the Best House Win". In the series, home owners will showcasetheir homes to each other, then vote on which home boasts the finest décor.

We are looking for fun, enthusiastic characters with unique, eye-poppinginteriors-everything from the most elegant to the most unorthodox designs.

Participants will be given $200 a day for their time, and whoever is selectedas having the best space at the end of each episode will win $1000.

Interested? Please email besthouse@propertelevision.com for further details.

A good old fashion TV showdown!!

New Basement Furniture?

2012-01-13T12:07:00.009-05:00

Here is our basement today

We are looking at buying an alphaville downlow chair and ottoman to place where the measuring tapes are. Since we would be ordering the downlow chair online from the states, it is incredibly inconvenient to return. So I am just checking to see what you think. IS IT TOO BIG? Good, or bad, or very bad? TOO much furniture?

Should we get the downlow ottoman too or just the chair? (Chair is facing 8foot movie screen, the focal point of the room, but I didn't snap a photo - oops!) I also want a coffee table, maybe, but I can get that after I see how much room we are dealing with.

Selling the KIVIK and buying a full togo (downlow) sectional? Not sure that is an option! Maybe?

Note: I moved the toy area (back) and shrunk it. I like having more of the stained concrete floors uncovered. Not to mention the toys ended up over here anyways.

I leave you with some Togo love from my pinterest boards:

Source: thebrickhouse.tumblr.com via Shannon8foot6 on Pinterest

Source: stylepark.com via Jamie on Pinterest

Source: blog.hgtv.com via HGTV_Lili on Pinterest

Source: blissfulbblog.com via Shannon8foot6 on Pinterest

Source: thebrickhouse.tumblr.com via Shannon8foot6 on Pinterest

Source: google.ca via Shannon8foot6 on Pinterest

Source: veneerdesigns.com via Shannon8foot6 on Pinterest

Thrifty in Port Colborne

2012-01-08T09:27:00.001-05:00

I didn't set out to buy milk glass, in fact, the 'collection' is getting out of control...but I couldn't help myself. There was an entire shelf of milk glass in the Port Colborne Salvation Army, and I bought these few pieces. gems!

I added them to the top shelf in our office.

The smooth blue decanter looks great with the diamond textured decanter I picked up a while ago

and finally, this tin...It says "Gray Dunn Biscuit Manufacturers, Product of Scotland"...I adore it! Even though I have no use for it at the moment I couldn't say no.

more pyrex

2012-01-06T14:43:00.003-05:00

Earlier today, we found these bowls at Salvation Army...it felt sooo good to be in a thrift store again, is that weird?

I know you have been dying to see the stubby kitchen shelves with the bowls I bought a few days ago:

The colours are fruitier than what we had up before:

What patterns do you think I need to add? Butterprint? Snowflake?

I wish I could display all of my pyrex collection together. I have a bunch on the open shelves in the basement, and a growing collection of bowls in my cupboard! I am tempted to gather every single bowl, casserole dish, and fridgie that I own and place them onto my dining room table, just to admire them for a while! Call me crazy!

A-tisket, a-tasket

2012-01-04T15:49:00.002-05:00

The new yellow basket went in baby's room. I love the colour! (and I love that I didn't have to spray it myself)

And check out the pom-pom blankie my mom made! (draped on the crib)...Thanks mom!

Pyrex Party

2012-01-03T17:29:00.001-05:00

Last Friday, Jordana, from the blog White Cabana, emailed pictures of the stacks of pyrex available in St Jacobs. The green bowl caught my eye. Yes, I paid quadruple what I would have paid if it was sitting on the shelf at goodwill...but the chances of that happening, and me connecting with it...slim!

I also bought this yellow picnic basket for a song!

ps. The boys LOVED the antique mall...my preschooler thought the old trucks and cars were the BEST...and the little one slept peacefully in his car seat/stroller.
pps. I will style up the bowls and basket in the near future (first I need to take down the balloons and Christmas tree)

Resolutions

2012-01-01T14:02:00.002-05:00

New Years Eve: after dinner, plates have been cleared, guests have broken off into little groups......five minutes later this scene changed dramatically! Everyone was gathered around the dining room table once again for a competitive (and loud) boys vs girls game of taboo

New Years gets me to thinking about things I should or shouldn't be doing. However, let's skip formal resolutions this year and trust that:

- my boys will continue to teach me how to be a better mom
- the baby weight will melt away when I get outside
- the blog will motivate me to pay attention to (and enhance) details around our home
- my time will be spent doing things I enjoy: walking (everywhere), jogging, reading, taking photos, traveling, learning, organizing, and blogging

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!

2011-12-31T15:57:00.002-05:00

Get ready for a party!

I still need to prepare some crackers, cheeses, meats and grapes...get the plates out of the dishwasher, and the place mats out of the basement, and the napkins out of the sideboard...probably 100 other things...I started with the most important job: hanging balloons! Lots of time for the rest!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Cheers to 2012!

The best year yet!

2012 CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?

Treats for the neighbours!

2011-12-23T16:26:00.001-05:00

We baked some white chocolate macadamia nut cookies this morning. Not from scratch - we had a bucket of cookie dough from my niece (school fundraiser)

Packaged them in ziploc sandwich bags (with top cut off), a piece of parchment paper separating each cookie, tied with black and white divine twine. (Stuff I had on hand)

Passed them out, along with our holiday card, in the bitter cold earlier today!

What didn't get done around here

2011-12-22T22:26:00.004-05:00

I have been living in these jeans - the only pair that fits me at the moment. They are slouchy because I haven't washed them in a while - except I like to think that its because I am slimming down!

Leggins would probably work well with this sweater (from modcloth) and top (from madewell)...I haven't quite figured out how to put an outfit together.

Also note the uncombed hair and big bangs. Yah I cut those bangs this week. I wanted them full, so I pulled more hair forward from the top of my head and I have no regrets! The best.bangs.ever!

So here are some of the things that didn't get done this week:
- I finally gave the baby a bath tonight - that's one bath - all week
- takeout thai food tonight for dinner - in my defense, I didn't have time to coordinate dinner - because I ate a stale gumdrop and my (gold) filling popped out around 4:30 today. That's not supposed to happen! My dentist was able to take me if I got there within 30 mins (Otherwise they were closed until Wednesday). I packed the boys up and we took the bus and subway there. I have to go back to the dentist in January to get my cavity re-drilled and replaced.
-postpartum exercises - I did them twice...no excuses. Maybe I will do some tonight. I am definitely in denial. I want my midsection to return to 'normal' without putting in any effort.
- Christmas cards to neighbours - tomorrow I will do this - I promise!

My favorite photo (of me)

2011-12-20T10:30:00.000-05:00

I was thinking about this photo last night while feeding baby.

This photo was taken by my better half back when he was an acquaintance. We were at a friend's wedding and he asked if he could take my photo... 'Ummm....ok?' We had a great time that evening getting to know each other a little better. It may have been the first time I saw his smile! And now, to think all of this (sweeping my hand in a grand gesture to indicate the house, the blog, the jolly baby sitting on my lap), began with this photo!!!

That night was one of the few times (outside of high school) that I have ever worn lipstick. It was Chanel, Dragon? I think? I bought it earlier in the day. I have never bought another Chanel item, or department store beauty product since then. Actually, I don't often wear makeup, but I will admit, a simple stain on my lips transformed me for the evening! It made me feel beautiful, playful and confident.

Now I am the mother of two. I don't often have time to fix myself up. I am not the girl in the mirror anymore, but she is still somewhere inside me. Sometimes I wonder where she is hiding, especially when I am wiping the spit up out of my cleavage (cleavage I never used to own), or when I skip shaving my legs (again) because my toddler wants to jump into the bath with me (again). I know motherhood comes with its own beauty, confidence and playfulness, still...there's this photo

hmmmm....I feel some sort of resolution stirring inside me (more tricep dips, less gingerbread men)...but the baby is starting to fuss, and I have to get us ready to pick up my older son at preschool...a little bit of blistex and we are out the door (without combing my hair)...

Gingerbread

2011-12-18T17:37:00.002-05:00

UPDATE: We added some red icing details this morning....the cookies are going fast!

I don't want to jinx it, but...

2011-12-15T09:50:00.002-05:00

I think I'm finally getting better. I went to see my doctor on Tuesday, actually, not MY doctor, she was off sick with the flu, but another doctor at the office. Anyways, the doctor's remarks: "You're sick, but not that sick, come back in again before Friday if you don't get better" ...she also said I looked great - which I attribute 100% to this concealer (and maybe the fact I am drinking 8 zillion glasses of water to help my sore throat). So that's it. If I can keep my sore throat wet and my headache suppressed, I am as good as new-ish.

Thank you for all the kind comments! I am certain your well wishes helped me get stronger!!!

Goodie Train

2011-12-15T09:37:00.001-05:00

My son and I put this gingerbread train together last night

He would pick up a candy and ask me "I wonder what this one tastes like, you want to try it momma? Can I try it?"

We made a train last year too! Check it out, here!

ps. I don't like black licorice

Update

2011-12-10T10:43:00.000-05:00

The second baby IS easier. He sleeps (in the bouncy chair)! We understand grunting = gas! Breastfeeding is easier (I can handle five hours of doing nothing but rocking and feeding - those growth spurts)! I wear baby when he is fussy! Oh and this is a big one - I don't worry! Besides, this is our last newborn - so I want to enjoy every moment. Time has a way of escaping, no matter how hard you try to hold on.

My toddler adjusted to having a new baby in the house within about a week's time. Actually, it wasn't until my husband went back to work and it was just the three of us that the tantrums subsided. I find I have a much shorter fuse when it comes to his throwing, smashing, screaming and jumping around. Basically, I say, 'Do you want a time out?' in a raised voice more often than I wish to be. My toddler has become more attached to my husband - but he is still mama's little helper! He also adores his little brother and smothers him with affection.

My toddler and I are both adapting to spending sooo much time indoors. We used to go for walks nearly every day. I am an amateur when it comes to the logistics of two babies, outside, when cold. Getting the three of us dressed takes over 30 minutes (even without combing my hair). Not to mention that Baby needs to be fed and changed before we head out the door. My toddler still wants to be in the stroller, so Baby goes in the wrap. I know this will get easier.

Being sick the entire month was not what I bargained for. I have to fit in a doctors appointment next week to see if I need medicine to recover (I had a fever again Friday afternoon). I have a feeling my low immune system (from pregnancy), nose picking toddler, and lack of sleep have sabotaged my recovery.

Note: Wearing the mamankangourou wrap

Wish List Part II

2011-12-08T15:56:00.003-05:00

I didn't expect there to be a part II...but once I started to think about new treats for me, I was on a roll!

1. Running Shoes (New Balance Ladies 1226 - size 8)

2. Label Maker

3. Because all the cool kids have this

4. J.Crew Sweater Jacket

5. Wash Cloths

6. Almond Ring - yum!

7. Last Watch

8. The Windup Girl

9. Oliver Twist

Homemade Wreath

2011-12-08T09:50:00.001-05:00

I had some extra greens, some wire, and this old frame thing (a DIY stretcher from a needlepoint I did a LONG time ago!)....so last night I made a wreath!

Inspired by this!

Christmas decorating and stuff

2011-12-07T12:51:00.002-05:00

- We only brought up half the Christmas decorations from storage...and didn't put everything on the tree (the snowmen scattered on the mantel did get hung on the tree...I almost forgot about them!)...I am seriously considering giving away a third of what we have...(another third - we donated a bunch of stuff to goodwill two years in a row now)
- The tree isn't exactly what I hoped for...but with a sick momma and toddler in the house,we couldn't make it out to a tree farm. (Yes, we are suffering from back-to-back nasty colds around here while caring for a newborn)
- Notice the felt booties advent calendar on the fireplace - I didn't get a chance to stock it with treats.
- We are making messes, and intending to make cookies (we will see if the cookie dough gets done before the weekend)

Christmas Wish List

2011-12-06T16:50:00.001-05:00

I thought I would put together a wish list, to help a certain someone out.

I need some new pure+simple products (running low), and facial is always nice!; the basket is perfect for hats, scarves and mittens (for the foyer); the step is for the kitchen, for my little helper; I want to check out this gym; another star to add to my collection; a simple hat; I've never played Settlers of Catan, but read some of the hype; a simple radio.

1. Pure+simple - Collagen Elastin Plus 100ml

2. Martina Gebhardt - Sheabutter Facial Cream 50ml

3. Basay Basket

4. BEKVÄM Step stool, black

5. Personal Trainer

6. Christmas Ornament, Annual Edition 2011

7. Cable knit pom-pom hat

8. Settlers of Catan

9. Tivoli Radio, Frost White Collection, White/Snow White

What is on your wish list??

PS. I also wish for a new mouse for the upstairs computer, and a quickie photoshop tutorial

tinyprints

2011-12-06T10:08:00.001-05:00

Our holiday cards have arrived!!

A few weeks ago, Rambling Renovators recommended tinyprints for holiday greeting cards. We weren't entirely happy with our 2010 cards, so we thought we would try tinyprints out. The quality is beautiful! Last year's cards looked as if they were printed on a 1993 bubble jet that was out of ink - that is to say, quite faded. This year, we once again selected the matte option (instead of glossy) but the colour is crisp and bright. True to what we see on the monitor. All in all I am perfectly pleased and I expect to use them again next year!

(I didn't want to show too much of the card, because that will ruin the surprise!)

The worst job ever

2011-12-02T12:15:00.000-05:00

This morning I set about the task of sorting the rest of the hand-me-down clothing that my brother dropped off last weekend. Five bins of clothing that my older son and my nephew wore.

This is one of those jobs I DREAD. I usually enjoy sorting through clutter and organizing...but there was SOOOO MUCH STUFF! I ended up with three garbage bags of clothing that I will be giving away...the piles all over my living room are what I am keeping. This is at least double what I had for my firstborn.

ps...now that this mess is all sorted out, I will dive into the Christmas ornaments...

oh Christmas Tree

2011-11-30T12:36:00.000-05:00

Source: caramagic.blogspot.com via Shannon8foot6 on Pinterest

Does anyone know what type of tree this is? Is it real? I really want a real tree with 'less branches' this year...

After baby

2011-11-29T15:25:00.004-05:00

I have always felt like there is some big secret to getting dressed that no one has let me in on. (Insecure much?) You see, I like structure...so I automatically assume that there are rules I should follow in order to look good. But I don't know the rules for this body!

Anyways, here I am, 19 days post-partum. Down 25lbs! Still extremely doughy around the middle...I haven't attempted any ab work or dieting - plenty of time for that!

new size large black turtle neck - super soft, but collar is too slouchy

Happy Birthday E-man!

2011-11-25T18:09:00.000-05:00

- I hope my two-year-old nephew will enjoy unwrapping his gift, even though it is covered in re-used tissue paper!
- The long nights are starting to catch up to me, TGIF!
- This could be the perfect sweater...but I can't justify the price (even with extra 20% off today)...did you score any Black Friday deals?
- I started writing this at noon, and I am finishing at 6pm...

Welcome!

2011-11-24T15:20:00.004-05:00

If you are joining us from ohdeedoh - a warm welcome! It is very nice to meet you!!

Link to the original felt board post

Yesterday and Today

2011-11-23T09:41:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, I heard this song for the first time, and for the one-millioneth time today

\

I am feeling incredibly UN-hip...can a mom be hip?

- I put in a request for a radio, something easy for me to use, with good sound. I really miss music (wheels on the bus doesn't count)...
- Today is day three of 2 kiddies, 1 mama...it is better than I could have imagined...besides the fact that my two-year old is stuffed up, and keeps handing me boogers to toss into the trash for him: "here you go mama"...GROSS!
- Our Christmas cards are ready...well, ready to be sent off to the printer-guy...two of my photos made it into the card this year! Whoo-hoo
- I am craving NYC! Just a short weekend trip...at this point I think it will have to wait until Spring...Maybe we can escape to Langdon Hall instead? We are thinking California (not sure where in CA) in the first half of 2012...BUT, if I could drop everything and take the family anywhere, it would be to Barcelona...
- I want a slouchy black turtleneck (with a chunky collar that holds up, not a cowl)...I used to have one in first year university. I wish I had held on to it....it was shrunken and had holes in it by the time I let it go...I can remember what it felt like wearing that sweater while walking down bloor street past the old varsity stadium (where the TD bank machines used to be, and there was always 1-3 vagabonds hanging around) ...going to the Club Monaco to look at clothing I couldn't possibly afford at the time.
- I started wearing concealer again - it is a miracle product!

We had a baby!

2011-11-11T17:39:00.001-05:00

Thursday November 10, at 2:26am, we welcomed this little guy into our family:

A drug-free vbac:
We went into labor on November 9 (my due date) at 1am with 30 sec contractions every 7-8 mins. Called the midwife at 6am, she suggested I take two gravol and nap. The midwife came to check our status at 3pm, only 3cm dilated. She suggested I take two more gravol and two tylenol and rest a bit. A very long evening of 30-40 second contractions, 5-7 mins apart. Sometime after 11pm, while trying to get some rest, the contractions suddenly ramped up: 40-45 seconds - KILLER - and every 2-3 mins. My husband said we are going to hospital now. (Good call!)

Into the delivery room at 12:15am. I wanted to quit. I was so tired. I think I repeated: "I don't want to" about 800 times. The midwife checked and I was 8-9cm! A few mins past 2pm I had the urge to push. 25 minutes later our son was born. Three hours after delivery we were on our way home to recover, and start to enjoy the newest member of our family.

My contractions never reached 60 seconds, the signal we were waiting for to go to the hospital. I guess in a way this was positive, since we labored about 22 of 25 hours here at home! I am in awe of what my body accomplished, in spite of the fact that I wanted so badly to quit. I am also over the moon in love with this little guy!

Please excuse me while we spend some time settling in...I hope to rejoin you all online soon!

Bar

2011-11-08T09:55:00.004-05:00

I put the rag rug (purchased for $1) in front of the bar. I like it here!

ps. We are still planning to install a floating shelf, made from salvaged wood, along the seam of the stainless steel back-splash. The art will sit on the new shelf/ledge. This project fell to the very bottom of our to-do list.

40 weeks (almost)

2011-11-08T09:19:00.000-05:00

My due date is tomorrow!! I am not sure when baby wants to join us, but he still has some time in there, if he needs it! It will happen!!

ps. I am wearing my new buffalo check scarf from etsy!...an impulse purchase after reading this blog post.

You wanna be startin' somethin'

2011-11-07T14:13:00.004-05:00

you got to be startin' somethin'...

I have a TON of surplus energy - not physical energy, but mental energy. So I started painting roads on the underside of the kids foam mats. I mean, OF COURSE that's what I am doing two days before my due date!

Who wants to drop by and clean this up for me?

UPDATE:

Frolicking

2011-11-05T15:05:00.003-04:00

Some photos of our very pretty yard.

I am having a picture perfect birthday!

ps. these haven't been touched up by photoshop, you can probably tell...I wish I knew how to put some filters on to give them a bit of WOW!

Nesting

2011-11-04T15:58:00.002-04:00

Today I decided to clean out and organize the upstairs hallway closet.

After refolding the towels, tossing out a bag of garbage, and stuffing things into new bins, I will admit that it looks nicer. BUT, I can't get no satisfaction. Still too much 'clutter'. Am I going crazy? I keep staring at all the stuff, wondering what, exactly, is bothering me.

Maybe it's the chrome top bins, I would prefer white. However, we had a few CD bins that weren't being used, so I thought this was as good a place as any. I bought a couple extra to fill up the shelf.

My white towels are getting dingy. I would like new ones please! The shelf below the towels holds some essentials, as well as my curlers/curling irons (which haven't been touched in years). In a pinch, I shoved stuff in a couple paper shopping bags in place of bins. I will look for a better storage solution (something white!)

I am happy with my brushes and combs! I picked this bin up ages ago from goodwill. Hmmmm, could I spray bomb the bins on the top shelf white? Let's DO IT!

Finally, we come to the extra blankets and pillow inserts, some essential cleaning supplies, and TP!

This is my dream closet:

Source: brynalexandra.blogspot.com via Shannon8foot6 on Pinterest

Like bookcase styling, there seems to be an art to closet styling. I don't think I quite have the knack!

How is your linen closet looking these days?

Dinner Time!

2011-11-03T16:15:00.002-04:00

I marinated some boneless, skinless chicken thighs before nap today! We would normally grill them on the BBQ, tonight I will put them on a cookie sheet (with foil) and bake them (sear them in the cast iron pan first).

I am not sure if I shared the recipe yet, taken from the globe and mail, by Bonnie Stern.

Raw meat on the blog again Shannon? Yes sir'ee...

Thomas the Train - Deal!

2011-11-03T16:09:00.001-04:00

Ok, so I don't normally report on deals, but I am pretty darn excited!

We have our nephew's birthday (turning two) and, of course, Christmas coming up...and Thomas & Friends stuff is 25% off at Toys R' Us (.ca) right now! Plus, there is a paypal promo where you get $15 cash back when you spend $100. Plus free shipping when you spend over $100. Do you have some little engineers you have to buy for? Do it today!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T09:15:00.001-04:00

After I click "publish post" we are going upstairs to change, then outside to grab the wagon and seek some big pumpkins...I have my mind set on carving 4 pumpkins today...I better start out by carving a small one. (update: we carved two, one happy, one scarey)

Anyways, Harold the spider has been up for about a week...tonight is his big night!

Have a Safe and Happy Halloween!

1-2-3

2011-10-29T18:07:00.001-04:00

1- I moved the kitchen rug several inches away from the counter. So much better it is not even funny.

2- I NEED to sharpen all of these pencils, RIGHT NOW...or I will go crazy

3- I rediscovered this little dish and put in on my desk. This morning, after placing a couple Mighty Machine Dvds on hold, I dropped my library card into it. Only then did I realize it would be perfect for calling cards. I am going to look at what Penny Paper Co. can create for 8foot6! Do you have calling cards for your blog? I bet you want some now that I put the idea in your head, no?

My boys ran out to Costco, giving me time to 'relax.' They went without a shopping list, so I am curious to see what they will come home with! Chances are, my son will walk in with a new truck!

update: my son got a new thomas the train book with tiny thomas toys

38 weeks

2011-10-28T10:03:00.000-04:00

- Less than two weeks to go...(this is my largest hoodie)
- The big guy wants to go out, maybe we will hit up the craft section at the dollar store and get something he can glue onto something
- I am sporting a new accessory (I took it off for the photo) - the white terry cloth belt to my housecoat...it is tied around my hips to hold my pelvis in place
- I didn't wake up tired this morning, but I am in no mood to 'nest' either

Friday morning

2011-10-28T09:01:00.000-04:00

What are we going to do today?

Refreshed

2011-10-27T10:53:00.000-04:00

I woke from my short nap feeling refreshed (I didn't actually sleep, but closing my eyes for 45 minutes during the day is a rare event) ...I had a decaf espresso, then added some water to the flowers (which are all clustered on the dining room rad now)...I also filled the hurricane lantern thing with corks...because that's what I do!

Thanks Lindsay!

2011-10-27T10:48:00.000-04:00

I was lucky enough to win a personalized cotton bag full of tea from Lindsay. When it arrived in the mail, the envelope it came in was jammed full of treats!

Some pretty chevron cards, two stamped bags for trucks and trains, along with the most delightful smelling bag full of tea! The note cards are wonderful - extra thick card stock and vibrant colors!
A cheerful hand-written note topped it off! I can't imagine the service she provides to customers!!!!

Thanks so much Lindsay! You made my day!

Toyland

2011-10-27T09:15:00.000-04:00

There are toys scattered from one end of the house to the other.

Most days, I would pick them all up and put them back where they belong...but today I took some photos, and now I am going to nap (my son has preschool today, two free hours to snooze...OMG and I am squandering them by blogging!)

Celebration: The Versatile Blogger Award

2011-10-26T16:35:00.000-04:00

Jordana, from White Cabana awarded me with the Versatile Blogger Award! Thank you!!!!

The idea is to tell you 7 things about myself, and pass the award along to 15 other bloggers.

Here goes:
1) I have my CFA designation
2) I love snacking, especially popcorn, and I love all breakfast food. Not crazy about dinner.
3) I had zero cavities for 32 years, and then developed two cavities during my first pregnancy. I think I have a third in my not-so-distant future.
4) I am turning 34 next week.
5) The only show I watch on TV is Gossip Girl (although I always catch it later in the week online).
6) I have my driver's license, but I don't drive. I walk or take transit everywhere.
7) I want to go to Falling Water

Here's looking at you:
1) Life Begins at Thirty, Right?
2) Designwali
3) Cinnamon & Post
4) Jane's Next Door
5) ModFruGal
6) Okay, Now What?
7) Smart Alec
8) First Time Fancy
9) Wicked & Weird
10) Just bella
11) Dans le Townhouse
12) Roncesvalles Victorian Reno Diary
13) AM Dolce Vita
14) Style-ING w/ Children
15) the Fabulous Design File

Thanks Jordana!

Houzz Tour

2011-10-22T17:13:00.002-04:00

Come visit us on Houzz!

If you are joining us from Houzz - a very warm welcome!!!
Thanks Natalie!!

Halloween Spider

2011-10-21T18:23:00.001-04:00

How to make a Halloween garbage bag spider

Materials:
2 black garbage bags
1 elastic
1 twist tie, or piece of string/twine/yarn/pipe cleaner whatever
Newspapers

Cost: $0

Step One: Cut your first bag into 8 strips. Leave the seam of the bottom of the bag intact, so the legs are spooky long

Step Two: Turn second bag inside out, crumple the bottom of the bag together, tie an elastic around the bag (this is to make the front of the spider gathered).

Step Three: Turn bag right-side out. Fill it with 6 or 7 crumpled newspaper sheets

Step Four: Hold the bag so the newspaper is all at the gathered end (the end with the elastic), and twist tie it off - not too tight. Fuss with it a little to make the head sorta round.

Step Five: Fill the bag with 10-12 more crumpled papers so the butt is bigger than the head

Step Six: Tie the ends of the garbage bag together, and stuff the end pieces back into the butt

Step Seven: Grab four legs, open them (unfold them at the seam), tie them around the neck (where the twist tie is). Grab the remaining four legs and tie them around neck as well. YOU ARE DONE! (If it is an inside spider, you can add some eyes...this bad boy will hang from our covered doorway outside, so that all the kiddies have to pass under him. I will add a bunch of store bought white spider webs too)

HAPPY HALLOWEEN....10 Days! Have you decorated yet?

Plants and Flowers

2011-10-21T13:04:00.003-04:00

This morning I moved a few plants around, and bought some fresh flowers.

I put the plant on the sideboard, so it doesn't cook on the rad (it was previously in the basement, severely neglected)

I am not sure if the spikey Ikea plant is going to make it...the other stem died months ago. I am reluctant to invest in a giant version, if I can't get this one to thrive. I am almost certain it is goners.

UPDATE: The plant on the dining room sideboard was moved into the office...it was too close in shape to the lamps....I added the glass/crystal stuff back to the sideboard, hmmmm....I think I should get a tray

The spider plant went into the master bedroom...it needs some love. The roots are so massive that even watering it as much as I do, the soil can't hold onto the moisture. Time to transplant it.

New Throw

2011-10-21T09:21:00.001-04:00

I was going to place the new throw on my headboard. You know, drape it over the back of the headboard to add another cozy layer. Except I can't handle the wool being that close to my face. So, here it sits, on the ghost chair in the corner. (I have a handmade-by-mom purple, brown, and navy afghan for the end of my bed, it is time to pull it out of the linen closet!)

Do you like to snuggle under a wool blanket, or do you find them itchy and suffocating? I want to love my new throw, but whenever it comes near, I start gagging like a cat with a hairball. (Gross, I know)

Dinner Time!

2011-10-20T17:06:00.004-04:00

Turkey dinner tonight! Turkey, on a weeknight? Why not! We get these seasoned and stuffed turkey breasts from Butterball (in the $25 range at Metro, takes 4 hours from frozen in the oven). I have potatoes on to boil (will mash them up), and I will open up a can of corn, and a can of cranberry. Turkey dinner is pretty much the easiest dinner I can think of.

Closet Upgrade

2011-10-20T15:15:00.001-04:00

The baby clothes are organized! (I am 37 weeks and a few days, our due date is November 9)

My parents came by last weekend and Dad installed plywood shelves in the nursery closet. He also put up a second clothing bar underneath the original bar. Hanging the clothes is phase one of the closet upgrade. Phase two will involve matching bins and organized shelves, and maybe some hooks or towel bars on the back of the closet door. Here is a brief tour:

Bottom bar holds blankets and bunting.

Top bar holds 0-3m onesies & sleepers and 3-6m onesies. I washed them all and put them up together because you never actually know what will fit him first. I find Carter's shrink A LOT...the Ralph Lauren are a bit more generous...so I need to be able to grab whatever will fit, regardless of what the tag says.

A billion 3-6m sleepers in the bottom drawer. I could have hung these up in the closet, and left the blankets in the drawer....except, that required a billion additional baby hangers vs 10 or so adult size hangers. Not to mention it is much easier to toss sleepers into a drawer when they come through the wash! (I wish I had the drawer space for onesies too! How did I manage to fit everything in here last time?)

One top drawer holds socks, hats and bibs, the other (not pictured) contains diapers and diaper changing supplies.

Most of the swaddles and burp blankets are in the middle drawer. I packed a stack in the hospital bag too!

Yes, we are finally packed! Three bags - the big duffle is full of mommy stuff and snacks, small gym bag is for my toddler (he is off to my inlaws) and the diaper bag has stuff for baby.

I am pretty much ready. I ordered some bassinet sheets and other supplies from well.ca. The sheets were on clearance! with a $10 off $40 coupon from Janice too! (We didn't use a bassinet last time, we have one from my brother and I will try it out).

We are going on a Walmart run this weekend and get a few last minute things. A white noise machine (the same one as my toddler's), a PujTub, a laundry hamper, and some diaper genie II refills.

There is one question nagging me - what did you ladies wear home from the hospital? I know I shouldn't be worried about such a trivial thing. Last time we had a planned Cesarean birth because my son was breech. I wore lululemon pants, t-shirt and sneakers in, and the same thing out. This time, I dunno what I need. How loose is necessary? If everything goes to plan, I will be walking out of the hospital about three hours after delivery. Will mat jeans work? Are lululemons fine?

Ok, full disclosure...I packed my husband's navy sweat pants to wear home. Maybe I will find something in the ladies section at Walmart this weekend? I want to be comfy - but I don't want to shop (or spend)!

Cozy

2011-10-17T16:50:00.002-04:00

We went for a long walk this morning and dropped by Roots. I bought these amazing knee socks!!! ($10).

Haircut

2011-10-16T18:51:00.000-04:00

I have the WORST haircut right now. This is the second time my hairdresser has gone through the motions, chop chop chopping, and I have left completely unsatisfied. Usually, I wait a few washes before I complain (to my husband) too much...but this time it is pretty blah. I will let it grow and grow and grow and in a few months, try to find a new hairdresser (breaking up with a hair stylist is sooo hard...even if I only go 4-5 times a year, let me know if you have a good one for fine, straight hair). I think my pregnant face is not helping matters.

I decided to post a few very old photos of me (my face - yup! from 2008) to show you my favorite haircut of all time. It helps that these photos were taken in Nice, France....maybe I am feeling nostalgic about travel, or miss being skinny ... or maybe I should go for crazy layers again.

Honestly, nothing I did or didn't do to my hair made it look unstylish. Quite the opposite of my current haircut - where any attempt at style is a fail!

ps. I am STILL two inches off the shoulders... I kinda want to go back to my hairdresser and request this, called "the pageboy"

Nesting

2011-10-15T14:21:00.001-04:00

Cleaned out the fridge, organized the coffee corner, and cleaned out the baking cupboard. I put the cupcake wrappers in a glass jar (you've seen this idea before, no?)...this jar used to hold some cookie cutters.

I moved the cookie cutters into one of the square vases at the top right of the cupboard. The other square vase holds napkin rings and other small kitchen do-dads (and some ancient looking keys - I am not sure where they came from)

Before & After

I am loving this burst of energy. I made a solo trip to Starbucks this morning, and actually jogged across the street when the cross walk started counting down. I JOGGED...at nearly 37 weeks. (Only for 7-8 paces, but still)...I felt giddy!

Dinner Time!

2011-10-14T10:36:00.001-04:00

This morning we made potato leek soup - Julia Child's recipe.

This was my second attempt at the soup...my first try, on Tuesday, was WAY TOO SALTY (inedible). So this time I only put a few shakes of salt in, and it is delicious. On Tuesday I didn't pay enough attention to the recipe, which says to leave the lid ajar (partially covered), and the soup was a bit runny. Much heartier this time. I may have put less than 8 cups of water in as well, because I lost count while we were dumping it in.

(Julia recommends adding butter or cream with chives before serving...mmmmmm)

Sukkah party

2011-10-13T21:01:00.003-04:00

We were invited to a Sukkah party this weekend. Kids are encouraged to bring decorations (mobiles or harvest themed decorations). Since this is my first, I turned to pinterest for ideas. Here is what I found!

Source: craftstylish.com via persephone on Pinterest

Source: designsponge.com via persephone on Pinterest

Source: whileshenaps.typepad.com via Rebekah on Pinterest

Source: creativejewishmom.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Source: education.com via Shelley on Pinterest

What decorations would you make?

Fall rug

2011-10-13T17:50:00.007-04:00

I changed up the foyer today! The foyer rug is one of the few items in the house that we change with the seasons. (We like to cover the marble floors in the foyer with a larger rug in the fall/winter.) We also place boot/shoe mats under the rad...

Before and After

If you popped in on us this morning, unannounced, this is what you would have encountered!

My son straightened up all the shoes for me, while I hung the coats and put the stroller away. Today it was my shoes, my socks, my coats, my purses strewn about - shame. The grey mat (from costco) was tossed on the Weinrib rug a few days ago. We use it to catch any snow/leaves/mud from the stroller wheels. I haven't found something pretty that can handle this task!

Have you made many changes in decor for fall?

ps We used this rug for the foyer last year...but I felt like blue again this year.

Red version of rug still avail on Overstock, here
This rug is a beauty too!

Halloween Costume

2011-10-12T16:34:00.003-04:00

My son wants to be a firetruck for Halloween (or a butterfly)....so we built a fire truck. He helped me paint the box red, and the bumper. He also stuck the flashing lights on the top. He was a big helper while I destroyed his small toy wagon (originally from value village) in order to salvage the wheels (actually, I can put the wagon back together later, it was a simple operation).

I know it's a bit hoaky...but my two year old loves it! That's what counts!

Materials & Cost: $19.67
Acrylic Paint & Brushes - on hand
Huggies box - upcycled
Paper towel roll - upcycled
Wheels - on hand
Basic fireman's hat and coat - $19.67 from Walmart
Suspenders to hold truck up around waist (not yet made) - duct tape/caution tape - on hand

If we have time before Halloween, and another box, I will cut out some butterfly wings and let him get down and dirty in paint.

Giveaway

2011-10-10T14:48:00.000-04:00

The winner of the Vintage Car Tin Plate is Kate! Congratulations! Kate can you please send me an email at eightfootsix (at) hotmail (dot) com with your mailing address?

Thanks to everyone who entered one of the giveaways! I will mail everything out this week!

Road work

2011-10-10T11:09:00.000-04:00

The roads took about 10 minutes to draw, and kept him entertained for 1.5 minutes or so...that's how it goes with toddlers I suppose!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-10-08T18:03:00.006-04:00

Today, we went to Ball's Falls Thanksgiving Festival*. It was perfect weather for a mini day trip!

We bought pumpkins on the way home**. Happy Thanksgiving weekend! Enjoy the weather!

*The festival was jammed...think nature meets pioneer village, meets craft show, with pony rides, fair food and candy apples. A very nice way to kill an hour or two. Vineland also has a festival along Victoria Avenue. There were a ton of tents selling crafty things and 7.893658 billion garage sales. We only stopped on Victoria briefly to pick up pumpkins and some homemade apple pie. We left Toronto at 8:45am and arrived at Ball's Falls around 10:10am. The traffic returning to Toronto was thick, but the traffic going to Niagara around noon was horrendous. So if you want to go, go early!
** This is the only picture I took.

Image source: http://www.ontfin.com/Word/balls-falls/

Dinner Time!

2011-10-07T12:49:00.004-04:00

Lamb Shanks tonight!

It seems like a lot - but I made extras for the freezer. Not to mention shanks shrink quite a bit!

The wine was recommended by the gentleman at the LCBO. (I asked for a dry red to braise lamb shanks in.) He went with an inexpensive bottle of Chilean, Frontera Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot. Is it only me, or does red wine smell sooo tempting while pregnant? I just sniffed...don't worry! During both pregnancies now, I have found the smell of red wine intoxicating!

Let me know if you are interested in the recipe. I made this before, so I am sure it's yummers!

UPDATE: DElicious! Very rich...my son and I split one shank, my husband was able to eat two!